Summary
En este inspirador episodio de Querido Emprendedor, Ignacio Balderrama conversa con Diego Angarita, un gerente de producto en Walmart con una trayectoria única que combina emprendimiento, trabajo en organizaciones sin fines de lucro y una profunda conexión con la comunidad latina.
Diego relata su labor en Massachusetts con jóvenes puertorriqueños, donde fomentó el respeto por la cultura y la participación activa en asuntos comunitarios como la mejora del almuerzo escolar, mostrando cómo la voz de los jóvenes puede generar cambios reales y significativos. También reflexiona sobre los retos emocionales que enfrentan los emprendedores, la importancia de rodearse de personas que comparten la misma mentalidad y cómo manejar la autocrítica para mantener la motivación.
El episodio ofrece además consejos prácticos sobre la recaudación de fondos, destacando que es más efectivo pedir consejos antes que dinero y la importancia de elegir aliados estratégicos que aporten experiencia y compromiso, no solo capital. Finalmente, Diego comparte sus aprendizajes actuales como product manager y su visión para futuros emprendimientos, invitando a la audiencia a valorar la humildad y el aprendizaje constante en el camino emprendedor
Un episodio lleno de sabiduría, experiencia y motivación para todos aquellos que buscan crecer y transformar sus ideas en realidades exitosas.
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En este inspirador episodio de "Querido Emprendedor", tenemos de invitada a Nicole Guerrero, una joven boliviana que desde los 21 años ha liderado una revolución social y ambiental en Bolivia. Nicole es la fundadora del Banco de Alimentos de Bolivia, una organización que transforma el desperdicio de alimentos en esperanza para miles de personas en situación de vulnerabilidad. Nicole ha logrado crear un sistema logístico nacional que recolecta excedentes alimentarios de grandes empresas, mercados y el sector agrícola, para distribuirlos a centros de acogida, refugios y comunidades necesitadas en Cochabamba, La Paz, Santa Cruz y más allá.
Este episodio es una fuente de inspiración para todos aquellos que desean crear un impacto real, superar obstáculos y transformar sus pasiones en proyectos sostenibles y de gran alcance. ¡No te lo pierdas!
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In this week’s episode of Startup Junkies, hosts Daniel Koonce and Caleb Talley sit down for an engaging conversation with Daniel Schroeder and Brent Reader, co-founders of Peanut Pupper, a startup helping anxious dogs with their CBD products.
The conversation explores how Peanut Pupper began, what sets it apart, and how its founders are committed to more than just business success. There's an underlying message of using entrepreneurship as a platform to make a positive difference, which comes through clearly as the hosts and guests discuss the journey and vision behind the brand. From the origins of the idea to creating a responsible, community-focused company, listeners get an inside look at what it takes to build something with heart and intention.
Beyond Peanut Pupper, the discussion digs into broader themes like the importance of giving back, finding meaning in work, and overcoming challenges with creativity and resilience. There are honest conversations about what it means to push through setbacks, the balance between profit and purpose, and how authentic values can become a brand’s strongest asset.
Whether you’re a pet lover, budding entrepreneur, or simply curious about how purpose-driven companies operate, this episode delivers both inspiration and practical insights. Tune in for a fresh perspective on business and a deeper appreciation for brands like Peanut Pupper that aim to make the world a little better!
Show Notes
(00:00) Introduction
(03:30) The Inspiration Behind Peanut Pupper’s CBD Products
(09:24) THC-Free CBD: Safety and Effectiveness
(15:59) Happy Pup Customer Testimonials
(17:34) Impact of Markets on Dog Adoptions and Health
(23:29) Arkansas Legislation Targets Loophole Marijuana
(31:22) Exploring the Relationship Dynamic Between Co-Founders
(40:35) Embracing Mentorship and Avoiding Solitude
(42:12) NWA’s Regional Support and Community Spirit
(45:22) Closing Thoughts
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In this week’s episode of Startup Junkies, hosts Daniel Koonce and Jeff Amerine are joined by Yulia Batalina and Paolo Piraino, co-founders of adwinesor, a company offering curated wine experiences in NWA. With a shared passion for innovation and problem-solving, Paolo and Yulia have positioned adwinesor as a promising player in the intelligent advertising space.
During the conversation, Paolo and Yulia unpacked the origins of adwinesor and the need they identified for smarter, more personalized advertising solutions. They shared how their diverse backgrounds, Paolo’s hands-on business experience and Yulia’s strong research foundation have empowered them to tackle industry challenges from multiple angles.
A key highlight from the episode was their discussion of company culture and adaptability. Both founders emphasized the importance of agility, not just in their product but in their team’s mindset. By encouraging experimentation and embracing feedback, they continue to refine adwinesor’s offerings and keep pace with the fast-evolving advertising landscape.
The episode is an inspiring listen for anyone following the startup ecosystem or seeking insight into launching a tech company. Paolo and Yulia’s honesty about the ups and downs of entrepreneurship, paired with their clear vision for adwinesor, makes this episode particularly memorable!
Show Notes
(00:00) Introduction
(03:59) From Italian Roots to a Global Journey
(08:42) Bridging the Wine Knowledge Gap
(11:01) adwinesor’s Curated Wine Experiences
(13:27) Demystifying the Wine Industry
(19:22) Expanding NWA’s Access to Wine
(22:06) “Edwin’s Ears Clean” Wine Concept
(24:40) Bentonville’s First Boutique Wine Shop
(28:00) Encouraging Sensory Experiences
(32:35) The Emergence of Alcohol-Free Italian Wines
(35:37) Why Your Dreams Should Scare You
(36:41) Closing Thoughts
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In this week’s episode of Startup Junkies, host Caleb Talley and Grace Gill are joined by Permjot Valia, co-founder of Nava Develop Inc., who offers listeners a masterclass in entrepreneurship and investment. Permjot, known for his keen business acumen and international venture capital experience, shares his unique perspectives on what it takes to build successful companies and thrive in today’s fast-paced business landscape.
Throughout the conversation, Permjot discusses the importance of adaptability for founders, referencing real-world challenges that startups often face. He emphasizes that resilient entrepreneurs are those who not only adapt quickly but also learn from setbacks, turning failure into an opportunity for growth.
Caleb and Grace steer the conversation into practical territory, asking Permjot how aspiring founders can attract the attention of investors. Permjot highlights the need for clarity by having a strong pitch and a clear understanding of your business model and target market.
Listeners will appreciate the actionable advice sprinkled throughout the episode, as well as Permjot’s candid reflections on the delicate balance between passion and pragmatism in entrepreneurship. Whether you’re an early-stage founder or just curious about what makes startups succeed, this episode offers valuable lessons and an inspiring look behind the scenes of venture capital!
Show Notes
(00:00) Introduction
(03:41) Cultural Differences in Business Pitches
(09:05) Redefining Strategy with New Terms
(13:19) How Bentonville Is a Gateway to Global Opportunities
(16:06) Scaling Success Through Talent Pools
(22:26) Business Model Transition Challenges
(27:01) Reflecting on Self-Identity
(28:29) Closing Thoughts
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In this week’s episode of Startup Junkies, host Daniel Koonce sits down with Lori Hull, founder and president of Spectrum Independence Living, better known as SpIndL. Lori shares her inspiring journey as a parent of a young adult with autism, the struggles she’s faced finding support services, and her determination to create real change in her Arkansas community.
SpIndL was founded to help neurodivergent adults, particularly those with autism, bridge the daunting gap, often called the “services cliff,” that follows high school graduation. As Lori explains, many support systems available during school years fade away in adulthood, leaving families feeling isolated and young adults without the tools they need for independent living. SpIndL steps in to provide life skills coaching, job readiness training, social opportunities, and eventually supported housing. Their goal is to help neurodivergent individuals gain confidence, find meaningful work, and live independently.
Additionally, Lori highlights the power of community alliances, affordable solutions (including scholarships for coaching classes), and the transformative impact of social events like game nights. The episode offers practical advice for caregivers, educators, and business leaders about fostering inclusivity and dismantling barriers to employment and independence. SpIndL’s vision for the next five years includes expanding job support, building alliances, and eventually creating a neurodiversity-supportive community. Tune in today!
Show Notes
(00:00) Introduction
(04:11) A Need for Affordable Transitional Programs in Arkansas
(08:17) Guided Networking for Skill Development
(10:48) Navigating School and Job Challenges
(14:08) Startup Events and Opportunities
(20:30) Independence Academy for Neurodivergent Students
(23:19) Finding Light in Caregiving Obstacles
(26:15) Closing Thoughts
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In this week’s episode of Startup Junkies, hosts Daniel Koonce, Caleb Talley, and Jeff Amerine welcome Marshall Saviers, CEO and President of Cushman & Wakefield | Sage Partners, for an in-depth conversation about commercial real estate, entrepreneurial timing, and building community in Northwest Arkansas. Marshall’s journey is rooted in real estate, inspired by his family's legacy and shaped by his diverse childhood living in multiple cities.
Moving to NWA in 2005, he witnessed firsthand the explosive regional growth that was transforming cow pastures into thriving business corridors. Early on, Sage Partners carved out a niche serving office tenants among the surge of Walmart-vendor relocations but faced severe challenges during the 2009 recession. Marshall recounted the decision to double down rather than abandon ship, fueling Sage Partners’ transition into a full-service firm spanning property management, development, and investment.
Additionally, throughout the episode culture emerged as a recurring theme; Marshall stressed hiring the right people over simply hiring for skills, refining Sage Partners’ team to maintain quality and a sense of local connection even as they scaled up to manage over six million square feet of property. The conversation also delved into his entrepreneurial adventures, like co-founding Arkansas Craft Distribution, where timing and adaptability proved critical to success.
Looking ahead, Marshall remains bullish on NWA’s prospects, identifying opportunities in redevelopment, housing, and continued community investment. His blend of commercial acumen and civic commitment is driving both urban transformation and local growth, underscoring his advice to entrepreneurs: grow intentionally and never overlook the importance of culture!
Show Notes
(00:00) Introduction
(03:28) The Regional Impact of Walmart’s Vendor Influx
(06:32) Weathering the Pandemic and Its After Effects
(09:57) Bentonville’s Development and New STEM University
(15:21) Insights on Alcohol Distribution Changes
(18:49) Forecasting Trends in Northwest Arkansas
(26:34) Empowering Sage Partners’ Next Generation
(29:28) Prioritizing Intentional Growth over Rapid Expansion
(30:05) Closing Thoughts
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En este episodio de Querido Emprendedor, Ignacio Balderrama conversa con Laura Arce, apicultora de Costa Rica. Laura estudió apicultura tropical en la Universidad Nacional de Costa Rica, donde aprendió el cuidado, manejo y beneficios de las abejas y sus productos, como miel, propóleos, polen, jalea real y veneno, todos con propiedades saludables. Destaca la comunicación única de las abejas mediante danzas para indicar la ubicación del néctar y su altruismo al sacrificarse por la colmena. Su empresa desarrolla productos naturales cosméticos y alimenticios, además de promover el turismo apícola para educar sobre la importancia ecológica de las abejas, que polinizan el 80% de los alimentos que consumimos. Laura comparte su pasión por las abejas, su formación en apicultura tropical y el valor ecológico y medicinal de los productos apícolas. Además, habla sobre los desafíos de emprender en este sector, la importancia del networking y cómo romper estigmas culturales para alcanzar el éxito empresarial
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In this week’s episode of Startup Junkies, hosts Daniel Koonce, Caleb Talley, and Jeff Amerine are joined by Steve Toth, CEO of Crestline Leaders, a company helping high-capacity leaders move their enterprises forward. Steve’s entrepreneurial journey is as hands-on as it gets. He chronicled his early days rebuilding Volkswagen motors before discussing his role in co-founding Tango Press, a corrugated packaging startup that he grew and successfully exited.
One standout insight was Steve’s emphasis on integrating people and culture strategies from the beginning. He argues that no business can thrive or be successfully exited unless it’s built on trust, documented systems, and well-defined accountability. Steve explains how risk management, strategy, and a focus on enterprise value need to be front and center, no matter your stage of growth.
Additionally, he shared advice for entrepreneurs: think about succession and exit from day one. If your business cannot thrive without you, then there’s work to be done. For anyone building a business with an eye toward value creation and longevity, Steve’s blend of practical, people-first advice and battlefield-tested experience makes this episode a must-listen!
Show Notes
(00:00) Introduction
(04:27) Building Transferable Business Value
(12:06) A Prioritized Risk Management Approach
(18:00) The Importance of Enterprise Value in Exiting
(25:33) Utilizing a Hands-On Leadership Transition
(30:00) Rethinking Work-Life Balance
(38:01) Focusing on a Growth Mindset
(40:36) Closing Thoughts
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In this week’s episode of Startup Junkies, the team welcomes Keiji Tsuchiya, founder of CaminoSake, for a fascinating conversation about bringing Japanese craft sake and its rich culture to new audiences in Northwest Arkansas and beyond.
Keiji’s journey is anything but ordinary. With roots in Kobe, Japan, and a background spanning venture capital and the foodtech sector, he has a unique vision of supporting small Japanese brewers and local specialty sake shops by expanding their reach into global markets. His story intertwines entrepreneurial grit with a passion for sharing sake’s true essence, not just as an alcoholic drink, but as a mindful, enjoyable experience.
Listeners get a taste of Keiji’s philosophy as he discusses the traditional art of sake, the nuances of hot sake preparation, and innovative food pairings that break cultural boundaries, think Arkansas fried chicken or spicy Moroccan tagine with sake! Keiji’s collaborations with local chefs, Brightwater Culinary School, and Arkansas’ own Origami Sake brewery highlight his drive to foster community and cross-cultural culinary adventures.
Bootstrapping his venture, Keiji offers honest insight into the challenges and joys of entrepreneurship, advocating for enjoying each moment and learning along the way. For food lovers, sake enthusiasts, and aspiring entrepreneurs, this episode delivers inspiration and practical wisdom. Keiji reminds us that every meal and every venture can be a little happier, one mindful sip at a time!
Show Notes
(00:00) Introduction
(05:59) Improving Hot Sake Quality Education
(08:44) Keiji’s Role in Sake Brewing
(11:47) Cross-Cultural Culinary Ventures
(14:59) Bootstrapping Challenges and Strategies
(16:45) Expanding Japanese Sake Globally
(21:39) Closing Thoughts
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In this week’s episode of Startup Junkies, program director of ARise, Kris Adams, joins hosts Daniel Koonce, Caleb Talley, and Jeff Amerine to shine a spotlight on the ARise program—a dynamic support system for tech and tech-enabled startups in Arkansas. ARise, short for Arkansas Innovators, Startups, and Entrepreneurs, delivers a unique approach by offering long-term support beyond the standard accelerator window, ensuring startups always have access to resources.
Kris shares how ARise is designed to be accessible for companies at any stage, from high school students tinkering with ideas to serial entrepreneurs developing scalable ventures. The program offers one-on-one coaching, access to capital, navigation through state and federal incentives, and connections with a vast network of subject matter experts. These experts cover everything from legal and marketing to deep tech specialties like AI, biotech, and cybersecurity.
What sets ARise apart is its flexibility; the program is industry-agnostic and can support everything from advanced manufacturing to SaaS startups and even tech-infused, e-commerce companies. For those unsure if they qualify, the ARise team is just an onboarding call away to help walk through the fit. Kris also details ARise’s commitment to growing the Arkansas entrepreneurial ecosystem, with plans for increasing program reach, gathering critical data, and fostering innovation statewide. If you’re a tech entrepreneur, no matter your age or stage, ARise is ready to help you scale your vision for free!
Show Notes
(00:00) Introduction
(06:05) ARise’s Coaching and Capital Access Resources
(10:40) Scaling Challenges for Tech Companies
(16:17) Trends in Marketing, Legal, and Capital
(19:54) Arkansas’s Capital Scan Initiative
(22:21) AI-Assisted Business Insights
(26:29) Closing Thoughts
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In this week’s episode of Startup Junkies, hosts Daniel Koonce, Caleb Talley, and Jeff Amerine sit down with Brandon Watts, founder of B. Watts Collective and the nonprofit Kidz N Cameras, to dive into Brandon’s unconventional journey from a traditional college education to forging his creative path as a commercial photographer and entrepreneur in Northwest Arkansas.
Brandon shares how his love for photography grew out of flipping through his parents’ old photo albums and his desire for career independence. What began as a side hustle quickly turned into a thriving business, B. Watts Collective, where Brandon specializes in commercial and event photography. He emphasizes the importance of networking, understanding one’s target clients, and positioning oneself strategically to meet potential business contacts.
The episode shines brightest when Brandon discusses Kidz N Cameras, the nonprofit he launched in 2023 to empower kids (especially those facing challenges) to express themselves emotionally through photography. He tells touching stories, like a young student who used photography as a means of healing after leaving behavioral health care, ultimately winning a contest with a deeply personal nature photo. Brandon outlines Kidz N Cameras’ workshops, summer camps, contests, and community partnerships, all aimed at giving underprivileged youth creative opportunities he wishes he’d had growing up.
Balancing his thriving business, nonprofit work, and family life, Brandon exemplifies how merging passion with purpose can create real impact. For anyone curious about entrepreneurship or using creativity for good, this episode offers practical advice and heartfelt motivation. Tune in today!
Show Notes
(00:00) Introduction
(08:57) Photography Workshops and Future Plans
(15:58) Balancing Photography and Nonprofit Work
(22:00) Crystal Bridges Creative Opportunity
(26:01) Fundraising Journey: First Year Challenges
(31:45) Building a Youth Photography Program
(36:38) The Importance of Expressing Yourself
(38:55) Closing Thoughts
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In this week’s episode of Startup Junkies, hosts Daniel Koonce, Caleb Talley, and Jeff Amerine dive deep into the topics of screen time, digital distraction, and addictive technologies with Ian McCready, founder of selfctrl. Ian’s journey is as relatable as it is eye-opening—once addicted to video games himself, he now leads a nonprofit aimed at helping kids and parents reclaim their time and mental wellbeing in the age of endless scrolling and instant dopamine hits.
Through candid stories, Ian shares how recognizing the negative impact of his gaming habit (sometimes up to 14 hours a day in college) prompted a complete lifestyle shift. He ultimately launched selfctrl, dedicated to equipping both youth and adults with the skills and frameworks to develop healthier relationships with screens. From school assemblies to workshops for parents, Ian and his team offer practical, actionable steps for families feeling overwhelmed by technology.
What’s striking is the universality of the challenge. Ian highlights stories ranging from elementary-age children struggling to put down YouTube to adults admitting addiction to mobile games and social media. Listeners will find both comfort and motivation in Ian’s advice: set limits, seek real-life community, and be transparent about struggles. The conversation concludes with a powerful reminder about the value of relationships and human connection, something screens can't replace. Tune in for actionable insights and visit selfctrl.com if you’re seeking healthier digital habits for your family or yourself!
Show Notes
(00:00) Introduction
(05:34) Helping Youth Break Digital Habits
(08:10) Building Self-Control Through Tech Innovation
(11:39) Finding Focus: The selfctrl Framework
(17:01) Youth Screen Addiction Concerns
(23:52) Silicon Valley’s Ethical Dilemma
(30:29) Technology Overuse: Dopamine and Screen Time
(35:47) Boredom’s Role in Creativity Decline
(40:42) Device Usage Detox Strategy
(49:59) Closing Thoughts
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Summary
In this engaging episode of Startup Junkies, hosts Daniel Koonce and Caleb Talley welcomed back Leo Orpin, co-founder of Black Apple, as the cidery approaches its tenth anniversary. Leo shared the remarkable journey of building Arkansas’s first (and still only) cidery, revealing how the brand’s steady, strategic growth and willingness to “fail fast” have fueled its success.
From humble beginnings as a homebrewing hobby between friends, Black Apple’s story is one of grit, creativity, and timing. Leo reflects on early years marked by rapid scaling, boundless optimism, and a bit of ignorance that, in hindsight, helped fuel their boldness. Yet, the biggest challenges were yet to come, including the impact of COVID-19, which hit just as Black Apple was preparing for explosive growth and even debuting at a major cider expo in France.
Furthermore, Leo describes their post-pandemic evolution: adapting to changing supply chains, embracing market feedback, and expanding both their downtown Springdale taproom—now a full bar and local hotspot—and their reach into Oklahoma and Kansas.
Transparency, quality, and creativity set Black Apple apart. Their team experiments relentlessly with flavors—sometimes producing wild successes like strawberry dill pickle cider! And Leo’s advice to his younger self? “Slow down,” invest in data, and be patient with risks. For entrepreneurs and cider lovers alike, this episode is a testament to resilience, community-building, and the sweet rewards of authentic innovation. Cheers to ten years, Black Apple!
Show Notes
(00:00) Introduction
(06:45) Adapting in Post-Covid Business Landscape
(12:20) Springdale's Organic Downtown Revitalization
(16:54) Cider Transparency for Celiac Safety
(26:05) Regional Cider Flavor Trends
(29:19) Diversified Market Resilience
(32:21) The Importance of Investing in Data
(33:30) Closing Thoughts
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En este episodio de de Querido Emprendedor! tenemos una conversación profunda y conmovedora con José Cartagena Ortiz, educador puertorriqueño y experto en diseño instruccional. José comparte su trayectoria desde su infancia en Puerto Rico, hasta su proceso de adaptación en Estados Unidos, enfrentando choques culturales, retos personales y profesionales.
Hablamos sobre la importancia de poner al ser humano en el centro del aprendizaje, el valor del proceso por encima del resultado, y cómo la inteligencia artificial puede complementar —pero no reemplazar— la reflexión crítica y la empatía. José también reflexiona sobre la experiencia de ser latino, bilingüe y emprendedor en un país con estereotipos marcados, y cómo el networking, la resiliencia y el compromiso social han sido claves en su crecimiento.
Una entrevista inspiradora sobre cómo transformar el fracaso en aprendizaje, y cómo desde la educación se puede contribuir a “reparar el mundo”.
Show Notes
(00:05) Welcome & introductions.
(00:42) Who is José Cartagena Ortiz?
(02:33) Moving to the mainland.
(03:38) Fearing change.
(06:44) A cultural shock.
(10:18) What is instructional design?
(12:07) Human design.
(13:15) AI help.
(21:22) Cultural design.
(22:28) Design goal.
(26:32) Networking.
(36:28) Growth mentality.
(38:01) Failing is part of the process.
(48:34) Upside down, inside out.
(50:27) The difficult part of being José Cartagena Ortiz.
(56:49) What do people usually get wrong about you?
(01:04:49) Secret mission.
(01:15:31) Advice to the past.
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Summary
In this engaging episode of Startup Junkies, hosts Daniel Koonce and Harrison Kitson sit down with Gopi Chandran and Shannon Williams from AssistNow, a rapidly growing IT services and consulting firm specializing in Workday, ERP systems, and AI integration. Gopi shares the story of founding AssistNow four years ago, bootstrapping the company from its early days after decades of experience in the ERP space. Shannon, who recently joined the team, discusses the company's core offerings: Workday staffing, consulting services, post-go-live support, and the innovative use of AI through in-house tools like Assistly. The conversation explores how AI is revolutionizing day-to-day support for clients, simplifying tasks and delivering instant answers, and hints at new tools currently in development.
The discussion delves into AssistNow’s competitive edge. The team emphasizes their cost-effectiveness, commitment to customer satisfaction (including a rare money-back guarantee), and focus on building authentic relationships rather than relying solely on aggressive sales tactics. They also talk about the importance of trustworthiness, personal connection, and adaptability as drivers of their organic growth. Gopi and Shannon share valuable lessons from their entrepreneurial journeys, including the pitfalls of doing business with friends and the importance of reading contracts carefully. Looking ahead, AssistNow is planning strategic global expansion and continued innovation in AI, while maintaining its core values and personalized approach. The episode is an insightful look into what it takes to succeed—and grow—authentically in the tech consulting world!
Show Notes
(00:00) Introduction
(05:46) Creating Reports with Assistly
(07:35) Targeting Mid-Market and Recoveries
(11:30) Customer Retention Through Proactive Responses
(16:02) Expanding Global Office Strategy
(18:24) Lessons in Business and Friendship
(20:22) Avoiding Desperate Decisions
(23:32) Closing Thoughts
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Summary
In this engaging episode of Startup Junkies, host Daniel Koonce sits down with artist and entrepreneur Susan Edgmon and curator Allen Paulose to explore the intersection of art, business, and community in Northwest Arkansas. Susan shares her remarkable journey—how a life-changing car accident led her from being a business owner to becoming a professional artist, teacher, and inventor, all centered around her love for creative expression. She emphasizes the importance of following your passions, seizing unexpected opportunities, and embracing the philosophy of “finding a need and filling it,” which shaped both her artistic and entrepreneurial endeavors.
Additionally, Allen recounts his transition from a career in engineering to curating art exhibitions, inspired in part by his father’s experience as an under-recognized artist. His work bridges artists with the community and market, using innovative, community-focused approaches—including events, collaborations, and themed exhibitions—to promote inclusivity and connection. He and Susan discuss the challenges and rewards of creative entrepreneurship, underscoring the importance of experimentation, mentorship, and supporting one another.
Both guests reflect on the power of community, the need to stay open to life’s twists, and the significance of giving back. Their advice for aspiring creative entrepreneurs: keep learning, be kind to yourself through setbacks, and pursue what you love!
Show Notes
(00:00) Introduction
(04:24) Rediscovering Purpose Through Art Classes
(08:46) Embarking on a Painting Journey
(11:39) Unexpected Opportunities in Art Career
(15:34) Finding Purpose Through Failure
(22:10) Curating Underrecognized Artists' Stories
(25:16) Turning Art into Business
(31:01) Creative Entrepreneurship: Filling Market Gaps
(33:55) Art for All: Inclusive Engagement
(40:07) Closing Thoughts
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Summary
In this engaging episode of Startup Junkies, hosts Daniel Koonce and Caleb Talley sit down with Daniel Marques, the dynamic CEO and co-founder of Skin Check, to discuss his unique entrepreneurial journey and the innovative technology his team is bringing to digital healthcare. The episode opens with Daniel’s refreshingly candid take on entering the startup and medtech world with little prior experience, powered mostly by curiosity and grit. Raised in Sao Paulo, Brazil, and later moving to Tulsa, Oklahoma, Daniel built bridges between both cultures and leveraged local gaps in care to inspire his entrepreneurial mission.
Skin Check stands at the cutting edge of healthtech, offering an end-to-end digital dermatology platform that expedites access to expert skin care and enables early detection of skin cancer—a disease for which early diagnosis is life-saving. With an app already boasting over one hundred and sixty-five users, Skin Check harnesses AI and computer vision for accurate screenings across all skin tones, making equity a priority both in design and delivery.
Daniel shares stories from his early ventures—including building vital medical devices during the COVID-19 ventilator shortage and founding university-based incubators—highlighting his passion for empowering underrepresented innovators. Throughout the episode, what stands out is Daniel’s commitment to democratizing healthcare access, particularly for rural and underserved communities. The discussion also covers the challenges of building a tech startup outside the typical Silicon Valley hubs and the power of community and perseverance. Listen in for inspiration, actionable insights, and a glimpse into the future of digital dermatology!
Show Notes
(00:00) Introduction
(03:42) Engineering Entrepreneurship in Ventilator Innovation
(08:35) How Community and Collaboration is Crucial
(15:10) Inclusive AI Technology for Skin Tones
(20:04) Asynchronous Teledermatology Services Model
(21:10) Innovation in Dermatology Services
(25:02) Rural Startup Success in Healthcare
(34:06) Closing Thoughts
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Summary
In this engaging episode of Startup Junkies, hosts Daniel Koonce and Caleb Talley sit down with Ali Al Jabry, founder of Kwema—a company dedicated to improving workplace safety. Ali, whose journey began in Kenya and took him across Latin America and the U.S., shares the story behind Kwema and how his personal experiences led him to entrepreneurship.
Kwema’s flagship product is a smart badge reel that discreetly keeps employees safe. With the press of a button, it sends exact location data during emergencies—assisting everyone from healthcare workers facing rising workplace violence to social workers and home health professionals entering unknown environments. Ali emphasizes that beyond technology, they also offer de-escalation training and tips for situational awareness.
The discussion dives into the evolution of Kwema, starting from smart jewelry to their now widely adopted badge reels. Ali provides valuable insights for entrepreneurs—highlighting the importance of persistence, community, and resilience when breaking into tough industries like healthcare. He also shares what keeps him motivated: the drive to scale up and serve more customers without compromising quality. Ali closes with advice for fellow founders—reminding us that nobody has all the answers and that listening, empathy, and continuous learning are keys to success. Listen today!
Show Notes
(00:00) Introduction
(03:24) About Kwema’s Innovative Safety Badge Technology
(09:26) Unexpected Client Interest and Uses
(16:07) Growing Through Strategic Partnerships
(19:24) How Community Support is Boosting Success
(22:52) Preparing for Increased Demand
(24:21) Kwema’s Future Market Expansion Strategy
(27:36) Closing Thoughts
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Summary
¡Bienvenidos a otro episodio de Querido Emprendedor! En esta inspiradora conversación, nuestra invitada Itzel Velazquez comparte su trayectoria como una líder apasionada, involucrada activamente en varios comités y organizaciones latinas y latinoamericanas. Itzel habla sobre la importancia de crear conexiones, mantenerse motivada y apoyar a la comunidad latina, destacando especialmente el valor de que las mujeres latinas no tengan miedo de aprovechar y mostrar sus fortalezas en el ámbito profesional. Acompáñanos mientras nos cuenta sobre el valor de la colaboración, cómo enfrentar nuevos retos y su compromiso por empoderar a otros para perseguir sus sueños y aprovechar nuevas oportunidades.
Show Notes
(00:05) Welcome & introductions.
(00:28) What’s new?
(01:21) Past experiences.
(03:50) What’s your job?
(03:50) What’s your job?
(05:14) What is it about helping people?
(06:16) Melting pot.
(07:35) Biggest challenge.
(09:30) How do you define success?
(11:35) First in my family.
(12:44) Opening doors.
(14:31) Lessons from entrepreneurs.
(16:03) A balanced life.
(19:00) Stumbling along the way.
(20:58) Choosing a team.
(22:52) A commitment to the community.
(24:50) Carrer objectives.
(26:18) Business advice.
(28:30) Fighting the fear.
(29:46) Lasting footprint.
(31:44) Advice from the past.
Links
Itzel Velazquez (Little Rock Kiva Hub-Capital Access Manager)