In this episode, we speak with Emilia Mamajova, Managing Partner at Everita Capital and founding partner of Espira Investments. Emilia shares her journey from being the only woman on a 20-person investment team to launching two private equity funds focused on supporting small and medium-sized businesses across Central and Eastern Europe. Her approach combines hands-on support, digital transformation, and a clear thesis: people-first companies create lasting value.
We explore how Emilia identifies overlooked companies with strong potential, what growth capital actually means beyond the money, and how diversity is not just the right thing to do but a smart market opportunity. If you are a founder scaling an SME or thinking about partnering with an investor who brings more than capital, this episode is for you.
Stay connected with Emilia on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilia-mamajova-6b28733/
In this episode, we sit down with Seen Aquin, entrepreneur, investor, and Chief Growth Officer at Ententee, to explore his journey from the aerospace industry into healthtech, entrepreneurship, and early-stage investing.
We talk about how a trip to Bali sparked the idea for BodyBody, a fitness franchise built around EMS training, with the first version of the business model sketched out on a napkin. Seen shares how he and his wife turned that idea into one of the first tech-enabled fitness franchises in the Czech Republic.
We also dive into what it’s like to build a company with your life partner, how to approach scalability and unit economics early on, and how Seen supports startups today as an angel investor and through STARTGUIDE.VC. He shares what he looks for in founders, why team dynamics matter, and what excites him most about the future of longevity, AI, and digital health.
Stay connected with Seen on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seen-aquin/
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Are you curious about what we do at Uppersky? We design digital products for impact-driven businesses, helping startups and innovation teams solve real challenges and create meaningful results.
You can learn more here:
If this sounds like something you need help with, we’d love to connect.
We talk with Ilya Novodvorskiy, co-founder of Readmio, a storytelling app that helps parents and children connect through shared moments and imagination.
We talk about how Ilya went from building apps for others to launching a product of his own, what he learned from the ups and downs of growing a B2C startup, and why Readmio focuses on making families happier instead of chasing screen time.
Ilya also shares honest lessons about fundraising, product growth, co-founder dynamics, and staying resilient when things get tough. If you’re building something meaningful and want to hear what it really takes behind the scenes, this one’s for you.
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Are you curious about what we do at Uppersky? We design digital products for impact-driven businesses, helping startups and innovation teams solve real challenges and create meaningful results.
You can learn more here:
If this sounds like something you need help with, we’d love to connect.
In this episode, I talk with Clara Vincenc Cismaru, a former product leader who now helps others grow as a leadership coach. We go into the importance of mental fitness, how to build real confidence, and why soft skills are key when working with stakeholders. Clara shares her journey from tech to coaching, how product managers can stay human in the age of AI, and what it really takes to lead with clarity and care. If you're working in product or just trying to be a better leader, this one will give you a lot to think about.
In this episode, we sit down with Karel Obluk, partner at Evolution Equity Partners and president of the Czech Business Angel Association. Karel shares his journey from leading R&D at AVG to backing founders building the future of cybersecurity.
We talk about his early days in the Czech tech scene, how companies like AVG and Avast became global players, and the critical lessons he’s learned as both an angel investor and VC. He opens up about evaluating product–market fit, what makes a team truly investable, and why angel investing is about more than just capital.
Whether you're a founder raising your first round or an operator exploring the world of early-stage investing, this conversation offers honest insights on what it takes to build and back enduring tech companies.
Connect with Karel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karelobluk/
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Are you curious about what we do at Uppersky? We design digital products for impact-driven businesses, helping startups and innovation teams solve real challenges and create meaningful results.
You can learn more here:
If this sounds like something you need help with, we’d love to connect.
In this episode, Šárka shares the story behind WebExpo’s growth, what makes it such a unique and welcoming space for developers, designers, product people, and tech lovers, and why in-person still matters in an AI-driven world.
We talk about the power of community, the lessons learned from 15+ years of organizing, and how to make the most out of any conference — whether you’re going to learn, connect, or just recharge.
If you’ve ever been curious about what it takes to build something people come back to year after year — this one’s for you.
Connect with Šárka on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarkastrossova/
🎟️ Plus: WebExpo is happening May 28–30 in Prague, and we’ve got an exclusive 20% discount for the Uppersky community — just use code UPPERSKYPODCAST at checkout.
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Are you curious about what we do at Uppersky? We design digital products for impact-driven businesses, helping startups and innovation teams solve real challenges and create meaningful results.
You can learn more here:
If this sounds like something you need help with, we’d love to connect.
In this episode, we talk with Vratislav Zima, CEO of MeguMethod and Chairman of the Association of Software Agencies. We explore how his team built mobile apps used by over 10 million people, the mindset behind creating products users truly love, and how he’s helping software agencies grow and collaborate through ASWA.
If you're into building great products or leading a tech team, you'll find plenty to take away.
Connect with Vratislav on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/vratislav-zima
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Are you curious about what we do at Uppersky? We design digital products for impact-driven businesses, helping startups and innovation teams solve real challenges and create meaningful results.
You can learn more here:
If this sounds like something you need help with, we’d love to connect.
Barbora Pešek is one of the key organizers behind Maker Faire Czech Republic and FAB25. She brings together people who love to create, whether it’s digital fabrication, robotics, 3D printing, computers, arts and crafts, or hacker culture.
In this episode, she shares what’s coming next for Maker Faire and FAB25, how they’re helping schools introduce more hands-on learning, and what it takes to organize an event of this scale. She also talks about her personal projects, the unexpected challenges along the way, and the moments that make it all worth it.
Barbora opens up about where she finds inspiration and how she and her team are making these events more accessible. She also shares some of her favorite resources, including Open Hardware Manufacturing Podcast, MIT Technology Review Narrated, and The Good Robot.
A great conversation for anyone who loves creativity, problem-solving, and bringing ideas to life.
Stay connected with Barbora on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barbora-pesek/
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Are you curious about what we do at Uppersky? We design digital products for impact-driven businesses, helping startups and innovation teams solve real challenges and create meaningful results.
You can learn more here:
If this sounds like something you need help with, we’d love to connect.
Join us for a conversation with Jakub Rychlý, co-founder of Nekrachni / Not Broke, a project helping young people in the Czech Republic take control of their finances. Jakub shares why he started Nekrachni, the biggest financial challenges Gen Z faces, and how their app makes managing money easier. He also talks about securing a Google Impact Challenge grant and the role of community in their success.
Beyond the story, Jakub shares practical advice on financial well-being and how small steps can make a big difference. If you're looking to build better money habits or just curious about how financial education is evolving, this episode is for you.
Stay connected with Jakub on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubrychly/
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Are you curious about what we do at Uppersky? We design digital products for impact-driven businesses, helping startups and innovation teams solve real challenges and create meaningful results.
You can learn more here:
If this sounds like something you need help with, we’d love to connect.
What if cutting-edge research from one of the world’s most advanced scientific institutions could power the next generation of startups? In this episode, we sit down with Linn Kretzschmar, Program Lead at CERN Venture Connect, to uncover how CERN is helping deep tech startups turn groundbreaking technology into real-world applications. We explore how CERN’s expertise, network, and unique technology transfer model create opportunities for innovators worldwide.
Linn shares stories of startups already benefiting from CERN's deep tech, explains how entrepreneurs can access these technologies, and reveals surprising ways research can shape industries beyond physics. Whether you're a founder, investor, or just curious about how scientific discoveries make it to market, this conversation will change how you see the future of deep tech innovation.
Tune in and discover how to bridge the gap between research and business.
Stay connected with Linn on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/linn-kretzschmar-95a337a2/
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Are you curious about what we do at Uppersky? We design digital products for impact-driven businesses, helping startups and innovation teams solve real challenges and create meaningful results.
You can learn more here:
If this sounds like something you need help with, we’d love to connect.
Join us for an insightful conversation with Bob Moesta, a leading innovator and co-creator of Jobs to be Done (JTBD). Bob has helped countless companies succeed by focusing on how customers make decisions and solving their real struggles with empathy.
In this episode, Bob talks about:
Whether you're a founder, product manager, or simply curious about creating meaningful solutions, you’ll leave this episode with actionable ideas and fresh perspectives.
Stay connected with Bob on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobmoesta/
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Are you curious about what we do at Uppersky? We design digital products for impact-driven businesses, helping startups and innovation teams solve real challenges and create meaningful results.
You can learn more here:
If this sounds like something you need help with, we’d love to connect.
Are you curious about DeepTech? We had a great chat with Ondrej Lipold, Principal at Tensor Ventures. They invest in exciting technologies like AI, Quantum Computing, and Biotech.
Ondrej shared his story of how he got into venture capital and explained what DeepTech really means in a way anyone can understand. He also talked about the right time to seek funding, the challenges founders face, and the opportunities that excite him most.
If you’ve ever wondered how ideas from universities make it into the real world or where to start learning about DeepTech, this episode is for you. It’s full of practical insights and inspiring ideas.
Stay connected with Ondrej on LinkedIn:
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Are you interested in learning more about Uppersky? You can find us over here:
Join us as we chat with Julia Binder, IMD Professor of Sustainable Innovation and co-author of The Circular Business Revolution. Julia is passionate about helping leaders build businesses that are good for both people and the planet.
In this episode, Julia explains what sustainability and the circular economy mean in simple terms. She shares practical tips to get started, real-world examples of companies making it work, and why collaboration is the key to success. We also talk about the role of IMD in driving change, the different types of circular business models, and how each of us can make a difference.
Whether new to sustainability or already working in this space, there's something here for everyone.
Stay connected with Julia on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/julia-k-binder/
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Are you interested in learning more about Uppersky? You can find us over here:
Join us for a conversation with Eva Mejtová, EIT Community Officer for the Czech Republic. Eva is part of Europe’s biggest innovation network, connecting entrepreneurs, research institutions and local governments with the resources, expertise and partnerships they need to drive impactful projects forward.
In this episode, Eva talks about her journey in innovation, explains what EIT does, shares the programs available in the Czech Republic, highlights the country’s key industries and strengths, and gives practical advice for entrepreneurs starting out.
Stay connected with Eva on LinkedIn:
Are you interested in learning more about Uppersky? You can find us over here:
We’re happy to talk with Alain Wildanger, the Founding Partner of Ilavska Vuillermoz Capital (IVC). They focus on investing in startups, particularly in FinTech and ClimateTech.
In this episode, Alain opens up about his journey in starting Ilavska Vuillermoz Capital. He also shares practical tips on finding the right market for your product, explains why sales and marketing are crucial for startups, and discusses what makes a strong early-stage team. Alain also talks about the role of User Experience (UX) in building a product and how to keep a healthy relationship between investors and founders.
Stay connected with Alain on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/awildanger/
You can also listen the conversation with Quentin Dupraz from IVC: https://bit.ly/3AGvPZD
Are you interested in learning more about Uppersky? You can find us over here:
Join us for a conversation with Regula Bleuler, the Managing Director of the Swiss Startup Association (SSA). The SSA advocates for startups in Switzerland, aiming to improve their conditions by working with politics, business, and the public.
In this episode, Regula shares her journey with the association, explaining how they support Swiss startups, the services and resources they offer, the key industries in the Swiss market, the importance of product-market fit, and her love for Switzerland. She also reflects on what can be improved and her experiences in the world of sports.
Stay connected with Regula on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/regulableuler/
Are you interested in learning more about Uppersky? You can find us over here:
Join us for a conversation with Quentin Dupraz, Principal at Ilavska Vuillermoz Capital (IVC). IVC invests in early-stage start-ups developing new technologies to combat climate change.
In this episode, Quentin talks about his journey in the venture capital industry and his focus on ClimateTech. He shares the story of IVC, the technologies he's most excited about, his favorite podcasts and books, advice on founder-board relationships, and tips for early-stage ClimateTech start-ups.
Stay connected with Quentin on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/quentindpz/
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Are you interested in learning more about Uppersky? You can find us over here:
Join us for a chat with Romana Voříšková, founder and CEO of Kodu, a company making affordable and sustainable housing for everyone.
In this episode, Romana shares:
Stay connected with Romana on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/romana-voriskova/
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Are you interested in learning more about Uppersky? You can find us over here:
Join us for a chat with Nathalie Moral, the co-founder and CEO of Clima Now. Clima Now invests in early-stage startups focusing on energy transition, food systems, and carbon reduction. They also work on policy and advocacy to help Switzerland reach its net zero goal.
In this episode, Nathalie discusses why she started Clima Now, what makes their venture capital fund and community special, and her core values. She shares stories about startups they support, exciting technologies for fighting climate change, good and bad advice she's received, resources she follows, and advice for women in their careers or entrepreneurial journeys.
Stay connected with Nathalie on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathalie-moral-76b98212/
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