In today’s episode of the Atlanta Startup Podcast, we sat down with Scott Lopano, newly promoted Partner at Tech Square Ventures in Atlanta. Scott opens up about his journey from Associate to Partner, sharing real reflections on his career ascension. We get into his top fundraising tips for early-stage founders navigating today's market and highlig…

Dive into the riveting world of mergers, leadership, and company culture with CEO Brooke Smith. Discover how Deep Water Point & Associates navigate the challenging waters of blending distinct corporate identities while maintaining client trust and financial prosperity. A tell-all session packed with lessons on transparency, mentorship, and the perp…

Explore how Dena Lewis transforms the running experience with Running Mate on this episode of the Atlanta Startup Podcast. Learn about her journey to create a safer runner environment through a real-time, on-demand app that pairs them with verified, safe mates. Dena's personal experiences and dedication to runner safety drive this innovative soluti…

Software founders, as you grow to millions in ARR, are you encountering bigger tax liabilities than you anticipate? Transaction tax law is evolving fast, and if you're not prepared, rather than sell your startup at the price you agreed to in the LOI, you can find after diligence you get significantly less if you don't prepare in advance. In this ep…

Dive into the compelling world of Greg Cathcart, the CEO of Exellis Health. Join us on "The Better People Podcast" as he uncovers the challenges of leading a globally integrated firm, the nuances of supply chain in pharma, and the art of fostering a culture that embraces flexibility. With a peek into the merger of three companies and personal leade…

This episode of the Atlanta Startup Podcast is your golden ticket. ️ We're diving deep into the journeys of two successful founders at the Startup Runway's 25th Showcase, Damola Ogundipe, the mind behind the revolutionary AI platform for lobbyists - Plural, and Kristen Dunning, the creator of plant-based skincare magic - Gently Soap. Damola and Kri…

Dive into the world of InHome Therapy with CEO Matt Murphy as he unveils the origins of his company during the pandemic, the growth through acquisitions, and the industry's shift to prioritize patients. Discover the power of purpose, the impact of physical therapy, and the art of engagement in a burgeoning healthcare business - all shaped by heartw…

Episode 73 features an exclusive interview with Kennedy Fuller, the teenage phenom making her mark with Angel City. Fuller talks about her soccer journey, how she's constantly improved to get here, the importance of family, and her mindset, which is miles ahead of everyone her age. Plus, host Rohtas Wadera gives his take on the start of the Emma Ha…

Join Margaret Uhrich on the Better People podcast for an insightful chat with Chris Bailey, CEO of Bailey Brand Consulting. Explore the secrets behind a resilient brand strategy, building strong team dynamics, and the role of deep-rooted relationships in business success. Get ready for an episode packed with wisdom from a branding titan! Here are a…

Today on the Virginia startup podcast, we're joined by Gene Riechers, Venture Partner at Sands Capital Management & Seda Goff, Founder and General Partner at Flintlock Capital to unpack the momentum fueling the Virginia startup ecosystem. We broadly discuss the phases of growth the Virginia startup scene has traversed, contrary thoughts on the AI c…

Join host Holly DePalma as she enlightens us with the extraordinary journey of Franklyn Baker, CEO and President of the United Way of Central Maryland. Franklyn unveils the secrets behind doubling the organization's outreach, fostering a culture of equity and growth, and the thrilling prospects of taking their practices nationwide. Tap in to learn …

In this captivating newest episode of the Atlanta Startup Podcast, Lisa Calhoun, Founding Managing Partner and Co-host, collaborates with Lynne Laube, Operating Partner at Valor Ventures, for an engaging dialogue. Together, they explore Lynne's transition from Fintech post-IPO Founder to Venture Capitalist, uncovering surprising insights along the …

Dive into an electrifying chat with CEO David Mattson of Sandler Training on The Better People Podcast. In this episode, we uncover the fusion of potent leadership, savvy sales strategies, and the art of personal career cultivation. Captivating stories and razor-sharp insights make this a playbook for anyone hungry to excel. Here are a few of the t…

This week on the Atlanta Startup Podcast, we welcome Jason Caplain, General Partner at Bull City Venture Partners. This conversation with Jason and William works to unpack the frameworks behind the firm's founder-centric investment strategy and their successes from following this blueprint. We learn how the Bull City team builds conviction in dilig…

In this episode, Holly DePalma kicks of a shift in perspective as we hear from guest CEO Kevin Robins. Insightful monologues & real-life leadership lessons make up this candid chat on reinventing workplace culture, building successful teams, and making sure everyone is on board and not left at the station. Here are a few topics we’ll discuss on thi…

Episode 72 features a special interview with Lisa Cole, the technical advisor for Zambia, whom she helped reach their first-ever World Cup. Cole speaks on how to build international programs from the ground up and gives insight into just how good players like Barbara Banda and Rachael Kundananji are. Host Rohtas Wadera also touches on the recent ma…

Join us as Bookminders CEO Jessica Minkus shares her journey from staff accountant to head honcho, and spills the secret sauce behind their flexible, remote work culture. Discover how an employee-centric approach supercharged their growth, learn about team advisors' impact, and get inspired to enhance your company's culture. Here are a few topics w…

In this episode, we're joined by Riean Knight, the innovative founder of Honey to Cocoa, a groundbreaking mobile app using AI to match makeup to diverse skin tones. Riean shares her journey and insights into building a platform that champions inclusivity and confidence in the beauty industry. Discover how technology empowers people of color to feel…

In this episode, we're joined by Joe Hamilton, the brilliant mind behind 4 Second Football, winner of the Audience Choice award at the 24th Startup Runway Showcase. Discover how Joe's innovative technology revolutionizes football with real-time feedback for players and coaches at every level. From its inception to its impact on the game, Joe shares…

Embark on a transformative journey with Keith Chaney, the visionary behind Peadbo, winner of the Judge’s Prize at the 24th Startup Runway Showcase. In this episode, Keith reveals the game-changing power of cultivating a personal board of directors for college students and young professionals. Discover how strategic mentorship and regular engagement…

Episode 71 features an exclusive interview with PSG's Eva Gaetino. The former Notre Dame star received her second NCAA All-American award, and host Rohtas Wadera asked her about possibly playing in Europe at the United Soccer Coaches Convention. The NWSL is back, and the first three weeks were incredible. Lastly, Korbin Albert sparked controversy t…

Atlanta startup Aetos is on the journey of building software to digitize the multi-billion dollar industry of facilities management in the built environment. In this episode, we talk with Aetos CEO Connor Offut to unpack how their software transforms facilities mgmt for clients like Chick-fil-A, Pepsi, Hines, SL Green, and others. We also talk more…

Two founders of London-based startups are setting their sights on Atlanta. In an exclusive interview, we spoke with Elizabeth Lukas, CEO Americas at AutogenAI, and Anna Brailsford, CEO at CodeFirstGirls, to better understand their motivations. Having successfully launched their startups in London, they are now targeting Atlanta, the Southeast's gem…

Episode 70 features an exclusive interview with Julie Uhrman, the co-founder and owner of Angel City FC. The woso pioneer and entrepreneur talks about the journey of creating the club and some of the highs and lows from a historic season. Plus, host Rohtas Wadera breaks down the major transfer moves and what it means for the exploding market of wom…

On today's episode, we sit down with Kevin Moore to explore his journey from Limited Partner to General Partner and ultimately the inception of Serac Ventures. Kevin shares the strategic timing behind launching Serac in 2023, offering a glimpse into his unique perspective shaped by his LP experience and how it influences his role and decision-makin…

Founder of Simp Now, Gera Baano-Stewart II shares his entrepreneurial journey on the Atlanta Startup Podcast hosted by Nwanyinma Dike. From learning to code at a young age to launching Simp Now, Gera discusses the inspiration behind the dating app and its viral success on TikTok. He emphasizes the importance of a can-do attitude and effective time …

Episode 69 features two exclusive interviews; the first is USL President Amanda Vandervort, who talks about the USL Super League, the success of launching a top-flight professional league, and how it fits alongside the NWSL. The second interview is with the CEO of US Club Soccer and a Vice Presidential candidate for US Soccer, Mike Cullina. Mike Cu…

Dive into the incredible transformation of F&M Trust with Dr. Karen Carmack, as she unravels their path from low morale to record earnings through a robust employee engagement strategy. Discover the power of listening, strategic initiatives, and transparent leadership in propelling organizational success. Here are a few of the topics we’ll discuss …

The Outlook for Tech Growth in the Southeast is more optimistic than ever. Tune into our latest episode of the Atlanta Startup Podcast which outlines insights from boots-on-the-ground insiders: Bryan Bean from Pinnacle Bank, Atlanta's own Donnie Beamer, Jr., Jamal Lewis of PIN Georgia, Tech Executive David Evans, and William Leonard of Valor. We're…

Episode 68 features an exclusive interview with Madison Hammond of Angel City from the United Soccer Coaches Convention. Hammond re-signed with Angel City and talked about staying in LA along with her journey until now. Plus, host Rohtas Wadera breaks down everything that happened at an amazing United Soccer Coaches Convention and talks about some …

In this episode of the Atlanta Startup Podcast, host Lisa Calhoun interviews Jennifer Silverberg, CEO of SmartCommerce. They discuss Jennifer's journey of scaling SmartCommerce from a startup to a global player, focusing on the lessons learned during rapid growth. Highlights include SmartCommerce's innovative approach in the CPG sector, its evoluti…

Join us for an engaging podcast where leading corporate innovators take the spotlight. Discover the strategies behind technology investments, particularly in AI, from top decision-makers Angie Brown of Home Depot, Leigh Gaffney at Assurant Ventures, Mike Mahan from Stanley Black & Decker, and Michelle Mason of Exxon Mobil.…

Join William Leonard on the Atlanta Startup podcast for an intriguing conversation with Blaine Davis, a Partner at Outlander VC. Blaine reveals Outlander's unique early-stage investment approach, centered on their exclusive founder framework evaluating 38 character attributes. Discover Outlander's emphasis on backing teams over ideas, and their int…

Today we're joined by Valor’s newest portfolio CEO Jake Soffer who is the Founder of Miami-based FirmPilot. FirmPilot is reshaping the $30B legal marketing vertical with powerful AI that challenges the traditional agency model. Jake shares his insights on scaling from $0-$500K in ARR in less than 12 months, winning customer conviction as a seed-sta…

Episode 67 features an exclusive interview with Chicago Red Stars' Rookie of the Year, Penelope Hocking. The former USC and Penn State striker talks about what the last year and a half has been like transitioning from college to the pros, where her love for the game comes from, and her dedication to getting better every day. Host Rohtas Wadera also…

Join Nwanyinma Dike on the Atlanta Startup Podcast as she engages in a captivating conversation with Shayna Stewart, the trailblazing Founder of Shown Live and recent winner of the Judge’s prize at Startup Runway Edition 23. Discover how Shown Live, a sponsorship marketplace, is transforming the landscape for audio and video creators by connecting …

Dive into an illuminating conversation on the Atlanta Startup Podcast with Nwanyinma Dike, the new Managing Director of Startup Runway features Yolanda Barton founder of Revere XR and recent winner of the Women’s Empowerment prize at Startup Runway Edition 23. She shares her vision for transforming our experience of city history and culture through…

In this episode, we turn our focus to a spirited keynote from last year's VC Day, presented by David Cummings, the Founder of Atlanta Ventures and Atlanta Tech Village. David, renowned for building, scaling, and successfully exiting Pardot – an Atlanta-based startup that emerged as one of the top 10 B2B marketing platforms globally – shares his jou…

Following her recent promotion from Principal to Partner, Claire Hansen joins the Atlanta Startup Podcast. Claire unpacks the Firebrand thesis, how the firm thinks about diligence as a lead investor & as a follow-on co-investor, continual learning as a VC, leveraging network to land a job in VC, characteristics of today's dynamic seed market, and m…

Episode 66 features an exclusive interview with two Angel City rookie phenoms Alyssa Thompson and Angelina Anderson. Host Rohtas Wadera sits down with Alyssa and Angelina to talk about their rookie season in the NWSL, soccer idols, and what their experiences have been like in their career until now. Plus, Rohtas breaks down NWSL Free Agency, the ne…

In this episode, Margaret Uhrich interviews Sol Alberione, the Chief People Officer at Giant Machines. Sol discusses the importance of a people-centered approach and the company's focus on creating digital solutions. She also shares insights on celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month at Giant Machines, emphasizing the need for a sense of belon…

Today, we're joined by Nassir Criss from Sixty8 Capital, an Indianapolis-based pre-seed and seed generalist firm. Nassir, a Principal on the team, shares core insights on how 'digital nomad' has made him a better VC. He discusses his thoughts on pattern matching versus pattern breaking, explains the deal process behind one of the firm's top-perform…

S3 Ventures is the largest venture capital firm in Texas, specializing in Seed-Series B investments in B2B Software companies. Nicole Bentz, a VC at S3 joins host William Leonard to break down the firm's investment strategy and how its unique sole-LP structure augments the firm's ability to be hyper-focused on their founders. Nicole and William als…

This episode features an interview with Juliette Dupré VP of People & Culture at Simulmedia, who shares her unconventional career trajectory from ballerina to the startup world. The conversation delves into the challenges of working in HR and startups, finding a balance between perfection and the fast-paced startup environment, and the importance o…

During this episode, William is joined by Kai Tan, Founder and CEO of RevMatch and recent Startup Runway Winner. As a former product design leader at companies like IBM & Meta, Kai shares insights on the importance of tactically enhancing the user experience for B2C Apps, understanding feedback loops, and more about building/scaling consumer apps. …

Discover the inspiring stories and valuable lessons shared in these three podcast episodes. From Culture Plus turning their failing company around with a culture of love, to leaders embracing vulnerability and feedback for personal growth, and a former F-18 fighter pilot sharing insights on functional leadership, these episodes offer valuable insig…

In this podcast episode, Triet Nguyen, a Senior Associate at Louisville-based Render Capital, sits down with William Leonard to discuss Render's strategic approach towards backing early-stage founders in the Southern and Midwestern US. The conversation also explores how venture capital firms, including Render, are leveraging their "platforms" to wi…

In this episode, our host Margaret Uhrich discusses various aspects of leadership and management with guest Erwin de Leon, Chief Diversity Officer at Columbia University. They emphasize the significance of transparency in managing teams and the challenges faced by middle managers. The conversation also delves into the motivation and sense of purpos…

Jessica King, CEO of femtech startup FlowIntell, recently celebrated a win, securing the Women's Empowerment Grant at the 22nd Startup Runway Showcase. Joining host William Leonard in this episode, she delves into her dedicated mission to tackle a pervasive healthcare challenge: endometriosis screening, a dilemma confronting over 6 million women. F…

In this episode, Jenny Malseed, VP of Strategy and Talent at GlobalGiving, emphasizes the significance of authenticity in employee engagement and driving social change within organizations. She discusses the evolution of bringing one's whole self to work and its impact on employee satisfaction and organizational culture. Jenny shares successful pra…