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EP16: Clare Richards, Co-Founder & CEO of Impacks | "Community Service & Startup Success"

In this episode, Kasey Devine interviews Clare Richards, CEO and Co-Founder of Impacks, a company dedicated to providing parents with an easy way to purchase school supplies online. Clare shares her journey from community service to entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of building relationships and making meaningful asks. The conversation explores the mission of Impacks, the challenges of starting a business during the pandemic, and the role of community service in leadership development.
 
Takeaways
Community service can lead to unexpected opportunities.
Building authentic relationships is crucial for success.
Starting a business requires resilience and adaptability.
Networking should be proactive, not reactive.
The school supply market is ripe for innovation.
Impacks aims to alleviate the burden of school supply shopping for parents.
Engaging parents in giving can create a larger impact.
Community service can develop leadership skills in employees.
It's important to ask for help when needed.
A for-profit model can effectively address social issues.
Keywords: community service, entrepreneurship, school supplies, business leadership, social impact, networking, education, startup journey, nonprofit, leadership development
 
Sound Bites
"Everything happens for a reason."
"You have to invest in those relationships."
"It's much easier for me to give."
"It's a really amazing structure."
"This is a pretty good market to be in."
"It's a win-win."
"We need to earn their trust."
"We can help make it a lot better."
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Clare Richards and Impacts
02:05 The Role of Community Service in Business
11:49 The Journey of Starting Impacks
19:12 Building Relationships and Making Asks
28:00 Understanding Impacts' Mission and Services
32:44 The Importance of Community Service in Leadership

EP15: Marin Nelson, Co-Founder & CEO of Sobrynth | "Community Through Sobriety"

In this conversation, Marin Nelson shares her journey of sobriety and how it led her to co-found Sobrynth, a company focused on providing support for substance use disorder in the workplace. Marin discusses the importance of sharing personal stories, building community, and creating safe spaces for individuals to seek help. She reflects on her experiences in recovery, the challenges of starting a business, and the need for change in workplace culture regarding substance use. The conversation emphasizes the power of vulnerability and the impact of community support in recovery.
 
Takeaways:
Marin Nelson is a long-term recovery advocate and CEO of Sobrynth.
The power of sharing personal stories can foster community and support.
Creating a sober community in the workplace is essential for recovery.
Sobriety can enhance leadership and employee performance.
There is a significant gap in workplace support for substance use disorder.
Community and connection are antidotes to loneliness and substance use.
Grief can catalyze personal and professional transformation.
Entrepreneurship requires courage and a willingness to take risks.
Businesses can positively impact society while being for-profit.
It's important to trust the process and seek help when needed.
Keywords: sobriety, recovery, workplace support, substance use disorder, storytelling, community, entrepreneurship, mental health, Sobrynth, personal growth
 
Sound Bites:
"I couldn't stay silent."
"My sobriety makes me a better leader."
"If not me, who? If not now, when?"
"We need to show that businesses can do good."
"I need to talk to someone who understands."
"You're not alone. There is hope."
"You're not alone. There are 21 million of us in recovery."
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Marin Nelson and Sobriety Journey
02:31 The Power of Sharing Stories
04:03 From Personal Struggles to Professional Impact
06:51 Creating a Sober Community at Work
12:49 The Importance of Community in Recovery
16:39 The Catalyst for Change: Grief and Purpose
20:56 Taking the Leap: From Employee to Entrepreneur
22:50 Sobrynth: Bridging the Gap in Workplace Support
29:16 Understanding Sobrynth's Mission and Services
33:24 Advice to My Younger Self
34:54 Engaging with Sobrynth and Community Support

EP14: Ryan Shapiro, Founder of PEOMG | "Businesses are People"

Summary: Ryan Shapiro, Founder of PEOMG, discusses the importance of PEOs in supporting small to medium-sized businesses. He shares his journey into the PEO industry, the complexities of finding the right PEO for businesses, and the current climate for small businesses. Ryan emphasizes the need for authenticity and responsibility in the PEO consulting space and offers insights for aspiring entrepreneurs. He also outlines the plans for PEOMG and the impact they aim to have on the industry.
 
Takeaways
Helping small to medium-sized businesses is our core mission.
Complex problems are what drive my passion.
PEOs can support a wide range of industries.
Navigating the PEO landscape requires careful evaluation.
The current business climate is challenging but full of opportunities.
Finding the right PEO is crucial for business success.
Authenticity and responsibility are key in consulting.
Entrepreneurs should assess their weaknesses.
PEOmg aims to expand and support more businesses.
Education and fun are essential in the PEO industry.
Keywords: PEO, HR outsourcing, small business, entrepreneurship, talent retention, business growth, employee support, PEO industry, consulting, business solutions, PEOMG, Ryan Shapiro
 
Sound Bites
"I like complex problems."
"It's a relationship, it's a partnership."
"Businesses are people."
"What am I really not good at?"
"We couldn't be happier about the results."
"There's nothing sexy about the PEO industry."
"We do it to educate and have fun."
Chapters: 
00:00 Introduction to PEOMG and Ryan Shapiro
02:38 The Mission Behind PEOMG
05:32 The Complexity of PEOs and Small Business Solutions
12:00 Navigating the PEO Landscape
19:49 Current Climate for Small Businesses
22:28 Identifying the Right Fit for PEOs
25:49 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
28:21 Future Plans for PEOMG

EP13: Christian Durfee, Founder of InvestLink Social | "Aliens, Business Cycles, & Community"

In this conversation, Kasey Devine and Christian Durfee explore the significance of community building and authentic connections in business. They discuss the journey of entrepreneurship, the importance of mindset and perspective in networking, and how curiosity can enhance relationships. Christian shares his experiences as a serial entrepreneur and the lessons learned from his ventures, including the creation of InvestLink Social, a platform designed to connect founders and investors. The discussion emphasizes the cyclical nature of business, the value of genuine interactions, the power of networking to foster growth and opportunities, and maybe even aliens.
 
Takeaways:
Business is fundamentally about human connections.
Authenticity in networking leads to meaningful relationships.
Curiosity can open doors to new opportunities.
Every entrepreneur has a unique story shaped by connections.
Imposter syndrome can be overcome by recognizing shared experiences.
Networking should be about giving rather than taking.
Building a community requires intentional effort and authenticity.
Failures are essential for learning and growth in entrepreneurship.
The journey of entrepreneurship is cyclical with ups and downs.
Your network can significantly impact your success.
 
Keywords: community building, networking, entrepreneurship, authentic connections, mindset, curiosity, startup, relationships, fundraising, investing, InvestLink Social, Christian Durfee, founder, VC, Midwest, Minnesota, Duluth
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Community Building
05:58 The Journey of a Serial Entrepreneur
12:08 Mindset and Perspective in Networking
18:53 Curiosity as a Networking Tool
25:45 Building a Startup Around Connections
36:07 Lessons Learned from Entrepreneurship

EP12: Adam Choe, Partner Relationship Manager at Mayo Clinic Platform | "A Flying Cow in the Wind"

In this episode, Kasey Devine interviews Adam Choe, who shares his diverse career journey from healthcare to startups and venture capital. Adam emphasizes the importance of networking, building authentic relationships, and helping others in professional growth. He discusses strategies for effective networking and the significance of creating meaningful connections. Adam also reflects on his goals for 2025, focusing on impactful work in healthcare and AI.
 
Takeaways:
Networking is crucial for career transitions.
Opportunities often arise from connections made through networking.
Start networking early in your career.
Most people are willing to help if approached genuinely.
Building authentic relationships can lead to unexpected opportunities.
Helping others can create a positive ripple effect in your network.
Networking should be treated as a part-time job.
It's important to stand out when reaching out for opportunities.
Meaningful connections can lead to professional growth.
Your network can significantly impact your career trajectory.
Keywords: career transitions, networking, professional growth, mentorship, healthcare, AI, startups, personal development, relationships, connections
 
Sound Bites
"I feel stuck in a certain lane."
"You need to stand out."
"Your network is your net worth."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Adam Choe's Journey
10:31 The Power of Networking
19:54 Building Authentic Connections
27:37 The Importance of Helping Others
32:32 Looking Ahead to 2025

EP11: Rachel Frosch, Founder of Mom Badge | "Team Mom"

In this conversation, Rachel Frosch, founder of Mom Badge, shares her journey of building a startup aimed at supporting and celebrating mothers. She discusses the importance of community, the technology behind her digital gift card marketplace, and the psychological aspects of risk and hope in entrepreneurship. Rachel emphasizes the need for connection and support among mothers and encourages others to engage with her mission.
 
Takeaways:
Building a startup is a significant risk but also an honor.
Many mothers feel unseen and unappreciated in their roles.
Mom Badge aims to help mothers feel recognized and supported.
Community support is crucial for mothers and entrepreneurs alike.
Technology can enhance the way we connect and support each other.
Optimism is about hope, not just positive thinking.
Visual representation of ideas helps others understand your mission.
Trusting in the journey is essential for founders.
Small acts of kindness can have a big impact.
Engaging with others can lead to unexpected opportunities.
Keywords: Mom Badge, Rachel Frosh, startup journey, community support, technology, founder advice, motherhood, digital gift cards, entrepreneurship, mental health, team mom
 
Sound Bites
"92% of moms just do not feel seen."
"Mom Badge is about helping people feel seen."
"You're in a good story."
"It's about inviting people into it."
"Use it, check it out, it's free."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Rachel and Mom Badge
02:02 The Journey of Building a Startup
05:30 The Importance of Community and Support
09:28 The Technology Behind Mom Badge
14:49 The Psychology of Risk and Hope
22:38 Advice for Founders and the Importance of Connection
30:21 Engagement and Support for Mom Badge

EP10: Abby Allen, Founder of GlueStick | "Work-Life Integration"

Abby Allen, founder of GlueStick, shares her journey of integrating her experiences as a parent into her role as a product leader and entrepreneur. She discusses the challenges and insights gained from her unique family dynamics, the transition from corporate life to startup culture, and the importance of empathy and community in business. Abby emphasizes the need for work-life integration, the value of storytelling, and the significance of building a supportive team culture. She invites listeners to contribute to GlueStick's mission of inspiring creativity in children through content creation.
 
Takeaways: 
Being a parent has enhanced my leadership skills.
Work-life integration is more important than balance.
Empathy in the workplace can transform team dynamics.
Community support is crucial for personal and professional growth.
Storytelling is essential in business communication.
It's okay to take a step back in your career for personal reasons.
Values alignment is key when choosing where to work.
Miscommunication can lead to humorous and humbling experiences.
Building a supportive team culture fosters loyalty and happiness.
Everyone has something valuable to teach children.
Sound Bites
"I want to live my values at work."
"We need to talk when we are public."
"We are building a two-sided marketplace."
Keywords: Abby Allen, GlueStick, parenting, leadership, work-life integration, startup, empathy, community, storytelling, content creation
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Abby Allen and GlueStick
02:01 Parenting as a Catalyst for Leadership
06:04 Transitioning from Corporate to Startup Life
10:11 The Importance of Work-Life Integration
12:14 Finding Community and Support
16:30 Communication and Storytelling in Business
22:00 Reflections on Career Choices and Growth
30:03 Building a Values-Driven Company
32:09 Call to Action for Content Creators

EP9: Danielle Steer, Managing Partner at Tundra Ventures | "The Power of Social Capital"

In this conversation, Kasey Devine speaks with Danielle Steer, a managing partner at Tundra Ventures, about the entrepreneurial landscape in the Midwest, the importance of social capital, and how to effectively build and leverage networks for business growth. They discuss the unique strengths of the Midwest, the complexities of social capital, and the necessity of regular communication and updates in maintaining connections. Danielle shares insights on how to engage with the startup community and the value of diverse experiences in venture capital.
takeaways
Danielle Steer is a managing partner at Tundra Ventures, focusing on pre-seed investments.
The Midwest has unique strengths that can foster entrepreneurship.
Social capital is essential for entrepreneurs to grow and scale their businesses.
Building networks requires both strong and weak connections.
Regular updates to your network can enhance relationships and opportunities.
Understanding the different types of social capital can help entrepreneurs navigate their journeys.
Community collaboration can lead to greater economic vitality.
Investing in startups can be accessible to more people than traditionally thought.
Asking for help is a skill that needs to be practiced.
Storytelling is a powerful tool for sharing experiences and building connections.
Keywords: entrepreneurship, social capital, Midwest startups, venture capital, community building, networking, Tundra Ventures, Danielle Steer, business growth, innovation
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Danielle Steer and Tundra Ventures
09:13 Building Social Capital in Entrepreneurship
18:24 Navigating the Complexities of Capital
24:32 Giving Before Asking
30:08 Building Social Capital
35:27Engaging with the Community

EP8: Sam Jacobs, Founder & CEO of Pavilion | "Building a Global Community"

Summary: In this conversation, Kasey Devine interviews Sam Jacobs, CEO of Pavilion, about his journey in building a global community for go-to-market executives. Sam shares insights on the challenges he faced, the mistakes made along the way, and how he transformed setbacks into opportunities for growth. He emphasizes the importance of community values and the belief system that drives Pavilion's mission. The discussion also touches on personal growth, networking, and the significance of helping others in the professional landscape.
 
Keywords: Pavilion, Sam Jacobs, community building, leadership, entrepreneurship, networking, personal growth, setbacks, business strategy, go-to-market executives, global community, Kind Folks Finish First
 
Takeaways:
Building a global community requires a clear vision and values.
Career paths can be unpredictable and volatile.
Community should focus on empowering individuals, not just networking.
Mistakes in leadership can lead to valuable lessons.
Setbacks can be reframed as opportunities for growth.
A strong belief system is essential for community engagement.
It's important to maintain focus on the core mission of an organization.
Networking should be about mutual support, not transactions.
Personal growth often comes from overcoming challenges.
Faith in the process can lead to unexpected blessings.
Sound Bites
"Every stint got shorter in my career."
"There is no playbook for being a VP."
"You are a feature, not a bug."
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Pavilion and Sam Jacobs
02:23 The Journey of Building a Global Community
09:33 Challenges and Mistakes in Community Building
19:20 Transforming Adversity into Opportunity
27:16 Reflections on Growth and Future Aspirations

EP7: Mickayla Rosard, Partner at Groove Capital | "Empowering Women in Venture Capital"

Keywords: venture capital, women in business, angel investing, entrepreneurship, Minnesota startups, diversity in investing, career journey, networking, personal mission statement, economic development
 
Summary: In this engaging conversation, Kasey Devine interviews Mickayla Rosard, a partner at Groove Capital, who shares her inspiring journey into venture capital as a young woman. Mickayla discusses her early influences, the importance of building relationships, and her challenges in a male-dominated industry. She emphasizes the need for diversity in investing and the importance of taking action to create change. The conversation also touches on the significance of personal mission statements and the evolving landscape of angel investing in Minnesota.
 
Takeaways
Mickayla's journey into venture capital began with her studies in entrepreneurship.
Building good relationships is crucial for success in any field.
Women need to embrace their capabilities and have confidence in their abilities.
Mickayla emphasizes the importance of being proactive and solution-oriented in her career.
Diversity in investing is essential for a thriving ecosystem.
Networking requires intention and nurturing relationships over time.
Mickayla advocates for open discussions about money and investments in Minnesota.
The landscape of angel investing is becoming more diverse and inclusive.
Personal mission statements help guide career decisions in a non-linear job market.
Taking action is more important than just discussing issues.
Sound Bites
"I ended up as a partner in VC."
"You gotta maintain good relationships."
"You need more women in leadership roles."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Mickayla Rosard and Her Journey
02:38 Early Influences and Entry into Venture Capital
08:39 Building Relationships and Confidence in a Male-Dominated Field
12:28 Transitioning to Minnesota and Navigating Career Changes
17:25 Michaela's Role at Groove Capital and Commitment to Diversity
22:21 The Importance of Action and Personal Mission Statements
27:24Advice to Her Younger Self and Engaging with the Community