Today we have Kelly Roach—a former NFL cheerleader, Fortune 500 executive turned 8-figure entrepreneur, and one of the only female founders who scaled from 0 to 8 figures without debt or investors. Kelly shares how she invested significantly in her personal brand and built a powerful platform that empowers thousands worldwide through entrepreneurship, bestselling books, a Top 20 podcast, and media features in ABC, NBC, Fox, and Forbes. Topics We Cover: • The journey to building a strong personal...
Mar 09, 2025•8 min•Season 2Ep. 185
We sit down with Erika Glenn , an award-winning C-suite growth and healthcare executive, sought-after keynote speaker, and business consultant who is also the CEO and founder of Glenn Professional Services. Erika shares her journey, transitioning from a secure corporate role to building a scalable business, with her TEDx talk at over 500k views. Her insights on personal branding, strategic leadership, and embracing technology are invaluable for any entrepreneur seeking to transform their career ...
Mar 09, 2025•26 min•Season 2Ep. 184
In this episode of Founders Story, Allison Maslan—an entrepreneur with over forty years of experience and the founder/CEO of Pinnacle Global Network—shares her journey from growing up in an entrepreneurial family to building ten companies across diverse industries. Allison dives deep into the challenges of scaling a business, the importance of transitioning from an operator to a visionary leader, and her proven five-phase model for scaling. Along the way, she reveals how she’s helped over 150,00...
Mar 08, 2025•27 min•Season 2Ep. 183
Daniel sits down with serial entrepreneur Furkat Kasimov , who brings over 20 years of experience building technology businesses. Furkat shares the hard-earned lessons from his career—from early failures to scaling companies—and provides practical advice for startups and established businesses. He also dives into his approach to learning from others, the importance of effective communication, and how to leverage AI for business growth. Key Discussion Points Early Entrepreneurial Journey Motivati...
Mar 08, 2025•17 min•Season 2Ep. 182
In this episode of Founder's Story, we sit down with Pauline Malcolm —the visionary CEO of Brand Story Architech and former executive from Essence. With over 25 years of experience in digital tech, media, and marketing, Pauline shares her journey from Silicon Alley to pioneering innovative branding strategies. She explains how AI and data-driven insights are transforming the creator economy and empowering brands to forge authentic connections. Topics We Cover: • The impact of AI on brand sto...
Mar 05, 2025•18 min•Season 2Ep. 181
In this episode of Founder’s Story , we sit down with Katherine Dollison, a seasoned voiceover artist, digital marketing strategist, and entrepreneur. As the founder of KatVoix Media and co-host of The Majority Mindset Show , Katherine has built a career by embracing technology and entrepreneurship. Topics we cover: The future of voiceover artistry in the age of AI and technology advancements The role of AI in content creation, editing, and digital marketing How Katherine’s journey from a full-t...
Mar 02, 2025•12 min•Season 2Ep. 180
Igor Vainshtein returns to share his journey from early entrepreneurial struggles to major successes. From overcoming near-bankruptcy to executing a strategic exit, Igor offers deep insights on building resilient businesses and pivoting to new ventures with purpose. Igor Vainshtein – Best-selling author, inventor of the Entrepreneurpoly Board Game, founder of 24/7 Golf (sold to GOLFTEC), and creator of GolfTrak.App. 1. The Strategic Exit Exit Story: Sold his company to a public company (GOLFTEC)...
Feb 28, 2025•21 min•Season 2Ep. 179
Skyler Logsdon dives into the inspiration and innovation behind Boomerang —an AI-enabled solution that revolutionizes the lost and found process across travel, sports, entertainment, and hospitality. Skyler shares his personal experiences with lost items, the brainstorming behind Boomerang, and how his co-founder, Philip Engelbrecht (a visionary behind Shazam), helped shape the idea. This conversation unpacks the challenges, technological breakthroughs, and strategic partnerships positioning Boo...
Feb 25, 2025•17 min•Season 2Ep. 178
Michael Hussain shares his transformative journey from a disappointing first experience with a protection dog to becoming a trailblazer in elite dog training. Drawing parallels to entrepreneurial resilience and leadership, Michael explains how his relentless pursuit of excellence led him to develop a groundbreaking training program. His story is a compelling mix of innovation, hard work, and passion—plus his impact on safety in what can feel like an unsafe world. Key Discussion Points: The Catal...
Feb 25, 2025•18 min•Season 2Ep. 177
We’ve been told to control our emotions, but what if we’ve been doing it all wrong? In this episode, Dr. Ethan Kross , one of the world’s leading experts on emotion regulation , reveals the biggest myths about managing emotions and why trying to "stay positive" might be hurting you. We break down his latest book Shift: Managing Your Emotions So They Don’t Manage You , the science-backed tools to take control of your emotions, and why your emotions might be the secret weapon to success. �...
Feb 20, 2025•28 min•Season 2Ep. 176
In this candid conversation, Tom Bilyeu shares his unconventional journey from aspiring filmmaker to multi-million-dollar entrepreneur to billion-dollar exit. He dives deep into his early career struggles, the spark that led him into business, and the serendipity that enabled him to create a unicorn company that most of us know as Quest Nutrition. Tom unpacks the importance of timing, business fundamentals, and the power of storytelling in entrepreneurship. He also discusses how AI is revolution...
Feb 14, 2025•28 min•Season 2Ep. 175
In this episode of Founders Story, we welcome Temple Melville, blockchain and crypto lecturer and CEO of the Scotcoin Project CIC. Temple shares his journey into the world of crypto—from his early days studying mathematics and investing in Bitcoin to founding Scotcoin in 2013. Discover how Scotcoin has evolved, the ethical principles driving its mission, and why crypto is unlike any other financial product—emphasizing community, transparency, and positive global impact. Representing Scotland wit...
Feb 12, 2025•16 min•Season 2Ep. 174
In this episode of Founder's Story , Rob Lombardi shares his remarkable journey from elite athlete to successful entrepreneur. As the CEO of Lombardi Interiors , Rob explains how the discipline, mental toughness, and self-reliance he developed on the tennis court seamlessly translated into building a business that has thrived for decades. He discusses the challenges of transitioning from an individual sport to the demanding world of entrepreneurship and offers insights into how his competiti...
Feb 11, 2025•14 min•Season 2Ep. 173
In this episode of Founder's Story , Daniela Sokolowski, founder and CEO of DiCuore Diamonds, shares her journey from working with industry giants like De Beers to starting her bespoke jewelry brand. Daniela opens up about her entrepreneurial spark, the emotional significance of her work, and how her journey as a cancer survivor has fueled her mission to empower others. Key Takeaways: The Spark of Entrepreneurship: Daniela reflects on her early career in the diamond industry and how her pass...
Feb 09, 2025•15 min•Season 2Ep. 172
In this compelling episode of Founder's Story , Brian Kelly, the visionary behind The Points Guy , reveals how his passion for travel evolved into a multimillion-dollar digital enterprise. Brian details the strategic insights and relentless research that helped him decode the world of loyalty programs and travel rewards. With a focus on data-driven decision-making and customer value, he shares actionable strategies that propelled his brand to global prominence. Whether you’re a travel aficio...
Feb 04, 2025•21 min•Season 2Ep. 171
In this deeply personal and candid episode, Daniel sits down with Prophet Gerald John Jennings II to explore the extraordinary transformation that led him to embrace his divine calling. Prophet Jennings shares his life-changing encounter with God, his unique spiritual experiences—including what he calls telepathic communication and visions—and the profound impact these events have had on his life and mission. Key Topics Discussed: The Divine Encounter: Prophet Jennings recounts when his world sh...
Feb 02, 2025•15 min•Season 2Ep. 169
In this inspiring episode, host Nadja Atwal sits down with business and life coach Julian Heppt , who shares his journey from facing severe depression and panic attacks to discovering his life’s calling: helping others reach their full potential. Julian opens up about the tough challenges he encountered in his twenties, the tools he used to overcome them, and how those experiences shaped his holistic coaching approach. Whether you’re an entrepreneur at a crossroads, a leader feeling overwhelmed,...
Jan 29, 2025•13 min•Season 2Ep. 168
In this bonus episode of The Founder’s Story Podcast, host Nadia Atwal catches up with Roei Samuel while he’s in NYC for Connectd’s latest milestone—its official launch in the city. Roei, the founder and CEO of Connectd , shares his entrepreneurial journey from scaling his first tech venture to 8 million monthly users, to leading Connectd in its nationwide US expansion targeted for 2025. Discover how Connectd is revolutionizing startup growth through automated investor reporting and expert talen...
Jan 26, 2025•10 min•Season 2Ep. 167
In this episode, guest host Vanessa Antonio sits down with Andrew Bolton, CEO of TechRescue , a visionary company providing 24/7 tech support tailored to simplify technology for seniors and enhance their quality of life. Andrew shares how his love for his grandmother inspired the creation of TechRescue, addressing the growing generational tech divide with personalized, patient-centered solutions. The conversation explores the unique challenges seniors face with smart technology, the impact of Te...
Jan 14, 2025•17 min•Season 2Ep. 166
Live from CES 2025 in Las Vegas, guest host Kurt Walker interviews Dr. Alexandra, Medical Advisor and Urogynecologist, and Yftah Ben Yaackov, CEO of Femto Technologies . The episode delves into Femto's groundbreaking product, Sensera , a feminine wellness device that bridges the gap between sexual pleasure and health. Equipped with advanced sensors and powered by AI, Sensera adapts to users' bodies, enhancing both wellness and pleasure experiences. Dr. Alexandra Dubinskaya highlights the...
Jan 13, 2025•6 min•Season 2Ep. 165
In this episode of Founder’s Story, guest Nikole Mitchell discusses her background transitioning through multiple careers—teacher, bartender, religious leader, Etsy shop owner—and how she eventually discovered OnlyFans (OF). She shares insights on content creation, diversification, and how she navigates family and social dynamics. The conversation covers practical steps for succeeding on OF and broader topics about the creator economy’s future. Key Discussion Points Nikole’s Background and Early...
Jan 06, 2025•21 min•Season 2Ep. 164
In this episode, host Daniel Robbins sits down with Michael Tamvakologos , partner at Seyfarth Shaw , a distinguished employment lawyer featured in Forbes and Vanity Fair . Michael has been an awarded Australian employment lawyer for eight years and was voted by Best Lawyers as the Employee Benefits Lawyer of the Year in 2023. Michael shares his career journey, lessons from working with leading global companies, and how technology shapes the future of law and business. Episode Highlights: Michae...
Dec 27, 2024•15 min•Season 2Ep. 163
Welcome back to Founder's Story ! In this episode, guest host Vanessa Antonio speaks with Andrew Spira, founder of SkyCap, a fintech company focused on providing unsecured business loans. Andrew shares his journey, the motivations behind starting SkyCap, and his perspectives on the challenges businesses face in securing funding. Episode Highlights: About SkyCap: Founded in October 2023, SkyCap specializes in unsecured loans for SMEs ranging from $2,000 to $100,000 AUD. The company leverages ...
Dec 23, 2024•4 min
Welcome back to Founder's Story ! In this episode, Daniel Robbins sits down with Larry McDonald, founder of The Bear Traps Report and author of the newly released book, How to Listen When Markets Speak . Larry brings decades of investment expertise and invaluable insights on navigating today’s volatile markets and preparing for the future. Episode Highlights: The Journey to Bear Traps: Larry shares how he became a leading voice in financial analysis, writing A Colossal Failure of Common Sens...
Dec 20, 2024•26 min•Season 2Ep. 161
Welcome back to Founder's Story ! In this episode, Daniel Robbins sits down with Alex Zervakos and Kanji Kawanabe, co-founders of Theryo AI , a groundbreaking company using AI to transform mental health support and therapy. Episode Highlights: The Entrepreneurial Spark: Alex shares how his entrepreneurial journey began with a childhood paper route, while Kanji reflects on years of experience in the tech startup world. The Birth of Theryo AI: A personal frustration with therapy inspired Alex ...
Dec 18, 2024•21 min•Season 2Ep. 160
On this episode of the Founder’s Story, guest host Vanessa Antonio interviews Nikolaus Thomale, who explains how Myne Homes is closing the gap between the dream of owning a second home and the reality that very few people do. They discuss the barriers—affordability, underutilization, and complexity—and illustrate how Myne’s fractional co-ownership model overcomes them. Nikolaus clarifies how this differs from traditional timeshares, and details the resale process. The conversation wraps with a l...
Dec 16, 2024•10 min•Season 2Ep. 159
In this episode of Founder's Story, we sit down with Syed Hussain, the visionary Founder & CEO of SHIZA (Shared Human Intellect Zonal Agents), a company at the forefront of agentic AI. Hussain shares how his early entrepreneurial spark—as a resourceful kid in India—laid the foundation for a career in technology and data-driven innovation. He offers unique insights into the impending shift away from labor-driven economies toward intellect-driven models powered by personal AI agents. As Sy...
Dec 14, 2024•25 min•Season 2Ep. 158
In this episode of Founders Story, we sit down with Aytekin Tank, the entrepreneur behind the popular online form builder Jotform. Aytekin shares his journey from discovering a key market gap nearly two decades ago—when online forms were a major hassle—to building a thriving, bootstrapped SaaS company serving over twenty-five million users worldwide. He offers invaluable lessons on patience, customer-centric development, and how continuous innovation around customer needs led to Jotform’s robust...
Dec 13, 2024•27 min•Season 2Ep. 157
In this episode of Founder's Story , we’re joined by Grady Marin, the founder and president of The Records Company. Since 2013, the groundbreaking business has been transforming data management for the legal and medical sectors. Grady shares the journey that led him to create a company rooted in authenticity, empathy, and innovation. What We Cover: Grady’s entrepreneurial roots and how his small-town upbringing shaped his leadership style. The inspiration behind founding The Records Company ...
Dec 09, 2024•18 min•Season 2Ep. 156
In this inspiring episode of Founder's Story , we sit down with Sardor Umrdinov, the visionary founder of Home Alliance. Sardor shares his remarkable journey of immigrating to the U.S. with just $800 in his pocket and building a $100 million tech-enabled home services platform. Key Highlights: Sardor's early struggles working multiple jobs to support himself and his family while pursuing his dreams. The humble beginnings of Home Alliance and the mission to create a trusted ecosystem empo...
Dec 06, 2024•12 min•Season 2Ep. 155
