Category: Dialogue with Entrepreneurs

Recently I spoke with Mat Sherman, an entrepreneur and podcast host, based in Phoenix, Arizona. Mat’s journey includes launching and running SeedScout, a trail blazing startup that connected founders with a network of venture capitalists, and interviewing almost 1000 high potential early-stage startup pioneers on his podcast Forward Thinking Founders. Mat Sherman reflects on the lessons learned from SeedScout and explains pitfalls and potential positive changes in the VC space. He also emphasizes the value of building your own community if you can’t find one that embraces you, the importance of independent thought, and the beauty of the pay-it-forward mentorship dynamic to be found in the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Recently I spoke with Keyonte Frager, a sports and entertainment industry brand manager based in Seattle. Overcoming the challenges of not having a four-year degree or entrepreneurial role models growing up, Keyonte truly embraces an entrepreneurial mindset in seeing opportunities where others see adversity. His inspiring story shows us that self-belief and boldness can lead to great things. Mr. Frager speaks of the importance of falling in love with your own story to find fulfillment, the value of having the courage to build yourself a seat at the table, and the joy to be found in helping the people you’re in community with.

Recently I spoke with Kate Sieker, a key figure in Phoenix’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. On a journey from the East Coast to Silicon Valley, and finally to Phoenix, Ms. Sieker has become a champion of fostering innovation and collaboration in the startup community. Kate’s work with Phoenix Startup Week and her role in shaping the local entrepreneurial environment through YesPHX and YesAZ highlight her deep personal commitment to positive growth and community. She speaks to the importance of connection and support and reminds us that the best work is work that’s service.

Recently I spoke with Majak Wenyin, Co-Director of the Republic of South Sudan (ROSS) Leaders, a national non-profit empowering youth in 5 states through mentorship, academic tutoring, and athletic training. Born in South Sudan, Majak Wenyin immigrated to the US as a refugee when he was a child. He played college basketball before founding So Elite Basketball and joining forces with Jacob Idra and ROSS Leaders. He regularly returns to South Sudan to mentor and host basketball camps for local youth. He has forged a path that intertwines his passion for athletics with a profound commitment to community service. He is truly using his entrepreneurial talents to better international communities.

Recently, I spoke with Chris Clark, a food futurist currently based in Dubai. A food industry entrepreneur and founder of The Healthy Ice Cream Company, Mr. Clark’s journey includes the publication of award-winning books in the food nutrition space, contributing to publications such as Men’s Health and The Huffington Post, and opening restaurants in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. Mr. Clark speaks to the importance of impact and purpose in community building, the ongoing benefits of a college business education, and the value of on-the-job learning and networking.

Recently I spoke with Christie Kerner, whose 30-year entrepreneurial journey has spanned multiple successful start-ups, defining roles inside StartupAZ, and a tenure as the Executive Director of Student Entrepreneurship at Arizona State University. With a wealth of experience and a passion for community-building, Christie has focused much of her entrepreneurial journey on empowering others to find personal fulfillment. This is exemplified by her most recent venture as the founder of the Startup COO Club. Christie Kerner speaks to the importance of finding your tribe, the merits of emotional intelligence in entrepreneurship, and the invaluable role of hands-on experience.

Recently I spoke with Gerry Frigon, the founder and President of Taylor Frigon Capital Management LLC, an SEC registered investment advisory. Mr. Frigon’s journey includes 21 years at Merrill Lynch in San Fransisco, 17 years as an entrepreneur, and tremendous dedication to numerous board positions in the technology, education and non-profit space. Drawing on nearly 40 years of experience in the wealth management industry, Mr. Frigon speaks to the importance of balancing technical expertise with business acumen, aligning business practices with personal values and faith, and the ongoing importance of human relationships in the face of technological advancement.

Recently I spoke with Arvid Eriksson, an award-winning director, film maker, and digital creative, currently working in New Zealand. On a multinational journey originating in Sweden, Arvid speaks to the universality of a need for community, as well as the importance of living authentically for the advancement of a better world. He emphasizes the importance of believing in your own stories and growing into an understanding that ‘if you can stay confident in your more sensitive, vulnerable areas that is where the really good stuff happens’.

Recently I spoke with Glenn Harley, a passive home builder and consultant in New Zealand. On a journey that includes a tenure on the Board for the Passive Housing Institute of New Zealand, Mr. Harley breaks down the key differences between the sustainable housing market in the U.S. and New Zealand. He speaks to the fulfillment to be found in having a positive impact on your community, and innovation being the key to affordability in the passive house industry. Mr. Harley’s perspective is a great follow-up to my interview with Kyle Hanson from Timber Age last month.