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614Startups

614Startups

By 614Startups

614Startups is the fastest growing community of startup founders and investors in Columbus, Ohio. We use media and educational events to connect startup founders with the investors and resources they need to launch and scale impactful startups. Our podcast, news feed, newsletter, and events reach the influential decision-makers that are driving the Columbus startup ecosystem forward.

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Hot Seat: Fighting cyber threats and ransomware

614StartupsOct 27, 2021

00:00
15:40
Ohio's Angels with Michael Supeck and Will Zell of Ohio Angel Collective

Ohio's Angels with Michael Supeck and Will Zell of Ohio Angel Collective

On this episode, Elio interviews Michael Supeck and Will Zell, Founding Partners of the Ohio Angel Collective. The Ohio Angel Collective is a vibrant network of investors and startup enthusiasts dedicated to nurturing and growing the entrepreneurial spirit of Ohio. Michael and Will explain why they decided to start the OAC, how the angel syndicate works, what they look for in investors and startups, and how they plan to be the first check into overlooked and underserved Ohio founders.

Mar 25, 202401:01:48
Unveiling Proven Marketing Strategies for Explosive Startup Growth

Unveiling Proven Marketing Strategies for Explosive Startup Growth

Tune in to the latest episode of the 614Startups podcast hosted by Elio Harmon, where we dive into the world of startup marketing with Jason Parks, Co-founder of The Media Captain and DermWarehouse. In this insightful conversation, Jason shares invaluable wisdom on proven marketing strategies that startups can employ to ignite explosive growth in their businesses.
Discover the core principles of marketing and marketing strategy as Jason breaks down the essential components for startup success. From defining marketing fundamentals to crafting effective strategies, this episode is a masterclass for entrepreneurs seeking to amplify their brand presence and drive significant results.
But the conversation doesn't stop there. Jason unravels the mysteries of paid digital marketing, offering actionable insights on leveraging platforms like Google ads, Facebook, and Instagram to generate leads and maximize conversions. Learn how to navigate the digital advertising landscape effectively and harness the power of targeted campaigns to fuel your startup's growth.
Moreover, Jason sheds light on the often overlooked yet highly effective avenues of blogging and YouTube ads, showcasing how these mediums can be leveraged to reach and engage with your target audience in meaningful ways.
Perhaps most intriguingly, Jason reveals that startups can kickstart their journey towards growth with just a few hundred dollars per month, emphasizing the importance of smart allocation and experimentation in marketing budgets.
Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, this episode is packed with actionable strategies and expert advice to help you propel your startup to new heights. Don't miss out on this opportunity to gain invaluable insights from one of the industry's leading experts. Tune in now to revolutionize your approach to startup marketing!

Feb 26, 202447:08
Accelerating Entrepreneurial Success with Tim Grace

Accelerating Entrepreneurial Success with Tim Grace

Welcome to the 614Startups podcast, where we delve into the journeys of entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators shaping the future of business. In this episode, we sit down with Tim Grace, the Managing Director of Techstars Columbus powered by The Ohio State University. Tim takes us through his entrepreneurial journey, from his early ventures to his evolution into an investor. He shares insights into what it takes to build a successful career and why he decided to take the job as Managing Director. Our conversation then shifts gears as Tim provides a comprehensive overview of Techstars Columbus. He unpacks the genesis of the program, its mission, and the intricacies of the application process. Tim walks us through how companies are selected, the duration of the program, and how the curriculum is meticulously tailored to meet the unique needs of each participating founder. If you're an aspiring entrepreneur looking to accelerate your startup journey, this episode is a must-listen. Join us as we explore the dynamic landscape of entrepreneurship and innovation with Tim Grace. For more information about Techstars Columbus and to apply for the next cohort, visit: Techstars Columbus - The Ohio State University Accelerator

Feb 15, 202455:53
What Happened To Olive? Featuring Carrie Ghose, Columbus Business First

What Happened To Olive? Featuring Carrie Ghose, Columbus Business First

Welcome to another insightful episode of the 614Startups podcast! In this episode, we sit down with Carrie Ghose, a seasoned reporter from Columbus Business First, to delve into the riveting story of Olive, a once-thriving tech company that tragically went out of business in late 2023.
Join us as we trace Olive's journey from its promising beginnings, exploring the visionary founder, early investors, and the company's major pivot that set the stage for both success and eventual downfall. Carrie Ghose provides an in-depth look into the challenges Olive faced, including significant layoffs and ensuing legal battles.
The conversation doesn't stop there – we explore the valiant efforts made to salvage the company, shedding light on the various strategies employed and the ultimate decisions that led to Olive's closure. As we dissect the aftermath, discover the parallel narrative of Founder Sean Lane and his new project, launched even as Olive faced its final days.
But the story doesn't just end with the company's closure – we uncover the human side of Olive's demise, examining who bore the brunt of the fallout and the lessons that can be gleaned from this cautionary tale. This episode is a must-listen for entrepreneurs, investors, and anyone intrigued by the dynamic world of tech startups.
Tune in as we navigate through the rise, fall, and aftermath of Olive, learning valuable insights and gaining a deeper understanding of the intricate web that surrounds the world of startups. Don't miss this gripping episode of the 614Startups podcast with Carrie Ghose, offering a unique perspective on a tech company that was once a unicorn and the lessons that can be extracted from its dramatic journey.

Feb 01, 202446:40
Empower Your Business Dreams: Navigating SBA Lending with Keith Warren

Empower Your Business Dreams: Navigating SBA Lending with Keith Warren

Get ready for an electrifying episode on the 614Startups Podcast! In this dynamic conversation, Elio sits down with Keith Warren, the Senior SBA Regional Vice President at Northwest Bank. Brace yourself as they delve into the intricacies of Northwest Bank's game-changing SBA lending program, designed to empower business owners like never before. Unlock the secrets of SBA lending with Keith as he unravels the process, sheds light on underwriting requirements, and unveils the limitless possibilities these loans bring for acquiring or scaling your business. Dive deep into the discussion on interest rates and discover exclusive fee relief opportunities available in 2024. This episode is tailor-made for ambitious business owners in pursuit of the capital needed to fuel their dreams. If you're ready to take your business to new heights, join us for an exhilarating episode that promises valuable insights and actionable strategies. Tune in now and harness the knowledge that could be the key to unlocking the funding your dream business deserves!

Jan 24, 202442:13
Reinvesting in Community: A Conversation with Melissa Dickson

Reinvesting in Community: A Conversation with Melissa Dickson

In this dynamic episode, join us as we sit down with Melissa Dickson, a visionary entrepreneur and community advocate, to explore the art of reinvesting while preserving the essence of neighborhood identity. From the bustling streets of Columbus to the heart of real estate development, this conversation delves into key topics that are shaping the landscape of business and community building.

🏡 Episode Highlights:

  1. Reinvesting While Retaining Neighborhood Identity: Discover the delicate balance between growth and preservation as Melissa shares insights on how businesses can thrive while staying deeply rooted in their communities.

  2. Passion and Energy in Business Building: Dive into the entrepreneurial journey with Melissa and explore the role of passion and energy in the foundation and growth of a successful business.

  3. Pivoting in Times of Uncertainty: Learn from real-life experiences as our guest sheds light on the strategies and mindset required to navigate uncertainties and successfully pivot in the business world.

  4. The Importance of Advisors in Early-Stage Startups: Melissa discusses the invaluable role advisors play in guiding early-stage startups, offering pearls of wisdom for those embarking on their entrepreneurial ventures.

  5. Real Estate Development Through City Collaborations: Gain insights into the world of real estate development and how collaboration with the City of Columbus can shape transformative projects that benefit both businesses and communities.

🚀 Join the Conversation! Whether you're a budding entrepreneur, community builder, or simply intrigued by the dynamics of business and community collaboration, this episode is a must-listen.


🎧 Listen now on and get ready to be inspired by Melissa Dickson's incredible journey and the valuable insights she shares!

Don't forget to subscribe, like, and share if you enjoyed the episode! 🌟 #Podcast #BusinessInsights #CommunityEngagement

Dec 20, 202336:44
Exploring Innovation and Entrepreneurship with Brian Zuercher of 1870 Ventures

Exploring Innovation and Entrepreneurship with Brian Zuercher of 1870 Ventures

Join us for a dynamic episode of "Conversations with Venture," recorded in front of a live studio audience at COhatch Dublin. In this 614Startups episode, our host engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Brian Zuercher, the General Partner at 1870 Ventures. 🚀 About Our Guest: Brian Zuercher brings a wealth of startup experience and expertise to the table, having driven innovation and entrepreneurship as a founder and now as an investor. As a General Partner at 1870 Ventures, Brian plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of the Columbus startup landscape by incubating and investing in the next generation of groundbreaking ideas. 🌐 Exploring 1870 Ventures: Delve into the world of 1870 Ventures, a hub for entrepreneurial growth and development. Discover how this platform is driving change, supporting startups, and creating an environment where ideas flourish. 🎤 Live Studio Audience Interaction: Experience the energy of the live recording as the audience engages with Brian, asking questions and sharing insights. The palpable enthusiasm adds an extra layer to the conversation, making this episode a unique and immersive experience. 🔍 Key Topics Covered: The current state of innovation and entrepreneurship Brian Zuercher's journey and insights on the history of the Columbus startup ecosystem 1870 Ventures' venture studio concept and approach to starting and scaling companies Audience questions and interactive discussions 🔗 Connect with 1870 Ventures: Explore more about 1870 Ventures and stay updated on their latest initiatives by visiting 1870Ventures.com. Tune in to this episode for an inspiring conversation that goes beyond the conventional, providing valuable insights into the world of venture capital, innovation, and the entrepreneurial spirit. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting your journey, this episode is a must-listen! 🎧 Listen now and embark on a journey of discovery and inspiration with "Conversations with Venture"! Learn More about Brian Zuercher:https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianzuercher/ Linkedin : https://www.linkedin.com/company/614startups/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/614startups Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/614_startups/

Nov 29, 202352:09
Personal Finances, A Key to Startup Success with Arthi Rathi, Book + Street

Personal Finances, A Key to Startup Success with Arthi Rathi, Book + Street

Welcome to another enlightening episode of the 614Startups Podcast, where we delve deep into the world of startups and entrepreneurship. On this episode, Elio is joined by Arthi Rathi, an accomplished CFO at Book+Street, to uncover the often-overlooked connection between founder personal finances and startup success.
Discover the invaluable insights and expert advice Arthi brings to the table as we discuss how a founder's financial health can significantly impact their venture's journey. We'll explore the critical role personal financial stability plays in securing funding, making strategic decisions, and fostering a resilient entrepreneurial spirit.
Join us in this engaging conversation as we tackle questions like: How do a founder's personal finances influence their startup's growth and sustainability? What are the key financial considerations for aspiring entrepreneurs before embarking on their startup journey? Insights on managing personal finances while bootstrapping a new venture. The interplay between personal and business finances and the importance of separation. Arthi Rathi's wealth of experience in financial management and her role at Book+Street make her the perfect guide for this episode, shedding light on the financial aspects often left in the shadows of entrepreneurial discussions.
Tune in now for this worthwhile discussion and gain a newfound understanding of how your financial health as a founder can make or break your startup's success. Don't miss out on this episode of The Link Between Startup Success and Founder Personal Finances with Arthi Rathi, CFO of Book+Street

Nov 01, 202348:56
Claiming Your Business Tax Credits with Terracina Maxwell, Arvo Tech

Claiming Your Business Tax Credits with Terracina Maxwell, Arvo Tech

Welcome to another enlightening episode of the 614Startups Podcast! In this insightful discussion, we have the privilege of diving deep into the world of business tax credits with an absolute expert in the field, Terracina Maxwell. As the President and Co-Founder of Arvo Tech, she brings a wealth of knowledge and experience that can truly revolutionize the way you approach your organization's financial health.
Whether you're a small business owner navigating the intricacies of tax credits or part of a large corporation seeking to optimize your financial strategies, this episode is bound to be a game-changer. Terracina shares her extensive insights while debunking common misconceptions and providing practical tips for businesses to unlock the full potential of their tax credits. By the end of this conversation, you'll be armed with the knowledge to save money and enhance your bottom line.
So get ready to explore the secrets of claiming your business tax credits and take your financial wellbeing to new heights!

Oct 25, 202344:52
The Business of Art with Kristen Brown, Rela

The Business of Art with Kristen Brown, Rela

On this episode, Elio interviews Kristen Brown, Founder of Rela. Rela is an art subscription service collaborating with local artists to make any space a local art gallery, empowering anyone to host original art in their home or office. Kristen shares Rela's origin story, the role that art should play in our lives, and how Rela intends to end the starving artist trope by generating revenue for local artists on artwork that would otherwise languish in storage.

Sep 13, 202335:08
Protect your sleep with Dr. Asim Roy and Rob Kibler, Dianyx Innovations
Aug 16, 202334:50
Built in Ohio with Chris Berry, OhioX

Built in Ohio with Chris Berry, OhioX

On this episode, Elio interviews Chris Berry, President/CEO of OhioX. Chris Berry highlights the importance of collaboration and creating a supportive ecosystem for the growth of the tech sector in Ohio. Chris shares the mission and purpose of OhioX and how they leverage storytelling, events, education, advocacy, and talent attraction to advance Ohio's technology and digital industry. He explains the organization's goals and initiatives in promoting and supporting tech and innovation within the state. Chris shares his personal experiences and the insight he gained from working in government that motivated him to create an organization fostering tech growth in Ohio. With major investments from Intel, Meta, Honda, Google, and now Amazon Web Services, the world according to Chris will surely be Built In Ohio.


Tune in to the podcast episode to gain valuable insights from Chris Berry about connecting and supporting Ohio's tech and innovation communities.


Learn more about OhioX: https://www.ohiox.org/

Learn more about Chris Berry: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-berry-073aa75/

Learn more about 614Startups: https://614startups.com/

Learn more about Elio Harmon: linkedin.com/in/elio-harmon-ba4a8747/

Jun 28, 202347:44
Never Legally Lacking with Demetrius Robinson, KJK
Jun 14, 202356:23
From Unknown to Iconic with Neil Wengerd, Nonfiction
Jun 07, 202349:42
Getting Work Done with Ira Sharfin, Continental Office
May 24, 202342:49
Gateway in Style, Carrington Carter, Getaway Society,

Gateway in Style, Carrington Carter, Getaway Society,

On this episode, Elio interviews Carrington Carter, Co-Founder of Getaway Society, East Chop Capital and McKinley Carter Enterprises. Getaway Society is a luxury vacation rental home company with properties in Martha’s Vineyard, Hilton Head, the Poconos, Gatlinburg, and Orlando. Carrington discusses how reading Rich Dad Poor Dad and his Dad's experience of racism in Corporate America inspired him to become an entrepreneur. He began his entrepreneurial journey by starting McKinley Carter, a real estate investment and property management company that now has over $20M in assets under management. With the support of his network of over 100 LPs, Carrington and his Co-Founder Calvin Butts Jr. raised $15 million in private equity to invest in the $114 billion global vacation rental home market. The fund also plans to support companies in technology, financial services, media, and sports. Carrington delves into the vacation rental market, the struggles of raising funding while black, and how he is managing his own bias when it comes to investing. This and more on another edition of the 614Startups podcast. Learn more about Getaway Society: https://getawaysociety.com/
Learn more about East Chop Capital: https://eastchopcapital.com/
Learn more about Carrington Carter LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carringtonmcarter/
Learn more about Carrington Carter Instagram: @carringtonmcarter
Learn more about 614Startups: https://614startups.com/
Learn more about Elio Harmon: linkedin.com/in/elio-harmon-ba4a8747/

May 10, 202343:47
It Was All A Dream, Taylor Keene, and Karima Crawford, GENESIS Downtown
May 03, 202347:18
City of Angels with Mary McCarthy, Accelerating Angels
Mar 22, 202334:48
Building Financial Bridges to a Better Future with Deonna Barnett, Aventi Enterprises
Mar 02, 202352:50
The Team You Didn't Know You Needed with Chris Phommas, Virtical
Feb 08, 202348:34
A Clear Vision Requires Conviction with Bryon Murray, Enzee
Jan 19, 202353:18
The Cure For What Ails Us with Matt Scantland, AndHealth
Jan 04, 202301:16:42
Sew to Sold with Chad Porter, CHVD JUSTIN
Dec 28, 202252:24
The Metaverse Cometh with Ryan Hale
Dec 21, 202258:18
Negotiate for the Life, Career and World You Want with Kwame Christian, ANI
Nov 30, 202201:08:50
Aligned For Innovation with Rehgan Avon, AlignAI
Nov 16, 202250:14
Closing the Gap with Alicia Oddi, Rev1 Ventures

Closing the Gap with Alicia Oddi, Rev1 Ventures

On this episode, Elio interviews Alicia Oddi, Managing Director at Rev1 Ventures. Rev1 Ventures provides seed-stage venture capital funding in Columbus, Ohio along with startup services, space, mentoring, and connections. Alicia discusses two Rev1 programs that are aimed at underserved entrepreneurs. The Grow To Scale Mentor Program is fueled by a $1.4MM grant from the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) “Build to Scale” program, and paired with a $1.4MM Rev1 local match with funding secured through returns from Rev1 investments. The program aims to accelerate technology entrepreneurship for concept and seed-stage businesses by increasing inclusive access to business support and startup capital. So far, eight startups have joined the first cohort of the program, and it is available to all current Rev1 clients with diverse leadership – either women or entrepreneurs of color. Diverse founders working on a tech-enabled, high-growth idea can https://www.rev1ventures.com/grow-to-scale-at-rev1/ to get started.

The Rev1 Ventures Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DE&I) Grant Fund pairs funding with educational workshops to help level the playing field for women and founders of color who are building high-growth companies. Franklin County and the City of Columbus join Rev1 in seeding the grant fund, which plans to distribute grants initially through 2023 and will have two funding cycles per year.
Early awards have been provided to three client companies: Fleri, Equitek, and Color Coded Labs. For more information visit https://www.rev1ventures.com/dei-grant/

To learn more about 614Startups visit www.614Startups.com.

To learn more about Elio Harmon, visit https://www.linkedin.com/in/elio-harmon-ba4a8747/

To learn more about Alicia Oddi, visit https://www.linkedin.com/in/alicia-oddi-4a62798/

You can listen to the podcast on all major podcasting platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcast.

You can follow us on all social media platforms @614Startups

Oct 19, 202243:11
Your Personal Pit Crew with Ethan Dewhurst, Vohnt
Oct 05, 202201:04:38
A Sidekick For When Life Happens with Lindsey Michaelides, Strongsuit
Sep 14, 202201:03:29
Conversational AI: Turning Data Into Intelligence with Ganesh Gandhieswaran
Aug 24, 202201:08:38
Creating Exit and Expansion Opportunities for Diverse Founders with Marques Martin, FVLCRUM

Creating Exit and Expansion Opportunities for Diverse Founders with Marques Martin, FVLCRUM

On this episode, Elio interviews Marques Martin, Partner at FVLCRUM. FVLCRUM is a private equity firm that leverages their expertise in business strategy, operations, acquisitions, to create increased value in the companies they invest in. Marques Shares How His Passion For Finance Led Him Morehouse College, The Impetus That Created FVLCRUM, How His Team Works With Founders To Create Wealth And Accelerate Growth, And Why Private Equity Is An Asset Class That Brings Much Need Capital Diversity To The Columbus Startup Ecosystem.

Jul 29, 202254:42
Beautiful Smiles For All with Dan German, orthobrain

Beautiful Smiles For All with Dan German, orthobrain

On this episode, Elio interviews Dan German, Founder of orthobrain. orthobrain offers a total solution, combining education and support to make it easy for general dentists to grow their practice and profits with orthodontics. But orthobrain is more than that. Dan is on a mission to make a beautiful smile accessible to people all across the world. Dan shares his journey from dentistry, to inspired entrepreneur, with the energy and passion that great podcasts are made of. Enjoy!

Jul 14, 202246:52
The Future of Structural Heart Care with Teri Sirset, DASI Simulations
Jul 07, 202245:10
614Startups Live with Dan Snyder, Lower

614Startups Live with Dan Snyder, Lower

Our CEO Elio Harmon sat down with Dan Snyder, CEO of Lower as he formally announced the launch of Mortgage Pass. Mortgage Pass is Lower's cash offer product aimed at helping homebuyers retain their relationship with their trusted real estate advisor while harnessing the power of cash in a competitive housing environment. True to Columbus' reputation as Test City, USA, Mortgage Pass is launching in Columbus first and the company plans to scale quickly to other areas of the country.  The conversation was held in front of a live audience of some of Columbus' top real estate agents and Lower employees.

Jul 01, 202222:17
Startup Sales with James Rores, Floriss Group
Jun 29, 202259:31
From Research to Reality with Cheryl Turnbull, Keenan Center for Entrepreneurship at OSU

From Research to Reality with Cheryl Turnbull, Keenan Center for Entrepreneurship at OSU

On this episode, Elio interviews Cheryl Turnbull, Senior Director of the Keenan Center for Entrepreneurship at The Ohio State University. The Tim & Kathleen Keenan Center for Entrepreneurship works to grow and foster a culture of entrepreneurship for the Ohio State community through the creation and support of new ventures and the education and encouragement of their founders. The Keenan Center provides a campus-wide hub for collaboration and engagement with early-stage capital, startup talent and robust programming resources to maximize opportunities for social and economic impact.  

Cheryl discusses how the Keenan Center helps students and faculty develop ideas and then facilitates connections with entrepreneurs, venture capital firms, and corporate partners to validate the ideas and turn research into profitable ventures. Enjoy!

Jun 08, 202243:05
Startups For All Mankind, Dr. Erika Pryor, EPiC Creative + Design

Startups For All Mankind, Dr. Erika Pryor, EPiC Creative + Design

On this episode, Elio interviews Dr. Erika Pryor of EPiC Creative + Design. EPiC Creative and Design LLC is an innovative design and strategy studio offering clients a dynamic partnership to meet your evolving and diverse needs. Erika is an Executive in Residence at Denison University where she teaches on launching and scaling startups via marketing industry expertise, hands-on workshops, and four internships.  Elio and Erika discuss what it takes to wear multiple hats while leading multiple projects, why personal leadership development helps you take your business to the next level, and how organizations from across the State of Ohio are coming together to help Black founders start and scale successful companies.

May 04, 202239:57
Equity Made Simple with Michelle Murcia, Book+Street

Equity Made Simple with Michelle Murcia, Book+Street

On this episode, Elio interviews Michelle Murcia, Founder and CEO of Book+Street. Book+Street provides comprehensive finance and administration services for private and pre-IPO companies, and also designs and administers equity-based compensation plans that make it easy for startups to start off right, right from the start. Michelle defines equity, breaks down the types of equity and the pros and cons of each, and why engaging a professional can save you a lot of headaches when hiring and firing, raising capital, and exiting your business. Enjoy!

Apr 27, 202236:29
The Philosopher's Stone with Dan Rockwell, Big Kitty Labs

The Philosopher's Stone with Dan Rockwell, Big Kitty Labs

On this episode, Elio interviews Dan Rockwell, CEO and Co-Founder of Big Kitty Labs. Big Kitty Labs is a software development agency focusing on software development for web, enterprise, and mobile applications. Big Kitty Labs has worked with a long list of Columbus startups and don't be surprised if you a fan of a platform they helped develop. Dan shares his wealth of knowledge gained from working with diverse founders building solutions for diverse industries. For the first time ever on the show, Dan goes metaphysical and we explore his tagline, Ready, Set, Manifest. Enjoy!

Apr 19, 202241:18
Nation Building with George "Ski" Zarebski and LoLo Smith, Urban Business Development Center

Nation Building with George "Ski" Zarebski and LoLo Smith, Urban Business Development Center

This week we return to in-person sessions as Elio interviews LoLo Smith and George "Ski" Zarebski of the Urban Business Development Center. The U as it is commonly known envisions a world where systematic oppression is not an obstacle for Black and Brown businesses. The U fulfills this vision by bridging the access gap ensuring awareness of resources, providing culturally competent education, facilitating impactful collaboration and engagement for Owner-Operated, Lifestyle businesses and start-ups run by People of Color. Ski and LoLo share the origin story of The U, how the survived the pandemic, and the importance of creating a sense of belonging when launching and scaling companies started by People of Color.

Apr 13, 202245:40
Sowing Seed Capital with Todd Federman, North Coast Ventures
Apr 06, 202240:55
Breakthrough to the Next Level with Travis Smith, Tribevest
Mar 23, 202243:58
Remote Vueing with Mike Popadak, iVueit

Remote Vueing with Mike Popadak, iVueit

On this episode, Elio interviews Mike Popadak, CEO of iVueit. iVueit provides facility managers with on-demand visual validation and compliance verification on the properties they manage nationwide. iVueit accomplishes this by leveraging Vuers who earn extra cash by completing interior/exterior site inspections (Vues) at nearby properties. Mike shares how the idea for iVueit came about, solving the chicken or the egg problem of getting properties vs. getting vuers, the state of the gig economy, and what's next for iVueit. Enjoy.


You can find Mike Popadak and iVueit at:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-popadak-891a8b4/

https://ivueit.com/


You can find Elio Harmon and 614Startups at:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/elio-harmon-ba4a8747/

https://www.instagram.com/elioharmon/

https://www.614startups.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/614startups/?viewAsMember=true

https://twitter.com/614startups

https://www.instagram.com/614startups/

https://www.facebook.com/614startups/


Mar 16, 202235:31
From Pushing Pizza To Marketing Passions with Elspeth Paige-Sack, Hunter Marketing

From Pushing Pizza To Marketing Passions with Elspeth Paige-Sack, Hunter Marketing

On this episode, Elio interviews Elspeth "Elle" Paige-Sack, Founder of Hunter Marketing. Hunter Marketing is a marketing communications firm that helps businesses large and small create and execute marketing strategies that work. Elle describes herself as a sales and marketing expert and former pizza pimp who decided to take the leap and start her own business. True to her values, Hunter Marketing "leads with our hearts and acts with our brains for clients with common values. In an era of increased commoditization, we exhibit unwavering integrity and compassion, both internally and externally." Elle shares her thoughts on all things sales, marketing, and branding for startups and small businesses. Enjoy.  

Mar 09, 202250:02
Disrupting Insurance As Usual with Dan Keough, BrokerTech Ventures

Disrupting Insurance As Usual with Dan Keough, BrokerTech Ventures

On this episode, Elio interviews Dan Keough, CEO of Holmes Murphy and Co-CEO of BrokerTech Ventures. Holmes Murphy is an independent insurance brokerage firm specializing in property-casualty insurance and employee benefits strategy. BrokerTech Ventures leverages partnerships with brokerage firms, carrier networks, and access to early-stage investment capital to identify and scale disruptive technologies in the insurance industry.

Dan shares how Holmes Murphy's commitment to being a trusted advisor for their clients, their people-first approach, and commitment to innovation has helped the 90-year-old company serve clients in every industry and of almost every size with the ultimate goal of providing thoughtful expertise and exceptional service. With the launch of BrokerTech Ventures, Dan is focused on turning client problems into companies through the BrokerTech Accelerator which has grown valuations for participating companies $586 million. BrokerTech Ventures is also looking to invest in insurtech companies across the globe and with Columbus being the insurtech capital of the world, it wouldn't be a surprise if we see an investment in a Columbus startup soon. Enjoy! 

   

Mar 02, 202235:44
Reducing Friction in Global Commerce with Sahil Shah, MESH

Reducing Friction in Global Commerce with Sahil Shah, MESH

On this episode, Elio interviews Sahil Shah, Co-Founder of MESH. MESH is a cloud-based SaaS platform designed for manufacturers to streamline their sourcing and quality processes into one centralized, easy-to-use online platform. As complex and integrated as the global supply chain is, much of sourcing and quality assurance processes lack digitization. 

Sahil uncovered this problem during a Sourcing and Supply Chain internship in China for his father's company MES. Sahil discusses how the team at MESH is helping manufacturers improve their procurement processes by giving them insight into supplier quality and inventory around the globe thereby speeding up the acquisition process and diversifying their supplier base all while maintaining quality standards. 

To learn more about MESH 

Visit https://globalsourcing.com/

To learn more about Sahil Shah

Visit https://www.linkedin.com/in/sahil-shah-98b677b1/

To learn more about 614Startups 

Visit www.614startups.com 

To learn more about Elio Harmon

Visit https://www.linkedin.com/in/elio-harmon-ba4a8747/

Feb 23, 202233:38
Supporting Founders and Building the Ecosystem with Kristy Campbell, Rev1 Ventures

Supporting Founders and Building the Ecosystem with Kristy Campbell, Rev1 Ventures

In this episode, Elio interviews Kristy Campbell, Chief Operating Officer of Rev1 Ventures. Rev1 Ventures provides seed-stage venture capital funding in Columbus, Ohio along with startup services, space, mentoring, and connections. Kristy leads operations for Rev1 Ventures, the investor startup studio providing strategic services and capital to help startups scale and corporates innovate. She supports cross-team delivery of client services – including talent programs, corporate partnerships, infrastructure (via Rev1 Labs’ innovation center), and access to investment capital. Kristy also leads Rev1’s Inclusive Entrepreneurship efforts, focused on reducing bias and improving access to resources and capital for women, minority and underrepresented inventors and entrepreneurs.

Kristy provides insights into Rev1's model for engaging and supporting founders, how the organization measures success, and her prediction that startups that succeed going forward will have DE&I embedded in their business plan from day one. She also discusses highlights from the 2022 State of Startups in Ohio report including the fact that Ohio's startup ecosystem has created nearly 11,000 jobs with an average salary of over $90,000. Enjoy!

To connect with Rev1 Ventures visit www.rev1ventures.com. 

Additional Information about Kristy: 

Prior to joining Rev1, Kristy spent her career working within multiple high-growth, venture-backed startups, helping to build their brands, organize effective teams, grow revenue and scale. She held leadership positions at Manta Media – where she helped to grow the company into one of the largest, most trafficked websites in the U.S. – and Saama Technologies, a global leader in Big Data and analytics.

Kristy serves on the advisory board for multiple non-profits – including i.c. stars | Columbus and Cultivate SMB. She is also an advisor to the START Fund, the Columbus region’s first entrepreneur giving fund, launched by Rev1 in 2016 to encourage entrepreneurs to give back to the community that supports them. She holds a BS in Journalism from Ohio University and an MBA from Ashland University. Kristy is a frequent speaker on startup, marketing and inclusion best practices and has been featured in Entrepreneur, Huffington Post, Axios, Venture Beat, Yahoo and other top entrepreneur media outlets.

Feb 16, 202244:56
Getting to the Bag with Gloria Ware, Get The Bag, LLC

Getting to the Bag with Gloria Ware, Get The Bag, LLC

On this episode, Elio interviews Gloria Ware, Founder and Chief Rainmaker of Get The Bag, LLC. Get The Bag is focused on helping black female entrepreneurs access capital and build the networks they need to start and scale successful businesses. Gloria started her career in banking with an emphasis on minority small business development. Most recently she worked with organizations like Jumpstart and KeyBank to deploy over $2 million dollars in minority-led startups. Gloria's passion for helping black-owned businesses grow led her to launch Get The Bag in September 2020.  

Get The Bag partners with black female entrepreneurs to curate a quarterly Get The Bag Seasonal Subscription Box. The subscription helps consumers become more socially conscious in their buying by using their purchases to make a positive impact in the world. The box features 4-6 items ranging from educational seminars to snacks, books, and self-care items. Community members also receive coaching on how to prepare to access capital across a wide spectrum of funding options including venture capital, bank funding, and grants. 

Gloria shares her Why and why now is the time to close the wealth gap by supporting aspiring black female founders. Enjoy!

Jan 20, 202246:32
S3E7 - Jay Clouse, upside.fm

S3E7 - Jay Clouse, upside.fm

Elio interviews Jay Clouse, serial entrepreneur, Founder and or Co-Founder of upside.fm, Freelancing School, and Unreal Collective. In addition, he is a course creator on LinkedIn Learning and the producer of the groundbreaking feature-length film Test City, USA. With so many topics and businesses to cover this episode is a roller coaster ride peppered with humor, real-world experience, and love for Columbus that is uniquely Jay. Enjoy!

Jan 12, 202236:12
Getting Bold with Ilya Bodner, Bold Penguin

Getting Bold with Ilya Bodner, Bold Penguin

On this episode, Elio interviews Ilya Bodner, Founder of Bold Penguin. Bold Penguin is a Columbus, Ohio insurtech startup that helps businesses, insurance agents and insurance carriers streamline the commercial insurance buying experience by making it effortless to quote and bind insurance. Bold Penguin was acquired in February 2021 by American Family Insurance. Ilya discusses his immigrant roots, early business failures, and how Bold Penguin is revolutionizing the commercial insurance space. Enjoy!

Jan 10, 202234:42