Founders Future Podcast | Powered by Closers.io Join us on a journey through the world of entrepreneurship and business growth with the Founders Future podcast, powered by Closers.io. Each episode features an in-depth, one-on-one interview with a visionary founder, exploring their unique path to success and strategies for future expansion. What to Expect In each 25-minute episode, we dive deep into two key areas: 1. The Founding Journey (10-12 minutes) - Discover the inspiration behind groun ...
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$25K in Lessons: What Dr. Deepak Bhootra Learned About Scaling a Consulting Business
29:09
29:09
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29:09In this episode of Founders Future, host Ammar Elm sits down with Dr. Deepak Bhootra, founder and CEO of Jabulani Consulting, a Texas-based firm specializing in sales training, coaching, and leadership development. With over 30 years of corporate experience, Dr. Bhootra shares his journey from the corporate rat race to entrepreneurship, emphasizing…
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Uncaging Greatness: Donslow Brown on Leadership, Faith, and Emotional Intelligence
33:11
33:11
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33:11In this episode of Founders Future, with host Ammar Elm, we dive into the inspiring journey of Donslow Brown, founder and CEO of Uncaged Consulting. Donslow shares how his upbringing in a Haitian church shaped his passion for service and leadership, ultimately leading him to create a firm specializing in executive coaching, team building, and perso…
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From Strategy Calls to Fractional COO: Natasha Dav on Building a Flexible Consultancy
22:05
22:05
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22:05In this episode of Founders Future, with host Karyn Vadnais, we dive into the entrepreneurial journey of Natasha M. Dav, co-founder and CEO of Ops 8, a DevOps consultancy helping small businesses streamline operations through cutting-edge systems. Natasha shares how her decade of experience working directly with CEOs revealed critical gaps in opera…
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From Bootstrap to Borderless: Rajat Modi’s Trademark Empire
21:41
21:41
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21:41In this episode of Founders Future, with host Amar Elman, we dive into the journey of Rajat Preet Singh Modi, founder and managing partner of Global Trademark Company. Rajat shares how his firm specializes in affordable and efficient global trademark registration and intellectual property services, helping businesses protect their brands worldwide.…
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From Adversity to Impact: David Corbishley’s Journey to E3 Coaching & HumanettIQ
32:10
32:10
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32:10In this episode of Founders Future, with host Amar Elman, we meet David Corbishley, founder of E3 Coaching and co-founder of HumanettIQ, as he shares his transformative journey from East London teacher to certified life and business coach. David reveals how his own pandemic mental health struggles inspired his dual mission: empowering professionals…
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Scaling Mindfully: Coaching Leaders for Lasting Impact
23:30
23:30
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23:30In this episode of Founders Future, with host Ammar Elm, we sit down with Jonathan Reynolds, the visionary behind Mindful Life, Mindful Work, Inc., to explore how mindfulness, emotional intelligence, and conscious leadership are reshaping executive coaching. With a focus on long-term behavioral change, Jonathan shares their philosophy of structured…
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Building Business Health: Strategic Coaching with Justin Wilhelms
28:04
28:04
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28:04In this episode of Founders Future, host Ammar Elm dives into the journey of Justin Wilhelms, founder and CEO of JW Innovative Coaching LLC, a business consulting firm focused on helping owners eliminate chaos and build stronger, more efficient organizations. Drawing from over a decade of experience scaling a water treatment business, Justin shares…
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Facebook Ads, Funnels & Fake News: Navigating the New Rules of Digital Trust
31:34
31:34
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31:34In this episode of Founders, Future, with host Ammar Elm, we dive into the entrepreneurial journey of Mohammed Marej Zishan, founder and CEO of BEFound Social, a digital marketing agency that scales startups and personal brands through strategic funnels and social media. Mohammed shares his evolution from a university student freelancing in ghostwr…
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Rebuilding Bridges: How to Turn Conflict into Leadership Currency
46:22
46:22
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46:22In this episode of Founders, Future with host Amar Elm, we meet Greg Stevens, founder of Alignment Resources, a leadership development firm. Greg’s journey spans from selling cemetery plots door-to-door to pharmaceutical sales before a life coach redirected him toward human potential training. After a grueling 2,000-hour apprenticeship, he launched…
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The Future of Web Accessibility: A Founder’s Blueprint for Growth
20:14
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20:14In this episode of Founders, Future, with host Jae Encarnacion, we dive into the journey of Mauricio Mendoza, founder and CEO of Bixly, a mission-driven venture transforming digital accessibility for businesses. With over 25 years in web development, Mauricio shares how Bixly’s Core Access System helps companies comply with global regulations like …
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The Experience Economy: Why Human Connection Beats AI Every Time
25:46
25:46
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25:46In this episode of Founders Future, with host Mishal Saeed, we sit down with Shawn "Man On Fire" Nason, founder and CEO of Nason Group, to explore how his Disney-inspired approach to customer experience is transforming industries. With a deep background in human-centered design, Shawn shares how his boutique consulting firm helps organizations buil…
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Capital Raising Reality Check: Brutal Truths from a Serial Entrepreneur
29:10
29:10
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29:10In this episode of Founders Future, with host Mishal Saeed, we meet George Kriza, CEO of Challenging Decisions and Inc. 500 honoree, as he reflects on his 40-year journey scaling businesses and solving complex leadership challenges. George shares how he grew MTC Performance by 470% through innovative enterprise software for sales incentives—experie…
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Mom-and-Pop to Millions: The Unconventional Playbook for EdTech Scaling
28:27
28:27
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28:27In this episode of Founders Future, with host Mishal Saeed, we meet Philip Chipping, serial entrepreneur and founder of Operation Read, as he shares his mission to transform literacy for struggling and dyslexic readers. Drawing from his personal experience as a father of four children with reading challenges—and his background scaling Zag to $10M—P…
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Energy Alchemy: Blending Quantum Wisdom with Business Systems
22:18
22:18
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22:18In this episode of Founders Future, with host Ammar Elm, we meet Ryan Ashby, the visionary founder of Madali LLC, who's bridging ancient wisdom with modern business through his unique blend of quantum human design coaching and operational consulting. Ryan shares his deeply personal journey from corporate disillusionment to creating a "backstage cre…
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From Filmmaker to Founder: The Journey Behind The Creative Keys
18:21
18:21
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18:21In this episode of to Founders Future, where host Jae Encarnacion uncovers the journeys of visionary entrepreneurs shaping the future of their industries. In this episode, Jae sits down with Paige Williams, an award-winning filmmaker, tech entrepreneur, and coach featured in Forbes and The New York Times. Paige shares her inspiring transition from …
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Beyond Business Cards: Making Meaningful Connections That Drive Sales
25:25
25:25
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25:25In this episode of Founders Future, host Mishal Saeed dives into the real-world strategies behind building a successful fractional HR agency from the ground up with Miranda Sharpnack, founder of SHARP HR, LLC. Miranda shares her authentic approach to marketing and sales, emphasizing the power of meaningful in-person networking and strategic partner…
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Beyond Consulting: Creating a Strategic Support System with Kate MacCabe
39:01
39:01
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39:01In this episode of Founders, Future, host Mishal Saeed dives into the growth journey of Flywheel Strategy with Kate MacCabe, exploring how their unique, expert-driven model sets them apart in the consulting space. Kate shares how Flywheel builds trust and credibility through a strong organic presence on platforms like LinkedIn and strategic in-pers…
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Productizing Your Expertise: How to Work Less and Deliver More
24:50
24:50
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24:50In this episode of Founders Future, host Ammar Elm sits down with John Matthews, founder of Gray Cat Enterprises, to explore the mindset and systems behind building a successful consulting business. With over 30 years of experience in the corporate world, John shares how he transitioned into entrepreneurship, why he built his business to be lean an…
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The “Double Sell” and Why Nuria Garcia Refuses to Cold Outreach
19:56
19:56
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19:56In this episode of Founders Future, host Ammar Elm sits down with Nuria Garcia, founder of NBN Media—a marketing agency that helps tech founders amplify their brands through strategic video storytelling. Nuria shares her unexpected journey from Instagram content creator to agency owner, revealing how she turned her passion for storytelling into a b…
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Making Workplaces Suck Less: Alexander Duck’s Mission-Driven Approach to Training
22:08
22:08
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22:08In this episode of Founders Future, host Ammar Elm sits down with Alexander Duck II , founder of A Duck Training and Development, to explore his journey in leadership and organizational development training. With a master's in adult education, Alexander shares how his passion for improving workplace culture led him to start his company, focusing on…
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The Power of Strategic Roadmapping for Growing Companies
22:18
22:18
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22:18In this episode of Founders Future, host Jae Encarnacion sits down with Kevin Diggins, founder and principal consultant of Access Insights, a Boston-based, disability-owned consulting firm specializing in digital transformation, process optimization, and operational excellence. Drawing from leadership experience at companies like GE, Bose, and Skil…
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Scaling Smart: Growth Strategies for Uncertain Times
25:39
25:39
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25:39In this episode of Founders, Future, Ammar Elm talks with Dr. Delta Bowers, founder of DRB and Associates Consultants, about sustainable business growth during challenging economic times. Dr. Bowers emphasizes the importance of a strong customer base, strategic planning, and contingency readiness before scaling. She shares practical advice on avoid…
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How a Fractional CMO Can 10x Your Trade Show ROI
40:27
40:27
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40:27In this episode of Founders, Future, with host Ammar Elm, Jonathan W. Pritchard, founder of ZAVANT Enterprises and fractional CMO, shares his journey from the persona of "Johnny Savant" to becoming a strategic growth partner for scaling businesses. Jonathan discusses how he helps profitable $1M-$5M+ companies with strong products but underdeveloped…
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Mastering Career Growth: Insights from Scott Fernandez of Careerguise
21:53
21:53
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21:53In this episode of Founders Future, with host Karyn Vadnais, career coach and Careerguise founder Scott Fernandez shares his philosophy on personalized career guidance and the power of intentional client relationships. Scott discusses why he deliberately keeps his coaching practice small to maximize impact, the art of crafting a standout career nar…
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Scaling Virtual Assistants in the Age of AI with DJ Kim
14:40
14:40
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14:40In this episode of Founders, Future, host Karen Vadnais interviews DJ Kim, CEO of Cherry Assistant and seasoned entrepreneur behind multiple successful ventures, including the vibrant Rev. Genius community of 30,000+ members. DJ shares his insights on building and scaling a virtual assistant business in a rapidly evolving market driven by AI innova…
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In this episode, Jae Encarnacion chats with Blade Kotelly, innovation leader and Senior Lecturer at MIT’s School of Engineering, about designing systems that accelerate execution—not just ideation. Blade shares how his work at Blade Kotelly, Inc. helps companies innovate with purpose, align teams, and deliver real outcomes. They dive into the chall…
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Lady No Kids: Redefining Life Beyond Motherhood with Christine Burns
19:08
19:08
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19:08In this heartfelt episode of Founders, Future, host Jae Encarnacion sits down with Christine Burns—author, advocate, and founder of Lady No Kids—to explore the realities and liberating truths of being childfree by circumstance, chance, or choice. Christine shares her personal journey navigating societal expectations and the stigma around women who …
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Finding Opportunity in the “Boring” Business Tasks with James Griffin
22:17
22:17
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22:17In this inspiring episode of Founders Future, James Griffin, founder of Griffin IT and co-leader of a 110-employee HR company, shares candid insights on building businesses around solving real problems that others shy away from. From the unglamorous yet lucrative world of HR services and business process outsourcing to the evolving landscape of rem…
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Empowering Energy Consulting: Navigating Growth with Jorge Medina Zambrano
39:57
39:57
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39:57In this episode of Founders, Future, with host Mishal Saeed, Jorge Medina Zambrano, founder of Navigate Power, shares his ambitious vision for scaling his energy consulting firm by demystifying the industry and making sustainability accessible. Jorge discusses how his team identifies market gaps, builds momentum through client success, and adapts t…
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Fix the Foundation: Why Alignment Beats Strategy Alone
29:22
29:22
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29:22In this episode of Founders, Future, with host Ammar Elm, Motty Chen, founder of Back on Track – Business Coaching, reveals why alignment—between people, purpose, and strategy—is the foundation for lasting business success. Motty shares his philosophy on coaching leadership teams, emphasizing quality over quantity in client relationships and how he…
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The Power of TikTok Shop for E-Commerce Growth
25:38
25:38
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25:38In this episode of Founders, Future, host Karyn Vadnais sits down with Anibal Alvarado Dinelli, founder of ECommerce HUB LLC, to explore his approach to scaling e-commerce brands through mentorships, done-with-you business packages, and a unique partnership program designed to build and exit profitable brands within 12 months. Anibal breaks down hi…
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From Proposal to Partnership: Inside Krit Consulting’s Client Process
16:40
16:40
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16:40In this episode of Founders Future, Karyn Vadnais talks with Ron Krit, founder of Krit Consulting, about building a boutique nonprofit consulting business that balances growth with a personal touch. Ron shares how he tailors his proposals and services to fit each client’s unique needs and budget, emphasizing clear communication and flexibility. He …
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Finding Balance: Self-Care and Wellness with Dr. Lisa Marie Lee
15:51
15:51
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15:51In this episode, host Karyn Vadnais sits down with Dr. Lisa Marie Lee to explore the vital role of self-care in busy lives. They share their personal journeys with Pilates and yoga, discussing the physical challenges and mental benefits of these practices. Dr. Lee highlights how she dedicates Tuesdays as a day of rest, allowing herself space to rec…
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How AI and Human Touch Drive Vimari Roman’s Coaching Practice
19:58
19:58
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19:58In this episode of Founders, Future, host Karyn Vadnais sits down with Vimari Roman, founder of Be Productive Coaching. Vimari shares her inspiring journey from corporate leadership into entrepreneurship, building a coaching practice centered on leadership development, career strategy, and personal branding. She discusses how her business evolved t…
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Beyond the Mic: Building a Brand with Soul
23:30
23:30
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23:30In this episode of Founders, Future, host Jae Encarnacion sits down with Kate Bissinger, founder of Vocal Wellness Academy, to explore how she's redefining vocal coaching through a holistic, emotionally intelligent lens. Kate shares how her mission goes beyond technique—focusing on vocal health, mental well-being, and building authentic confidence …
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Mastering the Shot: Brianna Garza’s Science-Backed Basketball Training
21:39
21:39
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21:39In this episode, host Mishal Saeed interviews Brianna Garza, founder of Shooters Shoot LLC, a company revolutionizing basketball shooting training through science-based coaching and innovative technology. Brianna shares how she identified gaps in traditional training, developed a mastery-focused approach, and built a scalable business combining in-…
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Beyond the Big 4: Reinventing Consulting with Evolved Thinking
41:16
41:16
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41:16In this episode of Founders, Future, host Mishal Saeed, sit down with Joseph Braithwaite, founder of Evolved Thinking, to explore what it truly means to approach consulting differently. After years working in traditional consulting environments, including time with the Big 4, Joseph saw the shortcomings of the industry firsthand—transformation init…
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Scaling with Confidence: Chris Gauvin on Fractional CFOs and Founder Fit
20:37
20:37
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20:37IIn this episode of Founders, Future, with host Mishal Saeed, Chris Gauvin, Fractional CFO and co-founder of Local, Fractional, shares invaluable insights on scaling companies the right way—with the right people. Chris demystifies fractional leadership, explaining how startups can access top-tier executive talent without overextending resources, wh…
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Shifting away from traditional networking toward creating authority ft. David Baker
19:59
19:59
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19:59In this episode of Founders, Future , host Jae Encarnacion sits down with Dr. David Baker-Hargrove, co-CEO and co-founder of Bhc Assessment and Consulting. With over 25 years as a licensed mental health counselor and a background in clinical psychology, David blends his expertise to lead a $100 million company focused on empowering nonprofits and b…
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Building Trust & Scaling Small Business Marketing
32:37
32:37
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32:37In this episode of Founders, Future, host Michelle Saeed sits down with Miguel Roblero, founder and CEO of Connexian Creative and Health Odyssey Studios. With over 17 years of UX design experience at industry giants like Dell and IBM, Miguel shares his journey from corporate tech to entrepreneurship, focusing on how he’s reshaping UX design to help…
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How to Scale Your Startup Without Burning Out
44:46
44:46
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44:46In this episode, Mishal Saeed sits down with Brian Oliver Smith, CEO and founder of CEO Performance Network. With over 30 years of leadership experience, Brian has a proven track record of helping businesses double revenue and transform teams through dynamic keynotes and behavior-based coaching. Brian shares his inspiring founding story—from his ea…
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Scaling Smart: Jennifer Glass on Doubling Revenue for Small Businesses
22:24
22:24
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22:24In this episode of Founders Future, with host Mishal Saeed, Jennifer Glass, CEO and founder of BGSI Coaching, shares her expertise in helping small businesses scale their revenues and secure funding. With over two decades of experience in marketing and business growth, Jennifer discusses her journey from simplifying payment processing to developing…
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The Science Behind Scaling: Marketing & Sportswear with Riley Sharwood
21:43
21:43
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21:43In this episode of Founders Future, host Ammar Elm sits down with Riley Sharwood, the founder of Adscendency, a marketing consultancy focused on helping e-commerce entrepreneurs scale through data-driven paid social strategies, and Invincible, a sports apparel brand rooted in sports science innovation. Riley shares his unique journey from aspiring …
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"The Power of Personal Connection in Sales"
23:32
23:32
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23:32In this episode of Founders Future, host Jae Encarnacion sits down with Charlotte Rooney, founder of Half Managed Mind, to unpack the realities of scaling a mission-driven business as a solopreneur. Charlotte shares why she stepped back from outsourced sales to focus on deeper, personal client connections—and how that decision impacted her growth. …
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Revolutionizing Title Insurance: Josh Oliver’s Tech-Driven Vision
24:42
24:42
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24:42In this episode of Founders Future, with host Jay Encarnacion, Josh Oliver, founder of Rhythmic Title Company, shares how he's transforming the title insurance industry through technology and collaboration. What began as a casual conversation with his son's football coach evolved into a mission to modernize the traditionally manual title process, l…
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From Stories to Sales: Growing Heroes Made’s Education Platform
28:34
28:34
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28:34In this episode of Founders Future, with host Mishal Saeed, Maria Lavithi, founder of Heroes Made, discusses how her edtech startup is transforming learning experiences across Europe. Through their innovative SaaS platform, students gain the unique ability to publish their own stories, creating personalized educational journeys that drive remarkabl…
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Powered by People: Carol Schultz on Building Talent-Centric Companies
20:39
20:39
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20:39In this episode of Founders Future, host Jae Encarnacion welcomes Carol Schultz, the founder and CEO of Vertical Elevation. With over 30 years of experience in leadership coaching and talent development, Carol shares her mission to help businesses build talent-centric organizations that drive retention, engagement, and long-term profitability. The …
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Solving Healthcare: John Kepley’s AI-Powered Mission
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33:05In this episode of Founders Future, host Ammar Elm welcomes John Kepley, founder and CEO of Solved Health AI. With a rich background in IT consulting and a successful track record leading Tech Systems to major growth, John now sets his sights on revolutionizing U.S. healthcare diagnostics. Through cutting-edge AI-powered solutions, Solved Health AI…
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Revolutionizing Hospitality with AI: A Talk with Forkast's CTO
23:18
23:18
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23:18In this episode of Founders Future, host Ammar Elm sits down with Matthew Jenkins, the co-founder and CTO of Forkast — an AI-powered platform transforming pricing strategies in the hospitality industry. Matthew shares how Forkast empowers restaurants and cafes to optimize pricing, boost revenue, and stay competitive through real-time insights and a…
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Scaling Smart: Lessons from 'The Inside Man
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25:50In this episode of Founders Future, host Jae Encarnacion sits down with Tim Martinez, also known as “The Inside Man.” With over 20 years of entrepreneurial experience and a track record of consulting over 240 companies, Tim shares insights from his journey building, exiting, and advising multi-million dollar businesses. He delves into the core prin…
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