105: Lean Into Learning to Adapt to Constant Change

Business Solutionaries

#MBA #Entrepreneur #Business #Kat Leitner & Ashleigh Metherell #Ashleigh Metherell #Kat Leitner #Coaching #Marketing #Businessoperations #Corporateeventplanning #Humanresources #Medical #Nonprofit #Performance #Processprocedures #Professionalservices #Businesscoach #Efficient #Operating Systems

35:36

In the latest episode of The Innovators & Investors Podcast, host Kristian Marquez sits down with Sam Huang, Principal at BMW iVentures, for a candid conversation to explore the dynamic intersection of venture capital, artificial intelligence, robotics, and manufacturing innovation. Sam shares BMW iVentures’ investment thesis, focusing on Series A and B startups across the US, Europe, and Israel, with a strong emphasis on AI-driven SaaS, automation, and onshoring trends driven by labor shortages and supply chain disruptions. Listeners gain valuable perspectives on the evolving venture diligence process, the importance of product-market fit, and how higher ARR benchmarks reflect both market maturity and macroeconomic factors like rising interest rates. Sam also candidly discusses his unconventional career path—from a Stanford history PhD program to law school and ultimately venture capital—highlighting how diverse experiences enhance investment acumen. The conversation delves into the benefits of corporate venture capital, especially BMW’s hands-on support and networking advantages for portfolio companies. Additionally, Sam reveals how AI is integrated internally at BMW iVentures to optimize workflow and decision-making. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of innovation, investment strategy, and the transformative impact of AI and robotics on global industries. Learn more about Sam's work at https://www.bmwiventures.com/ and her involvement with the Asian Tech Collective at https://www.asiantechcollective.com/ Connect with Sam on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-huang-10375b106/ Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply at https://finstratmgmt.com/innovators-investors-podcast/ Want to learn more about Kristian Marquez's work? Check out his website at https://finstratmgmt.com…

2 years ago 29:25

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An interest in helping others ultimately led Jason Colenda, Certified Financial Planner® professional, to the highly regulated wealth management business. By consistently learning and staying on top of trends, he's been able to differentiate K Street Financial from other firms. Listen to learn more from Jason.

100 episodes

105: Lean Into Learning to Adapt to Constant Change

Business Solutionaries

published 2 years ago

MP3•Episode home

100 episodes

All episodes

1
119: Adventure Awaits: Lori Pittari on Why Traveling is the Ultimate Goal! 36:31

21 weeks ago36:31

36:31

Adventure Awaits: Lori Pittari on Why Traveling is the Ultimate Goal! In this episode, we sit down with Lori Pittari of Cabin Fever Cruise and Travel and her associate Patti Baker to talk all things travel! From the top destinations for 2025 to the benefits of using a travel planner, cruises, and beyond, Lori and Patti share their expert insights to help make your next trip unforgettable. We also chat about our favorite past trips and dream destinations, and why, as Lori says, "If you aren’t traveling, you aren’t going anywhere!"…

1
118: Jumping into Junk: Toni Stone on Family, Growth, and Running Toadal Junk Removal! 51:56

22 weeks ago51:56

51:56

In this episode, we’re chatting with Toni Stone, one of the owners of Toadal Junk Removal, about family, business growth, and taking the leap into new ventures. Toni shares the ins and outs of running a family-owned junk removal business with her husband, sister, and sister’s partner, all while balancing the daily grind and leaning on each other for support. We dive into how Toadal Junk Removal makes life easier for Charleston residents by handling all the heavy lifting and cleanup, from hauling to sweeping up the last bit of debris—and how sometimes, jumping into a new business venture feels a lot like leaping over a pile of junk!…

1
117: Threading the Needle of Storytelling: Chris Gifford on Creativity, Leadership, and Impact 42:09

23 weeks ago42:09

42:09

In this episode, we sit down with Chris Gifford, the creative mastermind behind Thread Pull, where storytelling meets purpose-driven leadership. From his early days as a filmmaking enthusiast to founding a video marketing company ahead of its time, Chris shares how his journey through art, failure, and personal growth led him to craft stories that inspire and empower. Tune in as Chris discusses the evolution of his career, the power of storytelling, and how Thread Pull is helping brands create meaningful movements centered around faith, family, and biblical principles.…

1
116: Let’s Improve it!: Erin Deal on Taking Teamwork to the Next Level! 46:20

24 weeks ago46:20

46:20

In this episode, we’re chatting with Erin Diehl, the mastermind behind improve it!, a professional development company that’s all about laughing, learning, and growing—sometimes at the same time. Erin is a Business Improv Edutainer, Failfluencer, and professional zombie who’s managed to get over 30,000 people to chicken dance (yes, you read that right). Tune in as Erin shares her journey from the world of improv in Chicago to global stages, all while making teamwork way more fun than it has any right to be!…

1
115: Allora All In: Chaos, Coffee, and Kicking Off 2025! 27:32

25 weeks ago27:32

27:32

We’re kicking off our 2025 podcast season with a fun roundtable episode featuring the whole Allora team! We’ll talk about our goals for the year, share our dream podcast guests, and play a game of “This or That.” Tune in for all the laughs and excitement as we dive into what’s ahead for the season—and try not to spill coffee all over the mic while we’re at it!…

1
114: STAY a While! 50:51

2 years ago50:51

50:51

Back for round 2 on Business Solutionaries is our favorite neighbor, Courtney Bukowsky! Coco is a woman of many talents and is currently expanding her business empire one product and service at a time. We are thrilled to have her back to discuss her STAY Luggage Racks. These racks are anything but ordinary, and this episode is just the same. We chat about all things social media, building a brand, and hair extensions?? Listen in to learn more!…

1
113: Jewelry with a Purpose 1:03:42

2 years ago1:03:42

1:03:42

Elizabeth Adams has been a lifelong creative. The daughter of two artists, Elizabeth was encouraged to be actively creating at an early age. In 2009, after losing her young daughter to a brain tumor, Elizabeth turned back to art as an outlet while moving through grief. This outlet transformed into Ex Voto Vintage Jewelry. With 3 storefronts and a thriving online presence, Elizabeth’s creativity and passion for giving back has become a successful business!…

1
112: TeaTime With Me Time! 34:05

2 years ago34:05

34:05

Kara Reich has a passion for making women feel supported, glowy, and strong. For her that starts with skincare, she is the founder and CEO of Me Time Botanicals, an all-natural skincare line made right here in Charleston! Her products are game changers, and her new spa is worth the visit. Listen in to hear her inspiring story of entrepreneurship and how she is uplifting women along the way.…

1
111: Embrace the Bold, Print on Print! 54:25

2 years ago54:25

54:25

Isabel Ladd began her Interior Design career on a playdate. Her love for put-together spaces full of personality began in her own home and quickly grew into a successful design firm! With clients across the country and multiple incredible brand partnerships, Isabel has created a name for herself print by print. We loved catching up with her and discussing her story, upcoming collaborations, and what she loves in a project!…

1
110: Rolling Cigars and Planting Trees 40:18

2 years ago40:18

40:18

Chris Hudson conquered multiple overseas tours paving the path to his dreams. Now, as a thriving entrepreneur, he masterfully crafts custom cigars while nurturing his beloved farm, aptly named 4 Tours Farm—a testament to the number of tours it took to pay off the land. Currently finishing up his service Chris discussed with us what it will take to take his farm to the next level. Chris is a wealth of knowledge and we loved having him in the office!…

1
109: Meeting a Need and Making a Difference 33:25

2 years ago33:25

33:25

Dawn Darby was faced with the challenge of finding and providing opportunities for her young son with cerebral palsy and could only find those innovative services hours away from Columbia. She thought the midlands could do better. In March of 2008, The Therapy Place was born! We chatted with Dawn about her journey, The Therapy Place's meaning and mission, and the 2023 Therapalooza!…

1
108: A Big Personality with Bigger Business Ambitions 1:13:49

2 years ago1:13:49

1:13:49

Adam Lien walked into our office on a Friday afternoon and by the time we left we all had a new best friend. A veteran, entrepreneur, fitness enthusiast, and fellow podcaster, Adam talked us through his business adventures and so much more. Find out how the CEO and Founder of The Lift Box is expanding his fitness empire one new project at a time.…

1
107: Fanatical Fundraising with Event.Gives, an Online Platform that Simplifies the Process & Elevates the Experience 32:59

2 years ago32:59

32:59

Non-profits deserve a break when it comes to event fundraising. Event.Gives takes the headache and hassle away, streamlining everything from website development, ticketing and check-in to auctions, donations, and thank yous. Learn more about this unique software from event pro Kandice Luisi.

1
106: Sewing Up Her Dream Job 32:38

2 years ago32:38

32:38

Sarah Kolis learned to sew at a young age and always knew she wanted to work with wedding gowns. Today, the couture artist creates custom bridal and eveningwear designs that deliver exceptional experiences for her clients. Find out how Sarah manages her growing business and finds time to stay creative.…

1
105: Lean Into Learning to Adapt to Constant Change 29:25

2 years ago29:25

29:25

Business Solutionaries

1
104: Just a Guy with an Idea 26:24

2 years ago26:24

26:24

When Jake Ward had the idea to build a platform to support software developers, it didn't take long to turn his lightbulb moment into a thriving business. Today, Data Protocol helps developers and developer-first companies with solutions for management, communication, training, organizational alignment, and more.…

Business Solutionaries

1
103: Block & Tackle Your Calendar 5:46

2 years ago5:46

5:46

Out of the office for a few weeks due to family issues, Allora Co-Founder Kat Leitner returned to work to find more than 1,800 emails staring her in the face. Tune into this episode as Kat explains her time management tips & tricks and how sorting and prioritizing are the only way to survive.

Business Solutionaries

1
102: Why Growing Your Business Starts with Becoming a Better Business Manager 23:51

2 years ago23:51

23:51

To meet the needs of her clients and team members, Fertility & Family Law expert Stephanie Brinkley took steps to grow her practice intelligently and thoughtfully. Learn how she partners with other professionals, including her husband, to build and maintain a thriving practice.

Business Solutionaries

1
101: Growing & Selling a Tech Company: An Inside Look 35:14

2 years ago35:14

35:14

Pachyderm CEO Joe Doliner shares his story of building a successful AI software company, growing a sincere workplace culture despite remote work expectations, and recently selling to Hewlett Packard Enterprise. Get ready to learn!

Business Solutionaries

1
100: 100 Episodes. 100 Times the Fun. 58:09

2 years ago58:09

58:09

We're celebrating our 100th episode with two very special guests who received the highest number of downloads in the history of our podcast. Mimi Striplin and Ryan Morris are as wise as they are popular. Let's find out what they've been up to as we barrel toward the next chapter of Business Solutionaries.…

Business Solutionaries

1
99: Back Porch Inspiration 36:20

2 years ago36:20

36:20

Launching a business together was a long-time goal of the Varner sisters. A little more than a year ago, they turned their obsession with wicker and love of interior design into Varnish Collection. Find out how family tradition fuels the creativity, marketing & business growth behind their timeless furniture and accessory brand.…

Business Solutionaries

1
98: Don't Get Lost in the Sauce 16:15

2 years ago16:15

16:15

Hired to hire, Dom offers advice to job seekers and companies seeking top talent. He's a fan of white glove onboarding and keeping your business "sauce" authentic. Listen to learn more.

Business Solutionaries

1
97: One Perfect Gift 28:34

3 years ago28:34

28:34

Casual friends, Peggy & Willa, turned their shared passion for extraordinary gifting into a bespoke concierge service catering to individuals, wedding planners, and businesses. Learn how you can outsource your gifting needs to this innovative duo.

Business Solutionaries

1
96: Be a Sponge Wherever You Go 25:51

3 years ago25:51

25:51

After college, Mary Frances Maker went to trade school in NYC to pursue her passion of custom jewelry design. This solopreneur has made a point to always learn from others, and her business is flourishing as a result. Learn how Mary Frances is positioning her company for growth.

Business Solutionaries

1
95: Doing Small Business the Big Business Way 33:26

3 years ago33:26

33:26

Will Harton relies on his M&A background to drill down on business processes and inefficiencies to create a competitive advantage for his luxury golf cart company. Hear his tips for expanding productivity.

Business Solutionaries

1
94: Meet Five-Year-Old Author & Allergy Awareness Advocate Emma Vigrass 26:19

3 years ago26:19

26:19

When Emma Vigrass's severe food allergies made her anxious about starting kindergarten, she turned her fears and differences into a book that's helping other children facing allergy and disease management. Her story will make you laugh and inspire you.

Business Solutionaries

1
93: Connect with People & Business will Follow 46:58

3 years ago46:58

46:58

From business strategy to termite swarming seasons, there's a lot to learn from Karl Kuester, especially when it comes to networking to grow your business.

Business Solutionaries

1
92: Outsource a Better Way 10:09

3 years ago10:09

10:09

A New Year and a refreshed tagline inspire Allora co-founders Kat & Ashleigh to ask, "What are the things you're doing for your business that someone else could do?" Listen as they share advice on optimizing time and money.

Business Solutionaries

1
91: Facial Fridays Forever 29:42

3 years ago29:42

29:42

Micaela Bartash traded in the ER for an aesthetics business that allows her to concentrate her skills on providing custom facial rejuvenation treatments to patients who organically become her friends. Hear how she went from a hobby of casual Facial Fridays to a comprehensive dream come true career.

Business Solutionaries

1
90: When You're a Taco Bell-Eating Serial Entrepreneur 34:46

3 years ago34:46