1101: Aaron Day, Michael Kelly & Carl Boyanton - "Tackling Commerce, Connectivity, and Healthy Living"

Thrive LouD with Lou Diamond

What if the next time you shopped on social media, you were actually supporting a small business—without even realizing it?

In this action-packed special episode of Thrive Loud, live from the Wall Street Conference, Lou Diamond sits down with three trailblazing leaders who are reshaping the future of e-commerce, tech, wireless infrastructure, and food sustainability. Get ready for insights that could change how you do business—and how you think about supporting entrepreneurs everywhere.

Key Highlights:

• Aaron Day (Amaze Software): Discover how Amaze is quietly powering native commerce for creators on platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Twitch—so seamlessly that millions of shoppers have no idea they’re using Amaze tech! Aaron explains the wild ride from hyper-growth startup to a public company, the challenges of switching from “growth at all costs” to sustainable business, and why going public can be a game-changer for empowering small businesses worldwide. He also shares how YOU may have used Amaze without even knowing it, and what he’s learned about leadership through massive pivots and personal discomfort.
• Michael Kelly (Velocity Wireless): From saving $10 million on projects for giants like AT&T to building his own company from the ground up, Michael reveals the real story behind American wireless infrastructure—and how even small property owners can get in on the action. He opens up about the joys and pains of entrepreneurship, building a nationwide team, and why nurturing relationships is his secret sauce for success.
• Carl Boyanton (Farmer Fresh Produce): With decades of experience in the produce industry, Carl shares his mission to bring healthy, American-grown food to those in need through his non-profit work. Hear his fascinating journey—from running billion-dollar produce businesses to founding initiatives that provide fresh food for veterans and the underserved. He gets candid about the state of American produce—why it often looks great but tastes...underwhelming—and reveals the surprising science and charity innovations that could change everything.

Follow-ups for Listeners:

• Check out Amaze Software (amaze.co), especially if you’re a creator looking to monetize directly on your favorite platforms. Investors can track AMZE on the NYSE.
• For those in the real estate or wireless space, learn more about Velocity Wireless at velocitywirelessllc.com.
• To support healthy food access and innovative charity models, visit farmfresh4ms.org and see how you can help or replicate their approach in your area.

Whether you’re a tech entrepreneur, small business owner, or just passionate about supporting innovation and healthy communities, this episode will inspire you to think bigger, act bolder, and make a meaningful impact—often where you least expect it.

Timestamped Overview

00:00 "Thrive Loud: Wall Street Conference"

04:59 "Startup Growth and Post-COVID Pivot"

08:50 Supporting Small Businesses Publicly

09:43 "Empowering Future Entrepreneurs"

15:53 Starting a Business: Challenges & Rewards

17:06 Opportunity in Rooftop Leasing

22:21 From Produce Worker to Entrepreneur

24:24 "California Firm Tackles Chronic Diseases"

27:13 "American Produce: Year-Round Challenges"

31:39 "Thrive Loud with Lou Diamond"