Podcast
Build With Tech
Hosted by Rey Ortega · EN
We explore how companies leverage technology to grow and scale their businesses. Our host, with extensive experience in software engineering and business, delves into the minds of innovators to uncover their journeys, challenges, successes, and personal insights. This podcast is for entrepreneurs, CIOs, CTOs, C-suite executives, and startups looking for inspiration on incorporating technology into their business
10episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Episode 10: TOP Marketer Reveals Skills That Can Drive Your Business Success Today
Nov 5, 202400:55:45Tap to summarizeJoin Rey Ortega on Build with Tech as he sits down with Ebony Vaz, founder of Above Promotions and self-proclaimed "recovered engineer," to explore the fascinating intersection of entrepreneurship, marketing, and technology. Discover how Vaz's engineering background shapes her unique approach to digital marketing and client relationships in today's AI-driven business landscape. In this episode, learn how small business owners can leverage technology while maintaining authentic storytelling, navigate client relationships through cultural alignment, and protect their ventures with proper legal resources. Vaz shares invaluable insights on building a sustainable business culture and adapting to the rapid evolution of marketing technology. Key Topics: - Engineering mindset in marketing strategy - Small business growth in the digital age - AI implementation in marketing workflows - Cultural fit in client partnerships - Legal considerations for entrepreneurs - Building a strong company culture 56:44 - Engineering to Marketing Transition 58:14 - Understanding Client Expectations 59:54 - Company Culture and Client Relationships 1:01:24 - Legal Resources for Business Protection 1:03:44 - AI Integration in Marketing 1:05:14 - Understanding Market Limitations 1:07:44 - Building Company Culture 1:09:14 - Industry Trends and Innovation 1:11:44 - Networking Strategies 1:13:14 - Technology Democratization Connect with Ebony Vaz: Website: abovepromotions.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ebonytgrimsley/ Services: Marketing Tech Stack Implementation, Internal Communications Training, Crisis Communications, Technology Consulting Follow Build with Tech: Website: buildwithtechnology.com Parent Company: gratasoftware.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/biztechguru/ #entrepreneurship #marketing #engineering #AIinBusiness #businessculture #clientrelations #technology #digitalmarketing #marketingtech #smallbusiness #buildwithtech #businesspodcast #marketingstrategy #techentrepreneurship #businessgrowth #engineeringmindset #businessinnovation #marketingtechnology #businessstrategy #techpodcasts
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Episode 9: Demystifying Venture Capital: Kevin Burgoyne on Startup Funding Strategies
Sep 30, 202401:03:40Tap to summarizeDemystifying Venture Capital: Kevin Burgoyne on Startup Funding Strategies Join host Rey Ortega as he dives deep into the world of venture capital with Kevin Burgoyne, President of the Florida Venture Forum. In this episode, Kevin shares unique insights into the startup ecosystem in Florida discusses the importance of founder qualities, and explains the various funding stages, from angel investing to venture capital. Learn about the invaluable resources available to entrepreneurs and how to leverage them for business growth. This episode is packed with invaluable advice for anyone interested in startups, entrepreneurship, and venture funding. Don't miss it! Call to action: 🔗 Visit the Florida Venture Forum: [FL Venture](https://flventure.org) 🔗 Check out upcoming events: [FL Venture Events](https://flventure.org/events/) Get involved, learn from the best, and stay tuned for more Build with Tech podcast episodes! 00:00 Introduction to the Event and Florida Venture Forum 00:34 Meet Kevin Burgoyne: President of Florida Venture Forum 02:21 Understanding the Florida Venture Forum 07:03 Kevin's Journey to Florida Venture Forum 09:49 What is Venture Capital? 20:40 The Importance of User Growth and Market Acceptance 27:31 How Investors Liquidate Their Investments 31:12 Finding the Right Investors for Your Business 33:11 Finding the Right Investors 34:13 The Power of Conferences 36:11 Innovative Pitch Formats 43:17 The Importance of Being Coachable 51:16 Building a Strong Advisory Board 53:32 Florida's Growing Investment Landscape 58:55 Resources for Florida Entrepreneurs 01:01:55 Final Thoughts and Encouragement #VentureCapital #StartupFunding #KevinBurgoyne #FloridaVentureForum #Entrepreneurship #StartupEcosystem #AngelInvesting #BusinessGrowth #StartupAdvice #TechStartups #FounderQualities #FundingStages #InvestorRelations #PitchingTips #AdvisoryBoard #FloridaStartups #StartupResources #TechPodcast #BuildWithTech #InvestmentStrategies #StartupConferences #UserGrowth #MarketAcceptance #InvestorLiquidation #CoachableFounders #FloridaInvestments #EntrepreneurResources
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Episode 8: Build a Thriving Marketing Agency | Business Growth & Tech Insights
Sep 15, 202400:51:02Tap to summarizeFrom Freelance to Full-Service: David Fiore’s Journey to Marketing Success In this episode of Build with Tech, I had the pleasure of speaking with David Fiore, founder of Fiore Communications, a leading marketing agency based in Tallahassee, Florida. 🌟 David shares his incredible journey from freelance writer to running a full-service marketing firm, and how he’s adapted to the ever-changing marketing landscape. 🎯 We also dive into the role technology plays in optimizing business workflows and driving success. 💡 🎧 Watch this episode to learn: How to grow a marketing agency from the ground up 🚀 The power of storytelling in business success 📖 Why community relationships matter 💼 Integrating technology into marketing strategies 💻 Entrepreneurship, risk-taking, and balancing work & family 🏡 🔗 Relevant Links: Fiore Communications: https://www.fiorecommunications.com David Fiore's Podcast, How I Got Here: [https://fiorecommunications.com/category/podcast/] Tools Mentioned: Basecamp [https://basecamp.com], Dropbox [https://www.dropbox.com], DashThis [https://www.dashthis.com] ⏰ Timestamps: 0:00 – Intro 1:15 – David Fiore’s Background and Starting Fiore Communications 🌱 4:10 – Evolution of a Marketing Agency 📈 6:30 – Balancing Family Life and Entrepreneurship 👨👩👧👦 10:50 – The Importance of Community & Building Relationships 💼 14:00 – Tools and Technology David Uses in His Business 💻 19:45 – The Role of AI in Marketing and Content Creation 🤖 23:30 – Advice for Entrepreneurs: Building a Business You Love 💡 27:00 – Closing Thoughts and How Technology Shapes the Future of Marketing 🔮 If you're an aspiring entrepreneur or want to scale your business through marketing and technology, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell 🔔 to stay updated on future episodes! Keywords: marketing agency, David Fiore, business growth, digital marketing, storytelling, technology in marketing, entrepreneurship, community success, Tallahassee business, podcast, marketing strategies, full-service marketing.
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Episode 7: Revolutionizing Loyalty Programs with Michael Hemsey. 💼➡️💻
Sep 9, 202400:51:21Tap to summarize🤝 Join the Build with Tech community to connect with innovators like Michael: https://skool.com/build-with-tech/about Dive deep into the world of loyalty marketing technology with Michael Hemsey, President and CEO of Tricycle Marketing. In this hour-long episode of the Build with Tech podcast, Michael shares his 25-year journey through the loyalty industry, from agency executive to tech entrepreneur, revealing how he's transforming the landscape with innovative solutions. Key highlights: 📈 Career Evolution: Michael's progression through ESC Loyalty, TSYS, Kobie Marketing, and Merkle The transition from running agencies to co-owning Tricycle Marketing 🔄 Tricycle Marketing's Transformation: Acquiring a healthcare-focused agency and pivoting to loyalty tech Developing a cutting-edge loyalty platform from existing assets 💡 Innovative Approach to Loyalty Programs: Design philosophy: "Never need us again" Fixed-fee pricing model regardless of database size Option for clients to purchase source code and self-innovate 📊 Business Strategy: Patient development approach without outside investment Leveraging existing client relationships for new product feedback Balancing profitability of studios division with tech R&D 🏆 Market Differentiation: Contrast with traditional agency models (retainers, change fees, etc.) Focus on empowering clients rather than creating dependence 🔬 Technology Insights: Integration with AI and machine learning for real-time decision-making Use of AI for translation services in multi-language platforms 🎓 Entrepreneurship Lessons: Importance of clear design tenets in guiding business decisions Being "uncomfortably patient" in the sales and development process The "Johnny Appleseed" approach to business growth 🧘♂️ Personal Insights: Michael's writing hobby and use of digital note-taking tools Unwinding techniques: walking his French bulldog, cooking, enjoying wine 📚 Books and media mentioned: Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand Jack Reacher series by Lee Child Still Life with Woodpecker by Tom Robbins 🛠️ Tools discussed: Remarkable tablet for digital note-taking GoodNotes app (mentioned by the host) 🔗 Connect with Michael: LinkedIn: / michaelhemsey Tricycle Marketing: https://tricyclemarketing.com Don't miss this in-depth conversation on the future of loyalty tech, innovative business strategies, and the challenges of entrepreneurship. Whether you're a marketing professional, tech entrepreneur, or business leader, this episode offers valuable insights into building and scaling a tech-enabled enterprise. Subscribe to the Build with Tech podcast for more inspiring stories from industry innovators! 🎧💼🚀 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:06 Guest Introduction: Michael Hemsey 00:49 Michael's Career Journey 02:57 The Decision to Join Tricycle Marketing 05:42 Partnership and Trust 08:59 Building and Refining the Platform 18:10 Understanding Loyalty Programs 22:10 Leveraging Existing Relationships 26:08 Funding and Resource Allocation 27:02 Splitting P&L and Financial Strategy 27:51 Challenges and Anxiety in Development 29:05 Unique Commercial Approach 32:51 Customer Lifetime Value and Scalability 39:07 Leveraging AI and Machine Learning 41:04 Future Vision and Personal Insights 42:21 Personal Hobbies and Writing 48:39 Advice for Entrepreneurs 50:23 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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Episode 6 - You Can Innovate in a World of Linens: Lyle Brous' Tech-Powered Journey
Aug 14, 202400:52:54Tap to summarize🎙️ In this episode of Build with Tech, we sit down with Lyle Browse, founder of Fabulous Events (https://fabulousevents.com), to discuss his journey from DJ to nationwide linen rental entrepreneur, growing his small business around technology and innovation. 🚀 Key topics covered: Transitioning from entertainment to linen rentals Using technology to streamline operations Leveraging AI for marketing and website optimization The importance of adapting to market changes Balancing work and personal life as an entrepreneur 💡 Lyle shares invaluable insights on: Finding the right mentor The power of data-driven decision making Implementing effective marketing strategies Utilizing tools like HubSpot and Microsoft Clarity 🔍 Tech tools mentioned: HubSpot for CRM and marketing automation Microsoft Clarity for website analytics ChatGPT for content creation 👨💼 Connect with Lyle: Website: https://fabulousevents.com 📞 Want to get in touch with Lyle? Visit https://fabulousevents.com for contact information and to learn more about their nationwide linen rental services! 🎬 Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on more entrepreneurial insights and tech tips!
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Episode 5 - John Costa on Revolutionizing Corporate Learning with Repubit | Build with Tech Podcast
Jul 27, 202400:49:22Tap to summarizeRepubit ➡️ https://repubit.com 🌐 John's LinkedIn ➡️ https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnbcosta1 👨💼 In this Build with Tech Podcast episode 🎙️, host Rey welcomes John Costa, founder and CEO of Repubit 🚀. With over 30 years of experience in technology and digital media 💻, John shares his journey from working with Macintosh computers at Drexel University 🎓 to founding Repubit in 2014 📅. He delves into his passion for corporate learning portals 📚 and autonomous, self-directed learning 🧠, his lean startup methodologies 📊, and how his products help customers and employees 🤝. John discusses the impact of the pandemic on his business 😷, shares success stories like the one with Trading Academy 📈, and discusses the importance of integrating AI in the future of education 🤖📚. He also shares valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs 💡, emphasizing the importance of passion, adaptability, and community involvement 🌟. Tune in to discover how John's innovative approach transforms learning and technology 🔧🎓. Learn more about Repubit at repubit.com 🌐 and connect with John on LinkedIn 🔗. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 🎬 00:53 John Costa's Early Career and Influences 👨💼 03:05 Transition to Digital Publishing 📱 05:17 Founding Repubit and Its Mission 🚀 08:09 The Entrepreneurial Journey 🛤️ 11:13 Navigating Challenges and Success Stories 🏆 15:21 Impact of COVID-19 on Business 🦠 22:25 Balancing Business Operations and Growth ⚖️ 25:29 The Turning Point: One Event That Changes Everything 🔄 25:44 Current Ventures and Volunteering 🤲 26:43 Innovative Educational Tools and Projects 🛠️📚 28:36 Consulting and New Methodologies 💼 30:11 AI Integration and Digital Coaching 🤖👨🏫 31:57 Exploring New Tools and Platforms 🔍 33:27 Protecting Digital Content 🔒 34:06 Future of the Product and AI in Learning 🔮 35:21 Empathic AI and Music Education 🎵🤖 45:08 Career Advice and Entrepreneurial Insights 💡 47:51 Final Thoughts and Contact Information 🏁📞
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Episode 4 - Leveraging Tech for Business Growth: Insights from Steven Sopko
Jul 13, 202400:57:50Tap to summarizeNavigating Tech Entrepreneurship with Stephen Sopko | Build with Tech Podcast In this episode of the Build with Tech Podcast, host Rey Ortega dives into the remarkable journey of Stephen Sopko, co-founder of Palisade Compliance. Join us as Steven shares insights from his diverse career, spanning the US Air Force, Dell, Oracle, and beyond. Discover his experiences in building and exiting a successful tech-enabled business, mentoring startups, and leveraging AI in the modern business landscape. Stephen offers invaluable advice on entrepreneurship, rapid growth, and the critical differences between coaching and consulting. 🌐 **Links & Resources:** 📢 Check out the Build With Tech Skool Group: [https://skool.com/build-with-tech](https://skool.com/build-with-tech) – Join our community to connect and network with like-minded entrepreneurs! 🔗 Connect with Stephen Sopko on LinkedIn: [https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephensopko/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephensopko/) – Reach out to Stephen for expert advice and insights on tech business growth and compliance. ⏰ **Chapters:** 1:11 - Introduction to the Build with Tech Podcast 4:20 - Meet Stephen Sopko: From Air Force to Oracle 7:35 - The Entrepreneurial Journey Begins 10:50 - Challenges and Successes in Tech 15:30 - Navigating Business Funding and Growth 18:55 - Remote Work and Technology in 2013 23:45 - The Evolution of Data Security 28:15 - The Role of AI in Business 31:40 - The Challenges of AI in Business 35:05 - AI's Rapid Improvement and Impact 38:45 - Embracing AI in the Workplace 43:10 - AI in Legal and Contract Review 46:20 - The Future of AI and Human Collaboration 50:00 - Exiting a Business: Personal Experiences 53:30 - Transitioning Leadership and Maintaining Quality 56:45 - The Role of Consulting and Coaching 1:03:10 - Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs 1:09:00 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 01:14 Meet Stephen Sopko: From Air Force to Entrepreneurship 04:15 The Journey of Palisade Compliance 08:10 Challenges and Successes in Business 18:31 Navigating Security and Remote Work 27:24 The Role of AI in Business 29:14 The Challenges of AI in Business 30:39 AI's Rapid Improvement and Its Impact 31:50 Embracing AI in the Workplace 34:31 AI in Legal and Contract Review 37:00 The Future of AI in Business Teams 37:36 Exiting a Business: Personal Experiences 40:43 Transitioning Leadership and Maintaining Client Relationships 48:49 Post-Exit Ventures and Consulting 53:46 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs 56:45 Conclusion and Contact Information
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Episode 3 - Why Your Marketing Needs More than Just Tactics - Dave Kustin
Jun 26, 202400:35:17Tap to summarizeDave Kustin's Journey in Brand Building & Effective Use of Tech in Business | Build with Tech Podcast Welcome to another exciting Build with Tech Podcast episode hosted by Rey Ortega. In this episode, we dive deep into the journey of Dave Kustin, founder of Element-M and co-founder of Content Bacon, who shares his incredible expertise in brand building using his TV and film production background. Dave discusses the importance of storytelling in marketing, the differences between branding and marketing, and how he leveraged technology to aid business growth. Discover his insights into how AI can enhance but not replace human creativity in content creation, and learn about his strategies for integrating CRM effectively in sales. Dave also shares practical advice for budding entrepreneurs and the importance of finding purpose in business. Don't miss this informative discussion that blends technology and storytelling to drive business success. Like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more deep dives into the minds of innovative entrepreneurs! Contact Dave: Element-M - dave@element-m.com Content Bacon - dave@contentbacon.com 00:00 Introduction to Build with Tech Podcast 00:30 Meet Dave Kustin: Journey from TV to Branding 01:39 The Power of Storytelling in Marketing 03:15 Navigating Competition and Economic Challenges 05:11 Branding vs. Marketing: Key Differences 07:07 Starting and Growing a Business: Personal Insights 15:27 Leveraging Technology in Business 18:50 AI in Everyday Communication 19:07 Human-Centered AI Approach 20:05 Skepticism Towards AI Promises 21:57 Content Marketing Evolution 23:33 Staying Ahead with Technology 24:32 Future Vision and CRM Focus 27:30 AI in Sales and CRM Integration 30:23 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs 31:36 Balancing Work and Life 32:42 Final Thoughts and Contact Information
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Transforming Healthcare: Dr. Ken Kaufman on Integrating Technology
Jun 15, 202400:43:30Tap to summarizeInnovating Sports Medicine with Dr. Ken Kaufman | Build with Tech Podcast Welcome to the Build with Tech podcast! In this episode, host Rey Ortega discusses how technology is revolutionizing business and medicine with Dr. Ken Kaufman, the founder of Sarasota Sports Medicine. From his traditional chiropractic beginnings to being the team chiropractor for the Baltimore Orioles, Dr. Kaufman shares his journey into developing a sports medicine-focused clinic. He talks about the innovative use of technology in his practice, including ChatGPT for medical documentation, cloud-based office management, and effective marketing strategies. Dr. Kaufman also discusses his plans for franchising his unique patient care approach and the role of regenerative medicine in the future. This episode is packed with insights on leveraging technology in healthcare and business. For more information, visit SarasotaSportsMed.com or reach out directly to Dr. Ken at drken@sarasotasportsmed.com. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:17 Meet Dr. Ken Kaufman 00:35 Journey into Sports Medicine 07:37 Technological Innovations in Practice 20:28 Franchising the Business Model 39:46 Final Thoughts and Contact Information
Transcribe →Build With Tech Podcast - Episode 1
Jun 11, 202400:00:51Tap to summarizeWelcome to the Build With Tech Podcast, where episodes uncover the minds behind some of the most innovative technology-enabled businesses. Host Rey Ortega interviews CEOs and Business Leaders who have embraced technology to launch, manage, and scale their businesses.
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