Podcast
Superpowers for Good: Empowering Changemakers for Social Impact via Regulated Investment Crowdfunding from the SuperCrowd.
Hosted by Devin Thorpe · EN
We host changemakers who are using regulated investment crowdfunding for social impact--impact crowdfunding--as impact investors or social entrepreneurs, catalyzing change with leadership skills we call superpowers.
www.superpowers4good.com
www.superpowers4good.com
65episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Dignity First Leadership Powers Corporate Climate Action
4d ago00:25:53Tap to summarizeWatch the show on television by downloading the SuperCrowd.tv Channel app to your Roku or Amazon Fire TV or e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or Amazon Fire TV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Jim: I think it might be more of a willingness to sacrifice creatively. You know, like, I think meaning is a wage that is paid for self-chosen self-sacrifice for the other.Dignity-first leadership can make corporate decarbonization more effective by helping companies work together to serve people as well as the planet.Jim Boyle, CEO and founder of Sustainability Roundtable, Inc., joined me to explain how his firm has spent 18 years helping major companies set goals, drive progress and report results in sustainability. What began as a membership-based strategic advisory service during the financial panic of 2009 has grown into a platform trusted by large enterprises working to decarbonize at scale.Jim described Sustainability Roundtable’s Net Zero Consortium for Buyers as a way to “help democratize utility-scale clean energy.” By bringing high-credit corporations together, the consortium gives them the scale to procure major clean energy projects they could not easily accomplish alone.The results are impressive. Jim shared the example of an aggregated procurement involving seven off-takers, including Akamai Technologies, Teradyne and the City of Cambridge. The project was built in southern Illinois, coal country, where clean power has especially high climate and health value.“When you replace coal with large-scale solar and batteries, you are really making a difference in the carbon cycle,” Jim said. “And you are making a difference in the particulate matter in that given area as well.”That health impact is measurable. Jim said the first gigawatt Sustainability Roundtable helped clients procure saved more than 3,700 disability-adjusted life years in its first year of operation alone. It also avoided $985 million in healthcare costs.“This move from molecules to electrons, from extracted fossil fuel to clean electrons, it has many wonderful impacts even beyond reducing carbon in our atmosphere,” Jim said.Jim’s new book, Dignity First Leadership: Developing and Driving a World Class Sustainability Strategy, co-authored with Ann Whitney, connects that practical climate work to a deeper leadership framework. He argues that business should not treat efficiency as its highest goal. Instead, leaders should focus on magnifying the dignity of stakeholders, including employees, customers, suppliers, communities and investors.“In every instance, it’s the CEO’s job in particular to create value in the near, mid, and long term with each and all your stakeholders,” Jim said.I love that framing. Climate solutions work best when they honor the people they affect. Jim’s work reminds us that sustainability is not just about cleaner electrons. It is about healthier lives, better communities and leadership that puts human dignity first.tl;dr:Today’s episode explores how dignity-first leadership strengthens corporate sustainability and climate action.Jim explains how Sustainability Roundtable helps companies procure utility-scale clean energy together.Today’s episode connects renewable energy projects to measurable health benefits and avoided costs.Jim shares why CEOs should create value for all stakeholders, not efficiency alone.Today’s episode highlights Creative Sacrifice as Jim’s superpower for service-centered leadership.How to Develop Creative Sacrifice As a SuperpowerJim described his superpower as “a willingness to sacrifice creatively.” He explained, “I think meaning is a wage that is paid for self-chosen self-sacrifice for the other.” Grounded in his faith, his admiration for leadership as service and his work with executives, Jim sees sacrifice not as depletion but as empowerment. He said he can “bring a lot of energy to leadership as service,” especially in a business built around helping clients lead.Jim illustrated Creative Sacrifice with a recent challenge at Sustainability Roundtable. His team was developing a new compliance collaborative to help global companies master mandatory sustainability reporting. The deadlines were real, the complexity was high and the product was not ready. Instead of pretending otherwise, Jim told member executives the truth: the team needed help. That vulnerability felt embarrassing and risky, especially with prospective clients present. The result was powerful. More than half a dozen senior executives volunteered meaningful time, with some teams contributing more than 100 hours each, to co-design a better service.Choose service before ego when others need your leadership.Look for self-chosen sacrifices that create meaning for you and value for others.Be honest when you do not have the answer instead of pretending you do.Invite stakeholders to help design solutions that will serve them.Treat dignity as a practical leadership goal in every decision.Build a team culture that asks people to sacrifice together for clients and impact.Recognize that a high-performing team is not the same as a family, then lead accordingly.By following Jim’s example and advice, you can make Creative Sacrifice a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileJim Boyle (he/him):CEO and Founder, Sustainability Roundtable, IncAbout Sustainability Roundtable, Inc: SR Inc works to be the world’s most respected strategic advisor in enterprise decarbonization. For more than fifteen years, leaders at over 100 Fortune 500 and global growth companies have trusted SR Inc to provide membership-based strategic advisory and support services. SR Inc helps executives to set goals, drive progress, and report results as they lead their organizations to more sustainable high performance.Website: sustainround.comX/Twitter Handle: @sustainroundOther URL: https://www.amazon.com/Dignity-First-Leadership-World-Class-Sustainability/dp/B0G525KKYVBiographical Information: Jim Boyle is the CEO & Founder of Sustainability Roundtable, Inc. For more than fifteen years, Jim has led full-time teams of diverse experts to assist nearly 100 Fortune 500 and growth companies in their move to more sustainable high-performance. Specifically, SR Inc has helped world-leading sustainability leaders, real estate owners, and federal agencies set goals, drive progress, and report results in their move to greater Corporate Sustainability.Mr. Boyle led in the creation of SR Inc’s Net Zero Consortium for Buyers (NZCB), which advises and represents Fortune 500 and fast growth companies across the U.S. and internationally in the development of renewable energy strategies and the procurement of both on and off-site advanced energy solutions.Before founding SR Inc, Mr. Boyle co-led Trammell Crow Company Corporate Advisory Services in San Francisco and returned to his native Boston and Trammell Crow Company’s market leading team in Greater Boston where he received the Commercial Brokers Association’s Platinum Award for the highest level of commercial real estate transactions. Earlier, he advised companies on real estate and environmental matters as an attorney at a large law firm based in Boston.Jim is a graduate of Middlebury College, where he co-captained the football team, and Boston College Law School. Early in his career, he served as a federal law clerk, an aide to John F. Kerry in the U. S. Senate, and on Vice President Al Gore’s campaign for President. Jim lives in Concord, MA with his wife and kids near the Emerson House on the route to Walden Pond.LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/sustainability-roundtable-inc-/Support Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today’s advertisers include PurposeBuilt100™ Winners and supercrowd.tv. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact Members(We’re grateful for every one of these community champions who make this work possible.)Brian Christie, Brainsy | Cameron Neil, Lend For Good | Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Eric Coury, Arthia AI | John Berlet, CORE Tax Deeds, LLC. | <a target="_blank" href="https://www.aebligroup.com/get-...
Transcribe →
Eric Coury Is Building Guardrails for Ambient AI
6d ago00:25:56Tap to summarizeWatch the show on television by downloading the SuperCrowd.tv Channel app to your Roku or Amazon Fire TV or e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or Amazon Fire TV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Eric: I’ve been thinking about that since we booked this. Um, you know, I, I think if I was to really boil it down, my superpower is being mission-driven.ARTHIA AI is building a privacy-first behavioral governance layer so ambient AI can support people in real time without putting them at risk.During today’s episode, Eric Coury, founder and CEO of ARTHIA AI, helped me see both the promise and the danger of the AI future racing toward us. As a former teacher, Eric watched social media change the way young people communicate. Now, as a father of three daughters, he is determined not to let the next wave of technology arrive without guardrails.“Regardless of whether we like it or not, AI will be embedding itself more and more in our lives,” Eric told me. “I thought about my three daughters. I thought about, you know, hopefully their kids someday. I thought about other kids. And I realized that I think it’s important to have a protection layer.”ARTHIA is not another large language model. Eric describes it as infrastructure any AI model can plug into to become ambient. In other words, it helps AI know when to speak, what to say and how to say it inside live human interactions. The company is building what Eric calls a signal stack, a longitudinal profile and a set of evidence-based frameworks drawn from fields like psychology, sociology and linguistics.The goal is to make AI useful in moments that matter: difficult conversations, medical appointments, learning challenges, coaching, therapy and daily life. At the same time, Eric is focused on privacy and safety. He explained, “There’s no recording of raw audio. All of your data is encrypted and stored on your device. It’s never in the cloud for access to others. Data is never sold. It’s never shared.”That commitment is built into the business structure. ARTHIA is a Public Benefit Corporation, making privacy protection and human safety part of the company’s charter. Eric also said ARTHIA has filed 11 patents covering more than 70 inventions, aiming to create a standard for safe ambient AI.I was especially excited that ARTHIA is raising capital through regulated investment crowdfunding on Wefunder at wefunder.com/arthia. This gives everyday investors a chance to participate before institutions dominate the opportunity.Eric’s motivation is deeply personal. “The people who should own a part of the future of ambient AI should be the people that it’s going to impact the most,” he said.I love that philosophy. If ambient AI is going to be in our homes, workplaces and ears, then all of us deserve a voice in shaping it.tl;dr:Today’s episode explores how ARTHIA AI aims to make ambient AI safer for everyone.Eric Coury draws on teaching experience to design privacy-first AI behavioral infrastructure.ARTHIA helps AI know when to speak, what to say and how.Today’s episode highlights ARTHIA’s regulated investment crowdfunding campaign on Wefunder.Eric’s superpower is mission-driven service focused on helping people thrive.How to Develop Mission-Driven Service As a SuperpowerEric describes his superpower as being “mission-driven,” rooted in a lifelong desire “to leave the world a better place than it was when I came into it.” For him, that mission includes “a deep understanding of people and what they need and what they deserve.” ARTHIA represents the culmination of that service: working with children with special needs, teaching for 14 years, building companies and now creating infrastructure to “ensure that AI serves people and not the other way around.”As a teacher, Eric repeatedly heard students say, “I can’t do it, Mr. Corey. I’m stupid.” His answer was always, “Stupid doesn’t exist.” He taught them that some people work hard, believe in themselves and keep going. He told them smart is something you earn. That experience shaped his belief that confidence often comes from having a mentor or guide. ARTHIA grew from that insight. Eric wants to put that kind of mentor into everyone’s life, privately and safely, so one person’s growth can compound into help for many others.Define a mission bigger than yourself and return to it when decisions get difficult.Step outside yourself and turn off preconceived notions before judging people or problems.Practice seeing situations as a neutral observer so you can better understand what others feel and need.Do not take everything at face value; look for the deeper human context behind behavior.Build confidence in others by helping them believe effort, persistence and support can change outcomes.Choose structures, partners and business models that protect the mission rather than compromise it.By following Eric’s example and advice, you can make mission-driven service a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileEric Coury (he/him):Founder & CEO - former educator, ARTHIA AI, Inc.About ARTHIA AI, Inc.: ARTHIA AI, Inc. PBC is a Rhode Island Public Benefit Corporation building the behavioral intelligence infrastructure layer for ambient AI — the foundational architecture that governs when AI speaks, what it says, and how it says it inside live human interactions. As a Public Benefit Corporation, privacy protection and human safety are legal charter obligations, not product features, and certainly not an afterthought. ARTHIA’s architecture is model-agnostic, 11 patents pending at the USPTO, and designed so any AI model can operate safely and effectively alongside real people — in coaching, therapy, sales, education, healthcare, and into the inevitable future of 24/7 ambient ai companions. We believe everyone deserves someone in their corner, and we’re building the infrastructure to make that possible safely at scale.Website: arthia.aiCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/ARTHIAaiOther URL: wefunder.com/arthiaBiographical Information: Eric Coury is the Founder and CEO of ARTHIA AI, Inc. PBC, who conceptualized and invented the behavioral intelligence infrastructure layer for ambient AI. A former classroom teacher and first-generation college graduate, Eric paid for his undergraduate education by working full-time in a psychiatric hospital as a behavior therapist while attending college full time - simultaneously. He holds a B.A. in Sociology and an M.Ed. in Leadership — disciplines rooted in human behavior, not software engineering. After a decade teaching in classrooms watching social media reshape young lives — including those of his own three daughters — Eric made a decision: he would not watch the most powerful technology of his lifetime get built without guardrails a second time. He self-funded and spent his life savings filing patents on the foundational behavioral infrastructure layer for ambient AI. No engineering degree. No law firm. No team. Six weeks. Alone. Eric incorporated ARTHIA AI as a Public Benefit Corporation before raising a single dollar — making privacy protection and human safety legal obligations of the company charter. He is currently raising on Wefunder, (wefunder.com/arthia) offering regular people access before any institutional investor. Because everyone deserves the chance to invest in and benefit from the early architecture of the next big technology.Personal Facebook Profile: facebook.com/ecouryLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ericcourySupport Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today’s advertisers include PurposeBuilt100™ Winners and supercrowd.tv. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact Members(We’re grateful for every one of these community champions who make this work possible.)Brian Christie, Brainsy | Cameron Neil, Lend For Good | Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Eric Coury, Arthia AI | John Berlet, CORE Tax Deeds, LLC. | Justin Starbird, The Aebli Group | Ken Steele, Rotarian | Lory Moore, Lory Moore L...
Transcribe →
Optimist Ventures Creates A New Kind of Capital for Asheville's Recovery
2w ago00:25:55Tap to summarizeWatch the show on television by downloading the SuperCrowd.tv Channel app to your Roku or Amazon Fire TV or e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or Amazon Fire TV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Jeffrey: But I do want to say the superpower is Being really good with names, and it’s taken a lot of practice and many, many years of work, but being able to meet somebody, remember their name, make a connection, and see them anytime later and be able to call them out, remember their name instead of just being like, hey, buddy. Being able to call someone’s name lets them know you see them, you hear them, you care about them, and they’re important to you.Post-Hurricane Helene recovery in Western North Carolina needs capital that treats local entrepreneurs as builders, not charity cases. Jeffrey Kaplan, CEO of Optimist Ventures and Director of Venture Asheville, is helping make that possible with a new fund designed for Asheville’s real economy.During this episode, Jeffrey explained how Venture Asheville grew out of the region’s economic development work. The team had already planned to launch an accelerator and fund before Hurricane Helene. Then the storm hit. Assumptions changed. Fundraising changed. The community changed.Rather than step back, Jeffrey and his team pivoted. Optimist Ventures raised its first fund, invested in seven companies last year and is preparing to invest in 13 more.That matters because, as Jeffrey said, “net new job growth creation is coming out of small businesses.” He sees local entrepreneurship not as a side project but as core economic development. In a place better known for hospitality, food and beverage, health and wellness than high-growth startups, that shift is powerful.The fund pairs philanthropy with investment capital. Each participating company receives $50,000. Half is a grant. Half is structured through a Shared Profit Agreement note, or SPA Note, a new instrument Optimist Ventures created to avoid the limits of traditional grants, debt and equity.Jeffrey described the thesis this way: “Could we create a localized fund that wasn’t a debt fund, that wasn’t onerous equity, that would also have a built-in liquidity system to get returns to investors without strangling our founders, without forcing exits or acquisitions or IPOs?”The answer became a purpose-fit profit-sharing model. Companies repay from net profit over six years. The structure encourages founders to reinvest, take care of employees and grow sustainably instead of chasing a quick exit.Jeffrey made the impact plain: “Every dollar stays here in Asheville. Every dollar helps recovery. Every dollar is creating a job.”I love this model because it brings dignity and accountability together. Founders get capital and support. Philanthropists get meaningful local impact. Investors get a potential return tied to rebuilding a resilient economy.Optimist Ventures is also welcoming community investors through a regulated investment crowdfunding campaign at ventureasheville.com. That makes this work even more exciting to me. It gives people who care about Asheville a chance to participate in the recovery not just as donors but as investors in the future of the community.tl;dr:Today’s episode shows how Optimist Ventures blends grants and investment for Hurricane Helene recovery.Jeffrey explains the SPA Note, a profit-share model designed for resilient Main Street businesses.Today’s episode highlights Asheville’s choice to rebuild toward what can be, not just what was.Local investors can support recovery through regulated investment crowdfunding and learn more at ventureasheville.com.Jeffrey’s superpower, remembering names, reminds us that dignity begins with seeing people.How to Develop Remembering Names As a SuperpowerJeffrey’s superpower is remembering names. He told me names matter because they “make such an impression when you’re trying to build a network and build community.” For Jeffrey, this is not a party trick. It is a practice of respect. He said, “Being able to call someone’s name lets them know you see them, you hear them, you care about them, and they’re important to you.” In his work, where social capital helps move philanthropy, investment and entrepreneurship together, remembering names becomes a tool for trust.Jeffrey especially practices this superpower with children. When he meets a friend’s child or sees a kid at an event he is emceeing, he learns the child’s name immediately, calls them out and invites them to help. He does this because kids need special attention and affirmation. He believes being seen by an adult can shape a child’s self-esteem and sense of possibility. That simple act of remembering a name becomes a way to say, you matter here.Say the person’s name back immediately after you hear it.Ask how to spell the name so you spend a few extra seconds with it.Visualize the letters of the person’s name over their head.Repeat the name early in the conversation to build memory.Connect on LinkedIn or another appropriate platform soon after meeting.Make the name conversation playful by asking about nicknames, spelling or origins.Practice with everyone, including parents at school, kids at events and casual acquaintances.By following Jeffrey’s example and advice, you can make remembering names a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileJeffrey Kaplan (he/him):CEO, Optimist VenturesAbout Optimist Ventures: Optimist Ventures is a post-Hurricane Helene economic recovery fund based in Western North Carolina. It pairs $50,000 in capital with a 14-week accelerator for capital-efficient, community-rooted growth, targeting companies with $150,000 to $2 million in revenue. The fund blends grant and investment capital through a new instrument it created called the SPA Note, a hybrid grant-plus-investment structure designed to fund founders in disaster-affected communities without the usual friction between philanthropic and investment capital.Website: optimistventures.coCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/VentureAVLOther URL: ventureasheville.comBiographical Information: Jeffrey Kaplan is CEO of Optimist Ventures and Director of Venture Asheville. He is an award-winning entrepreneurial scholar and published author in entrepreneurship education from the University of Florida, and a frequent speaker on entrepreneurship, including a 2022 TEDx Talk, “How to Build a Better Entrepreneur.” Over his prior decade at Venture Asheville, his work helped produce more than 405 local jobs, $65 million raised, and over $150 million in portfolio revenue.LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jeffdudeInstagram: @ventureavl Support Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today’s advertisers include PurposeBuilt100™ Winners and Climatize. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact Members(We’re grateful for every one of these community champions who make this work possible.)Brian Christie, Brainsy | Cameron Neil, Lend For Good | Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Eric Coury, Arthia AI | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | John Berlet, CORE Tax Deeds, LLC. | Justin Starbird, The Aebli Group | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Mike Babbit | Coledger Solutions | Mike Green, Envirosult | <a target="_blank" href="https:/...
Transcribe →
Transforming Communities Through Collaborative Ownership
2w ago00:25:57Tap to summarizeWatch the show on television by downloading the SuperCrowd.tv Channel app to your Roku or Amazon Fire TV or e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or Amazon Fire TV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Pierre: Unwavering desire to see everyone win by fostering equitable opportunities and collective success.In a world where communities often find themselves excluded from wealth creation, Pierre Clark has introduced a transformative idea: community wealth building through local ownership and collaboration. During this episode, Pierre, Managing Partner of NuMillennium Opportunity Capital Ltd., shared his bold vision for empowering communities to take control of their economic destinies.Inspired by a 2024 report detailing net worth disparities in Chicago, Pierre’s journey began with a simple yet profound question: “Why don’t we hear more about this?” That curiosity catalyzed his mission to combat what he calls the “extractive economy,” which strips wealth from communities instead of enabling the people who live there to benefit.“Our communities don’t own where they live,” Pierre said. “They don’t employ themselves, don’t own the land, and don’t benefit from the prosperity passing through.” His solution is to mobilize local resources, partnerships, and education to ensure that communities have a stake in their economic infrastructure.Pierre emphasized that there’s more capital in communities than many realize, locked in pension funds, retirement plans, and other assets. However, the lack of access for non-accredited investors leaves local residents disconnected from the wealth-building process. Through NuMillennium Opportunity Capital, Pierre is crafting strategies and tools to flip the narrative—helping communities wield their collective resources to achieve ownership and self-determination.These concepts are no longer abstract for Pierre and the people he serves. He shared the exciting news of a forthcoming real estate development project in Chicago, which will be among the first truly community-owned ventures in the country. “The community not only owns part of it,” Pierre explained, “but they gain the return on investment and all the benefits from the cash flow.”For Pierre, this journey is deeply personal, shaped by decades of experience in development, nonprofit work, and collaborative entrepreneurship. With a firm belief that teamwork and local ownership are the future, he leads a growing movement to address wealth gaps through empowerment and education.Pierre’s vision for community-driven economics is both inspiring and compelling, offering hope to millions who feel left behind in traditional economic systems.By empowering communities, this model paves a path for others to follow—and it all begins with ownership.tl;dr:Pierre Clark discusses his vision for reversing economic inequity through community wealth building.The concept of the “extractive economy” is explored, highlighting its impact on community ownership and wealth retention.Pierre unveils an upcoming Chicago real estate project, one of the first community-owned ventures.The guest shares insights from working on the Clinton Administration’s Empowerment Zone program.Pierre emphasizes the importance of collective success and equitable systems for long-term change.How to Develop Collective Success As a SuperpowerPierre’s superpower is his unwavering desire to see everyone win by fostering equitable opportunities and collective success. As he explained, “I truly want everybody to win. Nobody gains when only a few people win.” He emphasized that prosperity and stability depend on cooperation, mutual dependence, and creating systems that benefit whole communities. For Pierre, everyone’s success is interconnected—an idea that drives his mission.Pierre recounted his work with the Clinton Administration’s Empowerment Zone program in the 1990s, which aimed to give communities control over their economic development. In Chicago, he helped design and win the award for a program that harnessed collective decision-making to direct resources. Despite political resistance and setbacks, this initiative laid the foundation for his current endeavors and illustrated what genuine community empowerment looks like.Tips to Develop This SuperpowerRecognize Interdependence: Understand that every aspect of life is collaborative, from work to daily conveniences.Advocate for Equity: Identify disparities in the systems being operated within and work to level the playing field.Foster Collective Action: Encourage teamwork and create strategies that benefit groups rather than serving individual interests.Educate and Empower: Use education to clarify complex issues and provide tools for others to achieve success.By following Pierre’s example and advice, collective success can become a skill. With practice and effort, it can become a superpower that enables positive impact in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfilePierre Clark (he/him):Managing Partner, NuMillennium Opportunity Capital Ltd.About NuMillennium Opportunity Capital Ltd.: We are The Development Intermediary For Community Wealthbuilding And Collaborative Entrepreneurship(tm). We provide tools, resources and support in creating The Thrive Economy(tm) and develop the platform for creating community owned wealth management assets leveraging community wealthbuilding.Website: numillenniumcapital.lovable.appBiographical Information: Pierre Clark has worked at the intersection of community development, technology and economic empowerment and community wealthbuilding for residents for 4 decades. Having been a technology consultant and digital access advocate since 1990, in community development as writer/editor/designer of the National Empowerment Zone document which President Bill Clinton cited as one of the best in the country as one of six selected December 21, 1994 by the Clinton administration, and as a community/non-profit/development consultant/founder-co-founder since 1995, Clark has been at the forefront of economic change and resident empowerment.A national columnist on entrepreneurship for 30 years with an estimated 2 million readers, Clark now manages NuMillennium Opportunity Capital Ltd., which champions community wealthbuilding and defines The Thrive Economy(tm), advocates for community investment and ownership, and financial education/empowerment using software based financial tools and resources. Pierre attended Holy Angels, St. Ignatius (honors graduate), Harvard and U. of Chicago, various educational institutions, was a National Merit Finalist/National Achievement Scholar, and is now a proud dad and granddad.LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/pierreaclarkSupport Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today’s advertisers include PurposeBuilt100™ Winners and Climatize. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact Members(We’re grateful for every one of these community champions who make this work possible.)Brian Christie, Brainsy | Cameron Neil, Lend For Good | Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Eric Coury, Arthia AI | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | John Berlet, CORE Tax Deeds, LLC. | Justin Starbird, The Aebli Group | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Mike Babbit | Coledger Solutions | Mike Green, Envirosult | Nick Degnan, Unlimit Ventures | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | <a target="_blank" h...
Transcribe →
Transforming Education Through Micro Schools: A Scalable Solution by Changemaker Education
3w ago00:25:50Tap to summarizeWatch the show on television by downloading the SuperCrowd.tv Channel app to your Roku or Amazon Fire TV or e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or Amazon Fire TV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?David: My superpower is seeing the gifts and the light in others.Innovation is reshaping education, and Changemaker Education is leading the charge with a bold, disruptive solution: micro schools. Rather than trying to fix large, traditional schools, micro schools embrace intimacy and personalized learning as their foundation for success.David K Richards, founder and CEO of Changemaker Education, explains that micro schools are “a redux of the one-room schoolhouse”—small schools hosting anywhere from five to 100 students. These schools nurture close relationships between educators, students, and families. “You get to know the child really well. You get to know the family really well. And now you have this small community raising your child,” David shared in today’s episode.The movement aims to replace public education’s “factory model,” which David describes as a system designed to batch-process students: “The system isn’t broken; it’s doing what it was built for.” However, some 75% of high school students today dislike their schools—a statistic that highlights the need for an alternative approach.Changemaker Education supports teachers and community leaders in launching micro schools by providing business tools, coaching, and resources. David summarized the goal: “We provide you with the business infrastructure, the marketing, the budget—all the things you need—so you can focus on your magic as an educator.” This affiliate-based framework allows schools to maintain local autonomy while tapping into a national network for resources and scalability.A powerful factor helping the micro school movement grow is the rise of state voucher programs. In 24 states, families can use education savings accounts to fund alternative schooling options, including micro schools. “In Texas, for example, the state will write you a check for $10,000,” David noted. This funding empowers educators to create transformational learning environments while keeping costs low for families.Changemaker Education is scaling rapidly, with 25 affiliated schools across 18 states and ambitious plans for growth. To accelerate their impact, the company is raising capital through a regulated crowdfunding campaign on Wefunder.The opportunity to invest in Changemaker Education isn’t just about potential financial returns. It’s about joining a movement that’s rewriting the narrative of education in America and beyond. As David said, “Look what happens when you create a system where kids are loved, and adults are empowered.”tl;dr:Micro schools offer a revolutionary solution for students unhappy with traditional education systems.Changemaker Education provides tools and support for teachers and leaders to start micro schools.State voucher programs empower families to fund alternative educational options like micro schools.David’s superpower, seeing the light in others, led him to empower educators like Mary Jo Fairhead.Changemaker Education’s crowdfunding campaign on Wefunder fuels their mission and rapid growth.How to Develop Seeing the Light in Others As a SuperpowerDavid describes his superpower as the ability to see the gifts, strengths, and potential in others. “My superpower is seeing the gifts and the light in others.” By recognizing individuals’ hidden talents and unique traits, David has helped educators and students identify their paths to success. He insists that this skill stems from cultivating self-awareness and self-love: “Once you start to see the gifts in yourself and truly love yourself…you can see the gifts that everybody has.”David shared the transformative story of Mary Jo Fairhead from South Dakota’s poverty-stricken Pine Ridge Reservation. As David coached her, he uncovered her dream to start a school, helping her channel her passion into creating a successful micro school. Mary Jo’s school has won prestigious funding and dramatically improved her community. “I could see there was something missing in her fulfillment. When she said she wanted to start a school, I knew we had to make it happen,” David explained.Actionable Tips to Develop This Superpower:Reflect on your own strengths, gifts, and accomplishments to cultivate self-awareness.Replace judgment with curiosity when interacting with others.Ask open-ended, meaningful questions to understand others’ passions and aspirations.Practice empathetic listening to uncover hidden potential in those around you.Create opportunities or provide guidance that empowers others to act on their strengths.By following David’s example and advice, you can make seeing the light in others a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileDavid K Richards (he/him):Founder & CEO, Changemaker Edu Inc.About Changemaker Edu Inc.: Join the microschool movement—whether you’re a family searching for a more human, personalized approach to learning—or a visionary founder ready to run your own school, you’re part of a growing movement. Changemaker Education is reimagining school from the inside out. One microschool, one community, one child at a time. Changemaker Education helps families discover extraordinary life-changing microschools and supports Founders in launching personalized learning environments that nurture your child’s full potential through love, autonomy, community, creativity, and equity.Website: changemakereducation.comCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575163837323Instagram Handle: @changemakereduOther URL: wefunder.com/changemaker.educationBiographical Information: With 25+ years in education reform, David is dedicated to elevating human potential and consciousness through transformative educational programs for both children and adults. Changemaker Education is the culmination of his experience launching award-winning unconventional schools (charter, micro, private), serving as a teacher, school principal, executive, and drawing on his expertise in leadership development, life coaching, and mindset teaching. David’s personal healing journey inspired the creation of the Mind, Body, Soul (MBS) program—a core element of Changemaker Education’s mission to empower communities and individuals. David holds degrees from UC Berkeley and Stanford University and lives in Sacramento with his family.LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/davidkrichardsPersonal Facebook Profile: facebook.com/david.richards.94695Support Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today’s advertisers include PurposeBuilt100™ Winners and Climatize. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact Members(We’re grateful for every one of these community champions who make this work possible.)Brian Christie, Brainsy | Cameron Neil, Lend For Good | Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | John Berlet, CORE Tax Deeds, LLC. | Justin Starbird, The Aebli Group | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Mike Babbit | Coledger Solutions | Mike Green, Envirosult | Nick Degnan, Unlimit Vent...
Transcribe →
Graphene Innovation: Transforming Industries with Avadain’s Technology
3w ago00:25:31Tap to summarizeWatch the show on television by downloading the SuperCrowd.tv Channel app to your Roku or Amazon Fire TV or e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or Amazon Fire TV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Bradley: There are so many bumps in the road... It’s just so much easier to say, okay, let’s quit or let’s do something different. But that’s not me.Graphene has the potential to revolutionize industries with its remarkable properties. A single layer of carbon atoms, graphene is lighter, stronger, and a better conductor of electricity and heat than any other material. Bradley Larschan, CEO of Avadain, Inc., explained, “When you reduce graphite, which is the mother material, to a single atomic layer, it behaves completely differently. It can be the strongest material ever discovered... the best conductor of electricity, the best conductor of heat... What that means is that we have the ability to transform thousands of products with this material.”Graphene’s environmental potential is particularly exciting. By incorporating it into products like wind turbine blade coatings or electric vehicle batteries, waste and inefficiencies can be significantly reduced. Larschan shared, “We can replace critical minerals or enhance them through a clean, environmentally responsible process.” This allows for longer lasting and more efficient products, reducing the need for invasive mining practices and cutting carbon footprints across industries.Avadain’s patented technology produces defect-free, high-quality graphene at scale, making it accessible for widespread adoption. With applications in construction, electric vehicles, and consumer electronics already realized, the possibilities for graphene appear endless.Avadain is currently raising capital via a crowdfunding campaign on NetCapital. As Larschan noted, “Through democratizing the fundraising, we’ve raised more than $15 million so far... It’s exhilarating and uplifting to have this much support.”Graphene isn’t just a breakthrough material—it’s a tool for creating a cleaner, more sustainable future. The possibilities presented by this tiny, yet mighty discovery inspire individuals and industries alike.tl;dr:Graphene is revolutionizing industries, offering applications that range from EV batteries to sustainable construction.Avadain’s patented graphene production process is clean, scalable, and supports a more sustainable future.Bradley Larschan’s perseverance led to breakthroughs in graphene production despite massive scientific and logistical challenges.Crowdfunding on NetCapital has raised over $15 million, enabling the transformative efforts of Avadain.Bradley’s resilience and tenacity serve as models for innovators seeking to tackle global challenges.How to Develop Perseverance As a SuperpowerBrad defines his superpower as perseverance: “Pushing the envelope of physics” and pursuing solutions with tenacity against all odds. He elaborated, “There are so many bumps in the road... It’s just so much easier to say, okay, let’s quit or let’s do something different. But that’s not me.” This perseverance has enabled Bradley to advance groundbreaking innovations, even in the face of countless challenges.Brad shared a key moment in Avadain’s journey. In 2019, after years of painstaking research, they finally proved their graphene production technology worked as intended. What followed was another multi-year process of scaling up. Despite unexpected delays, including upscaling their reactors by 2,000 times, Bradley’s commitment ensured the project stayed on course. In the upcoming year, he anticipates launching a pilot plant and achieving full production within two years—milestones made possible by his resilience.Tips for Developing Perseverance:Constantly evaluate your goals to ensure you’re on the right path.Focus on the mission and remind yourself of its broader impact.Cultivate tenacity by viewing challenges as opportunities to innovate.Build a resilient team to weather obstacles together.Embrace step-by-step progress, even in the face of daunting timelines.By following Brad’s example and advice, you can make perseverance a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileBradley Larschan (he/him):CEO, Avadain, Inc.About Avadain, Inc.: Avadain’s large, thin, defect‑free (LTDF) graphene is a breakthrough nano-material engineered to unlock the full potential of graphene by delivering industrial‑scale flakes that are stronger, lighter, more conductive and more durable than anything previously available. By democratizing access to this high‑quality graphene through a capital light global licensing model, Avadain enables cleaner energy systems, lighter and more efficient transportation, stronger and longer‑lasting products, and next‑generation technologies that reduce waste, cut emissions, and accelerate innovation across more than 45 industries. In doing so, LTDF graphene supports a future that is cleaner, through reduced resource use and improved energy performance; healthier, through safer materials and advanced medical and environmental applications; and more prosperous, by revitalizing manufacturing, strengthening supply chains, and powering the next industrial revolution. Website: avadaingraphene.comCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/avadaingrapheneLinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/company/avadain-inc/Company Twitter Handle: @avadaingrapheneOther URL: netcapital.com/companies/avadainBiographical Information: Brad is an accomplished entrepreneur who specializes in create value around intellectual property. An international lawyer by training, he has 35-year experience leading start-up companies, including 15+ year experience leading two successful licensing companies. He has been working to solve the problem of scaling the production of ideal graphene since 2016. Brad has a BS from Boston University, an MA from The Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy and a JD from Boston College Law School. He is married and has twin daughters who are rising high school seniors. They live on a farm in western Tennessee.LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/bradley-larschan-a7736175Support Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today’s advertisers include PurposeBuilt100™ Winners and Climatize. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact Members(We’re grateful for every one of these community champions who make this work possible.)Brian Christie, Brainsy | Cameron Neil, Lend For Good | Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | John Berlet, CORE Tax Deeds, LLC. | Justin Starbird, The Aebli Group | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Mike Babbit | Coledger Solutions | Mike Green, Envirosult | Nick Degnan, Unlimit Ventures | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | <a target="_blank" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-thorpe-a2...
Transcribe →
Building Modern Homes in the Caribbean: A Vision for Change
4w ago00:25:57Tap to summarizeWatch the show on television by downloading the SuperCrowd.tv Channel app to your Roku or Amazon Fire TV or e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or Amazon Fire TV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?David: Ability to easily explain complex topics to people and then get them to think bigger and believe that it’s possible.Blue Mahoe Capital stands at the forefront of addressing Jamaica’s affordable housing crisis, driven by a vision that unites purpose and profit. Led by Chairman and CEO David Mullings, the firm is poised to deliver quality, climate-resilient homes that meet the needs of families with modest incomes. In today’s episode, David shared how this effort is as much about social impact as it is about creating financial returns.David explained how the government’s National Housing Trust program provides an ideal foundation to address the urgent need for housing following a devastating hurricane in 2025. “Jamaica needs 150,000 houses, yet we’re building less than 5,000 annually,” he said. Blue Mahoe Capital is stepping in to bridge this gap, building one- and two-bedroom starter homes—with space for expansion—tailored for first-time buyers. “It’s a true starter home, giving people a climate-resilient house and an opportunity to build equity,” David explained.Blue Mahoe Capital brings a unique value proposition to investors. By focusing on affordable housing—an area often underserved—they are creating a high-impact portfolio opportunity. These homes are being built with sustainable materials and feature sloped roofs ready for solar panels. Beyond providing shelter, they aim to empower families with the ability to create generational wealth.David’s background in private equity, hedge funds, and government service makes him uniquely suited for this mission. Blue Mahoe Capital doesn’t just build houses—they forge partnerships with local developers who lack access to the patient capital required to construct affordable homes. “We want to meet people where they are and tackle the housing crisis while delivering returns,” David shared.Blue Mahoe Capital is currently raising funds through a regulated investment crowdfunding campaign on Silicon Prairie to expand its operations. This presents an opportunity for investors to align their money with their values, providing real returns while making a tangible difference in the lives of thousands of Caribbean families.David’s vision is clear: to create meaningful socioeconomic impact while building a sustainable business model. That kind of leadership, rooted in purpose and action, is inspiring and essential to solving global challenges.tl;dr:This episode featured David Mullings, a leader addressing Jamaica’s housing crisis through impact investing.Blue Mahoe Capital builds affordable, climate-resilient homes that align with Jamaica’s National Housing Trust program.The firm provides investment opportunities via a crowdfunding campaign on Silicon Prairie, blending purpose and profit.David’s background in finance helped him simplify challenges and deliver clear pathways for impactful solutions.His storytelling and strategic approach inspire action, from local communities to global investors.How to Develop Simplifying Complexity As a SuperpowerDavid’s superpower is his ability to simplify complex concepts and inspire others to think bigger. In today’s episode, he explained, “My superpower is the ability to easily explain complex topics to people and then get them to think bigger and believe that it’s possible.” This skill enables him to connect with diverse audiences—from investors to community leaders—while transforming large-scale challenges into actionable solutions.David shared a childhood story that highlighted his ability to break down complex ideas. At ten years old, he explained to a friend why he always won at Monopoly: “They were rushing to buy properties and running out of funds to build houses. I waited for strategic properties, focused on steady income through rent, and built houses to limit their options.” By simplifying strategy into actionable steps, even as a child, David demonstrated a knack for teaching others how to approach challenges differently.Tips for Developing the Superpower:Study Role Models: Identify experts in the field you wish to master. Analyze their methods.Practice Storytelling: Learn frameworks like the hero’s journey to share ideas effectively.Meet People Where They Are: Gauge your audience’s knowledge and tailor explanations accordingly.Iterate and Refine: Test explanations, seek feedback, and adjust your approach when something doesn’t resonate.By following David’s example and advice, you can make simplifying complexity a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileDavid Mullings (he/him):Chairman and CEO, Blue Mahoe CapitalAbout Blue Mahoe Capital: Impact investing firm focused on the Caribbean.Website: bluemahoecapital.comCompany Twitter Handle: @bluemahoecap Other URL: bluemahoe.sppx.ioBiographical Information: David P. A. Mullings is a Jamaican investor and philanthropist. He is the founder and Chair of Blue Mahoe Holdings Ltd, a private impact investment firm focused primarily on the Caribbean that is planning to list their core holding, Blue Mahoe Capital Caribbean, on the NASDAQ. David has made it his mission to unlock diaspora capital for the Caribbean. His journey is a powerful blend of entrepreneurial spirit, innovation, and commitment to shaping a legacy that transcends borders.LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/davidmullingsPersonal Facebook Profile: facebook.com/davidpmullingsInstagram Handle: @davidpmullings Personal Twitter Handle: @davidmullingsSupport Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today’s advertisers include PurposeBuilt100™ Winners and Climatize. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact Members(We’re grateful for every one of these community champions who make this work possible.)Brian Christie, Brainsy | Cameron Neil, Lend For Good | Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | John Berlet, CORE Tax Deeds, LLC. | Justin Starbird, The Aebli Group | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Mike Babbit | Coledger Solutions | Mike Green, Envirosult | Nick Degnan, Unlimit Ventures | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.J...
Transcribe →
Turning Cities Green: Nicole Whalen’s Stormwater Solution for Climate Change
4w ago00:25:47Tap to summarizeWatch the show on television by downloading the SuperCrowd.tv Channel app to your Roku or Amazon Fire TV or e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or Amazon Fire TV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Nicole: I walk into challenges not seeing them as insurmountable. Let’s figure this out.Nicole Whalen, founder of Green Compass, is revolutionizing urban sustainability by tackling one of the largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions: buildings. During today’s episode, Nicole explained how her company uses an innovative approach to retrofit commercial properties in Washington, D.C., turning asphalt-covered cities into vibrant green spaces.“At least 70% of the city’s emissions come from the building sector,” Nicole shared. “Green Compass retrofits them to be no and low carbon, combining clean energy and clean water solutions.”The standout feature of Green Compass’s work is its emphasis on green stormwater infrastructure. Nicole’s team installs rain gardens, infiltration trenches, and tree canopies to manage runoff water naturally. Their proprietary stormwater retention credit system incentivizes property owners to adopt greener systems by creating financial rewards for reducing pollution and preventing floods.Nicole offered a glimpse into her process: “We excavate very large holes and backfill them with special sand, soil, and native plants. This captures rain where it falls, preventing it from running off hard surfaces into rivers without treatment.” These systems don’t just mitigate water pollution and flooding—they’re living, carbon-sequestering ecosystems.The visual transformation of once drab, urban parking lots into vibrant green spaces is a key motivator for the team. Nicole explained, “It’s amazing when we replace asphalt with gardens that bloom with flowers like irises. These changes improve not just the environment but community aesthetics.”Green Compass’s accomplishments extend beyond environmental impact. By selling over $1 million in stormwater retention credits, the company has proven the viability of its business model. Nicole is currently raising capital via a regulated crowdfunding campaign on Honeycomb Credit to expand Green Compass’s groundbreaking work.“I’d much rather profit-share with mission-driven investors than big banks,” Nicole confided. Her crowdfunding approach also amplifies the value of her investors’ feedback and insight.With 10 acres under management, Green Compass is poised to continue scaling its mission of transforming urban landscapes into carbon-sequestering havens. Nicole’s story of combining ambition, innovation, and environmental stewardship is an inspiring call to action for future-focused entrepreneurs.tl;dr:Nicole Whalen founded Green Compass to address emissions and urban flooding using green infrastructure.Green Compass sells stormwater retention credits to incentivize eco-friendly retrofits for buildings.Efforts include creating rain gardens, tree canopies, and trenches to reduce runoff and beautify cities.Nicole demonstrates fearless problem-solving by building new markets and doubling down on innovative ideas.She’s raising funds via Honeycomb Credit, sharing profits with mission-driven investors to scale impact.How to Develop Fearless Problem-Solving As a SuperpowerNicole’s superpower lies in her mindset of tackling challenges head-on with the question, “How hard can it be?” She explained, “I walk into challenges not seeing them as insurmountable. Let’s figure this out.” This willingness to solve problems with determination and optimism reflects her “lean into change” philosophy, which has steered Green Compass through an unpredictable world.One standout example of this superpower in action is Nicole’s adoption of stormwater retention credits as a revenue stream for Green Compass. When she founded the company in 2018, this wasn’t part of the plan. But using her knowledge of solar credits, she built a successful model that now accounts for 80% of Green Compass’s revenue, surpassing $1 million to date. Her ability to see opportunities in emerging markets has made her company a pioneer in D.C.’s stormwater credit ecosystem.Here are her tips to develop fearless problem-solving as a personal strength:See Change as Opportunity: Lean into uncertainty with faith that new outcomes can be better.Tackle Challenges Efficiently: Stay calm in adversity and focus on finding actionable solutions.Adopt a Growth Mindset: Treat every challenge as a learning experience to build resilience and expertise.Draw Parallels: Apply knowledge from one domain (like solar credits) creatively in other contexts.By following Nicole’s example and advice, you can make fearless problem-solving a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileNicole Whalen (she/her):Founder & CEO, Green Compass LLCAbout Green Compass LLC: Based in Washington DC, Green Compass retrofits commercial and multifamily buildings to fight climate change by deploying: 💧 Green Stormwater Infrastructure☀️ Renewable Energy Systems🔋 EV Charging Infrastructure🏢 Building Efficiency MeasuresWebsite: greencompass.coInstagram Handle: @greencompass.coOther URL: invest.honeycombcredit.com/campaigns/Green-Compass-Climate-Impact-Note-2nd-OfferBiographical Information: Nicole is the founder and CEO of Green Compass. She has an interdisciplinary background in earth science and economics and followed her lifelong love of the oceans upstream to scale nature based solutions that reduce air and water pollution.Nicole earned a BA in International Studies/Economics cum laude from New College of Florida and a MA in Global Sustainability, Water Resource Management from the University of South Florida. Her career started in marine science and international development working on climate adaptation programs funded by USAID and US Department of State. She is proud to call DC home as a 5th generation Washingtonian and is passionate about deploying nature-based and city-led solutions to climate change.LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/niwhalenSupport Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today’s advertisers include PurposeBuilt100™ Winners and Climatize. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact Members(We’re grateful for every one of these community champions who make this work possible.)Brian Christie, Brainsy | Cameron Neil, Lend For Good | Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | John Berlet, CORE Tax Deeds, LLC. | Justin Starbird, The Aebli Group | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Mike Babbit | Coledger Solutions | Mike Green, Envirosult | Nick Degnan, Unlimit Ventures | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted,...
Transcribe →
Lauren Lovejoy’s Red Hen App Bridges The Gap Between Farmers And Consumers
Jul 900:25:58Tap to summarizeWatch the show on television by downloading the SuperCrowd.tv Channel app to your Roku or Amazon Fire TV and e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or Amazon Fire TV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Lauren: We see a problem and we want to solve it… not only for us, we want to solve it for everybody else.Farmers face tough challenges in today’s world. Small-scale producers often struggle to get their goods to consumers, while buyers eager to support local farms find it difficult to connect. Lauren Lovejoy, founder of the Red Hen App, is solving both problems.Lauren’s journey into farming wasn’t one she expected. “I am a farmer. I am a first generation,” she explained, adding, “Never thought in a million years I would be a farmer.” Facing health challenges led her to embrace farming and clean eating, ultimately inspiring her to create the Red Hen App.Designed to function much like marketplaces such as Etsy or Airbnb, the app offers a simple, efficient platform for small farms to list their produce, meat, and other goods. Customers can search, purchase, and either pick up locally, arrange delivery, or have items shipped. “Farming is very difficult, and buying shouldn’t be difficult,” Lauren pointed out. “Let’s make this world easier.”Lauren revealed the app now boasts participation from farms in 49 states, giving farmers across the country a way to find customers and thrive. “There are farmers in every corner of the country that wanted more access and wanted to make it easier,” she said.To fund the development and scaling of the app, Lauren turned to regulated crowdfunding. Previously, she executed a successful Honeycomb Credit campaign and is currently raising funds on Wefunder. Discussing the financial realities, she said, “Tech is expensive… I bootstrapped the whole first two-thirds of the app.” Now, with the platform proven, she’s partnering with investors to expand its reach and impact.Lauren’s passion for enabling small farms to succeed and connecting consumers to local food feels contagious—and her entrepreneurial journey is inspiring. By supporting her crowdfunding campaign or downloading the app, you can help her vision thrive.Learn more about the Red Hen App at RedHenApp.com or invest via Wefunder.tl;dr:Lauren Lovejoy created the Red Hen App to connect small-scale farmers directly with consumers.The app supports farmers in 49 states, helping them list and sell goods more easily.Inspired by health challenges, Lauren became both a farmer and tech entrepreneur.Lauren is raising funds for the app’s development and growth via a Wefunder campaign.Her superpower, observational problem-solving, drives her passion for sustainable solutions.How to Develop Observational Problem-Solving As a SuperpowerLauren’s ability to observe problems and craft solutions is remarkable. She shared, “We see a problem and we want to solve it… not only for us, we want to solve it for everybody else.” Lauren’s journey into farming and entrepreneurship is a testament to this superpower. Struggling with health and access to clean, local food inspired her to farm and create the Red Hen App, revolutionizing the connection between farmers and consumers.Lauren’s farming experience showcases her observational skills. Each day, she assesses her farm’s changing needs due to weather, seasons, or environmental factors. For example, when heavy rain impacts the soil, she moves her animals to protect and regenerate the land for future growth. This mindset helps her actively improve the ecosystem while producing food sustainably.Tips for Developing the Superpower:Be Conscious of Problems: Notice recurring challenges and reflect deeply on them.Identify Patterns: Figure out what triggers the issues and consider long-term solutions.Simplify Solutions: Focus on making every day processes easier for yourself and others.Engage with Your Environment: Adapt responses to shifting challenges, such as weather or market changes.Act on Your Observations: Don’t just spot issues—take steps to address them meaningfully.By following Lauren’s example and advice, you can make observational problem-solving a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileLauren Lovejoy (she/her):Owner, Red Hen AppAbout Red Hen App: Red Hen App is an app to connect local farms and people who love farm fresh food. Farms can list their items in minutes for pick up, delivery, or shipping. Customers can search and find what they want directly from a farm and order in a few clicks. Supporting farms is easier than ever.Website: redhenapp.comCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/redhenappCompany Twitter Handle: @redhenapp Instagram Handle: @redhenappOther URL: wefunder.com/redhenappBiographical Information: Lauren Lovejoy is a first-generation farmer with a background in entrepreneurship. She fell in love with farming and wanted to buy everything from farms for one year, but it was difficult to do and from the farm side, it was difficult to sell products. Red Hen App bridges the two.LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/lauren-lovejoy-1926874aPersonal Facebook Profile: facebook.com/lovejoyl88Support Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today’s advertisers include Make Money with Impact Crowdfunding and Climatize. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact Members(We’re grateful for every one of these community champions who make this work possible.)Brian Christie, Brainsy | Cameron Neil, Lend For Good | Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | John Berlet, CORE Tax Deeds, LLC. | Justin Starbird, The Aebli Group | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Mike Babbit | Coledger Solutions | Mike Green, Envirosult | Nick Degnan, Unlimit Ventures | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.Join the SuperCrowd Impact League! You can be recognized for making impact investments via Reg CF. See how your activity compares to your peers. It’s free. Win valuable prizes. Start now!SuperCrowd Impact Member Networking Session: Impact (and, of course, Max-Impact) Members of the SuperCrowd are invited to a private networking session on July 14th at 8:00 PM ET/5:0...
Transcribe →
Rejuvenate Bio’s Breakthrough: Extending Healthy Lives for Pets and Humans
Jul 700:26:01Tap to summarizeWatch the show on television by downloading the SuperCrowd.tv Channel app to your Roku or Amazon Fire TV and e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or Amazon Fire TV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Daniel: Combination of curiosity and humility.What if a single treatment could extend the length and quality of your life—or the lives of your beloved pets? Daniel Oliver, Co-Founder and CEO of Rejuvenate Bio, believes it’s possible and is already making it a reality. Rejuvenate Bio has developed a breakthrough approach, beginning with pets, to address multiple chronic diseases with one therapy.“We actually have taken the wealth of aging science that’s out there,” Daniel explained, “and have been able to turn them into one-time therapies. Effectively, we’re able to inject a patient—whether it’s a dog, a cat, or a human—and the data suggests we can treat multiple different diseases.”Daniel shared his excitement about testing these therapies on animals, highlighting initial successes with several high-profile pharmaceutical companies, including Merck’s animal health division, which has also invested in the company. Early results show these treatments not only improve health outcomes but also have the potential to be safe, accessible, and affordable.Unlike traditional gene therapies for humans, which can cost millions, Rejuvenate Bio’s approach for animals carries a dramatically lower price tag. “We’ve reduced the manufacturing costs to the point where we can treat chronic, lifetime diseases at around $100 per dose,” Daniel said. This affordability has broad implications for human treatments too, ensuring accessibility beyond just the wealthy elite.Beyond the practical applications, the mission of Rejuvenate Bio is deeply human. Chronic diseases, Daniel noted, account for enormous healthcare costs and significant suffering. He envisions a future where people and pets alike can experience more healthy years together. “What if,” he posed, “instead of a laundry list of side effects, new treatments came with a list of novel benefits?”Rejuvenate Bio is currently hosting an equity crowdfunding campaign on Wefunder, inviting anyone to invest and be part of their journey. This move aligns with Daniel’s vision of building a community of supporters who share the mission. “We want folks to come in, become evangelists for our technology, and grow with us,” he said.tl;dr:Daniel Oliver discusses Rejuvenate Bio’s one-time treatments for pets to extend healthy lives.The therapies have shown promise for treating chronic diseases in animals and potentially humans.Daniel shares Rejuvenate Bio’s affordability strategy: manufacturing doses for as low as $100.Rejuvenate Bio’s recent partnerships with Merck and a live Wefunder campaign expand their impact.Daniel explains how curiosity and humility fuel his leadership at Rejuvenate Bio, emphasizing collaboration.Daniel’s company offers exciting hope—not just for the families whose pets will lead healthier lives, but for society as it considers how this innovation could reshape human healthcare.How to Develop Curiosity and Humility As a SuperpowerDaniel attributes his success to a combination of curiosity and humility. “When you’re doing these types of startup companies, you’re never going to come to the table with all the skills and experiences you need,” Daniel said. His curiosity drives him to seek knowledge and advice, while his humility allows him to admit there is always more to learn. By embracing these values, Daniel has built an adaptable, reflective leadership style that encourages innovation and resilience.Daniel’s humility and curiosity were tested during his time at Caltech, where the demanding academics overwhelmed him. He learned to collaborate with peers and seek help from teaching assistants to overcome challenges. “The homework problems were not something I could accomplish alone,” he admitted, emphasizing how teamwork and the willingness to learn built his resilience. This experience taught him to embrace failure as a learning opportunity—something he carries into his leadership at Rejuvenate Bio.Tips for Developing This SuperpowerDiscipline Yourself to Listen: Focus on understanding the full message rather than preparing an immediate response.Be Open to Feedback: Acknowledge that there’s always a better way and commit to continuous improvement.Embrace Collaboration: Recognize that achieving great things often requires the strengths of a team.Seek Expertise: Learn from others with specialized knowledge, even when you succeed.Live and Learn: Foster a culture where risk-taking is encouraged and failures become growth opportunities.By following Daniel’s example and advice, you can make curiosity and humility a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileDaniel Oliver (he/him):Co-Founder & CEO, Rejuvenate BioAbout Rejuvenate Bio: Rejuvenate Bio is targeting the core drivers of chronic age-related diseases by unlocking the power of gene expression and epigenetic reprogramming to reverse pre-existing heart disease, metabolic disease, and kidney failure in humans.Website: rejuvenatebio.comCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/RejuvenatebioCompany Twitter/X Handle: @rejuvenatebioLinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/company/rejuvenate-bioOther URL: wefunder.com/rejuvenatebioBiographical Information: Daniel Oliver is a biotechnology entrepreneur and gene therapy innovator dedicated to transforming breakthrough aging science into life-changing therapies for animals and people. As Co-Founder and CEO of Rejuvenate Bio, a company spun out of Harvard Medical School and Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, he is leading the development of one-shot gene therapies that target the root causes of age-related cardiac and metabolic diseases. Under his leadership, Rejuvenate Bio has secured significant equity and non-dilutive funding, advanced novel gene therapy platforms toward clinical development, and established strategic partnerships with leading animal health companies to accelerate innovation in both veterinary and human medicine.Before founding Rejuvenate Bio, Daniel co-founded Voxel8, a pioneering 3D printing company that raised more than $14 million, launched groundbreaking products, and was ultimately acquired by Kornit Digital. Voxel8 earned widespread recognition, including being named one of MIT Technology Review’s “50 Smartest Companies” and a Top 9 Innovation at CES. Daniel also serves as an Entrepreneur in Residence at University of California, San Diego, where he mentors researchers and founders in commercializing breakthrough technologies. A graduate of Harvard Business School and California Institute of Technology, he combines deep scientific expertise with entrepreneurial leadership to bring cutting-edge biotechnology from the laboratory to the marketplace.LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/danielcoliverSupport Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today’s advertisers include Cineblock Films and Climatize. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact Members(We’re grateful for every one of these community champions who make this work possible.)Brian Christie, Brainsy | Cameron Neil, Lend For Good | Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | John Berlet, CORE Tax Deeds, LLC. | Justin Starbird, The Aebli Group | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | M...
Transcribe →