The Angel Next Door
The Angel Next Door podcast is a show about how people got started investing in startup companies. Hosted by Marcia Dawood, member of the SEC Small Business Capital Formation Advisory Committee and Chair Emeritus of the board of the Angel Capital Association, the professional organization of angel investors across the US and globally. If you want to see change in the world you have to create it, invest in it or be it! Tune in to hear stories of what angel investing is, who does it and why!
Thu, April 24, 2025
The Secret to Growing Unicorns: Pocket Sun's Strategy for Investing in Future Giants
What does it take to carve a space in the entrepreneurial world when you begin feeling like an outsider? Pocket Sun, co-founder of SoGal Ventures, shares her transformative journey from setting up a community for female entrepreneurs to becoming a major player in the venture capital space. In a world where women are often underrepresented and underfunded, Pocket's journey has been anything but conventional, pushing boundaries to ensure women-led companies get the support they deserve. Pocket Sun is a trailblazing entrepreneur and venture capitalist whose work focuses on investing in underrepresented groups to solve often ignored problems. Starting with her first investment via AngelList back in 2015, Pocket has expanded her reach to over 150 companies worldwide, many led by women, across multiple continents. Her ability to foresee potential in underserved market segments and her relentless pursuit of impactful investments has made SoGal Ventures a pivotal force in the startup ecosystem. In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, Pocket Sun opens up about her unconventional beginnings, her commitment to diversity, and her mission to invest in category-defining companies. She shares insights on building a global community, navigating cross-border investments, and leading SoGal Ventures to become a brand that signifies innovation and social impact. Whether you're an investor or entrepreneur, or just interested in the dynamics of creating change, this episode is rich with valuable insights and stories that reflect on the power of diversity and the potential for change in the venture capital landscape. To get the latest from Pocket Sun, you can follow her below! https://www.linkedin.com/in/pocketsun/ https://www.sogalventures.com/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: <a href="https://www.tik
Thu, April 17, 2025
Turning Customers into Investors and Transforming Start-up Financing
How does crowdfunding fit into a startup's fundraising strategy? In this intriguing episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood converses with guest Woodie Neiss about how crowdfunding has emerged as a transformative option for entrepreneurs seeking capital. The conversation unveils the ways securities-based crowdfunding is reshaping how new ventures are funded, making investments more accessible to various investors. Woodie Neiss, an experienced entrepreneur and a key advocate for crowdfunding legislation, shares his journey from Wall Street to becoming a pivotal figure in changing securities laws. His efforts have helped launch a thriving crowdfunding industry that offers over $2.8 billion in raised capital to more than 8,000 startups. He is also one of the founders of Crowdfund Capital Advisors (CCA), a crowdfunding advisory, implementation, and education firm. This episode is a must-listen for anyone involved in entrepreneurship, providing insights into significant crowdfunding developments and statistics. Woodie discusses how the industry has evolved, highlighting trends in sectors like healthcare and technology, and explaining how crowdfunding complements traditional fundraising strategies. Whether you're an investor, entrepreneur, or policymaker, this episode offers valuable perspectives on the current and future state of investment crowdfunding. To get the latest from Woodie Neiss, you can follow him below! https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherwoodneiss/ https://crowdfundcapitaladvisors.com/ https://a.co/d/f9987We - Investomers: How Customers-Turned-Investors are Shaping the Future of Early-Stage Finance Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.
Thu, April 10, 2025
Insights from a Five-Time Exited Entrepreneur on Investing in Future Innovation
What does it take to not only start a company but to grow it into something truly impactful, not just once but FIVE times? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, we dive into the experiences of Angel Gambino, a remarkable five-time exited entrepreneur. With over 20 years of experience crafting successful ventures and fostering economic equity through entrepreneurship, Angel offers a wealth of knowledge on various aspects of business growth and development.. Having achieved success as a founder, co-founder or founding team member of five companies across the US, the UK, and Latin America, she has solidified her reputation as a visionary leader and strategic thinker. Her most recently role is as a fractional chief growth officer, helping start-ups build and grow their companies. Angel Gambino is a formidable force in the world of angel investing and entrepreneurship. Throughout the episode, Angel tells us the fascinating stories behind her ventures, highlighting key insights on fostering growth through strategic partnerships, navigating the emotional roller coaster of exits, and the importance of self-awareness in leadership. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or an experienced investor, Angel's candid reflections and practical tips make this episode a must-listen for anyone seeking to make a positive impact through business. Her journey is not just about success—it's about creating prosperity and joy, making this discussion both inspiring and empowering. To get the latest from Angel Gambino, you can follow her below! https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelgambino/ https://www.angelclub.com/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Thu, April 03, 2025
Discovering the Essential Traits of Successful Founders
What truly sets successful entrepreneurs apart from the rest? Is it creativity, resilience, or perhaps a unique blend of traits that allows them to thrive in the unpredictable world of startups? In this compelling episode of The Angel Next Door podcast, host Marcia Dawood dives into these questions with guest Greg Moran, a seasoned entrepreneur and venture capitalist with a deep-rooted passion for identifying and nurturing innovative founders. Greg Moran is a serial entrepreneur turned investor, having successfully built and sold multiple technology companies, particularly in the HR tech space. After selling his last company right as the world was bracing for a global pandemic in 2020, he transitioned into venture capital. Co-founding Evergreen Mountain Equity Partners, a fund focused on early-stage tech investments, Greg uses his vast experience to support and guide the next generation of "find a way founders" who possess grit, determination, and resilience. During the episode, Greg shares insights from his forthcoming book, "The Adaptive Innovator," which explores the archetype of successful entrepreneurs based on extensive research. He elaborates on the four key pillars of the adaptive innovator model—creative resilience, humble assertiveness, balanced risk-taking, and strategic accountability. This conversation is not only a treasure trove of wisdom for budding entrepreneurs, but also a practical guide for investors aiming to evaluate the potential of founders in a rapidly evolving tech landscape. If you're interested in understanding the personal qualities that drive entrepreneurial success or looking for investment insights in today's AI-driven world, this episode is a must-listen. To get the latest from Greg Moran, you can follow him below! https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregmoran/ https://www.thefounderscollective.com/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorp
Thu, March 27, 2025
Navigating Exit Strategies and Unlocking Wealth Management Secrets
What drives a successful start-up employee to leave the security of a lucrative role after a major acquisition to become a founder? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, Marcia Dawood explores the fascinating journey of Caitlyn Driehorst, an exited entrepreneur and financial service expert. Caitlyn shares her unique path—from majoring in Russian and English literature to becoming a strategic consultant for financial services giants, before returning to her roots to build a company that focuses on high-impact finance management. Caitlyn's journey is as varied as it is impressive. Raised in a military family, she moved frequently across the United States before discovering her passion for financial services. A seasoned strategist and advisor, she has worked with companies like Boston Consulting Group and Capital Group, as well as navigating her own transformative exit through OpenInvest's acquisition by JP Morgan. Despite the allure of financial security with JP Morgan, Caitlin chose to strike out on her own—a decision driven by both personal values and a desire for broader impact. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in entrepreneurship, career development, or financial advisory. Caitlyn talks about the challenges of being a female entrepreneur in the financial space, discusses her ambitious goals for RightWise, and elaborates on the transformative power of strong financial planning. With insights into both the industry and personal growth, this conversation sheds light on balancing ambition with values and navigating the sometimes complex relationships between risk and opportunity. To get the latest from Caitlyn Driehorst, you can follow her below! https://www.linkedin.com/in/caitlyndriehorst/ RightWise Wealth RightWise Ambassador Program Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagr
Thu, March 20, 2025
Fueling Innovation: The Role of Angel Investors in Economic Growth
What drives economic growth? In this engaging episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, we explore the crucial role of angel investors in supporting entrepreneurs—the creative minds behind groundbreaking innovations and thriving businesses. Host Marcia Dawood is joined by two esteemed guests: Pat Gouhin, CEO of the Angel Capital Association (ACA), and Kristina Montague, incoming ACA Chair (July 2025). Together, they break down the mission of ACA and its charitable arm, the Angel Investor Foundation (AIF), showcasing how angel investors provide financial backing and invaluable mentorship to entrepreneurs. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the nonprofit structure supporting angel investing, the significance of expanding the angel investor network, and AIF’s efforts to increase representation among women and underserved founders. Whether you're considering becoming an angel investor or simply curious about the world of early-stage funding, this episode is packed with insights on how angel investing fuels innovation and economic prosperity. This special episode is part of Podcasthon 2025, the world’s largest podcast charity initiative! From March 15 to 21, 2025, Podcasthon will bring together 1,500+ podcasts from around the world to raise awareness for charitable causes, building on the momentum of previous years. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about the power of angel investing in shaping the future! To get the latest from Pat Gouhin and Kristina Montague, you can follow them below! https://www.linkedin.com/in/patgouhin/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristina-montague-7b1a942a/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Thu, March 13, 2025
The Power of the Purse: Women and the Future of Wealth
How does a woman navigate and succeed in the traditionally male-dominated world of Wall Street? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, Marcia Dawood welcomes Lori Van Dusen, an inspiring figure in the financial advisory industry. Lori began her career at Lehman Brothers in the late 1980s, where she stood out not only for her quantitative skills but for her early advocacy of client-centered, conflict-free financial advice. With years of experience under her belt, Lori founded her own firm, LVW Advisors, where she continues her mission of empowering clients, and women coming into substantial wealth tend to gravitate toward her. Her book, "Running with Grace," encapsulates her remarkable journey and her commitment to teaching and mentoring others in finance and beyond. Lori and Marcia discuss the upcoming major wealth transfer to women and the importance of education and mentorship in breaking down barriers in the financial world. Through Lori's experiences and insights, listeners are inspired to take control of their financial futures and redefine their relationship with money. To get the latest from Lori Van Dusen, you can follow her below! https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorivandusen/ Running with Grace: A Wall Street Insider’s Path to True Leadership, a Purposeful Life, and Joy in the Face of Adversity - https://a.co/d/4Y9rYGT https://lvwadvisors.com/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Thu, March 06, 2025
Exploring Unique Exit Strategies Using Employee Stock Ownership Plans
What if the path to successful entrepreneurship isn't just about finding a compelling market idea, but also about crafting an intentional exit strategy that benefits an entire community? On this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, we dive into an unconventional exit strategy that prioritizes employees and community sustainability. Marcia, our host, welcomes Gina Schaefer, a pioneering entrepreneur who transitioned her successful hardware store chain to an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), ensuring her legacy and providing her team with a stake in the business – not to mention a nice payout for her and her family. Gina Schaefer, along with her husband Mark, founded what began as a single hardware store in a once-struggling neighborhood in Washington, D.C., and expanded it to a 13-store enterprise under the Ace Hardware cooperative. Her entrepreneurial journey, defined by community revitalization, culminated in a unique exit strategy that included selling a 30% stake of the company to its employees through an ESOP, with plans to eventually transition to 100% employee ownership. Gina's commitment to her team and community shines through, highlighting her innovative approach to succession planning. In this must-listen episode, Gina unravels the process of establishing an ESOP, discussing the transformation it brings to company culture, employee ownership, and wealth generation. Listeners will gain insights into the benefits and complexities of ESOPs, as well as the broader impacts on community and economic structure. By highlighting this thoughtful and community-oriented exit strategy, Gina’s story offers a fresh perspective on how entrepreneurship can go beyond personal success to foster community growth and empowerment. To get the latest from Gina Schaefer, you can follow her below! https://www.linkedin.com/in/ginaschaefer-speaker/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoo
Thu, February 27, 2025
Empowering Entrepreneurs by Shifting Money Mindsets
What drives an entrepreneur to turn personal adversity into impactful ventures? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, we explore this question through the lens of Diana Greshtchuk's compelling journey. Following a profound personal loss, Diana found herself re-evaluating her legacy and impact on the world, leading her to become a passionate advocate for financial literacy and empowerment, especially among women and marginalized communities. Diana Greshtchuk is a seasoned financial expert who brings a wealth of experience from her background as a CPA and financial services professional. Her career spans over two decades, during which she has worked for one of the big four accounting firms and various asset management companies. Currently, she is committed to fanning the flames of potential for individuals and organizations as a financial literacy coach and executive producer of the impactful documentary, "Show Her The Money." Throughout this episode, Diana shares insights into her transition from finance to impact investing, emphasizing the importance of a positive money mindset and financial literacy. She discusses her work in helping founders, particularly women, to view themselves as worthy investments and cultivate an empowered relationship with money. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to transform their financial mindset and understand the intersection of personal growth, entrepreneurship, and impact investing. To get the latest from Diana Greshtchuk, you can follow her below! https://www.linkedin.com/in/dianagreshtchuk/ https://fan-your-flame.com/ Spark 9-week course: https://fan-your-flame.com/spark FB: https://www.facebook.com/FanYourFlameLLC IG: https://www.instagram.com/FanYourFlameLLC/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fan-your-flame-llc Public FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/fanyourflame Bluesky: @fanyourflamellc.bsky.social Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And don't forget to follo
Thu, February 20, 2025
Navigating Funding Challenges: Cindy Gallop's Insights as a Female Founder in Sex Tech
What does it take to turn a groundbreaking idea into a reality, especially when it challenges societal norms and confronts widely held taboos? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood explores this question with her guest, Cindy Gallop, a trailblazer reshaping conversations around sex, pornography, and sexual wellness. Cindy's journey into entrepreneurship is anything but conventional, providing a fascinating look at how one can use business to drive social change. Cindy Gallop is not only a veteran of the advertising world but also a pioneering advocate for open and honest discussions about sex. Her unique background, which combines decades in brand building and personal experiences, led her to found MakeLoveNotPorn, a platform aimed at socializing and normalizing real-world sex. Cindy’s venture started as a response to the adverse effects of pornography being the default form of sex education and has since evolved into a crusade for better sexual understanding and education. Listeners are in for an enlightening discussion that dives deep into Cindy's mission to transform societal perceptions through her two interconnected ventures: MakeLoveNotPorn.com and the upcoming Make Love Not Porn Academy. The episode addresses critical issues such as the impact of porn on youth, the cultural stigma around sex, and the struggles of funding a venture in the sex tech industry. It's a must-listen for anyone interested in entrepreneurship that's grounded in social impact, the challenges of being an underrepresented founder, and the importance of using innovative platforms to drive change in global issues. To get the latest from Cindy Gallop, you can follow her below! https://www.linkedin.com/in/cindygallop/ https://cindygallop.com/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: <a href="https:
Thu, February 13, 2025
Investing with Philanthropic Dollars Explained in 7 Minutes
What if your charitable donations didn’t just support causes—but actually helped build impactful businesses? In this episode of The Angel Next Door, host Marcia Dawood gives a quick 7-minute overview of the growing interest in investing with philanthropic capital and answers some of the most common questions about how it works. Using insights from past conversations with experts like Sally Boulter of Impact Assets and Patrice and Leah Brickman of Inspire Access, Marcia breaks down how Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs) and nonprofit organizations are revolutionizing the way we think about philanthropy and investment. You'll learn about: - How DAFs work – A simple, tax-advantaged way to invest in for-profit impact companies while keeping funds designated for charitable giving. - Inspire Access’ unique model – A 501(c)(3) that allows donors to contribute directly, ensuring capital reaches underrepresented founders working on innovative solutions. - Non-accredited investors can participate too – You don’t need to have a certain amount of wealth or income to make a donation; now more people than ever can back mission-driven startups. Instead of just ‘making a donation’, discover how to create a lasting impact by strategically investing in businesses that align with your values—all while staying within a philanthropic framework. Tune in now to rethink how your giving can fuel innovation and drive meaningful change! Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Thu, February 06, 2025
In Case You Missed It - A Recap with Marcia in Less than 5 Minutes
Have you ever considered how your financial mindset might impact your entrepreneurial journey? In this episode of the Angel Next Door Podcast, Marcia Dawood recaps insightful conversations with guests, exploring the profound connections between money, leadership, and impact investing, and how these factors influence entrepreneurship. Marcia highlights Sally Boulter's discussion on donor advised funds (DAFs) as a means for accessible impact investing. She also revisits her conversation with Wendy Ryan, who shares her Learn Lead Lift framework, promoting leadership through clarity and collaboration and advocating for investment in diverse founders. Lastly, Marcia reflects on her dialogue with Cammie and Sandi from the Money Tales podcast, who emphasize reshaping our money beliefs. In case you missed any of this great content, you can get a recap here and also go back and listen to the full episodes: https://pod.link/1586445642 Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Thu, January 30, 2025
Shifting Financial Mindsets: Creating Wealth with Positive Energy
Have you ever wondered how your mindset could transform your entrepreneurial journey? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood dives deep into this compelling question with Julie Foucht, a coach who has dedicated her career to empowering female entrepreneurs. By examining the critical link between mindset and financial success, Julie brings a fresh perspective to the way we view money and female entrepreneurship. Julie Foucht's journey is nothing short of inspiring. Raised in a traditional family, Julie initially struggled with the societal norms that limited her potential. However, she broke free from these constraints and now thrives as a successful entrepreneur and coach. Julie's transformation from a financially dependent individual to a financially astute businesswoman is a testament to the power of self-belief and the right guidance. In this episode, Marcia and Julie tackle the deeply ingrained beliefs that often hold women back from achieving their full potential. Julie shares invaluable insights on shifting one's mindset towards money, the importance of dreaming big, and the practical steps to build a thriving business. They discuss how these changes not only benefit the individual but have the power to uplift entire communities. If you want to break through your financial barriers and elevate your entrepreneurial and investing game, this episode offers inspiration and practical advice. To get the latest from Julie, you can follow her below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachjulz/ https://juliefoucht.com/ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-art-of-feminine-business-with-julie-foucht/id1029092788 Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/
Thu, January 23, 2025
Building an AI-Driven Fashion Company: Anya Cheng's Secrets with Unique Data
Have you ever wondered what it truly takes to turn a groundbreaking idea into a successful business venture? On this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, our host Marcia Dawood explores this question with Anya Cheng, an innovative entrepreneur from the Bay Area. Anya’s journey from big tech to launching her own AI-powered company showcases the transformative potential of unique data in revolutionizing an industry. Anya Cheng is the founder of Taelor, an AI company on a mission to redefine how men dress by leveraging cutting-edge technology and unique consumer data. With a background that includes strategic roles at Meta, eBay, McDonald's, and Target, Anya’s experience in tech is both broad and deep. She played a pivotal role in developing Facebook and Instagram Shopping and expanding McDonald's food delivery services worldwide, equipping her with the skills to seamlessly integrate technology with consumer behavior. In this must-listen episode, Marcia and Anya discuss the intricacies of Taelor's business model, especially its novel approach to using AI and unique data to personalize men's fashion. Anya reveals how her company gathers authentic consumer feedback and detailed garment quality data, providing invaluable insights to brands and improving sustainability in fashion. Additionally, Anya shares her fundraising journey, shedding light on the challenges faced by women and people of color in the startup ecosystem. For anyone interested in AI, the power of unique data, or building a tech startup, this episode is packed with expert advice and inspiring stories, making it essential listening. Taelor — Men’s wardrobe rental with expert styling ✨ 30% off first month with code: Angel30. using this link. Give the gift of time and confidence! Taelor Gift Card 🎁 10% off gift card with code: AngelGift10 To get the latest from Anya, you can follow her below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/anyacheng/ https://www.facebook.com/AnyaChengSiliconValley/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And do
Thu, January 16, 2025
Unlocking Investment Mindsets: Money Conversations Everyone Should Be Having
Why do we hesitate to talk openly about money, and how can breaking this silence transform our financial futures? In this compelling episode of "The Angel Next Door," host Marcia Dawood explores the pervasive taboo surrounding money conversations and how lifting this veil can lead to a healthier financial mindset. Through insightful dialogue, the episode illuminates the importance of embracing vulnerability and the power of open discussions about wealth and investments. Our esteemed guests for this episode are Sandi Bragar and Cammie Doder, co-hosts of the popular "Money Tales" podcast. Sandi, as the Chief Client Officer at Aspiriant, has a deep-seated passion for aligning clients' investments with their values and long-term goals. Her personal journey through family financial conflicts has given her a unique perspective on the importance of financial transparency. Cammie, the Chief Marketing Officer and a dedicated mother, advocates for making financial literacy relatable and engaging. Both bring their wealth of experience and commitment to demystifying financial conversations. This episode is a must-listen as Sandi and Cammie share their mission to normalize money talks, stressing that early financial experiences shape our attitudes and decisions. They discuss the profound impact of aligning one's investments with personal values and how such alignment can lead to more fulfilling life choices. The episode offers practical advice on how to engage in financial conversations without fear and emphasizes the dynamic nature of our financial priorities. Tune in for an episode filled with empowering insights designed to transform how you think and talk about money, leaving you better equipped to navigate your financial journey with confidence. To get the latest from Sandi and Cammie, you can follow them below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandi-bragar/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/cammiedoder/ https://aspiriant.com/ https://aspiriant.com/podcasts/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple <
Thu, January 09, 2025
Empowering Founders: Anne Maghas's Approach to Building Successful Companies
What does it take to successfully navigate the transition from being an entrepreneur to a CEO while maintaining your company’s core values intact? This intriguing question sets the stage for a deeply insightful conversation with Anne Maghas on "The Angel Next Door Podcast." Anne’s journey from curiosity about angel investing to becoming a significant mentor and investor is full of valuable lessons about leadership, diversity, and resilience amidst rapid change. Anne Maghas, our esteemed guest, is a three-time entrepreneur and an experienced angel investor who holds a PhD in chemistry. With nearly a decade in corporate America working in consumer product development, Anne transitioned seamlessly into entrepreneurship. Her ventures span a data analytics consulting company, a retail distribution enterprise, and a logistics business that thrived even through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Alongside her entrepreneurial efforts, Anne is deeply committed to mentoring and educating the next generation of angel investors. In this episode, Anne shares her remarkable journey. She goes over essential topics such as the importance of diversity and inclusion in problem-solving, the significant role of mentoring in helping founders become effective CEOs, and the critical nature of cultivating a strong organizational culture. She also offers her hiring philosophy and insights on building trust within teams. Marcia and Anne's discussion is a treasure trove of wisdom for anyone involved in or interested in the startup ecosystem. This is a must-listen episode for aspiring entrepreneurs and angel investors looking to glean insights from Anne's multifaceted experience and thoughtful approach to leadership and investment. To get the latest from Anne Maghas, you can follow her below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/annemaghas/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok:
Thu, January 02, 2025
Building Impact Through Investment: Wendy Ryan Talks Leadership and Generational Wealth
Have you ever wondered what it takes to leave a lasting legacy in the world of entrepreneurship? In this illuminating episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Wendy Ryan, who transforms our understanding of leadership, investment, and legacy-building. Wendy's journey from human resources to becoming a game-changing investor offers valuable insights for anyone looking to make a meaningful impact in the business world. Our guest, Wendy Ryan, is no ordinary investor. She launched her career in human resources and organizational development before founding her company, Kadabra, in 2014. Wendy's commitment to fostering leadership and extending support to women-led businesses emerged from her own life experiences and generational wealth. A published author and executive producer, Wendy is also a featured star in the influential film, "Show Her the Money." Throughout the episode, Wendy explains her revolutionary "Learn Lead Lift"(also the title of her book) framework, exploring how leadership rooted in mindfulness, skill acquisition, and altruistic motivation can transform not just businesses but entire communities. Listeners will discover how to leverage their resources for broader social impact and navigate the complex landscape of early-stage investing. This episode is a must-listen for aspiring entrepreneurs, seasoned investors, and anyone interested in creating a legacy that resonates across generations. Wendy's wisdom and Marcia's insightful questions offer a blueprint for making significant, lasting contributions in a rapidly evolving world. To get the latest from Wendy Ryan, you can follow her below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendyryankadabra/ https://www.wearekadabra.com/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikT
Thu, December 26, 2024
Year-End Review 2024: Empowering Women and Strategic Investments - A Joint Episode with Venture F
The Angel Next Door Podcast: 2024 Year in Review On this special, year-end episode, our host Marcia Dawood wraps up the year with a joint episode with Laura Nix Gerson, host of the Venture F podcast. This year marked a significant milestone for The Angel Next Door podcast, hosted by Marcia Dawood. With a full year of weekly episodes, we celebrated key achievements, impactful conversations, and global recognition for our contributions to angel investing and impact-driven funding. Here are some of the year's highlights: Milestones Achieved - �� Winner of Best Financial, Investing, and Money Podcast: We are honored to have received this prestigious award from the Women in Podcasting Awards, recognizing the show's commitment to educating and inspiring listeners in the world of early-stage investing. - �� 100th Episode Celebration: In December 2024, we celebrated a major milestone with a special episode featuring Catherine Gray, Executive Producer of the award-winning documentary Show Her The Money. This conversation spotlighted the funding disparities women face in venture capital, discussed how education and awareness can drive systemic change, and highlighted the transformative potential of investing in women-founded funds for both economic and social progress. - �� 20,000+ Downloads: This year, the podcast crossed 20,000 downloads, a testament to the growing interest in angel investing, impact-driven funding, and the role listeners can play in shaping the future of startups. - �� A Year of Weekly Episodes: We committed to delivering fresh, insightful content every week, ensuring that our community of listeners stayed up-to-date on the latest trends, strategies, and opportunities in the angel investing world. - �� Launch of Marcia Dawood’s Book: Do Good While Doing Well: In September 2024, Marcia released her highly anticipated book, Do Good While Doing Well, which demystifies angel investing and empowers individuals to make impactful investments in early-stage companies. The book serves as a "why-to" guide, helping readers understand how angel investing can be accessible to everyone, not just the wealthy. It offers practical tools to align financial contributions with personal values while supporting startups that drive innovation and social change. The book launch was celebrated with a virtual event attended by listeners, readers, and angel investors from around the world. A Few Episode Highlights AI and Entrepreneurship One of the year's most thought-provoking episodes featured Sharon Zhang, an AI expert, who provided a forward-thinking perspective on AI's impact on business, society, and entrepreneurship. Key takeaways included: - The growing AI ecosystem — from chips to infrastructure and founda
Thu, December 19, 2024
Turning Conversations into Opportunities: Michelle Tillis Lederman on Effective Networking
Have you ever wondered why some entrepreneurs seem to effortlessly connect with high-profile clients and seemingly land opportunities out of thin air? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast , we unravel the secrets behind successful networking and relationship building, which are crucial to making those magic moments happen. Our guest today, Michelle Tillis Lederman, is an accomplished author, networking expert, and dynamic speaker known for her strategic insight into the world of relationships and connections. With a background as diverse as being a former CPA, an adrenaline junkie, and a seasoned entrepreneur, Michelle brings a wealth of knowledge and compelling stories to the table. Her expertise has guided many towards building meaningful and fruitful relationships in both personal and professional arenas. In this enlightening episode, host Marcia Dawood engages Michelle in a deep conversation about the art of networking and connection. Michelle shares invaluable tips from her book, The Connector's Advantage , highlighting how strategic relationship-building can propel entrepreneurs towards their goals faster, easier, and with better results. Whether you're an entrepreneur looking to enhance your network, a leader aiming to create a cohesive team, or simply someone seeking to build more meaningful relationships, this episode is packed with practical advice and inspiring anecdotes. Don’t miss out on this must-listen episode to learn how to transform your approach to networking and unlock new opportunities. To get the latest from Michelle Tillis Lederman, you can follow her below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/communicationexpertspeaker/ The Connector's Advantage - https://a.co/d/7SmFn64 Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Thu, December 12, 2024
The Power of Franchising: Dawn Lafreeda’s Road to Owning 72 Denny's
What does it take to turn a humble beginning into a thriving empire? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood explores the intricacies of entrepreneurship and franchising with Dawn Lafreeda, a highly successful Denny’s franchisee. Dawn's entrepreneurial journey from a young hostess to owning more Denny’s franchises than anyone else globally underscores the power of determination, resilience, and strategic thinking. Dawn Lafreeda began her career at Denny’s at the age of 16 as a hostess and worked her way up to waitress before seizing her first business opportunity. Over the course of a 40-year career, she has owned, among other ventures, up to 120 Denny’s restaurants. In addition to her franchising achievements, Dawn participated as an executive producer in the movie "Show Her the Money," which highlights the challenges and empowerment of women in venture capital. This episode explores the benefits and challenges of franchising, where Dawn offers invaluable insights into site selection, financing, and scaling a business. Dawn also shares personal anecdotes about navigating business through crises like 9/11 and the pandemic, emphasizing the importance of proactive communication and financial prudence. Coupled with her advocacy for women in business and her efforts to mentor aspiring entrepreneurs, this episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to understand the dynamics of successful entrepreneurship and the feasibility of franchising as a robust business model. Tune in to learn from one of the best in the industry and be inspired by her story of success and determination. To get the latest from Dawn Lafreeda, you can follow her below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dawn-lafreeda-36059314/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Thu, December 05, 2024
100th Episode Special: Empowering Women in Venture Capital with Catherine Gray
Ever wondered what it really takes to break into the world of venture capital, especially as an underrepresented entrepreneur or an emerging fund manager? In our milestone 100th episode, host Marcia Dawood sits down with Catherine Gray, the visionary Executive Producer of the award-winning documentary *Show Her the Money,* to demystify this complex space. The film shines a light on the staggering statistics around the lack of funding for female entrepreneurs but goes beyond the numbers with powerful storytelling and remarkable profiles of women founders making a difference. Catherine Gray, the force behind the Invest in Her podcast, She Angels Investors, and She Angels Foundation, is a trailblazer in using media for social change. Her previous work, including the impactful documentary I Can’t Marry You, has consistently driven cultural shifts. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the potential of venture capital as a tool for societal impact. Marcia and Catherine discuss the need for greater education and awareness in this field, emphasizing the unique challenges and opportunities for women investors. They also explore the transformative impact of investing in women-founded funds and the ripple effects this can have on economic and social progress. Don't miss this insightful conversation that uncovers the power of venture capital to foster meaningful change. To get the latest from Catherine Gray, you can follow her below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/catherinelgray/ https://www.sheangelinvestors.com/ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/invest-in-her-with-catherine-gray/id1134670723 Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/
Thu, November 28, 2024
Philanthropy Meets Startup Investing: A New Approach to Funding Innovations
Have you ever considered the possibilities that arise when philanthropic capital is directed towards funding startup companies? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood sits down with Sally Boulter from Impact Assets to unravel an often overlooked but transformative investment approach—using donor-advised funds to fuel entrepreneurial ventures. If you're an angel investor or contemplating entering the startup ecosystem, this episode will give you a fresh perspective on navigating investments impactfully. Sally Boulter brings a wealth of experience to the table, having a diverse background in nonprofit fundraising and impact investing. Impact Assets, a nonprofit financial services firm, is tailored to investors who wish to make a difference while achieving returns. Sally's journey from traditional fundraising to becoming a pivotal player in impact investing highlights a unique blend of passion for societal betterment and astute financial strategies. Throughout the episode, Marcia and Sally discuss the mechanics of how donor-advised funds can be employed to support for-profit startups, offering both new and seasoned investors a blueprint for high-impact investments. They explore the simplicity and flexibility of setting up a donor-advised fund, the risks and rewards associated with impact investing, and real-life success stories like that of Seth Goldman, who amplified his philanthropic reach after his work with Honest Tea. This episode is a must-listen for anyone eager to understand how to make their investment dollars work harder, not just for financial gains but for genuine societal progress. You’ll walk away with actionable insights and a newfound enthusiasm for merging philanthropy with entrepreneurship. To get the latest from Sally Boulter, you can follow her below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sallyboulter/ https://impactassets.org/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagr
Thu, November 21, 2024
NasaClip’s Fundraising Journey: Integrating Crowdfunding with Traditional Methods
What does it take to transition from being a dedicated emergency medicine physician to a groundbreaking entrepreneur? In this thought-provoking episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, Marcia Dawood explores the journey of Dr. Liz Clayborne, the inspiring founder behind NasaClip. Liz's story sheds light on the innovative process of developing a medical device and the unique challenges she encountered while fundraising for her venture. Dr. Liz Clayborne is not your average entrepreneur. A committed emergency medicine physician and faculty member at the University of Maryland, Liz pivoted her career by creating NasaClip—a revolutionary hands-free nosebleed rescue device. Motivated by her ER experiences, where she treated numerous nosebleed cases, Liz designed a user-friendly solution and successfully raised funds from angel investors, VCs, and now a current Wefunder crowdfunding campaign. In this episode, Liz shares her journey from idea to market, detailing the various stages of fundraising and the obstacles she faced. This episode is essential for anyone interested in entrepreneurship, medical innovations, and using different fundraising strategies to achieve key milestones. To get the latest from Dr. Liz Clayborne, you can follow her below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethpclayborne/ https://wefunder.com/nasaclip Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Thu, November 14, 2024
Navigating Franchising Challenges and Opportunities with Domineca Neal
Are You Ready to Invest in Your Dreams? What does it take to transform a vision into a sustainable business and eventually into a lucrative investment opportunity? This week's episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast with Marcia Dawood discusses the often-overlooked world of franchising and angel investing, revealing the essential elements driving entrepreneurial success. Alongside guest Domineca Neal, an experienced entrepreneur and angel investor, listeners are taken on an educational journey through the nuances of starting and scaling a business, whether independently or through franchising. Domineca Neal brings a wealth of knowledge to this episode. With a diverse background ranging from being a CPA at a big six accounting firm to becoming a seasoned franchise owner and eventually stepping into the world of angel investing, she embodies the quintessential entrepreneurial spirit. Neal has not only thrived in multiple business environments but has also dedicated herself to mentoring others, especially women and BIPOC communities, on their own journeys toward financial and operational success. They explore the practicalities of owning a franchise, from the initial due diligence to overcoming common challenges like labor and expansion. Moreover, Domineca shares invaluable advice for entrepreneurs considering franchising their own business models. The episode comes full circle with an inspiring discussion about angel investing, where Neal reveals how her portfolio seeks financial returns and aims to generate positive social and environmental impact. This multifaceted conversation is a must-listen for anyone looking to gain practical insights and inspiration on creating successful business ventures while giving back to the community. To get the latest from Domineca Neal, you can follow her below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dominecaneal/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/</
Thu, November 07, 2024
Lisa Gable Discusses AI, Culture, and Secrets to Successful Organizational Turnarounds
Have you ever wondered what it takes to turn around a failing organization or to drive remarkable change in business, government, and philanthropy? This thought-provoking question sets the stage for an insightful conversation with Lisa Gable, a seasoned expert in orchestrating turnarounds across diverse sectors. In this episode, Marcia Dawood sits down with Lisa to unveil the intricacies of driving meaningful change, tackling complex problems, and navigating the turbulent waters of entrepreneurship. Lisa Gable boasts an illustrious career, beginning with her time in the Reagan White House and Defense Department at the end of the Cold War. She has served as a troubleshooter for Intel's CEO and has held numerous presidential appointments. Her vast experience spans turnarounds in business, government, and philanthropy, including as a US Ambassador of one of the largest public-private partnerships in the US government. Lisa's journey is a testament to her deep understanding of utilizing manufacturing processes to address complex issues and her commitment to making organizations more robust and future-ready. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the art of the comeback. Lisa talks about the common factors that precipitate organizational failure, including the damaging effects of hubris, and emphasizes the importance of revisiting an organization's founding purpose. She also highlights current trends in AI and technology, showcasing her work with Six Star Capital in combating online hate speech. For those keen on fostering a dynamic, transparent, and resilient workplace culture, Lisa offers invaluable advice, drawing from her extensive experience. Whether you're an entrepreneur facing difficult decisions or an investor mentoring leaders who are striving to create a more cohesive team, the insights and practical strategies shared in this episode will equip you with the tools to navigate and thrive in challenging environments. To get the latest from Lisa Gable, you can follow her below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisagable/ https://www.allsides.com/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spoti
Thu, October 31, 2024
Unlocking Investment Opportunities in Women's Health with Economist Mark Gannott
Have you ever wondered what it takes for a startup, particularly in a niche field like women's health, to secure the necessary funding to move forward and make a meaningful impact? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, Marcia Dawood sits down with Mark Gannott, who brings a unique blend of neuroscience, economics, and entrepreneurship to the table. From navigating the complex landscape of women's health financing to shedding light on economic modeling and network strategies, Mark's insights are invaluable for anyone looking to understand the intricacies of funding in highly specialized areas. Mark Gannott, an economist and pharmacoeconomist, has a scholarly background in neuroscience and economics. His career took a pivotal turn following a personal tragedy that shifted his focus from medical school to the financing side of healthcare. With a side project in managing a massively popular social media page focused on dogs and mental health, Mark works on critical health issues, including cannabis economics and underfunded areas like endometriosis. His drive to bring more financial resources to women's health startups sets him apart as a thought leader in this space. In this enlightening conversation, Mark explores why women's health is still struggling to garner sufficient funding despite its massive economic potential. He talks about his work as a pharmacoeconomist and the significance of building financial models that make compelling cases for investment in women's health. Additionally, the episode highlights the importance of network analysis in connecting the right people to foster successful startups. Whether you're an investor, an entrepreneur, or someone passionate about women's health, this episode provides crucial insights into an often-overlooked yet vital sector. Mark's forward-thinking approach to financing and network building makes this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in transforming the landscape for women's health. To get the latest from Mark Gannott, you can follow him below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/markgannott/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/an
Thu, October 24, 2024
AI Evolution, Data Sovereignty, and the Future of AI & Tech
Have you ever wondered what the future of entrepreneurship looks like in a world where artificial intelligence can take on the roles traditionally reserved for human employees? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood sits down with AI expert Sharon Zhang to explore the transformative impact of AI on business and society. Sharon talks about the evolving landscape of AI and its potential to not only automate mundane tasks but also to foster new business models and opportunities for creative entrepreneurship. Sharon Zhang, who boasts over 16 years of experience in artificial intelligence, emerges as a compelling guest. She began her journey at the MIT CCL lab and has since ventured through various roles, from clinical decision-making at Nuance Communications to algorithm development for hedge funds. Since 2020, she has co-founded Personal AI, a platform that builds digital twins to augment individual lives. Sharon’s extensive background provides a rich foundation for discussing AI’s role in modern entrepreneurship. This episode is a must-listen as Sharon provides a comprehensive view of the AI ecosystem, breaking it down into essential components like AI chips, infrastructure, foundation models, and applications. She shines a light on data privacy and the significance of user sovereignty over personal data. Furthermore, Sharon shares insights on the financial challenges faced by AI startups, the strategic moves by industry giants like OpenAI and Microsoft, and the burgeoning field of AI agents capable of performing complex tasks. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, an investor, or simply fascinated by AI, this episode offers a treasure trove of knowledge and foresight into the future of artificial intelligence and its profound implications. To get the latest from Sharon Zhang, you can follow her below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/xiaoranz1986/ https://www.personal.ai/ Use the code PODCAST50 for 50% of any personal plan for 30 days! Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://ww
Thu, October 17, 2024
Hard-Won Lessons in Tech Transfer and Long Sales Cycles by Tricia Compas-Markman
Have you ever wondered what it takes to turn a groundbreaking idea into a successful startup, especially in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, Marcia Dawood sits down with Tricia Compas-Markman, a civil engineer turned entrepreneur, to explore the uncharted waters of innovative problem-solving and business resilience. Through their engaging discussion, listeners gain an intimate look at the complexities and triumphs of launching a mission-driven venture. With a background in civil engineering from Cal Poly and a passion for providing clean drinking water in disaster zones, Tricia shares her journey from a simple master's thesis to founding DayOne Response—a company dedicated to creating family-sized water treatment devices. Her story is one of visionary thinking, relentless determination, and an unyielding commitment to making a positive impact on vulnerable communities worldwide. In this episode, Marcia and Tricia go deep into the entrepreneurial process, covering topics such as tech transfer, investor engagement, complex sales cycles, and the strategic shifts required for sustainability. Listeners will learn about the importance of intellectual property, the challenges of regulatory approvals, and the intricacies of selling to large organizations and relief agencies. Moreover, Tricia’s pivot to aiding other entrepreneurs through Venturewell showcases the enduring value of lessons learned, even when a startup doesn't survive. This episode is a must-listen for aspiring entrepreneurs, investors, and anyone intrigued by the journey of turning innovative ideas into impactful realities. To get the latest from Tricia Compas-Markman, you can follow her below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tricia-compas-markman-04103239/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: <a href="https://www.tikt
Thu, October 10, 2024
Transforming Workplace Culture with Inclusion with Gena Cox
What if the key to a successful startup lies not just in its venture's brilliance but in its workplace's inclusivity? In this episode of "The Angel Next Door Podcast," Marcia Dawood invites Gena Cox to explore a crucial aspect that entrepreneurs often overlook amidst the hustle of financial planning and product development—organizational culture. Cox, an organizational psychologist with over 30 years of experience, asserts that the human experience within an organization is foundational to its innovation, customer satisfaction, and overall success. Gena Cox is a distinguished expert in workplace culture, employee engagement, and survey design. Hailing from a diverse background—born in England, raised in the Caribbean, and later relocating to the U.S.—Cox offers a unique perspective on diversity and inclusion. Her recent book, "Leading Inclusion," targets senior business leaders and board directors, helping them foster environments where every employee feels seen, heard, and valued. Cox's insights are informed by both her professional expertise and personal experiences, especially in the wake of social events like the death of Breonna Taylor and George Floyd. In this enlightening episode, Cox talks about the significance of nurturing an inclusive culture right from a startup's inception. She underscores the role of inclusion over sheer diversity, pointing out that everyday experiences and interactions within the workplace shape an organization's culture. Listeners will gain practical guidance on implementing structured hiring processes that align with company values and mitigate biases, ensuring sustainable growth and innovation. It's a must-listen for any entrepreneur, business leader, or angel investor supporting them, aiming to build a successful, meaningful, human-centric organization. To get the latest from Gena Cox, you can follow her below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/genacox/ https://genacox.com/ Gena's FREE e-book 25 Ways to Help Build a Culture of Respect at Work : https://genacox.com/respectebook/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/
Thu, October 03, 2024
Success Story: Transitioning from Physical Shops to Online Growth
Have you ever wondered what it takes to turn a personal experience into a thriving business? In this inspiring episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, we dive into the incredible entrepreneurial journey of Jasmine Jones, a remarkable founder and CEO who channeled her life's experiences and challenges into creating a groundbreaking company. This episode offers invaluable insights for anyone interested in the power of resilience, innovation, and purpose-driven entrepreneurship. Jasmine Jones, the dynamic founder, and CEO of Myya, joins host Marcia Dawood to share her unique journey. From witnessing her father’s real estate investments to selling diamonds at Tiffany’s, Jasmine’s path to entrepreneurship is anything but conventional. A former beauty pageant winner and Miss DC USA, Jasmine leveraged her varied background and life experiences to create Myya, a company dedicated to providing customizable and insurance-billable breast prosthetics for breast cancer survivors. Jasmine's inspiring story was also featured in the documentary Show Her the Money , showcasing her entrepreneurial journey to a global audience. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom and inspiration. Jasmine discusses the evolution of Myya, from its humble beginnings as a boutique store to its current status as a scalable telehealth platform serving patients nationwide. Hear firsthand how Jasmine navigated the complexities of fundraising, securing over $2.25 million in venture capital, and why the COVID-19 pandemic was a surprising catalyst for her business growth. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned business owner, or an angel investor, Jasmine's compelling story offers invaluable lessons on persistence, adaptability, and the importance of aligning business with purpose. This is a must-listen episode for anyone looking to make a meaningful impact through entrepreneurship. To get the latest from Jasmine Jones, you can follow her below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasminerjones/ https://myya.com/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door
Thu, September 26, 2024
Boosting Startup Success: Equity Management Made Easy
Have you ever wondered what lies behind the meticulous management of your startup’s equity and the unseen challenges of maintaining a clean cap table? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood dives deep into the essential but often overlooked facets of cap table management with industry expert and guest, Colin McCrea. Together, they unravel the complexities that every founder should be aware of and how to navigate the turbulent waters of startup finance. Colin McCrea, a seasoned professional in accounting and finance, shares his journey from working at a CPA firm to becoming a pivotal player at Eqvista, a company specializing in cap table management solutions. With a portfolio boasting roughly 16,000 companies, ranging from startups to pre-IPO giants, Colin brings a wealth of knowledge and firsthand experience. As the leader of Eqvista’s valuation team, he's uniquely positioned to offer insights into the intricacies of 409A valuations and the vital importance of maintaining a well-organized cap table. Throughout this episode, listeners will gain a comprehensive understanding of cap table management's role in a startup's success, the pitfalls of equity mismanagement, and the critical need for compliance. Colin and Marcia discuss the essential steps founders must take to protect their equity, maintain investor trust, and enable smooth funding rounds. They also explore the nuances of 409A valuations and essential compliance filings like the 83B election. This is a must-listen episode for any entrepreneur aspiring to build a solid financial foundation for their business, as well as the investors, featuring actionable advice and expert insights that can save both time and money. To get the latest from Colin McCrae, you can follow him below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/colin-mccrea-8a50021b7/ https://eqvista.com Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpod
Thu, September 19, 2024
The Surprising Trends in AI Acceptance Across Generations
Have you ever considered how varying attitudes toward AI could shape entrepreneurial opportunities? In this episode of "The Angel Next Door Podcast," host Marcia Dawood engages with Lucy Farey-Jones, a marketing expert and tech enthusiast. Lucy's TED Talk on AI adoption garnered over 2 million views and combines her marketing prowess with a keen interest in consumer behavior to explore the public’s evolving relationship with technology. Lucy discusses her research on AI adoption pre-pandemic and post-vaccine, shedding light on generational differences and shifting attitudes toward technology. She reveals surprising findings, such as Generation Z's skepticism and Baby Boomers' increasing acceptance of AI. Lucy also highlights the significant gender disparities in tech comfort levels and advocates for more diverse voices in AI development to prevent biases. This episode is essential listening for investors, entrepreneurs, and tech enthusiasts alike, as it offers fresh insights into how societal attitudes impact the adoption and future of technology. To get the latest from Lucy Farey-Jones, you can follow her below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucy-farey-jones-74687b1/ https://www.registerbydesign.com/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Thu, September 12, 2024
Expanding Accessibility and Awareness: The Future of Private Market Investing
Have you ever wondered what it takes to revolutionize an industry and make a significant impact on society? In this thought-provoking episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, we explore the world of entrepreneurship and the potential of innovative technologies to transform the way we invest and participate in private markets. Our guest, Kendrick Nguyen, is the founder of Republic.com, an equity crowdfunding platform that aims to democratize access to private market investing. With a background in law and traditional finance, Kendrick's journey into the world of tech entrepreneurship was sparked by changes in securities laws related to crowdfunding in the United States. In this episode, Kendrick shares his insights on the evolution of equity crowdfunding and its potential to encompass diverse investment options beyond tech companies. He discusses the challenges faced by Republic during its early days, competing with established platforms, and the importance of building a strong company-customer relationship. Kendrick and Marcia also discuss the transparency and communication between companies and investors on the Republic platform, emphasizing the wealth of information available for assessment. Additionally, he explores the potential of blockchain technology in fractionalizing assets, lowering participation costs, and providing an effective tool for educating new investors. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of investing, the impact of technology on private markets, and the inspiring journey of a visionary entrepreneur who is reshaping the landscape of accessibility and opportunity. To get the latest from Kendrick, you can follow him below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kendrick-nguyen-7145bb5/ Republic.com Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: <a href="https://www.tiktok.com
Thu, September 05, 2024
Making Angel Investing Accessible and Fun with new Platform - Play Money
What if investing in groundbreaking startups was as easy and engaging as scrolling through Instagram? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood talks with Cheryl Kellond, a seasoned entrepreneur and innovator, about Play Money, her cutting-edge platform that streamlines angel investing for both investors and founders. Cheryl Kellond brings a wealth of experience, having launched three venture-backed startups, including a top-rated fitness wearable on Amazon and a healthcare fintech. Now, she’s channeling her expertise into Play Money, making it simpler for accredited investors to discover and fund promising new companies. Discover why Play Money is revolutionizing the angel investing landscape by making the process more efficient and less daunting. Cheryl shares insights on building a diversified portfolio and how Play Money aims to facilitate connections between the right investors and startups. Whether you're new to investing or a seasoned pro, this episode is a must-listen for its innovative take on simplifying and democratizing early-stage investments. To get the latest from Cheryl Kellond, you can follow her below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/c2kprofile/ https://letsplaymoney.com/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Thu, August 29, 2024
Innovating for Good: Linking Philanthropy and Angel Investing
Have you ever wondered what it takes to transition from a successful corporate career to a vibrant role in the world of angel investing and entrepreneurship? In this episode of "The Angel Next Door Podcast," we look into the captivating journey of Amy Jacobs, who took the bold step to leave the world of corporate banking and immerse herself in the dynamic environment of first, nonprofit organizations and now start-ups. Her story is both inspiring and a testament to the power of following one's passion and continuous learning. Amy Jacobs is no stranger to change. Growing up in the suburbs of Cleveland, Ohio, she journeyed south post-college to Charlotte, where she embarked on a notable career in corporate banking with giants like Bank of America and Ally Bank. However, driven by a yearning to explore new avenues, Amy shifted her focus to the nonprofit sector, taking on pivotal roles within organizations such as the Women's Impact Fund and Share Charlotte. Her dedication eventually led her to the role of Executive Director at Share Charlotte, where she played an instrumental part in linking nonprofits with the wider community through innovative tech solutions. Now, as a relatively new angel investor, she offers her unique insights and experience. Host Marcia Dawood explores Amy's professional evolution, from her tech and nonprofit ventures to her recent foray into angel investing. Amy shares her strategies for navigating the startup landscape, the importance of networking, and the crucial role of understanding both philanthropic and investment communities. This episode is a must-listen for aspiring entrepreneurs and potential angel investors alike, offering valuable lessons on risk-taking, community impact, and the boundless opportunities in the startup world. To get the latest from Amy Jacobs, you can follow her below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-jacobs-aa01a920/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instag
Thu, August 22, 2024
Optimize Your Returns – Tax Tips for Investors and Entrepreneurs
Did you know there are tax advantages Congress put in place to spur entrepreneurship and investing in early-stage companies? In today's episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood sits down with Jeff Solomon, a seasoned CPA with over 35 years of experience, to unearth some of the most critical tax strategies that can significantly impact founders and angel investors alike. As they dive into the complexities of U.S. tax codes, they uncover and simplify valuable insights that can help maximize returns and minimize financial pitfalls for those investing in small, high-growth businesses. Jeff Solomon, a partner at Katz, Nannis and Solomon in Boston, specializes in working with tech-based and life science companies, including numerous angel and VC-backed startups. His firm, which boasts a team of 75 professionals, provides a comprehensive suite of accounting, auditing, and tax services aimed at helping fast-growth companies navigate the financial landscape. With decades of experience in advising entrepreneurs and investors, Jeff brings a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective on leveraging tax codes to benefit early-stage investments. This episode is a treasure trove for anyone involved in angel investing or looking to understand the financial intricacies of high-growth startups. Marcia and Jeff discuss essential topics like Qualified Small Business Stock (QSBs), the critical 1202 tax exemption that can make $10 million in gains tax-free, and the nuances of the R&D tax credit. They also explore lesser-known strategies like the 1244 code for handling investment losses and the 1045 rollover to maintain tax advantages. Whether you're an experienced investor or just getting started, these actionable insights are pivotal in shaping successful investment portfolios. Don't miss out on this must-listen episode that demystifies complex tax strategies and offers practical tips for optimizing your investments. To get the latest from Jeff Solomon, you can follow him below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffreysolomon1/ https://www.knscpa.com/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify <
Thu, August 15, 2024
Buckets, Broccoli, and Pizza: A Financial Advisor's Approach to Diversifying Investments
Have you ever wondered how your relationship with money can impact your ability to invest in the causes and companies you believe in? In this thought-provoking episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood explores the intersection of personal finance, values, and entrepreneurship with guest Sarah Charles, a veteran of the financial services industry. Sarah Charles brings nearly 25 years of experience to the conversation, having worked with high net worth individuals and families in traditional wealth management before starting her own advice-only planning firm, Sanctuary Financial Planning. Her unique approach to financial advice focuses on transparency, accessibility, and aligning resources with personal values. Throughout the episode, Marcia and Sarah discuss the importance of having a financial plan that not only accounts for personal goals and risk tolerance but also allows for purposeful investing in line with one's values. They discuss the potential for angel investing to generate both financial returns and emotional fulfillment by supporting causes, founders, and world-changing ideas that resonate with the investor. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in exploring how to navigate the world of investing while staying true to their values and making a positive impact on the entrepreneurial landscape. To get the latest from Sarah Charles, you can follow her below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-k-charles/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Thu, August 08, 2024
How Financial Experiences Impact Investing Decisions
What drives someone to become an entrepreneur, even in the face of significant financial challenges and personal hardships? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, we explore this question with Michelle Begina, a financial advisor and author of the groundbreaking book "Be Good With Money." Michelle grew up in a family that exemplified both extremes of financial success and failure, which ignited her lifelong obsession with understanding money and ultimately led her to a career dedicated to improving others' financial well-being. Michelle Begina joins host Marcia Dawood to share her compelling journey from a tumultuous financial upbringing to becoming an authority in financial advice. Known for her candid and insightful approach, Michelle discusses the painful yet transformative moments that shaped her relationship with money. In this gripping episode, listeners will gain invaluable insights into deciphering their own financial behaviors and unearthing the emotional flashpoints that influence their money and investing decisions. Michelle introduces the concept of "money secrecy" and discusses how, at times, our attitudes toward money can impede financial growth. She also shares practical exercises to help listeners reframe their "moneyisms," those ingrained beliefs about money picked up during childhood. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to transform their financial outlook and understand the deeper psychological factors that influence their financial life. To get the latest from Michelle Begina, you can follow her below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellearpinbeginacfp/ https://michelleab.com/ Michelle's Book - Be Good With Money Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadaw
Thu, August 01, 2024
Strategies for Global Angel Investing
Have you ever considered how global investing can reshape the entrepreneurial landscape and open new doors for startups? In this episode, host Marcia Dawood explores this intriguing concept with guest Cintia Mano, a Lisbon-based former corporate strategist turned angel investor. Cintia's journey from founding a startup to supporting other entrepreneurs globally provides a rich tapestry of insights into the world of early-stage capital and mentorship. Cintia reveals how her initial foray into entrepreneurship helped her understand the critical role of angel investors. This episode dives into her pivot from a traditional career to nurturing startups through COREangels, a unique collective that pools resources and expertise across borders to make impactful investments. This episode is a must-listen for anyone intrigued by global investing and its potential to accelerate startup growth, providing valuable insights into building diversified portfolios and fostering international collaboration for maximal impact. To get the latest from Cintia Mano, you can follow her below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cintiamano/ - A webinar about the contribution of angels on the returns of startups: ROI (coreangels.com) - COREangels site: www.coreangels.com Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Thu, July 25, 2024
The Future of Food Security and Agricultural Innovation
Have you ever pondered how entrepreneurship can be leveraged to tackle issues like food insecurity and support local agriculture? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, Marcia Dawood explores this intriguing question with Clancy Harrison, an expert in the food systems space. Together, they discuss how innovative business models can create a significant social impact. Clancy Harrison is the founder of the Food Dignity® Movement and a registered dietitian with extensive experience as a food service director and food pantry manager. Her work centers around bridging local farmers with communities in need, ensuring fair compensation for agricultural products while resolving food accessibility issues. This episode is a deep dive into Clancy's transformative approach to hunger relief that emphasizes dignity and sustainability. From pioneering equitable market systems to integrating advanced technologies in agriculture, Clancy's initiatives offer a fresh perspective on food security. Whether you're passionate about social entrepreneurship, sustainability, or community impact, this conversation is packed with insights that make it a must-listen. To get the latest from Clancy Harrison, you can follow her below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/clancycashharrison/ https://clancyharrison.com/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Thu, July 18, 2024
Entrepreneurial Lessons from a Founder turned Angel
Have you ever wondered how an entrepreneur transitions from building startups to influencing public policy and angel investing? In this compelling episode, host Marcia Dawood sits down with Rich Palmer to explore his dynamic journey. From working on Wall Street to founding multiple startups, surviving a brain aneurysm, and now serving on the board of the Angel Capital Association, Rich's story is one of resilience, vision, and impactful leadership. Rich offers a wealth of experience, having raised $120 million for a SaaS company and navigating the startup world. Now, as an influential angel investor and entrepreneur in residence at Babson, he shares invaluable insights into the interplay between entrepreneurship, funding, and public policy. Tune in to discover how Rich leveraged angel investments to grow his ventures and the pivotal role these investments play in fostering innovation. This episode is a must-listen for anyone in the entrepreneurial ecosystem, offering profound lessons on resilience, smart investing, and making a meaningful impact. To get the latest from Rich Palmer, you can follow him below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/therichpalmer/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Thu, July 11, 2024
Using the Five T's Framework for Smart Angel Investing
Have you ever wondered what it takes to support and nurture the next big idea in entrepreneurship? In this captivating episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, hosts Marcia Dawood and Craig Mullett dive into the world of angel investing, exploring how early-stage investment can transform fledgling companies into industry leaders. Craig Mullett, originally from South Africa, brings a wealth of experience to the conversation. Having studied in Europe and later moved to the U.S. to start his own M&A advisory business, Craig has a unique vantage point on the tech industry and early-stage investment. Now a key member of Connecticut's biggest angel group, Angel Investor Forum, Craig shares his journey from learning about angel investing to joining the board of the forum and becoming actively involved with the Angel Capital Association. Throughout the episode, Craig outlines his "Five T Framework" for evaluating startups and highlights the importance of scalability, team dynamics, and the technology or product's defensibility. Whether you're an aspiring investor, a startup founder, or simply curious about the world of entrepreneurship, Marcia and Craig offer compelling insights and practical takeaways that will leave you inspired and informed. To get the latest from Craig Mullett, you can follow him below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/craig-mullett-branison/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Thu, July 04, 2024
From Writing to Publishing a Book – A Glimpse Behind the Scenes of Marcia’s Journey
Have you ever wondered what it takes to bring a book to life, especially one centered around the dynamic world of entrepreneurship? This episode of The Angel Next Door podcast is a special edition of Minutes with Marcia, Part 2. In this episode, Marcia shares a detailed behind-the-scenes look into her journey of publishing the upcoming book, "Do Good While Doing Well," slated for release in September 2024. Pre-order at marciadawood.com/dogood Marcia isn't just talking about writing; she navigates the labyrinthine world of book publishing and gives a glimpse behind the scenes at how it all works. In this enriching episode, Marcia breaks down the complexities of the publishing industry, discussing the nuances of traditional, hybrid, and self-publishing. She shares her own experiences working with Amplify, a hybrid publisher, highlighting the advantages it offered in terms of support and expertise. With anecdotes about the editing process and the significance of marketing, Marcia also underscores the importance of the author's role in promoting their book. This is a must-listen for anyone interested in writing, publishing, or simply understanding the entrepreneurial mindset, as Marcia provides a clear roadmap for making your literary dreams a reality. Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Thu, June 27, 2024
From TEDx Talk to Writing a Book – A Glimpse Behind the Scenes of Marcia’s Journey
This episode of The Angel Next Door podcast is a special edition of Minutes with Marcia. In this episode, Marcia shares a detailed behind-the-scenes look into her journey of writing the upcoming book, "Do Good While Doing Well," slated for release in September 2024. Pre-order link here . The day this episode is releasing is June 27th, which also happens to be Marcia’s birthday. She is sharing her journey since so many have been asking as the book is getting ready to make it’s debut. In this quick episode, she candidly discusses her unexpected plunge into the world of writing. Despite her comfort zone being more in numbers and spreadsheets, Marcia was inspired by the feedback from her TEDx Charlotte speech in 2022 and decided to extend her impact by authoring a book. This episode, the first in a two-part series titled "Minutes with Marcia Book Part 1," provides a high-level overview of Marcia's journey from speech to manuscript. She gives us a look into her process, guided by AJ Harper's extensive workshop, and discusses how she developed the book's core message and structured her content. For anyone curious about the intersection of entrepreneurship, angel investing, and philanthropy, this episode is a must-listen. Marcia shares insights on making impactful investments accessible to more people, debunking the myth that angel investing is only for the rich and well-connected. Whether you're an aspiring author, a budding entrepreneur, or someone looking to make a real difference, this episode is packed with invaluable takeaways and inspiration. Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Thu, June 20, 2024
Breaking Retail Investing Norms
Have you ever wondered what it takes to turn a personal struggle into a thriving business? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, Marcia discusses with Vicky and Charisse Pasche their entrepreneurial journey, which transformed their frustration with ill-fitting fashion into the revolutionary brand Dapper Boi. Vicky Pasche, with a background in casino marketing, and Charisse Pasche, with experience in higher education and sales, founded Dapper Boi—a brand that defies traditional fashion norms and prioritizes fit and function over gender. Dapper Boi was conceived from Vicky's personal struggle with finding clothes that fit her body comfortably and stylishly. The couple’s commitment to solving this issue was so strong that they even launched the business during their honeymoon, turning their initial business idea into their "first baby." In this episode, listeners will hear about the inception of Dapper Boi, from the initial concept to its growth, fueled by a strong sense of community and inclusive marketing. Vicky and Charisse talk about their journey of appearing on Shark Tank, managing inventory in a startup, and the emotional stories from their customers whose lives have been changed by their products. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in entrepreneurship, fashion, and the power of inclusivity. It stands as a testament to how dedication, creativity, and genuine connection with customers can build not just a brand but a movement. To get the latest from Vicky and Charisse, you can follow them below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/vickypasche/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/charisse-pasche-b578a790/ https://www.dapperboi.com/ https://www.instagram.com/dapperboi/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.c
Thu, June 13, 2024
Women Empowering Women: The Power of Networking and Collaboration in Investing
Have you ever considered how women can leverage their influence and resources to drive impactful changes in entrepreneurship and investing? In this episode, Marcia engages in a dynamic discussion on women's leadership, angel investing, and the power of collective action with Julie Castro Abrams. Julie is a seasoned leader in social justice and shares her journey into angel investing and how and why she created How Women Lead and How Women Invest, organizations inspiring women to make positive change. From breaking glass ceilings in corporate boards to investing in ventures with a social impact focus, Julie is at the forefront of empowering women to make a difference. This episode is a must-listen for those interested in the intersection of entrepreneurship, gender equality, and social impact, offering practical insights and inspiration for women looking to drive positive change in the investment landscape. To get the latest from Julie Castro Abrams, you can follow her below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-castro-abrams/ https://www.howwomenlead.com/ https://www.howwomeninvest.com/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Thu, June 06, 2024
Three Takeaways as We Approach Our Podcast's Third Year
This episode of The Angel Next Door podcast is a special edition of Minutes with Marcia. In this episode, Marcia reflects on the impactful journey of the podcast and shares three powerful takeaways from our previous shows that could transform your understanding of entrepreneurship and investment. Whether you're an entrepreneur seeking advice and resources, an investor looking to diversify your portfolio, or just interested in the dynamic world of startups, today's episode will offer you valuable insights. She discusses the significance of supportive networks for entrepreneurs, explores why diversity in startups matters more than ever, and discusses the ever-evolving landscape of crowdfunding. Plus, Marcia will share exciting details about her upcoming book, which you can check out here ! Don’t miss the lessons we've garnered— listen now to find inspiration right next door! Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Thu, May 30, 2024
Demystifying Life Science Investing
What are the unique hurdles that entrepreneurs encounter in the complex field of life sciences? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, Yaniv Sneor, co-founder of the Mid Atlantic Bio Angels, shares his extensive experience in angel investing specifically within the life sciences arena. As an expert in navigating the intricacies of this sector, Yaniv provides critical insights into the detailed processes and strategies required for successful investments in life sciences. During the conversation, Yaniv sheds light on how the Mid Atlantic Bio Angels evaluate life science opportunities. He explains the organization's focused approach, which includes thorough due diligence, a global perspective for sourcing deals, and collaboration with experts worldwide to make informed decisions. He discusses the foundational reasons behind the inception of the group, emphasizing the necessity for specialized knowledge in effectively navigating life science investments. This episode is invaluable for anyone interested in the specialized field of life sciences investing. Yaniv clarifies the complexities of the sector, transforming what often seems like an enigmatic venture into a comprehensible and approachable subject. This episode addresses both the hurdles and strategies in life science investments, making this a crucial listen for both budding entrepreneurs and seasoned investors keen on exploring the dynamic intersection of healthcare and investment. To get the latest from Yaniv Sneor, you can follow him below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/yaniv-sneor-5534131/ https://bioangels.net/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Thu, May 23, 2024
Four Reasons start-ups fail and one of them is NOT money
Is creating a successful startup more about the product or the connection with your customers? This intriguing question sets the stage for a highly informative episode where we unpack the complex relationship between startups, customer engagement, and the transformative impact of purpose-driven branding with guest expert Brian Mac Mahon. Brian, with a wealth of experience from nurturing nearly 300 startups at ExpertDojo, shares his foresight on overcoming the biases that plague the startup ecosystem. His global perspective and involvement in the early stages of startup development provide a unique lens through which we can examine the keys to building a sustainable and emotionally resonant business. This episode is a condensed guide for both budding and established entrepreneurs on the vitality of customer relationships, the strategic use of outreach tools, and the untapped potential of blockchain technology. Brian's wisdom is not just theoretical; it's backed by stories of real-world successes and failures, making it an essential listen for anyone looking to fine-tune their entrepreneurial approach and secure a competitive edge in the marketplace. To get the latest from Brian Mac Mahon, you can follow him below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianmacmahon2/ https://expertdojo.com/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Thu, May 16, 2024
Navigating the AI Landscape: Exciting Opportunities and Strategies for Investors
Are you an angel investor looking to navigate the AI landscape and make strategic investment decisions? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood sits down with special guest Katie Taylor, the CEO of Narratize, an innovative AI company. Katie shares her journey in the AI space, from her time at Purdue University to becoming one of the seven developer ambassadors advising OpenAI with ChatGPT. She explains how Narratize’s approach to AI differs from other companies, emphasizing the importance of large language model agnosticism and responsible AI principles. This episode is a must-listen for investors seeking insights into the evolving AI marketplace and the strategies they can employ to make informed and impactful investment decisions. This episode offers a compelling exploration of the AI marketplace and the critical considerations for angel investors. Katie’s perspectives shed light on the evolving landscape of generative AI and the potential for its exponential growth. With insights on security, privacy, and diversity in AI leadership, this episode equips listeners with the essential knowledge to make informed investment decisions in the dynamic AI space. Whether you're an experienced angel investor or someone interested in the world of AI entrepreneurship, this episode provides valuable insights and thought-provoking discussions that make it a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of AI and investment. To get the latest from Katie Taylor, you can follow her below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathryn-katie-trauth-taylor/ https://www.narratize.com/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Thu, May 09, 2024
A Vision for America's Small Businesses
Learn about the world of entrepreneurship and the power of small businesses in the United States. In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood welcomes Congressman Aaron Bean to discuss his fascinating journey to becoming a member of the US House of Representatives. Congressman Bean's story is one of resilience and determination, as he talks about successfully building four small businesses, including a putt-putt golf business and a retail insurance agency, while also serving in various elected positions. As he shares his experiences, Congressman Bean emphasizes the importance of entrepreneurship and the role of government in supporting small businesses, making this episode a must-listen for anyone passionate about fostering entrepreneurship and economic growth. Throughout the conversation, Congressman Bean reflects on his journey from serving as a city commissioner and mayor to being elected to the Florida House of Representatives before becoming a member of the US House of Representatives. He highlights the challenges he faced, the victories he achieved, and the impact of his work on supporting small businesses. The episode dives into the role of government in creating an environment conducive to entrepreneurship, addressing regulations, and providing opportunities for private investors to support innovative ideas. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the intersection of politics and small business, highlighting the importance of engaging with government to foster an entrepreneurial spirit and drive economic progress. Congressman Bean's perspective offers a unique understanding of the legislative process and how it intertwines with the entrepreneurial landscape, making this episode essential listening for those interested in the future of small business and economic policies in the United States. To get the latest from Congressman Bean, you can follow him below! https://bean.house.gov/ https://aaronbean.com/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/</a
Thu, May 02, 2024
Using Philanthropic Capital to invest in For-profit Companies
How can philanthropic capital be used to drive investments in for-profit companies, particularly those led by underrepresented founders? In the latest episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, hosts Marcia Dawood are joined by Patrice and Leah Brickman, founders of Inspire Access, a 501(c)(3) organization aiming to mobilize philanthropic capital to support underrepresented founders in the entrepreneurial space. The episode dives into the experiences and insights of Patrice and Leah, who discuss the impact of investment capital on businesses, particularly those led by women and people of color, and how Inspire Access is pioneering a new approach to redirecting donor-advised funds toward mission-aligned investments, ultimately bridging the investment gap for underrepresented entrepreneurs. As Patrice and Leah share their expertise and experiences, they offer a compelling case for why redirecting philanthropic capital to support for-profit companies led by underrepresented founders is a crucial step in empowering and uplifting these entrepreneurs. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in impact investing, philanthropy, and promoting diversity and inclusion in entrepreneurship, as it offers a roadmap for driving positive change through strategic and purpose-driven investments. To get the latest from Patrice and Leah Brickman, you can follow them below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrice-brickman-2b46637b/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/leah-brickman/ https://www.inspireaccess.org Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Thu, April 25, 2024
Crowdfunding for the Main Street
Tune in to the latest episode of The Angel Next Door podcast as host Marcia Dawood sits down with George Cook, co-founder of Honeycomb Credit. George shares how the platform is revolutionizing crowdfunding for small businesses, addressing the challenges faced in accessing capital from traditional lenders. This insightful episode offers a compelling look at the impact of investment crowdfunding with microloans on Main Street entrepreneurs and its potential to shape the future of business financing. If you're interested in learning about the evolving landscape of small business funding and the role of crowdfunding in supporting local economies, this episode is a must-listen. To get the latest from George Cook, you can follow him below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-cook-honeycomb/ https://www.honeycombcredit.com/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Thu, April 18, 2024
Thinking Bigger: Elevating Women to Grow and Scale Fundable Companies
How does one pivot from humanitarian work to launching a game-changing business in the luxury camping industry to becoming a Venture Capitalist? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, Marcia sits down with Sarah Dusek, co-founder of Under Canvas and Enygma Ventures, to explore her remarkable journey from non-profit endeavors in Africa to revolutionizing outdoor hospitality to investing in innovative change. Sarah's pathway to success exemplifies the entrepreneurial courage and innovation needed to thrive in today's business climate. This discussion with Sarah isn't just about her transition to an accomplished entrepreneur; it's also about her shift to a venture capitalist with Enygma Ventures, focusing on female-led businesses in Africa. Confronting the fundraising challenges as a woman in business, Sarah now dedicates herself to empowering other female entrepreneurs, sharing lessons gleaned from her own experiences. To get the latest from Sarah Dusek, you can follow her below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahhdusek/ https://www.enygmaventures.com/ https://www.inc.com/magazine/202311/ben-sherry/how-a-pe-backed-glamping-company-grew-its-valuation-by-5x-in-just-13-months.html Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Thu, April 11, 2024
The SEC's Role in Empowering Entrepreneurs and Angel Investors
Are you an aspiring entrepreneur looking to navigate the complex world of small business capital formation, aka raising money? In the latest episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood engages in an insightful conversation with Stacey Bowers, Director of the Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation at the Securities and Exchange Commission. Stacey shares her extensive experience, ranging from working in securities law to representing founders and small businesses in raising capital, eventually leading her back to the SEC in a significant role. The episode goes into the crucial role of the Office of Advocacy in amplifying the voices of small businesses and investors to advance their interests in the capital markets. In a stimulating discussion, Stacey unveils the vital functions of the Office of Advocacy, shedding light on its mission to support small businesses, investors, and underrepresented entities. The office undertakes substantial outreach, collects data, and publishes an annual report that encapsulates the challenges and experiences of small businesses and investors. The episode emphasizes the array of educational resources available, including a glossary to demystify legal jargon and a funding roadmap to guide potential entrepreneurs in their capital-raising endeavors. With an emphasis on promoting awareness and engagement, this episode is a must-listen for both aspiring entrepreneurs and angel investors seeking comprehensive insights into small business capital formation and the vital support available through the SEC's Office of Advocacy. To get the latest from Stacey Bowers, you can follow her below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacey-bowers-1a65ba/ https://www.sec.gov/news/press-release/2024-3 2024 SEC Small Business Forum Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-nex
Thu, April 04, 2024
Demystifying Family Offices
Are you confident in the way the younger generation is approaching entrepreneurship and investment? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood sits down for an intriguing conversation with Sal Buscemi, an expert in family offices and investing. Sal shares his journey into the world of investing and demystifies the concept of family offices, shedding light on their unique perspectives and approaches. As the founder of a boutique multi-family office, Sal unveils invaluable insights into the world of family offices, offers advice for early stage investors, and discusses the changing landscape of wealth creation. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to gain a deeper understanding of family offices, early stage investing, and the evolving dynamics of wealth creation. With insightful discussions on strategies for engaging with family offices, navigating investment opportunities, and the long-term vision of wealth preservation, this episode is a compelling resource for aspiring entrepreneurs and seasoned investors alike. To get the latest from Sal Buscemi, you can follow him below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/salvatore-buscemi/ Sal's book Investing Legacy: How the .001% Invest - https://a.co/d/8BqCmTd https://salvatorebuscemi.com/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Thu, March 28, 2024
Rethinking Wine: How One Entrepreneur Revolutionized the Market with Archer Roose
Are female entrepreneurs facing different challenges compared to their male counterparts? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood sits down with Marian Leitner-Waldman, the founder of Archer Roose, a brand challenging the traditional wine industry by offering premium quality wine in cans. Marian shares her journey of building a successful brand in a predominantly male-dominated industry, her innovative approach to packaging and marketing, and the hurdles she faced as a female founder in the world of entrepreneurship. From her experiences navigating the wine industry to securing partnerships with major players like JetBlue and Elizabeth Banks, her story is an inspiring testament to resilience and the power of disrupting established norms. Marian's entrepreneurial journey began with a passion for building, from founding a nonprofit in high school to working with impactful organizations like the Gates Foundation. Her dedication to fostering social impact led her to challenge the status quo of the wine industry, where she identified a lack of options for consumers who simply wanted a single glass of wine without the snobbery often associated with the traditional wine culture. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of entrepreneurship, social impact, and innovation. Marian's journey serves as an inspiring example of how questioning established norms and pushing through obstacles can lead to transformative changes in traditional industries. Her insights into the challenges faced by female entrepreneurs provide valuable perspectives for both aspiring business owners and investors, offering a compelling narrative of resilience, innovation, and the pursuit of creating positive change. To get the latest from Marian Leitner-Waldman, you can follow her below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/marianleitner/ https://archerroose.com Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/com
Thu, March 21, 2024
Prioritizing Health for Business Success: Insights from a Peloton Instructor Turned Entrepreneur
Do you ever think about how our heart's work leads us to our heart's people? In the latest episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood dives into the world of entrepreneurship and the profound impact it can have on our lives. Joining her is the inspiring entrepreneur and wellness advocate, Nicole Meline, who shares her journey from being a Peloton instructor to becoming a successful entrepreneur with her platform, Alter Together. Nicole Meline's captivating storytelling takes listeners through her transformative entrepreneurial journey. From her initial foray into the world of fitness in New York City to ultimately launching her own wellness platform, Nicole's story is a testament to the power of following one's heart's desires. Throughout the episode, she eloquently articulates the fusion of her passion for fitness, her skills in leadership, and her unwavering commitment to wellness, culminating in the creation of Alter Together. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in entrepreneurship, wellness, or personal growth. Nicole Meline's insights into nurturing one's body and mindset to achieve both wealth and wellness offer thought-provoking perspectives on redefining success. As she discusses the correlation between wealth and wellness, listeners are encouraged to reevaluate their own definitions of success and explore the depth of their personal and professional journeys. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, an angel investor, or simply seeking inspiration for personal growth, this episode offers profound wisdom and invaluable insights into the intersection of entrepreneurship and holistic wellbeing. To get the latest from Nicole Meline, you can follow her below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolemeline/ Ignite 7-day Reset - https://alter.nicolemeline.com/programs/ignite-7-day-reset?cid=3591792&permalink=ignite-day-1-welcome https://www.nicolemeline.com/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://
Thu, March 14, 2024
Navigating Fundraising in Women's Health Tech
Have you ever wondered what it takes to succeed as an underrepresented founder in the world of entrepreneurship? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood engages in a riveting conversation with guest Alison Greenberg, the co-founder of Ruth Health, a virtual care platform for pregnancy and beyond. Alison shares her journey as an entrepreneur and her mission to revolutionize the healthcare space by making maternity care more accessible and affordable as well as caring for all. She discusses the challenges of raising capital as an underrepresented founder and provides insightful advice for both entrepreneurs and angel investors. Alison discusses her passion for addressing the gaps in maternity care and her entrepreneurial journey in founding Ruth Health. With a focus on developing the doula workforce and embracing telehealth, Ruth Health aims to transform the landscape of birthwork, advocating for the recognition and importance of doulas in improving pregnancy outcomes. Alison's insights into the fundraising journey and the significance of having a clear investment thesis provide valuable perspectives for entrepreneurs and angel investors alike. Tune in to this episode to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by underrepresented founders in healthcare and entrepreneurship, and to learn from Alison's impactful journey of building a mission-driven company. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, an angel investor, or simply passionate about making a difference in healthcare, this episode is a must-listen for its inspiring narrative, practical advice, and thought-provoking insights into inclusive capitalism and the impact of innovative healthcare solutions. To get the latest from Alison Greenberg, you can follow her below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/greenbergalison/ https://ruthhealth.com/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/</a
Thu, March 07, 2024
Revolutionizing the Venture Capital Landscape with Fabric VC
Are you ready to dive into the world of entrepreneurship and venture capital with an innovative twist? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood chats with the vibrant Laurel Mintz, the Founder and General Partner of Fabric VC. Laurel's journey from a background in law and marketing to becoming a successful entrepreneur and venture capitalist is a captivating testament to her determination and forward-thinking mindset. Her unique perspective and passion for supporting diversity in venture funding sets the stage for an inspiring and informative conversation that sheds light on the power of women in finance and the future of investment. In this engaging episode, Laurel Mintz shares her personal investor journey and the pivotal moment that led her to start a venture capital firm. She discusses the origins of Fabric VC and the mission behind it, emphasizing the importance of weaving together diverse founders with funding. With a commitment to supporting underrepresented entrepreneurs, Laurel discusses the fabric thread count, a second layer of diligence that focuses on companies needing support from a marketing perspective. Her insightful approach to investing and dedication to empowering women in the financial landscape make this a must-listen episode for anyone interested in the intersection of entrepreneurship, diversity, and venture funding. To get the latest from Laurel Mintz, you can follow her below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurel-mintz/ https://www.fabricvc.com/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Thu, February 29, 2024
Championing Diversity in VC Funding through Emmeline Ventures' Innovative Approach
Are you interested in learning how to bridge the gap in entrepreneurship for underrepresented communities? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood sits down with Naseem Sayani, co-founder of Emmeline Ventures, to discuss her journey as an angel investor and her dedication to supporting diverse founders. Naseem shares how her background in management consulting and her passion for women's health, financial inclusion, and sustainability led her to become an angel investor and co-found Emmeline Ventures with her partners La Keisha Landrum Pierre and Azin Radsan Van Alebeek. They dive into the challenges faced by female founders in securing venture capital funding, the importance of diverse representation in investment, and the need to reshape the conditioning around risk and failure for women in the entrepreneurship space. This episode provides a captivating insight into the world of angel investing and the invaluable work being done by Emmeline Ventures to support underrepresented founders. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by female founders and the vital role of investors in driving equity and inclusion in the startup landscape, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in entrepreneurship, venture capital, and fostering diversity and inclusion in business. To get the latest from Naseem Sayani, you can follow her below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nsayani/ https://www.emmelineventures.vc/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Thu, February 22, 2024
Navigating the Future of Capital Markets with SEC's Commissioner Uyeda
Can the gatekeepers of capital truly predict the next groundbreaking innovation, or does overregulation stifle potential? This question sits at the heart of today’s pressing conversation with Commissioner Uyeda on The Angel Next Door Podcast with host Marcia Dawood. Entrepreneurs and innovators face a myriad of challenges, but how can regulation strike the right balance between protection and empowerment? This episode dives into the complexities of capital formation, regulatory insight, and the budding entrepreneur's right to risk. Commissioner Uyeda, currently serving his second term at the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. Sworn in December 2023 for another five-year term, the commissioner is poised to witness significant rule adoptions and finalizations, especially under Chair Gensler's directive leadership. Appointed as one of five bipartisan SEC commissioners, Uyeda is instrumental in ensuring the regulatory body remains effective and cost-efficient amid a rapidly evolving electronic era. This episode is a must-listen for anyone involved or interested in the startup ecosystem, angel investing, and the broader financial landscape of entrepreneurial ventures. Marcia and Commissioner Uyeda touch on pivotal issues, from the nonpartisanship needed within the SEC to the nuanced differences between fraud and investment losses, as well as the practical concerns of raising the financial thresholds for accredited investors. With an eye towards inclusive innovation and insights that could shape the future of investment policies, The Angel Next Door Podcast shines a spotlight on the delicate interplay between regulatory frameworks and the inherent risk-taking that fuels American ingenuity. To get the latest from Commissioner Uyeda, you can follow him below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-uyeda-5227aa5/ https://www.sec.gov/news/speech/uyeda-remarks-securities-regulation-institute-012224 https://www.sec.gov/about/commissioners/mark-t-uyeda Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify</
Thu, February 15, 2024
Empowering Entrepreneurs: Congressman Magaziner's Advocacy for Innovation and Growth Opportunities
Have you ever considered the role of angel investors in fostering and supporting the entrepreneurial spirit in America? In this episode of "The Angel Next Door Podcast," host Marcia Dawood sits down with Congressman Magaziner to explore the intersection of innovation, entrepreneurship, and public policy. Congressman Magaziner has served as Rhode Island's general treasurer and now represents Rhode Island in Congress, where he focuses on expanding economic opportunity, defending democracy, and promoting innovation. The episode dives into his journey, the importance of a strong social safety net for fostering innovation, and the need for pro-innovation policies to maintain American leadership in a global context. To get the latest from Congressman Magaziner, you can follow him below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethmagaziner/ https://sethmagaziner.com/ https://magaziner.house.gov/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Thu, February 08, 2024
The Power of Inclusive Investing: Breaking Barriers and Bridging the Gap in VC
In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, Lorine Pendleton, a venture capitalist and founder of 125 Ventures, shares her inspiring journey from angel investor to founding a fund focused on underrepresented founders and impactful startups. She discusses the importance of diversity in venture capital, the potential for financial success in investing in underrepresented founders, and the intersection of technology, sports, and media in the entrepreneurial landscape. Lorine's impactful story and insightful commentary make this episode a compelling exploration of the transformative power of diversity in the world of angel investing and venture capital, making it a must-listen for aspiring entrepreneurs and investors seeking deeper insights into the entrepreneurial ecosystem. To get the latest from Lorine Pendleton, you can follow her below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorinependleton/ https://www.portfolia.co/ https://125ventures.vc Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Thu, February 01, 2024
Preparing Hardware Startups for Fundraising Success
Are you an aspiring entrepreneur looking for inspiration and guidance to navigate the world of startups and venture capital? In this episode, Christina Tamer, Vice President for Venture Programs at Venturewell, shares her insights and experiences in supporting entrepreneurship. With nearly a decade of experience, Christina discusses her journey from working at a venture fund to her impactful role at Venturewell. She emphasizes the importance of supporting entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds and the transformative power of technology-focused startups. Listeners are in for an insightful conversation as Christina Tamer provides an overview of Venturewell's mission and the Aspire program, a vital initiative that supports technology startups on their journey to securing seed funding. The discussion highlights the critical role of Aspire in preparing scientific founders and technical entrepreneurs to communicate effectively with investors and attract potential funding. Additionally, the episode touches on the Catalyst program and its impact in building a more diverse and inclusive angel investing community, emphasizing the significance of empowering underrepresented individuals in the entrepreneurial ecosystem. If you're seeking inspiration and practical advice on entrepreneurship, this episode is a must-listen, offering valuable insights from an industry expert passionate about promoting economic development through innovation and venture investment. To get the latest from Christina Tamer, you can follow her below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinatamer/ VentureWell - https://venturewell.org/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Thu, January 25, 2024
Revolutionizing Startup Support: Insights into Angel Investing and Entrepreneurial Empowerment
Are women entrepreneurs facing obstacles in paying themselves fairly, which might be impacting their businesses in more ways than one? In the episode, Marcia explores this topic with guest Nicola Corzine, the CEO of Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center and an experienced angel investor. Nicola shares her insights into entrepreneurs' challenges and how they impact their businesses. She also discusses the open deal source model she developed to provide fair access to startup founders and the focus of Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center on providing free resources and support for entrepreneurs, particularly in terms of gender and race equity in entrepreneurship. To get the latest from Nicola Corzine, you can follow her below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolacorzine/ Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center - https://thecenter.nasdaq.org/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Thu, January 18, 2024
Backstage Chronicles: Innovations and Challenges in Fund and SPV Management
Have you ever wondered about the hidden complexities and risks involved in managing special purpose vehicles (SPVs) and funds in angel investing? In this episode Marcia and repeat guest Denise Dunlap, co-founder of Loon Creek Capital, do a deep dive into SPVs and fund administration. Denise, a seasoned angel investor, shares her invaluable insights and expertise, shedding light on the often overlooked long-term implications and administrative challenges of setting up and managing SPVs and funds. She unveils the critical considerations and risks associated with choosing service providers, drawing from real-life examples that underscore the necessity of assessing the sustainability and business models of such entities. Offering a glimpse into the intricate regulatory and legal landscape of managing SPVs and funds, Denise provides essential guidance for angel investors and entrepreneurs navigating the dynamic world of angel investing and fund administration. To get the latest from Denise Dunlap, you can follow her below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/denisedunlap55/ Loon Creek Capital Denise's 1st episode on The Angel Next Door - Denise Dunlap talks Revenue Based Financing Denise's 2nd episode on The Angel Next Door - Surprising Lessons Learned About Revenue-Based Financing Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Thu, January 11, 2024
Strategies, Tax Benefits, and Insights into the Midwest Startup Scene
Have you ever thought about the potential for angel investing in the heartland of America? In the latest episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood sits down with Bart Dillashaw, a startup attorney and angel investor based in the middle of Nebraska. Bart shares his journey into angel investing and how he has been involved with the Nebraska Angels, an Angel Capital Association member, for over a decade. He discusses the group's significant growth and its ranking as one of the top ten most active angel groups in the country. Bart also sheds light on the types of industries they primarily invest in, such as B2B SaaS, and talks about the intricacies of angel investing, including the accredited investor definition, tax advantages, and innovative strategies for maximizing investment opportunities. Bart’s extensive experience in the startup and angel investing landscape provides valuable knowledge and expertise that can inspire and empower both seasoned and aspiring angel investors. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in angel investing, along with practical insights on accessing deal flow, diversifying investments, maximizing tax advantages, and driving impactful growth for early-stage companies. The episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in angel investing, entrepreneurship, and the evolving landscape of early-stage investments in the heartland of America. To get the latest from Bart Dillashaw, you can follow him below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bart-dillashaw-a0a658/ Enterprise Legal Studio - https://elegalstudio.com/ Nebraska Angels - https://www.nebraskaangels.org/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Thu, January 04, 2024
Anticipating 2024: Trends in Angel Investor Strategies, AI Industry, and Startup Challenges
What trends and shifts can we expect to see in the world of angel investing and venture capital in 2024? In the latest episode of Minutes with Marcia, host Marcia Dawood recaps the significant changes and trends from the past few years and anticipates what the future holds for the investing landscape. The episode covers the resilience of angel investors amidst economic fluctuations and the evolving methods of early-stage investing, including the preferences of the upcoming Gen Z investors. Marcia emphasizes the significance of data-driven due diligence, the role of board members in startup success, and the potential challenges and opportunities that may emerge in the angel investing world in the upcoming years. In this insightful episode, Marcia shares her reflections on the recent years in venture capital and angel investing, highlighting the pivotal moments in the investment landscape and discussing the prospects for 2024. https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2023/12/18/recession-economy-inflation/ 2023 Angel Funders Report - https://www.angelcapitalassociation.org/angel-funders-report-2023/ 2023 OASB Annual Report - https://www.sec.gov/files/2023-oasb-annual-report.pdf Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Thu, December 28, 2023
In Remembrance of Bill Payne: A Tribute to His Contributions in Angel Investing
In this heartfelt tribute episode, Marcia Dawood honors the iconic angel investor, Bill Payne, who passed away the week of December 20, 2023. Through a touching reflection on Bill's immense contributions to the world of angel investing, Marcia shares personal anecdotes and highlights Bill's pivotal role in shaping the landscape of angel investing. Using excerpts from an earlier episode featuring Bill, listeners gain insight into his journey into angel investing and his passion for educating and mentoring entrepreneurs and investors. Bill's unwavering dedication and wisdom leave a lasting impact, prompting an outpouring of tributes from the global community and a commitment to preserving his invaluable teachings. This tribute provides a touching exploration of Bill's journey and his unwavering commitment to educating, mentoring, and shaping the angel investing landscape, prompting a collective dedication to preserving and sharing his wisdom with future generations of investors and entrepreneurs. Bill Payne Bio from The Grainger College of Engineering - https://grainger.illinois.edu/alumni/distinguished/William-Payne Ann and Bill Payne ACA Angel University - https://www.angelcapitalassociation.org/aca-angel-university/ The Angel Next Door episode with Ann and Bill Payne - https://the-angel-next-door.simplecast.com/episodes/ann-and-bill-payne-w74vnWdx Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Thu, December 21, 2023
The Changing Face of Angel Investing: Data Reveals New Dynamics
In this short episode of Minutes with Marcia (Part 1 of 2), host Marcia Dawood dives into the recent data released by the Angel Capital Association (ACA), the Securities and Exchange Commission, and insights from Dr. Ron Weissman, the current chair of the ACA. The episode reflects on the significant shifts in the venture capital climate over the past two years, highlighting the challenges faced by entrepreneurs in accessing capital and the impact on angel investments. Marcia also emphasizes the importance of angel investors expanding their knowledge of the various funding avenues available to entrepreneurs, particularly regulation crowdfunding which is being utilized by more underrepresented founders. Listeners are immersed in an insightful analysis of the 2021 and 2022 fiscal years in the world of angel investments, revealing the impact of market fluctuations on funding availability and job creation. The episode leaves the audience anticipating part two, where Marcia promises to explore future trends in angel investments for 2024. 2023 Angel Funders Report - https://www.angelcapitalassociation.org/angel-funders-report-2023/ 2023 OASB Annual Report - https://www.sec.gov/files/2023-oasb-annual-report.pdf Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Thu, December 14, 2023
Embracing Profit and Purpose: Exploring the Potential of B Corp Certification
In this episode, Marcia dives into the world of B Corps with guest Anne Chambers. The episode begins with a question that sparks curiosity: Are B Corps the future of business? Anne shares her expertise as a B Corp certified entrepreneur and sheds light on the importance of these certifications in today's business landscape. Anne shares her journey from working at Procter and Gamble to starting her own agencies and founding her current company, 17 Ways. The conversation revolves around the concept of B Corps and the impact they can have on society and the environment. Anne also discusses the value of aligning business goals with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the potential for B Corps to drive positive change in the world. Marcia and Anne discuss how B Corps differ from Benefit Corps, the challenges faced by businesses striving for impact, and the potential for B Corps to revolutionize the way we do business. Don't miss this enlightening conversation that will inspire you to consider the future of business and the role we all have in creating a better world. To get the latest from Anne Chambers, you can follow her below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/annechambers1/ 17Ways - https://www.17ways.co/ UN's 17 Sustainable Goals - https://sdgs.un.org/goals Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Thu, December 07, 2023
Demystifying Femtech - Pioneering Breakthroughs and Transforming Women's Healthcare
In the latest episode, Marcia welcomes guest Brittany Barreto, an expert in femtech and founder of FemHealth Insights, to discuss how femtech is revolutionizing women's health and empowering female founders to create solutions for a trillion-dollar market. Brittany Barreto is a scientist by training and a passionate advocate for women's health. With her background in molecular and human genetics, she shares her journey from being a nerdy geneticist to a successful entrepreneur in the femtech industry. Brittany's first startup was the world's first DNA-based dating app. Now focusing on the broader femtech industry, Brittany discusses the importance of addressing the unique health needs of women and the tremendous potential for innovation in this underserved industry. This episode dives deep into the challenges and opportunities in femtech, highlighting the need for innovative solutions that go beyond "me too" products. Brittany emphasizes the importance of investing in first-ever products that address critical women's health issues like endometriosis and improving the patient experience in areas such as pelvic floor health. She also shares valuable insights into the femtech market, including the growth of the industry, potential exit opportunities, and the necessity of considering sex and gender in scientific research and product design. Whether you're an investor, a startup founder, or simply interested in the future of women's health, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to tap into the trillion-dollar potential of femtech. To get the latest from Brittany Barreto, you can follow her below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/brittanybarreto/ FemHealth Insights - https://www.femhealthinsights.com Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Thu, November 30, 2023
Demystifying Investing using Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) – Part I
Is investing with Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) a complex and somewhat exclusive realm or can it be simplified and democratized? Nik Talreja, co-founder and CEO of Sydecar IO, joins Marcia Dawood on this enlightening episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast to offer some intriguing answers that challenge the norms. Nik, possessing a rich background in law and investments, has spent considerable time rubbing shoulders with venture capitalists, which led him to establish the remarkable Sydecar platform. As a passionate innovator seeking to alleviate investment complexities, Nik Talreja was born to be a game changer. He began his journey investing in Israeli startups and quickly noticed a gap in the marketplace for efficient SPV management. Unhappy with the services provided by vendors, Nik and his co-founder decided to take matters into their own hands. They created a fund called 18 Ventures, and ultimately, Sydecar was born. The platform began as a vital tool for their investors, but it rapidly gained popularity among other managers who were desperately seeking similar solutions. In this episode, Nik Talreja demystifies the intricate process of managing small-scale investments through SPVs, shedding light on how Sydecar standardizes and automates complex procedures – right from raising capital to issuing K-1 forms. The platform’s potential has expanded beyond just venture capital workflows and now serves the private market investing industry as a whole. As Sydecar aims to support emerging and mid to late stage managers, as well as fintech partners, this episode is a must-listen for entrepreneurs, investors, and all stakeholders in the private sector who want to streamline their operations. To get the latest from Nik Talreja, you can follow him below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/niktalreja/ Sydecar.io - https://www.sydecar.io/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Thu, November 23, 2023
Minutes with Marcia: Do Good While Doing Well
This episode is introducing a new type of podcast episode - Minutes with Marcia. She explains that these episodes are shorter, around four to six minutes, to cater to the overwhelming amount of content that people are exposed to nowadays. This first installment is addressing the ability to do good while also doing well. She goes on to discuss how angel investing provides an opportunity to achieve both emotional and financial rewards. Marcia highlights the risks that come with angel investing but emphasizes that many angels invest in early-stage companies because they care about the big problems these companies are trying to solve. She shares examples of angel investments in companies working towards solving important issues like Alzheimer's disease and women's health. Marcia explains that angel investments are not solely driven by financial gains, but also by the desire to make a positive impact in the world. She emphasizes the importance of diversifying investment portfolios to mitigate risks and continues to advocate for the support and funding of entrepreneurs who tirelessly work to solve challenging problems. The episode concludes with Marcia's call to action, encouraging listeners to consider becoming the change they want to see in the world by supporting startups in their own communities. Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Thu, November 16, 2023
Demystifying the Friends and Family Round
Have you ever wondered how difficult it is for startups to find early money? In this short episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood demystifies the friends and family round, shedding light on the challenges and potential solutions for entrepreneurs seeking funding at the very beginning stages of their journey. The episode is divided into three parts: raising from friends and family, alternative options for those without a support network, and the possibilities of non-dilutive funding. Marcia explains how entrepreneurs can structure their fundraising efforts, the importance of building strong relationships with potential investors early on, and the benefits of leveraging non dilutive funding sources. Listeners are encouraged to approach funding with the right mindset and effectively communicate with investors throughout their entrepreneurial journey. How To Raise a Friends And Family Round on fi.co The No. 1 thing entrepreneurs don’t spend enough time doing Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Thu, November 09, 2023
Lessons Learned from Raising Over $200 Million
Have you ever wondered what it takes to successfully raise funds for a startup? In this thought-provoking episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood sits down with Colin Gardiner, an operator in residence at Techstars and a seasoned investor with a track record of raising over $200 million. Colin shares his journey into the world of angel investing, starting with his parents' entrepreneurial background and their experience raising capital for their business. Throughout the episode, he offers valuable insights and lessons learned from his own fundraising experiences, emphasizing the importance of storytelling, communication, and strategic forecasting for founders seeking investment. Colin highlights the importance of setting up a strong foundation for fundraising, from anchoring valuation to building relationships and consistently updating investors. Colin also emphasizes the value of storytelling and how it can make a significant impact on securing investment. Listeners will gain valuable insights on strategic forecasting, under-promising and overdelivering, and effectively communicating a company's progress to investors. Ultimately, this episode serves as a comprehensive guide for anyone interested in the intricacies of successful fundraising in the startup world. To get the latest from Colin Gardiner, you can follow him below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/colingardiner/ Colin's podcast :Wannabe Angels" - https://wannabeangels.com/ Marcia's episode on Wannabe Angels - https://wannabeangels.com/p/importance-of-investing-in-diverse#details https://www.techstars.com/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Thu, November 02, 2023
Beyond Hard Work: Discovering the Creative Path to Success In Startup World
How can entrepreneurs tap into their creativity to become more well-rounded and successful? In this episode, Marcia sits down with Susie deVille, speaker, author and Founder & CEO of the Innovative & Creativity Institute. Building a business is hard work and Covid certainly didn’t make things easier; deVille offers insights on how to navigate uncertainty, make bold decisions, and build self-trust. Drawing from her own experiences and her book "Buoyant: The Entrepreneur's Guide to Becoming Wildly Successful, Creative, and Free," deVille emphasizes the importance of connecting to one's innate creativity and redefining the traditional notions of hard work. Through practical strategies and the power of inspiration, entrepreneurs can find success and freedom in their journey. Susie deVille's impressive background in anthropology, publishing, investing, and coaching (just to name a few) is the perfect foundation for her discussion on creativity and entrepreneurship. Having faced personal and professional challenges, deVille has learned firsthand the limitations of the prevalent advice given to entrepreneurs. She challenges the notion that success can only be achieved through constant hard work and hustle. Instead, deVille presents a new approach based on creativity and self-expression. In this episode, deVille introduces practical strategies for entrepreneurs to tap into their creativity. deVille also introduces the concept of the five M's: morning pages, meditation, movement, moments of inspired learning, and making something. By incorporating these practices into their daily lives, entrepreneurs can unlock their creative potential, make bolder decisions, and foster success in their endeavors. This episode serves as a guide for entrepreneurs and angel investors looking to embrace their creativity and harness it for greater success and fulfillment in their business and personal lives. To get the latest from Susie deVille, you can follow her below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/susiedeville/ The Alchemist The Artist's Way Buoyant Book Trailer <a href="https://strea
Thu, October 26, 2023
Uncovering Hidden Gems: Exploring the Investment Ecosystem in America's Heartland
Have you ever wondered what drives the innovation and entrepreneurial spirit in a city? Especially a city in the middle of the country? Well, in this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, we dive into the world of entrepreneurship in Columbus, Ohio, and explore how the city has become a hub for startups and angel investing with guest Parker MacDonell. In this episode, we learn about his involvement with Rev One Ventures, a nonprofit organization that not only invests in startups through its startup studio but also manages a series of investment funds. Throughout the conversation, Parker shares his insights into successful and not-so-successful investments, and how he found his niche in B2B software and life sciences companies. He also highlights the role of collaboration among angel investors and the importance of learning from others with different expertise. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or an angel investor yourself, you won't want to miss Parker MacDonell's fascinating journey and his contribution to the vibrant startup ecosystem in Columbus. To get the latest from Parker MacDonell, you can follow him below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/parker-macdonell-4762005/ Learn More about RapChat - https://rapchat.com Check out this blog from the late John Huston - https://www.angelcapitalassociation.org/blog/ohio-techangel-funds-success-by-aligning-entrepreneur-and-angel-goals/ Register to attend the ACA 2024 - The Summit of Angel Investing in Columbus, Ohio happening May 13-15, 2024 https://events.angelcapitalassociation.org/summit2024 Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Thu, October 19, 2023
Bridging the Funding Gap with AI Matching Platform, Scroobious
Why does gender bias persist in fundraising, preventing many deserving entrepreneurs from accessing the funding they need? In this episode Marcia is joined by founder and angel investor, Allison Byers. They discuss the need for awareness and innovation to overcome gender inequity in venture capital. Allison Byers, a two-time founder and experienced operator in tech companies, shares her journey from being on the founding team of a medical device company to becoming an angel investor. She highlights the inefficiencies and gender bias she encountered during the fundraising process, which inspired her to start Scroobious. Scroobious is a marketplace to more easily connect entrepreneurs to investors and investors to the companies they want to support. The episode underscores the importance of awareness in tackling the funding gap in entrepreneurship. By uncovering the biases ingrained within the venture capital industry, Allison and Marcia emphasize the need for comprehensive education and support for founders, enabling them to present their opportunities in a way that resonates with investors. Through the tools Scroobious offers, entrepreneurs gain access to quality resources and guidance, helping them navigate the fundraising landscape and increase their investability. To get the latest from Allison Byers, you can follow her below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/allison-byers/ Read more about Dana Kanze's data here: https://hbr.org/2017/06/male-and-female-entrepreneurs-get-asked-different-questions-by-vcs-and-it-affects-how-much-funding-they-get Watch Dana Kanze's TED Talk here: https://www.ted.com/speakers/dana_kanze More on Scroobious: https://www.scroobious.com Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.ti
Thu, October 12, 2023
Board Dynamics and Growth: Lessons on Balancing Investor Influence for Early-Stage Startups
Do advisors truly add value to early-stage companies, or are they just a box to check off? In this episode, Marcia explores how to best utilize advisors and eventually a board of directors with guest Kirsten Moorefield, co-founder of Cloverleaf. Kirsten shares her insights on how to leverage advisors effectively and avoid common pitfalls. She emphasizes the importance of finding advisors who align with a company's specific needs and warns against the practice of giving board roles solely based on investment. As co-founder of Cloverleaf, a platform that helps teams improve collaboration and productivity, Kirsten discusses the challenges she and her partner faced when starting their tech company with limited knowledge and connections. Through trial and error, they learned the value of being specific when seeking advice and leveraging the expertise of advisors who could provide practical help. The episode dives into the nuances of valuation, early-stage funding, and the importance of traction beyond revenue in determining a company's potential for success. Kirsten discusses her own experiences with raising funding and the lessons she learned along the way. She emphasizes the role of customer feedback and genuine market interest as indicators of traction, rather than relying solely on monetary investments. Overall, this episode provides valuable insights for both founders and investors, highlighting the importance of strategic advisors and the impact they can have on a company's growth and success. To get the latest from Kirsten Moorefield, you can follow her below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirstenmoorefield/ Read more about Queen City Angels: https://www.qca.com Cloverleaf Board Member Sue Bevan Baggott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suebaggott1/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Thu, October 05, 2023
The Journey of Disabled Entrepreneurs: Overcoming Challenges and Finding Success
Continuing the conversation from last week’s episode with Diego Mariscal about the lack of funding going to disabled entrepreneurs, Marcia is joined by the inspiring Keely Cat-Wells to explore her own experiences in the world of entrepreneurship. Keely shares her personal journey of resilience and determination, from her dreams of becoming a professional dancer to starting a talent agency exclusively for representing disabled individuals. The episode dives into Keely's mission to provide equitable opportunities for disabled talent in the entertainment industry and her recent venture into creating a scalable solution to bridge the gap between underrepresented talent and meaningful employment. Keely recounts her unexpected path to entrepreneurship, propelled by her own firsthand experiences with ableism and discrimination. From being dismissed by the medical system to facing exclusion in the workplace, Keely's determination to champion disabled talent fueled her journey. The episode showcases her groundbreaking work with C Talent, the talent agency she founded, and the subsequent acquisition that led her to venture into the tech space with Making Space. As disabled individuals face barriers to traditional employment opportunities, Keely's venture, Making Space, empowers companies to access pre-qualified, underrepresented talent, while simultaneously addressing issues of recruitment, retention, and turnover. By leveraging technology and creating a Trojan horse effect, Keely is determined to ensure that diverse candidates, including disabled individuals from low-income communities, can secure and thrive in meaningful employment. Be prepared to be inspired and educated as Keely shares her experiences, triumphs, and powerful vision for a more accessible and equitable future. To get the latest from Keely Cat-Wells, you can follow her below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/keelycatwells/ Keely's website - https://keelycatwells.com/ Making Space Media - https://makingspacemedia.com/ C-Talent - https://www.whalar.com/c-talent Diego Mariscal's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/diego-mariscal-6363787a/ Watch Diego's GMA segment - https://www.goodmorningamerica.com/GMA3/video/organization-support-disabled-people-mentorship-101872639 Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: <a href="https://dashboard.simplecast.com/accounts/4c20d7e5-44f6-41cc-a977-2598a0765e16/shows/82a63201-51be-4f68-b610-6c0b3a1ef019/epis
Thu, September 28, 2023
Disrupting the Investment Space for Entrepreneurs with Disabilities
Have you ever wondered why entrepreneurs with disabilities are so underrepresented in the startup world? In this episode of "The Angel Next Door Podcast," host Marcia Dawood explores this thought-provoking question with her guest, Diego Mariscal. Diego, who was born with cerebral palsy, is a passionate advocate for disability-focused entrepreneurship. As the founder of an accelerator program for founders with disabilities, Diego shares his insights and experiences to shed light on the challenges and opportunities faced by this community. Diego Mariscal, a pioneer and disruptor in the disability space, joins Marcia to discuss the immense potential of entrepreneurship among people with disabilities. With 1 billion individuals having a disability, Diego highlights the untapped market and the need for inclusive investment practices. He shares his personal journey as both an entrepreneur and an advocate, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and celebrating disabilities as a form of diversity. The episode delves into Diego's efforts to create an ecosystem for disabled entrepreneurs, the significance of Disability Pride Month, and his plans for a groundbreaking micro fund focused on funding startups led by individuals with disabilities. To get the latest from Diego Mariscal, you can follow him below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/diego-mariscal-6363787a/ Check out Diego's Tedx Talk here - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JVG94W0gBPc Watch Diego's GMA segment - https://www.goodmorningamerica.com/GMA3/video/organization-support-disabled-people-mentorship-101872639 Keely Cat-Wells - https://www.linkedin.com/in/keelycatwells/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Thu, September 21, 2023
Why Female Entrepreneurs Get Less Funding
Why do female entrepreneurs receive less funding than their male counterparts? In this solo episode, Marcia focuses in on the various factors contributing to the lack of funding for women, including biased questions during the fundraising process and the perception that women start slower-growing, less scalable businesses. She also explores the importance of diversifying the pool of investors and expanding networks to create more opportunities for women in the startup world. Marcia highlights research findings and shares insights on how female entrepreneurs can navigate the funding landscape more effectively. She also discusses the upcoming documentary "Show Her the Money" and its mission to raise awareness and spark change. With a focus on creating a more equitable startup ecosystem, Marcia emphasizes the need for ongoing conversation, networking, and collective action to move beyond the current 3% mark and empower women to secure the funding they deserve. Show Her the Money movie trailer: https://showherthemoneymovie.com Get tickets for Opening Night in Philly here: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/thewomensfilmfestival/993793# Connect with Catherine Gray on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/catherinelgray/ Read more from Dana Kanze here: https://hbr.org/2017/06/male-and-female-entrepreneurs-get-asked-different-questions-by-vcs-and-it-affects-how-much-funding-they-get Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Thu, September 14, 2023
Surprising Lessons Learned About Revenue-Based Financing
Curious about revenue-based financing? In this episode, Marcia sits down with Denise Dunlap, co-founder of Sage Growth Capital, to discuss this unique model of funding, which combines elements of both loans and equity investments. Denise shares how her experience as an angel investor led her to start Sage Growth Capital, with a focus on supporting companies that may not qualify for traditional equity investment. With an emphasis on revenue-based financing, Denise explains how they offer funding to companies with recurring revenue streams, supporting businesses in various industries. Denise also sheds light on the lessons she and her partners have learned over the past couple of years. As they continue to invest in companies planning to raise equity funding, Denise discusses the unexpected recognition of their value proposition. She addresses the average check size they provide to companies and sheds light on the repayment timeline, dependent on the business's performance. Gain insight into the true cost of equity and the benefits of revenue-based financing in this captivating conversation. To get the latest from Denise Dunlap, you can follow her below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/denisedunlap55/ Learn more about Sage Growth Capital - https://www.sagegrowthcapital.com *All other companies discussed in this episode are linked on their website above. Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Thu, September 07, 2023
The Rise of Revenue-Based Financing and How Anyone Can Participate for as little as $100
Can revenue-based financing revolutionize the way startups raise capital and allow anyone to invest for as little as $100? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, Marcia is talking to Justin Renfro from Wefunder, who heads up the Revenue-Based Financing division. Together they explore the potential of revenue-based financing as an alternative to traditional equity funding. What is Revenue-Based Financing? It's a unique way growing businesses can receive financial capital in exchange for a percent of ongoing gross revenues. Justin shares insights from his experience working with entrepreneurs and explains how Wefunder aims to democratize investing into startups. Marcia and Justin delve into the challenges faced by founders in raising capital, the infrastructure provided by Wefunder to support startups, and the importance of community-driven investment in fostering economic growth. To get the latest from Justin Renfro, you can follow him below! LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinrenfro/ Read more about Revenue Based Financing from Wefunder Learn more about Sepia Coffee Project - https://wefunder.com/sepia.coffee.project Learn more about Love Box - https://wefunder.com/lovebox Learn more about Neutral Ground - https://wefunder.com/neutral.ground Learn more about SW Basics - https://wefunder.com/swbasics Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Thu, May 18, 2023
How Expanded Legislation Can Help Incentivize Small Business Investments with Congressman David Kustoff
Congress holds a great amount of influence on how easy it is for small businesses to raise capital.. This week on The Angel Next Door, Marcia speaks with Congressman David Kustoff, representative from the 8th congressional district of Tennessee. Marcia and the Congressman discuss his background and how he came to be a member of the House, as well as his work on the House Committee of Ways and Means introducing new legislation with hopes of making it easier for small businesses to raise capital. Congressman Kustoff explains how he got started as an attorney in the Memphis area, eventually being appointed US Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee by President George W Bush. After serving as US Attorney, he returned to his private practice. Growing concerned with the direction he saw the country taking, he saw his opportunity to make a difference when a vacancy in the House opened in his district in Tennessee, and won the seat in 2016. Currently in his 4th term in Congress, David serves on the powerful House Committee of Ways and Means, which holds jurisdiction over taxes, health care, trade, and family support programs. In talking with his constituents and businesses in his district, Rep. Kustoff hears a lot about inflation, supply chain and labor issues, and the difficulty small businesses have with navigating tough regulations when raising capital. He explains how in 2017 the Ways and Means Committee enacted the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA). Among other things, TCJA greatly lowered the corporate tax rate, encouraging more businesses to be structured as C-Corporations, which can then benefit from the Qualified Small Business Stock (QSBS) provision of IRC 1202. QSBS makes capital gains from small business stocks exempt from federal taxes if they meet certain requirements. Marcia shares an example of how she benefited from IRC 1202 in one of her early investments, which inspired her to take even more money and put it back into the economy and help entrepreneurs. Congressman Kustoff points out the importance of legislation that fosters the entrepreneurial spirit, especially given how, without new legislation, the TCJA provisions expire in 2025. It’s for this reason, Rep. Kustoff has introduced the Small Business Investment Act of 2023, which would protect and expand these provisions, provide incentives for investing in startups and small businesses, and make it cheaper for small businesses to raise capital. The Small Business Investment Act of 2023, changes the QSBS holding period for stock, currently at 5 years, to a phased approach, making these investments more attractive to investors. The bill also allows the ownership of convertible debt to count towards the holding period, and expands the eligibility to S-corporations. Congressman Kustoff hopes to gain some movement on the bill quickly, with a companion bill introduced by Senator John Cornyn moving through the Senate. He encourages any listeners with questions
Thu, May 04, 2023
Investments and Capital Markets from the Point of View of SEC Commissioner Hester Peirce
The mission of the SEC is to protect investors, maintain fair, orderly, and efficient markets, and facilitate capital formation. This week on The Angel Next Door, Marcia talks with one of the five SEC Commissioners, Hester Peirce. Listeners get to hear Commissioner Peirce’s story on becoming a commissioner and her take on some hot topics in today’s investment arena. Commissioner Peirce begins by discussing her background, starting off as a securities attorney at a private law firm. After making connections within the SEC, she became a staff attorney there for about 8 years. She left the SEC and worked for the Senate Banking Committee, while researching how to make regulation better and more efficient, before eventually returning to the SEC as a commissioner. She explains the role of a commissioner and how they work together to do what is best for U.S. based investors and business owners. The commissioners are not allowed to meet with each other unless all are present and it is public or publicly disclosed as a closed meeting. Despite this obstacle, Commissioner Peirce states that all the commissioners are independently talking to investors, companies, and people affected by SEC regulations and they are able to lean on the experience and knowledge of their colleagues to make better decisions together. Marcia and Commissioner Peirce go on to discuss fraud and the misperception that failure is fraud in the private investment world. They make the point that just because an investment fails doesn’t mean there is fraud, but it is often perceived that the failure may be due to fraud. Commissioner Peirce explains that this misperception is fueled by a lack of interaction with people actively engaged in private markets. They also touch on the recent bank failures and how having a variety of sources of funding is very important, as different companies rely on different forms of funding at different stages. In her role, it is important to Commissioner Peirce that she supports a variety of sources of capital formation that can fill the voids when other sources fail by creating a regulatory structure that makes sense, protects investors, and keeps the capital spigots flowing. Lastly, Marcia and Commissioner Peirce talk about the accredited investor definition and diversity in capital markets. The commissioner worries there is a move to raise the thresholds to be an accredited investor, and she looks for ways that sophistication can be determined outside of income thresholds. Although it is difficult to write legislation on issues that are not definitively measurable, she believes that education and experience can be used to counter the concerns that wealth is not a proxy for sophistication. Commissioner Peirce also discusses how there are alternatives for diversifying capital markets, but they are not always obvious to those searching. She explains we need to get the word out to founders that there are pools of available capital and
Thu, April 13, 2023
Working to Support Small Businesses with Congresswoman Ann Wagner
Startup growth is everywhere including the middle of the country! Marcia talks with Congresswoman Ann Wagner, who represents the 2nd district of Missouri and is the highest ranking republican on all matters concerning capital markets, investor protection, and capital formation. She is the first woman to chair the House Financial Services subcommittee on Capital Markets. Congresswoman Wagner discusses why she ran for office, the entrepreneurial ecosystem of her home state, and the work she is doing in congress to help advance legislation to support small businesses and investors in the US. Congresswoman Wagner starts off by telling listeners her background as the daughter and granddaughter of small business owners from Missouri. She recounts how she learned early on the value of a dollar and a good work ethic. Her father would say he wanted the government off his back so he could provide a service to his community, take care of his employees and provide for his family. Feeling privileged to now represent her constituents, the congresswoman believes it is critical to address the issues impacting their wallets. She discusses the work being done in her home district in the St. Louis area. She talks about the large startup ecosystem and how it is one of the fastest growing startup scenes in the country. She and Marcia mention how many of the “fly over” states are actually booming innovation hubs, directly affecting the nation’s economy, but how congress can do more to create more opportunities for these small businesses and investors. Congresswoman Wagner touches on several groups in the St. Louis area that are contributing to the growth of small businesses, such as St. Louis Arch Angels, 39 North, Cortex Innovation Community, NGA, and TRex Innovation Center. They go on to discuss Congresswoman Wagner’s work and goals as the chair of the Capital Markets subcommittee. She plans to pursue innovation and opportunity and provide oversight of the Biden Administration to hold financial regulators accountable, specifically the SEC and CFPB. With capital formation being a top focus of the subcommittee, by the end of April they will put together a major package of legislative bills focusing on public markets, small business and entrepreneurs, and retail investor opportunities. Congresswoman Wagner is optimistic these bills, which show bipartisan support, will be successful moving through Congress. In addition to the legislation, the congresswoman looks to hold hearings with SEC divisional directors to examine the deluge of proposed rules that she believes are solutions looking for problems and fail to consider the compliance costs and burden on smaller companies. Finally Marcia and Congresswoman Wagner talk about the definition of accredited investor and the previous hearing held by the Financial Services Committee which included testimony from ACA Board Member Eli Velasquez. Congresswoman Wagner explains that Eli’s experience is
Thu, March 16, 2023
Insights from Mark Herschberg on Startup Equity, Fractional C-Suite Executives, and Cybersecurity
This week on The Angel Next Door, Marcia talks with modern renaissance man Mark Herschberg. From MIT educator and cybersecurity professional to startup CTO (Chief Technology Officer) and author, Mark has worn many hats throughout his professional career. Despite his expansive resume, he and Marcia focus on his time spent in the world of startups, mostly as an executive, including 2 startups he is currently working on. Mark starts by telling listeners about his journey of graduating from MIT and deciding not to go the typical wall street, classic tech, or consulting route. Instead he fell into the startup and investment world. As an operator at heart, Mark found that he enjoyed working with small/early stage companies and quickly became a career executive and CTO for those types of companies. He explains how his experience as an executive, which required him to evaluate the companies that were looking to hire him, has helped him be a more successful investor as well. Marcia and Mark go on to discuss what would be the right amount of equity for each role in a startup. Mark tells listeners what he has seen in his experience, with companies typically setting aside 10-15% equity to be split between C-level employees. Lower level executives such as VPs or directors may receive 1-2% equity, while some companies may offer a combination of equity and money. Mark also explains different rounds of funding, such as seed rounds and series funding rounds (A, B, C), and at what stage a company may be in those rounds. Mark then explains what a fractional C-suite executive is, a role that he has held in several startups for over a decade, specifically as a CTO or CTPO(Chief Technology/Product Officer) . As a fractional CTO, he is able to provide his expertise and guidance to a startup without breaking the bank, allowing them to hire more junior level employees at a lower cost. He expresses how he has seen some companies make the mistake of hiring junior level employees without having senior level guidance, and believes more companies will begin to rely on fractional executives. Finally, Mark touches on 2 startups he is currently working on. He created an app, Brain Bump, which helps users retain information they learn from content such as books, podcasts, or blogs. Initially created as a counterpart to his book, The Career Toolkit, he is working on expanding the app’s reach for both consumers and content creators. He also is working on a startup in the cyber security arena, and tells Marcia about his concerns regarding today’s cyber security issues. This episode is packed with great insight from a remarkably educated expert in many fields. You don’t want to miss it! Click Here to read Marcia's profile on LinkedIn Click here to read Mark Herschberg's profile on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.thecareertoolkit
Thu, March 09, 2023
Using AI to Make Smarter Investments with Kim Banham
In this episode of The Angel Next Door, Marcia talks with Kim Banham, a partner at Connetic Ventures. Kim and Connetic Ventures have brought a new look to VC firms by using Wendal, an AI platform that allows one to make data-driven decisions that remove all bias from investing. Kim starts off by telling us how she joined Connetic 7 years ago, with a love for funding early stage companies that could not get traditional bank loans, specifically companies building disrupting technology and platforms. The team at Connetic Ventures, based in Covington, KY, realized that they needed to build a technology to change the way VC and funding was occurring and allow them to make smarter, unbiased decisions to be successful in early-stage investments. Now every company that applies for funding through Connetic first goes through Wendal, which they call their ‘junior analyst’. Kim explains how Wendal works, asking every founder the same questions, eliminating any bias of age, race, or gender, and giving each company a star rating to allow the application process to move quickly. Connetic is able to respond to applicants within 7 business days and invest in as little as 2-3 business days after the first call with the founder. To date, they have invested in about 100 companies with 64% of the founders being female or a minority, which is about 10 times higher than the industry norm, without that metric being a specific goal of the firm. Kim goes on to explain how they use a personality assessment through Wendal called TeamPrint, which tells them how each founder and leadership team member is wired. The platform is able to provide feedback on the potential of how successful the company could be, again without bias. Every founder that applies for funding (about 4500 so far) is provided this feedback so they can make more informed decisions on who to hire, what leadership gaps need to be filled, and in which roles each member of their team would be best suited for the company’s success. Kim encourages all founders of early-stage companies to apply, reiterating that every company receives the data and feedback from Wendal, despite whether they receive funding. Finally, Marcia and Kim discuss the importance of time for early-stage companies, as founders often spend a great amount of time fundraising when they should be growing the business. Connetic Ventures and Wendal are working to minimize the time spent on fundraising, eliminating any bias from that process, and allowing access to capital for all founders. Tune in for some great insight on how new technology is changing the way entrepreneurs can receive capital, while providing real data to help them be more successful! Click Here to read Marcia's profile on LinkedIn Click here to read Kim Banham's profile on LinkedIn <a href="https://conneticv
Thu, March 02, 2023
Dawn Batts shares 2 important factors in angel investing success
This week on The Angel Next Door, Marcia sits down with fellow angel investor Dawn Batts. After years of experience in investment and pension fund management, Dawn noticed a trend of money moving away from traditional assets such as stocks and bonds and into private equity investments. This change brought her to the world of angel investing and eventually to her co-founding Detroit based angel group Commune Angels. Dawn starts off by discussing her background and how she discovered the world of angel investing. At the beginning of her journey, she invested in several companies at the ‘friends and family’ stage. After receiving a call from a friend about starting an angel group, Dawn and a few others came together to form Commune Angels with the idea of creating a new type of angel group. Dawn explains how she and the other co-founders were very intentional and diligent in deciding the structure and image of Commune Angels prior to launching in August 2020. The founders looked to create a safe and inclusive environment that focused on members’ experience as well as financials. They thought lower membership fees and lower investment minimums would allow more access to diversification for their members, but they also made sure to be founder friendly. Marcia and Dawn go on to discuss the importance of education in investing. While Commune Angels has 4 internal education sessions a year, Dawn promotes education outside of the group, primarily through cohorts. In 2021, she led a cohort backed by 1863 Ventures to find emerging investors and curate an experience to introduce them to angel investing and engage in the ecosystem in different ways. Dawn explains how cohort education allows people to build connections and start to build a network that can help build future success and bring more investment opportunities. Finally, Dawn touches on the Catalyst Angel Program in the Great Lakes region, which she works with to help emerging Black, Latinx and/or female investors learn more about investing and build networks of connections, many through cohort education. She also gives a couple examples of companies that the Commune Angels group has invested in so far. This episode provides some great insight on how the angel investing world can adapt to allow more opportunities for more investors and how education is a crucial part of that change. Click Here to read Marcia's profile on LinkedIn Click here to read Dawn Batt's profile on LinkedIn Learn more about Commune Angels Click here to read more about the Catalyst Angel Program Check out AJA Labs Learn more about Espervita <a href="htt
Thu, February 23, 2023
Why the Current Accredited Investor Definition is Keeping Investors Out
In this quick episode of The Angel Next Door, Marcia talks about today’s accredited investor definition, how that definition limits who can invest, and how change can get more capital into the hands of underrepresented founders. She reviews the current requirements to be an accredited investor which is mainly based on wealth and income and how the Angel Capital Association plays a role in bringing awareness of the impact of changes to the definition to our legislators. Recently, the House Financial Services committee held a hearing on “Sophistication or Discrimination? How the Accredited Investor Definition Unfairly Limits Investment Access for the Non-Wealthy and the Need for Reform.” Marcia details how Eli Velasquez, fellow ACA board member and previous guest on the podcast, testified at the hearing, telling his experiences in the investing world. Eli discusses how he had built an impressive 20+ year resume that provided him the opportunities to evaluate thousands of investment deals, but not participate in the deals because he was not an accredited investor. He witnessed a young inexperienced investor leverage his family trust fund to become accredited and make deals, despite himself being only $20,000 from the income threshold to become accredited and having a wealth of experience. Eli explains in his testimony that he missed out on a generation’s worth of opportunities because of the definition of an accredited investor, before he was finally able to write his first check in 2020. Marcia goes on to provide examples of changes that could be made to expand the definition of the accredited investor. These changes could lead to positive impacts on who can invest and, with that, which founders receive the capital they need to grow their businesses. Listen in for a truly impactful story. Click Here to read Marcia's profile on LinkedIn Click here to read about and watch the Financial Services hearing Click here to read Eli Velasquez's profile on LinkedIn Click here to find out more about the Angel Capital Association Take courses to learn how to be an angel investor at Angel University - click here for info! Want to reach the Angel Capital Association? CLICK HERE Have ideas for the show? Email us at theacaangelnextdoorpodcast@gmail.com
Thu, February 16, 2023
Jenny Lane talks investing with philanthropic dollars
For this week’s episode, Marcia returns to discuss impact investing and Donor Advised Funds (DAFs) with guest Jenny Lane. Jenny has a background in equity crowdfunding and nonprofit fundraising with a passion for community development, and now, as the CEO of the Ohio Impact Fund, she is working on putting DAF dollars to work investing in early-stage companies. Jenny starts off by telling listeners how she became aware of private investing about 5 years ago. She worked for a company that built the first equity crowdfunding campaign before there were platforms like StartEngine to make it easier. She tells us how she did a lot of work for breweries and restaurants and touches on how those types of businesses perform well with equity crowdfunding. Although working in equity crowdfunding allowed Jenny to have an impact on who received funding, she wanted to have an even bigger say and be able to uplift underrepresented founders and business models. She explains how she was introduced to someone who runs multiple impact funds and how DAFs can be used to provide capital to startups and generate returns that can be used for charitable purposes or future investments. Jenny now runs the Ohio Impact Fund, with a focus on putting capital into startups that solve social, economic or environmental issues through their product or service. The fund has already invested about $1 million in 10 different companies, and provides us with a few examples of companies they have invested in. Marcia and Jenny go on to discuss more about how investments into startups through the money in DAFs can be used to elevate for-profit companies while also making the world a better place. Jenny tells listeners because there are no laws stating how or when DAFs need to give out money, many funds continue to grow as the donated dollars sit dormant. Ohio’s 6 largest cities have over $1.7 billion sitting in community foundation DAFs. Jenny is working hard to connect national organizations that know how to move this capital legally and safely to the managers of the large foundations/DAFs. Marcia and Jenny end the episode by touching on how Ohio is looking to help startups grow through programs like SSBCI (State Small Business Credit Initiative) and JobsOhio, and how the driving force is collaboration over competition. This episode is packed with great information on how DAFs can help both private startups and community development through charitable returns. Listen in to learn more! Click Here to read Marcia's profile on LinkedIn Click here to read Jenny Lane's profile on LinkedIn Click here to learn more about the Ohio Impact Fund Click here to lea
Thu, February 09, 2023
Alisha Griffey talks Donor Advised Funds
On this episode of The Angel Next Door, Marcia introduces listeners to Alisha Griffey, the founder of Daintree Capital. After spending years as an operations leader in the startup world, Alisha grew frustrated with the traditional funding process. She noticed that very few companies run by women or people of color receive the funding they need. That’s when, about 3 years ago, Alisha moved to the investor side of the equation to see if she could do something to address that problem. Marcia and Alisha start off this episode discussing why Alisha decided to become an investor and start Daintree Capital. Alisha then tells our listeners how she noticed several problems that affected what types of founders receive investments and how many different business models were often overlooked by traditional investors. Daintree and its female leadership team focuses on investing in underrepresented founders to address these issues. Alisha tells us how Daintree uses working capital loans as an investment instrument because it allows them to help a more diverse set of business models. Many companies only need a relatively small investment for things like inventory funding, opening new locations, or advertising, but traditional investors tend to overlook these investments. Daintree Capital has provided 58 loans to date with a 0% default rate. Marcia and Alisha go on to discuss Donor Advised Funds (DAF) and how these funds can be used for investing in these often overlooked companies through providing loans. Alisha tells us how she learned how DAFs can be used to invest in early stage companies before they enter the raising capital death trap and how she launched 2 charitable DAFs, including an impact fund that serves as a balance sheet to make loans to underrepresented founders. Alisha also tells our listeners how the funds sitting in DAFs cannot generate personal returns to the donors but can be put to use as loans through impact funds, generating interest that can then be put back into the DAF, donated to a 501(c)3 non profit, or used as future loans. Finally, Alisha explains that over $150 billion is sitting in DAFs and that these funds can be used to make loans to help both private companies in need of capital and nonprofit organizations at the same time. Daintree Capital is working to use this method to help underrepresented founders get the funding they need to grow. Listen in for some fantastic insight on an uncommon method of investments! Click Here to read Marcia's profile on LinkedIn Click here to read Alisha Griffey's profile on LinkedIn Click here to learn more about Daintree Capital Click here to find out more about the Angel Capital Association <a href="https://www.ange
Thu, February 02, 2023
Jake Whitman talks fundraising through accredited investors and equity crowdfunding
On this week’s episode of The Angel Next Door, listeners get a taste of what it takes to build a brand and raise capital as Marcia sits down with angel investor-turned-entrepreneur Jake Whitman. After a successful career with Procter & Gamble and working for SoFi in the SF Bay Area, Jake decided to head to Cincinnati with the objective of buying a company. There he joined Queen City Angels as an angel investor but then decided to enter the entrepreneurial world and start Really Good Boxed Wine. Jake is a wine enthusiast and after trying a few different disappointing boxed wines with his wife, he knew there was an opportunity to make a splash in the industry and create a truly premium boxed wine experience, which provides a 50% reduction in carbon footprint versus bottled wine. He contacted a woman he knew that owned a vineyard and started to build a brand and a plan. Jake explains how he recognized early on that raising capital would be a necessary step to build the brand he wanted. He was able to raise $310k through a friends and family round and spent a year testing and developing the brand and product to prepare for subsequent rounds. Jake describes how he was very intentional in testing small before launching nationwide. The first launch was local to the Cincinnati area with the product selling out in 5 days, leading to a wider launch that sold out in 4 days throughout about 23 states. Jake explains how this allowed them to know if the business would be successful while generating real data to continue to build the brand. After sending out surveys and receiving feedback, Jake realized they needed to completely rebrand prior to launching nationwide in order to provide the premium experience he aimed for. Marcia and Jake go on to discuss how during the next seed round, Jake approached fundraising with a hybrid plan of gaining investments from both accredited investors and equity crowdfunding. Launching a campaign through SeedInvest, Jake was very calculated in using a structured and scheduled plan and approached crowdfunding with a marketing campaign mindset. He chronicles how they selected which platform to use, how long the campaign would last, and how they used a specific calendar of announcements and communications to capitalize on investor interest. They implemented an early investor perk for those that invested prior to the halfway point of the campaign and distributed a discount code to interested investors so they could try the product prior to investing (also increasing sales of the product). Listen in, as Marcia and Jake give listeners a ton of great insight into a story of an idea turning into a successful company, and what had to happen to get there. Click Here to read Marcia's profile on LinkedIn Click here to read Jake Whitman's profile on LinkedIn <a href="http
Thu, January 26, 2023
John Harbison talks real data behind investing
On this week’s episode, Marcia Dawood dives into the real data behind outcomes and exits with John Harbison. In addition to being an ACA Board Member with Marcia, John is a member and Chairman Emeritus of Tech Coast Angels, one of the largest angel investment groups in the country, where he has invested in 60 companies. John tells us how he started out launching startups for security tech company Raytheon, bringing 2 companies to liquidity events within a year and a third to $800 million in revenue in 7-8 years. He describes how he took that experience to angel investing and joined TCA in 2003. TCA was formed in 1997 and has invested over $260 million into over 500 companies. John discusses how the over 400 members of TCA bring a wide array of expertise to investments, how crucial having that expertise is to helping startups grow, and how collective learning is monumental in making successful investment decisions. John and Marcia discuss the data John analyzes as part of the ACA data analytics committee and how real data will show investors how to make smarter investments that gain higher returns. ACA publishes a yearly Angel Funders Report and monthly Angel Insight Publications that show measurable data on investments made by many angel groups throughout the country, including TCA. With this data, investors can now make more educated decisions on investments through factually tested hypotheses rather than opinion. They also look at what the data says about the best time to invest in a company, the difference between investing through convertible notes versus priced equity, and how important early growth and valuation increases during investment rounds are to an early investor’s return. John gives listeners some examples of his own investments and how they were affected by these significant factors. John and Marcia close the episode with some discussion on TCA’s largest exit, exiting with a 360x return, and how patience plays a large role in the success of an investment, with TCA’s largest exit taking 15 years. This episode is packed with great information backed by real data that can help any investor make smarter decisions. After listening to the episode, check out the links to find out more information. Click Here to read Marcia's profile on LinkedIn Click Here to read John Harbison' profile on LinkedIn Click here to learn more about Tech Coast Angels Click here to read the Angel Funders Report Click here to learn more about the Angel Insight Publications Click here
Thu, January 19, 2023
Lyndsey Harper talks about the startup world and trying to solve an overlooked issue
In this episode, Marcia sits down with Dr. Lyndsey Harper, a physician/OB-GYN who founded Rosy, a subscription-based women’s health app that delivers direct-to-consumer education and community in the women’s sexual health world, while providing anonymity to the user. Lyndsey discusses her background as a private practice OB-GYN, where she noticed a commonality in patient’s sexual health problems and their shame and embarrassment in discussing those issues. 43% of women experience sexual problems, while only 17% of providers regularly ask about a patient’s sexual health. Lyndsey decided to start Rosy to connect the dots between these women’s problems, education and community, and providers. Marcia and Lyndsey talk about the importance of building the right team for your startup early on and having a minimum viable product to gain customers as well as interest from investors. Lyndsey explains how she found a developer to build the first iteration of the Rosy app in exchange for equity prior to approaching investors and how she navigated the difficulty of fundraising by building a network of angel connections to find the right investors. Lyndsey also tells us about how crucial it is to have a structured plan with deadlines and goals when raising capital so that subsequent rounds of funding can be at higher valuations due to proven progress. She discusses with Marcia the future of Rosy, and how she hopes to broaden the scope of women’s sexual health, create academic partnerships with providers, and use what they learn to improve screening rights for things like breast and cervical cancer. You won’t want to miss hearing the wisdom of this accomplished doctor turned entrepreneur and the obstacles she has navigated! Enjoy the show! Click Here to read Marcia's profile on LinkedIn Click here to read Dr. Lyndsey Harper's profile on LinkedIn Click here to redeem a FREE 1-Month Rosy Silver Membership or use code “ACAROSY” Click here to learn more about Rosy Click here to learn more about Mindshift Capital Click here to find out more about the Angel Capital Association Take courses to learn how to be an angel investor at Angel University - click here for info! Want to reach the Angel Capital Association? CLICK HERE Have ideas for the show? Email us at theacaangelnextdoorpodcast@gmail.com
Thu, January 12, 2023
Tony Shipley talks important tax codes for investors
In this episode we discuss some important tax codes that most investors and entrepreneurs don’t know about and could save millions! Marcia Dawood interviews former Chair of the Angel Capital Association, Tony Shipley. Marcia and Tony worked together as ACA board members for over 7 years! Tony is also Chairman and Co-founder of Queen City Angels, Cincinnati’s first group of experienced, accredited investors committed to accelerating the growth of early-stage businesses. Their primary investment areas are Information Technology and Life Science. Tony tells our listeners all about how he got started in the angel investing world and what led him to co-founding QCA with the hopes to provide growth to his community. Since the organization was founded in 2000 they’ve grown from 5 to 180 members, invested in more than 110 different companies, and invested approximately one hundred million dollars. He also shares how diversification was a very important factor in moving from network to fund model and growing the organization to what it is today. Marcia also asks Tony about the 2 most memorable exits he has been part of (one of which was 9 figures!) and how his group was able to use Section 1202 of the Internal Revenue Code (aka IRC) to take advantage of the Qualified Small Business Stock (aka QSBS) provision that eliminated federal tax on the exit transaction. They also discuss code 1045 and why these codes encourage investors to recycle QSBS returns from one deal to another QSBS company to obtain further tax savings. A new-er term is also revealed to our listeners, “dry powder,” which is the money investors set aside to make follow-on investments once a company starts to grow. The initial investment is important but sometimes those follow on rounds make the difference as to which companies make it and which ones don’t. Lastly, Tony and Marcia discuss the importance the ACA has on public policy, how active they are with lobbying for tax codes and the work being done to preserve the definition of “accredited investor.” This episode is packed with great tips and inspiring stories for both entrepreneurs and current/future investors! Listen to the full episode with Marcia and Tony here! Click Here to read Marcia's profile on LinkedIn Click Here to read Tony Shipley’s profile on LinkedIn Click Here to learn more about Queen City Angels Click here to learn more about how ACA is active with Public Policy’s Click here to learn more about ACA’s Grassroots Toolkit Click here to find out more about the Angel Capital Ass
Thu, January 05, 2023
Howard Marks demystifies equity crowdfunding
The Angel Next Door is back with all new episodes!! We will start off with demystifying equity crowdfunding. Marcia Dawood sits down with Howard Marks, CEO and cofounder of the crowdfunding platform StartEngine. StartEngine is an equity crowdfunding platform that recently acquired SeedInvest, bringing the total amount raised between the platforms to over $1 billion. Howard discusses how he started as an entrepreneur with his roommate at the University of Michigan, and purchased a controlling stake in the video game company Activision and turned it into the industry leading company it is today, leading to a purchase offer from Microsoft of $68 billion. Howard tells the listeners how StartEngine was initially launched in 2010 as an accelerator for entrepreneurs in LA, but he quickly realized capitalizing these very early companies was the problem he really needed to solve. He explains how the JOBS Act of 2012 paved the way for a revolution in the way start ups could raise money, and how it changed the way StartEngine was going to help entrepreneurs. Howard also shares with Marcia the background of how the rules and regulations for investing had limited who could invest in private startups to a very small group of people. The new regulations motivated him to launch StartEngine as a crowdfunding platform in 2015, which now operates as a funding portal, broker-dealer, and transfer agent, while providing liquidity options for investors, providing endless opportunities for regular investors outside of just the 4700 companies traded on the NYSE. Finally, Howard explains what it takes to be successful when raising capital through crowdfunding. He and Marcia discuss the future of StartEngine and crowdfunding and new alternative investment opportunities in things like art, comic books, wine, and real estate (allowing new ways to diversify an investment portfolios) and touch on the debate on whether consumers should have the ability to risk their money on these types of investments. Tune into this episode to get some great background on equity crowdfunding and learn how startups can be successful in gaining capital through these platforms! Click here to read Marcia's profile on LinkedIn Click here to read Howard Marks' profile on LinkedIn Click here to learn more about Activision Click here to learn more about StartEngine Click here to learn more about SeedInvest Link to Howard's blog page Click here to find out more about the Angel Capital Association Take courses t
Thu, August 18, 2022
BONUS Episode with US Congressman Byron Donalds
The Angel Next Door is back this week for a BONUS episode with US Congressman Byron Donalds. Byron serves as the US representative for Florida’s 19th congressional district which covers most of southwest Florida. In this episode our host Marcia Dawood talks with congressman Donalds about why angel investing plays a crucial role in giving everyone an equal shot at building wealth. They also discuss proposed legislation related to angel investing and how many people don't realize just how active the Angel Capital Association is in influencing public policy. The ACA is deeply involved on federal, legislative, and regulatory fronts. Congressman Donalds shares his views on many of these topics in addition to some of the regulatory changes he anticipates during this midterm year. Some of these changes include reforms to Dodd-Frank, bills established for crypto, and (he is hoping) the end to CFPB (Consumer Financial Protection Bureau). Finally, Marcia and Byron both discuss the importance of maintaining current financial thresholds in the definition of an accredited investor while concurrently widening the parameters, through demonstrated measures of sophistication, of who CAN be an investor which will stimulate growth in our economy. ACA's CEO Pat Gouhin drops in to share some very powerful statistics on the impact that the ACA has on our economy. "We have 15,000 accredited investors that contribute 650 million dollars per year into 3000-4000 startups. Based upon economic studies for every $100,000 invested it leads to 5.8 jobs and 2.1 mil in economic output." Now imagine how much MORE impact we could have if the parameters of an accredited investor were widened! Tune into the full episode to learn more about other changes congressman Donalds expects in the near future and how these regulations can directly affect everyone's equal opportunity to build wealth. Click Here to read Marcia's profile on LinkedIn Click Here to read Congressman Byron Donalds profile on LinkedIn Click here to find out more about the Angel Capital Association Take courses to learn how to be an angel investor at Angel University - click here for info! Want to reach the Angel Capital Association? CLICK HERE Have ideas for the show? Email us at theacaangelnextdoorpodcast@gmail.com
Thu, June 16, 2022
Marcia shares Current Economic Insights for Investors and Entrepreneurs
This week Marcia Dawood is bringing you a very brief episode of The Angel Next Door to share some powerful statistics delivered by Dr. Ronald Weissman at the ACA Summit in May. Marcia shares stats on the current economic decline we are experiencing in public markets, IPOs, valuations, seed funding, mergers and acquisitions, exits and more after studying the data from Q1 2022 compared to last year. When exits slow down, raising money is harder and takes longer. Marcia also tells us what down rounds are and why they can often occur during an economic downturn. Marcia tells our listeners, “this is a time when angels and entrepreneurs need to protect ourselves and as always, cash is king!” She also explains what cram downs are and what to look out for! On July 6th at 12 PM ET, Marcia will be moderating a webinar where Dr. Ron Weissman will be giving up to the minute updates on his presentation from May and give more insights on what can be done to protect ourselves now and in the future as times are unsteady. Finally, Marcia wants everyone to know that although there may be a rough 6-12 months ahead of us it is not a time to be scared but simply to focus on preserving every dollar you can. Tune in to listen to the full episode to hear examples of what we can do to get ahead of the game! Click Here to read Marcia's profile on LinkedIn Click Here to read Dr. Ron Weissman’s profile on LinkedIn Click here to learn more about the webinar on July 8th - Crystal Ball 2022: The Path Forward for Angels and Startups in Down Markets Click here to find out more about the Angel Capital Association Take courses to learn how to be an angel investor at Angel University - click here for info! Want to reach the Angel Capital Association? CLICK HERE Have ideas for the show? Email us at theacaangelnextdoorpodcast@gmail.com
Thu, June 09, 2022
Liz Sigety talks Incubators
This week on the Angel Next Door, Marcia Dawood interviews Liz Sigety, expert lawyer in everything startup, partner for Fox Rothschild Law Firm and co-founder of Delaware Crossing Angel Group in Philadelphia. This episode is great for both entrepreneurs and investors as we discuss both sides of the angel investing process. Fox Rothschild offers a great program called the Fox Launch Pad, a virtual incubator and resource center developed to nurture startups. Marcia and Liz discuss all the resources that startups receive when entering their program, how they help get their legal documents in order, as well as why it is so important that entities are set up correctly from the VERY beginning. They also discuss how a series LLC can assist in housing many investments into 1 SPV. Liz also explains pre and post money SAFE, what it means and the difference between the two. In addition we hear about how Delaware Crossing started and the types of companies its 35 members typically invest in. Liz has been a part of over 50 investments as an angel investor and tells our audience all about what makes her region unique from an investment standpoint. Finally we will get a briefing from Ahmad Takatkah, Chief Investment Officer at Kingscrowd. Kingscrowd uses data across crowdfunding platforms to help investors make more informed decisions. There are tons of great tips and tricks in this episode for entrepreneurs and investors! Tune in to listen to the full episode! Enjoy the show! Click Here to read Marcia's profile on LinkedIn Click Here to read Liz’s profile on LinkedIn Click Here to read Ahmad’s profile on LinkedIn Click here to learn more about Fox Rothschild Click here to learn more about Delaware Crossing Investor Group Click here to learn more about Fox Launch Pad Click here to learn more about KingsCrowd Click here to find out more about the Angel Capital Association Take courses to learn how to be an angel investor at Angel University - click here for info! Want to reach the Angel Capital Association? CLICK HERE Have ideas for the show? Email us at theacaangelnextdoorpodcast@gmail.com
Thu, June 02, 2022
Kingsley Advani talks crypto and SPVs
The Angel Next Door is back this week with a new episode! Marcia Dawood sits down to interview Kingsley Advani the CEO and founder of Allocations, a private markets platform with a vision to create more economic freedom for the world. Allocations scaled to $1B in assets in less than 3 years! Kingsley is also an Angel Investor who in 2017 founded and scaled Allocation Angels to over 1,000 investors. He has also personally made over 300 angel investments in companies such as Solana, Coinbase, Robinhood, SpaceX, and more! Marcia and Kingsley discuss how he turned his $34,000 in savings into $100M in private investments all before turning 30! Kingsley discovered the crypto world back in 2011 while studying finance and economics and in 2013 took his savings and started to make his first small investments into cryptocurrency. Kingsley shares a few tips on how to get started in the crypto world, how he got started in the Angel Investing world and what led him to creating Allocation Angels! The Allocation Angels are one of the many groups today that are using SPVs (Special Purpose Vehicles) to have access to more deals and to help angels develop a more diversified portfolio. Marcia and Kingsley talk about some behind the scenes work and how Emerging Managers can expand their track record with groups of investors making investments into SPVs. Kingsley also shares how Allocations is helping to streamline these deals as much as possible and in the future will even be releasing INSTANT SPVs. If you're interested in learning more about crypto, SPVs and Angel Investing all together, this episode is for you! Tune in to listen to the full episode! Enjoy the show! Click Here to read Marcia's profile on LinkedIn Click Here to read Kingsley’s profile on LinkedIn Click here to learn more about Allocations Click here to learn more about Allocation Angels Click here to learn more about the Corporate AMEX offer Click Here to learn more about the ACA 2022 Summit in Atlantic City NJ Click here to find out more about the Angel Capital Association Take courses to learn how to be an angel investor at Angel University - click here for info! Want to reach the Angel Capital Association? CLICK HERE Have ideas for the show? Email us at theacaangelnextdoorpodcast@gmail.com
Thu, May 12, 2022
Episode 17 - Elaine Bolle talks Sidecar Funds and More
This week on The Angel Next Door, Marcia Dawood interviews fellow ACA board member, Elaine Bolle! Elaine is very active in the angel community and acts as an advisor to early stage companies after the many years she spent being a CEO and senior executive. She has quite the track record leading domestic and global organizations from venture-backed start-ups to $750M+ enterprises. In addition she is a marketing extraordinaire who has truly done it all! Currently she is the investment chair at RTP Capital Associates located in the Triangle area. Elaine has a unique story - from the role she played in Chewy Granola Bars 41 years ago, to building a business to compete with Western Union, to deciding to branch out and become an entrepreneur and investor and move to Silicon Valley, she has been a CEO and COO for multiple companies over the years. Elaine has worked fiercely to grow companies that she truly felt passionate about. Elaine also shares with our audience how angels today are building the world they want to see one investment at a time, by investing in companies that they truly care about and are making a difference. She tells us all about her work with Portfolia and her role as a lead venture partner on the Active Aging and Longevity Fund. In addition, Elaine talks a bit about RTP Capital Associates and the 60 members that make up their organization. She tells us how they currently invest, how many deals they average per year and how a sidecar fund is a much simpler way of managing investments today. She also tells us about her part in the Angel Funders Report and why that is so important each year in looking at key companies, trends, and what's happening within Angel Capital Association groups. Tune in to listen to the full episode! Enjoy the show! Click Here to read Marcia's profile on LinkedIn Click Here to read Elaine’s profile on LinkedIn Click here to learn more about RTP Capital Associates Click here to learn more about Portfolia Click here to learn more about the Angel Funders Report Click Here to learn more about the ACA 2022 Summit in Atlantic City NJ Click here to find out more about the Angel Capital Association Take courses to learn how to be an angel investor at Angel University - click here for info! Want to reach the Angel Capital Association? CLICK HERE Have ideas for the
Thu, May 05, 2022
Episode 16 - Ann and Bill Payne talk ACA History
This week Ann & Bill Payne are joining Marcia. Bill Payne has been a pioneering angel investor for over 3 decades and he is a huge part of the Angel Capital Association's history. Ann, Bill and Marcia have a great conversation about how Bill got involved in ‘angel investing; before it was an actual term. In addition to investing, he has been a founder and board member of many successful angel groups, as well as an educator who has spent countless hours curating content and then teaching workshops and classes about becoming an angel investor. Bill believes educating accredited investors to become great angel investors is the key to the success of our entrepreneurial driven economy. Bill has been an integral part in the development of the Ann & Bill Payne ACA Angel University which now has 9 classes including everything from Fundamentals of Angel Investing to Term Sheets to Valuations and many more. In this episode we learn how Bill was able to invest in over 50 companies as an angel investor after having an exit as a successful founder of Solid State Dielectrics Inc. in the 70's that was later sold to Dupont. We will hear about some of his most exciting companies he's invested in as well as his first experience in the angel investing world and how it has changed and evolved to what it is today. Bill will also tell us about the start of two major ACA groups the Tech Coast Angels and Band of Angels, both of which are still very active in the angel community with over 500 angel investors in these groups combined. We also get to hear from Bill why the ‘angel fund’ model is so successful with angels and getting a real return on your investment. Bill credits much of his success to having a trusted partner at his side. Ann continues to remain a reassuring voice and sounding board for all Bill continues to accomplish. Tune in as we talk all about the history of angel investing told by none other than one of the best teachers that ACA has had the pleasure of learning from! Don't miss it! Click Here to read Marcia's profile on LinkedIn Click Here to read Bill’s profile on LinkedIn Click here to learn more about Tech Coast Angels Click here to learn more about Band of Angels Click here to learn more about the Kauffman Foundation Click Here to learn more about the ACA 2022 Summit in Atlantic City NJ Click here to find out more about the Angel Capital Association Take courses to learn how to be an angel investor at Angel University - click here for i
Thu, April 28, 2022
Episode 15 - Ashley Gautreaux talks Technology and Investing
The Angel Next Door is back with another episode! Today's guest is Ashley Gautreaux, Director at CreativeCo Capital and investor in early growth software companies. Ashley shares with Marcia Dawood how she got started in the technology and software world, what it was like working at Tesla for 7 years and the reason she wanted to enhance the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Charlotte with the start of CreativeCo. CreativeCo Capital invests in B2B software companies across the US at seed stage (anywhere from 500k-1.5 million in revenue) with an annual growth of over 100%. As a bonus they also offer their portfolio a 60 person product engineering team as a shared resource for them in order to help accelerate their product roadmap. This is huge today as access to engineering can be very challenging! Ashley also shares a few examples of companies that they've invested in such as Rent Ready, a company that automates the turnover for large apartment buildings. In addition Ashley tells our listeners what it's like making her own investments as an Angel investor and the core qualities she looks for when investing. Her mission is to invest in female founders with inspiring stories, companies that are aiming to redefine industries, and businesses involved in the crypto and NFT world. One of her most recent investments was in Moonwell, a company that allows you to lend and borrow cryptocurrency. We also will hear about World of Women, a group of women creating an iconic global brand and making a statement not only in the NFT space but also in the real world through impactful actions and utility. Tune in this week to hear Ashley's story and learn more about these great companies. Click Here to read Marcia's profile on LinkedIn Click Here to read Ashley’s profile on LinkedIn Click here to learn more about CreativeCo Capital Click here to learn more about Rent Ready Click here to learn more about Moonwell Click here to learn more about World of Women Click Here to learn more about the ACA 2022 Summit in Atlantic City
Thu, April 21, 2022
Episode 14 - Marcia buys Crypto but not the coins you think
This week on The Angel Next Door, Marcia Dawood is solo for a quick episode to share her personal experience with buying crypto currency! Not as easy as you would think! Marcia decided to experiment in the crypto market and see what would happen when she bought a few different, not as popular currencies and see how complicated the process would be. Marcia talks about a few of the popular platforms to buy such as CoinBase, Binance, and Gemini. She also introduces some others you may not have heard of like KuCoin! Tune in as she talks all about what happened when she tried to purchase these crypto currencies, why she chose them, and the hoops she jumped through to finally receive the crypto! SHOW NOTES: Click Here to read Marcia's profile on LinkedIn Click here to learn more about The Latecomer's Guide to Crypto - The New York Times Click here to learn more about Coin Base Click here to learn more about Polygon Matic Click here to learn more about Gemini Click here to learn more about Helium Click here to learn more about Binance.Us Click here to learn more about Rose Coin Click here to learn more about KuCoin Click Here to learn more about the ACA 2022 Summit in Atlantic City NJ Click here to find out more about the Angel Capital Association Take courses to learn how to be an angel investor at Angel University - click here for info! Want to reach the Angel Capital Association? CLICK HERE Have ideas for the show? Email us at theacaangelnextdoorpodcast@gmail.com
Thu, April 14, 2022
Episode 13 - Janine Firpo talks Sustainable Investing
We’re back this week with another purposeful episode of The Angel Next Door! This week Marcia Dawood sits down to interview co-founder of Invest for Better and author of “Activate Your Money, Invest to Grow Your Wealth and Build a Better World,” Janine Firpo. Janine is a social entrepreneur known in the Bay area for impact investing and her many years of working in foreign services. She is also an active member of the private investing world with a diverse portfolio catered to helping women entrepreneurs and other minorities. Janine explains to our listeners that 1 in 3 dollars that are invested by institutional investors and professional investors are invested in sustainability. Shifting assets into these kinds of more sustainable investments are not only helping our world but are getting a higher return than those that are not. She also shares her experience as a mentor in investing groups like the Rising Tide Network and why the Next Wave Impact model was so effective, especially as barriers to larger funds become bigger and bigger. Janine also shares her most recent project as the co-founder of Invest for Better, which puts women together in investment clubs to teach them how to become confident investors and align their money with their values. Janine has a very unique story and is a wonderful example of aligning your money with your purpose in life. To hear her full story and her most recent investment success story about a bagel company listen here! Click Here to read Marcia's profile on LinkedIn Click Here to read Janine Firpo’s profile on LinkedIn Click here to learn more about Activate Your Money - Invest to Grow Your Wealth and Build a Better World Click here to learn more about Invest for Better Click here to learn more about As you Sow - Invest Your Values Click here to learn more about the Rising Tide Network Click here to learn more about Next Wave Impact Click Here to learn more about the ACA 2022 Summit in Atlantic City NJ Click here to find out more about the Angel Capital Association Take courses to learn how to be an angel investor at Angel University - click here for info! Want to reach the Angel Capital Association? CLICK HERE Have ideas
Thu, April 07, 2022
Episode 12 - Jason Moralez talks NFT's and Cryptocurrency
This week on The Angel Next Door we are talking all about NFT’s and cryptocurrency! Something that everyone is wanting more information about these days! Marcia Dawood interviews guest Jason Moralez, a serial entrepreneur who has been active in the cryptocurrency world since 2013. Jason is also a veteran, biochemist, and owner of Nova Jade Cosmetics, a skincare company that aims to provide the highest quality skincare to health conscious consumers. Jason explains to our listeners how blockchain technology works, why its information is of the highest integrity, the top 2 major blockchains where NFT's are sold today (Ethereum and Polygon MATIC), and the difference between the two. He also tells us how "mining" works, why the first NFT's were created and where we are headed with them in the next 5 years. Finally we learn about what "unlockable content" is and how that is adding major value to NFT's and the future of the marketplace. Jason offers tons of real life examples to really help paint the picture of what this new, complex and EXCITING marketplace looks like and all the ways you can make it profitable in your life and business. To hear the full episode and FINALLY understand how this new industry works listen here! Click Here to read Marcia's profile on LinkedIn Click Here to read Jason Moralez’s profile on LinkedIn Click here to learn more about Polygon MATIC Click here to learn more about Etherium Click here to learn more about Nova Jade Cosmetics Click Here to learn more about the ACA 2022 Summit in Atlantic City NJ Click here to find out more about the Angel Capital Association Take courses to learn how to be an angel investor at Angel University - click here for info! Want to reach the Angel Capital Association? CLICK HERE Have ideas for the show? Email us at theacaangelnextdoorpodcast@gmail.com
Thu, March 31, 2022
Episode 11 - Gina Tedesco talks Accelerator Programs and 2022 ACA Summit
Marcia Dawood and “The Angel Next Door” are officially back with new episodes for the Spring Season! In our first episode of 2022 Marcia interviews Gina Tedesco, an active investor, serial entrepreneur, professor and mentor. With a background in engineering and coming from the pharmaceutical industry, Gina has experienced a lot of male dominated roles both in business and leadership and was determined to give more opportunities to women in these roles. She is currently a Managing Member of Amala Ventures, which invests in early-stage companies with diverse teams and innovative and disruptive technology in the USA and Brazil. She is also a Managing Director and NJ Chapter Lead of Golden Seeds, a national network of angel investors dedicated to investing in early-stage companies founded and led by women and a member and board trustee of Jumpstart NJ Angel Network, a private, member-lead, angel group that invests in early-stage technology companies in the Mid-Atlantic region. In this episode Marcia and Gina discuss the Angel Capital Association's upcoming Summit in May, what to expect for their first in person event since the pandemic, and why it will be an incredible place for innovation. Gina also shares her own journey of entrepreneurship and founding her first 2 companies as well as how she became an investor and started the accelerator program that helps businesses both in Brazil and the US refine their business model and pitch before taking it to investors. Since starting the program they have accelerated over 100 companies and invested in 80% of them. She also shares a couple of her favorite success stories including Love Monday's and its acquisition by GlassDoor, and an ecommerce logistics company that was bought out by a large Brazilian company currently in the stock exchange. Another great topic covered is Gina's role as the founder of the NJ chapter within Golden Seeds. Golden Seeds has provided capital support to over 220 women entrepreneurs and currently of the most active angel networks in the United States investing over $160 million. This episode is one you won’t want to miss and a great kickoff to our new spring season. Click Here to read Marcia's profile on LinkedIn Click Here to read Gina Tedesco's profile on LinkedIn Click Here to learn more about the ACA 2022 Summit in Atlantic City NJ Click here to learn more about Golden Seeds Click here to learn more about Jumpstart NJ Angel Network Click here to learn more about the acquisition o
Thu, December 09, 2021
Episode 10 - Christopher Mirabile talks SEC, Crypto and More!
This week’s episode of “The Angel Next Door” features a long time investor and soon to be chairman of the SEC’s Investor Advisory Committee, Christopher Mirabile. He and his partner Hambleton Lord are very involved with Launchpad Venture Group and they co-founded a successful portfolio management tool Seraf which investors love! Since Launchpad started, the group has put 140 million dollars to work, backed 130 companies, and currently has around 180 investors. Christopher joins Marcia to discuss how he became involved in the entrepreneur world. He also tells us about a few of his exit stories, including one company that delivered a 22.2x return on their investment despite mediocre circumstances which showed the power of practicing capital efficiency! And you’ll hear little about Crypto too! "The only way crypto really thrives is if we provide it with a regulatory framework that protects investors.” He also discusses his role with the SEC and his duty to represent and be an advocate for all investors. We will take a deeper dive into how their process works with choosing sub committees, gathering research, and writing up white papers to present to the SEC. And remember our last episode talked about crowdfunding - well Christopher will give us his thoughts on the pros & cons of Reg CF, it’s not for all businesses. Always do your homework before taking money from any type of investor! To find out more about what types of businesses that should not get involved with crowdfunding tune in to the full episode! Click Here to read Marcia's profile on LinkedIn Click Here to read Christopher Mirabile’s profile on LinkedIn Click Here to read Hambleton Lord’s profile on LinkedIn Click here to learn more about Launchpad Click here to learn more about the Investor Advisory Council Click here to learn more about Seraf Click here to learn more about the Hans Severeins Awards Click here to find out more about the Angel Capital Association Take courses to learn how to be an angel investor at Angel University - click here for info! Want to reach the Angel Capital Association? CLICK HERE Have ideas for the show? Email us at theacaangelnextdoorpodcast@gmail.com
Thu, December 02, 2021
Episode 9 - Brian Scott talks Crowdfunding
In this week's episode we are talking all about crowdfunding! Marcia Dawood sits down with CEO of PittMoss, Brian Scott as he tells us the ins and outs of this newer way of raising capital. "Angel investing for me was that chance to hit a homerun, to find the next Google, Amazon or Tesla." - Brian Scott Brian Scott got his start as an investor through the Blue Tree Allied Angels, founded by Catherine Mott, Venture Capitalist and former chair of the ACA board. Brian fell in love with the process of screening and working with entrepreneurs. One day he saw the founder of PittMoss, Mont Handley, pitch and immediately connected with their mission. He soon went from angel investor to CEO of PittMoss. PittMoss manufactures soilless potting mixes from organic, recycled paper and is currently disrupting the soil economy as a much safer potting soil for the environment. You may have seen them featured on SharkTank as they received an investment from Mark Cuban. Since taking over as the CEO Brian has raised 4 million in funding for the company through Angel groups and equity crowdfunding platforms. Everything changed in 2016 when the SEC allowed for Regulation Crowdfunding (Reg CF), this is the practice of funding a project or venture by raising smaller amounts of money from a large number of people. Platforms such as Republic, allowed Brian and his team to go out to their biggest fans and provide them an outlet to invest in their company. Listen to the full episode as Brian shares the process of crowdfunding for PittMoss, the type of transparency it takes to be on such platforms, and how crowdfunding is currently disrupting the angel investor world. Click Here to read Marcia's profile on LinkedIn Click Here to read Brian’s profile on Linkedin Click Here to learn more about PittMoss Learn more about investing through Republic Learn more about SEC Regulation Crowdfunding Click Here to read Beth Zimmer’s profile on Linkedin Click Here to read Catherine Mott’s profile on Linkedin Click Here to read Mont Handley’s profile on Linkedin Email Brian Scott - Brian@pittmoss.com Follow PittMoss on Twitter Follow PittMoss on Instagram Follow PittMoss on Facebook <a href="https://www.angelcapitalassociatio
Thu, November 18, 2021
Episode 8 - Jeremy Neilson talks Special Purpose Vehicle and Fund of Funds
This week on ‘The Angel Next Door’ we are talking all about SPV’s (Special Purpose Vehicle) and fund of funds! Marcia Dawood sits down with the Co-founder and CEO of Assure, Jeremy Neilson. Assure is the industry leader in structuring SPV’s and the most experienced end-to-end administrator of what many Angels and deal organizers call the fast, affordable SPV. What makes them so special is that their work has decreased the cost of SPVs by 90%, making it possible for more investors to invest in more companies at one time. Jeremy and Marcia discuss secondary markets. Angels are always interested in hearing ways to either get into a deal through buying secondary shares or getting some liquidity by selling shares on the secondary market. It is a hot topic!! He also talks about how the future has become much more digital due to covid which is why it’s important to streamline these processes so that anyone from anywhere can raise money. See below for our list of definitions from the episode. SPV: Special Purpose Vehicle - “Vehicle" refers to the legal entity, or structure, created for raising money in order to invest. The “Special Purpose” is the investment. This investment could be into a startup, a private company, a real estate project, or other assets like art or films. Fund of Funds: A "fund of funds" is an investment strategy of holding a portfolio of other investment funds rather than investing directly into one venture fund. This episode is great if you are interested in becoming an investor or learning about how the process works! Tune in to learn more! Click Here to read Marcia's profile on LinkedIn Click Here to reach Jeremy’s profile on Linkedin Learn more about Assure To learn more about the AngelList - click here Click here to find out more about the Angel Capital Association Take courses to learn how to be an angel investor at Angel University - click here for info! Want to reach the Angel Capital Association? CLICK HERE Have ideas for the show? Email us at theacaangelnextdoorpodcast@gmail.com
Thu, November 04, 2021
Episode 7 - Marcia talks Portfolio Construction
This week Marcia Dawood flies solo and tells us all about portfolio construction for investing. Marcia goes over the different types of business industries, stages of a company, and how that affects “de-risking” a company. She also shares a few personal stories about the different companies she has invested in over the years and the lessons that were learned along the way. Marcia will also go over the 3 things she tells every board member: 1. Talk about an exit at every board meeting 2. Make sure you have the right management team in place 3. Don't ever let the company run out of money Some of the great companies talked about in this episode that are making a big impact in today’s world are Cognition Therapeutics and their work on treating central nervous system disorders, The Rising Tide Network made up of 99 women investors, funds such as Portfolia and Next Wave Impact Fund, PittMoss a revolutionary substitute for peat-moss, PickUp Now a group of ‘Good Guys’ making a breakthrough in the auto tech industry, Markid a platform for buying and selling consignment items for children, as well as Misfits Bakehouse a gluten-free, grain-free, Paleo and Keto friendly bakery. These businesses are all proof that industry does not always matter when it comes to investing as much as impact and change does. Tune in to hear the full episode and what Marcia learned from investing in these companies! Click Here to read Marcia's profile on LinkedIn Learn more about Cognition Therapeutics Learn more about the Rising Tide Network Learn more about Portfolia Learn more about Next Wave Impact Learn more about PittMoss Learn more about Pick Up Now Learn more about Markid Learn more about Misfits Bakehouse Click here to find out more about the Angel Capital Association Take courses to learn how to be an angel investor at Angel University - click here for info! Want to reach the Angel Capital Association? CLICK HERE Have ideas for the show? Email us at theacaangelnextdoorpodcast@gmail.com
Thu, October 28, 2021
Episode 6 - Dr. Silvia Mah, PhD, MBA discusses Accelerator Programs
This week on ‘The Angel Next Door’ we talk with a female investor who is making a huge impact on other female entrepreneurs and investors. Marcia Dawood interviews Dr. Silvia Mah, PhD, MBA who is an accelerator, fellow Angel Investor, and advocate for diverse founders. Join us as these two female leaders in business discuss why we need more female angel investors today and how women investors invest 2x as much in female entrepreneurs than men do. Silvia tells us what an accelerator is, how the process works and how an Angel investor can be a mentor/advisor to these accelerator programs as a way to get experience with entrepreneurs before deciding to make your first investment. We discuss how Stella Labs was born to help build women's confidence in investing through education. She also tells us about a recent big exit story she had from one of her investments that turned into a big financial return and how it is important to be patient in these types of ventures. Silvia also shares some great insight from another fellow angel investor Lorine Pendleton, Esq, which are the 3 C’s for Capital: Financial Capital, Relational Capital, and Expertise Capital. Use your network, use your expertise and your funding as the 3 sources of capital that an investor can serve to an entrepreneur. This episode is one you won’t want to miss and truly shows why it is so important to back the companies that we want to see change in the world! Tune in to hear the full episode! Click Here to read Marcia's profile on LinkedIn Click Here to read Dr. Silvia Mah’s profile on LinkedIn Click Here to read Dr. Alicia Robb’s profile on Linkedin, author of Angel Investing Books Click Here to read Lorine Pendleton, Esq. profile on LInkedIn Learn More about 37 Angels Learn More about Stella Labs Learn More about Stella Angels Find out more about TCA (Tech Coast Angels) Click here to find out more about the Angel Capital Association Take courses to learn how to be an angel investor at Angel University - click here for info! Want to reach the Angel Capital Association? CLICK HERE Have ideas for the show? Email us at theacaangelnextdoorpodcast@gmail.com
Thu, October 21, 2021
Episode 5 - Marcia talks Diversification
In this week’s short but sweet episode your host Marcia Dawood talks all about diversification and its importance to investors and entrepreneurs. She discusses different ways to invest in order to gain exposure to more companies and increase your chances of success, and tells us why she is such a big fan of funds. Marcia shares some statistics taken from the ACA’s Angel Funders Report showing why a diverse portfolio is important. She also talks about her experiences in Angel groups and how two people in the same angel group can have very different experiences. This episode is filled with great information on how to keep a diverse portfolio and things to consider as an investor and entrepreneur. Tune in to hear more! Click Here to read Marcia's profile on LinkedIn Read the full Angel Funders Report Read more about Portfolia Click here to find out more about the Angel Capital Association Take courses to learn how to be an angel investor at Angel University - click here for info! Want to reach the Angel Capital Association? CLICK HERE Have ideas for the show? Email us at theacaangelnextdoorpodcast@gmail.com
Thu, October 14, 2021
Episode 4 - Rachel ten Brink talks E-Commerce and Retail
This week on ‘The Angel Next Door,’ Marcia Dawood sits down with Rachel ten Brink. Rachel co-founded her company Scentbird and raised $29 million first from angels and then venture funds including Y Combinator. She has now started her own venture capital company, Red Bike Capital. In this episode Rachel gives us her best advice on how entrepreneurs can get their first customers and their first investment. She also talks all about direct to consumer businesses vs retail and how “85% of transactions are still happening in retail, which means even with all the growth over the past year, only 15% of e-commerce businesses are direct to consumer only.” Rachel also shares how secondhand shopping is forecasted to grow 11 times faster than regular retail and tells us all about the “3:1 gold standard.” There is so much to unpack in this episode! Marcia and Rachel also go over commonly misused acronyms like D2C, DNVB, CPG, CAQ, and LTV. See their definitions below: D2C: Direct to Consumer DNVB: Digitally Native Brands CPG: Consumer Packaged Goods CAC: Cost of Customer Acquisition LTV: Lifetime Value If you are a business owner in the e-commerce or retail space or are looking to become an investor to one, this is an episode you are going to want to take notes on! Rachel also gives tips for pitching to investors, how to speak in their terms and advice to anyone that would like to try angel investing for the first time. Tune in to learn more! Click Here to read Marcia's profile on LinkedIn Click Here to read Rachel’s profile on LinkedIn Click here to find out more about Red Bike Capital Find out more about Y Combinator Click here to find out more about Scentbird Click here to find out more about the Angel Capital Association Take courses to learn how to be an angel investor at Angel University - click here for info! Want to reach the Angel Capital Association? CLICK HERE Have ideas for the show? Email us at theacaangelnextdoorpodcast@gmail.com
Thu, October 07, 2021
Episode 3 - Pat Gouhin talks Public Policy at the Angel Capital Association
When one small pebble is dropped into a lake, many much bigger ripples form carrying the energy to the shore - the same thing happens when a community comes together to back the changes they want to see in the world. The energy and contributions from the originator create lasting impact felt by many. Angels are this energy source! This phenomenon was measured in a recent economic study conducted by Desert Angels, an ACA member group, that found “...for every $100,000 of investment, portfolio companies produce 5.8 direct jobs, $458,000 in wages and $2.1 million in economic output.” This week on ‘The Angel Next Door,’ Marcia Dawood sits down with Pat Gouhin, the CEO of the Angel Capital Association (ACA) to talk about the “ripple impact” angel investing can have on a community. In this episode, Pat joins us to talk all about the public policy work the ACA is doing and how it is a piece that is commonly overlooked and not understood. The ACA’s Public Policy committee works tirelessly to educate legislators on the importance of ‘angels', entrepreneurs, and their collaborative efforts in local communities and in job creation. In addition Marcia and Pat discuss why angel investors are critically important to ecosystem development and explain how capital contributions are amplified through angel mentoring and networking that contributes to entrepreneurs maximizing their potential on the journey to change the world. Tune in to hear more! SHOW NOTES: Click Here to read Marcia's profile on LinkedIn Click Here to read Pat's profile on LinkedIn Find out more about the work the ACA Public Policy committee is doing Find out more about Section 1202 initiative Learn more about QSBS (Qualified Small Business Stock) Click here to find out more about the Angel Capital Association Take courses to learn how to be an angel investor at Angel University - click here for info! Want to reach the Angel Capital Association? CLICK HERE Have ideas for the show? Email us at theacaangelnextdoorpodcast@gmail.com
Thu, September 30, 2021
Episode 2 - Denise Dunlap talks Revenue Based Financing
In this week’s episode Marcia Dawood interviews guest Denise Dunlap, a long time Angel Investor and Managing Partner of Sage Growth Capital. Denise and her company are one of the first to offer Revenue Based Financing as an additional option of funding for businesses. Revenue Based Financing can be a great solution for entrepreneurs to keep more ownership in their companies as they go on their fundraising journey and provides a different type of funding mechanism for local founders and entrepreneurs. Tune in to find out what Revenue Based Financing is and if it is right for you as an entrepreneur or a company that you know and love as an investor. Click Here to read Marcia's profile on LinkedIn Click Here to read Denise's profile on LinkedIn Sage Growth Capital: Case Study in Revenue Based Capital Killer Creamery https://www.sagegrowthcapital.com Click here to find out more about the Angel Capital Association Take courses to learn how to be an angel investor at Angel University - click here for info! Want to reach the Angel Capital Association? CLICK HERE Have ideas for the show? Email us at theacaangelnextdoorpodcast@gmail.com
Thu, September 23, 2021
Episode 1 - Marcia Talks All Things Angel Investing
In this short but sweet episode, we dive into the how and why people do angel investing. You will hear about not just the financial rewards but also all of the other reasons for participating in this asset class. Happy listening! Click Here to read Marcia's profile on LinkedIn Click here to find out more about the Angel Capital Association Take courses to learn how to be an angel investor at Angel University - click here for info! Want to reach the Angel Capital Association? CLICK HERE Have ideas for the show? Email us at theacaangelnextdoorpodcast@gmail.com
Fri, September 17, 2021
Trailer
The Angel Next Door podcast is a show about how people got started investing in startup companies. Hosted by Marcia Dawood, current chair of the board of the Angel Capital Association, the professional organization of angel investors across the US and globally. If you want to see change in the world you have to create it, invest in it or be it! Tune in to hear stories of what angel investing is, who does it and why!
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