614Startups

Join host Elio Harmon on this episode of the 614Startups Podcast as he sits down with Evan Duignan, the innovative Founder of Alphamated. Alphamated is revolutionizing the service industry with its intelligent automation solutions, making it easier for businesses to manage and optimize their operations through state-of-the-art technology. In this candid conversation, Evan delves into his entrepreneurial journey, sharing the highs and lows of building Alphamated from the ground up. He opens up about the unique challenges he faced while establishing his company, including the intricate process of raising capital. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, Evan's insights and experiences provide valuable lessons on perseverance, innovation, and the realities of startup life. Tune in to hear Evan's story and gain inspiration from his relentless drive to transform the service industry. Don't miss this episode of the 614Startups Podcast, where we bring you the stories of visionaries and trailblazers shaping the future of business. Please subscribe to our channel 614Startups is a podcast for early-stage tech founders raising capital in the Midwest | community for entrepreneurs and investors. Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/614startups/

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In this episode of the 614Startups Podcast, host Elio Harmon sits down with Tony Pietrocola, President of AgileBlue. AgileBlue is a leading AI-driven cybersecurity operations platform that empowers businesses to detect, analyze, and respond to cyber threats with unprecedented speed and accuracy. Learn more about AgileBlue at www.agileblue.com. Tony shares his insights on why cybersecurity is critical for businesses of all sizes and delves into the most pressing cybersecurity threats facing organizations today. From sophisticated phishing attacks to the ever-evolving landscape of ransomware, Tony breaks down the dangers lurking in the digital world. Discover how AgileBlue leverages cutting-edge AI technology to combat these threats, providing affordable and effective cybersecurity solutions tailored to meet the needs of any business. Whether you're a startup or a large enterprise, this episode is packed with valuable advice and practical tips on protecting your digital assets. Tune in to hear how AgileBlue's innovative approach to cybersecurity is not only making the cyber world safer but also ensuring that businesses can operate with peace of mind. Don't miss this essential conversation on safeguarding your business in the digital age!

In this episode of the 614Startups Podcast, host Elio Harmon sits down with Warner Moore, the visionary founder of Gamma Force. Gamma Force is dedicated to building a culture of excellence in cybersecurity by empowering businesses to protect their most valuable assets. Warner shares his journey as a founder and delves into the core values that guide his leadership philosophy, including putting people first, taking ownership, and always doing the right thing. Join Elio and Warner for an inspiring conversation about the intersection of technology, entrepreneurship, and values-driven leadership. Listen now and discover how Warner Moore is transforming the cybersecurity landscape with a people-first approach. Please subscribe to our channel 614Startups is a podcast for early-stage tech founders raising capital in the Midwest | community for entrepreneurs and investors. Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/614startups/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/614startups

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/614_startups/

Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093106463335

Welcome to another exciting episode of the 614Startups Podcast with your host, Elio Harmon! In this episode, Elio sits down with Brock Leonti, the innovative Founder of Prescribe FIT, a full-service remote monitoring and lifestyle health coaching solution tailored for orthopedic practices and their patients.

Brock takes us through his inspiring entrepreneurial journey, from founding a home health agency and an STNA education center to spearheading one of the fastest-growing health tech companies in Columbus, Ohio.

Dive into the critical issue of orthobesity, a pandemic affecting orthopedic health, and discover how Prescribe FIT is revolutionizing patient care by empowering orthopedic practices to enhance health outcomes and surgical success.

Brock also opens up about his experience raising a remarkable $4.8 million Series A round led by Refinery Ventures, offering invaluable tips and advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Don't miss this insightful conversation! Remember to like, subscribe, and share the 614Startups Podcast to stay updated on the latest in the startup ecosystem.

Please subscribe to our channel 614Startups is a podcast for early-stage tech founders raising capital in the Midwest | community for entrepreneurs and investors. Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/614startups/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/614startups

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/614_startups/

Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093106463335

Self-doubt is the lack of confidence in oneself and one's abilities, which can paralyze entrepreneurs and prevent them from taking necessary risks. It can stem from past failures, fear of failure, or a lack of external validation. Self-doubt is a common issue for entrepreneurs due to the inherent risks of entrepreneurship, the pressure to succeed, and the isolation of the entrepreneurial journey. Strategies to combat self-doubt include acknowledging and accepting it, focusing on accomplishments, seeking support and mentorship, practicing self-compassion, and taking action despite doubts. Takeaways Self-doubt is a normal part of the entrepreneurial journey and can be managed. Reflecting on past accomplishments can boost confidence and counteract negative thoughts. Building a supportive network of peers, mentors, and advisors is crucial for combating self-doubt. Practicing self-compassion and treating oneself with kindness can reduce the impact of self-doubt. Taking small incremental steps towards goals can help overcome self-doubt and build momentum. Chapters 00:00 The Impact of Self-Doubt on Entrepreneurs 03:03 Strategies for Overcoming Self-Doubt

Join host Elio Harmon in this relevant and practical episode of 614Startups as we delve into the perils of Shiny Object Syndrome (SOS) and its impact on entrepreneurial success. Discover how this common distraction can derail your startup's progress and drain valuable resources. Elio breaks down why SOS is a silent killer, shares personal insights, and offers actionable strategies to combat it. Tune in to learn how to stay focused, set clear goals, and practice discipline to ensure your business thrives. Don't miss this essential guide for entrepreneurs striving to build something great.

Chapters

00:00 The Dangers of Shiny Object Syndrome

03:30 Strategies to Combat Shiny Object Syndrome

05:07 Staying Focused on Long-Term Success Takeaways

• Shiny object syndrome can derail progress and prevent entrepreneurs from achieving their goals.
• Fractured focus, drained resources, and perpetual starting are the consequences of shiny object syndrome.
• To combat shiny object syndrome, entrepreneurs should set clear goals, implement a decision-making process, practice discipline and accountability, and schedule regular reviews.
• Staying focused on long-term goals and resisting the urge to constantly chase new ideas is crucial for sustainable success.

Like, subscribe, and share to support your fellow entrepreneurs!

🚀 Dive into the Columbus startup scene with the latest episode of the 614Startups Podcast! Join Elio as he chats with Naveed Iqbal, the brains behind Dolr, a game-changing fintech startup. 💰

Looking to crush your student loan debt? Dolr's got you covered! Discover how they're revolutionizing the student loan payoff game by putting extra cash in your pocket from everyday purchases. 🎓 Don't rely solely on government policies – take control of your financial destiny now!

Naveed spills the beans on his journey as a founder, the hurdles of fundraising in Ohio, and Dolr's ingenious partnerships with employers and top retailers. 💼 Ready to say goodbye to student loan stress? Tune in for insights on the student loan landscape and Dolr's disruptive fintech solutions. Dolr: https://getdolr.com/ 614Startups Naveed Iqbal Previous Appearance: https://614startups.com/the-614startups-podcast-featuring-naveed-iqbal-dolr/ Please Subscribe our channel 614Startups is a podcast for early-stage tech founders raising capital in the Midwest | community for entrepreneurs and investors. Linkedin : https://www.linkedin.com/company/614startups/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/614startups Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/614_startups/ Facebook:https://web.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093106463335

On this episode, Elio interviews Michael Supeck and Will Zell, Founding Partners of the Ohio Angel Collective. The Ohio Angel Collective is a vibrant network of investors and startup enthusiasts dedicated to nurturing and growing the entrepreneurial spirit of Ohio. Michael and Will explain why they decided to start the OAC, how the angel syndicate works, what they look for in investors and startups, and how they plan to be the first check into overlooked and underserved Ohio founders.

Tune in to the latest episode of the 614Startups podcast hosted by Elio Harmon, where we dive into the world of startup marketing with Jason Parks, Co-founder of The Media Captain and DermWarehouse. In this insightful conversation, Jason shares invaluable wisdom on proven marketing strategies that startups can employ to ignite explosive growth in their businesses.
Discover the core principles of marketing and marketing strategy as Jason breaks down the essential components for startup success. From defining marketing fundamentals to crafting effective strategies, this episode is a masterclass for entrepreneurs seeking to amplify their brand presence and drive significant results.
But the conversation doesn't stop there. Jason unravels the mysteries of paid digital marketing, offering actionable insights on leveraging platforms like Google ads, Facebook, and Instagram to generate leads and maximize conversions. Learn how to navigate the digital advertising landscape effectively and harness the power of targeted campaigns to fuel your startup's growth.
Moreover, Jason sheds light on the often overlooked yet highly effective avenues of blogging and YouTube ads, showcasing how these mediums can be leveraged to reach and engage with your target audience in meaningful ways.
Perhaps most intriguingly, Jason reveals that startups can kickstart their journey towards growth with just a few hundred dollars per month, emphasizing the importance of smart allocation and experimentation in marketing budgets.
Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, this episode is packed with actionable strategies and expert advice to help you propel your startup to new heights. Don't miss out on this opportunity to gain invaluable insights from one of the industry's leading experts. Tune in now to revolutionize your approach to startup marketing!

Welcome to the 614Startups podcast, where we delve into the journeys of entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators shaping the future of business. In this episode, we sit down with Tim Grace, the Managing Director of Techstars Columbus powered by The Ohio State University. Tim takes us through his entrepreneurial journey, from his early ventures to his evolution into an investor. He shares insights into what it takes to build a successful career and why he decided to take the job as Managing Director. Our conversation then shifts gears as Tim provides a comprehensive overview of Techstars Columbus. He unpacks the genesis of the program, its mission, and the intricacies of the application process. Tim walks us through how companies are selected, the duration of the program, and how the curriculum is meticulously tailored to meet the unique needs of each participating founder. If you're an aspiring entrepreneur looking to accelerate your startup journey, this episode is a must-listen. Join us as we explore the dynamic landscape of entrepreneurship and innovation with Tim Grace. For more information about Techstars Columbus and to apply for the next cohort, visit: Techstars Columbus - The Ohio State University Accelerator

Welcome to another insightful episode of the 614Startups podcast! In this episode, we sit down with Carrie Ghose, a seasoned reporter from Columbus Business First, to delve into the riveting story of Olive, a once-thriving tech company that tragically went out of business in late 2023.
Join us as we trace Olive's journey from its promising beginnings, exploring the visionary founder, early investors, and the company's major pivot that set the stage for both success and eventual downfall. Carrie Ghose provides an in-depth look into the challenges Olive faced, including significant layoffs and ensuing legal battles.
The conversation doesn't stop there – we explore the valiant efforts made to salvage the company, shedding light on the various strategies employed and the ultimate decisions that led to Olive's closure. As we dissect the aftermath, discover the parallel narrative of Founder Sean Lane and his new project, launched even as Olive faced its final days.
But the story doesn't just end with the company's closure – we uncover the human side of Olive's demise, examining who bore the brunt of the fallout and the lessons that can be gleaned from this cautionary tale. This episode is a must-listen for entrepreneurs, investors, and anyone intrigued by the dynamic world of tech startups.
Tune in as we navigate through the rise, fall, and aftermath of Olive, learning valuable insights and gaining a deeper understanding of the intricate web that surrounds the world of startups. Don't miss this gripping episode of the 614Startups podcast with Carrie Ghose, offering a unique perspective on a tech company that was once a unicorn and the lessons that can be extracted from its dramatic journey.

Get ready for an electrifying episode on the 614Startups Podcast! In this dynamic conversation, Elio sits down with Keith Warren, the Senior SBA Regional Vice President at Northwest Bank. Brace yourself as they delve into the intricacies of Northwest Bank's game-changing SBA lending program, designed to empower business owners like never before. Unlock the secrets of SBA lending with Keith as he unravels the process, sheds light on underwriting requirements, and unveils the limitless possibilities these loans bring for acquiring or scaling your business. Dive deep into the discussion on interest rates and discover exclusive fee relief opportunities available in 2024. This episode is tailor-made for ambitious business owners in pursuit of the capital needed to fuel their dreams. If you're ready to take your business to new heights, join us for an exhilarating episode that promises valuable insights and actionable strategies. Tune in now and harness the knowledge that could be the key to unlocking the funding your dream business deserves!

In this dynamic episode, join us as we sit down with Melissa Dickson, a visionary entrepreneur and community advocate, to explore the art of reinvesting while preserving the essence of neighborhood identity. From the bustling streets of Columbus to the heart of real estate development, this conversation delves into key topics that are shaping the landscape of business and community building.

🏡 Episode Highlights:

1. Reinvesting While Retaining Neighborhood Identity: Discover the delicate balance between growth and preservation as Melissa shares insights on how businesses can thrive while staying deeply rooted in their communities.

2. Passion and Energy in Business Building: Dive into the entrepreneurial journey with Melissa and explore the role of passion and energy in the foundation and growth of a successful business.

3. Pivoting in Times of Uncertainty: Learn from real-life experiences as our guest sheds light on the strategies and mindset required to navigate uncertainties and successfully pivot in the business world.

4. The Importance of Advisors in Early-Stage Startups: Melissa discusses the invaluable role advisors play in guiding early-stage startups, offering pearls of wisdom for those embarking on their entrepreneurial ventures.

5. Real Estate Development Through City Collaborations: Gain insights into the world of real estate development and how collaboration with the City of Columbus can shape transformative projects that benefit both businesses and communities.

🚀 Join the Conversation! Whether you're a budding entrepreneur, community builder, or simply intrigued by the dynamics of business and community collaboration, this episode is a must-listen.

🎧 Listen now on and get ready to be inspired by Melissa Dickson's incredible journey and the valuable insights she shares!

Don't forget to subscribe, like, and share if you enjoyed the episode! 🌟 #Podcast #BusinessInsights #CommunityEngagement

Join us for a dynamic episode of "Conversations with Venture," recorded in front of a live studio audience at COhatch Dublin. In this 614Startups episode, our host engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Brian Zuercher, the General Partner at 1870 Ventures. 🚀 About Our Guest: Brian Zuercher brings a wealth of startup experience and expertise to the table, having driven innovation and entrepreneurship as a founder and now as an investor. As a General Partner at 1870 Ventures, Brian plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of the Columbus startup landscape by incubating and investing in the next generation of groundbreaking ideas. 🌐 Exploring 1870 Ventures: Delve into the world of 1870 Ventures, a hub for entrepreneurial growth and development. Discover how this platform is driving change, supporting startups, and creating an environment where ideas flourish. 🎤 Live Studio Audience Interaction: Experience the energy of the live recording as the audience engages with Brian, asking questions and sharing insights. The palpable enthusiasm adds an extra layer to the conversation, making this episode a unique and immersive experience. 🔍 Key Topics Covered: The current state of innovation and entrepreneurship Brian Zuercher's journey and insights on the history of the Columbus startup ecosystem 1870 Ventures' venture studio concept and approach to starting and scaling companies Audience questions and interactive discussions 🔗 Connect with 1870 Ventures: Explore more about 1870 Ventures and stay updated on their latest initiatives by visiting 1870Ventures.com. Tune in to this episode for an inspiring conversation that goes beyond the conventional, providing valuable insights into the world of venture capital, innovation, and the entrepreneurial spirit. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting your journey, this episode is a must-listen! 🎧 Listen now and embark on a journey of discovery and inspiration with "Conversations with Venture"! Learn More about Brian Zuercher:https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianzuercher/ Linkedin : https://www.linkedin.com/company/614startups/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/614startups Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/614_startups/

Welcome to another enlightening episode of the 614Startups Podcast, where we delve deep into the world of startups and entrepreneurship. On this episode, Elio is joined by Arthi Rathi, an accomplished CFO at Book+Street, to uncover the often-overlooked connection between founder personal finances and startup success.
Discover the invaluable insights and expert advice Arthi brings to the table as we discuss how a founder's financial health can significantly impact their venture's journey. We'll explore the critical role personal financial stability plays in securing funding, making strategic decisions, and fostering a resilient entrepreneurial spirit.
Join us in this engaging conversation as we tackle questions like: How do a founder's personal finances influence their startup's growth and sustainability? What are the key financial considerations for aspiring entrepreneurs before embarking on their startup journey? Insights on managing personal finances while bootstrapping a new venture. The interplay between personal and business finances and the importance of separation. Arthi Rathi's wealth of experience in financial management and her role at Book+Street make her the perfect guide for this episode, shedding light on the financial aspects often left in the shadows of entrepreneurial discussions.
Tune in now for this worthwhile discussion and gain a newfound understanding of how your financial health as a founder can make or break your startup's success. Don't miss out on this episode of The Link Between Startup Success and Founder Personal Finances with Arthi Rathi, CFO of Book+Street

Welcome to another enlightening episode of the 614Startups Podcast! In this insightful discussion, we have the privilege of diving deep into the world of business tax credits with an absolute expert in the field, Terracina Maxwell. As the President and Co-Founder of Arvo Tech, she brings a wealth of knowledge and experience that can truly revolutionize the way you approach your organization's financial health.
Whether you're a small business owner navigating the intricacies of tax credits or part of a large corporation seeking to optimize your financial strategies, this episode is bound to be a game-changer. Terracina shares her extensive insights while debunking common misconceptions and providing practical tips for businesses to unlock the full potential of their tax credits. By the end of this conversation, you'll be armed with the knowledge to save money and enhance your bottom line.
So get ready to explore the secrets of claiming your business tax credits and take your financial wellbeing to new heights!

On this episode, Elio interviews Kristen Brown, Founder of Rela. Rela is an art subscription service collaborating with local artists to make any space a local art gallery, empowering anyone to host original art in their home or office. Kristen shares Rela's origin story, the role that art should play in our lives, and how Rela intends to end the starving artist trope by generating revenue for local artists on artwork that would otherwise languish in storage.

On this episode, Elio interviews Chris Berry, President/CEO of OhioX. Chris Berry highlights the importance of collaboration and creating a supportive ecosystem for the growth of the tech sector in Ohio. Chris shares the mission and purpose of OhioX and how they leverage storytelling, events, education, advocacy, and talent attraction to advance Ohio's technology and digital industry. He explains the organization's goals and initiatives in promoting and supporting tech and innovation within the state. Chris shares his personal experiences and the insight he gained from working in government that motivated him to create an organization fostering tech growth in Ohio. With major investments from Intel, Meta, Honda, Google, and now Amazon Web Services, the world according to Chris will surely be Built In Ohio.

Tune in to the podcast episode to gain valuable insights from Chris Berry about connecting and supporting Ohio's tech and innovation communities.

Learn more about OhioX: https://www.ohiox.org/

Learn more about Chris Berry: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-berry-073aa75/

Learn more about 614Startups: https://614startups.com/

Learn more about Elio Harmon: linkedin.com/in/elio-harmon-ba4a8747/

On this episode, Elio interviews Marques Martin, Partner at FVLCRUM. FVLCRUM is a private equity firm that leverages their expertise in business strategy, operations, acquisitions, to create increased value in the companies they invest in. Marques Shares How His Passion For Finance Led Him Morehouse College, The Impetus That Created FVLCRUM, How His Team Works With Founders To Create Wealth And Accelerate Growth, And Why Private Equity Is An Asset Class That Brings Much Need Capital Diversity To The Columbus Startup Ecosystem.

On this episode, Elio interviews Dan German, Founder of orthobrain. orthobrain offers a total solution, combining education and support to make it easy for general dentists to grow their practice and profits with orthodontics. But orthobrain is more than that. Dan is on a mission to make a beautiful smile accessible to people all across the world. Dan shares his journey from dentistry, to inspired entrepreneur, with the energy and passion that great podcasts are made of. Enjoy!

Our CEO Elio Harmon sat down with Dan Snyder, CEO of Lower as he formally announced the launch of Mortgage Pass. Mortgage Pass is Lower's cash offer product aimed at helping homebuyers retain their relationship with their trusted real estate advisor while harnessing the power of cash in a competitive housing environment. True to Columbus' reputation as Test City, USA, Mortgage Pass is launching in Columbus first and the company plans to scale quickly to other areas of the country.  The conversation was held in front of a live audience of some of Columbus' top real estate agents and Lower employees.

On this episode, Elio interviews Cheryl Turnbull, Senior Director of the Keenan Center for Entrepreneurship at The Ohio State University. The Tim & Kathleen Keenan Center for Entrepreneurship works to grow and foster a culture of entrepreneurship for the Ohio State community through the creation and support of new ventures and the education and encouragement of their founders. The Keenan Center provides a campus-wide hub for collaboration and engagement with early-stage capital, startup talent and robust programming resources to maximize opportunities for social and economic impact.  

Cheryl discusses how the Keenan Center helps students and faculty develop ideas and then facilitates connections with entrepreneurs, venture capital firms, and corporate partners to validate the ideas and turn research into profitable ventures. Enjoy!

On this episode, Elio interviews Dr. Erika Pryor of EPiC Creative + Design. EPiC Creative and Design LLC is an innovative design and strategy studio offering clients a dynamic partnership to meet your evolving and diverse needs. Erika is an Executive in Residence at Denison University where she teaches on launching and scaling startups via marketing industry expertise, hands-on workshops, and four internships.  Elio and Erika discuss what it takes to wear multiple hats while leading multiple projects, why personal leadership development helps you take your business to the next level, and how organizations from across the State of Ohio are coming together to help Black founders start and scale successful companies.

On this episode, Elio interviews Michelle Murcia, Founder and CEO of Book+Street. Book+Street provides comprehensive finance and administration services for private and pre-IPO companies, and also designs and administers equity-based compensation plans that make it easy for startups to start off right, right from the start. Michelle defines equity, breaks down the types of equity and the pros and cons of each, and why engaging a professional can save you a lot of headaches when hiring and firing, raising capital, and exiting your business. Enjoy!

On this episode, Elio interviews Dan Rockwell, CEO and Co-Founder of Big Kitty Labs. Big Kitty Labs is a software development agency focusing on software development for web, enterprise, and mobile applications. Big Kitty Labs has worked with a long list of Columbus startups and don't be surprised if you a fan of a platform they helped develop. Dan shares his wealth of knowledge gained from working with diverse founders building solutions for diverse industries. For the first time ever on the show, Dan goes metaphysical and we explore his tagline, Ready, Set, Manifest. Enjoy!