I’m not a financial advisor; Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Devin: What is your superpower?Kerry: People, when I'm interviewed, continually say to me, you're fearless, you're fearless, you're fearless. But I'm not fearless at all. I think my superpower, if I have one, is that I will lean into things that scare me. I may appear fearless to other people, but I'm not. Trust me! I feel the fear, but I'm never going to run away from fear. I will lean into fear.Author’s note: North Carolina, especially Asheville, but also including the broader region, was devastated by Hurricane Helene. Please consider joining me in making a donation to Rotary International, where the funds will be distributed locally where needed and will be matched by the Rotary Foundation.In today’s episode, I had the honor of speaking with filmmaker Kerry David, who has dedicated her career to telling impactful stories through her lens. Her latest project, "Open Secret," delves into a difficult subject—systemic child abuse and the corruption that allowed it to continue in North Carolina schools. Despite the heartbreaking topic, Kerry finds and showcases the resilience of individuals fighting to make a difference.Kerry’s journey with this project began unexpectedly when she moved to North Carolina. Initially hesitant to take on another heavy subject, Kerry ultimately decided to lend her talents to highlight a story of immense courage. “The film really is about the courage to challenge something in your community that isn't working despite this being detrimental potentially to your own self,” she shared.What makes this project truly unique is Kerry’s decision to raise funds through a regulated investment crowdfunding campaign on Wefunder. This approach allows people from all over the country to participate in the movement against abuse in schools. “Allowing people everywhere to invest in this film is a way of helping to maximize your audience, maximize the impact, maximize the reach,” she explained. By involving the community, Kerry aims to spark a national conversation and prevent future tragedies.This opportunity to invest in a project that combines social impact with powerful storytelling is rare, and Kerry’s passion shines through every frame of her work. If you’re moved by this story, consider joining the effort to support change—just as Kerry has done.tl;dr:* In today's episode, Kerry David shared her experience transitioning from working at Paramount Pictures and with Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman to starting her own production company and directing impactful documentaries.* Kerry discussed her latest project, "Open Secret," which explores systemic abuse in North Carolina schools and the courage of community members who fought against the corruption that enabled it.* Kerry emphasized her superpower of leaning into fear, recounting a challenging decision to change filming locations for safety during her previous project, demonstrating her ability to balance courage with prudence.* The episode highlighted Kerry's initiative in founding the nonprofit Over and Above Africa, which supports anti-poaching efforts and raises awareness through film.* Kerry explained her decision to use crowdfunding on WeFunder for her latest film to involve and empower communities nationwide to tackle systemic issues beyond North Carolina.How to Develop Leaning into Fear As a SuperpowerKerry’s superpower is her ability to “lean into fear.” She doesn’t ignore or try to eliminate fear—instead, she faces it head-on, refusing to let it control her decisions or actions. This willingness to confront fear, rather than shy away from it, allows Kerry to push boundaries and take on challenging projects that make a difference in the world.One powerful example of Kerry leaning into fear came during the production of her last film. She and her crew were scheduled to travel from South Africa to Uganda, but just days before, a nearby kidnapping involving three British citizens left her in a state of intense fear for her team's safety. Despite initially wanting to go ahead, Kerry made the difficult decision to pivot and film in Vietnam instead. This decision, rooted in both courage and concern for her crew’s safety, ultimately kept them out of harm’s way.To develop this superpower, Kerry suggests several actionable strategies:* Evaluate the consequences of not acting. Consider how avoiding a fearful situation could lead to missed opportunities or negative outcomes.* Honor your moral compass. When you know something is the right thing to do, face the fear and act anyway.* Start with small acts of courage. Practicing courage when the stakes are low helps build confidence for larger challenges.* Accept that fear is normal. Understand that feeling fear doesn't mean you’re weak—it’s an opportunity to show strength by moving forward despite it.By following Kerry’s example and advice, you can make leaning into fear a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileKerry David (she/her):Filmmaker and Philanthropist , KDC FilmsAbout KDC Films: My company is KDC Films.  Now in our 11th year, we produce, write, direct and fundraise for feature films and documentaries - soon to expand into series. Website: WeFunder.com/OpenSecretInstagram Handle: @OpensecretthefilmOther URL: OverAndAboveAfrica.comBiographical Information: Kerry David is an award-winning filmmaker with an extensive career in film production. She began at Paramount Pictures, later working for Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman on major projects such as "Mission Impossible 2" and "Eyes Wide Shut." She then launched her own production company, producing films including "Agent Cody Banks," "My Date with Drew," and "Like Dandelion Dust," which won over 35 festival awards globally.Kerry has directed impactful documentaries like "Breaking Their Silence," focusing on women fighting against poaching, and "Open Secret," highlighting corruption in a North Carolina school district. She also founded Over and Above Africa, a nonprofit supporting endangered species and communities in Africa. Kerry’s passion for social issues and education through entertainment drives her ongoing work in creating inspiring and impactful films.Linkedin: LinkedIn.com/in/KerryDavidMax-Impact MembersThe following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support to keep us operating:Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.* SuperCrowd Mastermind Group, twice monthly on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays at noon Eastern. This group is for entrepreneurs and small business owners interested in raising money from the crowd. Attend your first meeting free!* Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on October 15, 2024, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.* SuperCrowdHour, October 16, 2024, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, we host a value-laden webinar for aspiring impact investors or social entrepreneurs. At October’s webinar, Devin Thorpe will provide an in-depth answer to the question, “How to Assess Your Crowd's Potential for Investing?” Free to attend.Community Event Calendar* Successful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events* Community Revitalization, Thursdays, 10:00 AM Eastern.* Community Capital Alternatives for Outdoor Recreation Challenges, Kathleen Minogue of Crowdfund Better speaking at American Trails, October 3, 10:00 AM, free.* Main Street Skowhegan and NC3 Entrepreneur Finance Workshop Series, September 17 - November 19, 2023.* Krishi Janani PBC Crowdfunding Virtual Office Hour, Sep 21, 2024, Noon Eastern.* Investment Week 24, October 19-20, 2024, Los Angeles. * Crowdfunding Professional Association, Summit in DC, October 22-23* Asheville Neighborhood Economics, November 12-13.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 8,000+ members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe

I’m not a financial advisor; Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Devin: What is your superpower?Natasha: I think maybe one thing I pride myself on is being a power listener.Today’s episode of the Superpowers for Good show features Natasha Cornstein, CEO of Blushington, a company bringing high-quality beauty services to a broader audience while breaking traditional barriers in the industry. Blushington isn't a startup just out of the gate—it's a growing company with a decade of experience, built on making beauty accessible to everyone.Natasha shared how Blushington pivoted during the pandemic, using that challenging period as an inflection point to redesign its business model. They emerged with a franchise concept, allowing people to become business owners supported by Blushington’s proven expertise. This shift has positioned Blushington for ambitious growth, aiming to open 60 franchise locations by the end of 2028.One of the most compelling aspects of Blushington’s expansion is its commitment to inclusivity and empowerment. As Natasha said, "The Blushington experience is about luxury, but it’s about accessibility." This mission resonates deeply with potential franchisees, especially those like Dr. Karen Diaz Maeike, Blushington’s first franchise owner, who embodies the spirit of making a difference in their community.Blushington’s current capital raise on WeFunder aligns with its expansion plans, providing investors with an opportunity to be part of this exciting journey. Natasha’s passion for empowering others, whether through beauty services or entrepreneurship, shines through, making Blushington a company poised for impactful growth. It’s truly inspiring to see a business not just survive adversity but use it as a springboard for transformation and inclusivity.tl;dr:* Blushington, led by Natasha Cornstein, has pivoted and expanded its services, adding blowouts and wig styling to create a unique beauty experience that combines luxury and accessibility.* The company transitioned from corporate ownership to a franchise model, using the pandemic as an opportunity to reorganize and improve profitability, aiming for significant growth in the coming years.* Natasha emphasizes Blushington's commitment to inclusivity, ensuring all customers, regardless of background, feel welcome and comfortable in their beauty journey.* The new wig styling service originated from listening to customer needs, demonstrating Natasha's "power listening" approach to innovation and business growth.* Blushington launched its franchise sales in early 2024 and is focused on expanding across the Southeast, with the first franchise owned by a longtime customer, showcasing trust and validation of the brand.How to Develop Power Listening As a SuperpowerNatasha describes her superpower as being a "power listener." She genuinely loves meeting new people and learning from their experiences. This ability to listen attentively, coupled with her passion for execution, allows her to identify innovative ideas and turn them into real business opportunities. Natasha emphasizes that listening isn’t just a passive activity—it’s the foundation for her leadership and Blushington’s growth.One notable story that exemplifies Natasha’s superpower is the recent launch of wig styling services at Blushington. This idea originated from a casual conversation with a client and a suggestion from one of the artists on the salon floor. Natasha listened carefully, researched the idea, and ultimately implemented it, transforming it into a new offering that aligns with Blushington’s mission to provide uplifting experiences for all customers, including those facing health challenges like chemotherapy.Tips for Developing the Superpower:* Be Present in Conversations: Practice active listening in every interaction—whether it’s with team members, customers, or others. Engage fully to understand their perspectives.* Be Curious: Treat every conversation as a learning opportunity. Approach new people and ideas with curiosity.* Value Others’ Ideas: Give importance to suggestions and insights from people around you. Find ways to explore and evaluate their ideas.* Execute on Feedback: Take action on the best ideas. Follow through with research, testing, and implementation to bring those ideas to life.By following Natasha's example and advice, you can make power listening a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileNatasha Cornstein (she/her):CEO, Blushington About Blushington: Blushington is revolutionizing the beauty industry by offering express luxury beauty services that cater to the diverse needs of all ages, skin tones, and hair textures. With a focus on inclusivity and accessibility, Blushington provides a unique blend of high-quality makeup, skincare, and blowout services- all under one roof. Through our newly introduced franchising model, we are scaling our brand to reach communities nationwide, empowering beauty professionals and making A-list beauty experiences available to everyone.Founded in 2011 by sisters Stephi Cohen and Nicki Maron on the belief that people of all ages and backgrounds deserve to feel confident and beautiful, Blushington has seen tremendous success over a decade. Now, the brand is disrupting the beauty industry with its franchise model, offering blowouts, makeup, and skincare services all under one roof. Committed to inclusivity, Blushington welcomes customers of all ages, backgrounds, and hair textures.Blushington’s franchise model offers multiple recurring revenue streams through in-store and on-demand services, designed for longevity. The brand is actively seeking franchisees who are motivated, detail-oriented, and passionate about the beauty industry. Target markets include Texas, Tennessee, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Arizona, Colorado, Nevada, and California. Blushington also offers discounts for veterans and multi-unit owners. The initial investment to open a lounge ranges from $435,500 to $630,100.Website: blushington.comFacebook Page: fb.com/blushingtonInstagram Handle: @blushington Linkedin:  linkedin.com/company/blushington-holdings   Other URL: wefunder.com/blushingtonBiographical Information: Natasha Cornstein is the CEO of Blushington, a pioneering beauty brand transforming the $646 billion beauty industry with its innovative express beauty concept. Under her leadership, Blushington has evolved from a beloved makeup lounge to a comprehensive beauty service provider, offering makeup, skincare, and blowouts. Formerly the Global Director at CIRCA, Natasha managed a $5M+ media budget, showcasing her expertise in driving growth and brand visibility. Natasha has been featured in major publications such as The New York Times, Forbes, and Vogue, and was named to the prestigious Glossy 50 list. She is also a co-founder of the Courts of Dreams Foundation and holds a BA from Washington University.Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/natasha-cornstein-27317628/Max-Impact MembersThe following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support to keep us operating:Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.* Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on October 15, 2024, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.* SuperCrowdHour, October 16, 2024, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, we host a value-laden webinar for aspiring impact investors or social entrepreneurs. At October’s webinar, Devin Thorpe will provide an in-depth answer to the question, “How to Assess Your Crowd's Potential for Investing?” Free to attend.* SuperCrowd Mastermind Group, twice monthly on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays at noon Eastern. This group is for entrepreneurs and small business owners interested in raising money from the crowd. Attend your first meeting free! Community Event Calendar* Successful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events* Community Revitalization, Thursdays, 10:00 AM Eastern.* Community Capital Alternatives for Outdoor Recreation Challenges, Kathleen Minogue of Crowdfund Better speaking at American Trails, October 3, 10:00 AM, free.* Main Street Skowhegan and NC3 Entrepreneur Finance Workshop Series, September 17 - November 19, 2023.* Krishi Janani PBC Crowdfunding Virtual Office Hour, Sep 21, 2024, Noon Eastern.* Investment Week 24, October 19-20, 2024, Los Angeles. * Crowdfunding Professional Association, Summit in DC, October 22-23* Asheville Neighborhood Economics, November 12-13.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 8,000+ members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe

I’m not a financial advisor; Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Devin: What is your superpower?Tim: I've always been able to see the sort of hidden potential in those around me, whether it's my friends, my students when I was teaching, the co-founders that I work with–a lot of times I see it before they even see it themselves.On today’s episode of Superpowers for Good, I had the pleasure of speaking with Tim He, the founder and CEO of Cherrytree. Tim is dedicated to solving one of the most common problems faced by startups: co-founder conflict. He revealed a startling statistic—about two-thirds of startups fail due to co-founder issues. Recognizing this, Tim’s work with Cherrytree focuses on helping co-founders build strong, lasting relationships.The key to a successful co-founder relationship, Tim explains, is a principle we can all relate to: helping each other thrive. “You become a better co-founder when you help your co-founder succeed,” Tim shared during our conversation. This mindset echoes the dynamics of a healthy marriage, where mutual support and shared success are vital. Tim’s analogy to parenting also struck a chord, illustrating how fostering your co-founder’s growth can improve the partnership and the business as a whole.Cherrytree offers resources like a twice-weekly newsletter, one-on-one coaching, and cohort classes, providing entrepreneurs with practical tools to improve their co-founder relationships. Tim’s focus on awareness and teamwork helps founders not just survive but succeed together.Cherrytree isn’t just a resource for co-founders; it’s a community. Entrepreneurs are learning to navigate the challenges of running a business alongside a partner, turning potential points of conflict into opportunities for growth. If you're looking for guidance on how to build stronger co-founder relationships, Tim’s work at Cherrytree could be the solution you need.tl;dr:* Co-Founder Issues: Tim highlights that about 65% of startups fail due to co-founder conflicts, emphasizing the need for early awareness and proactive relationship management.* The Power of Partnerships: He stresses the importance of having a co-founder, not only for skill-sharing but also for emotional support, which can be key to a startup’s success.* Building Strong Co-Founderships: Tim explains that the secret to a successful co-foundership lies in self-awareness and mutual support, similar to a healthy marriage where both parties work together to help each other succeed.* Practice and Patience: Drawing from his sports background, Tim uses the analogy of mastering a skill, noting that experienced co-founders have honed their partnership over countless hours of hard work, not just luck.* Cherrytree's Resources: Cherrytree, Tim’s platform, provides a range of tools, including a newsletter, coaching, and cohort classes aimed at helping co-founders develop stronger relationships and succeed in business.How to Develop Seeing Potential As a SuperpowerTim He’s superpower is his unique ability to see the hidden potential in others, even when they may not see it themselves. Whether working with co-founders, friends, or students, Tim’s gift is helping people recognize and develop their strengths. This superpower is at the core of his work at Cherrytree, where he supports co-founders in nurturing stronger partnerships and becoming better versions of themselves.Tim shared a powerful story from his teenage years. At the end-of-year ceremony in high school, while all his friends won awards, Tim didn’t receive any. Though initially disappointed, he later realized that he had contributed to his friends’ success by helping them in areas like history and physical education. This mental shift allowed him to celebrate their recognition rather than be jealous of it. This experience taught Tim that his role in unlocking the potential of others was more valuable than winning an award himself—a realization that shaped his future approach to leadership and mentorship.Tips for Developing the Superpower:* Be Humble: Focus less on yourself and more on elevating those around you. Tim emphasizes that humility doesn’t mean thinking less of yourself but thinking of yourself less.* Create Space for Growth: Provide an environment that allows others to explore their abilities. Sometimes, people need support and space to grow rather than constant input.* Recognize Potential: Learn to see beyond the surface and recognize the talents and strengths that others may not immediately identify in themselves.* Offer Support: Help others achieve their goals by guiding and mentoring them, as Tim does with co-founders through Cherrytree.By following Tim’s example and advice, you can make seeing potential a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileTim He (he/him):Founder & CEO, CherrytreeAbout Cherrytree: 65% of startups are killed by co-founder conflicts. Cherrytree helps you beat the odds. As you might know, without a strong cofoundership, your company is doomed by default. With one, you have a fighting chance. Cherrytree offers a free 2x/week newsletter with stories and insights from dorm-room founders to unicorns and everyone in between. We also have a 1:1 coaching aspect for more engaged and hands-on support. Website: cherrytree.appBiographical Information: Tim He cheated his way through high school, attended the only university he was accepted by and almost failed out. He was rejected by nearly every company he ever applied to. Many of his entrepreneurial ventures fizzled out. Since then, he has started several companies, advises a range of teams from dynamic duos to global giants, and delivers lectures at prestigious universities.His cofounder journey taught him the good, the bad, and the ugly. Now, his mission is to help cofounders around the world work better together and ultimately become better cofounders themselves. Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/timhe2000/Max-Impact MembersThe following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support to keep us operating:Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.* Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on October 15, 2024, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.* SuperCrowdHour, October 16, 2024, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, we host a value-laden webinar for aspiring impact investors or social entrepreneurs. At October’s webinar, Devin Thorpe will provide an in-depth answer to the question, “How to Assess Your Crowd's Potential for Investing?” Free to attend.* SuperCrowd Mastermind Group, twice monthly on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays at noon Eastern. This group is for entrepreneurs and small business owners interested in raising money from the crowd. Attend your first meeting free! Community Event Calendar* Successful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events* Community Revitalization, Thursdays, 10:00 AM Eastern.* HELP Fund’s Launch Press Conference, September 30, 2024, 9:00 AM Eastern, Old Dutch Church, Kingston, NY (272 Wall St, Kingston, NY 12401) * Community Capital Alternatives for Outdoor Recreation Challenges, Kathleen Minogue of Crowdfund Better speaking at American Trails, October 3, 10:00 AM, free.* Main Street Skowhegan and NC3 Entrepreneur Finance Workshop Series, September 17 - November 19, 2023.* Krishi Janani PBC Crowdfunding Virtual Office Hour, Sep 21, 2024, Noon Eastern.* Investment Week 24, October 19-20, 2024, Los Angeles. * Crowdfunding Professional Association, Summit in DC, October 22-23* Asheville Neighborhood Economics, November 12-13.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 8,000+ members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe

I’m not a financial advisor; Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Devin: What is your superpower?Carina:  I think listening to what others have to say, try to gently change—not change their perspective, but give them light into their decisions and be a good friend that way.On today’s episode of Superpowers for Good, I had the pleasure of speaking with Carina Comer, the owner of Carina’s Bakery. Carina’s story is remarkable not only because of her journey as a legally blind entrepreneur but also because of the impact her bakery is making on her community. Carina’s Bakery, located in Beaverton, Oregon, isn’t just a business; it’s a place of opportunity, especially for people with disabilities.Carina shared how her own experiences with vision loss, stemming from childhood health challenges, inspired her to create a bakery that employs individuals with a range of disabilities. "I probably had 40 people with disabilities work for me or do work experiences or internships throughout that time," she explained. This commitment has fostered a sense of community and growth, not just for her employees but also for her as a leader. She described the joy she feels watching her employees, many of whom have been overlooked by traditional employers, gain confidence and contribute meaningfully.What struck me most was Carina’s reflection on the challenges of managing a business with such a diverse workforce, yet how the rewards far outweigh the difficulties. She continues to grow as a leader and hopes to inspire other businesses to embrace the unique contributions that people with disabilities can bring to the table.For those interested in supporting Carina’s mission, she is currently raising capital through a regulated investment crowdfunding campaign on Honeycomb Credit. You can check out her campaign at s4g.biz/carina to learn more about how she is using these funds to further develop her bakery and its training programs.Carina’s dedication is a testament to the power of inclusive employment and the incredible potential that lies in everyone.tl;dr:* Carina's Journey: Carina Comer, legally blind due to childhood brain cancer, founded Carina’s Bakery in Beaverton, Oregon, a vegan and gluten-free bakery. Her inspiration stemmed from her family’s entrepreneurial background and her love of baking.* Inclusive Employment: Carina's Bakery primarily hires individuals with disabilities, providing opportunities for people who are often overlooked by traditional employers. Her staff includes people with blindness, autism, and learning disabilities.* Challenges and Adaptation: Running the bakery comes with unique challenges, such as managing a diverse workforce and compensating for her own visual limitations. Despite this, Carina has created a supportive and loyal team, with many employees staying long-term.* Crowdfunding for Growth: Carina has launched a crowdfunding campaign on Honeycomb Credit to fund the bakery’s growth, focusing on developing training programs and obtaining adaptive equipment.* Personal Growth: Carina shared how the bakery has helped her become a more resilient, confident leader, with a deeper understanding of both disabilities and the challenges businesses face in employing people with disabilities.How to Develop Active Listening As a SuperpowerCarina’s superpower is her ability to actively listen. This skill has been critical to her success as an entrepreneur and leader.Carina uses active listening to understand her employees’ and customers’ needs, adjusting her management and business strategies accordingly. This superpower has enabled her to grow as a leader, creating a supportive environment where people with disabilities can thrive. By fully hearing others before responding, she fosters an inclusive and respectful atmosphere in her bakery.One illustrative story involves a difficult decision to let go of a long-time employee. Though painful, Carina reflected on the feedback she received, which ultimately led her to hire a new workplace manager. This decision eased her workload and helped her better address her employees’ needs, showcasing her ability to listen and adapt for the growth of her business.Carina offers actionable advice for developing active listening:* Listen fully: Don’t jump in to respond before someone finishes speaking.* Identify key emotions or needs: Focus on the words that reveal what the person truly feels or needs.* Tailor your responses: Respond with answers that are helpful, positive, and relevant to their situation.* Adapt your approach: Pay attention to the speaker's tone and body language to adjust your listening style as needed.By following Carina’s example and advice, you can make active listening a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileCarina Comer (she/her):Owner, Carina’s BakeryAbout Carina’s Bakery: Carina’s Bakery combines Scandinavian traditions and inspiration with Oregon ingredients to make vegan ( and other allergy-friendly, ) treats, coffee, and savory items that are made by employees with didABILITIES. Not only do we feature Item based on family recipes and cultural heritage, we also follow a similar philosophy to that of Sweden and other social democracies in highlighting individuality, Choices, and pleasure while providing a social safety net and assistance. we do this all in a inviting community space that changes the way people think about food and the people who make it all while being kind to animals and the environment.Website: www.carinasbakery.comCompany Facebook Page: FB.com/CarinasBakeryInstagram Handle: @carinasbakeryOther URL: https://invest.honeycombcredit.com/campaigns/Carina's-BakeryBiographical Information: You might say I was born an entrepreneur. Both my grandfathers immigrated out of Sweden and Ireland to the US in the late 40s and early 50s, only to find a harder life in the US. Eventually, they both opened businesses in Farmington, Connecticut, and raised families to take over their businesses, when health challenges arose. Their grit followed down to me, a woman born with a brain tumor that not only caused lifelong health effects but also resulted in blindness and one eye and tunnel vision in the eye. Through this, two other brain tumors, and many hospital visits in between, my family and our love for food grounded me, especially time spent in the kitchen making cookies and cardamom buns. Over time, baking has not just become a passion but a way to share the message of perseverance, ability, and personality. I stood steadfast in this love of sweets while paddling bakers on a tricycle for funds to buy gifts for cancer patients, fighting my way through the high-speed, no-nonsense environment of pastry school and the long hours of grad school that I attended. Still, no doors opened toward a career in the food industry.  Eventually, I figured out that even in the more welcoming and diverse place I now called home, Oregon, the only way I was going to make a name for myself doing the thing I loved most was to open my own place. In fact, I have dreamt of having a bakery since I was five when I first remember telling someone such but I never dreamed I would really be doing it at 25, especially if you saw how extremely quiet and shy I was at those first farmers market stalls! But now, approaching our seventh anniversary in downtown Beaverton, I am more than just a baker, but a meaningful part of a community creating sweet change.   Linkedin: linkedin.com/carinacomMax-Impact MembersThe following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support to keep us operating:Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Sheryle Gilihan, CauseLabs | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.* Superpowers for Good Live Pitch, September 25, 2024. The Live Pitch will stream simultaneously to the e360tv network, Facebook, Linkedin, YouTube and Superpowers for Good. We hope for an audience of thousands! Watch the pitch and invest in the best!* Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on October 15, 2024, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.* SuperCrowdHour, October 16, 2024, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, we host a value-laden webinar for aspiring impact investors or social entrepreneurs. At October’s webinar, Devin Thorpe will provide an in-depth answer to the question, “How to Assess Your Crowd's Potential for Investing?” Free to attend.* SuperCrowd Mastermind Group, twice monthly on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays at noon Eastern. This group is for entrepreneurs and small business owners interested in raising money from the crowd. Attend your first meeting free! Community Event Calendar* Successful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events* Community Revitalization, Thursdays, 10:00 AM Eastern.* HELP Fund’s Launch Press Conference, September 30, 2024, Old Dutch Church, Kingston, NY (272 Wall St, Kingston, NY 12401) * Community Capital Alternatives for Outdoor Recreation Challenges, Kathleen Minogue of Crowdfund Better speaking at American Trails, October 3, 10:00 AM, free.* Main Street Skowhegan and NC3 Entrepreneur Finance Workshop Series, September 17 - November 19, 2023.* Krishi Janani PBC Crowdfunding Virtual Office Hour, Sep 21, 2024, Noon Eastern.* Investment Week 24, October 19-20, 2024, Los Angeles. * Crowdfunding Professional Association, Summit in DC, October 22-23* Asheville Neighborhood Economics, November 12-13.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 8,000+ members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe

I’m not a financial advisor; Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Devin: What do you see as your superpower?Sandy: Probably more than anything else, it's empathy. It's understanding what people are—how their lives are different—and trying to come up with products that will make them or come up with just living a life that will help ease the burden of others.In today’s episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with Sandy Stinson, the President of GoodWag, Inc. Sandy’s journey from mortgage loan officer to pet product entrepreneur is a fascinating story of risk-taking and empathy. She shared how her personal need for an easier way to handle pet waste led her to create GoodWag’s signature product, the “PooPail.”Sandy’s background as an entrepreneur shines through in her tenacity. “When I came up with the idea for GoodWag, I didn't hesitate. It’s like, if I want this, maybe other people do too,” she explained. Her initial crowdfunding campaign was a resounding success, with $500,000 in sales within 30 days. However, navigating production hurdles during the COVID-19 pandemic was far from smooth. Despite delays and supply chain issues, she persevered, eventually manufacturing the PooPail in the United States.Today, Sandy is taking GoodWag to new heights through a regulation crowdfunding campaign on StartEngine. “There’s what, 65 million households in America that have dogs? And nobody likes to pick up dog poop. I’ve decided to make that my focus,” she noted. With additional products in development, Sandy’s vision extends beyond just solving a messy problem—she’s aiming to be the go-to company for pet waste solutions.For those interested in supporting her innovative endeavor, Sandy’s StartEngine campaign is currently live. You can check out her crowdfunding effort at s4g.biz/goodwag.tl;dr:* Introduction to Sandy Stinson: Sandy Stinson, President of GoodWag, shares her journey as an entrepreneur, highlighting her background as a mortgage loan officer and her natural inclination towards risk-taking.* GoodWag's Product Story: The origin of GoodWag began with the creation of the "poop pail," a solution for dog waste disposal developed out of personal need. Sandy tested the product's market viability through a crowdfunding campaign in March 2021, raising $500,000 in 30 days.* Challenges in Manufacturing: Sandy discusses her struggles with manufacturing during the COVID-19 pandemic, including supply chain issues and setbacks with manufacturers. Despite delays, she overcame obstacles to successfully bring her product to market.* Sales and Expansion: Since launching the product on their website in late 2022, GoodWag has sold over a million dollars worth of poop pails. The company is currently exploring new products and has launched a regulation crowdfunding campaign on StartEngine to support its growth.* Empathy as a Superpower: Sandy identifies empathy as her superpower, using it to understand and solve customer problems, both in her previous mortgage career and in her current business. She emphasizes the importance of listening to customer feedback to improve products and services.How to Develop Empathy As a SuperpowerIn today's episode, Sandy Stinson described her superpower as empathy—the ability to understand and appreciate how others' lives differ from her own. She emphasized how empathy drives her to create products and live a life that eases the burdens of others. For Sandy, empathy isn’t just a personal trait; it’s a guiding principle in her business practices, helping her connect with customers and design solutions that truly address their needs.Sandy recounted her time as a mortgage loan officer, explaining how empathy was key in serving her clients. Unlike others who focused solely on sales, Sandy took the time to ensure clients fully understood their loans. She used worksheets and wrote upside down to walk them through complex details, emphasizing, "You're not leaving here until you understand everything." This patient, empathetic approach led to her clients being well-prepared for their financial commitments, resulting in fewer foreclosures among her customers.Tips for Developing Empathy:* Know Your Weaknesses: Acknowledge your strengths and weaknesses and understand that not everyone shares the same abilities or background.* Resist Judgment: Recognize that people are doing the best they can with their skills and experiences. Avoid making assumptions about others' capabilities.* Be Patient: When communicating, especially in complex situations, take the time to ensure others fully understand. Reiterate and simplify as needed.* Listen Actively: Incorporate feedback into your actions. Sandy redesigned her product, the poop pail, based on customer feedback, demonstrating the importance of listening to others’ needs.By following Sandy's example and advice, you can make empathy a skill. With practice and effort, it can become a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileSandy Stinson (she/her):President, GoodWag, Inc.About GoodWag, Inc.: GoodWag wants to become the go-to company when your dog goes #2.  We tap into the $147 billion pet industry (US only for 2023) in the largely underserved area of pet waste.  Our initial products are SmartPoopy Walking Bags and the PooPail, the world's first 2-in-1 system for picking up and storing backyard pet waste.  Both PooPail Liner Bags and SmartPoopy Walking Bags are home compostable and biodegradable.  Why preserve dog poo in plastic forever? We want to grow the company with three new products and expand our sales footprint.  Website: GoodWag.comX/Twitter Handle: @poopail_clubCompany Facebook Page: fb.com/ThePooPailInstagram Handle: @the.poopaiOther URL: s4g.biz/goodwagBiographical Information: Sandy Stinson created the PooPail out of necessity.  She took the company from idea to successful business.  With 15,000 units sold only through the GoodWag website, which went live on Black Friday, 2022.Personal Facebook Profile: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100009206707398Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/sandy-stinson-a8669461/Max-Impact MembersThe following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support to keep us operating:Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Sheryle Gilihan, CauseLabs | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.* Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on October 15, 2024, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.* SuperCrowdHour, October 16, 2024, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, we host a value-laden webinar for aspiring impact investors or social entrepreneurs. At September’s webinar, Devin Thorpe will provide an in-depth answer to the question, “Can I Beat the Stock Market with Impact Crowdfund Investments?” Free to attend.* SuperCrowd Mastermind Group, twice monthly on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays at noon Eastern. This group is for entrepreneurs and small business owners interested in raising money from the crowd. Attend your first meeting free! * Superpowers for Good Live Pitch, September 25, 2024. The Live Pitch will stream simultaneously to the e360tv network, Facebook, Linkedin, YouTube and Superpowers for Good. We hope for an audience of thousands! Watch the pitch and invest in the best!Community Event Calendar* Successful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events* Community Revitalization, Thursdays, 10:00 AM Eastern.* Community Capital Alternatives for Outdoor Recreation Challenges, Kathleen Minogue of Crowdfund Better speaking at American Trails, October 3, 10:00 AM, free.* Main Street Skowhegan and NC3 Entrepreneur Finance Workshop Series, September 17 - November 19, 2023.* Power Your Passion: Funding Social Enterprises Through Crowdfunding, September 19, with Paul Lovejoy, Logan Fahey, Eve Picker and Devin Thorpe.* Krishi Janani PBC Crowdfunding Virtual Office Hour, Sep 21, 2024, Noon Eastern.* Investment Week 24, October 19-20, 2024, Los Angeles. * Crowdfunding Professional Association, Summit in DC, October 22-23* Asheville Neighborhood Economics, November 12-13.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 8,000+ members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe

I’m not a financial advisor; Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Devin: What do you see as your superpower?Caio: I think my superpower is to really understand what simplicity really is.When I invited Caio Buchalla, CEO of OVE Touch & Go, onto this episode of Superpowers for Good, I knew we were in for a treat. Caio is pioneering a breakthrough technology that allows users to link their bank accounts and credit cards to their fingerprints, making payments as simple as a touch.Caio shared how his idea came from a real-life frustration. He was on a run in San Francisco and couldn't buy coconut water because he didn't have his wallet, phone, or watch. This led him to question why we rely on external tools to authorize payments and how to create a more secure, fraud-resistant system.OVE Touch & Go aims to solve these problems using fingerprint technology, offering both convenience and security. "We use a sensor called capacitive technology, which is the one the iPhone used to have... And also, we are moving to another technology called ultrasonic fingerprint technology that... doesn’t matter if your finger is dirty, wet with oil. It doesn't matter," Caio explained.The company is now raising capital through a crowdfunding campaign on StartEngine. As Caio noted, "It's a very democratic way of investment... And it's a proof of concept to people investing." This innovative approach could be a game-changer for the future of payments.The vision Caio shared is compelling. Imagine walking into a store, selecting your items, and paying effortlessly with just a touch. OVE Touch & Go is bringing that future closer than we might think.tl;dr:* Inspiration for Innovation: Caio Buchalla, CEO of OVE Touch & Go, was inspired to create a fingerprint-based payment system after experiencing the inconvenience of being unable to buy coconut water during a run without his phone, wallet, or watch.* Secure and Simple Payments: The technology developed by OVE Touch & Go allows users to link their bank accounts and credit cards to their fingerprints. This simplifies transactions and enhances security, reducing the risks associated with traditional payment methods.* Advanced Fingerprint Technology: To address challenges like dirty or altered fingerprints, the company uses advanced sensors, including capacitive and ultrasonic fingerprint technologies, ensuring reliable identification under various conditions.* User Convenience and Rewards: OVE Touch & Go offers a feature called "OneTouch AI" that intelligently selects the best credit card for each transaction, maximizing rewards for users without requiring them to keep track of complex points programs.* Crowdfunding for Growth: The company is currently raising capital through a regulated investment crowdfunding campaign on StartEngine. This provides a democratic way for individuals to support and invest in the company’s vision for a simpler, more secure payment system.How to Develop Seeing Simplicity As a SuperpowerCaio's superpower is his ability to see the simplicity in complex situations. He believes the world is too crowded with information and noise, and he has honed the skill of cutting through that clutter to find simple, elegant solutions. This approach helps him develop products and services that align with the minimalist lifestyle many people are beginning to seek.Caio shared a story from his childhood in Brazil that exemplifies his superpower. At 13, he had the simple yet profound idea to collect donations for planting trees in the Amazon rainforest, promoting sustainability. Later in life, he applied this same principle of simplicity to his decision-making process. For instance, when he decided to pursue his master’s degree in the U.S., he didn’t overthink it. He simply applied, got accepted, and moved forward without hesitation.Tips for Developing the Superpower:* Look for Crowded Spaces: Identify areas in your life or work that feel overcrowded with information or processes. Ask yourself if there’s a simpler, more efficient way to achieve the same goal.* Take the First Step: Don’t overthink decisions. When you have an idea, act on it rather than dwelling on it. "One day or day one—you decide," as Caio puts it.* Practice Deep Thinking: Spend time contemplating problems deeply to uncover their simplest solutions. Often, simplicity is not immediately obvious and requires deliberate exploration.* Focus on the User Experience: Consider how people naturally want to live their lives. Develop solutions that make things effortless and free people from unnecessary complexities.By following Caio Buchalla’s example and advice, you can make seeing simplicity a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileCaio Buchalla (he/him):CEO, OVE Touch & GoAbout OVE Touch & Go: OVE Touch & Go is a fintech company offering the first cloud-based fingerprint payment system, integrating AI for secure, touch-based transactions. Co-founded by and Caio Buchalla and Daniel Cafiero, OVE allows users to link credit cards to their fingerprints, enabling seamless payments while its feature OneTouch AI optimizes credit card points & rewards, and enhances fraud prevention. The system is backed by granted patents and partnered with Green Payments (POS).Website: www.ovetouchngo.comInstagram Handle: @ovetouchngoOther URL: startengine.com/offering/ove-touch-and-goBiographical Information: Caio Buchalla is the visionary cofounder, CEO, and board member of OVE Touch & Go. Leading OVE since 2021, he raised over $500K in pre-seed funding and secured multiple US patents. With a background as an Investment Director at Bay Angels and Business Analyst at Citi, Caio's fintech expertise drives OVE's mission to revolutionize biometric payments. Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/caiobuchalla/Max-Impact MembersThe following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support to keep us operating:Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Sheryle Gilihan, CauseLabs | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.* Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on October 15, 2024, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.* SuperCrowdHour, September 18, 2024, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, we host a value-laden webinar for aspiring impact investors or social entrepreneurs. At September’s webinar, Devin Thorpe will provide an in-depth answer to the question, “Can I Beat the Stock Market with Impact Crowdfund Investments?” Free to attend.* SuperCrowd Mastermind Group, twice monthly on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays at noon Eastern. This group is for entrepreneurs and small business owners interested in raising money from the crowd. Attend your first meeting free! * Superpowers for Good Live Pitch, September 25, 2024. The Live Pitch will stream simultaneously to the e360tv network, Facebook, Linkedin, YouTube and Superpowers for Good. We hope for an audience of thousands! Watch the pitch and invest in the best!Community Event Calendar* Successful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events* Community Revitalization, Thursdays, 10:00 AM Eastern.* SEC - CfPA Webinar, September 17, 2024, at 11:00 AM Eastern.* Community Capital Alternatives for Outdoor Recreation Challenges, Kathleen Minogue of Crowdfund Better speaking at American Trails, October 3, 10:00 AM, free.* Main Street Skowhegan and NC3 Entrepreneur Finance Workshop Series, September 17 - November 19, 2023.* Power Your Passion: Funding Social Enterprises Through Crowdfunding, September 19, with Paul Lovejoy, Logan Fahey, Eve Picker and Devin Thorpe.* Krishi Janani PBC Crowdfunding Virtual Office Hour, Sep 21, 2024, Noon Eastern.* Investment Week 24, October 19-20, 2024, Los Angeles. * Crowdfunding Professional Association, Summit in DC, October 22-23* Asheville Neighborhood Economics, November 12-13.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 8,000+ members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe

I’m not a financial advisor; Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Devin: What is your superpower?Jack: I think my superpower, I would say, is empathy.Today’s episode of Superpowers for Good features Jack Jokinen, an author whose life was transformed by the unexpected arrival of a stray dog. Jack’s story is one of compassion, resilience, and how small acts of kindness can ripple into something far greater.In December 2019, a stray dog limped into Jack's home through a door left ajar during a storm. Despite her poor condition—malnourished and suffering from infected paws and dental issues—Jack and his family chose to take her in. They named her Suzy, and she quickly became a beloved part of the family.Reflecting on the experience, Jack shared, “It could have been a lot worse. That was the only path forward, turning something negative into something positive.” Over time, Jack and his family raised $42,000 from generous supporters, more than enough to cover Suzy’s medical bills. With the excess funds, they launched an initiative to help hundreds of other dogs find their forever homes.Jack’s story, now immortalized in his children’s book A Stray Dog for Christmas, continues to inspire people worldwide. As Jack puts it, “We’ve changed a lot of lives. We’ve saved a lot of lives. And it’s something that myself and my family are really proud of.”Jack's journey teaches us all a valuable lesson: when we open our hearts, the impact of even the smallest actions can be profound.tl;dr:* Jack Jokinen shares the heartwarming story of how a stray, malnourished dog, Susie, unexpectedly entered his home and how his family decided to adopt her, inspiring many others to adopt rescue dogs.* After receiving $42,000 in donations for Susie’s medical care, Jack and his family used the excess funds to help support 366 dog adoptions over the span of a leap year.* Jack discusses Susie’s ongoing recovery, her joyful integration into their family, and how her story has touched the lives of many, leading to the publication of his children’s book, A Stray Dog for Christmas.* Jack reflects on empathy as his superpower, explaining how a focus on understanding others has positively influenced both his personal and professional life, particularly in his work as a customer success manager.* Jack encourages empathy in his children by helping them understand the motivations behind others' actions and emphasizes the importance of living by example to inspire kindness and empathy in future generations.How to Develop Empathy As a SuperpowerJack’s superpower is empathy. He developed this ability through experiences that helped him see beyond surface behaviors, understanding the deeper struggles others face. This empathetic perspective allows him to relate to people with compassion and make more meaningful connections in both his personal and professional life.Jack shared a powerful story of how empathy became central to his life. Early in his career, a lesson involving Bart Simpson reframed his perspective on others’ behaviors. Instead of seeing Bart as a “troublemaker,” Jack learned to see him as a child in trouble, dealing with tough circumstances. This lesson shifted Jack’s worldview, helping him recognize that people’s actions often stem from more profound struggles, shaping his approach to relationships and interactions, including rescuing Suzy, a stray dog.Tips for Developing Empathy:* Pause and Reflect: When faced with negativity, take a moment to consider what might have led the other person to act in this way.* Ask Questions: Try to understand the other person’s point of view by asking thoughtful questions that reveal their underlying concerns.* Practice Patience: If you’re in a frustrating situation, give yourself time before reacting. Jack suggests taking a walk before responding to heated emails.* Model Empathy: Live empathetically in front of others, especially children, by demonstrating compassionate responses to challenging situations.By following Jack’s example and advice, you can make empathy a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileJack Jokinen (he/him):Author, SourceBooks KidsAbout SourceBooks Kids: Sourcebooks Kids publishes notable fiction and non-fiction projects, including board books, picture books, chapter books, and middle-grade works with the hope of engaging children in the pure fun of books and the wonder of learning new things.Website: astraydogforchristmas.comX/Twitter Handle: @SourcebooksCompany Facebook Page: fb.com/SuzynPupmanBiographical Information: Jack Jokinen is a businessman, blogger, podcaster, and author. He lives outside Philadelphia with his wife, Emily, their two daughters, Johanna and Layla, and their two dogs, George and Suzy. After receiving global attention for adopting Suzy, Jack used his platform to spread awareness for animal adoption and positive change in the world. This led to Jack writing A Stray Dog for Christmas to continue to spread a positive message. X/Twitter Handle: @jjfromthebronxPersonal Facebook Profile: https://www.facebook.com/jack.jokinen/Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/jackjokinen/Instagram Handle: Suzy's: @suzynpupman Mine: @JJFromTheBronxMax-Impact MembersThe following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support to keep us operating:Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Sheryle Gilihan, CauseLabs | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.* Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on September 17, 2024, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.* SuperCrowdHour, September 18, 2024, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, we host a value-laden webinar for aspiring impact investors or social entrepreneurs. At September’s webinar, Devin Thorpe will provide an in-depth answer to the question, “Can I Beat the Stock Market with Impact Crowdfund Investments?” Free to attend.* SuperCrowd Mastermind Group, twice monthly on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays at noon Eastern. This group is for entrepreneurs and small business owners interested in raising money from the crowd. Attend your first meeting free! Express interest with an email to Devin.* Superpowers for Good Live Pitch, September 25, 2024. The Live Pitch will stream simultaneously to the e360tv network, Facebook, Linkedin, YouTube and Superpowers for Good. We hope for an audience of thousands! Watch the pitch and invest in the best!Community Event Calendar* Successful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events* Community Revitalization, Thursdays, 10:00 AM Eastern.* SEC - CfPA Webinar, September 17, 2024, at 11:00 AM Eastern.* Community Capital Alternatives for Outdoor Recreation Challenges, Kathleen Minogue of Crowdfund Better speaking at American Trails, October 3, 10:00 AM, free.* Main Street Skowhegan and NC3 Entrepreneur Finance Workshop Series, September 17 - November 19, 2023.* Power Your Passion: Funding Social Enterprises Through Crowdfunding, September 19, with Paul Lovejoy, Logan Fahey, Eve Picker and Devin Thorpe.* Crowdfunding Professional Association, Summit in DC, October 22-23* Asheville Neighborhood Economics, November 12-13.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 8,000+ members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe

I’m not a financial advisor; Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Devin: What do you see as your superpower?Jarret: For me, having passion as my superpower is present because I'm so present with what it means for me to be alive at this time, at this converging of storms with the challenges we face as humanity, as a human family and as a global interconnected family of life.In today’s episode of Superpowers for Good, I had the pleasure of speaking with Jarret Schlaff, the co-founder and CEO of Pingree Detroit. His company is creating meaningful social and environmental impact while simultaneously crafting high-quality, handmade goods.Pingree Detroit, a worker-owned cooperative based in Detroit, upcycles leather from the automotive industry, crafting beautiful shoes, bags, and other products from materials that would otherwise end up in landfills. But this venture isn’t just about sustainability; it’s about creating opportunities for Detroiters and veterans to gain skilled trades and meaningful employment.Jarret shared a key insight during our conversation, saying, "Relationships are our strongest currency. We’re able to connect with people and create an environment where folks have meaningful work, working with their hands to create something of real value." This idea lies at the heart of Pingree Detroit’s mission: providing both economic opportunity and a supportive, empowering environment for its workers, many of whom have faced significant challenges in life.During our discussion, Jarret highlighted the company's commitment to supporting its workers, even when life circumstances create challenges. He explained, "We have a different way of supporting that person...we might say, 'Check in with your battle buddy,' to ensure they have the support they need on tough days."Pingree Detroit is currently raising capital through a regulated investment crowdfunding campaign on Honeycomb Credit. The funds will support the company’s growth and help launch exciting new products, including a highly anticipated line of boots.The work Pingree Detroit is doing represents a powerful combination of social and environmental impact, and I couldn’t be more excited to share their story with you.tl;dr:* Introduction to Pingree Detroit: The episode introduces Jarret Schlaff, CEO of Pingree Detroit, a worker-owned cooperative in Detroit. The company upcycles leather from the automotive industry to create products like shoes, bags, and wallets, with a focus on providing skilled jobs for veterans and Detroiters.* Business Model and Social Impact: Jarret explains how Pingree Detroit has been profitable while balancing a strong social mission, including providing meaningful employment and creating high-quality, handmade products. The company's approach to pricing reflects the true costs of production and support services for employees.* Worker Ownership: Pingree Detroit is a worker cooperative, where employees can become worker-owners, helping to improve retention, efficiency, and investment in the company. Jarret highlights the benefits of ownership in fostering emotional and financial commitment from employees.* Capital Raising through Crowdfunding: The company is raising capital via Honeycomb Credit to fund key initiatives, including launching a new product (a boot called the Governor), purchasing their building, scaling operations, and investing in marketing efforts.* Jarret's Superpower – Passion: Jarret identifies his superpower as passion, which drives his work toward building a restorative, localized, and equitable economy. He shares stories of how his passion has inspired others to start their own ventures and positively impact their communities.How to Develop Passion As a SuperpowerJarret Schlaff identifies passion as his superpower, explaining that it drives him to create meaningful change in the world. His deep sense of purpose comes from his desire to contribute to a more equitable, sustainable, and restorative future. This passion fuels his daily work and enables him to inspire others, believing that anything is possible when driven by such purpose.Jarret shared a story about how his passion has inspired others to start their own social impact companies after learning about Pingree Detroit. His commitment to the mission of upcycling and creating meaningful jobs has resonated so strongly with people that it has sparked their own entrepreneurial journeys. He also noted the reciprocal inspiration he experiences by witnessing team members thrive despite overcoming immense adversity, further reinforcing his belief in the transformative power of passion.Tips for Developing the Superpower:* Visualize the Future: Imagine the world you want to help create, focusing on what it looks and feels like. Use this visualization to drive motivation.* Identify Your Unique Gifts: Assess your skills and how they can contribute to a larger mission, whether through leadership, support, or creativity.* Stay Grounded in Your 'Why': Regularly ask yourself why your work matters to you and how it aligns with your deeper sense of purpose.* Share Your Passion: Talk about your vision with others to inspire them and create a ripple effect of positive change.By following Jarret Schlaff’s example and advice, you can make passion a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileJarret A Schlaff (he/him):Co-founder and CEO, Pingree DetroitAbout Pingree Detroit: Pingree Detroit, founded in 2015, is a worker-owned, triple-bottom-line design and manufacturing cooperative that hand-makes footwear and home, pet, and fashion accessories in Detroit with leather and other materials upcycled from the auto industry. Website: www.PingreeDetroit.comCompany Facebook Page: fb.com/PingreeDetroitOther URL: invest.honeycombcredit.com/campaigns/Pingree-DetroitBiographical Information: Jarret Alan Schlaff is the Co-founder and CEO of Pingree Detroit & Founder of Lectric Boil. He lives on Detroit’s east side and is committed to fostering neighborhood resilience and developing opportunities for sustainable, community driven job creation accessible to his neighbors. He is a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 small businesses program, was one of 90 leaders selected from across the U.S. as a 2015 Young American Leadership Fellow with Harvard Business School, named an Emerging Leader by the Detroit Chamber of Commerce in 2015, 20/20 Detroit Person of the week in November 2017, in 2020 was awarded the Oakland University, “10 Under 10 Alumni” for outstanding achievements and impact within ten years of graduation, and most recently was given the 2024 Michigan Recycling Coalition Award of Excellence.X/Twitter Handle: @Planit4planetPersonal Facebook Profile: fb.com/jarret.schlaff/Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/jarret-schlaff-4931b120/Instagram Handle: @pingreedetroitMax-Impact MembersThe following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support to keep us operating:Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Sheryle Gilihan, CauseLabs | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.* Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on September 17, 2024, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.* SuperCrowdHour, September 18, 2024, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, we host a value-laden webinar for aspiring impact investors or social entrepreneurs. At September’s webinar, Devin Thorpe will provide an in-depth answer to the question, “Can I Beat the Stock Market with Impact Crowdfund Investments?” Free to attend.* Superpowers for Good Live Pitch, September 25, 2024. The Live Pitch will stream simultaneously to the e360tv network, Facebook, Linkedin, YouTube and Superpowers for Good. We hope for an audience of thousands! Watch the pitch and invest in the best!Community Event Calendar* Successful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events* Community Revitalization, Thursdays, 10:00 AM Eastern.* SEC - CfPA Webinar, September 17, 2024, at 11:00 AM Eastern.* Community Capital Alternatives for Outdoor Recreation Challenges, Kathleen Minogue of Crowdfund Better speaking at American Trails, October 3, 10:00 AM, free.* Main Street Skowhegan and NC3 Entrepreneur Finance Workshop Series, September 17 - November 19, 2023.* Power Your Passion: Funding Social Enterprises Through Crowdfunding, September 19, with Paul Lovejoy, Logan Fahey, Eve Picker and Devin Thorpe.* Crowdfunding Professional Association, Summit in DC, October 22-23* Asheville Neighborhood Economics, November 12-13.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 8,000+ members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe

I’m not a financial advisor; Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Devin: What is your superpower?Rachel: What really, I would say, cultivated my major superpower is that seeking that peace amongst this constant chaos leads me right back to the kid me, the creative me, the child me, the me that existed before, I would say, the world kicked in, before humanity kicked in, before you go through that phase where you're just buried by just everything, you know, and a lot of people get buried, and some people just never resurface.In today’s episode of Superpowers for Good, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Rachel Renee, the Founder and CEO of Goat Moves. Rachel shared her inspiring journey and the mission behind her innovative e-commerce marketplace platform designed to help small business owners and solopreneurs centralize their sales efforts.Rachel’s passion for supporting small businesses comes from her own experiences as a serial entrepreneur. "I have lived many lives," she told me. From working in warehouses to bartending in Vegas, she’s gained an intimate understanding of the challenges many small business owners face, especially when trying to manage multiple platforms for their products and services.Goat Moves simplifies this process by offering an all-in-one solution where entrepreneurs can sell physical products, services, and digital downloads in one place. “You don’t have to spread your offerings across every platform,” Rachel explained. “We have centralized it for our businesses.”What stood out most during our conversation was Rachel’s drive to make wealth and business success accessible to everyone. By launching a regulated crowdfunding campaign, she’s giving everyday people the opportunity to invest in her vision. “I wanted to make wealth accessible to the public,” she said, referencing her journey from Kansas City to Los Angeles, where she often found herself on the short end of financial opportunities.Rachel’s belief in ethical business practices and the power of small businesses to lift communities is clear. “We are built for the people, by the people. I am the people,” she declared, embodying her role as what she calls “the people CEO.”Rachel’s passion and vision are truly inspiring. If you’re an entrepreneur or investor, this is a platform you won’t want to miss.tl;dr:* Introduction of Guest and Business: Rachel Renee, CEO of Goat Moves, discusses her company's marketplace platform designed for small and medium-sized businesses, allowing them to sell products, services, and digital downloads on one centralized platform.* Business Model and User Experience: Rachel highlights that Goat Moves offers a streamlined experience for both sellers and buyers, eliminating the need to manage multiple platforms. The marketplace is still in beta, with over 900 sellers waitlisted, including estheticians selling products and services.* Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Campaign: Rachel explains Goat Moves' current crowdfunding campaign on NetCapital. She emphasizes her commitment to making wealth accessible to the general public, regardless of their financial standing.* Rachel’s Entrepreneurial Journey: She shares her diverse career background, including government contracting and various other jobs, and how this experience shaped her vision to create a business that benefits and supports small businesses.* Superpower and Personal Growth: Rachel describes her superpower as maintaining inner peace amidst chaos, which fuels her creativity and passion. She encourages others to reconnect with their inner child to rediscover joy and creativity.How to Develop Childlike Creativity As a SuperpowerRachel Renee's superpower is her ability to tap into her childlike creativity amidst chaos. By maintaining her inner peace and nurturing the imaginative, compassionate side of herself, she has been able to sustain her drive and passion. This connection to her younger self fuels her vision, creativity, and empathy in her entrepreneurial journey.Rachel shared an inspiring story of how she used her childlike creativity and determination to build Goat Moves despite significant challenges. During the pandemic, she found herself "founder broke," with only her sweat equity to offer. She rallied a team by asking them to believe in her vision, and through passion and creativity, she secured the resources needed to move forward. Her unwavering commitment and childlike drive inspired her team to support her, helping Goat Moves grow significantly in just two years.Tips for Developing the Superpower:* Cultivate inner peace amidst chaos to reconnect with your creative self.* Seek out activities or memories from childhood that bring joy and inspiration.* Allow yourself to be curious and passionate, even if it feels unconventional.* Look for ways to recreate childhood experiences that spark excitement and wonder.* Focus on finding personal joy without needing to justify it to others.Conclusion: By following Rachel’s example and advice, you can make childlike creativity a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileRachel Renee (she/her):Founder & CEO, Goat Moves Inc.About Goat Moves Inc.: We are an innovative and comprehensive approach to e-commerce. Consolidating various services and capabilities into one central platform can offer several benefits for both sellers and customers. Goat Moves Inc.. evolved from its origins as Goat Moves Drug Testing in Kansas City, MO, where it operated as a government contractor providing alcohol & drug testing, DNA testing, and cleaning services to entities such as the Department of Transportation, American Airlines, law offices, and various employers across the Kansas City Metro.Managing multiple platforms for different customer bases proved to be Inc.reasingly challenging and costly. Some platforms allowed only one service, while others had long processing times, high fees, complex setups, or were simply neglected due to subpar user experiences.In recognizing the need for a streamlined approach, we observed a significant demand for consolidating services, not only for B2B transactions but also for achieving B2C synchronicity.The goal was to establish a connection that seamlessly brought together the entirety of the business, entrepreneurs, influencers, and creators with customers, utilizing a harmonious aggregation based on algorithms.Website: netcapital.com/companies/goatmovesCompany Facebook Page: fb.com/officialgoatmovesInc.Other URL: rachelrenee.meBiographical Information: Rachel Renee is the founder and CEO of Goat Moves Inc., an all-in-one e-commerce marketplace, replacing multiple website systems. After bootstrapping over $250k in Q4 of 2023, a $5M pre-seed RegCF raise engagement was secured and is facilitated by NetCapital.Goat Moves Marketplace enables businesses to list their products, services and digital downloads on a unified platform. This patent-pending technology is one of the features that makes Goat Moves Marketplace unique.In January 2024, the company secured a deal with Nibi TV powered by BitCentral for “Kali Streaming” on Goat Moves Marketplace. The company has amassed 6,000+ waitlisted users and 900+ waitlisted sellers. In that same month, Goat Moves Marketplace secured a partnership with Unielogics. Unielogics provides turnkey logistics and warehousing software, granting BIG access to small businesses globally.In April 2024, Goat Moves Inc.. secured a multi-million dollar advertising deal with Consult TV. A programmatic facilitator for SInc.lair Broadcasting, Gray Television and Hearst Media. Rachel Renee is the media co-host on Revolt Media’s “Holdin’ Court Podcast” alongside her father and host Courtney “Big Court” Richardson ll. Her father also serves as a media partner of Goat Moves Inc.., and he is the owner of Nibi TV.Personal Facebook Profile: fb.com/rchlreneeLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/rchlreneeInstagram Handle: @rchl_reneeMax-Impact MembersThe following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support to keep us operating:Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Sheryle Gilihan, CauseLabs | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.* Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc.., a public benefit corporation, on September 17, 2024, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.* SuperCrowdHour, September 18, 2024, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, we host a value-laden webinar for aspiring impact investors or social entrepreneurs. At September’s webinar, Devin Thorpe will provide an in-depth answer to the question, “Can I Beat the Stock Market with Impact Crowdfund Investments?” Free to attend.* Superpowers for Good Live Pitch, September 25, 2024. The application window is open now. Apply today! The Live Pitch will stream simultaneously to the e360tv network, Facebook, Linkedin, YouTube and Superpowers for Good. We hope for an audience of thousands! Don’t miss this opportunity to pitch your regulated investment crowdfunding campaign to the SuperCrowd!* Recently, we created an AI GPT to help you learn more about The Super Crowd, Inc.., a public benefit corporation, and our upcoming events. Click here to try it.Community Event Calendar* Successful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events* Community Revitalization, Thursdays, 10:00 AM Eastern.* SEC - CfPA Webinar, September 17, 2024, at 11:00 AM Eastern.* Main Street Skowhegan and NC3 Entrepreneur Finance Workshop Series, September 17 - November 19, 2023.* Power Your Passion: Funding Social Enterprises Through Crowdfunding, September 19, with Paul Lovejoy, Logan Fahey, Eve Picker and Devin Thorpe.* Crowdfunding Professional Association, Summit in DC, October 22-23* Asheville Neighborhood Economics, November 12-13.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 8,000+ members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe

I’m not a financial advisor; Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Devin: What is your superpower?Daniel: I'd say that I'm a multidisciplinary high achiever.In today's episode of Superpowers for Good, I had the pleasure of welcoming back Dr. Daniel Farb, CEO and Founder of Flower Turbines. It's been over five years since our last conversation, and the progress Daniel has made with his company is nothing short of remarkable.Flower Turbines isn't just about harnessing wind power; it's about doing it beautifully and efficiently, particularly in urban environments where traditional turbines would struggle. Daniel's vision for small, aesthetically pleasing wind turbines that operate quietly and efficiently has brought a fresh perspective to renewable energy.One of the most intriguing aspects of our conversation was Daniel's explanation of their patented "bouquet effect." This innovation allows their tulip-shaped turbines to be placed close together, enhancing each other's performance—something unheard of with traditional large wind turbines. As Daniel aptly put it, “When you have winds, you can collect [energy] 24 hours a day... We’re the only ones that can place turbines close together, and ours have this great benefit so that we can make better use of tight spaces than anybody else can.”This ability to optimize space without sacrificing efficiency could be a game-changer, particularly for off-grid power solutions. Moreover, Flower Turbines' products are bird-friendly, quiet, and designed to be integrated with solar and battery technologies, offering a comprehensive energy solution.Daniel's passion for innovation, backed by a robust portfolio of patents, is driving Flower Turbines toward what could be a significant leap in the renewable energy market. As they move into mass production, the potential for impact is tremendous, and I’m excited to see where this journey takes them next.Flower Turbines is raising capital from the crowd via StartEngine.tl;dr:* Guest Introduction: Dr. Daniel Farb, CEO and founder of Flower Turbines, returns to the show after several years to discuss the progress and innovations in small wind turbines designed for urban environments.* Innovation and Progress: Dr. Farb shares how Flower Turbines has evolved from early-stage prototypes to manufacturing and selling turbines. They’ve made significant strides in aerodynamics and electronics, leading to unique products that perform better when placed close together.* Crowdfunding Success: Flower Turbines has completed five successful crowdfunding rounds on StartEngine, raising substantial funds from over 8,000 investors. They are now preparing for their sixth round.* Multidisciplinary Approach: Dr. Farb attributes his success to his ability to combine different fields of knowledge, from science and art to business, which has been crucial in developing innovative products and solutions.* Advice on Becoming Multidisciplinary: Dr. Farb encourages others to explore diverse interests, as these experiences often connect in unexpected ways, enhancing both personal and professional growth.How to Develop Multidisciplinary High Achievement As a SuperpowerDaniel’s superpower is his ability to excel across multiple disciplines, combining creativity with scientific and business acumen. This unique blend allows him to approach complex problems from various angles, resulting in innovative solutions that bridge the gap between art and science, as well as between invention and marketing.Daniel exemplifies his multidisciplinary superpower through the design of Flower Turbines' wind turbines. He drew on his diverse background—merging artistic inspiration with scientific rigor—to create beautiful, efficient turbines that are not only functional but also visually appealing. Additionally, he shared an anecdote about his work in e-learning, where he applied creative storytelling to teach complex pharmaceutical regulations, transforming a traditionally dull subject into an engaging, interactive experience.Tips for Developing this Superpower:* Pursue Diverse Interests: Follow your curiosity and explore different fields. Every skill or knowledge you acquire can connect in unexpected ways later on.* Combine Creativity with Discipline: Use both your creative and logical sides to approach problems. Don’t be afraid to blend art with science or other seemingly unrelated disciplines.* Embrace Hard Work: Multidisciplinary excellence requires dedication. Be willing to work hard and push the boundaries of your abilities in multiple areas.By following Daniel's example and advice, you can make multidisciplinary high achievement a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileDr. Daniel Farb (he/him):CEO and Founder, Flower TurbinesAbout Flower Turbines: Flower Turbines is an innovative small wind turbine company with the ambition to become a major global force in renewable energy. With over 30 patents, the company has solved the technology and design problems holding small wind back from being as large an industry as solar. One of its biggest innovations is the cluster effect, whereby the turbines, when placed close to each other correctly, make the whole group perform better. For example, four turbines together produce as much energy as eight separate ones.Website: flowerturbines.comX/Twitter Handle: @flowerturbinesCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/flowerturbinesInstagram Handle: @flowerturbines_usOther URL: startengine.com/offering/flowerturbinesBiographical Information: School, Degree, Year2019:         NSF Innovation Corps Certification by NYCRIN, New York2011 and 2012:     Course Series: Executive’s Guide to Patent Strategy, Herzliya, Israel, taught by Finnegan law firm and the University of Haifa1999 – 2001:         Courses at UCLA School of Business and Management. - Program in International Trade and Commerce. Partially completed.  Los Angeles, CA2000:        Certification course by Pharmaceutical Education & Research Institute (PERI), on Applied Good Clinical Practices. Online.1997:        Anderson School of Management, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA. Degree in Executive Management. 1978 – 1982:         Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA.  – M.D. Elected to Alpha Omega Alpha honors fraternity. 1976 – 1977:          Special Student in Science, Yale University, New Haven, CT. Advanced Science Courses1972 – 1976:        Yale College, New Haven, CT – B.A., English Literature (Cum Laude) (set academic record for being the only person in Yale history allowed to take double the number of allowed courses in one semester, including many science courses, and getting all A grades). RELEVANT EXPERIENCE2013 – Present:         Founder, CEO, creator of most of the intellectual property, Flower Turbines. Headquartered in NY. Operations in Texas and Netherlands.2006 – Present:         Founder, CEO, creator of most of the intellectual property, Leviathan Energy, a group of renewable energy companies with innovations in a variety of wind, water, wave, and underwater turbines. Originally included a predecessor to Flower Turbines.2005 – 2006:         Patent writer and consultant with an intellectual property law firm 1999 – 2011:        CEO, UniversityOfHealthcare.com, and UniversityOfBusiness.com, for web-based management and healthcare training. 1986 – 2005:        Clinical Practice in Ophthalmology, Los Angeles, CA. Included managing a small medical group. Maintained contracts with 100 care centers. 1978 – 1979:         Summer work researching neurotransmitter pharmacology, National Institutes of Health, laboratory of Dr. Irwin Kopin, Washington, D.C. (One of the world's top labs in catecholamine and antidepressant basic research.) 1977 – 1978:        Research project with World Health Organization in Geneva, Switzerland on health care delivery in developing countries. Culminated in the presentation of a paper for the Department of Psychiatry on health staff utilization in developing countries.RELEVANT AWARDS•        2010 – Cleantech Open – Won 2nd & 3rd Place for the “Best Clean Technologies in Israel.”•        2011 – Wind Tulip invention on display in Bloomfield Science Museum in Jerusalem as one of Israel’s top 45 inventions.•        His hydro turbine team won the Eurogia and Eureka labels for technological excellence•        2015 – Speaker at US Congress on renewable energy technology•        US Navy SBIR 2015 Phase 1 award for portable underwater turbines•        2021:         Top 1000 Sustainable Solutions, Solar Impulse Foundation•        2021:         Impel+ 2021 Innovator, US Department of Energy•        2021:          Pepperdine University Business School picked Flower Turbines among the top 10 Most Fundable Companies in the US.•        2023:         A winner of the Yes San Francisco Sustainability competition, co-sponsored by the World Economic Forum•        2022 and 2023:         Two-time winner of the Dutch government sustainability awardRELEVANT PUBLICATIONS•        Developed about 80 PCT patents in various aspects of renewable energy. •        Authored and edited over 100 books and CD/e-learning courses in management and health sciences, many of which won four and five star reviews. •        Several ophthalmology journal articles. •        “Wind Energizer” – Front cover article for WindTech Magazine, September 2009. Linkedin: linkedin.com/company/flower-turbines-llcMax-Impact MembersThe following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support to keep us operating:Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Sheryle Gilihan, CauseLabs | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.* Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on September 17, 2024, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.* SuperCrowdHour, September 18, 2024, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, we host a value-laden webinar for aspiring impact investors or social entrepreneurs. At September’s webinar, Devin Thorpe will provide an in-depth answer to the question, “Can I Beat the Stock Market with Impact Crowdfund Investments?” Free to attend.* Superpowers for Good Live Pitch, September 25, 2024. The application window is open now. Apply today! The Live Pitch will stream simultaneously to the e360tv network, Facebook, Linkedin, YouTube and Superpowers for Good. We hope for an audience of thousands! Don’t miss this opportunity to pitch your regulated investment crowdfunding campaign to the SuperCrowd!* Recently, we created an AI GPT to help you learn more about The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, and our upcoming events. Click here to try it.Community Event Calendar* Successful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events* Community Revitalization, Thursdays, 10:00 AM Eastern.* SEC - CfPA Webinar, September 17, 2024, at 11:00 AM Eastern.* Main Street Skowhegan and NC3 Entrepreneur Finance Workshop Series, September 17 - November 19, 2023.* Power Your Passion: Funding Social Enterprises Through Crowdfunding, September 19, with Paul Lovejoy, Logan Fahey, Eve Picker and Devin Thorpe.* Crowdfunding Professional Association, Summit in DC, October 22-23* Asheville Neighborhood Economics, November 12-13.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 8,000+ members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe

I’m not a financial advisor; Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Devin: what do you see as your superpower?Nicole: My superpower is that I don't get—climate change isn't something I see as a depressing end-of-world must-be scenario. It's very much a call to action.In today’s episode of Superpowers for Good, I had the pleasure of speaking with Nicole Whalen, Founder and CEO of Green Compass, a company dedicated to fighting climate change by retrofitting buildings with green infrastructure. The conversation highlighted the significant yet often overlooked role that buildings play in contributing to climate change. According to Nicole, over 70% of emissions in Washington, D.C., come from buildings, and this trend is common across the globe.Nicole shared how Green Compass utilizes nature-based solutions to retrofit commercial and multifamily buildings. These efforts include installing solar panels, electrification systems, and green stormwater infrastructure, all aimed at reducing emissions and mitigating the effects of climate change. One of her most striking projects involved creating a 2,000-square-foot rain garden that captures almost a million gallons of water per year. "Something as small a footprint as 2,000 square feet can capture almost a million gallons of water a year," she said, emphasizing the scale of impact even small projects can have.What I found particularly compelling was Nicole’s vision for decentralizing both energy and water systems, a step she sees as critical for sustainability. “Decentralizing utilities is something that's...indicative for sustainability. We need to have more decentralization of our energy sources [and] decentralized water systems as well,” she explained.Nicole’s work demonstrates the immense potential of combining private sector investment with innovative green solutions to solve one of the world’s most pressing problems: climate change. Green Compass’s Raise Green crowdfunding campaign is now live, offering a unique opportunity for impact-minded investors to support this mission.Stay tuned for more inspiring stories on how business leaders are using their superpowers for good!tl;dr:* Introduction of Green Compass: Nicole Whalen, founder of Green Compass, explains that her company retrofits commercial and multifamily buildings using green infrastructure to combat climate change, employing nature-based solutions like solar systems and EV charging.* Climate Impact of Buildings: Whalen highlights the significant role buildings play in emissions, with over 70% of emissions in Washington D.C. coming from buildings, and emphasizes the need for retrofitting to reduce these emissions.* Stormwater Retention Credits: Green Compass develops projects that utilize stormwater retention credits, a market-driven solution that allows private investment in green infrastructure, benefiting entities like churches and reducing costs while improving environmental outcomes.* Future Expansion: Green Compass, initially focused in D.C., plans to expand across the U.S. as other municipalities adopt similar stormwater management systems, driven by climate change and inadequate existing infrastructure.* Nicole's Superpower: Whalen attributes her success to her scientific mindset, particularly her ability to view the world through ecological relationships, and her passion for using nature to restore the environment, offering an optimistic approach to addressing climate challenges.How to Develop Green Innovation As a SuperpowerNicole’s superpower lies in her ability to drive significant environmental change through innovative green solutions. By retrofitting buildings with advanced green infrastructure, she tackles climate change head-on. Nicole’s approach integrates nature-based systems like green stormwater infrastructure, solar energy, and electrification to reduce emissions and enhance sustainability in urban environments.An illustrative story from our conversation involved a project where Nicole’s team created a 2,000-square-foot rain garden that captures nearly a million gallons of water annually. This project not only manages stormwater effectively but also enhances the local environment by adding trees and reducing urban heat. Nicole’s innovative approach allows her to address both water management and carbon sequestration simultaneously.To develop green innovation as a personal strength, Nicole suggests focusing on several key areas:* Invest in Learning: Understand the latest technologies and methods in green infrastructure.* Leverage Investment Opportunities: Utilize innovative financing solutions like stormwater retention credits to support your projects.* Embrace Decentralization: Promote decentralized systems for energy and water management to increase sustainability.By following Nicole’s example and advice, you can make green innovation a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileNicole Whalen (she/her):Founder & CEO, Green Compass LLCAbout Green Compass LLC: Based in Washington DC, Green Compass retrofits commercial and multifamily buildings to fight climate change by deploying: 💧 Green Stormwater Infrastructure☀️ Renewable Energy Systems🔋 EV Charging Infrastructure🏢 Building Efficiency MeasuresWebsite: www.greencompass.coOther URL: invest.raisegreen.com/offering/greencompass/detailsBiographical Information: Nicole is the founder and CEO of Green Compass. She has an interdisciplinary background in earth science and economics and followed her lifelong love of the oceans upstream to scale nature-based solutions that reduce air and water pollution.Nicole earned a BA in International Studies/Economics cum laude from New College of Florida and a MA in Global Sustainability, Water Resource Management from the University of South Florida. Her career started in marine science and international development, working on climate adaptation programs funded by USAID and the US Department of State. She is proud to call DC home as a 5th generation Washingtonian and is passionate about deploying nature-based and city-led solutions to climate change.Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/niwhalen/Instagram Handle: https://www.instagram.com/greencompass.co/Max-Impact MembersThe following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support to keep us operating:Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Sheryle Gilihan, CauseLabs | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.* Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on September 17, 2024, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.* SuperCrowdHour, September 18, 2024, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, we host a value-laden webinar for aspiring impact investors or social entrepreneurs. At September’s webinar, Devin Thorpe will provide an in-depth answer to the question, “Can I Beat the Stock Market with Impact Crowdfund Investments?” Free to attend.* Superpowers for Good Live Pitch, September 25, 2024. The application window is open now. Apply today! The Live Pitch will stream simultaneously to the e360tv network, Facebook, Linkedin, YouTube and Superpowers for Good. We hope for an audience of thousands! Don’t miss this opportunity to pitch your regulated investment crowdfunding campaign to the SuperCrowd!* Recently, we created an AI GPT to help you learn more about The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, and our upcoming events. Click here to try it.Community Event Calendar* Community Revitalization - Devin Thorpe - SuperCrowd, Thursday, August 29, 10:00 AM Eastern.* Successful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events* Main Street Skowhegan and NC3 Entrepreneur Finance Workshop Series, September 17 - November 19, 2023.* Power Your Passion: Funding Social Enterprises Through Crowdfunding, September 19, with Paul Lovejoy, Logan Fahey, Eve Picker and Devin Thorpe.* Crowdfunding Professional Association, Summit in DC, October 22-23* Asheville Neighborhood Economics, November 12-13.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 8,000+ members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe

I’m not a financial advisor; Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.tl;dr:* Guest Introduction: The episode features Brian Belley, VP of Product at KingsCrowd, discussing his analysis on rates of return on various debt structures and how investors should evaluate compensation for risk.* Key Analysis: Brian explains that many investors misunderstand the risks involved in debt and revenue share deals in small businesses and crowdfunding. He highlights the necessary interest rates or payback multiples needed to compensate for these risks.* Revenue-Based Financing Explained: Brian delves into the mechanics of revenue-based financing, where investor returns are tied to company revenues, offering flexibility for companies with fluctuating earnings.* Failure Rates and Required Returns: Data shows that pre-revenue companies have a higher failure rate (around 5.5%), requiring higher interest rates to compensate investors. As companies grow in revenue, failure rates decrease, and required interest rates also lower.* Market Trends: The transcript discusses how rising federal interest rates have influenced the interest rates offered by crowdfunding platforms, showing a trend of increasing returns to align with market conditions.In today’s episode, I had the pleasure of welcoming Brian Belley, Vice President of Product at KingsCrowd, to discuss a profoundly important topic: the risk-return dynamics of debt and revenue share deals in regulated investment crowdfunding. Brian recently published an insightful analysis that sheds light on the realities of these investment vehicles, challenging many common assumptions.As a quick aside, let me say that I love investing in crowdfunded debt offerings. Having made dozens of investments in the space, I’m lucky to report that as yet, I haven’t had a borrower default. I was excited to have Brian on the show to help you learn how to better approach investing in regulated investment crowdfunding debt offerings.When we think about crowdfunding, our minds often gravitate toward high-growth startups. But there’s another side to this space: debt and revenue share deals. These options may seem less risky compared to startup equity, but as Brian highlighted, that perception can be misleading.Understanding the Risk of Debt and Revenue Share DealsMany investors approach these deals with a mindset of minimizing risk, viewing them as safer alternatives to equity investments in startups. Yet, as Brian points out, “What a lot of these investors miss is that there’s still a lot of risk in these deals.” These companies may not aim for venture-backed growth, but they still carry significant risk, especially those that are pre-revenue or early-stage.Brian’s data-driven analysis provided a comprehensive overview of the failure rates associated with companies offering debt and revenue share deals. He explained that pre-revenue companies carry the highest risk, with an 11% return required to compensate investors for potential failures. For more mature businesses generating $1 million or more in annual revenue, the required interest rate drops to around 9.7%. These numbers serve as a wake-up call to those who assume debt investments are inherently low-risk.One of the most compelling aspects of our conversation was Brian’s explanation of the importance of compensation for failure risk. He emphasized, “These aren’t necessarily the super high-growth trying to be a venture-backed startup, but there’s still a lot of risk in this.” As investors, we need to account for these risks when evaluating debt and revenue share deals, just as we would with equity investments.Revenue-Based Financing: A Flexible Option with RisksIn our discussion, Brian took the time to explain how revenue-based financing works, providing valuable insights into the mechanics behind these deals. He described revenue-share deals as having two primary components: the percentage of revenue shared with investors and the payback multiple. He shared a practical example, saying, “Let’s say a restaurant has cyclical revenues. Investors might receive higher returns during busy summer months but less during slower winter months. That flexibility can benefit the business, but it also means the timing of returns is unpredictable for investors.”While this model offers flexibility, it also introduces a level of uncertainty. Investors may get paid back faster than anticipated if the business performs well, but they could also face delays if revenues fall short. As Brian pointed out, “You’re not going to get consistent month-by-month payments, but if you believe that the company has potential, it can give them more flexibility and potentially work out in your favor.”This flexibility, however, comes with a tradeoff. Investors must be prepared for variable returns, which may stretch over an extended period. Yet, the potential for higher-than-expected returns if the company succeeds makes revenue-based financing an attractive option for those willing to accept some level of uncertainty.Failure Rates: A Key Consideration for InvestorsOne of the most critical factors in evaluating any investment is the potential for failure. Brian’s analysis broke down the failure rates for companies at different stages of revenue generation, with pre-revenue companies exhibiting the highest failure rate at around 5.5%. This failure rate decreases as companies generate more revenue, with those earning over $1 million showing a failure rate of just 1.5%.However, Brian cautioned that these figures only represent known failures. “Sometimes companies shut down quietly, or it takes months or even years to fully dissolve,” he explained. This means that the actual failure rates could be higher, and investors need to factor in this uncertainty when considering their potential returns.To compensate for the unknowns, Brian suggests building in a margin for error when calculating required returns. By accounting for potential late payments and unknown failures, investors can better manage their expectations and avoid overestimating their future returns.The Impact of Market Conditions on Interest RatesOur conversation then turned to the effect of broader economic trends on the interest rates offered in debt and revenue share deals. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Federal Reserve dropped interest rates to near zero, but as the economy began to recover, rates steadily increased. Brian’s analysis showed that the interest rates on debt deals offered through crowdfunding platforms followed a similar trajectory. He observed, “The interest rates offered on deals in mid-2022 were just below 10%, but by July 2024, they had risen to over 12%.”As the Federal Reserve continues to adjust interest rates, it will be interesting to see how the crowdfunding space adapts. Lower interest rates could make it more challenging for investors to achieve their desired returns, while higher rates may improve the prospects for those looking to lend. Regardless of market conditions, understanding the factors that influence interest rates is critical for making informed investment decisions.Platform-Specific Trends: Not All Crowdfunding Deals Are EqualFinally, Brian’s analysis looked at interest rates by platform, revealing that different crowdfunding portals offer varying rates depending on their focus. Platforms like Honeycomb Credit and SMBX, which specialize in debt deals, tend to offer rates in the 8% to 11% range, while some smaller platforms may have higher rates. However, as Brian noted, some of these higher rates may come from platforms that have only done a few deals, making their data less representative.He also highlighted the role of social mission in crowdfunding, noting that platforms like Climatize and Crowdfund Main Street often support companies with a clear impact focus. “Some investors may be willing to accept lower returns because they believe in the mission of the company they’re investing in,” he explained. For impact-driven investors, this tradeoff between financial return and social benefit is a key consideration.Conclusion: Balancing Risk and Return in Crowdfunding InvestmentsToday’s conversation with Brian Belley was eye-opening. His data-driven analysis dispels the myth that debt and revenue share deals are inherently low-risk. As investors, it’s essential to understand the failure rates, interest rate trends, and platform-specific dynamics that can impact our returns. By considering these factors, we can make more informed decisions and better balance risk and return in the growing world of regulated investment crowdfunding.Brian’s analysis indicates to me that the high interest rates offered on crowdfunding portals like SMBX and Honeycomb Credit are genuinely required to compensate investors for the risk they take. In other words, I conclude that investors should not think of these rates as usurious or penurious but simply as fair.Brian’s insights remind us that while debt and revenue share deals may offer more predictable returns than startup equity, they still carry risk. As investors, we must approach these opportunities with eyes wide open and be fully aware of the potential pitfalls and rewards. Ultimately, by understanding the data, we can make smarter, more strategic investments in companies that align with our financial goals and values.Guest ProfileBrian Belley (he/him):Vice President, Product, KingscrowdAbout Kingscrowd: Kingscrowd is a team of financiers, venture capitalists, technologists, founders, and experts on a mission to democratize private market investing. Our mission is to educate and empower everyday investors with the same level of access to private investment opportunities and diligence as institutional investors. Kingscrowd collects data -- over 300 data points -- on every online capital raise being conducted under Regulated Investment Crowdfunding (Reg CF and Reg A+). Our platform allows investors and founders to make more informed investment and capital-raising decisions. In addition, Kingscrowd operates the online private market's first data-driven investment fund, Kingscrowd Capital. Website: kingscrowd.comX/Twitter Handle: @kingscrowdincBiographical Information: Brian Belley is an aerospace engineer and Fortune 500 engineering lead turned tech entrepreneur with a keen eye for innovative financing in the startup ecosystem. After a decade in the defense industry working on electronic warfare technology to protect our country, he jumped into the alternative finance space full-time as the founder of Crowdwise. Acquired by KingsCrowd in 2021, Brian now serves as KingsCrowd’s Head of Product. With over 220 personal angel investments under his belt, he's deeply entrenched in the investment landscape, offering invaluable insights to both startups and investors. Always at the forefront of alternative investing - such as mining Bitcoin in his garage back in 2013 to crowd-sourced real estate and peer-to-peer lending, NFTs and art - he’s no stranger to seeking diversification and alpha through areas that mainstream investors haven’t yet discovered.Beyond his executive and entrepreneurial roles, Brian is an active board member for the Crowdfunding Professional Association (CfPA) and a passionate advocate for growth and innovation in the online alternative investing industry. He is also a Board Member of New England FIRST, a STEM youth organization helping to introduce the future leaders and entrepreneurs to STEM fields. In his free time, Brian is an avid runner and also dabbles in numerous side projects to stay technically sharp; one of which led to his sending weather balloons to near-space that were featured on a skit for The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.X/Twitter Handle: @brianbelleyPersonal Facebook Profile: https://www.facebook.com/brianjbelleyLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/brianbelley/Max-Impact MembersThe following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support to keep us operating:Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Sheryle Gilihan, CauseLabs | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.* Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on September 17, 2024, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.* SuperCrowdHour, September 18, 2024, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, we host a value-laden webinar for aspiring impact investors or social entrepreneurs. At September’s webinar, Devin Thorpe will provide an in-depth answer to the question, “Can I Beat the Stock Market with Impact Crowdfund Investments?” Free to attend.* Superpowers for Good Live Pitch, September 25, 2024. The application window is open now. Apply today! The Live Pitch will stream simultaneously to the e360tv network, Facebook, Linkedin, YouTube and Superpowers for Good. We hope for an audience of thousands! Don’t miss this opportunity to pitch your regulated investment crowdfunding campaign to the SuperCrowd!* Recently, we created an AI GPT to help you learn more about The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, and our upcoming events. Click here to try it.Community Event Calendar* Successful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events* Main Street Skowhegan and NC3 Entrepreneur Finance Workshop Series, September 17 - November 19, 2023.* Crowdfunding Professional Association, Summit in DC, October 22-23* Asheville Neighborhood Economics, November 12-13.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 8,000+ members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe

I’m not a financial advisor; Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Devin: What is your superpower?Liza: I think that passion of building something that helps people has always been my superpower.In today’s episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing Liza Rodewald, the Co-Founder and CEO of Instant Teams, a company making a powerful impact by helping military spouses thrive professionally despite the frequent relocations that come with military life. Liza shared how her own experience as a military spouse drove her to create a solution for others facing the same challenges.Military spouses often find themselves moving every few years, making it difficult to build a traditional career. Liza understood this struggle firsthand and turned it into a business opportunity that connects military spouses with remote jobs in customer experience roles. “If I was climbing a traditional corporate ladder, I would constantly be starting over,” Liza explained. "I have a high skill set... I have a lot that I can give and contribute."Instant Teams allows military spouses to take their jobs with them when they move, offering stability in their careers. Liza’s company builds entire customer experience teams for brands, providing a highly skilled workforce to companies while giving military spouses the continuity they need.The venture has grown significantly since its inception in 2016, with over 500 employees and 68,000 military spouses on their platform. Liza's innovative approach has not only solved a major problem for military families but also created a scalable business model.Her advice for entrepreneurs, especially women, is simple yet powerful: “Sizing the market upfront and telling the story along with it... made a huge difference in my personal success and being able to raise money.”Liza’s work is an inspiring example of how identifying a problem close to home can lead to a meaningful, impactful business.tl;dr:Guest Introduction: Liza Rodewald, founder of Instant Teams, was featured. The company connects military spouses with customer experience jobs, helping them maintain their careers despite frequent relocations due to military life.Challenges and Achievements: Liza discussed the challenge of raising venture capital as a woman, noting that less than 2% goes to women-led companies. Despite this, she successfully raised funds and grew her company while being a military spouse.Instant Teams' Mission: Instant Teams is dedicated to building remote customer experience teams for companies, using the skills of military spouses who can work remotely and maintain continuity despite relocations.Business Model: Instant Teams works with middle-market and enterprise companies like Aflac and Expensify, offering both a marketplace and fully outsourced services. They have grown to over 500 employees and serve 68,000 military spouses.Superpower and Advice: Liza emphasized her superpower of solving problems by seeing the bigger picture. She advises women entrepreneurs to focus on building relationships, providing transparency to investors, and leveraging networks for long-term success.How to Develop Problem-Solving with Passion As a SuperpowerLiza Rodewald’s superpower is her ability to step back, see the big picture, and solve complex problems. With a background in engineering, she approaches challenges by analyzing issues and finding solutions that not only address the immediate need but create lasting impact. Her deep passion for helping others fuels her drive to solve meaningful problems, particularly those affecting the military spouse community.Liza shared a moving example of how her superpower played out in real life. She opened a co-working space in Southern Pines, designed to connect military spouses with job opportunities. One day, a military spouse came in, overwhelmed and struggling with a rigid job that wasn’t compatible with her lifestyle. Liza and her team were able to match her with a more flexible position that aligned with her needs. The connection transformed the woman’s life, providing a sense of balance and fulfillment. This personal interaction exemplified Liza’s ability to identify problems and create meaningful, life-changing solutions.Tips for Developing This Superpower:* Step Back for Perspective: Take a moment to step back from challenges and view the bigger picture. Analyze how different elements connect and where opportunities for problem-solving lie.* Lead with Passion: Fuel your efforts with genuine passion for helping others. When you care deeply about the outcome, you’ll find creative and effective ways to overcome obstacles.* Build Networks: Establish and nurture relationships with people who can help you solve problems. Keep these connections warm, as they may provide unexpected opportunities for collaboration or support.* Stay Realistic: While passion drives your efforts, temper it with practicality. Make tough decisions when necessary to maintain a sustainable business model while keeping your mission intact.By following Liza Rodewald’s example and advice, you can make problem-solving with passion a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileLiza Rodewald (she/her):Co-Founder/CEO, Instant TeamsAbout Instant Teams: Instant Teams leads the way as a CX talent marketplace committed to the financial well-being of military families while providing companies instant access to remarkable talent.Website: instantteams.comX/Twitter Handle: @Instant_TeamsCompany Facebook Page: fb.com/instantteamsBiographical Information: Liza is a 4x entrepreneur and software engineer. She is currently the CEO and Founder of Instant Teams and Twelve Million Plus. She has scaled the company to over 500 employees, raised more than $16M in venture capital and landed at #13 on the Inc. 5000 list for Human Resources across the nation.She is in the top 3% of graduates from the Founder Institute, alumni of the Blue Startups Accelerator named one of the Top 25 SheEO, and a published Forbes author. She is also a member of YPO and NationSwell and serves as a mentor for female founders.Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/lizarodewaldInstagram Handle: @ceo_lizaMax-Impact MembersThe following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support to keep us operating:Carol Fineagan, Nicholas and Company | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Sheryle Gilihan, CauseLabs | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.* Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on September 17, 2024, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.* SuperCrowdHour, September 18, 2024, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, we host a value-laden webinar for aspiring impact investors or social entrepreneurs. At September’s webinar, Devin Thorpe will provide an in-depth answer to the question, “Can I Beat the Stock Market with Impact Crowdfund Investments?” Free to attend.* Superpowers for Good Live Pitch, September 25, 2024. The application window is open now. Apply today! The Live Pitch will stream simultaneously to the e360tv network, Facebook, Linkedin, YouTube and Superpowers for Good. We hope for an audience of thousands! Don’t miss this opportunity to pitch your regulated investment crowdfunding campaign to the SuperCrowd!* Recently, we created an AI GPT to help you learn more about The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, and our upcoming events. Click here to try it.Community Event Calendar* Successful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events* Main Street Skowhegan and NC3 Entrepreneur Finance Workshop Series, September 17 - November 19, 2023.* Crowdfunding Professional Association, Summit in DC, October 22-23* Asheville Neighborhood Economics, November 12-13.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 8,000+ members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe

I’m not a financial advisor; Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Devin: What is your superpower?Lindsey: I'm really good at figuring things out. And so that's something that has served me well, both in my past corporate life and then also in running a business. I think that being a good problem solver will take you far because there's only so much information you can actually know.On today’s episode of Superpowers for Good, I had the privilege of sitting down with Lindsey Williams, the founder and winemaker of the Urban Wine Co. Lindsey shared the inspiring story of how she’s transforming the wine industry, particularly in the South, by introducing diversity and a fresh approach to winemaking.Lindsey didn’t take the traditional route to becoming a winemaker. Starting her career as a lawyer and then transitioning to investment banking, she learned firsthand how to handle high-stakes transactions. But a trip to Tuscany sparked her love for winemaking, and that passion evolved into a full-fledged business.Urban Wine Co. isn’t just another winery. Lindsey imports grapes from renowned wine regions like California and Oregon and even from overseas, but the magic happens locally in the Carolinas. “We’re making our wines here locally, and we’re spreading diversity wherever we go,” Lindsey told me during the interview. She explained that her goal is to make the wine world more accessible to people from all walks of life, introducing wine to new communities that might not typically engage with it.Her ambition doesn’t stop at making wine approachable—she’s aiming to scale the business dramatically. Urban Wine Co. has already secured a partnership with Target, bringing their wines to 44 stores. Lindsey sees this as just the beginning, with a vision to grow the company into a multi-million dollar business.I was inspired by Lindsey’s dedication to continuous learning, diversity, and growth. Her journey from corporate America to winemaking is a testament to what can happen when passion meets perseverance.The Urban Wine Company is raising capital from the crowd via Wefunder. I encourage you to visit the site to learn more.tl;dr:* Introduction to the Guest and Business: Lindsey Williams, founder and CEO of Urban Wine Company, discusses her unique winery concept in the South, where they import grapes and use modern fermentation techniques. Her mission is to diversify the wine world and make it more accessible.* Innovative Wine Production: Urban Wine Company imports grapes from various regions, including California, Oregon, and overseas. They’re working on producing North Carolina-grown wines, with their process taking place locally in the Lake Norman area.* Lindsey’s Background and Transition: Lindsey, a former J.P. Morgan investment banker and lawyer, became passionate about wine during her travels. She studied winemaking and transitioned into the industry, eventually founding Urban Wine Company.* Business Growth and Scaling: The company started small but gained popularity, now partnering with Target for a 44-store deal. They’re raising funds to expand production and distribution.* Entrepreneurship and Problem-Solving: Lindsey shares advice for entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of learning, problem-solving, and adapting, particularly during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic.How to Develop Problem-Solving As a SuperpowerLindsey’s superpower is her ability to solve problems, a skill she developed during her corporate career, and that has been crucial in her entrepreneurial journey. Her approach to problem-solving has helped her navigate challenges ranging from regulatory issues in the wine industry to the everyday tasks of running a business.Lindsey shared how, early in her business journey, she faced the sudden closure of her wine-tasting room due to COVID-19. At the time, her business relied entirely on in-person sales. With no prior experience in online sales, she quickly learned the legal and technical requirements for selling wine online in North Carolina. By working with a vendor to meet compliance standards, Lindsey successfully transitioned her business to online sales, allowing her to continue serving customers during the shutdown.Tips for Developing the Superpower:* Learn as much as you can: Every new problem is an opportunity to become an expert. Immerse yourself in the issue, whether it's marketing, sales, or regulatory compliance.* Write things down: Organize your thoughts by writing them down, using lists, sticky notes, or vision boards to map out potential solutions.* Prioritize issues: Focus on the most critical problems first and consider what you can control.* Get everything out in the open: Use tools like whiteboards to visualize all possible solutions before determining your approach.By following Lindsey’s example and advice, you can make problem-solving a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileLindsey Williams (she/her):Founder & Winemaker, The Urban Wine Co.About The Urban Wine Co.: The Urban Wine Co. is the first urban winery in the Charlotte regional area and was started out of the desire to bring approachable, affordable and locally made wine options to the Carolinas.Website: www.theurbanwineco.comX/Twitter Handle: @theurbanwinecoCompany Facebook Page: fb.com/theurbanwinecoOther URL: wefunder.com/urbanwinellcBiographical Information: 18+ years of corporate legal and finance experience at companies like JPMorgan and Wells Fargo. Lindsey led teams, oversaw operations, and closed deals exceeding $833 million. Level 1 Sommelier and Winemaker, JD and BA from The Ohio State University.Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/lindsey-williams-a199736/Instagram Handle: @theurbanwinecoMax-Impact MembersThe following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support to keep us operating:Carol Fineagan, Nicholas and Company | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Sheryle Gilihan, CauseLabs | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.* Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on August 20, 2024, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.* SuperCrowdHour, August 21, 2024, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, we host a value-laden webinar for aspiring impact investors or social entrepreneurs. At this month’s webinar, Devin Thorpe will provide a “Step-by-Step Guide to Raising Capital from the Crowd.”* Superpowers for Good Live Pitch, September 25, 2024. The application window is open now. Apply today! The Live Pitch will simultaneously stream live to the e360tv network, Facebook, Linkedin, YouTube, and Superpowers for Good. We hope for an audience of thousands! Don’t miss this opportunity to pitch your regulated investment crowdfunding campaign to the SuperCrowd!* Recently, we created an AI GPT to help you learn more about The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, and our upcoming events. Click here to try it.Community Event Calendar* Successful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events* Main Street Skowhegan and NC3 Entrepreneur Finance Workshop Series, September 17 - November 19, 2023.* Crowdfunding Professional Association, Summit in DC, October 22-23* Asheville Neighborhood Economics, November 12-13.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 8,000+ members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe

I’m not a financial advisor; Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Devin: What do you see ultimately as your superpower?Jannice: I would say it's that I am a person of action.In today’s episode, I had the privilege of speaking with Jannice Newson, the CEO and founder of Lillian Augusta Beauty, a company revolutionizing the haircare industry with plant-based braiding hair. As someone unfamiliar with braids, I was eager to learn how her innovation could change the beauty landscape—and I wasn't disappointed.Lillian Augusta Beauty isn't just about braids. It’s about creating "hair without harm," as Jannice put it. Synthetic braiding hair, made from low-grade plastic, not only exacerbates traction alopecia and causes allergic reactions but also contributes to a staggering amount of plastic waste. “Synthetic braiding hair results in about 98 million pounds of plastic just in the U.S. each year,” Jannice explained.Her solution? A sustainable, hypoallergenic, plant-based alternative that eliminates the negative effects of traditional braiding hair while supporting environmental health. “We are offering something that is certified hypoallergenic, ultra-lightweight, and compostable,” she added, describing her product’s appeal to both clients and hairstylists alike.Jannice’s journey to creating Lillian Augusta Beauty was inspired by her background in environmental science and her commitment to solving community problems. Her story of perseverance, from experimenting with plant fibers during her time at the University of Michigan to launching the product amid a pandemic, is both compelling and inspiring.As we discussed her ongoing WeFunder campaign, I couldn't help but feel excited about the potential impact her work could have—not only for the beauty industry but also for the environment. Jannice is truly making a difference, and I’m thrilled to share her story with you today.tl;dr:* Introduction to the company: Jannice Newson, the CEO of Lillian Augusta Beauty, introduces her company, which produces sustainable, plant-based braiding hair as an alternative to synthetic hair made from plastic.* Problem with synthetic braiding hair: Synthetic hair causes traction alopecia, allergic reactions, and environmental harm, contributing to 98 million pounds of plastic waste annually in the U.S. alone.* Sustainable solution: Lillian Augusta Beauty provides hypoallergenic, ultra-lightweight, and compostable braiding hair that is better for both users and hairstylists while addressing environmental concerns.* Entrepreneurial journey: Jannice, with a background in environmental science, began developing the product at the University of Michigan and overcame challenges to make the product in her basement during the pandemic.* Business outlook and crowdfunding: The company has launched and is running a crowdfunding campaign on WeFunder, aiming to revolutionize the $2.5 billion Black haircare industry and expand into a $100 million business.How to Make Being a Person of Action Your SuperpowerJannice Newson’s superpower is her ability to take action, no matter the challenges. She embodies a mindset of determination and resourcefulness, always finding ways to move forward despite obstacles. Whether it's developing innovative solutions or driving her business, she refuses to let circumstances hold her back. This superpower allows her to create opportunities and achieve success even in the face of adversity.An excellent example of Jannice’s “person of action” superpower is her journey of creating plant-based hair for Lillian Augusta Beauty. She began by cutting plants with garden shears on her college campus and experimenting with fibers in a basement workshop. Despite making one braid an hour, she persisted through challenges like the pandemic and limited resources, driven by her determination to create a sustainable solution for synthetic braiding hair.Tips for Developing the Superpower:* Courage to Fail: Don’t be afraid to take risks and fail. Jannice’s success comes from her willingness to try, even when the odds seemed against her.* Take Initiative: Look for opportunities where others see obstacles. Jannice took action when others might have stopped.* Complain Constructively: Identify things that bother you and seek solutions. Jannice started Lillian Augusta Beauty because she complained about the negative effects of synthetic hair.* Seek Unexpected Solutions: Explore unconventional resources and partnerships. Jannice found unexpected funding opportunities through avenues like the Regional Transportation Authority.By following Jannice Newson’s example and advice, you can make being a person of action a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileJannice Newson (she/her):CEO, Lillian Augusta BeautyAbout Lillian Augusta Beauty: Lillian Augusta Beauty (LAB) is bringing lightweight and allergen-free braiding hair to the community with its patent-pending plant-based braiding hair. Based on the Chicago southside, LAB promises hair without harm: no more allergic reactions, heavy braids, or plastic waste from tossing out synthetic braiding hair. LAB was founded by two Black female scientists who started this company because of their own troubles with allergic reactions from synthetic hair. They made prototypes in a fiber lab at the University of Michigan and even in the basement during quarantine to get LAB to where it is today.Website: hairwithoutharm.comCompany Facebook Page: fb.com/hairwithoutharmOther URL: wefunder.com/lillian.augustaBiographical Information: Jannice Newson is a social entrepreneur innovating in hair and beauty. She is the founder and CEO at Lillian Augusta Beauty. Her background is in environmental science and ecology. She also sits on the board for Enterprise for Youth's Climate Career Corps and Charles Roundtree Bloom Project. Outside of work, she enjoys cartoons, crocheting, walking off Lake Michigan, and eggs benedict.Personal Facebook Profile: fb.com/jannice.newsonLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/jannice-newson-a3b8a9103/Instagram Handle: @jannicespiecesMax-Impact MembersThe following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support to keep us operating:Carol Fineagan, Nicholas and Company | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Sheryle Gilihan, CauseLabs | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.* Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on August 20, 2024, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.* SuperCrowdHour, August 21, 2024, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, we host a value-laden webinar for aspiring impact investors or social entrepreneurs. At this month’s webinar, Devin Thorpe will provide a “Step-by-Step Guide to Raising Capital from the Crowd.”* Superpowers for Good Live Pitch, September 25, 2024. The application window opens soon! Watch for updates!* Recently, we created an AI GPT to help you learn more about The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, and our upcoming events. Click here to try it.Community Event Calendar* Successful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events* Main Street Skowhegan and NC3 Entrepreneur Finance Workshop Series, September 17 - November 19, 2023.* Crowdfunding Professional Association, Summit in DC, October 22-23* Asheville Neighborhood Economics, November 12-13.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 8,000+ members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode.Superpowers for Good is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe

I’m not a financial advisor; Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Devin: What is your superpower?Nicole: I would say 90% of what NESsT did and has done has been just the hard work of myself and the team, the wonderful team that I have worked with closely. It's persevering. It's not giving up. In today’s episode of Superpowers for Good, I had the privilege of speaking with Nicole Etchart, Founder and Senior Advisor of NESsT, an organization dedicated to impact-first investing in social enterprises within underserved communities. Throughout our conversation, Nicole shared valuable insights into what it takes to truly make a difference through impact investing.One of the key takeaways from our discussion was the importance of being clear about your intentions as an investor. Nicole emphasized that at NESsT, they approach their investments with an "impact first" mindset. This means prioritizing social impact over immediate financial returns. Nicole explained, “When you're working in remote areas with low-income communities, the changes do not happen overnight. So, having patient capital and accompanying companies through their journey is critical.”Patience isn’t the only characteristic necessary for successful impact investing. Nicole also highlighted the need for risk tolerance, especially when working with diverse, low-income communities in challenging environments. She pointed out that this approach can lead to more resilient companies that are better equipped to navigate obstacles, as seen during the COVID-19 pandemic.Finally, Nicole stressed the importance of being deeply committed to the local realities of the communities where investments are made. “It's very important for those providing the resources at scale to be committed to the local realities and working with those local realities,” she said. This commitment ensures that investments are not only effective but also sustainable in the long term.Nicole’s experience and wisdom serve as a powerful reminder that impact investing requires more than just financial resources—it demands patience, a willingness to embrace risk, and a deep connection to the communities being served.tl;dr:* Introduction of Nicole Etchart: Nicole Etchart is introduced as a leading figure in social entrepreneurship, having invested decades in supporting underserved communities through her organization, NESsT.* About NESsT: NESsT helps social enterprises grow and become self-sustainable, focusing on dignified employment for underserved communities. The organization has invested in around 250 companies, creating over 112,000 jobs and impacting 1.7 million people, primarily in emerging markets.* Investment in Impactful Enterprises: Nicole discusses NESsT's work with companies like Aswabe in the Brazilian Amazon, which produces Brazilian nuts sustainably. NESsT supports these enterprises through capacity building, business services, and providing capital, ensuring they can grow and have a greater impact.* Impact Investing Approach: Nicole emphasizes that NESsT is an impact-first investor, prioritizing social impact over quick financial returns. She highlights the importance of patience, tolerance for risk, and deep understanding of local realities in successful impact investing.* Personal Insights and Resilience: Nicole shares her personal background and attributes her success to resilience, hard work, and the support of mentors. She also discusses the challenges NESsT faced in starting its own impact fund and the importance of perseverance in achieving long-term goals.How to Develop Resilience and Perseverance As a SuperpowerNicole Etchart’s superpower is her remarkable resilience and perseverance. Throughout her career, she has faced numerous challenges and setbacks but has consistently demonstrated the ability to push through obstacles, remain committed to her mission, and ultimately achieve success. This tenacity has been central to her work with NESsT, where she has led efforts to invest in and support social enterprises in underserved communities.One example of Nicole’s resilience is when NESsT decided to start its own impact fund. Despite skepticism from the board and others who doubted their experience in impact investing, Nicole persisted. She and her team spent a year convincing stakeholders of their capabilities and then successfully raised the necessary funding. This effort culminated in the establishment of two functioning funds in Europe, now investing millions of dollars in social enterprises.Tips for Developing Resilience and Perseverance:* Find Supportive Mentors: Surround yourself with people who believe in you and your mission. These mentors can provide reassurance and encouragement when you face challenges.* Maintain a Long-Term Vision: Keep your eye on the ultimate goal, even when the journey is tough. This focus will help you navigate through obstacles.* Embrace Persistence: Don’t give up, even when others doubt your abilities. Persistence in the face of adversity is key to achieving your goals.By following Nicole Etchart’s example and advice, you can make resilience and perseverance a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileNicole Etchart  (she/her):Founder and Senior Advisor, NESsTAbout NESsT: NESsT invests in enterprises that create quality jobs for underserved communities while sustaining the planet. Locally based social enterprises are uniquely qualified to transform low-income, excluded and environmentally vulnerable communities. These enterprises are on the ground, have the trust of the communities, and have created businesses aligned with their best interests. NESsT supports social enterprises through two businesses: (1) loan funds that provide patient debt financing to purpose-driven small and growing businesses in emerging markets and (2) an accelerator program that catalyzes impact-focused enterprises towards growth and investment readiness.Since its founding in 1997, NESsT has invested over $36M and trained and supported over 35,000 entrepreneurs across 50 countries. It has accelerated and financed 248 enterprises, in total sustaining more than 112,000 formal jobs and improving the lives of 1.7 million people from the most marginalized communities around the world, including smallholder farmers, Black people, Indigenous Peoples, ethnic minorities, the LGBTQIA+ community, migrants and refugees, people with disabilities, women, and youth.Website: www.nesst.orgX/Twitter Handle: @nesstorgCompany Facebook Page: fb.com/nesstorgLinkedin: linkedin.com/company/nesst/Instagram Handle: https://www.instagram.com/nesst_org/Biographical Information: Nicole Etchart, Co-Founder & Senior Advisor of NESsT, plays a pivotal role in driving global strategy, growth, and impact. NESsT invests in and provides strategic business support to social enterprises focused on generating quality jobs for underserved communities while sustaining the planet. During her 27 years as CEO, Nicole oversaw the organization's diverse portfolio of high-impact enterprises through its acceleration program and impact-first funds.  Linkedin Profile: linkedin.com/in/nicole-etchart-437a171Max-Impact MembersThe following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support to keep us operating:Carol Fineagan, Nicholas and Company | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Sheryle Gilihan, CauseLabs | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.* Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on August 20, 2024, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.* SuperCrowdHour, August 21, 2024, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, we host a value-laden webinar for aspiring impact investors or social entrepreneurs. At this month’s webinar, Devin Thorpe will provide a “Step-by-Step Guide to Raising Capital from the Crowd.”* Recently, we created an AI GPT to help you learn more about The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, and our upcoming events. Click here to try it.Community Event Calendar* Successful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events* Main Street Skowhegan and NC3 Entrepreneur Finance Workshop Series, September 17 - November 19, 2023.* Crowdfunding Professional Association, Summit in DC, October 22-23* Asheville Neighborhood Economics, November 12-13.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 8,000+ members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe

I’m not a financial advisor; Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Devin: What is your superpower?Luni: I call it “if only.” So there are so many people out there that talk about the problems, the SDGs or any way you want to talk about the problems of the world. Usually, they'll sit back and say, “Well, if only this existed, we could solve this problem. If only that existed, we could solve this problem.” I'm one of those people who does sit around and say, “if only.” And then I go make it happen.In today’s episode of Superpowers for Good, I had the pleasure of welcoming back a dear friend and visionary entrepreneur, Luni Libes, the CEO of Africa Eats. Luni is not only an inspiring leader but also a key investor in the super crowd. His innovative company, Africa Eats, is on a mission to end hunger and poverty in Africa through a unique for-profit model, currently crowdfunding on WeFunder.Luni shared the story of how Africa Eats operates differently from traditional non-profits and government initiatives. "We're jumping in as a for-profit company to lower hunger and to literally pull people out of poverty," Luni explained. This approach allows Africa Eats to scale its impact sustainably and efficiently.The company has invested in over 20 enterprises across Africa, focusing on enhancing the food and agriculture supply chain. Luni highlighted how Africa Eats supports small-scale farmers by aggregating their produce and selling processed food in urban markets, thereby doubling the farmers' incomes. "We’ve seen it grow from a few hundred farmers to thousands of farmers," Luni shared, illustrating the substantial growth and potential of these ventures.One of the most compelling aspects of Africa Eats is its commitment to reducing food loss. By managing the supply chain professionally, the company cuts down food loss from the typical 30-40% to just 5-6%, making a significant impact on both food security and economic savings for the continent.Luni’s vision extends beyond just a few companies. He envisions replicating this model across sub-Saharan Africa, empowering more entrepreneurs and scaling operations to new heights. "We could replicate this. We can either bring this company to the next country over or find another entrepreneur in another part of the continent that wants to do the same thing," Luni said, underscoring the vast potential for growth.The journey of Africa Eats is a testament to the power of combining profit with purpose. As Luni confirmed, "When you are doing good profitably, the good becomes infinite."Watch all of today’s episode to hear more about Africa Eats’ transformative work and how you can be part of this incredible mission.Tl;dr:Introduction of Luni Libes and Africa Eats:* Luni Libes is an investor and recurring guest on the show, currently involved in a crowdfunding campaign on WeFunder for Africa Eats, a company he founded to combat hunger and poverty in Africa.Mission and Approach of Africa Eats:* Africa Eats operates as a for-profit investment company, supporting over 20 companies in Africa's food and agriculture supply chain. By purchasing from small farmers and reducing food loss, they increase farmer incomes and save costs on food imports.Success and Impact:* Since its inception, Africa Eats has significantly grown its portfolio companies, demonstrating substantial increases in revenue and farmer support. For example, Peniel Meat Processing in Rwanda grew from $30,000 to over a million dollars in revenue, becoming a major chicken processor.Funding Strategy:* Africa Eats combines traditional funding from accredited investors with crowdfunding campaigns to democratize investment opportunities. The goal is to eventually make Africa Eats a public company, allowing widespread participation in its growth and impact.Luni Libes’ Superpower and Vision:* Luni's "if only" superpower involves identifying unmet needs and making them a reality. He emphasizes the importance of networking, having built a network of over 21,000 contacts to support his ventures. His next goal is to establish market makers in Africa to enhance liquidity and capital market functionality. ​How to Develop “If Only” As a SuperpowerLuni's superpower is his ability to take ideas that begin with "if only" and turn them into reality. Rather than waiting for others to solve problems, he identifies needs and takes action to address them, creating impactful solutions.Luni noticed that African stock markets lacked market makers, which are crucial for liquidity and efficient trading. Seeing this gap, he founded the first market maker in Mauritius, developed a business plan, secured funding, and built the necessary technology. This initiative addressed a critical need and demonstrated his proactive approach to solving problems that others overlook.Tips for Developing the Superpower:* Identify Needs: Constantly look for gaps and unmet needs in your environment.* Take Initiative: Don't wait for others to act; take the first steps to address the problems you see.* Network Extensively: Build a broad network of contacts and maintain those relationships. This can help you find resources and support when needed.* Document Contacts: Keep a detailed record of people you meet and reach out to them when you need advice or assistance.* Embrace Entrepreneurship: Be willing to start new ventures and projects, even if they seem daunting.* Hire Strategically: Hire individuals who can manage day-to-day operations, allowing you to focus on big-picture visionary work.* Push Beyond Comfort Zones: Even if you're an introvert, push yourself to meet new people and expand your network.By following Luni’s example and advice, you can make "if only" a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileLuni Libes (he/him):CEO, Africa EatsAbout Africa Eats: Solving hunger and poverty in Africa by building the profitable food/ag supply chain.Website: africaeats.comX/Twitter Handle: @africaeatsLinkedin: linkedin.com/company/africa-eatsOther URL: wefunder.com/africaeatsBiographical Information: Luni Libes is a 30+ year serial entrepreneur turned mentor, author, and teacher.Africa Eats is a pan-African investment company focused on feeding Africa. This company is a spin-off of Fledge, a global network of impact-oriented accelerators. Realize Impact is a public charity that makes it easy for anyone to make an impact investment, and The Angel Accelerator teaches early-stage impact investing.In addition, Luni was an Entrepreneur in Residence and faculty at The Bainbridge Graduate Institute and an Entrepreneur in Residence Emeritus at the University of Washington’s CoMotion Center for Innovation and Impact.Luni is the author of The Next Step series of books and podcasts, guiding entrepreneurs from idea to startup, The Pinchot Impact Index, a way to measure, compare, and aggregate impact, and Berkshire Africa, explaining how to use the lessons of Berkshire Hathaway in tackling hunger and poverty in Africa.X/Twitter Handle: @lunarmobiscuitMax-Impact MembersThe following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support to keep us operating:Carol Fineagan, Nicholas and Company | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Sheryle Gilihan, CauseLabs | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.* Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on August 20, 2024, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.* SuperCrowdHour, August 21, 2024, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, we host a value-laden webinar for aspiring impact investors or social entrepreneurs. At this month’s webinar, Devin Thorpe will provide a “Step-by-Step Guide to Raising Capital from the Crowd.”* Recently, we created an AI GPT to help you learn more about The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, and our upcoming events. Click here to try it.Community Event Calendar* Successful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events* Raisepapers Reg A+ Office Hours, August 8 at Noon ET.* Main Street Skowhegan and NC3 Entrepreneur Finance Workshop Series, September 17 - November 19, 2023.* Crowdfunding Professional Association, Summit in DC, October 22-23* Asheville Neighborhood Economics, November 12-13.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 8,000+ members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe

I’m not a financial advisor; Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Devin: What is your superpower?Brian: I definitely feel like empathy is my superpower.Today’s episode of Superpowers for Good features a remarkable guest, Brian Coleman, Founder and CEO of A Heart 2 Help. Brian’s innovative app aims to connect people in need with those who are eager to help, creating a community built on kindness and support.Brian explained the core function of A Heart 2 Help, a mobile app designed to facilitate real-time care sharing. Whether someone needs their driveway shoveled after a snowstorm, groceries delivered, or just a listening ear, this app makes it possible to request assistance and receive help quickly through geolocation technology.Brian’s extensive experience in healthcare, spanning nearly 35 years as a surgical tech, has deeply influenced his passion for helping others. He shared, “For me, that's always just been just a wonderful thing to be, you know, just to be able to help people. And so for this, even though there are so many opportunities when it came to volunteering for me, because of my schedule, a lot of times I just didn't have the time or the opportunity to be able to assist.”A Heart 2 Help goes beyond in-person assistance. The app also supports virtual help, offering services such as career advice, tutoring, and mentoring. “It could be someone that just needs a listening ear,” Brian noted. “At the end of the day, it's just trying to create community and spread kindness throughout the world.”One of the most inspiring aspects of the app is its ability to meet people where they are without judgment. Brian emphasized, “With the A Heart 2 Help app, we're really trying to build a community where it's judgment-free. We want to meet you where you are but then also realize that it doesn't have to come with this negative stigma attached to it.”In a world where everyone faces moments of need, A Heart 2 Help provides a platform for individuals to share their unique gifts and make a meaningful impact. As Brian eloquently put it, “For me, our goal at A Heart 2 Help is to sort of change what the word help means.”This episode underscores the profound impact that A Heart 2 Help can have on fostering a supportive and compassionate community. By leveraging technology to bridge gaps and provide aid, Brian is paving the way for a kinder, more connected world.A Heart 2 Help is raising capital from the crowd via Netcapital. Click here to learn more.tl;dr:* Introduction of Guest: Brian Coleman, founder and CEO of "Heart 2 Help," is introduced. He discusses the purpose and impact of his care-sharing app, which connects people in need with those willing to help, leveraging geolocation technology for real-time assistance.* App Functionality: The "Heart 2 Help" app enables users to request and offer various types of help, from physical assistance like shoveling snow or fixing a flat tire to virtual support such as career advice or emotional support. The app aims to create a community focused on kindness and assistance.* Empathy and Community Building: Brian emphasizes the importance of empathy, kindness, and community support, sharing personal experiences that highlight the need for judgment-free help. The app seeks to change the stigma associated with asking for help, encouraging people to offer and receive assistance without judgment.* Crowdfunding Campaign: The app is currently raising capital on NetCapital to expand its reach and functionality. Brian discusses the fundraising efforts and the goal of aligning with nonprofits to support their causes and needs through the app.* Call to Action: Listeners are encouraged to download the "Heart 2 Help" app from the Apple Store or Google Play Store, post offers for assistance, and support the fundraising campaign on NetCapital. The app has already gained 5,000 downloads and aims to grow its user base and impact further.How to Develop Empathy As a SuperpowerBrian’s superpower is empathy. His ability to deeply understand and share the feelings of others drives his mission to help those in need through his innovative app, A Heart 2 Help. Brian's empathy enables him to connect with people on a personal level, offering genuine support and kindness.Brian shared a poignant story from his time in Ohio when he encountered a man in need outside a McDonald's. The man, hesitant and humble, asked for a simple meal. Brian invited him inside and offered him anything he wanted. The man’s gratitude and his subsequent story of personal hardship deeply impacted Brian, highlighting the importance of meeting people where they are and offering help without judgment.Tips for Developing Empathy:* Listen Actively: Pay close attention to what others are saying without interrupting or judging.* Practice Compassion: Approach interactions with a genuine desire to understand and help.* Suspend Judgment: Avoid making assumptions about people's situations or needs.* Put Yourself in Their Shoes: Try to understand the world from the perspective of others.* Offer Unconditional Help: Provide assistance without attaching conditions or expectations.By following Brian’s example and advice, you can make empathy a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileBrian Coleman (he/him):Founder/CEO, A Heart 2 Help About A Heart 2 Help: A Heart 2 Help is a groundbreaking free care-sharing app designed to allow people to help people in real-time, fostering a global community built on kindness and support. Through this innovative app, users can offer and receive assistance swiftly and efficiently, whether it's providing a listening ear, running errands, offering emotional support, or donating items to someone in need. A Heart 2 Help aims to create a network of empathy, compassion and solidarity, empowering users to make a positive difference in each other's lives, one act of kindness at a time.Website: www.aheart2help.comX/Twitter Handle: @AHeart2HelpLLCCompany Facebook Page: @AHeart2HelpOther URL: netcapital.com/companies/aheart2helpBiographical Information: I'm Brian Coleman, born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, the youngest of four siblings. My career began in the Air Force, stationed at Keesler Air Force Base in Biloxi, Mississippi, where I honed my skills as a Surgical Technician. Over more than 30 years, I traveled across the United States as a Surgical Technician, serving in prestigious medical centers.Driven by an entrepreneurial spirit, I ventured into different paths, including owning a healthcare staffing agency. One of my proudest accomplishments is inventing the ClipVac, a revolutionary Pre-Surgical Hair Removal System that has transformed pre-surgical procedures in hospitals nationwide.Family is central to my life. I live in sunny California with my beloved wife, Yira, and together we nurture a blended family of seven children. Our home is a sanctuary of love and shared experiences, cherished deeply.Beyond work and family, I find joy in various pursuits. I am a dedicated churchgoer, deriving spiritual fulfillment from my faith community. In my leisure time, I treasure moments with friends, cultivating lasting bonds and creating memorable experiences. My interests range from enjoying the thrill of horror films.My journey is one of dedication, innovation, and a profound appreciation for the people and experiences that shape my world. Personal Facebook Profile: fb.com/profileLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/brian-coleman-03a428286Instagram Handle: @AHeart2HelpUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.* Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on August 20, 2024, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.* SuperCrowdHour, August 21, 2024, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, we host a value-laden webinar for aspiring impact investors or social entrepreneurs. At this month’s webinar, Devin Thorpe will provide a “Step-by-Step Guide to Raising Capital from the Crowd.”* Recently, we created an AI GPT to help you learn more about The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, and our upcoming events. Click here to try it.Community Event Calendar* Successful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events* Raisepapers Reg A+ Office Hours, August 8 at Noon ET.* Main Street Skowhegan and NC3 Entrepreneur Finance Workshop Series, September 17 - November 19, 2023.* Crowdfunding Professional Association, Summit in DC, October 22-23* Asheville Neighborhood Economics, November 12-13.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 8,000+ members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe

I’m not a financial advisor; Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Devin: What is your superpower?Kimberly: I would have to say that my superpower is the fact that I am a servant of others.In today’s episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing Kimberly Evans, the dynamic Founder and CEO of Just Her Rideshare. Kimberly's vision for her company is revolutionary, offering a women-centric rideshare and community mobility service. This innovative concept prioritizes women’s safety, comfort, and empowerment, setting it apart from industry giants like Uber and Lyft.Kimberly’s journey began during the COVID-19 pandemic, giving her ample time to ensure product-market fit and problem-market fit through extensive customer discovery. After a successful soft launch in 2022 and a hard launch in 2023, Just Her Rideshare has seen impressive growth with thousands of sign-ups, many of which came organically from places they never marketed.One of the most compelling aspects of Just Her Rideshare is its dedication to creating a safe space for women. Kimberly shared, "Nearly 40 percent of women have had to report uncomfortable encounters, including serious sexual crimes and, yes, even murder. So to us, one assault or one woman made to feel uncomfortable is more than enough for us to want to create a safe space for them." This focus on safety and community has resonated deeply with both drivers and riders, leading to a remarkable 78 percent ride repeatability rate.The company also ensures better economic opportunities for its drivers by paying them more generously than other rideshare services. "Currently, we are in early adoption deals where our drivers earn 75 percent of every fare. That is a huge difference from industry standard. But again, we wanted to invest in them because we knew that it would create more loyalty and less churn," Kimberly explained.Kimberly's vision extends beyond Charlotte, North Carolina, with plans to expand into other cities such as Atlanta, Miami, and Washington, D.C. The potential for growth is vast, especially given the significant market of women riders who often avoid ridesharing at night due to safety concerns.As Kimberly and her team continue to build and expand, the future looks incredibly promising for Just Her Rideshare. Their commitment to safety, community, and empowerment not only fills a crucial gap in the ridesharing industry but also paves the way for a more inclusive and secure transportation option for women everywhere.tl;dr:* Introduction and Business Overview: Kimberly Evans is the CEO of Just Her Ride Share, a women-centric ride-sharing and community mobility company prioritizing women's safety, comfort, and empowerment. The company aims to create a safe space for women by employing female drivers and serving female passengers.* Business Development and Growth: Just Her Ride Share started during COVID, allowing time for market research and development. The company launched in 2022 with a soft launch and a hard launch in 2023. It has seen significant traction with thousands of sign-ups, high customer retention, and repeatability rates despite minimal marketing expenditure.* Community and Customer Focus: The company emphasizes community and treats both drivers and customers as part of a supportive network. This approach has resulted in customers willing to pay a premium for the service and drivers receiving 75% of every fare, higher than industry standards, fostering loyalty and reducing churn.* Market Potential and Expansion Plans: The ride-sharing industry has significant market potential, especially among women who often avoid ride-sharing at night due to safety concerns. Just Her Ride Share plans to expand beyond Charlotte, North Carolina, into cities like Atlanta, Miami, and Washington, D.C., driven by word-of-mouth demand.* Capital Raising and Future Vision: Kimberly Evans highlights the importance of raising capital to scale the business, improve market visibility, and expand into new cities. The company is using Wefunder for crowdfunding and aims to increase brand awareness and customer acquisition through strategic investments in marketing.How to Develop Servant Leadership As a SuperpowerKimberly Evans's superpower is her servant leadership. She prioritizes building genuine human connections and fostering a community over transactional interactions. This approach drives her mission to serve others and create a supportive environment for both her team and the users of Just Her Rideshare.Kimberly exemplified her servant leadership by routinely taking time each month to support other entrepreneurs. Despite her own overwhelming schedule, she reaches out to her founder friends to offer assistance, helping them tackle their top challenges. This selfless act not only alleviates her own stress but also strengthens her network and community.Tips for Developing Servant Leadership:* Be Intentional: Set specific goals to serve others regularly, such as monthly or quarterly.* Build Genuine Connections: Focus on creating meaningful relationships rather than transactional ones.* Offer Help Proactively: Reach out to your network to see how you can support them, even with small tasks.* Embrace Vulnerability: Understand that being open and supportive does not mean being weak; set boundaries to prevent exploitation.* Shift Focus: When overwhelmed, redirect your energy to helping others find relief and gain perspective.By following Kimberly Evans’s example and advice, you can make servant leadership a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileKimberly Evans  (she/her):Founder & CEO, Just Her Rideshare, Inc. About Just Her Rideshare, Inc.: We are a women-centric rideshare and community mobility company prioritizing women's safety, comfort, and empowerment. Our platform connects female drivers and riders 100% of the time for comfortable, secure rides. By fostering a community of mutual support and trust, we aim to create an environment where women can travel with confidence and professional drivers can thrive while making a positive impactWebsite: justherrideshare.com X/Twitter Handle: @justherride Company Facebook Page: fb.com/justherride Other URL: wefunder.com/justherrideshareBiographical Information: I am Kimberly Evans, a servant of others, a wife of almost 28 years, a mom of three sons and a grandmother of one.  I love traveling, eating at nice restaurants and baseball games.  I am a fourth-generation entrepreneur, a socially conscious entrepreneur, and a business owner of over 30 yrs. I have been in fashion, software sales, and the creator of a call center that served clients in Fintech, Healthtech, VA Services, SaaS and Client Support. I am the Founder & CEO of Just Her Rideshare, Inc.X/Twitter Handle: @JustHerKimberlyLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/justherrideInstagram Handle: @justherrideUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.* Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on August 20, 2024, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.* SuperCrowdHour, August 21, 2024, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, we host a value-laden webinar for aspiring impact investors or social entrepreneurs. At this month’s webinar, Devin Thorpe will provide a “Step-by-Step Guide to Raising Capital from the Crowd.”* Recently, we created an AI GPT to help you learn more about The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, and our upcoming events. Click here to try it.Community Event Calendar* Successful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events* Community Capital Live: Betty Francisco and Aliana Piñeiro of Boston Impact Initiative - Virtual Event: July 31, at 2 pm ET* Main Street Skowhegan and NC3 Entrepreneur Finance Workshop Series, September 17 - November 19, 2023.* Crowdfunding Professional Association, Summit in DC, October 22-23* Asheville Neighborhood Economics, November 12-13.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 8,000+ members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe

I’m not a financial advisor; Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Devin: What do you see as your superpower?Mara: Honestly, my superpower is my empathy. As the host of "Superpowers for Good," I had the distinct pleasure of interviewing Mara McLoughlin, the Program Director of IRL Social Skills. During our conversation, Mara provided invaluable insights into her program, which focuses on helping autistic and neurodivergent individuals improve their social interactions. Today, I want to share some of the key ideas and strategies that Mara discussed that can benefit us all.IRL Social Skills, which stands for "In Real Life," offers a community-based, proactive approach to mental health by teaching essential social skills. Mara emphasized the importance of creating a safe space for participants to learn and practice these skills, stating, "We offer a community-based proactive approach to mental health so that our participants get the opportunity to learn these skills in a safe space with other people who are also struggling."One of the standout strategies Mara shared involves transforming the dreaded small talk into a meaningful exchange. She explained, "You think about the dreaded small talk, right? We think of this more in terms of like a tactical strategy of trading information to find common interests because friendships are based on common interests." By encouraging participants to ask questions, give compliments, and share their own interests, IRL Social Skills helps individuals build genuine connections.Another critical aspect of Mara's program is teaching the concept of "interoception," which involves understanding and interpreting the body's physical sensations. This skill is vital for both personal well-being and social interactions. As Mara put it, "The body speaks in sensation. So we want to learn how to drop into our nervous system to be able to receive the messages that our body is sending us."These strategies are not only beneficial for neurodivergent individuals but can also help anyone looking to improve their social skills and mental health. By focusing on authentic interactions and self-awareness, we can all learn to navigate the complex social world more effectively.If you're interested in learning more about IRL Social Skills or supporting their work, you can visit their crowdfunding campaign on SMBX. Mara and her team are doing incredible work, and it's inspiring to see the positive impact they're making in so many lives.tl;dr:* Introduction and Mission of IRL Social Skills: Mara Mcloughlin, founder of IRL Social Skills, explains that the program helps autistic and other socially struggling individuals (teens, young adults, and older adults) to initiate, cultivate, and sustain relationships. The program focuses on teaching social skills in a safe, community-based environment.* Success Stories and Teaching Methods: Mara shares success stories, including a teen who gained friends and an adult who improved their professional social skills. She describes teaching methods such as using small talk strategically to find common interests, giving appropriate compliments, and fostering genuine connections.* Challenges and Strategies in Social and Romantic Interactions: Mara discusses the challenges neurodivergent individuals face in social and romantic interactions. She emphasizes the importance of building basic friendship skills, understanding and interpreting body sensations, and developing strategies to manage social interactions effectively.* Business Model and Crowdfunding Campaign: IRL Social Skills operates as a for-profit business and is raising investment capital through a crowdfunding campaign on SMBX. Mara encourages people to learn more about the offering on the SMBX website.* Mara's Superpower and Empathy: Mara identifies empathy as her superpower, sharing a personal story of helping her partner recover communication skills after a stroke. She offers advice on developing empathy by reflecting on how one would feel in others' situations and the importance of somatic understanding.How to Develop Empathy As a SuperpowerMara McLoughlin’s superpower is her profound empathy, which she describes as a lifelong trait. Her ability to deeply understand and feel for others drives her work at IRL Social Skills, where she helps neurodivergent individuals build meaningful connections. By fostering an inclusive environment, Mara ensures that everyone has the opportunity to be understood and supported.Mara shared a compelling story about her partner, who had a stroke and lost his ability to speak. Through her empathetic approach, Mara tirelessly documented his attempts to regain speech and navigate workplace accommodations. Her efforts led to a successful settlement with his employer, who had initially failed to provide necessary accommodations. This experience underscores how Mara’s empathy translates into concrete actions that significantly impact others’ lives.Tips for Developing Empathy:* Reflect on Reversed Situations: Regularly think about how you would feel if you were in someone else’s shoes. Focus on not just the mental but also the physical sensations you might experience.* Engage in Active Listening: Pay close attention to others when they speak, showing genuine interest in their experiences and feelings.* Practice Compassionate Responses: Respond to others with kindness and understanding, acknowledging their emotions and validating their experiences.* Learn from Diverse Perspectives: Interact with people from different backgrounds and experiences to broaden your understanding and appreciation of various viewpoints.* Create Inclusive Environments: Foster spaces where everyone feels welcome and supported, ensuring that no one feels isolated or misunderstood.By following Mara’s example and advice, you can make empathy a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileMara McLoughlin (she/her):Speech-language pathologist and program director, IRL Social SkillsAbout IRL Social Skills: IRL Social Skills teaches autistic, adhd and other socially struggling adolescents and young adults the most important skills anyone can learn: How to initiate, cultivate, and sustain relationships.  Website: www.irlsocialskills.com/Company Facebook Page: fb.com/irlsocialskillsOther URL: thesmbx.com/app/auction/IRL-Social-SkillsBiographical Information: With over 14 years of professional experience working with autistic and other neurodivergent people and their families from age 6 months to 60 years and 30+ years as a student and teacher of yoga and mindfulness, Mara knows that the learning and application of these skills will build a better world.A self-diagnosed AuDHD human and certified provider of the Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills (PEERS®), Mara holds both her Bachelor’s and Master's degrees in Communication Science. Mara was appointed to the Oregon Commission for Autism by former Governor Kate Brown, serves on the Strategies and Supports subcommittee, and looks forward to working with the state legislature to make significant change in services for autistic people and their families across the lifespan.Personal Facebook Profile: fb.com/maramcloughlinLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/mara-mcloughlin-irl-social-skills/Instagram Handle: instagram.com/irlsocialskills/Upcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.* Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on August 20, 2024, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.* SuperCrowdHour, August 21, 2024, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, we host a value-laden webinar for aspiring impact investors or social entrepreneurs. At this month’s webinar, Devin Thorpe will provide a “Step-by-Step Guide to Raising Capital from the Crowd.”* Recently, we created an AI GPT to help you learn more about The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, and our upcoming events. Click here to try it.Community Event Calendar* Successful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events* Community Capital Live: Betty Francisco and Aliana Piñeiro of Boston Impact Initiative - Virtual Event: July 31, at 2 pm ET* Main Street Skowhegan and NC3 Entrepreneur Finance Workshop Series, September 17 - November 19, 2023.* Crowdfunding Professional Association, Summit in DC, October 22-23* Asheville Neighborhood Economics, November 12-13.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 8,000+ members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe