Entrepreneurship, Innovation, and Startup Thinking with Brian Davis & Eric Cooperman | Episode 20

In this episode of Sunday Afternoon Smokes, Chris Strother sits down with Brian Davis and Eric Cooperman of the Hill Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship at Furman University. Over cigars and bourbon, the conversation explores the mindset behind building new ideas, launching startups, and developing entrepreneurial thinking inside organizations. Brian and Eric share how the Hill Institute helps founders turn early ideas into real companies, why most startup ideas change dramatically before reaching the market, and the importance of community and mentorship for entrepreneurs. Eric also shares insights from his career as a Michelin-trained chef and advanced sommelier, along with the story behind his tech startup Bottle Titan, which tracks wine and spirits through the supply chain. The conversation touches on everything from startup failures and innovation to the unexpected lessons learned from woodworking, hospitality, and even burning 500 Christmas trees in a field. Light a cigar and settle in for a wide-ranging conversation about entrepreneurship, creativity, leadership, and the mindset required to build something from nothing.