Missionary to Mogul: Jaeson Ma on Bridging Faith, Cultures & Capital

In this dynamic episode, Jaeson Ma—serial entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and cultural bridge builder—unpacks his unlikely path from street-smart hustler to spiritual missionary to serial founder shaping the intersection of media, tech, and faith. Named to Variety’s 500 Most Influential Leaders and part of the Milken Institute’s Young Leaders Circle, Jaeson reflects on what drives him: purpose, persistence, and the power of belief. Scott and Jaeson explore what it means to bridge East and West, to define success through calling, and to stay grounded while creating global impact.⏱️ TIMESTAMPED SHOW NOTES[00:00] Jaeson’s opening reflection on purpose and authenticity [02:23] Scott welcomes Jaeson Ma to the show [03:06] The Paris Hilton + Musical.ly story and how Goodwater Capital landed a unicorn deal [09:20] From humble beginnings: selling candy in San Jose to support his family [13:19] Early lessons in fearlessness and persuasion [15:03] From street hustler to missionary—learning to “sell the gospel” [16:08] Mentorship under MC Hammer and lessons in faith, media, and venture capital [18:54] Missionary years across 40 countries and how they shaped his worldview [20:19] Discovering his life’s purpose: bridging East and West through culture and technology [21:13] The rise of Shanghai as the East-West nexus and what changed post-COVID [25:36] How geopolitics disrupted global collaboration—but why dialogue still matters [28:35] Defining success through calling, not comparison [33:23] Jaeson on his superpower: being a catalyzer who spots what’s about to blow up [36:02] Why he’s betting on OpenWav and the next evolution of the music industry [38:08] Quick-Fire Entrepreneur Hacks: Books, habits, mentors, and advice for founders [41:27] Jaeson’s closing words: “The only failure is not trying.” [42:56] Show outro📚 QUICK-FIRE RESOURCESBook: The Greatest Salesman in the World by Og Mandino — Amazon linkTool: ChatGPT — for creativity and productivityHabit: Daily gratitude and prayerMentor Mentioned: MC Hammer — for faith-based leadership and entrepreneurial example