The Connector: How Plug and Play Bridges Startups and Corporations | Lindsay Lebahn

Lindsay Lebahn, Director of Plug and Play Topeka, shares how global innovation is thriving in America's heartland by connecting entrepreneurs, corporations, and investors through their unique accelerator program. • Plug and Play operates 62 locations globally with Topeka focusing on animal health and ag tech• The accelerator connects startups with MVPs to corporate partners, mentors, and universities• Their founder's first investment was trading office space above his rug shop for equity in Google• Startups going through the program are typically working on technologies 5 years from market• Topeka offers unique advantages including affordable housing while still being near Kansas City• Lindsay held a Guinness World Record for the world's largest award show at AT&T Stadium• Being a "yes person" has been key to Lindsay's career progression and success• Entrepreneurs need to reach out and ask for help, especially in the Midwest where people want to assist• Topeka's biggest challenge is confidence in itself and recognizing its inherent advantages• Young people often get stuck because they want success to be easy and obvious when it rarely isReach out to Lindsay through her socials or email - she's always happy to connect for coffee, lunch, or to discuss how Plug and Play might help your business.________________________________________0:00 - Meeting Lindsay Lebahn3:43 - Understanding Plug and Play's Global Innovation Model10:49 - The Entrepreneur's Journey and Support System22:25 - From Nashville to a Guinness World Record38:40 - The Power of Saying Yes in Your Career49:00 - Topeka's Untapped Potential and Midwest Confidence1:00:53 - Rapid Fire: Life in Topeka and Advice_________________________________________Beyond the Podcast: 🎙️Be sure to follow our Topeka Insider Socials below and check out our website for additional stories and articles pertaining to Topeka, KSWebsite -- https://topekainsider.com/Facebook --- https://www.facebook.com/topekainsiderInstagram -- https://www.instagram.com/topekainsiderFollow Your Hosts: 📱Follow both Justin & Jon on their personal socials to get connected. They would love to connect and answer any questions about the show or their day to day.Jon Griffith's Instagram -- https://www.instagram.com/thejongriffith/Justin Armbruster's Instagram -- https://www.instagram.com/armbruster_jdFor Any Inquiries, please DM @TopekaInsider on Instagram!