Atlanta Startup Podcast
by Atlanta Startup Podcast
Startup stories from the heart of the hustle--Atlanta.
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Episodes
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The South’s Accelerating Venture Flywheel: What LPs See In 2026
In this candid LP roundtable, Lisa Calhoun, Founder of Valor Ventures, is joined by sophisticated investors Tom Weithman, CIO of Virginia Innovation Partnership Corporation, and Beth Kytle Chandler, Managing Director at Cresset, to unpack how venture capital is evolving across the South in 2026....
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Venture Atlanta 2025: Know Before You Go: Insider Highlights for VCs, Founders, and Corporate Partners
🎙️ Venture Atlanta 2025: Know Before You Go Get insider highlights from VCs, founders, and corporate partners so you can hit the ground running. Tune in now and be ready for the Southeast’s biggest startup conference! Let's take this conversation to real time. Join Valor for an upcoming event.
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Meet Techstars Atlanta New MP Anastasia Nicole Simon In Conversation With Valor VC’s Lisa Calhoun
Start here, scale anywhere. Discover what founders and investors need to succeed with Anastasia (Nicole) Simon, new Managing Partner of Techstars Atlanta, and why she’s certain the South is where startups should scale now. Let's take this conversation to real time. Join Valor for an upcoming event.
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SPECIAL REPORT: Deep Dive on AI Startups in the South
The South is heating up in AI. On this deep dive special episode of the Atlanta Startup Podcast, our AI-generated hosts break down where founders are building real enterprise traction, how local talent is leading the way, and what’s shifting in this new phase of the AI cycle. Don’t miss this...
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King of Pops Co-Founder and CEO Steven Carse On the Secret To Joy At Work
Summer in Atlanta means a fresh crop of rainbow umbrellas slinging fresh pops and friendly smiles. Meet Steven Carse, co-founder and CEO of the iconic Atlanta brand King of Pops, in our July podcast. He says "today IS the good ole days." Listen in as he shares his surprising recipe for fun at…
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Truth On Trial: Jennifer Dorian on the Power of Public Media Now
Enjoy this radically transparent conversation with Jennifer Dorian, CEO of WABE, a “76 year old startup.” Hosted by Lisa Calhoun, managing partner at Valor Ventures, these leaders drive into topics of truth and courage today, including: How public broadcasting shapes culture, community, and...
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SPECIAL REPORT: Valor's AI IN THE SOUTH Q1-2025 is out now!
We tracked 123 new startups, uncovered key trends around revenues and financings, and broke it all down in an 11-page Valor Ventures report. Better news! You don’t even have to read it. Hit the highlights in this week’s special podcast, hosted by our favorite AI hosts. Get your copy of the AI IN...
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AI Racing Ahead with Will Bryan, Ph.D - CEO & Founder of Autonoma
What if the key to unlocking true autonomy isn’t just more real-world testing—but a perfect digital twin of reality? Meet Autonoma, the company revolutionizing AI and autonomy through ultra-high-fidelity simulation. From self-driving cars to smart cities, their tech is accelerating the...
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Raising a Growth Round In the Age of AI with Christy Johnson of BIP Capital
Join Lisa Calhoun and Christy Johnson, Performance Engineering Leader at BIP Capital, for an inspiring and insightful conversation on what it takes to build, scale, and thrive in innovation today. From Christy’s unique journey—from rural Costa Rica to leading high-growth companies—to defining the...
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Can Atlanta’s Downtown Be Saved? Inside David Cumming’s Courageous Plan to Restart the City’s Heart
In this episode, Lisa Calhoun sits down with Atlanta visionary entrepreneur David Cummings to explore the transformative changes he’s instigated in the heart of Atlanta. David offers a deep dive into his mission to revitalize the city through the purchase of a sixteen acre lot of historic...
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Southern Exposure: Exploring Positive Trends in Venture Capital Unique to the South with Peter Walker, Carta’s Head of Insights
Get ready for an exciting episode of the Atlanta StartUp Podcast! Founders, ever wondered if you’ve raised too much or too little capital? Not sure how to lock in the best terms in today’s market? Or maybe you’re asking, "Is the South the next big hub for funding, or should I head to the coasts?"...
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Empowering Safe and Inclusive Ridesharing with HERide
In this episode of the Atlanta Startup Podcast, we welcome Jillian Anderson, founder of HERide, the innovative ridesharing platform designed to provide safe, reliable, and inclusive transportation for women. HERide is reshaping the ridesharing industry by addressing the unique safety concerns…
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Transforming Surgical Training with VR: Dr. Lauren Siff of SurgicalEd VR
In this episode of the Atlanta Startup Podcast, we’re joined by Lauren Siff, Founder of SurgicalEd VR, the groundbreaking platform that won the first showcase in the Startup Runway Virginia program in Richmond. SurgicalEd VR is redefining how surgical training is approached, offering immersive VR...
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How Cleveland Clinic Finds Its Next Great Healthcare Startup Founders in Atlanta and Beyond
The Cleveland Clinic recently tapped an Atlanta entrepreneur to lead one of its cutting-edge healthcare innovation companies. In this episode, we dive into a conversation with Linda Li, Partner, at the Cleveland Clinic. Discover how they’re driving innovation, their investment strategies, and the...
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AI Startups in the South: Highlights Q3 2024
Lisa Calhoun, Founding General Partner of Valor VC, released a new podcast titled "AI Startups in the South: Highlights Q3 2024." In this episode, she breaks down key insights from Valor's latest report, exploring trends, opportunities, and actionable strategies for early-stage startups…
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AI in Venture Capital: How Valor Ventures’ AI 'Vic’ Helps Founders Get Discovered By VCs
In this special episode for Venture Atlanta Week, we're dropping a first-of-its-kind podcast--AI talking to AI, about AI. No kidding! Content is completely vetted, but no human voice boxes were abused in this podcast's creation. Listen in to hear about how Valor uses AI to help founders get...
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Leading Sustainable Fashion with Raha Saremi of Ecoatex
Join us on this episode of the Atlanta Startup Podcast as we sit down with Raha Saremi, founder of Ecoatex, a pioneering company in sustainable fashion and textiles. Ecoatex is dedicated to offering eco-friendly, non-toxic textiles and synthetic leather that significantly reduce environmental...
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Bridging the Gap in Holistic Healthcare Access with Georgina Dukes-Harris of Swishvo
In this episode of the Atlanta Startup Podcast, we dive into a conversation with Georgina Dukes-Harris, the visionary founder of Swishvo. Swishvo is transforming the healthcare landscape by providing a platform that connects individuals seeking holistic medicine with skilled healers, while also...
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Revolutionizing the Job Interview Process with Brian Glover of Previewed
Join us on this episode of the Atlanta Startup Podcast as we welcome the innovative Brian Glover, Founder of Previewed. Tune in to our conversation about how Previewed is transforming the job interview process through immersive videos, gamification, and AI matching. We’ll also delve into Brian’s...
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Innovative Real Estate: Roots' Dual Wealth-Building Strategy with Daniel Dorfman
In this engaging episode of the Atlanta Startup Podcast, Lisa Calhoun sits down with Daniel Dorfman, co-founder of Roots Investment Community, to explore their groundbreaking real estate investment model. Roots uniquely allows renters to invest and build wealth alongside traditional investors,...
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Researching Better Returns In Emerging Managers With Chris Keller of Catalyst Partners
In this episode of the Atlanta Startup Podcast, Lisa Calhoun interviews Chris Keller, a Kauffman Fellow and partner at Catalyst Partners. They discussed Chris's career journey and his work in seeding new private equity firms. Chris shared some insights from his research on emerging managers,...
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Unlock the Joy of Reading for Kids with Janessa Ferrel of QuestRead
Join us on this episode of the Atlanta Startup Podcast as we welcome the inspiring Janessa Ferrel, founder of QuestRead. Dive into our conversation about how QuestRead is dedicated to enhancing literacy by providing interactive reading experiences customized to match children's interests and...
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Mastering The AI GTM, 2024 Fundraising Insights, and All Things Value Creation with Scott Lopano
In today’s episode of the Atlanta Startup Podcast, we sat down with Scott Lopano, newly promoted Partner at Tech Square Ventures in Atlanta. Scott opens up about his journey from Associate to Partner, sharing real reflections on his career ascension. We get into his top fundraising tips for...
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Transforming the Running Experience with Dena Lewis of Running Mate
Explore how Dena Lewis transforms the running experience with Running Mate on this episode of the Atlanta Startup Podcast. Learn about her journey to create a safer runner environment through a real-time, on-demand app that pairs them with verified, safe mates. Dena's personal experiences and...
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After the Acquisition: How Sales Tax Can Take a Chunk Out Of Your Startup's Exit (And How To Avoid It)
Software founders, as you grow to millions in ARR, are you encountering bigger tax liabilities than you anticipate? Transaction tax law is evolving fast, and if you're not prepared, rather than sell your startup at the price you agreed to in the LOI, you can find after diligence you get...
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Founders in Focus: Damola Ogundipe & Kristen Dunning on Funding their Startups
This episode of the Atlanta Startup Podcast is your golden ticket. ️ We're diving deep into the journeys of two successful founders at the Startup Runway's 25th Showcase, Damola Ogundipe, the mind behind the revolutionary AI platform for lobbyists - Plural, and Kristen Dunning, the creator of...
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These VCs Are Bullish On Virginia Startups: Here's Why
Today on the Virginia startup podcast, we're joined by Gene Riechers, Venture Partner at Sands Capital Management & Seda Goff, Founder and General Partner at Flintlock Capital to unpack the momentum fueling the Virginia startup ecosystem. We broadly discuss the phases of growth the Virginia…
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From Startup to VC: Lynne Laube's Journey and Insights
In this captivating newest episode of the Atlanta Startup Podcast, Lisa Calhoun, Founding Managing Partner and Co-host, collaborates with Lynne Laube, Operating Partner at Valor Ventures, for an engaging dialogue. Together, they explore Lynne's transition from Fintech post-IPO Founder to Venture...
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The Founder Factor: Why Bull City Backs People, Not Ideas
This week on the Atlanta Startup Podcast, we welcome Jason Caplain, General Partner at Bull City Venture Partners. This conversation with Jason and William works to unpack the frameworks behind the firm's founder-centric investment strategy and their successes from following this blueprint. We...
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AI-Driven Inclusive Beauty Tech with Riean Knight of Honey to Cocoa
In this episode, we're joined by Riean Knight, the innovative founder of Honey to Cocoa, a groundbreaking mobile app using AI to match makeup to diverse skin tones. Riean shares her journey and insights into building a platform that champions inclusivity and confidence in the beauty industry....
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Revolutionizing Football Analytics with Joe Hamilton of 4-Second Football
In this episode, we're joined by Joe Hamilton, the brilliant mind behind 4 Second Football, winner of the Audience Choice award at the 24th Startup Runway Showcase. Discover how Joe's innovative technology revolutionizes football with real-time feedback for players and coaches at every level.…
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Empowering Career Success with a Personal Board with Keith Chaney of Peadbo
Embark on a transformative journey with Keith Chaney, the visionary behind Peadbo, winner of the Judge’s Prize at the 24th Startup Runway Showcase. In this episode, Keith reveals the game-changing power of cultivating a personal board of directors for college students and young professionals....
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Understanding Enterprise Sales, Early-Stage Fundraising, and Data Moats with Connor Offut of Aetos Imaging
Atlanta startup Aetos is on the journey of building software to digitize the multi-billion dollar industry of facilities management in the built environment. In this episode, we talk with Aetos CEO Connor Offut to unpack how their software transforms facilities mgmt for clients like Chick-fil-A,...
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Why London Startups Have Their Sights Set on Atlanta Expansion
Two founders of London-based startups are setting their sights on Atlanta. In an exclusive interview, we spoke with Elizabeth Lukas, CEO Americas at AutogenAI, and Anna Brailsford, CEO at CodeFirstGirls, to better understand their motivations. Having successfully launched their startups in…
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The Path from LP to GP with Kevin Moore of Serac Ventures
On today's episode, we sit down with Kevin Moore to explore his journey from Limited Partner to General Partner and ultimately the inception of Serac Ventures. Kevin shares the strategic timing behind launching Serac in 2023, offering a glimpse into his unique perspective shaped by his LP...
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Flipping “Simping” into a Positive with Gera Baano-Stewart II of Simp Now
Founder of Simp Now, Gera Baano-Stewart II shares his entrepreneurial journey on the Atlanta Startup Podcast hosted by Nwanyinma Dike. From learning to code at a young age to launching Simp Now, Gera discusses the inspiration behind the dating app and its viral success on TikTok. He emphasizes…
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Pinnacle Bank, City of Atlanta, & State of Georgia Reveal 2024 VC Trends
The Outlook for Tech Growth in the Southeast is more optimistic than ever. Tune into our latest episode of the Atlanta Startup Podcast which outlines insights from boots-on-the-ground insiders: Bryan Bean from Pinnacle Bank, Atlanta's own Donnie Beamer, Jr., Jamal Lewis of PIN Georgia, Tech...
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Growth tactics from CPG Sales Pacesetter Jennifer Silverberg, CEO SmartCommerce
In this episode of the Atlanta Startup Podcast, host Lisa Calhoun interviews Jennifer Silverberg, CEO of SmartCommerce. They discuss Jennifer's journey of scaling SmartCommerce from a startup to a global player, focusing on the lessons learned during rapid growth. Highlights include…
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Fresh Perspectives on How Corporate Strategics Invest in AI
Join us for an engaging podcast where leading corporate innovators take the spotlight. Discover the strategies behind technology investments, particularly in AI, from top decision-makers Angie Brown of Home Depot, Leigh Gaffney at Assurant Ventures, Mike Mahan from Stanley Black & Decker, and...
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Pre-seed conviction, early-stage board dynamics, and SaaS in the South with Blaine Davis of Outlander VC
Join William Leonard on the Atlanta Startup podcast for an intriguing conversation with Blaine Davis, a Partner at Outlander VC. Blaine reveals Outlander's unique early-stage investment approach, centered on their exclusive founder framework evaluating 38 character attributes. Discover…
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The Future of Marketing Will Be AI Enabled: Meet Jake Soffer of FirmPilot
Today we're joined by Valor’s newest portfolio CEO Jake Soffer who is the Founder of Miami-based FirmPilot. FirmPilot is reshaping the $30B legal marketing vertical with powerful AI that challenges the traditional agency model. Jake shares his insights on scaling from $0-$500K in ARR in less than...
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Revolutionizing Influencer Marketing with Shayna Stewart of Shown Live
Join Nwanyinma Dike on the Atlanta Startup Podcast as she engages in a captivating conversation with Shayna Stewart, the trailblazing Founder of Shown Live and recent winner of the Judge’s prize at Startup Runway Edition 23. Discover how Shown Live, a sponsorship marketplace, is transforming the...
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Revering History through Immersive Storytelling with Yolanda Barton of Revere XR
Dive into an illuminating conversation on the Atlanta Startup Podcast with Nwanyinma Dike, the new Managing Director of Startup Runway features Yolanda Barton founder of Revere XR and recent winner of the Women’s Empowerment prize at Startup Runway Edition 23. She shares her vision for…
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Building High-Performance Growth Culture and Smart Goal Setting with David Cummings
In this episode, we turn our focus to a spirited keynote from last year's VC Day, presented by David Cummings, the Founder of Atlanta Ventures and Atlanta Tech Village. David, renowned for building, scaling, and successfully exiting Pardot – an Atlanta-based startup that emerged as one of the top...
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The Journey From Principal to Partner, Seed Diligence Rhythms, and More with Claire Hansen of Firebrand Ventures
Following her recent promotion from Principal to Partner, Claire Hansen joins the Atlanta Startup Podcast. Claire unpacks the Firebrand thesis, how the firm thinks about diligence as a lead investor & as a follow-on co-investor, continual learning as a VC, leveraging network to land a job in VC,...
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Building Conviction at Pre-seed/Seed, Digital Nomading as a VC, and Understanding How VCs Think with Nassir Criss of Sixty8 Capital
Today, we're joined by Nassir Criss from Sixty8 Capital, an Indianapolis-based pre-seed and seed generalist firm. Nassir, a Principal on the team, shares core insights on how 'digital nomad' has made him a better VC. He discusses his thoughts on pattern matching versus pattern breaking, explains...
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A Look Inside Texas' Largest VC Firm's Investment Playbook
S3 Ventures is the largest venture capital firm in Texas, specializing in Seed-Series B investments in B2B Software companies. Nicole Bentz, a VC at S3 joins host William Leonard to break down the firm's investment strategy and how its unique sole-LP structure augments the firm's ability to be...
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Exploring Thoughtful Product Design, AI-driven consumer experiences, and more Startup Runway Winner Kai Tan
During this episode, William is joined by Kai Tan, Founder and CEO of RevMatch and recent Startup Runway Winner. As a former product design leader at companies like IBM & Meta, Kai shares insights on the importance of tactically enhancing the user experience for B2C Apps, understanding feedback...
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Why Triet Nguyen of Render Capital is Hyper Focused on Investing in the South and Midwest
In this podcast episode, Triet Nguyen, a Senior Associate at Louisville-based Render Capital, sits down with William Leonard to discuss Render's strategic approach towards backing early-stage founders in the Southern and Midwestern US. The conversation also explores how venture capital firms,...
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Startup Runway Winner, Jessica King, Reshape the Future of Endometriosis Screening with FlowIntell
Jessica King, CEO of femtech startup FlowIntell, recently celebrated a win, securing the Women's Empowerment Grant at the 22nd Startup Runway Showcase. Joining host William Leonard in this episode, she delves into her dedicated mission to tackle a pervasive healthcare challenge: endometriosis...
About this show
Startup stories from the heart of the hustle--Atlanta.
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Atlanta Startup Podcast
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