Founder Fumbles Podcast

Send us Fan MailWhat does it really take to build something that matters?In this episode of Founder Fumbles, Dahmari Taplin sits down with Samuel Ogah — AI Engineer, founder of ZICloud Tech, and creator of the African Innovation and Cultural Center — for a real conversation about purpose, pressure, and persistence in entrepreneurship.Sam’s journey is rooted in impact. He’s not just building businesses — he’s building systems designed to close opportunity gaps through education, innovation, and automation. But like every founder, the path hasn’t been easy.In this episode, we go beyond surface-level wins and dive into the real experience of building — the challenges, the self-doubt, the lessons, and the growth that comes with it.We talk about how Sam got started, the obstacles he’s faced, and what’s helped him stay consistent even when things felt uncertain. From developing new skills to staying mentally locked in, this conversation highlights what it actually takes to keep going.If you’re an entrepreneur navigating your own journey — trying to stay motivated, build something meaningful, and figure it out along the way — this episode will give you both perspective and fuel.🎧 Tap in and hear the real story behind the mission.Support the show

Send us Fan MailBuzzsprout Description: In Episode 16 of Founder Fumbles, Dahmari Taplin sits down with Percy White Jr.—media director, minister, and author of Unshaken.Percy shares his journey through infertility, how it challenged his identity as a man and believer, and what it means to trust God even when prayers go unanswered.This episode is for anyone navigating pressure, uncertainty, or a season where faith feels stretched.Support the show

Send us Fan MailWelcome back to Founder Fumbles — where we dig deep into real startup struggles and comeback strategies.In this episode, host Dahmari Taplin sits down with Kyle Colley, Cofounder of Bookum, to talk about building a startup rooted in storytelling, community, and connection. From the grind of entrepreneurship to lessons learned along the way, this episode is packed with real insight for founders at every stage.Meet the Guest: Kyle ColleyCofounder of BookumAccess Mode AlumniHost of the Bookum Nook ShowBuilding tech that sparks book-driven conversationsWhat We CoverThe reality of the startup grindKyle’s experience with Access ModeBuilding and growing BookumThe power of books for entrepreneursBiggest challenges as a founderMotivation, discipline, and mindsetAdvice for new entrepreneursRecommended for:Entrepreneurs, founders, creatives, and anyone trying to turn an idea into a real business.Connect with Kyle ColleyLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyle-colley-a8306212b/Insta: https://www.instagram.com/bookum_app/Connect with Dahmari Taplin & Ziga🌐 Website: https://ziga.app📱 Instagram: @taplino🎙 Podcast: ziga.app/podcast💼 Find your cofounder: https://ziga.app🎧 Listen on Other Platforms📢 Join the MovementIf you're building something and need the right people around you, check out Ziga — the platform designed to help you find your cofounder and grow your network.🔔 Don’t ForgetSubscribe, like, and share this with a fellow founder.Your support helps us keep telling real startup stories.Peace ✌🏾 — and keep building.Support the show

Send us Fan MailWhat does it really take to build multiple streams of income and keep them running?In this episode of Founder Fumbles, I sit down with Crystal B, Founder & CEO of Novamultiverse, to break down the real story behind being a serial entrepreneur. From navigating uncertainty to managing multiple businesses, Crystal shares the raw truth about what it takes to build, grow, and sustain success.We dive into: The reality of juggling multiple income streams  Her biggest challenges as a serial entrepreneur  How she rebuilt during uncertain times  The vision behind Novamultiverse  Tools, routines, and strategies that keep her locked in  Advice for entrepreneurs trying to quit their 9–5 If you're trying to turn your side hustle into your main income, this episode is for you.🎙 Founder Fumbles is all about real startup struggles and comeback strategies—no fluff, just game.🔗 Connect with Crystal B: 🌐 Novamultiverse: https://www.novamultiverse.com/ 📲 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/novaslayvibes🚀 Want to grow your network or find your next cofounder? Check out Ziga.app – where entrepreneurs connect, collaborate, and build.📢 Don’t forget to: 👍 Like 💬 Comment your biggest takeaway 🔁 Share with a founder 🔔 Subscribe for more real entrepreneur stories#FounderFumbles #Entrepreneurship #MultipleIncomeStreams #StartupLife #BusinessGrowth #SideHustleToFullTime #NovamultiverseSupport the show

Send us Fan MailWelcome back to Founder Fumbles 🎙️ where real startup struggles meet real comeback stories.In this episode, Dahmari Taplin sits down with Bibobra Alabrah, a Principal Consultant at Prexiso and an emerging force in data analytics and scalable systems. From his journey into tech to building high-performing infrastructures, Bibo breaks down the mindset, challenges, and lessons behind his growth as a founder.We dive into the startup grind, overcoming doubt, finding purpose, and what it really takes to stay in the game when things get tough. If you’re building something from the ground up or thinking about making the leap—this one’s for you.Don’t forget to subscribe, like, and leave a review if this episode hits home.Connect with Bibo:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alabrahbibobra/Support the show!: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2517890/supportSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Founder Fumbles, Dahmari Taplin sits down with Stephanie Laflora, Founder & Creative Director of Moxie AI and CEO of Crownhunt.As a Techstars alum and AI go-to-market systems expert, Stephanie is helping founders and creators build scalable businesses using AI and strategic growth systems.In this conversation, we discuss:• Stephanie’s founder journey• Lessons from Techstars• The biggest challenges founders face• Staying motivated through the startup grind• Advice for new entrepreneursConnect with Stephanie:https://www.moxieaibrands.com/https://www.instagram.com/stephanielaflora/https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanielaflora/https://www.instagram.com/moxieai/If you enjoyed the episode, subscribe and share it with another founder who needs to hear it.Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Founder Fumbles, host Dahmari Taplin sits down with author and speaker Cassandra Burks for a deep and personal conversation about faith, resilience, and purpose.Cassandra discusses the message behind her book Remember What You Are and explains her perspective on the relationship between the human spirit, the body, and the natural world. She also shares how her experiences in politics, personal hardship, and family struggles shaped her worldview and strengthened her commitment to speaking her truth.This episode explores the realities of perseverance, spiritual growth, and the mindset required to keep moving forward even during life’s most difficult moments.Topics covered:The philosophy behind Remember What You AreCassandra’s journey from politics to spiritual writingOvercoming personal adversityFaith, purpose, and the human spiritStaying strong when life gets hardFollow Cassandra: Instagram: CassandraBurks TikTok: Honorable.Burks YouTube: Drain The SwampIf you enjoyed this episode, subscribe, share it with another founder, and leave a review to support the show.Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Founder Fumbles, host Damari Taplin sits down with Cameron Garner, founder of Holy Spirit Fire Schools and Cameron Garner Ministries, to talk about faith, identity in Christ, and the real struggles behind building a ministry. Cameron shares his journey from North Carolina to Puerto Rico, why he believes many Christians struggle in their walk with God, and how understanding your identity in Christ can completely transform your life. If you're a founder, leader, pastor, or believer looking for deeper purpose, this conversation will challenge how you think about faith, calling, and obedience.Cameron also explains his mission to train and equip believers for real-world ministry, his experiences seeing healing and miracles, and the lessons he's learned while building ministry schools around the world.Connect with Cameron Garner: 🌐 http://www.holyspiritfireschools.com 🌐 http://www.camerongarnerministries.com 📚 The Kingdom Perspective: Out of Adam and Into Christ – Available on AmazonAbout Founder Fumbles: Founder Fumbles is a podcast where we talk about real startup struggles and comeback strategies from founders, leaders, and creators building something meaningful.👍 If this episode inspired you: • Like the video • Subscribe for more founder stories • Share with a founder, pastor, or entrepreneur#FounderFumbles #FaithAndBusiness #ChristianLeadership #Entrepreneurship #Ministry #StartupStoriesSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Founder Fumbles, Dahmari sits down with the powerhouse Zaneta Kelsey, Cofounder and CEO of Access Mode.Zaneta isn’t just a leader; she’s a force. Recognized as one of the Top 25 Most Powerful Women in Business in Colorado, she’s a Techstars Alumni and a former Colorado Governor’s Fellow who is now dedicated to helping founders of color scale through world-class accelerators.In this episode, we dive into:🏙️ Life in Denver: How the city is shaping the next tech hub.💡 The Birth of Access Mode: Moving from an idea to a movement.🧗 Overcoming the "Fumble": Zaneta shares the biggest challenges she’s faced as a founder and how she pushed through moments of doubt.🙏 Purpose & Motivation: Staying grounded as the First Lady of her church while leading in the tech space.📈 The Future: What it looks like when everything goes right for BIPOC-led startups.Whether you're a new entrepreneur looking for advice or a seasoned founder needing a boost of motivation, Zaneta’s journey is full of gems you don't want to miss.Connect with Zaneta & Access Mode:🌐 Website: accessmode.org📸 Instagram: @zkelsey💼 LinkedIn: Zaneta KelseyDon't forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoy the show! Support the show

Send us Fan MailFailure isn’t the end; it’s just the first round. In today’s episode, host Dahmari Taplin sits down with Christian Martinez, CEO of Denver Kickboxing and Fitness, to discuss the raw reality of building a business in the fitness industry.Christian isn’t just a gym owner; he’s an advocate for mental health who views martial arts as a form of expressive art. From the mats at Edge MMA to the CEO chair, Christian opens up about his lowest moments as a founder, the skills he’s still mastering, and the "fumbles" that paved the way for his current success.In this episode, we discuss:The origin story of Denver Kickboxing and Fitness.The "Founder Fumble": Christian’s lowest moment and how he climbed out.Why martial arts is the ultimate tool for mental wellness.The truth about business partners and the skills every founder lacks starting out.Daily routines that keep a CEO grounded.What a "perfect year" looks like for the future of Denver Kickboxing.Connect with Christian & Denver Kickboxing:📍 Visit the Gym: denver-kickboxing.com📸 Instagram: @denverkickboxingfacebook Facebook: Denver Kickboxing & FitnessSupport the Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2517890/supportListen on the go:ziga.app/podcastFollow Dahmari:Instagram: @taplino#FounderFumbles #Entrepreneurship #MartialArts #DenverBusiness #StartupStruggles #MentalHealth #Kickboxing #FounderJourneySupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Founder Fumbles, Dahmari Taplin sits down with Jonathan Castner, CEO and cofounder of Castner Creative. A filmmaking studio bringing brand stories to life through immersive visuals. From the script to the screen, Jonathan shares how he’s turned challenges into creativity, telling the human side of business with impact and vision. Tune in to hear how he’s building a company that helps brands expand by making their stories unforgettable.📽️ Check out Castner Creative — www.jonathancastner.com🔗 Follow Jonathan and learn more: https://www.instagram.com/jonathancastner🎙️ Don’t forget to subscribe & leave a review!Support the show

Send us Fan MailWelcome back to Founder Fumbles, the podcast where we dig into real startup struggles, hard lessons, and the comeback stories that shape real entrepreneurs. Hosted by Dahmari Taplin, this show is all about learning how to bounce back from founders who’ve actually lived it.In today’s episode, we’re joined by Marz, Founder & CEO of Marzimperfectionz and organizer of Denver’s Coffee & Art Market. Marz creates therapeutic art experiences through candle-making classes, creative workshops, and community-centered events that help people heal, express themselves, and connect through art. We talk about building a purpose-driven brand, overcoming low moments as a founder, finding your creative lane, and what it really means to turn passion into impact.If you’re an entrepreneur navigating purpose, burnout, creativity, or growth, this episode will hit home.Connect with Marz: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marzimperfectionz/ Markets: https://www.instagram.com/imperfect.markets/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maritzasnader Candle Class: https://www.classpop.com/candle-making-classes/43000/fun-candle-making-with-instructor-marzSponsored by ZIGA.APP Find cofounders, collaborators, and real business connections → www.ziga.appSubscribe to Founder Fumbles, share this episode with a fellow founder, and leave a review to support the show. Peace.Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Founder Fumbles, Dahmari Taplin sits down with Caleb Kioh, CEO and cofounder of Walletgyde—an AI-powered platform transforming how people build financial independence. From financial storytelling to fintech advocacy, Caleb shares the real journey behind the algorithms: the setbacks, growth, and lessons that shaped his mission. Tune in to hear how he’s using tech to rewrite the narrative around money, one guided decision at a time.📱 Sign up for the Walletgyde waitlist:  🔗 Follow Caleb and learn more: https://www.walletgyde.com/ 🎙️ Don’t forget to subscribe & leave a review!Click here to support the show: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2517890/supportSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Founder Fumbles, Dahmari Taplin sits down with Amber Simon, CEO and cofounder of Quivr—a platform helping women live pleasure-first lives. From the corporate boardroom to founding a movement centered on intimacy, empowerment, and radical self-love, Amber opens up about her journey as a mother of three, coach, and and how she became a women's pleasure coach. Tune in to hear how she turned her deepest lessons into a $10K month and a global mission.This video was cut short due to a camera issue. Catch the video conversation here:  https://youtu.be/z3TGdOEBjKg?si=KZsI2y_TE-IQPTDl📱 Download Quivr — now available on iOS & Androidhttps://quivr.globalSponsor : Ziga.app - The #1 business skillset matching platform:https://www.ziga.app/Support the show

Send us Fan MailEpisode 2In this episode of Founder Fumbles, Dahmari Taplin sits down with Kolade Adekoya, CEO and founder of Bookt—a platform reshaping the way we experience events. From his days as a Scrum Master to becoming a world-traveling, music-making solo entrepreneur, Kolade shares the highs, lows, and breakthroughs that have fueled his $2M+ journey. Tune in to hear how he’s redefining what events can be—one unforgettable moment at a time.📱 Download Bookt🔗 Follow Kolade and learn more: https://www.instagram.com/bvnk_official/🎙️ Don’t forget to subscribe & leave a review!Support the show

Send us Fan MailWelcome to the first episode of Founder Fumbles! 🎙️Today, I'm joined by Regis Arzu, CEO and cofounder of CoVoice, a real-time interpreting platform that’s breaking language barriers. Regis is a proud son of Honduran immigrants, a husband, father, and Access Mode Accelerator alum who shares his raw journey as a founder — from near burnouts to powerful bounce-backs.🚀 In this episode, we talk about:What inspired CoVoiceHitting rock bottom as a founderComeback strategies that actually workThe mindset behind lasting impactAdvice every new entrepreneur needs to hear📱 Download CoVoice on iOS & Android: https://onelink.to/?vn67bh🔗 Connect with Regis: https://www.linkedin.com/in/regis-arzu-jr-140073149/🎧 Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & more👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more real founder stories!#FounderFumbles #StartupStories #CoVoice #Entrepreneurship #entrepreneurstorySupport the show