Invst Guru

What happens when a 34-year corporate veteran watches his sons repeat the same workplace struggles he faced decades earlier — and decides to build the solution? That's exactly where Dr. Deepak Bhootra found himself, and Rise Up At Work was born.In this episode of Invst Guru, Jeff "Fuzzy" Wenzel sits down with Dr. Deepak to unpack the broken employer-employee contract, why 35% of salespeople leave the sales function by age 35, and how his push-pull coaching framework helps workers make smarter career decisions — instead of reactive ones.Dr. Deepak also gets candid about the equity crowdfunding raise he's running on Wefunder, why he designed his investment tiers around "do good" outcomes, and what he told the first three angels who rejected him to his face.Whether you're a retail investor exploring early-stage opportunities or a professional wondering if you're leaving your job for the right reasons — this one's for you.🔑 TOPICS COVERED:Why the employer-employee contract has devolved over 30 yearsThe push-pull framework for career transition decisionsSales longevity & mental health in high-pressure rolesBuilding a coaching platform for the overlooked 21–29 age groupAI's impact on sales professionals and career developmentHow Dr. Deepak is raising on Wefunder and what investors should knowThe "do good" thesis behind Rise Up At Work📈 INVEST IN RISE UP AT WORK: https://wefunder.com/riseupatwork🔗 CONNECT WITH DR. DEEPAK: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/deepakbhootra🎙️ MORE EPISODES: invst.guru/This episode is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Equity crowdfunding investments involve risk, including the possible loss of capital. Please review all offering materials carefully before investing. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Most founders focus on the pitch deck, the platform, and the marketing — but there's a critical piece of the capital raise puzzle they often overlook: escrow. Jeff "Fuzzy" Wenzel sits down with Ernesto Maldonado, SVP & Head of the Escrow and Legal Vertical at Enterprise Bank and Trust, to pull back the curtain on the infrastructure that keeps capital raises protected, compliant, and clean.Ernesto has 23 years of banking experience — 10 of them deep in the specialty escrow space — and he's seen it all: smooth raises, failed raises, and everything in between. If you're a founder raising capital through Reg CF, Reg A+, or a private placement, this episode is essential listening.In this episode:00:00 – High-stakes podcasting & Ernesto's background in banking02:40 – Common threads after 23 years across community banks and big institutions03:10 – Lessons from the Irvine Chamber of Commerce & ground-level entrepreneurship04:12 – What most people don't know about third-party escrow services05:15 – When to bring in an escrow agent (hint: earlier than you think)07:01 – Where business owners trip up most during capital raises08:06 – Reg CF vs. Reg D vs. Reg A+: what's changing and what's surging09:03 – Interest rates, credit conditions, and their impact on capital formation11:00 – Which sectors are hot right now (and which are feeling the pressure)12:11 – Why some raises fail at the finish line — and how a good banker helps13:41 – Building trust with first-time capital raisers14:30 – Every industry Enterprise Bank works with (some surprises in here)16:29 – The biggest financial blind spots in small and mid-sized businesses17:29 – How to prepare for an M&A acquisition 3–5 years out18:43 – How AI and fintech are reshaping the banking and escrow world19:53 – Community banks vs. regional banks vs. big nationals: who wins?21:25 – One piece of financial advice every small business owner needs to hear🔗 Connect with Ernesto Maldonado:Website: https://www.enterprisebank.com/business/legal-professionalsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ernesto-maldonado-1003283b/🎙️ Subscribe to Invst Guru:Spotify | Apple Podcasts | https://invst.guru📩 Stay in the loop: https://invst-guru.beehiiv.com#equitycrowdfunding #CapitalRaising #RegCF #Escrow #StartupFunding #SmallBusiness #EscrowServices #EnterpriseBankAndTrust #InvstGuru #Fintech #MergersAndAcquisitions #StartupInvesting #FuzzyWenzel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if the future of farming ran on sunlight instead of diesel? Steve Heckeroth, founder of Renewables Inc., has spent 55 years working on alternatives to fossil fuel — from passive solar homes to electric cars to electric tractors. Now he's built the E2T, a remote-controlled, solar-capable electric two-wheel tractor designed specifically for small and community-scale farms.In this episode of the Invst Guru podcast, Steve breaks down why small farms are the future, how the E2T delivers instant torque and near-zero maintenance, and what tariffs and slashed renewable incentives have meant for his business in real time. He also shares why he keeps coming back to equity crowdfunding — and what he's building next.What we cover:00:00 – Welcome & intro: Steve's 55-year journey in renewables02:30 – From electric cars to electric tractors — why the pivot made sense06:00 – Why small, community-scale farms are the future of food08:45 – How the E2T was designed: remote control, 30-inch bed width, solar canopy11:20 – E2T deep dive: specs, battery life, and the swappable pack system15:50 – First 50 units in production — where things stand today17:00 – The hardest part: keeping costs low enough for farmers18:30 – Tariffs, cut incentives, and navigating a tough political climate20:15 – Business model: sales, servicing, and near-zero mechanical maintenance22:40 – Where the real revenue opportunity lies (hint: golf courses & horse arenas)24:20 – Balancing mission and profit: do good AND make money28:10 – Crowdfunding strategy: why 1,000 investors beat one angel29:55 – The investor pitch: why everyone who eats should pay attention32:15 – What's next: articulating 4-wheel tractor and automated mowing markets🌱 Invest in Renewables Inc.: https://invest.highlander.ai/renewables🎙️ More episodes: https://invst.guruThe Invst Guru podcast connects retail investors with founders raising capital through equity crowdfunding. Nothing in this episode constitutes investment advice. Always do your own due diligence before investing.#ElectricTractor #EquityCrowdfunding #CleanTech #RegenerativeAgriculture #SolarPower #SmallFarming #GreenInvesting #StartupInvesting #Renewables #SustainableAg #InvstGuru #CrowdfundingInvesting #ClimateInvesting #ElectricVehicles #FoodSecurity Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The IPO market is rigged — and a 30-year Wall Street veteran is doing something about it. Matt Venturi, co-founder of ClearingBid, joins Fuzzy on the Invst Guru podcast to break down why everyday investors are systematically locked out of IPO pricing, how a patented Dutch auction algorithm creates a true level playing field, and what it would take to completely democratize public markets for retail investors.Matt has worked across Merrill Lynch, Salomon Smith Barney, and Houlihan Lokey — and he's channeling that experience into a platform that's already attracted 3,700+ crowdfunding investors and Congressional support from figures like Senator Chris Dodd.If you've ever watched a stock pop 50% on IPO day and wondered why you couldn't get in at the original price — this episode is for you.🔗 Learn more: clearingbid.com 💰 Invest in ClearingBid: wefunder.com/clearingbidCHAPTERS0:00 — Intro & Matt's 90-second pitch1:40 — The aha moment: why the IPO process is broken3:02 — How the Dutch auction model works for everyday investors4:03 — ClearingBid's 10 patents and the algorithm explained5:11 — "Deals are sold, not bought" — the broker dealer role6:23 — How middle market firms benefit from ClearingBid7:45 — The five constituents ClearingBid must educate and align9:25 — How Wall Street's infrastructure got so antiquated10:43 — ClearingBid's fundraising journey: from friends & family to Wefunder12:32 — Go-to-market strategy and the challenge of a five-sided market14:19 — Capitol Hill meetings, Senator Dodd, and SEC alignment16:14 — Reg A+ cap raised to $150M — what it means for companies18:39 — What 3,700 first-round investors said about ClearingBid20:07 — How ClearingBid makes money (the revenue model)21:41 — Next milestones: first deal, debt markets, and scale25:45 — What the investor experience looks like on the portal27:01 — Where to learn more and how to follow ClearingBidHASHTAGS#IPO #EquityCrowdfunding #Wefunder #RetailInvesting #StartupInvesting #ClearingBid #DutchAuction #WallStreet #InvstGuru #CapitalMarkets #Fintech #InvestingForBeginners #RegA #PublicMarkets #WealthBuilding“Disclaimer: This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as investment advice or a solicitation to invest. Invst Guru and its affiliates are not broker-dealers or investment advisers and do not make recommendations regarding any securities.If any company mentioned is conducting a Regulation Crowdfunding (Reg CF) raise, all investments must occur through an SEC-registered intermediary platform such as DealMaker Securities, StartEngine, Republic, or Wefunder. No investment terms or returns are discussed here.Investing in private and early-stage companies involves significant risk, including loss of capital and illiquidity. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Always conduct your own due diligence and consult a licensed financial advisor before investing.All opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not represent endorsements or partnerships by Invst Guru.” Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if you could replace herbicides, spray rigs, and chemical inputs with a fleet of small autonomous robots quietly weeding between crop rows at 3.5 miles per hour? That's exactly what Clint Brauer set out to build — and after seven years, Greenfield Robotics is operating in 16 states with paying customers, backing from Chipotle, and a mission rooted in something deeply personal.Clint's journey started when his father was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. He moved back from California, began farming over 100 crops, and built what he believes was the first regenerative supply chain in the United States. When he hit a wall he couldn't break through without new tools, he reluctantly founded Greenfield Robotics. Today, those robots don't just weed — they foliar feed, they talk back to farmers through a voice-based AI app, and they're being sold and leased across the country.In this episode, Clint breaks down the technology, the business model evolution from robotics-as-a-service to direct sales, why Chipotle invested, and why he believes autonomous robots will eventually replace not just chemicals, but tractors and spray rigs altogether.In this episode:00:00 – Welcome & Clint's 90-second pitch01:28 – From tech entrepreneur to farmer and back again01:57 – What Greenfield's robots actually look like in the field02:41 – Crops, capabilities, and running in 16 states03:45 – Seven years of hard lessons and near-perfecting autonomous weeding04:43 – The origin story: a pigweed crisis, a combine breakdown, and a bold idea06:22 – Building the right team for an extremely hard problem07:58 – The AI-powered voice app that lets farmers talk to their robots09:45 – Revenue model: from robotics-as-a-service to robot sales11:19 – Manufacturing in Fargo, supply chain realities, and tariff challenges12:58 – Why Chipotle's Cultivate Next Fund invested15:03 – Why demos in real fields changed everything for fundraising16:23 – Crowdfunding history, accredited bridge round, and what's next17:57 – $1.3M in revenue and the push into serious growth18:54 – How Greenfield protects its moat: trade secrets, patents, and market timing21:11 – The truth about farmers as technology adopters22:59 – The broken U.S. food system and where it's headed26:17 – What keeps Clint up at night: scaling from startup to growth company28:31 – Every robot is stamped "BOTONY" — in honor of his father Tony29:06 – The personal fuel behind an unrelenting mission💼 Invest in Greenfield Robotics: https://invest.greenfieldrobotics.com 🌱 Learn more: https://greenfieldrobotics.com 🎙️ More episodes: https://invst.guru#GreenfieldRobotics #AgTech #AutonomousRobots #RegenerativeFarming #EquityCrowdfunding #StartEngine #FoodSystem #CleanAg #FarmTech #InvstGuruThis episode features a company currently raising capital under Regulation D, Rule 506(c), a private offering available to accredited investors only. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation to buy securities. Investing in private companies involves significant risk, including the possible loss of your entire investment. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Always consult a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decision. To learn more about this offering, visit invest.greenfieldrobotics.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if the biggest threat to your family's online safety wasn't a virus or a hacker — but your own Wi-Fi router?Jeff "Fuzzy" Wenzel sits down with John Wu, CEO and Co-Founder of Gryphon Online Safety, to unpack how a routine internet search by his young daughter sparked a mission to protect families at the network level. What started as a Kickstarter campaign has grown into a company that has sold 95,000 routers, protected 1.2 million connected devices, and blocked over 20 million threats — with software licensing deals now live with Motorola and Nokia.John breaks down exactly how Gryphon works — filtering content and blocking threats at the router level across every device in your home, no installs required. Parents can set custom profiles for each child, block specific apps like TikTok, manage AI chatbot access, and monitor browsing history, all from a simple app. And unlike device-based solutions like Bark or Apple's built-in controls, Gryphon covers everything connected to your network — smart TVs, gaming consoles, laptops, tablets, and more.But this episode isn't just about the tech. John shares a candid look at his business journey — from early VC skepticism around equity crowdfunding to building a portfolio of 12 issued patents, achieving profitability, and targeting a tripling of software licensing revenue over the next 12 to 18 months. He also opens up about the challenges ahead: evolving internet protocols, AI tools changing the threat landscape, tariff pressures on hardware, and what it takes to stay ahead in a market that never stops moving.Gryphon is currently raising on StartEngine, and John explains exactly why equity crowdfunding has been central to their strategy from day one — giving customers a stake in the mission, maintaining control of the company's direction, and building the kind of clean financial track record that could one day support a public offering.If you're a parent, a tech investor, or just someone who has ever wondered what's actually coming through your home network, this episode is for you.🔗 Invest in Gryphon: https://www.startengine.com/offering/gryphon 🌐 Learn more: https://gryphonconnect.com 🎙️ All episodes: https://invst.guruInvst Guru is hosted by Jeff "Fuzzy" Wenzel and features founders and executives raising capital through equity crowdfunding platforms including StartEngine, Wefunder, Netcapital, and more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does it take to build a clean energy company when federal policy feels like a moving target? Steve Chan, COO and co-founder of Enterprise Energy, has a front-row seat to that chaos — and a surprisingly clear-eyed plan for navigating it.In this episode, Steve walks Jeff "Fuzzy" Wenzel through the full lifecycle of community solar and battery storage development: how they identify and lease land from farmers, navigate local permitting with utilities and county authorities, and manage 20 active projects across different stages of development — all with a 7-person team.Steve shares the origin story behind Enterprise Energy — built by three co-founders who cut their teeth at New Energy Equity before spinning out to run their own shop in the Minnesota and Illinois markets they know cold. He breaks down the mechanics of the developer "flip" model versus building and holding, why the Climatize crowdfunding platform became a key tool for smoothing out lumpy development cash flow, and what the One Big Beautiful Bill actually did (and didn't do) to their business model.Then he gets candid: federal policy chaos is the thing that keeps him up at night. But he also explains why Enterprise Energy is positioned in a rare "sweet spot" — the 1–5MW community-scale DG market where the Investment Tax Credit is still intact through 2029 — and why Illinois' newly passed Clean and Reliable Grid Act is creating a real opening for battery storage developers right now.Enterprise Energy is actively raising funds for their Batteries for Chicagoland portfolio on Climatize, offering 10% annual interest over a 3-year term. The campaign has a $440,900 goal and a $550,750 maximum raise.👉 Learn more and invest: https://web.climatize.earth/project/00041 🌐 enterpriseenergy.com 🎙️ Full episode and show notes: https://invst.guru/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when a former investment banker looks at Miami's waterfront and decides the real opportunity isn't on land — it's on the water? You get Arkhaus, one of the most visually stunning and conceptually bold startups in the hospitality space today.Sam Payrovi, co-founder and CEO of Arkhaus, joins Jeff "Fuzzy" Wenzel on Invst Guru to walk through the full story — from a rooftop social club in Miami's Faena District, to acquiring a solar-electric yacht builder, to designing a global network of overwater villa resorts with Pininfarina and Lyman-Morse.These aren't houseboats. They're 2,200 square foot self-lifting platforms — part luxury villa, part electric yacht — that elevate out of the water, connect modularly, and can be deployed anywhere from Biscayne Bay to the Maldives to Monaco for a Formula One hospitality build.In this episode, Sam and Jeff dig into:— What a "villa yacht" actually is and why the category is just getting started — How EV battery technology unlocked the electric boating revolution — The double-dip business model: margin on every boat sold, recurring revenue on every resort night — Why the resort model is dramatically more scalable than the social club model — Regulatory nuances that actually make recreational vessels easier to deploy fast — Expansion markets: Miami, the Florida Keys, Dubai, Singapore, Mykonos, Bali, and beyond — The moment their boat builder went under — and why Sam chose to acquire instead of quit — A live Wefunder raise at a $25M valuation and what milestones will trigger the next institutional roundSam is the kind of founder who fights until his feet are in concrete. This conversation will make you see every coastline, bay, and lake a little differently.🎯 Invest in Arkhaus → wefunder.com/arkhausInvst Guru is hosted by Jeff "Fuzzy" Wenzel. New episodes feature founders and executives raising capital through equity crowdfunding on platforms like Wefunder, Netcapital, StartEngine, and more. Not financial advice. Equity crowdfunding investments carry risk. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back to the podcast! Today, we are taking a deep dive into Uncle Waithley's Beverage Company, a brand that is elevating the adult non-alcoholic beverage market with authentic Caribbean flavors and artisanal craftsmanship.As the beverage industry sees a massive shift toward "sober-curious" and alcohol-alternative lifestyles, Uncle Waithley's is filling the gap for a complex, culturally authentic drink. Founded by Yale-educated serial entrepreneur and renowned mixologist Karl Franz Williams, the company is built on the legacy of his grandfather, a ginger farmer from St. Vincent.Their flagship product, "Vincy Brew," isn't your average mass-market soda. It’s a small-batch, fermented ginger beer crafted with a proprietary blend of Peruvian organic ginger, turmeric, lime, mineral water, and the natural heat of Scotch Bonnet peppers. This unique heat mimics the "bite" of a spirit, making it perfect as both a standalone drink and a sophisticated cocktail mixer.Key topics we cover in this episode:Massive Market Traction: How Uncle Waithley's sold over 400,000 bottles in less than four years.The Whole Foods Catalyst: Why Whole Foods Market made a rare equity investment in the brand, and how the company plans to expand into 227 Whole Foods stores by 2025.Massive Distribution Networks: Their selection for UNFI’s exclusive UpNext program, opening potential access to over 30,000 retail accounts nationwide.The Investment Opportunity: Details on their current Regulation Crowdfunding raise on Wefunder, offering a Simple Agreement for Future Equity (SAFE) with a $10.8M valuation cap to fund inventory, marketing, and key sales hires.The Bear Case: The intense competition in the consumer packaged goods (CPG) space, supply chain risks associated with sourcing specialized ingredients like Scotch Bonnet peppers, and the challenges of scaling.Are you ready to "Spice Up Your Vibe"? Tune in to hear the full breakdown of the business model, the growth projections, and the potential exit opportunities for this rising star in the craft beverage space.Disclaimer: Investments in private companies are highly speculative, illiquid, and involve a high degree of risk, including the possible loss of your entire investment. This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Please review the company’s official Form C and Regulation Crowdfunding offering materials on Wefunder before making any investment decisions. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if your next real estate investment didn't just cash flow — it changed lives?Jeff "Fuzzy" Wenzel sits down with Andrew Tyree, co-founder of Gracious Wellsprings, a women's sober living company based in West Los Angeles that's quietly becoming one of the most compelling impact investment stories in the recovery housing space.Andrew didn't start with a grand plan. He was a real estate agent who stumbled into a community meetup for sober living operators, found a like-minded business partner in Michael, and the two bootstrapped their way from zero to five homes — generating $6,000–$8,000 per unit in monthly cash flow — in under two years.But what really makes this story different? The outpatient programs are now calling them. Gracious Wellsprings has built such a reputation for running professional, structured, well-managed homes that recovery programs across greater LA are actively asking them to open new locations and promising to fill them with clients on day one.Now, Andrew and Michael are opening up their first outside investor round to fuel a goal of reaching 25 homes within 18 months — and the campaign launched to early commitments in its very first week.In This Episode, We Cover:Why Andrew passed on Airbnb and Section 8 before landing on sober livingThe economics of sober living: leasing model, ROI, and per-unit cash flowHow they picked West LA as their target market (spoiler: it's the #1 recovery city in the U.S.)The pivot from men's homes to an all-women's model — and why it made all the differenceWhat it's like to manage a business with deeply human, unpredictable variablesHow they went from 100% referral-dependent to building organic inbound demandWhy they voluntarily pursued state licensing and NARR certification when they didn't have toAndrew's vision: 5x growth, nonprofit status, and a new model for recovery housing nationwideWhy This Matters: Sober living is one of the most misunderstood and underserved sectors in both real estate and healthcare. Andrew and Michael are proving that when you run these homes like a real business — with systems, accountability, and genuine care — the demand is virtually limitless.If you're an investor looking for cash flow with community impact, or someone in the recovery space trying to understand how housing fits into the treatment continuum, this episode is for you.🔗 View the Gracious Wellsprings Investment Campaign: https://invest.fundinghope.com/offering/graciouswellsprings/details🌐 Company Website: graciouswellsprings.com 📧 Contact Andrew: [email protected] podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or investment advice. Please conduct your own due diligence. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When Nadia Tedeschi was working as a nursing assistant, a patient looked up at her through tears and said, "Nobody should have to live like this." That moment sent her to her garage — and eventually to the forefront of one of the most overlooked problems in modern healthcare.Nadia is the founder of Mylo Medical, a startup on a mission to replace the bedpan — a device that hasn't been reinvented in over 400 years — with a smarter, more dignified solution. The Mylo Pan features an inflatable design for patient comfort, a biodegradable drawstring bag system for infection control, and a reusable base that dramatically reduces waste. Simple. Obvious. Overdue.In this episode, Nadia and Jeff dig into the real business of building a medical device startup from scratch — the regulations, the IP strategy, the go-to-market hurdles, and the fundraising path less traveled. Nadia also opens up about what keeps her up at night, the moment a trade show attendee tried to buy a prototype held together with a shoelace, and why she believes the bedpan has gone untouched for so long simply because nobody talks about it.In this episode:Why hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) are costing the healthcare system billions — and how a better bedpan is part of the solutionThe inflatable, biodegradable design behind the Mylo Pan and its patent-pending cinch-and-seal mechanismFDA Class I registration, QMS compliance, and what the regulatory path actually looks like for a device like thisHow Nadia is targeting distributors, GPOs, and chief nursing officers to drive hospital adoptionWhy she chose equity crowdfunding over traditional medtech funding routes — and what she's building beyond just capitalThe milestones between here and full-scale commercial launchLessons from a solo founder who turned a moment of human empathy into a scalable businessMylo Medical is currently raising on Netcapital.🔗 View the campaign: https://netcapital.com/companies/mylo-medical🌐 Learn more: https://www.mylomedicalsupplies.com/If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone in healthcare, someone who invests in early-stage companies, or anyone who believes the best startups are born from the problems we're all too uncomfortable to talk about. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if the cloud isn't the answer?That's the bold bet Michael Cioni is making. With over 25 years in the film and television industry — and credits on blockbusters like Avatar, Gone Girl, and Pirates of the Caribbean — Michael has spent his career being the person willing to take the punches to usher in technology that Hollywood wasn't ready for. Now he's doing it again.In this episode of Invst Guru, Michael breaks down why he walked away from a career at Adobe to found Strada, a peer-to-peer file sharing platform built specifically for video professionals. The problem is deceptively simple: camera files are getting bigger, internet speeds aren't keeping up, and cloud storage costs are spiraling out of control. Strada's solution? Skip the cloud entirely — and let collaborators access your files directly from your local hard drive, anywhere in the world, in real time.We get into the origin story, the pivots, the patents, and the philosophy behind building a company completely in public. Michael also shares why the next wave of AI analytics won't live in the cloud — and why that changes everything about the cost of creative technology.In this episode, we cover:Why the cloud works great for Netflix and Instagram — but fails video professionalsHow Strada works like "Napster for professional video" with 25 years of security built inWhy right-clicking a folder on your desktop could replace Dropbox entirelyThe "build in public" approach and how user feedback is shaping Strada's 18-month roadmapWhy data privacy and cloud distrust are opening a massive new marketWhat's coming in 2027 — AI analytics that run on your own hardware, nearly for freeWhether you're a filmmaker, content creator, post-production editor, or an investor looking at where the media tech industry is heading, this conversation will change the way you think about how creative files move around the world.🌐 Learn more: strada.tech 📺 Watch Strada build in public: Search "Strada Tech" on YouTube 💼 Invest in Strada: wefunder.com/stradaInvst Guru is the podcast for investors and entrepreneurs who want to go beyond the pitch deck and get inside the minds of the founders building tomorrow's companies. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode examines Bumbo Distribution USA, the company behind the well-known Bumbo Floor Seat and a growing portfolio of infant seating and safety products.Unlike many startup crowdfunding stories, Bumbo operates as an established consumer brand with national retail distribution. Products already appear in Target, Walmart, and Amazon stores across the United States.The company reported about $7.84 million in annual revenue and $738,040 in net income in its latest fiscal year. Management now focuses on margin improvement through direct-to-consumer sales and stronger Amazon partnerships while maintaining relationships with major retail chains.The discussion explores:• How Bumbo built a durable brand in the competitive juvenile products market• Why distribution through large retailers drives most revenue• The strategy behind expanding direct sales channels• Financial realities, including $4.49 million in short-term debt• The structure of the current StartEngine crowdfunding offeringListeners gain a balanced perspective on a rare profile in equity crowdfunding. A profitable consumer brand with an established retail presence now invites the public into its next growth phase.If you follow startup investing, consumer brands, or equity crowdfunding, this episode offers a grounded look at a company that is optimizing an existing business rather than building one from scratch. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Most ready-to-drink cocktails taste great on the label and disappointing in the glass.In this episode of Invst Guru, host Jeff “Fuzzy” Wenzel sits down with Larry, co-founder of World’s Best Cocktail, to talk about turning a passion sparked by Netflix’s Drink Masters into a quality-first consumer brand. After testing nearly 100 pre-made cocktails and finding most of them undrinkable, Larry partnered with a world-class mixologist to recreate the magic of a handcrafted cocktail, starting with a spicy strawberry house margarita that refuses to compromise flavor during scaling. But this isn’t just about alcohol.This conversation explores:• Why most RTD cocktails lose quality during production?• The challenge of scaling handcrafted recipes.• A “drink better, not more” philosophy.• Designing bottles that capture meaningful moments.• Building brand through experience, not excess.• Direct-to-consumer launch strategy.• Why crowdfunding can democratize early-stage investing?• What retail investors should evaluate before investing in CPG?Larry also shares why separating passion from financial analysis is critical when investing even in a product you love. This episode is ideal for founders, CPG entrepreneurs, spirits brands, and retail investors looking at the premium ready-to-drink market. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Buying a distressed property is one thing. Buying a distressed distillery is something else entirely.In this episode of Invst Guru, host Jeff “Fuzzy” Wenzel sits down with Justin Meccia, owner of Hidden Lake Grill & Distillery, to discuss how he acquired one of Montana’s oldest distilleries and is now rebuilding it from the ground up.Justin shares how he purchased the assets of Whitefish Handcrafted Spirits, inherited award-winning recipes like the orange clove infused rum, and is transitioning the company into a house-of-brands strategy designed to scale beyond Montana. He explains the challenges of operating in a control state, navigating alcohol regulations, and expanding distribution across state lines while maintaining quality and production standards.The conversation also covers: • The realities of owning and operating a micro-distillery. • Why rebranding matters for national distribution? • Montana’s unique alcohol laws and regulatory hurdles. • Managing seasonality in a tourist-driven market. • The opportunity in zero-proof and alcohol-free alternatives. • Expanding with a food truck and satellite location strategy. • How crowdfunding supports small business growth? • What retail investors should consider in hospitality and spirits?This episode is for founders, operators, hospitality professionals, and investors interested in craft spirits, small business turnarounds, and brand expansion. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we examine World’s Best Cocktails Inc., a U.S. beverage company operating in the premium ready-to-drink cocktail sector. Led by mixologist Tao Zrafi, known for his appearance on Netflix’s Drink Masters, the company is positioning itself at the high end of the growing RTD category.We break down the company’s asset-light model, which relies on third-party co-packers and integrated logistics rather than owned manufacturing. We also explore its subsidiary, Cocktail Buddies Inc., which focuses on shelf-stable citrus replacements designed for hospitality and beverage operators.Topics covered include:• The premiumization trend in the $4.3 billion RTD market • Brand leverage and founder-driven visibility • Multi-channel strategy including D2C and wholesale • Competitive pressure from global spirits conglomerates • Regulatory and distribution barriers in the three-tier alcohol systemWe also present a balanced bull and bear case, highlighting both the opportunity in premium convenience beverages and the risks associated with early-stage alcohol brands competing for shelf space.This episode is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute investment advice or a solicitation to invest. If the company is conducting a Regulation Crowdfunding offering: all investment activity must occur through the registered intermediary platform listed in its official offering materials. Always review the Form C and associated risk factors before making any investment decision. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Electricity costs keep rising. The power grid is under pressure. And more homeowners are asking the same question: is there a better way?In this episode of Invst Guru, host Jeff “Fuzzy” Wenzel speaks with Deep Patel, founder of GigaWatt, about how solar power and battery storage are changing the way consumers think about energy.After nearly two decades in the solar industry, Deep explains how centralized utilities, rising grid demand, and data center growth are pushing electricity prices higher. Instead of relying on long-term solar leases filled with hidden finance costs, GigaWatt focuses on a vertically integrated, hardware-first approach that empowers homeowners and prosumers to source certified equipment directly and take control of their own power.In this conversation, we explore: • How the solar industry has evolved since 2006? • Why traditional solar leases often cost more than expected? • The impact of rising utility rates and grid instability. • How battery storage is changing home energy strategy? • Why cutting out middlemen lowers system costs? • The DIY and prosumer movement in solar adoption. • Regulatory challenges utilities create. • Why certification and safety standards matter? • What investors should evaluate before investing in solar companies? • How energy independence fits into long-term economic trends?This episode is ideal for homeowners, solar professionals, investors, and anyone curious about the future of distributed energy and grid alternatives. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Silicon Prairie Holdings is building what management describes as a vertically integrated Capital Technology platform. By combining broker-dealer and transfer agent functions under one umbrella, the company seeks to internalize key layers of private capital formation.In this episode, we examine:• Why private capital markets often operate through fragmented service providers • What changes when a company controls both infrastructure and regulatory licenses • The economic implications of fee stacking and internalization • The complexity of operating in a highly regulated environment • The real risks tied to compliance, scale, and liquidityThis is not a pitch. It is a structural analysis of a business model positioned at the intersection of fintech and securities regulation.Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute investment advice or a solicitation to invest. If Silicon Prairie Holdings is conducting an offering under Rule 506(c) of Regulation D, participation is limited to verified accredited investors. Securities offered under Rule 506(c) are unregistered, restricted, illiquid, and involve substantial risk, including the potential loss of the entire investment. Always review official offering materials and consult qualified advisors before making any investment decision. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The beverage aisle is crowded, but every so often a product makes you stop and ask a simple question. Why hasn’t this existed before?In this episode of Invst Guru, host Jeff “fuzzy” Wenzel sits down with Adam N. Lazar, founder of Asarasi Sparkling Tree Water, to explore how tree water became the foundation of a modern, better-for-you beverage brand.Adam shares the origin of Asarasi, why tree water offers a naturally refreshing alternative to traditional sparkling drinks, and how the brand balances health, sustainability, and taste without overcomplicating the product. The conversation also dives into the realities of building a beverage company, from sourcing and formulation to branding, retail strategy, and investor education.In this episode, we discuss:• What tree water is and why it stands out from regular sparkling water?• How consumer demand for clean and functional drinks is evolving?• The challenges of sourcing and scaling a natural ingredient.• Branding and storytelling in a crowded beverage market.• Retail versus direct-to-consumer growth strategies.• Why simplicity can be a competitive advantage?• How community and crowdfunding support early-stage brands?• What investors should understand about beverage margins and growth?This episode is for founders, operators, investors, and anyone curious about how new beverage categories are created and brought to market. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Independent films live and die by clarity. Clear tone. Clear audience. Clear plan.In this lightning round episode of Invst Guru, host Jeff “fuzzy” Wenzel speaks with Mark Elias, creator of We Could Be Heroes, about how the film is being built from a creative and financial standpoint.Mark walks through the core idea behind the project, why the story leans character-first rather than spectacle, and how elements of hacker culture and gaming language influence the tone without overpowering the narrative. He also explains how the project is structured to be realistic for production, pacing, and budget.The conversation covers:• What the film is actually about and who it’s for?• Why tone and genre discipline matter in indie film?• How the lightning format forces clarity?• The balance between creative ambition and budget reality.• Why community support matters early in filmmaking?• How crowdfunding fits into the project’s strategy?• What investors should understand about indie film risk and expectations?This episode is for filmmakers, creators, and investors who want a grounded look at how independent films are conceived, structured, and funded today. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Harmony Baby Nutrition is developing specialized pediatric nutrition products designed with human milk as a biological reference point. In this episode, we examine how formulation science, clinical expertise, and regulatory standards shape product development in infant and toddler nutrition.The conversation covers why standard formulas fail for some families, how hypoallergenic products are designed, and what challenges arise when translating research into safe, scalable food products. We also discuss manufacturing constraints, regulatory oversight, and competitive dynamics in a market dominated by global incumbents.This episode is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not provide medical, financial, or investment advice. Parents should consult qualified healthcare professionals regarding infant feeding decisions. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Starting a brand from zero is hard. Buying one with decades of recognition comes with a very different set of challenges and opportunities.In this episode of Invst Guru, host Jeff “fuzzy” Wenzel sits down with Ryan Fernandez, owner of Bumbo, to unpack the decision to acquire one of the most recognizable baby products in the world and what it really takes to rebuild, protect, and grow a legacy brand.Ryan shares how he evaluated Bumbo’s brand equity, manufacturing, and market position before acquiring the U.S. intellectual property and production rights. The conversation explores why acquisition can be a smarter path than launching something new, especially when trust, distribution, and awareness already exist.In this episode, we cover:• Why acquiring an existing brand can reduce market risk?• What investors should look for when evaluating brand acquisitions?• How manufacturing ownership impacts quality and margins?• The realities of retail distribution and shelf competition.• Rebuilding consumer trust in a well-known product.• The role of packaging, compliance, and safety standards.• How crowdfunding fits into consumer brand ownership?• Lessons learned from scaling consumer products post-acquisition.This episode is ideal for founders, operators, and investors interested in consumer brands, acquisitions, retail strategy, and long-term brand ownership. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we examine PopCom, a company developing software designed to add analytics and operational insight to vending machines and kiosks.The conversation focuses on the problem PopCom says it addresses in unattended retail, how its software platform is positioned, and why management has shifted away from hardware ownership toward a software-focused model. We also discuss the company’s operating history, competitive environment, and the structure of its Regulation Crowdfunding offering.This episode is for informational purposes only. It does not provide investment advice or a solicitation to invest. Any securities offering discussed is conducted under Regulation Crowdfunding through a registered intermediary. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of capital.Listeners should review the company’s Form C, official offering materials, and risk disclosures on the designated platform before making any investment decision. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Real estate investors move fast, but traditional lenders rarely do. Long approval times, rigid rules, and misaligned incentives often slow down deals and hurt returns.In this episode of Invst Guru, host Jeff “Fuzzy” Wenzel sits down with Tim Herriage, founder of Ternus, to unpack what is broken in real estate lending and how a customer-owned model can better serve Main Street investors.Tim shares his journey from Marine to real estate investor and lender, including his experience building and scaling major lending platforms. Along the way, he saw how institutional lending drifted away from the needs of everyday investors. That insight led to the creation of Ternus, a private lending platform designed around speed, trust, and shared ownership.In this conversation, we explore:• Why traditional real estate lending fails most investors?• How private lending can close deals in days, not weeks?• The fix and flip loan model and why it works.• Asset-based lending and risk management fundamentals.• Why aligning customers and investors matters?• How community ownership changes incentives?• The role of technology in faster underwriting.• What investors should know about capital preservation and yield?• How real estate lending performs across market cycles?This episode is for real estate investors, founders, operators, and anyone interested in alternative lending, private credit, and community-aligned financial models. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Learning does not look the same for every child. For many neurodiverse kids, traditional classrooms, screens, and rigid teaching methods can create frustration instead of engagement.In this episode of Invst Guru, host Jeff “Fuzzy” Wenzel speaks with Amelia Soriano from Burble Creativity about a different approach to learning. One that uses immersive storytelling, sensory-friendly design, and imagination to help neurodiverse children feel calm, focused, and included.Burble Creativity creates portable immersive environments that combine light, sound, and narrative inside a simple physical space. The goal is not to overwhelm learners, but to gently support regulation, curiosity, and retention by meeting children where they are.In this conversation, we explore:• Why traditional learning environments fail many neurodiverse kids?• How immersive storytelling supports focus and emotional regulation?• The role of light and sound in creating safe learning spaces.• Why reducing screens can actually improve engagement?• How Burble blends physical design with thoughtful technology?• The importance of trust when building products for neurodiverse families.• How the company is scaling through families, therapists, and schools?• What investors should understand about inclusive learning innovation?This episode is for parents, educators, therapists, founders, and investors who care about building learning tools that are inclusive, practical, and designed for real people. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Invst Guru, host Jeff “Fuzzy” Wenzel speaks with David V. Duccini, founder of Silicon Prairie Holdings Inc, about what it really means to invest for the long term.Rather than chasing quick exits or short-term financial engineering, Silicon Prairie Holdings operates with a holding company mindset. The focus is on acquiring, operating, and growing businesses with patience, discipline, and strong leadership alignment.David shares his perspective on why long-term ownership creates stability for companies, employees, and investors, and why this approach often outperforms faster, more speculative strategies over time.In this conversation, we explore:• The difference between a holding company and traditional private equity.• Why patient capital matters more than timing the market?• What Silicon Prairie looks for when evaluating businesses?• The importance of operational leadership after acquisition.• How long-term thinking affects capital allocation decisions?• Balancing growth, cash flow, and reinvestment.• Lessons learned from managing multiple operating companies.• What investors should understand about risk, discipline, and durability?This episode is ideal for investors, founders, operators, and anyone interested in building sustainable value rather than chasing short-term returns. It offers a thoughtful, real-world view of investing built on ownership, stewardship, and long-term responsibility. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Many organizations collect enormous amounts of data but still struggle to make confident decisions. Dashboards are everywhere, yet clarity is often missing. In this episode of Invst Guru, host Jeff “fuzzy” Wenzel speaks with Philippe Reynier, founder of Cigno, about how artificial intelligence can move beyond charts and reports to support real decision making.Cigno focuses on helping business leaders understand what their data is telling them, why certain patterns matter, and what actions make sense next. Philippe shares how his experience working with enterprise systems and complex data environments shaped his belief that AI must be explainable, trustworthy, and designed for humans, not just data scientists.In this conversation, we discuss:• Why most companies are data rich but insight poor? • The difference between analytics dashboards and decision intelligence. • How AI can support leaders without replacing human judgment? • Why trust and explainability are critical for AI adoption? • Common mistakes organizations make when rolling out AI tools. • Where AI delivers real value in finance, operations, and strategy? • How executives can use AI to move faster with more confidence?This episode is designed for business leaders, operators, data professionals, and investors who want a grounded, realistic view of how AI fits into everyday decision making. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The International Space Station is scheduled for retirement by 2030. When it goes offline, access to a government operated microgravity laboratory ends. Researchers, defense agencies, and commercial companies will need new ways to test hardware, validate materials, and operate in orbit.In this episode, we examine ABOVE Space Development Corporation, a company building modular, automated satellite platforms designed for on orbit testing and validation. We discuss how their Prometheus and Archimedes platforms are structured, why orbital infrastructure matters after the ISS, and how commercial providers fit into the evolving space ecosystem.We also walk through the business context, technical challenges, and risks involved in building and scaling space hardware. This conversation is informational and focused on understanding how companies like ABOVE approach orbital infrastructure in a post ISS environment.This episode is for educational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Any discussion of fundraising activity is informational. All investments must be made through official Regulation Crowdfunding offering pages on registered intermediary platforms, where full disclosures and risks are available. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Invst Guru, host Jeff “fuzzy” Wenzel sits down with Karl Franz Williams, founder and CEO of Uncle Waithley’s Beverage Company, to unpack what it really takes to build a beverage brand rooted in culture, craft, and consumer demand.Karl shares how Uncle Waithley’s started as a house-made ginger beer behind the bar at his Caribbean rum bar and evolved into a nationally distributed adult non alcoholic beverage now carried in over 200 Whole Foods locations across the East Coast. What began as a solution to a missing mixer turned into a platform for showcasing authentic Caribbean flavors that rarely make it onto U.S. shelves.In this conversation, we explore:• Why the adult non alcoholic beverage category is growing so quickly?• How Caribbean flavors like ginger, scotch bonnet, sorrel, and thyme create real differentiation?• The role of mixology and hospitality experience in product development.• How taste, trial, and repeat drive retail success more than hype?• The realities of beverage manufacturing, minimums, and distribution.• Scaling from one Whole Foods store to hundreds through velocity and reorders.• Fundraising strategy and why growth capital matters in beverage.• What investors should actually look for in consumer brands?🔗 Learn More About Uncle Waithley’s Beverage CompanyVisit https://unclewaithleys.com to explore the full product lineup, brand story, and where to find the beverages in stores and online.Explore more: https://wefunder.com/uncle.waithleys.beverage.companyThis episode is for founders, operators, investors, and anyone interested in how authentic products scale in crowded consumer categories. It’s an honest look at beverage entrepreneurship, cultural storytelling, and the slow, disciplined work behind overnight success. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode explores the independent film project We Could Be Heroes through the lens of Regulation Crowdfunding. The discussion focuses on the story’s origin in gaming culture, the creative vision behind the script, and the production approach centered on disciplined scope and execution.Listeners hear how the filmmaking team approaches character-driven storytelling, audience alignment, and modern distribution paths across digital platforms. The episode also addresses the realities of independent film economics, including competition for distribution, audience uncertainty, and long time horizons.This conversation is informational only. No investment terms are discussed. If the project is associated with an active Regulation Crowdfunding campaign, all investments must occur through the official offering page hosted by a registered intermediary. Prospective investors should review the Form C and complete risk disclosures before making any investment decision. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feeding tube dislodgement affects families and caregivers long after hospital discharge, yet securement methods have changed little over time. In this episode, we examine Ezalife, a medical device company developing the Button Huggie, an FDA registered product designed to stabilize gastrostomy buttons in home care settings.We discuss the clinical problem Ezalife aims to address, the founder’s background in pediatric surgery, internal clinical study findings, early commercial activity, and the challenges of scaling within regulated healthcare markets. The conversation also explores reimbursement uncertainty, hospital adoption dynamics, and the realities of early stage medical device companies raising capital through Regulation Crowdfunding.This episode is for informational purposes only. It does not constitute investment advice or a solicitation to invest. If Ezalife is conducting a Regulation Crowdfunding offering, all investments must be made through its registered funding portal after reviewing the company’s official SEC filings and risk disclosures. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Caring for a child with a feeding tube is not just a medical challenge. It is an everyday emotional and logistical burden for families. Dislodged tubes, emergency room visits, interrupted sleep, and constant anxiety are part of daily life for many parents.In this episode of Invst Guru, host Jeff “fuzzy” Wenzel speaks with the team behind Ezalife, a pediatric medical device company focused on solving one very specific but deeply impactful problem. Keeping feeding tubes secure so kids can move, play, and live more normal lives.Ezalife developed a simple, FDA-exempt securement device that helps reduce accidental tube dislodgement and gives parents peace of mind at home, at school, and on the go. What started as a pediatric surgeon’s idea has grown into a company working to establish a new standard of care for children with G-tubes.In this conversation, we cover:• The real daily challenges families face when caring for children with feeding tubes. • Why small medical problems often lead to big emotional stress? • How a simple product can prevent unnecessary ER visits? • Why Ezalife chose a direct-to-consumer approach before hospital adoption? • How parent-to-parent advocacy drives growth in pediatric healthcare? • The realities of building and manufacturing a medical device. • Fundraising, crowdfunding, and the path to broader hospital and insurance adoption.This episode is for parents, caregivers, healthcare professionals, medtech founders, and investors who want to understand how thoughtful design and patient-first thinking can make a meaningful difference in real lives. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Women’s soccer is growing at an unprecedented pace, yet many talented athletes still fall through the cracks between youth, college, and professional play. The system rewards short-term performance but often fails to support long-term development, wellbeing, and access.In this episode of Invst Guru, host Jeff “fuzzy” Wenzel explores how TLH Reckoning is building a new model for women’s soccer that prioritizes people, community, and sustainable growth.The conversation dives into the real challenges facing women’s sports today, including limited access to capital, broken development pathways, and the lack of infrastructure in non-metro and rural regions. You’ll hear how TLH Reckoning is addressing these gaps by creating a holistic ecosystem that supports athletes on and off the field.This episode covers:⚽ Why the traditional youth-to-college-to-pro pipeline leaves many players behind? ⚽ How community-based teams can unlock access and long-term loyalty? ⚽ The importance of player care, including mental health, workload management, and advocacy. ⚽ Why women’s sports represent a powerful investment opportunity, not a charity case? ⚽ How facilities, academies, and local partnerships drive sustainable growth? ⚽ What success looks like beyond wins, losses, and headlines?This is a must-listen for anyone interested in women’s sports, impact-driven entrepreneurship, community ownership, or the future of athletic development.Whether you are an investor, founder, athlete, parent, or fan, this episode offers a grounded and thoughtful look at how women’s soccer can be built differently and built better. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Invst Guru, host Jeff “fuzzy” Wenzel sits down with Ian D. McNeill, founder of Ingeni, to explore a bold vision for the future of personalized health.Ingeni is building a platform that gives everyday people control over their health using AI, genetics, wearables, and smart recommendations gathered from real time data. Ian explains how his personal experiences with athletic training, glucose spikes, aging parents, and family health challenges shaped the mission behind Ingeni.You’ll hear how Ingeni is working with major retailers and independent pharmacies to deliver a new kind of wellness experience, one that connects consumer data to personalized recommendations, supplements, in home tests, smart devices, and actionable insights. This episode explores:🔹 Why the healthcare system is broken and why consumers must take more control?🔹 How AI models, genetic testing, and wearables create a 360 degree view of health?🔹 Why major retailers want Ingeni as a new revenue source and engagement tool?🔹 How Ingeni keeps user data private using a proprietary LLM and HIPAA compliant systems?🔹 The challenges of scaling quickly when a retailer can add tens of thousands of users overnight.🔹 How GLP 1 support, chronic care use cases, and family health are driving early adoption?🔹 Why curated marketplaces and in home testing represent the next chapter in wellness?Ian also shares how Ingeni plans to enter the insurance market, the KPIs investors should watch, and the role strategic fundraising plays in launching with their first major retail partner. Ian Jeff Studio SettingsThis is a must listen episode for anyone interested in healthtech, AI, wellness, consumer health, chronic care, personalized insights, or digital retail innovation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode explores CyberGlobal’s approach to delivering cybersecurity services through a distributed model. You learn how the company pairs a central security operations structure with regional operators who manage customer relationships. We break down the market problem, the service framework, and the operational factors that shape this type of business. The conversation also covers strengths and challenges, including execution demands, training needs, and competition in the security services market. This episode is for listeners who want a clear look at a growing cybersecurity model and the factors that influence performance and scale.This content is informational only. It is not investment advice. If CyberGlobal is engaged in fundraising, all official information appears on its designated Reg CF portal. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Biotech is booming, but access to certified wet labs and affordable space remains one of the biggest barriers for early stage founders. In this episode of Invst Guru, host Jeff “fuzzy” Wenzel sits down with Dr. Anton Dormer, founder of Biolabshare, to explore how he is building a new kind of biotech incubator that blends real estate, innovation, community, and startup support into one ecosystem.Born from Anton’s own entrepreneurial challenges, Biolabshare aims to give biotech innovators a place to work, live, collaborate, and scale. With a ground up lab development underway on family land in Huntsville, Alabama, Biolabshare is designed to serve as an affordable, full service launchpad for life science startups.You’ll hear how Biolabshare focuses on:🔬 Certified wet labs that meet NIH and BARDA standards. 🏢 A real estate model that includes co living for founders. 🧪 Incubator support for up to 20 companies working in biotech, diagnostics, and health AI. 🎓 University partnerships that bring trained interns into the ecosystem. 📈 Startup equity opportunities that generate long term investor returns. 🌱 Affordable access to lab space, equipment, and mentorship. 🏗️ A two phase construction roadmap designed for rapid expansion. 💰 A path to liquidity through company graduations, exits, and a future public listing.Anton also shares the risks, regulatory challenges, and opportunities shaping the biotech industry today, plus how founders can accelerate discovery when they have the right ecosystem behind them.Whether you're a biotech founder, real estate investor, student, or someone fascinated by how life science innovation actually happens, this episode gives you a ground level view into a powerful new model for building the future of health and technology. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Invst Guru, host Jeff “fuzzy” Wenzel sits down with Mel Sautter, co-founder of MVP Kids, to explore a powerful mission: helping parents and educators raise confident, emotionally intelligent, and character-driven children.What began as a personal moment with Mel’s young daughter quickly evolved into a 10-year journey of developing books, curriculum, characters, and a soon-to-launch animated series designed to shape children from birth through age 12.You’ll hear how MVP Kids created:✨ A unique 16-character universe that represents diverse personalities and learning styles. ✨ A comprehensive “character Bible” built with child psychologists and educators. ✨ A zero-agenda approach focused on universal virtues, not political or religious narratives. ✨ A structured learning pathway that builds emotional intelligence, social skills, and resilience. ✨ An upcoming animated series created with storytelling legend John Semper. ✨ A global partnership network that unlocks streaming, licensing, merchandising, and distribution opportunities.Mel also explains how MVP Kids protects its intellectual property, works with top animation studios, and builds trust with families in a digital world filled with overstimulation and hidden agendas.For investors, Mel breaks down how children’s education brands generate revenue through international broadcasting, licensing, merchandise, curriculum, and character-driven ecosystems.This episode is perfect for: ✔️ Parents. ✔️ Educators. ✔️ Investors. ✔️ Animators. ✔️ Anyone passionate about raising strong, empathetic, resilient kids.If you want to understand how meaningful children’s content is created and why it matters, this conversation delivers clarity, heart, and real vision for the future. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🎙️ Episode DescriptionIn this episode, we explore Tahiro, a cognitive wellness company working to bridge scientific research with consumer health products. We discuss the market forces shaping the brain health sector, the company’s use of nano-formulation techniques, and the challenges early-stage wellness brands face in standing out in a crowded field. We also review both the bullish and bearish factors observers often consider when evaluating emerging companies in this space.This conversation is designed to offer context, not conclusions. We look at what the company reports publicly, how it frames its research, and where uncertainties remain, including the gap between preclinical data and human outcomes.Disclaimer:This episode is for informational and educational purposes only and is not investment advice or an offer to invest. Invst Guru does not recommend or endorse any securities. If Tahiro is conducting a Regulation Crowdfunding campaign, all investment activity must occur through the registered funding portal that hosts the offering, where official documents, risks, and disclosures are available. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Cybercrime is growing at an unprecedented rate and small businesses have become the number one target. In this episode of Invst Guru, we take a deep dive into how modern cybercriminals operate, why their strategies are evolving faster than ever, and how Cyberglobal is fighting back with full scale protection and AI powered tools.You will learn:🔐 Why human error remains the biggest gap in cybersecurity ?⚠️ The real scams happening right now including banking update fraud and email breaches.🤖 How AI is being used by both cybercriminals and cybersecurity teams ?🛡️ Why small and medium sized businesses can no longer ignore cybersecurity ?🏢 How Cyberglobal supports businesses ranging from local offices to enterprise giants ?📊 The growth strategy behind their franchise model and partnership network.💸 Why the company chose community backed fundraising and how the capital fuels expansion?🌍 The bold 2030 vision to reach 200 global locations and beyond.This episode breaks down complex cybersecurity concepts into simple, relatable examples including home security analogies, real world cyber scam stories, and a behind the scenes look at Cyberglobal’s operations.Whether you are a small business owner, an investor, or simply someone who wants to understand how to stay safe in a digital world, this conversation delivers clarity, insight and a powerful look into the future of cyber defense. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Invst Guru, host Jeff “fuzzy” Wenzel sits down with Brian Direen, the entrepreneurial force behind OGI Coffee, a company redefining how the world experiences cold coffee. From patented extraction techniques to world-first shelf-stable espresso minis, OGI Coffee is pioneering a new way to enjoy premium coffee anytime, anywhere.Brian shares how his global business background, combined with a moment of travel frustration, inspired a product built for today’s fast-paced, customization-obsessed coffee culture. You’ll hear how OGI’s zero-additive espresso minis deliver fresh-brewed flavor for up to nine months, why younger generations prefer cold coffee, and how the brand is using TikTok Shop, influencers, and premium natural retail to scale rapidly.We also dive into OGI’s equity crowdfunding strategy, their path to hitting $1M/month in revenue, and their long-term vision to build a $100M+ brand in one of the world’s fastest-growing beverage categories.In This Episode:• The invention of shelf-stable cold espresso minis• Why cold coffee dominates for Gen Z and Millennials• The powerful role of customization in modern coffee culture• How OGI built scalable manufacturing from scratch• The brand strategy behind minimalist, Instagram-ready packaging• Equity crowdfunding and building investors into brand ambassadors• Revenue targets, production capacity, and growth projectionsIf you care about CPG innovation, coffee trends, crowdfunding, or brand building, this episode delivers an energizing deep dive into a company brewing something truly new. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Invst Guru, host Jeff “Fuzzy” Wenzel sits down with filmmaker and actor Mark Elias to explore the creative and entrepreneurial engine behind his new comedy-crime feature, We Could Be Heroes. The film follows a young gamer whose stolen console ignites a sharp, irreverent adventure—one built to resonate with gamers, indie film lovers, and multi-generational audiences alike.Mark shares the origins of the story, the moment the idea refused to leave his head, and how he developed a script that’s drawing comparisons to titles like Scott Pilgrim vs. The World, Kiss Kiss Bang Bang, and The Nice Guys. He breaks down what it takes to produce a high-value feature on a lean budget, how he assembles top-tier talent, and why smart visual storytelling doesn’t require millions of dollars—just creativity, precision, and the right team.Listeners will also learn: 🎮 Why gaming culture and e-sports partnerships could expand the film’s global reach 🎥 How Mark balances passion with commercial strategy in indie filmmaking 💼 What investors should know about film ROI, distribution timelines, and revenue streams 🌍 How modern distribution—from streamers to vertical platforms—is reshaping indie film economics 🎬 Why this project is designed to build a long-term investor and fan community through WeFunderWhether you’re a film lover, an investor, or a creator looking for insight into the evolving entertainment landscape, this conversation is packed with practical wisdom and behind-the-scenes perspective. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we dive deep into Elf Labs, a synthetic media company revolutionizing how animated characters and digital content come to life. Discover how their AI-powered Character Engine combines years of proprietary intellectual property with advanced machine learning to serve everyone from independent creators to major entertainment brands. We explore the massive market opportunity in AI-assisted content creation, examine Elf Labs' competitive advantages including their extensive trademark and patent portfolio, and break down what makes this company stand out in the crowded synthetic media landscape. Whether you're an investor seeking exposure to the AI revolution or simply fascinated by the future of digital storytelling, this episode reveals why Elf Labs is capturing attention at the intersection of technology and entertainment. Plus, we discuss the risks, challenges, and what investors need to know before considering opportunities in this space. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Invst Guru, host Jeff “fuzzy” Wenzel sits down with Tom Lix, CEO and founder of Cleveland Whiskey, for a fascinating conversation about how technology is revolutionizing one of the world’s oldest industries. From basement experiments that blew up hundreds of mason jars to patented production systems now scaling internationally, Tom breaks down the real story behind Cleveland Whiskey’s radical approach to aging and flavor.Tom shares how impatience, curiosity, and amateur chemistry led to a breakthrough that turned traditional whiskey-making on its head—delivering award-winning flavor in a fraction of the time. He opens up about the early pushback from purists, how the company protects its trade secrets, and why global markets like India, Africa, and Southeast Asia represent the biggest growth opportunities for the spirits industry.This episode dives deep into:The technology and IP strategy behind Cleveland Whiskey’s processWhy blind taste tests against major brands changed everythingHow the U.S. whiskey market is contracting—and where demand is boomingThe company’s new 45,000 sq ft riverfront facility in Cleveland’s Flats districtThe pivot to concentrates and IMFL markets in IndiaThe role of equity crowdfunding in building a 1,700-member investor communityWhat investing in spirits brands looks like todayHow Tom stays grounded while running a high-growth company (hint: two sailboats and a solo transatlantic goal)Whether you're an investor, whiskey enthusiast, or founder looking for inspiration, this conversation offers a rare inside look at how innovation, strategy, and global trends are reshaping the future of whiskey. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Invst Guru, host Jeff “fuzzy” Wenzel sits down with Chaz Berman, serial entrepreneur and CEO of Grower’s Secret, to explore one of the most ambitious developments in sustainable agriculture today.Berman—who previously took MyPoints public at a $2.5B market cap—shares how his team spent eight years testing more than 30 materials to create a patented organic nitrogen fertilizer designed to match the power and cost of synthetic nitrogen, a $134B global industry that has supported food production for 80+ years… while also causing massive environmental harm.Grower’s Secret has now reached its fourth pilot plant stage, ramping toward commercial production with a goal of delivering a scalable, organic alternative that doesn’t leach, doesn’t burn crops, works in extreme climates, and actually helps regenerate soil rather than degrade it. Farmers are already asking for it as fast as it can be produced.Jeff and Chaz dive into:The science behind Grower’s Secret’s 80% amino-acid-based organic nitrogenWhy synthetic nitrogen became the global standard—and the environmental crisis it createdHow this new material performs across crops, climates, and farming stylesThe company’s patent strategy and global protection planA long-term roadmap that includes licensing, partnerships, and worldwide expansionHow farmers can switch with zero new equipment or processesThe early traction of Grower’s Secret’s StartEngine equity crowdfunding campaignCEO lessons from Berman’s decades of scaling companies, managing teams, and staying persistent under pressureThis episode is a must-listen for investors, founders, sustainability enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the future of global food production. Whether you're new to agriculture or deep in the impact-investing world, this conversation will change how you think about soil, farming, and the innovations shaping the decades ahead.👉 Links to Grower’s Secret and the StartEngine campaign are in the show notes. https://www.startengine.com/offering/growers-secret Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

n this episode of Invst Guru, we explore the inspiring story behind GGirls Closet, a groundbreaking Colorado-based thrift brand centered on sustainability, community impact, and youth education. Founder Patricia Gillmore has built a for-profit model that supports nonprofits, Title I schools, and local families—while reshaping how people think about secondhand fashion.You’ll hear how GGirls Closet became Colorado’s first hybrid thrift store, why its consignment-driven system empowers organizations with real revenue, and how community events and clothing drives have fueled impressive year-over-year growth. We also dive into the environmental urgency driving the mission, from reducing fast-fashion waste to teaching teens the value of sustainable shopping.If you’re interested in innovative business models, social impact entrepreneurship, or the future of sustainable fashion, this episode delivers insights you won’t want to miss.What You’ll Learn:How a for-profit thrift model can support schools and nonprofitsWhy sustainability and consumer education matter more than everThe power of community events in driving business growthHow hybrid retail models are shaping the future of secondhand fashionLearn more - https://invest.honeycombcredit.com/campaigns/GGirls-ClosetTune in for a powerful conversation about purpose-driven business, environmental responsibility, and building community through conscious retail. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Invst Guru, host Jeff “Fuzzy” Wenzel sits down with Nick Apostolopoulos, founder of 619 Spirits, San Diego’s original craft distillery. Nick shares his incredible journey from a career in software development to launching a local vodka brand, navigating California’s complex alcohol laws, and transforming 619 Spirits from a small distillery into a full-scale restaurant and bar experience.They discuss the evolution of the craft spirits movement, the challenges of running a hospitality business, the upcoming 8,000-square-foot expansion, and how community partnerships have helped 619 Spirits thrive in the heart of North Park, San Diego. Nick also opens up about the WeFunder campaign supporting their next big chapter, the importance of balancing entrepreneurship and family, and what keeps him up at night as a business owner.If you’re interested in craft spirits, entrepreneurship, or community-driven growth, this episode offers a masterclass in how to stay resilient and innovative in a competitive industry.👉 Learn more about 619 Spirits: 619spirits.com 👉 Support their WeFunder campaign: wefunder.com/619spirits Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of Invst Guru, host Jeff “Fuzzy” Wenzel interviews Mitch Raponi, the CEO and Co-Founder of Emerrx BioPharma, a startup developing next-generation drug delivery solutions for emergency medicine.Mitch explains how their flagship product, MRX-101, uses a novel dual-chamber intranasal device that delivers naloxone with near-IV speed — a critical advancement in overdose reversal technology. He also shares insights into Emerrx’s fundraising journey, capital-efficient model, and the potential expansion of their platform into other lifesaving drugs.If you’re interested in biotech innovation, impact investing, or startup strategy, this episode offers a rare look inside a company working to make a real difference.Highlights include:The science and urgency behind faster naloxone deliveryEmerrx’s roadmap to FDA engagement and commercializationBuilding an ethical, efficient startup teamLeveraging crowdfunding for biotech growth🎧 Listen now and discover how science, innovation, and compassion are coming together to fight the opioid epidemic. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this Invst Guru episode, Jeff “Fuzzy” Wenzel talks with Samreen Arshad, founder of Samreen’s Vanity, about her mission to bring South Asian representation to the forefront of the beauty industry.Samreen opens up about her journey from the automotive world in Detroit to becoming a beauty founder and influencer. She explains how her brand stands apart by focusing on multi-use products, quality European manufacturing, and a deep understanding of representation and inclusivity.Hear how she navigated:Saying “no” to Costco to protect brand integritySurviving tariff shocks and funding challengesPivoting fundraising toward community and family office investorsThe future of beauty retail through direct-to-consumer and live shoppingA raw and motivating story for entrepreneurs, investors, and anyone passionate about purpose-driven business. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Invst Guru, Jeff “Fuzzy” Wenzel talks with Christian Braun, founder and CEO of HobbyDB, the community-powered platform cataloging every collectible ever made. With 3,000 volunteers and 780,000 members, HobbyDB combines the depth of Wikipedia with the precision of an eBay price guide—creating a living, searchable record of humanity’s collectibles.Christian reveals how HobbyDB grew through crowdfunding, why data accuracy is central to trust in collecting, and how the platform balances community curation with commercial opportunity. From ancient coins to Hot Wheels, HobbyDB is on a mission to document the small artifacts that define our culture.You’ll learn:How HobbyDB’s volunteer-driven model mirrors Wikipedia’s successWhy collectibles are a massive, untapped investment categoryHow trust, taxonomy, and technology fuel the platform’s growthWhat HobbyDB’s five crowdfunding rounds taught them about community ownershipWhy the future of collecting lies in authenticity—not NFTs📲 Visit hobbydb.com or download the HobbyDB app to explore their universe of collectibles. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When dog owner and finance professional Sandy Stinson got tired of spending Saturdays cleaning her backyard, she invented PooPail — a two-in-one pet waste system that lets owners clean and store pet waste with ease. What started as a personal solution became a viral crowdfunding success, generating $560,000 in 30 days on Kickstarter.In this Invst Guru episode, host Jeff “Fuzzy” Wenzel dives deep into Sandy’s journey from concept to production, navigating manufacturing challenges during COVID, and how GoodWag continues to innovate with new products for pet owners everywhere.This conversation is packed with lessons on resilience, creative problem-solving, and building a business that truly solves a problem every pet owner understands.👉 Learn more at www.goodwag.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.