What does it take to turn bold ideas into global impact? In this episode, Anishka sits down with award-winning social entrepreneur Julia Skupchenko to explore her journey from early entrepreneurial sparks to co-founding Alter Contacts, a global think tank for sustainable development. From navigating corporate life to launching initiatives recognized by the United Nations, Julia shares powerful insights on innovation, leadership, and resilience. Discover how she scaled the Lockdown Economy Initiative across 42 countries, why failing fast matters, and how young entrepreneurs can start creating meaningful change right now.

In this episode of Driven by Dreamz, Anishka sits down with Liz Whitehead, CEO of Diversity Masterminds® and 12PointFive. Liz works with small, local, and diverse businesses to leverage the procurement opportunities that business and sustainability certifications provide. As a business development consultant, she puts small businesses on the right track to making meaningful relationships within large purchasing organizations, having more productive conversations, and winning new business. In this conversation, Liz shares why most certified businesses leave money on the table, how to break into procurement ecosystems where relationships are already established, and the giving-to-get philosophy that has defined her eight-year entrepreneurial journey.

Angie Schwab is a clinical trials expert, four-time clinical trial software innovator, and self-proclaimed clinical research futurist. She is passionate about harnessing smart AI and automation to reimagine how clinical trials are designed and executed. With 20 years of industry experience and leadership in over 200 clinical trials, Angie blends deep clinical insight with transformative technology. She is the creator of Trialynx—an AI-powered platform that serves as the central hub for study development and documentation, driving efficiency, consistency, and a new era of intelligent clinical research.

What if your greatest strengths never made it onto your resume? In this inspiring episode, aerospace engineer and nonprofit founder Jasmine LeFlore shares her journey from achieving her childhood dream job to redefining how we measure talent, impact, and leadership in STEM. As co-founder of Greater Than Tech and the voice behind the powerful idea of the “Unresume,” Jasmine breaks down why grit, creativity, and lived experience matter just as much as grades and titles. This conversation dives into entrepreneurship, diversity in tech, STEM education for underserved youth, and how the next generation can reimagine technology as a force for good.

In this episode of Driven By Dreamz, host Anishka interviews Mehran Sorourian, an immigrant entrepreneur and public speaking coach. Mehran shares his journey from Iran to the United States, discussing the challenges he faced as an immigrant and how these experiences shaped his approach to entrepreneurship. He emphasizes the importance of resilience, adaptability, and storytelling in building connections and trust in business. Mehran also highlights the significance of community and listening in effective communication, offering valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and youth.

In this conversation, Kevin Elwell shares his journey from a government contractor to a successful entrepreneur in photography. He discusses the importance of storytelling in marketing, the impact of AI on the photography industry, and the challenges of maintaining authenticity in front of the camera. Kevin also reflects on valuable lessons learned in entrepreneurship and how he defines success in a balanced life.

In this conversation, Jami Shapiro shares her transformative journey from a corporate career to becoming a purpose-driven entrepreneur focused on supporting seniors and families during major life transitions. She discusses the challenges she faced while building her business, Silver Linings Transitions, and her passion for addressing the intersection of ADHD and senior care. Jami emphasizes the importance of empathy, self-care, and understanding in her work, particularly when dealing with vulnerable populations. She also reflects on the lessons learned through her entrepreneurial journey, including the significance of purpose and the power of surrender in business.

In this episode of Driven By Dreamz, host Anishka interviews Cheryl Goodman, CEO of FindGood.tech, who shares her journey from journalism to entrepreneurship in the AI space. Cheryl discusses the importance of understanding AI, the challenges of starting a business alone, and her efforts to address public concerns about AI through the HOPE AI Tour. She emphasizes the need for trust in business relationships and the role of community in driving success. Cheryl also highlights her podcast, Mind the Machine, which explores the intersection of human experience and technology.

In this conversation, Brad Chisum, CEO and co-founder of EyePop.ai, shares his entrepreneurial journey, the lessons learned from his experiences, and insights into the challenges and opportunities in the AI space. He emphasizes the importance of support, perseverance, and maintaining a positive mindset in the face of adversity. Brad also discusses the mission of EyePop.ai to simplify computer vision for businesses and the ongoing process of finding product-market fit.

In this conversation, Lina Taylor, a two-time Olympian and sustainability leader, shares her journey of resilience and the lessons learned from her experiences in elite sports and coaching. She emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence, purpose-driven leadership, and the need for cooperation in achieving long-term success. Lina also discusses the challenges of entrepreneurship and the significance of asking the right questions to navigate through difficulties. Her insights on climate leadership highlight the interconnectedness of purpose and community well-being.