In this episode of EIR Live, hosts Ilya Tabakh and Terrance Orr sit down with Mia Bennett, a serial entrepreneur turned EIR enabler who has transformed from management consultant to venture builder to leading 120+ entrepreneurs at Oneday. With over 25 years of experience spanning corporate innovation at Citi Ventures and PwC, impact entrepreneurship at Zinc VC, and building 40+ products across multiple startups, Mia shares her unique journey through the evolving landscape of entrepreneurship in residence roles. She reveals how a 4 AM cold email changed her career trajectory, why relationships are 15-year investments, and how she's revolutionizing entrepreneurship education by making it accessible to everyone—from medical doctors to people who never touched a college campus. This episode is essential listening for anyone interested in corporate innovation, venture building, or understanding how diverse perspectives create entrepreneurial magic.

Chapters

[00:00:00] Cold Open - The 4 AM Email That Changed Everything
[00:01:25] Episode Introduction
[00:01:35] Guest Introduction & Background
[00:03:19] From Consultant to Entrepreneur - Making the Jump
[00:07:04] Management Consulting Lessons - Relationships Matter
[00:14:56] Building an Agency - 30 Failed Proposals to Success
[00:24:08] First EIR Role at Citi Ventures
[00:29:29] Impact Entrepreneurship at Zinc VC
[00:46:34] Joining Oneday - From 2 Hours to Head of Faculty
[00:53:08] Building a Network of 120+ EIRs
[00:58:15] The Power of Diverse Networks
[01:02:35] Long-term Relationships & 15-Year Connections
[01:06:32] Call to Action & Connect with Mia
[01:07:27] Hidden Talent - Spanish Property Development
[01:10:27] Host Reflection - The Onion Episode

Key Takeaways

1. EIR roles find you, you don't find them - These positions are typically created specifically for individuals based on their unique skills and network, not posted as traditional job openings.
2. Relationships are decades-long investments - Mia's first employee from 15 years ago is now a founder she works with again, demonstrating the compound value of professional relationships.
3. Diversity is a superpower in entrepreneurship - Oneday's cohorts include everyone from medical doctors to people without degrees, creating an environment where everyone gets humbled and learns.
4. Impact ventures require more patience than commercial ones - Social entrepreneurship needs longer timelines and government support, but persistence eventually pays off.
5. Speed and partnerships beat traditional RFPs for small players - After 30 failed proposals, one creative partnership transformed Mia's struggling agency into a success.

Notable Quotes

[00:03:35] Mia Bennett: "I ended up in a role that I absolutely loved, great team, great projects. And I felt if I don't make the jump, I will never leave."

[00:17:10] Mia Bennett: "After we did about 30 [proposals], I didn't get anything. I was like, that's it. I am NOT doing any more proposals."

[00:41:46] Terrance Orr: "Usually your EIR role is created for you or it finds you. You don't find it."

[00:40:27] Ilya Tabakh: "This is sort of the concept of the ten or fifteen year overnight success... the story you get directly and what could have gone wrong, how high were the highs, how low were the lows is completely different than the TechCrunch article."

[01:03:22] Mia Bennett: "A lot of these relationships last... my very first employee when I was at the agency, fast forward fifteen years, he's a founder of a really interesting Microsoft. I'm now working with him again."

Organizations & Resources Mentioned

• Oneday - Entrepreneurship MBA program (https://www.oneday.org/)
• Citi Ventures - Corporate innovation arm of Citigroup
• D10X - Citi Ventures' incubator program
• Zinc VC - Impact-focused venture builder (https://www.zinc.vc/)
• PwC - Professional services firm where Mia built emerging tech practice
• IBM - Where Mia received initial consulting training
• Mach49 - Venture building firm mentioned by Terrance
• SAP.iO - SAP's venture studio program
• EMC - IT infrastructure company where Terrance received sales training
• Book: "This Diary Will Change Your Life" by Benrik
• Book: "The Almanac of Naval Ravikant" - Mentioned by Ilya

🔗 Connect with Mia Bennett

▪️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/miabennett
▪️ Twitter/X: https://x.com/miaotsoa

🔗 Connect with EIR Live

▪️ Terrance Orr on LinkedIn: /in/terranceorr
 ▪️ Ilya Tabakh on LinkedIn: /in/ilyatabakh
 ▪️ Website: https://eir.live (sign up for early access)
▪️ LinkedIn: /company/eirlive
▪️ YouTube: @eirlive
▪️ Twitter/X: @LiveEIR
▪️ Suggest Guest: https://forms.gle/FQrBHoM3sU18gF3y8

• (00:00) - Cold Open - The 4 AM Email That Changed Everything

In this engaging episode of EIR Live, Rachel Burton, an accomplished entrepreneur, innovator, and biofuels expert, shares her remarkable journey from mechanic to leading authority in bioenergy and innovation. Rachel discusses how her unconventional path—starting with agriculture and mechanics—led to founding Piedmont Biofuels, pioneering sustainability initiatives, and later influencing global bioenergy commercialization strategies at Novozymes. With vivid anecdotes, Rachel emphasizes the importance of risk-taking, problem-solving through innovation, and the essential role of water infrastructure in industrial processes. Entrepreneurs, innovators, and educators will find her insights invaluable as she navigates from hands-on problem-solving to strategic innovation roles within large corporations and academia. This conversation underscores the power of charting one's own path and embracing the unexpected opportunities that arise along the entrepreneurial journey.

Chapters:

• [00:00:00] Introduction & Key Takeaways Preview
• [00:07:29] Guest Introduction & Networking Connections
• [00:08:45] Rachel's Accidental Entry into Entrepreneurship
• [00:13:37] From Transmission Repair to Trade School
• [00:17:11] The Early Biofuels Industry Landscape
• [00:21:14] Scaling from Pilot to Commercial Production
• [00:25:00] Innovation Born from Water Infrastructure Challenges
• [00:29:08] Transition to Novozymes & Corporate Culture Shock
• [00:32:47] Pace Differences: Startup vs. Corporate
• [00:36:23] Becoming an EIR at UNC Chapel Hill
• [00:39:24] The Role of Connective Tissue in Innovation
• [00:43:50] Academic vs. Commercial Incentive Alignment
• [00:46:47] North Carolina's Collaborative Ecosystem
• [00:51:11] Evolution of the EIR Role & Venture Studios
• [00:54:12] Teaching Entrepreneurship with AI Tools
• [00:56:51] Dream EIR Opportunities in AgTech & Biotech
• [00:58:32] Reshaping the PhD Experience for Innovation
• [01:02:16] Building a Home Lab During COVID
• [01:04:55] Connecting with Rachel & Closing Thoughts

Key Takeaways:

• Innovation often arises from necessity—embrace problems as opportunities.
• Taking unconventional paths can lead to pioneering opportunities in emerging sectors.
• Collaboration between academia, industry, and entrepreneurship fosters robust innovation ecosystems.
• Effective entrepreneurs navigate both startup and corporate cultures adeptly.
• Venture studios provide critical support for deep-tech startups, significantly accelerating innovation and commercialization.

Notable Quotes:

"If you're a startup founder, you don't really know any other pace." [00:00:51] – Rachel Burton

"Necessity is my favorite driver for innovation." [00:28:40] – Ilya Tabakh

"There's something special about North Carolina as a state where they want to work with each other." [00:46:47] – Terrance Orr

"Farmers in many countries are natural innovators because necessity being the mother of invention." [01:04:03] – Rachel Burton

Organizations & Resources Mentioned:

• Piedmont Biofuels - https://x.com/piedmontbiofuel
• Novozymes (now Novonesis) - https://www.novozymes.com/en
• Activate Fellows - https://www.activate.org/
• Flagship Pioneering - https://www.flagshippioneering.com/
• ProcessWerx - https://processwerx.com/

North Carolina Ecosystem Resources:

• Research Triangle Park (RTP) - https://www.rtp.org/
• UNC Kickstart Venture Services - https://innovate.unc.edu/startup-accelerators-and-venture-services/kickstart-venture-services/
• NC IDEA - https://ncidea.org/
• North Carolina Center for Entrepreneurial Development (CED) - https://cednc.org/
• University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - https://www.unc.edu/
• Duke University - https://duke.edu/
• NC State University - https://www.ncsu.edu/
• Small Business & Technology Development Center (SBTDC) - https://www.ncsbc.net/

Connect with Rachel Burton:

• LinkedIn

Connect with EIR Live:

• Terrance Orr on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/terranceorr
• Ilya Tabakh on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ilyatabakh
• Website: eir.live
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/eirlive
• YouTube: youtube.com/@EIRLive
• Twitter: twitter.com/EIRLive_show
• Suggest Guest

• (00:00) - Introduction & Key Takeaways Preview

Meet Sam Arbesman, Lux Capital's pioneering Scientist in Residence who has spent over a decade redefining what it means to be "in residence" at a venture capital firm. With a PhD in computational biology and a background spanning complex systems and network science, Sam represents a new breed of venture capitalist—one who follows curiosity rather than convention. In this fascinating conversation, Sam shares his journey from "Little Sam" in Buffalo tinkering with Commodore computers to becoming the connective tissue between cutting-edge science and frontier technology investments. Learn how his grandfather's science fiction collection shaped his worldview, why being a "weirdo" in organizations is valuable, and how he uses an undirected, curiosity-driven approach to identify breakthrough opportunities. Don't miss his upcoming book "The Magic of Code" releasing June 10th.

Chapters 
[00:00:00] Cold Open - "Send Me Your Weirdos" 
[00:00:41] Introduction - First Scientist in Residence 
[00:02:08] Little Sam's Origins - Grandfather's Influence & Science Fiction 
[00:03:36] Early Technology Exposure - Commodore VIC-20 
[00:05:32] Internet Access & Academic Journey 
[00:07:24] Complex Systems & Interdisciplinary Fellowship 
[00:08:38] Pursuing the "Weird Thing" - Dissertation Without Biology 
[00:15:10] Curiosity-Driven Exploration & Library Adventures 
[00:17:58] Writing for Popular Audiences - The Half-Life of Facts 
[00:21:23] Leaving Academia 
[00:25:09] Becoming Scientist in Residence at Lux Capital 
[00:30:53] Day-to-Day Role - Surveying Science & Technology 
[00:33:41] Upstream vs Downstream Investment Work 
[00:37:24] Outlier Roles in Organizations 
[00:39:48] Hedgehogs vs Foxes - Different Thinking Styles 
[00:43:26] Evaluating Ideas - Following Excitement 
[00:46:46] Dark Night of the Soul - Career Transition 
[00:51:51] Creating Outlier Roles 
[00:55:18] Networks Beat Knowledge in Venture Capital 
[00:56:52] Science Fiction Authors & Startups 
[00:59:12] Advice for GPs - Finding Your Own Weirdos 
[01:02:11] The Magic of Code - June 10th Release 
[01:06:32] Book Recommendations 
[01:10:50] Post-Episode Reflection

Key Takeaways

1. Embrace Being the "Weirdo" [00:37:24] - Organizations need outlier roles filled by people who don't fit traditional categories. These boundary-spanners identify opportunities specialists miss.
2. Follow Curiosity, Not Systems [00:37:24] - In high-dimensional search spaces, undirected exploration focused on "interestingness" yields better results than systematic approaches.
3. Networks Trump Knowledge [00:55:18] - The breadth and depth of your network across different domains provides more value in venture capital than deep expertise alone.
4. Create Your Own Role [00:50:24] - Non-traditional positions rarely have job postings. You must proactively craft these opportunities with organizations that understand their value.
5. Think Like a Fox [00:39:48] - In rapidly changing environments, generalists who connect insights across domains outperform specialists focused on one area.

Notable Quotes
[00:49:28] "I've become this weird, hyper generalist that is so far removed from any specific expertise that I no longer have any value to any organization." - Sam Arbesman

[00:56:43] "The real coin of the realm in venture is the depth and breadth of your network." - Sam Arbesman

[00:37:37] "If everyone becomes so busy and specialized that they don't have bandwidth for exploration, the organization might not be as resilient." - Sam Arbesman

[01:07:04] "Send me your weirdos, like just interesting people, interesting ideas, things that don't fit. This is my catnip." - Sam Arbesman

Resources Mentioned

• Lux Capital: https://www.luxcapital.com/
• Kauffman Foundation: https://www.kauffman.org/
• Santa Fe Institute: https://www.santafe.edu/
• The Half-Life of Facts by Samuel Arbesman
• Overcomplicated by Samuel Arbesman
• The Magic of Code (June 10)
• Why Greatness Cannot Be Planned by Kenneth Stanley & Joel Lehman
• Inventing the Renaissance by Ada Palmer
• The Baroque Cycle by Neal Stephenson
• Idea Machines podcast by Ben Reinhart

Connect with Sam Arbesman:

• Website
• LinkedIn
• Newsletter: The Cabinet of Wonders
• Podcast: The Orthogonal Bet

Connect with EIR Live:

• Terrance Orr on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/terranceorr
• Ilya Tabakh on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ilyatabakh
• Website: eir.live
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/eirlive
• YouTube: youtube.com/@EIRLive
• Twitter: twitter.com/EIRLive_show
• Suggest Guest

• (00:00) - Cold Open - "Send Me Your Weirdos"

In this episode of EIR Live, hosts Terrance Orr and Ilya Tabakh sit down with John Lynn, Co-Founder of Quay Acceleration, an accelerator-as-a-service organization. John, an experienced entrepreneur-in-residence (EIR) with an extensive background in community-driven innovation, shares his unique journey—from building international business connections in Japan to orchestrating transformative startup accelerators across corporate, governmental, and academic landscapes. This episode delves deeply into how John leverages community principles, storytelling, and strategic networks to successfully foster innovation ecosystems. Listeners gain valuable insights on effectively implementing accelerator models, harnessing sustainable self-interest, and understanding the critical role narrative plays in securing buy-in from stakeholders.

Chapters

• [00:00:00] Episode Opening - Corporate Innovation Fatigue
• [00:00:57] Podcast Introduction
• [00:01:41] Guest Introduction - John Lynn
• [00:02:32] John's Background and Quay Acceleration
• [00:04:08] John's International Experience Introduction
• [00:04:55] First Startup Experience in Japan
• [00:08:28] Community Building and Accelerator Methodology
• [00:09:00] Power of Sustainable Self-interest
• [00:11:51] Transition into Techstars
• [00:16:31] The Importance of Storytelling
• [00:17:55] MVP Development and Hustle Culture
• [00:26:19] KJ Singh and Techstars Experience
• [00:28:07] First EIR Role Journey
• [00:34:07] EIR Roles and Different Structures
• [00:38:52] Building Sustainable Innovation Ecosystems
• [00:42:31] Government and Community-led Accelerators
• [00:49:56] Ideal Structure for EIR Roles
• [00:52:04] Closing Thoughts on Providing Networks Over Ideas

Key Takeaways

• Successful innovation ecosystems rely heavily on understanding and harnessing community dynamics and sustainable self-interest
• Storytelling is critical for startup success, enabling founders to inspire stakeholders beyond just presenting data points
• MVP strategies, even if analog or basic, can be highly effective and cost-efficient ways to validate market fit and engage early adopters
• Government and local communities are increasingly critical in supporting and driving innovation ecosystems post-pandemic
• The best support EIRs can offer entrepreneurs involves leveraging their network to provide tangible access and opportunities

Notable Quotes

• "Selfishness and selflessness equally poor foundations for a community. Great communities thrive on give and take." [00:09:33] - John Lynn
• "Storytelling is a superpower. It's not about getting someone to trust you—it's about inspiring them." [00:17:25] - John Lynn
• "The real reason an MVP is effective is not because it's cheap, but because it's fair to your customer." [00:24:16] - John Lynn
• "Next time you talk to an entrepreneur, don't give them your ideas—give them your network." [00:52:04] - John Lynn

Organizations & Resources Mentioned

• Quay Acceleration 
• Techstars
• BetaSpring (now RevUp)
• SAP NextGen
• Startup Institute

Connect with John Lynn

• LinkedIn: John Lynn
• Website: Quay Acceleration

Connect with EIR Live:

• Terrance Orr on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/terranceorr
• Ilya Tabakh on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ilyatabakh
• Website: eir.live
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/eirlive
• YouTube: youtube.com/@EIRLive
• Twitter: twitter.com/EIRLive_show
• Suggest Guest

In this episode of EIR Live, co-hosts Ilya Tabakh and Terrance Orr welcome Matthias Ørum-Hansen, an entrepreneur with a diverse career spanning product management, innovation, and entrepreneurship across family-owned brands like LEGO, Ricola, and Bang & Olufsen. Matthias shares his unique journey from being a startup founder to becoming a Founder in Residence (FIR) at LEGO, ultimately spinning out an innovative audio technology company.

The conversation explores the complexities of corporate innovation, the challenges of being an entrepreneur within large organizations, and the importance of understanding organizational dynamics. Matthias provides insights into his non-linear career path, emphasizing adaptability, learning across different industries, and the value of bringing fresh perspectives to established companies.

Key Points from This Episode:
[00:00:00] Introduction: Matthias discusses his background in creating Game Analytics, a software analytics platform for game developers
[00:04:35] Early Career: Dropping out of college to pursue entrepreneurship in Denmark
[00:09:00] Bang & Olufsen Experience: Leading product innovation in a legacy electronics company
[00:11:38] Ricola Consulting: Helping a family-owned brand redesign product innovation processes
[00:17:06] LEGO Ventures: Becoming the first Founder in Residence and exploring new innovation opportunities
[00:22:57] Startup Spinout: Negotiating and launching an independent audio technology company
[00:33:32] AI Pivot: Shifting focus to AI-driven content generation
[00:49:43] Career Reflection: Discussing the value of working with iconic brands and making meaningful impact
[00:56:17] Dream EIR Role: Aspiring to work on high-impact projects in areas like healthcare, nutrition, or climate change
[00:57:38] Future Career Aspirations: Exploring potential next steps in entrepreneurship and innovation
[00:59:39] EIR Network Support: Discussing how the community can help in his current career search
[01:01:10] Innovation Insights: Reflections on corporate innovation and entrepreneurial spirit
[01:02:33] Closing Thoughts: Final perspectives on the importance of innovative thinking

Episode Links:

• Matthias Ørum-Hansen on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/flugge
• GameAnalytics: gameanalytics.com
• Bang & Olufsen: bang-olufsen.com
• Ricola: ricola.com
• LEGO Ventures: legoventures.com

Connect with EIR Live:

• Terrance Orr on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/terranceorr
• Ilya Tabakh on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ilyatabakh
• Website: eir.live
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/eirlive
• YouTube: youtube.com/@EIRLive
• Twitter: twitter.com/EIRLive_show
• Suggest Guest

• (00:00) - Introduction and Matthias's Startup Background

Episode Description

In this episode of Entrepreneur in Residence, co-hosts Ilya Tabakh and Terrance Orr welcome Dr. Loleta Robinson, a four-time Entrepreneur in Residence (EIR) with a background in medicine and business. Dr. Robinson shares her transformative career journey from clinical medicine to entrepreneurship and EIR roles across corporate, government, and startup ecosystems. She reflects on pivotal leaps of faith, the importance of community, lessons from international work in Africa, and her experience in startup co-founding and advisory roles.

The conversation explores how Dr. Robinson's diagnostic mindset fuels her ability to navigate complex EIR roles, the significance of network-based opportunities, and balancing professional pursuits with her passion for fly fishing. Aspiring EIRs and entrepreneurial professionals will gain valuable insights into resilience, adaptability, and pursuing diverse EIR pathways.

Key Points from This Episode:
[00:00:00] Introduction of Dr. Loleta Robinson: Terrance highlights Dr. Robinson’s background as a serial EIR and her transition from medicine to entrepreneurship.
[00:04:25] First leap of faith: Dr. Robinson recounts her early transition into a medical diagnostics startup without prior business experience.
[00:07:02] Balancing science and business: She explains pursuing an MBA to blend her interest in science and business, joining the first MBA cohort at the University of Colorado Denver.
[00:12:45] Pivoting to MedImmune: Transitioning to biotech with MedImmune, working on the intranasal flu vaccine while learning large-scale commercialization.
[00:16:55] Founding a diagnostics company: Co-founding a melanoma diagnostics startup and the challenges of funding, regulatory hurdles, and tech transfer.
[00:20:30] First CMO role: Dr. Robinson describes her first Chief Medical Officer position, balancing scientific rigor with startup needs.
[00:23:50] Joining Blue Cross Blue Shield as an EIR: Introduction to venture capital, sourcing startups, and conducting due diligence.
[00:28:18] Transition to advisory EIR roles: Contrasting the hands-on role at Blue Cross with advisory roles at NIH and hospital systems.
[00:32:02] Importance of community: How organizations like Women in Bio shaped her entrepreneurial journey.
[00:36:45] Networking as a pathway: Securing EIR roles through referrals and relationships with mentors and industry contacts.
[00:41:11] Perseverance in the face of bias: Dr. Robinson reflects on her experience navigating rooms where she was often the only Black woman.
[00:45:33] Resilience in setbacks: Discussing failures and the importance of continuing to move forward despite obstacles.
[00:49:05] Passion for fly fishing: How fly fishing became a hobby that parallels her approach to life and career—embracing challenges and growth.
[00:52:42] Building diverse communities: Supporting initiatives that foster inclusive outdoor spaces and networks for women and underrepresented groups.
[00:56:00] Final reflections: Dr. Robinson shares advice on adapting, staying curious, and taking strategic leaps of faith in life and career.

Episode Links:

• Loleta Robinson on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/loletarobinson/ 
• Women in Bio: https://womeninbio.org/ 
• United Women on the Fly (fly fishing organization): https://uwotf.com/ 
• University of Colorado at Anschutz Joint Degree Programs: https://medschool.cuanschutz.edu/education/md-admissions/about-cu-school-of-medicine/joint-degree-programs

Connect with EIR Live:

• Terrance Orr on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/terranceorr/ 
• Ilya Tabakh on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ilyatabakh/
• Website: https://eir.live (sign up for early access)
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/eirlive
• YouTube: https://youtube.com/@EIRLive
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/EIRLive_show
• Suggest Guest
  
  

• (00:00) - Guest Introduction

Episode Description
In this episode of Entrepreneur in Residence (EIR) Live, Ilya Tabakh and Terrance Orr host Jen Millard, a first-generation college student turned serial entrepreneur and operator. Jen discusses her transformative journey from starting her career at Sears to becoming an EIR at Sutter Hill Ventures. Along the way, she reflects on lessons from building high-performance teams, handling crises in startups, and her new venture, Maine Love, leveraging Maine's natural resources to create sustainable impact. The conversation touches on the importance of risk tolerance, the value of structured training programs, and leaving a legacy in business.

Key Points from This Episode:
[00:00:00] Jen reflects on her fearless approach to taking on challenging roles early in her career.
[00:01:00] Ilya introduces the episode and shares his initial meeting with Jen in Austin.
[00:02:04] Jen discusses starting her career at Sears and the importance of structured training programs.
[00:06:15] Insights into how operational experiences shaped Jen's ability to handle high-stakes responsibilities.
[00:09:48] Lessons from managing financial crises and addressing tough decisions at a struggling startup.
[00:14:35] The emotional toll and personal growth from managing layoffs and handling business closures.
[00:17:45] Jen talks about learning from failures and how they shaped her entrepreneurial resilience.
[00:20:13] Co-founding a fintech startup and innovating card-linked offers for consumers.
[00:22:38] Making a pivotal decision to sell the fintech company to Mastercard amid competitive challenges.
[00:27:04] The transition to becoming an EIR at Sutter Hill Ventures and exploring new ideas.
[00:32:20] Developing and presenting a new company idea every two weeks as an EIR.
[00:35:47] Building high-performance teams with trust and adaptability as foundational principles.
[00:40:10] Jen explains her latest venture, Maine Love, and its focus on utilizing underused brewery capacity.
[00:51:25] The collaboration and community spirit driving innovation in Maine’s brewing industry.
[00:57:20] Jen shares personal hobbies, including reading fiction and engaging in oyster farming.
[01:01:32] Closing thoughts and Jen’s call for support in building a sustainable water economy in Maine.

Links:

• Jen Millard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenmillard/
• mainelove: https://mainelove.com/
• Geary's Brewing: https://www.gearybrewing.com/  
• Colby College entrepreneurship program: https://www.colby.edu/halloran-lab-for-entrepreneurship/colby-startups/
• Sutter Hill Ventures: https://shv.com/ 
• MasterCard: https://www.mastercard.us/en-us.html 
• Cardlytics: https://www.cardlytics.com/ 
• Terrance Orr on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/terranceorr/ 
• Ilya Tabakh on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ilyatabakh/

Connect with EIR Live:

• Website: https://eir.live (sign up for early access)
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/eirlive
• YouTube: https://youtube.com/@EIRLive
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/EIRLive_show
• Suggest Guest

• (00:00) - Fearless Beginnings

Episode Description
In this episode of Entrepreneur in Residence (EIR) Live, hosts Ilya Tabakh and Terrance Orr talk with MK (Musaddeq Khan), a serial entrepreneur and experienced EIR. MK shares insights into his journey from founding startups to coaching entrepreneurs in programs like the Georgia State Mainstreet Fund and the ATDC. He discusses how his experiences in multiple countries have shaped his resilience, why adaptability is essential in entrepreneurship, and the significance of a customer-focused approach in product development. The conversation explores MK's role at Nokia Ventures, his perspective on regulated industries, and the transformative mindset needed to thrive as an EIR.

Key Points from This Episode:
[00:00:00] MK (Musaddeq Khan) shares his early experiences growing up in Iraq, Kuwait, and the U.S., describing how constant relocation shaped his resilience.

[00:01:12] Ilya introduces the purpose and goals of EIR Live, aiming to explore the entrepreneurial mindset and experience.

[00:02:35] Terrance introduces MK, noting his extensive entrepreneurial journey and achievements.

[00:03:45] MK discusses his international upbringing and the cultural adjustments that influenced his adaptability.

[00:07:17] MK reflects on his transition to startups after early corporate experiences, highlighting lessons learned.

[00:10:20] How founding his first startup during the Great Recession taught him the importance of seizing opportunities in challenging times.

[00:13:43] MK explains strategies for entering and innovating in regulated industries, such as utilities.

[00:16:50] Importance of a customer-centered, outcome-driven approach in product development and management.

[00:19:10] MK describes the “carrot and stick” regulatory dynamic that influences product development in utilities.

[00:22:56] MK talks about his transition to EIR roles and the impact of mentorship on his growth as an entrepreneur.

[00:26:30] Reflections on how company culture can enable or hinder an EIR’s ability to innovate.

[00:30:45] MK discusses his role at Georgia State’s Mainstreet Fund, supporting entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds.

[00:36:20] Insights into coaching growth-stage companies at ATDC and guiding product development.

[00:40:09] MK explains the importance of patient, long-term investment in innovation and entrepreneurship.

[00:47:10] Emphasis on the need for an EIR to align with a company’s strategy and contribute to meaningful, sustainable growth.

[00:52:37] MK describes Nokia Ventures’ approach to commercializing Bell Labs’ legacy technology for new uses.

[01:00:40] How mentoring and supporting emerging entrepreneurs gives Khan a deep sense of purpose.

[01:06:25] Advice for founders on prioritizing coachability and a problem-solving mindset.

[01:13:59] MK reflects on the importance of embracing ambiguity and unpredictability as an entrepreneur.

[01:18:15] Final thoughts from Khan on resilience, adaptability, and the pursuit of meaningful challenges in entrepreneurship.

Links:

• MK (Musaddeq Khan) on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mkhan
• Georgia State Mainstreet Fund: https://eni.gsu.edu/category/main-street-seed-fund/ 
• Terrance Orr on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/terranceorr/ 
• Ilya Tabakh on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ilyatabakh/

• 🎥 watch at https://youtu.be/x0Irnq11Xa0

Connect with EIR Live:

• Website: https://eir.live (sign up for early access)
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/eirlive
• YouTube: https://youtube.com/@EIRLive
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/EIRLive_show
• Suggest Guest

• (00:00) - Early experiences

Episode Description
In this episode of Entrepreneur in Residence (EIR) Live, hosts Ilya Tabakh and Terrance Orr talk with Jeanine Suah, an influential community builder and entrepreneur. Jeanine shares her unique path from community-driven roles in large corporations to pioneering initiatives in the B2B space with a focus on authentic growth and impact. Her insights cover everything from building sustainable communities in business to the essential role of vulnerability in leadership. Listen in as she discusses the strategy behind community as currency, reflects on the evolving landscape for entrepreneurs in residence (XIR), and gives practical advice for founders aspiring to create meaningful, lasting impact through community.

Key Points from This Episode:

[00:00:00] Opening thoughts on rethinking B2B growth through authentic relationships.

[00:00:59] Ilya introduces EIR Live and its focus on entrepreneurial journeys.

[00:02:05] Jeanine’s background in community-led growth and her transition to a founder role.

[00:04:08] Jeanine’s first exposure to tech and community at Station House coworking space.

[00:07:05] The impact of grassroots initiatives like "1 Million Cups" in community building.

[00:08:17] Jeanine’s entrepreneurial path from the Doyenne Company to launching Think Global.

[00:09:00] Navigating the challenges of COVID-19 and its effects on physical community spaces.

[00:10:18] The motivation behind founding Find and addressing founder funding challenges.

[00:13:00] Transition to XIR roles and insights into building communities for brands like Brex.

[00:18:10] Building a brand presence and the value of digital visibility in community building.

[00:21:20] Defining the XIR role and explaining it to non-tech stakeholders.

[00:24:00] How content creation supports community and business growth.

[00:27:08] Importance of clarity in B2B communication and simplifying complex ideas.

[00:32:15] Jeanine reflects on the power of vulnerability in her personal and professional life.

[00:38:25] Embracing challenges as essential for growth in entrepreneurship.

[00:40:40] Three steps to building a community-led business: purpose, product, and authenticity.

[00:44:05] Case studies of successful community-focused companies, including Beehive.

[00:51:15] Jeanine's new LinkedIn show "About Community" and goals for community content.

[00:55:35] How LinkedIn's content strategy is evolving in community engagement.

[01:02:20] Book recommendation: The Courage to Be Disliked and its impact on Jeanine’s outlook.

[01:06:40] Reflections on her dream XIR role—building out XIR programs at future companies.

[01:07:58] Terrance shares his excitement about the episode, emphasizing Jeanine's impact in defining community as currency and the leadership value of vulnerability.

[01:08:37] Ilya and Terrance discuss how Jeanine’s advice on intentionality and authenticity offers a blueprint for building meaningful business relationships.

[01:09:12] Terrance highlights the importance of embracing vulnerability and pushing comfort zones for personal and professional growth.

[01:09:50] Ilya contemplates the difference between community and ecosystem, reflecting on how Jeanine’s precision in defining terms can influence EIR Live’s own community-building efforts.

[01:10:30] Both hosts express anticipation for the audience's reaction and the lasting value of Jeanine's insights.

Links:

• Jeanine Suah on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeaninesuah
• The Courage To Be Disliked: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/43306206-the-courage-to-be-disliked 
• Terrance Orr on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/terranceorr/ 
• Ilya Tabakh on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ilyatabakh/

Connect with EIR Live:

• Website: https://eir.live (sign up for early access)
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/eirlive
• YouTube: https://youtube.com/@EIRLive
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/EIRLive_show
• Suggest Guest

• (00:00) - Rethinking B2B Growth Clip

Episode Description

In this episode of Entrepreneur in Residence (EIR) Live, Ilya Tabakh and Terrance Orr sit down with Paul Capriolo, a venture principal at Portfolio T, to explore his journey from building successful companies to becoming a Venture Studio leader. Paul delves into his experiences in various industries, discusses the founder mentality, and shares his unique approach to risk reduction in startups. The conversation touches on the importance of self-growth, the role of venture studios in shaping entrepreneurs, and how AI is revolutionizing venture building. For aspiring EIRs, seasoned entrepreneurs, and startup enthusiasts alike, this episode offers valuable insights into the evolving landscape of entrepreneurship.

Key Points from This Episode:

• Introduction of Paul Capriolo and his background in computer science and entrepreneurship. [00:04:12]
• Transitioning from social gaming and advertising to being a Venture Studio leader. [00:06:16]
• The role of vulnerability in building trust with founding teams and the challenges of advising versus leading a venture. [00:08:01]
• Exploring the difference between technical founders and broader business challenges in early ventures. [00:11:17]
• Challenges faced while working with founding teams, including identifying assumptions and risks. [00:11:56]
• The concept of startups as “risk reduction factories” and how to prioritize risks in venture building. [00:18:45]
• Paul’s “risk-weighted venture building” approach and the importance of running at risks rather than avoiding them. [00:20:16]
• The significance of mission-driven entrepreneurship and aligning teams with a clear vision. [00:24:02]
• Transition from reactive to proactive decision-making and defining priorities in startup leadership. [00:26:19]
• Paul's role as an EIR at the University of Maryland and how it contrasts with his work at a Venture Studio. [00:27:48]
•  Insights on the codified methodology of venture building and knowing when to deviate from the playbook. [00:37:15]
•  Why the zero-to-one phase of venture building excites Paul more than scaling mature companies. [00:41:42]
•  The role of AI in accelerating venture building and the possibility of creating billion-dollar companies with minimal teams. [00:47:24]
• The importance of meditation and mindfulness in entrepreneurship for long-term success. [00:52:10]

Links:

• Paul Capriolo
• Portfolio T
• Terrence Orr
• Ilya Tabakh
• EIR Live

• (00:00) - EIR Live Show Intro