In this episode of The Activated Entrepreneur Podcast, I sit down with my longtime friend Jon Laster—comedian, app founder, and living proof of what’s possible when passion meets purpose.

We grew up together, and he was mentored by my dad, who coached him in basketball and helped him earn a college scholarship. Today, Jon is not only making people laugh on stages across the country but also innovating in the tech world as the founder of Blapp—a revolutionary app focused on discovering and supporting Black-owned businesses.

We talk about:

• The impact of mentorship and growing up in our community

• How Jon transitioned from athlete to nationally touring comedian

• What inspired him to build Blapp and the challenges of launching an app

• Staying grounded while building a brand that makes people laugh—and think

• Full-circle reflections and advice for the next generation of creators and entrepreneurs

If you’re into stories of grit, creativity, purpose-driven tech, and a few laughs along the way, this is one you don’t want to miss.

Connect with Jon:

Website: www.blappapp.com 

Instagram: @blapptheapp | @hewasfunny

Connect with Brooke:

Website: www.brookeberndt.com 

Instagram: @brookeberndt.businesscoach

Facebook: Brooke Berndt

Stand Store: www.stan.store/brookeberndtbusinesscoach 

Shop: www.virtuebeautyco.com