Entrepreneurs are most successful when they fit and have passion for what they are undertaking. The answers to critical questions such as these indicate the probability of making it: How do they relate to the solution they are bringing into the world? Do they have grit and determination, especially in the early stages? Are they humble enough and willing to seek help and support when and where they need it? Are they crazy enough to invest in?

In this episode, I (Daniel) interviewed Matt Hunckler, Founder and CEO of Powderkeg, and Christopher (Toph) Day, CEO of Elevate Ventures. Together with their friend, Nate Spangle, Matt and Toph are also the co-hosts of the podcast Get IN. As we spoke, Matt and Toph shared about their entrepreneurial journeys, invigorating connections, and founder market fit. They also talked about finishing well with excellent execution, safety and encouragement in community, empowering mental energy, and the upcoming Global Cross-Sector Innovation Rally Conference.

“How do you relate to the problem and the pain point?... Do I see what I’m doing as part of something bigger? And not from an ego standpoint… Even if I benefit nothing from this endeavor, do I feel good about making this contribution?” -- Matt Hunckler

What You’ll Learn

• Addressing problems
• Invigorating connections
• Founder market fit
• Grit and staying power
• Crazy enough to invest in
• Finishing well
• Safety and encouragement in community
• Empowering mental performance
• It’s about relationships
• Rally Conference

Recommended Resources

Rally Conference: The Largest Global Cross-Sector Innovation Conference will be held in Indianapolis, IN on AUGUST 29 - 31, 2023. Rally forges and celebrates cross-sector connections between companies, entrepreneurs, investors and universities from across the globe and features a $5M cash IN-Prize pitch competition, 1:1 investor meetups, a demo arena, content sessions and more!

Matt and Toph’s Podcast: Get IN

Connect with Matt Hunckler

Matt Hunckler is the Founder and CEO of Powderkeg, a digital community that helps startups and professionals thrive in the fastest growing tech hubs in the U.S. With more than 10,000 active members, Powderkeg cuts through the noise, amplifies reach, and helps high-growth tech ventures connect with the resources they need to grow and scale in areas beyond Silicon Valley. 

Matt believes life is too short to work at a boring job. That’s why he created Powderkeg. They help match smart people with the best tech jobs so they can love their work and live their best life.

In previous roles at various fast-growing tech companies, he led Marketing, Product, Sales and a smattering of just about every other role right up to the CEO and founder. He’s started and bootstrapped companies and helped scale venture-backed businesses. Matt loves helping people level up in their career, connect with their calling, and reach their fullest potential.

Website: powderkeg.com 

Innovation Capital of the World, Indiana Tech Hub: