Founders' Forum

Can AI supercharge your advertising strategy? Hikari Senju, CEO of Omneky, reveals how generative AI is reshaping personalized content and driving real results for brands. With a background in computer science from Harvard and a lifelong passion for technology and art, Hikari’s journey to founding Omneky seems almost inevitable.

In this episode, Hikari shares how his childhood experiences, cross-registering at MIT while at Harvard, and encountering early generative AI models sparked his vision to revolutionize advertising. He dives into the challenges of scaling Omneky, growing his team to 40 employees, and learning the delicate balance of delegation and leadership.

Key Takeaways:

• Mastering the Art of Delegation: Why trusting your team is essential for scaling a business.
• Building High-Performing Teams: The three key traits Hikari looks for when hiring—high integrity, high curiosity, and high energy.
• AI as a Collaborative Tool: How Hikari envisions AI augmenting, not replacing, human creativity.
• Leadership Lessons: Navigating team dynamics, communicating strategy, and fostering continuous growth.
• Omneky’s Vision for the Future: Taking the company public by 2027 or well on the path to an IPO.

Hikari’s story is a testament to blending innovation with purpose and scaling a company that empowers brands to leverage AI for maximum impact.

About Hikari Senju:

Hikari Senju is the Founder & CEO of Omneky, a generative AI company based in San Francisco that personalizes and orchestrates omnichannel creative content. Hikari previously studied Computer Science at Harvard, founded an edtech company which he sold to Yup.com and became its Head of Growth. Omneky, founded in 2018, has raised over $13M in seed from Softbank, AIX Ventures and Village Global. The company is the first mover in generative AI advertising, was the first generative AI company to pitch as a finalist at TechCrunch Disrupt, and most recently was highlighted in Jensen Huang's GTC keynote.

Connect:

Website omneky.com

LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/hikari-senju-63780199

X x.com/hisenju

This episode is brought to you by Omneky; Smarter Digital Ads For Scale. Go to omneky.com to learn more.

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In this milestone 100th episode celebration, we've assembled an all-star panel of previous guests to reflect on the journey so far, sharing the biggest lessons learned, unexpected challenges faced, and the inspiring stories that have shaped this community. This episode is filled with insights that not only celebrate how far we’ve come but also explore what’s ahead for entrepreneurs striving to build impactful businesses.

Through candid reflections and thoughtful conversations, this episode highlights the pivotal moments that have defined the Founders Forum. We also dive into the evolving landscape of entrepreneurship and offer actionable advice for those navigating their own paths to success.

Key Takeaways:

• The most impactful lessons learned from 100 episodes of conversations with successful founders.
• The mindset shifts that can transform how you approach challenges and opportunities.
• Finding and retaining talent, adapting to remote work, managing generational differences, and staying competitive in increasingly crowded markets.
• Their complicated relationship with artificial intelligence, where it can provide both opportunities and security concerns.
• Strategies for maintaining resilience during uncertain times and staying aligned with your vision.
• How embracing adaptability and change has led to unexpected breakthroughs.
• A preview of what’s next for the Founders Forum and how we plan to continue empowering entrepreneurs.

This special episode is packed with practical strategies and real-world advice that can transform your approach to business. Plus, we celebrate YOU—our loyal listeners—who’ve been with us every step of the way.

If you’ve loved the journey so far, don’t forget to rate, review, and share this episode with fellow founders. Let’s keep building a community where ideas, challenges, and victories are celebrated together.

Meet the Panelists:

Carl Fischer, Co-Founder of CamaPlan

Tina Hamilton, Founder and CEO of myHR Partner, Inc.

Bobby Keyes, Founder and CEO, ELITE Salons & Suites

Chris Lawson, Founder and Owner of Technician Find and Astute Social Media, LLC.

Craig Lerch, Associate Broker, 2 X Icon Exp Realty Internationally

Ray Loewe, Podcaster, Storyteller, World Traveler, and The Luckiest Guy in the World

Dawn Mahan, PMP, Founder & CEO of PMOtraining and Author of "Meet the Players in Projectland: Decide the Right Project Roles & Get People on Board" 

Ang Onorato, Founder of Living Oak Leadership

Keith Scandone, Co Founder and CEO of O3 World

This episode is brought to you by CamaPlan, A Different Way to Invest. Go to camaplan.com/foundersforum to learn more. And by The Satell Institute; the leading CEO organization dedicated to Corporate Social Responsibility. Go to satellinstitute.org to learn more.

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What if a single Google search could transform your small business overnight? That’s exactly what happened to Paul Downs, a custom furniture maker who went from struggling to find clients to building boardroom tables for the Pentagon, Federal Reserve, and even SEAL Team 6.

In this episode, Paul shares his 38-year entrepreneurial journey, from launching his business with no formal training to navigating the highs and lows of running a company in a rapidly evolving market. His big break came in 2003 when a photo of his boardroom table unexpectedly soared to the top of Google’s search rankings. That moment of digital luck led to nearly $70 million in revenue and a client list spanning the globe. But success wasn’t always smooth—Paul opens up about the challenges of surviving the 2008 recession, a turbulent business partnership, and the evolving landscape of craftsmanship in a digital world.

Key Takeaways:

• The Power of SEO: How a single well-ranked image can change a business forever.
• Resilience Through Challenges: Lessons from nearly shutting down during the 2008 recession.
• Modern Leadership in a Traditional Industry: Why Paul is rethinking management to attract the next generation of craftspeople.
• Adapting to a Changing Market: How video conferencing and shifting client needs are shaping the future of boardroom furniture.

Paul’s story is a testament to the power of adaptation, perseverance, and digital opportunity. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a craftsperson, or a business leader, this episode is packed with insights on navigating change and seizing unexpected opportunities.

Listen now and discover how a mix of luck, strategy, and resilience can redefine your business.

About Paul Downs:

Paul Downs started making custom furniture in 1986, after graduating from the University of Pennsylvania with a degree in engineering. His company employs 28 superb craftsmen, producing all of their work in Bridgeport, Pennsylvania.

Connect:

Website pauldowns.net

LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/paul-downs-278bb96

Instagram instagram.com/pauldownscustom

This episode is brought to you by CPR MultiMedia Solutions; A Full Service AV Event Solutions Provider. Go to cprmms.com to learn more.

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What if the key to business success isn't just working harder but choosing the right market? Alan Claypool's journey from IT project management to entrepreneurship is a powerful lesson in the importance of business models, demand, and strategic pivots.

After two decades managing complex IT projects, Alan founded TAC4 Solutions with a commitment to delivering results with integrity. But despite his expertise, his business was stuck in an unpredictable cycle—some years were highly profitable, while others left him without clients. The turning point? Realizing that a sustainable business depends on three factors: high market demand, low competition, and recurring revenue.

Alan’s initial business—IT project management for insurance companies—wasn’t built for long-term stability. However, he had already started offering statutory accounting services, an area that perfectly fit his criteria. Every insurer needs this service regularly, there are few qualified providers, and the work never stops. By pivoting, Alan transformed his business into a steady, thriving company.

Beyond strategy, Alan emphasizes the power of organizational culture. His approach—establishing clear behavioral ground rules—helped create high-trust, high-performance teams that outpaced competitors.

Key Takeaways:

• The right business model is more important than talent or effort—look for high demand, low competition, and recurring revenue.
• Pivoting to a sustainable niche can make the difference between struggle and success.
• Company culture directly impacts business success—clear behavioral expectations lead to better teamwork and outcomes.
• Entrepreneurship isn’t just about sales skills; it’s about finding the right market fit.

Tune in to hear Alan’s journey, the hard lessons he learned, and how you can apply these principles to build a resilient, profitable business.

About Alan Claypool:

Mr. Claypool is the President of TAC4 Solutions, which runs successful project implementations for insurance companies by instilling organizational health into a cohesive project team. Alan is also President of ARC Strategic Services that performs statutory accounting for insurance companies.

Connect:

Website tac4solutions.com

arcstrategicservices.com

LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/t-alan-claypool-6834205

This episode is brought to you by Caregiver Smart Solutions; Aging-in-Place technology solutions. Go to caregiversmartsolutions.com to learn more.

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What can the world of acting teach us about running a business? Keith Scandone, co-founder and CEO of O3 World, never expected that his background in acting would shape his approach to entrepreneurship. In this episode, Keith shares how vulnerability, creativity, and resilience—skills honed in the performing arts—became the foundation for his success in the competitive digital consultancy space.

We explore the challenges of standing out in a saturated market, the evolving role of AI in business strategy, and the importance of strong partnerships. Keith also discusses how company culture is shifting in a hybrid work environment and why fostering collaboration between businesses and clients is more critical than ever.

Key Takeaways:

• The unexpected ways acting prepares you for leadership and business success
• How to differentiate your company in a highly competitive industry
• The impact of AI on business strategy and decision-making
• Why the right business partnerships can make or break your success
• Strategies for adapting company culture to a hybrid workforce

Keith’s journey offers valuable insights for entrepreneurs navigating growth, change, and the future of business. Whether you’re scaling your company, exploring AI innovations, or redefining your leadership approach, this conversation is packed with actionable advice.

About Keith Scandone:

Keith is the Co Founder and CEO of O3 World, a digital experience consultancy. O3 provides AI strategy + digital consulting, experience design and software development for enterprise organizations. In addition to overseeing O3's vision and strategy for the last 20 years, Keith also plays an active role in the community. He and his team have hosted several industry leading events, most notably, the 1682 Conference, which is an AI and Innovation Conference going on it's 3rd year this Fall in Philadelphia. Keith also serves as mentor for several owners and sits on the Compass Pro Bono non profit board in DC.

Connect:

Website o3world.com

LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/keith-scandone

linkedin.com/company/o3-world

Instagram instagram.com/o3world

This episode is brought to you by Join Talent; elevate your hiring capability. Go to jointalent.net to learn more.

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Can creativity change the future of a city? In this episode, we dive into the power of storytelling, branding, and resilience with Deborah Brandt, founder of Fig Industries. As a leader in creative marketing and a champion for small businesses, Deb shares how Fig has helped revitalize local economies by connecting communities, supporting entrepreneurs, and fostering meaningful collaboration.

We explore how Fig Industries, a certified B Corporation, has navigated economic downturns and the pandemic while staying true to its mission. Deb also shares her vision for expanding Fig’s impact to cities nationwide and how creative leadership can transform businesses and communities alike.

Key Takeaways:

• The role of creativity in problem-solving and business success.
• How Fig Industries fosters local economic growth and community engagement.
• The challenges and rewards of leading a mission-driven creative business.
• Why resilience and collaboration are essential for long-term impact.
• How ethical business practices and storytelling drive meaningful change.

Whether you're an entrepreneur, a creative professional, or someone passionate about community impact, this conversation will inspire you to think differently about leadership, branding, and the future of small businesses.

About Deborah Brandt:

Deborah Brandt, owner of Fig Industries, has a passion for creative communication and an unwavering determination to help small businesses, which she considers the heartbeat of any community. A certified B Corporation, Fig Industries is a design and marketing studio specializing in branding and communications. 

Deborah also founded Fig magazine—a champion for small businesses and impactful organizations—currently franchised in 3 locations and poised to help many more cities grow and thrive. 

Connect:

Website figindustries.com

figmagazine.com

LinkedIn linkedin.com/company/fig-industries

Instagram instagram.com/figindustries

Facebook facebook.com/figindustries

This episode is brought to you by Fig Industries; meaningful and strategic brand development. Go to figindustries.com to learn more.

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What does it take to build a successful company in a competitive industry? In this episode, Daniel Dimitri, CEO of PharmaForce, shares his journey from Silicon Valley startups to leading a pioneering software company in the healthcare space. With experience at McKesson and Kaiser Permanente, Dan has navigated IPOs, corporate leadership, and the challenges of entrepreneurship—offering invaluable insights along the way.

We discuss the realities of scaling a business, the lessons learned from startup culture versus corporate environments, and how to make strategic decisions in high-pressure situations. Dan also shares his perspective on leadership, the importance of company culture, and how Stoic philosophy has shaped his approach to business and life.

Key Takeaways:

• The truth about startup IPOs—why success is built on adaptability, not a perfect plan.
• How Daniel transitioned from Silicon Valley to founding PharmaForce in the 340B pharmacy niche.
• The critical role of leadership and decision-making in scaling a business.
• How corporate politics differ from startup agility—and the lessons each can offer.
• The impact of workplace culture on long-term business success.
• Applying Stoic philosophy to leadership, decision-making, and personal growth.

Daniel’s story is a must-listen for entrepreneurs, executives, and business leaders looking to navigate challenges with confidence and clarity. Tune in now for an insightful conversation on innovation, strategy, and leadership.

About Daniel Dimitri:

Daniel Dimitri is the Co-Founder and CEO of PharmaForce, bringing over 25 years of experience in the Healthcare IT industry. Throughout his career, he has played a pivotal role in two startup IPOs in Silicon Valley and has held executive leadership positions at major corporations, including Kaiser Permanente and McKesson. With a deep understanding of both the startup landscape and large-scale healthcare enterprises, Daniel is dedicated to driving innovation and efficiency in the industry.

Connect:

Website thepharmaforce.com

LinkedIn linkedin.com/company/pharmaforcellc

Instagram instagram.com/thepharmaforce

Facebook facebook.com/thepharmaforce

X x.com/ThePharmaForce

This episode is brought to you by The Satell Institute; the leading CEO organization dedicated to Corporate Social Responsibility. Go to satellinstitute.org to learn more.

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What happens when everything you’ve carefully planned falls apart? In this episode, co-hosts Marc Bernstein and Ang Onorato turn an unexpected guest cancellation into a powerful conversation on resilience, adaptability, and the lessons that emerge from life’s disruptions. Drawing from personal experiences—including a business lost to fire, navigating health challenges while running a business, and overcoming financial hardship—they explore how setbacks often pave the way for growth and transformation.

In this episode, Marc and Ang discuss:

• The peaks and plummets of entrepreneurship and how to navigate them
• The power of vulnerability in leadership and client relationships
• Lessons from personal crises and how they shape business decisions
• Why you don’t need to be perfect—just 1% ahead to make an impact
• How to embrace uncertainty and turn setbacks into stepping stones

Whether you're an entrepreneur, business leader, or navigating personal challenges, this conversation is a reminder that resilience isn’t just about bouncing back—it’s about evolving.

Tune in and join the conversation. And if you found this episode valuable, share it with someone who might need to hear it!

This episode is brought to you by Heart + Paw, your pet’s wellness goes beyond veterinary care. Go to heartandpaw.com to learn more.

📅 New episodes every Wednesday—hit “Subscribe” now!

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How can design shape a more equitable and regenerative future? In this episode, we sit down with Nicole Dery, founder of Allelo Design, to explore the power of design research in tackling complex challenges. With a background in anthropology and a passion for understanding the interactions between people and their environment, Nicole has spent her career applying research-driven design to create meaningful change.

We dive into the role of design research in policy, technology, and climate impact, as well as how Allelo’s collaborative approach prioritizes partnerships over competition. Nicole shares how her company builds a strong, people-first culture by actively involving team members in decision-making, evaluating impact, and fostering a sense of shared purpose.

Key Takeaways:

• The connection between anthropology, design, and driving real-world change
• How design research informs problem-solving and innovation across industries
• Why partnership and collaboration are essential in the climate tech space
• How Allelo Design fosters a strong, engaged company culture
• The role of intuition and self-awareness in leadership and decision-making

At Allelo, design isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about creating tools that empower other businesses to make a lasting impact. Whether you're in design, entrepreneurship, or climate tech, this episode offers valuable insights into how thoughtful research and collaboration can shape the future.

Tune in now to learn how design can be a catalyst for meaningful change.

About Nicole Dery, MAA, PMP:

Nicole Dery is a design strategist and founder of Allelo Design, a user experience and interaction design studio helping climate tech companies create digital products that drive positive impact. With over 17 years of experience leading human-centered research and design initiatives across Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, and startups, she combines her training as an applied anthropologist with her passion for using design to tackle complex challenges like climate change.

Connect:

Website allelodesign.com

LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/nicole-dery

linkedin.com/company/allelo-design

Instagram instagram.com/shiftmakersclimate

TikTok tiktok.com/@shiftmakers

YouTube youtube.com/@ShiftMakersClimate

This episode is brought to you by Allelo Design; digital product design for ClimateTech. Go to allelodesign.com to learn more.

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Can what you eat impact the way you lead and grow a business? In this episode, we sit down with Amy Zitelman, co-founder of Soom Foods, to explore how mindful eating and strategic entrepreneurship go hand in hand. Amy shares her journey of bringing tahini—a nutrient-dense superfood—to the U.S. market and how it has become a kitchen staple for top chefs and health-conscious consumers alike.

Beyond food, Amy dives into the challenges and triumphs of running a family business, balancing work-life dynamics, and scaling Soom Foods with inventory mastery, third-party logistics, and the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS).

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• How mindful eating can reduce inflammation and improve overall well-being
• The entrepreneurial journey behind Soom Foods and the rise of tahini in the U.S.
• Tips for managing a family-run business while maintaining healthy boundaries
• How EOS fosters accountability and sustainable growth for small businesses
• The key strategies behind Soom Foods’ expansion and inventory management

Amy also reflects on the power of a strong support system, sharing how she balances motherhood, leadership, and personal wellness. Whether you're a food lover, entrepreneur, or business leader, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiration.

Tune in now to discover how intentional choices—both in food and business—can lead to long-term success!

About Amy Zitelman:

Amy started Soom Foods with her two older sisters in 2013, with a mission to make tahini a more popular ingredient in the US Market. Soom has been featured in Bon Appetit, Food and Wine, The New York Times and other media as they are the preferred tahini of top chefs like Michael Solomonov of Zahav Restaurant. Amy is the author of The Tahini Table cookbook and lives in Penn Valley with her husband and three sons.

Connect:

Website soomfoods.com

LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/amy-zitelman-07973b2b

linkedin.com/company/soom-foods

Instagram instagram.com/soomfoods

Facebook facebook.com/SoomFoods

This episode is brought to you by The Satell Institute; the leading CEO organization dedicated to Corporate Social Responsibility. Go to satellinstitute.org to learn more.

📅 New episodes every Wednesday—hit “Subscribe” now!

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🎤 Got a success story worth sharing?
We’re always looking for visionary founders to feature! Apply here to be a guest on the Founders' Forum Radio Show & Podcast.

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