Founders' Forum

Picture this: your business is suddenly thrown into chaos by an unexpected global event. What would you do? This episode presents an invaluable toolkit for navigating such unpredictable challenges with resilience and foresight. Ang leads us into the world of contingency planning with a poignant story about her sister's struggles, while our guest, Sathya Elumalai, an accomplished engineer and technology CEO, brings deep insights from the healthcare sector. Together, we unpack the essentials of documentation, cybersecurity, and flexible funding strategies, all vital components for business survival in tumultuous times.

We dive into Sathya's remarkable journey of innovation in healthcare technology. Inspired by his mother's chronic health battles, Sathya founded Aidar Health and developed MouthLab, a groundbreaking device that leverages AI to measure ten health parameters in under a minute. His story is one of passion and perseverance, overcoming entrepreneurial hurdles to make healthcare more accessible and proactive. The discussion reveals how personal experiences can drive technological advancements that transform patient care, especially in home settings.

As we wrap up, we shift focus to building a purpose-driven company. Sathya shares the importance of aligning personal and organizational values to attract top talent and foster a culture of innovation. With an ambitious goal to impact a billion people in a decade, the integral role of data science in revolutionizing healthcare delivery is highlighted.

About Sathya Elumalai:
Sathya Elumalai, Founder and CEO of Aidar Health, is a visionary in healthcare innovation. He has received several prestigious awards for his groundbreaking work, including the development of the FDA-cleared MouthLab device, which measures over 10 vital health parameters in under 60 seconds. A passionate advocate for delivering high-quality care remotely, Sathya is dedicated to improving the lives of patients with chronic conditions and their caregivers.

Connect:
aidar.com
linkedin.com/company/aidar
instagram.com/Aidar.Health
instagram.com/sathya.elumalai
facebook.com/AidarHealth
facebook.com/selumalai30
x.com/AidarHealth
x.com/SathyaElumalai
youtube.com/c/AidarHealth

This episode is brought to you by CamaPlan, A Different Way to Invest. Go to camaplan.com/foundersforum to learn more.

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What if you could maintain a positive outlook even when life throws its toughest challenges at you? Join us for a compelling episode where Craig Lerch, our guest co-host, and the insightful Dr. Nicole Lipkin, an internationally recognized psychologist, share their strategies for staying optimistic amid the chaos. Craig opens up about his three key life funnels—changing lives, making money, and having fun—as a means of finding purpose and staying present, even through personal setbacks like natural disasters. His approach sets the perfect stage for Dr. Lipkin's expert insights on fostering resilience and positivity in a turbulent world.

Nicole takes us on a journey through her fascinating life, from her upbringing in a supportive household that prioritized emotional well-being to her dual career in psychology and entrepreneurship. Raised by educators in the South Bronx, Nicole's parents taught her the importance of emotional intelligence and open communication, crucial values that have shaped her mission today. She also shares the evolution of her career, emphasizing the unique skills psychologists contribute to leadership and entrepreneurship. Through her ventures, Nicole aims to involve caregivers in mental health education, fostering better communication within families.

About Nicole Lipkin, Psy.D., MBA:
Dr. Nicole Lipkin is an internationally recognized clinical & organizational psychologist, executive coach, keynote speaker and CEO of Equilibria Leadership Consulting, a leadership and organizational development firm and Founder of HeyKiddo, a company dedicated to building leadership, social and emotional skills in children and their grownups. Nicole is a regular contributor to the broadcast community, including a column about the psychology of the workplace and leadership at forbes.com. She is the author of two popular business books “What Keeps Leaders Up At Night” and “Y in the Workplace: Managing the “Me First” Generation.” Her mission in life is to help leaders, no matter what age, lead from the inside out.

equilibrialeadership.com
hey-kiddo.com
nicolelipkin.com
linkedin.com/in/nicolelipkin
instagram.com/drnicolelipkin
x.com/DrNicoleLipkin
youtube.com/@drnicolelipkin
facebook.com/DrNicoleLipkin

This episode is brought to you by Verify Protect, Fast, Accurate, and Secure Background Checks. Go to VerifyProtect.com to learn more.

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What if the power of courageous conversations could transform both your personal and professional life? Join us as we uncover the bravery behind these honest discussions with insights from our guest, project management expert Dawn Mahan. Known for her transparency and spiritual preparation, Ang shares her personal journey towards clarity, while Marc Brookland emphasizes empathy and the importance of being ready for anything. Dawn opens up about her own vulnerability journey, recounting her experiences of sharing her entrepreneurial story and the strength that comes from being open.

Dawn's career journey is a testament to the unpredictable yet rewarding paths life can take. Inspired by her father's work ethic, she initially pursued mathematics but found herself diving into the world of IT during the Y2K era. An unforeseen opportunity in project management paved her way to success, illustrating the importance of adaptability, learning, and growth. Listen in as she reveals how combining known skills with new challenges led to her impactful career in project management.

From managing large-scale projects in a Fortune 500 company to launching her own successful consulting business, Dawn's story is filled with entrepreneurial challenges and triumphs. She shares her insights on the crucial role of selecting the right people for project roles and the benefits of an apprenticeship model amid evolving technology trends. Looking to the future, Dawn envisions scaling her business while emphasizing the value of self-awareness and therapy for personal and professional success.

About Dawn Mahan, PMP:
Dawn Mahan, PMP is Founder of PMOtraining.com, a C-suite advisor, award-winning consultant, international speaker, inventor or ProjectFlo®, author of the new bestselling book “Meet the Players in Projectland: Decide the Right Project Roles & Get People on Board” and has trained thousands of professionals around the world.

PMOtraining.com
linkedin.com/company/pmotraining
linkedin.com/in/dawnmahan
linkedin.com/showcase/projectguruacademy
instagram.com/dawnjmahan
twitter.com/pmotiger
facebook.com/PMOtiger
youtube.com/@PMOtraining

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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Discover how passion and innovation are the ultimate remedies for burnout as we sit down with Darrrell Jennings, co-founder and CEO of American Music Furniture Company. Darrell takes us on a journey from his days as a garage band guitarist to becoming a business leader with a mission to protect the instruments musicians hold dear. His personal battle with instrument damage sparked a venture that now crafts high-quality, handcrafted furniture designed to preserve and display valuable musical instruments. Darrell's story exemplifies the transformative power of reinvention and how staying engaged with one's passions can drive business success and maintain enthusiasm.

We also explore the impressive strides made by American Music Furniture in addressing the unique challenges of instrument preservation. Listen as we share how they overcame early obstacles like door warping with patented innovations, allowing them to serve a global clientele from Singapore to Australia. Their collaborations with high-profile clients, including wealthy investors and Hard Rock Cafe, hint at the company's promising future. With plans to expand production capabilities without compromising quality, Darrell's vision for the company is as bold as it is exciting. Join us to learn how passion-driven innovation can fuel growth and create enduring success in the business world.

About Darrell Jennings:
Following a career in IT and telecommunications Darrell Jennings co-founded American Music Furniture Company, LLC along with his brother in law Roger Horneff. Additional partners John Farrell and Matt Warner joined the company as it grew to become the premiere solution to preserve and display collectable guitars and classical stringed instruments.

Connect with Darrell:
Website americanmusicfurniture.com
Instagram instagram.com/americanmusicfurniture
Facebook facebook.com/AmericanMusicFurniture

This episode is brought to you by American Music Furniture; Experiential spaces reserved for musicians. Go to americanmusicfurniture.com to learn more.

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What if you could transform the veterinary industry and inspire future leaders? Join our conversation with Dr. George Melillo, the founder and chief veterinary officer of Heart + Paw, as he shares the secrets behind successful entrepreneurial growth and talent acquisition in a rapidly evolving field. Discover how aligning individual strengths with business needs through tools like the Kolbe Profile can revolutionize your approach to nurturing talent and driving innovation. Learn how to maintain a forward-thinking mindset amid labor shortages and the importance of dreamers in pushing the boundaries of what's possible.

Dr. Melillo's journey from veterinary practice to launching groundbreaking startups in human pharmaceuticals unveils a unique perspective on dealing with compassion fatigue and burnout in the veterinary world. By understanding the deep emotional bonds between people and their pets, and the financial pressures that can amplify caregiver stress, Dr. Melillo's experience brings to light the importance of minimal stress handling for animals. This heartfelt narrative not only rekindles his passion for innovation in veterinary care but also highlights how personal experiences can inspire meaningful change.

With technology transforming the landscape of veterinary care, Dr. Melillo discusses the pioneering model Heart + Paw is spearheading. By integrating AI diagnostics and online booking systems, they are setting new standards in meeting modern consumer demands. Whether it's co-ownership models that empower veterinarians or strategies to attract diverse young talent, this episode promises to reshape your understanding of what makes the veterinary profession both fulfilling and sustainable.

About George Melillo, VMD:
Dr. Melillo is the Founder and Chief Veterinary Officer at Heart + Paw, a corporate veterinary practice with 28 locations in ten states. He graduated from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine in 1985 and prior to starting Heart + Paw has experience as a private practice owner in Delaware County, PA as well as nine years of corporate practice at Mars. He has also been part of two previous start-ups in human pharmaceutical.

heartandpaw.com
linkedin.com/in/georgemelillo
instagram.com/heartandpaw

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

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What if embracing loss could profoundly change the way you live each day? Join us as we share deeply personal stories of loss and reflect on how these experiences have reshaped our approach to life, with our guest Richard 'RJ' Kedziora, MBA offering heartfelt insights from the passing of his in-laws, urging us to live with intention and joy. Through these poignant moments, we remind ourselves of the incredible value in living a purposeful life.

Embark on a thrilling journey through the world of technology and entrepreneurship as we recount the unexpected path from dreaming of a PhD in computer science to founding Estenda Solutions, a trailblazer in health technology innovation. From early roles in mainframe and web programming to consulting and collaborating with pharmaceutical giants, the narrative captures the non-linear yet rewarding path of building a company dedicated to bettering lives through technology. Dive into the challenges and successes faced along the way, highlighting the essential role of commitment and innovation in making a real impact.

Discover the transformative power of empathy and purpose in shaping the future of work in the healthcare tech sector. We explore how fostering a culture that encourages personal growth and understanding of patient experiences can create self-leadership and engagement among technologists. The conversation also delves into the influence of literature and the exciting potential of generative AI. Together, we aim to inspire you to seek meaningful contributions in your career and life, leveraging both timeless and cutting-edge ideas to fuel personal and professional growth.

About Richard 'RJ' Kedziora, MBA:
Mr. Kedziora, co-founder of Estenda, has over 25 years of software product design, development, consulting, and management experience. At Estenda, he focuses on people and process management and provides strategic technical direction, guidance, and innovative insights into creating cost-effective digital health solutions that make a difference in people’s lives, helping them live longer and healthier. His work has won multiple awards including a HIMSS Davies Award and recently he received the Health 2.0 Outstanding Leadership Award.

Connect RJ:
Website estenda.com
LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/rjkedziora

This episode is brought to you by Estenda Solutions, empowering your healthcare organization. Go to estenda.com to learn more.

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Have you ever struggled to truly disconnect from work during a vacation? We explore this common challenge among entrepreneurs while sharing our own experiences with finding the right balance between work and relaxation. Inspired by Dan Sullivan’s time management strategies, we discuss the importance of structuring focus, free, and buffer days, and our guest Rob Kaimowitz shares his insights on short, rejuvenating breaks. Ang opens up about her struggle to disconnect, emphasizing the value of a consistent morning routine to kickstart her day away from work. This episode is a thoughtful examination of why intentional time off is essential for mental well-being, even amidst the relentless demands of entrepreneurship.

Rob Kaimowitz is the innovative mind behind Nexteon Technologies, whose journey of resilience offers inspiration in the face of adversity. From overcoming a debilitating battle with Lyme disease to navigating his company's challenges during a government shutdown and the COVID-19 pandemic, Rob’s story is a powerful testament to perseverance. We also touch upon the exciting potential of space technology to combat the effects of changing weather patterns, especially in critical areas like aviation. It's a captivating conversation with promises of more engaging discussions in future episodes, where we continue to explore the intersection of entrepreneurship, resilience, and technological advancement.

About Rob Kaimowitz:
Rob Kaimowitz is the Founder of Nexteon Technologies, which brought route optimization services to commercial airlines - like "Waze" for Airplanes. Prior to founding Nexteon, Rob has a 20 year Wall St. career, first, as the #1 Analyst in Commercial Space & Satellites and then as a Hedge Fund Manager and Founder of Bull Path Capital management. His Wall St career ended when was diagnosed with chronic untreated Lyme Disease.

Connect with Rob:
Website nexteon.aero
globallymealliance.org
peertopeer.globallymealliance.org
LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/robert-k-587722a9

This episode is brought to you by the Global Lyme Alliance; Fighting for a Lyme-free world. Go to globallymealliance.org to learn more.

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Discover the secret to finding happiness even when life feels overwhelming as we sit down with Dave Raymond, the original Phillie Phanatic, and learn about his journey to becoming the mascot that spread joy across stadiums for 16 years. Dave shares how laughter and creativity fueled his passion and shaped his career, offering insights on sustainable happiness. Our conversation unveils how the Beatles' latest single and grounding with nature can transform everyday moments into ones of joy and rejuvenation. Through personal stories and laughs, we explore the art of finding bliss in the mundane and integrating fun into our lives, regardless of external stressors.

We then highlight the evolving landscape of corporate leadership, where creating emotional connections with employees is transforming workplaces. Dive into stories of purposeful leadership, like those of Steve Penkala, who believes in showing appreciation through genuine acts of kindness. We discuss how enlightened leaders are fostering environments of loyalty and productivity, while young professionals seek out meaningful work over traditional perks. Get inspired to embrace joy at work and home, bringing your whole self into every aspect of life for a more fulfilling experience.

About Dave Raymond:
Dave is an international keynote speaker, author and thought leader on sustainable happiness. Today he will share lessons he's learned through his truly unique life and career - as the original Phillie Phanatic.

Dave's is The Hero of Happiness and his work has been featured everywhere from Jimmy Kimmel Live, to ESPN, The New York Times and HBO Real Sports.

He now speaks to companies, associations and teams who want to leverage his Power of Fun Message to motivate teams to believe in and follow a simple process that can change and SAVE lives.

Connect with Dave:
Website daveraymondspeaks.com
on TEDx talk youtube.com/watch?v=Jvw4liTidgk
on HBO Real Sports vimeo.com/738058015
on Jimmy Kimmel Live vimeo.com/729358759
on GMA - youtube.com/watch?v=3qycSJyGDes

This episode is brought to you by Kershner Office Furniture, Workplace Furniture Solutions.  Go to kershneroffice.com to learn more.

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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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Ever wondered how a simple pause could be your secret weapon in communication? We discuss the magic of well-timed beats in public speaking, and Marc draws a fascinating parallel to music, showing how silence can amplify your message. Our guest, Craig Lerch, shares a life-changing lesson from his mentor on the power of listening more and speaking less.

Get ready for a fun twist on the real estate industry as we discuss evolving identities and playful nicknames. Craig, lovingly known as the "ROG" (Real Estate Opportunity, outstanding Out of the Box Over the Top, old Guy), reveals his journey of accepting this moniker and how it reshaped his social media game. We dive into the importance of authenticity, pushing boundaries, and the transformative power of coaching that reignited Craig's passion for his career.

Lastly, we explore the future of real estate, moving from traditional offices to dynamic, virtual environments. Craig talks about his game-changing transition to eXp Realty, a cloud-based company with a global reach, enabling him to build teams across states and countries. We also delve into how the pandemic has redefined sales and coaching practices, the critical role of setting routines, and our ambitious vision of expanding to 1,000 global agents by 2027, all while maintaining a balance between professional ambitions and personal fulfillment.

About Craig Lerch:
Craig Lerch is an Associate Broker, 2 X Icon Exp Realty Internationally and Regional Expansion Leader. Selling home in the area for over 35 years, over 4000 transactions involved in the Philadelphia and suburbs, is the ROG in social media (standing for the Real Estate "Opportunity, Outstanding, Out of the box, Over the top, Old " Guy! If your not having fun, then why do it!! 2024 is the year to Grow and Glow!

Connect with Craig:
craiglerch.com
linkedin.com/in/craiglerchrealtor
instagram.com/real_estate_old_guy
facebook.com/craiglerch.realestate
youtube.com/@craiglerchphiladelphiarealtor
tiktok.com/@real_estate_old_guy

This episode is brought to you by Craig Lerch, Exp Realty Luxury, your go-to expert in the Philadelphia area and beyond.  Go to craiglerch.com to learn more.

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Ever wondered how positive thinking can reshape your business and personal life? This episode promises to be a beacon of insight and inspiration as we sit down with Dennis Gehman, a seasoned entrepreneur and home remodeling expert. Dennis opens up about his transformation from a carpenter to the owner of a flourishing remodeling business, all while grappling with recurring health issues. Inspired by Joseph Nguyen's "Don't Believe Everything You Think," Dennis shares how observing thoughts rather than letting them take over has alleviated a great deal of his suffering. We also explore strategies such as positive affirmations and daily Bible reading, which have been instrumental in maintaining his positive mindset, especially during tough times.

From the initial struggles of understanding business fundamentals to the pivotal support received from the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) and the Freedom Brothers mastermind group, Dennis's journey is filled with valuable lessons. We delve into the emotional and spiritual aspects of home remodeling, emphasizing the kitchen as the heart of the home. Dennis recounts heartwarming stories, including a memorable trip to Egypt to meet his new grandchild, highlighting the role of faith and family in his life. This episode offers a rich tapestry of professional wisdom and personal anecdotes that underscore the profound impact of a positive mindset in both business and personal spheres.

About Dennis D. Gehman, MCR, MCKBR, CLC, CRPM:
Dennis Gehman is married to his wife Glenda, the father of 2 grown sons & daughters, Grandpa to 10 grandchildren with number 11 due in August. He's a carpenter who in 1990 scratched an entrepreneurial itch, becoming the owner of Gehman Design Remodeling, a national award-winning residential design build remodeling business.

Connect with Dennis:
Website gehmanremodeling.com
LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/gehmanremodeling
Facebook facebook.com/GehmanDesignRemodeling
YouTube youtube.com/@1remodel

This episode is brought to you by Gehman Design Remodeling; Design, Concept, and Construction for stress free remodels.  Go to gehmanremodeling.com to learn more.

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

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🎤 Got a success story worth sharing?
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