Welcome back to Founder's Story! In this episode, guest host Vanessa Antonio speaks with Andrew Spira, founder of SkyCap, a fintech company focused on providing unsecured business loans. Andrew shares his journey, the motivations behind starting SkyCap, and his perspectives on the challenges businesses face in securing funding.

Episode Highlights:

About SkyCap:

• Founded in October 2023, SkyCap specializes in unsecured loans for SMEs ranging from $2,000 to $100,000 AUD.
• The company leverages AI to streamline funding approvals, providing an alternative for businesses unable to secure traditional financing.
• Learn more at skyecap.com.au.

Andrew’s Journey:

• Andrew reflects on personal challenges in his youth that influenced his entrepreneurial outlook.
• He shares how these experiences shaped his approach to solving funding accessibility issues for small businesses.

What Sets SkyCap Apart:

• SkyCap is privately funded, which Andrew believes enables the company to make faster decisions and offer greater flexibility to its clients.
• The company emphasizes building a team culture focused on supporting SMEs with tailored funding solutions.

Motivations Behind SkyCap:

• Andrew discusses the gap in funding for SMEs and his perspective on why traditional banking systems often fall short.
• SkyCap was founded with the goal of providing businesses with a reliable, open-minded funding option.

Future Plans:

• Andrew shares his focus on consistent improvement and scaling SkyCap to reach more businesses in need.
• He expresses long-term goals for growth and expansion within the SME funding sector.

Connect with SkyCap:

• Visit skyecap.com.au to learn more about their funding options.
• For partnership opportunities, check out the broker section at skyecap.com.au/broker.

Key Takeaways:

• SME funding remains a significant challenge, and Andrew discusses his perspective on how alternative solutions like SkyCap aim to address these issues.
• SkyCap focuses on offering flexible funding options using AI technology, which Andrew believes helps streamline the process for SMEs.
• Andrew shares his outlook on the importance of resilience and planning in building a business and supporting small enterprises.

Financial Disclaimer

The information provided in this episode of Founder's Story is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or business advice. Neither the host, guests, nor Founder's Story is responsible for any actions taken based on the content of this discussion. Individuals are encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a licensed financial advisor or professional before making any financial or business decisions.

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Welcome back to Founder's Story! In this episode, Daniel Robbins sits down with Larry McDonald, founder of The Bear Traps Report and author of the newly released book, How to Listen When Markets Speak. Larry brings decades of investment expertise and invaluable insights on navigating today’s volatile markets and preparing for the future.

Episode Highlights:

The Journey to Bear Traps:

• Larry shares how he became a leading voice in financial analysis, writing A Colossal Failure of Common Sense during the 2008 financial crisis and connecting its lessons to today’s economic landscape.

Market Insights for 2025 and Beyond:

• The shift from austerity post-2008 to massive fiscal and monetary responses totaling $16 trillion since COVID.
• Why today’s inflation pressures demand a new investment philosophy for the next decade.
• Predictions for 2025, including major restructuring in the U.S. debt market and its potential impacts.

Investing in a Multipolar World:

• The rise of emerging markets and their increasing energy consumption.
• Why global energy infrastructure—including natural gas, uranium, and copper—may become the biggest beneficiaries of the AI and crypto boom.

Lessons from Legends:

• Larry reflects on mentorship from investing greats like Charlie Munger, highlighting the importance of patience, discipline, and resisting the hype.

The Reality of Crypto Investing:

• Why Bitcoin’s extreme volatility requires careful timing and discipline.
• The dangers of "testosterone-driven" investing and how liquidity drives crypto markets.

BRICS and Global Shifts:

• The BRICS nations’ push away from the U.S. dollar and toward hard assets like gold.
• How overuse of sanctions by the U.S. has accelerated this trend.

AI's Transformational Role:

• Why the true winners in AI will be those investing in the energy infrastructure to support it.
• Why NVIDIA’s valuation is a cautionary tale and where to look for real opportunities.

Key Takeaways:

• Patience and timing are critical for successful investing—“All the great profits are in the waiting.”
• The next wave of investment opportunities lies in energy infrastructure, not just AI companies.
• Bitcoin and crypto are highly volatile and require a disciplined, long-term perspective.
• The global financial system is evolving into a multipolar world, requiring new strategies and insights.

Connect with Larry McDonald:

• Follow him on Twitter: @ConvertBond
• Email for a free trial of The Bear Traps Report:
• [email protected]
• [email protected]

Larry’s newsletter and book democratize market intelligence, providing everyday investors access to the insights of top hedge funds, mutual funds, and pension funds.

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Welcome back to Founder's Story! In this episode, Daniel Robbins sits down with Alex Zervakos and Kanji Kawanabe, co-founders of Theryo AI, a groundbreaking company using AI to transform mental health support and therapy.

Episode Highlights:

The Entrepreneurial Spark:

• Alex shares how his entrepreneurial journey began with a childhood paper route, while Kanji reflects on years of experience in the tech startup world.

The Birth of Theryo AI:

• A personal frustration with therapy inspired Alex and Kanji to develop Theryo AI. Starting as a simple app, their tool gained traction by helping therapists identify and address mental health challenges more effectively.

The Role of AI in Therapy:

• Enhancement, Not Replacement: Theryo AI empowers therapists by providing tools to analyze data and offer deeper insights.
• Bridging Gaps: The platform seeks to make mental health care accessible to underserved and marginalized communities, amplifying the ability of providers to deliver impactful care.

Tackling Stigmas & Challenges:

• The duo discusses overcoming resistance to technology in traditional therapy settings and how AI can help detect early mental health issues, offering hope for those who may otherwise lack resources.

Looking to the Future:

• Theryo AI aims to expand globally, with a particular focus on marginalized communities and schools. Their vision is to equalize access to mental health care, creating solutions that provide the same quality of care to everyone, regardless of economic status.

Key Takeaways:

• Mental health is a universal issue, and Theryo AI is making strides to address it with innovative AI tools.
• Education and training are essential for integrating AI into industries like therapy, where traditional methods still dominate.
• The company is committed to empowering providers rather than replacing them, ensuring that technology enhances human connection and care.

Connect with Theryo AI:

• Visit Theryo AI’s website to learn more.
• If you're a therapist or school administrator interested in beta testing, reach out via their site.

Don’t miss this inspiring conversation about the intersection of AI and mental health, and how Theryo AI is shaping a more accessible, equitable future for care.

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On this episode of the Founder’s Story, guest host Vanessa Antonio interviews Nikolaus Thomale, who explains how Myne Homes is closing the gap between the dream of owning a second home and the reality that very few people do. They discuss the barriers—affordability, underutilization, and complexity—and illustrate how Myne’s fractional co-ownership model overcomes them. Nikolaus clarifies how this differs from traditional timeshares, and details the resale process. The conversation wraps with a look at Myne Homes’ growth, the possibility of a future IPO, and how interested buyers can easily get started.

Key Topics & Discussion Points

1. The Desire vs. Reality of Second Home Ownership
2. Unmet Demand: According to Nikolaus over half the population dreams of owning a second home, yet fewer than 2% do so.
3. Three Main Barriers:
4. Affordability: Luxury vacation homes have a steep price tag, particularly in prime European locations.
5. Underutilization: Second homes typically sit empty up to 80% of the year, wasting resources.
6. Complexity: Managing property from afar—across different jurisdictions, tax regimes, and languages—deters many would-be buyers.
7. The Myne Homes Solution
8. Fractional Co-Ownership: Up to eight individuals share ownership of a high-end property, making it attainable at a fraction of the cost.
9. Full-Service Management: Myne Homes handles everything from maintenance and furnishings to property management and owner storage, ensuring a seamless experience.
10. Proven Track Record: With over €100 million worth of homes sold and desirable European destinations such as Mallorca, Tuscany, and the Alps in its portfolio, Myne Homes helps owners enjoy premium properties without hassle.
11. Buying from the U.S., UK, and Beyond
12. Global Accessibility: Non-EU citizens, including those from the U.S. and UK, can invest in Myne Homes shares, circumventing many complex entry barriers into European real estate.
13. Resale Made Easy: Owners selling their fraction can do so just like selling traditional real estate. Myne Homes supports the process, and many sellers have experienced appreciation for their investments.
14. Not a Timeshare—Real Co-Ownership
15. Ownership of Property, Not Just Time: Unlike timeshares, Myne Homes buyers own a fraction of real estate.
16. Hassle-Free Group Ownership: Think of co-owning with friends or family, but without the interpersonal complexities. Myne Homes manages all the logistics.
17. Interest Rates and Market Conditions
18. A Model That Endures: The fractional model appeals in both low and high-interest-rate environments. When interest rates rise, purchasing a whole second home becomes even less attainable, making the Myne model more attractive.
19. Looking Ahead: Potential IPO and Mission-Driven Growth
20. Long-Term Vision: Myne Homes addresses a massive €4.9 trillion market of underutilized second homes.
21. Possible Public Listing: While future steps depend on market timing and the company’s maturity, an IPO could be on the horizon as Myne Homes scales.
22. Getting Started with Myne Homes
23. Simple, Digital Onboarding: Interested buyers can browse available properties at www.myne-homes.com.
24. Immediate Enjoyment: Ownership can be completed in a matter of days, enabling new owners to start planning their first stay almost right away.

Resources & Mentions

• Myne Homes Website: www.myne-homes.com
• Destinations: Mallorca, Tuscany, the Alps, and other top European holiday spots
• Contact Myne Homes: Inquire online, request a viewing, or speak with an agent for personalized guidance

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In this episode of Founder's Story, we sit down with Syed Hussain, the visionary Founder & CEO of SHIZA (Shared Human Intellect Zonal Agents), a company at the forefront of agentic AI. Hussain shares how his early entrepreneurial spark—as a resourceful kid in India—laid the foundation for a career in technology and data-driven innovation. He offers unique insights into the impending shift away from labor-driven economies toward intellect-driven models powered by personal AI agents. As Syed explains, the future might not be about working more hours, but about owning and monetizing your intellect and data through agentic AI solutions. Get ready to explore what it means to “own your AI before AI owns you.”

Early Entrepreneurial Roots:

• How Hussain’s first venture at age eight—renting out comic books—ignited his passion for solving real problems in creative ways.
• Transitioning from small entrepreneurial endeavors to technology consulting and eventually building his own tech-focused companies.

Embracing Emerging Technologies:

• Hussain’s journey from early web technologies and data analytics to diving into big data, blockchain, and now AI.
• The moment ChatGPT and GPT-3 opened his eyes to the immense possibilities and cost efficiencies of AI-driven infrastructure.

Agentic AI Explained:

• Understanding agentic AI as chains of AI agents (or processes) working together to execute tasks autonomously.
• Why these solutions go beyond chatbots: AI agents can handle complex multi-step tasks and feed results into one another, reducing human workload.

Shaping a Post-Labor Economy:

• The shift away from traditional labor: as tasks and jobs become automated by AI agents, how do humans create value?
• Hussain’s vision of “individualized learning models” (ILMs) let you own your data and intellect and then monetize it.
• The importance of decentralization and Web3 in ensuring individuals maintain control and profit from their data and personal AI agents.

Opportunities and Challenges:

• How younger generations, less tied to a 40-hour work model, may embrace this technology more readily.
• Potential pitfalls: the risk of repeating past mistakes where large corporations harvest and profit from personal data.
• Hussain’s call to action: “Own your AI before AI owns you.”

The Future of SHIZA:

• Building the infrastructure for a decentralized, agentic AI ecosystem.
• Creating digital intellect marketplaces where individuals can share and monetize their unique knowledge and experience.
• Positioning Shiza.ai as the hub for these agentic solutions, shaping a collaborative, globally connected web of human and AI intellect.

Actionable Takeaways:

• Start thinking about how emerging AI solutions can handle repetitive tasks, freeing you to focus on creativity and strategy.
• Consider how your personal data and unique life experiences could be assets in a future driven by intellectual property rather than labor.
• Stay informed about developments in agentic AI, Web3, and decentralized platforms to protect and capitalize on your digital footprint.

Connect with Syed Hussain & SHIZA:

• Website & Waitlist: https://shiza.ai/
• Twitter: @SerialTechX (Syed Hussain’s handle)
• Join the waitlist on Shiza.ai for early access and updates.

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In this episode of Founders Story, we sit down with Aytekin Tank, the entrepreneur behind the popular online form builder Jotform. Aytekin shares his journey from discovering a key market gap nearly two decades ago—when online forms were a major hassle—to building a thriving, bootstrapped SaaS company serving over twenty-five million users worldwide. He offers invaluable lessons on patience, customer-centric development, and how continuous innovation around customer needs led to Jotform’s robust ecosystem of workflow tools. Finally, Aytekin gives us an exciting preview of Jotform’s newest leap into the future: AI agents that will transform how businesses interact with customers, gather data, and handle tasks autonomously around the clock.

Key Topics Discussed:

The Entrepreneurial Spark:

• Aytekin’s early inspiration from building open-source tools in college.
• Realizing the thrill of seeing people use his creations.
• How the dot-com era and working full-time at a media company exposed him to the critical need for easy-to-build online forms.

Founding Jotform:

• The core problem: Web editors needed custom forms—no easy tool existed.
• The decision to bootstrap the business rather than seek investment.
• Transitioning from a free product to a paid offering and the validation that came from the first paying customers.

Slow, Steady Growth and Scaling:

• Understanding that success in SaaS often doesn’t happen overnight.
• How Jotform grew very slowly for the first five years (one new hire per year).
• Maintaining patience, listening to user feedback, and evolving the product based on actual customer needs.

Expanding Beyond Forms:

• Recognizing that forms are just the first step in countless business processes.
• Developing additional features and products: e-signatures, document generation, workflow approvals, and integration with other tools.
• Constant user research and interviews lead to a comprehensive suite of productivity solutions.

AI Agents – The Next Frontier:

• Jotform’s ambitious move into AI, starting from a small in-house team to a dedicated staff of over a hundred working on AI Agents.
• How AI Agents differ from chatbots—agents take action on behalf of users, handle tasks autonomously, and learn from feedback.
• Envisioning a future where businesses (large and small) and individuals deploy AI Agents to handle customer inquiries, sales, support, and more—even while the owners sleep.
• The February 2025 release of Jotform AI Agents and the potential it holds for revolutionizing business operations.

Empowering Entrepreneurs and Small Businesses:

• How AI Agents can level the playing field for small businesses and solo founders.
• The possibility of building highly efficient, large-scale ventures with minimal human staff by leveraging AI-driven processes.

How to Get Involved:

• Learn more and join the waitlist for Jotform AI Agents at jotform.com/ai.
• Visit AytekinTank.com to connect, read the first chapter of his book, or try out his personal AI agent.

Resources & Links:

• Jotform Website: https://www.jotform.com/
• Jotform AI Waitlist: https://www.jotform.com/ai
• Aytekin Tank’s Website & Book: https://aytekintank.com/

Takeaways:

• Bootstrapping requires patience, a keen ear for customer feedback, and the willingness to evolve.
• True growth often comes from understanding the “why” behind user actions and expanding your product suite accordingly.
• AI and agentic technology stand poised to dramatically streamline how businesses operate, fostering round-the-clock customer engagement and support.

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In this episode of Founder's Story, we’re joined by Grady Marin, the founder and president of The Records Company. Since 2013, the groundbreaking business has been transforming data management for the legal and medical sectors. Grady shares the journey that led him to create a company rooted in authenticity, empathy, and innovation.

What We Cover:

• Grady’s entrepreneurial roots and how his small-town upbringing shaped his leadership style.
• The inspiration behind founding The Records Company and the challenges of staying ahead in a competitive industry.
• How trust and empathy form the foundation of his business and leadership philosophy.
• The role of artificial intelligence in revolutionizing data management and the ethical considerations it brings.
• Grady’s thoughts on staying adaptable and leveraging technology while maintaining the human touch.
• The highs and lows of building a business that has stood the test of time for over a decade.

Grady also discusses his lifelong passion for learning, the mentors who shaped his perspective, and how his dedication to innovation continues to push The Records Company into the future.

Links & Resources:

• Learn more about The Records Company: www.therecordsco.com

This episode is a must-listen for entrepreneurs, leaders, and anyone navigating the intersection of technology and business. Don't miss Grady’s insights on building trust, embracing innovation, and staying true to your mission.

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In this inspiring episode of Founder's Story, we sit down with Sardor Umrdinov, the visionary founder of Home Alliance. Sardor shares his remarkable journey of immigrating to the U.S. with just $800 in his pocket and building a $100 million tech-enabled home services platform.

Key Highlights:

• Sardor's early struggles working multiple jobs to support himself and his family while pursuing his dreams.
• The humble beginnings of Home Alliance and the mission to create a trusted ecosystem empowering contractors and homeowners alike.
• How Home Alliance maintains exceptional customer service with a Net Promoter Score of 70+ and aims to surpass Tesla by 2025.
• Sardor's leadership principles of prioritizing people, continuous learning, and fostering a culture of growth and innovation.
• Insights into overcoming challenges, staying focused, and the importance of problem-solving as an entrepreneur.

Favorite Quotes:

• "The American Dream is alive. If you work hard, do the right things, and never give up, it’s achievable."
• "If you enable other people to succeed, you create something far greater than yourself."

Connect with Sardor:

• Website: Home Alliance
• https://sardorumrdinov.com/

Tune in to learn how grit, customer obsession, and a relentless pursuit of solutions can lead to extraordinary success.

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In this episode, we revisit an inspiring throwback conversation with Tracy Holland, a trailblazing entrepreneur and beauty industry authority. Tracy, the co-founder of Hatch Beauty, shares her journey of creating and scaling some of the most successful beauty brands, including Orlando Pita Haircare, Salma Hayek's Nuance, and Bliss.

Key Highlights:

• Entrepreneurial Beginnings: Tracy reflects on how her entrepreneurial spirit was shaped from a young age and the challenges of not fitting into traditional molds.
• Navigating ADHD: Tracy discusses how ADHD shaped her perspective, describing it as a "Ferrari engine with bicycle brakes," and shares valuable tips for managing ADHD in children and adults.
• Building Hatch Beauty: The genesis of Hatch Beauty as a brand incubator that brought prestige-inspired products to mass retail, working with giants like Target, Walgreens, and CVS.
• Lessons in Leadership: Tracy emphasizes the importance of clear agreements with business partners, personal alignment, and knowing when to step back and let others lead.
• Impact of Social Media: Insights from the documentary The Social Dilemma and its implications for kids, self-image, and societal behavior.
• Mentorship and Legacy: Tracy’s mission to mentor millions of women entrepreneurs and her passion for fostering independence and growth.

Resources Mentioned:

• The 80/20 Rule and Unreasonable Success by Richard Koch
• Tools like EOS and the Cultural Index for Leadership Assessment

Connect with Tracy Holland:

Website: Potential to Powerhouse

https://innerfifth.com/

This episode is packed with actionable advice and inspiring stories for aspiring entrepreneurs and leaders looking to make an impact. Tune in to hear how Tracy continues to redefine success in business and life!

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In this episode of Founder's Story, host Daniel Robbins welcomes Tim Shea and Ez Blaine, the visionary co-founders of Super Vision Studio. Together, they explore the transformative role of AI in reimagining brand creation and innovation, with a focus on luxury streetwear and beyond.

Key Highlights:

• Super Vision Studio’s Mission: Tim and Ez discuss how their AI-driven venture studio is co-creating brands that push the boundaries of what was once possible, delivering new consumer experiences that redefine industries.
• Luxury Streetwear Meets AI: The duo shares the story behind their groundbreaking product—AI co-created sunglasses under the brand NeuThrone. These sunglasses feature "deepfake camouflage," designed to protect wearers from facial recognition systems, showcasing how AI intersects with fashion and privacy.
• AI as a Creative Partner: Ez reflects on AI as a tool for amplifying creativity, challenging traditional notions of art and design, and empowering creators to think and work in entirely new ways.
• The Power of Venture Studios: Tim explains their approach to using AI-driven insights to incubate and launch brands, creating a model that is agile, scalable, and future-focused.
• Expanding Horizons: From retail to technology, Tim and Ez reveal their plans to disrupt multiple industries, leveraging AI to create products and brands that stand out in a crowded market.

Takeaways:

• AI is not a replacement for creativity—it’s a catalyst for innovation.
• Personalization and customization will shape the future of consumer products, with AI enabling unique, tailored experiences.
• The possibilities for AI-driven brand creation are endless, opening doors for creators around the world to innovate with fewer barriers.

Connect with Super Vision Studio:

• Website: supervision.studio
• Explore their AI-powered sunglasses: NeuThrone.com

About the Guests:

Tim Shea and Ez Blaine, the co-founders of Super Vision Studio, bring years of entrepreneurial and creative expertise to their mission of redefining branding and consumer experiences through the power of AI.

Don’t miss this inspiring conversation on the future of creativity, entrepreneurship, and artificial intelligence!

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