In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris catches up with Crowdcube Co-CEO Matt Cooper. Celebrating over a decade of innovation, Crowdcube is a pioneer in online capital raising, transforming the startup investment landscape in the UK and globally. With over $2 billion raised for startups and more than $100 million returned to investors, their impact is undeniable. This conversation digs into the challenges and triumphs of building the platform Crowdcube, the evolution of investor engagement, and the future of digital private markets. Key highlights include Crowdcube's groundbreaking approach to investor acquisition, their strategy in winning over traditional financial institutions, and insights into the evolving landscape of private market investments.

Highlights include…

Challenges and successes of pioneering equity crowdfunding platform. (2:12)

In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, we dive deep into the world of skiing innovation with the co-founders of Peak Ski Company, currently raising on Republic. Chris hosts Bode Miller, a legend in the skiing world with a storied Olympic medal-winning career, and Andy Wirth, a distinguished figure in the ski industry renowned for his significant contributions, including the creation of the popular Ikon Pass. Together, they discuss their new venture, Peak Ski, where they're not only challenging traditional ski manufacturing norms but also introducing cutting-edge technology and design to revolutionize the skiing experience.

Highlights include…

Starting a ski brand with Olympian Bode Miller. (2:19)

In this episode, we interview Spencer Martin, CEO of Sonic Power. Chris and Spencer walk through his journey in the consumer electronics industry. With extensive experience from working in Chinese manufacturing to involvement in Silicon Valley startups, Spencer shares the insights he used to create Sonic Power. Spencer dives into his brand's business model to stand out in the electronics market through a private label strategy akin to Costco's Kirkland and Trader Joe's, offering customers high-quality, cost-effective electronic products.

In this episode, we get into housing with ZenniHome's founder and CEO, Bob Worsley. A retired Republican State Senator and serial entrepreneur, Bob's career journey is as intriguing as it is inspiring. From establishing SkyMall to venturing into real estate and energy, Bob's latest endeavor, ZenniHome, stands at the forefront of the crop of startups providing housing solutions. These modern, steel-framed micro homes are not just a leap in sustainable living but are also impacting the housing landscape with their unique design, adaptability, and smart technology.

Highlights include…

Entrepreneurship, politics, and business success. (1:55)

In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris engages with Tom Bassford, the founder and CEO of EquityVest. EquityVest, a burgeoning Reg CF platform, sets itself apart by focusing on faith-driven investments. The platform aims to connect faith-driven founders and investors to support innovations that advance the world positively. The episode delves into the nuances of faith-aligned investing, emphasizing that it's not confined to regular churchgoers but rather to anyone inclined towards value-driven investments. The discussion also touches on EquityVest's unique approach to addressing societal issues and supporting marginalized communities.

Highlights include…

Faith-based investing and creating a platform for startups. (1:39)

In the latest episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris Lustrino welcomes Mike Gugat, the co-founder and CEO of jbrds. This engaging episode reveals jbrds’ strides in the children's footwear market. With Mike's extensive background in the sporting goods industry, he shares the compelling story behind Jaybirds' inception and its mission to create anatomically correct, functional footwear for kids. Mike gets into the nuances of designing shoes that support the natural development of a child's foot, mirroring the barefoot experience. The discussion also touches on product development challenges, customer insights, and strategic marketing, showcasing jbrds’ dedication to promoting healthy foot development in children and their careful approach to scaling in a competitive market.

Highlights include…

Creating a better shoe for kids' development. (1:52)

In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris engages with John Kempf, the founder of Advancing Eco Agriculture. The discussion centers on the company's innovative approach to agriculture, emphasizing sustainable farming techniques and the enhancement of plant health. Kempf, with his unique background, brings valuable insights into the agricultural sector's evolution towards more environmentally friendly and efficient practices.

Highlights include…

Sustainable farming techniques (0:04)

In this Inside Startup Investing episode, host Chris Lustrino welcomes P.J. Tezza, founder of ModVans. Tezza shares insights into his transition from a software entrepreneur to revolutionizing the van manufacturing industry with ModVans. The conversation explores the unique challenges and triumphs of developing versatile, family-friendly campervans, offering a fresh perspective on innovation in the automotive sector.

Highlights include…

Unique design features of ModVans that cater to adventure seekers and families. (2:29)

In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, host Chris Lustrino is joined by Dane Witbeck, co-founder & CEO of Pinwheel. Witbeck delves into the unique mission of Pinwheel, focusing on their innovative approach to children's technology. The discussion touches on the challenges and triumphs of navigating the tech industry, offering a unique perspective on entrepreneurship and startup growth.

Highlights include…

Creating a smartphone for kids with parental controls. (2:39)

In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris chats with Kenny Rose, the founder and CEO of FranShares. Kenny illuminates the concept behind FranShares, a platform revolutionizing the franchise investment landscape. Through FranShares, individuals can invest in franchises with a starting amount as low as $500, making franchise ownership more accessible and diversified. Kenny explains the unique investment structure, the focus on community and inclusivity, and the strategic approach to overcoming the challenges faced in traditional franchise models.

Highlights include…

Investing in franchises and their differences from startups. (3:18)