Mission-driven Founders

Mission-driven Founders

By Wanda Malhotra - Crunchy Mama BoxBusinessEntrepreneurshipHealth & FitnessInvesting
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Mission-driven Founders episodes

  • Fighting the Many Faces of Abuse: A Mission-Driven Conversation with Catherine Jones

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    Domestic violence is not always visible—it can be physical, emotional, verbal, psychological, or financial.

    In this powerful episode of Mission-Driven Founders, Wanda Malhotra speaks with Catherine Jones, former Victim Advocacy Program Coordinator at the YWCA Knoxville & the Tennessee Valley, about recognizing the signs, offering support, and connecting survivors with life-changing resources.

    In this episode, you'll learn:
    ✔️ How to recognize the many forms of domestic violence
    ✔️ Practical ways to help someone who may be experiencing abuse
    ✔️ The vital role organizations like the YWCA play in empowering women and rebuilding lives
    ✔️ Why community involvement is key to lasting change

    Since 1899, the YWCA Knoxville & the Tennessee Valley has been serving women and families—providing safe housing, advocacy, job training, and essential support. Every day, they help survivors leave with renewed spirit, new skills, and stronger lives.

    Although Catherine is now on a different career path, her mission to do good in the world remains strong. We are deeply grateful for the insight she shared on such an important topic—it is mission-driven people like her who continue to make a difference and inspire change.

    If you’ve ever wondered how you can make a difference, this episode will inspire you to take action.

    💜 Support their mission: YWCAKNOX.COM

    🌿 Join us as we celebrate innovation, empowerment, and the movement toward a more mindful, compassionate future. Subscribe to Mission-Driven Founders on your favorite platform and never miss a story that inspires change!

    📖 Get your copy of Women in Wellness on Amazon or on our website: 

     🌍 Explore Crunchy Mama Box and discover certified wellness products: 

    ✨ Learn more about the CMB Certification Program

    🎧 Subscribe to Mission-Driven Founders

    Spotify

    Apple Podcasts

    iheart

    📲 Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @crunchymamabox

    Discover how the CMB Certification Program empowers brands, giving them the recognition they deserve for creating clean, eco-friendly, and socially responsible products. The certification empowers consumers to make informed choices about their health by guiding them toward truly green products.

    Join us as we elevate wellness and sustainability into a global movement—because together, we can make ethical living the norm, not the exception.

    Discover how the CMB Certification Program empowers brands, giving them the recognition they deserve for creating clean, eco-friendly, and socially responsible products. The certification empowers consumers to make informed choices about their health by guiding them toward truly green products.

    Join us as we elevate wellness and sustainability into a global movement—because together, we can make ethical living the norm, not the exception.

    Support the show

    30 min
  • Balancing Business, Wellness & Life: Sarah Ezrin’s Mission-Driven Journey

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    In this powerful episode of Mission-Driven Founders, Wanda Malhotra sits down with yoga teacher, author, and wellness advocate Sarah Ezrin—a purpose-driven entrepreneur whose work uplifts her community through mindfulness, vulnerability, and healing movement.

    From her early experiences with body image and self-worth to becoming a published author and respected voice in the yoga and wellness space, Sarah shares how her personal journey shaped the mission behind her business.

    In this episode, you'll learn:
    ✔️ How Sarah built a wellness business rooted in authenticity and community care
    ✔️ The moment in a yoga class that transformed how she teaches and connects
    ✔️ Why vulnerability is a powerful leadership tool
    ✔️ Practical daily rituals for balance as a mother entrepreneur
    ✔️ Her vision for creating emotional support spaces for caregivers

    Whether you're a mom looking to turn your passion into purpose, or simply seeking guidance on building a meaningful business—Sarah’s story offers heart, wisdom, and actionable inspiration.

    🙏 Deep gratitude to Sarah Ezrin for sharing her truth, tools, and mission with us.

    📖 Order Sarah's book The Yoga of Parenting

    Support Sarah:

    🌐 Visit Website
    📸 Follow on Instagram
    ▶️ Watch this episode on YouTube

    🌿 Join us as we celebrate innovation, empowerment, and the movement toward a more mindful, compassionate future. Subscribe to Mission-Driven Founders on your favorite platform and never miss a story that inspires change!

    📖 Get your copy of Women in Wellness on Amazon or on our website: 

     🌍 Explore Crunchy Mama Box and discover certified wellness products: 

    ✨ Learn more about the CMB Certification Program

    🎧 Subscribe to Mission-Driven Founders

    Spotify

    Apple Podcasts

    iheart

    📲 Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @crunchymamabox

    Discover how the CMB Certification Program empowers brands, giving them the recognition they deserve for creating clean, eco-friendly, and socially responsible products. The certification empowers consumers to make informed choices about their health by guiding them toward truly green products.

    Join us as we elevate wellness and sustainability into a global movement—because together, we can make ethical living the norm, not the exception.

    Discover how the CMB Certification Program empowers brands, giving them the recognition they deserve for creating clean, eco-friendly, and socially responsible products. The certification empowers consumers to make informed choices about their health by guiding them toward truly green products.

    Join us as we elevate wellness and sustainability into a global movement—because together, we can make ethical living the norm, not the exception.

    Support the show

    28 min
  • The Fertility Class Founders on Building a Mission-Driven Women’s Health Business

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    What does it take to turn passion into a purpose-driven business that changes lives?

    In this inspiring episode, Wanda Malhotra sits down with Marta Han and Zsofia Jamieson, founders of The Fertility Class, to explore how they built a mission-driven company focused on natural fertility and hormone health.

    🌿 Learn how they combined their expertise in movement, nutrition, and mindfulness to create a program that helps women reconnect with their bodies, balance hormones, and embrace wellness—whether trying to conceive or seeking vibrant health at any stage of life.

    💡 Gain valuable insights into:
     ✔️ Identifying a gap in the wellness market
     ✔️ Turning personal passion into a scalable business model
     ✔️ Building a brand that empowers and educates

    This episode isn’t just for those curious about fertility—it’s for anyone dreaming of starting a business that makes a real difference.

    🎧 Tune in and get inspired to launch your own mission-driven venture.

    ▶️ Watch this episode on YouTube

    🛡️ Mission-Driven Standards & Transparency

    At The Mission-Driven Founders Podcast, our mission is to provide a platform for innovators shaping the future of health and wellness. To maintain our commitment to our listeners:

    • Editorial Policy: An interview is an exploration of a founder’s vision and journey; it is not an automatic endorsement of their products or claims.
    • Certification Status: Please note that at the time of this recording, this brand has not been CMB Certified.
    • Our Standard: While we are inspired by this founder's story and vision, our official CMB endorsement is reserved exclusively for brands that have completed our rigorous verification process.

    Curious about what it takes to get the Seal? ✨ Learn more about the CMB Certification Program

    🌿 Join us as we celebrate innovation, empowerment, and the movement toward a more mindful, compassionate future. Subscribe to Mission-Driven Founders on your favorite platform and never miss a story that inspires change!

    📖 Get your copy of Women in Wellness on Amazon or on our website: 

     🌍 Explore Crunchy Mama Box and discover certified wellness products: 

    ✨ Learn more about the CMB Certification Program

    🎧 Subscribe to Mission-Driven Founders

    Spotify

    Apple Podcasts

    iheart

    📲 Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @crunchymamabox

    Discover how the CMB Certification Program empowers brands, giving them the recognition they deserve for creating clean, eco-friendly, and socially responsible products. The certification empowers consumers to make informed choices about their health by guiding them toward truly green products.

    Join us as we elevate wellness and sustainability into a global movement—because together, we can make ethical living the norm, not the exception.

    Discover how the CMB Certification Program empowers brands, giving them the recognition they deserve for creating clean, eco-friendly, and socially responsible products. The certification empowers consumers to make informed choices about their health by guiding them toward truly green products.

    Join us as we elevate wellness and sustainability into a global movement—because together, we can make ethical living the norm, not the exception.

    Support the show

    32 min
  • Nicole Fey: How One Woman’s Business Is Transforming Holistic Health in East Tennessee

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    How do you turn a personal health crisis into a mission-driven business that educates, empowers, and connects an entire community?

    Nicole Fey did just that. As the founder of the East Tennessee Wellness Directory, she’s built a platform that bridges holistic health practitioners and wellness seekers—while integrating sustainability and education at its core.

    In this episode, Nicole shares her journey from battling chronic fatigue to creating a business model that supports both practitioners and underserved communities. She and Wanda Malhotra dive deep into:

     ✅ Building and monetizing a wellness directory
     ✅ Diversifying outreach beyond social media
     ✅ Educating consumers on holistic health modalities
     ✅ Sustainability as a business and lifestyle strategy
     ✅ Challenges of scaling impact in the holistic wellness space

    Whether you’re a founder, wellness entrepreneur, or simply passionate about sustainable health solutions, Nicole’s story will inspire you to align your business with purpose and impact.

    Explore and Support Nicole's Work:

    🌐 Visit Her Website ETwellnessdirectory.com
    📸 Follow on Instagram
    ▶️ Watch this episode on YouTube

    🌿 Join us as we celebrate innovation, empowerment, and the movement toward a more mindful, compassionate future. Subscribe to Mission-Driven Founders on your favorite platform and never miss a story that inspires change!

    📖 Get your copy of Women in Wellness on Amazon or on our website: 

     🌍 Explore Crunchy Mama Box and discover certified wellness products: 

    ✨ Learn more about the CMB Certification Program

    🎧 Subscribe to Mission-Driven Founders

    Spotify

    Apple Podcasts

    iheart

    📲 Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @crunchymamabox

    Discover how the CMB Certification Program empowers brands, giving them the recognition they deserve for creating clean, eco-friendly, and socially responsible products. The certification empower

    Discover how the CMB Certification Program empowers brands, giving them the recognition they deserve for creating clean, eco-friendly, and socially responsible products. The certification empowers consumers to make informed choices about their health by guiding them toward truly green products.

    Join us as we elevate wellness and sustainability into a global movement—because together, we can make ethical living the norm, not the exception.

    Discover how the CMB Certification Program empowers brands, giving them the recognition they deserve for creating clean, eco-friendly, and socially responsible products. The certification empowers consumers to make informed choices about their health by guiding them toward truly green products.

    Join us as we elevate wellness and sustainability into a global movement—because together, we can make ethical living the norm, not the exception.

    Support the show

    26 min
  • Turning Music Into a Mission-Driven Entrepreneurial Journey: Mat Charley on Building Raynes

    Send us Fan Mail

    What does it take to turn your passion for music into a mission-driven entrepreneurial journey?

    In this episode of Mission-Driven Founders, Wanda Malhotra sits down with Mat Charley of Raynes—a British-American band blending uplifting music with a powerful sense of purpose.

    Mat shares how Raynes came together, their journey from songwriting sessions to international tours, and how they overcame challenges like navigating the pandemic and balancing creativity with the business side of music.

    You’ll hear how the band partnered with Pollinator Partnership to support environmental causes, why staying authentic is key to their success, and how their music has become a source of healing and connection for fans around the world.

    🎧 Whether you’re an aspiring musician, music student, or creative entrepreneur, this episode will inspire you to keep going, build a thriving business, and use your art to make a difference.

    ✨ Support and Follow Raynes:
    🎵 Instagram: @raynesmusic
    📺 YouTube:  @Raynesmusic
    🎟️ Upcoming Shows
    🐝 Support the Pollinator Partnership

    🌿 Join us as we celebrate innovation, empowerment, and the movement toward a more mindful, compassionate future. Subscribe to Mission-Driven Founders on your favorite platform and never miss a story that inspires change!

    📖 Get your copy of Women in Wellness on Amazon or on our website: 

     🌍 Explore Crunchy Mama Box and discover certified wellness products: 

    ✨ Learn more about the CMB Certification Program

    🎧 Subscribe to Mission-Driven Founders

    Spotify

    Apple Podcasts

    iheart

    📲 Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @crunchymamabox

    Discover how the CMB Certification Program empowers brands, giving them the recognition they deserve for creating clean, eco-friendly, and socially responsible products. The certification empowers consumers to make informed choices about their health by guiding them toward truly green products.

    Join us as we elevate wellness and sustainability into a global movement—because together, we can make ethical living the norm, not the exception.

    Support the show

    20 min
  • Healing Against All Odds: Emily Kicklighter on Radical Remission, Regenerative Living & Surrender

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    What if a Stage 4 cancer diagnosis became the catalyst for not only your greatest healing—but also your life’s mission?

    In this transformative episode of Mission-driven Founders, host Wanda Malhotra sits down with Emily Kicklighter, founder of The Whole Elephant Coaching. After a Stage 4 metastatic breast cancer diagnosis in 2024, Emily radically reimagined her health, her purpose, and how she could empower others to heal—through holistic practices, regenerative farming, retreats, and food literacy.

    Emily’s journey is both personal and profoundly entrepreneurial. Together, Wanda and Emily explore big, soul-level questions:

    ✨ How does healing begin when medicine reaches its limits?
     🌱 Why is soil health inseparable from human health?
     🦋 What happens when we trust the body’s wisdom—and use it to guide others?

    This conversation is a powerful invitation for anyone navigating illness, burnout, or life transitions—and for visionaries ready to transform their own experiences into a business or mission that helps others heal. Emily’s story reminds us that healing isn’t just a journey—it can become your life’s work.

    🎧 Perfect for: seekers, healers, cancer thrivers, coaches, and anyone ready to reclaim their wellness and inspire transformation in others.

    🔗 Click here to read about Emily’s Radical Remission Retreat at the magical Valaterra.  

    Explore and Support Emily's Work:

    🌐 Visit Her Website
    📸 Follow on Instagram
    ▶️ Watch this episode on YouTube

    🌿 Join us as we celebrate innovation, empowerment, and the movement toward a more mindful, compassionate future. Subscribe to Mission-Driven Founders on your favorite platform and never miss a story that inspires change!

    📖 Get your copy of Women in Wellness on Amazon or on our website: 

     🌍 Explore Crunchy Mama Box and discover certified wellness products: 

    ✨ Learn more about the CMB Certification Program

    🎧 Subscribe to Mission-Driven Founders

    Spotify

    Apple Podcasts

    iheart

    📲 Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @crunchymamabox

    Discover how the CMB Certification Program empowers brands, giving them the recognition they deserve for creating clean, eco-friendly, and socially responsible products. The certification empowers consumers to make informed choices about their health by guiding them toward truly green products.

    Join us as we elevate wellness and sustainability into a global movement—because together, we can make ethical living the norm, not the exception.

    Discover how the CMB Certification Program empowers brands, giving them the recognition they deserve for creating clean, eco-friendly, and socially responsible products. The certification empowers consumers to make informed choices about their health by guiding them toward truly green products.

    Join us as we elevate wellness and sustainability into a global movement—because together, we can make ethical living the norm, not the exception.

    Support the show

    39 min
  • Unmasking Imposter Syndrome with Dr. Leslie Dobson: Boundaries, Confidence & Empowerment

    Send us Fan Mail

    Dive into an inspiring conversation with Dr. Leslie Dobson, clinical and forensic psychologist, author, and advocate for personal growth.

    From walking the halls with psychopaths to thriving as a professional, wife, and mom, Dr. Dobson shares her wisdom on overcoming imposter syndrome and setting boundaries that protect your energy.

    Discover the power of collaboration among women, the art of balancing truth-seeking with emotional support, and practical tips for recognizing red flags in relationships.

    Gain exclusive insights into her book, The Friend Cleanse, and learn how to cultivate healthier, more fulfilling friendships.

    Dr. Dobson is also featured in Women in Wellness, sharing her empowering journey as one of 35 inspiring women.

    This episode is a masterclass in building confidence and navigating life's challenges with grace and resilience. 🌟

    Explore and Support Dr. Leslie Dobson’s Work:

    🌐 Visit Her Website
    📸 Follow on Instagram
    📖 Buy The Friend Cleanse
    🎬 Find Her on TikTok
    ▶️ Watch Her Podcast on YouTube

    🌿 Join us as we celebrate innovation, empowerment, and the movement toward a more mindful, compassionate future. Subscribe to Mission-Driven Founders on your favorite platform and never miss a story that inspires change!

    📖 Get your copy of Women in Wellness on Amazon or on our website: 

     🌍 Explore Crunchy Mama Box and discover certified wellness products: 

    ✨ Learn more about the CMB Certification Program

    🎧 Subscribe to Mission-Driven Founders

    Spotify

    Apple Podcasts

    iheart

    📲 Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @crunchymamab

    Discover how the CMB Certification Program empowers brands, giving them the recognition they deserve for creating clean, eco-friendly, and socially responsible products. The certification empowers consumers to make informed choices about their health by guiding them toward truly green products.

    Join us as we elevate wellness and sustainability into a global movement—because together, we can make ethical living the norm, not the exception.

    Support the show

    12 min
  • The Power of Purpose & Community: Building a Mission-Driven Business

    Send us Fan Mail

    In this inspiring episode of the Mission-Driven Founders podcast, Wanda Malhotra sits down with Sondra Kellog of the Empowered Soul Network to explore how purpose and community shaped her entrepreneurial journey.

    Through the heartfelt story of Crunchy Mama Box, Wanda shares her take on building a business rooted in love, motivation, and a mission to empower others.

    Her reflections on entrepreneurship, personal growth, and purposeful living could be the inspiration you need—whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a dedicated parent, or someone seeking deeper meaning in life.

    Tune in to uncover actionable insights, reignite your passion, and take the next bold step toward a life of intention and impact.

    Watch the video interview, where Wanda shares her journey and insights—on YouTube.

    🎥 Follow Sondra on Youtube

    🌐 Follow Sondra on Facebook 

    🌿 Join us as we celebrate innovation, empowerment, and the movement toward a more mindful, compassionate future. Subscribe to Mission-Driven Founders on your favorite platform and never miss a story that inspires change!

    📖 Get your copy of Women in Wellness 

    🌍 Explore Crunchy Mama Box 

    ✨ Learn more about the CMB Certification Program

    🎧 Subscribe to Mission-Driven Founders

    Spotify

    Apple Podcasts

    iheart

    📲 Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @crunchymamabox 

    📰 Join our newsletter

    Discover how the CMB Certification Program empowers brands, giving them the recognition they deserve for creating clean, eco-friendly, and socially responsible products. The certification empowers consumers to make informed choices about their health by guiding them toward truly green products.

    Join us as we elevate wellness and sustainability into a global movement—because together, we can make ethical living the norm, not the exception.

    Support the show

    25 min
  • Anthony Hamilton Jr.: Slam Dunks, Viral Fame, and a Mission to Inspire

    Send us Fan Mail

    Join us for an exclusive interview with Anthony Hamilton Jr., the celebrated professional dunker, social media sensation, and music artist. Known for his electrifying basketball skills and magnetic personality, Anthony has captivated millions worldwide.

    In this inspiring conversation, Anthony shares his journey from humble beginnings to global stardom, offering insights into how he carved a unique path that blends sports, social media, and music. 

    Discover how he uses his platform to champion meaningful causes and get an inside look at the story behind his single, "Pin Now," featuring Bizkitbnb. 

    Dive into the stories behind the slam dunks, viral moments, and Anthony's mission to spark change.

    Presented in collaboration with Authority Magazine in the series Stars Who Make a Difference.

    00:00 Intro
    01:22 Discover Anthony’s Origin Story: Learn about his journey from growing up to becoming a sports and social media icon.
    07:30 Career Path Insights: Hear the intriguing story of what led Anthony to his unique career.
    22:04 Behind-the-Scenes Stories: Enjoy fascinating anecdotes from Anthony's career, including the most interesting moments and the people who impacted his professional life.
    24:01 Giving Back: Find out how Anthony uses his success to bring goodness to the world and the meaningful causes he's passionate about.
    30:31 Self-Care Secrets: Anthony shares his routines for keeping his body, mind, and heart thriving.
    32:12 Latest Single Insight: Get an exclusive look into the story behind his latest single, "Pin Now," and what it was like working with Bizkitbnb.
    35:47 Inspiration for Change: If Anthony could inspire a movement, discover what it would be and how it would bring good to many.

    Watch the video interview, where Anthony shares her journey and insights—on YouTube.

    📸 Follow Anthony on Instagram

    🌐 Follow Anthony on Facebook 

    🎵 Click to listen to Anthony's single "Pin Now," featuring Bizkitbnb

    🌿 Join us as we celebrate innovation, empowerment, and the movement toward a more mindful, compassionate future. Subscribe to Mission-Driven Founders on your favorite platform and never miss a story that inspires change!

    📖 Get your copy of Women in Wellness 

    🌍 Explore Crunchy Mama Box 

    ✨ Learn more about the CMB Certification Program

    🎧 Subscribe to Mission-Driven Founders

    Spotify

    Apple Podcasts

    iheart

    📲 Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @crunchymamabox 

    📰 Join our newsletter

    Discover how the CMB Certification Program empowers brands, giving them the recognition they deserve for creating clean, eco-friendly, and socially responsible products. The certification empowers consumers to make informed choices about their health by guiding them toward truly green products.

    Join us as we elevate wellness and sustainability into a global movement—because together, we can make ethical living the norm, not the exception.

    Support the show

    44 min
  • Tackling Weight Gain, Mental Health & Wellness for Young Adults & Families with Anna Resende

    Send us Fan Mail

    In this impactful episode, Wanda sits down with Anna Resende, health coach at Mamma Terra and author of Living Your Best Life in College. Anna dives deep into the pressing challenges young adults and families face today, including weight gain, mental health struggles, and the journey to holistic wellness.

    Through her book and coaching, Anna equips college students and their families with practical tools to navigate nutrition, stress, and environmental health. She shares her inspiring transition from health coach training to solopreneurship, along with her passion for sustainability and nature as essential components of a balanced life.

    Discover Anna’s vision for integrating wellness curriculums into schools, her strategies for building resilience, and her commitment to fostering a healthier, more sustainable future for the next generation.

    00:00 Intro
    01:30Anna's spiritual journey to health coaching
    02:46 The book's mission to support young adults & parents
    08:32 Overcoming solopreneurship challenges
    12:09 Connecting nature & sustainability to wellness
    22:42 Advocating for education & certifications in health 

    Don’t miss her full interview, where Anna shares her journey and insights—watch it on YouTube.

    Tune in for relatable stories, actionable tips, and hope for those seeking to overcome health challenges and embrace a path of holistic well-being.

    Learn more about Anna Resende—health coach, author, and advocate for sustainable living: Living Your Best Life in College.

    Explore her mission at Mamma Terra, where she champions wellness, sustainability, and community empowerment.

    🌐 Mamma Terra Health Coaching website.

    📖 Click here to buy her book. 

    🎧 Click to listen to Anna's Podcast: Good is what makes you feel well.

    🌿 Join us as we celebrate innovation, empowerment, and the movement toward a more mindful, compassionate future. Subscribe to Mission-Driven Founders on your favorite platform and never miss a story that inspires change!

    📖 Get your copy of Women in Wellness on Amazon or on our website: 

     🌍 Explore Crunchy Mama Box and discover certified wellness products: 

    ✨ Learn more about the CMB Certification Program

    🎧 Subscribe to Mission-Driven Founders

    Spotify

    Apple Podcasts

    iheart

    📲 Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @crunchymamabox for updates and inspiration!

    📰 Join our newsletter to stay informed and inspired

    Discover how the CMB Certification Program empowers brands, giving them the recognition they deserve for creating clean, eco-friendly, and socially responsible products. The certification empowers consumers to make informed choices about their health by guiding them toward truly green products.

    Join us as we elevate wellness and sustainability into a global movem

    Discover how the CMB Certification Program empowers brands, giving them the recognition they deserve for creating clean, eco-friendly, and socially responsible products. The certification empowers consumers to make informed choices about their health by guiding them toward truly green products.

    Join us as we elevate wellness and sustainability into a global movement—because together, we can make ethical living the norm, not the exception.

    Support the show

    27 min

About Mission-driven Founders

From the publisher's feed

Most wellness marketing is noise. This podcast is the filter.

Hosted by Wanda Malhotra, Mission-Driven Founders cuts through the hype to spotlight the visionary entrepreneurs…