Superpowers for Good: Empowering Changemakers for Social Impact via Regulated Investment Crowdfunding from the SuperCrowd.

Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.

Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.

Devin: What is your superpower?

Deepti: Persistence.

Deepti Brambl, the founder of Kaylaan, is on a mission to revolutionize oral care while addressing environmental sustainability. Her innovative company is tackling the global issue of plastic waste with its unique toothpaste tablets, offering a game-changing alternative to traditional toothpaste packaged in plastic tubes.

Kaylaan’s toothpaste tablets are designed for simplicity and sustainability. “All you do is crunch it. Your saliva does the magic, and you just brush your teeth how you normally would,” Deepti explained. These tablets, made with clean ingredients, generate zero waste and do not require water for activation. They are an eco-friendly solution for environmentally conscious consumers.

The journey to bring this product to market has been filled with challenges. Kaylaan is the first company in the United States to manufacture toothpaste tablets with fluoride, a key component for oral health. “We are the only company in the U.S. that manufactures toothpaste tablets with fluoride,” Deepti shared. Achieving this milestone involved navigating a complex FDA approval process, adopting good manufacturing practices (GMP), and undergoing rigorous testing.

Deepti highlighted the financial hurdles her company has faced, particularly the annual FDA fees required for over-the-counter products with fluoride. “This year, we got a bill for $25,000 in FDA fees, and we know it will keep increasing. But we didn’t stop,” she said, underscoring her determination to succeed.

Kaylaan’s product lineup includes several flavors tailored to different preferences, from mint to kid-friendly strawberry and watermelon, as well as neem, a nod to Deepti’s Himalayan roots. The company recently expanded its offerings with mouthwash tablets, further advancing its mission to eliminate plastic waste.

To scale its operations sustainably, Kaylaan is currently raising funds through a regulated investment crowdfunding campaign on Honeycomb Credit. Deepti views this community-driven approach as a way to grow without compromising the company’s values. “We wanted to give back to our community and use the funds wisely to grow consistently,” she explained.

Kaylaan is more than just a business—it represents a movement to rethink oral care and reduce the environmental footprint of daily routines. Deepti’s vision and perseverance serve as an inspiring example of how innovative thinking can create impactful change.

tl;dr:

Kaylaan founder Deepti Brambl explains how plastic-free toothpaste tablets tackle waste and promote sustainability.

Deepti shares challenges of FDA compliance and GMP certification as a small, self-funded startup.

Kaylaan’s innovative products include fluoride and non-fluoride options in five unique flavors.

Deepti discusses raising capital via a regulated crowdfunding campaign to scale operations sustainably.

Persistence and embracing failure are key to Deepti’s success as a purpose-driven entrepreneur.

How to Develop Persistence As a Superpower

Deepti Brambl’s superpower is persistence—a relentless determination to overcome challenges and achieve her goals. As she explained, “If I’m laser-focused and want to achieve something, that is something I would say is my superpower.” Deepti highlighted the role of failure in her journey, noting, “The superpower is failing a lot because that’s where the real growth happens.” Her ability to embrace failure and keep moving forward has been key to her success as an entrepreneur.

Illustrative Story:When Kaylaan faced an FDA audit, Deepti discovered the company wasn’t fully compliant and received a 485 letter. This setback led Amazon to delist their products, forcing Kaylaan to pause operations temporarily. Instead of giving up, Deepti used the audit as a learning opportunity, hiring consultants and implementing rigorous compliance processes. The experience not only ensured full FDA compliance but also set Kaylaan on a path for long-term success.

Tips for Developing Persistence:

Embrace failure as an opportunity to learn and grow.

Allow yourself time to process setbacks before tackling problems with a fresh perspective.

Seek help and guidance from others when faced with challenges.

Focus on long-term goals rather than immediate obstacles.

Adopt the mindset that every problem has a solution.

By following Deepti’s example and advice, you can make persistence a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.

Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!

Guest Profile

Deepti Brambl (she/her):

CEO, Kaylaan

About Kaylaan : Kaylaan manufactures Toothpaste Tablets and Mouthwash Tablets.

Website: kaylaan.com

X/Twitter Handle: @KaylaanTabs

Company Facebook Page: facebook.com/kaylaantoothpaste

Other URL: invest.honeycombcredit.com/campaigns/Kaylaan

Biographical Information: Deepti Brambl, originally from the Himalayas, is the founder and lead engineer behind Kaylaan, a B Corp‑certified sustainable oral care company based in New York. Deepti has been featured in publications like Happi Magazine, Long Island Press, CanvasRebel, and on the “Founders, Unfiltered” podcast. On the Happi Podcast, she discussed Kaylaan’s innovative approach to oral care and eco-packaging, positioning the brand at the intersection of sustainability and consumer convenience.

Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/deeptibrambl

Support Our Sponsors

Our generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today’s advertisers include FundingHope, Rancho Affordable Housing (Proactive), Dopple, and Positive Polar. Learn more about advertising with us here.

Max-Impact Members

The following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support:

Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture |  Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name Here

Upcoming SuperCrowd Event Calendar

If a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.

Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on August 19, 2025, at 1:30 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.

SuperCrowdHour, August 20, 2025, at 12:00 PM Eastern. Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., will lead a session on "Your Portal, Your Future: How to Choose the Right Reg CF Platform." With so many investment crowdfunding portals available today, selecting the right one can be overwhelming for both founders and investors. In this session, Devin will break down the critical factors to consider—such as platform fees, audience demographics, compliance support, industry focus, and overall user experience. Whether you're a founder planning a raise or an investor exploring where to put your dollars to work, you’ll walk away with a clearer understanding of how to evaluate and choose the platform that best aligns with your goals. Don’t miss this practical, insight-packed hour designed to help you take your next step in the Reg CF ecosystem with confidence.

SuperCrowd25, August 21st and 22nd: This two-day virtual event is an annual tradition but with big upgrades for 2025! We’ll be streaming live across the web and on TV via e360tv. VIPs get access to our better-than-in-person networking, including backstage passes, VIP networking and an exclusive VIP webinar! Get your VIP access for just $25. A select group of affordable sponsorship opportunities is still available. Learn more here.

Community Event Calendar

Successful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.

NEIGHBR Live Webinar, in partnership with FundingHope, will share NEIGHBR’s story with a wider audience — September 3 at 11 AM EST. Reserve your spot today!

Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit 2025, Crowdfunding Professional Association, Washington DC, October 21-22, 2025.

Impact Accelerator Summit is a live in-person event taking place in Austin, Texas, from October 23–25, 2025. This exclusive gathering brings together 100 heart-centered, conscious entrepreneurs generating $1M+ in revenue with 20–30 family offices and venture funds actively seeking to invest in world-changing businesses. Referred by Michael Dash, participants can expect an inspiring, high-impact experience focused on capital connection, growth, and global impact.

If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 9,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.

We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode.

Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.

Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.

Devin: What is your superpower?

Caroline: Positive energy.

Founders of social impact organizations—those working to change the world—often experience a unique kind of isolation. The challenges they face extend beyond scaling a business or managing operations; they wrestle with the pressure of delivering meaningful social change while also keeping a wary eye on their bottom line.

That’s why Caroline Diehl MBE, Founder and CEO of Social Founders, has dedicated herself to supporting the well-being of the people behind these organizations. She’s not focused on the nuts and bolts of business planning or marketing. Instead, Caroline is building a global network that supports founders themselves, giving them a space to connect, decompress and recharge.

As Caroline explained on today’s episode, “It's amazing how some of the most experienced and brilliant social founders in our network still say that they feel lonely. They feel that they can't talk really openly to their board or to their management team. They can't constantly dump on their partner back at home. And they love the idea of connecting with other founders.”

She’s quick to note that the ecosystem for social impact founders doesn’t match what’s available to tech founders. “If you’re a tech founder, you’re on to a good thing. But if you’re a charity founder or a social entrepreneur, it’s pretty tough. And there’s not much support for the actual founder.”

Caroline’s approach is all about founder well-being. Social Founders doesn’t duplicate what others do. Instead, they partner with organizations offering practical business help, like the UK’s School for Social Entrepreneurs, while focusing on the founder’s mental and emotional health. “We’re there for the well-being of the founder, which in turn helps that founder be a better founder,” Caroline said.

The double bottom line—delivering both social impact and financial sustainability—adds another layer of complexity. Caroline captured this tension: “Sometimes you can create more social impact without having to focus on the money all the time and vice versa. If you're focusing on the money all the time, then you end up just maybe selling lots of mugs or stickers or something and not doing enough social impact.”

Changemakers need not go it alone. Social Founders offers a global community, recognizing the value of peer support and connection. If you’re building a social enterprise or founding a charity, consider joining the movement at socialfounder.org. You’ll find a group of like-minded leaders who understand your challenges—and a network designed to help you thrive.

tl;dr:

Caroline Diehl MBE founded Social Founders to support the well-being of social enterprise and charity founders.

She highlights the loneliness and unique pressures founders face, especially balancing impact and financial sustainability.

Caroline emphasizes building networks over business advice, prioritizing emotional and peer support for changemakers.

Her superpower, positive energy, has fueled her success and resilience across multiple impactful organizations.

Listeners are invited to join Social Founders’ global network for community, inspiration and support.

How to Develop Positive Energy As a Superpower

Caroline described her superpower as “positive energy.” She explained, “Whoever I’m talking to, whether I’m meeting some grand poobah running some big company or the people that I really love who are the grassroots founders and changemakers, or whether I’m just on my own… I can call on a superpower inside me of positive energy and make that happen.” Even during difficult times, when doubt creeps in, Caroline channels this positive energy to keep moving forward, whether she’s running marathons or building impactful organizations.

Illustrative Story:After founding the Media Trust and Together TV, Caroline started Social Founders from scratch, with no investment capital and little personal financial security. She had to convince funders, opinion leaders and founders from diverse backgrounds to join her network. Despite being “not young anymore,” she relied on her positive energy to inspire and mobilize others. Caroline shared that much of her energy comes from the people she meets—like a renowned Japanese dancer who supports people with learning difficulties through dance, or a young entrepreneur in Japan helping formerly incarcerated youth start businesses. These encounters continually fuel her own drive.

Actionable Tips for Developing Positive Energy:

Focus on your love for your mission and your passionate belief in the change you want to make.

Keep reminders—like sticky notes with meaningful messages—visible in your workspace.

Connect regularly with the people you aim to help; their stories can renew your motivation.

When energy is low, spend time outdoors: go for a walk, bike ride or simply get fresh air.

By following Caroline’s example and advice, you can make positive energy a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.

Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!

Guest Profile

Caroline Diehl MBE (she/her):

Founder and CEO, Social Founders

About Social Founders: Social Founders is the global network for social impact founders - we connect, support and celebrate founders of charities, social enterprises and community organisations.

Website: socialfounder.org

Company Facebook Page: facebook.com/socialfoundernetwork

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/social-founders

Instagram Handle: @social.founders

Biographical Information: Caroline Diehl MBE is a highly experienced Founder, CEO, Chair and Entrepreneur working across the Creative Industries, Broadcast & Digital Media, Social Enterprise and Charity sectors. She is Founder & CEO of two new global networks: SocialFounders and ImpactMedia. She is the Founder, and was CEO until 2017, of the Media Trust - the UK's leading communications charity; she is Founder, and previously CEO, then Executive Chair, of Together TV (The Community Channel) until Sept.2022. She is an INSEAD Entrepreneur in Residence, and a Cambridge MA. She is also a Churchill Fellow, a Governor of the East London NHS Foundation Trust (ELFT) and an Associate of Newnham College, Cambridge. She has launched a podcast series: 'Social Founder Stories'. In her spare time she is a Marathon runner, an avid arts consumer & reader and a proud mother of two entrepreneurial sons. In addition to English she is fluent in Spanish and French, speaks good Italian and is learning Japanese after living in Tokyo earlier this year.

Personal Facebook Profile: facebook.com/carolineDiehlMBE

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/carolinediehl-mbe

Instagram Handle: @carodiehl

Invest in Helping Families!

Support Our Sponsors

Our generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today’s advertisers include FundingHope, Rancho Affordable Housing (Proactive), and Dopple. Learn more about advertising with us here.

Max-Impact Members

The following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support:

Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture |  Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name Here

Upcoming SuperCrowd Event Calendar

If a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.

Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on August 19, 2025, at 1:30 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.

SuperCrowdHour, August 20, 2025, at 12:00 PM Eastern. Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., will lead a session on "Your Portal, Your Future: How to Choose the Right Reg CF Platform." With so many investment crowdfunding portals available today, selecting the right one can be overwhelming for both founders and investors. In this session, Devin will break down the critical factors to consider—such as platform fees, audience demographics, compliance support, industry focus, and overall user experience. Whether you're a founder planning a raise or an investor exploring where to put your dollars to work, you’ll walk away with a clearer understanding of how to evaluate and choose the platform that best aligns with your goals. Don’t miss this practical, insight-packed hour designed to help you take your next step in the Reg CF ecosystem with confidence.

SuperCrowd25, August 21st and 22nd: This two-day virtual event is an annual tradition but with big upgrades for 2025! We’ll be streaming live across the web and on TV via e360tv. VIPs get access to our better-than-in-person networking, including backstage passes, VIP networking and an exclusive VIP webinar! Get your VIP access for just $25. A select group of affordable sponsorship opportunities is still available. Learn more here.

Community Event Calendar

Successful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.

Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit 2025, Crowdfunding Professional Association, Washington DC, October 21-22, 2025.

Impact Accelerator Summit is a live in-person event taking place in Austin, Texas, from October 23–25, 2025. This exclusive gathering brings together 100 heart-centered, conscious entrepreneurs generating $1M+ in revenue with 20–30 family offices and venture funds actively seeking to invest in world-changing businesses. Referred by Michael Dash, participants can expect an inspiring, high-impact experience focused on capital connection, growth, and global impact.

Call for community action:

Please show your support for a tax credit for investments made via Regulation Crowdfunding, benefiting both the investors and the small businesses that receive the investments. Learn more here.

If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 9,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.

We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode.

Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.

Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.

The regulated investment crowdfunding market is experiencing a remarkable resurgence, with $450 million invested in the first half of 2025—a sign of renewed growth and confidence in this alternative financing method. After a pullback following the 2021 peak, this year’s upswing is breathing new life into opportunities for both entrepreneurs and investors.

Brian Belley, Vice President of Product at Kingscrowd, shared insights on this trend during this episode of the “Superpowers for Good” show. He highlighted the resilience of the market, noting, “The numbers were actually very encouraging for this year. So over the first six months, over the first half of the year, there was $450 million committed to these campaigns that are being done online to these offerings.”

Despite economic uncertainty and public market volatility earlier this year, investors continued to support small businesses and startups. As Belley explained, “We actually raised $450 million in spite of all of that that was going on.” Beyond the investment totals, this capital is fueling job creation and economic activity across communities.

Both Regulation A and Regulation Crowdfunding (Reg CF) are seeing significant participation. Regulation A campaigns attracted $250 million, while Reg CF brought in $200 million—up 9% from last year. Belley pointed out, “In the case of Regulation A, that even exceeded the first six months even going back to 2021,” signaling the historic nature of this year’s growth.

One reason for Reg CF’s continued appeal is its accessibility, with minimum investments as low as $50 or $100. Belley said, “The average investment size, check size, as we refer to it, does tend to be in that $1,000 to $1,200 range... there are some bigger investors out there as well who are investing in these companies.” This democratization of investing is helping more people participate in early-stage ventures.

Recent successful offerings, such as the Newsmax Reg A+ campaign that raised $75 million, show how large brands can leverage their audiences to achieve record-breaking results. Such campaigns also demonstrate how regulated crowdfunding can bridge the gap between private and public markets, sometimes allowing shares to become tradable soon after the raise.

Kingscrowd’s projections suggest that the sector could reach $900 million by year’s end, potentially rivaling or even surpassing the 2021 record. For founders seeking capital and investors seeking opportunities, the data points to a robust and promising period for regulated investment crowdfunding.

For those interested in learning more, Belley’s latest report is available at s4g.biz/king or kingscrowd.com, offering data, insights, and tools to help navigate this dynamic market.

tl;dr:

The episode highlights a renewed surge in regulated investment crowdfunding, with $450 million raised early in 2025.

Brian Belley of Kingscrowd shares data and trends, showing growth in both Reg A and Reg CF offerings.

Reg CF’s accessibility empowers everyday investors and helps democratize early-stage investment opportunities.

The Newsmax Reg A+ campaign illustrates how major brands can achieve record-breaking success through pre-IPO crowdfunding.

The episode closes with practical advice for founders and investors to benefit from the evolving crowdfunding landscape.

The Newsmax offering stands out as a prime example of pre-IPO crowdfunding. As Brian Belley explained, “Something very unique with the Newsmax offering is this ability where it was kind of this pre-IPO offering, where the shares that were purchased were essentially then kind of uplisted. They were listed on a public exchange after the Reg A offering, and they then became tradable.” This structure enabled investors not only to back a familiar media brand but also to access liquidity by trading their shares soon after the campaign, a feature rarely seen in traditional crowdfunding.

The Newsmax Reg A+ campaign showcased how a company can leverage its established audience to fuel a record-breaking raise. With a large, engaged base, Newsmax was able to reach supporters eager for both financial returns and a chance to connect with the brand’s mission. After the campaign, the shares became tradable on a public exchange, and early trading saw the stock price soar, providing some investors with significant short-term gains before stabilizing. This example demonstrates how regulated crowdfunding can bridge private capital raising and public market liquidity, offering tangible rewards and flexibility to investors.

Build and engage a strong community or audience before launching any campaign

Leverage brand recognition and trust to attract committed investors

Structure offerings with potential paths to liquidity, such as post-raise public trading

Work with experienced platforms and broker-dealers to maximize reach and regulatory compliance

Communicate risks and rewards transparently to set realistic investor expectations

Guest Profile

Brian Belley (he/him):

Vice President, Product, Kingscrowd

About Kingscrowd: Kingscrowd is a team of financiers, venture capitalists, technologists, founders, and experts on a mission to democratize private market investing. Our mission is to educate and empower everyday investors with the same level of access to private investment opportunities and diligence as institutional investors.

Kingscrowd collects data -- over 300 data points -- on every online capital raise being conducted under Regulated Investment Crowdfunding (Reg CF and Reg A+). Our platform allows investors and founders to make more informed investment and capital raising decisions. In addition, Kingscrowd operates the online private market's first data-driven investment fund, Kingscrowd Capital.

Website: kingscrowd.com

X/Twitter Handle: @kingscrowdinc

Biographical Information: Brian Belley is an aerospace engineer and Fortune 500 engineering lead turned tech entrepreneur, with a keen eye for innovative financing in the startup ecosystem. After a decade in the defense industry working on electronic warfare technology to protect our country, he jumped into the alternative finance space full time as the founder of Crowdwise. Acquired by KingsCrowd in 2021, Brian now serves as KingsCrowd’s Head of Product. With over 220 personal angel investments under his belt, he's deeply entrenched in the investment landscape, offering invaluable insights to both startups and investors. Always at the forefront of alternative investing - such as mining Bitcoin in his garage back in 2013 to crowd-sourced real estate and peer-to-peer lending, NFTs and art - he’s no stranger to seeking diversification and alpha through areas that mainstream investors haven’t yet discovered.Beyond his executive and entrepreneurial roles, Brian is an active board member for the Crowdfunding Professional Association (CfPA) and a passionate advocate for growth and innovation in the online alternative investing industry. He is also a Board Member of New England FIRST, a STEM youth organization helping to introduce the future leaders and entrepreneurs to STEM fields. In his free time, Brian is an avid runner and also dabbles in numerous side projects to stay technically sharp; one of which led to his sending weather balloons to near-space that were featured on a skit for The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.

X/Twitter Handle: @brianbelley

Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/brianbelley

Support Our Sponsors

Our generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today’s advertisers include FundingHope, Rancho Affordable Housing (Proactive), and Dopple. Learn more about advertising with us here.

Max-Impact Members

The following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support:

Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear |  Matthew Mead, Hempitecture |  Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name Here

Upcoming SuperCrowd Event Calendar

If a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.

Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on August 19, 2025, at 1:30 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.

SuperCrowdHour, August 20, 2025, at 12:00 PM Eastern. Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., will lead a session on "Your Portal, Your Future: How to Choose the Right Reg CF Platform." With so many investment crowdfunding portals available today, selecting the right one can be overwhelming for both founders and investors. In this session, Devin will break down the critical factors to consider—such as platform fees, audience demographics, compliance support, industry focus, and overall user experience. Whether you're a founder planning a raise or an investor exploring where to put your dollars to work, you’ll walk away with a clearer understanding of how to evaluate and choose the platform that best aligns with your goals. Don’t miss this practical, insight-packed hour designed to help you take your next step in the Reg CF ecosystem with confidence.

SuperCrowd25, August 21st and 22nd: This two-day virtual event is an annual tradition but with big upgrades for 2025! We’ll be streaming live across the web and on TV via e360tv. Apply for the Live Pitch here. VIPs get access to our better-than-in-person networking, including backstage passes, VIP networking and an exclusive VIP webinar! Get your VIP access for just $25. A select group of affordable sponsorship opportunities is still available. Learn more here.

Community Event Calendar

Successful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.

Devin Thorpe is featured in a free virtual masterclass series hosted by Irina Portnova titled Break Free, Elevate Your Money Mindset & Call In Overflow, focused on transforming your relationship with money through personal stories and practical insights. June 8-21, 2025.

Join Dorian Dickinson, founder & CEO of FundingHope, for Startup.com’s monthly crowdfunding workshop, where he'll dive into strategies for successfully raising capital through investment crowdfunding. June 24 at noon Eastern.

Future Forward Summit: San Francisco, Wednesday, June 25 · 3:30 - 8:30 pm PDT.

Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit 2025, Crowdfunding Professional Association, Washington DC, October 21-22, 2025.

Impact Accelerator Summit is a live in-person event taking place in Austin, Texas, from October 23–25, 2025. This exclusive gathering brings together 100 heart-centered, conscious entrepreneurs generating $1M+ in revenue with 20–30 family offices and venture funds actively seeking to invest in world-changing businesses. Referred by Michael Dash, participants can expect an inspiring, high-impact experience focused on capital connection, growth, and global impact.

Call for community action:

Please show your support for a tax credit for investments made via Regulation Crowdfunding, benefiting both the investors and the small businesses that receive the investments. Learn more here.

If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 9,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.

We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode.

Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.

Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.

Devin: What is your superpower?

Diana: Relentless passion.

Breast cancer treatment is long overdue for a revolution. Diana Tucker, CEO of SenoGuard, is leading the charge with an innovative alternative to post-lumpectomy radiation. Using advanced cryoablation technology, SenoGuard freezes the cavity where a tumor is removed, eliminating residual cancer cells in one procedure.

Radiation has been the standard of care for decades, but it comes with significant physical, emotional, and financial costs. Diana explained in today’s episode, “Radiation is horrible both clinically and cosmetically. It changes the shape, size, and feel of the breast. Many women face long-term emotional and physical side effects.” She shared the tragic story of a young breast cancer survivor whose radiation treatment ultimately damaged her heart. “I am very passionate about eliminating radiation if at all possible,” she said.

SenoGuard’s approach simplifies treatment. “The patient goes in for her tumor excision, and immediately we freeze the cavity where the tumor has been removed,” Diana said. “It’s one and done. The patient can go back to work the very next day.” This innovation not only reduces the physical toll on patients but also addresses significant disparities in access to care. Many women forego lumpectomies because daily radiation sessions are unaffordable or inaccessible, especially in rural areas. Diana noted, “Almost 30% of women who qualify for a lumpectomy choose mastectomy instead because they can’t afford the time or cost of radiation.”

To bring this groundbreaking technology to market, SenoGuard is raising capital through a regulated investment crowdfunding campaign on WeFunder. Diana emphasized the importance of public support, saying, “Everybody knows someone who has had breast cancer. By investing, people feel they are not just supporting a cause but making a difference for society.”

SenoGuard’s cryoablation technology has the potential to transform breast cancer treatment, making it less toxic, more accessible, and kinder to patients. By supporting their crowdfunding campaign, you could help bring this life-changing innovation to millions of women.

tl;dr:

Diana Tucker shared how SenoGuard’s cryoablation technology eliminates the need for post-lumpectomy radiation.

Radiation’s side effects often force women to choose mastectomies, highlighting the need for better options.

SenoGuard’s innovation reduces treatment time, costs, and disparities in accessing breast cancer care.

Diana described her relentless passion and how it drives her to overcome challenges in her work.

SenoGuard is raising funds via a WeFunder campaign to bring this life-changing technology to market.

How to Develop Relentless Passion As a Superpower

Diana Tucker’s superpower is her relentless passion for solving problems she truly believes in. As she explained in today’s episode, “When I have a sincere understanding, I become very passionate, enthusiastic, and relentless to get that…across the finish line.” Her superpower drives her to tackle challenges with unwavering determination, especially when the stakes are high.

Story Illustrating Superpower

Diana shared a story from her early career, where she was tasked with bringing a French ophthalmology solution to the U.S. market. “The CEO told me, ‘If you can figure out how to bring this over to America, you have a job. If you can’t, you’re fired.’” Fueled by determination, she successfully introduced the technology, which became the standard of care. Years later, an ophthalmologist recognized her contribution with heartfelt gratitude, highlighting the profound and lasting impact of her work.

Tips for Developing the Superpower

Find Your Passion: Identify problems that deeply resonate with you to fuel your enthusiasm and drive.

Share Your Vision: Build a team by inspiring others with your passion and clear vision.

Never Give Up: When faced with roadblocks, find creative workarounds to keep moving forward.

Believe in Yourself: Confidence in your abilities is key to overcoming challenges and achieving your goals.

By following Diana’s example and advice, you can make relentless passion a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.

Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!

Guest Profile

Diana Tucker (she/her):

CEO, SenoGuard

About SenoGuard: SenoGuard is pioneering a transformative approach to breast cancer treatment by offering a radiation-free alternative following lumpectomy. Our innovative technology uses advanced cryoablation--freezing residual cancer cells during surgery--to eliminate the need for weeks of post-op radiation.This method significantly reduces patient burden, especially for the 28% who face barriers like distance, cost, or time constraints.Supported by National Science Foundation grants, SenoGuard's solution is designed to be accessible in community hospitals, expanding treatment options globally. Led by a seasoned team with over a century of combined experience in women's healthcare, SenoGuard is committed to enhancing patient outcomes and accessibility.

Website: SenoGuard.com

Company Facebook Page: facebook.com/senoguard

Other URL: wefunder.com/senoguardinc

Biographical Information: Diana Tucker is a strategic marketing executive with a distinguished track record in launching and growing innovative, paradigm-shifting medical technologies. With deep expertise in market analysis and opportunity identification, she has led high-impact global marketing initiatives across diagnostics, medical devices, and oncology. Known for her ability to anticipate market trends and apply creative strategies that drive adoption of innovative products, Diana has held leadership roles at companies such as Agendia, AMO, and J&J; as well as being a contributing editor for Thompson Reuters Biomedical Business International newsletter covering financial impacts of emerging technologies across all surgical specialties worldwide.  Diana has continually demonstrated her talent for turning unmet clinical needs into successful business opportunities. Diana holds a B.S. in Molecular & Cellular Biology from UC Irvine and an MBA in Marketing from Pepperdine University.

Personal Facebook Profile: facebook.com/dianatucker

Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/dianaltucker

Support Our Sponsors

Our generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today’s advertisers include FundingHope, Rancho Affordable Housing (Proactive), and Dopple. Learn more about advertising with us here.

Max-Impact Members

The following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support:

Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear |  Matthew Mead, Hempitecture |  Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name Here

Upcoming SuperCrowd Event Calendar

If a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.

Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on August 19, 2025, at 1:30 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.

SuperCrowdHour, August 20, 2025, at 12:00 PM Eastern. Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., will lead a session on "Your Portal, Your Future: How to Choose the Right Reg CF Platform." With so many investment crowdfunding portals available today, selecting the right one can be overwhelming for both founders and investors. In this session, Devin will break down the critical factors to consider—such as platform fees, audience demographics, compliance support, industry focus, and overall user experience. Whether you're a founder planning a raise or an investor exploring where to put your dollars to work, you’ll walk away with a clearer understanding of how to evaluate and choose the platform that best aligns with your goals. Don’t miss this practical, insight-packed hour designed to help you take your next step in the Reg CF ecosystem with confidence.

SuperCrowd25, August 21st and 22nd: This two-day virtual event is an annual tradition but with big upgrades for 2025! We’ll be streaming live across the web and on TV via e360tv. Apply for the Live Pitch here. VIPs get access to our better-than-in-person networking, including backstage passes, VIP networking and an exclusive VIP webinar! Get your VIP access for just $25. A select group of affordable sponsorship opportunities is still available. Learn more here.

Community Event Calendar

Successful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.

Devin Thorpe is featured in a free virtual masterclass series hosted by Irina Portnova titled Break Free, Elevate Your Money Mindset & Call In Overflow, focused on transforming your relationship with money through personal stories and practical insights. June 8-21, 2025.

Join Dorian Dickinson, founder & CEO of FundingHope, for Startup.com’s monthly crowdfunding workshop, where he'll dive into strategies for successfully raising capital through investment crowdfunding. June 24 at noon Eastern.

Future Forward Summit: San Francisco, Wednesday, June 25 · 3:30 - 8:30 pm PDT.

Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit 2025, Crowdfunding Professional Association, Washington DC, October 21-22, 2025.

Impact Accelerator Summit is a live in-person event taking place in Austin, Texas, from October 23–25, 2025. This exclusive gathering brings together 100 heart-centered, conscious entrepreneurs generating $1M+ in revenue with 20–30 family offices and venture funds actively seeking to invest in world-changing businesses. Referred by Michael Dash, participants can expect an inspiring, high-impact experience focused on capital connection, growth, and global impact.

Call for community action:

Please show your support for a tax credit for investments made via Regulation Crowdfunding, benefiting both the investors and the small businesses that receive the investments. Learn more here.

If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 9,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.

We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode.

Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.

Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.

Devin: What is your superpower?

Jo: Uniting people.

Childhood cravings often fade with time, but for Jo Weinand, they became a lifelong mission. Growing up addicted to chocolate milk, Jo eventually realized that her favorite treat wasn’t as healthy as she’d imagined. “It was a sad day when I started to read labels and realized, oof, I just cannot be drinking this anymore,” she shared in today’s episode.

As Jo searched for a healthier alternative, she found herself frustrated by disappointing options. Either the products didn’t taste good, or they were full of fillers and oils. When the pandemic hit and life slowed down, Jo seized the opportunity to experiment. Using her Vitamix and pantry staples like cashews, cocoa powder, and agave syrup, she crafted a homemade chocolate milk that surprised her with its deliciousness. “I hit blend, poured it in a cup, tried it and was like, wait, what? This is actually really good,” Jo said.

That spark of inspiration soon became Nutcase, a company producing healthier chocolate milk with cashews as the creamy, nutrient-rich base. But Jo wasn’t content with just making something for herself or her local community. “I’m a big dreamer,” she said. “As soon as I realized there was a product here, I started thinking about how to scale it globally.”

Jo tested the waters by bottling her creation and selling it in her restaurant, where it quickly flew off the shelves. That validation pushed her to solve the next challenge: extending the product’s shelf life for large-scale distribution. Through persistence and a network of connections, Jo found experts who helped her refine the formulation and production process.

Now, Nutcase is on the verge of becoming a global brand, and Jo is inviting others to join her journey. With a regulated crowdfunding campaign currently open, anyone can invest in Nutcase and own a piece of the company. “Having everyday people, super fans, and supporters have skin in the game was a no-brainer for me,” Jo said.

Her passion for creating a healthier, better-tasting chocolate milk is undeniable, but her vision for building an inclusive, community-backed brand is just as inspiring. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this delicious revolution.

tl;dr:

Jo Weinand founded Nutcase to create healthier, cashew-based chocolate milk that tastes amazing.

A pandemic experiment with cashews, cocoa, and agave led to a surprisingly successful formula.

Jo scaled Nutcase from a local product to a global brand with strategic networking and persistence.

Celebrities and influencers, including Steve Aoki and Ninja, joined Nutcase as partners and advocates.

Through equity crowdfunding, Jo invites supporters to invest in Nutcase and join the mission.

How to Develop Uniting People As a Superpower

Jo’s ability to unite people around a common mission is her defining strength. She explained, “As a founder, the best thing ever is building a team...of big celebrities and influencers, but also giving opportunities to people who are such hard workers and hustlers.” Jo’s talent for inspiring enthusiasm and aligning others with her vision has been instrumental in turning Nutcase into more than just a business—it’s a movement.

When Jo launched Nutcase’s strawberry flavor, she saw an opportunity to approach Steve Aoki, who initially wasn’t a fan of chocolate milk. Upon trying the strawberry variety, he became so excited about the product and its brain-health benefits, he not only joined as a partner but also introduced Nutcase to his foundation to support brain health initiatives. Jo’s ability to bring people together with shared values has helped Nutcase grow in unexpected, meaningful ways.

Tips for Developing the Superpower:

Share your passion authentically to inspire others.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help or make connections.

Build a team with people who are aligned with your mission.

Lean into your uniqueness—be bold and embrace being different.

Final Paragraph:By following Jo’s example and advice, you can make uniting people a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.

Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!

Guest Profile

Jo Weinand (she/her):

Founder, Nutcase Milk

About Nutcase Milk: Nutcase combines the nostalgic appeal of Nesquik with a premium, better-for-you nut milk, in sleek adult packaging. Made with cashews and naturally sweetened with dates & agave - it has no refined sugar, no artificial s**t, no oils… no bs! Backed by gaming superstar Ninja & DJ rockstar Steve Aoki, Nutcase bring back your favorite childhood drink, grown-up & guilt-free.

Website: drinknutcase.com

X/Twitter Handle: @nutcasemilk

Other URL: issuanceexpress.com/nutcase-regcf/#email-form

Biographical Information: Jo Weinand is the embodiment of the Nutcase brand and a perfect example of what you can accomplish when you are a total nutcase and won’t let anything stop you. A serial entrepreneur, she has a keen eye for spotting an opportunity and creating a product that sets itself apart from the competition, with a brand that stands out on the shelf. She continues to prove her unique ability to inspire big names to fall in love with her product and join her mission.

X/Twitter Handle: @joelleparenteau

Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/joelled

Instagram Handle: @drinknutcase

Support Our Sponsors

Our generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today’s advertisers include FundingHope, Rancho Affordable Housing (Proactive), and Dopple. Learn more about advertising with us here.

Max-Impact Members

The following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support:

Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear |  Matthew Mead, Hempitecture |  Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name Here

Upcoming SuperCrowd Event Calendar

If a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.

Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on August 19, 2025, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.

SuperCrowdHour, August 20, 2025, at 12:00 PM Eastern. Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., will lead a session on "Your Portal, Your Future: How to Choose the Right Reg CF Platform." With so many investment crowdfunding portals available today, selecting the right one can be overwhelming for both founders and investors. In this session, Devin will break down the critical factors to consider—such as platform fees, audience demographics, compliance support, industry focus, and overall user experience. Whether you're a founder planning a raise or an investor exploring where to put your dollars to work, you’ll walk away with a clearer understanding of how to evaluate and choose the platform that best aligns with your goals. Don’t miss this practical, insight-packed hour designed to help you take your next step in the Reg CF ecosystem with confidence.

SuperCrowd25, August 21st and 22nd: This two-day virtual event is an annual tradition but with big upgrades for 2025! We’ll be streaming live across the web and on TV via e360tv. Apply for the Live Pitch here. VIPs get access to our better-than-in-person networking, including backstage passes, VIP networking and an exclusive VIP webinar! Get your VIP access for just $25. A select group of affordable sponsorship opportunities is still available. Learn more here.

Community Event Calendar

Successful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.

Devin Thorpe is featured in a free virtual masterclass series hosted by Irina Portnova titled Break Free, Elevate Your Money Mindset & Call In Overflow, focused on transforming your relationship with money through personal stories and practical insights. June 8-21, 2025.

Join Dorian Dickinson, founder & CEO of FundingHope, for Startup.com’s monthly crowdfunding workshop, where he'll dive into strategies for successfully raising capital through investment crowdfunding. June 24 at noon Eastern.

Future Forward Summit: San Francisco, Wednesday, June 25 · 3:30 - 8:30 pm PDT.

Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit 2025, Crowdfunding Professional Association, Washington DC, October 21-22, 2025.

Impact Accelerator Summit is a live in-person event taking place in Austin, Texas, from October 23–25, 2025. This exclusive gathering brings together 100 heart-centered, conscious entrepreneurs generating $1M+ in revenue with 20–30 family offices and venture funds actively seeking to invest in world-changing businesses. Referred by Michael Dash, participants can expect an inspiring, high-impact experience focused on capital connection, growth, and global impact.

Call for community action:

Please show your support for a tax credit for investments made via Regulation Crowdfunding, benefiting both the investors and the small businesses that receive the investments. Learn more here.

If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 9,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.

We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode.

When Main Street Meets Superpowers: Building Community Through Localism, Crowdfunding, and Collaboration

Each month, I have the genuine privilege of sitting down with my friend and colleague Jen Risley, editor of The Main Street Journal, for a conversation that bridges our shared passion for impact, innovation, and community-rooted change. Our most recent dialogue was no exception—it was a deeply thoughtful exchange exploring the intersections of decentralization, localism, and the real power of community-centered finance.

And this month’s chat brought a bonus: the announcement of Main Street Journal’s most-read issue to date, “A Localism Manifesto.” It’s an extraordinary piece that’s resonating not only with Jen’s readers but now across the broader Substack ecosystem. If you haven’t read it yet, consider this your personal invitation.

But beyond just catching up on what’s new in our respective publications, this conversation highlighted something more powerful: the way our two newsletters—Main Street Journal and Superpowers for Good—complement and enrich each other. So today, I’d like to recap our exchange, share some exciting announcements, and invite you to subscribe to both newsletters for the full scope of this evolving conversation around community, capital, and change.

A Localism Manifesto: Decentralization with Heart

Jen opened our chat by highlighting the incredible traction “A Localism Manifesto” has gained since its release on July 10. Penned with contributions from Paul Spinrad and Michael H. Shuman, the manifesto doesn’t just explore the theoretical underpinnings of decentralization—it invites community members to shape its next iteration. That’s not just content; that’s co-creation.

For Jen, the concept of decentralism was initially daunting—especially coming from New Hampshire, where the libertarian Free State Movement has made headlines. But the manifesto reimagines decentralization as a tool for building resilient, equitable communities, not just a political stance. “There’s a lot of real value in that position,” she said, and I wholeheartedly agree.

Our conversation touched on the risks of relying solely on government solutions—particularly at the federal level. While I’ve always believed in the potential for good in government, I also see firsthand the limits and bureaucracy that can get in the way. As I shared with Jen, I once had five different people at the California DMV mistakenly insist I needed a smog test for my electric vehicle. (Spoiler: I didn’t.)

This is exactly why Main Street Journal’s work is so important. It offers grounded, accessible pathways for rebuilding economic systems from the bottom up—starting on our very own Main Streets.

Decent Tuesday, Anarchy, and the Power of Language

We also celebrated the addition of Paul Spinrad to the Main Street Journal team. Paul, one of the early champions of the 2012 JOBS Act that enabled today’s investment crowdfunding landscape, is helping to lead a new series called “Decent Tuesday.” The name itself is a clever double entendre—Decent, as in ethical, and Descent, as in decentralization.

Paul’s launch column tackled a bold topic: anarchy. Not the violent imagery we might typically associate with the term, but anarchy in the truest sense of community self-governance and mutual aid. It’s a provocative frame, and Paul’s thoughtful treatment brings it firmly into the realm of community-led development.

As someone who has seen both the power and pitfalls of government, I find these discussions invaluable. They sharpen our thinking, challenge our assumptions, and remind us that even controversial ideas can have a role in shaping a better world—especially when led by voices like Paul’s and platforms like Jen’s.

Jenny Kasson’s Crowdfunding Campaign: A Case Study in Action

Jen was also inspired by my recent interview with Jenny Kassan—another pillar in our space—who is leading an equity crowdfunding campaign on Small Change to finance a transformative community real estate project in Baltimore.

Jenny’s campaign isn’t just about raising capital. It’s a real-time case study in how local investing, ecosystem thinking, and community ownership come together. The project will create furnished rental spaces with flexible terms (think: part Airbnb, part long-stay apartments) and community-oriented ground floor uses. It’s a blend of economic development and social impact that’s both inspiring and practical.

Jen pointed out how Jenny is also exploring complementary tools like time banking. As she noted, “It takes a lot more to create an ecosystem of local investing.” That insight captures the holistic nature of what we’re building across our platforms: sustainable, inclusive systems that elevate everyone—not just investors or entrepreneurs.

From SuperCrowdLA to SuperCrowd25

In that spirit, I shared my own exciting news: the release of our new book, The Big Ideas That Lit Up SuperCrowdLA. It’s a curated, refined distillation of the talks and insights from our recent SuperCrowdLA conference—organized not as a transcript, but as a harmonized narrative built with the help of AI and a whole lot of human editing.

This project was a joy to create, and I learned so much in the process. You can get it now as an eBook, paperback, hardcover, or audiobook—whatever format suits your learning style.

We also previewed SuperCrowd25, our fourth annual virtual summit on impact crowdfunding, streaming live across Substack and social media August 21–22. It’s free to attend, but our $25 VIP package adds access to exclusive networking opportunities, a permanent LinkedIn group, bonus webinars, and speaker handouts. It’s the best $25 you’ll spend this year if you’re building or funding impact-driven ventures.

And yes—if the new book resonates, we just might release a SuperCrowd25 book, too!

Subscribe, Support, and Build With Us

At the end of the day, Main Street Journal and Superpowers for Good are two sides of the same coin. Jen and I are championing different facets of the same movement: one that values people over profits, community over corporations, and action over apathy.

So if you’ve enjoyed the ideas in this piece, I have two invitations for you:

* Subscribe to both newsletters.We’re each doing our best work on Substack—and getting both perspectives will give you a richer, more complete view of this growing ecosystem of changemakers.

* Become a paid subscriber if you can.Your support allows us to keep doing this work—and unlocks bonus content, community, and tools that help you take your own next step, whether that’s launching a campaign or building a stronger local economy.

We truly are better together. Let’s keep learning, building, and lifting each other up—one newsletter, one campaign, and one Main Street at a time.

Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.

Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.

Devin: What is your superpower?

Cristian: Curiosity and passion.

The danger of radiation exposure has always been a concern in medical imaging, especially in surgeries requiring 3D visualization. Cristian Atria, Founder & CEO of nView medical, has tackled this challenge head-on with groundbreaking technology that reduces radiation exposure while improving surgical outcomes.

In this interview, Cristian explained how nView’s innovative surgical scanner allows surgeons to see in 3D during operations, creating images in seconds without the risks associated with traditional imaging methods like CT scans. “We’ve created a new way to create images very fast in 3D,” Cristian shared. “The surgeon has the benefit of having 3D visualization, which leads to more accurate surgeries without the cost of having to radiate the patient.”

This cutting-edge technology is already making an impact, particularly in pediatric surgeries. Cristian emphasized the importance of protecting children, who are especially vulnerable to radiation, while ensuring surgeons have the tools they need for complex procedures. “We decided to start in pediatrics first because it’s the population that requires more protection with respect to radiation,” he explained.

What makes this innovation even more compelling is that it isn’t just a prototype or a distant dream. nView’s devices are already being used clinically, and the company is now raising capital via a regulated crowdfunding campaign on StartEngine. This campaign provides an opportunity for ordinary investors to support—and benefit from—this life-changing technology.

Cristian’s work highlights the potential of innovation to improve not just health outcomes, but also the quality of care for vulnerable populations. By reducing risks and enhancing surgical precision, nView medical is reshaping the future of healthcare.

For those intrigued by the potential of this technology, the crowdfunding campaign offers a chance to be part of this transformative journey. As Cristian noted, “This is a technology we’ve developed over the last 10 years, and it’s already being used clinically.”

This is exactly the kind of innovation that deserves attention and support.

tl;dr:

Cristian Atria’s nView medical developed technology for fast, low-radiation 3D imaging during surgeries.

The technology improves surgical precision, especially in pediatric procedures, reducing risks for vulnerable patients.

nView’s devices are commercially available, and the company is raising funds via StartEngine crowdfunding.

Cristian’s superpower, curiosity and passion, drives his success in solving complex problems innovatively.

A personal story of saving his son’s life illustrates the power of persistence and asking questions.

How to Develop Curiosity and Passion As a Superpower

During today’s episode, Cristian revealed his superpower: a boundless curiosity paired with a passion for connecting disparate ideas. “One minute in my everyday work, I can be thinking about medical physics. The other minute, I’m thinking about a surgical application or talking to a surgeon,” he explained. This ability to explore, connect, and apply knowledge across domains has fueled his success at nView medical and beyond.

Cristian shared a deeply personal story about his twin sons, who were born prematurely. When one faced worsening health issues, Cristian’s curiosity and persistence led to a breakthrough. By asking the right questions and engaging with clinicians, he realized his son’s diagnosis was incorrect. This discovery shifted the treatment plan, ultimately saving his son’s life. The experience underscored Cristian’s belief in the power of curiosity and dialogue to solve complex problems.

Tips for Developing This Superpower:

Ask Questions: Never hesitate to ask questions, even in unfamiliar or intimidating situations.

Engage with Experts: Sit down with people in different fields to learn about their work and challenges.

Embrace Failure: Don’t fear asking “silly” questions—curiosity often leads to unexpected insights.

Leave Your Comfort Zone: Step beyond your area of expertise to explore new ideas and perspectives.

Be Persistent: Keep seeking answers and connections until you find solutions.

By following Cristian’s example and advice, you can make curiosity and passion a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.

Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!

Guest Profile

Cristian Atria (he/him):

Founder & CEO, nView medical

About nView medical: nView medical is a Delaware, with headquarters in Salt Lake City, Utah. It is a medical technology company specializing in real-time 3D imaging solutions for spine, orthopedic, and surgical applications. By integrating advanced imaging hardware and AI-powered software, nView medical aims to enhance surgical accuracy, optimize workflows, and improve patient outcomes. The company's main product, the FDA-cleared nView s1 system, provides hospitals with an innovative imaging solution to help surgeons perform surgeries more accurately, while reducing the amount of radiation needed for imaging. Currently, nView medical is commercializing specifically in the market of pediatric spine and orthopedic surgery and has top pediatric hospitals as customers.

Website: nviewmed.com

X/Twitter Handle: @nviewmedical

Company Facebook Page: facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575887188366

Other URL: startengine.com/offering/nviewmedical

Biographical Information: A healthcare entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience in product development and commercialization. Previously at GE Healthcare, he led major platform launches. Cristian holds multiple patents and advanced degrees in engineering and business. Cristian Atria was born in Santiago, Chile.

Personal Facebook Profile: facebook.com/cristian.atria.professional

Instagram Handle: @thedopple

Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/catriac

Support Our Sponsors

Our generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today’s advertisers include FundingHope, Rancho Affordable Housing (Proactive), and Emerald PH. Learn more about advertising with us here.

Max-Impact Members

The following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support:

Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear |  Matthew Mead, Hempitecture |  Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name Here

Upcoming SuperCrowd Event Calendar

If a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.

Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on August 19, 2025, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.

SuperCrowdHour, August 20, 2025, at 12:00 PM Eastern. Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., will lead a session on "Your Portal, Your Future: How to Choose the Right Reg CF Platform." With so many investment crowdfunding portals available today, selecting the right one can be overwhelming for both founders and investors. In this session, Devin will break down the critical factors to consider—such as platform fees, audience demographics, compliance support, industry focus, and overall user experience. Whether you're a founder planning a raise or an investor exploring where to put your dollars to work, you’ll walk away with a clearer understanding of how to evaluate and choose the platform that best aligns with your goals. Don’t miss this practical, insight-packed hour designed to help you take your next step in the Reg CF ecosystem with confidence.

SuperCrowd25, August 21st and 22nd: This two-day virtual event is an annual tradition but with big upgrades for 2025! We’ll be streaming live across the web and on TV via e360tv. Apply for the Live Pitch here. VIPs get access to our better-than-in-person networking, including backstage passes, VIP networking and an exclusive VIP webinar! Get your VIP access for just $25. A select group of affordable sponsorship opportunities is still available. Learn more here.

Community Event Calendar

Successful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.

Devin Thorpe is featured in a free virtual masterclass series hosted by Irina Portnova titled Break Free, Elevate Your Money Mindset & Call In Overflow, focused on transforming your relationship with money through personal stories and practical insights. June 8-21, 2025.

Join Dorian Dickinson, founder & CEO of FundingHope, for Startup.com’s monthly crowdfunding workshop, where he'll dive into strategies for successfully raising capital through investment crowdfunding. June 24 at noon Eastern.

Future Forward Summit: San Francisco, Wednesday, June 25 · 3:30 - 8:30 pm PDT.

Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit 2025, Crowdfunding Professional Association, Washington DC, October 21-22, 2025.

Impact Accelerator Summit is a live in-person event taking place in Austin, Texas, from October 23–25, 2025. This exclusive gathering brings together 100 heart-centered, conscious entrepreneurs generating $1M+ in revenue with 20–30 family offices and venture funds actively seeking to invest in world-changing businesses. Referred by Michael Dash, participants can expect an inspiring, high-impact experience focused on capital connection, growth, and global impact.

Call for community action:

Please show your support for a tax credit for investments made via Regulation Crowdfunding, benefiting both the investors and the small businesses that receive the investments. Learn more here.

If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 9,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.

We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode.

Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.

Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.

Devin: What is your superpower?

Lisa: Refusing to give up.

Too many families face overwhelming challenges when trying to access life-saving benefits, often giving up before receiving the help they need. Lisa Marino, Founder and CEO of Dopple, has made it her mission to simplify the process.

Lisa’s personal experience navigating the welfare system while earning her MBA at Stanford inspired her to create Dopple. She explained, “We built for others what we did for ourselves to get our own family through.” Her platform connects families to an array of funding sources—government benefits, philanthropic programs, and contributions from friends and family—by streamlining the process into a simple, AI-driven solution.

In today’s episode, Lisa highlighted a staggering statistic: “40% of families eligible for SNAP are so overwhelmed by the application process that many just drop out.” She’s determined to eliminate this friction, helping families secure critical funding for essentials like childcare, diapers, and even college savings.

Dopple’s approach begins with a 12-month budget, encouraging families to think comprehensively about their needs. The platform then leverages AI to match families with available resources and funding opportunities. Lisa shared, “We’ve taken this budget that maybe started at $25,000 and start whacking away at it… shifting $20,000 plus from being out of pocket to the family to the village that wants to support them.”

Dopple’s innovative model also addresses the philanthropic side. By fractionalizing gifting, Dopple enables friends, family, and organizations to contribute directly to a family’s needs. Additionally, the company generates revenue through subscription-based kids’ clothing and essential products like diapers and formula.

Lisa’s commitment to making a difference extends beyond her platform’s services. Dopple is currently raising funds on Wefunder, inviting everyday individuals to invest in the company’s vision. Lisa explained, “I believe in being egalitarian… If we’re trying to help families fund the basics, we need to walk the walk.”

By tackling the bureaucratic hurdles that prevent families from accessing critical support, Lisa and Dopple are making an extraordinary impact. Learn more about their mission and investment opportunity at thedopple.com/invest.

tl;dr:

Lisa Marino, CEO of Dopple, shares her journey navigating welfare systems during her MBA at Stanford.

Dopple simplifies access to critical benefits, combining AI and a comprehensive family budgeting platform.

The platform connects families to funding sources, reducing out-of-pocket expenses by leveraging their community.

Lisa emphasizes Dopple’s egalitarian approach, inviting individuals to invest via a Wefunder campaign.

Her superpower, refusing to give up, drives her to tackle challenges with persistence and grit.

How to Develop Refusing to Give Up As a Superpower

Lisa Marino’s superpower is her unrelenting tenacity to overcome obstacles. She described it simply: “The hard part was sitting down and figuring it out.” Whether navigating complex welfare systems during her pregnancy or guiding her company through challenges, Lisa defines success as persistence. As she told her kids, “People who put on the big kid pants clean it up… and move forward.”

Lisa’s determination was tested during her time as CEO of Rocky. She inherited a company with a $400 million preference stack and declining revenue. Despite being advised against taking the role, she worked tirelessly to restructure the business, rebuild profitability, and grow through acquisitions. Years of difficult conversations and strategic moves eventually led to success—an exemplary display of perseverance.

Tips for Developing This Superpower:

Set Realistic Expectations: Focus on achieving small wins, even when faced with overwhelming challenges.

Embrace the Grind: Accept that progress takes time and effort, and remain committed to the vision.

Allow Yourself Breaks: Give yourself permission to recharge when needed, such as Lisa’s “quarterly pity party.”

Take Control: Address challenges proactively rather than waiting for them to escalate.

By following Lisa’s example and advice, you can make refusing to give up a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.

Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!

Guest Profile

Lisa Marino (she/her):

Founder and CEO, Dopple

About Dopple: Two thirds of all families live paycheck to paycheck yet billions of federal and philanthropic dollars earmarked for these families go unused each year. The system is opaque, inefficient, and requires an advanced degree to navigate. I know this because at one point, before I became a successful operator, I was forced to navigate it for my family.

Dopple is the platform to bring transparency and efficiency to the flow of funds in this market. We are the qualification engine and payment rails in the middle. Dopple launches in July in New Jersey, and I am looking for a famly foundation with an aligned vision to be a design and beta partner with us. Use of funds will be to cover needs such as diapers, childcare and tuition for mid to low income families in NJ.

Website: thedopple.com

Company Facebook Page: facebook.com/thedopple

Other URL: thedopple.com/invest

Biographical Information:

- First person in my immigrant Mexican family to go to college, which I paid for myself. BS Wharton, MBA Stanford GSB, MA Latin American Studies, Stanford.

- Reformed tech M&A banker and 3rd time entrepreneur who gets it done while a single mom.

- Bootstrapped my last company and sold it to McClatchy in January 2024.

- Designed with my daughter and then GC’d my home build during 2022-2023 in Big Sky, MT while simultaneously running a company. Every piece of trim in my house I stained myself.

- At 54, there’s still no friends on powder days.

Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/lisa-marino-b520545

Instagram Handle: @thedopple

Support Our Sponsors

Our generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today’s advertisers include FundingHope, DealMaker, DNA, Rancho Affordable Housing (Proactive). Learn more about advertising with us here.

Max-Impact Members

The following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support:

Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear |  Matthew Mead, Hempitecture |  Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name Here

Upcoming SuperCrowd Event Calendar

If a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.

Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on August 19, 2025, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.

SuperCrowdHour, August 20, 2025, at 12:00 PM Eastern. Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., will lead a session on "Your Portal, Your Future: How to Choose the Right Reg CF Platform." With so many investment crowdfunding portals available today, selecting the right one can be overwhelming for both founders and investors. In this session, Devin will break down the critical factors to consider—such as platform fees, audience demographics, compliance support, industry focus, and overall user experience. Whether you're a founder planning a raise or an investor exploring where to put your dollars to work, you’ll walk away with a clearer understanding of how to evaluate and choose the platform that best aligns with your goals. Don’t miss this practical, insight-packed hour designed to help you take your next step in the Reg CF ecosystem with confidence.

SuperCrowd25, August 21st and 22nd: This two-day virtual event is an annual tradition but with big upgrades for 2025! We’ll be streaming live across the web and on TV via e360tv. Apply for the Live Pitch here. VIPs get access to our better-than-in-person networking, including backstage passes, VIP networking and an exclusive VIP webinar! Get your VIP access for just $25. A select group of affordable sponsorship opportunities is still available. Learn more here.

Community Event Calendar

Successful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.

Devin Thorpe is featured in a free virtual masterclass series hosted by Irina Portnova titled Break Free, Elevate Your Money Mindset & Call In Overflow, focused on transforming your relationship with money through personal stories and practical insights. June 8-21, 2025.

Join Dorian Dickinson, founder & CEO of FundingHope, for Startup.com’s monthly crowdfunding workshop, where he'll dive into strategies for successfully raising capital through investment crowdfunding. June 24 at noon Eastern.

Future Forward Summit: San Francisco, Wednesday, June 25 · 3:30 - 8:30 pm PDT.

Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit 2025, Crowdfunding Professional Association, Washington DC, October 21-22, 2025.

Impact Accelerator Summit is a live in-person event taking place in Austin, Texas, from October 23–25, 2025. This exclusive gathering brings together 100 heart-centered, conscious entrepreneurs generating $1M+ in revenue with 20–30 family offices and venture funds actively seeking to invest in world-changing businesses. Referred by Michael Dash, participants can expect an inspiring, high-impact experience focused on capital connection, growth, and global impact.

Call for community action:

Please show your support for a tax credit for investments made via Regulation Crowdfunding, benefiting both the investors and the small businesses that receive the investments. Learn more here.

If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 9,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.

We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode.

Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.

Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.

Devin: What is your superpower?

Jenny: Ability to make complex financial and legal concepts accessible.

Creating a thriving community takes more than goodwill—it requires vision, leadership, and resources. Jenny Kassan, CEO of Opportunity Main Street, is proving that crowdfunding can be a powerful tool for revitalizing communities while offering investors a meaningful way to make a difference.

Jenny is raising capital through a regulation crowdfunding campaign on SmallChange to renovate a historic building in Baltimore. This project, called Community Commons, will serve as both a hub for local businesses and a space for community-building activities. The first floor will feature a gathering space, coffee shop, and retail area, while the upper floors will house luxury furnished apartments for short-term rentals.

Jenny explains her motivation: “I’ve believed for a while that it’s really important to create a place-based ecosystem to grow this movement to move community capital into small business.” She has already raised $2.5 million for the project but is turning to crowdfunding to close the final gap.

What makes this project stand out is its intentional focus on Baltimore. After hosting a women entrepreneurs’ event in the city, Jenny fell in love with its historic charm and resilient spirit. “Baltimore is a beautiful, scrappy city,” she says. “There’s a renaissance going on… it’s a place where you can make a significant impact.”

Jenny’s choice of SmallChange as the crowdfunding platform is no accident. She highlights the portal’s commitment to impact-focused real estate projects and its owner, Eve Picker: “She really cares about her clients… and the design of the page is absolutely beautiful.”

By combining real estate with a community-driven mission, Jenny’s project offers an opportunity for investors to see both financial returns and social impact. The short-term rental apartments are projected to generate strong revenue, while the first-floor activities will foster relationships, support local businesses, and teach community members how to invest locally.

This isn’t just about one building. Jenny hopes the Community Commons project will become a replicable model for other cities. “It’s about creating a replicable model for community wealth building and supporting the local investing movement,” she says.

With projects like these, Jenny is showing how crowdfunding can be a bridge between financial goals and community revitalization.

Creating a thriving community takes more than goodwill—it requires vision, leadership, and resources. Jenny Kassan, CEO of Opportunity Main Street, is proving that crowdfunding can be a powerful tool for revitalizing communities while offering investors a meaningful way to make a difference.

Jenny is raising capital through a regulation crowdfunding campaign on SmallChange to renovate a historic building in Baltimore. This project, called Community Commons, will serve as both a hub for local businesses and a space for community-building activities. The first floor will feature a gathering space, coffee shop, and retail area, while the upper floors will house luxury furnished apartments for short-term rentals.

Jenny explains her motivation: “I’ve believed for a while that it’s really important to create a place-based ecosystem to grow this movement to move community capital into small business.” She has already raised $2.5 million for the project but is turning to crowdfunding to close the final gap.

What makes this project stand out is its intentional focus on Baltimore. After hosting a women entrepreneurs’ event in the city, Jenny fell in love with its historic charm and resilient spirit. “Baltimore is a beautiful, scrappy city,” she says. “There’s a renaissance going on… it’s a place where you can make a significant impact.”

Jenny’s choice of SmallChange as the crowdfunding platform is no accident. She highlights the portal’s commitment to impact-focused real estate projects and its owner, Eve Picker: “She really cares about her clients… and the design of the page is absolutely beautiful.”

By combining real estate with a community-driven mission, Jenny’s project offers an opportunity for investors to see both financial returns and social impact. The short-term rental apartments are projected to generate strong revenue, while the first-floor activities will foster relationships, support local businesses, and teach community members how to invest locally.

This isn’t just about one building. Jenny hopes the Community Commons project will become a replicable model for other cities. “It’s about creating a replicable model for community wealth building and supporting the local investing movement,” she says.

With projects like these, Jenny is showing how crowdfunding can be a bridge between financial goals and community revitalization.

tl;dr:

Jenny Kassan shares her vision for revitalizing Baltimore with a historic real estate project.

Community Commons will combine short-term rentals with a hub for local businesses and activities.

Jenny highlights the impact of crowdfunding and her partnership with the SmallChange platform.

She demonstrates how simplifying financial concepts empowers underserved communities to raise capital.

Jenny’s replicable model aims to inspire more community wealth-building projects nationwide.

How to Develop Simplifying Complex Financial Concepts As a Superpower

Jenny describes her superpower as the ability to make complex financial and legal concepts accessible. She explains, “I’ve learned so much about finance, securities law… and I feel like my superpower is bringing it down to a level of clarity for people.” Her passion stems from a desire to make the world of finance less opaque and intimidating, especially for those who lack traditional financial knowledge or access to resources.

Illustrative Story:

Jenny’s superpower shone when she helped a worker co-op in Boston called CERO raise capital for a composting business. Comprised of highly disadvantaged individuals, the co-op needed funding for a truck but wanted to retain worker control. Jenny structured an offering of non-voting equity, allowing the workers to remain in charge while raising several hundred thousand dollars. This project exemplifies her ability to simplify financial tools for underserved communities, empowering them to achieve their goals.

Actionable Tips to Develop the Superpower:

Deepen Your Expertise: Invest time in learning the intricacies of your field, as Jenny did with finance.

Practice Simplifying Concepts: Break down complex ideas into clear, relatable language to help others understand them.

Empathize with Your Audience: Tailor your explanations to the needs and backgrounds of those you’re helping.

Stay Mission-Driven: Focus on using your knowledge to empower others and create meaningful change.

By following Jenny’s example and advice, you can make simplifying complex concepts a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.

Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!

Guest Profile

Jenny Kassan (she/her):

CEO, Opportunity Main Street

About Opportunity Main Street: Opportunity Main Street is growing a place-based community wealth building ecosystem in Baltimore that includes community investing in local business, a community business school, and mutual aid through a time-banking network.

Website: opportunitymainstreet.com

Biographical Information: Jenny is an attorney, coach, and ecosystem builder focused on capital access for underrepresented entrepreneurs.

Jenny earned her J.D. from Yale Law School and a masters degree in City and Regional Planning from UC Berkeley.

She is the author of Raise Capital on Your Own Terms: How to Fund Your Business without Selling Your Soul.

Jenny co-founded the Sustainable Economies Law Center, the Force for Good Fund, and Opportunity Main Street.

X/Twitter Handle: @jennykassan

Personal Facebook Profile: facebook.com/jenny.kassan

Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/jennykassan

Instagram Handle: @thekassangroup

Support Our Sponsors

Our generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today’s advertisers include FundingHope, DealMaker, DNA, Rancho Affordable Housing (Proactive). Learn more about advertising with us here.

Max-Impact Members

The following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support:

Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear |  Matthew Mead, Hempitecture |  Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name Here

Upcoming SuperCrowd Event Calendar

If a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.

Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on August 19, 2025, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.

SuperCrowdHour, August 20, 2025, at 12:00 PM Eastern. Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., will lead a session on "Your Portal, Your Future: How to Choose the Right Reg CF Platform." With so many investment crowdfunding portals available today, selecting the right one can be overwhelming for both founders and investors. In this session, Devin will break down the critical factors to consider—such as platform fees, audience demographics, compliance support, industry focus, and overall user experience. Whether you're a founder planning a raise or an investor exploring where to put your dollars to work, you’ll walk away with a clearer understanding of how to evaluate and choose the platform that best aligns with your goals. Don’t miss this practical, insight-packed hour designed to help you take your next step in the Reg CF ecosystem with confidence.

SuperCrowd25, August 21st and 22nd: This two-day virtual event is an annual tradition but with big upgrades for 2025! We’ll be streaming live across the web and on TV via e360tv. Apply for the Live Pitch here. VIPs get access to our better-than-in-person networking, including backstage passes, VIP networking and an exclusive VIP webinar! Get your VIP access for just $25. A select group of affordable sponsorship opportunities is still available. Learn more here.

Community Event Calendar

Successful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.

Devin Thorpe is featured in a free virtual masterclass series hosted by Irina Portnova titled Break Free, Elevate Your Money Mindset & Call In Overflow, focused on transforming your relationship with money through personal stories and practical insights. June 8-21, 2025.

Join Dorian Dickinson, founder & CEO of FundingHope, for Startup.com’s monthly crowdfunding workshop, where he'll dive into strategies for successfully raising capital through investment crowdfunding. June 24 at noon Eastern.

Future Forward Summit: San Francisco, Wednesday, June 25 · 3:30 - 8:30 pm PDT.

Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit 2025, Crowdfunding Professional Association, Washington DC, October 21-22, 2025.

Impact Accelerator Summit is a live in-person event taking place in Austin, Texas, from October 23–25, 2025. This exclusive gathering brings together 100 heart-centered, conscious entrepreneurs generating $1M+ in revenue with 20–30 family offices and venture funds actively seeking to invest in world-changing businesses. Referred by Michael Dash, participants can expect an inspiring, high-impact experience focused on capital connection, growth, and global impact.

Call for community action:

Please show your support for a tax credit for investments made via Regulation Crowdfunding, benefiting both the investors and the small businesses that receive the investments. Learn more here.

If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 9,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.

We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode.

Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.

Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.

Devin: What is your superpower?

Kevin: Being able to build real relationships.

The link between unresolved trauma and recidivism is undeniable. In this episode of Superpowers for Good, guest Kevin Shird shared a profound perspective on how mental health challenges contribute to poor decision-making and the cycle of incarceration. Kevin, a professor, author, and advocate, is no stranger to the justice system, having experienced it firsthand. Now, he’s using his story to create a roadmap for change.

Kevin explained that unresolved trauma often plays a central role in the repetitive cycles of poor choices many individuals make post-incarceration. “Poor choices are actually tied to unresolved trauma,” he stated, adding, “when trauma is unresolved, there’s a propensity for continuing this hamster wheel of just poor choices after poor choices.” His insights shed light on a key issue: the need for better mental health care within prisons to address these deeply rooted issues before individuals reenter society.

Kevin shared the heartbreaking story of a friend he met while incarcerated—a man who initially served a short sentence but, after his release, committed a double murder and now faces life in prison. The tragedy, Kevin emphasized, could have been prevented with better mental health support during his friend’s incarceration. “Hurt people hurt people,” Kevin explained. “When people aren’t well... sometimes their struggles land in our laps.”

Kevin advocates for placing licensed clinical social workers inside prisons as a proactive solution. He pointed out that 95% of incarcerated individuals will eventually return to society, becoming our neighbors, coworkers, and community members. By providing mental health support behind prison walls, he believes we can reduce recidivism, enhance public safety, and foster healthier communities.

This episode reinforced the urgent need for systemic reform to prioritize mental health care in the criminal justice system. Kevin’s work, including his book A Life for a Life, serves as both a call to action and a source of hope. Through his advocacy, he’s demonstrating how addressing trauma can transform lives and break cycles of harm.

By highlighting these issues, Kevin reminded us that change is possible—and it starts with seeing the humanity in everyone.

tl;dr:

Kevin Shird shares how unresolved trauma drives recidivism and advocates for better mental health care.

He highlights the importance of placing licensed social workers in prisons to support incarcerated individuals.

Kevin recounts a tragic story to illustrate how unaddressed trauma leads to devastating consequences.

He explains his superpower of authentic connection and how storytelling fosters healing and understanding.

Kevin encourages vulnerability to build deeper relationships and drive meaningful change in the world.

How to Develop Authentic Connection As a Superpower

Kevin Shird’s superpower lies in his ability to authentically connect with people through storytelling. “I pride myself on just being able to build real relationships,” Kevin explained. He emphasized the importance of “removing the mask” to connect with others on a deeper, human level. By sharing his vulnerabilities and personal experiences, Kevin creates bonds that inspire healing and understanding. “Everybody has a story,” he said, reminding us that even when our struggles differ, they are all significant and worthy of empathy.

Kevin recounted how sharing a vulnerable story about his father’s alcoholism in his first book led to powerful connections with readers. Despite initial embarrassment, he wrote about his father’s addiction, and the response was overwhelming. Readers reached out to share their own experiences with addicted family members, often in tears. This demonstrated how his authenticity in storytelling inspired others to confront and heal from their own struggles.

Tips for Developing Authentic Connection:

Remove the emotional “mask” and embrace vulnerability.

Recognize that everyone has a story, even if it differs from yours.

Focus on building genuine human connections by listening and empathizing.

Use storytelling to create shared experiences and inspire others.

By following Kevin’s example and advice, you can make authentic connection a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.

Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!

Guest Profile

Kevin Shird (he/him):

Author and writer, Kevin Shird Enterprises

About Kevin Shird Enterprises : Content Creation

Website: a.co/d/9peNrrs

X/Twitter Handle: @kevin_shird

Company Facebook Page: facebook.com/KevinA.Shird

Other URL: simonandschuster.com/books/A-Life-for-a-Life/Kevin-Shird/9798888458440

Biographical Information: Kevin Shird is a four-time published author, activist, and screenwriter. He has become an expert on using the past to build a better future. Shird began his very unorthodox journey at the tender age of sixteen when he started dealing drugs on the streets of Baltimore. This led to him serving a total of almost twelve years in prison. Since leaving prison, Shird has monetized his life’s lessons by authoring books on social issues. He lectures at colleges and universities across America on issues like education, public health policy, and mass incarceration. During the Obama Administration, he collaborated with the White House and President Obama’s Clemency Initiative. In 2018, he became an associate at Johns Hopkins University’s Center for Medical Humanities and Social Medicine, where he co-teaches a class on public health. Today, he serves as a professor at Coppin State University.

Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/kevin-shird-6b76455a

Instagram Handle: @kevin_shird

Support Our Sponsors

Our generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today’s advertisers include FundingHope, DealMaker, DNA, Rancho Affordable Housing (Proactive). Learn more about advertising with us here.

Max-Impact Members

The following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support:

Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear |  Matthew Mead, Hempitecture |  Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name Here

Upcoming SuperCrowd Event Calendar

If a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.

Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on July 15, 2025, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.

SuperCrowdHour, July 16, 2025, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., will lead a session on "Balance Sheets & Beyond: The Impact Investor’s Guide to Financials." If terms like “income statement” and “cash flow” make your eyes glaze over, this session is for you. Devin will break down the fundamentals of financial statements in clear, simple language—perfect for beginners who want to better understand the numbers behind the businesses they support. Whether you're a new investor, a founder navigating financials, or simply curious about how money moves through mission-driven companies, you'll leave this session more confident and informed. Don’t miss it!

SuperCrowd25, August 21st and 22nd: This two-day virtual event is an annual tradition but with big upgrades for 2025! We’ll be streaming live across the web and on TV via e360tv. Apply for the Live Pitch here. VIPs get access to our better-than-in-person networking, including backstage passes, VIP networking and an exclusive VIP webinar! Get your VIP access for just $25. A select group of affordable sponsorship opportunities is still available. Learn more here.

Community Event Calendar

Successful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.

Devin Thorpe is featured in a free virtual masterclass series hosted by Irina Portnova titled Break Free, Elevate Your Money Mindset & Call In Overflow, focused on transforming your relationship with money through personal stories and practical insights. June 8-21, 2025.

Join Dorian Dickinson, founder & CEO of FundingHope, for Startup.com’s monthly crowdfunding workshop, where he'll dive into strategies for successfully raising capital through investment crowdfunding. June 24 at noon Eastern.

Future Forward Summit: San Francisco, Wednesday, June 25 · 3:30 - 8:30 pm PDT.

Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit 2025, Crowdfunding Professional Association, Washington DC, October 21-22, 2025.

Impact Accelerator Summit is a live in-person event taking place in Austin, Texas, from October 23–25, 2025. This exclusive gathering brings together 100 heart-centered, conscious entrepreneurs generating $1M+ in revenue with 20–30 family offices and venture funds actively seeking to invest in world-changing businesses. Referred by Michael Dash, participants can expect an inspiring, high-impact experience focused on capital connection, growth, and global impact.

Call for community action:

Please show your support for a tax credit for investments made via Regulation Crowdfunding, benefiting both the investors and the small businesses that receive the investments. Learn more here.

If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 9,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.

We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode.