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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?
Eugene: Staying focused on a North Star.
Eugene Chan, CEO and founder of rHEALTH, has taken blood diagnostics to new heights—literally. His innovative technology, capable of analyzing dozens of biomarkers from a single drop of blood, was tested aboard the International Space Station (ISS). In today’s episode, Eugene shared the remarkable journey of rHEALTH, from competing with top companies for a NASA partnership to launching its device into space.
What sets rHEALTH apart is its proven reliability in extreme conditions, including the zero-gravity environment of space. Eugene explained, “We tested this technology on the International Space Station with astronaut Samantha Cristoforetti, who operated the device and obtained precise values from single drops of sample. They did the analysis using our device and got absolutely the right answers.” This achievement underlines the robustness and accuracy of rHEALTH’s technology, qualities that distinguish it from other attempts at single-drop blood diagnostics.
Unlike Theranos, which famously failed to deliver on similar promises, rHEALTH’s technology has been rigorously vetted. Eugene highlighted the grueling process of earning NASA’s trust. “To be the one company selected to demonstrate our novel technology on the ISS was a huge undertaking,” he said. He recounted the intense competition and NASA’s exacting standards, which included testing the device’s functionality during zero-gravity parabolic flights.
Now, Eugene and his team are bringing this groundbreaking technology to the public with a regulated crowdfunding campaign on StartEngine. “You don’t have to be a Silicon Valley elite or a Boston venture capitalist to participate,” I noted during the episode. With this campaign, everyday investors have the opportunity to support a proven technology poised to revolutionize healthcare.
The implications of rHEALTH’s success are profound. If it works in space, it can work in remote clinics, underserved communities, and even in people’s homes. This technology has the potential to make diagnostics more accessible, empowering individuals to take control of their health.
Eugene’s vision, combined with rHEALTH’s proven track record, makes this an exciting investment opportunity. Visit StartEngine to learn more and become part of this revolutionary journey.
tl;dr:
Eugene Chan shared how rHEALTH’s diagnostic technology was tested and proven aboard the International Space Station.
He explained the rigorous process of competing with other companies to secure NASA’s trust.
rHEALTH’s crowdfunding campaign on StartEngine makes investing in this revolutionary technology accessible to all.
Eugene highlighted the importance of his North Star: improving human health with innovative solutions.
He shared advice on maintaining focus and using challenges as opportunities to achieve big goals.
How to Develop Staying Focused on a North Star As a Superpower
Eugene’s superpower is his ability to maintain a relentless focus on his “North Star”—the overarching goal of improving human health. As he explained, “The North Star has always been to improve the human condition and help us improve human health.” For Eugene, this guiding principle has driven his work through challenges, from competing for NASA’s attention to developing groundbreaking diagnostic technology.
One illustrative story of this superpower came during a pivotal moment in Eugene’s career. While competing in the XPRIZE competition, he found himself grappling with a flawed prototype. It was during this time, sitting at his wife’s bedside after the birth of their child, that the concept for rHEALTH’s current device was born. Combining the pressure of the competition, the inspiration of his newborn daughter, and his unwavering focus on creating a robust solution, Eugene developed the technology that would later achieve success in space.
Eugene also shared actionable tips for developing this superpower:
Identify your personal North Star—a goal or mission that deeply resonates with you.
Let that North Star guide your decisions, especially during challenging times.
Stay committed to your mission, even when facing setbacks or obstacles.
Use external pressures, like deadlines or competitions, to fuel innovation and progress.
By following Eugene’s example and advice, you can make staying focused on a North Star 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
Eugene Chan (he/him):
CEO, Founder, rHEALTH
About rHEALTH: rHEALTH has worked with NASA to develop a miniaturized diagnostic test system to keep astronauts healthy on the way to Mars. We have successfully tested this onboard the International Space Station and published the results in Nature Communications, demonstrating results from blood in minutes in extreme environments. The technology shrinks a central clinical lab and a team of doctors in a form suitable for everyday use. Comprehensive lab-quality analysis can be performed by anyone, fundamentally shifting diagnostics from centralized facilities to the point-of-care and homes. The focus is to usher in Diagnostics 2.0, allowing high-value multiplexed diagnostics.
Website: rhealth.com
Other URL: startengine.com/offering/rhealth
Biographical Information: Dr. Chan is a physician-inventor. He is currently Founder, CEO of rHEALTH, and President, CSO of DNA Medicine Institute, a medical innovation laboratory. He has been honored as Esquire magazine’s Best and Brightest, one of MIT Technology Review’s Top 100 Innovators, and an XPRIZE winner. His work has contributed to the birth of next-generation sequencing, health monitoring in remote environments, and therapeutics. Dr. Chan holds over 60 patents and publications, with work funded by the NIH, NASA, and USAF. Dr. Chan received an A.B. in Biochemical Sciences from Harvard College summa cum laude in 1996, received an M.D. from Harvard Medical School with honors in 2007, and trained in medicine at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital. He has been in zero gravity and led the team that demonstrated the rHEALTH ONE bioanalyzer onboard the International Space Station.
LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/eugene-chan-4220045
Personal Twitter Handle: @Dr_EugeneChan
Support Our Sponsors
Our generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today’s advertisers include Crowdfunding Made Simple. Learn more about advertising with us here.
Max-Impact Members
(We’re grateful for every one of these community champions who make this work possible.)
Brian Christie, Brainsy | Cameron Neil, Lend For Good | Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | John Berlet, CORE Tax Deeds, LLC. | Justin Starbird, The Aebli Group | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Mike Green, Envirosult | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | 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.
SuperGreen Live, January 22–24, 2026, livestreaming globally. Organized by Green2Gold and The Super Crowd, Inc., this three-day event will spotlight the intersection of impact crowdfunding, sustainable innovation, and climate solutions. Featuring expert-led panels, interactive workshops, and live pitch sessions, SuperGreen Live brings together entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and activists to explore how capital and climate action can work hand in hand. With global livestreaming, VIP networking opportunities, and exclusive content, this event will empower participants to turn bold ideas into real impact. Don’t miss your chance to join tens of thousands of changemakers at the largest virtual sustainability event of the year. Learn more about sponsoring the event here. Interested in speaking? Apply here. Support our work with a tax-deductible donation here.
SuperCrowd Impact Member Networking Session: Impact (and, of course, Max-Impact) Members of the SuperCrowd are invited to a private networking session on January 27th at 1:30 PM ET/10:30 AM PT. Mark your calendar. We’ll send private emails to Impact Members with registration details.
Community Event Calendar
Successful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.
Join C-AR Annual Reporting: Requirements, Deadlines, and Lessons Learned from the Field on January 14, 2026, an informative online webinar designed to help crowdfunding issuers and professionals clearly understand C-AR annual reporting requirements, key deadlines, and real-world insights to stay compliant and prepared.
Join UGLY TALK: Women Tech Founders in San Francisco on January 29, 2026, an energizing in-person gathering of 100 women founders focused on funding strategies and discovering SuperCrowd as a powerful alternative for raising capital.
If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 10,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.
Manage the volume of emails you receive from us by clicking 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?
James: Facilitating dialogue.
America’s future depends on our ability to come together in meaningful dialogue, especially during times of division and crisis. My guest on today’s episode, James Copple, the President of Servant Forge and founder of The Freedom Fast, is a leader committed to fostering unity through actionable change. James’s work in police reform and civic engagement offers a blueprint for addressing systemic issues and healing divides within our communities.
James shared a compelling example of how his work has impacted the nation. Six months before the murder of George Floyd, James and his team produced a report in Minnesota on police use of deadly force. “It was about policing procedure and protocol,” James explained, sharing how their research highlighted the urgent need for de-escalation training. Following Floyd’s death, James and his team were invited back to help implement their recommendations, working with policymakers to improve training and minimize future tragedies.
One of James’s newest initiatives, The Freedom Fast, aims to address the country’s growing polarization. Inspired by historical calls for national fasting during the Continental Congress, the Freedom Fast encourages Americans to pause, reflect, and engage in acts of service. “We’re calling for a sacred pause for civic renewal,” James said. “It’s about recapturing the values that brought us together as a country and influenced our civic discourse.”
James’s vision is rooted in the belief that dialogue is key to progress. “Getting people in the same room, even when they don’t agree, is essential,” he shared. This approach—proximity and listening—has been central to his work, from police reform projects in Minneapolis and Kenya to initiatives aimed at reducing gender-based violence in East Africa.
If you’re inspired by James’s vision and want to be part of the solution, visit TheFreedomFast.us to learn more. By taking part in this initiative, we can collectively work toward a more unified, compassionate, and equitable future.
tl;dr:
James Copple reveals key insights from his work on police reform and de-escalation training.
The Freedom Fast calls for Americans to pause, reflect, and engage in acts of civic renewal.
James emphasizes the importance of bringing people together to solve problems through dialogue.
Stories from Kenya and Minneapolis illustrate how dialogue can drive meaningful change.
James shares tips for fostering civility and connection, including listening and creating proximity.
How to Develop Facilitating Dialogue As a Superpower
James’s superpower lies in bringing people together to solve difficult problems through dialogue and understanding. As he explained, “Getting people in the same room and getting them to agree to have the conversation” is vital. He emphasized the importance of listening, saying, “Listening is a form of fasting… to surrender my own principles and values for a few moments to listen to another person’s perspective.” This ability to foster connection and encourage open discussions has been central to James’s work in both the U.S. and globally.
James shared a powerful example from his work in Kenya, where 70% of women believed men had a right to hit them. He brought together male leaders from universities and businesses with women’s advocacy groups to discuss gender-based violence. This dialogue led to concrete solutions like including women in decision-making processes and leadership roles. James’s ability to create proximity and facilitate understanding directly contributed to meaningful change in a community struggling with entrenched cultural norms.
Tips for Developing the Superpower:
Engage and Be Present: Show up for conversations, even when topics are difficult or divisive.
Listen Actively: Dedicate time to truly hear others’ perspectives without judgment or interruption.
Foster Proximity: Create opportunities for people with differing views to engage in the same room.
Sacrifice for the Greater Good: Be willing to let go of time, comfort, or preconceived notions to achieve progress.
By following James’s example and advice, you can make facilitating dialogue 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
James E Copple (he/him):
President, Servant Forge/The Freedom Fast
About Servant Forge/The Freedom Fast: Servant Forge works with organizations to build their capacity to secure funding to help fulfill their mission. The Freedom Fast is a new initiative focusing on the 250th Anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
Website: sai-dc.com and servantforge.org
Company Twitter Handle: @jamescopple
Biographical Information: James E. Copple has a long and distinguished career in youth work, education, substance abuse, crime and violence prevention, trafficking prevention, and police/criminal justice reform. A nationally recognized facilitator, speaker and writer in this field, Mr. Copple facilitated the President’s Task Force on 21st Century Policing for the Department of Justice in 2015, achieving consensus on all recommendations and action steps. He helped to write the final report to the White House, authored the Implementation Guide and the One Year Report on progress toward implementation of the recommendations.
Mr. Copple served as the Founding President of Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America (CADCA), Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the National Crime Prevention Council in Washington, D.C., President of the International Institute for Alcohol Awareness, Senior Policy Analyst for the Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation and most recently, the Founding Partner of Strategic Applications International, LLC.
He has delivered major addresses in every state of the union and spoken in thirty different nations, including a major facilitation between the nation of Israel and the Palestinian Authority on youth substance abuse and violence prevention at the request of the State Dept.
Mr. Copple recently receive the Towel and Basin award from Nazarene Theological Seminary for his years of humanitarian work in global service and mission.
He has published five book and over 70 monographs on the relationship of faith to service and community mobilization to prevent crime and violence.
LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/james-copple-42a7001
Support Our Sponsors
Our generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today’s advertisers include Crowdfunding Made Simple. Learn more about advertising with us here.
Max-Impact Members
(We’re grateful for every one of these community champions who make this work possible.)
Brian Christie, Brainsy | Cameron Neil, Lend For Good | Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | John Berlet, CORE Tax Deeds, LLC. | Justin Starbird, The Aebli Group | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Mike Green, Envirosult | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | 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.
SuperCrowdHour, January 21, 2026, at 12:00 PM Eastern. Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., will lead a session on “From $10 to Impact: How Anyone Can Become an Impact Investor.” Drawing on his experience as an investment banker, impact investor, and community-building leader, Devin will explain how everyday people can start investing small amounts to support mission-driven companies while pursuing financial returns. In this session, he’ll break down the basics of regulated investment crowdfunding, show how impact and profit can align, and share practical steps for identifying opportunities that create real-world change. As an added benefit, attendees can become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd for just $4.58 per month to receive an exclusive private Zoom meeting invitation with Devin, free tickets to paid SuperCrowd events, and the opportunity to directly support social entrepreneurs, community builders, and underrepresented founders.
SuperGreen Live, January 22–24, 2026, livestreaming globally. Organized by Green2Gold and The Super Crowd, Inc., this three-day event will spotlight the intersection of impact crowdfunding, sustainable innovation, and climate solutions. Featuring expert-led panels, interactive workshops, and live pitch sessions, SuperGreen Live brings together entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and activists to explore how capital and climate action can work hand in hand. With global livestreaming, VIP networking opportunities, and exclusive content, this event will empower participants to turn bold ideas into real impact. Don’t miss your chance to join tens of thousands of changemakers at the largest virtual sustainability event of the year. Learn more about sponsoring the event here. Interested in speaking? Apply here. Support our work with a tax-deductible donation here.
SuperCrowd Impact Member Networking Session: Impact (and, of course, Max-Impact) Members of the SuperCrowd are invited to a private networking session on January 27th at 1:30 PM ET/10:30 AM PT. Mark your calendar. We’ll send private emails to Impact Members with registration details.
Community Event Calendar
Successful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.
Join C-AR Annual Reporting: Requirements, Deadlines, and Lessons Learned from the Field on January 14, 2026, an informative online webinar designed to help crowdfunding issuers and professionals clearly understand C-AR annual reporting requirements, key deadlines, and real-world insights to stay compliant and prepared.
Join UGLY TALK: Women Tech Founders in San Francisco on January 29, 2026, an energizing in-person gathering of 100 women founders focused on funding strategies and discovering SuperCrowd as a powerful alternative for raising capital.
If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 10,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.
Manage the volume of emails you receive from us by clicking 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?
Joshua: Resilience.
Millions of families with children suffering from rare diseases endure years of frustration and uncertainty, seeking answers from specialists who rarely collaborate. Joshua Resnikoff, CEO and Cofounder of Sunstone Health, has been there. His middle child’s years-long fight for a diagnosis inspired him to tackle this systemic inefficiency with AI-powered innovation.
Sunstone Health uses AI to analyze healthcare claims data, identifying children who may have genetic conditions, like pediatric epilepsy or autism, and accelerating their path to diagnosis and care. “On average right now, it takes seven years for a family to go from first symptom to a care path that works for them,” Joshua explained in today’s episode. “We can take that seven-year process and condense it down into 12 weeks.”
This groundbreaking approach provides a win-win solution for families and health plans alike. By identifying patterns in data, Sunstone Health not only helps families avoid the “diagnostic odyssey” of endless referrals but also reduces healthcare costs. “Ultimately, we are saving the plans, the insurance, the employers—whoever is the financial backstop for that family—a lot of money,” Joshua said.
The company’s innovative model charges health plans only when results are delivered, making it a no-risk decision for employers looking to improve care while managing costs. Sunstone Health has already touched the lives of nearly half a million people through partnerships with health plans, scaling rapidly since its pilot phase.
In addition to changing lives, Sunstone Health is raising capital via regulation crowdfunding on Wefunder. This community round allows families and supporters to invest in the company’s vision alongside professional investors. “We opened up a few hundred thousand dollars so families could join our mission,” Joshua shared. The campaign has been so successful that Sunstone Health has reopened the round to accommodate more investors.
This episode highlights the power of technology and mission-driven innovation to solve seemingly intractable problems. With AI and dedication, Joshua and his team are transforming the lives of families navigating the challenges of rare diseases.
tl;dr:
Joshua shared how his personal experience inspired Sunstone Health’s AI-powered diagnostic solution for rare diseases.
Sunstone Health condenses the average 7-year diagnostic process into just 12 weeks for families.
The innovative model benefits families and health plans by aligning financial incentives with better care.
Sunstone Health is raising capital through regulation crowdfunding, welcoming families and investors to join its mission.
Joshua’s resilience, driven by optimism and grit, has been key to Sunstone’s success and growth.
How to Develop Resilience As a Superpower
Joshua identified resilience—what he calls “grit”—as his defining superpower. He explained, “To do something like this, it just takes a lot of resilience and determination.” Building a company to tackle the systemic inefficiencies in healthcare required overcoming countless challenges. From skeptics who dismissed the problem as “too big to solve” to navigating obstacles in scaling Sunstone Health, Joshua’s perseverance has been key. He shared, “There are going to be such deeply dark and frustrating times as a founder…you just have to stay optimistic.”
Joshua’s resilience was evident early in life when he taught himself to code in BASIC as a child, spending hours figuring out how to make things work. Later, while working full-time as a biomedical engineer at Harvard, he co-founded a company that unexpectedly went viral, selling eco-friendly travel mugs featured on Oprah’s blog and in the New York Times. Despite juggling two demanding roles, he stayed determined and made both endeavors successful.
Tips for Developing Resilience:
Stay Optimistic: Focus on opportunities rather than obstacles, even in challenging situations.
Pursue What You Love: Work on projects that deeply resonate with you to sustain motivation through tough times.
Embrace Determination: Commit to pushing through difficulties with persistence and grit.
Learn from Challenges: View setbacks as opportunities to grow and improve.
By following Joshua’s example and advice, you can make resilience 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
Joshua Resnikoff (he/him):
CEO and Cofounder, Sunstone Health
About Sunstone Health: Sunstone Health is an AI-powered precision health platform designed to help families and health plans recognize developmental delay earlier—before uncertainty turns into years of fragmented care and unnecessary cost. By analyzing health system data to identify early patterns of developmental complexity, Sunstone helps guide children toward clearer next steps while supporting families through what is often a long and confusing journey. The result is earlier clarity for families, more coordinated care for clinicians, and meaningful cost reduction for employers—without disrupting existing care or asking families to wait when the signs are already there.
Website: sunstonehealth.com
Company Facebook Page: facebook.com/SunstoneHealthOfficial
Company Twitter Handle: @Sunstone_Health
Other URL: wefunder.com/sunstone.health
Biographical Information: Biomedical engineer and entrepreneur in translational science and consumer products. 14 patents, work showcased in national news, and has scaled businesses to >3000x ROI. Focused on using business as a force for good.
LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/joshuaresnikoff
Support Our Sponsors
Our generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today’s advertisers include Crowdfunding Made Simple. Learn more about advertising with us here.
Max-Impact Members
(We’re grateful for every one of these community champions who make this work possible.)
Brian Christie, Brainsy | Cameron Neil, Lend For Good | Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | John Berlet, CORE Tax Deeds, LLC. | Justin Starbird, The Aebli Group | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Mike Green, Envirosult | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | 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.
SuperCrowdHour, January 21, 2026, at 12:00 PM Eastern. Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., will lead a session on “From $10 to Impact: How Anyone Can Become an Impact Investor.” Drawing on his experience as an investment banker, impact investor, and community-building leader, Devin will explain how everyday people can start investing small amounts to support mission-driven companies while pursuing financial returns. In this session, he’ll break down the basics of regulated investment crowdfunding, show how impact and profit can align, and share practical steps for identifying opportunities that create real-world change. As an added benefit, attendees can become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd for just $4.58 per month to receive an exclusive private Zoom meeting invitation with Devin, free tickets to paid SuperCrowd events, and the opportunity to directly support social entrepreneurs, community builders, and underrepresented founders.
SuperGreen Live, January 22–24, 2026, livestreaming globally. Organized by Green2Gold and The Super Crowd, Inc., this three-day event will spotlight the intersection of impact crowdfunding, sustainable innovation, and climate solutions. Featuring expert-led panels, interactive workshops, and live pitch sessions, SuperGreen Live brings together entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and activists to explore how capital and climate action can work hand in hand. With global livestreaming, VIP networking opportunities, and exclusive content, this event will empower participants to turn bold ideas into real impact. Don’t miss your chance to join tens of thousands of changemakers at the largest virtual sustainability event of the year. Learn more about sponsoring the event here. Interested in speaking? Apply here. Support our work with a tax-deductible donation here.
Demo Day at SuperGreen Live. Apply now to present at the SuperGreen Live Demo Day session on January 22! The application window is closing soon; apply today at 4sc.fun/sgdemo. The Demo Day session is open to innovators in the field of climate solutions and sustainability who are NOT currently raising under Regulation Crowdfunding.
SuperCrowd Impact Member Networking Session: Impact (and, of course, Max-Impact) Members of the SuperCrowd are invited to a private networking session on January 27th at 1:30 PM ET/10:30 AM PT. Mark your calendar. We’ll send private emails to Impact Members with registration details.
Community Event Calendar
Successful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.
Join C-AR Annual Reporting: Requirements, Deadlines, and Lessons Learned from the Field on January 14, 2026, an informative online webinar designed to help crowdfunding issuers and professionals clearly understand C-AR annual reporting requirements, key deadlines, and real-world insights to stay compliant and prepared.
Join UGLY TALK: Women Tech Founders in San Francisco on January 29, 2026, an energizing in-person gathering of 100 women founders focused on funding strategies and discovering SuperCrowd as a powerful alternative for raising capital.
If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 10,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.
Manage the volume of emails you receive from us by clicking 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?
Prince: Solving problems by identifying pain points and creating solutions.
The entertainment industry is evolving, and CineBlock Films is at the forefront of this transformation. The platform, created by Prince Ace, is democratizing access to entertainment investments, allowing everyday people to invest in films, video games, and other media projects. By leveraging regulation crowdfunding, CineBlock Films empowers independent creators to raise capital directly from the crowd.
“This is a marketplace that we created to allow everyday retail investors to be able to invest in entertainment media from the ground up or at distribution at any stage of the production process,” Prince explained. “This allows you to be a part of it, a meaningful part of the process, and invest in what you watch.”
In today’s episode, Prince shared how CineBlock Films is designed to remove traditional barriers in the entertainment industry. Historically, financing for films and media projects was often reserved for wealthy individuals or institutions, leaving independent creators struggling to secure funding. Prince emphasized that crowdfunding not only levels the playing field but also creates opportunities for creators to maintain autonomy and ownership of their work.
“Instead of having one person give me a million dollars, I’d rather have 1,000 people give me $1,000,” Prince said. “Now I have 1,000 people that are an army, that are fans, that are engaged, that are going to champion this project and market it to all their social networks.”
Prince Ace, Founder of CineBlock Films, will be speaking at SuperGreen Live, sharing insights on democratizing investment in films, media, and the creator economy through fintech innovation—register now at SuperGreenLive.org
With CineBlock Films, investors can back projects that align with their values and interests. Whether it’s an AI-driven feature film, a documentary about climate change, or a multicultural musical drama, CineBlock Films enables everyday investors to participate in the creative process. The platform’s inaugural offering, an AI-produced film called Awake, is already generating excitement.
CineBlock Films is more than a crowdfunding platform—it’s a movement. By giving retail investors the chance to support creative projects, Prince is reshaping the entertainment landscape. As he put it, “This allows them to now have autonomy and agency in their creative process, as well as in their returns.”
If you’ve ever dreamed of being part of the next big blockbuster or an impactful indie film, CineBlock Films offers a unique opportunity to invest in entertainment and make a difference.
tl;dr:
CineBlock Films democratizes entertainment investments, allowing retail investors to support films and media projects.
Prince Ace explains how crowdfunding empowers independent creators to retain ownership and creative control.
New offerings on CineBlock Films include an AI-produced feature film and impactful documentaries.
Prince’s superpower is problem solving, which he uses to overcome challenges and create innovations.
Prince encourages identifying pain points, iterating on solutions, and seeking feedback to solve problems.
How to Develop Problem Solving As a Superpower
Prince Ace describes his superpower as solving problems by identifying pain points and creating solutions. “When people have a problem, [I focus on] finding those pain points and [creating] a solution for that,” he explained. Prince shared that his approach involves iterating on ideas, going back to fundamentals, and being open to feedback.
Prince shared how he faced challenges in financing an independent film. Frustrated by the traditional “dog and pony show” of pitching to wealthy investors, he envisioned a solution: a crowdfunding platform for entertainment projects. By writing a white paper, seeking feedback, and assembling a talented team, Prince turned his vision into reality. The result was CineBlock Films, a platform that empowers creators and retail investors alike.
Tips for Developing Problem-Solving Skills:
Identify pain points and write them down to clarify the problem.
Use a structured, iterative process to brainstorm solutions.
Return to fundamentals when blocked to find a clear path forward.
Seek feedback from others to gain new perspectives and refine ideas.
Embrace pivots and remain open to alternative approaches.
By following Prince’s example and advice, you can make problem solving 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
Prince Ace (he/him):
Founder, CineBlock Films
About CineBlock Films: A marketplace for investable media security offerings. Everyday investors, fans, and audiences in the US can legally fund or invest in films, tv shows, video games, studios, and more. Invest in what you watch.
Website: cineblockfilms.com
Biographical Information: A industry disruptor with a passion for entertainment media and financial technology. He is a former portfolio and finance manager, an indie film producer, a promoter, and creator of the CineBlock platform. As an early investor and contributor to the ai and web3 movement, Prince has been on the pioneering side of fintech, AI, and the creator economy.
LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/princeace
Support Our Sponsors
Our generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today’s advertisers include Crowdfunding Made Simple. Learn more about advertising with us here.
Max-Impact Members
(We’re grateful for every one of these community champions who make this work possible.)
Brian Christie, Brainsy | Cameron Neil, Lend For Good | Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | John Berlet, CORE Tax Deeds, LLC. | Justin Starbird, The Aebli Group | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Mike Green, Envirosult | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | 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.
SuperCrowdHour, January 21, 2026, at 12:00 PM Eastern. Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., will lead a session on “From $10 to Impact: How Anyone Can Become an Impact Investor.” Drawing on his experience as an investment banker, impact investor, and community-building leader, Devin will explain how everyday people can start investing small amounts to support mission-driven companies while pursuing financial returns. In this session, he’ll break down the basics of regulated investment crowdfunding, show how impact and profit can align, and share practical steps for identifying opportunities that create real-world change. As an added benefit, attendees can become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd for just $4.58 per month to receive an exclusive private Zoom meeting invitation with Devin, free tickets to paid SuperCrowd events, and the opportunity to directly support social entrepreneurs, community builders, and underrepresented founders.
SuperGreen Live, January 22–24, 2026, livestreaming globally. Organized by Green2Gold and The Super Crowd, Inc., this three-day event will spotlight the intersection of impact crowdfunding, sustainable innovation, and climate solutions. Featuring expert-led panels, interactive workshops, and live pitch sessions, SuperGreen Live brings together entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and activists to explore how capital and climate action can work hand in hand. With global livestreaming, VIP networking opportunities, and exclusive content, this event will empower participants to turn bold ideas into real impact. Don’t miss your chance to join tens of thousands of changemakers at the largest virtual sustainability event of the year. Learn more about sponsoring the event here. Interested in speaking? Apply here. Support our work with a tax-deductible donation here.
Demo Day at SuperGreen Live. Apply now to present at the SuperGreen Live Demo Day session on January 22! The application window is closing soon; apply today at 4sc.fun/sgdemo. The Demo Day session is open to innovators in the field of climate solutions and sustainability who are NOT currently raising under Regulation Crowdfunding.
SuperCrowd Impact Member Networking Session: Impact (and, of course, Max-Impact) Members of the SuperCrowd are invited to a private networking session on January 27th at 1:30 PM ET/10:30 AM PT. Mark your calendar. We’ll send private emails to Impact Members with registration details.
Community Event Calendar
Successful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.
Join C-AR Annual Reporting: Requirements, Deadlines, and Lessons Learned from the Field on January 14, 2026, an informative online webinar designed to help crowdfunding issuers and professionals clearly understand C-AR annual reporting requirements, key deadlines, and real-world insights to stay compliant and prepared.
Join UGLY TALK: Women Tech Founders in San Francisco on January 29, 2026, an energizing in-person gathering of 100 women founders focused on funding strategies and discovering SuperCrowd as a powerful alternative for raising capital.
If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 10,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.
Manage the volume of emails you receive from us by clicking 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?
Tom: I feel like my core superpower is convincing people to believe in my dreams and rallying them around.
Most people view recycling as a public service, but the reality is that it is a business governed by the ruthless laws of economics. If the value of the material recovered doesn’t exceed the cost to collect and process it, that item ends up in a landfill. This economic gap is exactly where Tom Szaky has built an empire.
Recently, Tom Szaky, the CEO and founder of TerraCycle, shared insights on how he is tackling the world’s garbage problem. His company isn’t just a recycling firm; it is a supply chain innovator that figures out how to recycle the “unrecyclable,” from cigarette butts to dirty diapers.
Tom explains the core issue with clarity. “The reality is most things in the world can be recycled. The difference is that recycling is not really a public service. It’s run by for-profit companies.”
He notes that aluminum cans are recycled because they are profitable. Conversely, complex items like coffee capsules cost more to process than the aluminum is worth. TerraCycle solves this by finding stakeholders—brands, retailers, and cities—willing to fund that gap.
This model has proven incredibly successful. TerraCycle has been profitable for years and recently completed a Regulation Crowdfunding offering for TerraCycle US. They raised $5 million in less than 60 days.
Investors are drawn to the company not just for its mission but for its financial discipline. Tom highlighted that previous investors have already received significant returns. “If you invested, say $1,000 in REG A back five years ago, you’d have already been paid somewhere between 17% and 20% of that invested capital in dividends.”
Tom Szaky, Founder and CEO of TerraCycle, will be speaking at SuperGreen Live, sharing insights on sustainability, circular economy solutions, and rethinking waste at scale—register now at SuperGreenLive.org
Tom challenges the old binary that you either make money or you do good. He believes purpose fuels business fundamentals. By locating his HQ in Trenton, New Jersey, he revitalizes an underserved community while gaining access to affordable real estate and a diverse talent pool.
“Why should on one end we make money and on the other end give it away to NGOs to help save the world?” Tom asks. “Why can’t those two concepts come together where you can invest in a profitable business whose core focus is making the world better?”
TerraCycle is proving that you can indeed do both. By aligning profit with planetary health, Tom is showing a path toward a zero-waste world that makes economic sense.
tl;dr:
TerraCycle creates supply chains for hard-to-recycle waste by getting stakeholders to fund the cost gap.
Recycling is an economic challenge because items are only recycled locally if they generate profit.
Tom recently raised $5 million via Regulation Crowdfunding by demonstrating proven growth and consistent dividends.
Purpose-driven business models can drive better economic fundamentals like lower costs and government support.
Tom’s superpower is rallying people around a vision by starting with a beautiful, impactful idea.
How to Develop Rallying Believers As a Superpower
Tom describes his superpower as the ability to get others to see his vision and join him in executing it. It isn’t just about salesmanship; it is about authentic conviction. He explains, “I feel like my core superpower is convincing people to believe in my dreams and rallying them around.” This ability allows him to mobilize diverse groups, from college interns to multinational corporations, to tackle massive global challenges like waste elimination.
To illustrate this, Tom shared a charming story from his childhood. In second grade, he had a vision of folding thousands of origami cranes to create a decorative entryway for his bedroom. He started folding them at a table with four other classmates. He didn’t force them to help; he just started doing the work with passion. Within two days, the whole table was folding cranes. By the end of the week, the entire class was involved. This early experience taught him that if you lead with action and a compelling idea, people will naturally want to be part of the journey.
How to Develop This Superpower
For those interested in rallying people around a vision, Tom offers several insights that can help transform this into a skill:
Start with a beautiful idea. The core concept should not just be about making money. It must be something that makes the world better, more beautiful, or more sustainable.
Believe in it yourself. Authentic, unwavering belief in a dream is essential before expecting others to follow.
Just start doing it. Action attracts others. By beginning the work, people will naturally gravitate toward the energy and vision.
View profit as health, not the goal. While profit is necessary to survive, keeping the mission as the central focus ensures authenticity. This, in turn, attracts investors, employees, and partners who want to be part of something meaningful.
Maintain clarity of vision. Instead of trying to fix everything at once, a focused approach on a specific area of expertise drives meaningful change.
By following Tom’s example and advice, rallying believers can become a powerful skill. With practice and effort, this superpower can enable individuals and organizations to achieve greater impact.
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
Tom Szaky (he/him):
CEO/Founder, TerraCycle
About TerraCycle: TerraCycle is an international leader in innovative sustainability solutions, creating and operating first-of-their-kind platforms in recycling, recycled materials, and reuse. Across 18 countries, TerraCycle is on a mission to eliminate the idea of waste and develop practical solutions for today’s complex waste challenges. The company engages an expansive multi-stakeholder community, from Fortune 500 companies to schools and households, across a wide range of accessible programs and has raised millions for schools and nonprofits since its founding more than 20 years ago. To learn more about TerraCycle and join them on their journey to move the world from a linear economy to a circular one, please visit terracycle.com.
Website: terracycle.com
Company Facebook Page: facebook.com/terracycle
Instagram Handle: @terracycle
Other URL: invest.terracycle.com
Biographical Information: Tom Szaky is founder and CEO of TerraCycle, an international leader in innovative sustainability solutions, creating and operating first-of-their-kind platforms in recycling, recycled materials, and reuse. Across 21 countries, TerraCycle is on a mission to rethink waste and develop practical solutions for today’s complex waste challenges. The company engages an expansive multi-stakeholder community across a wide range of accessible programs, from Fortune 500 companies to schools and individuals.
In 2019, TerraCycle launched Loop, a circular reuse platform that enables consumers to purchase products in durable, reusable packaging. Loop is available in France, Japan, and the U.S., and is a key step in helping to end the epidemic of waste that is caused by “single-use” consumption. Tom and TerraCycle have received hundreds of social, environmental, and business awards and recognition from a range of organizations, including the United Nations, World Economic Forum, Fortune Magazine, Time Magazine, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.
Tom is the author of four books: Revolution in a Bottle, Outsmart Waste, Make Garbage Great, and The Future of Packaging. Tom created, produced, and starred in TerraCycle’s reality show, Human Resources, which aired on Pivot from 2014–2016 and is syndicated in more than 20 foreign markets on Amazon and iTunes.
LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/tomszaky
Support Our Sponsors
Our generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today’s advertisers include RISE Robotics, and Crowdfunding Made Simple. Learn more about advertising with us here.
Max-Impact Members
(We’re grateful for every one of these community champions who make this work possible.)
Brian Christie, Brainsy | Cameron Neil, Lend For Good | Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | John Berlet, CORE Tax Deeds, LLC. | Justin Starbird, The Aebli Group | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Mike Green, Envirosult | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | 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.
SuperCrowdHour, January 21, 2026, at 12:00 PM Eastern. Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., will lead a session on “From $10 to Impact: How Anyone Can Become an Impact Investor.” Drawing on his experience as an investment banker, impact investor, and community-building leader, Devin will explain how everyday people can start investing small amounts to support mission-driven companies while pursuing financial returns. In this session, he’ll break down the basics of regulated investment crowdfunding, show how impact and profit can align, and share practical steps for identifying opportunities that create real-world change. As an added benefit, attendees can become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd for just $4.58 per month to receive an exclusive private Zoom meeting invitation with Devin, free tickets to paid SuperCrowd events, and the opportunity to directly support social entrepreneurs, community builders, and underrepresented founders.
SuperGreen Live, January 22–24, 2026, livestreaming globally. Organized by Green2Gold and The Super Crowd, Inc., this three-day event will spotlight the intersection of impact crowdfunding, sustainable innovation, and climate solutions. Featuring expert-led panels, interactive workshops, and live pitch sessions, SuperGreen Live brings together entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and activists to explore how capital and climate action can work hand in hand. With global livestreaming, VIP networking opportunities, and exclusive content, this event will empower participants to turn bold ideas into real impact. Don’t miss your chance to join tens of thousands of changemakers at the largest virtual sustainability event of the year. Learn more about sponsoring the event here. Interested in speaking? Apply here. Support our work with a tax-deductible donation here.
Demo Day at SuperGreen Live. Apply now to present at the SuperGreen Live Demo Day session on January 22! The application window is closing soon; apply today at 4sc.fun/sgdemo. The Demo Day session is open to innovators in the field of climate solutions and sustainability who are NOT currently raising under Regulation Crowdfunding.
SuperCrowd Impact Member Networking Session: Impact (and, of course, Max-Impact) Members of the SuperCrowd are invited to a private networking session on January 27th at 1:30 PM ET/10:30 AM PT. Mark your calendar. We’ll send private emails to Impact Members with registration details.
Community Event Calendar
Successful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.
Join UGLY TALK: Women Tech Founders in San Francisco on January 29, 2026, an energizing in-person gathering of 100 women founders focused on funding strategies and discovering SuperCrowd as a powerful alternative for raising capital.
If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 10,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.
Manage the volume of emails you receive from us by clicking 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?
Robert: If I find out something isn’t quite optimized from a building science perspective, I can’t just leave it.
Affordable housing has become one of the most pressing challenges in cities across the United States, and Chicago is no exception. With a housing shortage driving up prices, Robert Linn, Principal of Point B Properties, is taking an innovative approach to address the crisis while also prioritizing sustainability and health.
In today’s episode, Robert shared insights into his latest project—a conversion of a two-flat building into a three-flat under Chicago’s ADU ordinance. This ordinance allows developers to add units to existing buildings, increasing the housing supply without tearing down older structures. “Chicago right now has a massive undersupply of multifamily housing,” Robert explained. “What we’re doing by going in and taking this two-flat and making it a three-flat is helping keep that supply up. As anyone with kind of a basic knowledge of supply and demand knows, if we keep increasing supply, then prices are going to come down.”
But Robert’s work goes far beyond simply adding more units. He’s also focused on making homes healthier and more energy-efficient. For instance, he uses energy recovery ventilators (ERVs) in his projects to improve indoor air quality while conserving energy. “A big focus for me, I would consider an easy win, is air quality,” he said. “We make sure that we pay really good attention to how the property is sealed and then invest extra in ventilation.”
Robert also highlighted the importance of proper insulation to prevent issues like mold, which can develop when warm, humid air condenses inside walls. “You could build a building with zero insulation, and no one would be the wiser until your walls are really cold,” he noted. His commitment to detail ensures that his buildings are not only comfortable but also environmentally friendly and cost-effective for residents.
What makes this project even more exciting is its funding model. Robert is raising capital through Small Change, a regulated investment crowdfunding platform that allows ordinary people to invest in impact-driven real estate projects. “It’s nice to have something more formal to offer to the public in a really structured way,” Robert said, emphasizing the democratizing power of crowdfunding.
By blending affordability, sustainability, and healthy living, Robert’s work exemplifies how developers can meet critical housing needs while addressing broader challenges like climate change. I encourage you to visit Small Change to learn more about his inspiring Richmond Revival project. Together, we can support initiatives that make a real difference in our communities.
tl;dr:
Robert Linn’s latest project converts a two-flat Chicago building into a three-flat under the ADU ordinance.
Robert prioritizes healthy, energy-efficient housing using techniques like proper insulation and energy recovery ventilators.
Chicago’s housing shortage drives Robert’s mission to preserve and expand affordable multifamily housing.
He’s raising funds for the Richmond Revival project via Small Change, democratizing investment opportunities.
Robert’s superpower, “constructive discontent,” pushes him to improve housing quality and solve problems creatively.How to Develop Constructive Discontent As a Superpower
Robert described his superpower as “constructive discontent,” explaining how his refusal to accept subpar solutions drives him to continuously improve his projects. “If I find out something isn’t quite optimized from a building science perspective, I can’t just leave it,” he said. This mindset leads him to prioritize details like air quality, proper insulation, and energy efficiency, ensuring that the homes he develops are healthier, more sustainable, and more affordable for residents.
During today’s episode, Robert shared an example of how he used his constructive discontent to improve window installation on his latest project. When his general contractor dismissed best practices as “too complicated,” Robert took matters into his own hands by assigning the task to his crew. He provided them with a video outlining proper installation techniques, ensuring that the windows met his exacting standards. This hands-on approach reflects Robert’s commitment to excellence, even when it means going the extra mile.
Tips for Developing Constructive Discontent:
Don’t normalize annoyance—identify things that could be better and explore ways to improve them.
Invest in tools or resources, like air quality monitors, to identify hidden problems in your environment.
Learn best practices in your field and hold yourself accountable to implement them consistently.
Surround yourself with a team you trust to execute your vision when others fall short.
By following Robert’s example and advice, you can make constructive discontent 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
Robert Linn (he/him):
Principal, Point B Properties
About Point B Properties: Point B Properties is a Chicago-based, vertically integrated real estate development firm focused on the “Missing Middle”—the essential workforce housing that institutional funds ignore and small flippers can’t handle. Unlike traditional developers who rely on brokers, we utilize a proprietary direct-to-seller sourcing engine to identify off-market, value-add opportunities in high-growth Midwest corridors. We combine this sourcing advantage with rigorous architectural engineering to create “Healthy Buildings”—spaces designed to improve resident well-being through superior air quality and non-toxic materials. Crucially, we are committed to democratizing real estate wealth; through platforms like SmallChange.co, we open our deals to everyday investors, allowing them to co-invest alongside accredited partners.
Website: pointbproperties.com
Company Facebook Page: facebook.com/PointBProperties
Instagram Handle: @pointbprop
Other URL: smallchange.co/projects/richmondrevival
Biographical Information: Robert is an innovative real estate professional and developer whose passion for the industry was sparked in his family’s woodshop during his childhood. His journey is underpinned by a solid educational foundation, having earned a dual degree in Architecture and Engineering from the University of Michigan.
Robert’s career began in the niche field of ship design, dovetailing into consulting where he was recruited to apply his expertise to real estate. His commitment to continual growth led him to Indiana University on a scholarship, where he further honed his skills with a double major in Finance and Management.
During college, Robert embarked on a new adventure by purchasing his first property. This milestone marked the beginning of his entrepreneurial journey, leading to the formation of his own company, all while balancing a full-time job.
Robert is not just about building properties; he’s about building them right. Recognized for his contributions to energy-efficient building, like constructing the first Green Star certified condo building, he has a keen interest in the evolving landscape of design and building science. His dedication to the field is further exemplified by his LEED certification and his role as one of the early adopters of HERS rated developments.
Robert’s projects are infused with a unique blend of practical experience, technical expertise, and theoretical knowledge. His approach to each project is informed by this multidimensional perspective, ensuring solutions that are innovative, efficient, and sustainable.
LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/linnovating
Personal Facebook Profile: facebook.com/rlinni
Support Our Sponsors
Our generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today’s advertisers include RISE Robotics, and Crowdfunding Made Simple. Learn more about advertising with us here.
Max-Impact Members
(We’re grateful for every one of these community champions who make this work possible.)
Brian Christie, Brainsy | Cameron Neil, Lend For Good | Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | John Berlet, CORE Tax Deeds, LLC. | Justin Starbird, The Aebli Group | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Mike Green, Envirosult | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | 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.
SuperCrowdHour, January 21, 2026, at 12:00 PM Eastern. Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., will lead a session on “From $10 to Impact: How Anyone Can Become an Impact Investor.” Drawing on his experience as an investment banker, impact investor, and community-building leader, Devin will explain how everyday people can start investing small amounts to support mission-driven companies while pursuing financial returns. In this session, he’ll break down the basics of regulated investment crowdfunding, show how impact and profit can align, and share practical steps for identifying opportunities that create real-world change. As an added benefit, attendees can become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd for just $4.58 per month to receive an exclusive private Zoom meeting invitation with Devin, free tickets to paid SuperCrowd events, and the opportunity to directly support social entrepreneurs, community builders, and underrepresented founders.
SuperGreen Live, January 22–24, 2026, livestreaming globally. Organized by Green2Gold and The Super Crowd, Inc., this three-day event will spotlight the intersection of impact crowdfunding, sustainable innovation, and climate solutions. Featuring expert-led panels, interactive workshops, and live pitch sessions, SuperGreen Live brings together entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and activists to explore how capital and climate action can work hand in hand. With global livestreaming, VIP networking opportunities, and exclusive content, this event will empower participants to turn bold ideas into real impact. Don’t miss your chance to join tens of thousands of changemakers at the largest virtual sustainability event of the year. Learn more about sponsoring the event here. Interested in speaking? Apply here. Support our work with a tax-deductible donation here.
Demo Day at SuperGreen Live. Apply now to present at the SuperGreen Live Demo Day session on January 22! The application window is closing soon; apply today at 4sc.fun/sgdemo. The Demo Day session is open to innovators in the field of climate solutions and sustainability who are NOT currently raising under Regulation Crowdfunding.
Live Pitch at SuperGreen Live. Apply now to pitch at the SuperGreen Live—Live Pitch on January 23! The application window closes January 5th; apply today at s4g.biz/sgapply. The Live Pitch is open to innovators in the field of climate solutions and sustainability who ARE currently raising under Regulation Crowdfunding.
SuperCrowd Impact Member Networking Session: Impact (and, of course, Max-Impact) Members of the SuperCrowd are invited to a private networking session on January 27th at 1:30 PM ET/10:30 AM PT. Mark your calendar. We’ll send private emails to Impact Members with registration details.
Community Event Calendar
Successful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.
Join UGLY TALK: Women Tech Founders in San Francisco on January 29, 2026, an energizing in-person gathering of 100 women founders focused on funding strategies and discovering SuperCrowd as a powerful alternative for raising capital.
If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 10,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.
Manage the volume of emails you receive from us by clicking 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?
Patricia: Real connection with real people.
Sustainability, community impact, and empowerment are at the heart of Patricia Gillmore’s mission with GGirls Closet LLC. As the CEO and founder, Patricia has built more than just a thrift store—she’s created a hybrid model that combines resale fashion with meaningful community partnerships. Through innovative collaborations with Title I schools and nonprofits, Patricia is proving that thrifting can be a powerful force for good.
“Our first point of opening was to help recycle, right, help reduce the landfill waste,” Patricia explained in today’s episode. But GGirls Closet quickly became much more than a sustainability initiative. Patricia developed a consignment model that allows schools and nonprofits to generate revenue from donated clothing. “We do a consignment contract with them … they would get 40% of every item that is sold,” she said, describing how her business supports local communities.
Patricia’s journey began in 2013 when she launched her first boutique with her mother, inspired by their shared love of thrifting. Over the years, GGirls Closet has evolved into a hybrid e-commerce and brick-and-mortar store with a global reach. Patricia’s mission grew to include partnerships with schools and nonprofits, where she organizes clothing drives and distributes donation bins. She emphasizes that the initiative isn’t money-driven but rather about giving back. “If you need to clean out your closet, put it to a good cause,” she said.
In addition to her consignment program, Patricia recently completed a successful Honeycomb Credit campaign, raising funds to expand her operations. The capital will support upgrades like a new point-of-sale system, improvements to the store’s workspace, and even a stipend program for students participating in job training. “It was one of the most fulfilling things I’ve ever done,” she said of the crowdfunding experience.
Patricia’s vision is ambitious. She plans to franchise her model to impact more communities, expanding GGirls Closet’s mission of sustainability and economic empowerment. Her story is a testament to the impact a for-profit business can have when it’s guided by purpose and community values.
By combining her entrepreneurial skills with a deep commitment to giving back, Patricia is redefining what it means to run a socially conscious business.
tl;dr:
GGirls Closet LLC combines sustainability and community impact by repurposing clothing to reduce landfill waste.
CEO Patricia Gillmore partners with schools and nonprofits, helping them generate revenue through consignment programs.
Patricia’s recent crowdfunding campaign raised funds to expand operations and increase community impact.
She shared how her superpower of “real connection” drives her success through collaboration and relationship-building.
Patricia plans to franchise GGirls Closet to bring her mission of empowerment and sustainability to more communities.
How to Develop Real Connection As a Superpower
Patricia’s superpower is her ability to connect deeply and authentically with people and organizations. She describes it as “real connection with real people,” explaining that her success comes from listening attentively, asking open-ended questions, and tailoring solutions to meet the needs of schools, nonprofits, and businesses. “The connecting really just comes with learning to talk,” Patricia said, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and authentic communication in building relationships. Her approach has helped her grow GGirls Closet into a community-driven business that serves over 10 nonprofits and Title I schools.
Patricia shared an inspiring example of using her superpower to secure a contract with New Legacy, a nonprofit school for super seniors. She developed a program that allows students to earn real-world work credits by working at GGirls Closet. This partnership helps students graduate while gaining valuable job experience. With additional funding from her recent Honeycomb campaign, Patricia plans to introduce a stipend for participating students and create pathways for job placement after graduation. Her ability to collaborate with the school and design a mutually beneficial program exemplifies her talent for connecting with others to make a difference.
Tips for Developing This Superpower:
Listen Actively: Pay close attention to others’ needs and ask open-ended questions to gather insights.
Practice Communication: Rehearse conversations or networking scenarios to build confidence before important meetings.
Collaborate Generously: Approach partnerships with the mindset of solving problems together rather than focusing on individual gains.
Build Authentic Relationships: Focus on integrity and trust when forming connections, as Patricia describes with her “my word is bond” philosophy.
Be Adaptive: Tailor your approach to fit the unique needs of each person or organization you engage with.
By following Patricia’s example and advice, you can make real 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
Patricia Gillmore (she/her):
CEO/Founder, GGirls Closet LLC
About GGirls Closet LLC: GGirls Closet is a unique hybrid boutique based in Aurora, Colorado, with a powerful social mission. We partner with Title I schools, nonprofits, and small businesses by offering consignment accounts that turn resale into a funding opportunity. Through local clothing drives, they recycle only community-donated clothing, selling it through their extensive inventory both online and in-store.
There is a return 40% of the proceeds to their partners:
Schools receive checks to support student councils and school events.
Nonprofits gain funding for classes and essential programs.
Small businesses host events in the retail space and receive a portion of the sales to support their missions.
This innovative model has made GGirls Closet a staple in the community and a standout example of a for-profit business with a strong commitment to social impact.
Website: ggirlscloset.net
Company Facebook Page: facebook.com/ggirlsclosetllc
Instagram Handle: @ggirlscloset
Other URL: 303magazine.com/2022/10/ggirls-closet-is-a-brand-for-the-community , amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/72IPEQRI2ISD, and invest.honeycombcredit.com/campaigns/GGirls-Closet
Biographical Information: Patricia Gillmore is the founder and owner of GGirls Closet, a community-driven resale boutique based in Aurora, Colorado. Since 2013, she has pioneered the state’s first for-profit boutique of its kind, operating through a hybrid online and brick-and-mortar model that reinvests directly into local communities. Through strategic partnerships with Title I schools, nonprofits, and small businesses, GGirls Closet returns 40% of consignment proceeds to support educational initiatives, community programs, and small business growth. Under Patricia’s leadership, GGirls Closet has become a recognized force in sustainable fashion and social enterprise. She collaborates with Aurora Public Schools to educate students on sustainable shopping and conscious consumption, helping cultivate environmentally aware future consumers. Her work has earned GGirls Closet recognition as Mile High’s 3rd Best Women’s Store and features in 303 Magazine. Beyond retail, Patricia continues to strengthen community ties through clothing drives, local events, and food distribution efforts—demonstrating a business model where profitability and purpose go hand in hand.
LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/patricia-gillmore-b5323975
Personal Facebook Profile: facebook.com/patricia.gillmore
Support Our Sponsors
Our generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today’s advertisers include RISE Robotics, and Crowdfunding Made Simple. Learn more about advertising with us here.
Max-Impact Members
(We’re grateful for every one of these community champions who make this work possible.)
Brian Christie, Brainsy | Cameron Neil, Lend For Good | Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | John Berlet, CORE Tax Deeds, LLC. | Justin Starbird, The Aebli Group | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Mike Green, Envirosult | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | 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.
SuperGreen Live, January 22–24, 2026, livestreaming globally. Organized by Green2Gold and The Super Crowd, Inc., this three-day event will spotlight the intersection of impact crowdfunding, sustainable innovation, and climate solutions. Featuring expert-led panels, interactive workshops, and live pitch sessions, SuperGreen Live brings together entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and activists to explore how capital and climate action can work hand in hand. With global livestreaming, VIP networking opportunities, and exclusive content, this event will empower participants to turn bold ideas into real impact. Don’t miss your chance to join tens of thousands of changemakers at the largest virtual sustainability event of the year. Learn more about sponsoring the event here. Interested in speaking? Apply here. Support our work with a tax-deductible donation here.
Demo Day at SuperGreen Live. Apply now to present at the SuperGreen Live Demo Day session on January 22! The application window is closing soon; apply today at 4sc.fun/sgdemo. The Demo Day session is open to innovators in the field of climate solutions and sustainability who are NOT currently raising under Regulation Crowdfunding.
Live Pitch at SuperGreen Live. Apply now to pitch at the SuperGreen Live—Live Pitch on January 23! The application window closes January 5th; apply today at s4g.biz/sgapply. The Live Pitch is open to innovators in the field of climate solutions and sustainability who ARE currently raising under Regulation Crowdfunding.
SuperCrowd Impact Member Networking Session: Impact (and, of course, Max-Impact) Members of the SuperCrowd are invited to a private networking session on January 27th at 1:30 PM ET/10:30 AM PT. Mark your calendar. We’ll send private emails to Impact Members with registration details.
Community Event Calendar
Successful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.
Join UGLY TALK: Women Tech Founders in San Francisco on January 29, 2026, an energizing in-person gathering of 100 women founders focused on funding strategies and discovering SuperCrowd as a powerful alternative for raising capital.
If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 10,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.
Manage the volume of emails you receive from us by clicking 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?
Chip: My challenge, and it’s become my superpower, was to work with…to start where people are.
The divide in the United States today is often described as being at its worst since the Civil War. The tensions are palpable, with political, social, and cultural divisions creating an atmosphere of discord. Charles (Chip) Hauss, Senior Fellow for Innovation at the Alliance for Peacebuilding and author of Peacebuilding Starts at Home, believes the solution lies in starting small—right in our own communities.
In today’s episode, Chip shared a critical insight: peacebuilding doesn’t happen in a distant, abstract sense—it’s something we actively build in our daily lives. “Peace is a verb,” Chip explained. “It is something I do. I build it. And more importantly, it starts at home.”
For Chip, the importance of local peacebuilding became clear during a conversation with colleagues after the 2014 killing of Michael Brown in Ferguson, Missouri. The Alliance for Peacebuilding, at the time, focused almost exclusively on international conflicts. But Chip posed a poignant question: “How can we tell people in Burundi that we can solve their problems if we can’t do it in Baltimore?”
This realization sparked a shift in focus. Chip emphasized that addressing the microcosm of our lives—our families, neighborhoods, and local communities—has the power to ripple outward. By fostering understanding and collaboration in these spaces, we can create broader societal change.
What makes this approach even more compelling is its inclusivity. Chip encourages finding common ground even with those we disagree with. “Our first instinct should be to find the things that we share, find the things that we are for,” he said. This mindset, he believes, is the foundation for building meaningful relationships and, ultimately, peace.
Chip’s work is now evolving into a larger movement to equip individuals with the tools to build peace in their own lives. By focusing on what unites us instead of what divides us, he hopes to inspire millions to take small, tangible steps toward a more peaceful society.
It’s a powerful reminder that while global challenges may seem insurmountable, the solutions often begin with simple, human connections close to home.
tl;dr:
Charles Hauss explains why peacebuilding must start at home to inspire broader societal change.
The Alliance for Peacebuilding shifted focus to U.S. communities after Ferguson, Missouri, in 2014.
Chip emphasizes finding shared values, even with those we strongly disagree with.
He shares a practical example of applying peacebuilding to resolve local condo tensions.
Chip’s new book and movement aim to empower individuals to build peace in daily life.
How to Develop Building Meaningful Relationships As a Superpower
Chip’s superpower is his ability to build meaningful relationships, especially with people he disagrees with. He explained, “My challenge, and it’s become my superpower, was to work with…to start where people are.” For Chip, peacebuilding isn’t about tolerating differences but about celebrating them. He shared, “Peacebuilding is not a burden or a chore. It’s actually something you can do for fun.” His unique gift lies in creating connections that foster understanding and collaboration, even in contentious or divided spaces.
Chip shared a story about moving into a new condo complex where management issues caused tension among residents. Many neighbors were frustrated and confrontational, but Chip encouraged a different approach. He suggested getting to know the new building manager, understanding her perspective, and working together constructively. Within weeks, the community made progress, replacing the manager and starting to build a stronger, more collaborative environment. This story exemplifies Chip’s ability to transform conflict into connection through relationship-building.
Tips for Developing the Superpower:
Start where people are—understand their values, perspectives, and interests.
Focus on what you share rather than what divides you.
Embrace disagreements as opportunities for learning and growth.
Approach peacebuilding as something enjoyable rather than a chore.
Encourage collaboration by guiding conversations toward constructive solutions.
By following Chip’s example and advice, you can make building meaningful relationships 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
Charles (Chip) Hauss (he/him):
Senior Fellow for Innovation and Emeritus member of the board o directors, Alliance for Peacebuilding
About Alliance for Peacebuilding: AfP is the largest network of peacebuilding organizations in the world with over 250 organizational members. After having done the bulk of its work around the world, its leaders and members have decided that peacebuilding has to start at home and that if we want to help people in Botswana create a more peaceful society, we have to do so in Baltimore as well. Chip Hauss will be part of the team that makes that happen starting--but not ending with--the publication of his book, not surprisingly, called Peacebuilding Starts at Home.
Website: peacebuildingstartsathome.us and allianceforpeacebuilding.org
Other URL: amzn.to/3KPaWBa
Biographical Information: Charles “Chip” Hauss has been exploring ways of producing large scale social and political change through nonviolent and cooperative means since his undergraduate days in the late 1960s. In all of this work, Hauss has tried to be a political bridge builder who brings “strange political bedfellows” together to help solve problems that can only be effectively addressed if they work together.
Hauss is currently Senior Fellow for Innovation at the Alliance for Peacebuilding where he helps lead its Peacebuilding Starts at Home initiative which focuses on what the Judy and Peter Blum Kovler Foundation refers to as “America’s neglected needs.
Hauss is the author of nineteen books on peacebuilding and comparative politics. His newest book Peacebuilding Starts at Home was published in November.
Hauss holds a BA from Oberlin and a PhD from the University of Michigan.
LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/chip-hauss-03a64744/
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, and RISE Robotics. Learn more about advertising with us here.
Max-Impact Members
(We’re grateful for every one of these community champions who make this work possible.)
Brian Christie, Brainsy | Cameron Neil, Lend For Good | Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | John Berlet, CORE Tax Deeds, LLC. | Justin Starbird, The Aebli Group | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Mike Green, Envirosult | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | 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.
SuperGreen Live, January 22–24, 2026, livestreaming globally. Organized by Green2Gold and The Super Crowd, Inc., this three-day event will spotlight the intersection of impact crowdfunding, sustainable innovation, and climate solutions. Featuring expert-led panels, interactive workshops, and live pitch sessions, SuperGreen Live brings together entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and activists to explore how capital and climate action can work hand in hand. With global livestreaming, VIP networking opportunities, and exclusive content, this event will empower participants to turn bold ideas into real impact. Don’t miss your chance to join tens of thousands of changemakers at the largest virtual sustainability event of the year. Learn more about sponsoring the event here. Interested in speaking? Apply here. Support our work with a tax-deductible donation here.
Demo Day at SuperGreen Live. Apply now to present at the SuperGreen Live Demo Day session on January 22! The application window is closing soon; apply today at 4sc.fun/sgdemo. The Demo Day session is open to innovators in the field of climate solutions and sustainability who are NOT currently raising under Regulation Crowdfunding.
Live Pitch at SuperGreen Live. Apply now to pitch at the SuperGreen Live—Live Pitch on January 23! The application window closes January 5th; apply today at s4g.biz/sgapply. The Live Pitch is open to innovators in the field of climate solutions and sustainability who ARE currently raising under Regulation Crowdfunding.
Community Event Calendar
Successful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.
Join UGLY TALK: Women Tech Founders in San Francisco on January 29, 2026, an energizing in-person gathering of 100 women founders focused on funding strategies and discovering SuperCrowd as a powerful alternative for raising capital.
If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 10,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.
Manage the volume of emails you receive from us by clicking here.
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?
Rob: I’ve been an environmentalist forever… I have this understanding of what an efficient vehicle should and can be, and I’ve worked to bring the public’s passions together with the mission of the company.
The idea of a solar-powered vehicle that’s part bike and part car may seem futuristic, but Rob Cotter, CEO and founder of Organic Transit, has already delivered over 800 of them to customers in 15 countries. Known as the “Elf,” this innovative solar-electric bicycle vehicle is redefining transportation. Weighing just 160 pounds yet capable of carrying 550 pounds, the Elf offers a sustainable and affordable alternative to cars.
“What’s amazing is that the Elf gets the equivalent of 1,800 miles per gallon,” Rob explained during today’s episode. “And in sunny parts of the country, many customers have told us they’ve never even needed to plug it in—they’ve powered it entirely by sunlight for years.”
Designed for practicality, the Elf provides all-weather protection and enough room for a passenger and a dozen bags of groceries. Because it’s legally classified as a bicycle, no license, insurance, or registration is required. It’s a solution designed not just for environmentalists but for anyone looking to save money, reduce their carbon footprint, and enjoy a healthier lifestyle.
Although Rob and his team achieved remarkable early success, challenges with investors forced the company into a period of rebuilding. Now, Organic Transit is poised for a comeback, raising capital via a regulated crowdfunding campaign on WeFunder. Rob shared how crowdfunding aligns perfectly with the company’s mission and values: “The population overall—the retail consumers—have been our biggest advocates. If we had done an equity crowdfunding campaign earlier, it would have been a perfect fit.”
Priced at $7,500 for the base model, the Elf is not only affordable but also pays for itself quickly. Rob shared stories of customers who reported saving $8,000 annually by using the vehicle instead of a car.
In today’s episode, Rob’s passion for creating a sustainable future was contagious. With the Elf’s proven technology and a growing community of supporters, Organic Transit is ready to redefine what vehicles can be. For those interested in supporting this exciting venture, you can learn more and invest at s4g.biz/organic.
tl;dr:
Rob Cotter explained how the Elf’s design combines solar power, practicality, and bike-like efficiency.
Organic Transit delivered 800 Elfs globally before challenges forced the company into rebuilding mode.
The Elf costs $7,500, pays for itself quickly, and doesn’t require insurance or registration.
Organic Transit is now raising capital via crowdfunding to relaunch the Elf.
Rob shared how his environmental vision fuels his passion for creating sustainable transportation solutions.
How to Develop Environmental Vision As a Superpower
Rob’s superpower is his ability to activate environmentalism into actionable, innovative solutions. As Rob explained, “I’ve been an environmentalist forever… I have this understanding of what an efficient vehicle should and can be, and I’ve worked to bring the public’s passions together with the mission of the company.” This unique combination of environmental commitment and technical expertise has allowed him to create groundbreaking solutions like the Elf, which reduces pollution while promoting healthier lifestyles.
Illustrative Story:Rob shared how decades of experience with innovative vehicles combined with his environmental activism led to the creation of the Elf. He drew inspiration from lightweight designs in bicycles, aircraft, and boats, ultimately reimagining what a vehicle could be. By integrating solar power and practical aerodynamics, he created a vehicle so efficient that some customers in sunny regions have powered their Elfs solely with sunlight for years.
Tips for Developing This Superpower:
Develop expertise in a field that aligns with your values, like Rob’s work with vehicles.
Combine technical skills with a passion for environmental causes to create innovative solutions.
Align your work with the public’s values to build support for your vision.
Reimagine existing paradigms—don’t let traditional boundaries limit your creativity.
Think globally but act locally; start with practical, small-scale solutions that can scale up.
By following Rob’s example and advice, you can make environmental vision 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
Rob Cotter (he/him):
CEO/ Founder, Environmental Transit Authority
About Environmental Transit Authority: Organic Transit (OT) designs, builds and distributes the cleanest, most efficient vehicles on the planet. ELF is the cornerstone of the company but there are several vehicles smaller and larger than the ELF currently in the prototype phase. Environmental Transit Authority (ETA) is the parent company and was formed to acquire OT and serve as a platform to offer other sustainable transportation solutions.
Website: organictransit.com
Company Facebook Page: facebook.com/organictransit
Other URL: wefunder.com/organictransit
Biographical Information: Rob Cotter, founder and CEO of Organic Transit, where we design and build solar-powered, enclosed pedal-assist vehicles that combine the practicality of a car with the efficiency of a bicycle. My work is driven by a simple question: why are we using multi-ton vehicles to move 200-pound people? I’ve been building innovative human-powered and solar vehicles for decades. Early in my career, I served as Vice President of the International Human Powered Vehicle Association, where I oversaw cutting-edge designs and races for bicycles now capable of exceeding 90 mph. I also directed the first U.S. solar car race in 1988 and contributed to projects that inspired modern electric vehicles, drones, and hydrofoils. Before launching Organic Transit, I worked with Porsche, led multimedia projects as a creative director, and ran human rights and environmental campaigns with Anita Roddick, combining technical skill with storytelling and advocacy. Other clients: IBM, Lexus/Nexus, and Environmental Advisor to Gov. Jerry Brown. In 2012, I founded Organic Transit and began developing the ELF, a three-wheeled, solar-powered Pod vehicle with an advanced polymer body and lightweight, aircraft aluminum chassis, 1 horsepower, and an efficiency equivalent of 1,800 miles per gallon. Over the years, we delivered 850 vehicles across 15 countries, accumulating over 10 million miles of user experience feedback. Many of our ELFs are still in daily use today, highlighting the durability and versatility of the design. After a challenging period of ownership transitions, I reacquired the company and am now leading a comeback with ELF 3.0, incorporating over a decade of learning and community insights. Our shop is fully solar-powered and off-grid, reflecting our commitment to sustainability. I’m passionate about making safe, practical, and sustainable mobility accessible to everyone, and believe crowdfunding and community engagement are key to scaling this vision. Organic Transit is about building a resilient, green transportation future.
LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/rob-cotter
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, and RISE Robotics. Learn more about advertising with us here.
Max-Impact Members
(We’re grateful for every one of these community champions who make this work possible.)
Brian Christie, Brainsy | Cameron Neil, Lend For Good | Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | John Berlet, CORE Tax Deeds, LLC. | Justin Starbird, The Aebli Group | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Mike Green, Envirosult | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | 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.
SuperGreen Live, January 22–24, 2026, livestreaming globally. Organized by Green2Gold and The Super Crowd, Inc., this three-day event will spotlight the intersection of impact crowdfunding, sustainable innovation, and climate solutions. Featuring expert-led panels, interactive workshops, and live pitch sessions, SuperGreen Live brings together entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and activists to explore how capital and climate action can work hand in hand. With global livestreaming, VIP networking opportunities, and exclusive content, this event will empower participants to turn bold ideas into real impact. Don’t miss your chance to join tens of thousands of changemakers at the largest virtual sustainability event of the year.
Demo Day at SuperGreen Live. Apply now to present at the SuperGreen Live Demo Day session on January 22! The application window is closing soon; apply today at 4sc.fun/sgdemo. The Demo Day session is open to innovators in the field of climate solutions and sustainability who are NOT currently raising under Regulation Crowdfunding.
Live Pitch at SuperGreen Live. Apply now to pitch at the SuperGreen Live—Live Pitch on January 23! The application window closes January 5th; apply today at s4g.biz/sgapply. The Live Pitch is open to innovators in the field of climate solutions and sustainability who ARE currently raising under Regulation Crowdfunding.
Community Event Calendar
Successful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.
Join UGLY TALK: Women Tech Founders in San Francisco on January 29, 2026, an energizing in-person gathering of 100 women founders focused on funding strategies and discovering SuperCrowd as a powerful alternative for raising capital.
If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 10,000+ 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?
Mark: I’m flexible and I’m willing to learn and change or experiment. And if I fall down, I get up again.
Planet Positive Investing is inspiring a new wave of sustainable, values-driven investments. Mark Perlmutter, Founder and CEO of Vegan Investing Club—soon to be rebranded as Planet Positive Investing—joined me in this episode to share how he’s aligning financial investments with environmental and social impact. Starting with a niche focus on supporting vegan businesses, Mark is now broadening his mission to attract a larger audience of sustainable investors, empowering people to invest in opportunities that reflect their values.
Mark’s journey began with the Vegan Investing Club, a free mailing list designed to connect members with SEC-regulated crowdfunding opportunities. “The idea there was simply to accelerate the vegan economy as a way to make a better world and align our financial interests with our values,” Mark explained. Over the years, he discovered that a more inclusive approach could amplify their impact.
The rebranded Planet Positive Investing will appeal to a broader audience, including those who may not identify as vegan but share a passion for sustainability. Mark shared, “Forbes issued a report saying that 100 million Americans would like to invest in sustainable investments, but they don’t have access.” By providing education and access to regulated crowdfunding portals, Planet Positive Investing aims to meet that need and foster a community of investors committed to making the world a better place.
Mark also highlighted an innovative company, Wind Harvest, as an example of the types of opportunities Planet Positive Investing promotes. This Davis, California-based firm has developed wind turbine technology that optimizes energy production by harnessing turbulence at ground level. “It’s a really interesting business model,” Mark said, noting how such companies align with the broader goal of climate-positive action.
If you’re inspired by the idea of aligning your financial investments with your values, Planet Positive Investing is a gateway to impactful opportunities. With Mark’s leadership and vision, the platform is poised to create meaningful change by empowering everyday investors to support sustainable ventures.
How to Develop Resilience and Adaptability As a Superpower
Mark’s superpower is his resilience and adaptability—an ability to learn, pivot, and grow from challenges. As Mark explained, “I’m flexible and I’m willing to learn and change or experiment. And if I fall down, I get up again.” This mindset has guided him throughout his career, enabling him to transition from traditional finance to pioneering crowdfunding models that align with his values.
One story that illustrates Mark’s resilience is his early attempt to launch an online investment platform in the 1990s. His website, Direct Capital, was ahead of its time, leveraging email to promote small public offerings. Despite legal and technological challenges that ultimately halted the project, Mark’s passion for democratizing investment didn’t waver. “When the new crowdfunding law was passed in 2012, I was so excited,” Mark shared. He quickly embraced the opportunity, hosting a summit that attracted 13,000 attendees and laid the groundwork for the Vegan Investing Club and its evolution into Planet Positive Investing.
Mark offered actionable advice for developing resilience:
Learn from others by seeking fresh perspectives and feedback.
Experiment with new ideas while minimizing risks of major setbacks.
Collaborate with a team to share insights, divide responsibilities, and build momentum.
View mistakes as opportunities for growth, not as failures.
By following Mark’s example and advice, you can make resilience and adaptability 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
Mark Perlmutter (he/him):
Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Vegan Investing Club—soon to be rebranded as Planet Positive Investing
About Vegan Investing Club—soon to be rebranded as Planet Positive Investing: Planet-positive startups are regularly raising from everyday people – not just wealthy investors. Thousands of people across the US are investing small amounts regularly into companies solving real problems – clean energy, safer tech, plant-based innovation, sustainable products, and more.
Website: planetpositiveinvesting.com
Biographical Information: Mark Perlmutter is a long-time entrepreneur, crowdfunding pioneer, and impact investor dedicated to using business as a force for social and environmental change. He is the Founder and CEO of the Vegan Investing Club (soon to be rebranded as Planet Positive Investing), a community that has brought together more than 29,000 values-aligned investors to support vegan and climate-positive startups through crowdfunding. By enabling everyday people to invest as little as $100, Mark has helped channel collective capital toward companies working to slow climate change while creating opportunities to “do well by doing good.” He is also the founder of VegReady, a food innovation company developing shelf-stable, plant-based meals that make healthy eating more accessible.
Mark has been active in alternative finance and advocacy for over three decades. He co-founded a citizen lobbying effort that directly contributed to the crowdfunding provisions of the 2012 JOBS Act, and produced the first CrowdFunding World Summit, bringing together policymakers, investors, and innovators from around the world. Earlier in his career, he founded the MicroAngels Institute, educating thousands on affinity and cause-based investing, and co-founded Direct IPO, an early experiment in online capital formation. A committed vegan and speaker on crowdfunding and social good, Mark continues to champion a future where aligned investors help fund the companies shaping a more sustainable and ethical economy.
LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/markperlmutter
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, BabyQuip and RISE Robotics. Learn more about advertising with us here.
Max-Impact Members
(We’re grateful for every one of these community champions who make this work possible.)
Brian Christie, Brainsy | Cameron Neil, Lend For Good | Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | John Berlet, CORE Tax Deeds, LLC. | Justin Starbird, The Aebli Group | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Mike Green, Envirosult | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | 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.
SuperGreen Live, January 22–24, 2026, livestreaming globally. Organized by Green2Gold and The Super Crowd, Inc., this three-day event will spotlight the intersection of impact crowdfunding, sustainable innovation, and climate solutions. Featuring expert-led panels, interactive workshops, and live pitch sessions, SuperGreen Live brings together entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and activists to explore how capital and climate action can work hand in hand. With global livestreaming, VIP networking opportunities, and exclusive content, this event will empower participants to turn bold ideas into real impact. Don’t miss your chance to join tens of thousands of changemakers at the largest virtual sustainability event of the year.
Demo Day at SuperGreen Live. Apply now to present at the SuperGreen Live Demo Day session on January 22! The application window is closing soon; apply today at 4sc.fun/sgdemo. The Demo Day session is open to innovators in the field of climate solutions and sustainability who are NOT currently raising under Regulation Crowdfunding.
Live Pitch at SuperGreen Live. Apply now to pitch at the SuperGreen Live—Live Pitch on January 23! The application window closes January 5th; apply today at s4g.biz/sgapply. The Live Pitch is open to innovators in the field of climate solutions and sustainability who ARE currently raising under Regulation Crowdfunding.
Community Event Calendar
Successful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.
If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 10,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.
We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode.
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