Ellenor McIntosh, Co-Founder of Twipes, is tackling one of the world's hidden environmental problems — wet-wipe pollution — through biotech innovation. In this conversation, she and Jason Cavness discuss sustainability, science, entrepreneurship, and the personal challenges of building a purpose-driven company.

Elle's story bridges science, social impact, and perseverance — from creating the world's first flushable and biodegradable wet wipe to navigating gender bias in entrepreneurship and advocating for women in STEM.

Episode Highlights

• Inventing the world's first truly flushable and biodegradable wet wipe • The science behind Twipes and sustainability in biotech • Overcoming gender bias and advocating for women in science • Work-life balance, motherhood, and leadership • The intersection of curiosity, resilience, and innovation • AI, ethics, and the pace of technological change • Winning the Princess Diana Award and Forbes 30 Under 30 honors • Fundraising, failure, and finding joy in the entrepreneurial grind

Guest Bio (Condensed)

Ellenor McIntosh is a British scientist and entrepreneur with a background in biochemical and materials science. She invented the biotechnology behind Twipes — the world's first truly flushable and biodegradable wet wipes — to combat the environmental damage caused by traditional wipes.

Recognized globally for her impact, Elle has received the Princess Diana Award (2019), was named to Forbes 30 Under 30 (2020), and was honored as the Mayor's Fund for London Entrepreneur of the Year (2017). Her work represents a new wave of sustainable innovation led by diverse voices in science.

Guest Links

LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellenor-mcintosh/ Twipes – https://www.twipes.co.uk/ Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/TwipesUK/

Guest Quote / Advice

"Utilize your networks, talk to people, and just have fun. The journey is hard, but don't let the grind steal the joy from what you're building."

Call to Action

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Evelyn Smith is a Marketing Ph.D. candidate at the University of Washington studying AI fairness, responsible technology, and the intersection of data, behavior, and ethics. In this episode, Jason Cavness and Evy explore how algorithms shape marketing decisions, why fairness and transparency matter in AI systems, and how game theory can explain everything from business strategy to human motivation.

This is a deep dive into the future of responsible AI — where technology, academia, and humanity meet.

Episode Highlights

• AI fairness and its implications for marketing and society • Game theory, decision-making, and behavioral insights • Data privacy, cybersecurity, and ethical technology design • The peer review process and challenges in academia • The concentration of power in tech companies • The balance between scientific integrity and funding • Coding as a "blue-collar" path to upward mobility • Global academic talent and the brain drain challenge

Guest Bio (Condensed)

Evelyn Smith is a Marketing Professor and Ph.D. candidate in Game Theory and Mathematical Modeling at the University of Washington. Her research focuses on the marketing implications of artificial intelligence, AI fairness, responsible AI, Web3/Blockchain, and pricing strategy. With a passion for ethical innovation and data-driven insight, Evy's work bridges the gap between academic rigor and real-world application in today's AI-driven economy.

Guest Links

LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/evelynosmith/

Guest Quote / Advice

"We need to design AI systems that understand context — not just data. Fairness in AI isn't about perfection; it's about accountability and human impact."

Call to Action

🎧 Full episodes: www.thejasoncavnessexperience.com 💡 Become an owner in CavnessHR: https://wefunder.com/cavnesshr 📘 Download 7 free startup ebooks: https://www.buildcavnesshr.com/ebooks

Leading Through Change Kevin Goldsmith, CTO of DistroKid, on Tech Leadership, Music Innovation, and Building Teams That Last

From building products at Adobe and Spotify to leading global engineering teams at DistroKid and Anaconda, Kevin Goldsmith has shaped the modern tech landscape. In this conversation with Jason Cavness, Kevin shares lessons from decades of leadership across music, AI, and software — including insights from his book "It Depends: Writing on Technology Leadership 2012–2022."

They explore what makes great tech leaders, how to scale teams intentionally, and why culture and creativity drive the world's most innovative companies.

Episode Highlights

• Transitioning from engineer to CTO — lessons learned at Adobe, Spotify, and DistroKid • How to balance leadership, product design, and engineering culture • Building global teams and managing across cultures • The evolution of the music industry and distribution platforms • Tech leadership principles from "It Depends" • Self-publishing and creative independence • Why "software development is the new blue-collar trade" • Work-life balance, travel, and the creative mindset

Guest Bio (Condensed)

Kevin Goldsmith is the Chief Technology Officer at DistroKid, the world's largest digital music distributor. With prior leadership roles at Anaconda, Onfido, Avvo, Spotify, Adobe, and Microsoft, Kevin brings over 25 years of experience building and scaling engineering teams at every level. He is also the author of "It Depends: Writing on Technology Leadership 2012–2022" and an international speaker on innovation, management, and company culture.

Guest Links

Book – https://itdependsbook.net/ LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/goldsmith/ Website – https://www.kevingoldsmith.com/ Mastodon – https://mastodon.social/@kmg Twitter – https://twitter.com/kevingoldsmith Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/kevingoldsmith/ YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/user/kevingoldsmith GitHub – https://github.com/kevingoldsmith

Guest Quote / Advice

"Leadership isn't about having all the answers — it's about creating an environment where your team can find them. The best leaders make space for innovation and humanity at the same time."

Call to Action

🎧 Full episodes: www.thejasoncavnessexperience.com 💡 Become an owner in CavnessHR: https://wefunder.com/cavnesshr 📘 Download 7 free startup ebooks: https://www.buildcavnesshr.com/ebooks

Leading with Service and Inclusion Cathy Bisaillon, President & CEO of Easterseals Washington

For over two decades, Cathy Bisaillon has led Easterseals Washington with compassion, vision, and a lifelong dedication to inclusion. From her start as an Employment Specialist to becoming President & CEO, Cathy has shaped programs that empower people with disabilities to live, learn, work, and play in their communities. In this episode, she and Jason Cavness discuss the power of service, leadership in the nonprofit world, and how empathy drives organizational growth.

Episode Highlights

• Building inclusive workplaces and communities • Disability employment awareness and advocacy • The leadership journey from front-line work to CEO • Managing nonprofit growth and financial sustainability • Mentorship and leading with empathy • Music, Rotary service, and personal fulfillment through giving back • How early experiences shape a lifelong mission

Guest Bio (Condensed)

Cathy Bisaillon has been the President & CEO of Easterseals Washington since 2002. Her passion for helping people with disabilities began at age nine when she met her cousin, Beth Ann, who had Down Syndrome — inspiring a career built on inclusion and empowerment. Cathy has led statewide initiatives that promote employment, accessibility, and community integration. She also serves as President of the Rotary Club of Silverdale and continues to advocate for disability awareness and leadership through service.

Guest Links

LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathybisaillon/ Easterseals Washington – https://www.easterseals.com/washington/

Guest Quote / Advice

"My life has been so enriched through service. Don't wait until you have time — serve now. You grow through the process, and so do the people you help."

Call to Action

🎧 Full episodes: www.thejasoncavnessexperience.com 💡 Become an owner in CavnessHR: https://wefunder.com/cavnesshr 📘 Download 7 free startup ebooks: https://www.buildcavnesshr.com/ebooks

From Astrophysics to AI Dr. Sean Robinson on Machine Learning, Startups, and the Future of Innovation

From studying gamma rays for NASA to leading AI startups in Seattle, Dr. Sean Robinson has spent his career decoding both the universe and the algorithms shaping our future. In this conversation, Jason Cavness and Sean dive into everything from machine learning ethics and startup funding to consciousness, simulation theory, and humanity's next technological leap.

Episode Highlights

• Lessons from computational astrophysics and NASA collaborations • Building and leading ML/AI teams in startups • Nuclear detection, anomaly modeling, and simulation physics • Consciousness, creativity, and AI decision-making • Universal basic income and AI's economic ripple effects • The ethics and limitations of artificial intelligence • How to evaluate startup ideas and investment potential

Guest Bio (Condensed)

Dr. Sean Robinson is a scientist, entrepreneur, and machine learning leader based in Seattle. With a Ph.D. in computational astrophysics from the University of Washington, he has worked on everything from NASA/DOE gamma ray telescope algorithms to AI-driven business R&D. A passionate advocate for innovation with purpose, Sean continues exploring the boundaries of AI, consciousness, and global impact while speaking at conventions and writing about science, technology, and culture.

Guest Links

LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/sean-robinson-phd/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/sean.robinson.12532

Guest Quote / Advice

"We have a real shot at building a better future. My career has always been about taking that shot. Let's make sure we get to the good side of this — where innovation benefits everyone."

Call to Action

🎧 Full episodes: www.thejasoncavnessexperience.com 💡 Become an owner in CavnessHR: https://wefunder.com/cavnesshr 📘 Download 7 free startup ebooks: https://www.buildcavnesshr.com/ebooks

Exploring Consciousness, Creativity, and VR Education — David of Blackmuse on Innovation and Transformation

From coding virtual worlds to guiding real-life transformation, David, Founder of Blackmuse, brings a rare mix of technology, creativity, and introspection. With a background spanning project management, VR curriculum design, and life coaching, David's work merges education, mental health, and digital art into something deeply human. In this episode, he and Jason Cavness dive into the future of immersive learning, spirituality, and how self-discovery drives true innovation.

Episode Highlights

• Military service, wealth disparity, and social class • Spiritual awakening and personal transformation • Gender identity, creativity, and expression • AR/VR and the Blackmuse vision • Psychedelics, Veteran mental health, and the nature of reality • Rethinking education for innovators and creatives

Call to Action

🎧 Full episodes: www.thejasoncavnessexperience.com 💡 Become an owner in CavnessHR: https://wefunder.com/cavnesshr 📘 Download 7 free startup ebooks: https://www.buildcavnesshr.com/ebooks

Guest Bio (Condensed)

David is the Founder of Blackmuse, a multidisciplinary initiative blending art, technology, and education to inspire creative growth. Formerly VP of Project Management at Sitebiz and Senior IT Specialist, David led projects across e-commerce, design, and development. His innovative work in AR/VR learning — including state-approved immersive courses — redefines how young people build self-awareness and career skills through creativity and technology.

Guest Links

LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/blackmusellc/ Website – https://www.blackmuse.net/

Guest Quote / Advice

"There's no such thing as a bad idea. The only bad question is the one left unasked. Take a chance on yourself, find your quiet space, and build from there."

From Soldier to Startup Founder Jason Cavness on the Pro Dev Hot Seat

In this crossover episode, The Jason Cavness Experience features Jason himself in the hot seat. Recorded during his guest appearance on the Pro Dev Hot Seat, Jason shares lessons from his 25-year U.S. Army career, his path into HR and entrepreneurship, and the challenges of building CavnessHR a platform delivering HR for companies with 49 or fewer people. He talks adaptability, self-awareness, and the power of staying mission-driven in business and life.

Episode Highlights

• From the Army to HR founder how discipline fuels innovation • Staying adaptable in uncertain times • Why most people misunderstand HR's real role • Advice for new graduates entering the workforce • How to build a company that actually serves small businesses

Special Offer for Seattle Small Businesses

As part of CavnessHR's product/market-fit and tech-platform validation, we're providing Employee Handbooks and HR Policies at no cost to companies with 49 or fewer employees located in Seattle. Email [email protected] to learn more.

Call to Action

🎧 Full episodes: www.thejasoncavnessexperience.com 💡 Become an owner in CavnessHR: https://wefunder.com/cavnesshr 📘 Download 7 free startup ebooks: https://www.buildcavnesshr.com/ebooks

Guest Bio (Condensed)

Jason Cavness is a tattooed INFJ, retired U.S. Army officer, and Founder/CEO of CavnessHR. His mission: deliver effective HR to small businesses through technology and access to dedicated HR Business Partners. He also hosts The Jason Cavness Experience, interviewing entrepreneurs, Veterans, and change-makers who redefine leadership and resilience.

Lighting Up Innovation George Tasick on Pyrobotics, Fireworks Engineering, and the Art of Pyrotechnics

For George Tasick, fireworks are more than spectacle — they're science, culture, and invention fused into one. As Founder of Pyrobotics and a patented inventor, George has spent over 25 years revolutionizing the global fireworks industry, integrating robotics and automation to bring precision and safety to a centuries-old craft. In this episode, Jason Cavness explores his journey from a kid mesmerized by movie magic to a global innovator shaping the future of pyrotechnics.

Episode Highlights

• Living and working across Asia and South America • How childhood curiosity became a lifelong career • Navigating global regulations and pyrotechnic safety • What it takes to secure a patent in a niche industry • The future of fireworks — automation, sustainability, and artistry • Balancing creativity, risk, and entrepreneurship

Call to Action

🎧 Full episodes: www.thejasoncavnessexperience.com 💡 Become an owner in CavnessHR: https://wefunder.com/cavnesshr 📘 Download 7 free startup ebooks: https://www.buildcavnesshr.com/ebooks

Guest Bio (Condensed)

George Tasick is the Founder of Pyrobotics and a pioneer in the intersection of robotics, chemistry, and performance art. Known as the "Willy Wonka of fireworks," he's spent over two decades designing pyrotechnic systems, consulting for international events, and modernizing Brazil's fireworks industry. His work combines deep technical mastery with creative storytelling — proving innovation can be both explosive and elegant.

Guest Links

LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-tasick/

Pouring Creativity into Entrepreneurship Natasha Petrovich on PNW Bar Events and the Art of Hospitality

From Chicago's hustle to Seattle's Pioneer Square, Natasha Petrovich turned a lifelong passion for creativity, hospitality, and connection into PNW Bar Events — a woman-owned mobile bartending company bringing craftsmanship and personality to every celebration. Jason Cavness sits down with Natasha to explore how she built a thriving business rooted in art, science, and genuine joy for serving others.

Episode Highlights

• Growing up in Chicago and learning the trade-show hustle • Turning bartending into a creative entrepreneurial career • Building PNW Bar Events from scratch in the Pacific Northwest • The evolution of hospitality and event experiences post-COVID • Pioneer Square's small-business community and local inspiration • Advice for anyone ready to "pour" their passion into a venture

Call to Action

🎧 Full episodes: www.thejasoncavnessexperience.com 💡 Become an owner in CavnessHR: https://wefunder.com/cavnesshr 📘 Download 7 free startup ebooks: https://www.buildcavnesshr.com/ebooks

Guest Bio (Condensed)

Natasha Petrovich is the Founder of PNW Bar Events, a mobile bartending and event-design company known for blending artistic flair with professional hospitality. With two decades of trade-show experience and nearly 15 years behind the bar, Natasha has redefined what it means to create memorable experiences — crafting each event with creativity, connection, and care.

Guest Links

Website – https://www.pnwbar.com/ Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/pnw.bar.events/

From Bedside to Boardroom Emily Cheng on Founding MedVenture and Empowering Traveling Healthcare Professionals

Critical-care nurse turned entrepreneur Emily Cheng is the Co-Founder and CEO of MedVenture App, a platform uniting and empowering traveling healthcare professionals across the country. In this conversation with Jason Cavness, she shares how she turned compassion and burnout into innovation—building a company centered on connection, wellness, and adventure.

Episode Highlights

• How Emily's journey as a travel nurse inspired MedVenture • The challenges of co-founding a startup in healthcare tech • Meditation, mindfulness, and psychedelics for mental wellness • Using storytelling and marketing to grow a mission-driven community • Lessons from hiking, travel, and entrepreneurship

Call to Action

🎧 Full episodes: www.thejasoncavnessexperience.com 💡 Become an owner in CavnessHR: https://wefunder.com/cavnesshr 📘 Download 7 free startup ebooks: https://www.buildcavnesshr.com/ebooks

Guest Bio (Condensed)

Emily Cheng is a multipotentialite critical-care nurse turned nurse-innovator and the CEO & Co-Founder of MedVenture App, a mobile platform built to connect traveling healthcare professionals through community, resources, and shared purpose. A lifelong learner and outdoor enthusiast, Emily combines her passions for wellness, equity, and creativity to reimagine the travel-healthcare industry from the inside out.

Guest Links

LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/emchengrn/ MedVenture Website – https://www.medventureapp.com/ MedVenture Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/medventureapp/ Emily Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/everevolvingem/