The Marketing Boost

Introduction:

In this episode of The Boost, Leon and Pablo sit down with JR, the innovative CEO and founder of Webssey. Webssey is a pioneering social finance application that allows users to invest in individuals using blockchain technology. JR shares his unique journey from a small town in South Texas to becoming a tech entrepreneur, driven by his passion for video games and coding.

Hosts:

• Pablo Calvo: Linkedin
• Leon Hitchens: Linkedin & X

Guest:

• Jesus Rafael Burgoa: LinkedIn & Linktree

Find Us:

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheBoostChannel
• Website: https://theboost.fm 

Key Topics Covered:

1. JR's Background and Journey: 
   1. Growing up in Laredo, Texas, a small town with limited tech opportunities.
   2. Transition from pre-engineering to game design and eventually to coding.
   3. The role of video games in sparking JR’s interest in technology.
2. Introduction to Webssey:
   1. What Webssey is: a social finance app where people can invest in individuals.
   2.  Comparison to Robinhood for crypto and the concept of Human IPO.
   3. The impact of the pandemic and the rise of Bitcoin on JR’s interest in crypto.
3. Crypto and Its Democratic Potential:
   1. How blockchain technology empowers global economies in a permissionless way.
   2. JR's experience with Ethereum mining and the financial benefits.
   3. The role of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies in democratizing financial opportunities.
4. Global Adoption of Crypto:
   1. The use of crypto in emerging markets and underserved communities.
   2. Examples of how technology like XRP and decentralized social protocols are being adopted.
   3. Webssey’s mission to leverage blockchain for social and financial empowerment.
5. Features and Future of Webssey:
   1. How Webssey is creating a social platform with financial features.
   2. The process of signing up, earning crypto, and engaging with the community.
   3. Upcoming features: online subscriptions, articles, blogs, live streaming, and enhanced investment tools.
6. Investing in People through Webssey:
   1. Converting other cryptocurrencies to Diesel, the native currency of Webssey.
   2. The concept of creator coins and investing in individuals’ success.
   3. Comparison to traditional investing and the potential for growth in value.

Conclusion:

JR shares his inspiring journey from a small town in South Texas to becoming the CEO of Webssey. His story highlights the potential of blockchain technology to democratize financial opportunities and empower individuals globally. Webssey's innovative approach to social finance, allowing users to invest in talented individuals, presents a unique intersection of social media and cryptocurrency. As the world continues to evolve digitally, platforms like Webssey offer exciting new ways to support and invest in the future.

Introduction:

In this episode, Pablo and Leon sit down with President of ColdCALR Ray Cantu to discuss how AI revolutionizes sales training. Ray shares insights into the rapid technological advancements at ColdCALR, the importance of sales skills in entrepreneurship, and how their AI-driven simulations are helping professionals improve their sales techniques. Ray also provides a behind-the-scenes look at the development of ColdCALR, its impact on real estate professionals, and the diverse applications of their innovative technology.

Hosts:
Pablo Calvo: Linkedin
Leon Hitchens: Linkedin & X

Guest:
Ray Cantu: LinkedIn & ColdCALR

Find Us:
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheBoostChannel

Website: https://theboost.fm 

Key Discussion Points:

• Introduction to ColdCALR:
  • Introduction of hosts and guest Ray Cantu.
  • Ray talks about the natural conversation experience with AI Alice and the rapid improvements in ColdCALR’s technology.
• Ray’s Journey and Business Development:
  • Ray discusses his journey through startup programs and winning the $20,000 pitch competition.
  • The impact of Geekdom programming on ColdCALR’s progress.
• Importance of Sales Skills:
  • Pablo emphasizes the critical role of sales in entrepreneurship.
  • Ray explains the necessity of selling ideas and oneself to VCs, and the “The Wolf” simulation for fundraising practice.
• Benefits of AI Training:
  • Leon shares his positive experience with the AI demo, highlighting the lack of personal judgment.
  • Ray describes the value of a safe learning space without judgment provided by AI.
• Real-world Applications:
  • Discussion on how repetitive practice with AI leads to confidence in sales.
  • Ray describes the tool’s ability to help improve verbal communication skills.
• Real Estate Focus:
  • Ray talks about how ColdCALR helps real estate professionals train new agents and master diverse conversations.
  • The importance of effective training in real estate and maintaining client relationships.
• Broader Business Applications:
  • Leon discusses the tool’s potential use in various industries, including customer support and de-escalation scenarios.
  • Ray highlights the financial impact of getting client conversations right and the value in retaining clients.
• Future Potential:
  • Pablo explores potential uses for training chat AIs.
  • Ray stresses ColdCALR’s specific focus on sales conversations and teases future developments.

Takeaways:

• Sales skills are crucial for entrepreneurial success, and ColdCALR’s AI-driven simulations provide an innovative way to improve these skills.
• The tool offers a safe, judgment-free environment for practicing sales conversations building confidence and proficiency.
• ColdCALR’s technology is versatile and applicable across various industries, effectively helping professionals handle diverse sales scenarios.
• Continuous improvement and adaptation are key to leveraging AI for real-world applications.

Introduction: 

In this insightful episode of "The Boost," host Pablo Calvo welcomes Franklin Morris, VP of Marketing at Alloy AI, to discuss the evolving dynamics of the tech and marketing landscapes, particularly in the context of post-pandemic adjustments and the strategic choice of San Antonio over Austin for technology professionals. Franklin shares his journey through the tech world, from startups in San Francisco to mentoring at Geekdom in San Antonio, highlighting companies' challenges and strategies in their early stages.

Hosts:

• Pablo Calvo: Linkedin
• Leon Hitchens: Linkedin & X

Guest: 

• Franklin Morris: Linkedin

Find Us: 

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheBoostChannel
• Website: https://theboost.fm

Key Points Discussed:

1. Franklin’s Background:
   • Franklin has an extensive background in creative writing and marketing, transitioning from content creation to strategic marketing roles in various tech companies.
   • His journey took him from Austin to San Francisco and eventually back to Texas, settling in San Antonio for its potential in the tech ecosystem and family-friendly environment.
2. Challenges for Startups:
   • Franklin discusses common pitfalls for startups, such as developing solutions without a clear problem and the difficulties of changing consumer behaviors.
   • Marketing often comes in too late when the product-market fit isn't adequately addressed from the start, leading to higher costs in customer acquisition.
3. The Role of Marketing:
   • The conversation shifts to how marketing should integrate deeply with product development to ensure the product addresses a genuine need.
   • Franklin stresses the importance of understanding customer usage and interaction with products, which is often overlooked but crucial for marketing strategy.
4. Data-Driven Decision Making:
   • At his current company, Alloy AI, Franklin works to provide actionable insights to consumer goods companies, streamlining the collection and analysis of retail data to improve supply chain decisions and prevent stock issues.
5. AI and Marketing:
   • The discussion covers the integration of AI in marketing, emphasizing that AI is not a panacea but a tool to enhance decision-making if used with high-quality data.
   • Franklin advocates for a balanced approach to adopting AI, focusing on real problems that AI can effectively address.

Conclusion:

Franklin Morris's journey through the tech landscape illustrates the critical role of strategic marketing and data analytics in the growth and success of tech startups. His insights provide valuable lessons on adapting to market needs, the strategic use of AI, and the importance of a solid understanding of customer interactions with products.

Host Leon welcomes Zach and Alberto from Nonprofits HQ to discuss their journey in the nonprofit sector, the challenges they faced starting up, their move to San Antonio, and their mission to improve nonprofit operations through technology.

Introductions:

• Zach and Alberto: Co-founders of Nonprofits HQ

Hosts:

• Pablo Calvo: Linkedin
• Leon Hitchens: Linkedin & X

Find Us: 

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheBoostChannel
• Website: https://theboost.fm

Nonprofits HQ Origins and Mission:

• Zach founded the Bites Foundation and faced challenges with nonprofit operations.
• Nonprofits HQ was born out of the need for a unified platform for nonprofits to manage operations efficiently.
• Mission to provide a comprehensive, easy-to-use platform for nonprofits to enhance their impact without being overwhelmed by technology or costs.

Moving to San Antonio:

• Zach and Alberto decided to move to San Antonio from Phasix due to lower costs and to extend their runway as a bootstrapped startup.
• They were attracted to San Antonio’s growing tech ecosystem, particularly Geekdom, a hub for resources and networking in the city.

Community and Resources:

• Nonprofits HQ is tapping into local resources for nonprofits, such as Bridging the Gap.
• San Antonio’s unique position as a cybersecurity hub also provides a vibrant community and support for nonprofits.

Dynamic Roles and Responsibilities:

• Both Zach and Alberto wear multiple hats in the business, handling all aspects of technology and operations due to their bootstrap nature.

Product-Driven Approach:

• Customer feedback drives the development of Nonprofits HQ’s platform.
• The goal is to create an "everything you need" platform for nonprofits, eliminating reliance on spreadsheets and disorganized data management.

Impact and Success Stories:

• Although still early stage, Nonprofits HQ is working towards making compliance and operational efficiency attainable for all nonprofits.
• They have developed tools to assist with governance, compliance, and operational efficiency to better demonstrate impact and secure funding.

Platform Features and Launch Plans:

• Nonprofits HQ’s platform is built with artificial intelligence to make setup and operations intuitive and affordable.
• The platform is designed to be interconnected, ensuring that all aspects of a nonprofit's operations are streamlined and efficient.

Vision and Goals:

• Nonprofits HQ aims to be a leading platform that meets the diverse needs of nonprofit organizations.
• The company is exploring new features, such as grant management and possibly payroll services, based on partner feedback.

Advice for Aspiring Social Entrepreneurs:

• Nonprofits HQ provides a free formation portal for those looking to start a nonprofit, guiding them through the legal and regulatory steps.
• Zach and Alberto emphasize the importance of compliance and sound operations from the outset to avoid future hurdles in growth and funding.

Closing Remarks:

• Nonprofits HQ is set to officially launch on May 1st.
• The platform aims to be a go-to resource for existing nonprofits and individuals seeking to start their own nonprofit organizations.

Join Pablo and Leon as they discuss their experiences with Geekdom, the dynamic entrepreneurial hub of San Antonio. They share a retrospective on their journey from casual visitors to engaged members with office space, the power of mentorship, and the broader impact of Geekdom in fostering a diverse and inclusive startup ecosystem. Listen in as they unpack the post-COVID business shift to a hybrid work culture and the exciting developments shaping the future of entrepreneurship in the region.

Hosts:
Pablo Calvo: Linkedin

Leon Hitchens: Linkedin & X

Find Us: 
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheBoostChannel

Website: https://theboost.fm 

Their Geekdom Story:

• Pablo and Leon's introduction to Geekdom dates back to 2018, with an official office presence since March.
• Reflections on how they've engaged with Geekdom over the years, evolving from utilizing coworking spaces to becoming active mentors within the community.

Mentorship and Community Engagement:

• Discussion on the value of mentorship and the diverse programs offered by Geekdom that cater to entrepreneurs at various stages of their journey.
• Insights into the synergy between mentors from different professional backgrounds and how they guide new startups towards sustainable growth and problem-solving.

Evolving Business Landscape:

• How Geekdom's open approach has led to a significant increase in diversity, with a substantial portion of women, minority, and veteran-owned startups.
• The pivot to hybrid work environments post-COVID-19 and how it has influenced the way businesses interact within the community.

Geekdom as a Catalyst for Growth:

• The affordability and flexibility of Geekdom's office spaces compared to traditional office rentals.
• The co-hosts commend the Geekdom staff for their role in facilitating a nurturing environment for members.

Looking to the Future:

• Exciting prospects with the introduction of the Accelerate South Texas fund and the expansion of Geekdom's influence beyond San Antonio.
• How Geekdom has bounced back post-COVID to revitalize downtown San Antonio and the broader South Texas business scene.

Connect with Geekdom:

• Discover more about Geekdom and its programs at Geekdom.com.

Connect with The Boost:

• Visit theboost.fm for more episodes and information on our podcast.

Closing Thoughts:

Pablo and Leon explore the benefit of community and the tangible benefits of face-to-face interaction that spaces like Geekdom offer. They highlight the profound impact an entrepreneurial hub can have, not just on individual businesses but on the economic fabric of a city.

In this episode of The Boost, hosts Leon Hitchens and Pablo delve into internet accessibility. They discuss the significant gap in accessible web content and the impact of this shortfall on individuals with disabilities. With a special guest, Alexandra Britez from AccessiBe, they explore solutions and the importance of making the web more inclusive.

Hosts & Guest: 

Pablo Calvo: Linkedin

Leon Hitchens: Linkedin & X

Alexandra Britez from Accessibe: Accessible Website 

Find Us:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheBoostChannel

Website: https://theboost.fm 

Key Points Discussed:

Introduction to the Issue of Accessibility:

• The internet's accessibility rate is alarmingly low, with only 2-5% of websites being accessible.
• Approximately 15% of the world's population lives with some form of disability, making web accessibility a significant concern.

Personal Impact and the Importance of Keyboard Navigation:

• Leon shares his personal experience with web navigation due to his physical disability, emphasizing the need for keyboard navigation and accessible web design.

Legal and SEO Implications:

• The podcast touches on the legal implications for businesses not adhering to accessibility standards, including potential lawsuits.
• Accessibility improvements can lead to better SEO performance, with up to a 12% impact on SEO results.

AccessiBe's Role in Enhancing Web Accessibility:

• Alexandra Britez discusses AccessiBe's mission to make the internet more accessible through AI and machine learning technologies.
• AccessiBe provides tools and solutions to address a wide range of disabilities, including vision impairments, cognitive disabilities, and motor impairments.

The Business Case for Accessibility:

• Making websites accessible can increase market reach and ensure compliance with legal standards.
• Accessibility is not only a social responsibility but also a smart business decision, with potential financial incentives for small businesses.

Success Stories and the Future of Accessibility:

• The conversation highlights success stories of businesses that have improved their web accessibility, benefiting from increased customer engagement and legal protection.

Final Thoughts and Resources:

• The hosts conclude by encouraging listeners to consider the broader impact of web accessibility and to explore tools like AccessiBe to make their websites more inclusive.

Resources Mentioned:

• AccessiBe Website: accessibe.com
• Free website audit for accessibility compliance available at AccessiBe's website.

Closing Remarks: 

This episode underscores the critical need for web accessibility and the role businesses, and developers can play in creating a more inclusive digital world. With insights from Alexandra Britez and the discussion on the importance of accessibility for all users, we encouraged all website owners to take actionable steps toward making their online content accessible to everyone.

In this episode of The Boost, hosts Pablo and Leon sit down with Jay Rebaldo from Rebaldo Realty Group to talk about the world of real estate. Jay shares his journey from building and developing teams in the corporate world to his passion for real estate, which led him to establish his real estate team. Operating within a small team alongside another licensed agent, Jay discusses the unique operations of Rebaldo Realty Group, affiliated with Keller Williams City View. We discuss the state of the San Antonio real estate market. Jay addresses the impact of higher interest rates and observes the market's shift towards a buyer's market, offering valuable insights for both buyers and sellers. 

Hosts:
Pablo Calvo: Linkedin

Leon Hitchens: Linkedin & X

Jay Rebaldo: Facebook

Find Us: 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheBoostChannel
Website: https://theboost.fm 

Getting Into Real Estate:

• Jay's Background: Jay discusses his transition from building and developing teams in the professional world to venturing into real estate.
• Transition to Real Estate: Eight years ago, Jay became more passionate about real estate and decided to build a business in the field due to his experience in sales and investing.

State of the San Antonio Real Estate Market:

• Impact of Higher Interest Rates: Jay discusses the challenges posed by higher interest rates, leading to consumer hesitation, but emphasizes the potential benefits for informed buyers.
• Market Shift: Observations on the market shift towards a buyer's market, evidenced by factors like days on the market and inventory levels.
• Trends: Decline in home sales contrasted with rising home prices; discussion on factors like interest rates and pandemic effects.

Advice for Buyers:

• Importance of Pre-Approval: Jay emphasizes the importance of getting pre-approved for a mortgage before starting the home-buying process.
• Steps in Home Buying: From consultation with a real estate agent to securing financing and navigating the negotiation process, Jay outlines the steps for buyers.

Advice for Sellers:

• Preparation for Listing: Sellers are advised to prepare their homes for listing, including home assessments, repairs, and setting a competitive price.
• Negotiation Process: Jay explains the negotiation process for sellers, including reviewing offers and managing contingencies.

Investment Property Strategies:

• Types of Investments: Discussion on various investment strategies, including buying second homes for rental, flipping properties, and investing in multi-family properties.
• Financial Considerations: Jay emphasizes the importance of assessing cash flow and financial viability when considering investment properties.

Upcoming Event:

• Lunch and Learn Event: Jay invites listeners to a Lunch and Learn event on March 1st at Bell Oaks Community Center, covering topics like buying, selling, and mortgage updates.
• Flyer on the Lunch and Learn Event on March 1st 

Hosts:
Pablo Calvo: Linkedin
Leon Hitchens: Linkedin & X

Find Us:
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheBoostChannel
Website: https://theboost.fm 

Introduction:

Welcome to the new episode of The Boost, where we're diving into the incredible world of Venture Lab, an organization reshaping the future of education and entrepreneurship. Join us for an amazing conversation with Venture Lab founder, Dr. Cristal Glangchai, and Executive Director, Desma Dietz. We explore how Venture Lab empowers the next generation with the skills, confidence, and entrepreneurial mindset needed to thrive in an ever-changing global landscape. From its roots in addressing the underrepresentation in tech to its expansive global movement, Venture Lab is not just preparing kids for the jobs of tomorrow—it's revolutionizing the way we think about education and innovation. Join us as we uncover the inspiring journey of Venture Lab, the impact of its programs, and how it's paving the way for a more diverse, creative, and entrepreneurial future. 

Meet the Guests:

• Dr. Cristal Glangchai, Founder of Venture Lab, shares the inception story of Venture Lab, fueled by her desire to address the underrepresentation of women and minorities in technology and entrepreneurship. Starting with teaching her young children entrepreneurial concepts, Cristal's vision expanded into schools, evolving into a global initiative.
• Desmond Dietz, Executive Director of Venture Lab, discusses the organization's mission to prepare youth for a rapidly changing world by fostering entrepreneurial skills and mindsets, thereby bridging the gap in education and addressing inequality in innovation and leadership.

Key Highlights:

• Venture Lab's Origin: A deep dive into how Venture Lab was born out of a need to encourage more girls and students of color to explore technology and entrepreneurship, beginning with innovative summer camps in San Antonio.
• Impactful Programs: Exploration of Venture Lab's unique programs that go beyond teaching kids to start companies, focusing instead on cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset that empowers them to navigate and shape their future.
• The Role of Educators: Insights into how Venture Lab trains educators to adopt and spread entrepreneurial education, ensuring the movement reaches a wide and diverse audience.
• Mentorship and Community Support: The importance of mentorship, partnerships, and community involvement in amplifying Venture Lab's reach and effectiveness, including how mentors and subject matter experts play a crucial role in inspiring and guiding the next generation.
• Looking Ahead: Reflections on Venture Lab's growth over the past decade, its aspirations for the future, and how it plans to continue impacting the lives of young entrepreneurs globally.

Conclusion:

Venture Lab stands at the forefront of redefining education for the modern era, making entrepreneurship an integral part of learning for children worldwide. By instilling confidence, creativity, and resilience in youth, Venture Lab is not just preparing them for the jobs of tomorrow but is actively contributing to a more diverse, innovative, and entrepreneurial future.

Stay tuned for more episodes of The Boost, and don't forget to visit venturelab.org to learn more about their incredible work and how you can get involved.

Visit Venture Lab:

• Venturelab.org

Get ready for “The Boost”! We cover the newest happenings in news, business, and technology around South Texas. Our show features important industry leaders who share their views on what’s coming up in the future. The discussions are led by experienced professionals who have spent many years working with some of the most interesting figures and businesses in South Texas. Tune in to hear from these experts and stay updated on the exciting developments in our region!

Hosts: 

Pablo Calvo: Linkedin

Leon Hitchens: Linkedin & X

Find Us: 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheBoostChannel

Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/2AHGT1Aoq9oAHZEHeORBpa?si=1cea25e611bb4ec6

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-boost/id1720047128

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheBoostChannel

Notes:  

• ChatGPT and AI in Business: Discussion on how businesses are integrating AI, specifically ChatGPT, into their operations for content creation and other functions.
• Legal Challenges with AI: Overview of recent court cases, highlighting the lawsuit by The New York Times against OpenAI and Microsoft over copyright issues and the impact on SEO.
• The Ethical Dilemma of AI Content Creation: Debate on the ethical considerations of using AI for generating content, including the potential for AI to "steal" SEO rankings from original content creators.
• Future of Journalism and Content Creation: Exploration of the changing landscape of journalism and content creation in the age of AI, including the role of AI in supporting or replacing human writers.
• Copyright and AI: Examination of copyright laws as they pertain to AI-generated content, discussing cases like Excel Jet's claim of content theft through AI.
• AI's Impact on Small Creators and Publishers: Concerns about how AI might disadvantage small publishers and content creators in the digital space.
• The Role of AI as a Tool versus a Replacement: Discussion on the appropriate use of AI as an assistive tool rather than a replacement for human creativity and effort.
• Ethical and Legal Guardrails for AI: Consideration of the need for ethical guidelines and legal frameworks to govern the use of AI in content creation.
• Predictions for AI in 2024: Speculation on the future trends in AI, including its integration into various industries and the potential challenges and opportunities it presents.

The episode delves into the complex interplay between AI, copyright law, and the future of content creation, highlighting the potential of AI as both a tool and a challenge for creators and businesses alike. We discuss the need for ethical use of AI, the importance of copyright protection, and the evolving landscape of digital content creation, inviting listeners to contribute to the ongoing conversation on these critical issues.

Watch the Video Version!

YouTube

Hosts: 

Pablo Calvo: Linkedin

Leon Hitchens: Linkedin & X

Notes:  

1. AI and Ethical Use in Marketing:

• The hosts emphasise the importance of responsible and ethical use of AI in marketing. They discuss the challenges of using AI, setting KPIs, and safeguarding sensitive data.

2. Voice Search and Voice Interaction:

• The increasing use of voice search is highlighted as a significant trend. They share their personal experiences with voice commands and how this technology is changing the way they interact with devices.

3. Short-Form Content and Optimization:

• The hosts stress the importance of concise and to-the-point content. They discuss the need to answer user's questions directly in the content, especially for voice search optimization.

4. Influencers and Authenticity:

• The role of influencers on social media is discussed, with an emphasis on authenticity. They point out that individuals can often be more influential than brand accounts and discuss the shift towards influencer marketing.

5. Subscription Models and Owned Entities:

• The hosts mention the rise of subscription models and owned entities like newsletters and Patreon groups. They note that people are willing to pay for valuable content and connections.

6. Parasocial Relationships: 

• The concept of parasocial relationships, where individuals feel connected to content creators, is brought up. They talk about how people can connect with creators on a personal level even if it's a one-sided relationship.

7. Human-Centric Branding: 

• Consumers seek relationships with brands, leading to individuals becoming the face of companies.

8. The Power of Video: 

• Short-form video content is vital for engagement, but businesses often face barriers in its production.

9. Authenticity and Value: 

• Being authentic and providing value beyond products is crucial for building trust.

10. The Changing Face of Brand Loyalty: 

• Brand loyalty now revolves around connections and added value, shifting from price and quality.

 11. Embracing Education: 

• Business owners must understand digital marketing basics to collaborate effectively with professionals.

The conversation provides insights into these trends, with a focus on the evolving landscape of marketing, technology, and content consumption in 2024.

Visit us at Digiboost.com or email us at [email protected].