Guest Speakers:

• Dario Fusato: CEO of Savvly

About the Guests:

Dario Fusato is the CEO of Savvly, a platform revolutionizing personal pensions and long-term financial security with market-driven solutions. He has extensive experience in building fintech solutions aimed at removing financial uncertainty.

Tony Derossi is the co-founder of Savvly, an online platform designed to optimize retirement savings through innovative risk-sharing algorithms. With a background in insurance, technology, and strategic consulting, Tony brings a wealth of knowledge to the fintech and retirement planning industries.

Episode Overview:

Key Questions Discussed:

1. What inspired Dario and Tony to transition from corporate careers to founding Savvly?

Connect with the Guests:

• Dario Fusato: LinkedIn

Closing Notes:

Guests:

• John Lenker, Marketing Strategist & Communications Artist at LENKER

Episode Summary:

Join us for a fascinating conversation with John Lenker and Kevin deLaplante, two experts from LENKER, as they delve into the world of marketing, critical thinking, and entrepreneurship.

John, a seasoned marketing strategist with a passion for ethical marketing, shares his insights on developing and promoting products and services that resonate with audiences. Kevin, a former philosopher turned marketing specialist, brings a unique perspective on critical thinking and decision-making in the business world.

Together, they discuss:

• Their career journeys and how they arrived at their current roles at LENKER

Resources:

• LENKER website: https://lenker.com

Call to Action:

If you're looking to enhance your marketing strategies, refine your critical thinking skills, or navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship, this episode is a must-listen!

Connect with John & Kevin:

• John Lenker on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnlenker/

Show notes Mark Kleyner

Mark is the co-founder of Dream VC, an entrepreneur, ecosystem builder and early-stage investor in Emerging Markets. Mark has worked within VCs in the UK, US, Europe and Africa and actively advises, coaches and mentors several very early stage West & East African startups - who have gone on to raise upwards of $10m in Venture Financing, and joined programs like Google's Black Founders Fund Africa, PioneerApp, TechStars and Y Combinator. Mark is passionate about empowering the private sector to take responsibility for making people's lives better and is a big advocate for Consumer and Enterprise Software Startups as mediums to improve lives around the world. Mark is also a co-founder of Dream VC, a leading remote program, helping founders, entrepreneurs and working professionals across the African continent and among the diaspora to break into the Venture Capital industry as emerging investors.

Beyond these activities, Mark is an active startup mentor in 9+ Accelerators and Incubators at Startupbootcamp, Impact Hub Lagos, Seedstars, Founder Institute and Village Capital. Mark is also a startup mentor with FasterCapital and StartupLoungeAfrica.

Dream VC and the mission you are on.

The current investment landscape in Africa and some key trends shaping it?

The role of diaspora investment in driving economic development and entrepreneurship in Africa?

The unique opportunities that investors can find in African markets compared to other regions?

How do political stability and regulatory environments impact investment decisions in Africa?

How necessary is local knowledge and partnerships when investing in African markets?

What are some key resources or sources of information that investors can leverage to stay informed about investment opportunities and developments in Africa?

Connect with Mark 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/markkleyner/

https://www.dream-vc.com/

Introduction:

• Welcome Note: The host introduces Sidharth Saxena, highlighting his role as the CEO and founder of Docyt, an innovative all-in-one financial management solution for small businesses.

Main Discussion:

1. Background and Journey:

• Sid’s Story: Sid shares his background and the journey leading up to the founding of Docyt, detailing his career path and experiences.

• Navigating Challenges: Sid discusses how he navigated building a business in a field where he wasn't initially considered an expert and the strategies he employed to gain credibility and expertise.

• Benefits for Small Businesses: Exploration of the advantages of real-time bookkeeping for small businesses, emphasizing why it’s crucial for efficiency and financial accuracy.

• Transformative Impact: Sid shares his insights on how AI will continue to transform the operational aspects of small businesses, making them more efficient and competitive.

• Driving Innovation: A look at the Docyt team and their roles in fostering AI innovation in small business operations, highlighting key contributors and their expertise.

• Further Engagement: Information on how listeners can connect with Sid and learn more about his work and Docyt’s offerings.

Website  Best AI-Bookkeeping Software for Multiple Businesses | Docyt

Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/sidharthsaxena/

In the fast-paced world of tech entrepreneurship, experience is invaluable. Oleg Golynker, a seasoned tech entrepreneur, manager, and investor since the mid-90s, shares his insights garnered from a journey marked by both epic failures and mind-blowing successes.

With a track record spanning decades, Oleg's journey in the tech industry has been nothing short of remarkable. From founding CTO of Global-e (Nasdaq: GLBE) to his current venture, Trueli, Oleg's career is a testament to the ever-evolving landscape of tech entrepreneurship.

At Global-e, Oleg played a pivotal role in solving significant challenges for millions worldwide, culminating in one of the most celebrated IPOs of 2021. Now, with Trueli, Oleg aims to tackle another pressing issue – rescuing memories from the digital clutter that plagues our smartphones.

1. Approaching New Ventures: Oleg sheds light on how the anticipation of an exit from a previous venture impacts the approach to starting a new company. Drawing from his wealth of experience, he discusses the importance of strategic planning and foresight in navigating the entrepreneurial landscape.

To learn more about Oleg Golynker and his ventures, connect with him on LinkedIn or visit Trueli's website, 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/oleggolynker/

https://www.trueli.me/

Episode Title: How AI is Disrupting Sales and Marketing with Raj Prasad

Episode Description: In this episode of The Silicon Valley Podcast, our host dives deep into the world of AI in marketing with expert Raj Prasad. With over 25 years of marketing experience, including roles as a CEO and Fractional CMO, Raj has developed a deep understanding of brand development and revenue growth. Join us as Raj shares insights from his impressive career and explores the transformative impact of AI on marketing strategies. From search engine optimization to targeted advertising, learn how AI is revolutionizing the way marketers understand consumer behavior and optimize their campaigns. Whether you’re a small business owner or a seasoned marketer, this episode is packed with valuable advice on integrating AI into your marketing efforts.

Key Questions and Topics:

1. Career Journey: Raj, can you tell our audience a little bit about your career up to this point?

About Raj Prasad: Raj Prasad has over 25 years of marketing experience, including roles as a CEO and Fractional CMO. He has developed a deep understanding of brand development and revenue growth, focusing on using a range of marketing tools, such as PPC, SEO, Influencer Marketing, and Event Marketing, to build and strengthen brands. A key achievement was leading the product management for an Online Franchise Dealer Portal, an innovative B2B subscription model, which generated $24 million in revenue over four years. His approach centers around implementing effective digital marketing strategies, contributing to enhanced brand recognition and business performance. This experience is well-suited for roles requiring a strategic yet hands-on approach to digital marketing, where data-driven decisions and a clear vision are essential for driving growth.

Connect with Raj Prasad:https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajpras/ Raj Prasad | LinkedIn  

Listen Now: Tune in to this insightful conversation with Raj Prasad and discover how AI can transform your marketing strategies for better performance and results.

Make sure to subscribe to The Silicon Valley Podcast for more expert insights and discussions on the latest trends in technology and business. Don’t forget to leave us a review and share this episode with your network!

Episode Summary:

In this episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with J.P. Keating, a prominent figure in the supply chain and mobility sectors. J.P. shares his extensive career history and provides deep insights into the rapidly evolving world of supply chain technology, mobility startups, and the complexities of navigating these industries. From discussing the sexiness of supply chain tech to addressing the critical challenges and sustainability considerations, J.P. offers a comprehensive look at the present and future of these dynamic fields.

Key Topics Covered:

1. Career Background:

• P. Keating gives an overview of his career journey and experiences that have shaped his expertise in supply chain and mobility sectors.

• Why supply chain tech is one of the most exciting fields in technology today.

• Navigating the complexity of mobility startups amidst advancements in autonomous vehicles, electric vehicles, and other technologies.

• The importance of understanding regulations and policies when building or investing in companies within the supply chain and mobility spaces.

• Unique challenges faced by startups and investors in supply chain and mobility compared to other sectors.

• How technologies like human-less electric cargo planes evolve compared to software MVPs and iterative testing.

• Assessing the resilience of supply chain startups to disruptions caused by global events like the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Evaluating the sustainability practices of companies in the supply chain and mobility industries.

• The importance of supply chain and mobility to the overall economics of cities and countries.

• Identifying the regions and stakeholders most interested in supply chain and mobility technologies.

• P. shares his philosophy on "stacking bills without anyone knowing who you are" and its implications for business success.

• Discussing the preferred exit strategies for companies in the supply chain and mobility sectors.

• Why founders should be excited to have J.P. and his team on their cap table.

• P. shares a compelling story of a company he worked with or one in the supply chain and mobility space.

• How listeners can learn more about J.P. Keating and his current projects.

Listener Takeaways:

• Gain insights into the cutting-edge developments in supply chain and mobility technologies.

Resources:

• P. Keating's LinkedIn

LinkedIn Profile: Ms. Thelma Ekiyor-Solanke

In this episode, we dive into the Nigeria Office for Philanthropy & Impact Investing (NPO) with distinguished panel members Ms. Thelma Ekiyor-Solanke, Ms. Ayodele Olojede, Ms. Elizabeth Oguegbu, and Mr. Tola Adekunle-Johnson. They share insights into the NPO's objectives, strategies, and initiatives aimed at fostering job creation and economic growth in Nigeria.

• Ms. Thelma Ekiyor-Solanke: Chairperson of the NPO, providing a brief overview of her role and background.

• The origin and evolution of the Nigeria Office for Philanthropy & Impact Investing.

• How the NPO collaborates with the Vice President's office to streamline efforts.

• Primary objectives of the NPO and the strategies in place to achieve them.

• Developing a robust pipeline of companies.

• Definition and criteria for women recipients (founders, co-founders, advisors).

• Conditions and potential matching investment requirements tied to grants.

• Specific sectors targeted for capital deployment.

• Possibilities of other African countries adopting a similar model.

• Opportunities for Silicon Valley investors to partner with and invest in the NPO initiative.

• Plans for companies to expand into new markets.

• Assurance mechanisms for proper utilization of grant money.

• Information companies need to provide to secure funding.

• Additional support provided to companies beyond funding.

• Importance of technology and innovation in the NPO's investment strategy.

Guest: John Hittler | LinkedIn

Overview: In this episode, we dive deep into the extraordinary journey of John Hittler, a CEO Trusted Advisor, 9-time Founder and CEO, funding source, author, TEDx speaker, and father of seven. John shares his wealth of experience, insights into leadership, and strategies for balancing a demanding career with personal life.

Discussion Points:

1. Career History

• John provides an overview of his career path, highlighting key milestones and achievements.

• As a busy professional with multiple roles, John discusses how he efficiently manages his time and responsibilities.

• John shares notable challenges and setbacks he has faced in his career and the strategies he used to overcome them.

• Reflecting on the companies he has started, John recounts some memorable experiences and lessons learned.

• John explains his motivation for founding Evoking Genius after successfully starting nine other companies.

• Insight into the specific methodologies or frameworks John utilizes with his clients to drive success.

• Discussing the key characteristics that differentiate elite leaders from the average person and what makes them successful.

• What a first session with John looks like and how he sets the stage for productive coaching relationships.

• John's approach to identifying and leveraging unique strengths and talents within an organization.

• Strategies for supporting leaders in maintaining balance and preventing burnout in high-pressure environments.

• Anonymous success stories showcasing how John has helped clients achieve their goals.

• How John stays informed and ensures his insights and strategies remain relevant in the ever-evolving business landscape.

• Advice for aspiring leaders or entrepreneurs on fostering innovation and creativity within their teams.

• Addressing common challenges and misconceptions encountered when working with organizations and how John handles them.

• Exploring common misconceptions people have about CEOs and the realities of their roles.

• Information on how to learn more about John and his current projects, along with contact details for further engagement.

Ep 228 Unlocking Venture Capital Insights with Brian Bell: Strategies, SPVs, and Future Trends

Brian Bell Bio

Managing Partner at Team Ignite Ventures | ex AI at AWS, Microsoft, and several startups.

Main Discussion

1. Background and Experience

• Brian’s Journey: Brian shares a brief introduction to his background, career path, and how he became a venture capitalist.

• Evolution of Venture Capital: Brian discusses the evolving landscape of venture capital, including current trends and future outlooks.

• Starting in VC: Practical advice from Brian for those aspiring to enter the venture capital industry.

• Investing and Managing SPVs: Insights into Brian’s experience with SPVs, including the benefits and challenges.

• Future Value-Add: Brian’s perspective on where the most significant value-add for venture capitalists will lie in the future from both the investor and company perspectives.

• Importance of VC Brand: Discussion on the future significance of having a venture capital brand on a company's cap table.

• Tracking Investments: How angel investors typically keep track of their portfolio companies.

• Timing and Strategy: Brian’s thoughts on why some founders wait until the last minute to seek capital or consider selling their companies.

• Implications of Write-Offs: The impact of writing off an investment in terms of taxes, returns, and LP reports.

• Types of Reports: Insights into the types of reports venture capitalists typically provide to their limited partners.

• Advantages of Newsletters: The benefits for both venture capitalists and founders in maintaining a newsletter.

• Marketing Efforts: Brian’s approach to managing his marketing efforts and building his personal brand.

• Pros and Cons of Moving: Brian shares his experiences and thoughts on relocating from Silicon Valley, including the pros and cons of his new living situation.

• Staying Connected: Information on how to learn more about Brian and his current ventures, including the best ways to connect with him.

Connect with Brian 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/bblinkedin/

Subscribe to Brian’s substack  https://brianrbell.substack.com/