TOOLS TALENTS AND TECHNIQUES with Dustin Sutton

From Viral Demo to VR Hardware: Jan Goetgeluk on Building the Virtuix Omni

VR, Virtuix Omni, omnidirectional treadmill, Kickstarter success, hardware startup lessons. Founder & CEO Jan Goetgeluk shares how a viral demo and a $1.1M Kickstarter lit the fuse for Virtuix—and what it really takes to design, fund, and scale a hardware company in a fast-moving market.

🚀 What You’ll Learn

• How the Omni lets users walk/run 360° in VR (and why that matters)
• The real design timeline (6–7 months) and early engineering tradeoffs
• Kickstarter → equity crowdfunding: capital + community (and hidden challenges)
• Pivoting from consumer to commercial to survive and grow
• Why focus, problem-solving, and taking action beat perfect plans
• Work–life balance, gratitude, and staying mentally steady in tough stretches

⏱️ Chapters

⏰ 02:08 – The Birth of the Omni Treadmill ⏰ 05:48 – Designing the Omni: The Discovery Phase ⏰ 06:25 – Jan’s Background & Early Career ⏰ 09:10 – Lessons from Investment Banking ⏰ 12:30 – Finding Opportunities & Solving Problems ⏰ 16:40 – Going Viral: The Power of a Demo Video ⏰ 21:36 – Kickstarter Success & Community Building ⏰ 29:04 – Product Development: Hard Lessons ⏰ 32:01 – Transitioning to Commercial Markets ⏰ 34:10 – Equity Crowdfunding: Community & Capital ⏰ 39:45 – Focus & the Entrepreneurial Journey ⏰ 43:06 – Finding Gratitude Amidst Challenges ⏰ 44:57 – Taking Action: The First Step to Success

🌐 Links

Virtuix: https://virtuix.com/ Show site: https://toolstalentstechniques.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the3tpod/ Music by C€$: https://open.spotify.com/artist/21zXwxV9nWaiE6iAleU6ww?si=yNBmIPqIT7-56hAmfvqShA

💬 Question for You

What’s the first tiny step you could take today to move your hardware idea forward?

#VR #HardwareStartup #The3TPod

In this conversation, Liz Powers, co-founder and CEO of ArtLifting, shares her journey of creating a platform that champions artists with disabilities. She discusses the genesis of ArtLifting, the importance of art therapy, and the impact of their business model on artists' lives. Liz emphasizes the significance of community support, the lessons learned throughout her entrepreneurial journey, and the broader societal impact of their work.

Takeaways

• Liz Powers is the co-founder and CEO of ArtLifting.
• ArtLifting champions artists with disabilities by selling their work.
• The idea for ArtLifting emerged from Liz's social work experiences.
• Art therapy helps individuals process emotions and overcome trauma.
• ArtLifting started with an annual art show to showcase artists' work.
• The business model allows artists to earn 55% of profits from sales.
• ArtLifting has sold tens of thousands of artworks to corporations.
• The company aims to change stereotypes about the disability community.
• Key lessons include staying disciplined and focused as an entrepreneur.
• ArtLifting has a significant impact on artists' lives, providing hope and jobs.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Liz Powers and ArtLifting

01:05 The Genesis of ArtLifting

07:48 Building the ArtLifting Community

11:25 Understanding Art Therapy

16:29 Navigating Business Models

19:58 Key Lessons from the Journey

22:32 Impact on Artists and Society

ArtLifting champions artists impacted by disabilities and housing insecurity

https://www.toolstalentstechniques.com

https://www.artlifting.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-powers-8a575432/

@the3Tpod #the3tpod

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Music provided by: C€$ ⁠https://open.spotify.com/artist/21zXwxV9nWaiE6iAleU6ww?si=yNBmIPqIT7-56hAmfvqShA⁠

In this episode, Dustin Sutton interviews Matthew E. Drane, a successful commercial real estate advisor and founder of Revolt CRE. Matthew shares his journey from a traditional upbringing in Cincinnati, Ohio, to becoming a prominent figure in the real estate industry. He discusses the influence of his family, early career experiences, and the importance of mentorship and networking. Matthew emphasizes the significance of defining success in various aspects of life and the lessons learned through his career transitions. He also highlights the value of collaboration and leadership in both professional and personal contexts. In this conversation,

Matthew E. Drane discusses his intentional approach to parenting, emphasizing the importance of imparting life lessons to his children. He shares the inspiration behind Revolt CRE, a platform aimed at democratizing access to commercial real estate education. Matthew identifies the challenges faced by newcomers in the industry and outlines how his community-based approach provides support and training. He reflects on the journey of building a startup, the significance of mentorship, and the wisdom gained from his experiences. The conversation highlights the importance of controlling what one can and empowering future leaders in the commercial real estate space.

Takeaways

• Matthew's upbringing in a real estate family shaped his career.
• He learned valuable sales skills from his early jobs.
• Transitioning to commercial real estate was a strategic pivot.
• Success is defined differently across various life categories.
• Building relationships is key to success in real estate.
• Mentorship plays a crucial role in professional growth.
• Health and wellness are foundational to achieving goals.
• Networking with interesting people enriches personal and professional life.
• Leadership involves setting an example and empowering others.
• Impact through others is more fulfilling than personal accolades. Intentional parenting can shape future leaders.
• Revolt CRE aims to democratize commercial real estate education.
• Identifying challenges is key to creating effective solutions.
• Community support is essential for professional growth.
• Mentorship plays a crucial role in success.
• Control the controllables to manage stress and expectations.
• Building a startup requires patience and resilience.
• Success is fueled by helping others achieve their goals.
• Words of wisdom from mentors can guide through tough times.
• Empowering others creates a lasting impact in the industry.

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

https://www.revoltcre.com/

@the3Tpod #the3tpod

https://www.toolstalentstechniques.com

Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/the3tpod/⁠

Music provided by: C€$ ⁠https://open.spotify.com/artist/21zXwxV9nWaiE6iAleU6ww?si=yNBmIPqIT7-56hAmfvqShA⁠

In this episode, Dustin Sutton interviews Jamar Williams, founder and CEO of Promo Drone. Jamar shares his journey from Baltimore to San Diego, detailing his experiences in banking and music, and how they shaped his entrepreneurial spirit. He discusses the inception of Promo Drone, the lessons learned throughout his entrepreneurial journey, the importance of mentorship, and the challenges of navigating a new business landscape. Jamar emphasizes the significance of community and exposure in achieving success, and he reflects on the evolving perception of drones in society. In this conversation, Jamar Williams discusses the evolution of his drone business, highlighting significant pivots due to COVID-19 and the shift from a service-oriented model to manufacturing and data analytics. He emphasizes the importance of adaptability in business, the potential of drones in public safety, and the need for more data to understand the UFO phenomenon. Jamar also shares insights on taking risks and making impactful changes in life and business.

Takeaways

• Be authentic to yourself and your purpose.
• Surround yourself with supportive people.
• Success is not linear; expect ups and downs.
• Find mentors who can guide you through challenges.
• Be open to pivoting your business model.
• Exposure to new ideas is crucial for growth.
• Building relationships is key in banking and business.
• The drone industry has evolved significantly over the years.
• Creativity can stem from unexpected places.
• Tenacity is essential for entrepreneurs. COVID-19 forced a significant pivot in business strategy.
• The initial vision of a service company evolved into manufacturing.
• Drones can play a crucial role in public safety and emergency response.
• Adapting to market demands can lead to unexpected opportunities.
• Data analytics will shape the future of drone technology.
• Understanding the UFO phenomenon requires more data and scrutiny.
• Taking risks is essential for personal and professional growth.
• Success often comes from stepping out of your comfort zone.
• The journey of entrepreneurship is non-linear and filled with challenges.
• Believing in oneself is key to overcoming obstacles.

https://promo-drone.co/

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

@the3Tpod

#the3tpod

Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/the3tpod/⁠

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https://www.toolstalentstechniques.com

FREEWYLD Founder and Entrepreneur Eric Moeller

In this episode, Dustin Sutton interviews Eric Moeller, the founder of FreeWyld, a cabin experiential company located in Idyllwild, California. Eric shares his journey from a blue-collar upbringing in New Jersey to becoming a successful entrepreneur in the real estate and hospitality industry.

He discusses the unique charm of Idyllwild, the importance of disconnecting from technology, and the experiences that shaped his entrepreneurial mindset. Eric emphasizes the significance of surrounding oneself with positive influences and the belief in one's potential to succeed. In this conversation, Eric Moeller shares his journey of personal growth and entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of surrounding oneself with positive influences. He discusses his experience living in the Entrepreneur House, the challenges and realities of entrepreneurship, and the founding of his hospitality brand, FREEWYLD. Eric highlights the significance of building a talented team and the commitment to preserving the essence of the communities they operate in.

Takeaways

• Freewyld focuses on creating unique cabin experiences in Idyllwild.
• Idyllwild is a hidden gem known for its natural beauty and local charm.
• Surrounding oneself with positive influences is crucial for success.
• Belief in oneself is essential for taking risks and achieving goals.
• Eric's early struggles in school shaped his entrepreneurial spirit.
• The importance of being present and disconnecting from technology is a core value of Freewyld.
• Eric's journey is a testament to the power of curiosity and mentorship. You have the power to choose your relationships.
• Surrounding yourself with growth-oriented individuals is crucial.
• Entrepreneurship involves continuous problem-solving.
• There is no ultimate finish line in business.
• Building a strong team starts with a clear vision.
• It's important to maintain community values in business.
• Personal growth should be a lifelong pursuit.
• The journey of entrepreneurship is as important as the destination.
• Creating a brand that resonates with the community is essential.

https://freewyld.com/

[email protected]

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https://www.toolstalentstechniques.com

In this episode, Tyrome ('Ty') Smith shares his journey from a small-town upbringing in Pennsylvania to a successful career supporting the intelligence community and working with startups. He discusses the importance of asking the right questions, the role of mentorship in his life, and the power of letting go of unhelpful ideas and habits. Ty emphasizes the significance of reading and continuous learning as a means to contribute to collective expertise. In this conversation, Dustin Sutton and Ty Smith explore the transformative power of reading, the importance of integrity in professional relationships, and the innovative strategies used in government consulting. They discuss how historical lessons can inform modern community building and the significance of leveraging existing technologies for innovation. The dialogue emphasizes the need for critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration in solving complex problems.

Takeaways

• Ty emphasizes the importance of understanding the 'why' behind actions.
• His upbringing in a small town shaped his curiosity and drive.
• Failure in school led to a deeper understanding of personal choices.
• Mentorship has played a crucial role in his development.
• Letting go can be more powerful than quitting.
• Organizations often behave like disturbed children, needing guidance.
• Imagination is key to innovation and personal growth.
• Reading is a way to synthesize knowledge and contribute to discussions.
• Expertise is about collaboration, not just individual knowledge.
• The journey of self-discovery is ongoing and requires honest reflection. Reading prompts critical thinking and creativity.
• Career paths are often non-linear and require exploration.
• Integrity in communication fosters trust and respect.
• Community challenges can be addressed with design principles.
• Historical lessons from communities like Tulsa inform modern practices.
• Leveraging existing technologies can accelerate innovation.
• Understanding the problem being solved is crucial for success.
• Building beneficial capitalism requires community-focused approaches.
• Effective teams require the right people and processes.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyromesmith/

Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@whatpays

@the3Tpod

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Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/the3tpod/⁠

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https://www.toolstalentstechniques.com

In this episode, Dustin Sutton interviews Marty Gorsich, CEO of the Century Club of San Diego, discussing his journey from sports management to leading the Farmers Insurance Open. Marty shares insights on mentorship, the importance of attitude, and finding fulfillment in one's career.

He emphasizes the value of community impact through sports events and the lessons learned from early career frustrations. The conversation highlights the significance of understanding what truly matters in work and life, encouraging listeners to seek mentorship and embrace their unique paths. In this conversation, Marty Gorsich discusses the evolution of personal fulfillment, the importance of effective data collection in leadership, and the dynamics of trust within teams.

He shares insights on transforming the golf tournament experience to engage a broader audience, emphasizes the significance of community involvement, and highlights the value of mentorship and consulting. Gorsich concludes with words of wisdom on self-awareness, networking, and continuous growth.

Takeaways

• Marty Gorsich is the CEO of the Century Club of San Diego.
• The Farmers Insurance Open is a premier PGA Tour event.
• Mentorship can come from unexpected places and experiences.
• Frustration in early career stages is common but manageable.
• Attitude and proactivity are key to career advancement.
• Finding fulfillment in work is more important than traditional success metrics.
• Understanding what matters in work evolves over time.
• Community impact is a significant aspect of sports events.
• The importance of guest experience in event management.
• Creating a supportive work culture enhances employee satisfaction. Fulfillment evolves over time and varies for everyone.
• Effective data collection is crucial for understanding needs.
• Leadership is about trust and knowing when to step back.
• Transforming experiences can attract a broader audience.
• Community engagement is essential for long-term success.
• Teaching others can reinforce your own knowledge.
• Self-awareness is key to effective leadership.
• Networking should be intentional and meaningful.
• Mentorship benefits both the mentor and mentee.
• Continuous growth is a lifelong journey.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/marty-gorsich-a5421242/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/farmers-insurance-open/

https://www.instagram.com/centuryclubsd/

https://www.farmersinsuranceopen.com/

@the3Tpod

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https://www.toolstalentstechniques.com

In this reflective episode, Dustin Sutton discusses the challenges faced in 2024 and how they contribute to personal growth and success. He emphasizes the importance of viewing obstacles as learning opportunities and expresses gratitude for the support system around him. As he looks forward to 2025, he shares insights gained from his experiences, including the value of gratitude and the excitement for future possibilities.

Takeaways

• Challenges are integral to success and personal growth.
• Obstacles provide opportunities to learn and improve.
• Having a supportive network is crucial for trying new things.
• Everyone is on a journey of learning and growth.
• The journey itself is as important as the destination.
• Stepping away from familiar roles can provide valuable perspectives.
• Gratitude enhances the experience of life's challenges.
• Building connections with others is fulfilling and rewarding.
• Reflecting on past experiences can guide future actions.
• Looking forward to new opportunities in 2025

@the3Tpod

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Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/the3tpod/⁠

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https://www.toolstalentstechniques.com

Andia Winslow, a Yale alumna and an incredibly versatile talent whose achievements span from sports to voice acting. Andia, an Emmy, Telly, and Society of Voice Arts Award winner, delves into her multifaceted journey, sharing experiences that stretch from her origins in Seattle to her groundbreaking moments on the professional golf circuit and beyond.

Andia’s story begins with her historic achievement in 2006 when she became the fourth African American to compete in LPGA Tour history, joining the ranks of legends like Althea Gibson. Beyond the greens, her athletic prowess saw her training for the Winter Olympics with the USA Bobsled and Skeleton Federation, showcasing her remarkable adaptability and resilience.

Transitioning from sports, Andia ventured into the world of voice acting, a skill that seems almost predestined given her family background—her uncle is Michael Winslow, known as the "Man of 10,000 Sound Effects." Her vocal talents have earned her multiple accolades including Emmy and Telly Awards, cementing her status in this competitive field. Andia’s voice has not only entertained but also inspired, bringing life to stories and characters across various platforms.

Andia reflects on the challenges of elite education, the rigorous demands of professional sports, and the competitive nature of the voiceover industry. She offers insights into her approach to storytelling, emphasizing the importance of physicality in voice work, and shares advice for those looking to navigate the complexities of creative careers.

Listeners will also get a glimpse of Andia’s upcoming projects including her roles in the television reboot of "A League of Their Own," the film "Playing Through" where she portrays golf pioneer Ann Gregory, and the reimagined "Calamity Jane" on HBO Max.

Takeaways

• Her early experiences in golf were shaped by community and mentorship.
• Golf provided a unique challenge that kept her engaged.
• Yale taught her the importance of learning how to learn.
• Elite education often reveals the realities of power dynamics.
• Success is not always based on merit; connections matter.
• Material success does not equate to happiness.
• Her experience in golf prepared her for future challenges.
• Unexpected opportunities can lead to new paths. Curiosity drives exploration and personal growth.
• Mentorship plays a crucial role in shaping one's journey.
• Embracing failure is essential for growth and learning.
• The voiceover industry is highly competitive and subjective.
• Training and preparation are key to success in voiceover work.
• Audiobook narration requires intense focus and endurance.
• Finding joy in diverse genres can lead to a fulfilling career.
• Respect and hard work are vital in building professional relationships.
• Unique life experiences can lead to unexpected career paths.

https://www.andiavoiceover.com/

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

@the3Tpod

Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/the3tpod/⁠

Music provided by: C€$ ⁠https://open.spotify.com/artist/21zXwxV9nWaiE6iAleU6ww?si=yNBmIPqIT7-56hAmfvqShA⁠

https://www.toolstalentstechniques.com

In this episode, Tonya Torosian, CEO of Promises2Kids, shares her journey from a community-focused upbringing in Wisconsin to leading a nonprofit dedicated to supporting foster youth in San Diego.

She discusses the importance of mentorship, the challenges faced by foster youth, and the innovative programs being implemented to address homelessness and parenting education. Tonya emphasizes the need for nonprofits to operate with a business mindset while maintaining a mission-driven focus. The conversation highlights the significance of community engagement and the impact of personal growth in leadership.

Takeaways

• Tanya's commitment to community service began in her childhood.
• Mentorship is crucial for the success of foster youth.
• Nonprofits should operate with a business mindset to be effective.
• Listening to the needs of youth is essential for program development.
• Innovative solutions are needed to address homelessness among foster youth.
• Parenting education is vital for those who grew up in foster care.
• Collaboration with other organizations can enhance service delivery.
• Personal growth and lifelong learning are key to effective leadership.
• The impact of volunteers can be transformative for youth.
• Understanding the unique challenges of foster youth is critical for support.

https://promises2kids.org/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonya-torosian-3531788/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/promises2kids/

@the3Tpod

X: ⁠https://twitter.com/the3tpod⁠

Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/the3tpod/⁠

Music provided by: C€$ ⁠https://open.spotify.com/artist/21zXwxV9nWaiE6iAleU6ww?si=yNBmIPqIT7-56hAmfvqShA⁠

https://www.toolstalentstechniques.com