Hey SDSI friends, periodically we run a series of interviews called the “Eye of the Innovator”. Past guests have been Pam and Beaver Theodasakis, Founders of praNa, and Spy or JK from Sanuk, or Tom Rinks, Founder of Sun Bum, bob Hurley and Bob McKnight Founder of Quiksilver. In this interview we meet Adam Cheyer, Founder of Siri…yes that Siri! Adam shared his history, experience with Steve Jobs and some suggestions for entrepreneurs everywhere. Apologies for the sound quality; we did not plan to record, so thisis iPhone based. Enjoy.

Here's what Guy Kawasaki and Bob Rief have to say on mission statements, the three stages of life, surfing, and much more. After such a great Q&A with a legendary guest speaker, it would be a shame not to share. Listen in on the new Views from the Bus podcast to hear what you missed at our recent Eye of the Innovator event with Guy Kawasaki.

In this episode of Views from the Bus, Bob sits down with Justin Renfro, the Director of Growth at Wefunder, about how raising capital can be possible through community rounds.

Traditionally companies relied on angel investors and venture capitalist for support. Now, with the help of Wefunder, founders can invite their customers, colleagues, friends, and family to invest. The result? A much wider funnel of support, creating an engaged community of individuals who are literally invested in your success.

Listen in to learn how community-backed funding could be your company's competitive edge and learn more at Wefunder.com.

In this episode of Views from the Bus, Beacons Capital Group Founder and CEO, John McLean, shared some amazing tips about non-dilutive debt.

That may sound like a mouthful of financial jargon, but listen to the podcast and learn how capital preservation and growth strategies can quickly benefit your company. In one example John gave a rapid growth company in our space had simply outgrown their capital. As a last-ditch strategy, the Founders planned to offer 40% of their equity; instead, they sought advice and inventory financing through Beacon’s. Now a few years later, the sales scaled, the Founders retained their equity, and of course, their earnings scaled as well. Multi million dollar good decision. Listen in and check out Beacons Capital Group website!

In the latest episode of View from the Bus, Bob chats with Emily Irion, Senior Manager at World Trade Center San Diego, part of the Regional EDC—an organization he calls one of the most high-minded he’s encountered. Emily highlights the EDC’s vital role in strengthening the local economy, partnering with 150+ businesses to keep San Diego globally competitive while providing free resources to help local businesses grow. Tune in to learn how they’re driving inclusive economic growth and ensuring every San Diegan benefits.

In this episode of View from the Bus, Bob Rief chats with Krystal Gillis, Founder, and CEO of Tighties — a game-changing brand revolutionizing injury prevention and performance apparel. As a graduate of the SDSI Accelerator, Krystal shares her founder story, her journey of launching multiple businesses, and the importance of building a memorable brand.

Hear her insights on entrepreneurship, overcoming obstacles, and creating products that truly make an impact. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation!

View from the Bus is proudly sponsored by ⁠Procopio⁠—thank you for supporting this incredible community.

In the latest episode of View from the Bus, Bob sits down with Neil Salyards, Senior Associate at Procopio Law and an expert in intellectual property. Neil specializes in trademark and copyright protection, helping businesses safeguard their brands from day one.

Together, Bob and Neil break down why IP protection should be a top priority for new companies, sharing real-world stories of brand protection in action. Whether you're launching a startup or looking to strengthen your existing business, this episode is packed with valuable insights on securing your brand’s future.

View from the Bus is proudly sponsored by ⁠Procopio⁠—thank you for supporting a stronger, more protected business community!

In the latest episode of the View from the Bus podcast, Bob chats with David Newman, Founder and CEO of RX Smart Gear. David’s entrepreneurial journey began when a friend dragged him to a CrossFit gym, where he quickly got hooked. Noticing the need for better jump ropes tailored to athletes, he launched RX Smart Gear—starting with custom ropes and growing into a full line of innovative fitness equipment. Hear David’s inspiring story in the full episode here!

The Views from the Bus podcast is sponsored by Procopio! Procopio is a full legal service with an expertise in helping out entrepreneurs and SAL startups!

In the newest episode of View from the Bus, Bob chats with Sean Lake, CEO and Co-founder of BUBS Naturals. They delve into Sean's inspiration behind the brand, rooted in the legacy of his friend and decorated Navy SEAL Glen 'BUB' Doherty, along with BUBS' commitment to health and wellness. Listen to Sean's story and the incredible journey of BUBS Naturals' conception and mission to keep people healthier for longer.

In the latest episode of Views from the Bus, Bob interviews wave manufacturer and a pioneer in surfing Bruce McFarland owner of American Wave Machines. If you aren't familiar with American Wave Machine the San Diego company is a world leader in wave pool technology and their top of the line wave technology Perfectswell, is implemented in 5 wave pools around the world, with more to come. To listen in to their fascinating episode