After a brief hiatus, Jim Haviland and Kris Snyder discuss various themes surrounding entrepreneurship, leadership, and the evolving landscape of business. They reflect on recent podcast episodes, emphasizing the importance of intrinsic motivation for founders, the necessity of learning new skills, and the role of storytelling in leadership. The discussion also touches on the significance of community support for local entrepreneurs and the need to measure success beyond financial metrics.  All this as summary and review of the last month of Lay of the Land episodes.

This week's Lay of the Land episodes reviewed:
https://www.layoftheland.fm/186-andrew-rising-encore-venture-labs-bridging-clevelands-industrial-heritage-to-its-industri/
https://www.layoftheland.fm/187-aaron-hoffman-john-zinno-deliverthat-the-future-of-catering-delivery/
https://www.layoftheland.fm/188-joe-pulizzi-tilt-publishing-content-entrepreneur-expo-content-marketing-community-and/
https://www.layoftheland.fm/189-chas-d-withers-dix-eaton-running-towards-the-fire/
https://www.layoftheland.fm/bonus-marketing-moves-investing-in-ohios-future-ft-jeffrey-stern/

Other References:
https://www.impactarchitects.io/annual-planning-2024/

Summary
In this episode of Weekly Impact, Jim Haviland and Kris Snyder discuss the ambitious vision of John Vickers and his project, Blue Abyss, which aims to revolutionize how we live on Earth and beyond. They explore the importance of persistence and patience in entrepreneurship, especially in the context of navigating challenges and growth. The conversation also highlights the recent VCFest event and the recognition of community impact through the Best in Tech awards, emphasizing the significance of collaboration and support within the local tech community.

This week's Lay of the Land episode reviewed:
https://www.layoftheland.fm/184-john-vickers-blue-abyss-building-the-worlds-foremost-extreme-environment-rd-facilities-f/

Other Lay of the Land Episodes mentioned:
https://www.layoftheland.fm/33-charu-ramanathan-phd-vitalxchange/
https://www.layoftheland.fm/168-darren-small-oko-simplifying-logistics-and-automating-supply-chains/
https://www.layoftheland.fm/177-joshua-edmonds-digitalc-bridging-the-digital-divide-in-cleveland-internet-as-a-human-rig/

Other References:
https://www.linkedin.com/posts/greater-cleveland-partnership_congratulations-to-the-winners-of-the-18th-activity-7244478901484142592-_mXX/
https://greatercle.com/events/2024/09/24/tech/best-of-tech-day/
https://vitalxchange.com/
https://ohiovcfest.com/

Summary

In this episode, Jim Haviland and Kris Snyder review Lay of the Land #183  that features Laura Bennett and Alex Krooglik, formerly of Embrace Pet Insurance, and discuss the journey of early-stage entrepreneurs, focusing on the challenges they face, the importance of market research, and the dynamics of investor responsibilities. The conversation highlights the significance of finding the right partnerships and establishing strong core values within teams to ensure long-term success. Jim emphasizes the need for resilience in navigating the ups and downs of the entrepreneurial landscape, as well as the critical role of communication and shared values in fostering effective collaboration.

This week's Lay of the Land episode reviewed:
https://www.layoftheland.fm/183-laura-bennett-alex-krooglik-embrace-pet-insurance-the-story-of-a-cleveland-unicorn/

Other Lay of the Land Episodes mentioned:
https://www.layoftheland.fm/124-andrew-spott-hr-signal-vividfront/

Other References:

https://www.embracepetinsurance.com/
https://rocketfueluniversity.com/assessments/
https://www.vividfront.com/marketing-moves

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

02:41 Navigating Early Stage Challenges

05:21 The Importance of Market Research

08:07 Investor Responsibilities and Equity Dynamics

10:30 Finding the Right Business Partner

12:52 Core Values and Company Culture

The conversation discusses the importance of peer groups and support networks for entrepreneurs who have exited their businesses. It highlights the need for planning and preparation for life after the liquidity event. The episode also introduces the Lay of the Land episode featuring Dan Nitowsky of Tiger 21, a peer group that focuses on wealth preservation for individuals who have experienced a liquidity event. The conversation emphasizes the value of having a peer network to share experiences, provide advice, and navigate the challenges of transitioning to a new phase of life. They also give a preview of the upcoming event, VC Fest.

This week's Lay of the Land episode reviewed:
https://www.layoftheland.fm/182-dan-nitowsky-tiger21-wealth-preservation-legacy-and-ultra-high-net-worth-peer-support/

Other Lay of the Land Episodes mentioned:
https://www.layoftheland.fm/137-adam-rakestraw-mediview/
 https://www.layoftheland.fm/33-charu-ramanathan-phd-vitalxchange/
https://www.layoftheland.fm/124-andrew-spott-hr-signal-vividfront/
 https://www.layoftheland.fm/77-dr-chelsea-monty-bromer-roosense-sweatid/

Other References:

https://tiger21.com/
https://eocleveland.com/
https://www.vistage.com/
https://ohiovcfest.com/

In this conversation, Jim Haviland and Kris Snyder discuss Lay of the Land #181 with Fred DiSanto of Ancora, the importance of wisdom and earned wisdom, the value of trusted relationships and introductions, the benefits of being part of a community, the role of mentorship in personal and professional growth, the importance of making decisions and taking action, and the significance of annual planning sessions for businesses.

Takeaways

• Wisdom is gained through years of experience and paying attention to learning opportunities.
• Trusted relationships and introductions are valuable for personal and professional growth.
• Being part of a community allows for easier connection and collaboration.
• Mentorship plays a crucial role in personal and professional development.
• Making decisions and taking action is more important than waiting for the perfect solution.
• Annual planning sessions are essential for setting goals and aligning the team's vision.

Sound Bites
"Wisdom is gained through years of experience if we're lucky enough to pay attention to the learning."
"Trusted high valued relationships are built through trusted introductions of value."
"If you're looking for something to get back, you're doing it wrong."

Chapters
03:02 The Power of Trusted Relationships
06:04 The Value of Mentorship
07:39 The Mindset of a Leader
11:18 The Significance of Annual Planning
15:47 Conclusion

This week's Lay of the Land episode reviewed:
https://www.layoftheland.fm/181-fred-disanto-ancora/

Other Lay of the Land Episodes mentioned:
https://www.layoftheland.fm/12-bob-sopko-launchnet-case-western-reserve-university/

Other References:
https://www.impactarchitects.io/annual2023/
https://cose.org/events/2024/10/15/cose-signature-event/big-summit/

Bob Sopko's List:

1. BRITE Startup Weekend | Sep 12-14 | Cleveland & Cincinnati

For three days, you will join expert mentors and create startups! The event is for students interested in entrepreneurship, sustainability and creating positive change through innovation. Held at Case Western Reserve University https://brite.org/startup-weekend/

Material to cross-promote - https://www.canva.com/design/DAGNXz3r3yg/DDngUxCi-fAdKVd4qnBGqQ/view?utm_content=DAGNXz3r3yg&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link&utm_source=editor

2. NASA  International Space Apps Challenge Cleveland at NASA Glenn Research Center  Oct 5 - 6

Cleveland has teamed up with the group putting on the event in Silicon Valley. Many CWRU have entered in the past. Over 57,000 participants on 8,700 teams from 152 countries. Virtually and in person for anyone. The in person is US Citizens only and limited space.

https://www.spaceappschallenge.org/nasa-space-apps-2024/2024-local-events/cleveland-oh

3. Northeast Ohio Student Venture Fund  Due 9/6

Run by students and open to everyone to apply for funding. http://www.neosvf.com/

4. National Science Foundation I-Corps  Due 9/15

A 7-week program focusing on using direct customer interactions to validate an idea. https://www.uakronuarf.com/i-corps.html

5. SXSW Pitch early entry due 9/8

A CWRU student and researcher entered in the past leading to connections and funding. SXSW pitch showcases innovative tech to industry experts, high-profile media, venture capital, and angel investors. https://www.sxsw.com/pitch/

6. Ohio VC fest  Sells out fast  9/17, 18

Celebrating our growing technology, innovation, and investing community. Over 100 Investors, 200 plus startups. https://ohiovcfest.com/

7. 3 River Venture Fest  10/29, 30

Bringing together hundreds of investors, entrepreneurs, and top-tier service providers.  https://3rvf.com/

8. Garage + Taiwanese 8 day meet ups  Due 9/8

Travel and accommodations subsidy provided. 1-on-1 meetings and startup exhibition open house.

Program Deck               Why Taiwan              What is Garage+'s Open House

Industries: AI & Data Analysis, IoT & Smart Devices, Digital Health, CarTech, 5G Technology, Robotics, Smart Energy etc.

https://twepoch.org/SGP-F24_CC2   entry

Thanks.

Bob Sopko

www.linkedin.com/in/bobsopko

In this episode, Jim Haviland and Kris Snyder discuss their upcoming events and dive into the conversation with Taylor Evans about Rust Belt Recruiting. They talk about the importance of having a strong brand name, the challenges of expanding into new areas of business, and the significance of having a consistent operating system. They also touch on the gaps in the current workforce and the potential of robotics in manufacturing. The conversation highlights the importance of intentionality, finding focus, and surrounding yourself with the right people.

Takeaways

• Having a strong brand name can make a significant impact on the perception of your business.
• Expanding into new areas of business requires careful consideration and a clear understanding of the market.
• Implementing a consistent operating system can greatly contribute to the success of a business.
• There are significant gaps in the current workforce, particularly in skilled labor.
• Robotics has the potential to revolutionize manufacturing and create new job opportunities.
• Intentionality, finding focus, and surrounding yourself with the right people are key factors in entrepreneurial success.

This week's Lay of the Land episode reviewed:
https://www.layoftheland.fm/180-taylor-evans-rust-belt-recruiting-talent-reindustrialization-and-manufacturing-recruitin/

Other Lay of the Land Episodes mentioned:
https://www.layoftheland.fm/177-joshua-edmonds-digitalc-bridging-the-digital-divide-in-cleveland-internet-as-a-human-rig/
https://www.layoftheland.fm/137-adam-rakestraw-mediview/
https://www.layoftheland.fm/134-andrew-wolfe-bloomfilter/

Other References:

https://ohiovcfest.com/speakers/
https://rustbeltrecruiting.com/
https://greatercle.com/events/2024/09/24/tech/best-of-tech-day/

In this conversation, Jim Haviland and Kris Snyder discuss various topics including founders' dinners, the grand opening of Encore Venture Labs, the Ohio VC Fest, and the importance of focusing on numbers in business. They emphasize the value of networking, seeking feedback, and building a strong team. They also highlight the recognition received by Payne & Tompkins and Meg Mayhew for their achievements. The conversation concludes with a mention of future discussions on the flywheel and community building.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and the Value of Networking
03:13 Encore Venture Labs Grand Opening
06:09 Cranes' Report on Best Employers in Ohio
08:53 Ohio VC Fest and Speaking Engagements
11:06 The Importance of Numbers in Business
14:15 Future Discussions on the Flywheel and Community Building

This week's Lay of the Land episode:
https://www.layoftheland.fm/bonus-weekly-impact-craig-hassall-playhouse-square-iovs-and-innovation-summit/

Other Lay of the Land Episodes mentioned:

https://www.layoftheland.fm/146-meg-mayhugh-people-architects/
https://www.layoftheland.fm/98-kris-snyder-ninetyio-impact-architects-vox-mobile/

Other References:

https://www.wearepeoplearchitects.com/
https://www.encoreventurelabs.com/
https://www.payne-tompkins.com/
https://www.hyland.com/en
https://ohiovcfest.com/
https://www.impactarchitects.io/firstos/
https://cose.org/events/2024/10/15/cose-signature-event/big-summit/

Takeaways

• Networking and seeking feedback from mentors and peers is crucial for success in business.
• Building a strong team and fostering trust and open communication are essential for achieving goals.
• Recognizing the importance of numbers and regularly monitoring and adjusting them is key to business success.
• Celebrating and acknowledging the achievements of individuals and businesses is important for motivation and growth.
• Exploring topics such as the flywheel and community building can provide valuable insights for business growth and momentum.

In this conversation, Jim Haviland and Kris Snyder discuss various topics including leadership development, the importance of having an exit plan for businesses, and the value of financial modeling. They highlight the need for leaders to continuously develop their skills as their businesses grow and evolve. They also emphasize the significance of planning for the future and having a clear vision. Additionally, they mention the importance of building a strong team with diverse skill sets, including financial expertise. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the importance of intention, design, and continuous learning in business.

This week's Lay of the Land episode reviewed:
https://www.layoftheland.fm/178-jared-anderson-sandor-gyerman-andor-creative-100m-organic-views-gen-z-marketing-and/

Other References:
https://andorcreative.com/home

Sound Bites

• "Leaders need to develop as their businesses grow."
• "Having an exit plan is about the natural course of things."
• "Models need to be useful, not accurate."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

02:55 Specialization and Scaling in Business

05:09 Digital Relationships and Frequency

06:08 Planning for Business Exit and Succession

08:40 The Role of Leadership Development in Succession Planning

13:16 The Significance of Financial Acumen for Business Growth

In this conversation, Jim Haviland and Kris Snyder discuss the importance of good infrastructure and solving the digital divide. They highlight the work of Joshua Edmonds, who is working on providing affordable internet access through his company Canopy. They also touch on the history of internet connectivity and the need for access to healthcare and education. The conversation then shifts to the concept of community building and the impact of Introductions of Value. They discuss the importance of trust at scale and the intersection of commerce and community. The conversation concludes with a mention of the partnership between Ninety and the Exit Planning Institute and the importance of having an intentional operating system for success.

Takeaways

• Good infrastructure and solving the digital divide are crucial for access to healthcare, education, and economic opportunities.
• Canopy's affordable internet access solution using existing infrastructure is innovative and impactful.
• Community building and Introductions of Value are key to fostering collaboration and economic growth.
• Trust at scale is essential for successful community building and commerce.
• Having an intentional operating system is important for achieving intentional results.

This week's Lay of the Land episode reviewed:
https://www.layoftheland.fm/177-joshua-edmonds-digitalc-bridging-the-digital-divide-in-cleveland-internet-as-a-human-rig/

Other Lay of the Land Episodes mentioned:
https://www.layoftheland.fm/27-brett-lindsey-everstream-snip-internet/

Other References:

https://digitalc.org/
https://www.cpp.org/About/History
https://exit-planning-institute.org/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

02:10 The Power of Infrastructure and Technology

05:30 The Entrepreneurial Spirit

11:03 Investing in the Entrepreneurial Community

14:39 The Role of an Operating System

In this conversation, Jim Haviland and Kris Snyder discuss the story of Bob Malley and Malley's Chocolates, a successful family business. They highlight the importance of succession planning and the respect for the work that went before. They also discuss the concept of 'Malley moments' and how the emotional impact of a product can create a lasting impression on customers. The conversation then shifts to the Cleveland Innovation Summit, organized by Justice Mendez of 161 Ventures, which brought together entrepreneurs and investors. Finally, they share their own impact moments, including the importance of strategic alignment in referrals and the power of language in shaping perceptions.

Takeaways

• Succession planning is crucial for the long-term success of a family business.
• Respecting the work that came before and understanding the challenges faced by previous generations is important in a family business.
• Creating emotional impact and memorable experiences for customers can lead to long-lasting loyalty.
• Entrepreneurship events like the Cleveland Innovation Summit provide valuable networking and learning opportunities for startups.
• Strategic alignment is key when seeking referrals, and understanding the value exchange is crucial.
• The language we use can shape our perceptions and attitudes towards others, so it's important to be mindful of our words.

Sound Bites

• "A great story about how to create succession planning in a family"
• "Malley moments: Recognizing the emotional impact of the product"
• "The Cleveland Innovation Summit: A firecracker of an event"

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Discussion of Bob Mallee and Mallee's Chocolates

03:05 The Power of 'Malley Moments' in Building Customer Loyalty

06:26 Highlights from the Cleveland Innovation Summit

08:37 Building Referral Relationships through Strategic Alignment

13:04 The Impact of Language on Perceptions and Relationships

This week's Lay of the Land episode reviewed:
https://www.layoftheland.fm/176-mike-malley-malleys-chocolates-coco-milk-sugar-and-cleveland/

Other Lay of the Land Episodes mentioned:
https://www.layoftheland.fm/157-reilly-berk-berk-enterprises/
https://www.layoftheland.fm/156-mary-cowan-ncs-credit/
https://www.layoftheland.fm/20-mac-anderson-cleveland-kitchen/

Other References:

https://malleys.com/
https://www.onesixone.ventures/