Innovate or Evaporate with Toph Day

Mariah Ivey on Storytelling, Trust, and Keeping Culture Alive

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 15:41:00 -0000

Mariah Ivey, Director of Programs & Artistic Development, Madam Walker Legacy Center, and Founder of That Peace Open Mic, has spent her career building stages where none existed. Honored with a "Keeper of Culture" mural in Indianapolis by visual artist Ashley Nora in partnership with GangGang, Ivey speaks with host Toph Day about what it actually takes to earn that designation.

The conversation covers Ivey's five pillars of storytelling, including urgency, relevancy, creative rigor, personal connection, and impact, and how those principles apply far beyond poetry into marketing, product development, and community building. Ivey draws on her experience curating art spaces for the Jordan Brand during the 2025 WNBA All-Star weekend in Indianapolis, performing at TEDx, and founding That Peace Open Mic to argue that authenticity cannot be packaged with the right language alone. It has to be lived off stage before it works on stage.

She challenges leaders across industries to stop moving transactionally and instead "move at the speed of relationships," a phrase that cuts to the heart of why so many community initiatives stall. She also makes the case that vulnerability is not a liability in leadership but a skill, one best practiced by getting into more art spaces.

Ivey's latest work appears in the fall issue of genesis: a literature and art magazine at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis.

How Innovation Became Core to Running an NBA Team with Mel Raines and Joey Graziano of Pacers Sports & Entertainment

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 10:00:00 -0000

Pacers Sports & Entertainment is building far more than a basketball team. Under CEO Mel Raines and Chief Commercial Officer Joey Graziano, the organization is reimagining what a modern franchise can be: part sports business, part real estate developer, part performance company, part media brand, and part civic engine. In this conversation, Toph Day sits down with Raines and Graziano to explore how PS&E is helping reshape downtown Indianapolis through the ongoing evolution of Gainbridge Fieldhouse, a planned Ritz-Carlton, a Live Nation music venue, and a new Fever Performance Center designed to be the biggest and best purpose-built performance center for female athletes in the world.

They also discuss why the old definition of a “small market” is breaking down, how data and digital reach are changing the economics of sports, and why the Indiana Fever’s audience has become one of the most geographically diverse fan bases in professional basketball, with fans from all 50 states and 44 countries attending games last year. Along the way, Raines reflects on her path from the White House back to Indiana, while Graziano shares how he left a legal career to help rebuild a startup and ultimately help lead one of the most ambitious franchise transformations in sports.

From mixed-use development and women’s sports to global brand building, the NBA bubble, and the future of fan experience, this episode is a look at the innovative, multidimensional work it now takes to run a franchise at the highest level.

Julie Roe Lach on NIL, Women's Sports, and the Pacers

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 11:16:00 -0000

Julie Roe Lach spent 15 years at the NCAA running enforcement before becoming Horizon League commissioner. Now she's joining Pacers Sports & Entertainment as executive vice president, and her career arc explains as much about where college sports is headed as any single conversation can.

Roe Lach breaks down the three distinct layers of the NIL landscape: direct athlete deals, booster-funded collectives, and the new school-level revenue sharing capped at $20.5 million per institution under the House settlement. She explains how the Collegiate Sports Commission is attempting to bring legitimacy to third-party deals and why the jury is still out on whether it will work. She also addresses conference realignment, the future of mid-major leagues like the Horizon League, and the financial literacy gaps facing college athletes who are suddenly earning significant income without the infrastructure to manage it.

Beyond college sports, Roe Lach discusses Indianapolis's ambition to become the capital of women's sports, including the WNBA All-Star Game takeover, the Marvella youth sports campus planned near Fair Oaks Farm, and the Indiana Sports Corp's 2050 vision built around five pillars. She also reflects on what it takes to earn trust when leading organizations governed by multiple university presidents and coaches who are skeptical from the start.

Roe Lach earned her J.D. cum laude from IU McKinney School of Law in 2004 and is an active member of the Indiana bar.

0:00 Introduction and Julie Roe Lach's Background

1:45 Playing Basketball at Millikin University

3:10 Why She Went to Law School and Joined the NCAA

6:00 How NCAA Enforcement Investigations Worked

9:30 NIL: From Prohibition to the House Settlement

15:45 Collectives, the CSC, and the $20.5 Million Cap

21:30 Conference Realignment and the Future of Mid-Majors

25:30 From NCAA to Law Practice to Horizon League

28:00 Managing 11 University Presidents as a Board

30:15 Enrollment, Federal Policy, and Campus Pressures

34:00 Financial Literacy for College Athletes

38:00 Joining Pacers Sports and Entertainment

39:30 The WNBA All-Star Game and the BOSS Summit

42:00 Marvella and the Women's Sports Campus

44:30 Indiana Sports Corp and the 2050 Vision

51:00 Earning Buy-In From Skeptical Coaches

54:30 Rapid-Fire Questions

Zoom CMO Kimberly Storin on AI, Brand Strategy and Why Marketing Is a Profit Center

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 15:03:00 -0000

Kimberly Storin, chief marketing officer at Zoom, joins Innovate or Evaporate at Rally to discuss how Zoom evolved from an enterprise video platform to a household name during COVID and what comes next. Storin shares how more than 50% of people now start discovery through large language models, why earned media and brand building are having a renaissance, and how marketers have pivoted too hard into performance marketing. She also talks about Zoom's expanding product suite beyond meetings, including its AI companion, scheduler and docs tools. Plus, Storin reflects on her career path from crisis communications to management consulting at Deloitte to B2B tech leadership at AMD and IBM before landing at Zoom.

Intrapreneurship to CEO: Mike Clem on Scaling Sweetwater Without Losing the Soul

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Mike Clem, CEO of Sweetwater, joins Toph Day for a candid conversation about what it really takes to scale innovation inside an established company without losing the culture that made it special in the first place. Mike shares his journey from small-town Indiana to Purdue to building early e-commerce systems, then joining Sweetwater in 2003 when the website was a $4M channel and helping grow it into the world’s leading music tech and instrument retailer.

They unpack Sweetwater’s relationship-first business model, why the company plays the “long game” instead of chasing quarterly optics, and how Mike thinks about innovation beyond just technology—through customer obsession, expertise, and incremental improvement. The episode also explores the rise of the creator economy, how AI is reshaping music-making, and what it looks like to keep a founder mindset even as you become the incumbent.

Innovate or Evaporate Trailer

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 19:06:00 -0000

Innovate or Evaporate, an IBJ Media podcast, explores the relentless pace of change and the innovators who drive it! In each episode, we dive deep into the personal stories and sharp insights behind breakthrough ideas, cutting-edge technologies, and fearless pioneers reshaping our world, from billion-dollar startups to transformative social impact.

Sen. Todd Young on the CHIPS and Science Act, shipbuilding and Indiana’s drone economy

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 10:34:00 -0000

Innovate or Evaporate host Toph Day talks with Indiana Sen. Todd Young about the CHIPS and Science Act and the push to strengthen U.S. semiconductor supply chains, compete with China and support advanced manufacturing across the heartland. Young also discusses rare earth and critical mineral supply, the Ships for America Act and why rebuilding shipbuilding matters for economic and national security. The conversation closes on Indiana’s new drone testing corridor linked to Atterbury, Purdue and Crane, plus how AI, biotech and hard tech manufacturing could shape the state’s next wave of growth.

Inside Ashton Gleckman’s Blueprint for Big Stories

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 10:03:00 -0000

What happens when you choose curiosity over credentials—early? Toph Day sits down with Ashton Gleckman, director and composer of the History Channel docuseries Kennedy, to unpack a journey that started with dropping out of high school, learning the craft of film scoring, and turning bold bets into feature documentaries and an eight-part series. They get into the real work behind “epic” storytelling: earning trust in interviews, chasing primary sources, bootstrapping with a tiny crew, navigating a changing distribution business, and why Ashton believes AI will ultimately heighten our appreciation for human-made art. Plus: what K–12 education could do differently to unlock the next generation of creators. Key Takeaways Curiosity beats credentials. Ashton built a career by following obsession-level curiosity—then letting that curiosity dictate the next “lily pad,” even when the path looked unconventional. Get comfortable with a little chaos. He deliberately puts himself in vulnerable, unfamiliar situations because that’s where growth and better creative outcomes happen. Start small, ship consistently, build community. His “Behind the Score” YouTube series became a real proof-of-work engine and a niche community builder—long before bigger doors opened. Access often comes from output, not permission. The meeting with Hans Zimmer didn’t come from credentials—it came from work Ashton put into the world that got noticed. Documentary is discovery, not control. You can have an outline, but the story reveals itself through interviews, archives, and what you uncover on the ground. Trust is the real “camera gear.” His interviewing approach is simple but hard: prepare deeply, then listen harder—using patience, silence, and empathy to help people open up. Bootstrapping isn’t a limitation—it’s a forcing function. The Kennedy series started with a tiny crew, a van, shared hotel rooms, and relentless logistics—then grew into a full-scale docuseries. Don’t let “it’s been covered” stop you. With JFK stories, most people fixate on the assassination; Ashton went for the full arc—how someone becomes who they become. The business is moving toward buyouts. He frames distribution as constantly shifting—where your job is to make the best film you can, and accept that the market timing is outside your control. AI will raise the value of human-made art. His take: as AI gets better, audiences will crave the unmistakable “human” signal even more—and creators should defend that. K–12 needs to teach for curiosity, not recall. If students think history is boring, he argues it’s often because it’s taught like a list—rather than as lived, emotional, relevant human story.

Innovate or Evaporate Joins IBJ Media: Why Indiana’s Moment Is Now

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Big news: Innovate or Evaporate has a new home on the IBJ Media Podcast Network. In this special episode, Mitch Frazier (President, IBJ Media) sits down with Toph Day to mark the partnership and unpack what’s ahead for the show in 2026 and beyond. They talk about why innovation isn’t just for entrepreneurs or investors, why silos are disappearing, and why the next era belongs to leaders who can move fast, build relationships, and connect cross-sector dots. Toph shares the core belief driving the podcast: your origin does not dictate your destination—and why Indiana is positioned to be the epicenter of the “productivity boom.” From stories like Authenticx founder Amy Brown (AI + healthcare workflow) to the ripple effects of ExactTarget and Salesforce, this conversation is a rally cry for anyone building, leading, investing, teaching, or shaping policy.

Gregg Fienberg — The Logistics of Creativity (and the Future of TV)

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 02:18:00 -0000

What does it take to pull off the impossible—on time, on budget, and at full creative ambition?

In Episode 30 of Innovate or Evaporate, Toph Day sits down with Gregg Fienberg, Emmy-winning executive producer and director, to unpack the real engine behind film and television: logistics, leadership, and high-performance teams. From unexpected disasters on set to the craft of building “family-level” crews under pressure, Gregg shares what it really means to execute when every minute costs real money.

They also dig into how the industry is changing—streaming economics, residuals, tax incentives, global production shifts, and the early realities of AI-generated actors—plus the people-first mindset Gregg believes makes the best productions (and businesses) work.

Takeaways

Logistics is creativity’s backbone: great ideas only matter if you can execute them under pressure.
High-performing teams act like families—trust, ownership, and covering for each other are non-negotiable.
Opportunity often comes from simple acts of initiative, not grand plans.
Technology keeps changing, but people, leadership, and decision-making still matter most.
Film and TV productions operate like startups—with speed, risk, and constant adaptation.
Streaming, tax incentives, and global production shifts are reshaping Hollywood’s economics.
AI is no longer theoretical in entertainment—it’s already here, and it will change everything.

Jeanine Ogbonnaya on Rewriting the Rules of Athlete Power

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 05:00:00 -0000

What does it take to break into the world of elite sports representation — and do it differently? Jeanine Ogbonnaya joins Toph to share her journey from Alabama press boxes to representing top athletes like Angel Reese. From teaching herself football to launching her own agency during a pandemic, Jeanine breaks down how the NIL era is reshaping athlete branding, ownership, and influence. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone building something of their own in a system designed for someone else.

Chris Yeh on Blitzscaling, Infinite Learning & the Realities of Startup Success

Wed, 24 Dec 2025 13:58:00 -0000

Chris Yeh — investor, entrepreneur, and co-author of the NYT bestseller Blitzscaling — joins Toph live at Rally to unpack what it really takes to scale in a winner-take-most world. In this fast-paced, wide-ranging conversation, Chris shares hard-earned insights from three decades of startup experience: the missed opportunity that still haunts him, what angel investors still get wrong, how storytelling shapes tech outcomes, and why board dynamics are often misunderstood. They also cover the future of AI, the slow burn of fusion, and how infinite learners will win the next wave. Whether you're a founder, investor, or lifelong builder — this episode delivers clarity, candor, and strategy you can use.

Peter Walker on Startup Data, Down Rounds, and the VC Reality Check

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 12:49:00 -0000

Today’s guest is Peter Walker, Head of Insights at Carta, whose team analyzes data from tens of thousands of startups to reveal what’s actually happening in venture capital — not just what makes headlines.

Recorded live at Rally, this conversation digs into the real state of venture in 2025: the AI haves vs. have-nots, why down rounds aren’t a death sentence, the misunderstood power law driving VC decisions, and why so many founders should probably never pitch a fund in the first place. Peter also breaks down co-founder equity splits, option pools, vesting (a.k.a. the prenup you absolutely need), and the difference between building a venture-scale rocket ship and an incredible “lifestyle” business you fully control.

If you’re a founder, investor, or operator trying to navigate today’s funding landscape — and decide what game you’re actually playing — this episode will give you the language, data, and mental models to do it.

Producing Purpose: Lisa Varga’s Path from Actress to Entrepreneur

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 13:43:00 -0000

What does it take to build a creative career—from scratch—twice? In this episode of Innovate or Evaporate, actress, producer, and entrepreneur Lisa Varga joins Toph Day for an unfiltered conversation about the realities of the entertainment industry, the evolution of storytelling, and the business behind the camera.

Lisa opens up about her early dreams, her Hollywood breakthrough, and the personal sacrifices that reshaped her path. From acting in iconic shows like Homeland to launching her own production company in the Midwest, Lisa’s journey is a raw and riveting look at creativity, resilience, and reinvention. You’ll hear why the future of content demands original voices, what investors should understand about film financing, and how innovation is rewriting the rules of Hollywood.

More Than Football: Eagles’ Kylen Granson’s Game Plan for Childhood Literacy

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 11:00:00 -0000

Kylen Granson is a tight end for the Philadelphia Eagles—but his impact extends far beyond the end zone. After being under-recruited in high school, breaking nearly every bone possible, and walking away from a Division I scholarship, Kylen fought his way into the NFL through sheer discipline and self-belief.

Now, he’s using his platform to tackle one of the country’s biggest silent crises: childhood literacy. In this episode, Kylen shares the story behind KG’s Kids, the nonprofit he founded to spark a love of reading and support dyslexic students. We talk growing up with a teacher mom, reading Percy Jackson on a match-for-screen-time deal, and how one moment of vulnerability can change a life. This isn’t just a football story—it’s about building the kind of legacy that lasts long after the lights go out.

The Art of Reinvention with Molly Bloom

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 10:00:00 -0000

From Olympic hopeful to underground poker queen to federal felony charges — Molly Bloom has lived more lives than most.

In this episode of Innovate or Evaporate, Molly sits down with Toph Day to talk about the epic highs and brutal lows of her journey. They dive deep into personal transformation, reinvention, high-stakes risk, and how to recover your identity after public failure. From mindset shifts to media narratives, Molly opens up about reclaiming power through storytelling, entrepreneurship, and unwavering self-awareness.

You’ll hear the real story behind Molly’s Game, what it’s like to negotiate with Hollywood icons like Aaron Sorkin, and why learning to silence your inner critic is as important as any business strategy.

This is a raw, unfiltered conversation about failure, grit, mindfulness, poker, power, and building something from nothing. If you’ve ever had to rebuild — this one’s for you.

Listening to Understand: Amy Brown on AI, Risk, and Building Authenticx

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 17:17:00 -0000

What does it really take to build an AI-native company before AI was cool? In this episode of Innovate or Evaporate, host Toph Day sits down with Amy Brown, CEO and founder of Authenticx—a healthcare-focused customer insights platform—to unpack how she turned personal conviction into a multi-million dollar startup. From walking away from a stable corporate career to building machine learning models trained by real healthcare workers, Amy shares a masterclass in courage, clarity, and customer-centric innovation. Whether you're fundraising, scaling, or finding your voice, this one’s packed with insights you won’t want to miss. Takeaways Why Amy left corporate to build Authenticx from scratch How she built an MVP with no-code tools and turned it into a $20M-backed business The power of customer conversation data — and why it’s every company’s secret weapon Lessons from fundraising, board dynamics, and scaling in healthcare Why AI should elevate humans — not replace them

Focus or Fail: Kevin O’Leary on the Mindset of Market Leaders

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 10:00:00 -0000

In this conversation, Kevin O'Leary shares his entrepreneurial journey, insights from Shark Tank, and thoughts on geopolitics and technology. He emphasizes the importance of storytelling in business, the American Dream, and the need for innovation in various sectors. O'Leary also discusses productivity strategies, particularly the significance of focusing on key tasks to maximize efficiency.

Takeaways

Storytelling is essential in business and entrepreneurship.
Entrepreneurs often start multiple ventures throughout their careers.
The American Dream is America's number one export.
Competition drives innovation and success in technology.
Hiring should be a slow process to ensure the right fit.
Financial hygiene is crucial for business success.
AI will play a significant role in the future of business.
Focusing on three key tasks each day enhances productivity.
The balance of signal and noise is vital for effective execution.
Investing in great entrepreneurs can lead to significant rewards.

The Art of Storytelling in Innovation

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 10:00:00 -0000

What if imagination was your most underused business tool? In this episode, award-winning producer and bestselling author Dete Meserve joins us to explore how storytelling shapes innovation and why vulnerability, creativity, and play aren’t just for kids. From crafting billion-dollar hits to building new kinds of audience engagement, Dete shares how the future of storytelling is being written across platforms, industries, and generations.

Takeaways

The magic of innovation lies in cross-sector collaboration.
Vulnerability fosters openness and collaboration in creative processes.
Storytelling has evolved beyond traditional media to include various forms.
Balancing structure and freedom is essential in the creative process.
Adults can reclaim their creative genius through play and imagination.
Technological advancements have transformed the nature of work in film.
Remote collaboration has opened up new opportunities for talent.
Storytelling can now span multiple platforms and formats.
Engaging with audiences requires rethinking traditional storytelling methods.
Creativity thrives in an environment of freedom and joy.

Sound Bites

"Creativity and innovation is play."

Keywords

storytelling, innovation, vulnerability, creativity, technology, film production, collaboration, imagination, children's media, cross-sector collaboration

Breaking Barriers, Building Legacy & Owning Your Story: Darryl McDaniels of RunDMC

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 10:00:00 -0000

In this milestone 20th episode of Innovate or Evaporate, we sit down with cultural icon and hip hop pioneer Darryl “DMC” McDaniels of RunDMC. But this isn’t just a story about music—it’s about reinvention, mental health, and the power of using your platform for purpose.

From changing the sound of a generation to confronting his own internal battles, DMC opens up about staying relevant in a world that never stops moving. He shares how vulnerability became his superpower, why creativity is a business, and what drives his mission to empower the next generation through storytelling and service.

Whether you’re a founder, artist, or changemaker—this episode is a raw, inspiring reminder that true innovation starts within.

Takeaways

Culture moves when people do. DMC broke more than records, he broke barriers.
Reinvention is essential: what got you here won’t get you there.
Mental health isn’t a side conversation. It’s central to leadership.
Creativity is a business, and legacy is built with intention.
Staying relevant requires purpose, courage, and evolution.

Keywords

Darryl McDaniels, RunDMC, DMC, hip hop, music industry, authenticity, adoption, therapy, pop culture, collaboration, sneakers, comic books

Vibe Coding, Disruption, and the Future of Software: Sean Hise of Crafted

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 10:00:00 -0000

What happens when an engineer-turned-founder decides to tear up the rulebook on how modern software gets built? In this episode, Toph Day sits down with Sean Hise, CEO of Crafted, to explore the rise of "vibe coding," the future of AI-assisted product development, and why building faster and scaling smarter is more critical than ever. Sean shares how he built Crafted from a hallway conversation into a national force in tech innovation, with clients ranging from USA Football to MISO and beyond. From flag football in the 2028 Olympics to modernizing the electric grid — this one is a masterclass in innovation, disruption, and letting it rip. Takeaways 💥 1. Vibe Coding is Real — and It’s Changing the Game AI-assisted coding is no longer theoretical. Sean walks through how tools like Cursor, Claude, and Lovable are enabling developers to build production-grade software faster than ever — and why the best engineers are embracing it, not resisting it. 🏗️ 2. Don’t Just Disrupt Your Tech — Disrupt Your Entire Business Model It’s not enough to modernize your stack. Sean challenges founders to rethink the entire concept of their SaaS platform. Could your product be delivered better as a workflow? An API? A services business? 🧠 3. The Real Moat? Distribution and Proprietary Data In an age where anyone can spin up an MVP overnight, the lasting advantages are increasingly tied to how you reach users and what unique data you own — not the tech itself. 🌎 4. Modern Innovation Requires Community & Context Whether you’re choosing a tech stack or launching an AI tool, Sean emphasizes the importance of leveraging the broader developer community and deploying proven tools already running in production. 🔥 5. From USA Football to MISO: Tech is Reshaping Every Sector Crafted is working on projects that span Olympic sports, national energy infrastructure, and collegiate athletics. The message? No matter your industry, the time to evolve is now — or evaporate. Keywords AI-assisted coding, vibe coding, Sean Hise, Crafted, tech innovation, software development, startup disruption, AI product strategy, Cursor, Claude, Lovable, micro-SaaS, API-first, USA Football, 2028 Olympics, MISO, NIL tech, data infrastructure, scaling smarter, modern tech stack, AI tools for founders, Elevate Ventures, Rally Innovation, Innovate or Evaporate. #VibeCoding #AI #Innovation #SoftwareDevelopment #TechLeadership #StartupGrowth #ProductStrategy #Founders #Crafted #AItools #Cursor #Claude #Lovable #Olympics2028 #USAFootball #NIL #MISO #ElevateVentures #InnovateOrEvaporate #Podcast

The Democratization of Venture: Gerry Hays and the Rise of Venture Staking

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 10:00:00 -0000

What if startup investing wasn’t just for the 1%? In this episode of Innovate or Evaporate, Toph Day sits down with Gerry Hays — five‑time founder, venture professor at Indiana University’s Kelley School, and CEO of Doriot — to unpack a revolutionary idea: venture staking. Gerry’s been on a decades‑long mission to open access to early‑stage capital, and now with the launch of Doriot and his Qualified Accredited Investor (QAI) curriculum, he’s building a platform that could reshape who gets to play and win in startup investing.

We explore:

Gerry’s journey—from painting houses in college, through teaching 6,000 students, to scaling
What venture staking is—and how it lets anyone buy an option to invest in promising startups late
Why friends-and-family funding is a broken $60B problem
How Bloomington, Indiana is emerging as a hub for financial innovation

Whether you care about entrepreneurship, wealth-building, or financial inclusion, this episode offers a bold vision for the future of venture.

Takeaways

Startup Investing Needs a Rewrite: Traditional VC is inaccessible to most. Venture staking, a concept pioneered by Gerry Hays, offers a radically more inclusive model—letting everyday people buy the right to invest in startups later, rather than being priced out early.

Personal Lessons, Real Stakes: Gerry lost his first $25K trying to invest in a hazardous waste company—and that "fool’s tax" informed everything he built after. From law to real estate tech, he’s experienced the full cycle of startup wins and losses.

The QAI Curriculum: Gerry developed the Qualified Accredited Investor exam to help serious retail investors prove they understand venture mechanics. It’s like a Series 7 for startup investing—and it’s sitting at the SEC, waiting for approval.

Venture Capital ≠ Venture Community: Family-and-friends rounds are often toxic. Venture staking aims to replace them with a community-driven system—funding founders early while creating future investment access for those who helped at the start.

Small Dollar, Big Impact: With venture stakes starting at just $10, this model removes barriers to entry and aligns investors around long-term commitment—not quick flips. It's built for real people, not just professional financiers.

From Bloomington to the World: Doriot and its venture staking model are being built in Indiana. Gerry believes the next era of capital innovation doesn’t need to come from Sand Hill Road—it can come from the heartland.

The Future Is Option-Oriented: The big idea? In startup finance, the option to invest later is more valuable than making a blind bet early. Venture staking codifies that logic into a platform—and could change startup investing forever.

#InnovateOrEvaporate #VentureStaking #StartupInvesting #FinancialInclusion #GerryHays #Doriot #VentureCapital #Entrepreneurship #QAI #DoriotUniversity #Crowdfunding #StartupFunding #AngelInvesting #DisruptVC #FutureOfFinance

Power of the Pack: Shelley Zalis of The Female Quotient

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 15:10:00 -0000

In this conversation, Shelly Zalis, CEO and founder of The Female Quotient, shares her journey of building a global community and the importance of collective action in empowerment in the workplace. She discusses the challenges of leadership, the significance of emotional intelligence, and the need for cultural belonging in organizations. Shelly emphasizes the importance of education, kindness, and the power of collaboration in creating change. The conversation highlights the necessity of challenging the status quo and the role of women in shaping the future of leadership and innovation.

Sound bites

"Power the pack."

"No risk, no regret."

"Confidence is beautiful."

Takeaways

The Female Quotient started as a passion project, evolving into a global movement.
Collective action among women can create significant change in the workplace.
Empowerment should come from within, not from external validation.
The importance of collaboration over competition in achieving success.
Cultural belonging is essential for a thriving workplace environment.
Education should include life lessons and kindness as core values.
Women in leadership roles can inspire future generations.
Emotional intelligence is a critical skill in leadership.
Challenging the status quo is necessary for progress.
Creating opportunities for women can lead to a more equitable society.

Keywords

women empowerment, leadership, community, collective action, gender equality, innovation, workplace culture, emotional intelligence, education, global perspectives

Africa, Strategy, and Startups: Former Ambassador Reuben Brigety II on Launching Busara Advisors

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 15:36:00 -0000

Reuben Brigety II — former U.S. Ambassador to South Africa — joins Toph Day for a powerful conversation on leadership, diplomacy, and building in the global arena. From commanding missions abroad to launching Busara Advisors, Inc. with a Series A out of the gate, Brigety is redefining what commercial diplomacy looks like in the 21st century. They dig into why Africa — a $3 trillion economy poised to house 25% of humanity by 2050 — is the growth story every global business leader should be paying attention to. Reuben also shares lessons from war zones, ambassadorial pressure, and the strategic mindset that led him to create a firm purpose-built to help Fortune 100s and African enterprises alike go further, faster. Takeaways

Africa is the Growth Story — By 2050, Africa will house 25% of the world’s population. It’s a $3T economy today and scaling fast — U.S. companies can’t afford to sit this out.
Commercial Diplomacy Is the Future — With Busara Advisors, Inc., Brigety is bringing geopolitical strategy, local insight, and executional muscle to companies navigating African markets.
Built Like a Startup — Unlike legacy advisory firms, Busara launched as a C-corp, raised a Series A in 10 weeks, and built a 14-person team across Atlanta, D.C., and five African capitals — all within months.
Diplomatic Mindset, Founder Focus — From representing the U.S. abroad to solving complex business problems, Brigety shows how leadership and innovation are deeply linked.
Do It With Integrity — “Grow jobs, add value, spread dignity” isn’t a slogan — it’s Busara’s internal compass. Purpose and profitability don’t have to be opposites. Keywords #AfricaBusiness #GlobalStrategy #CommercialDiplomacy #Innovation #Leadership #Startups #ForeignPolicy #Geopolitics #Entrepreneurship #BusaraAdvisors #EconomicGrowth #EmergingMarkets #ImpactBusiness #Diplomacy #UAE #Fortune100 #InvestInAfrica #InnovateOrEvaporate

From Wall Street to Watering Systems: Jeanna Q. Liu on Building Cowbell Plant Co.

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 15:45:00 -0000

Jeanna Q. Liu didn’t just leave Wall Street — she reinvented what it means to grow something from the ground up. As founder and CEO of Cowbell Plant Co., Jeanna turned her background in global investment banking into a playbook for sustainable, capital-efficient entrepreneurship.

In this episode of Innovate or Evaporate, we talk about:

How she scaled a physical product from prototype to thousands of units — with zero outside funding
The myths of the venture-backed model (and why most companies should skip it entirely)
The emotional science of houseplants, and why her tech is quietly creating better lives at home

Takeaways

Most startups misunderstand the real math of venture capital — and over-raise too soon.
Great consumer products often come from personal pain points, not flashy tech.
Distribution — not perfection — is the true goal.

The Cowbell story proves hardware isn’t dead. It’s just underserved.

Plants are the new pets. And we’re only beginning to understand the emotional impact of biophilic design.

Keywords

#JeannaQLiu #CowbellPlantCo #InnovateOrEvaporate #VentureCapital #Bootstrapped #HardwareStartups #BiophilicDesign #PlantCare #SustainableLiving #StartupJourney #ProductDevelopment #FemaleFounder #MergersAndAcquisitions #DistributionStrategy #DTC #Entrepreneurship #StartupGrowth #ElevateVentures #TophDay #SelfWateringTech

Sole Purpose: From Street Kid to Global CEO

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 10:00:00 -0000

Manny Ohonme’s first pair of shoes changed his life—and he’s been on a mission ever since. In this unforgettable episode, Manny shares how a single act of kindness sparked a global movement that’s now put shoes on over 12 million feet across 113 countries. As founder of Samaritan’s Feet and CEO of World Shoe, Manny fuses nonprofit grit with scalable innovation. Toph and Manny dive deep into the staggering health consequences of being shoeless, the power of servant leadership, and how Manny’s next mission—training thousands of shoe entrepreneurs—is poised to uplift entire economies. From street kid in Lagos to global social entrepreneur, Manny’s story is proof that the power of one can ripple across the world.

Takeaways

One act can change everything: A single pair of shoes gifted to Manny at age 9 inspired a global mission that’s now reached over 12 million people.

Scaling impact through innovation: Manny’s pivot from nonprofit to manufacturing with World Shoe shows how business models can fuel massive social change.

Local manufacturing, global reach: With a factory in Ghana producing 5 million shoes annually, Manny is proving that Africa can be a hub of global innovation.

Entrepreneurship as empowerment: Manny is raising $1M to launch 100 shoe entrepreneurs—building a new economy from the ground up.

A model of servant leadership: The act of foot washing isn’t just symbolic—it’s central to how Manny connects dignity with delivery.

Vision meets execution: What started as a goal to give away 10 million shoes is now a blueprint to reach 600 million—and beyond.

Keywords

#InnovateOrEvaporate #TophDay #PodcastDrop #NewEpisode #MannyOhonme #SamaritansFeet #WorldShoe #SolePurpose #ImpactEntrepreneur #ServantLeadership #SocialImpact #GlobalHealth #AfricaRising #MadeInAfrica #BusinessForGood #ZeroShoelessPeople #ScaleImpact #ShoesThatChangeLives #PhilanthropyToProfit #FootwearInnovation #EntrepreneurshipInAfrica #NonprofitLeadership

From Saxophones to Sweetwater: Chuck Surack’s Billion-Dollar Tune

Thu, 29 May 2025 17:47:00 -0000

Before Sweetwater became a billion-dollar brand, it was a one-man recording studio in the back of a VW bus. In this episode, Toph sits down with founder Chuck Surack to explore the relentless, often surprising journey behind one of the most trusted names in music retail. From programming early CRM systems to flying across the country to deliver sounds to Stevie Wonder, Chuck shares timeless lessons in customer obsession, quiet leadership, and doing the right thing — always. Whether you're scaling a startup or reinventing your legacy, this is an episode you’ll play on repeat. Takeaways

Build trust by doing what doesn’t scale. Chuck’s philosophy: test every guitar, warranty everything, and treat the customer like family. It’s old-school — and it works.
Empower every employee to act. At Sweetwater, even the front desk has the green light to replace a keyboard. That’s how you build a culture of ownership.
Crisis? What crisis? In 2008, Chuck told his team, “We’re not participating in this recession.” They doubled down while competitors froze — and came out stronger.
Legacy lives at home. From free music lessons for underserved kids to reshaping Fort Wayne’s economy, Chuck’s impact is rooted in local investment.

Innovation starts with listening. Whether it’s to your gut, your customers, or your community — the best business ideas don’t shout. They whisper.

Navigating the Age of AI: Tia White’s Journey to AI Leadership

Wed, 14 May 2025 10:00:00 -0000

At RALLY Innovation Conference, Toph sat down with Tia White, a trailblazing AI and machine learning executive whose journey from a small-town upbringing to the forefront of tech innovation is nothing short of inspiring. Tia shares her story of breaking barriers, her self-taught skills in Python, and her rise to leadership roles at Capital One and beyond. In this episode, they explore the disruptive power of AI, the future of software development, and the importance of diversity and inclusion in technology. Tia also emphasizes the need for responsible AI practices and her vision for empowering the next generation through STEAM education. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, tech enthusiast, or just curious about AI’s potential, this conversation is packed with insights and inspiration.

Takeaways

Tia White emphasizes that AI is accessible to everyone, not just the elite.
Overcoming adversity can foster resilience and determination.
Education can pivot career paths in unexpected ways.
A human-centered approach is essential in product development.
AI tools are already disrupting traditional developer roles.
Embracing AI is crucial for staying relevant in the workforce.
AI can enhance customer experiences and operational efficiency.
Leaders must adapt to AI or risk being left behind.
Responsible use of AI is vital to prevent societal issues.
Diversity in tech is necessary to combat bias in AI systems.

Sound Bites

"It's not for the elitist."
"I think there's a place for everyone."
"It's great for the customer."
"We have to use it responsibly."

Keywords

AI, machine learning, career development, technology, innovation, education, diversity, responsible AI, Tia White, overcoming adversity

The Future of Sports Broadcasting: Zora Stephenson of NBC Sports

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 10:00:00 -0000

From college hoops to calling the Olympics, Zora Stephenson’s path to NBC Sports is a story of bold moves, relentless preparation, and authentic connection. In this conversation, Zora shares what it takes to thrive in today’s fast-changing media world and why humanizing athletes is the real future of sports storytelling.

Takeaways

Zora's experience at the Olympics showcased the emotional connection of live sports.
The sports industry is evolving with the rise of women's sports and increased attendance.
Live events provide a unique experience that cannot be replicated through screens.
The future of sports broadcasting will continue to focus on live experiences and audience engagement.

Keywords

innovation, sports, broadcasting, play-by-play, Olympics, Zora Stevenson, women's sports, authenticity, storytelling, media

BONUS EPISODE - From Super Bowl to Social Impact: Tarik Glenn’s Playbook for Purpose

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 10:01:00 -0000

In this bonus episode, Toph Day interviews Tarek Glenn, a Super Bowl champion and co-founder of Dream Alive. They discuss the broader concept of innovation beyond technology, emphasizing the importance of mindset and personal experiences. Tarek shares insights on how he innovated in sports training, the evolution of technology in athletics, and his transition from football to philanthropy. The discussion highlights the significance of experiential learning and mentorship in empowering the next generation, as well as the role of community engagement in fostering opportunities for youth.

Takeaways

● Innovation is not limited to technology; it encompasses various fields.

● A unique mindset and personal experiences drive innovation.

● Cross-training can provide athletes with a competitive edge.

● Specialization in sports may hinder overall development.

● Technology has evolved significantly in sports, impacting performance.

● Hydration and core health are foundational to athletic success.

● Philanthropy and community engagement are vital for athletes post-career.

● Experiential learning exposes youth to real-world opportunities.

● Mentorship can transform young people's perspectives on their futures.

● Giving back fosters a sense of dignity and empowerment. Stories and experiences break down societal paradigms.

● Access to educational institutions can feel distant for many.

● Scaling impact requires careful consideration of growth strategies.

● Technology can enhance accessibility in education.

● Building community ecosystems is essential for success.

● Intentional connections can leverage relationships for greater impact.

● Athletes need education on investment opportunities.

● Understanding one's value is crucial for athletes.

● Failure is a necessary part of the learning process.

● Asking the right questions can lead to innovation.

Sound Bites

● "Stories break down paradigms."

● "It's about the interconnected ecosystem."

● "Failure is a part of the process."

Keywords

innovation, sports, technology, mentorship, philanthropy, Dream Alive, youth empowerment, experiential learning, athlete mindset, community impact, stories, paradigms, Dream Alive, community, athletes, investment, education, growth, failure, innovation

Super Bowl Champion to Entrepreneur: Gary Brackett’s Blueprint for Reinvention

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 10:00:00 -0000

In this conversation, Tooh Day interviews Gary Brackett, a former NFL player and entrepreneur, discussing his journey from being undrafted to becoming a Super Bowl champion. They explore themes of personal growth, the importance of failure, the evolution of sports technology, and the challenges of navigating the NIL landscape in college sports. Brackett shares insights on entrepreneurship, the significance of grit and perseverance, and how he defines success beyond financial metrics.

Sound Bites

● "Success is not just money."

● "You have to kill your ego."

● "Run your own race."

● "The way to get more is to do less."

● "Stop trying to time the market."

Takeaways

● Failure is a stepping stone to success.

● Success is defined by personal fulfillment, not just money.

● Grit and perseverance are essential for personal growth.

● The importance of finding a supportive community.

● Technology has transformed the sports industry significantly.

● NIL has created both opportunities and challenges in college sports.

● Self-reflection is crucial for personal and professional development.

● Managing success by calendar prioritizes time with family.

● Ego can hinder personal and professional growth.

● High-margin businesses allow for more flexibility in decision-making. I seek my happiness by eliminating my desires rather than satisfying them.

● You can't be a four or five, six as a leader and a seven, eight, nine as a team.

● Vulnerability is just, again, like, die into your ego.

● The way to get more is to do less.

● Stop trying to time the market.

● What I leave for my kids than what I leave in them.

● You don't get help because you're weak, you get help because you want to remain strong.

● Fall down seven times, stand up eight.

● There's going to be a point in time where we're probably going to make a mistake.

● You never knew you could love so deep.

Keywords

Gary Brackett, NFL, entrepreneurship, sports technology, personal growth, failure, NIL, grit, perseverance, innovation, happiness, desires, leadership, personal growth, vulnerability, innovation, legacy, self-reflection, overcoming obstacles, mindset

Markets, Media, and the Human Side of Finance: Jill Malandrino, NASDAQ Reporter

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 10:00:00 -0000

In this episode, Jill Malandrino, host of Nasdaq’s TradeTalks, shares her journey from the trading floor to the forefront of financial media. Recorded on the expo hall floor of the 2024 RALLY Innovation Conference, Jill opens up about the evolution of the markets, the rise of retail investors, and how technology and storytelling are reshaping how we understand finance. She reflects on the early days of covering fintech, the value of diverse perspectives in media, and the importance of showing up with curiosity and empathy in an increasingly complex world. Whether you’re an investor, an entrepreneur, or simply someone trying to make sense of today’s economic headlines, this episode offers powerful insights from someone who’s been reporting at the intersection of innovation and capital markets for over two decades.

Takeaways

Financial media must evolve to meet new generations of investors.
Curiosity is key to navigating complex, fast-moving industries.
Technology has changed the speed and tone of market reporting.
Retail investors are more influential than ever before.
Authenticity and storytelling are powerful tools in finance.
Diversity in financial media leads to more nuanced reporting.
Nasdaq is more than a stock exchange—it’s a platform for innovation.
Entrepreneurs must understand capital markets to scale effectively.
Building trust is essential in both media and finance.

Keywords

Jill Malandrino, Nasdaq, TradeTalks, financial media, innovation, fintech, stock market, retail investors, capital markets, entrepreneurship, storytelling, women in finance

The Age of Influencers: Brooke Wyatt & Logan Watkins on Building a Brand in a 24/7 World

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 13:48:00 -0000

In this episode, Brooke Wyatt shares her journey from a small-town upbringing to becoming a social media powerhouse in New York City. Joined by her agent, Logan Watkins, Brooke opens up about the evolving landscape of influencer marketing and how she transitioned into influencing. They explore the importance of authenticity, the strategies brands should consider when working with influencers, and the need for influencers to provide value to their audience. Brooke also discusses the mental health toll of constant engagement, the significance of vulnerability in content creation, and how she’s learned to balance success with staying true to herself. This conversation is a masterclass in adapting to a fast-changing media landscape and building a career on your own terms.

Takeaways

Influencers are reshaping marketing dynamics, rivaling traditional celebrities.
Brooke's journey into influencing was organic and passion-driven.
Engagement metrics are crucial for brands when selecting influencers.
Authenticity and relatability are key to successful content creation.
Influencers must balance brand partnerships with personal authenticity.
The influencer landscape is evolving with platforms like TikTok and Instagram.
Vulnerability in content helps build stronger connections with audiences.
Brands should focus on understanding their target consumers before engaging influencers.
Content should provide value, whether through education or entertainment.
The future of influencer marketing may require diversifying income streams.

Keywords

Brooke Wyatt, influencers, marketing, social media, authenticity, content creation, brand partnerships, consumer behavior, TikTok, Instagram, influencer management

Reinventing Tradition: IU President Pam Whitten on Vision and Transformative Leadership

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 09:00:00 -0000

In this conversation, President Pam Witten of Indiana University discusses her journey in higher education, her vision for IU 2030, and the importance of student success, research, and collaboration across disciplines. She highlights the recent success of IU's football program, her background in telemedicine, and the strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing the university's impact on the state of Indiana and beyond. The conversation explores the innovative strides being made at Indiana University, focusing on the university's growth, partnerships, and the impact of AI on education. The discussion highlights the importance of fostering an entrepreneurial spirit among students and the university's commitment to creating a supportive ecosystem for startups. Additionally, the conversation addresses the need for disruption in higher education to remain relevant and affordable for all students.

Takeaways

Pam Witten is the first female president of Indiana University.
The success of IU's football program is a result of strategic planning and investment.
Student success is the primary focus of IU's strategic plan.
Research funding at IU has increased by 28% in the last three years.
IU aims to be a leader in health outcomes and economic development in Indiana.
Collaboration between IU and IU Health enhances research and training opportunities.
The university is focusing on innovative areas like microelectronics and bio health sciences.
A new budget model is being implemented to foster collaboration and innovation.
The Faculty 100 initiative aims to hire faculty who cross disciplines.
Pam Witten emphasizes the importance of a pragmatic approach to strategic planning. People from all over the country want to come to IU.
We need to make Bloomington a wonderful place.
The Lilly Endowment provided a $60 million grant for development.
AI tools are changing how students learn and engage with education.
Students are already using AI tools in their learning processes.
The university is creating an ecosystem for student startups.
We need to make it easier for faculty to innovate.
The IU Innovates initiative is gaining traction with student participation.
There's a strong push for entrepreneurship among students.
The future of higher education requires disruption and adaptation.

Keywords

Pam Witten, Indiana University, higher education, telemedicine, student success, research and development, IU Health, innovation, college athletics, strategic planning, Indiana University, innovation, student entrepreneurship, AI in education, partnerships, higher education disruption

Innovating from Scarcity: David Stout, Founder of webAI

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 10:00:00 -0000

In this conversation, David Stout shares his journey from growing up on a cattle ranch in Michigan to becoming a successful entrepreneur in the AI and technology sector. He discusses the lessons learned from his upbringing, his educational path, and the challenges he faced while developing AI solutions. David emphasizes the importance of democratizing AI and the potential for disruptive innovation in the industry. He also provides insights into the current state of AI, its future, and offers advice for entrepreneurs looking to integrate AI into their businesses.

Takeaways

Growing up on a farm taught David the importance of innovation under scarcity.
David's early interest in machines led him to pursue engineering and AI.
He believes that taking on big challenges is marginally different from small ones.
The architecture developed at Web AI significantly reduced training time for models.
David faced numerous challenges, including minor coding errors that nearly derailed projects.
Web AI focuses on deploying AI in physical environments, unlike many cloud-based solutions.
The Midwest has a strong manufacturing base that supports AI applications.
David predicts a shift in the AI landscape as more companies adopt local solutions.
He emphasizes the importance of enterprise data for AI development.
David encourages entrepreneurs to actively explore AI integration in their businesses.

Sound Bites

"We need to democratize AI."
"AI is supported by the internet."
"Not moving is a decision."

Keywords

AI, technology, entrepreneurship, innovation, David Stout, Web AI, challenges, future of AI, machine learning, startups

From Virtual Tracks to Victory Laps: Jann Mardenborough’s Unconventional Racing Journey

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 10:00:00 -0000

In this engaging conversation, Jann Mardenborough joins us in the RALLY Innovation Conference expo hall to share his inspiring journey from a passionate gamer to a professional racing driver. He discusses the challenges he faced, the importance of mindset, and how he navigated the transition from virtual racing to real-world motorsports. Jan emphasizes the significance of perseverance, adaptation, and the lessons learned along the way, ultimately aiming to create opportunities for future talent in the racing industry.

Takeaways

Jann's journey from gaming to professional racing is unique.
Mindset plays a crucial role in achieving success.
Facing fears is essential when pursuing dreams.
The importance of networking in motorsports cannot be underestimated.
Adapting to new challenges is key to growth.
Life lessons from racing can be applied to everyday situations.
Jann aims to create opportunities for aspiring racers.
The evolution of technology impacts talent recruitment.
Hyper-focusing on a passion can lead to success.
Everything in life happens for a reason.

Sound Bites

"I never let that light go out."

Keywords

Jann Mardenborough, virtual racing, motorsports, gaming, perseverance, innovation, competition, life lessons, adaptation, career development

Curated Densification: Purdue University’s Blueprint for Innovation

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 11:00:00 -0000

In this episode of Innovate or Evaporate, Toph Day sits down with Mung Chiang, the 13th President of Purdue University and a renowned innovator in electrical and computer engineering. From his early days at Princeton University to leading Purdue’s charge as a global higher education and research leader, Mung shares his journey of fostering a culture of curiosity and innovation. They discuss Purdue’s ambitious initiatives, including the new urban campus in Indianapolis, the Hard Tech Corridor, and groundbreaking AI and semiconductor education programs. Discover how Purdue is shaping the future of global talent, tackling interdisciplinary challenges, and redefining what’s possible in academia and industry collaboration. Don’t miss this deep dive into how one of America’s leading universities is leading the charge in innovation.

Takeaways

● Mung Chiang became the youngest President of a top 50 American university at age 45.

● His academic journey includes degrees from Stanford and a professorship at Princeton.

● Chiang emphasizes the importance of innovation in universities.

● After founding multiple startups, he describes his experience as a 'recovering entrepreneur'.

● Purdue University has been ranked as one of the most innovative universities globally.

● The university focuses on the commercialization of technology and IP transfer.

● Chiang highlights the significance of partnerships with industry for economic development.

● Purdue is launching new interdisciplinary degree programs to meet modern demands.

● The semiconductor industry is crucial for national economic security.

● AI is transforming education and the job market, creating new opportunities. AI will enhance human creativity and productivity.

● Education must adapt to the age of AI.

● Purdue is committed to ethical AI education.

● Global campuses can expand Purdue's reach.

● Public policy is crucial for workforce development.

● Innovation is essential for university growth.

● Curiosity drives learning and discovery.

● Collaboration is key to success in education.

● Universities should foster intellectual debate.

● Evaporation of ideas is not an option for progress.

Sound Bites

● "You want to give the team some oxygen for mistakes."

● "It's about modernizing both the content and the pedagogy."

● "We are leading the country in semiconductor education."

● "We have to be better and faster than all the competitors."

● "Evaporation is not an option."

● "Innovate or evaporate, that's my choice."

Keywords

Purdue University, Meng Cheng, innovation, entrepreneurship, education, technology transfer, partnerships, semiconductors, AI, economic development, AI, data science, education, ethics, Purdue University, global reach, public policy, innovation, workforce development

Transforming Indiana: Governor Holcomb’s Legacy of Innovation

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 01:13:00 -0000

As the 51st Governor of Indiana, Eric Holcomb has redefined leadership through bold ideas and transformative actions. In this episode, Governor Holcomb reflects on his journey from Pike High School to the Statehouse, sharing insights on collaboration, resilience, and the policies that have positioned Indiana as the Innovation Capital of the World®. From record-breaking investments to fostering public-private partnerships, learn how his leadership shaped Indiana’s future—and what it took to lead with vision in a fast-changing world.

This episode is sponsored by RALLY, the global cross-sector innovation conference. Learn more, and register for early bird tickets at rallyinnovation.com

📺 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EvaporatePodcast

Takeaways

Governor Holcomb emphasizes the necessity of innovation in governance.
His upbringing instilled a strong work ethic and competitive spirit.
Military service shaped his perspective on duty and leadership.
Collaboration among stakeholders is crucial for effective policymaking.
A focus on long-term planning is essential for sustainable growth.
Indiana has made significant strides in technology and manufacturing.
Holcomb advocates for continuous improvement in education and workforce skills.
He believes in the importance of accountability in leadership.
The governor’s administration has prioritized public-private partnerships.
Holcomb’s journey reflects the value of seizing opportunities as they arise.

Quotes

“I always say, I’ll figure it out.”
“Good money follows good money.”
“We are truly a new Indiana.”
“Health is the problem I want to solve.”
“Don’t play by the perceived rules.”
“Be bold, not rhetorically.”

Swinging for the Future: Alex Rodriguez on Innovation and Leadership

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 01:05:00 -0000

From the baseball diamond to the boardroom, Alex Rodriguez has built an empire by embracing resilience and innovation. In this episode, A-Rod shares how lessons learned from his storied career shaped his approach to business, technology, and leadership. Discover his philosophy of adaptability, his “PhD in failing,” and the secrets behind his success as an entrepreneur and investor.

This episode was recorded at RALLY, the global cross-sector innovation conference. Learn more, and register for early bird tickets at rallyinnovation.com

📺 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EvaporatePodcast

Keywords

resilience, entrepreneurship, sports, business, innovation, Alex Rodriguez, Major League Baseball, investment, technology, real estate

Takeaways

Everyone’s going to fall on their face.
The importance of getting back up after failure.
Education and sports can open doors to opportunities.
Long-term vision is crucial for entrepreneurs.
Investing in relationships is key to business success.
The sports industry is evolving with technology.
Cross-sector opportunities are the future of business.
Resilience is a common trait among successful individuals.
Understanding the market is essential for entrepreneurs.
The ripple effect of early investments can be significant.

Sound Bites

“I have a PhD in failing.”
“One step back to take three forward.”
“Sports is the IP and the moat.”