Episodios

  • From Clinical Need to Market: How Medical Devices Are Built w/ Stuart Broyles of MDM2 - AZ TRT S07 EP06 (288) 3-29-2026

    From Clinical Need to Market: How Medical Devices Are Built w/ Stuart Broyles of MDM2 - AZ TRT S07 EP06 (288) 3-29-2026
    Apr 2 2026
    From Clinical Need to Market: How Medical Devices Are Built w/ Stuart Broyles of MDM2 - AZ TRT S07 EP06 (288) 3-29-2026 What We Learned This Week: Medical devices can take a decade to reach patients Bringing a medical device to market isn't quick. Phoenix is quietly becoming a major MedTech hub The Valley has a growing cluster of medical technology companies including: The biggest risk in medical innovation is building something doctors don't need One of the most common failures in MedTech is creating technology without validating the clinical problem first. Universities often invent the technology—but companies bring it to life Many medical device ideas originate in research labs. The future of healthcare innovation depends on collaboration Successful medical device innovation requires an ecosystem Guest: Stuart Broyles, PhD LKIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stuart-broyles-phd/ Stuart builds connections that move ideas forward—from university research to real-world MedTech solutions. He was at WL Gore & Assoc. for nearly 3 decades working in MedTech at various levels and helped bring 13 devices to market. Also includes, university advisory roles, early-stage venture coaching, and innovation ecosystem development. Organization: MDM2 (Medical Device Manufacturing Multiplier) Summary: Medical devices can take a decade to reach patients Bringing a medical device to market isn't quick. While some devices can launch in six months to a year, many take five to ten years once clinical trials and regulatory approvals are involved. That's why early testing and feedback are critical. Phoenix is quietly becoming a major MedTech hub The Valley has a growing cluster of medical technology companies including: · Medtronic · Abbott Laboratories · Dexcom · West Pharmaceutical Services Add in research from Arizona State University and University of Arizona and the region is building a strong bioscience ecosystem. The biggest risk in medical innovation is building something doctors don't need One of the most common failures in MedTech is creating technology without validating the clinical problem first. Organizations like MDM2 (Medical Device Manufacturing Multiplier) are working to connect startups directly with clinicians early in the process so companies can refine their products before investing millions. Universities often invent the technology—but companies bring it to life Many medical device ideas originate in research labs. Universities typically own the patents and license the technology to startups or companies that can develop and commercialize the product. Programs like the ASU Skysong Innovation Center and Tech Launch Arizona help bridge the gap between research and business. The future of healthcare innovation depends on collaboration Successful medical device innovation requires an ecosystem: • clinicians who identify real problems • engineers who build solutions • investors who fund development • manufacturers who scale production Arizona is building that ecosystem through groups like MDM2 (Medical Device Manufacturing Multiplier) and the Phoenix Bioscience Core. Podcast Show Notes Guest: Stuart Broyles, PhD LKIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stuart-broyles-phd/ Stuart builds connections that move ideas forward—from university research to real-world MedTech solutions. He was at WL Gore & Assoc. for nearly 3 decades working in MedTech at various levels and helped bring 13 devices to market. Also includes, university advisory roles, early-stage venture coaching, and innovation ecosystem development. Organization: MDM2 (Medical Device Manufacturing Multiplier) Episode Topic: How Medical Devices Move from Clinical Need to Market Interview recorded: March 2026 Segment 1 – The Medical Device Industry What Are Medical Devices? Medical devices include a wide range of technologies used to diagnose, monitor, or treat patients. Common examples include: · Coronary stents used to treat blocked arteries in the heart · Artificial limbs and prosthetics · Implantable devices used in cardiology · Monitoring technologies such as glucose sensors A well-known example is the glucose monitoring technology produced by Dexcom, which operates in the Mesa, Arizona area. Medical devices also include technologies used to treat circulation issues in arms and legs, along with remote monitoring tools used in modern healthcare. History of the Industry Medical devices began emerging in the 1950s, but the real acceleration occurred between the late 1970s and the 1980s. This era introduced breakthroughs such as: · Coronary stents · Artificial hearts · Prosthetic limbs Over time, the technologies have become: · safer ·...
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    45 m
  • Designing Disruption: Electric Motor Bikes for Your Lifestyle w/ Tim Seward of Onyx Motors - AZ TRT S07 EP05 (287) 3-15-2026

    Designing Disruption: Electric Motor Bikes for Your Lifestyle w/ Tim Seward of Onyx Motors - AZ TRT S07 EP05 (287) 3-15-2026
    Mar 19 2026
    Designing Disruption: Electric Motor Bikes for Your Lifestyle w/ Tim Seward of Onyx Motors - AZ TRT S07 EP05 (287) 3-15-2026 Things We Learned This Week Friction Creates Opportunity - Tim's parking problem in San Francisco sparked the entire company. Build the Prototype First - Instead of over-pitching, he built it, rode it, and let the market validate it. Disruption Requires Bold Engineering - If you want to be different, you must push boundaries — not make marginal upgrades. DIY Communities Are Innovation Labs - Study enthusiasts for insight — but build for the everyday consumer. Lifestyle Brands Sell Identity, Not Function - You don't market the commute. You market the freedom. Timothy Seward https://timothykevinseward.com/ Tim Seward is dynamic design visionary. A lifelong tinkerer and moped enthusiast, he began experimenting with electric conversions in 2012, transforming gas mopeds into sleek, powerful prototypes. With a background in industrial design, his portfolio includes work for mobility innovators Bird, Scoot, UBCO and FREEBORD and consumer lifestyle brands with Sonos, Google, Nike, Samsung, LG, HP and Intel viewable at timothykevinseward.com and his current roles as the founder and chief design officer of ONYX Motors. In 2017, Tim launched ONYX through a breakout Indiegogo campaign, introducing the RCR—bike that redefined the category with their raw performance and timeless design. He's redefining what electric mobility feels like through design, nostalgia, and emotion. Today, he leads the design of every ONYX bike, blending cyberpunk grit with California swagger. His vision is clear: create machines that are not just modes of transport, but vehicles of self-expression and rebellion. Under his guidance, ONYX continues to push the boundaries of electric two-wheeled design, giving riders around the world the freedom to unleash their restless alter ego. He is a frequent speaker and podcast guest on design and transformation. 🎙 Podcast Notes Tim Seward – Founder & Chief Designer of ONYX Motorbikes Segment 1 – The Product & The Vision Company Overview · ONYX is an electric motorbike company based in Los Angeles. · Small but focused team (15 employees). · Tim Seward is the owner and chief designer. · Positioned as both a product company and a lifestyle brand. The Bike · Flagship models: RCR (RCRA Vault) and ADV. · High-speed electric motorbikes inspired by vintage gas-powered mopeds. · Can travel up to 80 miles per day. · Speeds reach 50–60 mph. · Battery-powered, quiet, no gas required. · Syncs with phone and headset while riding. Primary Use Cases · Daily commuting · Weekend fun and excursions · RV or camping "satellite vehicle" · Light business use · Easy parking and navigating traffic Market Presence · Ships nationwide across the U.S., including Puerto Rico, Hawaii, and Alaska. · One of the largest markets: New York City. · Expansion plans: Canada, then the EU. Origin Story Tim got the idea while living in San Francisco, where parking was nearly impossible. Even motorcycles were cumbersome in dense cities. A smaller electric motorbike could: · Park on sidewalks or near bike racks · Navigate crowded urban areas easily · Remove the friction of city commuting Segment 2 – From Corporate Designer to Entrepreneur Corporate Background Tim previously worked at LG Electronics in product development and industrial design in the U.S. Projects included: · Smart appliances (early AI-connected products circa 2015) · TVs for hotels (mass production) · Connected devices · Early smart-home integrations Inspiration While visiting the Nike design studio, he began thinking about rideshare bikes and electric mobility. He initially pitched a bike rideshare concept to LG — it was turned down. LG focused on mass production, not lifestyle brand creation. So instead of pitching the electric motorbike idea, Tim: · Built a prototype · Rode it to work · Generated organic interest (people constantly asked where to buy it) Funding Journey · Met an investor (deal fell through) · Launched an Indiegogo campaign · Officially launched ONYX in 2017 · Raised nearly $1 million That's when it shifted from idea to full business. Key Philosophy To be disruptive: · You must push boundaries — not just improve something incrementally. · Study ...
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    34 m
  • Aging in Place: Safety, Technology, & Dignity w/ Drew Siefried of TruBlue Ally - AZ TRT S07 EP04 (286) 3-1-2026

    Aging in Place: Safety, Technology, & Dignity w/ Drew Siefried of TruBlue Ally - AZ TRT S07 EP04 (286) 3-1-2026
    Mar 6 2026
    Aging in Place: Safety, Technology, & Dignity w/ Drew Siefried of TruBlue Ally - AZ TRT S07 EP04 (286) 3-1-2026 Things We Learned This Week · America is aging rapidly - By 2030, 1 in 5 Americans will be over 65. · Most seniors want to stay in their homes - More than 80% of older adults prefer aging in place rather than moving to assisted living. · Technology is transforming senior safety - Non-intrusive monitoring systems can detect falls and alert families without cameras or wearables. · One fall can change everything - Falls are one of the leading causes of injury and loss of independence among seniors. · Prevention is far cheaper than crisis care - Simple home safety upgrades can prevent accidents and help seniors maintain independence longer. Guest: Drew Seifried LKIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drewseifried/ Company: TruBlue Home Service Ally Website: https://www.trublueally.com/east-phoenix-north-scottsdale With over 25 years of combined corporate and entrepreneurial experience, I currently own and operate TruBlue Home Service Ally, where we support seniors and busy families with home modifications and handyman services. In this role, we prioritize safety, reliability, and exceptional service, ensuring all personnel meet high professional standards. As a Certified Franchise Executive, I also guide aspiring entrepreneurs, including corporate professionals, first responders, and military veterans, toward business ownership through franchising. Leveraging expertise in franchise agreements and processes, I simplify the path to ownership, aligning opportunities with individual goals. My mission is to empower others to achieve their aspirations through purpose-driven ventures. TruBlue Home Service Ally® provides a unique and affordable approach to helping busy adults and seniors live a worry-free life by offering trustworthy handyman, home maintenance and senior modification services. Helping you maintain your home both inside and out, TruBlue's services include: handyman projects and to-do list chores, preventative home maintenance programs, seasonal work, and senior modification services, all handled by a professional, bonded and insured Tru-Pro® Technician. Episode Overview America is entering a major demographic shift. By 2030, 1 in 5 Americans will be over the age of 65, creating what many experts call the "Silver Tsunami." Families across the country will face new challenges as aging parents want to maintain independence while staying safe at home. But aging at home safely requires planning. In this episode, we sit down with Drew Seifried of TruBlue Home Service Ally to discuss how home safety modifications, emerging Age Tech, and non-intrusive monitoring technologies are helping seniors stay independent longer — while providing peace of mind for their families. We also explore the unique needs of veterans and individuals with disabilities, and how communities and organizations can better support them. Segment 1: Aging in Place & The Silver Tsunami Drew Seifried owns three territories with TruBlue, a national franchise focused on helping people safely remain in their homes. The company works primarily with: · Seniors and aging adults · People with disabilities · Veterans · Adult children caring for aging parents Their mission is simple: help people live independently and safely at home. The Growing Senior Population America is rapidly aging. Key statistics: · 61 million Americans are age 65+ · By 2030, about 20% of the population will be seniors · Phoenix and other Sun Belt cities are seeing rapid senior population growth as retirees relocate This demographic shift will place new pressure on: · Healthcare systems · Caregiver workforce · Family members caring for aging parents The Hidden Risk: Falls in the Home One of the biggest threats to senior independence is falling. Key statistics: · 1 in 4 adults age 65+ falls each year · Falls cause over 3 million emergency room visits annually · More than 300,000 seniors are hospitalized each year for hip fractures · Over 50% of falls occur inside the home In many cases, one fall can change everything. A serious fall can lead to: · Hospitalization · Loss of mobility · Long-term disability · Moving into assisted living The Most Dangerous Areas in a Home According to home safety experts, the highest risk areas include: · Bathrooms (tubs and showers) · Entryways and stairs · Poor lighting · Cluttered hallways or walkways ...
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    40 m
  • Reinventing Retirement: The Future of the 401(k) w/ Ted Benna the Father of the 401k - AZ TRT S07 EP03 (285) 2-22-2026

    Reinventing Retirement: The Future of the 401(k) w/ Ted Benna the Father of the 401k - AZ TRT S07 EP03 (285) 2-22-2026
    Feb 19 2026
    Reinventing Retirement: The Future of the 401(k) w/ Ted Benna the Father of the 401k - AZ TRT S07 EP03 (285) 2-22-2026 Things We Learned This Week · The 401(k) Was Almost an Accident - A small 1978 tax provision turned into one of the most important financial innovations in modern history. · Regulation Built the Framework - The original law was only two pages. The real structure came later through Treasury rules and regulatory oversight. · Many Americans Still Aren't Financially Prepared - Nearly half the population lacks meaningful emergency savings — even with access to retirement plans. · Incentives Change Behavior - The Radish Plan ties savings to performance metrics, gamifies engagement, and may improve participation and retention. · Retirement Isn't Just About Growth — It's About Income - As you approach retirement, risk management and guaranteed income strategies become more important than aggressive growth. Guests: Ted Benna, Benna 401K http://benna401k.com Ted Benna, Father of the 401K, has worked in pension and retirement benefits industry for 60 years, and literally wrote the book on the 401K. He was a pioneer in the early 80s in designing the early 401K Plans, and then getting them approved by the IRS to be the model still used today. Books: 401K Forty Years Later (2018) – history of the 401K 401K & IRA for Dummies Updated Version (2021) https://radishplan.com/ An incentive-based model designed to help businesses retain top talent, increase profitability, and provide real financial security for employees. Notes Guest: Ted Benna – Father of the 401(k) Topic: The Past, Present & Future of Retirement Savings Segment One: The Birth of the 401(k) The Accidental Revolution (1978–1980) · In 1978, a small two-page provision was added to the IRS tax code. · It allowed employees to defer compensation and receive tax advantages. · By 1980, Ted Benna helped launch the first 401(k) plan. · Designed for private companies (401k). · Government employees received the 457. · Nonprofits and schools had 403(b). · Individuals had IRAs. How It Changed America · Employees contribute directly from paychecks. · Employers can match contributions. · Pre-tax deductions reduce taxable income. · Created a culture of saving. · Today: Over $15 trillion saved in 401(k) plans. Early Challenges · Legal ambiguity at first. · Treasury had to create detailed regulations. · Oversight from: o Department of Labor o Treasury o SEC · Subject to executive orders over the years. · New York Times coverage in early 80s accelerated adoption. · Ongoing class-action lawsuits and regulatory scrutiny. The Evolution Continues · Private equity now entering 401(k) investment menus. · Target-date funds continue to evolve. Segment Two: The Radish Plan – A New Model for 401(k)s The Problem Today · 20–60% of Americans cannot access funds when needed. · Nearly 50% have little to no emergency savings. · Traditional 401(k)s are complex, costly, and burdened by red tape. · Many small businesses avoid offering plans. Introducing the Radish Plan · Employer-funded 401(k) model. · Incentive-based contributions tied to KPIs. · Similar to profit-sharing — not a flat percentage. · Rewards employees for hitting performance metrics. Real-World Example · Trucking company model: o Custom incentives o Performance-based rewards o Visible progress tracked via mobile app · Gamified experience increases engagement. Why "Radish"? · The radish is one of the fastest-growing vegetables. · Long roots = deep savings foundation. · Visible incentives = motivation. Benefits to Employers · Helps recruit and retain employees.
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    43 m
  • Solving the Worlds Problems through Design w/ Celeste Wilson of Form180 - AZ TRT S07 EP02 (285) 2-8-2026

    Solving the Worlds Problems through Design w/ Celeste Wilson of Form180 - AZ TRT S07 EP02 (285) 2-8-2026
    Feb 12 2026
    AZ TRT 2.0 - Solving the Worlds Problems through Design w/ Celeste Wilson of Form180 - AZ TRT S07 EP02 (285) 2-8-2026 Things We Learned This Week · People Are Remodeling Instead of Moving With rising home and land prices, homeowners are choosing to invest in their current homes—upgrading, expanding, and modernizing rather than starting over somewhere new. · Home Offices Are Now Permanent—and Must Be Designed Intentionally The best home offices allow for mental separation from work, often through physical barriers, visual breaks, or designing the space to flex back into daily living when the workday ends. · Wellness Is Driving Modern Home Design From smart lighting and steam showers to home gyms and better airflow, wellness is no longer a "nice to have"—it's a core design principle. · Lighting Directly Affects How a Home Feels Natural light, smart lighting systems, skylights, and color temperature all impact mood, energy, and subconscious comfort. Good lighting can completely transform older homes. · Great Design Starts With How People Actually Live Understanding family habits, entertaining style, pets, physical needs, and daily routines allows designers to create homes that feel peaceful, functional, and truly lived-in—not just beautiful. Guest: Celeste Wilson - Founder | Principal Designer FORM180.com FORM180 is a full-service boutique architectural interior design firm located in sunny Arizona. Striking the balance between meticulous detail and welcoming allure, every project is a curation of precision and unparalleled craftsmanship. From initial concept to completion, we specialize in transforming spaces into experiences. Designing interiors that tell a story, empowering the minds that reside there. Our passion lies in crafting interiors that are not only stunning but deeply reflective of our clients' unique tastes and aspirations. Every detail, every finish, every handpicked piece is chosen to elevate and inspire. Notes: In this episode, we sit down with Celeste Wilson of Form 180 Design, a residential-focused architecture and interior design firm known for modern, desert contemporary remodels. We explore why homeowners are choosing to remodel instead of move, how wellness and technology are shaping today's homes, and how Celeste's background in commercial design informs her approach to transforming older residential spaces. Segment 1: Why Home Remodeling Is Booming Why people are staying put · Rising housing and land prices have slowed moving activity · Homeowners are choosing to invest in and enjoy their current homes and neighborhoods · Remodels and additions are often more cost-effective than buying new Reimagining older homes · Common projects include ranch-style homes being reframed from dated layouts into clean, modern designs · Focus on transforming older homes without losing their character Post-COVID lifestyle shifts · Home offices are now a permanent feature · Demand for flexible workspaces that can transition back into living space · Importance of separating work energy from home life o Physical or visual barriers o Thoughtful placement and flow Wellness-driven design · Growing interest in: o Home gyms o Steam showers o Wellness-focused layouts · Use of smart lighting and technology to enhance mood, circadian rhythm, and comfort ADUs & additions · Auxiliary Dwelling Units (ADUs) as: o Detached home offices o Guest houses or mother-in-law suites · Design considerations for privacy, access, and energy separation Kitchen remodel trends · Creating efficient kitchen work zones · Dedicated baking areas and improved storage · Butler's pantries to keep messes hidden and entertaining seamless Form 180 Design focus · Residential design first · Spec design, architectural design, and full-service interior design · Integrating technology with design to support wellness and livability Segment 2: Celeste Wilson's Design Philosophy & Background Professional background · Architectural design blended with interior design · 10 years in commercial design, including: o Abercrombie & Fitch (retail store layouts) o Restaurants such as The Melting Pot, Sushi Go, and North & Company · 15 years focused on luxury residential design Client-first design process · Starts with understanding the client's: o Family structure o Daily habits and lifestyle o Physical needs or limitations o...
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    30 m
  • Cybersecurity, Ransomware, + AI Usage Guardrails w/ Gary Perkins of CISO Global - AZ TRT S07 EP01 (284) 1-18-2026

    Cybersecurity, Ransomware, + AI Usage Guardrails w/ Gary Perkins of CISO Global - AZ TRT S07 EP01 (284) 1-18-2026
    Jan 22 2026
    Cybersecurity, Ransomware, + AI Usage Guardrails w/ Gary Perkins of CISO Global - AZ TRT S07 EP01 (284) 1-18-2026 What We Learned This Week: · Most cyber attacks are preventable Basic controls, training, and awareness can stop the majority of threats. · Humans are both the weakest link and the strongest defense Ongoing education and awareness turn employees into an effective "human firewall." · AI will amplify cyber risk — for both attackers and defenders Organizations must adopt AI defensively to keep pace with bad actors. · Reputation damage often outweighs financial loss Brand trust is hard to rebuild after a breach, even if customers don't immediately leave. · Cybersecurity is no longer optional or technical-only It's a business risk, a leadership issue, and a shared responsibility across the organization. Guest: Gary Perkins, Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) of CISO Global https://www.linkedin.com/in/perkinsgary/ Gary Perkins is the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) for cybersecurity firm CISO Global. Prior to that he was the CISO for the Government of British Columbia in Canada for 10 years -- responsible for providing cybersecurity services in support of the province and taught undergrad and graduate students at the University of Victoria for years. He has over 25 years' experience in information technology, risk management, and cybersecurity. Prior to joining the BC Government, he worked in the private sector as chief of staff for security at TELUS and, earlier in his career, led teams responsible for incident response, operations, delivery, and architecture for both corporate and managed security services customers. A Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) since 2004, Perkins also holds an MBA from Simon Fraser University's Management of Technology program. CISO Global Inc. (NASDAQ: CISO) operates as a cybersecurity, compliance, and software company in the United States, Chile, and internationally. The company offers security managed services, including compliance, secured managed, and cyber defense operation services; culture education and enablement; tools and technology provisioning; data, privacy, regulations, and compliance monitoring; remote infrastructure administration; and antivirus and patch management services. It also provides cybersecurity professional services, such as incident response and digital forensics; technical assessments; cybersecurity consulting; compliance auditing; vulnerability assessment and penetration testing; and disaster recovery and data backup solutions. The company was formerly known as Cerberus Cyber Sentinel Corporation and changed its name to CISO Global Inc. in May 2023. CISO Global Inc. was founded in 2015 and is headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona. Key leadership includes: Owner / CEO – David Jemmett https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-jemmett/ Website: https://www.ciso.inc/ Podcast Overview Guest: Gary Perkins Title/Role: Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) Show Theme: Cybersecurity & IT Key Topics: Cyber breaches, human risk, AI, ransomware, training, OSINT (Open Source Intelligence), security planning Organized Podcast Notes Segment 1: The Reality of Cyber Threats Today · Over the last several years, major corporations such as Target, Home Depot, and Wells Fargo have experienced high-profile cyber breaches. · No company is immune — size and brand do not provide protection. · Organizations must "find religion on security" and treat cybersecurity as a core business function. · A company's brand, trust, and reputation are always on the line after a breach. · The average cost of a cyber breach is often cited around $4.8 million. · Cyber insurance is now common, but insurers require proof that companies are actively managing security risks. · When a breach occurs, companies must notify customers and disclose what data was compromised. · Consumers are becoming desensitized to breach notifications; switching providers can feel too costly or inconvenient. · The good news: up to 80% of cyber threats are preventable with basic controls. · Most attacks are not sophisticated: o Simple phishing scams o Credential theft o Insider mistakes or manipulation · Companies need: o Internal security controls o Point solutions for cybersecurity o Regular employee alerts about phishing attempts · The human firewall is the most critical defense · Best practices include: o Multi-factor authentication (MFA) o Disconnected/offline backups to recover from ransomware · ...
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    51 m
  • Pickleball & the Growth of Sports Enterprises & Investment w/ Evan Floersch of the Texas Ranchers Pickleball Team - AZ TRT S06 EP21 (283) 11-23-2025

    Pickleball & the Growth of Sports Enterprises & Investment w/ Evan Floersch of the Texas Ranchers Pickleball Team - AZ TRT S06 EP21 (283) 11-23-2025
    Dec 23 2025
    Pickleball & the Growth of Sports Enterprises & Investment w/ Evan Floersch of the Texas Ranchers Pickleball Team - AZ TRT S06 EP21 (283) 11-23-2025 What We Learned This Week: 1. Pickleball is now fully professionalized with a unified league structure. The merger of PPA + MLP created a stable, closed league system with real team economics, structured seasons, and national distribution. 2. Media partnerships are accelerating the sport's visibility. Pickleball now has a dedicated channel, plus national TV exposure on CBS and Fox—putting it in the same conversation as traditional sports. 3. Austin is becoming a major sports & tech hub fueling this growth. With Meta, Apple, Oracle, UT Austin, F1, MLS, and huge tourism, Austin is the perfect environment for emerging sports franchises. 4. Sports franchises are now a serious investment class—not a vanity asset. Private equity has poured $30B into sports recently. Firms like Permian aim to operate teams professionally, build value, and own multiple franchises across leagues. 5. The big opportunity is not just the sport—it's the stadium & real estate ecosystem. Sports districts (like The Battery or Wrigleyville) generate tens of millions by combining sports, entertainment, dining, hotels, concerts, and tourism. Pickleball could follow this playbook. Guest: Evan Floersch– co owner Texas Ranchers Evan Floersch is on a mission to redefine sports, starting with the 2 billion dollar professional pickleball industry as an entrepreneur, investor, and champion of change leading with a dynamic and forward-thinking passion. As the founder and CEO of the premier Texas Ranchers Major League Pickleball Team, he is transforming the industry while positioning Austin as a major sports hub integrating his passion for the city's thriving cultural arts and future tech scene. In 2022, at just 26 years old, he made history as the youngest principal owner in sports by acquiring a controlling interest in the Texas Ranchers Major League Pickleball Team. Partnering with high-profile investors such as Lil Wayne, Scottie Scheffler, Kendra Scott, and NBA owner Dennis Wong, Evan is on a mission to turn the Ranchers into a global sports powerhouse. His long-term vision extends beyond pickleball—he has publicly committed the next phase of his career to elevating Austin, Texas, into one of the world's premier sports and entertainment markets. With its booming population, tech-driven economy, and untapped potential for championship-winning franchises, Evan sees Austin as the perfect city to build a lasting sports legacy. A former All-American soccer player at Emory University, Evan's passion for competition and strategy extends to the pickleball court, where he plays regularly to better understand the game's evolution. While he grew up surrounded by Chicago sports, his true inspiration comes from those who have built or guided industry-defining companies, with books like Shoe Dog, The Innovator's Dilemma, The War of Art, and Relentless shaping his perspective on leadership, risk-taking, and disruption. Evan is an avid pickleball player and enjoys the fun and competitive aspect of America's fastest growing sport. "Like great companies, a great sports organization isn't built by following the rules. It's built by questioning them, pushing past them, and creating something entirely new. The Texas Ranchers, and future sports franchises we helm in Texas, will win because we see beyond what sports are on the court or field." - Evan Floersch, Founder and CEO Texas Ranchers | Official Home of the Major League Pickleball Team Texas Ranchers: A New Era of Sports Ownership & Global Fan Engagement Who is the most valued high grossing sports franchise? I bet you didn't guess professional pickleball did you? With pickleball exploding into a $2 billion industry and viewership surpassing major professional leagues, the Texas Ranchers are at the forefront of this revolution. By leveraging their brand authority and expansive network, they are attracting exceptional opportunities, captivating fans worldwide, and redefining what it means to be part of a professional sports franchise. The Texas Ranchers Major League Pickleball Team is proving that ownership isn't just for high wealth individual ownership—it's a collective force driven by business leaders, entertainment icons, and sports enthusiasts. By bringing together a powerhouse network of investors—including Lil Wayne, Scottie Scheffler, Kendra Scott, and NBA owner Dennis Wong—the Ranchers are revolutionizing franchise ownership, making it more dynamic, engaging, and accessible. The Texas Ranchers aren't just the most followed franchise in Major League Pickleball—they're the highest-grossing and one of the most marketable brands in the sport. With top-tier talent, including men's and women's pro players like Christian Alshon ...
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    46 m
  • Startups from Funding to Community w/ Daniela Santagelo of Freeway - AZ TRT S06 EP20 (282) 10-19-2025

    Startups from Funding to Community w/ Daniela Santagelo of Freeway - AZ TRT S06 EP20 (282) 10-19-2025
    Oct 23 2025
    Startups from Funding to Community w/ Daniela Santagelo of Freeway - AZ TRT S06 EP15 (277) 10-19-2025 What We Learned This Week: Freeway - Helping Startups - Talent • Capital • CommunityTalent Retention & Reinvestment are key to building a FlywheelPhoenix Tech Ecosystem is growing, but not yet matureAlways need more VC Funding + Deal FlowGovernment Partnership as enabler for Tech Guest: Daniela Santagelo https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielaalpert/ I'm a founder, startup ecosystem builder, and civic innovation partner working at the intersection of tech, talent, and community. Through my work with Freeway Phx, I help cities, startups, and global partners co-create thriving innovation ecosystems, starting in Arizona and building bridges worldwide. I believe that opportunity doesn't just happen. It's designed. That's why I focus on activating communities, cultivating tech talent, and building connective infrastructure that turns vision into velocity. My journey spans founding multiple companies including scaling a venture-backed startup to $33M in funding and helping grow it to a $100M business. I've also spent 15 years in the Moving & Relocation industry, which gave me a unique lens on talent migration patterns and the infrastructure needed to build resilient, people-first startup communities. Like many founders, I've experienced both the highs of scaling and the lows of setback. That reinvention shaped my sharper mission: helping founders grow and give back. ⚡️ I lead Tech Talent Summits that connect employers, educators, and jobseekers🌍 I support global delegations and help founders expand across borders🧭 I advise founders on story, capital, and strategy with a human-first, results-driven approach Whether I'm building public-private partnerships, launching a new venture, or guiding a founder through their next chapter, I care about building with legacy, community, and courage. Let's co-create what's next! daniela@founderfreeway.com freewayphx.com We're your community partner in building a modern workforce Whether you're hiring, scaling, or making a career move, Freeway connects the dots that job boards and pipelines can't. Here are 5 main ideas learned from the podcast: 1. Phoenix's Tech Ecosystem Is Growing but Not Yet Mature Phoenix is showing strong momentum with new funding, company relocations, and sector growth (microchips, AI, defense, and health tech), but it hasn't reached critical mass compared to cities like Austin or Miami. The region still needs more deal flow, successful exits, and reinvestment from local founders to sustain long-term growth. 2. Talent Retention and Reinvestment Are Key to Building a Flywheel A major challenge is the "brain drain" — founders and investors leaving after exits. For Phoenix to thrive, successful entrepreneurs must stay, mentor others, and reinvest profits locally. This recycled success (the "flywheel effect") is essential for building a lasting innovation community. 3. Public-Private Partnerships Strengthen the Ecosystem Collaboration between government, universities, investors, and entrepreneurs (through groups like ACA, GPEC, and Southwest MAC) is crucial. While government can enable infrastructure, real progress happens when private founders lead and public institutions act as supporters or "feeders." 4. Culture and Community Matter as Much as Capital Brad Feld's "Startup Communities" framework highlights that strong ecosystems are entrepreneur-led, mentorship-driven, and collaborative. A culture of "give first" — where leaders help others without expecting immediate returns — builds trust and long-term strength within the community. 5. Phoenix Has a Clear Opportunity to Become a Major Tech Hub by 2030 With major investments (like Hadrian's $200M AI factory) and an influx of talent from higher-cost states, Phoenix is positioned for rapid growth. If local leaders stay committed to developing talent, attracting capital, and telling the city's tech story effectively, it can emerge as a leading innovation center in the next decade. Notes: Building a Thriving Tech Ecosystem in Phoenix Segment 1: The Phoenix Tech Landscape – Building a Community Key Theme Public and private partnerships are essential to growing a strong, sustainable tech ecosystem in Phoenix. The goal: build an environment that supports startups from funding to mentorship, attracts talent, and retains capital within Arizona. Current Ecosystem Overview · Silicon Valley (CA) and Silicon Slopes (UT) serve as models for how regional tech ecosystems can evolve. · Phoenix has growing momentum but lacks the critical mass seen in other markets. · Total deal volume: $435 million — promising, but still behind Austin, Miami, and California. · 2025 so far: 47 funding rounds, compared to 88 in 2024 and Miami's 241. Challenges ·...
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