Aly Madhavji

Bio

Aly Madhavji is the Managing Partner at Blockchain Founders Fund, a global early-stage VC firm supporting high-growth Web3 and blockchain startups. Named a “Blockchain 100” Global Leader by Lattice80, Aly advises organizations like the UN and INSEAD on emerging technologies and has served on boards including Soluna Holdings (NASDAQ: SLNH). He is also a published author and a Schwarzman Scholar.

Awards: Aly was named a “Blockchain 100” Global Leader by Lattice80

Summary

Aly Madhavji, an esteemed figure in the realm of blockchain technology, elucidates the transformative potential of this innovative paradigm for global financial systems. He emphasizes the critical distinction between genuine blockchain applications and the centralized tools that have, in the past, misled users and contributed to widespread disillusionment within the industry. Drawing from his own journey as a founder and investor, Madhavji articulates the necessity for entrepreneurs to embrace technological advancements that facilitate access to financial services for the unbanked populace. Through his insights, he not only advocates for a renewed consumer trust in blockchain but also envisions a future where decentralized solutions empower individuals and businesses alike. The discourse further ventures into the intersection of blockchain with emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, presenting a compelling narrative for the mainstream acceptance of these innovations.

Conversation

Aly Madhavji, a prominent figure in the blockchain and cryptocurrency arena, expresses a compelling narrative that intertwines his personal history with his professional journey. Born to refugees from Uganda, Aly's upbringing instilled in him a profound understanding of the limitations imposed by traditional financial systems. He recounts the pivotal moment when he encountered Bitcoin, which illuminated a path to financial independence, unencumbered by governmental manipulation or inflationary pressures. This ideological foundation catalyzed his subsequent ventures, leading to the establishment of a successful crypto exchange and the founding of Blockchain Founders Fund, where he now invests in transformative technologies aimed at democratizing access to financial services globally. Throughout the conversation, Aly elucidates the critical misconceptions surrounding blockchain technology, particularly the confusion between decentralized systems and centralized platforms that have failed investors in the past. He emphasizes the potential of blockchain to provide a robust and transparent infrastructure that can empower millions, particularly the unbanked population around the world. As he looks toward the future, Aly expresses optimism that the current cycle will witness a mainstream adoption of blockchain technology, fostering an environment where true innovation can flourish.

Takeaways

• The current cycle of blockchain technology holds the potential to genuinely go mainstream, overcoming past misconceptions and failures associated with centralized practices.
• Ali Madhavji's journey from humble beginnings to becoming a prominent figure in the blockchain space exemplifies the transformative power of technology in fostering financial independence and innovation.
• The emphasis on progress over time is essential for startups; achieving significant milestones swiftly can often outweigh the pursuit of perfection in execution.
• Establishing strong alignment within founding teams through regular meetings can prevent conflicts and miscommunication, which are common pitfalls in startup environments.
• Engaging with...

Peter Shankman

Bio

The New York Times has called Peter Shankman "a rockstar who knows everything about social media and then some." He is a 6x best selling author, entrepreneur and corporate keynote speaker, focusing on customer service and the new and emerging customer and neurodiverse economy. He is recognized worldwide for radically new ways of thinking about the customer experience, social media, PR, marketing, advertising, and ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.)

In addition to his passion for helping people and companies find success, some of Peter's highlights also include:

• Founder of HARO - Help A Reporter Out, which became the standard for thousands of journalists looking for sources prior to being acquired three years after launch

• Faster than Normal - The Internet's #1 podcast on ADHD, focusing on the superpowers and gifts of having a "faster than normal brain”

• The ShankMinds Breakthrough Network, which is an elite, online mastermind of thought leaders, business experts, and change makers

Finally, Peter is a father, a 2x ironman triathlete, a class B licensed skydiver, and an avid Peloton rider. He's based in NYC with his ten year old daughter and three year old dog, both of whom refuse him access to the couch.

Intro

Peter Shankman, today's distinguished guest, elucidates the transformative potential of perceived weaknesses in entrepreneurship. He asserts that one's greatest impediments can, in fact, be reimagined as formidable assets, a notion he exemplifies through his own experience with ADHD, which he regards as his entrepreneurial superpower. Shankman, renowned for founding Help a Reporter Out (HARO) and his current venture, Source of Sources, emphasizes the necessity of surrounding oneself with supportive individuals while candidly advocating for personal agency in shaping one's environment. In our conversation, we delve into his compelling philosophy that prioritizes service over self-interest, elucidating how such an approach can yield profound success in business. This episode serves as an invigorating exploration for those seeking fresh perspectives on entrepreneurship, particularly for those who feel marginalized or out of place in the conventional business milieu.

Conversation

Peter Shankman, an esteemed entrepreneur and the founder of Help a Reporter Out (Haro), discusses the transformative power of perceived weaknesses in the realm of entrepreneurship. Throughout the dialogue, Shankman illustrates how his ADHD, once labeled as a disadvantage, has become a potent asset in his professional journey. He shares profound insights on the importance of cultivating a supportive environment and the necessity of adapting one’s surroundings to foster personal growth. By emphasizing the adage, 'If you can't change the people around you, change the people around you,' Shankman advocates for a proactive approach to overcoming obstacles and achieving success. This theme resonates as he elaborates on his current venture, Source of Sources, which prioritizes genuine connections between journalists and sources, thereby revolutionizing the landscape of media relations.

In addition to personal anecdotes and professional endeavors, Shankman delves into the philosophy of service as the cornerstone of successful entrepreneurship. He posits that the underutilized phrase, 'How can I help you?' is pivotal in establishing meaningful relationships that drive mutual benefit. His commitment to helping others is evident in the structure of his business model, which places value on service before profit—a refreshing perspective in today’s profit-driven ecosystem. Shankman’s narrative serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs,...

Chris Markowski

Bio

Chris Markowski founded Markowski Investments in 1995, which is an SEC Registered Investment Advisory. Chris is a champion for the individual investor and an investor advocate. Chris hosts theWatchdog on Wall Street radio show which airs on about 150 stations (across the Radio America Network). He is a talented and engaging guest that your listeners will love as you explore timely news topics & headlines, financial issues, markets, and more. No one covers the relationship between Washington and Wall Street quite like Chris does! Chris has been a guest on Fox Business, Newsmax, Cheddar, and many more.

Summary

Chris Markowski elucidates the imperative philosophy of investing as one would if already possessing considerable wealth, emphasizing the importance of maintaining composure during turbulent market conditions. He underscores that the true essence of financial preparation lies in the ability to capitalize on opportunities, particularly during economic downturns, rather than succumbing to panic. Drawing upon his extensive experience in the financial sector, Markowski shares insights into the current startup environment, likening it to navigating a perilous and ever-evolving minefield fraught with regulatory challenges. He candidly reflects on the dissonance between the lofty valuations in private equity and the fundamental realities of sound business practices. As he guides aspiring entrepreneurs through the intricacies of building enduring enterprises, Markowski advocates for a mindset oriented towards long-term growth and ethical responsibility, urging them to adapt to the shifting landscape rather than rigidly adhering to preconceived notions.

Conversation

The dialogue between Jothy Rosenberg and Chris Markowski unfolds with profound insights into the intricacies of investment and the nuances of navigating the tumultuous landscape of the financial markets. Markowski, a seasoned veteran in the field, articulates an investment philosophy that mirrors the mindset of the affluent, emphasizing the importance of maintaining composure during market volatility. He posits that true investment acumen lies in the ability to capitalize on market downturns, a sentiment echoed by historical figures such as JP Morgan. This perspective not only speaks to the resilience required in the investment sphere but also highlights the transformative journey of small businesses as they evolve amidst shifting economic conditions. Markowski's narrative is enriched by his experiences on Wall Street and his subsequent departure from its morally ambiguous practices, leading him to establish a firm grounded in ethical financial preparation rather than mere planning.

Furthermore, the discussion delves into the challenges faced by entrepreneurs in the contemporary economic environment, characterized by unpredictable regulatory landscapes and inflated valuations in the private equity sector. Markowski warns of the dangers posed by excessive optimism in the startup realm, advocating for a grounded approach to business that prioritizes sustainable growth over fleeting success. The episode culminates in a powerful reminder of the importance of adaptability and personal responsibility in entrepreneurship, urging founders to embrace the reality of their circumstances while remaining steadfast in their pursuit of long-term success.

Ultimately, this episode serves as a critical resource for anyone contemplating the entrepreneurial journey, offering invaluable lessons on resilience, ethical finance, and the necessity of a long-term mindset in an ever-evolving market.

Takeaways

• Investing should be approached with the...

Jyothi Vemu

Bio

Jyothi Vemu is the founder and Managing Director of Futurebytes, a STEM.org-accredited education company in Silicon Valley offering hands-on STEM learning in coding, robotics, AI, and 3D printing for K–8 students. A former engineering professor from India, she launched Futurebytes to close STEM gaps for girls and underserved communities. Under her leadership, it has grown to multiple centers and earned widespread recognition. Jyothi has been featured in multiple magazines and is a 2025 Enterprising Woman of the Year, a Woman Changing the World Award winner in Education, a 2025 AAPI Leadership Award honoree, and a Woman of Influence 2025 by Silicon Valley Business Journal. She recently launched $50K in scholarships to support STEM access for underserved girls. Her work is inspiring the next generation of innovators while driving equity in education.

Intro

Jyothi Venmu's remarkable journey from facing adversity as an immigrant to establishing a thriving STEM education enterprise serves as the focal point of our discussion. In this enlightening conversation, we explore how she transformed her initial self-doubt and the skepticism of others into a successful business model that now serves over a thousand students across Silicon Valley. Through resilience and an unwavering commitment to her vision, Jyothi navigated significant challenges, including the complexities of immigration law and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. She emphasizes the importance of taking action despite uncertainty and encourages aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly women, to embrace their unique journeys. This episode is a testament to the transformative power of perseverance and the potential to turn obstacles into opportunities in the realm of entrepreneurship.

Conversation

The dialogue between Jothy Rosenberg and Jyothi Vemu unveils the arduous yet inspiring journey of the latter as she transitioned from a dependent immigrant to a thriving entrepreneur in the realm of educational services. Jyothi's story is characterized by her resilience in the face of numerous challenges, including self-doubt and societal skepticism regarding her aspirations as a female entrepreneur. The episode delves into her initial struggles, such as the dismissal she faced while seeking employment, where potential employers questioned her motivations for wanting to start her own venture. Despite these obstacles, Jyothi's determination propelled her to volunteer in local educational settings, which not only equipped her with invaluable insights into the STEM education landscape but also laid the foundation for her subsequent business, Futurebytes.

The discussion highlights how Jyothi's initial foray into entrepreneurship was marked by her willingness to embrace uncertainty and take risks. Her journey commenced with humble beginnings in a church basement, gradually evolving into a robust educational enterprise serving over a thousand students annually across multiple locations in Silicon Valley. The episode emphasizes the importance of transforming constraints into strategic advantages, as Jyothi adeptly navigated her immigration status and funding challenges by reinvesting profits into her business, fostering sustainable growth. This narrative serves as a powerful testament to the notion that limitations can catalyze innovative solutions rather than serve as insurmountable barriers.

As the conversation unfolds, Jyothi also shares her aspirations for the future, including plans for expansion and an eagerness to empower other aspiring female entrepreneurs through mentorship and support programs. Her commitment to fostering an inclusive and nurturing entrepreneurial ecosystem is underscored by her desire to establish accelerator...

Zulfiya Forsythe

Bio

It all started with a simple question: “There has to be a better way, right?”

I began my career in accounting, spending countless hours buried in spreadsheets. The inefficiencies were frustrating, and I knew there had to be a smarter way. That curiosity led me to discover automation and data analytics, starting with Visual Basic and SQL. The first time I watched millions of data rows transform in seconds, I was hooked.

That passion pushed me to transition into the world of data, where I deep dived into data analytics and automation. Fast forward to today, I am CEO and Founder of Omadli Group, where we help businesses streamline operations, uncover valuable insights, and use AI to buy back their time. My mission is simple: turn complexity into simplicity and empower businesses to focus on what truly matters.

Summary

Zulfiya Forsythe's journey from a small town in Uzbekistan to the helm of an AI company illustrates the remarkable potential of immigrant grit and innovation. Her narrative, marked by a childhood fascination with design and a pragmatic pivot to accounting, reveals how she ultimately embraced her true passion for automation and problem-solving. Zulfiya's exploration of AI began as a means to streamline laborious accounting processes, leading her to create advanced AI agents designed to enhance operational efficiency for construction businesses. In this enlightening conversation, she candidly discusses a critical error that nearly jeopardized her entrepreneurial progress, a misstep commonly encountered by many startup founders. Our dialogue delves into the importance of failing fast, marketing fearlessly, and the significance of leveraging one's unique background as a catalyst for success in the entrepreneurial landscape.

Conversation

In this enlightening episode, Zulfiya Forsythe shares her compelling story that encapsulates the essence of entrepreneurial spirit. From her early aspirations in accounting to her eventual pivot towards artificial intelligence, Zulfiya's narrative is one of self-discovery and innovation. The conversation highlights not only her strategic approach to identifying market needs but also the invaluable lessons learned from her experiences, including the significance of early marketing and the transition from service-based to product-based business models. Zulfiya reflects on the importance of leveraging one's unique background as a source of strength, illustrating how challenges can be transformed into opportunities for growth. This episode serves as an inspiring guide for those contemplating the leap into entrepreneurship, emphasizing the power of resilience and the ability to adapt in an ever-evolving business landscape.

Takeaways

• Zulfiya Forsythe's journey from Uzbekistan to the United States exemplifies the importance of perseverance and grit in achieving one's dreams.
• She emphasizes the necessity of adopting a practical education to avoid unfulfilling careers, such as mopping floors.
• Forsythe's transition from accounting to AI illustrates the value of recognizing and seizing opportunities in technology and automation.
• The discussion highlights the significance of starting marketing efforts early in the entrepreneurial journey to build a presence and learn from audience feedback.
• Zulfiya reflects on the critical mistake of not marketing early and the importance of documenting one's journey for future growth.
• Her story serves as a testament to how immigrant experiences can cultivate resilience and a unique perspective in the startup ecosystem.

Links

Jose Berlanga

Jose Miguel Berlanga is the co-founder of Tricon Homes, an industry leader with yearly revenues of $100 million. As CEO, he has structured deals, invested, and negotiated land acquisitions and sales transactions in excess of a billion dollars, while managing the day-to-day operations and building close to 2,000 homes to date.

A graduate from the university of St. Thomas with multiple degrees in Business Administration, Economics, and Philosophy, Jose’s discipline and methodic approach allows him to create customized strategies to maximize the potential of each project. His passion for business and life has led him to inspire and motivate his others by being an example and a mentor that consistently delivers results through a strong work ethic. He is the author of the new book, The Business of Home Building.

Summary

Jose Berlanga's remarkable journey from a childhood marred by trauma to becoming a successful entrepreneur serves as the focal point of this enlightening discussion. As he recounts the harrowing experience of surviving a devastating bus explosion at the tender age of four, we explore how he transformed adversity into a catalyst for personal and professional growth. Over the course of his career, Jose has established multiple businesses across diverse sectors, including construction and hospitality, demonstrating an unwavering resilience and a unique perspective on failure. Our dialogue delves into the critical distinctions between temporary setbacks and total failure, emphasizing the significance of embracing challenges as integral components of the entrepreneurial experience. Jose's insights into the art of execution, the importance of strategic partnerships, and the necessity of managing fear provide invaluable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs and seasoned business leaders alike.

Conversation

In this engaging dialogue, Jose Berlanga shares his extraordinary life story with host Jothy Rosenberg, chronicling his evolution from a child marked by tragedy to a successful entrepreneur with a myriad of ventures. The episode explores the psychological underpinnings of resilience, particularly how early life experiences can shape one's approach to challenges and opportunities. Jose's reflection on his childhood, spent largely in hospitals undergoing painful treatments, offers a profound perspective on how adversity can forge an unyielding spirit. He discusses his entrepreneurial philosophy, underscoring the importance of execution over mere ideas and the necessity of partnering with experts in one's respective field. Jose's narrative is not merely one of triumph but is interwoven with candid acknowledgments of his failures and the lessons derived from them. He advocates for a mindset that embraces setbacks as integral components of the entrepreneurial journey, suggesting that true failure only occurs when one ceases to engage with their aspirations. This perspective resonates deeply, particularly in an era where quick success is often glorified, reminding listeners of the value of persistence and learning in the path to success.

Takeaways

• Jose Berlanga's childhood was marked by a traumatic accident that shaped his resilience and entrepreneurial spirit, demonstrating how adversity can fuel personal growth and ambition.
• The importance of understanding the difference between temporary setbacks and total failure is highlighted, emphasizing that setbacks are part of the learning process for any entrepreneur.
• In entrepreneurship, execution is paramount; a mediocre idea executed well can lead to success, while a brilliant idea poorly executed will likely fail to materialize.
• Jose emphasizes the necessity of partnering with experts in...

Summary

The discussion with Anne Claessen centers on the profound intersection of podcasting and entrepreneurship, emphasizing that the establishment of a sustainable cash flow can significantly enhance one's ability to serve an audience effectively. As the CEO of Cash Flow Podcasting, Anne elucidates the importance of consistency in content creation, advocating for a commitment of at least one year to truly gauge a podcast's potential impact. Throughout our conversation, we delve into her journey from podcast coach to CEO, exploring her insights on navigating the challenges of team mergers and marketing efforts. Anne's candid reflections on the hurdles faced in the podcasting landscape serve as a valuable guide for aspiring entrepreneurs. Ultimately, this episode provides listeners with practical wisdom on leveraging podcasting not merely as a promotional tool, but as a means to foster genuine connections and meaningful service to their communities.

Conversation

The discourse with Anne Claessen, the esteemed CEO of Cash Flow Podcasting, delves into the intricate interplay between podcasting and entrepreneurship. With a foundation steeped in over a decade of experience, Claessen elucidates the multifaceted benefits of podcasting as an instrument for both audience engagement and revenue generation. She provides a comprehensive overview of her own journey from podcast coach to CEO, highlighting the pivotal moments of her career, including the challenges and triumphs of merging teams following an acquisition. Claessen's insights into the significance of consistency in content creation serve as a vital reminder for aspiring podcasters and entrepreneurs alike. She emphasizes the necessity of patience and a long-term perspective, advocating for a minimum commitment of one year to truly ascertain the efficacy of one’s podcasting endeavors. This episode not only offers a blueprint for successful podcasting but also underscores the broader implications of building a sustainable business model within the ever-evolving landscape of digital media.

Links

• Anne Claessen
• Cashflow Podcasting - The Best Podcast Partner for Businesses
• Jothy's TEDx talk - On why those with disabilities tend to overachieve
• The Who Says I Can't Foundation - Jothy's non-profit that helps disabled kids get back into a sport they love to restore their self-esteem
• Our YouTube channel
• Designing Successful Startups — Jothy Rosenberg | Author | Speaker | Podcaster - Site with all podcasts
• Tech Startup Toolkit book
• Please leave us a review

Takeaways

• The paramount significance of maintaining consistency over a full year in podcasting cannot be overstated, as this dedication fosters audience trust and sustainable growth.
• Establishing a robust cash flow is integral to amplifying one’s mission, even when profit is not the primary objective, thus enabling greater impact.
• Adopting a structured yet flexible work environment is essential for nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit within teams to drive long-term success.
• New podcasters frequently underestimate the time necessary to evaluate their podcast’s potential, requiring ideally a year of consistent content creation before drawing conclusions.
• The importance...

Shalabh Gupta

Bio

Shalabh Gupta, MD, is a visionary entrepreneur and the CEO of Unicycive, bringing a mission-driven approach to solving complex problems through innovation. A physician by training, Shalabh has founded three biotech companies and has deep experience navigating both public and private markets. He built Unicycive from the ground up—starting with no funding or assets—and took it public on Nasdaq as the company’s sole full-time employee. Shalabh credits his success to the support of friends, mentors, and the many individuals who have contributed to his journey, directly and indirectly.

Summary

Shalabh Gupta, a physician turned entrepreneur, elucidates the profound challenges inherent in the startup journey, emphasizing that it is not merely a romantic endeavor, as commonly portrayed by society. He articulates that a founder must possess a clear purpose beyond superficial motivations such as fame or fortune, for it is this deeper conviction that equips them to confront the inevitable adversities they will face. Throughout our dialogue, Shalabh shares insights from his extensive experience in building biotech startups focused on tackling critical health issues, particularly in cancer and kidney disease treatments. He advocates for a leadership style that empowers team members, fostering a culture of collaboration and resilience, where successes are collectively celebrated and failures are acknowledged as learning opportunities. This episode serves as an inspiring guide for both aspiring and seasoned entrepreneurs, urging them to reflect on their motivations and to cultivate the grit necessary to navigate the tumultuous waters of startup life.

Story

The conversation with Dr. Shalab Gupta, a physician turned entrepreneur, illuminates the often romanticized yet arduous journey of startup creation. Gupta emphasizes that the allure of entrepreneurship frequently overshadows the stark realities faced by founders. He articulates that the essential motivation for embarking on such a journey must transcend superficial desires for fame or financial gain. Instead, he argues for a profound commitment to a purpose that resonates deeply within one's ethos. Through his personal experiences, Gupta delineates how his medical background not only informed his entrepreneurial endeavors but also equipped him with resilience in the face of inevitable challenges. His story serves as a poignant reminder that without a clear and compelling 'why', the trials of startup life can become insurmountable. He encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to embrace the complexities of their ventures, underscoring that the path of innovation is fraught with difficulties that require unwavering tenacity and passion.

Dr. Shalab Gupta posits that the startup journey is rife with obstacles that demand resilience and a robust support system. Gupta's approach to leadership emphasizes empowerment; he advocates for fostering a collaborative environment where team members feel valued and equipped to tackle challenges. He reflects on his transition from medicine to entrepreneurship, noting that the skills he honed in the ICU—such as critical thinking and emotional fortitude—have been indispensable in navigating the high-stakes world of biotech startups. The conversation underscores the importance of establishing a strong foundation built on shared values and a clear vision. Gupta's insights serve as a guiding light for aspiring founders, illustrating that the pursuit of meaningful innovation is not only a professional endeavor but a deeply personal journey that requires unwavering determination and a clear understanding of one's motivations. His narrative is a testament to the transformative power of perseverance in the face of...