In this episode of 'Rogers That', host Rogers Healy interviews Dylan Jones, the founder and CEO of LYX Hydration, a company dedicated to providing the ultimate hydration solution for dogs. The conversation explores Dylan's journey from military service to entrepreneurship, the challenges he faced in developing his product, and the importance of customer feedback in shaping his business. Dylan shares insights on maintaining balance as a founder, the significance of just getting started, and his vision for the future of LYX Hydration. The episode highlights the impact of military dogs and the mission behind LYX to improve pet wellness.

In this episode of 'Rogers That', host Rogers Healy interviews Brad Wilson, the global head of channel sales at LinkedIn. They discuss Brad's journey from a small town in Missouri to a successful career in consulting and sales. The conversation delves into the importance of building relationships, problem-solving, and the transition from in-person networking to leveraging online platforms like LinkedIn. Brad shares insights on how to effectively use LinkedIn for professional growth and the cultural differences between consulting and working at a tech company. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the effective use of LinkedIn for sales and networking, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in online profiles. They discuss the transformative impact of AI on sales processes and the necessity of adapting to technological advancements while maintaining genuine relationships. The dialogue also touches on personal growth, wisdom for future generations, and the significance of curiosity in professional development.

Our next guest is Collin West, the founder and Managing Partner of Ensemble VC. His previous experience includes the Kauffman Fellows program, the founding fund team at the pioneering data-driven VC firm, Correlation Ventures, and investor in companies like Zoom Video, Carta, Groww, ICON, Tally, Sidecar Health, and many others.

He CASUALLY spends his free time training in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, mountain biking, and climbing mountains. BUT WAIT, THERE’S MORE! He is also the Guinness World Record holder for leading the first-ever crossing of the Arctic Ocean. His team of four rowed non-stop and unsupported for 41 days through the biggest storm season in Arctic history.

He is an entrepreneur, competitor, and all-around incredible guy. Let’s welcome my friend of 20 years, Collin West!

Our next guest is Pocket Sun, a venture capitalist and entrepreneur dedicated to empowering women entrepreneurs through her organization, SoGal Ventures. She discusses the challenges women face in securing venture capital, the impact of SoGal on underrepresented founders, and the importance of finding balance as a founder. Pocket shares her journey, insights on investing, and advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, emphasizing the need for a supportive community and the potential for positive change in the business landscape. Pocket was recently featured in the film Show Her The Money. Check it out if you haven’t already!

In this interview, we discuss:
00:00 Introduction to Pocket Sun and Her Mission
02:56 The Journey of SoGal and Empowering Women Entrepreneurs
06:14 Challenges and Changes in Venture Capital Funding
09:05 The Impact of SoGal on Underrepresented Founders
11:51 Finding Balance as a Founder
14:56 Investing in the Future: Insights and Experiences
18:02 Advice for Aspiring Founders and Investors
21:06 Legacy and the Future of Business
23:56 Closing Thoughts and How to Support the Mission

Episode Resources:
@rogersthatpodcast
https://www.rogersthatpodcast.com/

#PocketSun #venturecapital #womenentrepreneurs #SoGal #funding #empowerment #underrepresentedfounders #investmentstrategies #business #legacy #globalcitizen #personalwellness #ShowHerTheMoney

Our next guest is Kevin Kirksey, President at ALM First Analytics and a true finance wizard specializing in ALM, CPST, and ERM. In this episode, Kevin shares his journey of personal and professional growth—touching on everything from his idyllic childhood to his leadership style rooted in servant leadership and intentional living.

Kevin opens up about the importance of financial strategy for credit unions, the creation of a family constitution to guide his family’s values, and how he balances being a husband, father, investor, and executive. His approach to time management, legacy building, and purpose-driven leadership offers practical insight for anyone navigating a high-performance career while staying grounded in what matters most.

In this interview, we discuss:
00:00 Celebrating Kevin Kirksey: A Life of Impact
02:54 The Journey to 40: Kevin's Early Life and Influences
05:48 The Art of Time Management: Balancing Life and Work
09:03 Leadership and Servant Leadership: The Kevin Kirksey Approach
11:52 The Family Constitution: Crafting a Legacy
15:10 Professional Life: Finance and Social Impact
17:57 The Importance of Genuine Connections
20:48 Legacy and Future Aspirations
24:11 Advice and Reflections: Lessons Learned
27:05 The Future: What Lies Ahead for Kevin Kirksey

Episode Resources:
@rogersthatpodcast
https://www.rogersthatpodcast.com/

#FinancePodcast #Leadership #AssetLiabilityManagement #ServantLeadership #PurposeDrivenLife #FamilyValues #FinancialStrategy #KevinKirksey #LeadershipJourney