In this insightful episode of The Innovators & Investors Podcast hosted by Kristian Marquez, we sit down with Greg Martin, CEO and co-founder of Ghost Security, to explore groundbreaking advancements in application security. Greg shares how Ghost Security’s innovative AI-driven agentic model is revolutionizing risk management by continuously identifying and remediating software vulnerabilities faster and more efficiently than traditional methods like penetration testing and legacy security tools.

The discussion dives deep into the evolving cybersecurity landscape, emphasizing the critical need to secure customer-facing applications in a rapidly changing threat environment where automation and AI are used by both defenders and attackers.

Greg also reflects on his entrepreneurial journey—from a hacker kid to a successful serial founder backed by top-tier investors—and sheds light on the challenges startups face today, including tougher fundraising climates, shifting investor expectations toward profitability, and new sales and marketing strategies in a post-pandemic world.

Listeners gain valuable perspective on building resilient companies, cultivating authentic relationships in sales, and fostering a strong startup culture that values adaptability and teamwork. Whether you’re an innovator, investor, or entrepreneur, this episode offers actionable insights on navigating today’s complex tech and investment ecosystems while leveraging AI to protect your business’s digital lifeblood.

Learn more about Greg's work at https://ghostsecurity.com/

Connect with Greg on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregcmartin/

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply at https://finstratmgmt.com/innovators-investors-podcast/

Want to learn more about Kristian Marquez's work? Check out his website at https://finstratmgmt.com

In this insightful episode of The Innovators & Investors Podcast, host Kristian Marquez sits down with Dr. Matt Keener, co-founder of Blackbird Health, to explore innovative solutions in pediatric mental health care.

Dr. Keener discusses the fragmented and confusing landscape families face when seeking mental health support for their children, highlighting Blackbird Health’s hybrid virtual-first and in-person care model designed to bridge gaps between medical and therapeutic services.

With over a decade of experience and treatment of 10,000 patients, Blackbird Health leverages technology and developmental science to offer tailored, comprehensive care. Dr. Keener shares his unique journey from child psychiatry to entrepreneurship, lessons learned from prior startups, and the critical role of domain expertise and strong leadership teams in building successful health ventures.

The conversation also delves into neuroplasticity, the importance of early intervention, and the challenges and rewards of scaling a health tech company. Listeners gain valuable insights on the intersection of healthcare innovation, patient-centered technology, and the entrepreneurial mindset necessary to transform mental health services for children and adolescents.

Learn more about Matt's work at https://blackbirdhealth.com/

Connect with Matt on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattkeenermd/

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply at https://finstratmgmt.com/innovators-investors-podcast/

Want to learn more about Kristian Marquez's work? Check out his website at https://finstratmgmt.com

In this insightful episode of The Innovators & Investors Podcast, host Kristian Marquez sits down with Alex Burch, partner at Veritas Equity Partners, to explore multifamily real estate investing in Washington state.

Alex shares the firm’s strategic focus on workforce housing in tertiary markets near Seattle, emphasizing direct ownership in specific, visible assets rather than blind funds or REITs. Dive deep into their investment thesis, including diversification benefits, cash flow expectations with 6-9% annual cash-on-cash returns, and long-term equity growth targeting 1.75 to 2x multiples on invested capital.

The episode covers critical topics such as conservative debt strategies using government-backed agency loans, tax advantages through cost segregation and depreciation, and effective operational management including property management selection and tenant engagement.

Alex also discusses practical lease strategies, the challenges and limited scalability of Airbnb models, and the importance of market knowledge and deal underwriting.

Listeners gain valuable lessons on starting early, trusting your gut, and the importance of mentorship in real estate investing. Whether you’re new to real estate or a seasoned investor, this episode provides a comprehensive look at building wealth through thoughtfully managed multifamily properties and navigating today’s complex market environment.

Learn more about Alex's work at https://veritasequitypartners.com/

Connect with Alex on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexburchveritas/

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply at https://finstratmgmt.com/innovators-investors-podcast/

Want to learn more about Kristian Marquez's work? Check out his website at https://finstratmgmt.com