Afleveringen
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Michelle Knox, founder of WindSolar USA, joins Brent Muller on the Future-Proofed Podcast to discuss her incredible journey from insurance and Montessori education to leading a clean energy movement in Illinois. Michelle explains why renewable energy is now more affordable than ever, thanks to incentives like the Inflation Reduction Act and Illinois’ aggressive RPS goals. She also dives into how policy affects growth, the importance of storage technology, and what the “solar coaster” means for entrepreneurs in the space. It’s an eye-opening look into how one woman is driving real energy change while educating and empowering communities.
⏱️ Timestamps:
00:00 – Intro & Michelle Knox’s Career Journey
02:45 – What Sparked Her Interest in Solar Energy
04:30 – Founding WindSolar USA & Early Growth
06:00 – How the Inflation Reduction Act Changed the Game
07:30 – Solar Incentives in Illinois & Cost Trends
09:30 – Why Education is the Most Powerful Solar Sales Tool
13:00 – Policy Inequity for Rural and Municipal Utility Customers
15:45 – The “Solar Bill of Rights” & Clean and Reliable Grid Act
17:30 – Emerging Tech: Efficiency Gains & Storage Solutions
25:30 – Where the Industry Is Headed Next
27:00 – How Michelle Uses AI in Her Business
30:00 – The “Solar Coaster” – Managing Policy Fluctuations
32:50 – How to Contact WindSolar USA
🔗 Connect with Michelle Knox:
🌐 Website: http://www.windsolarusa.com/, http://www.illinoissolar.org/, http://www.midwestrenew.org/
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-knox-2b955213/
🔔 Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell so you never miss an update!
📌 Subscribe here: http://www.youtube.com/@FutureProofedPodcast
📲 Follow me on social media: www.linkedin.com/in/brentmuller
💬 Let me know your thoughts in the comments!
#SolarEnergy #WindSolarUSA #CleanEnergy #MichelleKnox #RenewableEnergy #IllinoisSolar #InflationReductionAct #FutureProofedPodcast #EnergyIndependence #GreenTech #SolarStorage #B2BSaaS #WomenInEnergy #SustainableLivinghttps://valeogrowth.com/
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Ben Narasin, founder of Tenacity VC and early investor in Lending Club and Zenefits, shares his incredible journey from entrepreneur to venture capitalist. Learn why he focuses on seed-stage startups, how he evaluates founders, and the tough-love advice every entrepreneur needs to hear. Discover the mindset behind building billion-dollar companies and avoiding common pitfalls in fundraising.
⏱️ Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction
02:15 - Ben’s entrepreneurial journey & founding Tenacity VC
08:30 - Why seed-stage investing is his passion
15:45 - The biggest mistakes founders make when pitching VCs
22:10 - How AI is changing startups (and VC due diligence)
30:50 - The truth about growth vs. profitability
38:20 - Ben’s toughest advice for founders
45:00 - How to get in touch with Tenacity VC
🔗 Connect with Ben Narasin:
🌐 Website: https://www.tenacity.vc/
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bennarasin/
🔔 Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell so you never miss an update!
📌 Subscribe here: http://www.youtube.com/@FutureProofedPodcast
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💬 Let me know your thoughts in the comments!
#VentureCapital #StartupFunding #Entrepreneurship #SeedInvesting #FounderAdvice #TenacityVC #FutureProofedPodcast #StartupGrowthhttps://valeogrowth.com/
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Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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In this powerful episode of the Future-Proof Podcast, Brent Muller sits down with Nicholas Wiktorski, VP at Omega TMM, to explore the evolution of American manufacturing. Nick shares his journey from college dropout to a leader in precision tool measuring technology, discusses the role of AI and automation in reshoring manufacturing jobs, and how Omega’s American-made machines are driving efficiency across industries from defense to medical devices. With a strong message about revitalizing the trades and empowering the next generation, this episode is both inspiring and eye-opening for anyone interested in the future of the industry.
⏱️ Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction & Nick’s Career Journey
01:30 – What Omega TMM Does & Their Unique Market Position
03:30 – Clients from John Deere to Boeing
05:10 – Challenges in the Manufacturing Workforce
07:45 – The Push for Trade Careers & Role of Influencers
10:00 – How AI and Automation Are Enhancing, Not Replacing Jobs
13:00 – Embracing Industry 4.0 and Data-Driven Efficiency
18:45 – Key Industries Poised for Growth: Defense, Medical, Stone
21:00 – How AI Could Support Customer Service in Manufacturing
25:00 – How Nick Uses ChatGPT in Sales Research
28:30 – Overcoming Fear & Building Confidence in American Manufacturing
30:00 – Where to Learn More About Omega TMM
🔗 Connect with Nicholas Wiktorski:
🌐 Website: http://omegatmm.com
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholas-m-wiktorski/
🔔 Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell so you never miss an update!
📌 Subscribe here: http://www.youtube.com/@FutureProofedPodcast
📲 Follow me on social media: www.linkedin.com/in/brentmuller
💬 Let me know your thoughts in the comments!
#Manufacturing #AIinManufacturing #Reshoring #Industry40 #FutureProofPodcast #OmegaTMM #ToolPresetters #AmericanMade #Automation #TradeCareers #NickWiktorski #PrecisionEngineering #DigitalTransformationhttps://valeogrowth.com/
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In this game-changing episode of the Future-Proofed Podcast, host Brett Muller is joined by Anuj Gupta, founder of Gradient Advisors and co-author of the acclaimed book Practical Natural Language Processing. Anuj shares his unique framework for building successful AI-powered businesses, emphasizing a four-pillar strategy that goes beyond just models to drive real business impact. From his early days in theoretical computer science to consulting for Fortune 50 companies, Anuj offers insights on why most companies are still misapplying AI and how to fix it. Whether you're a founder, CEO, or innovator, this conversation lays out exactly how to align AI with strategic business growth—and avoid the common traps along the way.
⏱Timestamps
00:00 - Intro and welcome to Anuj Gupta of Gradient Advisors
01:00 - Anuj’s academic and industry journey into AI
03:00 - Founding Gradient Advisors and defining business-centric AI
04:00 - The four pillars of AI transformation: model, system, product, business
06:00 - Misuse of AI in small-impact use cases
07:30 - Thinking like a disruptor: reinventing your business with AI
09:00 - Why bottom-line improvements aren't enough
10:30 - Avoiding the “model-first” trap
12:00 - Gradient’s consulting approach to working across AI maturity levels
14:00 - Building an AI strategy backwards from the desired impact
16:00 - The ChatGPT moment: changes in access, awareness, and execution
18:00 - Startups vs. incumbents: how disruption is reshaping business
20:00 - Advice for CEOs: burn your own house down before someone else does
22:00 - Microsoft and Satya Nadella: A playbook for AI-forward leadership
24:30 - Why plug-and-play AI doesn’t work without foundational design
26:00 - Managing AI, humans, and legacy systems as one ecosystem
28:00 - How Anuj personally experiments with new AI tools every 3 days
30:00 - If Gradient had a magic wand: what Anuj would change in the industry
32:00 - Final thoughts and how to get in touch with Gradient Advisors
Looking to go beyond generic AI buzzwords and actually drive business results through strategic, well-integrated AI? Connect with Anuj Gupta and the team at Gradient Advisors, a boutique firm helping companies—from startups to global giants—build AI systems that move the needle. From model development to full-scale business integration, Gradient operates with one mission: turn AI into ROI.
📘 Check out Anuj's acclaimed book: Practical Natural Language Processing (translated into 5 languages, 270+ citations)
🌐 Website: gradientadvisors.com
🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anujgupta-82/
🔔 Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell so you never miss an update!
📌 Subscribe here: http://www.youtube.com/@FutureProofedPodcast
📲 Follow me on social media: www.linkedin.com/in/brentmuller
💬 Let me know your thoughts in the comments!
#AITransformation #GradientAdvisors #BusinessWithAI #PracticalNLP #AIBusinessStrategy #FutureOfAI #AIConsulting #StartupInnovation #DisruptWithAI #AIForCEOs #FutureProofedhttps://valeogrowth.com/
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Bob Manley, Co-Founder of Hermit Woods Winery, shares how he’s pioneering a new category of wine—made entirely from fruit, not grapes—while staying true to classic winemaking traditions. Discover how this New Hampshire winery crafts dry, barrel-aged wines from local apples, berries, and honey, competes with Napa Valley, and leverages AI to streamline operations. Plus: Why climate change might make their unconventional approach the future of wine.
⏱Timestamps
00:22 – From art school to accidental winemaker: Bob’s unconventional journey
07:06 – The "aha" moment: Why they abandoned grapes (and hybrids) entirely
13:37 – Breaking barriers: Their standing ovation from traditional winemakers
18:46 – QR codes & AI: How tech runs their old-world craft winery
25:48 – Climate change’s surprising role in wine’s future
30:20 – Bob’s AI wine assistant? Why it’s closer than you think
Want to taste their groundbreaking wines? Order directly at HermitWoods.com (shipping to 39 states!). Follow their journey @HermitWoodsWinery.
Connect with Bob!
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobmanley/
🔔 Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell so you never miss an update!
📌 Subscribe here: http://www.youtube.com/@FutureProofedPodcast
📲 Follow me on social media: www.linkedin.com/in/brentmuller
💬 Let me know your thoughts in the comments!
#CraftWine #InnovationInWine #ClimateChange #AIForBusiness #NewHampshireWine #FutureOfWine #Artisanal #WineLovers #Entrepreneurhttps://valeogrowth.com/
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In this insightful episode of the Future-Proofed Podcast, host Brett Mueller sits down with Jeff Dillon, founder of EdTech Connect, to explore how higher education is evolving in response to the AI revolution. With over two decades of experience in higher ed IT, Jeff reveals the inspiration behind EdTech Connect, a platform designed to simplify software discovery for colleges and universities. He discusses the massive transformation underway—from AI-powered campus search and personalization to launching his upcoming AI Training Academy for educators. This conversation is a must-watch for anyone interested in how technology, data, and strategy are colliding to reshape the future of education.
00:00 - Intro and Jeff Dillon’s background in higher ed and tech
01:30 - The problem that led to founding EdTech Connect
03:00 - From a passion project to a business: platform evolution
05:10 - Why higher ed is slow to change (and how it’s shifting)
06:45 - Schools like ASU and Southern New Hampshire as innovation leaders
08:30 - How AI is reshaping higher ed through site search and personalization
12:10 - The pivot: Launching an AI Academy to train faculty and staff
14:00 - ChatGPT’s impact on students and faculty mindset
16:30 - The rise and fall of chatbots—and what’s next
18:00 - Google vs OpenAI: AI tech trends and browser battles
21:30 - Navigating the AI model landscape: just pick one
22:30 - Crowdsourcing EdTech insights via the .edu community
24:00 - What’s next: AI agents, personalization, and the agentic era
26:00 - NinjaCat demo and replacing expensive data teams
29:00 - The real power of prompting and using AI as a co-pilot
31:00 - How Jeff uses AI as a strategic business advisor
34:30 - Jeff’s “magic wand” for launching AI Academy faster
36:00 - Final thoughts and how EdTech is helping higher ed adapt
🚀 Coming Soon: The AI Training Academy by EdTech Connect—designed specifically for higher ed professionals. Learn everything from AI fundamentals to prompt mastery, custom GPTs, and responsible adoption. Perfect for schools looking to upskill their teams in the age of AI.
📧 Contact: [email protected]
🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edtechconnect/
🎙️ Podcast: The Higher EdTech Podcast
🔔 Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell so you never miss an update!
📌 Subscribe here: http://www.youtube.com/@FutureProofedPodcast
📲 Follow me on social media: www.linkedin.com/in/brentmuller
💬 Let me know your thoughts in the comments!
#EdTech #HigherEd #AIinEducation #DigitalTransformation #AITraining #PromptEngineering #AIForTeachers #FutureOfEducation #EdTechInnovation #CrowdsourcedData #EdTechConnect #AIAcademyhttps://valeogrowth.com/
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In this inspiring episode of the Future-Proofed Podcast, Brett Muller sits down with Carol Ann Wentworth, founder of Wentworth Executive Recruiting, to explore the art of high-touch executive search. With a career that spans health and wellness, modeling, chamber leadership, and now C-level recruitment, Carol Ann shares how authenticity, intention, and human connection have fueled her decades-long success. She dives into the evolving landscape of recruitment, the responsible use of AI, and her mission to create mindful, culture-aligned placements. Listeners will learn how she's redefining recruitment by putting people first—every single time.
⏱Timestamps
00:00 - Intro and welcome to Carol Ann Wentworth
01:00 - Carol Ann’s start in health and wellness with Shackley Corporation
03:00 - From modeling to international talent placement with Eileen Ford
05:00 - Entering executive search and working with Cargill and Tonka Water
07:15 - Becoming CEO of the Woodland Hills Chamber after 9/11
09:30 - Mentorship under Dick Bolles and launching her own firm
11:00 - Building Wentworth Executive Recruiting from scratch
13:00 - High-touch methodology and personalized candidate outreach
15:00 - The three types of recruiting: Retained, Contingency, Staffing
17:00 - The impact and misuse of AI in recruiting
19:30 - Authenticity in candidate profiles and online presence
21:00 - Real-life case studies showing the power of human touch
24:00 - Evolving expectations in hybrid and remote work culture
27:00 - Advocating for skilled trades and career pivots
30:00 - Coffee with Carol Ann: launching a new project for older professionals
33:00 - Mental health and well-being in career transitions
37:00 - Mindful growth of Wentworth Executive Recruiting
40:00 - Upcoming mental well-being career course
42:00 - How to get in touch with Carol Ann
🔗 Connect with Carol!
💼 LinkedIn: Carol Ann Wentworth on LinkedIn
🌐 Website: WentworthExecutiveRecruiting.co
🔔 Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell so you never miss an update!
📌 Subscribe here: http://www.youtube.com/@FutureProofedPodcast
📲 Follow me on social media: www.linkedin.com/in/brentmuller
💬 Let me know your thoughts in the comments!
#ExecutiveRecruiting #CareerGrowth #LeadershipDevelopment #MindfulWork #AIinRecruiting #FutureOfWork #AuthenticLeadership #CareerCoach #WomenInBusiness #PodcastHighlightshttps://valeogrowth.com/
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Jason Reid, a serial entrepreneur and mental health advocate, shares his incredible journey from starting as a house painter to running multiple successful companies. In this episode of the Future-Proofed Podcast, he reveals the power of relationships, the importance of investing in people, and his mission to improve mental health through his foundation, TellMyStory.org. Learn why he believes AI could "steal the soul" of the next generation and how he balances business, creativity, and personal well-being.
⏱Timestamps
00:01 – Introduction to Jason Reid’s diverse entrepreneurial background
02:33 – The philosophy of "builder of people" and long-term partnerships
07:16 – Brutal honesty in CEO coaching: "Sell your business if you hate it"
13:51 – Mental health advocacy after losing his son to suicide (TellMyStory.org)
19:35 – How AI threatens creativity and critical thinking in younger generations
31:30 – The dark side of AI: Job displacement and loss of purpose
35:13 – Creative projects: Documentaries, music, and Ghost Town USA
42:24 – Advice for founders: "Protect your culture, sleep, and invest in relationships"
Connect with Jason Reid:
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonrreid/
🌐 Website: http://empireworks.com/, http://collegeworks.com/
🔔 Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell so you never miss an update!
📌 Subscribe here: http://www.youtube.com/@FutureProofedPodcast
💬 Let me know your thoughts in the comments!
📲 Follow me on social media: www.linkedin.com/in/brentmuller
#Entrepreneurship #MentalHealth #Leadership #AIImpact #StartupSuccess #BusinessGrowth #TellMyStory #FutureProofedPodcasthttps://valeogrowth.com/
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In this inspiring episode, host Brent Miller sits down with Matt Kolmes, CEO of Supreme Corporation, to unravel a powerful story of transformation, legacy, and innovation in the textile industry.
⏱Timestamps
00:01 – Introduction
00:28 – Matt’s unconventional career path
01:28 – Transition from law to textiles
06:18 – Mentorship under Jim Threlkeld and textile fundamentals
10:33 – Ballistic fabric innovation for military use
18:14 – Solving Oakley’s board shorts drying challenge
23:45 – Yarns that heal: Nanoparticle breakthroughs
31:37 – Conductive yarns and Volt AI’s NASA collaboration
41:20 – Leveraging ChatGPT for business innovation
45:04 – Lessons from failures and the power of passion
Inspired by Matt’s story? Connect with Supreme Corporation to explore their cutting-edge textile solutions:
🌐 Company Website: supremecorporation.com
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-kolmes-52419b48/
🔔 Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell so you never miss an update!
📌 Subscribe here: http://www.youtube.com/@FutureProofedPodcast
📲 Follow me on social media: www.linkedin.com/in/brentmuller
💬 Let me know your thoughts in the comments!
#TextileInnovation #FutureOfFabric #EntrepreneurJourney #WearableTech #STEM #StartupSuccess #HealingTextiles #AIInBusiness #NASAtech #PassionToProfithttps://valeogrowth.com/
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Kimmy Powell, the visionary behind Woodhouse Spas and a thriving industrial flooring business, reveals how she scales two radically different companies with the same strategic mindset. From leveraging AI to fill empty spa slots to automating construction estimates, she shares how technology drives profitability in unexpected ways. Plus: Her "build-to-sell" philosophy and why she’s betting big on wellness and "boring" businesses.
⏱Timestamps
00:27 – From teenage coder to multi-industry CEO
03:58 – The surprising similarities between spas and flooring businesses
08:07 – AI’s role: Booking massages vs. grinding floors (and why both need automation)
15:00 – Robotic masseuses? Why she’s cautious about cutting-edge tech
23:30 – Her book A Passion and Purpose Project: Designing Your Life Backward
33:18 – Magic wand growth hack: “Fill slow days, optimize busy ones”
Want Kimmy’s strategies for balancing multiple businesses? Grab her book A Passion and Purpose Project at KimmyKPowell.com and follow her @KimmyKPowell for entrepreneurial insights.
🔔 Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell so you never miss an update! 🎥✨Watch now! 🔗Link in the comments below 👇
📌 Subscribe here: http://www.youtube.com/@FutureProofedPodcast
💬 Let me know your thoughts in the comments!
📲 Follow me on social media: www.linkedin.com/in/brentmuller
#DualEntrepreneur #SpaBusiness #ConstructionTech #AIForGrowth #BusinessStrategy #WomenInBusiness #FutureProofPodcasthttps://valeogrowth.com/
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Discover how Free Form Fibers is revolutionizing aerospace, defense, and nuclear energy with cutting-edge ceramic matrix composites (CMCs). CEO Shay Harrison shares insights on their unique laser-driven chemical vapor deposition (LCVD) technology, the journey from R&D to commercialization, and their mission to replace metals with lighter, higher-performance materials. Learn why their fibers are unmatched in the industry—and how they’re solving critical challenges, from jet engines to nuclear safety.
⏱Timestamps
00:01 – Introduction to Shay Harrison and Free Form Fibers
02:19 – The evolution of LCVD technology and company origins
06:09 – How CMCs outperform metals in high-stress applications
13:38 – Free Form Fibers’ exclusive silicon nitride fiber (the only one in the world!)
19:46 – Real-world impact: Preventing nuclear accidents like Fukushima
22:28 – Weight savings and fuel efficiency in aviation
26:24 – AI’s role in scaling manufacturing efficiency
🔗 Connect with Shay Harrison!
🌐 Website: fffibers.com
💼 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/shay-harrison-9153268
🔔 Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell so you never miss an update! 🎥✨Watch now! 🔗Link in the comments below 👇
📌 Subscribe here: http://www.youtube.com/@FutureProofedPodcast
💬 Let me know your thoughts in the comments!
📲 Follow me on social media: www.linkedin.com/in/brentmuller
#AdvancedMaterials #AerospaceTech #NuclearSafety #Innovation #CeramicComposites #FutureOfManufacturing #Engineering #FreeformFibers #CMCs #TechPodcasthttps://valeogrowth.com/
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Tom Rauen, CEO of 1-800-T-Shirts.com, shares how he transformed a basement side hustle into a thriving apparel business serving everyone from Little Leagues to Fortune 500s.
Discover how Tom:
✅ Achieves 20% year-over-year growth for 20+ years
✅ Partners with mega-brands like Carhartt and North Face for co-branded apparel
✅ Leverages AI for mockups, sales analytics, and decision-making
✅ Navigates print-on-demand and "Amazon Effect" challenges
✅ Plans to automate production while keeping the human touch
⏱Timestamps
00:00 - From Basement Beginnings to 20% YOY Growth
05:18 - Game-Changer: Partnering with Carhartt & North Face
11:07 - The "Amazon Effect" & Print-on-Demand Revolution
14:00 - AI in Apparel: Mockups, Data & Emotional-Free Decisions
17:46 - Future Trends: Automation & Talent Crunch Solutions
20:15 - Tom’s AI "Second Brain" for Business Strategy
22:45 - Magic Wand: Solving the #1 Growth Challenge (Staffing!)
A must-watch for e-commerce founders, apparel entrepreneurs, and anyone scaling a product business!
Visit 1-800-T-Shirts.com
Call 1-800-T-SHIRTS
Follow on social: @1800TShirts
💡 "AI is my emotion-free 'second brain' for business decisions." — Tom Rauen
🔔 Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell so you never miss an update! 🎥✨Watch now! 🔗Link in the comments below 👇
📌 Subscribe here: http://www.youtube.com/@FutureProofedPodcast
💬 Let me know your thoughts in the comments!
📲 Follow me on social media: www.linkedin.com/in/brentmuller
#EcommerceGrowth #CustomApparel #PrintOnDemand #AIForBusiness #EntrepreneurJourney #1800TShirts #BusinessScaling #AmazonEffect #DTCTrendshttps://valeogrowth.com/
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Lonnie Schwimmer, serial entrepreneur and founder of Nootie, shares his journey from selling fireworks as a kid to revolutionizing pet care with vet-inspired shampoos, supplements, and Koha Pet Food. Learn how Nootie's solution-based products address real pet health issues, why Lonnie champions local pet stores over e-commerce, and how AI helps scale this purpose-driven brand. Packed with customer success stories and industry insights—perfect for pet lovers, founders, and retail innovators!
⏱Timestamps
00:00 - Intro & Lonnie’s Unconventional Entrepreneurial Beginnings
05:18 - The Birth of Nootie: How a Dog Shampoo Sparked a Business
07:01 - Why Pet Stores Are the Heart of Nootie’s Strategy
12:24 - Industry Predictions: Pet Retail Shakeups & DTC Challenges
17:42 - AI’s Role in Scaling Nootie’s Marketing & Operations
23:22 - Customer Success Stories: Transforming Pets’ Lives
25:46 - Lonnie’s Magic Wand: Educating Store Teams for Growth
🐾 Try Nootie’s Products:
Shop at Nootie.com (vet-quality shampoos & supplements)
Explore KohaPet.com (limited-ingredient pet food)
📍 Support Local Pet Stores: Use Nootie’s Store Locator to find retailers near you!
💡 "People don’t just buy products—they buy solutions that work." — Lonnie Schwimmer
🔔 Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell so you never miss an update!
📌 Subscribe here: http://www.youtube.com/@FutureProofedPodcast
💬 Let me know your thoughts in the comments!
📲 Follow me on social media: www.linkedin.com/in/brentmuller
#PetCare #Entrepreneurship #PetHealth #Nootie #KohaPetFood #RetailStrategy #SmallBusiness #FutureProof #BrandStoryhttps://valeogrowth.com/
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Ron Kamen, founder of EarthKind Energy Consulting, shares how his company is revolutionizing energy efficiency with solar, geothermal, and AI-driven solutions. From slashing costs for businesses to pioneering sustainable community initiatives, discover how cleantech can deliver positive ROI while saving the planet. Perfect for entrepreneurs, developers, and eco-conscious leaders!
⏱Timestamps
00:00 - Intro & Ron’s Journey from Accounting to Clean Energy
05:18 - EarthKind’s Origin: From Starfire to Sustainable Consulting
08:07 - Case Study: How a Developer Achieved 40% ROI with Solar + Heat Pumps
12:24 - Geothermal vs. Air Source Heat Pumps: Efficiency Explained
19:00 - Vision for the Future: 100% Clean Energy Communities
25:01 - AI’s Role in Scaling Energy Solutions & Streamlining Projects
30:28 - Westchester’s Lighthouse Initiative: A Model for Sustainable Cities
33:38 - Ron’s Magic Wand: Scaling EarthKind’s Impact
Ready to cut costs and carbon with clean energy?
Explore EarthKind’s Services: 🌐 http://www.earthkindenergy.com/
Connect with Ron on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronkamen/
Join the Clean Energy Movement: Attend Westchester’s upcoming conference (details on EarthKind’s site)!
"The cheapest energy is the energy you don’t use—and the cleanest is the energy you create yourself." — Ron Kamen
🔔 Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell so you never miss an update!
📌 Subscribe here: http://www.youtube.com/@FutureProofedPodcast
💬 Let me know your thoughts in the comments!
📲 Follow me on social media: www.linkedin.com/in/brentmuller
#CleanEnergy #SolarPower #Geothermal #AIforGood #Sustainability #ClimateTech #EarthKindEnergy #FutureProof #GreenBusiness #ROIhttps://valeogrowth.com/
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Discover how Henry Gordon-Smith, Founder and CEO of Agritecture, is transforming agriculture with AI, IoT, and urban farming solutions. From helping global farmers adapt to climate change to launching the world’s first farm-planning software, learn how his consultancy bridges tech and sustainability. Whether you're in agtech or just curious about the future of food, this episode is packed with insights!
00:00 - Intro & Henry’s Founder Journey
02:20 - How Agritecture Evolved from Blog to Global Consultancy
05:18 - AI & IoT in Farming: The Hops Project Case Study
09:02 - Measuring Impact: Farms Saved & Lessons Learned
13:45 - Scaling with Software: Introducing Agritecture Designer
19:31 - The Role of AI & Automation in Agriculture’s Future
25:28 - Pivoting After Industry Downturns & Future Goals
28:32 - Henry’s AI Tips for Founders & Content Creation
Ready to plan your own farm or explore Agritecture tools?
Free Farm-Planning Software: design.agritexture.com (Use code PLANYOURFARM for free access)
Follow Henry’s global farm tours on Instagram: @theagritecht
Subscribe to his LinkedIn newsletter: The Agritecht Chronicles
For consulting inquiries, visit: agritexture.com
🔔 Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell so you never miss an update! 🎥✨Watch now! 🔗Link in the comments below 👇
📌 Subscribe here: http://www.youtube.com/@FutureProofedPodcast
💬 Let me know your thoughts in the comments!
📲 Follow me on social media: www.linkedin.com/in/brentmuller
#AgTech #UrbanFarming #ClimateSmartAgriculture #FutureOfFood #AIinFarming #SustainableAgriculture #Agritecture #FarmTech #VerticalFarming #Entrepreneurshiphttps://valeogrowth.com/
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Joseph Cufari, CEO of MONARC Holdings, Inc., shares his journey from pioneering cellular technology to revolutionizing material science with energy-dispersing armor. Discover how MONARC’s US-made innovations protect military personnel and athletes, the role of AI in accelerating product development, and the future of lightweight, adaptive safety solutions. Learn how MONARC balances lethality and safety across defense, law enforcement, and sports industries.
⏱ Timestamps
00:01 – Introduction to MONARC Holdings and Joseph’s career evolution
02:19 – MONARC Holdings' focus on material science and hidden injuries in armor
09:11 – Transition to sports applications (e.g., NFL safety pads)
13:45 – Impact of AI on product innovation and feedback loops
20:10 – Future trends: Global expansion and multi-industry safety solutions
27:53 – Leadership insights: AI as a CEO tool for continuous learning
Connect with Joseph Cufari and MONARC Holdings:
🌐 Website: https://monarcgroup.net/
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joseph-cufari-4307592/
🔔 Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell so you never miss an update! 🎥✨
📌 Subscribe here: http://www.youtube.com/@FutureProofedPodcast
💬 Let me know your thoughts in the comments!
📲 Follow me on social media: www.linkedin.com/in/brentmuller
#MaterialScience #DefenseTech #AIInnovation #FutureProofPodcast #MilitarySafety #SportsTech #USManufacturing #CEOInsights #EnergyDispersion #StartupJourneyhttps://valeogrowth.com/
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What makes a startup truly investable? In this episode, venture capitalist and author Fred Haney shares insider insights into how venture capitalists (VCs) think, what they look for in founders, and the key ingredients to startup success. Whether you're an entrepreneur or just fascinated by the world of venture capital, this conversation is packed with practical wisdom.
🎙️ Topics Covered:
🔹 The biggest myths about venture capital
🔹 What investors really want to see in a startup
🔹 Common mistakes founders make when pitching
🔹 How to assemble a winning startup team
🔹 Fred Haney's personal experiences in the VC world
⏳ Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction
02:15 – Fred Haney’s background and journey into venture capital
07:30 – The startup traits that attract investors
15:45 – What founders misunderstand about VC funding
22:10 – How to pitch like a pro
30:25 – The role of team dynamics in startup success
38:40 – Fred Haney’s biggest lessons from investing
📘 Get Fred’s Book: The Fundable Startup
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fredhaney/
💡 Join Monday Club: Submit your deck at fredhaney.com/monday-club
🔔 Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell so you never miss an update! 🎥✨
📌 Subscribe here: http://www.youtube.com/@FutureProofedPodcast
💬 Let me know your thoughts in the comments!
📲 Follow me on social media: www.linkedin.com/in/brentmullerhttps://valeogrowth.com/
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Andrew Ortega-Verdaguer, Founder & CEO of IntelVasc Inc., reveals a groundbreaking subcutaneous sensor that monitors blood flow to predict vascular emergencies before they happen. Learn how this ex-surgeon-turned-entrepreneur is shifting medicine from reactive to proactive—and why AI is key to saving millions from strokes and heart disease. A must-watch for healthcare innovators!
⏱Timestamps
00:00 - Intro
00:31 - From surgeon to startup founder: Andrew’s journey
02:29 - The tragedy that sparked IntelVasc Inc.
05:51 - How the sensor works (live demo!)
09:05 - FDA timeline & 2028 market launch
14:12 - AI’s role in personalized vascular care
19:05 - Proactive medicine’s $20B opportunity
24:37 - Andrew’s AI hack for founders (Fixer.ai)
28:51 - Magic wand wish: Accelerating human trials
🩺 Learn More: Visit intelvasc.com
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewortegaverdaguer/
🔔 Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell so you never miss an update!
📌 Subscribe here: http://www.youtube.com/@FutureProofedPodcast
💬 Let me know your thoughts in the comments!
📲 Follow me on social media: www.linkedin.com/in/brentmuller
#HealthTech #AIinMedicine #StrokePrevention #HeartHealth #MedicalInnovation #FutureOfHealthcare #ProactiveMedicine #Biotech #StartupStory #FutureProofedPodcasthttps://valeogrowth.com/
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Guy Rocourt, cannabis industry pioneer and founder of Guy Rocourt Consulting, reveals hemp’s untapped potential beyond medicine—from renewable energy to sustainable materials. Learn why federal legalization is stuck, how AI accelerates advocacy, and why "clean label" cannabis could revolutionize consumer goods. A must-listen for entrepreneurs and eco-conscious leaders!
⏱ Timestamps
00:00 - Intro
00:28 - Guy’s journey: Military to MySpace to cannabis outlaw
02:51 - Founding Papa & Barkley (raised $70M)
06:14 - Hemp vs. Cannabis: The farm bill loophole
10:03 - Hemp’s 3 game-changing uses (energy, food, materials)
13:24 - Why Big Oil fears hemp’s 10X energy density
17:13 - AI for activism: Creating viral content with MidJourney
21:12 - The "Clean Label" movement in cannabis CPG
27:21 - Magic wand wish: Science-based federal regulations
🌱 Join the Clean Label Movement: Follow Guy on LinkedIn and Instagram @guyrocourt.
🛒 Try Clea Midlife (hemp wellness for women): cleamidlife.com
🎙️ Subscribe to Future-Proofed Podcast for more disruptive industry insights!
#HempRevolution #CannabisIndustry #SustainableEnergy #CleanLabel #AIForGood #FutureOfCannabis #Podcast #EcoInnovation #RenewableResources #BusinessGrowthhttps://valeogrowth.com/
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Krishna C Surendra, CEO and Co-Founder of HR Cloud, shares his journey from MySpace engineer to leading a global HR tech company. Discover how HR Cloud leverages AI for onboarding, remote team management, and SEO-driven growth—plus why consolidating HR platforms is the future. Learn his ChatGPT hacks for CEOs and the industries ripe for disruption!
⏱Timestamps
00:00 - Intro
00:28 - Krishna’s career journey (MySpace, NeoGov, HR Cloud)
03:10 - Managing remote teams in Vietnam & Croatia
06:05 - HR Cloud’s mobile-first onboarding for healthcare & logistics
12:07 - How AI is transforming HR (without replacing jobs)
17:08 - Future of HR tech: Platform consolidation trends
24:25 - Krishna’s AI productivity hacks for CEOs
27:21 - HR Cloud’s growth goals (ads, cold emails, SEO)
Try HR Cloud’s mobile-friendly onboarding tools!
Visit hrcloud.com to see how they simplify HR for remote teams.
🔗 Connect with Krishna:
💼 LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/krishnacsurendra/ for insights on AI and HR tech.
🔔 Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell so you never miss an update! 🎥✨
📌 Subscribe here: http://www.youtube.com/@FutureProofedPodcast
💬 Let me know your thoughts in the comments!
📲 Follow me on social media: www.linkedin.com/in/brentmullerhttps://valeogrowth.com/
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