Design Of Podcast with host Justin Ahrens

Andy Stoll is the guy you want at your dinner party if you're looking for some serious entrepreneurial wisdom mixed with a dash of world-traveler intrigue. As a Senior Program Officer in Entrepreneurship at the Kauffman Foundation, he's got a cool $25 million philanthropic portfolio to work with, all in the name of strengthening entrepreneurship and innovation across the United States. This Omaha native with family roots in a small Japanese farming community in western Nebraska embarked on a four-year solo trip around the world, visiting a whopping 40 countries. He's been inspired ever since, founding not one, not two, but six entrepreneur-focused companies over the past two decades.
Throughout his career, Andy has collaborated with industry leaders such as Steve Case, Paul Allen, and Tony Hsieh. He's now considered one of the leading national voices on how cities can build more vibrant and equitable entrepreneurial communities. From working in Bollywood to living in a mud hut village in Zambia, and even teaching apple pie making on Armenian National television, this guy's life is like a travel documentary of experiences. He also moonlights as a photographer, sometimes chef, and cooking class instructor. You might be asking yourself…Is there anything this guy hasn't done? We're not sure, but we can guarantee that he'll bring some serious insight and a good story or two to any podcast he's on. Don't miss out on hearing from this multi-talented entrepreneur.

Julie Sims, a global marketing and communications leader and strategist, has had quite a career. Knowing what she wanted to do at age 10, she followed her path and curiosity across the country, exploring different industries and searching for meaning in her work. From working in a newsroom and a staffing agency to dedicating her talents to a non-profit focused on creating a world free of illiteracy and gender inequality, Julie has always been driven by her passion. With her experience in leading MarCom functions, managing agency relationships, and developing strategic business plans, she thrives on overseeing the creation of compelling content that can change perceptions and deliver quantifiable results. Julie also has a deep passion for bringing out the best in people and shaping new leaders. Hear her story today – Enjoy the show!

Christine Taylor's journey has been filled with extraordinary adventures that have aligned perfectly with her personal passions and interests. It's the kind of dream we all secretly harbor. A true creative at heart, she has immersed herself in the realms of film, video, music, and theatre. For years, she has been an integral part of the TV and movie entertainment industry, specializing in licensing, consumer products, content development, and fan events. Her work revolves around some of the biggest and most beloved brands and properties in the world, such as Star Wars, Disney, The Simpsons, and Marvel, just to name a few. Brace yourself to meet a truly remarkable individual who cherishes and celebrates the wonders of popular culture in all its glory.

Debbie Millman is the creator and host of Design Matters, which is the world’s first podcast about design and is known for its wide-ranging conversations with designers, writers, artists, curators, musicians, and other prominent figures in contemporary thought. Additionally, Debbie is an author, teacher, and co-curator of the online Print Magazine. She is also an artist, speaker, and curator of creative conferences like the HOW Design Live Conference.

Get ready to hear Debbie’s story, where we talk about her podcast and work, relationships, and the pain that has influenced our lives. Enjoy the show.

Ciara Panacchia's story is a remarkable example of the power of the American Dream. She rose from humble beginnings in a small Irish town, despite facing adversity in the classroom and limited resources. But her passion, creativity, and tenacity led her to fall in love with an American and move to the United States. Through sheer determination and hard work, Ciara has become a successful author and illustrator, connecting her native language to other Irish immigrants. Pronounced like Keira Knightley, Ciara's inspiring journey from a small village to a bridge of culture and art is a testament to the power of ambition and hard work. Come celebrate her incredible story with us!

Steven Morris is a brand and culture advisor, author, and speaker. He believes that, at its heart, business is a human-to-human venture. Much of what people do, they do unconsciously. People make decisions with their heads but act with their hearts. This is true for leaders, employees, investors, and customers. Steven is in the business of bringing that heart, or dare I say, love, to the center of leadership and business. In fact, as he states: “There’s nothing more powerful than a united group of souls ignited in a common cause with love at the core.” Enjoy his perspective and his story!