Superpowers for Good: Empowering Changemakers for Social Impact via Regulated Investment Crowdfunding from the SuperCrowd‪.‬ Devin Thorpe

I’m not a financial advisor; Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions.
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Devin: What is your superpower?
Ralf: in a nutshell, it is a combination of my passion and experience.

In today's episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Ralf Mandt, President and co-founder of NextPitch.tv. Ralf's innovative approach to equity crowdfunding is reshaping how we think about and engage with investment opportunities.
Ralf's journey into equity crowdfunding began with his fascination for "Shark Tank" and the potential of crowdfunding to democratize investment. "When Howard Marks of StartEngine told me about equity crowdfunding in 2015, it was like a light bulb went off," Ralf shared. "I realized you could raise funding from the crowd, not just accredited investors, which was a game-changer."
This realization led Ralf to develop NextPitch.tv, an interactive platform where viewers can engage with crowdfunding campaigns in real-time, much like "Shark Tank," but with a crucial difference. "Unlike 'Shark Tank,' you can actually invest in the campaigns you see," Ralf explained. "It's about creating a dynamic where the viewers can build their own portfolios and rate campaigns themselves."
One of the most compelling aspects of NextPitch.tv is its ability to aggregate campaigns from various platforms, allowing users to explore a wide array of innovative projects. Ralf emphasized, "The important part is not the platform; the important part is the innovation of the campaigns."
Ralf's vision extends beyond just showcasing campaigns. He aims to create a sense of urgency and excitement around these opportunities. "If we can build a big enough audience, it creates a dynamic where there are only a limited number of opportunities, and if you want to invest, you better grab it while you can," Ralf said, drawing an apt metaphor with a pizza being quickly consumed.
This interactive and participatory model not only democratizes investment but also leverages the collective wisdom of the crowd. "The crowd has a remarkable ability to do due diligence. Everyone scrutinizes it in a different way, creating a comprehensive evaluation of the opportunities," Ralf noted.
As we discussed the future of equity crowdfunding, Ralf's optimism was palpable. He sees the industry not just growing but fundamentally changing the landscape of small business finance. "Crowdfunding could occupy a majority of the small business finance space, making it literally hundreds of times bigger than it is today," he agreed.
NextPitch.tv is not just a platform; it’s a movement towards making equity crowdfunding accessible and exciting for everyone. Ralf's innovative approach and passion for this space are truly inspiring, and I look forward to seeing how NextPitch.tv will shape the future of investment.
tl;dr:
1. Ralf Mandt is developing an innovative platform, NextPitch.tv, which aims to integrate the excitement of shows like Shark Tank with the interactive nature of equity crowdfunding, allowing viewers to invest directly in startup campaigns they find compelling.
2. Ralf's experience spans over 12 startups, highlighting his passion for entrepreneurship and his keen interest in digital solutions to scale businesses, such as transitioning from traditional inventory-heavy businesses to tech-driven models.
3. Despite early setbacks, including a cannabis-related crowdfunding campaign that was halted, Ralf's persistence in the equity crowdfunding space underscores his belief in its potential to democratize investment opportunities for startups beyond the traditional venture capital route.
4. NextPitch.tv seeks to showcase innovative equity crowdfund

I’m not a financial advisor; Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions.
Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.
When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or invest after clicking a link here, we may earn a commission. Engage to support our work.
Devin: What is your Superpower?
Claudia: I love that question. I do find that fascinating just because I think we all have some sort of superpower–even when we don't realize it. People don't realize how much they can do to change the world. I personally would say, usually, what people can tell is, “Well, she has Tourette's.” It's something that you have to battle with–you have to deal with every day. I would I would venture to say that that is my superpower–being very different in many ways. I am a woman in an entrepreneurial space that's very male-dominated. I am an immigrant and very proud of it. I have Tourette's, so all of these, like exclusionary or sometimes like minority boxes. I think it's what is my superpower.

In today's episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Claudia Porras Scott, the Director of the Kiva NWA program and Head of Inclusive Entrepreneurship at Startup Junkie. Claudia shared her inspiring journey and the impactful work she is doing to support underserved entrepreneurs in Northwest Arkansas.
One of the most compelling aspects of our conversation was learning about Kiva’s unique approach to microfinancing in the United States. Many people associate Kiva with international efforts, but Claudia illuminated how the organization has been expanding its reach within the U.S. since 2011. Specifically, the Kiva NWA program, supported by the Walton Family Foundation, has been a beacon of hope for many local entrepreneurs.
Claudia explained, “In Northwest Arkansas, we’ve done over 130 loans, with 100 of those going to women-owned businesses. We’ve seen an uptick in black-owned and AAPI-owned businesses as well. We don’t know the barriers that people have faced, so we strive to provide opportunities for everyone.”
This program is particularly vital because it addresses the unique challenges faced by historically underserved minorities. Kiva’s model divides the fundraising process into a private and public phase. During the private phase, entrepreneurs must secure pledges from their community, demonstrating local support. Claudia noted, “The pledges are small, typically $25, and it’s about character over credit. We want to make sure the business appreciates and respects the community.”
The public phase opens the doors to Kiva’s extensive network of lenders, which has proven to be a lifeline for many. “Kiva’s platform has close to 3 million people lending and fundraising. It’s incredible to see the global support for our local entrepreneurs,” Claudia said.
The impact of these microloans extends far beyond financial support. Claudia’s work with Kiva NWA is not just about providing capital; it’s about fostering a supportive ecosystem where all entrepreneurs, regardless of their background, can thrive. This episode of Superpowers for Good highlights how inclusive entrepreneurship can drive social change and economic growth, one microloan at a time.
tl;dr:
1. Introduction to Claudia Scott and Kiva in Arkansas: Claudia Scott, associated with Kiva in Arkansas, shares her journey from San Jose, Costa Rica, to becoming involved with Kiva through the Startup Junkie in Northwest Arkansas. She detailed her educational background and what led her to Kiva, emphasizing the personal fulfillment she finds in her role.
2. Kiva's Work in the U.S.: Claudia elaborated on Kiva’s expansion into the United States around 2011 and the establishment of hubs, including the one in Northwest Arkansas in 2019, which is supported by the Walton Family Foundation. She highlighted Kiv

I’m not a financial advisor; Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions.
Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.
When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or invest after clicking a link here, we may earn a commission. Engage to support our work.
Devin: What is your superpower?
Bennett: I hate this question. But I guess I'll say my superpower is probably grit.

Finding the right senior housing for loved ones is often a daunting and stressful experience. In today’s episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Bennett Kim, the CEO and founder of ZNest, who is on a mission to transform this process. Bennett shared his professional journey and the personal motivations that led him to create ZNest, a platform designed to democratize senior housing options and streamline the search process for families.
Bennett's career in senior housing began over two decades ago with a private equity firm, Apollo, which owned the largest private assisted living operator in the country at the time. His experiences with Apollo and the challenges he faced finding care for his aging parents deeply influenced his decision to start ZNest during the pandemic.
One of the most compelling aspects of Bennett's work is his recognition of the systemic issues within the senior housing industry. He identified that existing referral companies often prioritize profit over genuinely helping families, leading to a lack of transparency and limited options for those seeking care. ZNest aims to change this by providing a comprehensive, free directory similar to Zillow or Apartments.com, allowing families to see all their options without being steered by hidden incentives.
Bennett explained, "We need to have kind of this democratized data and allow families to know what all their options are. So we say our model is a little bit more akin to a Zillow or an Apartments.com for senior housing where there's a free consumer-facing side and we just monetize through tools on the back end."
In addition to revolutionizing the search process for senior housing, ZNest is also addressing another critical issue in the industry: labor shortages. Bennett highlighted that the pre-boarding process for new hires in senior housing facilities often takes several weeks, causing many potential employees to opt for quicker employment opportunities like fast food or gig economy jobs. To combat this, ZNest is developing tools to keep job seekers engaged through text-based communication and detailed community profiles, which also serve to inform families about their potential new homes.
Bennett’s innovative approach to solving these dual challenges in the senior housing industry not only aims to make life easier for families but also seeks to improve operational efficiency for housing providers. His vision for ZNest is a testament to his commitment to creating meaningful change in a space that affects so many lives.
For those interested, ZNest is currently raising funds on Wefunder. You can learn more about their mission and support their efforts at wefunder.com/znest.
tl;dr:
1. Introduction and Guest Background: The show opens with host Devin welcoming guest Bennett Kim, an entrepreneur from ZNest, a company aiming to revolutionize how people find senior housing. Bennett is motivated by both personal and professional experiences, including senior housing development and his parents' aging.
2. Career Catalysts and Pandemic Insights: Bennett explains that his extensive experience in the senior housing industry and his parents' ages prompted him to start ZNest, especially during the pandemic. He wanted to create something meaningful in the latter part of his career and saw the existing senior housing search processes as problematic.
3. ZNest's Mission and Technology: Bennett outlines ZNest's mission to democratize data fo

I’m not a financial advisor; Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions.
Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.
When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or invest after clicking a link here, we may earn a commission. Engage to support our work.
Devin: What is your superpower?
Astor: As an entrepreneur, you kind of have to have several because you wear so many hats. But I think that if I were to name just one. It would be tolerance for pain.

In today’s episode of Superpowers for Good, I had the pleasure of interviewing Lorde Astor West, the dynamic CEO and Technical Founder of RadHash LTD. Astor shared her inspiring journey and the groundbreaking innovations her company is bringing to the startup ecosystem. 
Astor’s passion for democratizing software development and automating startup processes stood out as a central theme of our conversation. RadHash’s unique approach integrates all the challenging aspects of launching a software startup, making it more accessible and efficient. As Astor explained, “We’ve taken all of the things that are really difficult about starting a software startup, and we’ve kind of meshed them all together.”
One of the most compelling aspects of RadHash’s technology is its potential to revolutionize the capital-raising process. Astor highlighted how their system provides real-time data to investors, enhancing their confidence and willingness to invest early. “By having that data and that embedded funding feature as a part of our ecosystem, investors are getting real-time data that are linked to the performance of that startup's software,” she said. This transparency and accessibility can significantly reduce the risks associated with early-stage investing.
Moreover, RadHash’s platform is designed to be inclusive, addressing historical biases in the venture capital industry. Astor pointed out, “When you can rely on numbers and you see things in that investment portfolio that make sense, there’s less opportunity to bake in those historic issues that permeate our systems.” This commitment to equity can level the playing field for marginalized groups, offering more opportunities for diverse founders.
Astor’s own story is a testament to perseverance and innovation. With over two decades in software development, she has built RadHash to empower solo founders and small teams by providing a comprehensive, no-code platform that standardizes and simplifies software creation.
For those interested in supporting this transformative venture, RadHash’s campaign can be found on Wefunder. As Astor put it, “Build your system, get your platform funded, hire your team all within one thing. And if you're a solo founder, it’s a really good way to get started because you really don’t need anyone but yourself.”
Astor’s vision and RadHash’s innovative solutions are set to make a significant impact on the startup landscape, fostering a more inclusive and efficient ecosystem for future entrepreneurs.
tl;dr:
1. Introduction to RadHash Platform: Lorde Astor West explains RadHash, a platform designed to democratize software development and automate the startup ecosystem. It aims to simplify the capital raising process for SaaS entrepreneurs by integrating real-time data and reducing bias in investment decisions.
2. Benefits of RadHash for Investors and Entrepreneurs: The platform provides real-time performance data, enhancing investor confidence and enabling investments across a diverse ecosystem of industries and founders. It aims to level the playing field for marginalized groups by focusing on data rather than biases traditionally ingrained in venture capital processes.
3. Astor's Journey and Experience: Astor shares her extensive background in software development, starting from the early 2000s, and highligh

I’m not a financial advisor; Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions.
Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.
When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or invest after clicking a link here, we may earn a commission. Engage to support our work.
Devin: What is your superpower?
Bill: I think an understanding of the ocean through the experiences that I've had in it.

In today’s episode of "Superpowers for Good," I had the pleasure of speaking with William R. Lyman, better known as Bill, the founder and CEO of Breakwave Energy. Bill's company is tackling one of the most persistent challenges in renewable energy: harnessing the power of ocean waves.
Wave energy presents a unique opportunity in the renewable energy landscape. Unlike solar and wind, which are limited by weather conditions and time of day, waves are a constant force driven by distant storms and the natural movement of the ocean. Bill explained this key advantage, saying, "Waves are driven by 1000-mile-away storms, and they break all day long, all night. Water is 800 times more dense than air. So, you always grab more energy from waves, but you have to do it in a way that's cost-effective."
However, harnessing wave energy is no easy feat. The ocean's harsh environment can destroy equipment, making it challenging to maintain and cost-ineffective. Bill likens their approach to the Heisman pose, “You’ve got to hold on to the ball and get into the end zone while making sure nothing touches you.” This means placing minimal infrastructure in the water and ensuring it can withstand the ocean's destructive forces.
One of the most exciting aspects of Breakwave Energy's technology is its potential for scalability and versatility. Bill shared, "We have the ability to not only produce electricity but also to scale our technology to meet the needs of small villages or larger areas, and even to desalinate water directly using wave energy."
Bill's innovative approach and commitment to rigorous testing before deployment highlight his dedication to creating a sustainable and effective solution for renewable energy. His team's ongoing collaboration with Cal State University San Marcos to test electrical components exemplifies their meticulous and thorough process.
Today’s episode was a deep dive into the future of renewable energy and the incredible potential of wave energy. I’m thrilled to share Bill's insights and innovations with you. His work at Breakwave Energy is not just about harnessing waves but also about offering scalable solutions that can significantly impact both developed and developing regions around the globe.
tl;dr:
1. Introduction to Breakwave Energy: William Lyman, founder and CEO of Breakwave Energy, discusses the company's focus on harnessing wave energy as a renewable resource to address climate change. Unlike solar and wind, wave energy is constant and more efficient due to water's density.
2. Challenges of Wave Energy: William highlights the difficulties of building wave energy infrastructure in the harsh ocean environment, detailing the ocean's destructive nature and the need for cost-effective and durable solutions to harness wave power.
3. Prototyping and Testing: Breakwave Energy has been developing and testing prototypes with promising results. They plan to install and test a larger prototype with the assistance of Cal State University San Marcos. William emphasizes the importance of thorough testing before deployment to avoid wasting investor funds.
4. Crowdfunding and Investment: The company has launched a crowdfunding campaign on Raise Green, a platform focused on renewable energy projects. William explains the global potential of wave energy, particularly in developing nations with extensive coastlines, which can benefit significantly from this technology.
5. Potenti

I’m not a financial advisor; Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions.
Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.
When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or invest after clicking a link here, we may earn a commission. Engage to support our work.
Devin: What do you see as your superpower? 
Kt: I would say curiosity.

In today’s episode, I had the pleasure of hosting Kt McBratney, General Partner and Head of Community at Renew Venture Capital. Kt's journey is nothing short of inspiring, having transitioned from journalism to non-profits, brand marketing, and early-stage startups. Their path led them to co-found Own Trail and ultimately join Renew VC, where they focus on backing diverse founders and purpose-driven businesses.
One of the key ideas we delved into during the interview is the importance of supporting diverse founders as a crucial aspect of social impact investing. Kt eloquently explained, “From a business perspective, there's data. It's data-backed that diverse-led startups, women-founded, and companies led by people of color perform well and often overperform compared to their white male counterparts.” This insight highlights the dual benefit of driving social change while also achieving strong financial returns.
Kt shared their perspective on the limitations of traditional venture capital and the innovative concept of “Purpose Rounds” that Renew VC champions. Purpose Rounds democratize investment opportunities by allowing both accredited and non-accredited investors to participate, thereby expanding access to capital for historically excluded founders. As Kt noted, “It’s not just Wall Street or accredited investors who already have the financial wealth and privilege to invest and participate in the financial upside of a company. But how can you open up that to Main Street investors?”
Throughout our conversation, it became clear that Kt’s commitment to diversity and inclusion is deeply personal and integral to their work at Renew VC. Their dedication to challenging systemic inequities and fostering a more inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem is truly inspiring. 
Renew VC’s no-warm-intro policy, which allows any entrepreneur to pitch without needing an insider connection, is a testament to its commitment to equity. This approach ensures that talented founders from all backgrounds have an equal opportunity to succeed.
In summary, today’s episode with Kt McBratney sheds light on the vital role of diversity in driving both social impact and business success. Their work at Renew Venture Capital exemplifies how purpose-driven investment can create a more equitable and prosperous future for all.
AI Episode Summary
1. Kt McBratney shared her unconventional career path leading to her role at Renew Venture Capital, highlighting her background in journalism, nonprofits, and early-stage startups.
2. At Renew VC, the focus is on social impact investments and supporting diverse founders, including women and minorities, which aligns with Kt's personal values and experiences.
3. Kt emphasized the importance of integrating profit with purpose, challenging traditional models by aiming to create scalable, sustainable businesses led by historically excluded founders.
4. Kt and her team believe in backing diverse founders, presenting data that shows such startups often outperform those led by their white male counterparts.
5. Kt noted the democratization of VC access by eliminating the need for warm introductions, allowing anyone to pitch through a straightforward online form.
6. The conversation highlighted "Purpose Rounds," which democratize investment opportunities by allowing non-accredited investors to participate alongside accredited ones.
7. Kt pointed out the benefits of having a capital mix for businesses, emphasizing that venture