The Innovators

Tom Dioro
  • 0.0 (0)
  • Entrepreneurship

From the campus of Stanford University this is The Innovators Radio Show + Podcast featuring in-depth, one-on-one interviews with purpose-driven entrepreneurs, renowned thought-leaders and game changers committed to ideas, innovation, and better lives. Our radio show and podcast will illuminate the struggle, breakthroughs and exceptional outcomes game-changers bring to industries, organizations and lives. Hosted by Tom Dioro, executive producer of Stanford Athletics and KZSU's, Beyond the Champions Show, and principal of Podfather Media.

  1. Trust and Protection: The Heart of Zoch Real Estate | Chris & Kathy Zoch

    4d ago

    Trust and Protection: The Heart of Zoch Real Estate | Chris & Kathy Zoch

    Tom Dioro interviews Chris and Kathy Zoch of Zoch Real Estate Group in Dana Point, California discuss their 20+ year real estate track record across South Orange County (buying, selling, leasing) but emphasize that clients hire them primarily for protection and advocacy, treating clients like family. They share guiding principles—Kathy’s “Change is inevitable. Growth is optional,” and Chris’s Proverbs 3:4–6—linking faith to integrity, disclosure, and the golden rule, even when truth may cost a sale. Chris describes a life shaped by service, accountability, and legacy, including adopting Kathy’s three children and building a blended family with four kids and five grandkids. They explain how they transitioned into real estate after running a prior business affected by 9/11, work as complementary partners, prioritize relationship-based consultations to understand client goals, distinguish fulfillment from success, and highlight forgiveness as pivotal in Chris’s personal growth. Each episode brings viewers closer to the lifestyle, personality, local history, and real human moments behind the homes. From Dana Point and Niguel Shores to Aliso Viejo and Laguna Niguel, the goal is simple: show what it actually feels like to live here. 00:00 Protection Over Skills 01:19 Meet Chris and Kathy 01:53 Mantras and Faith 04:34 Truth and Service 06:36 Legacy and Accountability 08:32 Family and Adoption Story 11:43 How They Built the Business 14:09 Clients as Family 18:47 Success Versus Fulfillment 21:09 Forgiveness Turning Point 22:47 Closing and Contact Visit: ochomes.org for more information. southochomes.org realochomes.tv

    23 min

  2. 03/21/2025

    Pierre Buljan | Buljan Groups' Inspiring Journey through Real Estate

    Inspiring Dreams with Pierre Buljan: A Journey Through Bay Area Real Estate and Innovation In this episode of the Innovators Radio Show and Podcast, host Tom interviews Pierre Buljan, owner of the Buljan Group, a renowned Bay Area family luxury real estate company affiliated with Compass. Pierre reflects on his journey growing up in San Mateo, his deep connections within the Silicon Valley community, and his interactions with notable figures in sports and business. He shares his gratitude for the diverse and innovative environment of the Bay Area and talks about how it has shaped his personal and professional life. The discussion also touches on the inspirational environment and culture of grit that characterizes San Mateo County. 00:00 Introduction and Opening Remarks 00:26 Welcome to the Innovators Radio Show 01:01 Introducing Pierre Buljan 02:10 Pierre's Personal and Professional Philosophy 04:30 Reflections on Growing Up in San Mateo 05:23 Inspiration from Silicon Valley 06:29 The Global Appeal of Silicon Valley

    29 min

  3. 01/24/2025

    How Dollar Loan Center Innovates Short-term Lending with Integrity and Fun | Chuck Brennan

    Chuck Brennan: From Serial Entrepreneur to Dollar Loan Center Founder In this episode of the Innovators Podcast at Stanford, Chuck Brennan, founder and president of Dollar Loan Center, shares his entrepreneurial journey. Brennan discusses his early experiences starting businesses from sixth grade, his venture into the entertainment industry, and his transition to short-term lending. He highlights the importance of company culture, promoting employee longevity, and providing a welcoming and professional environment for customers. Brennan elaborates on Dollar Loan Center's mission to fill the gap in short-term lending amidst bank limitations, emphasizing trust and transparency in client relationships. He also shares insights on the company's community involvement, employee engagement, and future aspirations for financial product expansion. For more information, visit www.dontbebroke.com 00:00 Introduction and Employee Experience 00:47 Guest Introduction: Chuck Brennan 01:19 Chuck Brennan's Entrepreneurial Journey 03:06 Founding Dollar Loan Center 03:45 Business Challenges and Successes 05:16 The Payday Lending Industry 09:36 Customer Trust and Business Ethics 19:53 Company Culture and Employee Engagement 25:30 Future Goals and Community Involvement 28:18 Closing Remarks and Final Thoughts

    30 min

  4. 01/16/2025

    Investing with Heart: A Conversation with Andrew McCormick of eToro

    Investing with Passion and Purpose: A Conversation with eToro US Head Andrew McCormick In this episode of the Innovators Podcast, host Tom DiOro is joined by Andrew McCormick, head of eToro US. Andrew discusses his passion for investing in companies he loves, particularly relating to brands like Chipotle that resonate with his family. Throughout the conversation, Andrew highlights the importance of making investing accessible and fun, emphasizing eToro's mission to educate and empower new investors. He shares personal stories about his journey from a large financial company to eToro, the impact of his family and faith, and his commitment to breaking down barriers to investing. Listen in to learn about Andrew's vision for expanding financial literacy and his dream of increasing stock market participation among all Americans. For more information www.etoro.com 00:00 Introduction to Investing with Passion 00:48 Meet Andrew McCormick: Family and Career 03:37 The Journey to eToro 04:53 Personal Challenges and Professional Growth 08:03 Empowering New Investors 16:17 Future Goals and Legacy 27:14 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

    30 min

  5. 08/22/2024

    Trading Discipline & Emotional Control | Juan Carlos Riano - Smart Capital Club

    Mastering Discipline and Emotional Resilience in Trading: Insights from Juan Carlos Riano In this episode of the Innovator's Podcast, host Tom interviews Juan Carlos Riano, CEO and education consultant at Smart Capital Club. They discuss the psychological aspects of trading, emphasizing the importance of discipline, emotional control, and resilience. Juan Carlos shares his journey from a high-stress encounter with financial scams to establishing Smart Capital Club, a platform offering comprehensive financial education and trading services. He highlights the significance of a solid educational foundation, the role of physical fitness in managing stress, and the process of developing a disciplined trading strategy. The episode also delves into the importance of trust in financial services and offers advice for aspiring traders and entrepreneurs. For more information visit: smartcapitalbroker.com 00:00 Introduction to Trading Emotions 00:29 Welcome to The Innovator's Show 01:01 Meet Juan Carlos Riano 02:21 The Importance of Discipline in Trading 03:15 The Story Behind Smart Capital 05:17 Managing Emotions in Trading 07:55 The Role of Fear in Trading Decisions 09:42 Building Trust with Clients 13:58 The Discipline of a Trader 24:46 Advice for Aspiring Traders 27:48 Final Thoughts and Farewell

    30 min

  6. 07/19/2024

    How OpenPath.io Revolutionizes Instant Direct Payments | Franklin Levy

    Revolutionizing Payments with Franklin Levy: Instant Direct Payments at OpenPath In this episode of The Innovators Radio Show and Podcast, hosted by KZSU Stanford University's FM radio station, Franklin Levy, a partner at OpenPath, discusses the transformative technology of instant direct payments. The conversation delves into the changes in online payment methods, benefits to both merchants and consumers, and the future of financial transactions. Levy shares insights on the innovative capabilities of OpenPath's payment system, highlighting its advantages over traditional credit and debit card transactions. The episode also explores his personal and professional motivations and the importance of trust and dedication in driving technological advancements. For more information visit: openpath.io 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:51 Overview of Instant Direct Payments 03:09 History and Evolution of Payment Systems 07:57 Benefits of Instant Direct Payments for Consumers and Merchants 12:15 Fraud Prevention and Security Measures 16:30 Personal Insights and Experiences 19:11 The Importance of Trust and Vision in FinTech 26:40 Future of OpenPath and Closing Remarks

    29 min

  7. 07/17/2024

    Franklin Levy | GS Mining Company LLC Co-Founder

    Reviving Gold Mining in Colorado: An Interview with Franklin Levy In this episode of the Innovators Radio Show and Podcast, host Tom Dioro interviews Franklin Levy, co-founder and managing director of GS Mining Holdings. Franklin shares the history and operations of GS Mining in Gilpin County, Colorado, known as the richest square mile on Earth due to its abundant gold deposits discovered in 1859. The conversation covers the historical context and challenges of mining in the area, Levy's personal journey from iron ore mining in China to Colorado, and modern advancements in gold extraction technologies and sustainable practices. Levi also discusses the potential of new financial innovations, such as gold-backed tokens through a partnership with Dignity Gold. The episode highlights the revival of a historic industry with contemporary technologies and methods, aiming for a sustainable and profitable future. For more information, visit https://www.gsminingholdings.com/ 00:00 Introduction to the Innovators Radio Show 00:49 Meet Franklin Levy: Passion for Gold Mining 01:10 The Rich History of Gilpin County Gold 04:03 Franklin's Journey from Iron Ore to Gold 05:47 Challenges and Triumphs in Gold Mining 11:02 Modern Gold Mining Techniques and Sustainability 21:43 Innovations in Gold Extraction 24:14 Future Prospects and Collaborations 26:22 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    29 min

  8. 06/05/2024

    Jorge & Ethan Muniz | Founders of Ascender Systems

    Innovators Podcast: From Holiday Lights to Emergency Services – The Journey of Ascender Systems In this episode of the Innovators Podcast, host Tom Dioro interviews Jorge and Ethan Muniz, the dynamic father-son duo behind Ascender Systems. Beginning with the inventive solution to putting up Christmas lights, their journey led to the creation of a prototype robotic climber. The discussion covers overcoming the challenges of customer pushback, the evolution of their prototype, and their aspirations to aid emergency services with cutting-edge technology. Jorge and Ethan share insights into their product's journey, its potential impact, and the personal growth they experienced through pitching their innovation at competitions worldwide. Ascender Systems has designed a patented lightweight robotic solution for climbing up various vertical structures (e.g. poles, pipes, columns). Each "climber" robot can carry and install a "leave-behind" with a personalized customer-selected payload that best meets their needs. Our "climber" can optionally return to the ground to be reused. Customizable "leave-behind" systems can include communications relay, lighting, thermal detections, cameras, and/or satellite uplink. For more information about Ascender Systems, visit the website https://ascendersystems.com/ 00:00 Introduction to Ascender Systems 00:59 Meet the Founders: Jorge and Ethan Muniz 02:08 The Mantra: There Has to Be a Better Way 03:14 From Christmas Lights to Emergency Services 04:21 Challenges and Customer Discovery 08:08 Prototyping and Iterations 12:02 Competitions and Funding 13:31 Future Prospects and Personal Growth 21:47 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    26 min
See All (40)

About

From the campus of Stanford University this is The Innovators Radio Show + Podcast featuring in-depth, one-on-one interviews with purpose-driven entrepreneurs, renowned thought-leaders and game changers committed to ideas, innovation, and better lives. Our radio show and podcast will illuminate the struggle, breakthroughs and exceptional outcomes game-changers bring to industries, organizations and lives. Hosted by Tom Dioro, executive producer of Stanford Athletics and KZSU's, Beyond the Champions Show, and principal of Podfather Media.

Information

  • Creator
    Tom Dioro
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    40
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Tom Dioro
  • Show Website
    The Innovators