Founders Podcast

Ash Lonare

Welcome to Founder's Podcast, This is a show where I interview proven founders and industry experts who share their stories, strategies, and insights to help you build, launch, and grow your business.

  1. 1d ago

    How Red Hat's Daniel Pratl Transformed Business with One Powerful Skill

    Most entrepreneurs and leaders overlook a simple yet powerful skill that can propel their success in the AI age: storytelling. Daniel Pratl, a former CTO at Red Hat and innovator behind groundbreaking expertise-as-an-asset solutions, reveals how mastering the art of compelling narratives is no longer just an added skill—it's the top priority for navigating complexity and creating meaningful connections.This episode dives into how storytelling is transforming the modern landscape of business, from raising capital to building resilience in startup founders. Daniel shares how the top CEOs—Elon Musk, Sam Altman, and others—are winning hearts and minds through authentic storytelling, making technical prowess secondary to narrative finesse. You'll discover how AI has made storytelling more critical than ever, enabling individuals to unlock and monetize their expertise like never before.We break down practical frameworks and tactics: Daniel discusses the importance of articulating serendipity and human moments to resonate deeply with audiences. We explore the rise of "expertise as an asset," a new asset class defined by structure, verifiability, and sovereignty—giving individuals a chance to monetize their unique insights in a rapidly evolving AI-driven economy. Plus, learn why resilience, humility, and the willingness to embrace hard times are the secret ingredients of successful founders, especially those from humble beginnings.Understanding these concepts could be the difference between being left behind in a world overwhelmed by information and AI, or seizing new growth opportunities. If you're a founder, investor, or aspiring entrepreneur looking to stand out in a crowded, complex landscape, this episode offers the essential mindset shift you need. Discover how to craft your story, build credibility, and turn your expertise into a powerful, monetizable asset.Whether you're leading a startup or navigating your personal career in tech, these insights will help you communicate with clarity, authenticity, and influence—fueling progress and innovation in your journey. Don't miss this conversation with Daniel, a trailblazer shaping the future of expertise, storytelling, and AI.

  2. Jul 14

    How Henry Went From Facing Bankruptcy to Writing Best-Selling Books

    Unlock the secret to turning your story into a powerful, lasting business asset—without wasting years or money. Henry DeVries, a renowned marketing expert, reveals how publishing a book can become your most effective lead magnet, authority builder, and distribution lever in today’s digital world. Whether you’re a founder, entrepreneur, or dreaming of leaving your nine-to-five behind, this episode uncovers the exact steps to get started—and why acting now can redefine your success in 2026.Henry shares jaw-dropping stories from working with giants like IBM, Kodak, and Hewlett-Packard—showing how a single book or article can open doors you never imagined. He discusses the real leverage today: distribution channels like Amazon, Audible, and print-on-demand that make getting your message to the world easier and more affordable than ever. You’ll discover how to navigate the publishing process efficiently, from crafting a compelling framework to utilizing YouTube and social media for maximum reach. Plus, learn Henry’s "Magnificent Seven" marketing strategies that turn your book into a sales, speaking, and networking machine.In this episode, we break down: Henry’s personal journey from banking on expensive marketing to becoming a bestselling author and publisher.The step-by-step process for authors and founders to create impactful books in months, not years.The distribution hacks—print on demand, e-books, audiobooks—that turbocharge your reach globally.Proven marketing frameworks, including hosting webinars, leveraging podcasts, and building online authority.How to turn your book into a business-building tool that attracts clients, partners, and speaking opportunities.Why does this matter? Because if you ignore the power of publishing and distribution, you risk falling behind in an increasingly content-driven world. The opportunity is enormous: a well-crafted book combined with strategic marketing can catapult your visibility, credibility, and revenue—faster than you think.Henry DeVries is a marketing veteran, author of 20 books, and founder of PersuadeWithAStory.com, known for helping entrepreneurs and executives amplify their reach through publishing and storytelling. His insights are battle-tested from decades working with Fortune 500 companies and countless founders, making this a must-listen for anyone ready to scale with purpose.If you’re a founder looking to elevate your influence—whether just starting out or seeking the next big breakthrough—this episode is your blueprint for mastering the art and science of publishing and distribution. Hit play now and learn how to turn your story into your biggest asset in 2026 and beyond.

  3. Jul 7

    How Greg Went from Zero to $100M Deals with Google & Apple in Just Months

    Most founders overlook a crucial secret to rapid growth: mastering enterprise relationship building from the get-go. Imagine closing billion-dollar deals with giants like Google and Apple just months into your startup journey—Greg Grant's story proves it's possible when you understand the real mechanics of B2B sales. Are you ready to unlock the game-changing strategies that can propel your startup to industry leaders in record time?In this episode, Greg shares his extraordinary journey from corporate sales legend to startup founder, revealing how he secured deals worth millions with Google and Apple within his first months. You'll discover why traditional hustle isn't enough—organizational mapping, strategic stakeholder engagement, and consultative selling are the real keys to dominate enterprise markets. Greg dives deep into the overlooked signs of a business still running on outdated hustle, contrasting it with truly systematized sales processes that attract high-value clients effortlessly.We break down practical, step-by-step frameworks that can transform your approach: How to craft a compelling value proposition, build the right sales infrastructure, and leverage AI for research and outreach. Greg shares his proprietary "five Ps" model—People, Process, Pipeline, Psychology, and Strategy—that guides every successful enterprise sale. You'll learn the prerequisites every tech startup must meet before jumping into B2B, emphasizing systematic research, CRM discipline, and targeted outreach strategies that actually work in complex, long sales cycles.Why does all this matter? Because the difference between stumbling in sales and closing high-value, enterprise deals lies in systems, strategy, and mindset. Ignoring these insights leaves your startup invisible to the giants you aspire to work with—while mastering them positions you as a trusted partner poised for exponential growth. Whether you're early-stage or scaling, these lessons build a foundation for sustainable, high-impact sales success.Perfect for founders ready to accelerate growth, sales leaders aiming to fine-tune their enterprise strategies, and anyone curious about the future of sales in a world increasingly driven by AI—this episode arms you with actionable insights and proven frameworks. If you’re serious about transforming your approach and attracting top-tier clients, this is your must-listen episode.Greg Grant is a sales strategist and CEO of VAI Sales Leader, renowned for helping startups and established organizations crush their revenue targets with tailored, AI-powered sales systems. His deep expertise in enterprise sales, leadership training, and innovative use of AI makes him a game-changer in today’s competitive landscape.Get ready to rethink how you approach B2B sales because the fastest way to grow is by building relationships that matter, deploying the right systems, and leveraging modern tools intelligently. Don't miss out on these proven strategies to turn your startup into an industry giant faster than you ever imagined.

  4. Jun 30

    How Psychology Cracked the Code to Growing a Startup to Over 100 Million Users

    Unlock the psychology secrets that transformed a failed startup into a 100-million-user empire. If you're a founder, marketer, or entrepreneur tired of trial-and-error, this episode reveals the counterintuitive growth strategies that actually work—based on real-world experiments and deep behavioral insights.Colin Hodge, a seasoned startup founder and growth expert, shares how understanding human psychology, crafting provocative messaging, and strategic virality propelled apps from zero to millions—and beyond. You’ll discover how a bad date sparked the idea for a revolutionary dating app, why authenticity and exclusivity create FOMO, and how to leverage press and app store tactics to outshine your competitors.We break down: The power of highlighting universal taboos for viral growthHow to build in scarcity and FOMO at every stage of your product launchThe importance of authenticity in a cluttered, AI-driven worldPractical tips on app store optimization and press outreach that still work todayOvercoming startup burnout and navigating platform risks with resilienceThis isn’t just theory—Colin walks through the experiments, failures, pivots, and wins that shaped his success across multiple apps and mergers, giving you actionable lessons to apply now. If you're ready to rethink what’s possible and harness the true psychology behind viral growth, this episode is your blueprint.Perfect for founders chasing their first million users, marketers seeking breakthrough tactics, and anyone committed to building honest, impactful products in a noisy digital landscape. Dive in and learn how understanding how people think can unlock exponential growth.

  5. Jun 23

    From Homeless to Six Figures in Eight Months

    Most founders get caught up in the hustle, missing the lessons hidden in failure—and potential. Jarek Robbins reveals how dropping ego, forging authentic relationships, and relentless courage can turn even the bleakest beginnings into six-figure success stories.In this episode, you'll discover the transformative power of failing forward, the true meaning of service-driven leadership, and the crucial role of partnerships in scaling beyond your limits. Jarek shares raw stories—from stacking lumber at 80 years old to securing a multi-billion dollar investment—highlighting how resilience, strategic risk-taking, and authentic connections are your secret weapons.You'll also explore: The psychology behind scaling a business past the owner’s limits, and why 96% never make itHow to harness your inner state, story, and strategy for bold new movesWhy being willing to fail—and having a partner who loves you through it—accelerates successPractical insights into health, rhythm, and decision-making that boost your performance and energyThe surprising science of human connection, generational pride, and legacy-building in businessThis isn’t just about entrepreneurship; it’s a blueprint for a life of impact, authenticity, and lasting growth. Perfect for founders, leaders, and anyone ready to break through self-imposed ceilings. If you’re tired of plateauing or afraid to ask big questions, this episode will give you the courage to reimagine your possibilities—and the tools to make them real.Prepare to be inspired, challenged, and equipped to lead with purpose. The journey from humble origins to extraordinary impact starts now—hit play and turn your failures into your greatest assets.(Guest Jarek Robbins is a seasoned entrepreneur and leadership coach, known for his work on resilience and strategic growth—his story is a masterclass in failing forward and building legacy.)

  6. Jun 16

    Why Giving Your Product Away for Free Can Skyrocket Your Business From Zero to 2 Millions

    Most innovative companies embrace bold risks that many would consider reckless—like turning off revenue to fuel exponential growth. James Thornton, founder of DAS 3D, shares the counterintuitive decision that transformed his business from a niche digital creator platform to a global leader in AI-powered 3D content. Discover how giving away your product for free, not as a gimmick but as a calculated strategy, can create a thriving community, unlock new revenue streams, and accelerate growth beyond expectations.In this episode, James reveals the behind-the-scenes of DAS 3D’s radical pivot—no paywalls, no trial periods—just a commitment to removing barriers between their product and the world. You’ll learn how a freemium model built 3 million downloads, fostered loyalty from hundreds of thousands of passionate creators, and positioned DAS as an innovator in AI and virtual content. We break down the key decisions that turned risks into opportunities and explore the deep psychology behind community-driven growth.James also shares practical insights on leveraging community-first strategies, the role of AI in scaling content creation, and why human touch remains essential in an increasingly automated world. You'll discover how to build trust, cultivate a loyal user base, and use bold pivots to stay ahead of the curve—all while satisfying your customers’ needs and revolutionizing your market.This episode is a must-listen for founders, entrepreneurs, and innovators questioning the status quo. If you’re ready to challenge assumptions, harness the power of community, and turn risks into massive rewards, tune in now. The lessons from DAS 3D could redefine what's possible for your business—and show you how bold decisions drive extraordinary growth.Join us to learn why sometimes, giving everything away for free is the smartest move you’ll ever make.

  7. Jun 9

    How Gamification Can Skyrocket Your Business to $100 Million

    Most games keep players stuck in scripted, repetitive interactions. But what if AI could turn gaming into a dynamic, relational experience — a shared world where humans and AI learn and grow together? Carissa Carban, co-founder of Astro Puffs, reveals how their groundbreaking approach is redefining play through agentic AI, emotional companionship, and community-driven design.In this episode, discover how AI-powered NPCs with personalities and evolving trust are creating rich, immersive adventures that feel more real than ever before. You'll learn about the science of relationship-building in gaming, from harnessing oxytocin to fostering curiosity and community, all while maintaining ethical safeguards. Carissa shares insights into how AI can amplify human creativity instead of replacing it, emphasizing compassion over competition in the digital realm.We break down why emotional depth and social connection are the next frontiers in AI entertainment, and how Astro Puffs is pioneering this future with a multiplayer open-world game that adapts to players' personalities and stories. Plus, explore how community content creation and micro-influencer collaborations are shaping the next wave of organic growth, all without costly advertising.Perfect for founders, developers, and gamers eager to ride the wave of AI-enhanced experiences, this episode offers a glimpse into a future where play creates connection, curiosity, and compassion. If you're curious about the technological and emotional potential of AI in gaming and beyond, you won't want to miss this conversation.Join us to see how the blend of innovation, ethics, and community is setting the stage for a more human-centered digital world.Guest Credibility:Carissa Carban is a trailblazing co-founder of Astro Puffs, building the first shared world for humans and AI to play, learn, and connect. Her background combines leadership development, relational dynamics, and gaming innovation, making her a thought leader at the intersection of AI and community.

  8. Jun 2

    5 Ways to Skyrocket Revenue by 800% Overnight

    Most founders focus intensely on marketing, but overlook the game-changing power of operational excellence. What if a simple shift in focus could boost your revenue by nearly 900,000 dollars in just a few weeks? Cassandra reveals how prioritizing employee satisfaction, streamlining processes, and smart automation can unlock exponential growth and make your business truly stand out in 2026.In this episode, you’ll discover why 70% of new businesses rely heavily on referrals built on reputation and how operational tweaks can multiply those referral flows. Cassandra shares eye-opening stories, including how a manufacturing firm’s internal efficiencies tripled output and slashed employee turnover, and how automating influencer content creation saved thousands of dollars while boosting engagement. We break down the critical disconnect between marketing and operations, showing how neglecting the latter leaves enormous growth potential on the table.You’ll learn which metrics matter most to operational health: turnover rates, employee training ROI, and order processing speed, plus how to identify and fix leakage points in your customer funnel. Cassandra emphasizes the importance of creating a culture that embraces change, with process champions who drive adoption from the trenches, not just leadership. Her practical advice is perfect for founders in tech, manufacturing, or service industries eager to grow sustainably without just chasing marketing wins.If you're tired of chasing more leads without addressing underlying operational gaps, this episode is your blueprint for smarter, faster scaling. Cassandra’s insights challenge the conventional wisdom, showing that operational mastery not only enhances customer experience but also dramatically reduces costs and staff churn. Ready to turn your business into an unstoppable growth engine? Hit play and start building operational resilience today.Cassandra is a business growth strategist with extensive experience transforming companies through process automation and team engagement. She specializes in helping founders unlock hidden potential within their operations to achieve sustainable, scalable success.

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4.9
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About

Welcome to Founder's Podcast, This is a show where I interview proven founders and industry experts who share their stories, strategies, and insights to help you build, launch, and grow your business.

Information

  • Creator
    Ash Lonare
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    165
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Ash Lonare
  • Show Website
    Founders Podcast

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