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. Aug 25

    How a Tiny Dublin Startup Sold for $425M

    Most founders overlook a simple but powerful secret—protecting their ideas with the right legal strategies can turn a modest startup into a multimillion-euro exit. In this episode, Phil Crowley reveals how a Dublin-based AI startup turned a $500 million acquisition, sharing the tactical legal moves that fueled their journey from code to collapse and rebirth.You'll discover how early-stage founders can leverage intellectual property, patents, and strategic legal protections to safeguard their innovations without breaking the bank. Phil breaks down the true value of patents versus trade secrets in software, explains why a limited liability company setup is critical, and offers practical advice on avoiding personal liability traps that could derail your startup.We also explore the often-missed legal vulnerabilities that even successful founders regret ignoring—like improper IP assignments or neglecting formalized agreements with collaborators. Phil shares real-world anecdotes, including a $425 million sale, and distills crucial lessons on building a legally resilient business foundation.Why does neglecting legal infrastructure cost startups millions in lost value or legal trouble? Because in today’s fast-moving tech landscape, protecting your "secret sauce" isn’t just good practice—it's a game changer. If you're an early-stage founder or planning your next fundraising round, this episode arms you with the knowledge to shield your innovation and accelerate your growth confidently.Perfect for entrepreneurs looking to unlock legal strategies that build lasting value, or for anyone curious about how legal foresight can turn a modest idea into a thriving, protected business—this is your blueprint to avoid common pitfalls and claim your rightful share of success.Phil Crowley is Managing Partner at Crowlew Law, known for guiding tech startups through complex legal terrain from Dublin to New York, and for helping them secure millions through strategic IP and legal protections.

  2. Aug 18

    The Hidden Power of a $400 Press Release That Generated $10 Million in Revenue

    Ever wonder how a simple story can turn a small business into a media magnet that generates millions in earned buzz? Mickey Kennedy took PR from a costly, chaotic process to a strategic powerhouse that landed over $150 million in media for 40,000 clients—including startups aspiring to be the next big thing—and even got brands onto Shark Tank. His secret? Crafting compelling narratives that journalists can’t ignore and leveraging organic user endorsements that sweep social platforms.In this episode, Mickey breaks down the art and science of effective PR, revealing how the right story can unlock unprecedented visibility—at a fraction of the typical cost. You'll discover: how a $400 press release can generate over ten million dollars in media ROI, the frameworks to craft newsworthy stories around your product or personal journey, and how to turn customer success stories into credibility gold. We explore the proven story arc structure that appeals to journalists and readers alike, plus the importance of emotional connections that make audiences care—facing down the misconception that PR is only for big brands.Mickey shares real-world examples like a pandemic-driven dining bond initiative that raised tens of millions, a carpet company's industry-shaking exposé on big box stores, and the power of industry surveys to position your brand as an authoritative leader. He discusses the most effective ways to reach journalists today—shifting from email to the wire services that media outlets prioritize—and reveals how curated storytelling, contrarian angles, and strategic positioning open the floodgates of earned media. If you're a founder struggling to get noticed or looking to leverage PR without draining your budget, this episode is your blueprint to transforming brand visibility and credibility.Whether you're in tech, AI, or any niche vying for media attention, Mickey’s insights will help you craft stories that resonate, connect, and convert. Perfect for entrepreneurs ready to turn their narrative into a media magnet, this episode unlocks the strategies behind thousands of earned media placements—and how you can do it too.

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.