Superpowers for Good: Empowering Changemakers for Social Impact via Regulated Investment Crowdfunding from the SuperCrowd. Devin Thorpe
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We host changemakers who are using regulated investment crowdfunding for social impact--impact crowdfunding--as impact investors or social entrepreneurs, catalyzing change with leadership skills we call superpowers.
www.superpowers4good.com
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Bridging Gaps: How Crowdfunding Is Democratizing Real Estate Investment
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?
Eve: Probably my biggest superpower is ignoring people when they say, “No, you can't do this.” Actually, that probably gets me going. If someone says “no” to me, then I put blinders on, and I'm going to make it happen.
In today's episode of "Superpowers for Good," I had the pleasure of speaking with Eve Picker, the visionary Founder & CEO of Small Change. Eve shared some groundbreaking insights on how her platform is transforming real estate investment.
Eve's company is a beacon of innovation in the finance sector, leveraging crowdfunding to make real estate investment accessible to all. This model isn't just about raising funds; it's a robust approach to community building and social equity. "What I really love about this regulation," Eve explained, "is that it's the SEC's first attempt to democratize investment." Through Small Change, individuals from any background can invest in projects that reshape their own neighborhoods.
This democratic approach is crucial. Traditionally, real estate investment has been a bastion for the affluent, often inaccessible to the average person. Small Change disrupts this norm by empowering people from diverse backgrounds to have a stake in the development that affects them directly.
The impact of Eve's work extends beyond financial returns. It’s about creating inclusive communities and revitalizing areas that traditional developers might overlook. It’s also a testament to the power of innovative financial tools to create real, positive change in society.
As we wrapped up our conversation, it was clear that Eve’s dedication to democratizing investment is more than just business; it’s a passion for social impact. With leaders like Eve at the helm, the future of real estate investment is not only promising but inclusive.
Eve will be one of the distinguished participants in SuperCrowd24, a two-day virtual conference beginning tomorrow. This event is a dynamic assembly aimed at revolutionizing the way we think about crowdfunding and investment and Eve's involvement is particularly noteworthy.
At SuperCrowd24, she will be engaging with other CEOs in a panel discussion, exploring the complexities and challenges faced by leaders in the crowdfunding sphere. Eve's insights, drawn from her extensive experience as a founder of a crowdfunding platform that emphasizes social impact in real estate, will undoubtedly highlight her commitment to innovation and democratizing investment opportunities.
It's an event designed to empower attendees with knowledge and networking opportunities, making the complex world of crowdfunding more accessible and actionable. This is a pivotal moment for anyone interested in the intersection of real estate, social impact, and investment. Register now with the discount code SuperCrowd to save 50 percent!
AI Episode Summary
1. Devin Thorpe introduces Eve Picker, CEO and founder of Small Change, a crowdfunding portal for real estate projects with social impact.
2. Eve discusses recent expansion at Small Change, including the addition of five new partners from another real estate crowdfunding platform.
3. The short-term effect of this expansion is increased busyness and the need to align the new partners with Small Change's processes and compliance issues.
4. Long-term implications include the ability to handle more and larger listings and to take on a broader range of projects.
5. Small Change leverages Regulation Crowdfunding, which enables developers to raise capital from the public for projects with emphasis on -
The Resonance of Jazz for Peace: Harmonizing Humanity and Artistry
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Devin: what do you see as your superpower?
Rick: Now, my superpower, because I've learned so much from these outstanding causes and from these amazing people I've met along the way… people are asking me if I might know the solution to something, so you can ask me anything. Now, I have a whole bunch of actual solutions to actual problems.
In today's episode of "Superpowers for Good," I had the pleasure of speaking with Rick DellaRatta, the visionary founder of Jazz for Peace. Rick's insights into the power of music as a universal language for fostering peace and unity struck a deep chord with me and, I believe, with our listeners as well.
Rick poetically expressed how "Jazz for Peace, coming through the trees, fills my heart like a celebration." This imagery captures the essence of what Rick has achieved through his work—using the universal appeal of jazz music to bridge divides, inspire hope, and foster a deeper connection among people, irrespective of their backgrounds.
During our conversation, Rick recounted an incredibly moving experience in Ghana, where he performed for individuals who had never been exposed to jazz music before. His reflections on their genuine, unfiltered reactions to the music underscored the universal language of jazz. "It's funny because there's a video of it... and you can hear the people reacting to the music at certain points. They would start clapping and make sounds as it affected them, and they would just emote that it was affecting them," Rick shared.
This experience in Ghana highlights the raw power of music to transcend cultural and linguistic barriers, offering a glimpse into the potential of the arts to build bridges and foster understanding. Rick's commitment to using his art to "espouse, so to speak, for who you are as a person, your growth as a human being, and what it means to you to make a difference for others" is a testament to the transformative potential of integrating one's passions with a purpose greater than oneself.
Rick's journey with Jazz for Peace is a beacon of hope, showing us how the arts can be a powerful catalyst for positive change. As we continue to navigate a world rife with challenges, Rick's work serves as a poignant reminder of the beauty that can arise when creativity, humanity, and a commitment to peace converge.
AI Episode Summary
1. Rick DellaRatta is a guest on the "Superpowers for Good" show hosted by Devin Thorpe.
2. Rick is the founder of Jazz for Peace and is recognized for his musical talent and dedication to peace.
3. During the show, Rick recites a poem and performs a piece of music that convey his message of peace and empathy.
4. Jazz for Peace is a response to the tragic events of 9/11, aligning Rick's music with a mission to make a difference and support causes.
5. Rick has performed internationally, including in countries like Pakistan, Nigeria, and Ghana, to spread the message of peace through jazz.
6. Audiences worldwide, regardless of their familiarity with jazz, react positively to Rick's music, demonstrating the universal appeal of the art form.
7. Rick's work has evolved to include providing solutions to social issues and conflicts, such as the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
8. Rick's superpower is his ability to stay positive, see adversity as an opportunity, and now share solutions to significant challenges based on his experiences.
9. To develop the ability to solve big problems, Rick advises embracing humanity's greatest qualities collectively, such as humanity, creativity, artistry, and intellect.
10. People can learn more about Jazz for Peace and connect with Rick through the generic email address info@jazzforpeace.org, and his work focuses on empowerment gran -
Demystifying Angel Investing: Empowering the Everyday Investor
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?
Karen: I can really help entrepreneurs cut through their own noise to get to the sweet spot of what an investor is going to care about.
In today's episode, I had the privilege of speaking with Karen Rands, a visionary leader and founder of Kugarand Capital Holdings, LLC, whose insights into angel investing are reshaping how we view wealth creation. Karen's unique approach, blending compassion with capitalism, is not just inspiring; it's a call to action for potential investors sitting on the sidelines, uncertain of their next move in the investment world.
Karen shared a profound perspective, emphasizing that investing in entrepreneurs should not be the exclusive domain of the affluent. She passionately argued against the long-standing myth that ordinary folks aren't savvy enough for angel investing. "The laws prior to the JOBS Act contributed to this lack of awareness and even a negative connotation for investing in entrepreneurs," Karen explained, shedding light on a systemic issue that has kept many potential investors in the dark.
What struck me most was Karen's unwavering belief in the potential of the everyday individual to make informed, impactful investment choices. "The main thing that I tell [new investors] is to identify what they know... invest in the things you know and you're passionate about," she advised. This simple yet powerful guidance serves as a beacon for those intimidated by the complexities of the investment landscape.
Karen's work, from her enlightening books to her digital courses, is a testament to her dedication to democratizing investment knowledge. She's not just teaching people how to invest; she's empowering them to contribute to the businesses they believe in, fostering a community of informed, compassionate investors.
Reflecting on Karen's words, it's clear that angel investing is not just about financial returns; it's about being part of a larger narrative of growth, innovation, and social impact. As we wrapped up our conversation, I couldn't help but feel inspired by the idea that each one of us has the potential to not just witness change but to actively participate in it through thoughtful, informed investing.
As we move forward, let's carry Karen's message with us: invest with purpose, passion, and a belief in the power of the collective. Together, we can shift the paradigm of investment and open doors for a new generation of investors ready to make their mark on the world.
As the conversation transitioned to Karen's upcoming participation next week in SuperCrowd24, her excitement was palpable. "Oh well, that's an easy one to answer," she began, her enthusiasm infectious as she recounted the value of community and shared experiences in the realm of investing and entrepreneurship. Karen reminisced about her previous involvement in SuperCrowd22, where the power of connection and learning from diverse journeys left a lasting impression on her. "It was so powerful," she recalled, emphasizing how such events foster a unique space for engagement, knowledge exchange, and the building of meaningful relationships.
Karen's eagerness for SuperCrowd24 was evident as she spoke about the anticipation of being part of an event that not only brings together like-minded individuals but also aligns with her core mission of compassionate capitalism. "You can't create a community if you don't have events where people can come together and get to know each other," she noted, highlighting the importance of these gatherings in nurturing a supportive ecos -
The Future of Investing: Crowdfunding Is the Digital Evolution of Investing
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?
Chris: If I had to really define my superpower, it would be resiliency. It's a willingness to go in the face of continuous and unending obstacles.
In today's episode of Superpowers for Good, I had the pleasure of hosting Chris Lustrino, the visionary Founder & CEO of KingsCrowd. Our conversation delved into the transformative power of crowdfunding and the pivotal role of digital platforms in democratizing investment opportunities.
Chris shared an insightful perspective that resonated deeply with me: "The last frontier of investments... continue to live offline... in the paper age, which is just insane. No one lives in the analog age anymore." This statement encapsulates the crux of our discussion – the inevitable digital migration of private market investments and the pivotal role of platforms like KingsCrowd in this transformation.
KingsCrowd's mission is to streamline the startup investment process, making it more accessible and efficient for the everyday investor. By aggregating opportunities from over 80 platforms and providing comprehensive data and ratings, KingsCrowd empowers individuals to make informed decisions in a burgeoning market.
The digital evolution of investment isn't merely a convenience; it's a necessity. Just as banking and stock trading have embraced digital platforms, private market investments are poised for a similar revolution. Chris's vision of a future where all private market transactions are conducted online aligns with the broader trend of digitization that has reshaped countless industries.
As we navigate the early stages of this industry, it's clear that crowdfunding platforms like KingsCrowd are not just facilitating investment opportunities; they're laying the groundwork for a more inclusive and efficient financial ecosystem. This democratization of investment is a testament to the power of technology in leveling the playing field, allowing more individuals to participate in the economic growth driven by startups and innovative ventures.
In embracing the digital future of investing, we're not just witnessing the evolution of a market; we're participating in a movement that empowers individuals to contribute to and benefit from the success of startups and new business models. This is a thrilling time to be involved in the crowdfunding space, and I'm excited to see how platforms like KingsCrowd will continue to shape the future of investment.
AI Episode Summary
1. Devin introduces the Superpowers for Good show, emphasizing that listeners can learn how to make impactful changes by drawing lessons from successful changemakers.
2. Chris Lustrino, CEO of KingsCrowd, describes his company as a data and ratings platform for startup investors, consolidating investment opportunities from over 80 platforms into a single, efficient system, much like Bloomberg or Morning Star for the startup investment world.
3. Devin discusses the future growth of the crowdfunding space, predicting a significant increase in market size driven by ordinary investors participating in Regulation Crowdfunding (Reg CF) and Regulation A (Reg A) offerings.
4. Chris concurs, envisaging the digitization of private market investments, such as startups and real estate, and the movement away from traditional, offline transactions.
5. KingsCrowd is currently crowdfunding on Wefunder to scale revenue channels and invest in product development and AI, with a focus on achieving sustainability and reducing reliance on outside capital.
6. Chris introduces KingsCrowd Capital, an investment -
Harnessing Ecosystem Innovation for Impact: Insights from 'Do Bigger Things'
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Devin: Dan, what is your superpower?
Dan: What's really hit me throughout my life is the wide range of things I can't do. So, I'm not very good at detail things. I'm not very good at structured or organized project management. But I am really good at seeing the big picture.
Devin: Jennifer, what is your superpower?
Jennifer: I was talking to someone the other day, and they introduced me as a force of nature, which actually made me think, is that a good thing or a bad thing? The driving motivation of my life has been inequality. I hate things that aren't fair. So, I think my superpower is harnessing that saying, “I can run through walls.” I can make big things happen where I am deeply motivated. For me, that's around inequality.
In today’s episode, I had the privilege of speaking with Jennifer Wilde, Founder of Lighten, and Dan McClure, Innovation Choreographer of Innovation Ecosystem, about their groundbreaking approach to solving complex problems through ecosystem innovation. Their insights, drawn from their book Do Bigger Things, shed light on a transformative method that goes beyond conventional solutions, tapping into the collective power of interconnected systems for impactful change.
Jennifer’s journey began in the heart of crisis zones, where she swiftly learned the importance of addressing complex challenges not with simple fixes but through a comprehensive understanding of the interconnected nature of problems. "You can have all the money in the world and still struggle to solve complex problems, which often spider into numerous interconnected issues," she shared. This realization led her and Dan to explore how ecosystems could be reimagined and restructured to facilitate solutions that are not only effective but sustainable and scalable.
Dan, bringing his unique perspective from a career that thrived in chaos and transformation, emphasized the broader application of ecosystem innovation. "It's tempting to see innovation as the next app or technology. But real-world challenges require the orchestration of people, organizations, governments, and technology," he noted. This approach shifts the focus from isolated inventions to the synergy of multiple components working together, a concept that is central to their book and their work.
One of the most compelling examples Jennifer shared was from her experience in a refugee camp in Iraq. A simple yet profound desire from a mother wanting her daughters to attend university highlighted the vast gap between potential solutions and the intricate web of barriers that prevent their realization. "It's not just about technology. It's about understanding the multifaceted needs and crafting a supportive ecosystem that addresses them holistically," she reflected.
As we prepare for SuperCrowd24 on April 17 - 18, we’re excited to note that Jennifer and Dan will conduct a workshop on ecosystem development for impact crowdfunders. Their insights remind us of the power of collective action. Through their work, they demonstrate that by rethinking how we approach problem-solving, we can unlock unparalleled potential for change. For those eager to join the movement towards innovative solutions for complex challenges, remember to register with the code SuperCrowd to save 50 percent. This is not just an opportunity to learn but to be part of a transformative journey towards doing bigger things together.
AI Episode Summary
1. Devin Thorpe introduces his guests, Jennifer Wild and Dan McClure, authors of Do Bigger Things, on his show "Superpowers for Good."
2. Jennifer explains that the book they co-authored focuses on solving complex problems by helping those who tackle significant issues such as homelessness, g -
Transforming Recycling: A Mission of Empowerment and Environmental Stewardship
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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?
Michael: I would say it's the ability to recognize hope.
In today's episode of "Superpowers for Good," I had the pleasure of sitting down with Michael Maggio, President and Founder of iWrc, an individual whose story and mission captivate the essence of positive change. Michael's journey from a corporate executive at Johnson & Johnson to spearheading a global recycling initiative is nothing short of remarkable. His vision extends beyond environmental stewardship, delving deep into social justice and poverty alleviation.
Michael vividly recounted his eye-opening experience in Brazil, which laid the foundation for his transformative work. "I remember one woman distinctly eating from the conveyor belt as she was sorting through the trash, trying to get the recyclables out. I thought, Johnson & Johnson can't use this material. But now that I've seen it, I don't feel like I can walk away." This poignant moment underscores the stark realities faced by those at the frontline of the informal recycling sector, a community often overlooked yet integral to our global ecosystem.
Under Michael's guidance, iWrc champions a unique approach, emphasizing the importance of integrating and uplifting these informal recyclers. By offering training and creating viable supply chains, iWrc not only enhances the livelihoods of these individuals but also propels the corporate world towards more sustainable and responsible practices.
The essence of Michael's work transcends the conventional boundaries of recycling; it's about recognizing the inherent value in every individual and their contribution to our planet. His initiative is a testament to the power of compassionate leadership and the potential for corporate responsibility to foster genuine, widespread impact.
As I reflect on our conversation, I'm reminded of the profound interconnectedness of our actions and their ripple effects on both humanity and the environment. Michael's story is a beacon of hope and a call to action, urging us all to rethink our approach to sustainability and social equity. Through collective effort and empathy, we can transform the very fabric of our global community, paving the way for a more inclusive and sustainable future.
AI Episode Summary
1. Michael Maggio is the CEO and founder of iWrc (Informal Waste Recycling Consortium), a company focusing on recycling and poverty alleviation.
2. Michael’s journey with iWrc began during his tenure at Johnson & Johnson, where, tasked with sustainability goals, he aimed to use recycled material in packaging.
3. On a trip to Brazil, after proposing the use of recycled material, Michael was taken to a local recycling co-op, where he was confronted with poor working conditions for those sorting recyclables.
4. The conditions prompted the creation of Project Phoenix to train and certify recycling cooperatives to become part of Johnson & Johnson’s supply chain.
5. When Michael decided to leave J&J and pursue this full-time, J&J supported him and became iWrc's first client on the condition he involved other companies.
6. iWrc operates by forming a consortium of corporations aiming to use recycled materials responsibly, addressing the entire supply chain for both social and environmental impact.
7. iWrc's model ensures that current workers in recycling co-ops are trained and integrated into improved processing streams rather than replaced.
8. Michael highlights the critical role that seeing hope plays in his leadership and approach to business, using hope to transform perspectives and inspire changemaking efforts.
9. Through storytelling, Michael and his team sustain morale by highlighting "People First" moments that celebrate su
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