A Bright Idea

Amber Key
  • 4.8 (18)
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Hey Everybody, this is Amber Key and you’re listening to ‘ A Bright Idea’ podcast, a show that sits down with entrepreneurs to hear about the ‘Aha' moment that launched their businesses. In each episode, founders share their story from idea to execution, insights on their industry, and key takeaways for anyone looking to pave their own path. Hear episodes on Wednesdays. You can listen to 'A Bright Idea' anywhere you listen to podcasts. If you are a founder or know someone who has launched a cool business and would like to be featured, email us at jacksonstreetmediaco@gmail.com.

  1. 1D AGO

    Motus Crucis: Bringing Parkour Back to D.C.

    In This week’s episode I chat with Nate Revolus - of Motus Crucis the one and only Parkour academy in Washington, DC Nate’s training program and gym is dedicated to teaching movement, discipline, and community through parkour. His journey began as a teenager after discovering parkour online and quickly becoming obsessed with mastering the craft. What started as hours of daily training evolved into a deep passion not just for the sport itself, but for teaching others how to move with confidence and control. Many may not know this, but Long before Parkour gained mainstream attention in the U.S., D.C. was quietly becoming a central hub for the movement, thanks in large part to organizations like American Parkour, founded by Mark Toorock. The city attracted top athletes from across the country, hosted national and international training events, and offered the perfect urban landscape for the sport to thrive. But when that early infrastructure faded, it left behind a passionate community with nowhere to go—creating a gap that Nate saw not as an ending, but as an opportunity to rebuild something even stronger. In 2025, with the support of his family, Nate opened his own gym, building it in just a few weeks and creating a permanent home for parkour in the city. Today, Motus Cricus Parkour is more than a training facility—it’s a community hub where students of all levels develop physical skill, mental resilience, and a sense of belonging. A Bright Idea Podcast 6:54 AM (0 minutes ago) Add reaction Reply More to me Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Parkour and Its Revival in DC 07:06 The Philosophy and History of Parkour 13:46 Personal Journey and Early Influences in Parkour 19:50 Mental Fortitude and Life Lessons from Parkour 21:41 Choosing Parkour Over Traditional Career Paths 22:29 The Shift from Physical Therapy to Parkour Coaching 24:06 Taking the Leap: Quitting the Day Job 28:23 Revitalizing Parkour Culture in DC 31:03 Overcoming Financial Hurdles to Open a Gym 33:50 The Emotional Journey of Opening the Gym 36:50 Teaching Techniques and Building Confidence in Students 40:49 The Life Lessons Parkour Teaches Children 43:16 Final Thoughts and Community Support  Resources Modus Crucis Parkour - https://www.moduscrucis.com Parkour DC on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/parkourdc NYPK (New York Parkour) - https://nypk.com Georges Herbert (Founder of parkour philosophy) - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Georges_Herbert Guest Links Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/motus_crucispk/ Website - https://www.instagram.com/motus_crucispk/

    48 min

  2. APR 22

    Fia's Fabulous Finds: How Community Saves Small Businesses

    This week’s episode is a really special one for me—because it’s not just a conversation, it’s a full-circle moment. Before A Bright Idea was what it is today… before the studio setup, before the growth… I was just a college student with a mic and a curiosity about people building something of their own. And one of the very first people I ever interviewed was today’s guest. Fia Thomas is the owner of Fia’s Fabulous Finds, a consignment boutique in the Petworth neighborhood of Washington, D.C. that has been serving the community for over 13 years. But this isn’t just a store—it’s a space rooted in sustainability, inclusivity, resilience, and community. In this episode, we talk about how Fia turned her love of thrifting into a thriving business, how she survived the pandemic by reinventing her entire model through Facebook Live, and what it really takes to keep your doors open when everything feels uncertain.

    53 min
  3. Missing in Action: She Left a $350K Job to Build Something She Could Not Find

    APR 8

    Missing in Action: She Left a $350K Job to Build Something She Could Not Find

    On this week’s episode, I sat down with Jordan Polk, founder and CEO of M.I.A. also known as missing in action - a Detroit-based hair and scalp care brand on a mission to make the outdoors more accessible. A former investment banker and software private equity investor , Jordan left Wall Street to build the category she couldn't find — protection-first haircare for textured hair experiencing damage and dryness while living actively outdoors. Missing in Action’s hero product, HairBlockTM, is a clean, science-forward daily barrier serum that supports against UV, chlorine, salt water, and cold weather.  Jordan placed 2nd at Beauty Tank LA in 2026 and is backed by 20+ years of haircare industry expertise through her advisor network. In this episode, Jordan and I chat about her experience going from private equity to founding Missing in Action. And through her experience in high-finance, she shares her strategies for fundraising, building a credible brand, and navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction and Jordan’s Journey 02:00 - Inspiration Behind MIA 05:00 - Customer Feedback in Product Development 08:30 - Leveraging Private Equity Skills 12:00 - Focusing on One Product 15:00 - Funding Strategies 20:00 - Strategic Business Growth 24:00 - Navigating Funding Challenges 28:00 - Building an Inclusive Brand 32:00 - Digital Marketing Strategies 36:00 - Networking for Investment 40:00 - Overcoming Product Challenges 44:00 - Establishing Credibility 48:00 - Personalizing Branding 52:00 - Strategic Investor Engagement 56:00 - Leveraging Partnerships 60:00 - Mindset Shifts for Success 64:00 - Building a Scalable Business 68:00 - Social Media Impact 72:00 - Focused Marketing Approach 76:00 - Lessons for New Entrepreneurs 80:00 - Supporting Jordan and MIA resources Jordan's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jordanismia/ Missing in Action (MIA) - https://www.missinginaction.com/ First Look Ventures - https://firstlookventures.com/ LinkedIn Profile of Jordan - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordanapolk/ Missing in Action's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thebrandismia/

    1h 16m

  4. APR 4

    Laid Off, Not Left Behind

    In this episode of A Bright Idea Podcast, I share my personal experience with being laid off and emphasize the importance of having a backup plan. I discuss mindset shifts, the value of side hustles, and practical tips for financial resilience during career transitions. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Episode 02:52 Personal Experience with Layoffs 06:13 The Importance of Backup Plans 08:48 Reframing the Narrative of Entrepreneurship 11:58 Protecting Your Peace with Multiple Income Streams

    31 min

  5. APR 4

    So Curious: Building a Greeting Cards Company Bigger Than Hallmark

    On this week’s episode, I sat down with Justin Shiels, a creative futurist, author, and founder of SoCurious. He creates joy-centered art, analog experiences, and creative practices rooted in self-love and nervous-system care. His work helps people slow down, feel safe, and reconnect with what it means to be human in a digital world.  In this episode - Justin shares how he went from being a creative director - a profession he decided on when he was just 8 years old to founder of So Curious where he emphasizes authenticity, community building, and the power of joy in business. We discuss practical strategies for launching a creative business, the importance of iteration, and how to stay true to your purpose amidst challenges.

    1h 10m
  6. Papi Cuisine: Merging Bold Flavors, Culture, and Innovation beyond Food

    MAR 18

    Papi Cuisine: Merging Bold Flavors, Culture, and Innovation beyond Food

    In this episode of the Bright Idea Podcast, Amber Key interviews Alex Perez, the founder of Papi Cuisine, a unique food brand that merges cultures through Afro-Latin fusion cuisine. Alex shares his journey from humble beginnings in Baltimore to building a successful restaurant and product line. He discusses the importance of storytelling, social media, and community engagement in growing his brand. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced during the pandemic, the mindset shifts required for entrepreneurship, and the definition of wealth beyond monetary success. Alex emphasizes the importance of following one's calling and the impact of fear on decision-making, encouraging listeners to take action despite their fears. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Papi Cuisine and Alex Perez 05:20 The Vision Behind Papi Cuisine 09:48 Baltimore's Unique Food Scene 13:10 Identifying Gaps in the Market 15:03 The Journey from Home Cooking to Business 19:08 The Role of Social Media in Growth 29:02 Transitioning to a Nationally Recognized Brand 29:44 Building a Flavorful Foundation 34:07 Navigating the Pandemic's Challenges 39:39 Mindset Shifts in Business 45:09 Defining Success and Future Aspirations 53:35 Wealth Beyond Money 57:19 Learning from Mistakes 01:00:01 Overcoming Fear to Chase Dreams

    1h 10m
  7. Root Branch Media: How One Woman Bought a City Block Without Investors or Grants - The Power of Belief

    MAR 11

    Root Branch Media: How One Woman Bought a City Block Without Investors or Grants - The Power of Belief

    In this episode of A Bright Idea podcast, Dr. Vonnya Pettigrew shares her inspiring journey as the first black woman to buy a block in Baltimore. She discusses the importance of financial literacy for creatives, the myths surrounding entrepreneurship, and the significance of building a legacy through education and community engagement. Dr. Vonnya emphasizes the need for creatives to understand the business side of their work and how storytelling plays a crucial role in their success. Her vision for Root Branch as a multiverse of opportunities showcases her commitment to empowering the next generation and creating lasting impact in the community. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Vanya Pettigrew 03:00 The Journey of Entrepreneurship 05:56 Myths and Realities of Entrepreneurship 09:11 The Importance of Business Skills for Creatives 11:50 Owning a Block: A Legacy of Empowerment 14:49 Education and Media: Building Futures 18:09 Creating Opportunities for the Underserved 28:47 Innovative Solutions for Remote Engagement 30:46 Building Trust and Transparency in Mentorship 32:23 Navigating Financial Literacy and Entrepreneurship 35:52 The Importance of Diverse Income Streams 39:06 Creating a Sustainable Business Ecosystem 41:18 Supporting Creatives and Community Development 47:39 Legacy and Long-Term Impact 53:03 Embracing Your Unique Expertise

    1 hr
  8. Spigot Guard: The Invention Saving Patients From Deadly Hospital Infections

    MAR 4

    Spigot Guard: The Invention Saving Patients From Deadly Hospital Infections

    In this conversation, Amy Huser discusses her journey as an entrepreneur in the healthcare sector, focusing on her innovative product, SpigotGuard, designed to prevent catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs). She shares insights from her nursing background, the challenges of developing a medical device, and the importance of patient safety. The discussion also covers the impact of hospital-acquired infections, the significance of clinical trials, and the future of healthcare innovation.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Spick Guard and Innovation in Medicine05:52 The Journey of a Nurse to CEO11:58 The Day-to-Day Life of a Nurse17:52 Understanding Hospital-Acquired Infections24:10 The Impact of Catheter-Associated Infections25:12 Evidence-Based Practices for CAUTI Prevention27:37 Innovative Solutions to CAUTI Challenges29:04 The Journey of Product Development31:03 Clinical Studies and Efficacy Testing34:19 Global Expansion and Market Adoption37:23 Success Stories and Positive Outcomes40:50 The Device's Versatility Across Care Settings42:18 Navigating Hospital Systems and Distributors45:10 Building a Supportive Network48:08 The Emotional Journey of Entrepreneurship50:06 Future Plans and Exit Strategy52:20 Innovations Beyond CAUTIs56:41 Final Thoughts and Resources

    1h 3m
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4.8
out of 5
18 Ratings

About

Hey Everybody, this is Amber Key and you’re listening to ‘ A Bright Idea’ podcast, a show that sits down with entrepreneurs to hear about the ‘Aha' moment that launched their businesses. In each episode, founders share their story from idea to execution, insights on their industry, and key takeaways for anyone looking to pave their own path. Hear episodes on Wednesdays. You can listen to 'A Bright Idea' anywhere you listen to podcasts. If you are a founder or know someone who has launched a cool business and would like to be featured, email us at jacksonstreetmediaco@gmail.com.

Information

  • Creator
    Amber Key
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    76
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Amber Key
  • Show Website
    A Bright Idea

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