Class E Podcast

Mary Sturgill
  • 5.0 (13)
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY
Class E Podcast

Join us as we invite forward-thinking minds to share their stories, expertise, and experiences, all in pursuit of cultivating a dynamic ecosystem of innovative and entrepreneurial thinking. Brought to you by the collaborative efforts of Furman Innovation and Entrepreneurship alongside the esteemed Communication Studies Department at Furman University, the Class E Podcast is your go-to resource for unlocking the secrets of success in the modern entrepreneurial landscape. Each episode is a masterclass in innovation, featuring insightful discussions with industry leaders, trailblazing entrepreneurs, and visionary educators. Whether you're a student eager to kickstart your entrepreneurial journey or an established professional seeking fresh perspectives, the Class E Podcast provides the inspiration, knowledge, and practical insights you need to thrive in today's competitive business environment.

  1. DEC 10

    Brain Power & Business: How Andrew Sendejo Tackles Cognitive Health After the NFL

    Join us for an inspiring episode of the Class E Podcast, where host Mary Sturgill sits down with Andrew Sendejo, a former NFL safety turned successful entrepreneur. Andrew’s journey from an undrafted All-American to a 12-season NFL veteran is only the beginning—after a career-ending injury, he transitioned into real estate, venture capital, and co-founding Braintree Nutrition, a company dedicated to improving brain health. His story is a testament to resilience, reinvention, and the power of pursuing your passions. Learn how his personal experiences with concussions fueled his passion for brain health, leading to the creation of pharmaceutical-grade supplements that promote cognitive wellness. Together, Mary and Andrew explore the science of brain health, the importance of proactive self-care, and how Braintree Nutrition sets a new standard in the supplement industry with transparency, affordability, and efficacy. Beyond his work at Braintree, Andrew also shares insights into Fourth and One Ventures, a firm connecting NFL players with early-stage investment opportunities, and his lessons from the gridiron to the boardroom. Whether you’re an athlete, entrepreneur, or simply navigating life’s transitions, this episode offers invaluable perspectives on turning challenges into opportunities. Packed with personal anecdotes, business insights, and a sneak peek at Braintree’s exciting future, this episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about innovation and resilience. Don’t miss it! Guest: Andrew Sendejo Host: Mary Sturgill Producer: Caroline Collins

    46 min

  2. NOV 7

    Beyond Boundaries: Alice Grey Harrison on Building Culture, Communication, and a Business

    In this insightful episode of the Class E Podcast, host Mary Sturgill speaks with Alice Grey Harrison, a pioneering expert in strategic communication and change management. Alice shares her journey from liberal arts student to head of communications at a top ten accounting firm.  Now to entrepreneur, who helps firms nationwide with culture-building, public relations, and change management. She emphasizes the importance of aligning work with one's passions, the power of mentorship, and the vital role of storytelling in internal and external communications. Alice reveals how she discovered her entrepreneurial spirit, honed through years of experience and now channeling into her own venture. She shares the unexpected challenges of running a business, like balancing client work with self-promotion, and reveals how AI tools like ChatGPT have become essential for brainstorming and refining her ideas. Her story offers a refreshing reminder that passion-driven work leads to growth and satisfaction, whether you’re just starting out or looking to rekindle your career. Tune in for practical tips, inspiring insights, and a fresh perspective on leveraging AI to enhance innovation in the modern workplace. Guest: Alice Grey Harrison Host: Mary Sturgill Producer: Caroline Collins

    32 min

  3. OCT 23

    Seeds of Change: Transforming Communities Through Mill Village Ministries

    Explore the inspiring journey of Dan Weidenbenner, founder of Mill Village Ministries, in this engaging podcast episode! Dan shares the story behind his innovative nonprofit fostering youth development, entrepreneurship, and community engagement in Greenville, South Carolina. From starting with a small community garden to expanding into multiple initiatives—Mill Village Farms, Village Engage, Village Launch, and Village Wrench—Dan’s work empowers local youth, supports entrepreneurs, and addresses systemic issues like food insecurity and financial inequity. He shares success stories of students and entrepreneurs who have flourished through these programs and provides insight into how anyone can take action to improve their communities. Tune in to hear how Mill Village Ministries is building a better future by creating opportunities, cultivating leadership, and fostering an entrepreneurial ecosystem in the Upstate. If you’re passionate about community development, this is an episode you won’t want to miss!   Guest: Dan Weidenbenner Host: Mary Sturgill Producer: Caroline Collins

    37 min

  4. OCT 11

    TV Producer Turns Digital Disruptor: Roshanda Pratt’s Story of Self-Belief and Innovation

    On this episode of the Class E Podcast, host Mary Sturgill welcomes Roshanda Pratt, an accomplished entrepreneur and former TV news producer, for an inspiring conversation about the power of storytelling, innovation, and betting on yourself. Roshanda shares her journey from journalism to becoming a digital marketing pioneer, using live streaming and video to amplify her voice and help others do the same. In this candid discussion, Roshanda reveals how she embraced change, overcame naysayers, and built a thriving career in the digital space. Aspiring entrepreneurs and innovators will find valuable lessons in her insights on creating visibility, harnessing thought leadership, and the importance of writing your own permission slip. Tune in to discover how Roshanda's infectious energy and passion continue to make waves in the "digital streets."   Guest: Roshanda Pratt "The Ro Show Live" Host: Mary Sturgill Producer: Caroline Collins

    49 min

  5. AUG 14

    Starting Takes Hart: The Groundwork to a Holistic Enterprise

    Discover the inspiring journey of Kristan Hart, a multi-passionate entrepreneur and the founder of Hart, Mind, Body and Soul, and Envy Hart Creations. In the latest episode of the Class E Podcast, Kristan shares her path from overcoming personal struggles with mental health to building her own business. Learn how Kristan’s focus on holistic wellness—connecting mind, body, and soul—has not only transformed her life but also the lives of her clients. Join host Mary Sturgill as they explore Kristan's entrepreneurial insights, the challenges of starting a business in uncertain times, and the power of balancing physical and mental health for lasting success. Don’t miss this empowering conversation brought to you by the Hill Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship and Furman University's Communication Studies Department. Guest: Kristan Hart Host: Mary Sturgill Producer: Caroline Collins

    31 min

  6. JUL 24

    From Insight to Implementation: Spar Solutions’ Blueprint for Sustainable Improvement

    In this episode, Bill Sparling, the creator of Spar Solutions Unlimited, shares how they help businesses transform company culture and streamline complex operational processes. By providing essential resources and support, they enable significant and sustainable improvements. We explore how Sparling Solutions Unlimited employs technologies like vibration analysis and infrared thermography to proactively prevent issues. They excel at identifying operational gaps and creating actionable plans to address them. Learn the difference between reactive and proactive maintenance and discover how the right approach can save time and money. Tune in to understand how their assessments offer businesses clarity and direction, enhance efficiency and performance, and develop a strategic roadmap for success. Guest: Bill Sparling Host: Mary Sturgill Producer: Caroline Collins

    35 min
  7. "Real Talk, Real Success: Whitney McDuff's Storytelling Revolution"

    JUL 10 · VIDEO

    "Real Talk, Real Success: Whitney McDuff's Storytelling Revolution"

    Discover the transformative power of media with Whitney McDuff, whose journey from taking on a pivotal project to creating her own company showcases the immense potential of storytelling, public speaking, and PR. In our latest podcast episode, Whitney shares how authenticity in today’s fast-paced world can drive visibility, credibility, and profitability. Tune in to hear how Whitney’s dedication to genuine storytelling has not only propelled her ventures but also inspired countless others to embrace their unique narratives. Learn why trusting yourself, taking the leap, and being open to possibilities can lead to unexpected and rewarding opportunities. Guest: Whitney McDuff Host: Mary Sturgill Producer: Caroline Collins http://www.WhitneyMcDuff.com

    1h 5m

  8. APR 18

    How RIZE Prevention is Empowering the Youth

    In this episode of the Class E Podcast, we sat down with guest Martine Helou-Allen, CEO and founder of RIZE Prevention. Martine shares her personal journey and how it led her to create a groundbreaking program empowering teens to resist drugs and make healthy choices. Through RIZE, Martine is transforming communities by addressing the root causes of addiction and offering hope to young people. Join us as we explore her inspiring story and the impact of RIZE Prevention. Guest: Martine Helou-Allen Host: Mary Sturgill Producer: Isabella Martinez To learn more about RIZE visit their website: https://rizeprevention.org/

    33 min
See All (100)

5
out of 5
13 Ratings

About

Join us as we invite forward-thinking minds to share their stories, expertise, and experiences, all in pursuit of cultivating a dynamic ecosystem of innovative and entrepreneurial thinking. Brought to you by the collaborative efforts of Furman Innovation and Entrepreneurship alongside the esteemed Communication Studies Department at Furman University, the Class E Podcast is your go-to resource for unlocking the secrets of success in the modern entrepreneurial landscape. Each episode is a masterclass in innovation, featuring insightful discussions with industry leaders, trailblazing entrepreneurs, and visionary educators. Whether you're a student eager to kickstart your entrepreneurial journey or an established professional seeking fresh perspectives, the Class E Podcast provides the inspiration, knowledge, and practical insights you need to thrive in today's competitive business environment.

Information

  • Creator
    Mary Sturgill
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2024
  • Episodes
    100
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Furman Innovation 2020
  • Show Website
    Class E Podcast

To listen to explicit episodes, sign in.

Stay up to date with this show

Sign in or sign up to follow shows, save episodes, and get the latest updates.
Select a country or region

Africa, Middle East, and India

Asia Pacific

Europe

Latin America and the Caribbean

The United States and Canada