EIR Live

Terrance Orr & Ilya Tabakh
  • 5.0 (3)
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

EIR Live brings you invaluable lessons straight from Entrepreneurs in Residence (EIRs) who have been in the trenches. Hosted by seasoned EIRs Terrance Orr and Ilya Tabakh, each episode offers actionable insights and real-world strategies as guests share their personal journeys, successes, and hard-earned lessons. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur in residence, venture builder, or innovation leader, you'll gain practical knowledge from those actively shaping industries. Tune in to learn directly from the experts and empower your own entrepreneurial journey.

  1. Episode 13 - A Journey Through Water Innovation with Adam Tank

    OCT 21

    Episode 13 - A Journey Through Water Innovation with Adam Tank

    Join us for an inspiring conversation with Adam Tank, co-founder and CCO of Transcend, a Series B infrastructure technology company revolutionizing how critical infrastructure is designed. From his unexpected journey starting as a microbiology student who won pitch competitions without business knowledge, to working at General Electric and founding a robotics startup that was successfully acquired, Adam shares invaluable insights on building mission-driven companies that create measurable social impact. With Transcend's software already affecting over 400 million people globally, Adam discusses the art of "collecting dots before connecting them," the reality of scaling from founder mode to operational excellence, and why infrastructure innovation represents one of the greatest opportunities of our generation. Chapters [00:00:00] Guest Introduction & Serendipitous Connection Story [00:04:04] Early Life: From Microscopes to Medical School Dreams [00:05:04] First Entrepreneurial Win: The Papa John's Pizza Competition [00:08:03] MBA & Second Competition Victory: Airbnb for Business Travelers [00:11:44] Collecting Dots Before Connecting Dots [00:17:31] Mexico Volunteering & Life Perspective [00:21:44] GE Water: Entering the Water Industry [00:26:00] The Digital Water Revolution & 30% Water Loss Crisis [00:29:00] From GE Ventures to Founding Industrial Optic (Robotics) [00:31:30] Suez Experience & Corporate vs Startup Reality [00:36:00] Building Transcend: Mission-Driven Infrastructure Innovation [00:41:00] Scaling Challenges: Series A to Series B Transition [00:46:00] Infrastructure as Opportunity: The Unsexy Gold Mine [00:49:40] Corporate Innovation vs Startup Execution [00:52:00] War Wounds: California Tax Story & Resilience [00:54:00] Vision for the Future: Designing Cities from Scratch [00:56:00] Personal Life: Foster Parenting & Work-Life Integration [00:58:00] Final Reflections & How to Connect Key Takeaways Collect dots before connecting them: Diverse experiences that seem unrelated often converge to create unique entrepreneurial capabilities. Actively seek experiences outside your comfort zone.Mission drives resilience: Having a clear purpose and measurable impact (Transcend tracks helping 400M+ people) provides stability during the inevitable volatility of entrepreneurship.Scale requires different skills: The transition from "just get shit done" founder mode to building systems and processes is necessary but challenging. Know when to ask "Who can do this?" instead of "How do I do this?"Infrastructure presents massive opportunity: With U.S. water infrastructure rated D and 30% of treated water lost, there's tremendous potential for innovation in "unsexy" but critical sectors.Bridge corporate and startup worlds: Both environments have misconceptions about each other. Success comes from recognizing complementary capabilities and building mutual respect.Notable Quotes [00:00:14] Adam Tank: "You have to collect the dots before you can connect the dots. You have to have all of these experiences and only in hindsight can you actually connect them and make sense." [00:18:00] Adam Tank: "Happiness and fulfillment have very little to do with your job title or how much money you make. Really, the things that are most important are your health, the health of your friends and family, that you have people that love you." [00:36:00] Adam Tank: "My mindset is just get shit done. You might piss some people off along the way... but you just need to get it done. And that's not our company anymore." [00:39:00] Adam Tank: "Every time someone runs a design using our software, we know that there is a percentage likelihood that someone in the world is going to get access to clean water or renewable power because of it." [00:52:00] Adam Tank: "The things that you think you need to worry about inevitably never come to fruition, and the stuff that you're not worried about does." Organizations & Resources Mentioned Transcend Software: Infrastructure design platform (https://transcendinfra.com)General Electric (GE): Water division, GE Ventures, ECLP rotational programGeneral Mills: Quality engineering and food safetySuez: French water and infrastructure company - https://www.suez.com/en/north-americaIndustrial Optic: Adam's robotics startup (acquired by Mueller Water Technologies)Kansas State University: Bachelor's in MicrobiologyUniversity of Arizona: MBA in Marketing & EntrepreneurshipBook: "Who Not How" by Dan Sullivan and Benjamin Hardy - https://whonothow.com/David Perel: Writing expert referenced for "collect the dots" concept - https://x.com/david_perell/status/1765416669948637399American Society of Civil Engineers: Infrastructure Report Card - https://infrastructurereportcard.org/Ralph Exton: Adam's mentor at GE Water - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ralpherikexton/🔗 Connect with Adam Tank LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamtank/Website: https://adamtank.comCompany: https://transcendinfra.com🔗 Connect with EIR Live▪️ Terrance Orr on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/terranceorr▪️ Ilya Tabakh on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ilyatabakh▪️ Website: eir.live▪️ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/eirlive▪️ YouTube: youtube.com/@EIRLive▪️ X/Twitter: twitter.com/EIRLive_show▪️ Suggest Guest (00:00) - Guest Introduction & Serendipitous Connection Story (04:04) - Early Life: From Microscopes to Medical School Dreams (05:04) - First Entrepreneurial Win: The Papa John's Pizza Competition (08:03) - MBA & Second Competition Victory: Airbnb for Business Travelers (11:44) - Collecting Dots Before Connecting Dots (17:31) - Mexico Volunteering & Life Perspective (21:44) - GE Water: Entering the Water Industry (26:00) - The Digital Water Revolution & 30% Water Loss Crisis (29:00) - From GE Ventures to Founding Industrial Optic (Robotics) (31:30) - Suez Experience & Corporate vs Startup Reality (36:00) - Building Transcend: Mission-Driven Infrastructure Innovation (41:00) - Scaling Challenges: Series A to Series B Transition (46:00) - Infra...

    1h 9m
  2. Episode 12 - From Entrepreneur to EIR Enabler with Mia Bennett

    AUG 26

    Episode 12 - From Entrepreneur to EIR Enabler with Mia Bennett

    In this episode of EIR Live, hosts Ilya Tabakh and Terrance Orr sit down with Mia Bennett, a serial entrepreneur turned EIR enabler who has transformed from management consultant to venture builder to leading 120+ entrepreneurs at Oneday. With over 25 years of experience spanning corporate innovation at Citi Ventures and PwC, impact entrepreneurship at Zinc VC, and building 40+ products across multiple startups, Mia shares her unique journey through the evolving landscape of entrepreneurship in residence roles. She reveals how a 4 AM cold email changed her career trajectory, why relationships are 15-year investments, and how she's revolutionizing entrepreneurship education by making it accessible to everyone—from medical doctors to people who never touched a college campus. This episode is essential listening for anyone interested in corporate innovation, venture building, or understanding how diverse perspectives create entrepreneurial magic. Chapters [00:00:00] Cold Open - The 4 AM Email That Changed Everything[00:01:25] Episode Introduction[00:01:35] Guest Introduction & Background[00:03:19] From Consultant to Entrepreneur - Making the Jump[00:07:04] Management Consulting Lessons - Relationships Matter[00:14:56] Building an Agency - 30 Failed Proposals to Success[00:24:08] First EIR Role at Citi Ventures[00:29:29] Impact Entrepreneurship at Zinc VC[00:46:34] Joining Oneday - From 2 Hours to Head of Faculty[00:53:08] Building a Network of 120+ EIRs[00:58:15] The Power of Diverse Networks[01:02:35] Long-term Relationships & 15-Year Connections[01:06:32] Call to Action & Connect with Mia[01:07:27] Hidden Talent - Spanish Property Development[01:10:27] Host Reflection - The Onion Episode Key Takeaways EIR roles find you, you don't find them - These positions are typically created specifically for individuals based on their unique skills and network, not posted as traditional job openings.Relationships are decades-long investments - Mia's first employee from 15 years ago is now a founder she works with again, demonstrating the compound value of professional relationships.Diversity is a superpower in entrepreneurship - Oneday's cohorts include everyone from medical doctors to people without degrees, creating an environment where everyone gets humbled and learns.Impact ventures require more patience than commercial ones - Social entrepreneurship needs longer timelines and government support, but persistence eventually pays off.Speed and partnerships beat traditional RFPs for small players - After 30 failed proposals, one creative partnership transformed Mia's struggling agency into a success.Notable Quotes [00:03:35] Mia Bennett: "I ended up in a role that I absolutely loved, great team, great projects. And I felt if I don't make the jump, I will never leave." [00:17:10] Mia Bennett: "After we did about 30 [proposals], I didn't get anything. I was like, that's it. I am NOT doing any more proposals." [00:41:46] Terrance Orr: "Usually your EIR role is created for you or it finds you. You don't find it." [00:40:27] Ilya Tabakh: "This is sort of the concept of the ten or fifteen year overnight success... the story you get directly and what could have gone wrong, how high were the highs, how low were the lows is completely different than the TechCrunch article." [01:03:22] Mia Bennett: "A lot of these relationships last... my very first employee when I was at the agency, fast forward fifteen years, he's a founder of a really interesting Microsoft. I'm now working with him again." Organizations & Resources Mentioned Oneday - Entrepreneurship MBA program (https://www.oneday.org/)Citi Ventures - Corporate innovation arm of CitigroupD10X - Citi Ventures' incubator programZinc VC - Impact-focused venture builder (https://www.zinc.vc/)PwC - Professional services firm where Mia built emerging tech practiceIBM - Where Mia received initial consulting trainingMach49 - Venture building firm mentioned by TerranceSAP.iO - SAP's venture studio programEMC - IT infrastructure company where Terrance received sales trainingBook: "This Diary Will Change Your Life" by BenrikBook: "The Almanac of Naval Ravikant" - Mentioned by Ilya🔗 Connect with Mia Bennett ▪️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/miabennett ▪️ Twitter/X: https://x.com/miaotsoa 🔗 Connect with EIR Live:▪️ Terrance Orr on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/terranceorr▪️ Ilya Tabakh on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ilyatabakh▪️ Website: eir.live▪️ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/eirlive▪️ YouTube: youtube.com/@EIRLive▪️ X/Twitter: twitter.com/EIRLive_show▪️ Suggest Guest (00:00) - Cold Open - The 4 AM Email That Changed Everything (01:25) - Episode Introduction (01:35) - Guest Introduction & Background (03:19) - From Consultant to Entrepreneur - Making the Jump (07:04) - Management Consulting Lessons - Relationships Matter (14:56) - Building an Agency - 30 Failed Proposals to Success (24:08) - First EIR Role at Citi Ventures (29:29) - Impact Entrepreneurship at Zinc VC (46:34) - Joining Oneday - From 2 Hours to Head of Faculty (53:08) - Building a Network of 120+ EIRs (58:15) - The Power of Diverse Networks (02:35) - Long-term Relationships & 15-Year Connections (06:32) - Call to Action & Connect with Mia (07:27) - Hidden Talent - Spanish Property Development (10:27) - Host Reflection - The Onion Episode

    1h 15m
  3. Episode 11 - The Mechanics of Innovation with Rachel Burton

    JUL 15

    Episode 11 - The Mechanics of Innovation with Rachel Burton

    In this engaging episode of EIR Live, Rachel Burton, an accomplished entrepreneur, innovator, and biofuels expert, shares her remarkable journey from mechanic to leading authority in bioenergy and innovation. Rachel discusses how her unconventional path—starting with agriculture and mechanics—led to founding Piedmont Biofuels, pioneering sustainability initiatives, and later influencing global bioenergy commercialization strategies at Novozymes. With vivid anecdotes, Rachel emphasizes the importance of risk-taking, problem-solving through innovation, and the essential role of water infrastructure in industrial processes. Entrepreneurs, innovators, and educators will find her insights invaluable as she navigates from hands-on problem-solving to strategic innovation roles within large corporations and academia. This conversation underscores the power of charting one's own path and embracing the unexpected opportunities that arise along the entrepreneurial journey. Chapters: [00:00:00] Introduction & Key Takeaways Preview[00:07:29] Guest Introduction & Networking Connections[00:08:45] Rachel's Accidental Entry into Entrepreneurship[00:13:37] From Transmission Repair to Trade School[00:17:11] The Early Biofuels Industry Landscape[00:21:14] Scaling from Pilot to Commercial Production[00:25:00] Innovation Born from Water Infrastructure Challenges[00:29:08] Transition to Novozymes & Corporate Culture Shock[00:32:47] Pace Differences: Startup vs. Corporate[00:36:23] Becoming an EIR at UNC Chapel Hill[00:39:24] The Role of Connective Tissue in Innovation[00:43:50] Academic vs. Commercial Incentive Alignment[00:46:47] North Carolina's Collaborative Ecosystem[00:51:11] Evolution of the EIR Role & Venture Studios[00:54:12] Teaching Entrepreneurship with AI Tools[00:56:51] Dream EIR Opportunities in AgTech & Biotech[00:58:32] Reshaping the PhD Experience for Innovation[01:02:16] Building a Home Lab During COVID[01:04:55] Connecting with Rachel & Closing ThoughtsKey Takeaways: Innovation often arises from necessity—embrace problems as opportunities.Taking unconventional paths can lead to pioneering opportunities in emerging sectors.Collaboration between academia, industry, and entrepreneurship fosters robust innovation ecosystems.Effective entrepreneurs navigate both startup and corporate cultures adeptly.Venture studios provide critical support for deep-tech startups, significantly accelerating innovation and commercialization.Notable Quotes: "If you're a startup founder, you don't really know any other pace." [00:00:51] – Rachel Burton "Necessity is my favorite driver for innovation." [00:28:40] – Ilya Tabakh "There's something special about North Carolina as a state where they want to work with each other." [00:46:47] – Terrance Orr "Farmers in many countries are natural innovators because necessity being the mother of invention." [01:04:03] – Rachel Burton Organizations & Resources Mentioned: Piedmont Biofuels - https://x.com/piedmontbiofuelNovozymes (now Novonesis) - https://www.novozymes.com/enActivate Fellows - https://www.activate.org/Flagship Pioneering - https://www.flagshippioneering.com/ProcessWerx - https://processwerx.com/North Carolina Ecosystem Resources: Research Triangle Park (RTP) - https://www.rtp.org/UNC Kickstart Venture Services - https://innovate.unc.edu/startup-accelerators-and-venture-services/kickstart-venture-services/NC IDEA - https://ncidea.org/North Carolina Center for Entrepreneurial Development (CED) - https://cednc.org/University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - https://www.unc.edu/Duke University - https://duke.edu/NC State University - https://www.ncsu.edu/Small Business & Technology Development Center (SBTDC) - https://www.ncsbc.net/Connect with Rachel Burton: LinkedInConnect with EIR Live: Terrance Orr on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/terranceorrIlya Tabakh on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ilyatabakhWebsite: eir.liveLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/eirliveYouTube: youtube.com/@EIRLiveTwitter: twitter.com/EIRLive_showSuggest Guest (00:00) - Introduction & Key Takeaways Preview (07:29) - Guest Introduction & Networking Connections (08:45) - Rachel's Accidental Entry into Entrepreneurship (13:37) - From Transmission Repair to Trade School (17:11) - The Early Biofuels Industry Landscape (21:14) - Scaling from Pilot to Commercial Production (25:00) - Innovation Born from Water Infrastructure Challenges (29:08) - Transition to Novozymes & Corporate Culture Shock (32:47) - Pace Differences: Startup vs. Corporate (36:23) - Becoming an EIR at UNC Chapel Hill (39:24) - The Role of Connective Tissue in Innovation (43:50) - Academic vs. Commercial Incentive Alignment (46:47) - North Carolina's Collaborative Ecosystem (51:11) - Evolution of the EIR Role & Venture Studios (54:12) - Teaching Entrepreneurship with AI Tools (56:51) - Dream EIR Opportunities in AgTech & Biotech (58:32) - Reshaping the PhD Experience for Innovation (02:16) - Building a Home Lab During COVID (04:55) - Connecting with Rachel & Closing Thoughts

    1h 6m
  4. Episode 10 - Resident Weirdos & Computational Curiosity with Sam Arbesman

    JUN 10

    Episode 10 - Resident Weirdos & Computational Curiosity with Sam Arbesman

    Meet Sam Arbesman, Lux Capital's pioneering Scientist in Residence who has spent over a decade redefining what it means to be "in residence" at a venture capital firm. With a PhD in computational biology and a background spanning complex systems and network science, Sam represents a new breed of venture capitalist—one who follows curiosity rather than convention. In this fascinating conversation, Sam shares his journey from "Little Sam" in Buffalo tinkering with Commodore computers to becoming the connective tissue between cutting-edge science and frontier technology investments. Learn how his grandfather's science fiction collection shaped his worldview, why being a "weirdo" in organizations is valuable, and how he uses an undirected, curiosity-driven approach to identify breakthrough opportunities. Don't miss his upcoming book "The Magic of Code" releasing June 10th. Chapters [00:00:00] Cold Open - "Send Me Your Weirdos" [00:00:41] Introduction - First Scientist in Residence [00:02:08] Little Sam's Origins - Grandfather's Influence & Science Fiction [00:03:36] Early Technology Exposure - Commodore VIC-20 [00:05:32] Internet Access & Academic Journey [00:07:24] Complex Systems & Interdisciplinary Fellowship [00:08:38] Pursuing the "Weird Thing" - Dissertation Without Biology [00:15:10] Curiosity-Driven Exploration & Library Adventures [00:17:58] Writing for Popular Audiences - The Half-Life of Facts [00:21:23] Leaving Academia [00:25:09] Becoming Scientist in Residence at Lux Capital [00:30:53] Day-to-Day Role - Surveying Science & Technology [00:33:41] Upstream vs Downstream Investment Work [00:37:24] Outlier Roles in Organizations [00:39:48] Hedgehogs vs Foxes - Different Thinking Styles [00:43:26] Evaluating Ideas - Following Excitement [00:46:46] Dark Night of the Soul - Career Transition [00:51:51] Creating Outlier Roles [00:55:18] Networks Beat Knowledge in Venture Capital [00:56:52] Science Fiction Authors & Startups [00:59:12] Advice for GPs - Finding Your Own Weirdos [01:02:11] The Magic of Code - June 10th Release [01:06:32] Book Recommendations [01:10:50] Post-Episode Reflection Key Takeaways Embrace Being the "Weirdo" [00:37:24] - Organizations need outlier roles filled by people who don't fit traditional categories. These boundary-spanners identify opportunities specialists miss.Follow Curiosity, Not Systems [00:37:24] - In high-dimensional search spaces, undirected exploration focused on "interestingness" yields better results than systematic approaches.Networks Trump Knowledge [00:55:18] - The breadth and depth of your network across different domains provides more value in venture capital than deep expertise alone.Create Your Own Role [00:50:24] - Non-traditional positions rarely have job postings. You must proactively craft these opportunities with organizations that understand their value.Think Like a Fox [00:39:48] - In rapidly changing environments, generalists who connect insights across domains outperform specialists focused on one area.Notable Quotes[00:49:28] "I've become this weird, hyper generalist that is so far removed from any specific expertise that I no longer have any value to any organization." - Sam Arbesman [00:56:43] "The real coin of the realm in venture is the depth and breadth of your network." - Sam Arbesman [00:37:37] "If everyone becomes so busy and specialized that they don't have bandwidth for exploration, the organization might not be as resilient." - Sam Arbesman [01:07:04] "Send me your weirdos, like just interesting people, interesting ideas, things that don't fit. This is my catnip." - Sam Arbesman Resources Mentioned Lux Capital: https://www.luxcapital.com/Kauffman Foundation: https://www.kauffman.org/Santa Fe Institute: https://www.santafe.edu/The Half-Life of Facts by Samuel ArbesmanOvercomplicated by Samuel ArbesmanThe Magic of Code (June 10)Why Greatness Cannot Be Planned by Kenneth Stanley & Joel LehmanInventing the Renaissance by Ada PalmerThe Baroque Cycle by Neal StephensonIdea Machines podcast by Ben ReinhartConnect with Sam Arbesman: WebsiteLinkedInNewsletter: The Cabinet of WondersPodcast: The Orthogonal BetConnect with EIR Live: Terrance Orr on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/terranceorrIlya Tabakh on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ilyatabakhWebsite: eir.liveLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/eirliveYouTube: youtube.com/@EIRLiveTwitter: twitter.com/EIRLive_showSuggest Guest (00:00) - Cold Open - "Send Me Your Weirdos" (00:41) - Introduction - First Scientist in Residence (02:08) - Little Sam's Origins - Grandfather's Influence & Science Fiction (03:36) - Early Technology Exposure - Commodore VIC-20 (05:32) - Internet Access & Academic Journey (07:24) - Complex Systems & Interdisciplinary Fellowship (08:38) - Pursuing the "Weird Thing" - Dissertation Without Biology (15:10) - Curiosity-Driven Exploration & Library Adventures (17:58) - Writing for Popular Audiences - The Half-Life of Facts (21:23) - Leaving Academia (25:09) - Becoming Scientist in Residence at Lux Capital (30:53) - Day-to-Day Role - Surveying Science & Technology (33:41) - Upstream vs Downstream Investment Work (37:24) - Outlier Roles in Organizations (39:48) - Hedgehogs vs Foxes - Different Thinking Styles (43:26) - Evaluating Ideas - Following Excitement (46:46) - Dark Night of the Soul - Career Transition (51:51) - Creating Outlier Roles (55:18) - Networks Beat Knowledge in Venture Capital (56:52) - Science Fiction Authors & Startups (59:12) - Advice for GPs - Finding Your Own Weirdos (02:11) - The Magic of Code - June 10th Release (06:32) - Book Recommendations (10:50) - Post-Episode Reflection

    1h 16m
  5. Episode 09 - Building Innovation Bridges: From EIR to Accelerator Architect with John Lynn

    MAY 27

    Episode 09 - Building Innovation Bridges: From EIR to Accelerator Architect with John Lynn

    In this episode of EIR Live, hosts Terrance Orr and Ilya Tabakh sit down with John Lynn, Co-Founder of Quay Acceleration, an accelerator-as-a-service organization. John, an experienced entrepreneur-in-residence (EIR) with an extensive background in community-driven innovation, shares his unique journey—from building international business connections in Japan to orchestrating transformative startup accelerators across corporate, governmental, and academic landscapes. This episode delves deeply into how John leverages community principles, storytelling, and strategic networks to successfully foster innovation ecosystems. Listeners gain valuable insights on effectively implementing accelerator models, harnessing sustainable self-interest, and understanding the critical role narrative plays in securing buy-in from stakeholders. Chapters [00:00:00] Episode Opening - Corporate Innovation Fatigue[00:00:57] Podcast Introduction[00:01:41] Guest Introduction - John Lynn[00:02:32] John's Background and Quay Acceleration[00:04:08] John's International Experience Introduction[00:04:55] First Startup Experience in Japan[00:08:28] Community Building and Accelerator Methodology[00:09:00] Power of Sustainable Self-interest[00:11:51] Transition into Techstars[00:16:31] The Importance of Storytelling[00:17:55] MVP Development and Hustle Culture[00:26:19] KJ Singh and Techstars Experience[00:28:07] First EIR Role Journey[00:34:07] EIR Roles and Different Structures[00:38:52] Building Sustainable Innovation Ecosystems[00:42:31] Government and Community-led Accelerators[00:49:56] Ideal Structure for EIR Roles[00:52:04] Closing Thoughts on Providing Networks Over IdeasKey Takeaways Successful innovation ecosystems rely heavily on understanding and harnessing community dynamics and sustainable self-interestStorytelling is critical for startup success, enabling founders to inspire stakeholders beyond just presenting data pointsMVP strategies, even if analog or basic, can be highly effective and cost-efficient ways to validate market fit and engage early adoptersGovernment and local communities are increasingly critical in supporting and driving innovation ecosystems post-pandemicThe best support EIRs can offer entrepreneurs involves leveraging their network to provide tangible access and opportunitiesNotable Quotes "Selfishness and selflessness equally poor foundations for a community. Great communities thrive on give and take." [00:09:33] - John Lynn"Storytelling is a superpower. It's not about getting someone to trust you—it's about inspiring them." [00:17:25] - John Lynn"The real reason an MVP is effective is not because it's cheap, but because it's fair to your customer." [00:24:16] - John Lynn"Next time you talk to an entrepreneur, don't give them your ideas—give them your network." [00:52:04] - John LynnOrganizations & Resources Mentioned Quay Acceleration TechstarsBetaSpring (now RevUp)SAP NextGenStartup InstituteConnect with John Lynn LinkedIn: John LynnWebsite: Quay AccelerationConnect with EIR Live: Terrance Orr on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/terranceorrIlya Tabakh on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ilyatabakhWebsite: eir.liveLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/eirliveYouTube: youtube.com/@EIRLiveTwitter: twitter.com/EIRLive_showSuggest Guest

    57 min
  6. Episode 08 - From Bricks to Breakthroughs with Matthias Ørum-Hansen

    APR 1

    Episode 08 - From Bricks to Breakthroughs with Matthias Ørum-Hansen

    In this episode of EIR Live, co-hosts Ilya Tabakh and Terrance Orr welcome Matthias Ørum-Hansen, an entrepreneur with a diverse career spanning product management, innovation, and entrepreneurship across family-owned brands like LEGO, Ricola, and Bang & Olufsen. Matthias shares his unique journey from being a startup founder to becoming a Founder in Residence (FIR) at LEGO, ultimately spinning out an innovative audio technology company. The conversation explores the complexities of corporate innovation, the challenges of being an entrepreneur within large organizations, and the importance of understanding organizational dynamics. Matthias provides insights into his non-linear career path, emphasizing adaptability, learning across different industries, and the value of bringing fresh perspectives to established companies. Key Points from This Episode:[00:00:00] Introduction: Matthias discusses his background in creating Game Analytics, a software analytics platform for game developers [00:04:35] Early Career: Dropping out of college to pursue entrepreneurship in Denmark [00:09:00] Bang & Olufsen Experience: Leading product innovation in a legacy electronics company [00:11:38] Ricola Consulting: Helping a family-owned brand redesign product innovation processes [00:17:06] LEGO Ventures: Becoming the first Founder in Residence and exploring new innovation opportunities [00:22:57] Startup Spinout: Negotiating and launching an independent audio technology company [00:33:32] AI Pivot: Shifting focus to AI-driven content generation [00:49:43] Career Reflection: Discussing the value of working with iconic brands and making meaningful impact [00:56:17] Dream EIR Role: Aspiring to work on high-impact projects in areas like healthcare, nutrition, or climate change [00:57:38] Future Career Aspirations: Exploring potential next steps in entrepreneurship and innovation [00:59:39] EIR Network Support: Discussing how the community can help in his current career search [01:01:10] Innovation Insights: Reflections on corporate innovation and entrepreneurial spirit [01:02:33] Closing Thoughts: Final perspectives on the importance of innovative thinking Episode Links: Matthias Ørum-Hansen on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/fluggeGameAnalytics: gameanalytics.comBang & Olufsen: bang-olufsen.comRicola: ricola.comLEGO Ventures: legoventures.comConnect with EIR Live: Terrance Orr on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/terranceorrIlya Tabakh on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ilyatabakhWebsite: eir.liveLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/eirliveYouTube: youtube.com/@EIRLiveTwitter: twitter.com/EIRLive_showSuggest Guest (00:00) - Introduction and Matthias's Startup Background (03:09) - First Startup and Early Entrepreneurial Journey (05:08) - Dropping Out and Professional Development (09:00) - Joining Bang & Olufsen as Product Manager (11:38) - Working with Ricola and Innovation Consulting (17:06) - Becoming a Founder in Residence at LEGO (22:57) - Spinning Out an Audio Technology Company (33:32) - Pivoting to AI-Driven Innovation (47:15) - Career Transitions and Future Aspirations (57:38) - Discussing Future Career Aspirations (59:39) - How the EIR Network Can Help Matthias (01:10) - Closing Thoughts on Innovation and Entrepreneurship (02:33) - Podcast Wrap-up and Final Reflections

    1h 7m
  7. Episode 07 - Breaking New Ground: From Medicine to Innovation with Loleta Robinson

    FEB 4

    Episode 07 - Breaking New Ground: From Medicine to Innovation with Loleta Robinson

    Episode Description In this episode of Entrepreneur in Residence, co-hosts Ilya Tabakh and Terrance Orr welcome Dr. Loleta Robinson, a four-time Entrepreneur in Residence (EIR) with a background in medicine and business. Dr. Robinson shares her transformative career journey from clinical medicine to entrepreneurship and EIR roles across corporate, government, and startup ecosystems. She reflects on pivotal leaps of faith, the importance of community, lessons from international work in Africa, and her experience in startup co-founding and advisory roles. The conversation explores how Dr. Robinson's diagnostic mindset fuels her ability to navigate complex EIR roles, the significance of network-based opportunities, and balancing professional pursuits with her passion for fly fishing. Aspiring EIRs and entrepreneurial professionals will gain valuable insights into resilience, adaptability, and pursuing diverse EIR pathways. Key Points from This Episode:[00:00:00] Introduction of Dr. Loleta Robinson: Terrance highlights Dr. Robinson’s background as a serial EIR and her transition from medicine to entrepreneurship.[00:04:25] First leap of faith: Dr. Robinson recounts her early transition into a medical diagnostics startup without prior business experience.[00:07:02] Balancing science and business: She explains pursuing an MBA to blend her interest in science and business, joining the first MBA cohort at the University of Colorado Denver.[00:12:45] Pivoting to MedImmune: Transitioning to biotech with MedImmune, working on the intranasal flu vaccine while learning large-scale commercialization.[00:16:55] Founding a diagnostics company: Co-founding a melanoma diagnostics startup and the challenges of funding, regulatory hurdles, and tech transfer.[00:20:30] First CMO role: Dr. Robinson describes her first Chief Medical Officer position, balancing scientific rigor with startup needs.[00:23:50] Joining Blue Cross Blue Shield as an EIR: Introduction to venture capital, sourcing startups, and conducting due diligence.[00:28:18] Transition to advisory EIR roles: Contrasting the hands-on role at Blue Cross with advisory roles at NIH and hospital systems.[00:32:02] Importance of community: How organizations like Women in Bio shaped her entrepreneurial journey.[00:36:45] Networking as a pathway: Securing EIR roles through referrals and relationships with mentors and industry contacts.[00:41:11] Perseverance in the face of bias: Dr. Robinson reflects on her experience navigating rooms where she was often the only Black woman.[00:45:33] Resilience in setbacks: Discussing failures and the importance of continuing to move forward despite obstacles.[00:49:05] Passion for fly fishing: How fly fishing became a hobby that parallels her approach to life and career—embracing challenges and growth.[00:52:42] Building diverse communities: Supporting initiatives that foster inclusive outdoor spaces and networks for women and underrepresented groups.[00:56:00] Final reflections: Dr. Robinson shares advice on adapting, staying curious, and taking strategic leaps of faith in life and career. Episode Links: Loleta Robinson on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/loletarobinson/ Women in Bio: https://womeninbio.org/ United Women on the Fly (fly fishing organization): https://uwotf.com/ University of Colorado at Anschutz Joint Degree Programs: https://medschool.cuanschutz.edu/education/md-admissions/about-cu-school-of-medicine/joint-degree-programs Connect with EIR Live: Terrance Orr on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/terranceorr/ Ilya Tabakh on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ilyatabakh/Website: https://eir.live (sign up for early access)LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/eirliveYouTube: https://youtube.com/@EIRLiveTwitter: https://twitter.com/EIRLive_showSuggest Guest (00:00) - Guest Introduction (04:25) - First Leap (07:02) - Pursuing MBA (12:45) - Biotech Pivot (16:55) - Co-Founding Startup (20:30) - First CMO Role (23:50) - First EIR Role (28:18) - Advisory Roles (32:02) - Community Support (36:45) - Networking Wins (41:11) - Navigating Bias (45:33) - Resilience Lessons (49:05) - Fly Fishing (52:42) - Inclusive Spaces (56:00) - Final Advice

    1h 6m
  8. Episode 06 - From Maine to MasterCard and Back: Building Legacy Through Innovation with Jen Millard

    12/10/2024

    Episode 06 - From Maine to MasterCard and Back: Building Legacy Through Innovation with Jen Millard

    Episode DescriptionIn this episode of Entrepreneur in Residence (EIR) Live, Ilya Tabakh and Terrance Orr host Jen Millard, a first-generation college student turned serial entrepreneur and operator. Jen discusses her transformative journey from starting her career at Sears to becoming an EIR at Sutter Hill Ventures. Along the way, she reflects on lessons from building high-performance teams, handling crises in startups, and her new venture, Maine Love, leveraging Maine's natural resources to create sustainable impact. The conversation touches on the importance of risk tolerance, the value of structured training programs, and leaving a legacy in business. Key Points from This Episode:[00:00:00] Jen reflects on her fearless approach to taking on challenging roles early in her career.[00:01:00] Ilya introduces the episode and shares his initial meeting with Jen in Austin.[00:02:04] Jen discusses starting her career at Sears and the importance of structured training programs.[00:06:15] Insights into how operational experiences shaped Jen's ability to handle high-stakes responsibilities.[00:09:48] Lessons from managing financial crises and addressing tough decisions at a struggling startup.[00:14:35] The emotional toll and personal growth from managing layoffs and handling business closures.[00:17:45] Jen talks about learning from failures and how they shaped her entrepreneurial resilience.[00:20:13] Co-founding a fintech startup and innovating card-linked offers for consumers.[00:22:38] Making a pivotal decision to sell the fintech company to Mastercard amid competitive challenges.[00:27:04] The transition to becoming an EIR at Sutter Hill Ventures and exploring new ideas.[00:32:20] Developing and presenting a new company idea every two weeks as an EIR.[00:35:47] Building high-performance teams with trust and adaptability as foundational principles.[00:40:10] Jen explains her latest venture, Maine Love, and its focus on utilizing underused brewery capacity.[00:51:25] The collaboration and community spirit driving innovation in Maine’s brewing industry.[00:57:20] Jen shares personal hobbies, including reading fiction and engaging in oyster farming.[01:01:32] Closing thoughts and Jen’s call for support in building a sustainable water economy in Maine.Links: Jen Millard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenmillard/mainelove: https://mainelove.com/Geary's Brewing: https://www.gearybrewing.com/  Colby College entrepreneurship program: https://www.colby.edu/halloran-lab-for-entrepreneurship/colby-startups/Sutter Hill Ventures: https://shv.com/ MasterCard: https://www.mastercard.us/en-us.html Cardlytics: https://www.cardlytics.com/ Terrance Orr on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/terranceorr/ Ilya Tabakh on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ilyatabakh/Connect with EIR Live: Website: https://eir.live (sign up for early access)LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/eirliveYouTube: https://youtube.com/@EIRLiveTwitter: https://twitter.com/EIRLive_showSuggest Guest (00:00) - Fearless Beginnings (00:00) - Episode Intro (00:04) - Starting at Sears (00:15) - Operational Insights (00:48) - Managing Crises (00:35) - Lessons from Failure (00:45) - Building Resilience (00:13) - Fintech Innovation (00:38) - Selling to Mastercard (00:04) - Becoming an EIR (00:20) - Developing Ideas (00:47) - Building Trust (00:10) - Maine Love Launch (00:25) - Brewer Collaboration (00:20) - Personal Hobbies (01:32) - Call for Support

    1h 7m
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

EIR Live brings you invaluable lessons straight from Entrepreneurs in Residence (EIRs) who have been in the trenches. Hosted by seasoned EIRs Terrance Orr and Ilya Tabakh, each episode offers actionable insights and real-world strategies as guests share their personal journeys, successes, and hard-earned lessons. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur in residence, venture builder, or innovation leader, you'll gain practical knowledge from those actively shaping industries. Tune in to learn directly from the experts and empower your own entrepreneurial journey.

Information

  • Creator
    Terrance Orr & Ilya Tabakh
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    14
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    ©️2025 EIR Live
  • Show Website
    EIR Live