Iowa Tech Podcast

Iowa Tech Podcast
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  • TECHNOLOGY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
Iowa Tech Podcast

Welcome to the Iowa Tech Podcast, your gateway to the vibrant world of technology and innovation right here in Iowa. Each week, we dive into the dynamic landscape of Iowa’s tech industry, showcasing the brilliant minds, groundbreaking startups, and transformative ideas that are shaping the future. Join our host, Kaylee Williams, as we sit down with tech entrepreneurs, industry experts, and thought leaders who are driving change and pushing boundaries in fields ranging from artificial intelligence and cybersecurity to agtech and clean energy. Whether you’re a seasoned professional, a budding innovator, or simply tech-curious, the Iowa Tech Podcast offers insider insights, inspiring stories, and practical advice to keep you at the forefront of the digital revolution. Tune in to explore how Iowa is making waves on the global tech stage and discover how you can be a part of this exciting journey.

  1. MAR 4

    Unlocking the Future: Dive into Crypto, Blockchain, and Decentralization with Scott Herren on the Iowa Tech Podcast

    Kaylee Williams, the host of the Iowa Tech podcast, welcomes Scott Herren to the studio, who is a notable figure in the entrepreneurial ecosystem of Iowa. Scott, a third-generation Iowa native, has been deeply involved in the startup scene, starting with his time at Startup City in Des Moines. He is currently the Founding Engineer at a company called Hats. With a background in finance and marketing analytics, Scott's journey has taken him through various cities, including San Diego, Texas, and St. Louis, before returning to Iowa. He's particularly passionate about the intersection of technology and entrepreneurship, and his recent ventures have led him into the burgeoning fields of crypto and blockchain, areas where he is eager to share his knowledge and experiences. The conversation delves into Scott's transition from marketing to the world of cryptocurrency, sparked initially by a friend's request for Bitcoin at a hackathon. This curiosity led him to explore Ethereum and its potential for creating more equitable systems through smart contracts. Scott explains how Hats, his current project, leverages Ethereum to help decentralized organizations manage responsibilities and authorities effectively. The discussion further covers the broader implications of blockchain technology, including its potential to democratize access to financial and organizational tools, its application in various ecosystems like Iowa's agricultural and insurance sectors, and the evolving landscape of decentralized finance and governance. Scott's insights highlight the transformative potential of these technologies in creating more inclusive and efficient systems for businesses and communities alike. Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/scott-herren-ethereum-hats-bitcoin

    38 min

  2. FEB 25

    From Bootstrapping to Big Business: Levi Rosol's Journey with We Write Code

    Levi Rosol, the CEO and Founder of We Write Code, has had a remarkable journey in the tech industry, spanning over 20 years. His experience encompasses a diverse range of environments, from corporate to startups, and a significant stint at a marketing agency. With a foundation as a developer, Levi transitioned into leadership roles, culminating in the creation of We Write Code, a software development agency that has evolved from a startup-centric focus to working with larger, enterprise-level clients. We Write Code not only provides technology solutions but also offers mentorship and guidance to startups, reflecting Levi's passion for fostering growth and innovation in the tech community. Throughout his career, Levi has emphasized the importance of networking and community involvement, particularly in the Des Moines area, where the tech ecosystem has grown significantly over the years. He attributes much of his success to the connections and collaborations formed within this ecosystem. Levi's journey also highlights the importance of adaptability and learning from past experiences, such as his time at Goodsmith’s, a marketplace for handmade goods, which taught him valuable lessons about entrepreneurship and the tech industry. As a leader, Levi continues to focus on building a collaborative and innovative environment at We Write Code, while also engaging with the broader tech community through initiatives like the AI User Group, which he co-founded to foster discussion and learning about emerging technologies. Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/levi-rosol-dev-shops-startups

    41 min

  3. FEB 18

    Building a MedTech Giant in Iowa with Dr. Melissa Bates

    In the latest episode of the Iowa Tech podcast, host Kaylee Williams engages in a captivating conversation with Dr. Melissa Bates, CEO and founder of LSF Medical Solutions. Dr. Bates shares her journey from being a faculty member at the University of Iowa to pioneering a groundbreaking medical device, Pnumero, aimed at transforming lung disease care. Pnumero is designed to bring advanced lung function monitoring into patients' homes, providing vital data that can preemptively indicate worsening conditions long before symptoms appear. This innovation not only enhances patient autonomy but also alleviates hospital bed shortages by reducing preventable inpatient stays, showcasing a potential cost saving for healthcare institutions. Dr. Bates delves into the intricacies of Pnumero, explaining how it offers unique insights into lung health by measuring aspects such as airway volume and oxygen exchange efficiency. She highlights the significant opportunity for hospitals to optimize resource allocation by adopting remote monitoring technologies, thus freeing up capacity for more critical cases. Throughout the episode, Dr. Bates emphasizes the importance of customer discovery and data-driven decision-making in fostering successful innovation. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance, collaboration, and leveraging cutting-edge technology to address real-world health challenges, all while maintaining an optimistic and proactive outlook on the future of healthcare innovation. Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/dr-melissa-bates-pnumero

    40 min

  4. FEB 11

    Innovation and Impact: Laney Kraus-Tadeo on Entrepreneurship and the Arts

    In this episode of the Iowa Tech podcast, host Kaylee Williams interviews Laney Kraus-Taddeo, the founder and CEO of ActRightHere. They discuss Laney's entrepreneurial journey, starting from her participation in a Tech Star Startup Weekend, where she pitched the idea for ActRightHere—a platform connecting writers and actors to collaborate on creative projects. Laney shares her initial struggle to form a team during the weekend event and how her persistence paid off, leading her to win the competition. The success at Startup Weekend propelled her to enroll in Venture School, where she further developed her business model and won additional pitch competitions. The podcast highlights Lainey's determination and passion for building a community for creatives, despite challenges such as the need for fundraising and navigating the tech side of her startup. The conversation also covers Laney's temporary departure from her startup to work as a senior producer on the Kamala Harris presidential campaign. She reflects on the significance of the experience and the impact of participating in a historic political campaign. Upon returning to ActRightHere, Laney shares her plans for the future, including signing with a venture studio and preparing for a beta launch of her platform. She emphasizes the importance of networking, sending cold emails, and maintaining perseverance in the face of rejection. The episode concludes with Laney's excitement about upcoming opportunities, including attending the Oscars as a seat filler, and her advice to aspiring founders to be proactive and open to all possibilities in their entrepreneurial endeavors. Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/laney-kraus-taddeo-entrepreneurial-journey-insights

    37 min

  5. FEB 4

    Navigating Entrepreneurship in the Iowa Tech Scene with Force Fitters

    In a recent episode of the Iowa Tech podcast, host Kaylee Williams sat down with Justin Schoen, the CEO and co-founder of Force Fitters, to discuss his entrepreneurial journey and insights into the startup ecosystem in Des Moines. Justin, a native of West Des Moines, has been deeply embedded in the local entrepreneurial landscape for over a decade. He shared his background in marketing and digital marketing consultancy, a field he entered when digital marketing was still nascent in the early 2000s. His initial foray into entrepreneurship involved establishing a consultancy that specialized in digital marketing, where he worked with a diverse array of clients. This experience laid the foundation for his current venture, Force Fitters, a company that specializes in managing uniforms and corporate apparel for businesses. Justin's story highlights the evolution of digital marketing over the years and how his consultancy work with startups and established companies alike paved the way for his current entrepreneurial endeavor. Force Fitters began in 2018, following the sale of GNL Clothing, where Justin had established an e-commerce platform. Recognizing an opportunity in the work apparel space, he and his partners founded Force Fitters to address the needs of clients who were underserved after the retail transition. With a focus on specialized apparel like flame-resistant clothing, Force Fitters operates as a B2B SaaS platform that streamlines the management of corporate uniforms and safety gear. The company has grown by leveraging Justin's existing network and relationships while maintaining a high retention rate by building features in step with customer needs. Justin also reflects on the importance of work-life balance, mentorship, and the supportive startup ecosystem in Iowa, emphasizing that successful entrepreneurship does not necessarily require constant hustle but rather a focus on efficiency and healthy boundaries. As Force Fitters looks toward future growth, Justin's experience and philosophy offer valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs navigating similar paths. Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/justin-schoen-iowa-tech-entrepreneur

    43 min

  6. JAN 28

    From Accidental Entrepreneur to Tech Trailblazer: Alyssa Nolte's Journey

    In this episode of the Iowa Tech podcast, host Kaylee Williams interviews Alyssa Nolte, CEO and founder of TruVue, a company that emerged from an innovative idea nurtured through a blend of accidental entrepreneurship and strategic risk-taking. Alyssa shares her journey from a traditional career path to founding a successful startup, spurred by a chance encounter with a University of Northern Iowa professor who was exploring the commercial potential of eye-tracking technology. With no initial customers or revenue, Alyssa embraced the challenge, driven by her father's advice and the support of the local entrepreneurial community. This journey led to the bootstrapping of TruVue, which was eventually acquired by a consulting company, marking a significant milestone in Alyssa's career. The podcast also delves into Alyssa's insights on the importance of forming emotional connections with customers and how TruVue's Brand Health Score helps businesses measure and enhance these connections. As she transitions from a bootstrapping background to exploring venture capital for her new venture, Alyssa shares her experiences and challenges in navigating this unfamiliar terrain. She emphasizes the value of being open to change and learning from feedback, highlighting the difference in approach between Midwest and West Coast venture capitalists. Through her candid reflections, Alyssa underscores the significance of taking risks, leveraging community resources, and maintaining resilience in the face of entrepreneurial challenges. Her story offers valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs about the power of perseverance, adaptability, and strategic networking. Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/alyssa-nolte-iowa-entrepreneur-story

    38 min

  7. JAN 21

    Entrepreneurial Journey and Triumphs of Repaint Studios

    In a recent episode of the Iowa Tech podcast, host Kaylee Williams sat down with Billie Asmus, CEO and founder of Repaint Studios, to discuss her entrepreneurial journey and recent success at the $100,000 InnoVenture Challenge. Asmus, who once flipped furniture, identified a gap in the market for a reusable paint tray with a lid, leading to the creation of the Repaint Tray—a silicone paint tray liner with a lid that preserves paint freshness for up to 21 days. Her journey was not without setbacks, including initial failures in pitch competitions, but her perseverance and belief in her product led to eventual success. Asmus emphasized the importance of learning from setbacks, maintaining a strong belief in one's vision, and the value of mentorship and networking in overcoming challenges. Her innovations have gained traction, leading to successful partnerships with major retailers like Lowe's and Home Depot, without spending on advertising. Asmus's story highlights the importance of community support and strategic alliances in the entrepreneurial landscape. Despite her rural roots in Hampton, Iowa, she successfully tapped into a network of advisors and mentors who provided invaluable guidance. Her advisors, with diverse expertise ranging from finance to manufacturing, played a crucial role in navigating the complexities of scaling her business. Asmus shared insights on the significance of storytelling in entrepreneurship, encouraging others to articulate their visions clearly to attract support and investment. She also underscored the importance of staying connected with support communities to combat the isolation that can accompany the entrepreneurial journey. As she looks to the future, Asmus plans to expand her product line, continuously innovating in response to customer feedback, and remains committed to reinvesting in rural communities. Her story serves as an inspiring example of resilience, strategic growth, and the power of dreaming big. Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/billie-asmus-iowa-entrepreneur-story

    35 min

  8. JAN 14

    Navigating the Entrepreneurial Landscape: An Insightful Journey with Micah Walker

    In the latest episode of the Iowa Tech podcast, host Kaylee Williams engages in a compelling conversation with Micah Walker, an analyst at the InnoVenture Iowa Fund. The episode dives deep into Micah's fascinating journey from his entrepreneurial aspirations as a child to becoming a pivotal figure in venture capital. Micah vividly recounts how his early experiences with flat feet and an interest in footwear design sparked a lifelong passion for entrepreneurship. As he navigated through his academic journey at Iowa State, where he pursued dual majors in entrepreneurship and apparel merchandising, Micah discovered his knack for innovation and business acumen. His story unfolds with serendipitous events, including a chance encounter with a representative from Bloomrise, a company that inspired his venture into eco-friendly footwear design. These experiences have shaped Micah's approach to startups, emphasizing the importance of overcoming challenges and the value of demonstrating a product's viability early in the entrepreneurial journey. The episode also explores Micah's dual role as both a founder and an emerging venture capitalist, highlighting his insights into the Iowa entrepreneurial ecosystem. Micah shares his observations on the predominant focuses within Iowa, such as AgTech and MedTech, and contrasts these with his experiences in the dynamic Silicon Valley startup scene. His unique perspective as a founder turned analyst provides valuable advice for entrepreneurs seeking funding from venture capitalists. Micah stresses the significance of having a robust product demo and a clear path to market as key factors in securing investment. The discussion underscores the importance of resilience and adaptability in entrepreneurship, as evidenced by the successful founders Micah admires. The podcast closes with a candid look into Micah’s personal routine and aspirations, offering listeners a glimpse into the life of a young, driven professional balancing multiple passions in the world of business and venture capital. Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/micah-walker-entrepreneurs-and-venture-capitalists-in-iowa

    40 min
See All (26)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

Welcome to the Iowa Tech Podcast, your gateway to the vibrant world of technology and innovation right here in Iowa. Each week, we dive into the dynamic landscape of Iowa’s tech industry, showcasing the brilliant minds, groundbreaking startups, and transformative ideas that are shaping the future. Join our host, Kaylee Williams, as we sit down with tech entrepreneurs, industry experts, and thought leaders who are driving change and pushing boundaries in fields ranging from artificial intelligence and cybersecurity to agtech and clean energy. Whether you’re a seasoned professional, a budding innovator, or simply tech-curious, the Iowa Tech Podcast offers insider insights, inspiring stories, and practical advice to keep you at the forefront of the digital revolution. Tune in to explore how Iowa is making waves on the global tech stage and discover how you can be a part of this exciting journey.

Information

  • Creator
    Iowa Tech Podcast
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    26
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2024
  • Show Website
    Iowa Tech Podcast

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