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

  1. Five Big Ideas About Money, Community, and What Comes Next

    3일 전

    Five Big Ideas About Money, Community, and What Comes Next

    Five Big Ideas from My Monthly Conversation with Jen Risley If you’d rather watch than read, the replay is right at the top of this post. If you did watch, think of this as the “take-home version”—the themes Jen and I kept circling, the “wait—say that again” moments, and a few lines worth underlining. We kicked off in full holiday spirit. Jen teased me for “dressing up for the gig,” and I confessed I’d spent “six months growing the beard for Christmas.” That’s the vibe of these monthly conversations: friendly, real, and (we hope) useful. And we do this every month because we’re deeply aligned. As I put it, we share “ambitions for the way capital can work in our society,” and we want readers to know what the other is doing. Jen edits The Main Street Journal; I publish Superpowers for Good. Different lenses, same mission: community investment, community ownership, and systems that serve people better. What follows are the five big ideas that stood out in this month’s conversation—grounded in the articles we discussed, but centered on what we said to each other. 1) Convenience can be expensive—and communities pay twice We opened with a topic that’s quietly enormous: how public agencies buy everyday supplies. I mentioned that I’d seen Amazon marketing itself to schools and had been “consciously curious” about whether it was truly a better way than local bulk contracts. The answer, according to the reporting we discussed, is often no—because “dynamic pricing” can mean schools pay a premium for routine purchases. Jen broadened the frame immediately. It’s not just schools; it’s “cities, and other municipalities” too. She acknowledged why it happens—“It’s easy to have your staff log onto Amazon and place all the orders”—and then landed the gut punch: “But if it’s actually reducing your tax base and it’s also costing you more, you really have to rethink that.” That tax-base point was the one I admitted I’d missed. It isn’t only that public funds can be overspent; it’s that those dollars aren’t circulating locally with vendors “who would be paying some local taxes as well.” Jen also emphasized something I loved: this isn’t just “here’s the problem.” She pointed to the organizing work behind the scenes—the Institute for Local Self-Reliance and allied groups—and the move from awareness to action: “now they’re putting out toolkits and things like that… how can we work collectively to change the policies in our schools and our local government?” That’s the pattern to watch for again and again: when money leaks out of a community, the fix isn’t only personal choices. It’s governance—policy, procurement rules, and collective action. 2) When “the good guys” get big, they can drift—and we can’t ignore it Next, we turned to credit unions—an area that hit close to home for me. I shared that early in my career I worked on Capitol Hill on legislation that “governs credit unions to this day,” and I felt a little guilty seeing today’s challenges play out. Jen didn’t let me wallow. She laughed and put me on the “naughty list.” (Holiday-themed accountability—apparently a new tradition.) But the substance here matters. The problem we discussed isn’t “credit unions are bad.” It’s that some very large credit unions can start behaving like the institutions they were meant to be an alternative to—especially when scale and incentives change. Jen captured the emotional reality of it perfectly: “You wanna believe in something… ‘here’s an institution I can believe in. A hundred percent.’ And then… when it becomes bigger, it starts to lose that connection with the community.” That’s not just true of credit unions. It’s true of almost every institution that starts as mission-driven and ends up measured primarily by growth. And Jen went one step further: mission drift doesn’t happen in a vacuum. It can shape what institutions support—or oppose—when new community-building tools appear. 3) “Move your money” is about power, not purity Jen shared something from her own annual rhythm that I think deserves to be a bigger part of more people’s lives. “Every April… I do a move your money month,” she said, where the focus is “banking local and investing local.” That matters because “move your money” isn’t a slogan. It’s a strategy. It’s how ordinary people regain leverage in systems that are designed to make us feel small. And then Jen told a story that connects directly to the credit-union conversation. Some groups approached her organization asking support for public banking. She did the homework—read widely, spoke with Michael Shuman—and her reaction was visceral: “wow, this looks incredible… what a great opportunity for our communities and our municipalities.” But then: “When I looked at our credit union bigger partners, they were against public banks.” And she admitted what many of us feel when we discover conflict inside “the good ecosystem”: “nothing is easy and nothing simple.” That line has been ringing in my ears. We want clean heroes and clean villains. But community economics is messier than that. Sometimes the institutions we trust most will resist the changes that would most empower communities—because those changes threaten their position. The takeaway isn’t cynicism. The takeaway is clarity: follow the incentives, and keep building tools that keep power close to the people. 4) Public banking isn’t a fantasy—it’s a practical “how do we pay for it?” answer One of Jen’s biggest highlights this month was a Main Street Journal piece aimed at New York City’s mayor-elect—focused on a question every ambitious leader faces: how do you pay for big promises? Jen summarized the challenge: leaders talk about “free buses… affordable housing and all that great stuff,” and the immediate pushback is: “Are you gonna raise the taxes?” And then the pivot: “Why raise taxes? Why not start a public bank like the Bank of North Dakota?” Jen walked through the core logic: instead of parking public funds in the usual places, a city could create a public bank, place deposits in local banks and credit unions, and use the interest “to go into the economic development projects that they were really passionate about.” She also highlighted what I think is the most exciting civic-finance idea embedded in the conversation: a city making it easy for residents to see and support local investment options—“lists of local investment options… regulated crowdfunding that you could invest in,” plus incentives like “tax credits to people who are investing in locally owned businesses.” This is a bridge between our two worlds: Jen’s focus on local economic ecosystems and my focus on regulated crowdfunding as a practical pathway to community ownership. If you’re someone who wants to do more than “vote and hope,” this is a lane worth learning about. 5) Climate solutions must scale—and communities shouldn’t be steamrolled Jen also brought up my rebroadcast interview with Project Drawdown’s Jonathan Foley and the idea of “100 different climate solutions that we could all take on.” She liked that Foley can translate science into outreach—“so that people understand their choices make a huge impact.” I shared a core point from that conversation: “climate solutions have to scale, quickly” because “the problem is enormous.” And I noted a specific example—how conventional concrete “continues to emit carbon long after it’s built,” while innovators are developing alternatives that can reverse the effect. But the most important part of our exchange wasn’t the science—it was the ethics of deployment. I said that when we talk about scaling climate solutions, “we need to keep an eye on communities,” local and Indigenous, and “balance community interests” so projects don’t harm people. Jen took that and sharpened it with today’s political reality: “It’s gonna be even more of a challenge now because… it’s not being supported by our federal government. So it’s gonna really be up to the local communities… Having these conversations is more important than ever.” And when I talked about the risk of plowing ahead too aggressively, Jen gave us the plainspoken guardrail: “Steamrolling over anybody.” That’s the heart of it. Scaling climate solutions is not just a technical problem. It’s a governance problem. An ownership problem. A trust problem. And that’s why Jen and I keep coming back to community investment and community ownership: if projects are happening in a place, people in that place should have a path to participate, benefit, and shape what happens next. A moment of tenderness—and why it belongs in this conversation Before we wrapped, I shared a Thanksgiving story that still has me a little misty: our grandson was fussy at dinner, nothing worked, and when I took a turn holding him, “he put his head on my shoulder and gave me a tight hug… and he was just at peace instantly.” Jen’s response was exactly right: “My heart melted.” I told Jen I was “stretching the metaphor a little bit,” but the connection feels real to me: community investing can create genuine relationships in a way that conventional investing doesn’t—investing in people you know, or get to know, and then doing business together in the same community. That’s not just warm-and-fuzzy. It’s an alternative economic operating system. One small (but meaningful) holiday request Jen made the best pitch of the whole conversation, and I’m going to happily borrow it: “If they have a long list for Santa, make sure that subscribing to Superpowers for Good is on that list… subscribing to both of our publications is just going to make more of an impact… and… we c

    24분

  2. 4일 전

    Building Communities, Not Just Campaigns, Drives Crowdfunding Success

    Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work. Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube. Devin: What is your superpower? Justin: What I try to do is…bring that authenticity to our clients in everything that we do. Success in crowdfunding isn’t just about having a great product or service—it’s about building a community that rallies behind your mission. This idea was central to my conversation with Justin Starbird, CEO of The Aebli Group, in today’s episode. Justin highlighted that the real “silver bullet” for a successful crowdfunding campaign is the strength of an engaged community. “From our experience, a lot of times that secret weapon…is the community that they have amassed around their mission,” Justin explained. He emphasized that mission-driven companies often have an edge because their stories resonate deeply with their supporters, creating a foundation for passionate engagement. Justin shared how his team works with companies to authentically communicate their vision and values in ways that connect with people. “It’s really important to be able to tell a story that’s compelling, that’s authentic, that’s true to who they are,” he said. Justin and his team recently worked with Organic Transit, a company bringing back its innovative solar-electric bicycle, the ELF. The company’s founder, Rob Cotter, turned to crowdfunding after a challenging bankruptcy. With The Aebli Group’s help, Organic Transit is now raising funds on Wefunder to scale its ELF 3.0—a modernized, Eco-friendly version of its original product. Justin noted that the campaign’s success is rooted in the loyal community Organic Transit had already built, which helped them pre-sell over 800 vehicles and log 10 million miles. Through storytelling, community engagement, and a focus on authenticity, Justin and his team enable mission-driven companies to thrive. “At the end of the day, it’s still the mission, the vision, the goal of the company, and their authenticity,” he said. By building campaigns that connect with communities, Justin and The Aebli Group are transforming crowdfunding into a powerful tool for both raising capital and creating meaningful change. tl;dr: Today’s episode explores how mission-driven storytelling creates community engagement for crowdfunding success. Guest Justin Starbird shares insights on building authentic marketing campaigns that resonate with investors. Justin describes working with Organic Transit to revive its solar-electric bicycle, the ELF 3.0. The Aebli Group uses authenticity to help startups foster trust and build meaningful connections. Justin’s superpower, authenticity, is key to creating campaigns that leave lasting impacts. How to Develop Authenticity As a Superpower Justin’s superpower is authenticity. He described it as being unafraid to share hard truths with clients and always striving to leave things better than he found them. “What I try to do is…bring that authenticity to our clients in everything that we do,” he explained. Justin emphasized that authenticity fosters trust, builds communities, and ensures long-term success for businesses. Justin shared a personal analogy to explain his approach to authenticity. He recalled hiring a yard-cleaning service and finding a Coke can left in the brush after they finished. Though small, the oversight eroded his confidence in the team’s attention to detail. That lesson shaped Justin’s ethos at The Aebli Group: always go the extra mile. By doing the “small things” right, like addressing potential blind spots, his team ensures their campaigns resonate with clients and communities. Tips for Developing Authenticity as a Strength: Be Vulnerable: Acknowledge weaknesses and lean into them to foster genuine connections. Address Blind Spots: Identify potential risks or challenges and confront them openly. Focus on Community: Build trust by staying true to your values and mission. Always Go the Extra Mile: Pay attention to small details that demonstrate care and commitment. By following Justin’s example and advice, you can make authenticity a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world. Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you! Guest Profile Justin Starbird (he/him): CEO and Founder, The Aebli Group (pronounced ABE-Lee) About The Aebli Group: At The Aebli Group (TAG), we help innovators, founders, and established companies plan, execute, and optimize crowdfunding campaigns that build community, humanize your brand, and drive sustainable growth. Crowdfunding campaigns require a unique blend of strategy, storytelling, and platform knowledge. Companies choose us because we: Have deep experience navigating crowdfunding platforms and have led multiple successful campaigns by understanding how to leverage each platform’s unique audience and dynamics Combine marketing strategy with human-centered engagement Help clients avoid pitfalls while maximizing funding potential Turn campaigns into long-term growth engines, not just one-off events Our clients have successfully raised millions of dollars, validated new products, generated media coverage, and built lasting communities. Website: aebligroup.com Company Facebook Page: facebook.com/AebliGroup Biographical Information: Justin Starbird is the CEO and Founder of The Aebli Group (pronounced Abe-Lee), a full-service marketing agency focused on assisting founders in the crowdfunding space. Additionally, TAG is an experienced B2B marketing agency that specializes in the medical device, medical technology, and manufacturing industries. He has built his company into an industry leader by focusing on the details that help push clients to the next level. Most recently, Justin and the TAG Team launched the TAG Awards. The inaugural TAG Awards will spotlight the MedTech and Healthcare sectors, underscoring The Aebli Group’s long-standing commitment to driving success in these essential industries. With advancements in medical technology and healthcare delivery shaping the future of patient care, this focused awards program aims to honor the companies, products, and leaders redefining the standards of excellence in these fields. Justin is also dedicated to his community and has been recognized with the prestigious “Spirit of America” and “Local Hero” awards for his volunteerism and philanthropy. Today, Justin lives in Maine with his loving wife, two beautiful daughters, and two dogs. LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/justinstarbird Personal Facebook Profile: facebook.com/justin.starbird Support Our Sponsors Our generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today’s advertisers include FundingHope, and BabyQuip. Learn more about advertising with us here. Max-Impact Members (We’re grateful for every one of these community champions who make this work possible.) Brian Christie, Brainsy | Cameron Neil, Lend For Good | Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | John Berlet, CORE Tax Deeds, LLC. | Justin Starbird, The Aebli Group | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Mike Green, Envirosult | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name Here Upcoming SuperCrowd Event Calendar If a location is not noted, the events below are virtual. Superpowers for Good Live Pitch, December 11, 2025, at 8:00 PM Eastern / 5:00 PM Pacific, will bring together four mission-driven founders—Fran Maier (BabyQuip), Farooq Zama (CureValue), Andrei Evulet (Jetoptera), and Erin Martin (Pump For Joy)—as they present their companies live to a national audience on e360tv, YouTube, and LinkedIn. Hosted by Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., this special broadcast showcases entrepreneurs raising capital to solve real-world problems across family travel, healthcare access, disaster response aviation, and maternal health. Viewers are encouraged to watch the live pitches and then continue the experience by joining the Private Investor Session immediately following the broadcast, where attendees can engage directly with founders, ask deeper questions, and explore their active investment offerings in a focused, off-air environment. Whether you are an active investor or simply interested in the future of mission-driven innovation, this event offers a rare opportunity to witness purpose-driven companies in action and connect with them directly after the show. Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on December 16, 2025, at 1:30 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd. SuperCrowdHour, December 17, 2025, at 12:00 PM Eastern, will feature Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., leading a session on “Designing a Winning Marketing Strategy for Your Investment Offering.” Drawing on his deep experience in impact crowdfunding and investment storytelling, Devin will break down the essential elements of building a marketing strategy that attracts, engages, and converts poten

    26분

  3. 6일 전

    A New Hope in Cancer Treatment: Dale Walker’s Innovative Drug Development

    Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work. Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube. Devin: What is your superpower? Dr. Dale: When I run into a problem, the first thing I have to do is tell myself, don’t be afraid. You’ve solved other problems in the past. You can solve this one. Millions of people worldwide face the devastating impact of cancer, with countless lives lost each year to tumors that no longer respond to existing treatments. Dr. Dale Walker, Co-founder and CEO of The Burlington HC Research Group (BHCRG), is working to change that narrative with her groundbreaking development of a new family of anti-cancer drugs. These drugs have the potential to revolutionize treatment for cancers that have become resistant to current therapies. “We tested our drugs against 15 human cancer cell lines, representative of seven different tissues, and the drug works against all of them,” Dale explained. In the U.S. alone, over 600,000 people die annually from cancer, often because their tumors no longer respond to treatment. Dale’s research offers a glimmer of hope for patients and their families. Unlike traditional drug development that focuses on a single compound, Dale and her team have created a family of drugs—called BRG drugs—by combining two FDA-approved ingredients in a novel way. These drugs not only enhance the effectiveness of existing cancer treatments but also demonstrate the ability to kill nearly all cancer cells after a single dose in preclinical studies. “Most anti-cancer agents just slow tumor growth. Ours hit both marks—killing tumor cells at a safe dose level,” she said. With such promising results, Dale and her husband Vernon, who co-leads the research, are pushing forward. However, taking these drugs through the necessary safety and efficacy tests requires significant funding. To accelerate progress, BHCRG is raising capital through a regulated crowdfunding campaign on the FundingHope platform. Crowdfunding offers a faster alternative to traditional funding sources, enabling the Walkers to bypass lengthy government grant timelines. “Crowdfunding is a lifeline. We have family members and friends with cancer. We can’t wait years,” Dale shared. For investors, the opportunity to back a potential game-changing cancer therapy is compelling, both for its societal impact and long-term financial potential. Dale’s passion and perseverance shine through in her work. Her innovative approach to drug development could save countless lives. Supporting her mission on Funding Hope isn’t just an investment in a company—it’s an investment in hope. tl;dr: Dale Walker shares her innovative work on new anti-cancer drugs targeting resistant tumors. BHCRG’s BRG drugs show promising preclinical results, killing almost all tumor cells with one dose. Dale explains crowdfunding’s role in accelerating drug development for life-saving cancer treatments. She discusses perseverance as her superpower, solving challenges by embracing and examining problems. Today’s episode highlights how crowdfunding enables investors to support impactful innovations in healthcare. How to Develop Perseverance in Problem-Solving As a Superpower Dale’s superpower is her extraordinary ability to solve complex problems and persevere through challenges. In today’s episode, she explained, “When I run into a problem, the first thing I have to do is tell myself, don’t be afraid. You’ve solved other problems in the past. You can solve this one.” Dale emphasized that problems often contain valuable information that leads to solutions, encouraging others to examine challenges closely rather than avoiding them. After discovering that an FDA-approved drug had antiviral activity, Dale faced a seemingly insurmountable challenge: making the drug work effectively in people. “I thought, I will not be able to solve this problem. It’s too hard,” she admitted. Yet, she persevered, combining the drug with another FDA-approved ingredient. This breakthrough created the BRG family of cancer drugs, which kill nearly all cancer cells in preclinical studies after a single dose. Her ability to persist through doubt and difficulty exemplifies her superpower. Tips for Developing Perseverance in Problem-Solving: Acknowledge Your Strengths: Remind yourself that you’ve solved tough problems before and can do it again. Examine Problems Closely: Instead of avoiding challenges, look for clues within the problem itself to guide solutions. Break Down the Problem: Address each component of the challenge one step at a time. Stay Focused: Resist the urge to pivot too quickly; often, solutions lie in persistence. Find Inspiration: Remember the impact your work can have on others to stay motivated. By following Dale’s example and advice, you can make perseverance in problem-solving a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world. Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you! Guest Profile Dale M. Walker (she/her): Co-founder, owner, and Chief Executive Officer, The Burlington HC Research Group, Inc. (BHCRG) About The Burlington HC Research Group, Inc. (BHCRG): BHCRG is working to advance a new family of investigational drugs called BRG Therapeutics. Based on pre-clinical studies, two members of this family show potent anticancer activity across human cancer cell lines representing seven different tissues of origin, including lung cancer (four subtypes), prostate cancer (three types), triple-negative breast cancer (two types), ovarian cancer (two types), pancreatic cancer (one type), pleural mesothelioma (two types), and pre-myeloblastic leukemia (one type, tested with a single BRG drug). In tissue-culture models, BRG drugs demonstrate an unusually strong ability to eliminate nearly all cancer cells after a single dose while achieving this result at doses that are non-toxic to normal human cells. Each BRG drug delivers two active ingredients, and the primary component (ingredient #1) also inhibits the replication of viruses spanning all three major viral genome classes—DNA viruses, RNA viruses, and reverse-transcribing/retroviruses—with activity shown in vitro against influenza, COVID-19, HIV, and Ebola and other viruses. Although such breadth is uncommon and has led some observers to believe no drug could achieve these effects, the evidence shows that the human body naturally produces several essential compounds with similarly broad anticancer and antiviral functions; BRG drugs work through analogous biochemical mechanisms but produce stronger effects in controlled laboratory studies. These naturally occurring comparators include N-acetylcysteine, glutathione, and vitamin C (only at pharmacologic doses). Taken together, BRG Therapeutics represents a next-generation, multi-targeted approach designed to overcome one of the central limitations of modern oncology—drug resistance—by restoring normal cellular regulation, reactivating p53, correcting redox imbalance, and neutralizing reactive species to selectively eliminate cancer cells while preserving healthy tissue. Website: bhcrg.com Company Facebook Page: facebook.com/profile.php?id=61584197824692 Other URL: invest.fundinghope.com/offering/brg/details Biographical Information: My husband Vernon and I work together as a team, and we have advanced BRG therapeutics to their present state of development by collaboration. We both are veterinarians with advanced training in pathology, so that make us ‘veterinary pathologists’. Vernon also has a PhD in experimental and molecular pathology. What many people do not know is that veterinary pathologists have key roles in drug development and safety testing. Before the discovery of the BRG drugs, most of our work focused on health risks from human exposures to environmental, workplace, or medicinal agents/compounds. We were working with BRG active ingredient #1, which is FDA-approved as the active form of a cell protective drug – that means that it protects normal cells from the damaging effects of radiation and some chemicals. We were testing the ability of this agent to protect normal cells from the deleterious effects of some of the first drugs like AZT developed to treat HIV. We were surprised to learn that this cell protective drug had antiviral activity all on its own. Even though this active ingredient had been around for several decades, no one had ever reported these results before we did. We soon learned why we were the first to make this discovery - the active ingredient of this cell protective drug worked well in tissue culture as an antiviral agent, but antiviral effects were not achieved in living animals. This sent us on a long road figuring out why this was – after all, this agent worked to protect normal cells in living animals and people, so why would it not work as an antiviral agent in the same animals and people? It actually took several years to understand the nature of the problems, and even more time to figure out a solution. That solution was the BRG therapeutics. Vernon and I had little experience studying viruses, and much more experience studying cancer and anticancer drugs, and we knew that this active ingredient had anticancer activity, so we decided to start with testing a BRG drug as an anticancer agent. Our first experiment in a human, pre-myeloblastic leukemia cell line showed us anticancer effects beyond anything that we could have imagined. We were so excited, but we still ha

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  4. 12월 4일

    BabyQuip CEO Fran Maier Brings an “Airbnb for Baby Gear” to Traveling Families

    Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work. Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube. Devin: What is your superpower? Fran: I’ve been the one who came in and looked at [ideas] and said, ‘Oh, I can do something with this. Traveling with babies can be a daunting task. From packing bulky gear to ensuring cleanliness and safety, parents often find themselves overwhelmed. BabyQuip, led by CEO and founder Fran Maier, provides a simple, effective solution. BabyQuip connects traveling families with local providers of baby gear, offering a trusted marketplace for renting everything from cribs to strollers. Fran shared how her experience as a mother and Airbnb host inspired BabyQuip. “I did not want to buy, store, clean, take care of baby gear for guests,” she explained. Her entrepreneurial instincts led her to harness the gig economy, creating opportunities for over 3,000 providers—mostly moms—who deliver, set up, and clean the rented gear. “We’re a marketplace, like Turo or Airbnb. We really harness the energy and dedication of our providers,” she added. This innovative model addresses a significant need in the $3 trillion U.S. travel industry. Parents flying with children no longer need to lug heavy gear or worry about availability at their destination. Fran noted, “It’s an acute need, because it’s something you need at a specific time in a specific place.” The company’s success is evident. BabyQuip now operates in 28 countries, recently partnered with Vrbo, and has earned a Good Housekeeping award for innovative travel solutions. This year, the company expects to fulfill over 120,000 orders and even achieved profitability in Q3. BabyQuip is poised for further growth, with plans to expand into mobility equipment and international markets. To fuel this expansion, Fran is raising capital on StartEngine via a regulated crowdfunding campaign. “I have a brand that customers love. Crowdfunding lets me invite them to be part of the journey,” she explained. By addressing a real pain point for families and leveraging the gig economy, BabyQuip is redefining the travel experience for parents everywhere. tl;dr: BabyQuip solves the hassle of traveling with baby gear by connecting families to local providers. The company operates in 28 countries and has fulfilled over 120,000 orders this year alone. BabyQuip recently partnered with Vrbo and won a Good Housekeeping award for travel innovation. Fran Maier is raising capital on StartEngine to fund expansion into mobility and international markets. Fran’s superpower is her visionary instinct for building trusted brands that solve real problems. How to Develop Visionary Instinct As a Superpower Fran’s superpower is her ability to “see things and get it” instinctively. She described how her entrepreneurial journey has been shaped by her knack for identifying potential in ideas and turning them into trusted brands. As Fran explained, “I’ve been the one who came in and looked at [ideas] and said, ‘Oh, I can do something with this.’” Her marketing background and experience enable her to see how businesses can grow, make an impact, and solve real problems for people. Fran’s visionary instinct was on full display when she co-founded Match.com in the mid-1990s. At the time, the internet was in its infancy, and many doubted its potential. Fran, however, immediately recognized its transformative possibilities. “When I first saw the internet, I was like, ‘Oh my God, this is going to change everything,’” she recalled. She joined Match to build a trusted brand, foreseeing the massive societal shift toward online dating that would follow. Tips for Developing Visionary Instinct: Trust Your Gut: Pay attention to your instincts when evaluating new ideas or opportunities. Immerse Yourself in Trends: Stay informed about industry shifts and emerging technologies to spot opportunities early. Practice Pattern Recognition: Look for recurring themes or challenges in your field that you can address. Build on Experience: Leverage knowledge from past successes and failures to inform your decisions. Think Big: Envision not just the product but the larger impact and scale it can achieve. By following Fran’s example and advice, you can make visionary instinct a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world. Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you! Guest Profile Fran Maier (she/her): CEO and Co-Founder, BabyQuip About BabyQuip: BabyQuip is the leading global marketplace for renting baby gear, beach gear, pet gear, and mobility equipment—helping travelers avoid the hassle of hauling bulky items and enabling more families to travel with ease. With 3,000+ vetted Quality Providers across more than 2,000 locations and 22,000 zip codes, BabyQuip is the only scaled, trusted brand in this category. We have now fulfilled 300,000+ reservations, maintain a world-class 94 NPS, and achieved Summer 2025 profitability in our core U.S. rentals business. Our marketplace take rate is 31%, among the highest in consumer marketplaces. Website: babyquip.com LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/company/babyquip Company Facebook Page: facebook.com/BabyQuip Twitter Handle: @ProjectDrawdown Instagram Handle: @babyquip Other URL: startengine.com/offering/babyquip Biographical Information: BabyQuip is led by Fran Maier, an award-winning serial entrepreneur and category creator. Fran co-founded Match.com—helping define online dating—and later served as the long-time CEO of TRUSTe (now TrustArc) privacy technology provider, where she led its nonprofit-to-for-profit transformation and raised significant venture funding. Fran has been widely recognized for her leadership, including being named to Forbes 50 Over 50. Her expertise in building trusted consumer platforms and scaling marketplaces is central to BabyQuip’s success and defensible position. LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/franmaier Personal Facebook Profile: facebook.com/fran.maier Support Our Sponsors Our generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today’s advertisers include FundingHope, and SuperGreen Live. Learn more about advertising with us here. Max-Impact Members (We’re grateful for every one of these community champions who make this work possible.) Brian Christie, Brainsy | Cameron Neil, Lend For Good | Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | John Berlet, CORE Tax Deeds, LLC. | Justin Starbird, The Aebli Group | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Mike Green, Envirosult | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name Here Upcoming SuperCrowd Event Calendar If a location is not noted, the events below are virtual. Superpowers for Good Live Pitch, December 11, 2025, at 8:00 PM Eastern / 5:00 PM Pacific, will bring together four mission-driven founders—Fran Maier (BabyQuip), Farooq Zama (CureValue), Andrei Evulet (Jetoptera), and Erin Martin (Pump For Joy)—as they present their companies live to a national audience on e360tv, YouTube, and LinkedIn. Hosted by Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., this special broadcast showcases entrepreneurs raising capital to solve real-world problems across family travel, healthcare access, disaster response aviation, and maternal health. Viewers are encouraged to watch the live pitches and then continue the experience by joining the Private Investor Session immediately following the broadcast, where attendees can engage directly with founders, ask deeper questions, and explore their active investment offerings in a focused, off-air environment. Whether you are an active investor or simply interested in the future of mission-driven innovation, this event offers a rare opportunity to witness purpose-driven companies in action and connect with them directly after the show. Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on December 16, 2025, at 1:30 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd. SuperCrowdHour, December 17, 2025, at 12:00 PM Eastern, will feature Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., leading a session on “Designing a Winning Marketing Strategy for Your Investment Offering.” Drawing on his deep experience in impact crowdfunding and investment storytelling, Devin will break down the essential elements of building a marketing strategy that attracts, engages, and converts potential investors. Participants will learn how to identify and reach the right audience, craft messages that build trust, and develop a promotional plan that supports sustained momentum throughout a raise. Whether you’re preparing for your first regulated investment crowdfunding campaign or looking to strengthen an ongoing one, this SuperCrowdHour will provide the insights and practical frameworks you need to elevate your offering and boost investor participation. SuperGreen Live, January 22–24, 2026, livestreaming globally. Organized by Green2Gold and The Super Cro

    26분

  5. 12월 2일

    Climate Solutions: The Biggest Business Opportunity in Human History

    Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work. Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube. Devin: What is your superpower? Jonathan: Bridging science and the real world. Climate change is often framed as a daunting, insurmountable challenge. But Jonathan Foley, Executive Director of Project Drawdown, sees it differently. He describes it as “the single biggest business opportunity in human history.” In today’s episode, Jonathan shared insights about the 100 climate solutions identified by Project Drawdown. Eighty of these solutions are already scaling successfully, while 20 more are proven but not yet implemented widely. Together, they represent a roadmap to solving climate change—and an economic goldmine. Jonathan explains, “If we add them all together, they’re more than enough to stop climate change if we really deploy them at scale. For every dollar we spend doing this, we return three to four more back to the economy.” These solutions span five major areas: electricity, food and land use, industry, transportation, and buildings. While renewable energy like solar and wind often dominate the conversation, Jonathan highlighted other impactful opportunities, such as reducing food waste, developing carbon-friendly cement, and rethinking air conditioning systems. He also emphasized the role of innovation and entrepreneurship. “We literally have to reinvent our energy systems, our food systems, our manufacturing, our cities—everything. You could look at that as a really big problem, or you could see it as a great opportunity. Especially if we do it right, we can improve lives, reduce inequity, and build a better world for future generations.” Jonathan’s optimism is grounded in the potential of these solutions to create transformative change. He believes this moment is about more than just addressing climate change—it’s about reshaping the future. “This is like the best bargain in human history,” he said. By scaling these ideas, we can not only stop climate change but also unlock trillions of dollars in economic value. Jonathan’s message is clear: the time to act is now, and the tools to succeed are within our grasp. tl;dr: Jonathan Foley explains how scaling 100 proven climate solutions can stop climate change economically. He highlights five focus areas: electricity, food, industry, transportation, and buildings, for impactful innovation. Jonathan shares how food waste and carbon-friendly cement represent untapped opportunities for change. He emphasizes optimism, collaboration, and seeing climate solutions as business opportunities, not burdens. Jonathan discusses his superpower of bridging science with real-world action to drive global progress. How to Develop Bridging Science and the Real World As a Superpower Jonathan’s superpower is his ability to connect rigorous science with real-world needs and concerns. He describes himself as a “fence straddler,” explaining, “I like to have one foot in the world of science and one foot in the real world.” This ability allows him to translate complex scientific ideas into actionable solutions while also bringing the concerns of everyday people, businesses, and communities back to scientists. Jonathan adds, “It’s not just the science talking—it’s about listening much more than we speak.” Jonathan shared how his role at the California Academy of Sciences allowed him to merge science with public engagement. By using the museum as a platform, he effectively communicated climate science to larger audiences, fostering thoughtful conversations about sustainability. This experience inspired him to shift from research to leadership roles, where he could bridge the gap between scientific innovation and real-world implementation, helping to make climate solutions accessible and actionable. Tips for Developing This Superpower: Listen More Than You Speak: Focus on understanding the concerns of others before offering solutions. Make Complex Ideas Accessible: Learn to translate technical knowledge into language that resonates with different audiences. Engage with Diverse Groups: Build connections across sectors, including science, business, and community organizations. Seek Feedback: Regularly ask people outside your field what they need to know from your expertise. Focus on Real-World Impact: Align your work with practical applications that address tangible problems. By following Jonathan’s example and advice, you can make bridging science and the real world a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world. Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you! Guest Profile Jonathan Foley (he/him): Executive Director, Project Drawdown About Project Drawdown: The World’s Leading Resource for Climate Solutions. Website: drawdown.org LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/company/project-drawdown Company Facebook Page: facebook.com/projectdrawdown Twitter Handle: @ProjectDrawdown Instagram Handle: @projectdrawdown Biographical Information: Dr. Jonathan Foley is a world-renowned environmental scientist. His work is focused on understanding our changing planet, and finding new solutions to sustain the climate, ecosystems, and natural resources we all depend on. He has run major scientific institutions at the University of Wisconsin, the University of Minnesota, and was the CEO of the California Academy of Sciences. He now leads Project Drawdown -- the world’s leading resource for climate change solutions. LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/jonathan-foley-182808b9 Support Our Sponsors Our generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today’s advertisers include FundingHope, and SuperGreen Live. Learn more about advertising with us here. Max-Impact Members (We’re grateful for every one of these community champions who make this work possible.) Brian Christie, Brainsy | Cameron Neil, Lend For Good | Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | John Berlet, CORE Tax Deeds, LLC. | Justin Starbird, The Aebli Group | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Mike Green, Envirosult | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name Here Upcoming SuperCrowd Event Calendar If a location is not noted, the events below are virtual. Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on December 16, 2025, at 1:30 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd. SuperCrowdHour, December 17, 2025, at 12:00 PM Eastern, will feature Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., leading a session on “Designing a Winning Marketing Strategy for Your Investment Offering.” Drawing on his deep experience in impact crowdfunding and investment storytelling, Devin will break down the essential elements of building a marketing strategy that attracts, engages, and converts potential investors. Participants will learn how to identify and reach the right audience, craft messages that build trust, and develop a promotional plan that supports sustained momentum throughout a raise. Whether you’re preparing for your first regulated investment crowdfunding campaign or looking to strengthen an ongoing one, this SuperCrowdHour will provide the insights and practical frameworks you need to elevate your offering and boost investor participation. SuperGreen Live, January 22–24, 2026, livestreaming globally. Organized by Green2Gold and The Super Crowd, Inc., this three-day event will spotlight the intersection of impact crowdfunding, sustainable innovation, and climate solutions. Featuring expert-led panels, interactive workshops, and live pitch sessions, SuperGreen Live brings together entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and activists to explore how capital and climate action can work hand in hand. With global livestreaming, VIP networking opportunities, and exclusive content, this event will empower participants to turn bold ideas into real impact. Don’t miss your chance to join tens of thousands of changemakers at the largest virtual sustainability event of the year. Community Event Calendar Successful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events. If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 10,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here. We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe

    26분

  6. 11월 27일

    How Aptera Is Rewriting the Rules for Electric Vehicles With Radical Efficiency

    Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work. Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube. Devin: What is your superpower? Steve: I don’t let any discomfort… be a factor in my performance. Aptera has been guided from the beginning by a simple idea: use the least possible energy to travel from point A to point B. That guiding principle shapes everything about the vehicle’s radical design. As Steve Fambro explained in today’s episode, “Aptera is about using the least amount of energy to go from point A to point B,” emphasizing that efficiency isn’t a feature of the car, it is the car. Steve, Aptera’s co CEO and co founder, walked through the engineering mindset that makes their approach unique. As an electrical engineer, he thinks in terms of systems and losses, so the team engineered the vehicle from the ground up to minimize drag and weight. The result is a three wheeled, solar integrated EV that consumes just 100 watt hours per mile, less than half of what even skilled hypermiling drivers typically achieve. Steve put it simply: “The low drag, the lightweight, and the integrated solar... those are the three parts of the equation to give it that magic.” As reservation holders continue to express enthusiasm, Steve’s real world perspective keeps the story grounded. The team is focused on scaling responsibly, leaning on experienced partners like Roush to engineer critical elements for mass production. Aptera’s early journey wasn’t linear. Steve and his co founder Chris faced misalignment with hired leadership and ultimately watched the original company collapse while they pursued other ventures. Returning with lessons learned, new battery capabilities, and a stronger market, they rebuilt Aptera on firmer foundations. Today the world is meeting them where they are. Their reservation count exceeded early expectations almost overnight. Media attention, including a recent appearance on Jay Leno’s show, signaled not just curiosity but genuine enthusiasm. The story of Aptera represents more than another EV. It reflects a reframing of what efficient transportation can look like and illustrates how a focused engineering question can lead to reshaping an entire market. tl;dr: Aptera Motors is revolutionizing EVs with hyper-efficient, solar-powered vehicles designed for maximum energy efficiency. The vehicle’s aerodynamic shape and lightweight materials minimize drag and energy consumption. Aptera’s integrated solar panels can add up to 40 miles of range per day. Thousands of preorders signal strong demand as Aptera prepares for production next year. Steve Fambro’s focus on efficiency and perseverance drives Aptera’s mission for sustainable transportation. How to Develop Self-Deprivation As a Superpower Steve Fambro’s superpower is his ability to deprive himself of comforts for as long as necessary to finish a job. Drawing from his military experience, Steve shared, “I don’t let any discomfort… be a factor in my performance.” He described how he can work in extreme heat or go without sleep, food, or rest when required. This skill allows him to focus on achieving his goals without distraction, no matter the challenges. Steve recounted how this superpower helped him during Aptera’s early days, as well as in his previous ventures. For example, while working in the Middle East, he endured long hours in 120-degree heat alongside a construction crew, refusing to let discomfort slow him down. His willingness to push himself, even in challenging conditions, has been key to his success. Tips for Developing the Superpower: Practice self-discipline by intentionally depriving yourself of small comforts periodically. Embrace stoic philosophy to build mental resilience and adaptability. Focus on your goals rather than temporary discomfort to stay motivated. Learn from experiences that push you outside your comfort zone, such as travel or challenging work conditions. By following Steve’s example and advice, you can make self-deprivation a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world. Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you! Guest Profile Steve Fambro (he/him): co-CEO/Founder, Aptera Motors About Aptera Motors: Aptera’s mission is to create the most efficient transportation on the planet. We achieve this by leveraging breakthroughs in battery efficiency, aerodynamics, material science and manufacturing. Aptera is the first in a line of Solar Electric Vehicles (sEVs) being produced by Aptera Motors that are powered by the sun and won’t need charging for most daily use. We’re an efficiency-obsessed brand offering an array of safe, comfortable, and fun to drive vehicles. Website: aptera.us LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/company/apteramotors Company Facebook Page: facebook.com/ApteraMotors3.0 Twitter Handle: @aptera_motors Instagram Handle: @aptera_motors Biographical Information: Venture partner and COO of Ocean Holding, an investment and development company dedicated to advancing the use of clean, renewable energy. Founder of Famgro; raised $8m to launch a super-efficient pesticide/herbicide-free indoor food-production system. LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/steve-fambro-184b515 Support Our Sponsors Our generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today’s advertisers include FundingHope, SuperGreen Live, and Envirosult. Learn more about advertising with us here. Max-Impact Members (We’re grateful for every one of these community champions who make this work possible.) Brian Christie, Brainsy | Cameron Neil, Lend For Good | Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | John Berlet, CORE Tax Deeds, LLC. | Justin Starbird, The Aebli Group | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Mike Green, Envirosult | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name Here Upcoming SuperCrowd Event Calendar If a location is not noted, the events below are virtual. Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on December 16, 2025, at 1:30 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd. SuperCrowdHour, December 17, 2025, at 12:00 PM Eastern, will feature Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., leading a session on “Designing a Winning Marketing Strategy for Your Investment Offering.” Drawing on his deep experience in impact crowdfunding and investment storytelling, Devin will break down the essential elements of building a marketing strategy that attracts, engages, and converts potential investors. Participants will learn how to identify and reach the right audience, craft messages that build trust, and develop a promotional plan that supports sustained momentum throughout a raise. Whether you’re preparing for your first regulated investment crowdfunding campaign or looking to strengthen an ongoing one, this SuperCrowdHour will provide the insights and practical frameworks you need to elevate your offering and boost investor participation. SuperGreen Live, January 22–24, 2026, livestreaming globally. Organized by Green2Gold and The Super Crowd, Inc., this three-day event will spotlight the intersection of impact crowdfunding, sustainable innovation, and climate solutions. Featuring expert-led panels, interactive workshops, and live pitch sessions, SuperGreen Live brings together entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and activists to explore how capital and climate action can work hand in hand. With global livestreaming, VIP networking opportunities, and exclusive content, this event will empower participants to turn bold ideas into real impact. Don’t miss your chance to join tens of thousands of changemakers at the largest virtual sustainability event of the year. Community Event Calendar Successful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events. If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 10,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here. We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe

    25분

  7. 11월 25일

    Why Ordinary Investors Deserve a Fair Shot at Pre‑IPO Wealth

    Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work. Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube. Devin: What is your superpower? Craig: Empowering ordinary investors to take control of their money whether they are young or old. Most of the wealth created by today’s fastest‑growing companies never reaches ordinary investors. Innovative firms like Uber stay private for years, creating massive value for venture capitalists and insiders before ever listing on a public exchange. By the time these companies finally go public, most of the growth is already “cooked in.” That leaves people investing through retirement accounts buying stock at a premium while much of the upside has already been captured. In this episode of Superpowers for Good, guest Craig Stephens, founder of Anatoc Media, shares how he helps everyday investors understand and, where possible, tap into this elusive pre‑IPO and IPO economy through AccessIPOs.com and his Retire Before Dad blog. Craig explains the core problem bluntly: “From 1996 to this year we went from about 8,000 public companies to just 4,000.” That shrinking universe means the broad market funds many people depend on for retirement are drawing from fewer companies, while an expanding slice of innovation remains locked up in private markets. He points to the rise of giant private companies as a turning point. “These companies really started with Uber. Uber waited a long time to go public and by the time it went public most of its growth was already built into the company.” When firms can command higher valuations and easy capital while staying private, they have little incentive to list, especially when secondary markets and tender offers already provide liquidity for insiders and employees. The result is a widening access gap. “With fewer companies going public that wealth is getting sort of sectioned off in this venture capital world which is just not accessible to everybody,” Craig notes. Regulated crowdfunding and other exemptions appear as part of the solution, opening a window for retail investors to participate earlier, even if only on a small scale compared to institutional players. Craig distinguishes between his two platforms. Retire Before Dad focuses on what he calls the “boring stuff” — index funds, sound retirement planning, smart personal finance habits. Access IPOs is intentionally more speculative, a place for investors to allocate a small slice of their wealth to higher‑risk, higher‑potential pre‑IPO and IPO opportunities. The discussion underscores a growing conviction among advocates for retail investors: the financial system needs more pathways for ordinary people to participate in the wealth generated by innovation. While regulation crowdfunding alone cannot fix the system, it is an essential part of a broader effort to ensure that elites are not the only ones who benefit from the most dynamic companies of this era. tl;dr: The episode explores how shrinking public markets prevent many ordinary investors from sharing in innovation‑driven wealth. Craig explains why companies stay private longer, shifting most gains to venture capital and other private‑market players. The conversation highlights how regulation crowdfunding and Reg A create limited but meaningful early‑stage access for the crowd. Craig shares his path from IT consulting to launching Retire Before Dad and Access IPOs to educate DIY investors. Craig presents his superpower of empowering investors, illustrated through his IPO community and practical guidance for smarter participation. How to Develop Empowering Investors As a Superpower Craig’s superpower is empowering investors to take control of their own money. His work is about “empowering ordinary investors to take control of their money whether they are young or old.” Through his two platforms, he supports younger people “interested in these hot companies that are going public or that are private” and retirees he “empower[s] to manage their own money as DIY planners and investors.” Craig challenges the aura of complexity built by the financial industry, insisting “investing doesn’t need to be that difficult or complex and ordinary investors can do it on their own,” accessing both traditional assets and, where appropriate, “the other economy that a lot of people don’t have access to.” Craig described a small investing community that began on Facebook and later moved to Patreon. He does not give formal advice but offers tools, education, and a trusted space to discuss IPO and pre‑IPO opportunities. Within that group, members identified and accessed the Circle IPO. “At some point it was up six or seven hundred percent and that’s very unusual,” Craig explains. Because the community had developed knowledge and shared strategies together, ordinary investors were ready to participate through available brokerage channels. Craig emphasizes there are also deals that “didn’t jump out of the gate,” highlighting both the potential and the real risks of this approach. Tips for Developing This Superpower (Actionable) Demystify investingLearn basic concepts in public markets, IPOs, and private offerings to see that they are understandable and navigable. Adopt a DIY approachTake responsibility for core decisions about saving, allocation, and risk instead of defaulting everything to professionals. Anchor most money in simple vehiclesUse broad index funds and long‑term retirement accounts as the foundation of a personal investing strategy. Limit speculative capitalTreat IPOs and pre‑IPO deals as a small, clearly defined portion of an overall portfolio. Build or join trusted communitiesEngage with smaller, higher‑trust groups rather than anonymous online forums crowded with bots and hidden agendas. Increase access thoughtfullyWhen appropriate, open accounts at reputable brokers or platforms that offer IPO, pre‑IPO, or crowdfunding access. Stay clear‑eyed about riskRemember that “IPO investing carries significant risk” and expect that not every deal will be a winner. Prioritize habits over hypePair occasional high‑upside opportunities with disciplined saving, consistent investing, and long‑term planning. By following Craig’s example and advice, empowering investors can become a skill. With practice and effort, it can become a superpower that enables more good in the world. Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you! Guest Profile Craig Stephens (he/him): Founder, Anatoc Media LLC About Anatoc Media LLC: Access IPOs help ordinary investors explore opportunities to invest in the world’s most innovative and disruptive pre-IPO companies. Website: accessipos.com, retirebeforedad.com Company Facebook Page: facebook.com/accessipos Twitter Handle: @RetireBeforeDad Biographical Information: Craig Stephens is a former IT consultant for the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) turned full-time writer and podcaster. He’s also the founder of Retire Before Dad (RBD), a website and YouTube channel about DIY investing for retirement and financial independence. He’s a former contributor to TIME.com, US News & World Report, and HumbleDollar, and his writing has been featured on Yahoo Finance, Seeking Alpha, Apex Money, WTOP, Becoming Minimalist, Optimal Finance Daily, and Business Insider. He’s a retail investor advocate, promoting equal investment opportunities for all investors. LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/craighstephens Personal Twitter Handle: @AccessIPOs Support Our Sponsors Our generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today’s advertisers include FundingHope, Otherwise Brewing, Artisan Tropic, and Envirosult. Learn more about advertising with us here. Max-Impact Members (We’re grateful for every one of these community champions who make this work possible.) Brian Christie, Brainsy | Cameron Neil, Lend For Good | Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | John Berlet, CORE Tax Deeds, LLC. | Justin Starbird, The Aebli Group | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Mike Green, Envirosult | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name Here Upcoming SuperCrowd Event Calendar If a location is not noted, the events below are virtual. Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on December 16, 2025, at 1:30 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd. SuperCrowdHour, December 17, 2025, at 12:00 PM Eastern, will feature Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., leading a session on “Designing a Winning Marketing Strategy for Your Investment Offering.” Drawing on his deep experience in impact crowdfunding and investment storytelling, Devin will break down the essential elements of building a marketing strategy that attracts, engages, and converts potential investors. Participants will learn how to identify and reach the right audience, craft messages that build trust, and develop a promotional plan that supports sustained momentum throughout a raise. W

    26분

  8. 11월 20일

    Gluten-Free Beer Revolution: Otherwise Brewing’s Mission to Bring Great Taste to Everyone

    Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work. Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube. Devin: What is your superpower? Aaron: Curiosity. Stellar: Community building. Creating a delicious beer that is 100% gluten-free and celiac-safe is no small feat. Yet, Aaron Gervais and Stellar Cassidy, the co-founders of Otherwise Brewing, have achieved just that. Their mission is clear: to create craft beer that tastes as good as traditional beer while being accessible to a growing community of people who avoid gluten for health reasons. Stellar explained, “Otherwise Brewing is a passion project that Aaron and I launched in 2021 after years of R&D. The beer is 100% gluten-free and celiac safe. We brew with grains alternative to barley, like rice and millet, which also have a smaller carbon footprint.” This dual focus on inclusivity and sustainability has been central to their journey. The need for gluten-free beer is significant. Aaron, who has family members with gluten sensitivities, highlighted the growing demand, saying, “We’ve gotten a lot of inbound requests from people across the country to ship gluten-free beer to them because there just aren’t that many options out there.” With nearly a third of people reporting they try to avoid gluten, Otherwise Brewing is filling a critical gap in the market. What makes their beer stand out isn’t just the absence of gluten—it’s the taste. “We wanted to make sure that we were doing something unique,” Aaron said. “We developed a way to make gluten-free beer that tastes just like regular beer. Beer is not health food—we drink it for the enjoyment.” This innovative approach, combined with their dedication to building a loyal community in the Bay Area, has positioned Otherwise Brewing for expansion. The company is currently raising capital on SMBX, a regulated crowdfunding platform, to support statewide distribution and marketing efforts. “We want to make a big splash,” Stellar shared. As they prepare to scale, Aaron and Stellar are inviting supporters to invest in their vision of making craft beer more inclusive. Through passion, innovation, and a commitment to sustainability, they are leading the gluten-free beer revolution. If you’re interested in supporting their mission, you can learn more about their campaign at SMBX. tl;dr: Today’s episode highlights Otherwise Brewing’s mission to create delicious, 100% gluten-free craft beer. Co-founders Aaron and Stellar share their journey to develop a sustainable, celiac-safe brewing process. The company is raising capital on SMBX to expand distribution across California and grow its community. Aaron’s superpower, curiosity, drives innovation, including the creation of gluten-free beer recipes. Stellar’s superpower, community building, fosters inclusivity at the taproom for gluten-free beer lovers. How to Develop Curiosity and Community Building As a Superpower Aaron’s superpower is his relentless curiosity, which drives him to explore new ideas and solve challenging problems. “I’ve always been a naturally curious person,” Aaron said. “When something piques that curiosity, I want to learn more and figure it out.” This mindset led him to develop Otherwise Brewing’s gluten-free beer. He explained, “I wondered if I could make gluten-free beer that tastes good… it was a difficult technical challenge, but we figured it out.” Stellar’s superpower is her ability to build inclusive, vibrant communities. “If I had to pick my superpower, I think it’s honestly building community,” Stellar shared. She explained how creating a welcoming taproom for people with celiac disease and gluten sensitivities has been a core part of the brewery’s success. “So many people with gluten issues can’t hang out at breweries. We’re proud to provide a space where they can enjoy a beer with their friends.” Aaron taught himself web programming to address a business challenge. He wanted better insight into Otherwise Brewing’s sales data, but existing systems fell short. Driven by curiosity, he learned to write web hooks to connect inventory systems and create real-time dashboards. This innovation streamlined operations and demonstrated his ability to turn curiosity into actionable solutions. Stellar’s community-building skills are best illustrated by the Otherwise Brewing taproom. She takes time to connect personally with customers, remembering names and stories while introducing people to one another. This thoughtful, inclusive approach has fostered a grassroots community of gluten-free beer lovers. “At any given time, you’ll see people from all walks of life bonding over our beers,” Stellar said. Tips for Developing Aaron’s Superpower: Ask “Why not?” when faced with conventional ideas or approaches. Pursue curiosity with action—learn new skills or experiment to find solutions. Embrace challenges as opportunities to innovate. Tips for Developing Stellar’s Superpower: Take time to truly listen to people and remember their stories. Create inclusive spaces where everyone feels welcome. Focus on building relationships by introducing people with shared interests. By following Aaron’s and Stellar’s example and advice, you can make curiosity and community building a skill. With practice and effort, you could make these superpowers that enable you to do more good in the world. Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you! Guest Profile Aaron Gervais (he/him): CEO, Otherwise Brewing About Otherwise Brewing: Otherwise Brewing makes gluten-free beer using a proprietary process that allows us to match the flavors beer-lovers expect—with no limitations on style. We’re making the world’s most popular alcoholic beverage accessible to all, regardless of dietary restrictions. Website: otherwisebrewing.com LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/company/otherwise-brewing Company Facebook Page: facebook.com/otherwisebrewing Instagram Handle: @otherwisebrewing Other URL: smbx.in/wow Biographical Information: Aaron Gervais co-founded Otherwise Brewing in 2019 with Stellar Cassidy, following several years of experimentation as a homebrewer. He oversees the company’s operations, R&D efforts, and recipe design. In this role, he is responsible for developing Otherwise Brewing’s production protocols, and his research into gluten-free brewing processes has led to a number of technical improvements that are unique to the company. Outside of beer, Aaron has led a diverse career, with 10 years of tech industry marketing, 5 years of arts nonprofit administration, and over 15 years as a freelance classical composer. As a composer, he has won many prestigious awards, and his music has been played around the world. He holds a Master of Arts in Composition from UC San Diego and a B.Mus from the University of Toronto. LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/aaron-gervais Stellar Cassidy (she/her): COO, Otherwise Brewing Biographical Information: Responsible for managing Otherwise’s sales and customer relations, Stellar Cassidy is a veteran of the San Francisco craft beer scene. She has held positions as diverse as front-of-house manager, purchasing agent, sales representative, and event planner. Prior to founding Otherwise, Stellar led front-of-house operations at a number of well-known craft beer bars in San Francisco, including the Church Key and City Beer Store, and she has built a reputation in the local industry for attention to detail and customer satisfaction. Stellar holds a BA in Creative Writing and Performance Poetry in addition to a Cicerone® beer certification, the beer equivalent of sommelier credentialing. LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/stellar-cassidy-1a879830a Support Our Sponsors Our generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today’s advertisers include FundingHope, and Envirosult. Learn more about advertising with us here. Max-Impact Members (We’re grateful for every one of these community champions who make this work possible.) Brian Christie, Brainsy | Cameron Neil, Lend For Good | Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | John Berlet, CORE Tax Deeds, LLC. | Justin Starbird, The Aebli Group | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Mike Green, Envirosult | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name Here Upcoming SuperCrowd Event Calendar If a location is not noted, the events below are virtual. SuperGreen Live, January 22–24, 2026, livestreaming globally. Organized by Green2Gold and The Super Crowd, Inc., this three-day event will spotlight the intersection of impact crowdfunding, sustainable innovation, and climate solutions. Featuring expert-led panels, interactive workshops, and live pitch sessions, SuperGreen Live brings together entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and activists to explore how capital and climate action can work hand in hand. With global livestreaming, VIP networking opportunities, and exclusive content, this event will empower participants to turn bold ideas into real impact. Don’t miss your chance to join tens of thousands of changemakers at the largest virtual sustainability event of the year. Community Event Calendar Successful Funding with Karl Dakin

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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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