Entrepreneurial Thinkers with Rob Ryan

The Storytellers Company

The world is crying out for new leaders, greater transparency and more original thinking to solve our biggest problems in business and society. Our Host, Rob Ryan has conversations with these people every week. Since 2020, we’ve faced a global pandemic, rapid technological change, and political, economic, and cultural disruption. We believe the world needs more entrepreneurial thinkers—not just more entrepreneurs or executives—across every sector and segment of society and industry. We’re here to introduce you to some of the best and brightest people from here in California and across the 🌎.

  1. 3D AGO

    Ep 200: "LA; The World in One City” with Mario X. Carrasco

    how do Angelenos see themselves? How does the world see Los Angeles? CEO of Cultural Insights Agency, ThinkNow, joins the show to release their latest marketing research report and discuss why Los Angeles is the Nation’s coming attractions! Life and Business happens here first, and the City is about to step onto the world’s biggest stage where the brand opportunities are massive. In this episode of Entrepreneurial Thinkers, Rob Ryan sits down with Mario X. Carrasco, co-founder of cultural insight agency ThinkNow, to discuss what makes Los Angeles such a powerful engine for innovation, culture, and economic growth. With the 2026 NBA All-Star Game, 2026 World Cup, 2027 Super Bowl, and 2028 Summer Olympics & Paralympics all on their way to Los Angeles, they explore how culture shapes consumer behavior, where real opportunities are emerging, and what Entrepreneurs and Big Brand Executives need to understand now to stay ahead in one of the world’s most dynamic cities. DOWNLOAD THE ThinkNow L.A. REPORT HERE: https://la.thinknow.com/ Feel free to follow and engage with MARIO here: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marioxcarrasco/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mxcarrasco/Threads: https://www.threads.net/@mxcarrascoInstagram Business: https://www.instagram.com/thinknowglobalWebsite: https://thinknow.com/We're so grateful to you, our growing audience of entrepreneurs, investors and community leaders interested in the human stories of the Entrepreneurial Thinkers behind entrepreneurial economies worldwide. As always we hope you enjoy each episode and Like, Follow, Subscribe or share with your friends. You can find our shows here, and our new Video Podcast, at “Entrepreneurial Thinkers” channel on YouTube. Plug in, relax and enjoy inspiring, educational and empowering conversations between Rob and our guests. ¡Cheers y gracias!, Entrepreneurial Thinkers Team. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Entrepreneurial Thinkers and Mario Carrasco 05:16 The World in One City: Understanding the Report 08:14 Los Angeles: A Hub of Economic Opportunity 11:10 Cultural Insights: The Identity of Los Angeles 13:58 The Future of America: Multiculturalism in Los Angeles 17:06 Marketing Strategies for a Diverse Audience 20:08 Neighborhood Microcultures in Los Angeles 23:14 The Importance of Localized Marketing 26:09 Engaging with the Community: Lessons for Brands 29:08 The Role of Sports and Cultural Events in Identity 32:15 Conclusion: Embracing the Future of Los Angeles 38:10 The Power of Team Apparel and Generational Trends 41:20 Community Engagement Through Watch Parties 46:22 Leveraging Data for Brand Opportunities 49:39 Understanding ThinkNow's Role in Cultural Insights 54:06 The Importance of Long-Term Client Relationships 59:00 Applying Insights for Civic Engagement 01:03:48 Key Takeaways from the World in One City Report

    1h 17m

  2. FEB 19

    Ep 199: "San Diego’s Entrepreneurial Success; Hidden in Plain Sight" with Neal Bloom

    What makes one city a magnet for founders while others struggle to keep talent around? In this episode, Rob Ryan talks with Neal Bloom about why San Diego has quietly become one of the most collaborative and founder-friendly entrepreneurial ecosystems in the country. Neal breaks down what really fuels innovation—community, connection, and what he calls “interaction density”—and why building a deep talent bench matters more than chasing hype. He also shares how Rising Tide Partners invests in people first, creates meaningful founder connections through initiatives like founders hikes, and sees untapped potential in cross-border collaboration with Tijuana. The conversation wraps with a look at how universities play a critical role in shaping thriving startup communities. Feel free to follow and engage with NEAL here: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nealbbloom/Business LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/risingtidepartners/Website: https://www.risingtidepartners.co/We're so grateful to you, our growing audience of entrepreneurs, investors and community leaders interested in the human stories of the Entrepreneurial Thinkers behind entrepreneurial economies worldwide. As always we hope you enjoy each episode and Like, Follow, Subscribe or share with your friends. You can find our shows here, and our new Video Podcast, at “Entrepreneurial Thinkers” channel on YouTube. Plug in, relax and enjoy inspiring, educational and empowering conversations between Rob and our guests. ¡Cheers y gracias!, Entrepreneurial Thinkers Team. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to San Diego's Entrepreneurial Landscape 06:44 The Unique Appeal of Southern California 09:33 San Diego's Entrepreneurial Economy: Strengths and Challenges 19:32 Snapshot of San Diego: Demographics and Industries 24:13 The Connected Device and Active Lifestyle Hub 26:41 The Evolution of Retail and Consumer Brands 29:40 Universities as Talent Conveyors 32:46 The Role of Startups in Ecosystem Development 36:42 Rising Tide Partners: Investing in Founders 44:46 Cross-Border Opportunities with Tijuana 49:16 Cross-Border Collaboration and Community Building 50:45 Cultural Integration and Political Climate 52:26 Re-Industrialization and Talent Development 55:59 The Importance of Community and Human Connection 01:01:49 Building a Talent Network and Community Engagement

    1h 15m

  3. FEB 12

    Ep 198: "Can We Teach Kids to be Entrepreneurs? Indiana Can!" with Logan Herzog

    What if the future of work isn’t about getting a job—but learning how to create jobs? In this episode of *Entrepreneurial Thinkers*, our host Rob Ryan sits down with Logan Herzog, Executive Director at RISE, an entrepreneurship program based in north western Indiana, to unpack the state of entrepreneurship education in the U.S. and why traditional schooling may be falling short for the next generation. Together, they explore how Gen Z and Gen Alpha are redefining entrepreneurship, the real-world skills young people need to thrive in their careers, and how community-driven programs are empowering emerging entrepreneurial thinkers across the Midwestern USA and beyond. Logan also draws surprising parallels between entrepreneurial ecosystems in the U.S. and Latin America—and shares practical insights for anyone looking to turn ideas into action. Feel free to follow and engage with LOGAN here: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/logan-herzog-6526b09a/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/logan.herzog/Website: https://raisingtheregion.org/We're so grateful to you, our growing audience of entrepreneurs, investors and community leaders interested in the human stories of the Entrepreneurial Thinkers behind entrepreneurial economies worldwide. As always we hope you enjoy each episode and Like, Follow, Subscribe or share with your friends. You can find our shows here, and our new Video Podcast, at “Entrepreneurial Thinkers” channel on YouTube. Plug in, relax and enjoy inspiring, educational and empowering conversations between Rob and our guests. ¡Cheers y gracias!, Entrepreneurial Thinkers Team. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 05:37 The State of Entrepreneurship Education in the U.S. 09:50 Radically Different Approaches to Teaching Entrepreneurship 11:26 Geographic Influences on Entrepreneurship Education 13:38 Engagement of Gen Z and Gen Alpha in Entrepreneurship 19:58 Understanding Rise: Mission and Structure 23:56 Partnerships and Community Engagement 26:37 Success Stories from Rise's Alumni 30:49 The Economic Engine of the Midwest 33:44 Reimagining Urban Spaces and Community Engagement 35:52 Cultural Connections: Midwest and Latin America 40:37 Building Entrepreneurial Ecosystems 46:06 Activating Entrepreneurial Communities 50:33 Defining Great Entrepreneurship 51:58 Skills for the Aspiring Entrepreneur

    1h 2m

  4. FEB 5

    Ep 197: "Data Tells Us Venture Capital’s Real Story,” with Paige Hendrix Buckner

    Who decides which ideas get funded — and whose voices get left out? In this episode of Entrepreneurial Thinkers, our host Rob sits down with Paige Hendrix Buckner, CEO of All Raise, to pull back the curtain on the world of venture capital and the inequities shaping it. From her unconventional path from teaching fourth graders to Non-profit, and startup tech leadership, Paige shares why changing who controls capital is essential to building better companies — and a healthier economy. The conversation explores the systemic barriers facing women and non-binary investors, why representation alone isn’t enough, and how culture, data, and storytelling can drive real change. Paige also offers practical insights for those aspiring to break into venture capital and explains how All Raise is working to reshape the industry from the inside out. This episode is both a wake-up call and an invitation to be part of a more inclusive future in tech and investing. Feel free to follow and engage with PAIGE here: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paigehendrixbuckner/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paigehbuckner/X: https://x.com/PaigeHBucknerBusiness LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/allraise/Business Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allraiseorg/Website: https://www.allraise.org/We're so grateful to you, our growing audience of entrepreneurs, investors and community leaders interested in the human stories of the Entrepreneurial Thinkers behind entrepreneurial economies worldwide. As always we hope you enjoy each episode and Like, Follow, Subscribe or share with your friends. You can find our shows here, and our new Video Podcast, at “Entrepreneurial Thinkers” channel on YouTube. Plug in, relax and enjoy inspiring, educational and empowering conversations between Rob and our guests. ¡Cheers y gracias!, Entrepreneurial Thinkers Team. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 06:07 The Importance of Access to Capital 07:58 All Raise's Strategic Shift 10:09 Paige's Leadership Philosophy 13:59 The Disconnect in the Entrepreneurial Economy 19:04 Women Leading Change in Venture Capital 22:20 Progress and Future Goals for All Raise 27:23 The Importance of Storytelling in VC 31:59 All Raise: Supporting Women and Non-Binary VCs 37:17 The Role of Male Allies in Venture Capital 41:36 Engaging Limited Partners for Diversity 50:44 Challenges in Raising Capital for Underrepresented Founders 52:53 Data-Driven Insights on Diversity and Business Outcomes 53:53 The Impact of Diversity on Business Outcomes 55:54 Lessons from Education to Venture Capital 01:04:43 Preparing for a Career in Venture Capital

    1h 18m

  5. JAN 29

    Ep 196: "What if you owned your Ai?" with Matt Wright

    What if the AI shaping your future didn’t belong to Big Tech — but to you? In this eye-opening episode of Entrepreneurial Thinkers, Rob sits down with Matt Wright, co-founder and CEO of Gaia, to unpack the hidden power dynamics behind today’s AI boom. From who really owns your data to how open-source AI could level the playing field, Matt explains why decentralization may be the key to a more ethical and human-centered tech future. Together, they explore how AI agents are already automating work, how individuals can build and control their own AI tools, and why community-owned models could change entrepreneurship forever. Whether you’re a founder, creator, or just AI-curious, this conversation challenges you to rethink who AI works for — and how you can use it without giving up your privacy, autonomy, or voice. Feel free to follow and engage with MATT here: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewdavidwright/X: https://x.com/mateo_ventures?lang=enBusiness LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gaianet-ai/Website: https://www.gaianet.ai/We're so grateful to you, our growing audience of entrepreneurs, investors and community leaders interested in the human stories of the Entrepreneurial Thinkers behind entrepreneurial economies worldwide. As always we hope you enjoy each episode and Like, Follow, Subscribe or share with your friends. You can find our shows here, and our new Video Podcast, at “Entrepreneurial Thinkers” channel on YouTube. Plug in, relax and enjoy inspiring, educational and empowering conversations between Rob and our guests. ¡Cheers y gracias!, Entrepreneurial Thinkers Team. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Technical Disclaimer 01:59 Meet Matt Wright: AI and Community Building 06:28 Understanding AI and Transparency 10:40 The Risks of Centralized AI 16:00 Decentralizing AI Inference Explained 23:48 Defining AI Agents and Their Role 29:42 Empowering Founders with Low-Code Tools 31:08 Censorship Resistance and Open Source 34:30 The Future of Community in AI 57:50 The Challenges of Open Source Technology 59:40 AI as a Collaborative Tool 01:02:10 The Future of AI and Community Ownership 01:05:29 Preparing for an AI-Driven Future 01:11:44 The Role of Management in an AI World 01:14:51 Skills for the New Age of AI

    1h 28m

  6. JAN 22

    Ep 195: "Catalyzing Capital; Women Investing in Women" with Jenny Flores & Grace Lee

    What if great ideas aren’t failing, but the system is? In this episode of Entrepreneurial Thinkers, Rob visits with co-founders, Jenny Flores and Grace Lee, of AMH Catalyst Center, to learn why access to capital remains one of the biggest obstacles for women founders—and how they’re working to change it. From redefining how venture and private capital operates to using AI and blockchain to increase transparency and accessibility of information and dealflow, this conversation cuts through the b.s. and explores the powerful intersection of purpose and profit. You will walk away with fresh insights, real-world strategies, and actionable steps to improve everyone’s chances of success in entrepreneurship and investing. Feel free to follow and engage with JENNY & GRACE here: Jenny LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-flores-amh/Grace LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/grace-lee-amh/Website: https://www.amhcatalyst.org/ We're so grateful to you, our growing audience of entrepreneurs, investors and community leaders interested in the human stories of the Entrepreneurial Thinkers behind entrepreneurial economies worldwide. As always we hope you enjoy each episode and Like, Follow, Subscribe or share with your friends. You can find our shows here, and our new Video Podcast, at “Entrepreneurial Thinkers” channel on YouTube. Plug in, relax and enjoy inspiring, educational and empowering conversations between Rob and our guests. ¡Cheers y gracias!, Entrepreneurial Thinkers Team. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Entrepreneurial Thinkers 05:33 The Vision Behind AMH Catalyst Center 11:29 The Importance of Access to Capital 17:04 Navigating Diversity in Venture Capital 23:08 Purpose Meets Profit in Business 28:32 The Story of AMH Catalyst Center 35:29 Innovative Approaches: AI and Blockchain in Venture Capital 45:01 Exploring On-Chain Transparency in Venture Capital 46:16 The Bottleneck of Traditional Investment 49:36 Building a New Infrastructure for Women Founders 52:06 Creating Inclusive Investment Opportunities 54:46 Building Our Own Table: A New Approach 01:00:18 The Movement Towards Collaboration and Joy 01:10:41 Actionable Steps for Entrepreneurs and Investors

    1h 24m

  7. JAN 15

    Ep 194: "LAX, Leadership and LA’s Bright Future" with Karim Webb

    Can an airport be a catalyst for local economic growth?! What if business could be one of the most powerful tools for social change? In this thought-provoking episode, Rob sits down with entrepreneurial activist and community leader Karim Webb to understand how he is an entrepreneurial thinker about business, activism, and where community impact intersect with economic empowerment. From the massive economic engine of LAX to workforce development and legacy-building, Karim shares real-world lessons on creating opportunity, leading with purpose, and shaping the future of Los Angeles—and beyond. This conversation is part inspiration, part strategy, and fully grounded in action. Feel free to follow and engage with KARIM here: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karimwebb/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karimwebbBusiness Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/webb_investments/Personal Website: https://www.karimwebb.com/Business Website: https://www.webbinvestments.com/Business LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/los-angeles-world-airports/Website: https://www.lawa.org/ We're so grateful to you, our growing audience of entrepreneurs, investors and community leaders interested in the human stories of the Entrepreneurial Thinkers behind entrepreneurial economies worldwide. As always we hope you enjoy each episode and Like, Follow, Subscribe or share with your friends. You can find our shows here, and our new Video Podcast, at “Entrepreneurial Thinkers” channel on YouTube. Plug in, relax and enjoy inspiring, educational and empowering conversations between Rob and our guests. ¡Cheers y gracias!, Entrepreneurial Thinkers Team. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Entrepreneurial Activism 03:02 LAX as an Economic Engine 06:06 The Role of Workforce Development 09:14 Intentional Investment in Community 11:59 Understanding Entrepreneurial Activism 15:01 Balancing Multiple Ventures 17:49 Lessons from LAX for Other Airports 20:48 The Importance of Values Alignment 24:07 The Future of Economic Development 27:05 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 36:01 The Future of LAX and Community Integration 38:52 Karim Webb's Family Legacy and Business Ventures 44:40 Economic Empowerment and Community Development 49:30 The Potential of Los Angeles and Its Renaissance 56:19 Personal Well-being and Defining Success 01:03:30 Practical Steps for Community Impact

    1h 15m

  8. JAN 8

    Ep 193: "Is Franchising The Entrepreneurial Fast Track?" with Gregory Ugwi

    Can an entrepreneur grow faster with someone else’s idea? And, what if franchising wasn’t just for big corporations—but was a powerful tool for everyday entrepreneurs to scale their brands?? In this episode of Entrepreneurial Thinkers, Rob sits down with Gregory Ugwi, co-founder of WeFranch, to discuss how franchising is evolving in today’s data-driven economy. From Gregory’s unexpected journey from Nigeria, to Princeton, then Wall Street to tech entrepreneurship, to how technology and community are reshaping access to business ownership, this conversation uncovers how modern franchising can unlock opportunity, empower small business owners, and drive economic mobility in a rapidly changing world. Feel free to follow and engage with GREGORY here: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregory-ugwi/Business LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wefranchBusiness X: https://x.com/wefranchWebsite: https://wefranch.com/Email: gregory.ugwi@wefranch.com We're so grateful to you, our growing audience of entrepreneurs, investors and community leaders interested in the human stories of the Entrepreneurial Thinkers behind entrepreneurial economies worldwide. As always we hope you enjoy each episode and Like, Follow, Subscribe or share with your friends. You can find our shows here, and our new Video Podcast, at “Entrepreneurial Thinkers” channel on YouTube. Plug in, relax and enjoy inspiring, educational and empowering conversations between Rob and our guests. ¡Cheers y gracias!, Entrepreneurial Thinkers Team. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Entrepreneurial Thinkers 03:12 Understanding Franchising and Its Importance 05:48 The Role of Data in Franchising 08:54 The Future of Franchising: Trends and Predictions 12:00 WeFranch: Revolutionizing the Franchise Model 14:59 The Two-Sided Marketplace of Franchising 18:09 Gregory's Journey: From Goldman Sachs to WeFranch 21:02 The Vision for WeFranch and Its Impact on Franchising 24:07 Franchising Beyond the U.S.: A Global Perspective 29:58 The Franchise Landscape in the U.S. 32:00 Disruption in the Franchise Industry 34:27 Building Relevance in a Competitive Market 36:54 The Role of Franchisees in Business Growth 39:46 Overcoming Barriers to Franchising 44:02 Financing and Investment in Franchising 50:00 Future Aspirations and Economic Mobility 53:42 Key Questions for Aspiring Franchisors

    1h 1m
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About

The world is crying out for new leaders, greater transparency and more original thinking to solve our biggest problems in business and society. Our Host, Rob Ryan has conversations with these people every week. Since 2020, we’ve faced a global pandemic, rapid technological change, and political, economic, and cultural disruption. We believe the world needs more entrepreneurial thinkers—not just more entrepreneurs or executives—across every sector and segment of society and industry. We’re here to introduce you to some of the best and brightest people from here in California and across the 🌎.

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