On The Up & Up Janine Vanessa Heinrich

Stay in touch & up-to-date via our social: https://linkin.bio/ontheupandup-io

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Hey there Risers & Thrivers, 

In this riveting episode, you’ll meet Moroccan-born 2x founder turned investor, Zakaria Jaiathe. Here’s what you can expect in this episode: 


From Dreams to Reality: Zak recounts his childhood dream of flying and how it became a reality when he moved to France for his studies. He discusses the cultural shocks he experienced and the unexpected familiarity he found among the Moroccan community in France.


Challenges in Germany: Hear about Zak's battle with the German immigration authorities while facing potential deportation and how he navigated these challenges while building his first company.


Building and Scaling Startups: Zak dives into the early days of his entrepreneurial journey, highlighting the difficulties he faced in being taken seriously as a founder, especially when pitching a deep tech company in augmented reality and leading a business focused on the African market.


Advice for Founders: Zak provides valuable advice for early-stage founders. He emphasizes the importance of doing thorough homework before approaching VCs, avoiding drastic pivots, and being selective with advice.



This episode is packed with inspiring stories, practical advice, and valuable insights for anyone interested in entrepreneurship and investment. Tune in to learn from Zak's experiences and get motivated to pursue your own dreams with resilience and strategic planning.

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Acknowledgements

Intro/Outro & Interlude Music: Music by ⁠⁠oussama arichi⁠⁠ from ⁠⁠Pixabay⁠

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Timestamps



Zak's Childhood and Dream of Traveling (00:02:14) Zak shares his childhood dream of flying and his journey from a small city in Morocco to France.

Adapting to Life in France (00:06:47) Zak discusses his unexpected experience of encountering many Moroccans and familiar cultural elements in France.

Motivation to Move to Germany (00:08:04) Zak explains his desire to move to Germany and his analytical approach to choosing the country.

Transition from Employment to Entrepreneurship (00:11:16) Zak reflects on his decision to leave a comfortable job at SAP to pursue entrepreneurship and the catalyst for making that choice.

Facing Deportation in Germany (00:15:09) Zak recounts the experience of facing deportation in Germany and the stress and uncertainty it caused.

Challenges for Foreign Entrepreneurs in Germany (00:26:09) Zak and Janine discuss the difficulties faced by foreign entrepreneurs, particularly in obtaining visas and funding in Germany.

Challenges of Being Taken Seriously as a Founder (00:30:30) Zak shares his experience of not being taken seriously as a founder.

Pivoting and Fundraising Challenges (00:34:36) Zak discusses the challenges faced while pivoting his company and the difficulties in fundraising, particularly when focusing on African markets.

Investor's Perspective on African Markets (00:39:29) Zak sheds light on the lack of understanding and investment in African markets, particularly from the perspective of German investors.

Early Mistakes and Founder Pitfalls (00:42:01) Zak provides insights into the early mistakes made in building startups and shares an investor's perspective on common pitfalls for founders.

The Dangers of Rushing to Investors (00:50:01) Zak advises founders to thoroughly prepare before approaching VCs, highlighting the common mistakes and wasted time in fundraising due to lack of preparation.

Importance of Homework in Fundraising (00:52:56) Zak emphasizes the need for founders to do their homework before speaking to investors, including understanding the investors' focus and being selective in approaching them.

Stay in touch & up-to-date via our social: https://linkin.bio/ontheupandup-io

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Hey there Risers & Thrivers,

In this special Mother's Day episode of "On the Up & Up," host Janine Vanessa Heinrich engages in a heartfelt conversation with her mother, Sussie. They delve into various topics that showcase their unique mother-daughter relationship. Sussie shares her experiences growing up in Ghana, her journey to American citizenship, and her personal views on motherhood, illustrating the stark contrasts between her life in her 20s and Janine's current experiences. The episode highlights: 


Themes of forgiveness


The influence of parental support on personal development


The power of maintaining a positive outlook through life's challenges



Throughout the episode, Janine and Sussie explore their similarities and differences, shedding light on the enduring bond and mutual respect that define their relationship. Curious about their relationship? Listen to their conversation now for all the tea ☕

Happy Listening 🎧

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Acknowledgments

Intro/Outro & Interlude Music: Music by ⁠⁠oussama arichi⁠⁠ from ⁠⁠Pixabay⁠

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Timestamps

00:00- 07:35- Happy Mother’s Day and Introduction to Janine’s Mom, Sussie 

07:36-20:00- Sussie shares insights into her young adult years, her marriage, the struggles of motherhood, and working for the first time at 35 years old 

21:22- 32:00- Exploring the challenges of balancing making ends meet and single parenthood in a foreign country 

32:30-41:00- Reflecting on our regrets, changes over the years, and hopes for the years to come

Stay in touch & up-to-date via our social: https://linkin.bio/ontheupandup-io

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Hey there Risers and Thrivers, 

In this episode, we take a deep dive with Cosima Richardson, a pioneer in the hair and beauty industry, who is transforming the way we think about and use synthetic hair extensions. Cosima discusses the alarming presence of toxic chemicals in traditional hair products and shares her journey towards creating Kynd Hair, Europe's first plant-based, skin-friendly, and biodegradable hair extension brand. Through her story, listeners will uncover: 


The risks associated with common beauty products and learn about the innovative solutions that promise a healthier, more sustainable future for hair care 


Personal anecdotes about embracing our natural hair, underscoring the cultural and emotional connections to braids


Insights into Cosima’s transition from a "side-preneur" to a full-time solopreneur, highlighting her journey to develop a scientifically-backed, eco-friendly product



This episode is a must-listen for hair enthusiasts, (aspiring) entrepreneurs, and anyone interested in beauty, health, and environmental sustainability. Tune in now and join the conversation! Happy Listening!



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Social Media Channels

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kyndhair/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kyndhair/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kyndhair?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kynd-hair/

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Acknowledgments

Intro/Outro & Interlude Music: Music by ⁠⁠oussama arichi⁠⁠ from ⁠⁠Pixabay⁠

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Timestamps

(00:00- 06:42) Meet Cosima Richardson, founder of Kynd Hair! Cosima and Janine discuss their childhood experiences with hair, highlighting the challenges and emotions related to hair care for people of color.

(06:42-16:27) Discover the harmful effects of synthetic hair products, dive into the disproportionate impact of beauty products on people of color, explore the lack of innovation in the hair extension market and the absence of sustainable alternatives

(16:27-24:13) Understanding synthetic hair vs. human hair, usage, and the global market potential and the cultural significance of braids.

(24:14- 36:15) Cosima shares her journey of developing Kynd Hair and the sense of obligation to those who trust in the venture

(36:15- 42:41) Discussion about the emotional challenges and pressures of being a solopreneur. Acknowledging personal milestones and the importance of celebrating achievements.

(42:41- 49:59) Building a community around Kynd Hair, Cosima's vision for Kynd Hair in the next five years and ways for listeners to support Kynd Hair

Stay in touch & up-to-date via our social: https://linkin.bio/ontheupandup-io

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Hey there Risers and Thrivers, 

Meet Daniel Hanemann, a growth-driven entrepreneur and business angel. A graduate of WHU, he is currently the CEO of wundertax, the tech startup he co-founded in 2016 and returned to as CEO in 2022. wundertax is an online tax tool to submit your German tax return easily! 

In this episode, Daniel takes us on a journey forged by a series of “yes man” decisions, starting from trying out a finance role, which saw him become a CFO at just 23, and later founding and building fast-growing ventures in six countries.

Here’s what we cover: 


Importance of resilience and saying "yes" to new opportunities


Privilege and its role in shaping entrepreneurial paths


Dynamics of co-founder relationships and challenges of co-founder splits


Building and maintaining relationships in the entrepreneurial journey



The discussion also touches on the personal aspects of entrepreneurship, such as dealing with transitions, the role of privilege and mindset, as well as the importance of building and maintaining relationships. Daniel’s story is a testament to the power of embracing opportunities with an open heart and mind, which ultimately shaped his successful career as an entrepreneur and business leader.

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Acknowledgments

Intro/Outro & Interlude Music: Music by ⁠⁠oussama arichi⁠⁠ from ⁠⁠Pixabay⁠

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Timestamps

Getting Started with wundertax (00:01:22) Daniel talks about the origins of wundertax, starting with student tax returns and its viral success.

Early Entrepreneurial Influences (00:06:07) Daniel's upbringing in Hong Kong and the influence of innovation and technology on his early entrepreneurial interests.

Moving to Germany for Studies (00:07:32) Daniel's decision to move to Germany for studies and the cultural and personal factors influencing the choice.

Pivotal Moments in Career (00:14:47) Daniel reflects on pivotal moments in his career, including saying "yes" to opportunities and the impact of early work experiences.

Taking on Finance Role at FoodPanda (00:18:31) Daniel's experience of taking on a finance role at FoodPanda and the opportunities that followed at a young age.

Becoming CFO at FoodPanda (00:19:14) Daniel's rapid rise to CFO position at a young age and the chaotic but fun experience at FoodPanda.

Privilege and Safety Nets in Germany (00:21:25) Discussion on privilege, safety nets, and government support in Germany for entrepreneurs, and the impact of privilege on mindset.

Starting Wonder Tax (00:27:24) Daniel's decision to start wundertax and the initial stages of the company's development.

Co-Founder Split and Moving On (00:31:46) Daniel's departure from wundertax, the amicable split with his co-founder, and the commonality of co-founder splits.

Transition to a New Venture (00:35:04) Daniel's quick transition to a new venture after leaving wundertax and the urgency of the decision.

Maintaining Momentum and Passion for Learning (00:36:18) Daniel's approach to keeping momentum, his fascination with learning new things, and the excitement of understanding new business models.

Scaling Spaces and Temporary Move to Amsterdam (00:38:54) Discussion on the challenges of scaling physical spaces and a temporary move to Amsterdam for a new business opportunity.

Transition to Freelancing and Reconnecting with Investors (00:42:10) Transitioning to freelancing, reconnecting with old investors, and the eventual return to wundertax.

Bringing Wonder Tax Back and Reuniting the Team (00:44:39) Reuniting with former colleagues, reviving wundertax, and the excitement of restarting the business with the original team.

Building and Maintaining Relationships (00:45:30) Reflecting on the importance of building and maintaining relationships in business and personal success.

Stay in touch & up-to-date via our social: https://linkin.bio/ontheupandup-io

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Hey there Risers and Thrivers, 

In this episode, Darya Kamkalova, the founder of the Venturing Woman Lab and Venturing Women Podcast, an incubator for women aspiring to delve into entrepreneurship. Darya, a tech enthusiast and angel investor, discusses her journey from feeling stuck in her corporate career to launching an initiative aimed at supporting women in tech entrepreneurship. The conversation covers: 


The challenges and misconceptions surrounding women's roles in the entrepreneurial landscape,


Highlights the importance of self-belief, clarity, and creating supportive environments for success, and


Her personal experience, the development of her incubator, and her commitment to empowering women to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams, emphasizing the need for both a business and personal development plan 



We touch on themes of creative freedom, the fallacy of job security in employment, and the transformative mindset shift required when transitioning from an employee to an entrepreneur.

Enjoy the episode and let us know what you think! Happy Listening!

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Acknowledgments

Intro/Outro & Interlude Music: Music by ⁠⁠oussama arichi⁠⁠ from ⁠⁠Pixabay⁠

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Timestamps

Introduction and Overview (00:17 - 01:16): Introduction to the podcast and guest Darya Kamkalova, focusing on her mission with the Venturing Woman Lab and podcast.

Concept and Inspiration Behind Venturing Woman (01:16 - 02:08): Kamkalova discusses the foundation of Venturing Woman Lab as an incubator for aspiring female tech entrepreneurs, sparked by her own experiences and the Venturing Woman podcast.

Personal Journey to Entrepreneurship (02:29 - 04:11): Darya shares her transition from a fulfilling career in the tech industry to recognizing the need for change and aspiring towards entrepreneurship.

Challenges in the Corporate Environment (04:11 - 08:19): Discussion on limitations within corporate structures, including creative freedom, career progression, and the pursuit of personal growth.

Power, Responsibility, and Entrepreneurial Catalysts (08:19 - 12:37): Exploration of motivations behind seeking entrepreneurial ventures, including desires for creative freedom, impact, and confronting the reality of corporate limitations.

Transitioning to Entrepreneurship: Financial and Personal Considerations (14:19 - 20:06): Kamkalova talks about the financial and psychological aspects of leaving a secure job for entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of trust in oneself and planning.

Entrepreneurship vs. Employment: Risks and Realities (20:06 - 26:42): A comparison between the perceived security of employment and the actual risks and rewards of entrepreneurship.

Overcoming Limiting Beliefs and Social Conditioning (28:00 - 30:48): Addressing the societal and internal barriers that deter women from embracing entrepreneurship.

Creating a Supportive Environment and Community (37:11 - 39:20): The importance of crafting a conducive work environment and the role of communities in supporting aspiring entrepreneurs.

Mindset Shift and the Path Forward (43:55 - 46:37): Reflections on the necessary mindset shifts for successful entrepreneurship, and how to connect with Venturing Woman Lab for support.

Stay in touch & up-to-date via our social: https://linkin.bio/ontheupandup-io

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Hey there Risers & Thrivers, 

In this episode, we’re diving into a journey of discipline and intention with Sufyan Osamah, the Co-Founder and Managing Director of HonestDog.  Born in Pakistan, Sufyan moved to the UK at the age of 11 and then back to Pakistan at 15. In 2016, he moved to Germany, where he completed a bachelors at ESB Business School, and masters at our alma mater WHU- Otto Beisheim School of Management. Over the years, he has gained a ton of experience in  fast-growing start-ups, consulting, corporate, and venture capital, such as Amazon, McKinsey, and Picus Capital.

During our conversation, we: 


Explored the notion of increasing ones “luck surface area” through intentional planning and delayed gratification 


Debate the importance of education versus experience


Discuss Sufyan’s entrepreneurial journey from problem exploration and overcoming rejection to the key to securing a “yes” (hint: it isn’t necessarily being mission driven)



Listeners will learn tactics for increasing odds for luck and enjoy an inspiring story of determination. 

Happy Listening!