1,000 episodes

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

Superpowers for Good: Empowering Changemakers for Social Impact via Regulated Investment Crowdfunding from the SuperCrowd‪.‬ Devin Thorpe

    • Business
    • 5.0 • 8 Ratings

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

    Embracing a Servant's Heart in Business: Insights from Steve Ramona

    Embracing a Servant's Heart in Business: Insights from Steve Ramona

    I’m not a financial advisor; Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions.
    Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.
    When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or invest after clicking a link here, we may earn a commission. Engage to support our work.
    Devin: What is your superpower?
    Steve: My superpower is to connect people with people.

    In today's episode of "Superpowers for Good," I had the pleasure of speaking with Steve Ramona, host of "Doing Business with a Servant's Heart." Steve's passion for integrating a servant's heart into business practices is not only inspiring but also a transformative approach to entrepreneurship. His philosophy centers on the idea that by serving others, you can grow your business in meaningful and sustainable ways.
    Steve shared his journey of adopting a service mindset, highlighting the profound impact it has had on his career. He explained, "When you have a servant's heart in your business, you will grow. It’s hard to retain in your mindset because you don't see it tangibly, but I've proven that it can, and it's such a fun way to do business."
    One of the most compelling moments in our conversation was when Steve recounted a touching story about helping a businesswoman who was struggling with medical bills for her disabled children. By referring clients to her, Steve provided opportunities that she never anticipated. "You never know when you're serving somebody what the end result will be," Steve said. "Take action with a servant's heart because you might literally change somebody's life for the good."
    For entrepreneurs in Silicon Valley and beyond, Steve offers valuable advice: "Serve your employees from your janitor to your CFO. Serve your customers and even your competitors. Build currency in the universe by bringing value to every conversation."
    Steve’s experiences and insights are a testament to the power of service in business. His approach not only enhances relationships but also fosters a culture of genuine care and collaboration. As he eloquently put it, "Be transformational, not transactional."
    Incorporating a servant's heart into your business isn't just about achieving success; it's about making a lasting impact. Steve Ramona’s journey is a powerful reminder that true growth and fulfillment come from serving others.
    AI Episode Summary
    1. Devin Introduces Steve Ramona: Devin introduces Steve Ramona, a fellow show host on e360tv, emphasizing their mutual engagement with social entrepreneurs and changemakers.
    2. Steve's Show - Together We Serve: Steve details his show "Together We Serve," an extension of his podcast "Doing Business with a Servant's Heart," which features thought leaders demonstrating servant leadership in business.
    3. Concept of Servant Leadership: Steve explains that a servant's heart in business involves prioritizing service and support to others, which, although intangible, can significantly benefit one's business.
    4. Steve's Journey: Steve shares his 15-year journey of adopting a service mentality, building relationships, and integrating his extensive network into new projects, beginning with his experience in his family's health club.
    5. Practical Example - A Personal Story: Through personal relationships at his family's health club, Steve learned the value of offering kindness and support, seeing long-term professional benefits.
    6. Adopting Servant Leadership in Silicon Valley: Steve advises Silicon Valley CEOs to focus on serving employees, customers, and competitors, fostering a culture of support that can yield unexpected benefits.
    7. Mentorship and Service Mindset: Steve emphasizes mentoring and providing value in conversations as key to developing business and personal growth, sharing an example of supporting a woman dealing with medical bills for her disabled children.
    8. Challenges

    • 25 min
    Polio Eradication: A Beacon of Hope and Collaboration

    Polio Eradication: A Beacon of Hope and Collaboration

    I’m not a financial advisor; Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions.
    Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.
    When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or invest after clicking a link here, we may earn a commission. Engage to support our work.
    Devin: Bill, what is your superpower?
    Bill: Well, if I have one, it has something to do with optimism about scientific innovation and being able to gather teams of people.
    Devin: Barry, what's your superpower?
    Barry: Our theme in Rotary this year is inspiration. I'm very fortunate that when I speak with Rotarians, I can deliver a message that really touches their hearts.

    For today’s episode of Superpowers for Good, I had the privilege of speaking with two remarkable leaders: Bill Gates, Chair of the Gates Foundation, and Barry Rassin, former President of Rotary International. We spoke in May 2019. The episode is significant enough to justify sharing anew.
    Our conversation delved into the collaborative efforts that are bringing us closer to eradicating polio, showcasing a model of partnership that has far-reaching implications for global health. Five years on, the work to eradicate polio continues.
    Bill shared the profound impact of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI), a partnership between the Gates Foundation, Rotary International, UNICEF, WHO, and CDC, initiated in 1988. He emphasized, "Getting rid of a disease is kind of the ultimate goal for all these infectious diseases. It's only happened once before with smallpox... the possibility that no kids will ever be paralyzed again even without having to spend lots and lots of money... appears within sight." His passion for ensuring that no child suffers from polio, especially in developing countries, highlighted the critical role of coordinated global efforts.
    Barry echoed this sentiment, reflecting on the strength of the partnership with the Gates Foundation. "The beauty of it is that we recognize that when we do things together, we can do so much more. The GPEI partnership... works so well because we were working together," he noted. Barry also emphasized the importance of continuing this collaboration to tackle other global health challenges once polio is eradicated.
    This episode not only underscored the progress made in the fight against polio but also illustrated the broader potential of such partnerships. As Bill mentioned, "Polio has had to pioneer a lot of things... mapping out where the kids are turned out to be a key tactic." This legacy of innovation and collaboration sets a precedent for addressing other infectious diseases and health crises.
    Reflecting on the discussion, it is clear that the eradication of polio is within our grasp, thanks to the unwavering dedication of leaders like Bill and Barry. Their vision and collaboration offer hope and a roadmap for tackling other global health challenges, making our world a safer and healthier place for future generations.
    AI Episode Summary
    1. Initiation and Motivation: Bill Gates explained why his foundation became involved in the polio eradication efforts, emphasizing the tragic nature of the disease and the significant progress made since the partnership began in 1988.
    2. Global Health Partnership: Rotary International President Barry Rawson highlighted the power of collaboration, with the Gates Foundation bringing not only funding but also technical expertise to the global fight against polio.
    3. Future Partnerships: Rotary is open to future collaborations with the Gates Foundation on various issues, such as malaria and water, and is looking to expand their joint impact on global health and development.
    4. Foundation Priorities: Bill discussed the Gates Foundation's shifting focus once polio is eradicated, placing HIV and malaria as subsequent focal points and emphasizing the importance o

    • 22 min
    Crowdfunding Climate Solutions: Empowering Individuals to Invest in Renewable Energy

    Crowdfunding Climate Solutions: Empowering Individuals to Invest in Renewable Energy

    I’m not a financial advisor; Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions.
    Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.
    When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or invest after clicking a link here, we may earn a commission. Engage to support our work.
    Devin: What is your superpower?
    Will: I can teach myself anything.

    In today’s episode of Superpowers for Good, I had the pleasure of speaking with Will Wiseman, CEO and Co-Founder of Climatize. Will's journey from witnessing the 2019 climate strikes in Barcelona to founding a groundbreaking crowdfunding platform for renewable energy is nothing short of inspiring.
    During our conversation, Will shared a pivotal moment from the climate strikes that sparked his realization. "Seeing over 100,000 people protesting for climate action, I was struck by the sad realization that traditional activism lacked the tangible change necessary to solve this macro problem," he said. This insight led him to create Climatize, a platform enabling anyone to invest in renewable energy projects with as little as $5.
    Climatize’s mission is clear: to make impact investing accessible to everyone. “Climate change is an all-hands-on-deck problem,” Will emphasized. “We need everybody at any capacity to become a participant.” By allowing investments to start at just $5, Climatize ensures that virtually anyone can contribute to combating climate change and be part of the energy transition.
    The success of Climatize speaks volumes. Since its launch in May 2023, the platform has catalyzed nearly $3.5 million of investments into 11 solar and storage projects across seven states. These projects are projected to avoid emissions equivalent to 65 million vehicle miles. Investors are not only contributing to environmental solutions but also seeing tangible impacts of their investments. 
    One of the standout features of Climatize is the transparency it offers. Investors can see the direct impact of their contributions, from project development to installation. This level of engagement fosters trust and encourages more people to participate. “Knowing that your money went and helped this family as well as created environmental impact is what we've found to be very catalytic,” Will explained.
    Will’s dedication and innovative approach have turned Climatize into a beacon for those wanting to make a real difference. As he said, “This is one of the largest wealth creation opportunities of our lifetime, and it’s incredibly important that everybody has the potential to participate as an active stakeholder in the energy transition.”
    In this episode, we delved into how Climatize is reshaping the landscape of renewable energy investments, proving that with the right platform, small contributions can lead to significant change.
    AI Episode Summary
    1. Will Wiseman is the CEO of Climatize, involved in Crowdfunding for climate solutions.
    2. Will was inspired to start Climatize after witnessing the 2019 climate strikes in Barcelona and realizing traditional activism was insufficient.
    3. Climatize is an SEC-registered funding portal enabling anyone to invest in renewable energy projects with as little as $5.
    4. Since launching in May 2023, Climatize has catalyzed nearly $3.5 million in investments into 11 projects across seven states.
    5. These projects are projected to avoid emissions equivalent to 65 million vehicle miles.
    6. Crowdfunding allows investors to see the tangible impact of their money, different from traditional ESG investments.
    7. Climatize has a strong trust factor with investors, resulting in an average check size of $6,000, compared to the industry average of $2,000.
    8. Projects on Climatize are often funded quickly, some in as little as two hours.
    9. Will attributes his success to aligning his skills with his passions and his abili

    • 25 min
    Revitalizing Communities: The Power of Diversified Community Investment Funds

    Revitalizing Communities: The Power of Diversified Community Investment Funds

    I’m not a financial advisor; Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions.
    Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.
    When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or invest after clicking a link here, we may earn a commission. Engage to support our work.
    In today’s episode of "Superpowers for Good," I had the pleasure of hosting Chris Miller, Founding Board Member and Chair of the National Coalition for Community Capital. We delved into an exciting discussion about diversified community investment funds, a vital tool for anyone interested in building vibrant, resilient communities.
    Chris eloquently introduced us to the concept and evolution of these funds, explaining their transformation from a theoretical concept to a practical solution energized by investment crowdfunding. As Chris noted, these funds are about harnessing local capital to solve local problems effectively, and he shared how these funds enable regular people to invest in the well-being of their communities.
    “The background is that there's been a fleeing of the idea that capital is controlled locally to it now being controlled by a very small number of people who don't live in your community,” Chris explained. He passionately argued for the return of local capital control, which investment crowdfunding facilitates, allowing community members to contribute to local businesses and projects.
    Moreover, Chris highlighted the dual focus of these funds on real estate and community businesses, emphasizing that while 60% of investments must be in real estate, the remaining can flexibly support local enterprises. This structure not only addresses urgent needs like housing but also bolsters local businesses, crucial for community vibrancy.
    One of the most compelling parts of our conversation was when Chris discussed the potential of these funds to make significant, tangible impacts: “Even a few million dollars here or there, you're talking real money, right?” This statement highlights the practical benefits and real-world applications of community investment funds, highlighting their role in revitalizing and transforming communities.
    As we wrapped up, Chris’s enthusiasm was palpable. He shared his excitement about upcoming projects in Detroit and Cincinnati, where these funds are set to make a substantial impact. It's clear from our conversation that diversified community investment funds not only offer a promising avenue for economic development and community resilience but also represent a profound shift towards more equitable and locally-focused investment strategies.
    For anyone interested in sustainable community development and economic resilience, this episode is a treasure trove of insights and actionable ideas, all thanks to Chris’s deep expertise and commitment to community capital.
    AI Episode Summary
    1. The episode features Devin Thorpe hosting Chris Miller from the National Coalition for Community Capital, focusing on diversified community investment funds, a key tool for community builders.
    2. Chris Miller describes his dual role working for a leading observatory telescope manufacturer and dedicating half his week to advancing community capital with NC3, a movement borne from economic development challenges in Michigan during the Great Recession.
    3. Miller discusses the initial logical and philosophical discussions around investment crowdfunding at NC3's inception, highlighting its importance in enabling non-accredited investors to invest locally and contribute to community well-being.
    4. The episode explores the limitations of charitable loan funds in community investment, pointing out their restrictions on investment returns and their charitable purpose constraints, which make them unsuitable for broader community wealth-building efforts.
    5. Diversified community investment funds

    • 26 min
    Empowering Choice: Making Birth Control Accessible to All

    Empowering Choice: Making Birth Control Accessible to All

    I’m not a financial advisor; Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions.
    Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.
    When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or invest after clicking a link here, we may earn a commission. Engage to support our work.
    Devin: what is your superpower?
    Samantha: The entrepreneurial journey, especially in small pharma, can be crushing at times. One of my superpowers is that I have developed the ability to not be torn down, not be stressed out in the face of sometimes heavy, discouraging news. That has allowed me to persevere.
    Devin: What is your superpower?
    Kate: I think my superpower is optimism. I really believe there's no problem that cannot be solved.

    In today's episode of Superpowers for Good, I had the pleasure of speaking with Samantha Miller and Kate Voyten from Cadence OTC. Samantha, the co-founder and CEO, shared fascinating insights about their mission to make contraceptives more accessible.
    Samantha explained that Cadence OTC is not just a business; it's a crusade to empower individuals by increasing over-the-counter access to safe and affordable contraceptives. This access is not only about convenience but also about empowering individuals with choices regarding their reproductive health.
    One point that Samantha passionately made stands out: "We're in a unique position to fill this huge market need." This statement underscores the gap Cadence OTC aims to bridge by making contraceptives available next to everyday items in drugstores, a revolutionary shift from the prescription-only model.
    Their journey involves intricate collaboration with the FDA and extensive consumer education to ensure that the switch to over-the-counter access is both effective and safe. Samantha shared the complexities involved in this transition, noting, "It involves a lot of consumer studies as well as intensive collaboration with FDA."
    But perhaps the most powerful aspect of our conversation was the broader impact of their work. Samantha eloquently highlighted the potential societal benefits: reducing unintended pregnancies and thereby improving the lives of women and families across the nation. "The big-picture goal that we have of reducing unintended pregnancy for everyone and making sure that all children are wanted and intended is so important," she stated.
    As we continued our discussion, it was clear that the work Cadence OTC is doing could reshape the landscape of women's health. By making birth control as accessible as buying a pack of gum, they are not just selling a product; they are fostering a movement towards greater personal agency and health equity. This is more than health care reform; it's a cultural shift towards empowering individuals to make informed choices about their bodies and futures.
    We delved into the Wefunder crowdfunding campaign launched by Cadence OTC. Kate Voyten shared that this campaign marks the first open opportunity for public investment in their transformative initiative to bring birth control over the counter. This effort not only aims to improve access to contraceptives but also targets what Kate described as "contraceptive deserts" across the United States—areas with limited access to crucial health products. The campaign is a call to action, inviting everyone to join in supporting a mission with both immediate impact and a visionary long-term goal, illustrating a potent blend of entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to public health.
    AI Episode Summary
    1. Introduction to Cadence OTC: The episode begins with Devin introducing Samantha Miller and Kate Voyton from Cadence OTC, a company working to make birth control accessible over-the-counter (OTC) and promoting their crowdfunding campaign.
    2. Mission of Cadence OTC: Samantha explains that Cadence OTC, based in Oakland, California, aims to increase ac

    • 25 min
    Changing Lives Through Understanding: Sara Schley on Living with Bipolar Disorder

    Changing Lives Through Understanding: Sara Schley on Living with Bipolar Disorder

    Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.
    When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or invest after clicking a link here, we may earn a commission. Engage to support our work.
    Devin: What is your superpower?
    Sara: I tend to just bless the heck out of people because it's genuine that I love them.

    For today’s episode, I had the privilege of speaking with Sara Schley, a passionate author and filmmaker, about her compelling journey living with bipolar disorder. Sara deeply explores this topic in her upcoming documentary, BrainStorm the Film. Sara's story is not only inspiring but also a powerful beacon for change in the mental health landscape.
    Sara explained how her personal struggles and the challenges she faced in obtaining the correct diagnosis led to her mission to "crush the stigma and maximize healing" for those living with bipolar disorder and their loved ones. Her film, BrainStorm, inspired by her own life experiences, aims to save lives by fostering a deeper understanding of bipolar disorder, which is often shrouded in misconception and stigma.
    The key idea here is the profound impact that accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment can have on individuals with bipolar disorder. Sara shared, "It took me 25 years and five psychiatrists to finally get the diagnosis that saved my life." This statement highlights the critical need for improved awareness and knowledge among both the public and healthcare professionals about the bipolar spectrum, which includes conditions that do not necessarily present with extreme mania.
    Further, Sara illuminated how the film weaves together powerful stories from individuals like herself and cutting-edge science to portray the reality of living with bipolar disorder. This integration of personal narratives with scientific insights serves as a testament to the resilience and potential for recovery that can arise with correct diagnosis and treatment.
    Living with bipolar disorder, as Sara poignantly described, can be a harrowing experience, especially when misdiagnosed. Her own journey of highs and lows, marked by periods of severe depression and cognitive dysfunction, underscores the necessity of destigmatizing mental health issues and promoting accurate medical responses.
    Through BrainStorm, Sara aims to bring visibility to the experiences of those living with bipolar disorder, encouraging a more empathetic and informed approach to mental health that transcends mere labels. Her work not only aims to educate but also to empower individuals and their families to seek help and advocate for proper care.
    As we wrapped up this episode, Sara's message was clear: understanding and treating bipolar disorder can dramatically change lives, turning despair into hope and dysfunction into stability. Her dedication to this cause is a vivid reminder of the power of resilience and the importance of compassion in the face of mental health challenges.
    AI Episode Summary
    1. Introduction of Sara Schley: The show features Sara Schley, an author and filmmaker with a focus on helping others understand bipolar disorder, aiming to correct misconceptions.
    2. Sara's Upcoming Film: Sara discusses her documentary Brainstorm the Film, inspired by her life story with bipolar disorder. The film highlights the journeys and challenges toward diagnosis and acknowledgment of the condition.
    3. Distinguished Guests in "Brainstorm": General Gregg Martin and Devika Bhushan, notable figures sharing their experiences with bipolar disorder, are mentioned as significant contributors to the film's narrative.
    4. Challenges Before Diagnosis: Sara shares personal hardships faced before proper diagnosis, describing her struggles with cognitive function, depression, and the overwhelming sense of fear.
    5. The Road to Proper Diagnosis: After years of misdiagnosis, Sara emphasizes the life-changing impact of receiving the correct diagnosis a

    • 25 min

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