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. 1D AGO

    What We’re Building Together (and How to Be Part of It)

    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? Jenny: Inclusive capital advocacy. The future of regulated investment crowdfunding is being shaped not just by markets but by the voices that advocate for fair, effective policies in Washington. Jenny Kassan, President of the Crowdfunding Professional Association (CfPA), has emerged as a leading champion of this work. The association’s upcoming summit and the advocacy efforts that precede it illustrate the growing momentum behind this movement. Jenny explained, “The Crowdfunding Professional Association represents the crowdfunding industry, the regulated investment crowdfunding industry. This is everyone who’s involved in trying to make it easier for small businesses, entrepreneurs, changemakers, artists, everyone who has the ability to offer an investment opportunity to be able to offer it to everybody, everybody in the country.” The October summit in Washington, D.C., highlights the growing traction of this movement. Jenny shared that this year, the CfPA is securing more meetings with members of Congress and the Senate who influence financial market rules. That progress signals a growing recognition of the industry’s role in democratizing access to capital. Speakers at the summit will include SEC Commissioner Hester Peirce, known for her balanced approach to fostering innovation while maintaining sensible regulation, and James Murphy from FINRA, the body overseeing day-to-day regulation of crowdfunding platforms. These perspectives, alongside industry leaders like Mark Elenowitz, will help issuers, investors, and platforms better navigate the complex regulatory landscape. Jenny was candid about the rapid changes unfolding in this space, especially around emerging technologies like crypto. “The industry is really evolving quickly. Even though there haven’t been any law changes yet, there’s been a huge, huge evolution and rapid change in the space,” she noted. Panels on crypto and digital assets will explore how innovation intersects with regulation, underscoring the importance of ongoing dialogue with policymakers. The CfPA summit is more than a conference. It is the culmination of months of advocacy, uniting stakeholders to strengthen the rules that govern investment crowdfunding. By convening entrepreneurs, investors, regulators, and industry professionals, the event will serve as a platform to share knowledge, influence policy, and build momentum for greater capital access. Jenny’s leadership highlights that regulated investment crowdfunding is still young but brimming with potential. Her efforts—and those of the CfPA—help ensure the system grows into a tool that works for everyone. tl;dr: Jenny Kassan explained how the Crowdfunding Professional Association advocates in Washington to strengthen rules for regulated investment crowdfunding. She shared details about the upcoming summit, including meetings with legislators, regulators, and key industry experts. Jenny emphasized the importance of balanced regulation, highlighting insights from SEC Commissioner Hester Peirce and FINRA’s James Murphy. She described how crowdfunding empowers underrepresented entrepreneurs, often outperforming traditional fundraising sources like venture capital and banks. Jenny encouraged participation in the CfPA and its summit, reminding listeners that inclusive access to capital benefits everyone. How to Develop Inclusive Capital Advocacy As a Superpower Jenny described her superpower as her ability to advocate for inclusive access to capital. She explained that her passion lies in helping entrepreneurs—especially those underrepresented in traditional finance—gain the resources they need to thrive. As she put it, “We see like women, people of color, people that don’t come from the top schools or from wealthy families often are quite successful with regulation crowdfunding, sometimes even more so. That’s the reason I love the tool so much.” Her superpower is evident in her consistent championing of entrepreneurs who face barriers to traditional funding. By focusing on regulated investment crowdfunding, she empowers founders to bypass gatekeepers and reach communities of investors who share their vision. One story illustrates this clearly: Jenny highlighted data showing that diverse and under-resourced founders often raise more successfully through crowdfunding than through venture capital, angel groups, or banks. That success proves that crowdfunding levels the playing field. For Jenny, seeing women and people of color outperform traditional fundraising norms affirms the power of her mission. Jenny offered valuable insights for developing this superpower: Recognize who is excluded by traditional systems and design new ways to include them. Focus on building tools and structures that make participation easier for everyone. Ground advocacy in data that demonstrates success outside the status quo. Persist in championing change even when mainstream systems resist. By following Jenny’s example and advice, you can make inclusive capital advocacy 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 Jenny Kassan (she/her): President, Crowdfunding Professional Association About Crowdfunding Professional Association: The Crowdfunding Professional Association (CfPA) is a 501 (c)(6) nonprofit trade organization established by numerous authors and contributors to the Jumpstart Our Business Startup Act (“JOBS Act”) on April 5, 2012. The CfPA is dedicated to representing the Crowdfunding industry and supporting the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) while providing the industry with education, a professional network and the tools necessary to cultivate and balance a healthy ecosystem that will accelerate capital formation and ensure investor protection whenever possible. Join our association at https://www.crowdfundingecosystem.com/join or get your company listed with a microsite in the CfPA online ECO directory at: https://www.crowdfundingecosystem.com/upgrade/upgrade Website: crowdfundingecosystem.com Linkedin: linkedin.com/company/crowdfunding-professional-association Company Facebook Page: facebook.com/CrowdfundingProfessionalAssociation Other URL: events.humanitix.com/regulated-investment-crowdfunding-summit-2025 Biographical Information: Jenny Kassan is an attorney, community economic development leader, and nationally recognized advocate for mission-driven entrepreneurship. With nearly 30 years of experience, she has dedicated her career to helping founders raise capital on their own terms while building wealth that stays rooted in local communities. She is the CEO of Baltimore Community Commons, which fosters investment access, knowledge sharing, and mutual aid, and the owner of The Kassan Group, a boutique law firm serving impact entrepreneurs. Jenny is also the author of Raise Capital on Your Own Terms: How to Fund Your Business Without Selling Your Soul and a frequent speaker on innovative finance, sustainable business, and community wealth building. Jenny’s leadership extends across the national crowdfunding and economic justice ecosystem. She currently serves as President of the Crowdfunding Professional Association and President of Community Ventures, and previously co-founded CrowdFund Main Street and the Sustainable Economies Law Center. Her public service includes serving on the Fremont City Council, advising the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on small and emerging companies, and directing community projects at the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office. A graduate of Yale Law School and UC Berkeley, Jenny continues to shape policies and practices that empower entrepreneurs while advancing a more equitable economy. X/Twitter Handle: @jennykassan Personal Facebook Profile: facebook.com/jenny.kassan Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/jennykassan Instagram Handle: @thekassangroup 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, Rancho Affordable Housing (Proactive), and Power Up October. Learn more about advertising with us here. Max-Impact Members The following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support: Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | 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 on October 6, 2025, hosted by Devin Thorpe on e360tv, will feature Core Tax Deeds, Dopple, ProActive Realty Group, and Victory Hemp Foods pitching their active Regulation Crowdfunding campaigns to a nationwide audience. Viewers can vote for their favorite companies, win prizes, ask live questions, and join a private investor Zoom session to engage directly with founders and even invest during the show. Don’t miss this free chance to discover and support purpose-driven

    25 min
  2. Powering Main Street: Join the Movement

    6D AGO

    Powering Main Street: Join the Movement

    Why We Keep Showing Up Together Every month, Jen and I hop on a call to trade notes, swap links, and compare what’s resonating. It’s become a favorite ritual because it lets us zoom out and make sense of a very fast month—what we published, what we learned, and where our communities are headed next. We’re aligned on mission and complementary in approach: we both want to help people use money for good—while being as rigorous about real-world impact as we are about financials. That’s why we keep encouraging readers to subscribe to both publications; you see more of the picture that way. This month, our conversation kept circling around a handful of pieces that sparked big reactions across our communities: * Superpowers for Good: SuperCrowd25: A Movement on the Rise * Superpowers for Good: Power Up October * Main Street Journal: Scamming Social Change * Main Street Journal: Plant DePIN Stations for Fun and Profit * Main Street Journal: Housing Cooperatives & the Better Abundance We also name-checked two thinkers whose work regularly sharpens the discussion: Michael Shuman and Paul Spinrad. Authenticity, Impact, and What Changes When You Meet the Founder A thread we returned to repeatedly is the gap between pitch-deck promises and the reality you can feel when you look a founder in the eye—even if it’s through a webcam. Jen pointed to how hearing a human, unscripted explanation can dispel both confusion and “impact-washing” skepticism. I see that dynamic every quarter in our Live Pitch sessions: judges arrive with carefully formed opinions and then, after Q&A with founders, their scores often shift—sometimes dramatically. That post-conversation “re-rating” speaks to the power of authentic engagement for investors and founders alike. Michael Shuman’s “Scamming Social Change” gave us a crisp lens for that authenticity test. His basic argument: be wary of grand claims about fixing systemic problems with thin mechanisms. He challenged the marketing logic of some “impact” narratives that simply don’t add up when you trace how the benefits would actually reach people. For impact investors, the takeaway is simple: scrutinize the causal chain, not just the press release. Three Housing Ideas Worth Stealing (and Scaling) Housing kept bubbling up as a cross-community priority—because you can’t talk about poverty, health, or mobility without talking about where people live. * Small, Local, ManyMichael’s “Better Abundance” essay argues that big problems don’t always demand singular, big solutions; sometimes “many small things in many places” perform better, especially when they’re rooted in community context. Jen loved that framing—and it tracks with what we see across Main Street finance and impact crowdfunding: local teams solving local problems, with models that travel. * Co-ops Change the Market, Not Just the Tenant’s RentJen highlighted Burlington’s Champlain Housing Trust—managing roughly 3,000 affordable homes—as an example of how cooperative models can reset price expectations across a region by forcing the broader market to compete with a fairer baseline. She also flagged a Swiss city where a notable share of residents lives in nonprofit housing—and pointed to eye-poppingly low homelessness figures. The point isn’t that co-ops alone “solve” homelessness; it’s that a portfolio of modest, durable interventions can shift the whole system. * ADUs as a Practical On-RampCloser to home, Jen’s local planning commission in Keene ran an ADU Challenge: homeowners volunteered real sites and constraints; architects and students designed tailored, buildable options; and a $5,000 prize helped surface practical patterns. Policy may permit ADUs on paper, but many would-be “home creators” still need a nudge through the how-to. That kind of lightweight, civic R&D is a smart way to turn latent permission into actual housing. We also touched on work from SuperCrowd25 showcasing rehab-first approaches and manufactured housing as naturally occurring affordable housing (NOAH)—permanent, dignified units that are too often conflated with RVs. In markets where down payments are out of reach, adding safe, lower-cost rentals is an immediate win—and investors can help expand that supply now, not “someday.” A Curious Frontier: Plant DePIN On the more experimental end, Paul Spinrad’s “Plant DePIN Stations for Fun and Profit” lit up our curiosity. I’m intrigued by the blend of community incentive design, real-world infrastructure, and open participation. We didn’t try to answer every technical or tokenomic question in our chat; we simply acknowledged an emerging space where Main Street builders might find new tools—if (and only if) the impact logic pencils out. As always: first prove the benefit, then scale the mechanism. Movement Notes: SuperCrowd25 & Building the On-Ramps If you missed it, SuperCrowd25 felt like a turning point—less a one-off event and more a widening lane for founders and investors who want returns and results. Our “Movement on the Rise” piece captured why: the people doing the work are getting better at telling the story, and the people funding the work are getting better at asking the right questions. When those two curves meet—clearer storytelling and sharper diligence—capital flows to what actually helps. That’s the movement. And because better on-ramps matter, we’ll keep making space where founders can show up as themselves and investors can interrogate the “how,” not just the “what.” The more we normalize that practice—the short, human conversation where a founder’s logic is audible—the fewer “scamming social change” narratives will slip through undetected. A Candid Ask: Power Up October I also shared something personal with Jen: after 13 years of building this community—rebranding as Superpowers for Good four years ago and launching SuperCrowd two years back—we’re close to covering our costs, but not quite there. That’s the reason behind our Power Up October campaign. Much of our work remains free by design; paying members make that possible and receive meaningful perks in return (with even more for Max-Impact members). If you’ve found value in the shows, posts, or pitch sessions, this month is a great time to upgrade or sponsor. Jen shared how the Main Street Journal sustains itself—often through NC3 partnerships and tax-deductible support—and she pledged to help amplify our effort. That kind of mutual aid between aligned media shops is how indie ecosystems survive. Two Subscriptions, One Mission If you read one of us, you’ll get good work. If you read both, you’ll get a fuller map—and, frankly, it’s still an affordable bundle for a year of actionable ideas. However you support us—subscribe, upgrade, sponsor, or simply share a favorite piece—thank you. We’ll keep earning it by elevating founders who solve real problems and by asking the impact questions that make everyone better. —Devin P.S. If you’re discovering this via the Main Street Journal, welcome! Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe

    22 min

  3. 6D AGO

    Building a Stronger Future for Regulated Investment Crowdfunding

    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? Jenny: Inclusive capital advocacy. The future of regulated investment crowdfunding is being shaped not just by markets but by the voices that advocate for fair, effective policies in Washington. Jenny Kassan, President of the Crowdfunding Professional Association (CfPA), has emerged as a leading champion of this work. The association’s upcoming summit and the advocacy efforts that precede it illustrate the growing momentum behind this movement. Jenny explained, “The Crowdfunding Professional Association represents the crowdfunding industry, the regulated investment crowdfunding industry. This is everyone who’s involved in trying to make it easier for small businesses, entrepreneurs, changemakers, artists, everyone who has the ability to offer an investment opportunity to be able to offer it to everybody, everybody in the country.” The October summit in Washington, D.C., highlights the growing traction of this movement. Jenny shared that this year, the CfPA is securing more meetings with members of Congress and the Senate who influence financial market rules. That progress signals a growing recognition of the industry’s role in democratizing access to capital. Speakers at the summit will include SEC Commissioner Hester Peirce, known for her balanced approach to fostering innovation while maintaining sensible regulation, and James Murphy from FINRA, the body overseeing day-to-day regulation of crowdfunding platforms. These perspectives, alongside industry leaders like Mark Elenowitz, will help issuers, investors, and platforms better navigate the complex regulatory landscape. Jenny was candid about the rapid changes unfolding in this space, especially around emerging technologies like crypto. “The industry is really evolving quickly. Even though there haven’t been any law changes yet, there’s been a huge, huge evolution and rapid change in the space,” she noted. Panels on crypto and digital assets will explore how innovation intersects with regulation, underscoring the importance of ongoing dialogue with policymakers. The CfPA summit is more than a conference. It is the culmination of months of advocacy, uniting stakeholders to strengthen the rules that govern investment crowdfunding. By convening entrepreneurs, investors, regulators, and industry professionals, the event will serve as a platform to share knowledge, influence policy, and build momentum for greater capital access. Jenny’s leadership highlights that regulated investment crowdfunding is still young but brimming with potential. Her efforts—and those of the CfPA—help ensure the system grows into a tool that works for everyone. tl;dr: Jenny Kassan explained how the Crowdfunding Professional Association advocates in Washington to strengthen rules for regulated investment crowdfunding. She shared details about the upcoming summit, including meetings with legislators, regulators, and key industry experts. Jenny emphasized the importance of balanced regulation, highlighting insights from SEC Commissioner Hester Peirce and FINRA’s James Murphy. She described how crowdfunding empowers underrepresented entrepreneurs, often outperforming traditional fundraising sources like venture capital and banks. Jenny encouraged participation in the CfPA and its summit, reminding listeners that inclusive access to capital benefits everyone. How to Develop Inclusive Capital Advocacy As a Superpower Jenny described her superpower as her ability to advocate for inclusive access to capital. She explained that her passion lies in helping entrepreneurs—especially those underrepresented in traditional finance—gain the resources they need to thrive. As she put it, “We see like women, people of color, people that don’t come from the top schools or from wealthy families often are quite successful with regulation crowdfunding, sometimes even more so. That’s the reason I love the tool so much.” Her superpower is evident in her consistent championing of entrepreneurs who face barriers to traditional funding. By focusing on regulated investment crowdfunding, she empowers founders to bypass gatekeepers and reach communities of investors who share their vision. One story illustrates this clearly: Jenny highlighted data showing that diverse and under-resourced founders often raise more successfully through crowdfunding than through venture capital, angel groups, or banks. That success proves that crowdfunding levels the playing field. For Jenny, seeing women and people of color outperform traditional fundraising norms affirms the power of her mission. Jenny offered valuable insights for developing this superpower: Recognize who is excluded by traditional systems and design new ways to include them. Focus on building tools and structures that make participation easier for everyone. Ground advocacy in data that demonstrates success outside the status quo. Persist in championing change even when mainstream systems resist. By following Jenny’s example and advice, you can make inclusive capital advocacy 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 Jenny Kassan (she/her): President, Crowdfunding Professional Association About Crowdfunding Professional Association: The Crowdfunding Professional Association (CfPA) is a 501 (c)(6) nonprofit trade organization established by numerous authors and contributors to the Jumpstart Our Business Startup Act (“JOBS Act”) on April 5, 2012. The CfPA is dedicated to representing the Crowdfunding industry and supporting the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) while providing the industry with education, a professional network and the tools necessary to cultivate and balance a healthy ecosystem that will accelerate capital formation and ensure investor protection whenever possible. Join our association at https://www.crowdfundingecosystem.com/join or get your company listed with a microsite in the CfPA online ECO directory at: https://www.crowdfundingecosystem.com/upgrade/upgrade Website: crowdfundingecosystem.com Linkedin: linkedin.com/company/crowdfunding-professional-association Company Facebook Page: facebook.com/CrowdfundingProfessionalAssociation Other URL: events.humanitix.com/regulated-investment-crowdfunding-summit-2025 Biographical Information: Jenny Kassan is an attorney, community economic development leader, and nationally recognized advocate for mission-driven entrepreneurship. With nearly 30 years of experience, she has dedicated her career to helping founders raise capital on their own terms while building wealth that stays rooted in local communities. She is the CEO of Baltimore Community Commons, which fosters investment access, knowledge sharing, and mutual aid, and the owner of The Kassan Group, a boutique law firm serving impact entrepreneurs. Jenny is also the author of Raise Capital on Your Own Terms: How to Fund Your Business Without Selling Your Soul and a frequent speaker on innovative finance, sustainable business, and community wealth building. Jenny’s leadership extends across the national crowdfunding and economic justice ecosystem. She currently serves as President of the Crowdfunding Professional Association and President of Community Ventures, and previously co-founded CrowdFund Main Street and the Sustainable Economies Law Center. Her public service includes serving on the Fremont City Council, advising the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on small and emerging companies, and directing community projects at the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office. A graduate of Yale Law School and UC Berkeley, Jenny continues to shape policies and practices that empower entrepreneurs while advancing a more equitable economy. X/Twitter Handle: @jennykassan Personal Facebook Profile: facebook.com/jenny.kassan Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/jennykassan Instagram Handle: @thekassangroup 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, Rancho Affordable Housing (Proactive), and Power Up October. Learn more about advertising with us here. Max-Impact Members The following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support: Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | 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 on October 6, 2025, hosted by Devin Thorpe on e360tv, will feature Core Tax Deeds, Dopple, ProActive Realty Group, and Victory Hemp Foods pitching their active Regulation Crowdfunding campaigns to a nationwide audience. Viewers can vote for their favorite companies, win prizes, ask live questions, and join a private investor Zoom session to engage directly with founders and even invest during the show. Don’t miss this free chance to discover and support purpose-driven

    26 min

  4. SEP 30

    Crowdfunding Hollywood Dreams: Mark Elias Brings Indie Films to Life

    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? Mark: Hustling with honesty. Mark Elias, an accomplished Hollywood actor turned filmmaker, is proving that the power of storytelling can transcend the screen to create meaningful connections. In today’s episode, Mark shared insights about his latest independent film, We Could Be Heroes, which is raising capital via a regulated crowdfunding campaign on Wefunder. At its heart, We Could Be Heroes is a heartfelt story about chosen family, set against the backdrop of a quirky comedy-crime plot. “Family is what you make of it—it’s not necessarily what you have or don’t have,” Mark explained. The film follows a 14-year-old gamer girl and her neurotic, wannabe-detective neighbor as they team up to solve a mystery. While the premise is lighthearted and fun, Mark emphasized the deeper emotional message, adding, “At the end, it’s heartfelt, it’s sincere, it’s honest.” Mark’s journey from Hollywood actor to independent filmmaker is inspiring in its own right. Having appeared in popular shows like Justified, Teen Wolf, and 9-1-1: Lone Star, he has taken his years of experience on set and channeled them into creating films that resonate on a personal level. “It has to be a story or a message that really, really sticks with you,” Mark said, reflecting on the challenges of making independent films with modest budgets. Through crowdfunding, Mark aims to bring We Could Be Heroes to life while engaging directly with supporters. With a budget of $1.1 million, including equity raised through Wefunder, the film is positioned to maximize impact with a lean, smart production approach. “We’re essentially saying we’re making a three- to four-million-dollar movie for less than a million,” Mark explained, highlighting the importance of resourcefulness and creativity. Beyond its entertainment value, We Could Be Heroes is designed to connect with audiences emotionally, especially young gamers. “There are 3.2 billion gamers worldwide,” Mark noted, emphasizing the film’s potential to draw a global audience. For those interested in supporting We Could Be Heroes, you can find the campaign on Wefunder at s4g.biz/heroes. Joining this project isn’t just an investment in a film—it’s a chance to help bring a meaningful story to life. tl;dr: Mark Elias shared insights into his journey from Hollywood actor to independent filmmaker. We Could Be Heroes tells a heartfelt story about chosen family, wrapped in a fun crime-comedy plot. The film is being funded through a Wefunder campaign, empowering supporters to help bring it to life. Mark described “hustling with honesty” as his superpower, enabling him to overcome challenges creatively. He encouraged collaboration and resourcefulness, inspiring others to embrace persistence in their pursuits. How to Develop Hustling with Honesty As a Superpower Mark Elias described his superpower as “hustling with honesty,” a combination of persistence and authenticity that drives his filmmaking and career. “I’m always going to be transparent,” he said. “If you’re on board, I love it—if not, I get it. I’m not going to stop until I make this thing.” Mark’s relentless drive is grounded in his genuine desire to connect with others and tell impactful stories that resonate emotionally. One anecdote that exemplifies Mark’s superpower is how he approaches challenges during film production. He shared that when a key location for a shoot fell through, he and his team quickly pivoted, identifying the essential qualities the location conveyed and finding a cost-effective alternative on the fly. “It’s about never taking no for an answer,” Mark said. This resourcefulness, paired with his unwavering commitment to completing the project, showcases his ability to hustle through obstacles. Mark also shared tips for developing hustle as a personal strength: Stay Transparent: Be honest about your goals and challenges to build trust and authentic connections. Embrace the Process: Don’t let initial setbacks deter you—use every “no” as a step toward “yes.” Empower Others: Collaborate with your team, encouraging their creativity and input to foster a shared vision. Stay Positive: Lead by example by maintaining an upbeat attitude, even during high-pressure situations. By following Mark’s example and advice, you can make hustling with honesty 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 Mark Elais (he/him): Filmmaker, DFM Creative About DFM Creative: Independent film production company. Website: imdb.com/name/nm1731797/ Other URL: wefunder.com/we.could.be.heroes.film Biographical Information: Born in Houston and raised in Philadelphia, Mark is an avid soccer player. A long time member of the Beverly Hills playhouse, he has also studied with Lesly Kahn, Meisner LA, and is a member of the Second City conservatory. He speaks fluent Spanish from having lived in Spain, and is passionate about his Lebanese heritage. He is active in helping dogs find forever homes, and works to help others overcome anxiety and depression through his own experiences. LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/mark-elias-0aab9b3 Personal Facebook Profile: facebook.com/mark.elias1 Instagram Handle: @markelias 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 Rancho Affordable Housing (Proactive). Learn more about advertising with us here. Max-Impact Members The following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support: Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | 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. SuperCrowdHour, October 15, 2025, at 12:00 PM Eastern. Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., will lead a session on “The Perfect Pitch: Creating an Irresistible Offering.” As a former investment banker and author, Devin will guide entrepreneurs through the process of crafting a regulated investment crowdfunding offering that aligns with investor expectations and captures attention. In this session, he’ll share what makes a pitch compelling, how to structure terms that attract capital, and practical strategies for presenting your company’s story in a way that resonates with investors. Whether you’re launching your first community raise or refining a current campaign, this SuperCrowdHour will equip you with the tools to stand out and secure investor support. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how to transform your vision into a pitch investors can’t resist. Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on October 28, 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. 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. KingsCrowd Investment Crowdfunding Week: September 29 through October 2nd, featuring speakers, panels and live pitches (Devin Thorpe will be judging the Clean Energy pitch session on September 30 at 2ET/11PT). Free registration! Neighborhood Economics: Chicago takes place September 29–October 1, 2025, at Venue SIX10, bringing together changemakers, innovators, and community leaders reimagining wealth, ownership, and entrepreneurship to drive real community transformation. Earthstock Festival & Summit (Oct 2–5, 2025, Santa Monica & Venice, CA) unites music, arts, ecology, health, and green innovation for four days of learning, networking, and celebration. Register now at EarthstockFestival.com. Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit 2025, Crowdfunding Professional Association, Washington, DC, October 21-22, 2025. Impact Accelerator Summit is a live, in-person event taking place in Austin, Texas, from October 23–25, 2025. This exclusive gathering brings together 100 heart-centered, conscious entrepreneurs generating $1M+ in revenue with 20–30 family offices and venture funds actively

    26 min

  5. SEP 25

    How Gene Eidelman is Transforming Housing with Recycled Plastics and Smart Innovation

    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? Gene: Relentless work ethic. There’s a better way to build homes—faster, cheaper, and greener. Gene Eidelman, Cofounder of Azure Printed Homes, has proven this with a groundbreaking approach to construction. Using recycled plastics, his company is addressing the housing crisis while reducing environmental impact. Gene’s journey started six years ago with a simple idea: to build homes that are more affordable and sustainable. After two and a half years of experimentation, he and his team developed a prototype during the COVID-19 pandemic. “The unit we developed actually is the one that’s in the video now,” he shared in today’s episode. “It’s a backyard studio that can be built very quickly in our factory. It takes us 24 hours to print and five days to finish.” From these modest beginnings, Azure Printed Homes has expanded its scope. Today, the company produces a range of units, from luxury eco-resorts to affordable housing subdivisions and even villages for the unhoused. “This whole spectrum of products… [is] coming out from our factory,” Gene said. “It’s just been an incredible journey.” What sets Azure apart isn’t just the technology—it’s the mission. By repurposing recycled plastic, the company builds homes 70% faster and 30% cheaper than traditional methods. With construction being one of the largest contributors to global waste, this innovation is a game-changer. Gene also shared exciting news: Azure was recently named a winner in Pepperdine University’s Most Fundable Companies competition, an accolade awarded after a rigorous review of companies from across the country. This recognition highlights not just the company’s innovation but also its potential to scale. Azure Printed Homes is currently raising capital through a regulated investment crowdfunding campaign on WeFunder, offering everyday investors a chance to join their journey. “Crowdfunding democratizes the investment,” Gene explained. “People… understand good design, affordable housing, [and] sustainability.” Gene’s story isn’t just about building homes—it’s about building solutions to some of society’s most pressing challenges. By combining sustainability, innovation, and a clear social impact, he’s creating a blueprint for a better future. tl;dr: Gene Eidelman cofounded Azure Printed Homes to build faster, cheaper, and sustainable homes using recycled plastics. Azure’s innovative units range from eco-resorts to affordable housing for the unhoused, addressing critical needs. Recently named one of Pepperdine University’s Most Fundable Companies, Azure’s success continues to grow. Gene credits his relentless work ethic and crowdfunding campaigns for raising over $7.2 million. Azure’s WeFunder campaign, closing October 15, is the last chance for non-accredited investors to join. How to Develop Relentless Work Ethic As a Superpower Gene’s superpower, as he explained in today’s episode, is rooted in his relentless work ethic and determination. Reflecting on his childhood as a refugee from Ukraine, he shared lessons from his father: “You don’t know whether you’re smarter than the person next to you. But one thing you can do, you can outwork them.” This philosophy fueled his success, from arriving in the U.S. with no English to launching a groundbreaking company. Gene emphasized, “Just never give up… no matter how tough it is.” Illustrative Story: Gene shared how his perseverance shaped Azure Printed Homes’ journey. During a challenging time for venture funding, the company turned to crowdfunding, despite Gene initially doubting its feasibility. Over six successful campaigns, Azure raised over $7.2 million, with a third coming from everyday investors. Gene’s commitment to his vision kept him pushing forward, even when traditional funding sources dried up. This unwavering determination allowed Azure to scale and achieve recognition as one of Pepperdine University’s Most Fundable Companies. Tips for Developing the Superpower: Don’t Give Up: Pursue your goals relentlessly, even when faced with repeated setbacks. Seek Product-Market Fit: Validate your ideas by talking to potential customers early and often. Embrace Rejection: Treat every “no” as a step closer to a “yes.” Leverage Crowdfunding: Democratize access to funding by inviting community support for your vision. Work Harder: Outwork others to gain an edge in achieving your goals. By following Gene’s example and advice, you can make a relentless work ethic 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 Gene Eidelman (he/him): Cofounder, Azure Printed Homes About Azure Printed Homes: Azure Printed Homes is fundamentally changing the construction industry by leveraging 3D printing technology using recycled polymers and fiberglass to prefab tiny homes, ADUs, affordable homes and units for housing after natural disasters 70% faster and 30% less expensive than existing construction methods. Website: azureprintedhomes.com Company Facebook Page: facebook.com/azureprintedhomes Company Twitter Handle: @azureprinthomes Other URL: wefunder.com/azure Biographical Information: Gene Eidelman: Pioneering Sustainable and Affordable 3D Printing of Homes From developing multifamily housing to revolutionizing the construction industry with 3D-printed homes, Gene’s journey in entrepreneurship is marked by innovation and impact. He co-founded his latest start-up, Azure Printed Homes in 2022. At Azure, Gene and his team are breaking new ground with a patented 3D printing process that constructs entire structures from recycled materials, fiberglass and other additives. This eco-friendly method is not only 70% faster but also 30% less expensive than traditional construction, revolutionizing how we think about building homes. Since May 2023, Azure Printed Homes has been delivering units ranging from workforce housing, affordable houses, homes for victims of natural disasters and units for outdoor hospitality industry, with a focus on sustainable, attainable housing for all. Azure current state-of-the art factory is in Los Angeles. They will be opening a factory in Colorado in 2025 and will be opening locations around the globe in 2026 and 2027. Azure is the winner of numerous awards and recognitions, including the 2024 Real Estate Tech Awards and 2025 Fast Company Global Innovator. Azure is currently raising its next round of funding at https://invest.azureprintedhomes.com. Gene is a sought-after speaker and thought leader in the fields of innovation, entrepreneurship, sustainability, 3D Printing, construction and real estate. He delivered a TED talk on the future of housing, which has over 500,000 views and has been selected as one of the most impactful TED talk this century. His work is paving the way for a future where affordable and sustainable housing is going to be attainable by all. LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/geneeidelman Personal Twitter Handle: @geidelman 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, Rancho Affordable Housing (Proactive), Inner Space, and Bright Start. Learn more about advertising with us here. Max-Impact Members The following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support: Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | 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 on September 29, 2025, hosted by Devin Thorpe on e360tv, will feature Core Tax Deeds, Dopple, ProActive Realty Group, and Victory Hemp Foods pitching their active Regulation Crowdfunding campaigns to a nationwide audience. Viewers can vote for their favorite companies, win prizes, ask live questions, and join a private investor Zoom session to engage directly with founders and even invest during the show. Don’t miss this free chance to discover and support purpose-driven startups—register here: https://thesupercrowd.com/25q3pitch Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on October 28, 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. Community Event Calendar Successful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events. KingsCrowd Investment Crowdfunding Week: September 29 through October 2nd, featuring speakers, panels and live pitches (Devin Thorpe will be judging the Clean Energy pitch session on September 30 at 2ET/11PT). Free registration! Neighborhood Economics: Chicago takes place September 29–October 1, 2025, at Venue SIX10, bringin

    26 min

  6. SEP 23

    Simplifying Access to Life-Saving Benefits: How Dopple Is Redefining Family Support

    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? Lisa: Refusing to give up. Too many families face overwhelming challenges when trying to access life-saving benefits, often giving up before receiving the help they need. Lisa Marino, Founder and CEO of Dopple, has made it her mission to simplify the process. Lisa’s personal experience navigating the welfare system while earning her MBA at Stanford inspired her to create Dopple. She explained, “We built for others what we did for ourselves to get our own family through.” Her platform connects families to an array of funding sources—government benefits, philanthropic programs, and contributions from friends and family—by streamlining the process into a simple, AI-driven solution. In today’s episode, Lisa highlighted a staggering statistic: “40% of families eligible for SNAP are so overwhelmed by the application process that many just drop out.” She’s determined to eliminate this friction, helping families secure critical funding for essentials like childcare, diapers, and even college savings. Lisa Marino will be pitching at the Superpowers for Good Live Pitch on September 29, 2025, at 5 PM ET! You’ll not only see her live but also get the chance to ask her questions directly in the private investor session afterward. Register here. Dopple’s approach begins with a 12-month budget, encouraging families to think comprehensively about their needs. The platform then leverages AI to match families with available resources and funding opportunities. Lisa shared, “We’ve taken this budget that maybe started at $25,000 and start whacking away at it… shifting $20,000 plus from being out of pocket to the family to the village that wants to support them.” Dopple’s innovative model also addresses the philanthropic side. By fractionalizing gifting, Dopple enables friends, family, and organizations to contribute directly to a family’s needs. Additionally, the company generates revenue through subscription-based kids’ clothing and essential products like diapers and formula. Lisa’s commitment to making a difference extends beyond her platform’s services. Dopple is currently raising funds on Wefunder, inviting everyday individuals to invest in the company’s vision. Lisa explained, “I believe in being egalitarian… If we’re trying to help families fund the basics, we need to walk the walk.” By tackling the bureaucratic hurdles that prevent families from accessing critical support, Lisa and Dopple are making an extraordinary impact. Learn more about their mission and investment opportunity at thedopple.com/invest. tl;dr: Lisa Marino, CEO of Dopple, shares her journey navigating welfare systems during her MBA at Stanford. Dopple simplifies access to critical benefits, combining AI and a comprehensive family budgeting platform. The platform connects families to funding sources, reducing out-of-pocket expenses by leveraging their community. Lisa emphasizes Dopple’s egalitarian approach, inviting individuals to invest via a Wefunder campaign. Her superpower, refusing to give up, drives her to tackle challenges with persistence and grit. How to Develop Refusing to Give Up As a Superpower Lisa Marino’s superpower is her unrelenting tenacity to overcome obstacles. She described it simply: “The hard part was sitting down and figuring it out.” Whether navigating complex welfare systems during her pregnancy or guiding her company through challenges, Lisa defines success as persistence. As she told her kids, “People who put on the big kid pants clean it up… and move forward.” Lisa’s determination was tested during her time as CEO of Rocky. She inherited a company with a $400 million preference stack and declining revenue. Despite being advised against taking the role, she worked tirelessly to restructure the business, rebuild profitability, and grow through acquisitions. Years of difficult conversations and strategic moves eventually led to success—an exemplary display of perseverance. Tips for Developing This Superpower: Set Realistic Expectations: Focus on achieving small wins, even when faced with overwhelming challenges. Embrace the Grind: Accept that progress takes time and effort, and remain committed to the vision. Allow Yourself Breaks: Give yourself permission to recharge when needed, such as Lisa’s “quarterly pity party.” Take Control: Address challenges proactively rather than waiting for them to escalate. By following Lisa’s example and advice, you can make refusing to give up 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 Lisa Marino (she/her): Founder and CEO, Dopple About Dopple: Two thirds of all families live paycheck to paycheck yet billions of federal and philanthropic dollars earmarked for these families go unused each year. The system is opaque, inefficient, and requires an advanced degree to navigate. I know this because at one point, before I became a successful operator, I was forced to navigate it for my family. Dopple is the platform to bring transparency and efficiency to the flow of funds in this market. We are the qualification engine and payment rails in the middle. Dopple launches in July in New Jersey, and I am looking for a famly foundation with an aligned vision to be a design and beta partner with us. Use of funds will be to cover needs such as diapers, childcare and tuition for mid to low income families in NJ. Website: thedopple.com Company Facebook Page: facebook.com/thedopple Other URL: thedopple.com/invest Biographical Information: - First person in my immigrant Mexican family to go to college, which I paid for myself. BS Wharton, MBA Stanford GSB, MA Latin American Studies, Stanford. - Reformed tech M&A banker and 3rd time entrepreneur who gets it done while a single mom. - Bootstrapped my last company and sold it to McClatchy in January 2024. - Designed with my daughter and then GC’d my home build during 2022-2023 in Big Sky, MT while simultaneously running a company. Every piece of trim in my house I stained myself. - At 54, there’s still no friends on powder days. Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/lisa-marino-b520545 Instagram Handle: @thedopple 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, Rancho Affordable Housing (Proactive), and Inner Space. Learn more about advertising with us here. Max-Impact Members The following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support: Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | 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 on September 29, 2025, hosted by Devin Thorpe on e360tv, will feature Core Tax Deeds, Dopple, ProActive Realty Group, and Victory Hemp Foods pitching their active Regulation Crowdfunding campaigns to a nationwide audience. Viewers can vote for their favorite companies, win prizes, ask live questions, and join a private investor Zoom session to engage directly with founders and even invest during the show. Don’t miss this free chance to discover and support purpose-driven startups—register here: https://thesupercrowd.com/25q3pitch Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on October 28, 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. Community Event Calendar Successful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events. KingsCrowd Investment Crowdfunding Week: September 29 through October 2nd, featuring speakers, panels and live pitches (Devin Thorpe will be judging the Clean Energy pitch session on September 30 at 2ET/11PT). Free registration! Neighborhood Economics: Chicago takes place September 29–October 1, 2025, at Venue SIX10, bringing together changemakers, innovators, and community leaders reimagining wealth, ownership, and entrepreneurship to drive real community transformation. Earthstock Festival & Summit (Oct 2–5, 2025, Santa Monica & Venice, CA) unites music, arts, ecology, health, and green innovation for four days of learning, networking, and celebration. Register now at EarthstockFestival.com. Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit 2025, Crowdfunding Professional Association, Washington DC, October 21-22, 2025. Impact Accelerator Summit is a live in-person event taking place in Austin, Texas, from October 23–25, 2025. This exclusive gathering brings together 100 heart-centered, conscious entrepreneurs generating $1M+ in revenue with 20–30 family offices and venture funds actively seeking to invest in world-changing businesses. Referred by Michael Dash, participants can exp

    26 min

  7. SEP 18

    Reinventing Food Delivery: How Chop Chop Empowers Restaurants and Drivers While Saving Costs

    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? Troy: Making a plan. Food delivery apps have revolutionized how we eat, but at what cost? Hidden fees, high commissions, and driver exploitation have left restaurants struggling to stay afloat. Recognizing this broken system, Troy Smith, CEO of Chop Chop, created a solution designed to empower restaurants and drivers alike while saving money for small businesses. Chop Chop isn’t your typical food delivery app. “We’re not an ordering app,” Troy explained in today’s episode. “We believe restaurants should take their own orders and payments. What we do is connect drivers with restaurants.” This unique approach eliminates the hefty commissions that traditional apps charge—often up to 30% of an order—enabling restaurants to retain more of their revenue. Troy’s innovative model is simple yet impactful. Restaurants pay a flat $199 monthly fee to access the app, allowing them to connect with vetted drivers who deliver orders. Unlike other platforms, Chop Chop ensures drivers are paid fairly—directly from the restaurant through Stripe, with funds held in escrow until delivery is confirmed. Customers receive real-time updates via SMS without needing to download the app, while restaurants maintain full control of the customer relationship. This streamlined system offers a lifeline to small businesses, especially mom-and-pop restaurants, which have been disproportionately affected by high delivery fees. “Deliveries have become a huge revenue stream for restaurants, especially since COVID,” Troy shared. “But the current system just isn’t working. Restaurants are paying more money to send food to their own customers than ever before.” Chop Chop’s mission extends beyond financial benefits. Many drivers and restaurants in the network are first-generation immigrants who often face exploitation in the gig economy. “FundingHope really resonated with us because they’re looking out for the small guy,” Troy said. Chop Chop’s crowdfunding campaign on FundingHope invites customers, drivers, and supporters to invest in the platform and help scale this game-changing solution. For just $199 a month—less than the price of a cup of coffee per day—restaurants can reclaim control, drivers can earn fairly, and customers can support their favorite local businesses without guilt. Chop Chop is more than a delivery app; it’s a movement to restore fairness and transparency in food delivery. Visit ChopChop.mobi or FundingHope to learn more about this revolutionary app and its crowdfunding campaign. tl;dr: Troy Smith explains how Chop Chop empowers restaurants by eliminating high delivery fees and exploitation. The platform charges restaurants a flat $199 monthly fee, connecting them with vetted drivers for deliveries. Chop Chop ensures drivers are paid fairly via Stripe, fostering transparency and trust in the process. Inspired by personal experiences and challenges during COVID, Troy created a practical, scalable solution. The company invites investors to join its FundingHope campaign, supporting a fairer food delivery ecosystem. How to Develop Making a Plan As a Superpower Troy Smith’s superpower, as he describes it, is the ability to “make a plan.” Growing up in Zimbabwe, he adopted the Afrikaans phrase maak a plan, meaning to solve problems through creativity and resourcefulness. “When something presents itself, a challenge, something is going wrong, you make a plan,” Troy explained in this episode. One powerful story that exemplifies this superpower occurred during the early days of COVID. Troy visited a small Japanese restaurant, where the owner, short on staff, asked him to deliver food for $10. This simple act planted the seed for Chop Chop. “She made the plan for me,” Troy said, “and I realized we could turn this into an app, connecting drivers with restaurants while ensuring fair pay.” To develop this superpower, Troy suggests starting with observation. “Instead of jumping in and trying to fix things, take a moment to see what’s going on,” he shared. Identifying the root cause of a problem is key to crafting an effective solution. He also emphasizes the importance of systems, a lesson he learned while running McDonald’s franchises in South Africa. By following Troy’s example and advice, you can make 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 Troy Smith (he/him): CEO, Chop Chop About Chop Chop: Chop Chop is a logistics platform that empowers restaurants to run first-party delivery without the costs and headaches of hiring their own drivers. We are not an ordering platform. Restaurants continue to take orders and payments directly from their customers. We connect them with local verified drivers who are screened for license and insurance and who complete deliveries on demand. Unlike third-party apps, we do not take commissions or add hidden fees. Instead, we charge a flat subscription, allowing restaurants to keep more revenue, drivers to earn fairly, and customers to avoid surprise charges. Website: chopchop.mobi Other URL: invest.fundinghope.com/offering/chop-chop/details Biographical Information: Troy Smith is the co-founder and CEO of Chop Chop, a logistics platform that helps restaurants run first-party delivery without relying on costly third-party apps. A former McDonald’s franchisee, Troy understands firsthand the challenges restaurants face with slim margins and complex operations. He launched Chop Chop to give restaurants control over delivery, ensure fair pay for drivers, and provide customers with transparent, fee-free service. LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/trychopchop 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, Rancho Affordable Housing (Proactive), and Inner Space. Learn more about advertising with us here. Max-Impact Members The following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support: Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture |  Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | 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, September 29, 2025. Hosted by Devin Thorpe on e360tv, this special event gives purpose-driven founders the chance to pitch their active Regulation Crowdfunding campaigns to a nationwide audience of investors and supporters. Selected founders will gain exposure to investors, national visibility across social and streaming platforms, and exclusive prizes from judges and sponsors—all at no cost to apply or pitch. Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on October 28, 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. Community Event Calendar Successful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events. Neighborhood Economics: Chicago takes place September 29–October 1, 2025, at Venue SIX10, bringing together changemakers, innovators, and community leaders reimagining wealth, ownership, and entrepreneurship to drive real community transformation. For the next two days only, save $200 on registration with promo code CHICAGOFLASH—flash sale ends Thursday at midnight! Register here. Earthstock Festival & Summit (Oct 2–5, 2025, Santa Monica & Venice, CA) unites music, arts, ecology, health, and green innovation for four days of learning, networking, and celebration. Register now at EarthstockFestival.com. Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit 2025, Crowdfunding Professional Association, Washington DC, October 21-22, 2025. Impact Accelerator Summit is a live in-person event taking place in Austin, Texas, from October 23–25, 2025. This exclusive gathering brings together 100 heart-centered, conscious entrepreneurs generating $1M+ in revenue with 20–30 family offices and venture funds actively seeking to invest in world-changing businesses. Referred by Michael Dash, participants can expect an inspiring, high-impact experience focused on capital connection, growth, and global impact. If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 9,000+ 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

    25 min

  8. SEP 16

    Vulnerability, Creativity, and Crowdfunding: Filmmaker Gregory Falatek Brings Elmwood Park to Life

    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? Gregory: Vulnerability. Filmmaker Gregory Falatek is channeling his creative energy into a captivating psychological thriller, Elmwood Park, set in his hometown of Norristown, Pennsylvania. With this project, Gregory is not only telling an intriguing story but also building a bridge between art and community through crowdfunding on WeFunder, where anyone can invest in the film for as little as $100. The film, a 90s-era psychological thriller, follows three high school seniors in a post-industrial East Coast town as they navigate a series of events after witnessing a murder. Gregory explained that the story draws on his own experiences growing up in Norristown, as well as his observations of the town’s transformation. “This story came to me based on a lot of kind of past experiences. And I just took that and kind of heightened it into fiction,” Gregory shared. After spending a decade in Los Angeles honing his skills in acting and directing—two of his films even premiered at Cannes—Gregory returned to his roots in Pennsylvania. Inspired by the town’s history and architecture, he envisioned Elmwood Park as more than just a thrilling night at the movies. “It’s not just an exciting kind of thriller of a film… but it also could serve over time as like an architectural time capsule of this place,” he said. Crowdfunding plays a pivotal role in turning this vision into reality. Gregory saw platforms like WeFunder as a way to democratize investing in film. “What I liked about it is… you don’t just get a T-shirt. You get actual ownership in the film and can collect on it for the rest of your life,” he explained. By inviting the community to invest, he hopes to inspire others to pursue creative endeavors, just as he was inspired by local role models like Kate Flannery, a fellow Norristown native and actor known for The Office. Gregory’s approach is refreshingly inclusive. He shared, “Even if it makes one kid around here think that they can make a film… I think that’s super important.” By leveraging crowdfunding to connect with his community, Gregory is creating an opportunity for people to feel both figuratively and literally invested in the film. Filmmaking is no small feat, but Gregory’s blend of creativity, vulnerability, and community-focused strategy is proof that art can thrive outside traditional Hollywood systems. Visit to learn more about this project and how you can be part of it. tl;dr: Gregory Falatek shares how Elmwood Park, a psychological thriller, draws on his hometown’s history. Crowdfunding on WeFunder enables the public to invest in Elmwood Park for as little as $100. Gregory highlights how returning to Norristown inspired him to preserve local architecture and culture. Vulnerability, Gregory’s superpower, fuels his creativity and helps him connect with others authentically. Gregory invites everyone to join the project, emphasizing community impact and the democratization of film. How to Develop Vulnerability As a Superpower Gregory’s superpower is his ability to embrace vulnerability, a skill he credits for enhancing his creativity and human connection. He explained, “I think my creativity comes from being open and vulnerable, actually, in my art.” Gregory shared that growing up, he struggled with being misunderstood, which made him hesitant to open up. Over time, he learned that vulnerability allows for deeper connections, both in life and on screen. “You need this deep sense of vulnerability to make [characters] human… even if you’re being funny about it,” he said. Gregory recalled his first feature film as a pivotal moment where he embraced vulnerability. Playing a “burnout type” character, he had to let go of self-consciousness to bring authenticity to the role. Surrounded by cameras and crew, he stayed true to his character, ensuring the performance resonated with humanity and heart. His openness not only elevated his acting but also helped him connect with the people around him, demonstrating the power of vulnerability in creating impactful art. Actionable Tips for Developing Vulnerability: Open Up in Everyday Conversations: Practice vulnerability by being honest and open in your daily interactions with others. Avoid Judging Yourself or Others: Approach creative work and relationships without judgment, allowing for genuine connections. Learn from Observation: Pay attention to how others express vulnerability, and apply those insights to your own life. Embrace Discomfort: Accept that being vulnerable may feel awkward at first, but it leads to growth and connection. By following Gregory’s example and advice, you can make vulnerability 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 Gregory Falatek (he/him): CEO/Founder (Writer/Director), Elmwood Park Film LLC About Elmwood Park Film LLC: Elmwood Park' is a psychological thriller, written and directed by Gregory Falatek, that is disrupting Hollywood in Norristown, Pennsylvania. The feature film stars Kate Flannery (The Office), Bai Ling (The Crow), Keith Poulson (The Sweet East), Conner Marx (New Amsterdam), H. Foley (Tires), and more. 'Elmwood Park' will be shot in February 2026 in Norristown, Pennsylvania and we will utilize the 25% Pennsylvania Film Tax Credit. Website: wefunder.com/elmwoodpark Company Facebook Page: facebook.com/people/Elmwood-Park-A-Film-by-Gregory-Falatek/61562525752416/ Instagram Handle: @elmwoodparkfilm Biographical Information: Gregory Falatek is an award-winning writer, director, and actor, born and based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Most recently, Gregory acted in Christmas Eve in Miller's Point, starring Michael Cera, Ben Shenkman, Maria Dizzia, Elsie Fisher, Gregg Turkington, Francesca Scorcese, Sawyer Spielberg, and Caveh Zahedi, as well Eephus, starring Frederick Wiseman, Keith W. Richards, and Wayne Diamond, both of which debuted at Cannes Film Festival 2024 in the Director's Fortnight. Christmas Eve in Miller's Point was released theatrically in November 2024 by IFC Films and Eephus will be released theatrically in March 2025 by Music Box Films. In addition to acting, Gregory is an award-winning writer and director, who recently gained notoriety for his screenplay, Elmwood Park, a neorealist, psychological thriller that will feature an incredible ensemble cast and has already many screenwriting awards on the festival circuit. LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/gregory-falatek Personal Facebook Profile: facebook.com/gregoryjfalatek Personal Twitter Handle: @falatek Instagram Handle: @falatek 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, Rancho Affordable Housing (Proactive), Inner Space, and BrightStart. Learn more about advertising with us here. Max-Impact Members The following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support: Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture |  Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | 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 September 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, September 17, 2025, at 12:00 PM Eastern. Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., will lead a session on "What's the Difference Between Gambling and Investing? Diversification." When it comes to money, too many people confuse speculation with true investing. In this session, Devin will explore what separates gambling from responsible investment practices—and why diversification is one of the most important tools for reducing risk and improving outcomes. Drawing on real-world examples and practical strategies, he’ll help you understand how to evaluate opportunities, spread risk wisely, and think long-term about your portfolio. Whether you’re new to investing, considering your first community round, or looking to refine your approach as a seasoned investor, this SuperCrowdHour will give you actionable insights to strengthen your decision-making. Don’t miss this chance to sharpen your perspective and invest with greater confidence. Superpowers for Good Live Pitch, September 29, 2025. Hosted by Devin Thorpe on e360tv, this special event gives purpose-driven founders the chance to pitch their active Regulation Crowdfunding campaigns to a nationwide audience of investors and supporters. Selected founders will gain exposure to investors, national visibility across social and streaming platforms, and exclusive prizes from judges and sponsors—all at no cost to apply or pitch.

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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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