The Startup Junkies Podcast

Startup Junkie
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The Startup Junkies Podcast

The Startup Junkies podcast is hosted by Jeff Amerine and his team at Startup Junkie Consulting. We’ll cover topics ranging from getting started, planning, growing your business, proving your concept, leadership, marketing, exit strategies and so much more. We’ll interview business owners, entrepreneurs, experts and people we think will bring value to our audience. Subscribe and together we will move your business to the next level.

  1. 6 DAYS AGO

    395: Navigating Banking Challenges Using Technology with Teslar Software

    Summary In this episode of Startup Junkies, the focus is on navigating banking challenges using technology, featuring Joe Ehrhardt, CEO of Teslar Software. Host Caleb Talley, alongside co-hosts Daniel Koonce and Jeff Amerine, delves into the significance of ethical business practices and the integral role of technology in modernizing community banks. Teslar Software is a forward-thinking technology company out of Springdale, Arkansas with a focus on software solutions for financial institutions. Created to help the FDIC post-2008 financial crisis, Teslar has pivoted to assisting community banks in modernizing their services, especially in consumer lending. Joe explains the necessity for community banks to invest in technology to remain competitive, noting the decline in traditional networking and the rising demand for online services, particularly among younger consumers. Throughout the episode, Joe emphasizes the importance of trust, initiative, and long-term impact in Teslar’s operational philosophy, aiming to empower community banks and promote sustainable tech ecosystems. Additionally, Joe highlights the importance of building a company culture that prioritizes long-term relationships with customers and ethical decision-making, even if it doesn't yield immediate returns. The discussion highlights the supportive ecosystem of Northwest Arkansas, known for its community-driven values. Tune in today!   Show Notes (0:00) Introduction (1:04) Joe’s Origin Story (7:16) About Teslar Software (9:30) How Teslar Has Integrated Into Community Banks (19:53) The Solutions Teslar Software Provides (22:43) Community Banks’ Investment in Technology (23:31) The Current Health Status of Community Banks (26:22) Teslar’s New Space in Springdale (28:29) Building a Strong Company Culture (31:15) Advice to Younger Self (34:29) Closing Question   Links Caleb Talley Daniel Koonce Jeff Amerine Startup Junkie Startup Junkie YouTube Joe Ehrhardt Teslar Software

    37 min

  2. SEP 30

    RERELEASE 359: Startup Crawl 2023

    With Startup Crawl 2024 being right around the corner, we wanted to rerelease last year's Startup Crawl episode. Get a sneak peek at what to expect at this year's event! Summary On this special episode of Startup Junkies, hosts Jeff Amerine, Caleb Talley, and Victoria Dickerson head to Startup Crawl, where they interview several entrepreneurs participating in this year’s event. The night celebrated entrepreneurship in the Heartland with food trucks, local craft beer, live music, and entrepreneurial connection. Jeff, Caleb, and Victoria sat down with Joshua Carnes of Sights & Sounds NWA, Brody Maxwell of TrueRep, Orson Weems of the Music Education Initiative, Bryan Fittin of Go Rogue X, and Bridgett Skeirik of Montay Coffee to discuss their entrepreneurial endeavors and Startup Crawl’s impact on the community.     Show Notes (0:32) Joshua Carnes and Sights & Sounds NWA (3:33) Brody Maxwell and TrueRep (7:02) Orson Weems and the Music Education Initiative (13:34) Bryan Fittin and Go Rogue X (22:03) Bridgett Skeirik and Montay Coffee   Links Jeff Amerine  Caleb Talley Victoria Dickerson Startup Junkie Startup Junkie YouTube Joshua Carnes Sights & Sounds NWA Brody Maxwell TrueRep Orson Weems The Music Education Initiative Bryan Fittin Go Rogue X Montay Coffee

    27 min

  3. SEP 23

    394: Investing in Opportunities with RZC Investments & Runway Group

    Summary In this episode of Startup Junkies, we sit down with guests Don Huffner and Scott King to explore the dynamic landscape of entrepreneurial ecosystems in Northwest Arkansas. Don Huffner is an investment professional with RZC Investments, where his keen eye for sourcing, evaluating, negotiating, and monitoring investments drives success. With a rich background that includes private equity investments at 1K1V and roles in investment banking at Barclays and management consulting at Accenture, Don brings a wealth of experience and a global perspective to the table. A graduate of the University of St. Andrews in the United Kingdom, Don holds degrees in Business Management and International Relations. Additionally, Scott King is the Chief Experience Officer at Runway Group, where he excels in creating world-class experiences through strategic design and placemaking. With over 30 years of experience, Scott's expertise spans business strategy, experience strategy, retail & brand strategy, design research, and more. His impressive portfolio includes work with top-tier organizations such as Frog Design, AT&T, General Motors, CVS, and multiple start-ups. Scott's extensive knowledge in business process development, systems integration, product development, and supply chain management makes him an invaluable asset to any entrepreneurial discussion. Together with hosts Jeff Amerine and Caleb Talley, the conversation delves into the unique, collaborative culture of the Ozarks, comparing it to the Silicon Valley of the late '90s and early 2000s. They highlight the importance of mentorship in the startup ecosystem and explore strategic investments that continue to shape the region's growth. The discussion underscores the potential and promise of Northwest Arkansas as a fertile ground for innovation and entrepreneurship.   Show Notes (0:00) Introduction (1:08) Don’s Backstory (5:39) Scott’s Origin Story (9:47) About Runway Group (10:40) About RZC Investments (13:45) The Appeal of NWA and Its Quality of Life (20:07) RZC Investments’ Fund of Funds Strategy (24:29) The Helpful Ecosystem of NWA (30:17) Advice to Younger Selves (34:56) Closing Question   Links Caleb Talley Jeff Amerine Daniel Koonce Startup Junkie Startup Junkie YouTube Don Huffner RZC Investments J. Scott King Runway Group

    37 min

  4. SEP 16

    393: The Women’s Foundation of Arkansas with Anna Beth Gorman

    Summary In this episode of Startup Junkies, hosts Victoria Dickerson, Jeff Amerine, and Daniel Koonce are joined by Anna Beth Gorman, CEO of The Women's Foundation of Arkansas (WFA). Founded in 1998, the Women’s Foundation of Arkansas has been working to understand the diverse needs and realities facing women and girls so it can respond through purposeful action and engaged philanthropy.  The foundation's initiatives, such as the Women’s Economic Mobility Hub, support Black women entrepreneurs by providing them with unrestricted funding, mentorship, and networking opportunities. WFA also addresses barriers faced by women entrepreneurs, including language barriers, resource awareness, and access to capital. Additionally, the foundation's internship program, funded by the Delta Regional Authority, offers housing and transportation for high-paying internships, helping first-generation college students gain essential social and financial capital. Gorman also mentions the "Girls of Promise" program, which introduces young women to STEM careers through hands-on activities and job shadowing. WFA’s extensive efforts in promoting women’s economic development in Arkansas involve publishing reports on economic indicators for women and advocating for inclusive language and easier resource accessibility.  Throughout the episode, Anna Beth shares about her experience working to support women entrepreneurs in Arkansas, the unique barriers that exist for these women, and how running for the Arkansas Secretary of State impacted her approach to advocacy.   Show Notes (0:00) Introduction (0:44) Anna Beth’s Origin Story (2:40) The Difference the WFA is Making (4:33) Barriers to Women Entrepreneurs (7:44) WFA Success Stories (10:17) About the WFA’s Financing Options (12:34) The WFA’s Impact (14:35) The WFA’s Program for Young Entrepreneurs (18:34) How to Get Involved in the WFA’s Programs (20:00) About Anna Beth’s Background (24:53) Lessons from Running for Arkansas Secretary of State (28:33) What’s Next for the WFA (29:02) Closing Question   Links Victoria Dickerson Jeff Amerine Daniel Koonce Startup Junkie Startup Junkie YouTube Anna Beth Gorman Women’s Foundation of Arkansas

    31 min

  5. SEP 12

    16: Asegurando un futuro hispano con George Ramirez

    Summary En este episodio de Startup Junkies en Español, conversamos con George Ramirez, dueño, CEO y fundador de HEXA Insurance Agency LLC. George comparte su experiencia como emprendedor latino y los retos que ha enfrentado al iniciar y hacer crecer su negocio. Discutimos la importancia de enfocarse en un nicho específico y cómo identificarlo, además de cómo aprovechar las relaciones para impulsar el crecimiento. También hablamos sobre la relevancia de estar en los lugares adecuados y rodearse de las personas correctas, el valor de servir a la comunidad, y cómo diferenciarte de la competencia para destacar en el mercado.   Show Notes (00:05) Welcome & introduction. (00:44) George’s story. (01:35) The invitation. (02:45) Wanting a business. (05:25) Customer service. (08:58) What is Hexa insurance? (11:47) All about networking. (14:59) Biggest challenge. (17:45) Find your niche. (24:10) Who you know. (28:40) Golfing. (30:46) Having a vision. (31:42) Advice from the past   Links Ignacio Balderrama Ana Ortiz Startup Junkie Kiva Northwest Arkansas George Ramirez HEXA Insurance Agency

    35 min

  6. AUG 26

    392: The Wellnest Shop: Building Community through Clean Products

    Summary In this episode of Startup Junkies, hosts Claudia Scott and Daniel Koonce are joined by Stephanie Sirianni and Caitlin Livingston, co-founders of The Wellnest Shop, a brand that brings you the best in authentic health and healing, and products to support self, family and home. Founded in 2022, The Wellnest Shop stands as a beacon of holistic wellness and community support, providing a range of services like workshops, events, and a wellness home program.  The Wellnest Shop also has an in-house essentials line and offers unique product categories including but not limited to cosmetics, house and home, personal care, pets and animals, and toys and games. With these products, The Wellnest Shop isn't just a place to purchase goods, it’s a nurturing space where monthly birth meetups and community support groups are held, all aiming to prioritize bio-individuality for their customers. Additionally, Caitlin and Stephanie run a podcast named The Wellnest Mamas and are active on social media and YouTube, providing a platform for alternative health and wellness information. Future ambitions include launching a second location in Fayetteville and developing a franchising program. Their journey underlines the importance of dreaming big and fostering a supportive community environment, encouraging others to pursue their dreams and contribute to a healthier lifestyle!   Show Notes (0:00) Introduction (0:48) About The Wellnest Shop (2:46) Top Three Non-toxic Products You Should Have at Home (4:44) About Non-toxic Product Sourcing (5:53) Erasing Non-toxic Stigmas with Brick and Mortar Consulting (7:06) Making Non-toxic Products Attainable with Community Based Entrepreneurship (7:45) The Wellnest Shop’s Community Support (8:38) The Wellnest Mamas Podcast (10:16) The Wellnest Shop’s Startup History (11:30) The Wellnest Shop’s Workshops and Events (13:41) Advice for Starting a Non-toxic Journey (16:55) About The Wellness Home Program (18:05) The Wellnest Shop’s Recent Relocation (22:21) The Meaning Behind The Wellnest Shop’s Name (23:02) Stephanie and Caitlin’s Upcoming Wellness Services (26:10) What’s Next for The Wellnest Shop (27:02) Advice to Younger Selves   Links Claudia Scott Daniel Koonce Startup Junkie Startup Junkie YouTube Caitlin Livingston Stephanie Sirianni The Wellnest Shop

    30 min

  7. AUG 22

    15: El Arte de Servir con Adam Arroyos

    Summary En este episodio, el Dr. Adam Arroyos, CEO y fundador de Serve2Perform, comparte su inspiradora trayectoria y los desafíos que ha enfrentado como emprendedor exitoso. Conoceremos qué lo motivó a escribir 'PerformanceGPA®', las influencias que han marcado su camino y lo que lo impulsa a seguir sirviendo a nuestra comunidad. También hablamos sobre los desafíos más comunes que enfrentan los negocios latinos al comenzar y los muchos recursos disponibles en Estados Unidos. Adam ofrece valiosos consejos para los dueños de negocios actuales, brindando una visión única sobre el equilibrio entre la vida laboral y personal y el desarrollo del talento y liderazgo. ¡Únete a nosotros para una conversación llena de inspiración y aprendizajes clave para líderes y emprendedores!   Show Notes (00:04) Welcome & introduction. (00:38) Adam’s story. (01:53) Tejano. (02:50) U of A decision. (05:25) Becoming an entrepreneur. (08:41) An idea. (13:30) It’s a network thing. (16:00) Making a difference. (17:13) Writing a book. (18:58) Advice for new entrepreneurs. (21:51) The challenges. (30:21) Time for change. (33:10) Book recommendation. (34:52) A look into the future. (41:18) Work / life balance. (43:32) Advice from the past.   Links Ignacio Balderrama Startup Junkie Kiva Northwest Arkansas Adam Arroyos Serve2Perform

    46 min

  8. AUG 19

    391: Conversation with Slim Chickens Co-Founder Tom Gordon

    Summary In this episode of Startup Junkies, hosts Victoria Dickerson, Caleb Talley, and Daniel Koonce sit down with Tom Gordon, the dynamic co-founder and CEO of Slim Chickens, a restaurant setting itself apart by offering high-quality chicken products and embodying southern hospitality. Founded in 2003, Slim Chickens has expanded to two-hundred and eighty-four restaurants globally, including franchises in the United Kingdom and forthcoming ventures in Germany.  Slim Chickens thrives thanks to its unique menu, which boasts seventeen different dipping sauces, unique sandwiches, and quality tender breading. This diverse menu has contributed significantly to the brand’s success and popularity, particularly among consumers aged eighteen to forty who seek both good food and a memorable dining experience. Despite its success and growth, Slim Chickens remains committed to its core identity, choosing not to over-diversify its menu to ensure consistent quality and experience for its customers. Moreover, managing a growing enterprise isn't without its challenges. Tom emphasizes the importance of solving problems and handling financial analyses to maintain profitability, especially in the face of inflation and supply chain hurdles. Despite these challenges, Tom remains passionate about hospitality, continually striving to balance franchise owner satisfaction with high employee wages. Throughout the episode, Tom discusses his vision for Slim Chickens, including ambitious goals such as reaching a billion dollars in revenue by 2027 and expanding the domestic and international footprint of the chain. Additionally, Tom shares his advice to young entrepreneurs, highlighting openness to partnerships and investor input, stressing the necessity of finding common ground to foster business growth. Tune in today!   Show Notes (0:00) Introduction (0:52) Tom’s Origin Story (3:59) Slim Chickens’ Locations Globally (5:41) Slim Chickens’ Franchising (6:38) Exploring the Intricacies of the Restaurant Industry (9:35) About Slim Chickens’ Cultural DNA (11:30) Fried Chicken Competitors Internationally (13:20) The Impact of Recent Inflation and Supply Chain Challenges (16:41) Collaboration between the Culinary and Marketing Teams (18:48) What Sets Slim Chickens Apart Domestically (20:12) Tom’s History with the Restaurant Industry (24:39) What’s Next for Slim Chickens (26:21) The Importance of Staying Involved in the NWA Community (27:57) Advice to Younger Self (31:37) Closing Question   Links Victoria Dickerson Caleb Talley Daniel Koonce Startup Junkie Startup Junkie YouTube Tom Gordon Slim Chickens

    33 min
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5
out of 5
39 Ratings

About

The Startup Junkies podcast is hosted by Jeff Amerine and his team at Startup Junkie Consulting. We’ll cover topics ranging from getting started, planning, growing your business, proving your concept, leadership, marketing, exit strategies and so much more. We’ll interview business owners, entrepreneurs, experts and people we think will bring value to our audience. Subscribe and together we will move your business to the next level.

Information

  • Creator
    Startup Junkie
  • Years Active
    2015 - 2024
  • Episodes
    20
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright Startup Junkie
  • Show Website
    The Startup Junkies Podcast

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