The interview features Pedro Rojas Arroyo, founder and CEO of Vivy Tech, discussing his journey from political activism in Venezuela to entrepreneurship in the United States. Pedro shares his experiences growing up in a politically turbulent Venezuela, his passion for societal values, and his transition to business to effect tangible change. During this interview, he emphasizes the following: The importance of businesses having a social responsibility and describes Vivy Tech's initiatives, including educational funds and projects aimed at financial literacy. The challenges faced by Venezuela and the potential for change through business and social initiatives. Why social impact needs to be included within a business plan. Don't miss this insightful conversation with a company leader looking to forge new avenues in technology, social awareness and impact.   Subscribe, listen and follow us for more interviews like this!    

In this conversation, Melissa Bill interviews Brandon Hultman about his journey in entrepreneurship, overcoming adversity, and the creation of the new book, ‘The Hultman Blueprint.’ He discusses the importance of support systems, the power of vulnerability, and the impact of personal stories in motivating others. The conversation also touches on the future vision for Brandon as a motivational speaker and the significance of words in shaping one’s identity and actions. Brandon also provide insight on: How the book aims to help individuals and families facing addiction. How overcoming adversity is a central theme in his personal journey. Why support systems are crucial for personal growth and recovery. How the narrative of the book is designed to be relatable and impactful. How fitness plays a significant role in overall well-being and success. How the power of words can influence self-identity and motivation. If you're looking for New Year inspiration or ways to reshape your life, don't miss this engaging episode to find out more about the launch of this inspiring new book, plus updates on future projects slated for 2026.  

In this conversation, Martin Lucas, Chief Innovation Officer at Gap in the Matrix, delves into the complexities of human behavior and decision-making, emphasizing the emotional patterns that drive our choices. He discusses the limitations of traditional AI, contrasting it with his concept of deterministic AI, which aims to understand the emotional context of decisions. The conversation also explores the role of creativity in the age of AI, the importance of emotional intelligence, and the need for brands to reconnect with storytelling to better serve their audiences. Martin gives insight into: Brands often fail to understand their audience's emotional needs. Storytelling is a fundamental aspect of human connection and marketing. AI's efficiency can lead to assumptions that misinterpret user intent. The future of marketing lies in understanding consumer behavior deeply. Designing systems that consider human needs can lead to better outcomes. Don't miss this deep discussion that explores the future of AI and human innovation. 

In this exclusive interview, Sheriff Mack, founder of the Constitutional Sheriffs and Peace Officers Association (CSPOA), shares his insights on the role sheriffs play in deportation efforts and how they can ensure a peaceful, effective process. He also discusses his bold policy to-do list for President Trump, including: The vital role that sheriffs across America play and how community members can get more involved. Why the war against drugs is failing. The fraud within Planned Parenthood Abolishing the Federal Reserve and IRS. Tune in for an in-depth conversation on these critical issues impacting the nation!

The conversation delves into the challenges posed by AI in the recruitment process, particularly the issue of AI-generated resumes and the authenticity that employers seek. Daniel Benveniste, Founder, CEO SkillWaze.com talks about the need for a solution that addresses these challenges, emphasizing the importance of candidates being aware of their skills and having confidence in their abilities during the hiring process. Daniel shares his expert insight into the following: How AI bot versus AI bot creates challenges in recruitment. Why employers fear AI in the hiring process. Authenticity is what employers want from candidates. Candidates need to know their skills innately. How confidence in candidates is crucial for hiring. Understanding expectations helps candidates perform better. Don't miss this episode that looks at the various flaws within the recruitment process and ways we can make it easier for employers and employees.  

In this episode we catch up with seasoned money manager and Chief Investment Officer of Regal Point Capital, Vijay Marolia, to explore the gap in financial literacy among today's youth and how misconceptions about investing are influenced by celebrity culture. Other trending finance topics discussed include: The pros and cons of legalized gambling. How celebrity endorsements can mislead young people about money. Why financial education is crucial for informed decision-making. The importance of teaching investing as a skill, not a gamble. The future of the insurance industry and the need for competition. Don't miss this in-depth discussion with Vijay Marolia and be sure to tune in to Vijay Marolia on Money & Markets!  

In this conversation, Tony Falco, COO of Hydrolix, explores real time analytics and delves into the significant growth of log files, as tracked by Gartner analyst Patrick Byrne. He highlights the alarming rate at which log files are increasing, with a 30% year-over-year growth and emphasizes the urgency for companies to prepare for this data explosion to avoid falling behind in data management and analytics.  Tony gives important insight into: Which changes should companies make in the digital tech stack and infrastructure to support sustainability. The requirements to implementing the necessary changes. How Hydrolix is making its own infrastructure sustainable. The most difficult part of building sustainability into any infrastructure. Steps Hydrolix is taking to make its data analytics platform more sustainable? Don't miss this in-depth look into sustainable practices and how companies can prepare for this data explosion!

In today’s evolving investment landscape, life insurance is no longer just about protection—it’s a powerful wealth-building tool. In this episode, we’re joined by Hanna Wu, CEO and Founder of Amplify Life Insurance, to uncover how she built her company and why she’s passionate about expanding access to innovative financial strategies. Hanna breaks down Indexed Universal Life Insurance, a strategy historically available to only 1% of individuals through elite financial planners. In this episode we explore how this approach allows for the following: People to grow wealth, access their own money without penalties. Explores ways people can rethink and invest in their future. Why only 1% have access to this type of life insurance option through financial planners. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, investor, or someone seeking smarter financial options, this conversation will challenge what you thought you knew about life insurance. Listen and follow us for an inside scoop and post interview tips.

In this conversation, leadership coach and purpose expert, Alaina Love shares her journey from a research scientist in the pharmaceutical industry to a leader in HR and personal development. She discusses the importance of understanding one's passions and purpose in unlocking their true potential both professionally and personally. Alaina introduces her book 'Permission to Be You', which aims to help individuals navigate pivotal moments in their lives by understanding their values and passions. She also explains the concept of the Passion Profiler, a tool designed to help people identify their top passions and how these influence their lives and work. Other insights include: Alaina Love transitioned from pharmaceutical research to HR to understand therapy development. She emphasizes the importance of aligning passion with purpose in one's career. Alaina's decision to resign from a high-level position stemmed from a lack of passion. She identifies three career phases: exploring, awakening, and expression. How the awakening phase often leads to questioning previous career aspirations. Don't miss this episode as we discover why understanding one's passions is crucial for personal and professional fulfillment. Follow and subscribe for new updates weekly.

In this conversation, Richard Hogben, CEO of Worldwide VA, discusses the critical aspects of hiring virtual assistants, emphasizing the importance of cultural fit and the labor-intensive process involved in finding the right candidate. He highlights the need for a thorough vetting process to ensure that the VA aligns with the company's values and has the appropriate work environment and equipment. In this conversation we dive into:  How finding the right VA can be labor-intensive How it opens the doors for both VA's and the company who employs them The rise of VA's across various countries and industries The reduction in overhead costs including office space, and commute costs Don't miss a glimpse into the future of global employment. Listen, subscribe and like for more episodes like this one!

Barry DiRaimondo, CEO and founder of SteelWave and Mitch DiRaimondo, founder of SteelWave Digital join us for this insightful conversation that explores the transformation of real estate into a more liquid and scalable asset class, highlighting the potential for higher yields compared to traditional investments. Barry and Mitch discuss the implications of this shift for investors, and the future of yield plays in the market. Other topics covered include: The legacy of SteelWave as a commercial real estate enterprise, which can be found across the United States and with billions of assets.  Which areas across the U.S. seeing the most in terms of industrial space demand. The resurgence of commercial real estate due to artificial intelligence driven demand. The democratizing of private investments. Steel Wave's future plans to tokenize CRE assets. Don't miss this information packed segment on the how real estate has the potential to reshape the market! Listen, subscribe and follow us.  

In this episode of the Business Roundup, Melissa Bill interviews Lance Morgan, founder and CEO of College Funding Secrets. They discuss innovative strategies for funding college education, including the use of life insurance and real estate investments. Morgan emphasizes the importance of financial literacy and the long-term benefits of education as a means to create generational wealth. He also highlights the following: The hidden costs associated with traditional college funding methods and resources for families navigating these challenges. How real estate investments, particularly short-term rentals, can help families offset college costs and taxes. The Creative College Funding System offers alternatives to traditional cash payments or loans for education. Investing in real estate can provide ongoing cash flow for college expenses and retirement. Education can significantly impact generational wealth, but financial literacy is often lacking in traditional schooling. The cost of college can have a long-term impact on retirement savings, known as the 'cost of missing out.' Don't miss this information packed episode that provides resources like proprietary software to help families estimate college costs and financial aid. Plus, find out why it's never too late to learn about effective college fund planning.  

In this conversation, Melissa Bill interviews Dr. Masoud Nafey, founder of MENT AI, discussing the intersection of artificial intelligence and business relationships. Dr. Nafey shares his background in healthcare technology and the vision behind MENT, a relationship intelligence platform designed to enhance personal and professional connections. The discussion explores the future of digital relationships, plus the following: The role of AI in facilitating meaningful interactions, and the importance of privacy in technology. How MENT.ai aims to provide insights that enhance relationships. How the platform is designed to be industry agnostic, benefiting various sectors. The ways AI can help users maintain and deepen their relationships over time. How privacy by design is a core principle of MENT AI. The future of digital relationships will be shaped by AI insights. His involvement with Stanford's Vision Performance Center and the potential of AI and VR in various industries. Join us as we dive into the ethical implications of AI and how it can be harnessed correctly to aid in building stronger relationship both in business and on a personal level.  

In this engaging conversation, Melissa Bill interviews George Ellis, a physician turned filmmaker, who shares his journey from medicine to filmmaking. He discusses his extensive medical career, volunteer work in the community, and how he transitioned into creating documentaries. George highlights his passion for storytelling through film, particularly focusing on the surfing culture in New Smyrna Beach. He also touches on his podcasting endeavors and the importance of community engagement. His extensive background in medicine and how that evolved into filmmaking. His volunteer work in the Orlando community. His transition to filmmaking and how it was inspired by his medical career. The power of community engagement he strives to encourage through his work. Current projects underway at his production company Coronado Beach Productions. Don't miss this inspiring story on how a side passion can fuel your next chapter in life. Listen and follow us for new episodes!  

In this conversation, Dr. Lamell McMorris shares his journey from the South Side of Chicago to becoming a successful entrepreneur and advocate. He discusses the importance of resilience, social impact, and mentorship in business. McMorris who is the author of a new book, The Power to Persist, host of The Power to Persist Podcast and founder of Phase 2 Consulting, emphasizes that setbacks can lead to new opportunities and highlights key habits for building lifelong resilience, including attitude, vulnerability, and faith. The discussion also touches on the responsibility of business leaders to give back to their communities and mentor the next generation. He stresses the following points: Persistence is key in the entrepreneurial journey. Social impact and profit can coexist. Vulnerability is essential for building resilience. Gratitude helps in recognizing opportunities to give back. Attitude shapes our ability to navigate challenges. Faith is crucial for believing in unseen outcomes. Mentorship is invaluable for personal and professional growth. Setbacks can lead to new opportunities for success. Don't miss this inspirational conversation! Listen and follow us for new updates.  

Join us this week as we catch up with Michelle Avola-Brown, Executive Director at Naples Pathways Coalition. This conversation highlights the critical dangers posed by distracted walking and biking, emphasizing the risks associated with phone usage while navigating roadways. It underscores the importance of awareness and safety measures to protect pedestrians and cyclists from potential accidents involving vehicles. Michelle provides insight on the creation of safer pedestrian walkways and paths, plus: How distracted walking can lead to serious accidents. Why biking without proper attention can be fatal. Phone usage while walking is a major safety concern. How pedestrians and cyclists need to be vigilant. Awareness can save lives on the road. How education on road safety is crucial. How community initiatives can improve pedestrian safety. Naples Pathways Coalition also has a few events coming up this year that the SW Florida community can be involved in such as The Iron Joe Turkey Ride & Walk on November 30, 2025. Don't miss this important episode on creating a safer commuting system for all to enjoy.  

In this episode, we dive into building ethical and scalable data strategies in healthcare with Chris Hutchins, Founder and CEO of Hutchins Data Strategy Consultants. Chris discusses how healthcare analytics and AI strategy are helping hospitals and healthcare organizations leverage data and technology to improve patient care. He provides insight on the following: His leadership roles, helping some of the nation’s most prestigious health systems, including Mass General and Northwell Health, in areas such as large-scale analytics initiatives, data governance programs, and AI adoption strategies. Why it’s important to match deep technical expertise with a human-centered approach, ensuring that technology serves patients, providers, and administrators. How he’s helped organizations unlock the full value of their data through ethical, scalable strategies. His work on boards such as the Healthcare Data & Analytics Association and CDO Magazine, and advising organizations like Fullsteam Health, DataSpot Consulting Group, and Modal. Join us for this intriguing conversation on how healthcare is transforming complex data into actionable insights that improve outcomes and reduce administrative burden.

In this conversation, Sheldon Arora, CEO of StaffDNA discusses the challenges of job searching in healthcare, emphasizing the need for a technology platform that allows individuals to find jobs that suit their qualifications and preferences. He highlights the importance of access to better job opportunities which can lead to improved work quality, plus the following: Access to the right technology can change job searches across various industries. People should be able to choose jobs that fit their needs. Happiness in work leads to better job performance. Quality of work improves with job satisfaction. Technology can empower job seekers globally. Building a life around work is essential. How the future of job searching is about accessibility. Join us for this insightful conversation on the future of staffing and how technology will play a vital role. Don't forget to listen and follow The Business RoundUp.

In this episode of the Business Roundup, Melissa Bill interviews Jonathan Escobar-Marin, CEO of Actio Global, discussing his entrepreneurial journey, the challenges of translating strategy into execution, and the impact of AI on business operations. Jonathan shares insights from his new book, 'Lead to Beat', emphasizing the importance of leadership rhythm, brutal focus, and the need for continuous learning in organizations. He highlights topics including: The complexities of working across various industries and the necessity of discovering hidden talent to drive success. The significant gap found between strategy and execution. How Actio Global helps leaders translate strategy into actionable priorities. AI is accelerating business initiatives and creating new opportunities. The book 'Lead to Beat' outlines a leadership rhythm for success. Brutal focus is essential for achieving organizational goals. Distributed leadership can uncover hidden talent within teams. Join us to learn how having an impact over leadership activities can ensure efforts are meaningful and effective.

In this episode, The Business RoundUp speaks with Dr. Amy Osmond-Cook, Co-Founder and Chief Marketing Officer at Fullcast who discusses the transformative impact of AI on various industries, the critical role of revenue operations in modern business, and the trends shaping technology and marketing strategies. Amy emphasizes the importance of aligning departments, centralizing data, and adapting to new technologies to maximize growth and efficiency. The discussion also highlights: The practical insights from her co-authored book and the services offered by FullCast. Aligning departments is crucial for operational success. Centralized data enhances decision-making and efficiency. How technology should serve business goals, not dictate them. Don't miss this in-depth look into the future of Rev Opps!