Summary
In this week’s episode of Startup Junkies, Maddison Tailor and Audrey Hickox join hosts Caleb Talley and Daniel Koonce to share the genesis and growth of Acres.com, a platform revolutionizing land acquisition and management.
Acres began as an internal solution to disjointed and complicated land deal processes. Recognizing shared pain points with clients, the team built a comprehensive platform making land data transparent and accessible—no GIS expertise required. Now, Acres empowers everyone from home builders and brokers to agricultural managers and recreational land users with real-time data on elevation, zoning, utilities, and more.
A key differentiator is Acres’ people-centric approach. The team partners deeply with clients, bringing their feedback directly to product development. Their dedication ensures that users not only get robust datasets, including the largest sold land database in the U.S., but also hands-on guidance through every interaction.
The episode also highlights recent innovations like recreation layers and AI integration, which enhance decision-making with seamless data delivery. Whether you’re a developer, investor, or curious entrepreneur, Acres’ story exemplifies how listening to customers and continual iteration can turn internal pain points into industry-wide solutions!
Show Notes
(00:00) Introduction
(05:48) How a People-First Approach Drives Impact
(07:16) A Comprehensive Land Data Solution
(10:11) Acres: The Largest Sold Land Database
(14:42) Streamlining Land Data with AI
(17:13) Targeted Messaging for Specific Personas
(22:09) Future Growth and Innovation
(26:00) Closing Thoughts
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Summary
In this week’s episode of Startup Junkies, hosts Daniel Koonce and Caleb Talley sat down with Joseph Batta-Mpouma, founder and CEO of CelluDot, to discuss his entrepreneurial journey and how CelluDot is tackling critical issues in agriculture through innovation.
Joseph, whose background is in material science and engineering, shared how his academic path shifted when exposed to entrepreneurship during graduate school. Inspired to make a real-world impact, he founded CelluDot to deliver concrete solutions for encapsulating bio and chemo compounds, a breakthrough especially vital for crop protection.
One of the main challenges CelluDot addresses is herbicide drift, a persistent issue costing farmers billions. Joseph emphasized the importance of understanding farmers’ real pain points, illustrating how genuine customer discovery must inform applied scientific solutions. By starting field trials in eastern Arkansas and engaging directly with farmers, the team was able to customize its technology to truly meet users’ needs.
Additionally, Joseph explains how CelluDot’s roadmap is built around a versatile core technology, with plans to expand into fertilizers, feed supplements, and nutraceuticals. In five years, CelluDot aims to be a U.S. leader in encapsulation solutions, empowering partners in agriculture and beyond.
Reflecting on his journey, Joseph encouraged aspiring entrepreneurs to “just start,” stressing the value of seizing opportunities and learning quickly from failures. Listeners can learn more about CelluDot at their website and are encouraged to reach out to support farmers and sustainable agriculture. Tune in today!
Show Notes
(00:00) Introduction
(06:10) Collecting Data for Custom Solutions
(08:23) Bridging Academia and Industry Gaps
(11:19) Preparing for Future Goals
(16:17) Core Values and Team Accountability
(19:47) Arise: Expert Free Advisory Platform
(22:19) Startup Progress and Timeline
(25:38) Fail Faster, Succeed Sooner
(27:22) Closing Thoughts
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Summary
In this episode of the Fuel Podcast, host Caleb Talley sits down with Sanjay Ahuja, founder of Believ.ai, to discuss his inspiring entrepreneurial journey. Sanjay shares how, after twenty-seven years of thriving in global corporate roles across India, Dubai, and the U.S., he embraced his entrepreneurial spirit to address a crucial gap in AI: clean data.
Believ.ai emerged from Sanjay’s firsthand experience with the complexities of onboarding merchants efficiently and securely. The platform's focus is on streamlining onboarding for marketplaces, payments, and logistics companies, tackling the dual challenge of speed and fraud prevention. Additionally, Sanjay explains his experience with Fuel Accelerator, describing Bentonville’s unique, supportive environment for tech founders, and praising the city’s vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem.
For those looking to launch their own ventures, Sanjay offers sage advice: “Be an entrepreneur at an early stage of life. You’ll fail, and that’s fine—you’ll learn and move on to build something bigger and better.” This episode is a must-listen for founders seeking inspiration, practical insights, and a sense of belonging in the startup community!
Show Notes
(00:00) Introduction
(04:22) Believ: An AI-Powered Onboarding Platform
(07:07) Sanjay’s Fuel and Bentonville Experience
(12:20) Insights into the Fuel Accelerator
(16:09) Adopting an Entrepreneurial Mindset
(17:34) Closing Thoughts
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Summary
In this week’s episode of Startup Junkies, host Caleb Talley sits down with Heather Applegate, founder of Pivot X Coaching, for a conversation packed with wisdom on entrepreneurship, coaching, and personal growth. Heather shares her unique journey from studying psychology to launching Pivot X, an executive coaching and strategic advisory firm. Her passion for human behavior and propelling teams forward shines as she explains how she helps founders and executives transition from product-focused mindsets to leading effective teams, and eventually, through ownership transitions.
A major theme throughout the discussion is the importance of realignment over stigmatizing the “pivot. Her approach encourages leaders to embrace change as an opportunity, rather than a setback. Heather also offers insights into the emotional challenges entrepreneurs face, especially as companies grow and founders struggle with shifting identities and relinquishing control.
Additionally, networking and community are central topics; Heather recounts the fears she overcame to put herself out there, ultimately reaping rich relationships and opportunities within Northwest Arkansas’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Her reflections on balancing ambition with personal life offer a refreshing take on what true success means. For anyone in the midst of a pivot, or simply seeking clarity on their entrepreneurial path, this episode is a must-listen!
Show Notes
(00:00) Introduction
(06:10) Understanding Fear in Relationships
(07:55) Founder Identity Challenges During Growth
(12:37) Building Community Through Events
(13:41) Overcoming Fear to Connect
(18:29) Expressing Purpose with Words
(22:41) Life and Goal Reflection Strategy
(24:00) Closing Thoughts
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Summary
In this episode of the Fuel Podcast, Grace Gill welcomes Naukr.ai CEO, Ravinder Sharma, for an insightful dive into the transformative journey of data science and AI. With over fifteen years in the field, Ravinder shares his expansive career journey, spanning both U.S. coasts, India, and ultimately leading back to Northwest Arkansas, a region he calls the “epicenter of retail.”
The conversation highlights the exponential growth and rising cost of data, a challenge facing enterprises large and small. Ravinder describes Naukr.ai’s mission: democratizing data science by leveraging agentic AI workflows, turning every employee into a data scientist through simple prompts. This innovative approach has the potential to help the region’s 1700+ Walmart suppliers unlock actionable insights and make data-driven decisions faster than ever.
Additionally, Grace and Ravinder discuss the challenges companies face in reliably leveraging data and institutional knowledge. Ravinder argues that platforms like Naukr.ai, which embody continuous learning and accessibility, are the future, enabling repeatable, scalable analytics regardless of staff changes.
Moreover, this episode sheds light on the powerful mentorship and collaborative energy fostered by the Fuel Accelerator, which Ravinder credits for helping founders focus on solving real problems instead of just selling technology. For those interested in retail technology, AI innovation, or entrepreneurial journeys in unexpected places, this episode is an energizing listen!
Show Notes
(00:00) Introduction
(04:05) How AI is Driving Business Transformation
(09:10) Using Agentic Data Science for Retail
(14:21) Walmart’s Data-Driven Decision Making
(18:38) Hyper-Personalized Technology Expectations
(22:20) Arkansas' AI Innovation Pride
(30:01) The Fuel Accelerator Experience
(34:15) Tech Integration Partnerships
(35:45) Closing Thoughts
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Summary
In this week’s episode of Startup Junkies, hosts Daniel Koonce and Caleb Talley sat down with Andrew Gibbs-Dabney, founder of LIVSN Designs, a Bentonville-based outdoor apparel company with a mission to create high-quality, versatile clothing for outdoor enthusiasts who value experiences over possessions. Andrew’s vision for LIVSN is clear: make products that last, fit into multiple situations, and help customers "own less, live more."
Andrew traced the company's roots back to a personal journey focused on simplifying life, which ultimately inspired LIVSN’s commitment to durability and versatility. The business was initially jump-started via Kickstarter, leveraging community support to raise production funds and validate market fit. Andrew emphasized how in-person events and local connections, like pop-ups and startup crawls, have been vital for the tactile nature of their apparel.
Sustainability and community drive every aspect of LIVSN, from rigorous dedication to responsible sourcing and transparency in the supply chain, to innovative repair and resale programs. Andrew explained that true sustainability goes beyond labels; it’s about continual improvement and extending product life cycles. The company’s recent B Corp certification stands as a testament to its holistic approach, valuing people, planet, and profit equally.
LIVSN’s story is also one of community ownership, with hundreds of customers investing through campaigns like WeFunder. With intentional product expansion and ongoing partnerships, Andrew’s team is proving that responsible business practices and building trust can compete head-to-head with industry giants. Tune in today!
Show Notes
(00:00) Introduction
(02:59) LIVSN’s Kickstarter Experience
(07:18) Designing by a Set of Principles
(12:25) Holistically Building a Business
(15:05) Sustainability Through Product Longevity
(16:54) Community-Owned Business Vision
(21:30) Intentional Growth and Expansion
(26:11) 2025 Achievements: B Corp Certification & New Store Opening
(28:35) Closing Thoughts
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Summary
In this week’s episode of Startup Junkies, host Daniel Koonce sits down with Tyler Flagg, founder and CEO of Flying Company, to discuss his mission to transform private aviation and put Bentonville, Arkansas, on the map as an emerging aviation tech hub.
Tyler shares his unique journey from failed child actor to fourteen-year Air Force pilot and squadron commander, and ultimately, tech entrepreneur. After leaving the military, Tyler found himself managing a private business jet and was shocked at the pain points in finding and hiring contract pilots. The process, relying on Facebook posts, word-of-mouth, and reams of paperwork, was inefficient and outdated. Sensing a gap in the market, he created the Flying Company, a streamlined platform that connects pilots and operators, handles credentials, agreements and payments, and even helps operators and pilots save valuable time and money.
The conversation dives into the realities of startup life, the surprising lack of digital innovation in aviation, and Tyler’s long-term vision: a one-stop career and staffing system for pilots from student certification through retirement. He also touches on his hopes for Bentonville to grow into an aviation tech hub and the value of surrounding yourself with like-minded entrepreneurs.
Show Notes
(00:00) Introduction
(05:10) Building a Marketplace for Aviation
(09:54) Addressing Pilot Frustrations: Communication & Payment
(14:57) Employing Quiet Professionalism over Ego
(17:31) Making Bentonville an Aviation Hub
(22:35) Next Steps: Aviation Career Progression Platform
(27:31) Closing Thoughts
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Summary
In this episode of the Fuel Podcast, Grace Gill sits down with Amit Hasak, CEO of Transship Corp, to dive into the challenges and innovations reshaping the logistics and supply chain industry. As a seasoned supply chain logistics professional, Amit recounts his two-decade journey running a cold storage warehouse in Chicago. His deep involvement with exporters of perishable goods gave him firsthand insight into the chaos and inefficiency plaguing traditional shipping. After fielding endless complaints from clients about the unpredictable and costly shipping process, Amit saw the need for change, prompting the birth of Transship in 2020.
Transship’s mission is simple: empower shippers. By leveraging API connectivity, AI, and robust data analytics, Transship streamlines bookings, provides competitive rates, and delivers real-time shipment visibility down to temperature and tampering alerts, something the industry desperately lacks. But as Amit emphasizes, technology alone isn’t enough; the human element in customer service remains crucial.
The conversation also touches on the entrepreneurial realities of bootstrapping a startup. Amit candidly shares the stresses, risks, and ultimate rewards of maintaining control of his company, offering practical advice for founders navigating similar paths. Listeners get a glimpse of why he is excited about Bentonville, Arkansas, and how participation in the Fuel Accelerator is fueling Transship’s global growth. The episode is a testament to resilience, innovation, and the ongoing importance of human connection in a tech-forward world!
Show Notes
(00:00) Introduction
(05:30) Shipment Tracking Beyond Devices
(08:41) Bootstrapping: Vision, Struggles, and Rewards
(11:27) Transship’s Global Expansion
(14:12) Freight Tech Solutions and Support
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Summary
In this week’s episode of Startup Junkies, hosts Daniel Koonce and Caleb Talley sit down with Patrick Pulliam and Thomas Burkholder, founders of the NWA Patio Community, to explore the power of building meaningful connections through local social events.
The conversation kicks off with a deep dive into both Patrick and Thomas’s origin stories—unconventional journeys into real estate and entrepreneurship that led them to Northwest Arkansas. Both found that authentic networking opportunities were in short supply, especially outside of the typical business settings. As a result, founded four years ago, NWA Patio Community’s Patio Socials offer a fun, relaxed space for professionals and newcomers alike to meet, connect, and support each other. The free monthly events have grown rapidly, attracting crowds of over two hundred attendees and gaining nearly four thousand followers on Instagram.
The episode highlights how NWA Patio Community thrives on collaboration, local sponsorships, and a community-driven approach. Patrick and Thomas share that most sponsors are event attendees first, ensuring genuine buy-in and engagement, and giveaways spark excitement and increase participation, while innovative merchandise creates a sense of belonging.
Listeners get an inside look at the challenges and rewards of scaling a for-profit community-focused business, balancing fun with intentional networking, and making real, lasting impact. If you’re searching for inspiration to build community or grow your business, tune in today!
Show Notes
(00:00) Introduction
(04:41) Patio Socials: Community & Networking
(09:10) The Growth of Patio Socials
(14:35) Remembering Faces Without Names
(20:35) Strategies for Engaging Sponsors
(23:37) Navigating Business and Community Goals
(29:34) How Opportunities Shape Our Lives
(30:15) Closing Thoughts
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Summary
En este inspirador episodio de Querido Emprendedor, Ignacio Balderrama conversa con Diego Angarita, un gerente de producto en Walmart con una trayectoria única que combina emprendimiento, trabajo en organizaciones sin fines de lucro y una profunda conexión con la comunidad latina.
Diego relata su labor en Massachusetts con jóvenes puertorriqueños, donde fomentó el respeto por la cultura y la participación activa en asuntos comunitarios como la mejora del almuerzo escolar, mostrando cómo la voz de los jóvenes puede generar cambios reales y significativos. También reflexiona sobre los retos emocionales que enfrentan los emprendedores, la importancia de rodearse de personas que comparten la misma mentalidad y cómo manejar la autocrítica para mantener la motivación.
El episodio ofrece además consejos prácticos sobre la recaudación de fondos, destacando que es más efectivo pedir consejos antes que dinero y la importancia de elegir aliados estratégicos que aporten experiencia y compromiso, no solo capital. Finalmente, Diego comparte sus aprendizajes actuales como product manager y su visión para futuros emprendimientos, invitando a la audiencia a valorar la humildad y el aprendizaje constante en el camino emprendedor
Un episodio lleno de sabiduría, experiencia y motivación para todos aquellos que buscan crecer y transformar sus ideas en realidades exitosas.
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Summary
En este inspirador episodio de "Querido Emprendedor", tenemos de invitada a Nicole Guerrero, una joven boliviana que desde los 21 años ha liderado una revolución social y ambiental en Bolivia. Nicole es la fundadora del Banco de Alimentos de Bolivia, una organización que transforma el desperdicio de alimentos en esperanza para miles de personas en situación de vulnerabilidad. Nicole ha logrado crear un sistema logístico nacional que recolecta excedentes alimentarios de grandes empresas, mercados y el sector agrícola, para distribuirlos a centros de acogida, refugios y comunidades necesitadas en Cochabamba, La Paz, Santa Cruz y más allá.
Este episodio es una fuente de inspiración para todos aquellos que desean crear un impacto real, superar obstáculos y transformar sus pasiones en proyectos sostenibles y de gran alcance. ¡No te lo pierdas!
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Summary
In this week’s episode of Startup Junkies, hosts Daniel Koonce and Caleb Talley sit down for an engaging conversation with Daniel Schroeder and Brent Reader, co-founders of Peanut Pupper, a startup helping anxious dogs with their CBD products.
The conversation explores how Peanut Pupper began, what sets it apart, and how its founders are committed to more than just business success. There's an underlying message of using entrepreneurship as a platform to make a positive difference, which comes through clearly as the hosts and guests discuss the journey and vision behind the brand. From the origins of the idea to creating a responsible, community-focused company, listeners get an inside look at what it takes to build something with heart and intention.
Beyond Peanut Pupper, the discussion digs into broader themes like the importance of giving back, finding meaning in work, and overcoming challenges with creativity and resilience. There are honest conversations about what it means to push through setbacks, the balance between profit and purpose, and how authentic values can become a brand’s strongest asset.
Whether you’re a pet lover, budding entrepreneur, or simply curious about how purpose-driven companies operate, this episode delivers both inspiration and practical insights. Tune in for a fresh perspective on business and a deeper appreciation for brands like Peanut Pupper that aim to make the world a little better!
Show Notes
(00:00) Introduction
(03:30) The Inspiration Behind Peanut Pupper’s CBD Products
(09:24) THC-Free CBD: Safety and Effectiveness
(15:59) Happy Pup Customer Testimonials
(17:34) Impact of Markets on Dog Adoptions and Health
(23:29) Arkansas Legislation Targets Loophole Marijuana
(31:22) Exploring the Relationship Dynamic Between Co-Founders
(40:35) Embracing Mentorship and Avoiding Solitude
(42:12) NWA’s Regional Support and Community Spirit
(45:22) Closing Thoughts
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Summary
In this week’s episode of Startup Junkies, hosts Daniel Koonce and Jeff Amerine are joined by Yulia Batalina and Paolo Piraino, co-founders of adwinesor, a company offering curated wine experiences in NWA. With a shared passion for innovation and problem-solving, Paolo and Yulia have positioned adwinesor as a promising player in the intelligent advertising space.
During the conversation, Paolo and Yulia unpacked the origins of adwinesor and the need they identified for smarter, more personalized advertising solutions. They shared how their diverse backgrounds, Paolo’s hands-on business experience and Yulia’s strong research foundation have empowered them to tackle industry challenges from multiple angles.
A key highlight from the episode was their discussion of company culture and adaptability. Both founders emphasized the importance of agility, not just in their product but in their team’s mindset. By encouraging experimentation and embracing feedback, they continue to refine adwinesor’s offerings and keep pace with the fast-evolving advertising landscape.
The episode is an inspiring listen for anyone following the startup ecosystem or seeking insight into launching a tech company. Paolo and Yulia’s honesty about the ups and downs of entrepreneurship, paired with their clear vision for adwinesor, makes this episode particularly memorable!
Show Notes
(00:00) Introduction
(03:59) From Italian Roots to a Global Journey
(08:42) Bridging the Wine Knowledge Gap
(11:01) adwinesor’s Curated Wine Experiences
(13:27) Demystifying the Wine Industry
(19:22) Expanding NWA’s Access to Wine
(22:06) “Edwin’s Ears Clean” Wine Concept
(24:40) Bentonville’s First Boutique Wine Shop
(28:00) Encouraging Sensory Experiences
(32:35) The Emergence of Alcohol-Free Italian Wines
(35:37) Why Your Dreams Should Scare You
(36:41) Closing Thoughts
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Summary
In this week’s episode of Startup Junkies, host Caleb Talley and Grace Gill are joined by Permjot Valia, co-founder of Nava Develop Inc., who offers listeners a masterclass in entrepreneurship and investment. Permjot, known for his keen business acumen and international venture capital experience, shares his unique perspectives on what it takes to build successful companies and thrive in today’s fast-paced business landscape.
Throughout the conversation, Permjot discusses the importance of adaptability for founders, referencing real-world challenges that startups often face. He emphasizes that resilient entrepreneurs are those who not only adapt quickly but also learn from setbacks, turning failure into an opportunity for growth.
Caleb and Grace steer the conversation into practical territory, asking Permjot how aspiring founders can attract the attention of investors. Permjot highlights the need for clarity by having a strong pitch and a clear understanding of your business model and target market.
Listeners will appreciate the actionable advice sprinkled throughout the episode, as well as Permjot’s candid reflections on the delicate balance between passion and pragmatism in entrepreneurship. Whether you’re an early-stage founder or just curious about what makes startups succeed, this episode offers valuable lessons and an inspiring look behind the scenes of venture capital!
Show Notes
(00:00) Introduction
(03:41) Cultural Differences in Business Pitches
(09:05) Redefining Strategy with New Terms
(13:19) How Bentonville Is a Gateway to Global Opportunities
(16:06) Scaling Success Through Talent Pools
(22:26) Business Model Transition Challenges
(27:01) Reflecting on Self-Identity
(28:29) Closing Thoughts
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Summary
In this week’s episode of Startup Junkies, host Daniel Koonce sits down with Lori Hull, founder and president of Spectrum Independence Living, better known as SpIndL. Lori shares her inspiring journey as a parent of a young adult with autism, the struggles she’s faced finding support services, and her determination to create real change in her Arkansas community.
SpIndL was founded to help neurodivergent adults, particularly those with autism, bridge the daunting gap, often called the “services cliff,” that follows high school graduation. As Lori explains, many support systems available during school years fade away in adulthood, leaving families feeling isolated and young adults without the tools they need for independent living. SpIndL steps in to provide life skills coaching, job readiness training, social opportunities, and eventually supported housing. Their goal is to help neurodivergent individuals gain confidence, find meaningful work, and live independently.
Additionally, Lori highlights the power of community alliances, affordable solutions (including scholarships for coaching classes), and the transformative impact of social events like game nights. The episode offers practical advice for caregivers, educators, and business leaders about fostering inclusivity and dismantling barriers to employment and independence. SpIndL’s vision for the next five years includes expanding job support, building alliances, and eventually creating a neurodiversity-supportive community. Tune in today!
Show Notes
(00:00) Introduction
(04:11) A Need for Affordable Transitional Programs in Arkansas
(08:17) Guided Networking for Skill Development
(10:48) Navigating School and Job Challenges
(14:08) Startup Events and Opportunities
(20:30) Independence Academy for Neurodivergent Students
(23:19) Finding Light in Caregiving Obstacles
(26:15) Closing Thoughts
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Summary
In this week’s episode of Startup Junkies, hosts Daniel Koonce, Caleb Talley, and Jeff Amerine welcome Marshall Saviers, CEO and President of Cushman & Wakefield | Sage Partners, for an in-depth conversation about commercial real estate, entrepreneurial timing, and building community in Northwest Arkansas. Marshall’s journey is rooted in real estate, inspired by his family's legacy and shaped by his diverse childhood living in multiple cities.
Moving to NWA in 2005, he witnessed firsthand the explosive regional growth that was transforming cow pastures into thriving business corridors. Early on, Sage Partners carved out a niche serving office tenants among the surge of Walmart-vendor relocations but faced severe challenges during the 2009 recession. Marshall recounted the decision to double down rather than abandon ship, fueling Sage Partners’ transition into a full-service firm spanning property management, development, and investment.
Additionally, throughout the episode culture emerged as a recurring theme; Marshall stressed hiring the right people over simply hiring for skills, refining Sage Partners’ team to maintain quality and a sense of local connection even as they scaled up to manage over six million square feet of property. The conversation also delved into his entrepreneurial adventures, like co-founding Arkansas Craft Distribution, where timing and adaptability proved critical to success.
Looking ahead, Marshall remains bullish on NWA’s prospects, identifying opportunities in redevelopment, housing, and continued community investment. His blend of commercial acumen and civic commitment is driving both urban transformation and local growth, underscoring his advice to entrepreneurs: grow intentionally and never overlook the importance of culture!
Show Notes
(00:00) Introduction
(03:28) The Regional Impact of Walmart’s Vendor Influx
(06:32) Weathering the Pandemic and Its After Effects
(09:57) Bentonville’s Development and New STEM University
(15:21) Insights on Alcohol Distribution Changes
(18:49) Forecasting Trends in Northwest Arkansas
(26:34) Empowering Sage Partners’ Next Generation
(29:28) Prioritizing Intentional Growth over Rapid Expansion
(30:05) Closing Thoughts
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Summary
En este episodio de Querido Emprendedor, Ignacio Balderrama conversa con Laura Arce, apicultora de Costa Rica. Laura estudió apicultura tropical en la Universidad Nacional de Costa Rica, donde aprendió el cuidado, manejo y beneficios de las abejas y sus productos, como miel, propóleos, polen, jalea real y veneno, todos con propiedades saludables. Destaca la comunicación única de las abejas mediante danzas para indicar la ubicación del néctar y su altruismo al sacrificarse por la colmena. Su empresa desarrolla productos naturales cosméticos y alimenticios, además de promover el turismo apícola para educar sobre la importancia ecológica de las abejas, que polinizan el 80% de los alimentos que consumimos. Laura comparte su pasión por las abejas, su formación en apicultura tropical y el valor ecológico y medicinal de los productos apícolas. Además, habla sobre los desafíos de emprender en este sector, la importancia del networking y cómo romper estigmas culturales para alcanzar el éxito empresarial
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Summary
In this week’s episode of Startup Junkies, hosts Daniel Koonce, Caleb Talley, and Jeff Amerine are joined by Steve Toth, CEO of Crestline Leaders, a company helping high-capacity leaders move their enterprises forward. Steve’s entrepreneurial journey is as hands-on as it gets. He chronicled his early days rebuilding Volkswagen motors before discussing his role in co-founding Tango Press, a corrugated packaging startup that he grew and successfully exited.
One standout insight was Steve’s emphasis on integrating people and culture strategies from the beginning. He argues that no business can thrive or be successfully exited unless it’s built on trust, documented systems, and well-defined accountability. Steve explains how risk management, strategy, and a focus on enterprise value need to be front and center, no matter your stage of growth.
Additionally, he shared advice for entrepreneurs: think about succession and exit from day one. If your business cannot thrive without you, then there’s work to be done. For anyone building a business with an eye toward value creation and longevity, Steve’s blend of practical, people-first advice and battlefield-tested experience makes this episode a must-listen!
Show Notes
(00:00) Introduction
(04:27) Building Transferable Business Value
(12:06) A Prioritized Risk Management Approach
(18:00) The Importance of Enterprise Value in Exiting
(25:33) Utilizing a Hands-On Leadership Transition
(30:00) Rethinking Work-Life Balance
(38:01) Focusing on a Growth Mindset
(40:36) Closing Thoughts
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Summary
In this week’s episode of Startup Junkies, the team welcomes Keiji Tsuchiya, founder of CaminoSake, for a fascinating conversation about bringing Japanese craft sake and its rich culture to new audiences in Northwest Arkansas and beyond.
Keiji’s journey is anything but ordinary. With roots in Kobe, Japan, and a background spanning venture capital and the foodtech sector, he has a unique vision of supporting small Japanese brewers and local specialty sake shops by expanding their reach into global markets. His story intertwines entrepreneurial grit with a passion for sharing sake’s true essence, not just as an alcoholic drink, but as a mindful, enjoyable experience.
Listeners get a taste of Keiji’s philosophy as he discusses the traditional art of sake, the nuances of hot sake preparation, and innovative food pairings that break cultural boundaries, think Arkansas fried chicken or spicy Moroccan tagine with sake! Keiji’s collaborations with local chefs, Brightwater Culinary School, and Arkansas’ own Origami Sake brewery highlight his drive to foster community and cross-cultural culinary adventures.
Bootstrapping his venture, Keiji offers honest insight into the challenges and joys of entrepreneurship, advocating for enjoying each moment and learning along the way. For food lovers, sake enthusiasts, and aspiring entrepreneurs, this episode delivers inspiration and practical wisdom. Keiji reminds us that every meal and every venture can be a little happier, one mindful sip at a time!
Show Notes
(00:00) Introduction
(05:59) Improving Hot Sake Quality Education
(08:44) Keiji’s Role in Sake Brewing
(11:47) Cross-Cultural Culinary Ventures
(14:59) Bootstrapping Challenges and Strategies
(16:45) Expanding Japanese Sake Globally
(21:39) Closing Thoughts
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Summary
In this week’s episode of Startup Junkies, program director of ARise, Kris Adams, joins hosts Daniel Koonce, Caleb Talley, and Jeff Amerine to shine a spotlight on the ARise program—a dynamic support system for tech and tech-enabled startups in Arkansas. ARise, short for Arkansas Innovators, Startups, and Entrepreneurs, delivers a unique approach by offering long-term support beyond the standard accelerator window, ensuring startups always have access to resources.
Kris shares how ARise is designed to be accessible for companies at any stage, from high school students tinkering with ideas to serial entrepreneurs developing scalable ventures. The program offers one-on-one coaching, access to capital, navigation through state and federal incentives, and connections with a vast network of subject matter experts. These experts cover everything from legal and marketing to deep tech specialties like AI, biotech, and cybersecurity.
What sets ARise apart is its flexibility; the program is industry-agnostic and can support everything from advanced manufacturing to SaaS startups and even tech-infused, e-commerce companies. For those unsure if they qualify, the ARise team is just an onboarding call away to help walk through the fit. Kris also details ARise’s commitment to growing the Arkansas entrepreneurial ecosystem, with plans for increasing program reach, gathering critical data, and fostering innovation statewide. If you’re a tech entrepreneur, no matter your age or stage, ARise is ready to help you scale your vision for free!
Show Notes
(00:00) Introduction
(06:05) ARise’s Coaching and Capital Access Resources
(10:40) Scaling Challenges for Tech Companies
(16:17) Trends in Marketing, Legal, and Capital
(19:54) Arkansas’s Capital Scan Initiative
(22:21) AI-Assisted Business Insights
(26:29) Closing Thoughts
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