Summary
In this episode of Startup Junkies, hosts Daniel Koonce and Jeff Amerine are joined by Rick West, chairman and co-founder of Field Agent, a company revolutionizing B2B retail solutions by offering an on-demand marketplace with efficient, cost-effective tools for retail professionals to evaluate in-store conditions, drive sales, understand shoppers, and generate ratings and reviews. The platform is designed to be user-friendly and affordable, allowing users to deploy solutions quickly. As an all-in-one retail toolkit, every solution in the Field Agent Marketplace can be launched with just a few clicks, in just a few minutes, for just a few dollars.
Furthermore, Rick explains his entrepreneurial journey, highlighting his early days growing up in Appalachia and his international stint with Procter & Gamble, which ignited his entrepreneurial spirit. He emphasizes that Field Agent operates in two economies: the traditional B2B model, where large companies like Walmart and Procter & Gamble hire them to collect data, and a B2C model, where everyday users download the Field Agent app to perform tasks and earn money.
The company recently underwent significant changes, including a Series B funding round and acquiring Shelfgram, enhancing Field Agent's machine learning and AI capabilities. This acquisition enables real-time data collection and predictive analytics, providing clients with a competitive edge.
Throughout the episode, Rick talks about the importance of relationships and mentorship in the business world, how he was able to develop an app that "really pays to use," and how he is adjusting to his new role within Field Agent. Tune in to learn about what the future looks like for Field Agent and to hear how you can make cold hard cash while you shop!
Show Notes
(0:00) Introduction
(0:42) Rick’s Background and Origin Story
(4:16) What’s Next for Field Agent
(7:15) Stepping Back from Day-to-Day Work
(10:58) About Field Agents and Its Recent Acquisition, Shelfgram
(16:10) Using Historical Information to Be Predictive
(21:23) The Role of Social Listening
(26:04) Field Agent’s Process: Everyday People Reviewing Products
(28:03) Rick’s New Role and What’s in the Future for Him
(30:00) Closing Question
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Summary
En este episodio de Startup Junkies En Español, conversamos con Mauricio Guerrero, propietario de 211 Café en Bentonville. Mauricio nos comparte su historia que inicia en Guatemala, su pasión por el café, las adversidades vividas y su experiencia siendo un emprendedor latino en el Noroeste de Arkansas. Hablamos sobre la transición de su carrera en el mundo corporativo, a ser un dueño de negocio y abrir su propio café, los desafíos enfrentados, y su visión para el futuro. ¡No te pierdas esta inspiradora charla sobre café, cultura y comunidad!
Show Notes
(00:04) Welcome & introduction.
(00:25) Mauricio’s story.
(01:30) A deal is a deal.
(04:50) Arrving in NW Arkansas.
(05:00) Traveling is life.
(06:31) The beginning.
(07:40) Childhood memories.
(13:20) The changing times.
(23:50) Starting a network.
(26:35) Working for free.
(31:16) Something about a name.
(35:11) The evolution of coffee.
(41:50) An important message.
(44:04) Advice from the past.
(45:05) Where can we find you?
Links
Summary
In this episode of Startup Junkies, hosts Harrison Kitson and Daniel Koonce welcome Josh Owen and Daniel Fritsche to talk about their NFT trading platform, TradePort, which is the most comprehensive multi-chain NFT aggregator for traders and developers.
Founded in 2021, TradePort is a multi-chain NFT marketplace and infrastructure company aimed at seamlessly integrating the creation, buying, selling, and bidding of digital assets across multiple blockchain networks. The company's journey began after observing the lack of documentation and infrastructure in the rapidly growing NFT space. Initially starting as a launchpad for NFT projects, TradePort evolved into an aggregator, integrating supply from multiple marketplaces and developing a universal data model for digital assets.
A standout goal for TradePort is to dominate the NFT marketplace by commanding ninety-four percent of transaction volume while continually increasing supply in the order book. They also aim to bring real-world assets on-chain, thereby serving as the core infrastructure for tokenizing real-world items such as traditional watch dealers' assets. Their long-term vision includes expanding to all relevant NFT chains and becoming a programmatic interface for all digital assets, including decentralized finance (DeFi). By facilitating transparent provenance and reducing dependency on traditional gatekeepers in asset validation, TradePort aspires to transform how assets are managed and traded globally.
Throughout the episode, Daniel and Josh give an inside look at their journeys and how they first became involved in the cryptocurrency space as a hobby to how they were able to monetize this shared interest. They also explain what NFTs are, what makes them unique, and how you can trade them on TradePort. Tune into this episode to learn about Crypto and the future of NFTs!
Show Notes
(0:00) Introduction
(1:00) Daniel, Josh, and TradePort’s Backstory
(8:02) Venturing into the NFT Space Early
(12:50) What Makes an NFT Unique
(14:49) About TradePort
(21:41) Educating People on NFTs
(25:22) The TradePort Experience
(26:09) An NFT Success Story
(28:05) What’s Next for TradePort
(33:59) Exploring Potential Privacy Issues
(36:21) Advice to Younger Selves
(38:43) Closing Question
Links
Summary
In this episode of Startup Junkies, hosts Harrison Kitson and Caleb Talley dive into the innovative Carbon Chicken Project with Turner Tomlinson, Jody Hardin, and Richard Ims. These pioneers are at the forefront of renewable agriculture, utilizing biochar and up-cycled poultry litter to revolutionize farming practices.
Turner Tomlinson, with a background in chemical engineering and water management, underscores the importance of addressing the issue of excess poultry litter. Therefore, the Carbon Chicken Project involves upcycling this poultry litter using pyrolysis technology to produce bioenergy, thus establishing a carbon-negative farming ecosystem that combats climate change by promoting regenerative farming practices and carbon sequestration.
Jody Hardin, a fifth-generation farmer, introduces the vision of creating the first carbon-registered project in Northwest Arkansas. This initiative aims to enable local companies to offset their carbon footprints while revolutionizing agriculture.
Lastly, Richard Ims brings his entrepreneurial experience to the discussion, emphasizing the commercial viability and diverse applications of biochar in increasing feed efficiency and water retention. Their target customers range from backyard gardeners to commercial farmers, showcasing the product’s versatility.
Throughout the episode, Turner, Jody, and Richard share their motivations, the challenges they face, and the innovative solutions they're implementing to create a meaningful impact on the environment. Join us for an inspiring conversation about the future of agriculture and our role in combating climate change!
Show Notes
(0:00) Introduction
(0:59) Turner’s Background
(2:19) About Jody
(3:57) Richard’s Origin Story
(7:25) The Genesis of the Carbon Chicken Project
(19:22) Potential Markets for the Carbon Chicken Project
(21:59) Exploring the Carbon Chicken Project’s Mission and Legacy
(28:32) Multifaceted Problem Solving
(33:17) The Carbon Chicken Project’s Ideal Customer
(35:21) Why the Carbon Chicken Project’s Product is Emerging Now
(39:29) Advice to Younger Selves
(42:34) Closing Question
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Summary
En este episodio, nos sumergimos en la inspiradora historia de Diego Morales Ibarra, un líder comunitario dedicado y multifacético. Diego, originario de Guanajuato, México, nos comparte su viaje desde sus inicios hasta convertirse en una figura clave en el desarrollo económico y comunitario de Arkansas. Exploramos cómo su paciencia y perseverancia han sido fundamentales en su rol como Director Adjunto en Conexión de Negocios Latinos y fundador de DIMORI Services LLC. A través de sus experiencias en el Consulado Mexicano y el ASBTDC, Diego nos demuestra cómo el tiempo y la dedicación pueden transformar comunidades y abrir nuevas oportunidades para las poblaciones minoritarias. No te pierdas esta conversación llena de aprendizajes sobre el poder de la paciencia en la construcción de un mejor futuro.
Show Notes
(00:05) Welcome & introduction.
(00:49) Your story.
(03:07) It’s a health thing.
(06:43) Life after the consulate.
(07:18) Being the boss.
(10:43) El mercadito.
(11:36) Initial advice.
(13:51) Networking?
(15:08) The inspiration.
(16:51) Latino growth.
(19:23) Significant challenge.
(29:54) Arkansas Latino Business Awards.
(29:54) Advice from the past.
Links
Summary
In this week’s episode of Startup Junkies, hosts Caleb Talley and Daniel Koonce are joined by Rachel Heisten and Alissa Owsley, founding partners of LifeWork Talent, a consulting service helping organizations unlock the power of their people by building a culture where individuals thrive, enjoy the best experience, and develop exceptional human skills.
Alissa and Rachel, who initially met while working in human resources in 2011, speak candidly about the challenges and rewards of practicing what they preach as business advisors, sharing the importance of taking time to appreciate the present and redefine traditional notions of success. LifeWork Talent focuses on customized talent management services, encompassing workshops, executive coaching, and strategic partnerships, to intertwine life with work and inspire positive change in organizational cultures.
Additionally, Rachel and Alissa underscore the significance of flexibility, adaptability, and continuous learning in their entrepreneurial journey, rejecting the societal trope that entrepreneurship is an inherent quality. They also address imposter syndrome, urging listeners to embrace and navigate the challenge of enjoying work without it becoming their identity.
Throughout the episode, we dive into Rachel and Alissa’s inspiring journey of two close friends and former corporate professionals who transitioned from the structured environment of a large corporation to founding their own consulting business. Rachel and Alissa share their origin stories, the obstacles they faced during the pandemic, and how an intervention from friends and mentors pushed them to pursue their dreams. Furthermore, they offer valuable perspectives on personal growth, the challenges of starting a business, and the importance of staying true to one's values while navigating the business world. Tune in to see our guests put Life before Work!
Show Notes
(0:00) Introduction to Rachel and Alissa
(1:11) Rachel, Alissa, and LifeWork’s Origin Story
(6:21) Recognizing and Addressing Unmet Needs
(10:25) The Shifting Mindset of Job Security Post Pandemic
(16:17) About LifeWork’s Services
(19:28) Combating Imposter Syndrome
(23:22) Navigating the Good and Bad of Entrepreneurship
(29:11) Differentiating between Purpose and Identity
(33:02) How Rachel and Alissa Define Winning
(37:33) Managing the Growth of a Business
(42:23) Advice to Younger Selves
(47:01) Closing Question
Links
Rachel Heisten (rachel@lifeworktalent.com)
Summary
Join our hosts Caleb Talley, Jeff Amerine, and Daniel Koonce in this episode of Startup Junkies as we explore the fascinating world of sleep therapy with Elsbeth Fast, a dedicated entrepreneur transforming lives through innovative sleep solutions. Elsbeth is the founder of True Sleep Therapy, a private practice specializing in cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBTI).
Elsbeth’s career began in clinical settings, focusing predominantly on veterans struggling with PTSD and insomnia at the Veterans Healthcare System in Fayetteville, Arkansas. Here, she became a national trainer for the Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBTI) program. Moving into the civilian sector, she founded True Sleep Therapy to provide CBTI to a broader population. Her work primarily involves addressing sleep disorders, using evidence-based techniques to aid individuals in improving their sleep hygiene without the reliance on medications.
Beyond her clinical skills, Elsbeth had to quickly learn the non-clinical aspects of running a business—skills such as budgeting, business planning, and social media marketing. Throughout the episode, she shares her journey of founding a successful sleep therapy practice, the challenges she faced, and the triumphs she celebrated along the way. Discover the unique techniques and strategies she employs to help clients achieve better sleep, and gain valuable insights into the business side of health and wellness.
This episode is a must-listen for aspiring entrepreneurs in the therapeutic field and anyone interested in improving their sleep health!
Show Notes
(0:00) Introduction to Elsbeth Fast
(0:56) About True Sleep Therapy
(2:03) Defining Cognitive Based Therapy
(10:44) Tips and Tricks for Getting Better Sleep
(12:16) Elsbeth’s Origin Story
(24:52) How Insomnia Is Detrimental to Health
(29:30) How Lucid Dreaming Correlates to Proper Sleep
(35:15) Navigating the Obligations of Business Ownership
(39:42) Advice to Younger Self
(40:46) Closing Question
Links
Summary
On episode 5 of Business Buzz, host Daniel Koonce welcomes Fayetteville’s own Lewis Chase, one of the founders of Feed and Folly, City Park, and Guisinger Cocktail Club. Daniel and Lewis discuss Lewis’s background, his relationship with his business partners, and the origin of “the Dudes of Folly.” Lewis talks about what inspired him to start each new venture and how he is able to bring something unique to Fayetteville every time. Tune in to learn about the importance of your business’s location, prices, and culture. Lewis dives into his most recent venture, the Guisinger Cocktail Club and explains how he was able to create such a creative menu and a unique customer experience.
Thank you to Fossil Cove Brewing Co. for sponsoring this episode! If you want to learn more about Fossil Cove, go to www.FossilCoveBrewing.com.
Links
Summary
En este emocionante episodio, nos acompaña Azalia Molina, la talentosa dueña de Clever NWA, una destacada agencia de marketing que ha revolucionado el panorama empresarial. Azalia nos guía a través de su increíble viaje, compartiendo cómo convirtió su pasión en un negocio exitoso. Descubre los secretos detrás de su impresionante trayectoria empresarial y aprende de su experiencia única como emprendedora latina.
A lo largo de la conversación, Azalia ofrece valiosos consejos para aquellos que buscan iniciar y hacer crecer su propia empresa, destacando la importancia de la perseverancia, la innovación y la conexión con la comunidad. Además, exploramos el enorme potencial de las conexiones en el Noroeste de Arkansas (NWA) y cómo estas pueden ser un motor fundamental para impulsar tu éxito.
No te pierdas esta conversación llena de conocimientos, estrategias y motivación que te inspirará a seguir tus sueños y alcanzar nuevas alturas. Ya seas un aspirante a emprendedor o alguien en busca de inspiración, este episodio te proporcionará las herramientas y la confianza necesarias para avanzar en tu camino empresarial.
Show Notes
(00:24) Welcome & introduction.
(01:32) The beginning.
(02:43) Art into business.
(03:41) What is your favorite art outlet?
(04:47) My first piece of art.
(05:52) Business challenges and achievements.
(09:50) A valuable lesson.
(11:47) The greatest challenge of starting a business.
(17:05) Sound advice.
(19:15) A balancing act.
(24:12) Where can we find you?
(24:39) What is next?
(25:38) Advice from the past.
Links
Summary
In this episode of the Startup Junkies Podcast, hosts Caleb Talley and Harrison Kitson welcome two dynamic companies making waves in the outdoor and creative content industry: Blk Elk Media and LIVSN Designs. Joined by Andrew Gibbs-Dabney from LIVSN and Daniel Mitchell and Trent Sugg of BLK ELK, this engaging conversation dives into the origin stories of these innovative brands, their journey in Northwest Arkansas, and how they have managed to grow and thrive in a supportive entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Founded in 2018, LIVSN is a company using natural and technical materials to create sustainable, high-quality outdoor clothing with classic styling and a modern fit. Additionally, BLK ELK is a production company specializing in outdoor and adventure content, focusing on working with brands in the outdoor industry. The collaborations between LIVSN and BLK ELK have resulted in some of the most successful Kickstarter campaigns in Arkansas.
Throughout the episode, Andrew, Daniel, and Trent discuss how Northwest Arkansas has become a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, how storytelling has been instrumental in both businesses' growth, and what’s in store for both companies' futures. From production challenges to the importance of community engagement, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Show Notes
(0:00) Introduction to Andrew, Daniel, and Trent
(1:44) About BLK ELK and Its Origin Story
(3:00) LIVSN’s Origin Story
(4:49) BLK ELK and LIVSN’s Collaboration
(7:11) Working Within NWA’s Entrepreneurial Ecosystem
(12:36) How NWA’s Outdoor Scene Has Developed
(19:54) About the Well Worn Life Documentary Series
(27:13) Exploring LIVSN and BLK ELK’s Fifth Kickstarter Campaign
(30:38) Advice for Successful Kickstarter Campaigns
(35:57) What’s Next for BLK ELK and LIVSN
(46:11) Advice to Younger Selves
(53:06) Closing Question
Links
Summary
In this episode of the Startup Junkies Podcast, hosts Jeff Amerine, Caleb Talley, and Harrison Kitson are joined by Travis Hester, founder of Eat My Catfish, a successful catfish and seafood restaurant in Fayetteville, Arkansas. Inspired by his love for cooking and his culinary background, Travis established Eat My Catfish fifteen years ago, which has now blossomed into a thriving chain of eight restaurants and four food trucks.
Travis discusses the transition from a food truck to a brick-and-mortar store, highlighting one of the pivotal moments in expanding Eat My Catfish when a friend suggested crawfish. Implementing this suggestion led to skyrocketing sales, with the restaurant eventually sourcing over one hundred thousand pounds of crawfish annually. Travis credits Eat My Catfish’s farm-to-table approach and commitment to fresh ingredients as defining factors in its success.
In addition to business insights, Travis underscores the importance of striking a balance in life, valuing his roles as a father, husband, and employer, and illustrates a heartfelt customer story, signifying the profound bond between his business and the community. He also mentions their involvement in educational initiatives, like school visits to teach children about crawfish, emphasizing his and the restaurant’s commitment to giving back.
During the episode, Travis shares his entrepreneurial journey, including navigating challenges, embracing opportunities, and building a thriving business. Through his candid storytelling, he highlights the importance of hard work, positivity, and giving back to the community, offering valuable insights into entrepreneurship, leadership, and the resilience required to overcome adversity.
Show Notes
(0:00) Introduction to Travis Hester
(0:59) Eat My Catfish’s Origin Story
(3:52) From Food Truck to Brick and Mortar
(11:58) Finding Confidence to Begin
(14:46) What’s Next for Eat My Catfish
(20:58) Eat My Catfish’s Arkansas Business of the Year Award
(25:30) Eat My Catfish Customer Stories
(30:16) Advice to Younger Self
(31:56) Closing Question
Links
Summary
Join hosts Jeff Amerine, Caleb Talley, and Harrison Kitson on this episode of Startup Junkies as they dive into the world of storytelling and book publishing with Michael DeLon, #1 Amazon Best-Selling author of On Marketing, creator of The Credibility Game Plan, and founder of Paperback Expert. Paperback Expert equips entrepreneurs with marketing strategies to attract more clients, and guarantees business growth if clients adhere to their system, demonstrating a book's versatility in attracting leads, converting sales, and generating referrals.
By using Paperback Expert’s proprietary “speak-to-write” process, business owners can create their own book in under a day. Through a series of structured phone calls, Paperback Expert helps clients outline their book, record their book, and publish their book. Then, once their book is published, Paperback Expert shows them how to use their book to position themselves as an expert in their industry. Until now, having your own book was either too difficult or too expensive, but that’s no longer the case with Paperback Expert.
Throughout the episode, Michael shares his inspiring journey, from ministry to entrepreneurship, and the pivotal role a book played in establishing his expertise. He also explores the step-by-step process of turning your ideas into a published work, leveraging your book as a powerful marketing tool, and building a lasting legacy for generations to come. Listen today and discover how crafting your unique story and publishing a book can transform your credibility, attract more clients, and elevate your business.
Show Notes
(0:00) Introduction to Michael DeLon
(1:04) Michael’s Origin Story
(5:39) About Paperback Expert and Its Clients
(6:46) The Process of Writing a Book with Paperback Expert
(8:29) Increasing Brand Awareness with Digital Platforms
(10:49) Connecting with Clients and Marketing their Books
(15:09) Balancing Life with a Family Run Business
(20:57) Overcoming Obstacles in Business
(28:40) What’s in the Future for Paperback Expert
(31:19) Advice to Younger Self
(33:28) Closing Question
Links
On Marketing: The Definitive Guide for Small Business Owners
Summary
En este episodio de Startup Junkie en Español, nos acompaña Geovanny Sarmiento, de la Cámara de Comercio de Rogers-Lowell. Geovanny profundiza en la importancia de mantener una mente abierta en el camino del emprendimiento. Destaca cómo los emprendedores pueden beneficiarse al buscar y valorar recomendaciones no solo de amigos y familiares, sino también de desconocidos y expertos en diferentes campos. A través de su experiencia y conocimientos, Geovanny nos ofrece estrategias prácticas para integrar diversas perspectivas en la toma de decisiones empresariales. Descubre cómo abrirte a nuevas ideas y enfoques puede impulsar la innovación y el crecimiento de tu negocio. ¡No te pierdas esta inspiradora y educativa conversación que te ayudará a transformar tu enfoque emprendedor y llevar tu startup al siguiente nivel!
Show Notes
(00:05) Welcome and introductions
(00:32) About Geovanny Sarmiento
(02:38) How Geovanny ended up in Northwest Arkansas
(05:45) Defining community
(09:28) General necessities
(14:16) Building trust
(24:10) The Spanish advantage
(32:50) Advice to past self
(41:09) Closing question
Links
Summary
On this episode of Startup Junkies, hosts Caleb Talley and Harrison Kitson are joined by Kenny Tomlin, serial entrepreneur and co-founder of CourtAvenue, a cutting-edge digital transformation company. Founded in 2020, Court Avenue, headquartered in Austin, partners with Fortune 500 clients to harness emerging technologies, transforming client interactions, and optimizing business operations. Its focus has increasingly shifted towards AI-driven solutions, helping companies adapt and innovate in an ever-accelerating tech landscape.
A key facet of CourtAvenue’s strategy is its selective approach to incubating boutique services and technologies. This includes ventures like an experiential design business and a platform focused on conversational commerce using AI. By incubating these specialized entities, CourtAvenue not only addresses immediate market needs but also anticipates future technological trends. Kenny’s broader vision for Court Avenue includes potential expansion into new markets such as Latin America, Asia, and Europe, signifying a commitment to global growth. Additionally, CourtAvenue’s selective nature regarding co-founding and incubating entities ensures each venture aligns with its core values and strategic objectives.
In this conversation, Kenny offers advice on identifying opportunities within emerging technologies like AI, navigating the evolving digital landscape, and the essential mindset required for long-term entrepreneurial success. Drawing from his experiences at the forefront of digital innovation, including founding and selling companies like Rockfish, Kenny highlights the paramount importance of building strong relationships, continuous learning, and embracing the unpredictable nature of entrepreneurship.
Show Notes
(0:00) Introduction to Kenny Tomlin
(6:40) Navigating the Digital Transformation
(9:42) About CourtAvenue
(13:29) The Process of Incubating Companies
(17:26) Kenny’s Entrepreneurial Experience
(25:35) What Winning Looks Like to Kenny
(29:28) CourtAvenue’s Future Vision
(32:45) Advice to Younger Self
(39:38) Closing Question
Links
Summary
On Episode 4 of the latest Startup Junkie Podcast Series, host Daniel Koonce welcomes the founder of Scarlet Letter Beverage Co., Jesse Core. Daniel and Jesse discuss how Core Brewing developed into Scarlet Letter Beverage Co. Jesse dives into how his team approaches flavor innovation, their partnership with Sam’s Club, and how he modernized brewing in Northwest Arkansas. Join us to learn how to listen to the data to figure out what the consumer wants, how to get over the hump of growing pains and establish the right capacity and resources to get out ahead of growing demand, and how to follow market trends. Tune in to hear about Scarlet Letter’s newest product hitting the market this summer.
Links