Episodes
22 hours ago
22 hours ago
In Episode 047 of the #kilnroadtrip, created and produced by The Swell Pod, hosts Spencer McKeown and Josh Taylor interview Bryan Conklin, CEO & President of Simuwatt. Conklin discusses his transition from management consulting to clean tech, his passion for sustainability, and the functionality of Simuwatt's software platform, Buildee, which aims to reduce decarbonization and enhance energy savings. He shares insights from his 18-month tenure at Simuwatt, emphasizing the importance of emotional intelligence in leadership and the benefits of Kiln's community for networking and resource efficiency. Conklin also recommends visiting the nearby mountains and offers advice to entrepreneurs on personal development.
Check out today’s episode and every other installment of the Kiln.Roadtrip by listening, watching, and subscribing to the podcast here - https://linktr.ee/theswellpod
simuwatt.com - Simuwatt produces the buildee SaaS-based energy efficiency software platform used to easily analyze, benchmark, and prioritize energy saving and decarbonization opportunities more quickly, less expensively, and with better results for commercial, multi-family, and light industrial portfolio owners. buildee® makes the “E” in ESG and compliance reporting actionable by streamlining the data collection of energy consuming equipment in the building portfolio without costly control or monitoring systems, and leveraging an analysis engine to identify and prioritize energy efficiency opportunities based on key metrics and formulate those actions into a multi-year capital, energy savings, and decarbonization plan.
Location: Kiln. Boulder
The Kiln Road Trip: Uncovering Deep Truths with 100 Pleasantly Rebellious Humans. 10 days. 5 States. 3,580 Miles.100 Interviews! Daily episodes starting on March 5, Monday to Friday, for the next 100 days, followed by a short documentary and a book about the journey.
Thank you to the partners and sponsors who made the kiln.roadtrip possible: KILN, MOTERRA, TORUS
And thank you to the crew who helped us document and share the journey: DENISSE LEON, TY COTTLE, NATHAN CLARK, FINDLAY MCKEOWN
Bullets:
Interview with Bryan Conklin, CEO and President of Simuwatt
Discussion about Simuwatt's software platform called Buildee
Bryan Conklin's background and transition into clean tech
Use cases of Simuwatt's platform for different target customers
Origins of Simuwatt and its connection to the National Renewable Energy Lab (NREL)
Challenges and learnings in Bryan Conklin's role as CEO and President
Role of Kiln in supporting Simuwatt's operations
Recommendations for places to visit in the area
Advice for entrepreneurs based on Bryan Conklin's experience
Importance of emotional intelligence in entrepreneurship and tips for developing it
Timestamps:
The kiln road trip (00:00:03) Introduction to the podcast episode and the purpose of the journey.
Interview with Bryan Conklin (00:00:54) Introduction of Bryan Conklin, CEO and President of Simuwatt, and his company's focus on energy efficiency and decarbonization.
Bryan Conklin's background and journey into clean tech (00:01:44) Bryan Conklin's background and transition into clean tech, driven by his passion for sustainability and the potential for business and sustainability to be closely linked.
Introduction to Simuwatt's software platform, Buildee (00:03:13) Explanation of Simuwatt's software platform, Buildee, and its focus on energy efficiency and decarbonization in the built environment.
Simuwatt's growth and challenges (00:04:17) Discussion of Simuwatt's growth, challenges in the capital markets, and the need to support energy efficiency and decarbonization across different sectors.
Customer use cases and feedback (00:07:15) Explanation of how Simuwatt's platform addresses pain points for different types of clients and customer feedback on the product.
Role of Kiln in supporting Simuwatt (00:11:48) Bryan Conklin's discussion of how Kiln has supported Simuwatt's work, including networking, resource utilization, and team cohesion.
Advice on creating a movement and expanding emotional intelligence (00:18:54) Bryan Conklin's advice on expanding emotional intelligence among leadership and teams to create impactful outcomes and the training required to develop this skill set.
Simuwatt's Mission (00:22:05) Bryan Conklin discusses Simuwatt's mission to decrease decarbonization and capture energy savings in the built environment.
Tags:
#SwellPod, #KilnRoadTrip, #Kiln, #MotorraCamperVans, #podcast, #interview, #innovation, #resilience, #communitybuilding, #passion, #purpose, #community, #diversity, #collaboration, #thoughtleadership, #100interviews, #entrepreneur, #CEO, #leadership
2 days ago
2 days ago
In Episode 046 of the #kilnroadtrip, created and produced by The Swell Pod, hosts Spencer McKeown and Josh Taylor interview Haley Halteman, Brand Manager at Origine. They discuss Origine's mission to produce organic, regenerative spices, herbs, and botanicals, and the challenges they face entering the US market. The conversation also touches on the importance of storytelling and education in establishing a strong brand identity.
Check out today’s episode and every other installment of the Kiln.Roadtrip by listening, watching, and subscribing to the podcast here - https://linktr.ee/theswellpod
origine.com - Organic, regeneratively cultivated spices, herbs, and botanicals.
Location: Kiln. Boulder
The Kiln Road Trip: Uncovering Deep Truths with 100 Pleasantly Rebellious Humans. 10 days. 5 States. 3,580 Miles.100 Interviews! Daily episodes starting on March 5, Monday to Friday, for the next 100 days, followed by a short documentary and a book about the journey.
Thank you to the partners and sponsors who made the kiln.roadtrip possible: KILN, MOTERRA, TORUS
And thank you to the crew who helped us document and share the journey: DENISSE LEON, TY COTTLE, NATHAN CLARK, FINDLAY MCKEOWN
Bullets:
Kiln Road Trip: journey across five states to interview 100 individuals challenging the status quo
Interview with Haley Halteman, brand manager for Origine
Origine's mission: producing organic regenerative cultivated spices, herbs, and botanicals
Challenges in launching in the US market
Importance of storytelling and education in building a strong brand
Timestamps:
The Kiln Road Trip (00:00:03) Introduction to the podcast series and its purpose to interview 100 individuals challenging the status quo.
Haley's Role and Origine's Mission (00:00:53) Introduction to Haley Halteman, the brand manager for Origine, and the company's mission to provide organic regenerative cultivated spices, herbs, and botanicals.
Origine's Background and Products (00:01:57) Discussion about the company's history, founders, and the products it offers, including vanilla, cinnamon, butterfly pea, and turmeric.
Launching in the US Market (00:03:41) Challenges and strategies for launching Origine's products in the saturated US market, focusing on refining the message, product offering, and educating consumers about regenerative agriculture.
Personal Journey and Career Shift (00:05:18) Haley's personal journey from nutritionist and yoga teacher to becoming the brand manager for Origine, driven by passion and interest in the company's mission.
Challenges in the Market and Education Efforts (00:08:32) Challenges faced in the market saturation and the importance of educating consumers about regenerative agriculture to build demand and differentiate the brand.
Storytelling and Building Consumer Connection (00:11:00) The use of storytelling, farmer connection through QR codes, and building consumer loyalty by connecting them with the people behind the products.
Building a Strong Brand (00:12:55) The importance of specific messaging, authenticity, and passion in creating a strong brand.
Role of Film and Creativity (00:13:39) The role of film in showcasing the company's work and the impact of the community on sparking creativity.
Creating a Movement (00:18:17) The significance of having a supportive team and moral support in turning an idea into a movement.
Tags:
#SwellPod, #KilnRoadTrip, #Kiln, #MotorraCamperVans, #podcast, #interview, #innovation, #resilience, #communitybuilding, #passion, #purpose, #community, #diversity, #collaboration, #thoughtleadership, #100interviews, #entrepreneur, #CEO, #leadership
3 days ago
3 days ago
In Episode 045 of the #kilnroadtrip, created and produced by The Swell Pod, hosts Spencer McKeown and Josh Taylor interview Alan Clarke, Chief Strategy & Product Director at Ayyeka. Alan discusses his company's work in providing IoT and AI solutions to help cities manage environmental impacts. He shares his journey from running an environmental monitoring company in South America to joining Ayyeka to expand into the US market.
Check out today’s episode and every other installment of the Kiln.Roadtrip by listening, watching, and subscribing to the podcast here - https://linktr.ee/theswellpod
ayyeka.com - The best data creation, management, and utilization for remote infrastructure assets
Location: Kiln. Boulder
The Kiln Road Trip: Uncovering Deep Truths with 100 Pleasantly Rebellious Humans. 10 days. 5 States. 3,580 Miles.100 Interviews! Daily episodes starting on March 5, Monday to Friday, for the next 100 days, followed by a short documentary and a book about the journey.
Thank you to the partners and sponsors who made the kiln.roadtrip possible: KILN, MOTERRA, TORUS
And thank you to the crew who helped us document and share the journey: DENISSE LEON, TY COTTLE, NATHAN Clarke, FINDLAY MCKEOWN
Bullets:
Kiln Road Trip: A journey across five states to interview 100 individuals challenging the status quo
Interview with Alan Clarke, Chief Strategy and Project Director for Ayyeka
Ayyeka's focus on providing solutions for water, energy, and environmental infrastructure using IoT and AI technologies
Discussion on the challenges of creating something new and impactful
Alan Clarke's role in Ayyeka and the innovative solutions they provide
Alan's background and interest in environmentally friendly products and monitoring
Impact of Ayyeka's work in South America
Challenges faced by Ayyeka and future innovations
Timestamps:
The Kiln Road Trip (00:00:03) Introduction to the podcast series and the purpose of the road trip, covering the challenge to interview 100 individuals.
Alan Clark's Introduction (00:00:54) Introduction of Alan Clarke, Chief Strategy and Project Director for Ayyeka, and his role in providing solutions for water, energy, and environmental infrastructure.
IOT and AI for Environmental Issues (00:02:06) Discussion on the use of IoT and AI for collecting and processing data to mitigate environmental impacts in cities.
Company Founding and Evolution (00:04:00) Alan Clarke's explanation of the founding of Ayyeka, its unique device, and the company's evolution over the years.
Alan Clark's Background (00:06:10) Alan Clarke's background, from childhood to his work experience in various countries and the founding of his previous company in South America.
Impact of Environmental Monitoring (00:09:16) Discussion on the impact of Ayyeka's equipment on the environment and the significance of environmental monitoring.
Challenges and Future Innovations (00:11:49) Challenges faced by Ayyeka in keeping up with evolving technologies and a sneak peek into future innovations related to low-earth orbit satellites and LTE connectivity.
Kiln's Role for ICA (00:15:33) Discussion on the role of Kiln as an ecosystem for ambitious individuals and a supportive environment for scaling the company.
Creating a Movement (00:20:25) Alan Clarke's perspective on the importance of creating something with a positive impact on humanity to drive passion and innovation.
Tags:
#SwellPod, #KilnRoadTrip, #Kiln, #MotorraCamperVans, #podcast, #interview, #innovation, #resilience, #communitybuilding, #passion, #purpose, #community, #diversity, #collaboration, #thoughtleadership, #100interviews, #entrepreneur, #CEO, #leadership
Tuesday May 07, 2024
Unveiling Fiddle: Redefining Inventory Management for the Modern Era
Tuesday May 07, 2024
Tuesday May 07, 2024
In Episode 044 of the #kilnroadtrip, created and produced by The Swell Pod, hosts Spencer McKeown and Josh Taylor interview Morgan Gilliam from Fiddle during their Kiln Road Trip. They discuss the inception of Fiddle, a cloud-based inventory management software, and its impact on small to medium-sized CPG companies. Morgan shares his journey from sports management to software entrepreneurship and the evolution of Fiddle. The conversation covers the challenges of software development with a lean team, the shift towards sustainable profitability in the industry, and Fiddle's future goals, including AI integration.
Check out today’s episode and every other installment of the Kiln.Roadtrip by listening, watching, and subscribing to the podcast here - https://linktr.ee/theswellpod
Fiddle: Inventory ops for CPG brands & manufacturers
fiddle.io
Location: Kiln. Provo
The Kiln Road Trip: Uncovering Deep Truths with 100 Pleasantly Rebellious Humans. 10 days. 5 States. 3,580 Miles.100 Interviews! Daily episodes starting on March 5, Monday to Friday, for the next 100 days, followed by a short documentary and a book about the journey.
Thank you to the partners and sponsors who made the kiln.roadtrip possible: KILN, MOTERRA, TORUS
And thank you to the crew who helped us document and share the journey: DENISSE LEON, TY COTTLE, NATHAN CLARK, FINDLAY MCKEOWN
Bullets:
Fiddle: Modern cloud-based software for inventory tracking and production processes
Challenges faced by small to medium-sized consumer packaged goods (CPG) companies and startup entrepreneurs
Fiddle's impact on a small toothpaste and gum company in California
Origins of Fiddle and its development
Morgan Gilliam's background in sports management and entrepreneurship
Changing landscape of software development
Challenges of building complex software with a small team
Fiddle's vision for the future and integration of AI functionality
Importance of gaining attention for new ideas and working in a collaborative environment
Timestamps:
The kiln road trip (00:00:03) Introduction to the podcast episode and the purpose of the kiln road trip.
Interview with Morgan Gilliam (00:00:53) Introduction of Morgan Gilliam, co-founder of Fiddle, a software company, and discussion about the company's services.
Background and journey to Fiddle (00:03:07) Morgan Gilliam's background in sports management and the journey that led to the creation of Fiddle.
Challenges and strategy for Fiddle (00:07:33) Discussion about the challenges and strategies for Fiddle, particularly focusing on profitability and product management.
Future vision and working at Kiln (00:10:55) Morgan Gilliam's vision for Fiddle in the next 3 to 5 years and the benefits of working at Kiln.
Creating a movement and sponsors (00:12:56) Morgan Gilliam's perspective on creating a movement
Conclusion and contact information (00:17:40) Closing remarks by Morgan Gilliam and information on how to contact Fiddle.
Tags:
#SwellPod, #KilnRoadTrip, #Kiln, #MotorraCamperVans, #podcast, #interview, #innovation, #resilience, #communitybuilding, #passion, #purpose, #community, #diversity, #collaboration, #thoughtleadership, #100interviews, #entrepreneur, #CEO, #leadership
Monday May 06, 2024
How Can Posture Help You Become an Elite Communicator?
Monday May 06, 2024
Monday May 06, 2024
In Episode 043 of the #kilnroadtrip, created and produced by The Swell Pod, hosts Spencer McKeown and Josh Taylor interview Robbie Law, CEO of Posture, on their journey across five states. They explore how Posture empowers people to become elite communicators and drive revenue through speaking engagements. The conversation delves into creating movements and building communities, drawing insights from Law's experiences as a founder.
Check out today’s episode and every other installment of the Kiln.Roadtrip by listening, watching, and subscribing to the podcast here - https://linktr.ee/theswellpod
Postur helps to confidently build your influence, your business, and your life, by becoming an "Elite Communicator." Our platform sales presentation methodology is designed to build your confidence, improve your career, and create powerful relationships in your life.
therobbielaw.com
https://youtube.com/@therobbielaw.?si=oeKSdxaKHnXaVd43
Location: Kiln. Provo
The Kiln Road Trip: Uncovering Deep Truths with 100 Pleasantly Rebellious Humans. 10 days. 5 States. 3,580 Miles.100 Interviews! Daily episodes starting on March 5, Monday to Friday, for the next 100 days, followed by a short documentary and a book about the journey.
Thank you to the partners and sponsors who made the kiln.roadtrip possible: KILN, MOTERRA, TORUS
And thank you to the crew who helped us document and share the journey: DENISSE LEON, TY COTTLE, NATHAN CLARK, FINDLAY MCKEOWN
Bullets:
Interview with Robbie Law, founder and CEO of Posture
Posture's focus on helping individuals become elite communicators and drive revenue through speaking engagements
Timestamps:
The Kiln Road Trip (00:00:03) Introduction to the journey and purpose of interviewing 100 individuals to uncover insights about creating movements and communities.
Robbie Law's Introduction (00:00:54) Introduction to Robbie Law, founder and CEO of Posture, and his company's focus on helping individuals become elite communicators and drive revenue through speaking engagements.
Robbie Law's Services (00:01:55) Explanation of how Robbie Law's company, Posture, helps individuals improve their speaking skills and drive revenue from events.
Common Flaw in Speakers (00:03:07) Discussion about the common flaw of speakers attempting to gain credibility quickly and the importance of establishing credibility effectively.
Impact of Kiln Community (00:04:48) Robbie Law's testimony of the positive impact and sense of community experienced at Kiln co-working spaces.
Transition from Speaking to Coaching (00:10:33) Robbie Law's transition from being a speaker to coaching others, driven by a desire to have a positive impact and prioritize family.
Creating a Movement (00:17:17) Discussion about taking an idea and turning it into a movement, setting proper expectations, and the importance of mentors.
Navigating the Process (00:19:11) Emphasizing the need to understand the process and having readiness, the role of mentors, and managing advice from experienced individuals.
Tags:
#SwellPod, #KilnRoadTrip, #Kiln, #MotorraCamperVans, #podcast, #interview, #innovation, #resilience, #communitybuilding, #passion, #purpose, #community, #diversity, #collaboration, #thoughtleadership, #100interviews, #entrepreneur, #CEO, #leadership
Friday May 03, 2024
Friday May 03, 2024
In Episode 042 of the #kilnroadtrip, created and produced by The Swell Pod, hosts Spencer McKeown and Josh Taylor interview Derrin Hill, the founder and CEO of RevRoad. The discussion centers on RevRoad's commitment to assisting entrepreneurs in maximizing their company's potential. They delve into the various challenges and opportunities present within the entrepreneurial landscape. The episode is a blend of insights and experiences shared by the team at RevRoad, providing valuable perspectives for budding and established entrepreneurs alike.
Check out today’s episode and every other installment of the Kiln.Roadtrip by listening, watching, and subscribing to the podcast here - https://linktr.ee/theswellpod
RevRoad: It’s time to realize the full value of your company. Over the course of two years, RevRoad provides life-changing opportunities for founders to scale their companies with speed and confidence. Work shoulder-to-shoulder with business experts who can get you where you want to go while you stay in the driver’s seat.
revroad.com
Location: Kiln. Provo
The Kiln Road Trip: Uncovering Deep Truths with 100 Pleasantly Rebellious Humans. 10 days. 5 States. 3,580 Miles.100 Interviews! Daily episodes starting on March 5, Monday to Friday, for the next 100 days, followed by a short documentary and a book about the journey.
Thank you to the partners and sponsors who made the kiln.roadtrip possible: KILN, MOTERRA, TORUS
And thank you to the crew who helped us document and share the journey: DENISSE LEON, TY COTTLE, NATHAN CLARK, FINDLAY MCKEOWN
Bullets:
Interview with Derrin Hill, founder and CEO of RevRoad
RevRoad's mission to help entrepreneurs realize the full value of their companies
Challenges and opportunities in the entrepreneurial ecosystem
Timestamps:
The Kiln Road Trip (00:00:03) Introduction to the podcast and the purpose of the journey to interview entrepreneurs.
RevRoad's Mission (00:00:54) Introduction to Derrin Hill, founder and CEO of RevRoad, and an overview of RevRoad's mission.
Introduction to RevRoad (00:01:30) Derrin Hill introduces himself, explains his role at RevRoad, and his passion for helping entrepreneurs.
RevRoad's Value Proposition (00:01:54) Explanation of RevRoad's role as a sweat equity partner with entrepreneurs and the services they provide.
Engagement with RevRoad (00:02:36) Discussion of how startups can engage with RevRoad and the process of becoming a part of RevRoad's portfolio.
Criteria for Selection (00:03:54) Explanation of the criteria RevRoad looks for in startups and the importance of grit, growth, and gratitude.
Success Story: Hyper Craft (00:05:33) Derrin shares the success story of Hyper Craft, a company that joined RevRoad and achieved significant growth.
RevRoad's Investment Model (00:08:37) Explanation of RevRoad's service and venture capital sides and the process of transitioning from services to venture capital.
RevRoad's Background and Key Milestones (00:10:43) Discussion of RevRoad's history, key milestones, and the unique aspects of their equity exchange model.
Challenges in Entrepreneurship (00:15:45) Derrin discusses the challenges in making investments in entrepreneurship and the decline of entrepreneurship over the years.
Creating Something New (00:19:01) The importance of vision and action in creating something new, with a focus on the role of community and collaboration.
Interview Recommendations (00:26:09) Discussion about potential interview connections in California, Portland, and Idaho for the upcoming podcast episodes.
Tags:
#SwellPod, #KilnRoadTrip, #Kiln, #MotorraCamperVans, #podcast, #interview, #innovation, #resilience, #communitybuilding, #passion, #purpose, #community, #diversity, #collaboration, #thoughtleadership, #100interviews, #entrepreneur, #CEO, #leadership
Thursday May 02, 2024
How Can Happiness Transform Your Business?
Thursday May 02, 2024
Thursday May 02, 2024
In Episode 041 of the #kilnroadtrip, created and produced by The Swell Pod, hosts Spencer McKeown and Josh Taylor interview Michelle McCullough, CEO of Dream Board Media, during their Kiln Road Trip. Michelle shares her story of becoming an accidental entrepreneur and happiness coach, emphasizing the importance of happiness and resilience in the workplace. She discusses creating engaging experiences for companies to boost employee engagement and productivity, drawing from her diverse client base. Reflecting on her upbringing and passion for time management, Michelle also highlights the measurable impact of her work on organizational success.
Check out today’s episode and every other installment of the Kiln.Roadtrip by listening, watching, and subscribing to the podcast here - https://linktr.ee/theswellpod
Dreamboard Media: We work with organizations to create high performance environments where employees feel happy and valued.
speakmichelle.com
Location: Kiln. Provo
The Kiln Road Trip: Uncovering Deep Truths with 100 Pleasantly Rebellious Humans. 10 days. 5 States. 3,580 Miles.100 Interviews! Daily episodes starting on March 5, Monday to Friday, for the next 100 days, followed by a short documentary and a book about the journey.
Thank you to the partners and sponsors who made the kiln.roadtrip possible: KILN, MOTERRA, TORUS
And thank you to the crew who helped us document and share the journey: DENISSE LEON, TY COTTLE, NATHAN CLARK, FINDLAY MCKEOWN
Bullets:
The Kiln Road Trip: 10-day journey, 3580 miles, 5 states, 100 interviews
Michelle McCullough: CEO of Dream Board Media, accidental entrepreneurship, happiness coach
Importance of happiness in organizations, employee engagement, resilience
Client industries: tech, direct sales, banks
Creating experiences for organizations to ignite excitement and purpose
Upbringing and early experiences shaping entrepreneurial journey
Passion for time management, productivity, emotional stability, resilience
Measuring impact of work: productivity improvements after happiness and resilience presentation
Working out of Kiln: luxury, positive brand impression, flexibility, proximity
Michelle's commitment and dedication to Kiln for 5 years
Timestamps:
The start of the Kiln road trip (00:00:03) The hosts introduce the Kiln road trip and its purpose to interview 100 individuals to uncover truths about creating something new.
Introduction to Michelle McCullough (00:00:54) Michelle McCullough's background and her work in helping organizations create experiences for deeper employee engagement and less turnover.
Michelle's accidental entrepreneurship (00:02:18) Michelle discusses her accidental journey from marketing to happiness coaching and how it led to greater success for businesses.
Working with different companies and industries (00:03:27) Michelle shares her experience working with a variety of companies, from tech to direct sales, and the joy of having diverse conversations about business growth.
Creating experiences within events (00:04:22) Michelle explains how she creates experiences within events to engage and excite participants, leading to increased interest and excitement.
Michelle's upbringing and early career (00:05:35) Michelle shares her upbringing with a single, optimistic mother and her journey from debate team to education in marketing.
Transition from marketing to happiness (00:09:19) Michelle discusses the transition from marketing to happiness coaching and the importance of happiness as the first success principle.
Measuring success in organizations (00:11:30) Michelle explains how organizations measure success in terms of engagement, productivity, turnover, and employee longevity.
Customizing experiences for organizations (00:14:28) Michelle discusses the customization of experiences for organizations, offering a variety of options and creating new ideas based on specific needs.
Challenges in rebuilding resilience reserves (00:15:26) Michelle talks about the challenges of rebuilding resilience reserves in a world where people's reserves are depleted, requiring more groundwork to build emotional stability.
Working out of Kiln (00:17:28) Michelle explains her choice to work out of Kiln, highlighting its benefits for her brand and the proximity to her employees.
Conclusion and company name (00:19:26) The hosts wrap up the conversation with Michelle and mention her company, Dream Board Media, as the overarching arm for her work.
Working from Home and Returning to the Office (00:19:32) Discussion about the struggle of transitioning back to the office, the benefits of collaboration, and the gradual return approach.
Reimagining Physical and Digital Spaces (00:25:12) Conversation about the need to reimagine physical and digital spaces for people returning to work, and the potential to accelerate the transition through new experiences.
Creating a Movement (00:26:09) Discussion on the importance of belonging and excitement into action in creating a successful movement.
Tags:
#SwellPod, #KilnRoadTrip, #Kiln, #MotorraCamperVans, #podcast, #interview, #innovation, #resilience, #communitybuilding, #passion, #purpose, #community, #diversity, #collaboration, #thoughtleadership, #100interviews, #entrepreneur, #CEO, #leadership
Wednesday May 01, 2024
Advising Startups with John Cho
Wednesday May 01, 2024
Wednesday May 01, 2024
In Episode 040 of the #kilnroadtrip, created and produced by The Swell Pod, hosts Spencer McKeown and Josh Taylor interview John Cho, a seasoned startup strategist and advisor, at Kiln Provo. As they traverse five states to interview 100 innovative minds, John Cho contributes his valuable perspective on the intricacies of building a startup. He delves into the challenges of creating something novel and the importance of questioning conventional wisdom, offering listeners a glimpse into the strategic thinking that drives successful entrepreneurial ventures.
Check out today’s episode and every other installment of the Kiln.Roadtrip by listening, watching, and subscribing to the podcast here - https://linktr.ee/theswellpod
Location: Kiln. Provo
The Kiln Road Trip: Uncovering Deep Truths with 100 Pleasantly Rebellious Humans. 10 days. 5 States. 3,580 Miles.100 Interviews! Daily episodes starting on March 5, Monday to Friday, for the next 100 days, followed by a short documentary and a book about the journey.
Thank you to the partners and sponsors who made the kiln.roadtrip possible: KILN, MOTERRA, TORUS
And thank you to the crew who helped us document and share the journey: DENISSE LEON, TY COTTLE, NATHAN CLARK, FINDLAY MCKEOWN
Timestamps:
The Kiln Road Trip (00:00:03) Introduction to the podcast episode and the purpose of the journey.
John Cho's Background (00:00:54) John Cho's upbringing, education, and experience in startups.
John Cho's Journey and Career (00:01:23) John Cho's experiences in the startup world, including building and selling startups during the pandemic.
Falling in Love with Startups (00:02:46) John Cho's insights into his passion for startups and the influence of thought leaders in the entrepreneurship space.
Transition to Silicon Valley (00:03:53) John Cho's decision to move to Silicon Valley and his journey into the startup culture.
Challenges and Decision-Making (00:05:29) John Cho's courage and intuition in making career decisions and taking a leap of faith into the startup world.
Consulting and Future Plans (00:06:23) John Cho's consulting work, taking time off, and his focus on the Utah startup community.
Strategic Consulting (00:09:53) John Cho's approach to strategy, focusing on adaptability and system thinking within businesses.
Manifestation and Optimism (00:15:02) John Cho's perspective on manifestation, optimism, and the active role in creating opportunities.
Market Validation and Entrepreneurship (00:17:10) The importance of market validation and learning from entrepreneurial experiences.
Creating a Movement (00:18:46) John Cho's insights on understanding the community, treating business as a scientific experiment, and the importance of resilience in creating a movement or something new.
Promotion and Networking (00:19:43) John Cho discusses his availability to help and promote, seeking feedback on the Utah ecosystem.
Tags:
#SwellPod, #KilnRoadTrip, #Kiln, #MotorraCamperVans, #podcast, #interview, #innovation, #resilience, #communitybuilding, #passion, #purpose, #community, #diversity, #collaboration, #thoughtleadership, #100interviews, #entrepreneur, #CEO, #leadership
Tuesday Apr 30, 2024
Tuesday Apr 30, 2024
In Episode 039 of the #kilnroadtrip, created and produced by The Swell Pod, hosts Spencer McKeown and Josh Taylor interview Trey Stewart, a BYU basketball player and fashion designer for Default Happiness, during the Kiln Road Trip. Trey discusses his passion for art, his self-taught journey into fashion design, and his charity work. He emphasizes the importance of genuine creativity and shares his thoughts on originality and inspiration in art, mentioning his work with NFL and NBA players.
Check out today’s episode and every other installment of the Kiln.Roadtrip by listening, watching, and subscribing to the podcast here - https://linktr.ee/theswellpod
Default Happiness: A clothing brand that makes art to spread love
http://defaulthappiness.com/
Location: Kiln. Provo
The Kiln Road Trip: Uncovering Deep Truths with 100 Pleasantly Rebellious Humans. 10 days. 5 States. 3,580 Miles.100 Interviews! Daily episodes starting on March 5, Monday to Friday, for the next 100 days, followed by a short documentary and a book about the journey.
Thank you to the partners and sponsors who made the kiln.roadtrip possible: KILN, MOTERRA, TORUS
And thank you to the crew who helped us document and share the journey: DENISSE LEON, TY COTTLE, NATHAN CLARK, FINDLAY MCKEOWN
Bullets:
Interview with Trey Stewart, a basketball player at BYU and fashion designer for Default Happiness
Trey's background as a psychology major, basketball player, and lover of art
Trey's journey into fashion design and charity work, including making pieces for NFL and NBA players
Trey's approach to creating art and his confidence in his abilities
Inspiration and originality in art, emphasizing individual interpretation and personal creativity
Influence of other designers and artists on Trey's work
Timestamps:
The Kiln Road Trip (00:00:03) Introduction to the purpose of the journey and the challenge to interview 100 pleasantly rebellious humans.
Trey Stewart's Background and Passion (00:00:54) Introduction to Trey Stewart, his role as a basketball player, and his passion for fashion design and art.
Trey Stewart's Journey into Fashion Design (00:02:10) Trey Stewart's progression from painting shoes to creating clothing, charity work, and designing pieces for NFL and NBA players.
Trey Stewart's Sewing Journey (00:04:15) Trey Stewart's impulsive purchase of tapestry blankets leading to his entry into fashion design and his experience with sewing.
Trey Stewart's Fashion Show and Opportunities (00:05:12) Trey Stewart's experiences with hosting a fashion show, showcasing his art, and seizing opportunities to connect with influential individuals.
Trey Stewart's Creative Process and Inspiration (00:07:30) Trey Stewart's personal interpretation of creating genuine art and his approach to inspiration and originality.
Personal Sewing Experiences (00:11:45) Discussion among the speakers about their past sewing experiences and creative pursuits.
Fashion Design and Art (00:18:07) Trey Stewart talks about his passion for making art, experimenting with fashion, and seeking opportunities in the fashion industry.
Creating Something New (00:19:29) Advice on creating something new and turning it into a movement, emphasizing the importance of taking action and not waiting to pursue creative ideas.
Acting on Creative Ideas (00:21:13) Encouragement to act on creative ideas promptly and not to let them die without being brought to life, with a quote emphasizing the value of acting on creative inspiration
Tags:
#SwellPod, #KilnRoadTrip, #Kiln, #MotorraCamperVans, #podcast, #interview, #innovation, #resilience, #communitybuilding, #passion, #purpose, #community, #diversity, #collaboration, #thoughtleadership, #100interviews, #entrepreneur, #CEO, #leadership
Monday Apr 29, 2024
Breaking the Mold: Grit Marketing's Creative Vision for Direct-to-Home Sales
Monday Apr 29, 2024
Monday Apr 29, 2024
Breaking the Mold: Grit Marketing's Creative Vision for Direct-to-Home Sales
In Episode 038 of the #kilnroadtrip, created and produced by The Swell Pod, hosts Spencer McKeown and Josh Taylor interview Josh Nilsen, managing partner of Grit Marketing, shares his personal story and the company's innovative approach to direct-to-home sales. He discusses his nomadic upbringing and how it shaped his people skills, crucial for recruiting sales teams. Nilsen highlights Grit Marketing's efforts to rebrand door-to-door sales to appeal to college students and the focus on a consistent, high-quality experience for reps. Challenges like expanding the corporate team are mentioned, alongside the excitement of a new building and a partnership with the Utah Jazz.
Check out today’s episode and every other installment of the Kiln.Roadtrip by listening, watching, and subscribing to the podcast here - https://linktr.ee/theswellpod
Grit: Grit Marketing, founded in September 2020, is a direct-to-home sales organization that contracts its sales teams to established pest control companies across the United States.
gritmarketing.net
Location: Kiln. Provo
The Kiln Road Trip: Uncovering Deep Truths with 100 Pleasantly Rebellious Humans. 10 days. 5 States. 3,580 Miles.100 Interviews! Daily episodes starting on March 5, Monday to Friday, for the next 100 days, followed by a short documentary and a book about the journey.
Thank you to the partners and sponsors who made the kiln.roadtrip possible: KILN, MOTERRA, TORUS
And thank you to the crew who helped us document and share the journey: DENISSE LEON, TY COTTLE, NATHAN CLARK, FINDLAY MCKEOWN
Bullets:
Interview with Josh Nilsen, managing partner of Grit Marketing
Nilsen's background and influences
Grit Marketing's approach to sales and partnerships
Challenges faced by Grit Marketing
Emphasis on creating a unique and appealing brand for college-age sales reps
Company's focus on providing a consistent and high-quality experience for sales reps
Challenges faced by Grit Marketing, including building out their corporate team and partnerships
Emphasis on culture, creativity, and being unconventional in business and branding
Discussion about the "sink or swim" mentality and attention to detail in branding and gear
Timestamps:
The kiln road trip (00:00:03) Introduction to the podcast episode and the journey across five states.
Interview with Josh Nilsen (00:00:54) Josh Nilsen's background, managing partner of Grit Marketing, and the company's approach to sales.
Grit Marketing's growth and partnerships (00:01:15) Grit Marketing's expansion, partnerships with pest control companies, and the company's approach to building a sales force.
Enhancing the sales experience (00:03:03) Discussion on rebranding door-to-door sales, events, and the company's new headquarters.
Working with pest control companies (00:04:03) Details about the companies Grit Marketing works with and the uniform experience for sales reps.
Sales training and culture (00:07:06) Training sales reps, culture, and the emphasis on being unconventional.
Challenges and corporate team expansion (00:10:37) Challenges faced by Grit Marketing, including the building process and expanding the corporate team.
Partnership with Utah Jazz (00:12:30) Details about the partnership with the Utah Jazz and the upcoming grand opening event.
Josh Nilsen's background and influences (00:13:48) Josh Nilsen's background, upbringing, and how it influenced his approach to sales and business.
Lululemon Collaboration (00:23:24) Discussion of Lululemon's collaborations with different brands and the impact on their audience.
Snow in Salt Lake (00:24:31) Event discussion involving bringing snow to Salt Lake, collaborations, and audience engagement.
Future Vision (00:25:24) Discussion of career paths, educational opportunities, and the company's influence on individuals and families.
Creating Something New (00:28:19) Importance of having the right people and an elite team to drive the success of an idea.
Tags:
#SwellPod, #KilnRoadTrip, #Kiln, #MotorraCamperVans, #podcast, #interview, #innovation, #resilience, #communitybuilding, #passion, #purpose, #community, #diversity, #collaboration, #thoughtleadership, #100interviews, #entrepreneur, #CEO, #leadership