Capital, AI & the Future of Tech: Hillary Stanfield from Truist on What’s Driving Growth

Capital, AI & the Future of Tech: Hillary Stanfield from Truist on What’s Driving Growth

In this episode, we sit down with Hillary Stanfield [https://www.linkedin.com/in/hillarystanfield/], Senior Vice President of Middle Market Technology Banking [https://www.truist.com/commercial-corporate-institutional/banking/middle-market-banking] at Truist, to explore the forces reshaping today's technology landscape. From evolving capital markets to the growing influence of artificial intelligence, Hillary shares insights into what it takes for technology companies to thrive in an increasingly competitive environment. The conversation examines how the investment landscape has shifted, including the transition from prioritizing rapid growth to rewarding capital efficiency and profitability. Hillary discusses how investors are evaluating technology companies today, the impact of AI on business strategy and enterprise value, and what these trends mean for valuations, fundraising, and exits. We also dive into the challenges keeping founders awake at night—from raising capital and attracting top talent to navigating economic uncertainty and determining how best to integrate AI into their businesses. Finally, Hillary highlights Atlanta's rise as a premier technology hub. Known historically as "Transaction Alley," the city has evolved into one of the nation's fastest-growing innovation ecosystems, fueled by world-class talent, a strong Fortune 500 presence, strategic infrastructure, and a business-friendly environment that's earning it the nickname "Silicon Valley of the South." Whether you're a founder, investor, or technology leader, this episode offers valuable perspectives on the trends shaping the future of innovation and growth.

The Power of Authenticity: Jevoy Palmer's Creative Journey to Entrepreneurial Success

In this episode, we sit down with Jevoy Palmer [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jevoypalmer], Founder of Palmer House Productions, [https://www.palmerhouseproductions.com/about-us] to explore his remarkable journey from a challenging childhood in Kingston, Jamaica, to becoming a successful entrepreneur and strategic communications expert in the United States. Jevoy shares the defining moments that shaped his leadership philosophy and explains why today's most successful founders aren't building "perfect" brands—they're building authentic ones. As trust becomes the most valuable business currency, he reveals how entrepreneurs can leverage storytelling, visibility, and credibility to stand out in an increasingly crowded marketplace. We also discuss why generic marketing is no longer enough, why consumers trust people more than logos, and how businesses are replacing empty virality with intentional communication strategies that drive real growth. Looking ahead to 2026, Jevoy outlines what organizations must do to tell compelling stories, earn lasting trust, and capture a larger share of the market. Jevoy discusses: * How Jevoy Palmer's journey from Kingston, Jamaica, shaped his entrepreneurial mindset * Why authentic founders are outperforming "perfect" brands * How visibility, trust, and storytelling have become today's business currency * What marketing strategies actually convert audiences into loyal customers * Why consumers trust faces more than logos—and what that means for your brand * How credibility and consistency have become essential drivers of business growth * The communication strategies businesses need to thrive in 2026 and beyond Whether you're a founder, executive, marketer, or business owner, this conversation offers practical insights on building influence, strengthening your brand, and turning authentic communication into a competitive advantage.

The Future of Texas, Real Estate, Investing & Biohacking with Ari Rastegar

In this episode, we're joined by Ari Rastegar [https://www.linkedin.com/in/arirastegar], founder of Rastegar Capital [https://rastegarcapital.com/]and Austin-based real estate developer, investor, and wellness advocate, for a wide-ranging conversation on the future of business, investing, and personal performance. Named the "Oracle of Austin" by Forbes, Ari shares his perspective on where Austin and Texas are headed over the next decade, the trends reshaping commercial real estate and urban development, and the opportunities many investors are still overlooking. Other topics discussed: * Navigating today's economic uncertainty, the impact of interest rates and market volatility. * Why Austin and Texas continue to attract long-term investment * Where Ari sees the biggest opportunities in today's market * The future of commercial real estate and urban development * How biohacking and wellness influence entrepreneurial success * Ari's bold predictions for the future of business, investing, and technology Whether you're an entrepreneur, investor, developer, or someone looking to perform at a higher level, this conversation offers valuable insights into the intersection of wealth creation, innovation, and well-being.

Beyond ChatGPT: The Invisible AI Revolution and the Future of Business with Jeremy Samuelson

Artificial intelligence is much bigger than ChatGPT and chances are it’s already shaping your daily life in ways you don’t even realize. In this episode, we sit down with Jeremy Samuelson [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremyjsamuelson/], Executive Vice President of AI and Innovation at Integrated Quantum Technologies, [https://integratedquantum.com/] to explore the “invisible AI” economy powered by machine learning, the technology quietly driving everything from financial services and healthcare to cybersecurity and personalized customer experiences. Jeremy explains: * Why data has become every organization’s most valuable asset, and its biggest liability, as businesses race to adopt AI * The growing challenge of protecting sensitive information while still enabling innovation * The true cost of data breaches, and why trust has become the defining competitive advantage in the AI era. We also take a closer look at VEIL, Integrated Quantum Technologies’ groundbreaking privacy-preserving framework that secures sensitive data before it enters machine learning pipelines. Jeremy shares how it differs from traditional security solutions, the industries it’s transforming, and why privacy and AI no longer have to be at odds. Whether you’re a business leader, technology professional, or simply curious about where AI is headed next, this conversation offers a practical look at the technologies shaping the future, and why the next wave of AI isn’t just about smarter models, but building systems people can trust.

From CFO to CEO: Todd Smith with AMFT on Leading Growth Through Change

In this episode, we're joined by Todd Smith [https://www.linkedin.com/in/todd-smith-0034b618], President and CEO of AMFT [https://www.amft.com/about-us/], to explore his unique leadership journey from Chief Financial Officer to the corner office. Todd shares how his background in finance continues to shape his approach to leading a growing manufacturing organization, the pivotal moments that inspired him to pursue the CEO role, and how his perspective has evolved as he's taken on responsibility for strategy, culture, operations, and long-term growth. Other topics discussed include: * AMFT's growth through the acquisition of seven companie * The challenges of integrating businesses while preserving their strengths * The importance of building a unified culture across diverse teams * Why having resiliency is key during today's turbulent environment Todd offers his perspective on the state of manufacturing today, from supply chain and workforce challenges to inflation, tariffs, and the economic forces shaping the industry's future. Whether you're a business leader, finance executive, or manufacturing professional, this conversation offers valuable insights into leading through complexity and driving sustainable growth.