The Intern Whisperer

S7 Ep. 322 Building the Future of Startups and Smart Cities with Spencer Elliott

In this episode of The Intern Whisperer Podcast, host Isabella Johnston welcomes Spencer Elliott, the Director of Smart Cities at Plug and Play Tech Center. Spencer, an experienced CEO and investor, shares his journey from startup founder to venture partner and discusses how he’s helping shape the future of startups in Orlando and beyond. Learn about the innovative ecosystem Plug and Play is building for startups, especially within the smart cities space, and how Spencer is connecting companies to valuable resources, partners, and funding opportunities. Spencer also dives into the future of entrepreneurship, including trends like AI, smart cities, and how central Florida’s startup scene is evolving. Reasons to Listen: 1. Gain insights on how Plug and Play helps accelerate startup growth and build impactful partnerships. 2. Discover how Spencer’s experience as a mentor and investor influences his approach to supporting entrepreneurs. 3. Learn about the concept of smart cities and its role in shaping future tech and infrastructure. 4. Hear Spencer’s advice for entrepreneurs seeking funding and how they can avoid common pitfalls. 5. Explore the future of AI, smart cities, and tech entrepreneurship, with a glimpse into Spencer’s predictions for 2030. Links: Website: https://www.plugandplaytechcenter.com/locations/orlando-fl [https://www.plugandplaytechcenter.com/locations/orlando-fl]  Website: https://www.futurefunders.vc/ [https://www.futurefunders.vc/]    LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/spencerelliott1/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/spencerelliott1/]    We hope you enjoy this week's episode of The Intern Whisperer. The Intern Whisperer Podcast is brought to you by Employers 4 Change - Increasing #Skills #DiversityEquityInclusion #recruitment and #management for #interns and #employees alike.  Apply today to be an #Employer4Change that invests in #intern #talent and #employees. Want a break? Play Intern Pursuit Game on Steam.    Thank you to our sponsor Cat 5 Studios. Podbean: https://internwhisperer.podbean.com [https://internwhisperer.podbean.com] YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8c_T19-pyfghVuAEbOMmHg [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8c_T19-pyfghVuAEbOMmHg]     Follow us on our social channels  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/employers4change [https://www.facebook.com/employers4change]     Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/employers4change [https://www.instagram.com/employers4change]     X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/employer4change [https://twitter.com/employer4change]     LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/employers4change [https://www.linkedin.com/company/employers4change] #iHeartRadio #ApplePodcasts #Spotify #Podbean #YouTube #Employers4Change #E4C #internships #radio #podcast #innovation #employers #smallbusiness #business #FutureOfWork #ValenciaCollegeRadio

S7 Ep. 321 Unlocking the Power of Storytelling and Strategy with Chuck Goldstone

In this episode of The Intern Whisperer Podcast, host Isabella Johnston sits down with Chuck Goldstone, founder of Chuck Goldstone | Strategies and Stories and the New Venture Institute. Chuck has coached and mentored thousands of startups across the globe, helping them use storytelling and strategic communication to secure funding, create partnerships, and stand out in competitive markets. Chuck shares insights from his book Strategies & Stories, offering a framework for entrepreneurs to communicate effectively and engage their audience. He discusses the importance of differentiation in a crowded field, the power of simplicity, and how to craft compelling stories that move investors and markets to action. Chuck also dives into the impact of AI on entrepreneurship and how it will shape communication strategies, customer engagement, and business growth by 2030. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, investor, or job seeker, Chuck’s expertise will help you craft your story, build stronger connections, and achieve your goals. Key Takeaways: 1. The power of storytelling in differentiating your startup. 2. How to simplify complex messages for your audience. 3. The evolving role of AI in communication and entrepreneurship. 4. Best mentoring advice for entrepreneurs and job seekers. Links: Strategies & Stories: Tell Me More Book by Chuck Goldstone on Amazon (link below) https://www.amazon.com/Strategies-Stories-Indispensable-Entrepreneurs-Innovators/dp/B0CGWYV5R2 [https://www.amazon.com/Strategies-Stories-Indispensable-Entrepreneurs-Innovators/dp/B0CGWYV5R2]    Websites: https://chuckgoldstone.com/ [https://chuckgoldstone.com/]                  https://strategiesandstories.com [https://strategiesandstories.com]  Free:        https://chucksroundtable.com [https://chucksroundtable.com]  LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckgoldstone/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckgoldstone/]  We hope you enjoy this week's episode of The Intern Whisperer. The Intern Whisperer Podcast is brought to you by Employers 4 Change - Increasing #Skills #DiversityEquityInclusion #recruitment and #management for #interns and #employees alike.  Apply today to be an #Employer4Change that invests in #intern #talent and #employees. Want a break? Play Intern Pursuit Game on Steam.  Thank you to our sponsor Cat 5 Studios. Podbean: https://internwhisperer.podbean.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8c_T19-pyfghVuAEbOMmHg     Follow us on our social channels  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/employers4change   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/employers4change   X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/employer4change   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/employers4change   #iHeartRadio #ApplePodcasts #Spotify #Podbean #YouTube #Employers4Change #E4C #internships #radio #podcast #innovation #employers #smallbusiness #business #FutureOfWork #ValenciaCollegeRadio

S7 Ep. 320 Jerrid Kalakay: Shaping the Future of Entrepreneurship & Education

In this episode of The Intern Whisperer Podcast, we’re joined by Jerrid Kalakay, PhD. Jerrid and I go back to when we worked together at Rollins College. He is an expert in social entrepreneurship, higher education, and an author.    His book is entitled,  Igniting Innovation: A Guide to Entrepreneurship and Positive Change. Jerrid shares his unique career journey—from his experiences in the business world to becoming a professor dedicated to empowering the next generation of social entrepreneurs.    He discusses the core principles of his book, emphasizing how entrepreneurs can use innovation to drive positive change in their communities and beyond. In the second half of the show, Jerrid dives into a thought-provoking discussion on the impact of artificial intelligence on higher education and entrepreneurship.    Jerrid reflects on the opportunities and challenges AI presents to educators, entrepreneurs, and social innovators as we approach 2030. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or an educator, Jerrid's insights will inspire you to think critically about the role of innovation in shaping the future. Key Takeaways 1. Social Entrepreneurship: Jerrid emphasizes how entrepreneurs can use innovation to create positive change in their communities. 2. Higher Education's Role: As a professor, Jerrid highlights the importance of preparing students to lead and innovate for social good. 3. AI’s Impact: He explores the challenges and opportunities AI brings to education and entrepreneurship, as well as the ethical implications. 4. Preparing for 2030: Jerrid encourages listeners to embrace innovation and think critically about the future shaped by AI and technology. Links:  Website:  http://www.dosalaslatincoffee.com/ LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jerridkalakay/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jerridkalakay/] Available on Amazon - Igniting Innovation: A Guide to Entrepreneurship and Positive Change   https://www.amazon.com/Igniting-Innovation-Entrepreneurship-Positive-Change/dp/B0DPBPWM4Q [https://www.amazon.com/Igniting-Innovation-Entrepreneurship-Positive-Change/dp/B0DPBPWM4Q]    We hope you enjoy this week's episode of The Intern Whisperer. The Intern Whisperer Podcast is brought to you by Employers 4 Change - Increasing #Skills #DiversityEquityInclusion #recruitment and #management for #interns and #employees alike.  Apply today to be an #Employer4Change that invests in #intern #talent and #employees.   Want a break? Play Intern Pursuit Game on Steam.    Thank you to our sponsor Cat 5 Studios. Podbean: https://internwhisperer.podbean.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8c_T19-pyfghVuAEbOMmHg     Follow us on our social channels  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/employers4change   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/employers4change   X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/employer4change   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/employers4change   #iHeartRadio #ApplePodcasts #Spotify #Podbean #YouTube #Employers4Change #E4C #internships #radio #podcast #innovation #employers #smallbusiness #business #FutureOfWork #ValenciaCollegeRadio

S7 Ep. 319 Unlocking the Future of Learning with Margie Meacham

In this insightful episode of The Intern Whisperer Podcast, Margie Meacham, renowned as the "Brain Lady," joins host Isabella Johnston to discuss how neuroscience and AI are reshaping talent development. With a background in neuroscience and AI, Margie is leading the way with her new company and platform, Learning2Go.ai, which blends the power of the brain with cutting-edge technology to enhance learning experiences. She also shares the core ideas from her books AI in Talent Development and Brain Matters, providing actionable strategies for improving learning outcomes in the workplace. This episode is essential for anyone interested in the future of work, learning, and innovation. Links to both her books are below   Link to AI in Talent Development by Margie Marcham on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Talent-Development-Capitalize-Revolution-Transform-ebook/dp/B08PDBKYPT/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=Margie+Meacham&qid=1608145923&s=books&sr=1-2 [https://www.amazon.com/Talent-Development-Capitalize-Revolution-Transform-ebook/dp/B08PDBKYPT/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=Margie+Meacham&qid=1608145923&s=books&sr=1-2]        Link to Brain Matters by Margie Marcham on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Brain-Matters-anyone-anything-neuroscience/dp/1508722137 [https://www.amazon.com/Brain-Matters-anyone-anything-neuroscience/dp/1508722137] SPECIAL GIFT from Margie - Giving listeners a FREE gift.   You need to register to receive a free month of access to her AI Academy. It launches January 2025, and you can take as many courses as you want for 30 days: https://tinyurl.com/LearningtogoFREE [https://tinyurl.com/LearningtogoFREE] Key Takeaways: 1. The Future of Learning: Margie emphasizes the importance of understanding neuroscience to improve learning and how AI can be leveraged to enhance talent development. 2. AI’s Role in Talent Development: Practical examples of how AI can transform training programs, including using bots for onboarding, coaching, and improving workplace performance. 3. Personalized Learning at Scale: Margie introduces Learning2Go.ai, a platform that blends neuroscience-backed strategies with AI to deliver customized learning experiences tailored to individual aspirations. 4. Ethics in AI: Margie dives deep into the ethical considerations surrounding AI, discussing how we need to nurture responsible use of these technologies in the workplace. 5. The Power of Play in Learning: Margie shares how maintaining a sense of wonder and embracing playful learning experiences is essential for personal and professional growth. Contact Margie Meacham: * Learning2Go.ai Website [https://learning2go.ai] * Margie Meacham LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/margiemeacham] * SPECIAL GIFT from Margie - Giving listeners a FREE gift.   You need to register to receive a free month of access to her AI Academy. It launches January 2025, and you can take as many courses as you want for 30 days: https://tinyurl.com/LearningtogoFREE [https://tinyurl.com/LearningtogoFREE] Don’t miss out on Margie’s valuable insights into the intersection of neuroscience, AI, and learning—subscribe to The Intern Whisperer Podcast for more episodes with thought leaders on the future of work and innovation! We hope you enjoy this week's episode of The Intern Whisperer. The Intern Whisperer Podcast is brought to you by Employers 4 Change - Increasing #Skills #DiversityEquityInclusion #recruitment and #management for #interns and #employees alike.  Apply today to be an #Employer4Change that invests in #intern #talent and #employees.   Want a break? Play Intern Pursuit Game on Steam.    Thank you to our sponsor Cat 5 Studios. Podbean: https://internwhisperer.podbean.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8c_T19-pyfghVuAEbOMmHg     Follow us on our social channels  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/employers4change   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/employers4change   X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/employer4change   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/employers4change   #iHeartRadio #ApplePodcasts #Spotify #Podbean #YouTube #Employers4Change #E4C #internships #radio #podcast #innovation #employers #smallbusiness #business #FutureOfWork #ValenciaCollegeRadio

S7 Ep. 318 Shaping Orlando’s Startup Ecosystem with Rosangela Parker

In this exciting episode of The Intern Whisperer Podcast, we welcome Rosangela Parker, Program Manager at Plug and Play Tech Center, to discuss her journey into the startup ecosystem and how she’s driving innovation in Orlando. Rosangela shares her experience in fostering Smart Cities, exploring AI’s role in startups, and how Plug and Play accelerates the growth of small businesses. With insights on the evolving startup ecosystem, the importance of mentorship, and her thoughts on the future of AI, this episode is a must-listen for entrepreneurs and innovators alike. Tune in for valuable advice on navigating the world of smart cities and technology. Key Takeaways: * Innovating Orlando: Rosangela highlights the rapid growth of Orlando's startup ecosystem, especially within smart cities, energy, sustainability, and mobility. * The Role of AI in Startups: AI can drive efficiency and innovation, allowing startups to maximize limited resources. * Mentorship in the Startup World: Emphasizing the importance of mentorship, Rosangela encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to get involved, share their expertise, and be part of the next generation of innovators. * Plug and Play's Impact: Rosangela explains how Plug and Play is revolutionizing startup ecosystems by offering tailored resources, mentorship, and connections with investors. Links:  Website: https://www.plugandplaytechcenter.com/locations/orlando-fl [https://www.plugandplaytechcenter.com/locations/orlando-fl]   LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/rosangelaparker/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/rosangelaparker/]  Don’t miss this insightful conversation—subscribe to The Intern Whisperer Podcast for more episodes featuring trailblazers in the world of innovation and startups! We hope you enjoy this week's episode of The Intern Whisperer. The Intern Whisperer Podcast is brought to you by Employers 4 Change - Increasing #Skills #DiversityEquityInclusion #recruitment and #management for #interns and #employees alike.  Apply today to be an #Employer4Change that invests in #intern #talent and #employees.   Want a break? Play Intern Pursuit Game on Steam.    Thank you to our sponsor Cat 5 Studios. Podbean: https://internwhisperer.podbean.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8c_T19-pyfghVuAEbOMmHg     Follow us on our social channels  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/employers4change   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/employers4change   X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/employer4change   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/employers4change   #iHeartRadio #ApplePodcasts #Spotify #Podbean #YouTube #Employers4Change #E4C #internships #radio #podcast #innovation #employers #smallbusiness #business #FutureOfWork #ValenciaCollegeRadio