Innovator Café with David R. Stevens

Hosted by David R. Stevens

BusinessInterviews guests

Website RSS feed

Episodes

Latest episode

Mar 2026

Language

EN-US

About the show

Welcome to the Innovator Café, your Entrepreneur go-to podcast. Watch or listen as Dave Stevens and his guests provide resources and assurances to build a company growth roadmap.

Listen to episodes

23 recent

March 9, 202628 min

Chaos Theory & Patentable Innovation Hacks with Ash Swarup

Innovator Café with David R. Stevens, Episode 23 In this episode of Innovator Café, Dave Stevens speaks with Ashitosh Swarup, a technical expert with Stevens Law Group, serving clients in studying and understanding complex technology. Tune in to the episode to hear about: * The childhood dream that inspired Ashitosh Swarup’s journey from India to becoming an inventor in the United States * How the chaos theory creates “random-looking” signals that are actually highly secure and repeatable * The surprising ways chaotic waveforms can revolutionize wireless medical devices and vehicle security * The breakthrough technology Ashitosh is developing to make high-level data isolation affordable for everyday users * The advice Ash offers to young entrepreneurs facing uncertainty in their careers Learn more about Ashitosh Swarup: * View Ashitosh’s profile on Stevens Law Group’s website: https://stevenslawgroup.com/ashitosh-swarup *********************************** About Innovator Café: Welcome to the Innovator Café, your Entrepreneur go-to podcast. Watch or listen as Dave Stevens and his guests provide resources and assurances to build a company growth roadmap. Subscribe — don’t miss an episode of Innovator Café: * Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/innovator-caf%C3%A9-with-david-r-stevens/id1740378639 * Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0hKZOLNExFgwpQBJpDjRpg Connect and learn more from your host, Dave Stevens: * Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIy0oNMYMW0InFHbTud7hmg * Connect with Dave on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davestevensstevenslawgroup/ * Follow Stevens Law Group, P.C on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stevens-law-group-p.c./ * Follow Stevens Law Group, P.C on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076376076569

December 17, 202549 min

Founder Turned VC—Rajeev Madhavan’s Perilous Journey & Victories Against Established Competitors

Innovator Café with David R. Stevens, Episode 22 In this episode of Innovator Café, Dave Stevens speaks with Rajeev Madhavan, Founder and General Partner, Clear Ventures. Tune in to the episode to hear about: - What pivotal moment inspired Rajeev Madhavan to leave a secure job and launch his first startup? - How did a chance encounter at a restaurant lead to a breakthrough customer for Magma? - What bold marketing tactics did Rajeev use to take on industry giants—and did they pay off? - How did a high-stakes legal battle with a major competitor nearly derail the company, and what unexpected twist turned the tide? - Why does Rajeev believe now is the best time for entrepreneurs to start something new, especially in the age of AI? Learn more about Rajeev Madhavan: * Connect with Rajeev on LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/rajeev-madhavan * Visit Clear Ventures’ website: https://clear.ventures *********************************** About Innovator Café: Welcome to the Innovator Café, your Entrepreneur go-to podcast. Watch or listen as Dave Stevens and his guests provide resources and assurances to build a company growth roadmap. Subscribe — don’t miss an episode of Innovator Café: * Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/innovator-caf%C3%A9-with-david-r-stevens/id1740378639 * Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0hKZOLNExFgwpQBJpDjRpg Connect and learn more from your host, Dave Stevens: * Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIy0oNMYMW0InFHbTud7hmg * Connect with Dave on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davestevensstevenslawgroup * Follow Stevens Law Group, P.C on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stevens-law-group-p.c. * Follow Stevens Law Group, P.C on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076376076569

January 23, 202545 min

Leading Change in Traditional Industries with Laura Merling

Innovator Café with David R. Stevens, Episode 21 In this episode of Innovator Café, David R. Stevens speaks with Laura Merling, Chief Transformation and Operations Officer at Arvest Bank. Laura, with over two decades of experience, leads digital transformation efforts and enhances operational excellence at Arvest Bank. She is renowned for aligning technology with business strategy to drive innovation and efficiency. Tune in to the episode to hear about: * Extensive Transformation Experience Across Industries: Laura Merling highlighted her experience in driving digital transformation across various sectors, focusing on the intersection of technology and business change. * Challenges and Opportunities with Generative AI: Laura discussed generative AI's potential for innovation, emphasizing challenges in data quality, security, and continuous AI model validation. * Data Privacy and Security Concerns: Laura stressed the importance of securing data in AI, highlighting the risks of data leaks and the need for accurate AI model training. * Overcoming Resistance to Change: Laura noted the challenges of implementing change in traditional companies, emphasizing the importance of trust, stakeholder involvement, and iterative testing. * Measuring Value and Cost in Transformation: Laura emphasized understanding costs in business processes to justify and measure the success of digital transformation initiatives. Learn more about Laura Merling: * Connect with Laura on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/merling *********************************** About Innovator Café: Welcome to the Innovator Café, your Entrepreneur go-to podcast. Watch or listen as Dave Stevens and his guests provide resources and assurances to build a company growth roadmap. Subscribe — don’t miss an episode of Innovator Café: * Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/innovator-caf%C3%A9-with-david-r-stevens/id1740378639 * Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0hKZOLNExFgwpQBJpDjRpg Connect and learn more from your host, Dave Stevens: * Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIy0oNMYMW0InFHbTud7hmg * Connect with Dave on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davestevensstevenslawgroup/ * Follow Stevens Law Group, P.C on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stevens-law-group-p.c./ * Follow Stevens Law Group, P.C on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076376076569

November 25, 202452 min

Trust & Privacy in Tech with Tyler Finn

Innovator Café with David R. Stevens, Episode 20In this episode of Innovator Café, Dave Stevens speaks with Tyler Finn, who shares insights from his diverse and non-linear career path, touching on his experiences in public policy, privacy issues in the ad tech space, and his role at SpotDraft. Founded by a Harvard Law School lawyer and two Carnegie Mellon computer scientists, SpotDraft is a Contract Management System for the legal industry. Tyler provides a deep dive into the importance of trust in business, especially in regulatory and compliance frameworks. Tune in to the episode to hear about: * Career Journey : Explore Tyler’s transition from public policy to privacy and ad tech, and how he navigated layoffs to start his own consulting firm. * Trust and Privacy : Tyler discusses how trust is crucial in handling privacy and compliance in the tech industry and beyond * The Role of Trust in Business : Insights on building trust within a company and with external stakeholders, including regulators and the public. * Navigating Regulatory Environments : Tyler shares his experiences with drone regulations and data privacy, emphasizing the need for education and collaboration in policy-making. * Leadership and Culture : Discover how leadership styles and company culture impact trust and compliance in business settings. Learn more about Tyler Finn: * LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tylerhfinn * LinkedIn Company Page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/spotdraft * YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@SpotDraft * Check out Tyler’s Podcast, "The Abstract" Podcast for Legal Leaders: https://www.spotdraft.com/podcast *********************************** About Innovator Café: Welcome to the Innovator Café, your Entrepreneur go-to podcast. Watch or listen as Dave Stevens and his guests provide resources and assurances to build a company growth roadmap. Subscribe — don’t miss an episode of Innovator Café: * Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/innovator-caf%C3%A9-with-david-r-stevens/id1740378639 * Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0hKZOLNExFgwpQBJpDjRpg Connect and learn more from your host, Dave Stevens: * Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIy0oNMYMW0InFHbTud7hmg * Connect with Dave on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davestevensstevenslawgroup/ * Follow Stevens Law Group, P.C on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stevens-law-group-p.c./ * Follow Stevens Law Group, P.C on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076376076569

November 1, 202445 min

Helping Leaders Perform at Their Best with Executive Coach, Diane DiMusto

Innovator Café with David R. Stevens, Episode 19 In this episode of Innovator Café, David R. Stevens interviews Diane DiMusto, an Executive Coach who helps leaders perform at their best and navigate their careers with confidence. Drawing from her background as a successful executive and her expertise in neuroscience and yoga philosophy, Diane primarily works with Director level through C-Suite leaders to overcome challenges with overwhelm, and imposter syndrome, managing and motivating their team, interpersonal dynamics, and maintaining their own energy. Tune in to the episode to hear about: * Role of Executive Coaching: Diane emphasizes that executive coaching focuses on helping leaders improve specific behaviors such as communication, delegation, and empathy, ultimately enhancing their effectiveness within their organizations. * Building Awareness: Diane goes over crucial aspects of coaching and building awareness of existing behaviors in leaders. * Empowering Teams: Diane illustrates the impact of coaching through an example where a leader learns to empower their team rather than taking on all challenges themselves. * Overcoming Leadership Challenges: She goes over navigating challenges such as establishing a coaching culture throughout an organization, managing overwhelm, and improving crucial conversations skills. Learn more about Diane DiMusto: * Connect with Diane DiMusto on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ddimusto/ *********************************** About Innovator Café: Welcome to the Innovator Café, your Entrepreneur go-to podcast. Watch or listen as Dave Stevens and his guests provide resources and assurances to build a company growth roadmap. Subscribe — don’t miss an episode of Innovator Café: * Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/innovator-caf%C3%A9-with-david-r-stevens/id1740378639 * Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0hKZOLNExFgwpQBJpDjRpg Connect and learn more from your host, Dave Stevens: * Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIy0oNMYMW0InFHbTud7hmg * Connect with Dave on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davestevensstevenslawgroup * Follow Stevens Law Group, P.C on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stevens-law-group-p.c. * Follow Stevens Law Group, P.C on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076376076569

October 22, 202449 min

Empowering Innovation: A Conversation with Marylene Delbourg-Delphis

Innovator Café with David R. Stevens, Episode 18 In this episode of Innovator Café, David R. Stevens speaks with Marylene Delbourg-Delphis, a serial technology CEO, executive consultant, and board member. Marylene has focused on avant-garde products throughout her 30-year career, empowering organizations to reshape their futures. Tune in to the episode to hear about: * Inspiration for “Beyond Eureka”: Marylene's book, "Beyond Eureka," draws from her 35 years as a tech CEO and advisor. * Navigating Uncertainty in Entrepreneurship: Delbourg-Delphis emphasizes the importance of understanding and preparing for the inherent uncertainties in entrepreneurship. * The Role of MVPs and Market Testing: She underscores the significance of creating Minimum Viable Products (MVPs) and market testing. * Challenges and Realities of Innovation: Delbourg-Delphis discusses the difficulties of protecting intellectual property and the inevitability of copycats. * The David and Goliath Dynamic: She elaborates on the dynamic between startups and large corporations. While startups can innovate quickly and take risks, large corporations benefit from their established infrastructure. Learn more about Marylene Delbourg-Delphis: * Visit Marylene’s website: https://www.delbourg-delphis.org/ * Connect with Marylene on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/delbourgdelphis/ * Connect with Marylene on Scoop: https://www.scoop.it/u/mddelphis *********************************** About Innovator Café: Welcome to the Innovator Café, your Entrepreneur go-to podcast. Watch or listen as Dave Stevens and his guests provide resources and assurances to build a company growth roadmap. Subscribe — don’t miss an episode of Innovator Café: * Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/innovator-caf%C3%A9-with-david-r-stevens/id1740378639 * Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0hKZOLNExFgwpQBJpDjRpg Connect and learn more from your host, Dave Stevens: * Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIy0oNMYMW0InFHbTud7hmg * Connect with Dave on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davestevensstevenslawgroup/ * Follow Stevens Law Group, P.C on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stevens-law-group-p.c./ * Follow Stevens Law Group, P.C on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076376076569

October 15, 202444 min

Global Politics and the Quest for Stability with Abraham Sofaer

Innovator Café with David R. Stevens, Episode 17 In this episode of Innovator Café, Dave Stevens speaks with Abraham D. Sofaer, a Federal Judge and seasoned political analyst. Sofaer has a rich background in governmental roles, including significant involvement in international law and policy. His insights provide a unique perspective on global political dynamics and legal challenges. Tune in to the episode to hear about: * The current state of global politics, highlighting regions like the Middle East, Africa, and Eastern Europe, and the impact of disregarding international laws. * The role of major global powers and the limitations imposed by political structures, such as the Security Council, in addressing international conflicts. * Insights into the U.S. political landscape, including the judicial system's role and challenges in maintaining law and order. * Historical perspectives on foreign interventions, drawing lessons from engagements like Afghanistan and Iraq, and the complexities of implementing lasting policies. * The importance of foundational principles in governance, emphasizing the prevention of tyranny and the equality of all citizens. Read more about Judge Sofaer on the Federal Arbitration website: https://www.fedarb.com/professionals/judge-abraham-sofaer *********************************** About Innovator Café: Welcome to the Innovator Café, your Entrepreneur go-to podcast. Watch or listen as Dave Stevens and his guests provide resources and assurances to build a company growth roadmap. Subscribe — don’t miss an episode of Innovator Café: * Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/innovator-caf%C3%A9-with-david-r-stevens/id1740378639 * Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0hKZOLNExFgwpQBJpDjRpg Connect and learn more from your host, Dave Stevens: * Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIy0oNMYMW0InFHbTud7hmg * Connect with Dave on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davestevensstevenslawgroup/ * Follow Stevens Law Group, P.C on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stevens-law-group-p.c./ * Follow Stevens Law Group, P.C on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076376076569

October 13, 202447 min

Global IP Insights: A Conversation with Sean Collin, VP of Innovation at Elastic

Innovator Café with David R. Stevens, Episode 16 In this compelling episode of Innovator Cafe, host Dave Stevens is joined by Sean Collin, Vice President of Innovation at Elastic. Sean brings a rich background with extensive international experience, having lived and worked across six countries and engaged in transactions in over 70. His career spans multiple technologies and eras, offering unique insights into the evolution of intellectual property and innovation on a global scale. Tune in to this episode to hear about: * Sean's Global Experience : Discover how Sean's international career has shaped his understanding of intellectual property across different cultures and legal landscapes. * The Evolution of IP Strategy : Learn about the transformation in intellectual property management over the decades and how companies can leverage IP for competitive advantage. * Cultural and Geographic Differences in IP : Sean discusses how the approach to intellectual property varies significantly across different regions and how this impacts global business strategies. * IP and Company Valuation in M&A : Gain insights into how intellectual property plays a crucial role in mergers and acquisitions, potentially affecting company valuations dramatically. * Future Trends in Innovation : Sean and Dave explore the future of innovation, emphasizing the importance of continuous adaptation and the impact of emerging technologies on traditional IP strategies. Learn more about Sean Collin: * Connect with Sean on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sean-collin * Read about Elastic on their website: https://www.elastic.co *********************************** About Innovator Café: Welcome to the Innovator Café, your Entrepreneur go-to podcast. Watch or listen as Dave Stevens and his guests provide resources and assurances to build a company growth roadmap. Subscribe — don’t miss an episode of Innovator Café: * Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/innovator-caf%C3%A9-with-david-r-stevens/id1740378639 * Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0hKZOLNExFgwpQBJpDjRpg Connect and learn more from your host, Dave Stevens: * Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIy0oNMYMW0InFHbTud7hmg * Connect with Dave on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davestevensstevenslawgroup/ * Follow Stevens Law Group, P.C on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stevens-law-group-p.c./ * Follow Stevens Law Group, P.C on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076376076569

August 15, 202445 min

Unlocking Trade Secrets — A Masterclass with Attorney Dave Stevens

Innovator Café with David R. Stevens, Episode 15 In this solo episode of Innovator Cafe, host Dave Stevens, a seasoned attorney, delves deep into the intricacies of trade secrets, focusing on their crucial role in the business and entrepreneurial landscape. Dave explains the fundamentals of trade secrets, how to protect them, and their significant impact on innovation and competition. Tune in to this episode to learn about: * Understanding Trade Secrets: Dave breaks down what trade secrets are, why they are valuable, and how they differ from other forms of intellectual property such as patents and copyrights. * Protecting Your Trade Secrets: Strategies for safeguarding trade secrets are discussed, including practical measures like education, policy enforcement, and the importance of confidentiality agreements. * Leveraging Trade Secrets in Business: Explore how properly managed trade secrets can serve as a competitive edge in negotiations and partnerships, and why they should be an integral part of your IP portfolio. * Trade Secrets vs. Open Innovation: Dave addresses the balance between protecting trade secrets and engaging in open innovation, highlighting the challenges and strategies for navigating this complex terrain. * The Role of Culture and Management in Protecting IP: Insights into cultivating a workplace culture that values innovation and understands the importance of protecting intellectual property, thereby enhancing overall business sustainability. *********************************** About Innovator Café: Welcome to the Innovator Café, your Entrepreneur go-to podcast. Watch or listen as Dave Stevens and his guests provide resources and assurances to build a company growth roadmap. Subscribe — don’t miss an episode of Innovator Café: * Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/innovator-caf%C3%A9-with-david-r-stevens/id1740378639 * Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0hKZOLNExFgwpQBJpDjRpg Connect and learn more from your host, Dave Stevens: * Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIy0oNMYMW0InFHbTud7hmg * Connect with Dave on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davestevensstevenslawgroup/ * Follow Stevens Law Group, P.C on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stevens-law-group-p.c./ * Follow Stevens Law Group, P.C on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076376076569

August 8, 202447 min

Blending Innovation and Law with Ron Vaisbort

Innovator Café with David R. Stevens, Episode 14 In this episode of Innovator Café, Dave Stevens is joined by Ron Vaisbort, a serial entrepreneur and lawyer. Ron shares insights from his journey in the entrepreneurial and legal landscapes, discussing the challenges and triumphs of merging these two worlds. Tune in to the episode to hear about: * The Entrepreneurial Spirit : Ron's early experiences growing up in an immigrant family business and how it shaped his entrepreneurial spirit. * Career Shifts : How Ron transitioned from planning to start a business to unexpectedly pursuing a law career, and how he integrated his entrepreneurial drive into his legal practice * Innovation in Legal Practice : Ron's approach to legal work within technology companies, focusing on being a proactive business partner rather than just a legal advisor * Future of Innovation and AI : Insights into the impact of AI and robotics on future business and legal practices, emphasizing the need for adaptability and forward-thinking * Creative Thinking and Leadership : The importance of creative thinking in leadership roles and how it can transform business practices and outcomes * Advice for Budding Entrepreneurs: Ron highlights the importance of networking and curiosity Learn more about Ron Vaisbort: * Connect with Ron on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronvaisbort * Check out Ron’s book, Murder by Numbers: In Silicon Valley, Death Has an Algorithm, on Amazon: https://a.co/d/7yhbyHs *********************************** About Innovator Café: Welcome to the Innovator Café, your Entrepreneur go-to podcast. Watch or listen as Dave Stevens and his guests provide resources and assurances to build a company growth roadmap. Subscribe — don’t miss an episode of Innovator Café: * Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/innovator-caf%C3%A9-with-david-r-stevens/id1740378639 * Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0hKZOLNExFgwpQBJpDjRpg Connect and learn more from your host, Dave Stevens: * Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIy0oNMYMW0InFHbTud7hmg * Connect with Dave on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davestevensstevenslawgroup/ * Follow Stevens Law Group, P.C on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stevens-law-group-p.c./ * Follow Stevens Law Group, P.C on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076376076569