Positive Phil

Jigar Shah is the director of the Loan Programs Office in the US Department of Energy. Shah gained prominence as an American clean energy entrepreneur, author and podcast host. Shah is known for work to create and advocate for market-driven solutions to climate change. WikipediaGenerate Capital, Inc. operates as a specialty finance company. The company builds, owns, operates, and finances infrastructure assets for energy storage, solar PV, solar thermal, energy efficiency, biomass, agriculture, and wastewater sectors. The company offers standard financial products, such as asset backed lending, project finance, and asset warehouses and other short-term financing, as well as products custom-tailored products. It serves technology manufacturers, project developers, and contractors or integrators. The company was incorporated in 2014 and is headquartered in San Francisco, CaliforniaMr. Jigar Shah serves as Co-Founder and President at Generate Capital, Inc. He co-founded the firm in 2014. Mr. Shah serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Jigar Shah Consulting. He serves as a Director of Empower Energies, Inc. Mr. Shah serves as an Advisor of CleanChoice Energy, Inc. and EGG-energy, Inc. He has been an Independent Director of Sustainable Power Group, LLC since August 2014. Mr. Shah has been a Director of New York State Energy Research and Development http://www.positivephil.com The Positive Phil Podcast Show, a podcast, available on iTunes, Spotify, iHeartRadio, where Positive Phil talks about personal stories, events and engaging interviews; with famous people, celebrities, athletes, authors, spiritual educators, thought leaders, as well as others in the social, business and entertainment industry.Airing on over 300 digital channels, including iHeart Radio, Spotify, StitcherFm, Google Podcast and published online via RSS feeds globally. (metrics, guests, info)The show has been around for almost 4 years and is one of the most popular podcast shows on the internet in the business-motivation space.Professional radio, tv, podcast host and producer from San Diego California. We have a large national following on digital media channels, with our popular podcast and network of shows. Airing on iHeart Media, iTunes, Spotify, Spreaker, Stitcher, PlayerFM and over 200 additional media channels.https://www.positivephil.comAbout Generate Capitalwww.generatecapital.com

Craig Hall is an entrepreneur, New York Times bestselling author, vintner and philanthropist. He formed HALL Group in 1968 at age 18 with $4,000 saved from small ventures that began at age 10. Today, HALL Group’s diversified business interests include active operations in commercial real estate ownership, development and management, structured financial lending, winemaking and early- stage investments in promising startups. Now, a self-made billionaire and author -Boom: Bridging the Opportunity Gap to Reignite Startupswww.reignitestartups.comHall actively supports new entrepreneurs, nurtures young startups and often speaks publicly about the importance of encouraging entrepreneurship worldwide. Together with his wife Kathryn Hall, he funded the Fulbright – Kathryn and Craig Hall Distinguished Chair for Entrepreneurship to teach entrepreneurship in Eastern Europe. Hall also founded the Dallas Regional Office of NFTE (Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship). He is the author of seven published books, including his most recent, BOOM: Bridging the Opportunity Gap to Reignite Startups, which was published on May 14, 2019. Hall has made it a lifelong mission to put people first – those in the community, those whom he employs, and those whom his business affects. Hall strongly believes that entrepreneurship is a catalyst that makes a difference both today and in the future, and intends to leave the world better than he found it. This is a philosophy he has been putting into action for 50 years, both in business and through his family foundation, established in 1977. Hall and his companies are often recognized for significant achievements and civic and charitable contributions. In 2006, Hall received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Mortgage Bankers Association. In 2007, Hall was named a lifetime member of the prestigious Horatio Alger Association for Distinguished Americans and was inducted into the North Texas Commercial Real Estate Hall of Fame and the Entrepreneurs Foundation of North Texas’ Ring of Honor. He was named the 2013 Dallas Real Estate Executive of the Year and in 2016 he was inducted into the Junior Achievement of Dallas Business Hall of Fame. In 2017, Hall and his wife Kathryn were co-awarded the 2017 “Master Entrepreneur of the Year” award for the Southwest Region from the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year program. In 2019, Hall was received the Pioneer Award from D CEO magazine for his contribution to the Dallas real estate community, and in the same year he also was recognized with the Business Council for the Arts Obelisk Award for his partnership with and service to the arts community. Hall has served on the Board of Trustees of the American University in Bulgaria, the American-Austrian Fulbright Board and the Board of the Horatio Alger Association for Distinguished Americans. From the perspective of a seasoned entrepreneur with experience in diverse industries—from software, to real estate, to winemaking—Hall provides his expert evaluation on the challenges facing entrepreneurs today. After careful analysis defining the current environment for startups, Hall optimistically concludes with specific strategies for go-getters to successfully bridge the opportunity gap. We can, and must, reverse these trends in order to level the playing field for entrepreneurs to safeguard the future of the American Dream. * Declining entrepreneurship: What does it mean for the future of work and our economy and how can we solve this crisis? 
* The Millennial problem: What challenges does this generation face and how can we lift the burden for millennials so that they pursue startups? 
* Women and minority-led startups: How can we provide more opportunity for women and minority-led startups and increase their visibility? 
* Democratizing entrepreneurship: What is the role of policymakers in the future of work and how can we begin to inspire change on a local and national level? 
* Corporate Darwinism: How are technology and AI influencing the future and why Main Street— and even Big Box—survival depends on flexibility, risk and innovation? 
Hope and opportunity are the currency of a growing middle class and the foundation of the American dream. Entrepreneurship can help cultivate this. And yet, as our economy and society have drifted into a greater divide between haves and have nots, we have seen our middle class shrink. We have seen our politics become divisive as we look for easy answers and all go to our own corners and reinforce our own views. 
The truth is, there is no silver bullet that will eliminate America’s income divide and its implications. But a broader base of entrepreneurs and an increase in opportunities for people of all ethnicities, races and genders to become entrepreneurs and start businesses would be a huge step in the right direction. 
* Website: www.reignitestartups.comThe Positive Phil Podcast Show, a podcast, available on iTunes, Spotify, iHeartRadio, where Positive Phil talks about personal stories, events and engaging interviews; with famous people, celebrities, athletes, authors, spiritual educators, thought leaders, as well as others in the social, business and entertainment industry.Airing on over 300 digital channels, including iHeart Radio, Spotify, StitcherFm, Google Podcast and published online via RSS feeds globally. (metrics, guests, info)The show has been around for almost 4 years and is one of the most popular podcast shows on the internet in the business-motivation space.Professional radio, tv, podcast host and producer from San Diego California. We have a large national following on digital media channels, with our popular podcast and network of shows. Airing on iHeart Media, iTunes, Spotify, Spreaker, Stitcher, PlayerFM and over 200 additional media channels.https://www.positivephil.com

in a bustling city filled with dreams and aspirations, there was a young man named Alex. Alex had always been fascinated by the power of the human spirit and its ability to overcome any obstacle. He believed that with the right mindset and unwavering determination, anyone could achieve greatness.From a young age, Alex had a burning desire to become an accomplished musician. He would spend hours practicing his guitar, pouring his heart and soul into every note.Despite facing financial struggles and growing up in a neighborhood where opportunities were scarce, Alex never lost sight of his dream.As he grew older, Alex started performing at local cafes and small venues, slowly building a reputation for his soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics. But success didn't come easy. Rejections and setbacks were common, but Alex refused to let them define him. He embraced each challenge as an opportunity to grow and improve.One fateful day, Alex received a phone call that changed his life. It was an invitation to audition for a renowned music producer who had heard about his talent. Excitement surged through his veins as he prepared himself for the opportunity of a lifetime.At the audition, Alex stepped onto the stage, his guitar in hand, and poured his heart into his performance.The music filled the room, captivating everyone who listened. The producer was spellbound by Alex's raw talent and undeniable passion.A few nerve-wracking days later, the phone rang again. It was the producer, offering Alex a record deal. The young musician couldn't believe it. Years of hard work, perseverance, and unwavering belief had finally paid off. This was his chance to make a mark in the music industry and share his gift with the world.Alex's journey to success was not without its fair share of challenges. The path to stardom was filled with long nights, demanding rehearsals, and sacrifices. But through it all, he never lost sight of his purpose. He used every setback as fuel to propel him forward, never doubting his ability to overcome any obstacle that came his way.With each new album release, Alex's fan base grew, and his music touched the hearts of millions.His songs carried messages of hope, resilience, and the power of the human spirit. People from all walks of life found solace in his lyrics, drawing strength from his story of triumph over adversity.Alex's success extended far beyond the music charts. He used his platform to inspire others, sharing his journey of perseverance and reminding people that they too possessed the power to chase their dreams relentlessly. He became an advocate for mental health, spreading awareness and encouraging others to prioritize their well-being.Years later, Alex stood on the grandest stage of all, accepting numerous awards and accolades for his contribution to the world of music. But it wasn't the trophies or the fame that brought him the greatest joy. It was the knowledge that his story had inspired countless individuals to pursue their passions and never give up.Through his unwavering belief in the power of the human spirit, Alex had shown the world that winning wasn't just about achieving fame or recognition. It was about the journey, the growth, and the indomitable spirit that resided within each of us.And so, his story lives on, a testament to the fact that winning is not limited to a select few but is within the reach of anyone who dares to dream, persist, and believe. Alex's legacy continues to motivate and uplift, reminding us all that the power to triumph resides within our hearts and minds.https://www.positivephil.com

Gary Michelson is on the show....Dr. Gary Michelson is a board certified orthopedic spinal surgeon, inventor of more than 990 patents throughout the world, the founder and funder of three private foundations, recipient of numerous awards, and among a small group of individuals to ever be inducted into both the National Inventors Hall of Fame and the National Academy of Inventors. Despite his modest upbringing, Dr. Michelson worked his way through Temple University and medical school at Drexel University, and following a successful surgical fellowship at St. Luke’s Medical Center in Houston, entered private practice in California as an orthopedic surgeon specializing in spinal surgery. Over the next 25 years, he became world-renowned as a surgical innovator and the most prolific inventor in medical history, with over 990 patents worldwide issued to date.In the field of spinal surgery, where outcomes were unpredictable and recovery could be long and painful, Dr. Michelson’s revolutionary advancements in procedures, instruments and implants consistently led to better patient outcomes, and significantly reduced post-surgical pain, blood loss, complications and recovery time. The surgical techniques and materials developed by Dr. Michelson remain the industry standard around the world.In 2005, after selling his patents to Medtronic, the world’s largest medical device company, those proceeds, together with the resolution of related intellectual property litigation, earned Dr. Michelson a place on the Forbes 400 as a self-made billionaire. The litigation, which established new precedents in the field of patent law, later became a stimulus for Dr. Michelson to create a comprehensive textbook on the subject (The Intangible Advantage: Understanding Intellectual Property in the New Economy), which he released digitally free of charge. Later, he developed an undergraduate college course, The Entrepreneur’s Guide to Intellectual Property, which has been adopted by many colleges and universities throughout the country. This inspired Dr. Michelson to create the Michelson 20MM Foundation (formerly, Twenty Million Minds Foundation), funding the dissemination of free, peer-reviewed, openly-licensed digital textbooks for essential college general education courses. These textbooks, now in use in half of all U.S. colleges and universities, and more than 70 countries, have already saved students hundreds of millions of dollars. Among its related initiatives, 20MM also provides digital textbooks for the remedial education of individuals serving time in prison.After retiring from private practice, Dr. Michelson’s passion pivoted exclusively to philanthropy, advancing his philosophy that sharing knowledge and supporting the research of others can change the world. That same year, he made an introductory donation of $100 million to his private Michelson Medical Research Foundation (which does not accept outside donations). Among the Foundation’s other activities, the Michelson Neglected Disease Vaccine Initiative supports research for obscure and lesser-known diseases that are deemed too esoteric for conventional funding, but nonetheless affect billions of people, particularly in poorer countries throughout the world. As a medical student, Dr. Michelson was nearly expelled over his objection to removing healthy organs from living dogs in a surgical lab. His lifelong passion for animals led to a new philanthropic endeavor, the Found Animals Foundation. This Los Angeles-based animal welfare organization provides grants for the rescue and placement of shelter animals, operates adopt-and-shop centers for homeless pets, provides free microchips, subsidizes stationary and mobile low and no-cost spay/neuter clinics, and funds the $25 million Michelson Grant for the development of non-surgical sterilization for cats and dogs. Through its various programs and services, Found Animals Foundation has assisted over 1.5 million companion animals over the past 14 years.In 2014, Dr. Michelson and his wife Alya personally gifted $50 million to the University of Southern California to fund the creation of the USC Michelson Center for Convergent Bioscience, bringing together the best and brightest of scientists, researchers and engineers from around the world to work collaboratively on solutions to the most pressing public health issues of our time. This unique interdisciplinary research site aspires to become a model for other prominent research universities, bringing the world closer to the medical breakthroughs that will define the 21st century.Among his many awards, citations and accomplishments, Dr. Michelson is one of a handful of individuals to ever be inducted into both the National Inventors Hall of Fame and the National Academy of Inventors. In 2006, he was recognized as the world’s leading scientist of spinal research by the Paralyzed Veterans of America. Among a group of prominent inventors who supported the America Invents Act of 2011, Dr. Michelson was invited to the White House by President Obama to witness the signing of that historic legislation. In 2015, he was awarded both the Albert B. Sabin Humanitarian Award for his contributions toward neglected disease vaccine research, and the Distinguished Achievement Award from B’nai B’rith International for his leadership, philanthropy and humanitarian endeavors. He also received the honorary degree of Doctor of Humane Letters (alongside Will Ferrel and Dame Helen Mirren), at USC’s 134th Commencement Ceremony for the Class of 2017.Dr. Michelson lives in California with his wife Alya, their three children, and their two rescued dogs. They are active members of the Giving Pledge, a campaign founded by Bill Gates and Warren Buffet, that encourages the wealthiest individuals and couples to contribute the majority of their fortune to philanthropic causes.1-2 Topics Talking Points * conversation topics you want us to discuss that are important to you.:Topics: Philanthropy and the Michelson Foundations (all three are self-funded by Gary):-Michelson Medical Foundation-20MM Foundation-Found Animals FoundationSample questions-could you give us some specific examples of what each of the foundations do, and how it might directly affect our lives?-your 20MM Foundation funds high quality, interactive, open license, freely downloadable and printable, textbooks to support higher education, and in particular the college space. Please tell us about that.The Positive Phil Podcast Show, a podcast, available on iTunes, Spotify, iHeartRadio, where Positive Phil talks about personal stories, events and engaging interviews; with famous people, celebrities, entrepreneurs, athletes, authors, spiritual educators, thought leaders, as well as others in the social, business and entertainment industry.Airing on over 300 digital channels, including iHeart Radio, Spotify, StitcherFm, Google Podcast and published online via RSS feeds globally. (metrics, guests, info)The show has been around for almost 4 years and is one of the most popular podcast shows on the internet in the business-motivation space.www.positivephil.com

Jeff Webb, President of the International Cheer Union, the Founder of Varsity Spirit, and the father of modern cheerleading over the course of his 40-year business journey has gone from starting his cheerleading company out of his apartment in 1974 to securing it as an official Olympic sport 2021.https://cheerunion.org/Ambitious leaders share their setbacks & successes during their journey. If you are looking for another way to stay motivated in life, be sure to subscribe to our episodes.https://www.positivephil.comhttps://www.twitter.com/askpositivephil

Stefan Weitz, CEO of Radial, Joins Positive Phil to Discuss How Radial is Revolutionizing Omnichannel Commerce Technology. As a leader in the field, Radial empowers brands and retailers to deliver exceptional customer experiences, drive profitability, and exceed retail customer expectations across every touchpoint.Tune in to hear Stefan’s insights on the future of e-commerce, innovation, and how Radial is helping businesses stay ahead in today’s rapidly evolving retail landscape.www.positivephil.comOur Mission: To Spread Positive Values and Share Inspiring Stories of Entrepreneurship, Innovation, and Success. 

In this episode of the Positive Phil Show, we are joined by Firehouse Subs CEO Don Fox to talk about brand involvement with local communities and what it takes to make it! Firehouse Subs is a great example of this because of the chain’s heavy involvement with firehouses throughout the nation, as well as the brand’s 10-year-old Public Safety Foundation, which provides life-saving equipment to public safety officials, be it firefighters, policemen, you name it.Watch the full episode to explore how Firehouse Subs uses community efforts to better connect with its franchisees and its community, key advice to what makes a community-driven initiative successful, and how this involvement has affected consumer perception of the Firehouse Subs brand.Don Fox is a restaurant industry veteran with 45 years of experience, predominately in the QSR and Fast Casual segments. His first job was scrubbing pots and pans at the dish sink of a local Italian restaurant in NJ. He began his food service management career in 1976 with Six Flags amusement parks. In 1980, he began a 23 year career with Burger King Corporation, which included a variety of assignments in R&D and field operations. Don joined Firehouse Subs in 2003 as Director of Franchise Compliance, rose to the position of COO in early 2005, and became CEO in December of 2009. Under his leadership, the brand has grown to over 1170 restaurants in 46 states, Puerto Rico, and Canada.Fox is well regarded within the industry. In 2011, he was awarded the prestigious Operator of the Year Award by Nation's Restaurant News. In 2013, he became a member of the National Restaurant Association's Board of Directors and received the association's Advocacy Award. Also in 2013, he received the Silver Plate Award from the International Food Manufacturers Association, and was named the #1 executive in the Fast Casual segment by FastCasual.com. A board member of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association since 2013, he served as its chairman in 2017. He serves on a number of other boards in both the non-profit and for-profit arenas, both within and outside of the restaurant industry.Fox is also a published author. Among his works: "Patton's Vanguard - The United States Fourth Armored Division" , published in 2003 (soft cover edition released in 2007). He has been published in Nation's Restaurant News, Forbes, and other business publications.Fox is a frequent speaker and panelist at conferences and events both within and outside of the restaurant industry (over 175 engagements to date). If you are interested in having him at your event, feel free to reach out.www.firehousesubs.comThe Positive Phil Podcast Show, a podcast, available on iTunes, Spotify, iHeartRadio, where Positive Phil talks about personal stories, events and engaging interviews; with famous people, celebrities, athletes, authors, spiritual educators, thought leaders, as well as others in the social, business and entertainment industry.Airing on over 300 digital channels, including iHeart Radio, Spotify, StitcherFm, Google Podcast and published online via RSS feeds globally. The show has been around for almost 4 years and is one of the most popular podcast shows on the internet in the business-motivation space.Professional radio, tv, podcast host and producer from San Diego California.  We have a large national following on digital media channels, with our popular podcast and network of shows. Airing on iHeart Media, iTunes, Spotify, Spreaker, Stitcher, PlayerFM and over 200 additional media channels.https://www.positivephil.com

Murray Hidary is a composer, visual artist, and tech entrepreneur from Brooklyn, New York. He is currently focused on his immersive music experience, MindTravel, bringing it to audiences across the globe. He is the pioneer of the “silent” piano concerts through the use of wireless headphones for live piano concerts.https://www.mindtravel.comInspiring conversations behind how people grow business, movements, ideas & a bit about civic grace. Hi, I’m Positive Phil. I spend my time interviewing super incredible leaders, entrepreneurs & individuals who are altering the world, just to share their amazing journey with you.Engaging interviews with famous people, celebrities, athletes, authors, spiritual educators, thought leaders, as well as others in the social, business and entertainment industry. Episodes feature high-profile guests from various backgrounds who share personal stories, tips, and techniques to help you improve your own life. Topics include relationships, health, business, fear, love, success, and more.https://www.positivephil.com

This episode is brought to you by NEOVOLTA(NASDAQ: NEOV) – NeoVolta Inc., manufacturer of Smart Energy Storage Solutions.https://www.neovolta.com-----------Anthony Denier is the CEO of Webull, a commission-free trading platform with over 10M users worldwide. For background, Webull offers online stock trading, ETF trading, real time market quotes, and comprehensive market data from more than 100 exchanges and 90 countries.It is a financial company with the customer at heart, the internet as its foundation, and technology as its lifeblood. It is committed to synergizing technology with finance by providing reliable, professional, intelligent and efficient products and services.Website: https://www.webull.comThe Positive Phil Podcast Show, a podcast, available on iTunes, Spotify, iHeartRadio, where Positive Phil talks about personal stories, events and engaging interviews; with famous people, celebrities, athletes, authors, spiritual educators, thought leaders, as well as others in the social, business and entertainment industry.Airing on over 300 digital channels, including iHeart Radio, Spotify, StitcherFm, Google Podcast and published online via RSS feeds globally. (metrics, guests, info)The show has been around for almost 4 years and is one of the most popular podcast shows on the internet in the business-motivation space.Professional radio, tv, podcast host and producer from San Diego California. We have a large national following on digital media channels, with our popular podcast and network of shows. Airing on iHeart Media, iTunes, Spotify, Spreaker, Stitcher, PlayerFM and over 200 additional media channels.https://www.positivephil.com

Motivate Yourself to Make Positive Changes!Inspiring conversations behind how people grow business, movements, ideas & a bit about civic grace. Hi, I'm Positive Phil. https://www.positivephil.com