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Superpowers for Good: Empowering Changemakers for Social Impact via Regulated Investment Crowdfunding from the SuperCrowd.

We host changemakers who are using regulated investment crowdfunding for social impact--impact crowdfunding--as impact investors or social entrepreneurs, catalyzing change with leadership skills we call superpowers.

www.superpowers4good.com
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A Tent Full of Imagination: Empowering Neurodivergent Children Through Immersive Storytelling
24 April 2025
A Tent Full of Imagination: Empowering Neurodivergent Children Through Immersive Storytelling

Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Has your business been impacted by the recent fires? Apply now for a chance to receive one of 10 free tickets to SuperCrowdLA on May 2nd and 3rd and gain the tools to rebuild and grow!Devin: What is your superpower?Jay: Understanding the superpower in others.What if storytelling could help children with sensory sensitivities sleep through the night for the first time? That remarkable outcome is exactly what one family reported after experiencing the immersive environment created by Burble Creativity.Jay Goth, CEO of Burble Creativity, has joined forces with inventor Taylor Cole to bring to life a new form of storytelling called "minimally defined immersive storytelling." In this approach, children step into a multisensory tent where lights, sounds, and sparse narrative cues combine to unleash their imagination. "When you're done, each one of them will have their own specific version of that story, which is really cool and very, very new and unique," Jay explained.The tent's multisensory environment has proven especially beneficial for neurodivergent children, particularly those on the autism spectrum. Jay shared a powerful example: "Her child had never slept through the night. And after her story time's telling session, the kid actually slept through the night for the first time in his life. That was remarkable."Motivated by the product's potential to do good, Jay brought his deep entrepreneurial and angel investing experience to Burble. He saw not only an opportunity to make a positive social impact, but also to build a sustainable business around it. Jay and the Burble team made a conscious decision to raise capital through regulation crowdfunding rather than traditional venture capital."I wanted to go directly to the community through a crowdfunding program," Jay said. "So that the members of the community could actively be involved in the development of the company as partial owners."Burble Creativity is currently raising funds through a regulated investment crowdfunding campaign, allowing anyone to invest and become part of the mission to bring this therapeutic storytelling experience to more families. Interested supporters can visit s4g.biz/Burble to learn more about the campaign.Jay's vision for Burble is about more than business. It's about creating tools that foster peace, imagination, and healing for children who experience the world differently. For me, hosting this episode was not just a pleasure—it was a glimpse into a brighter, more inclusive future.tl;dr:Jay Goth explains Burble's innovative storytelling tent, helping neurodivergent children engage imagination and find calm.He shares the tent's success with autistic children, including one who slept through the night for the first time.Jay discusses his path from angel investing to becoming CEO of Burble to promote conscious capitalism.He reveals his superpower: recognizing and nurturing others' superpowers through deep listening and mentorship.Jay encourages community investment via crowdfunding to support Burble's mission and social impact.How to Develop Empowering Others As a SuperpowerJay Goth’s superpower is his ability to see the potential in others and help them realize it. Reflecting on his career, Jay said, “My superpower is really understanding the superpower in others.” He explained that his passion lies in identifying what drives people and finding ways to support them in achieving their goals.One touching story Jay shared exemplifies how he uses this superpower. While working in investor relations, he mentored a colleague, Chris Rosgen, helping him develop a strong reputation in the industry as a “real bulldog.” Chris thrived under Jay’s mentorship, growing into a respected leader. Jay’s guidance left a lasting impact, and the experience remains a cherished memory.Jay also highlighted the importance of listening to others as a key to identifying their strengths. “We have two ears and one mouth for a reason,” he said, emphasizing the need to understand people’s passions and help them channel those into their success.Tips for Developing This Superpower:Listen Actively: Focus on understanding someone’s passions and goals instead of planning your next response.Identify Strengths: Pay attention to what excites and motivates people to uncover their unique talents.Mentor with Purpose: Provide guidance and support to help others grow into their potential.Encourage Self-Belief: Help people see their own strengths and develop confidence in their abilities.By following Jay’s example and advice, you can make identifying and nurturing potential a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileJay Goth (he/him):CEO, Burble Creativity, Inc.About Burble Creativity, Inc.: Burble Creativity has developed a storytelling technology that merges lights, sound, and story in a unique way, empowering readers to actively imagine and personalize the details of the narrative. Burble is a transformative experience that sparks imagination, encourages creativity, and supports cognitive and emotional development.Website: burblecreativity.comCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/burblecreativityincOther URL: invest.burblecreativity.comBiographical Information: Jay Goth is a seasoned C-level executive with experience in technology, energy, finance, and healthcare. He currently holds the position of CEO of Burble Creativity, where he is preparing  the company to introduce its Story Tent. Jay also has a background in investment banking, investing, and mentoring startup companies.X/Twitter Handle: @jaygothLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/burble-creativityInstagram Handle: @burblecreativitySupport Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today’s advertisers include FundingHope, AMIBA, SuperCrowdLA and Crowdfunding Made Simple. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact MembersThe following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support:Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.SuperCrowdLA: we’re going to be live in Santa Monica, California, May 1-3. Plan to join us for a major, in-person event focused on scaling impact. Sponsored by Digital Niche Agency, ProActive Real Estate and others. This will be a can’t-miss event. Has your business been impacted by the recent fires? Apply now for a chance to receive one of 10 free tickets to SuperCrowdLA on May 2nd and 3rd and gain the tools to rebuild and grow!  Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on May 20, 2025, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.SuperCrowdHour, May 21, 2025, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Devin Thorpe, Champion of Social Good and CEO of The Super Crowd, Inc., will lead a session on "The Secret to Higher Investment Returns via Impact Crowdfunding." He’ll share powerful strategies and real-world examples that show how aligning your investments with your values can lead to strong financial and social returns. If you're an investor looking to maximize impact or curious about the growing world of impact crowdfunding, this is a session you won’t want to miss! Don’t miss it!SuperCrowd25, August 21st and 22nd: This two-day virtual event is an annual tradition but with big upgrades for 2025! We’ll be streaming live across the web and on TV via e360tv. Soon, we’ll open a process for nominating speakers. Check back!Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.Igniting Community Capital to Build Outdoor Recreation Communities, Crowdfund Better, Thursdays, March 20 & 27, April 3 & 10, 2025, at 1:00 PM ET.Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit 2025, Crowdfunding Professional Association, Washington DC, October 21-22, 2025.Call for community action:Please show your support for a tax credit for investments made via Regulation Crowdfunding, benefiting both the investors and the small businesses that receive the investments. Learn more here.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 9,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe

25 min
How Data-Driven Insights Are Shaping the Future of Investment Crowdfunding
22 April 2025
How Data-Driven Insights Are Shaping the Future of Investment Crowdfunding

Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Has your business been impacted by the recent fires? Apply now for a chance to receive one of 10 free tickets to SuperCrowdLA on May 2nd and 3rd and gain the tools to rebuild and grow!Devin: What is your superpower?Sherwood: I am constantly saying yes, instead of saying, I'm sorry, no, I can't.The future of investment crowdfunding is being defined by those who not only pioneered the space but continue to shape it with a relentless commitment to data and transparency. The most exciting development for investors and entrepreneurs alike is how actionable insights, not just anecdotes or hype, are driving smarter decisions and better results.In this episode, Sherwood Neiss, Principal at Crowdfund Capital Advisors and one of the original architects behind the legislation that made regulated investment crowdfunding possible, shares his unique perspective. Sherwood’s new book, Investomers, distills fourteen years of experience, offering a comprehensive look into what makes this industry tick and how anyone—investor, entrepreneur, or policymaker—can benefit.What sets Sherwood apart is a dedication to grounding everything in robust data. Early on, he recognized that the industry needed more than vision; it needed transparency and metrics. “From the minute this industry launched, we’ve been collecting information, not just on the companies and where they are and their financials and all that stuff, but every day, how much money has been committed to an offering and how many investors. With those data points, we can track what we call investor sentiment,” Sherwood explained.This relentless focus on measurement is not just academic. It empowers investors to make informed decisions and helps founders understand what drives successful campaigns. “The book is a lot of data-driven insights from the work that we’ve done with investment crowdfunding about the economic rationale for this,” Sherwood shared. He’s created tools and reports that highlight where the signals for success are strongest, always encouraging readers and clients to dig into the numbers for themselves.Crucially, Sherwood’s work is not just about numbers, but about democratizing access to capital and opportunity. “Many of the reasons for failure is lack of capital, which I’m hoping we’re solving for with investment crowdfunding,” he noted, underscoring the human impact behind the data.For those eager to learn more or to leverage these insights in their own investing, Sherwood’s company is not currently raising capital from the crowd but is focused on providing invaluable data and advisory services through Crowdfund Capital Advisors and their C-Clear platform. Investomers is available now, offering a blueprint for anyone who wants to invest smarter or build something meaningful in this rapidly evolving space.Sherwood’s passion and open-handed approach to sharing what works—and what doesn’t—make this episode a resource for anyone looking to turn data into a tool for empowerment and positive change.tl;dr:Sherwood Woodie Neiss shares how data-driven insights are transforming investment crowdfunding for investors and entrepreneurs.He reveals the story behind launching Crowdfund Capital Advisors and building a comprehensive industry database.Sherwood explains how his new book, Investomers, distills years of experience and research into actionable guidance.He describes his superpower: breaking big goals into small steps and using accountability to achieve them.The episode highlights practical strategies for making progress on major projects by leveraging data and discipline.How to Develop Relentless Follow-Through As a SuperpowerWoodie’s superpower is his ability to say yes to opportunities and follow through by breaking daunting challenges into manageable steps. As Woodie described, “I am one of these people that I’m a yes man. So I am constantly saying yes, instead of saying, I’m sorry, no, I can’t...you need to take anything that you’re doing and break it down into 100 steps. And then do one of those a day...the principle of that, the theory behind it is break everything down into small chunks, so that you can accomplish something in a day, in a week or whatever, but it keeps the ball moving forward.”Woodie illustrated this superpower vividly by recounting how he managed to write a 400-page book, Investomers, while juggling his many professional responsibilities. He set a big goal at the start of the year, broke it down into about a hundred discrete steps, and methodically worked through them, bit by bit, over the course of the year. He even enlisted a friend as an accountability partner, meeting weekly to track progress, ensure he stayed on task, and remove nonessential items from his plate. This system helped him complete the book in just over a year while keeping all his other commitments moving forward.To cultivate relentless follow-through, Woodie suggests:Break large goals into small, actionable stepsSet regular milestones and track your progressFind an accountability partner who will meet with you weeklyBe willing to reprioritize and move less important tasks off your plateCommit to a schedule and honor it—treat your accountability meetings as non-negotiableBy following Woodie’s example and advice, you can make relentless follow-through a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileWoodie Neiss (he/him):Principal, Crowdfund Capital Advisors, LLCAbout Crowdfund Capital Advisors, LLC:  CCA is a data-driven investment crowdfunding consulting and advisory services firm. Its principals wrote the framework for Regulation Crowdfunding, lobbied for its passage, and attended the JOBS Act bill signing ceremony at the White House. CCA built the industry's first aggregator that collects daily information on all online investment offerings from almost 100 platforms in the USA. The database captures over $1.5B daily transaction volume into 5,500 issuers in every state. Venture funds, financial services firms, regulators, and more use the data for insights into the online investment marketplace, be it job creation, valuations by industry, deal flow, or overall industry trends. CCA clients include the World Bank, Securities Regulators globally, the US State Department, and major Family Foundations. CCA launched the industry's first index that tracks the top 50 daily offerings and also recently launched CrowdBook, a data research and visualization tool for consumers of CCA's data feeds.Website: crowdfundcapitaladvisors.comX/Twitter Handle: @woodienCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/crowdfundcapitaladvisorsBiographical Information: Sherwood Neiss is a 3-time INC500 winner whose former company won E&Y's Entrepreneur of the Year. During the credit crunch, Sherwood saw a need to change outdated securities laws. He co-created and lobbied for the Crowdfunding Framework used in the JOBS Act. President Obama signed it into law on April 5, 2012. CCA advises multilateral organizations, governments, NGOs, and other entrepreneurial stakeholders on understanding the multi-billion-dollar crowdfunding market. He co-founded the Crowdfunding Professional Association (CfPA) & Crowdfund Intermediary Regulatory Advocates (CFIRA). He is an entrepreneur in residence and co-founder of The Program for Innovation in Entrepreneurial and Social Finance at the University of California Berkeley. He is co-author of Crowdfund Investing for Dummies (Wiley) and the World Bank Report Crowdfunding’s Potential for the Developing Word. He produces comprehensive Crowdfund Investing educational materials via Success with Crowdfunding. He is an active investor in the emerging global crowdfunding ecosystem. He holds an International MBA from Thunderbird and a BA from Tulane University.X/Twitter Handle: @woodienLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/sherwoodneissSupport Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today’s advertisers include FundingHope, AMIBA, SuperCrowdLA and Crowdfunding Made Simple. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact MembersThe following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support:Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.SuperCrowdLA: we’re going to be live in Santa Monica, California, May 1-3. Plan to join us for a major, in-person event focused on scaling impact. Sponsored by Digital Niche Agency, ProActive Real Estate and others. This will be a can’t-miss event. Has your business been impacted by the recent fires? Apply now for a chance to receive one of 10 free tickets to SuperCrowdLA on May 2nd and 3rd and gain the tools to rebuild and grow!  Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on May 20, 2025, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.SuperCrowd25, August 21st and 22nd: This two-day virtual event is an annual tradition but with big upgrades for 2025! We’ll be streaming live across the web and on TV via e360tv. Soon, we’ll open a process for nominating speakers. Check back!Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.Igniting Community Capital to Build Outdoor Recreation Communities, Crowdfund Better, Thursdays, March 20 & 27, April 3 & 10, 2025, at 1:00 PM ET.Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit 2025, Crowdfunding Professional Association, Washington DC, October 21-22, 2025.Call for community action:Please show your support for a tax credit for investments made via Regulation Crowdfunding, benefiting both the investors and the small businesses that receive the investments. Learn more here.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 9,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe

26 min
Bringing Back the House Call: Pivotal Health Makes Access Easier and More Personal
17 April 2025
Bringing Back the House Call: Pivotal Health Makes Access Easier and More Personal

Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Has your business been impacted by the recent fires? Apply now for a chance to receive one of 10 free tickets to SuperCrowdLA on May 2nd and 3rd and gain the tools to rebuild and grow!Devin: What is your superpower?Sal: I don't quit.Bringing value to patients is the foundation for profitability. That’s the guiding principle behind Pivotal Health, which is reinventing healthcare delivery by bringing medical care directly to patients’ homes, dorms or offices. It’s not just convenient—it’s a better way to care.Sal Braico, Co-Founder and CEO of Pivotal Health, explained in today’s episode how the company is reviving the once-common practice of house calls using technology and a physician-led team of experienced nurse practitioners and physician assistants. “We are improving [access] by bringing the house call back,” Sal said. “We're leveraging tech to bring the house call back.”The results speak for themselves. By avoiding long wait times and exposure to illnesses in urgent care or emergency rooms, patients receive focused, uninterrupted attention from providers. This personalized care environment also allows patients to open up about mental health issues that might otherwise go unaddressed.Sal shared, “One of the things that we’ve seen is that oftentimes patients are able to bring up issues about mental health because they’re more comfortable in their own house.” That comfort leads to better outcomes, deeper care and a more trusting relationship between provider and patient.It’s not just a feel-good story. Pivotal Health is scaling rapidly by delivering real value. From just one employer partner a year ago to now serving over 45 companies and more than 3,000 employees, the company’s direct care model is gaining traction.“If we're able to always do the best thing for the patient, then the money and the profits, they will come,” Sal emphasized.Pivotal Health is currently raising funds via a regulated investment crowdfunding campaign on Wefunder. As Sal explained, patients themselves sparked the idea by asking how they could invest. Now they can.Visit wefunder.com/pivotalhealth or use the shortcut s4g.biz/Pivotal to learn more. Funds from the campaign will help expand the service from three metro areas in Wisconsin to more cities across the country.Today’s episode shows that innovation often means returning to ideas that once worked well. With Pivotal Health, Sal and his team are proving that house calls, enhanced by technology, can transform modern healthcare. And thanks to crowdfunding, the very people who benefit most can help power its growth.tl;dr:Sal Braico is using technology to revive house calls, making healthcare more personal and accessible.Pivotal Health uses nurse practitioners and physician assistants to deliver efficient, high-quality care.Personalized visits in comfortable environments help patients discuss mental health and receive better overall care.Sal demonstrates how impact and profitability align, with strong growth driven by patient and employer value.A Wefunder campaign enables patients and supporters to invest in expanding Pivotal Health’s innovative model.How to Develop Relentless Persistence As a SuperpowerSal Braico says his superpower is simple: "I don't quit." In today’s episode, Sal, the CEO and Co-Founder of Pivotal Health, shared how an unwavering determination has carried him and his team through countless challenges."It doesn't matter what the problem is, what the issue is. I just don't quit," Sal said. Inspired by his immigrant parents, who modeled tireless dedication to work without complaint, he developed a mindset rooted in grit and consistency. "They just put their heads down, and they just worked," Sal explained. "That's what they showed me."One vivid example of Sal’s persistence came when Change Health, Pivotal Health’s primary claims processor, was hacked. Payments stopped. Claims couldn’t be submitted. The company faced a crisis. Cash flow dried up, and making payroll became difficult. But quitting was never an option. “We just didn’t quit,” he said. Sal communicated openly with his team, secured a little more time, and eventually stabilized the business. The incident led to a key pivot away from insurance, helping the company emerge stronger.Sal offered several insights for building this kind of resilience:Keep a level mindset. Things are never as bad—or as good—as they seem.Take care of physical health. Fitness builds stamina to endure tough times.Protect mental health. Use tools like therapy or meditation to maintain perspective.Avoid emotional overreaction. Emotional regulation helps sustain long-term focus and energy.By following Sal’s example and advice, you can make persistence a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileSal Braico (he/him):Co-Founder and CEO, Pivotal HealthAbout Pivotal Health: Pivotal Health, headquartered in Madison, WI, is revolutionizing access to healthcare. We've completed over 16,000 house call visits in multiple Midwest metro areas since 2021, proving our commitment to accessible, patient-centered care. Our tech-enabled platform empowers clinicians to deliver urgent and primary care wherever you need it – home, work, or beyond.  We're also breaking down barriers with our Direct Care model, offering affordable, transparent healthcare without the limitations of insurance.Website: pivotalhealth.careCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/yourpivotalhealthOther URL: wefunder.com/pivotalhealthBiographical Information: Sal Braico is a seasoned healthcare entrepreneur with over 22 years of experience building and scaling successful companies across the industry. His diverse background spans the spectrum of healthcare, from drug and medical device development to pharmacy and healthcare information technology, culminating in his current venture, Pivotal Health. Notably, Sal founded Flex Biomedical, a medical device company that developed a groundbreaking osteoarthritis treatment, later licensed to a major orthopedic firm. He also was the Chief Operating Officer of Mallatt's Pharmacy and Home Healthcare, transforming it into one of the Midwest's largest independent pharmacy companies before its acquisition by Walgreen's and Guardian Pharmacy.X/Twitter Handle: @salbraicoLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/sal-braicoInstagram Handle: @pivotalhealthcareSupport Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today’s advertisers include FundingHope, Make Money with Impact Crowdfunding, SuperCrowdLA and Crowdfunding Made Simple. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact MembersThe following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support:Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.SuperCrowdLA: we’re going to be live in Santa Monica, California, May 1-3. Plan to join us for a major, in-person event focused on scaling impact. Sponsored by Digital Niche Agency, ProActive Real Estate and others. This will be a can’t-miss event. Has your business been impacted by the recent fires? Apply now for a chance to receive one of 10 free tickets to SuperCrowdLA on May 2nd and 3rd and gain the tools to rebuild and grow!  Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on May 20, 2025, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.SuperCrowd25, August 21st and 22nd: This two-day virtual event is an annual tradition but with big upgrades for 2025! We’ll be streaming live across the web and on TV via e360tv. Soon, we’ll open a process for nominating speakers. Check back!Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.Igniting Community Capital to Build Outdoor Recreation Communities, Crowdfund Better, Thursdays, March 20 & 27, April 3 & 10, 2025, at 1:00 PM ET.Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit 2025, Crowdfunding Professional Association, Washington DC, October 21-22, 2025.Call for community action:Please show your support for a tax credit for investments made via Regulation Crowdfunding, benefiting both the investors and the small businesses that receive the investments. Learn more here.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 9,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe

24 min
Printing a Path to Affordable, Sustainable Housing
15 April 2025
Printing a Path to Affordable, Sustainable Housing

Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Has your business been impacted by the recent fires? Apply now for a chance to receive one of 10 free tickets to SuperCrowdLA on May 2nd and 3rd and gain the tools to rebuild and grow!Devin: What is your superpower?Gene: Ability to create solutions people genuinely need.Affordable housing is one of the most pressing problems of our time. When a business emerges that not only addresses the issue but also dramatically improves environmental impact, my attention is piqued.Azure Printed Homes, co-founded by Gene Eidelman, is doing just that. With cutting-edge technology, they're printing homes from recycled materials. Their mission is clear: build faster, reduce costs and minimize environmental harm."We started the company with three bullets: build faster, build less expensive and less environmental impact," Gene said in today’s episode.Gene and his team have created large-format 3D printers that produce the modules of a house—floor, walls and ceiling—in just 24 hours. It’s a staggering time savings compared to traditional construction, which can take 90 to 180 days. That efficiency doesn’t sacrifice quality, thanks to their controlled, factory-based process.The company’s origins lie in tragedy. After the Woolsey Fire devastated Malibu, Gene volunteered to help families navigate the rebuilding process. The experience galvanized him to rethink construction. "We really were still building the traditional way," he recalled. "If we don't have innovation, it'll be impossible to rebuild now."Today, Azure Printed Homes is delivering units across California, Georgia, Colorado, Arkansas and beyond. And they’re doing it using recycled plastic. "We can use about 6,000 to 7,000 pounds of recycled material a day," Gene explained. "I can't think of any other industry that does that."They aren’t just building homes. They're offering people a chance to be part of a solution. Azure has raised over $2 million from 2,000 investors across 46 states and 23 countries through regulation crowdfunding."What I love about crowdfunding is we now have 2,000 true partners," Gene told me. One early investor who started with just $1,000 ultimately brought in over $400,000 in additional investment and leasing support.The momentum continues. You can learn more and invest at s4g.biz/Azure before their campaign closes on April 26. This isn’t just another startup. Azure is redefining what’s possible in housing—and they’re doing it with help from the crowd.tl;dr:Azure Printed Homes builds affordable, sustainable housing by 3D printing modular units from recycled plastic materials.Gene Eidelman co-founded the company after witnessing the devastating effects of the Woolsey Fire in Malibu.The factory-based printing process reduces build time from months to days, cuts costs and limits environmental harm.Azure has raised over $2 million via five crowdfunding campaigns, creating a community of 2,000 supportive investors.Gene's superpower is creating needed solutions through innovation, persistence and a mission-driven approach to housing and sustainability.How to Develop Solution Creation As a SuperpowerGene Eidelman's superpower is the ability to create solutions people genuinely need."This is my fourth startup, and honestly, I've never been involved in something that when you just offer a picture rendering where people say, I need to have it," Gene said. He explained that the core of their work at Azure Printed Homes is solving the real problem of affordable housing. By creating high-quality, attractive homes made from recycled materials that are produced quickly and inexpensively, he and his team are directly responding to one of society's greatest needs. "Affordable housing does not need to look ugly," he emphasized, reflecting a commitment not only to function but also to dignity.One story that illustrates Gene’s superpower is the origin of Azure Printed Homes. After living through the Woolsey Fire and volunteering to help displaced families, Gene recognized the deep flaws in traditional construction. Rather than accept the slow, expensive and environmentally harmful status quo, he helped create a company that uses recycled materials and large-scale 3D printing to build homes in just 24 hours. What began as a community response evolved into a growing enterprise with national reach.To develop the superpower of solution creation, Gene implicitly offers several actionable tips:Identify what people desperately need; don’t just chase trends.Combine deep domain expertise with a willingness to reimagine old methods.Prioritize speed, cost and environmental sustainability when designing new solutions.Stay committed even when others say it’s impossible.Leverage global innovation and customize it to local needs.Use crowdfunding not only for funding but to build a community of believers and advocates.By following Gene Eidelman's example and advice, you can make solution creation a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileGene Eidelman (he/him):Cofounder, Azure Printed HomesAbout Azure Printed Homes: Azure Printed Homes is fundamentally changing the construction industry by leveraging 3D printing technology using recycled polymers and fiberglass to prefab tiny homes, ADUs, affordable homes and units for housing after natural disasters 70% faster and 30% less expensive than existing construction methods. Website: azureprintedhomes.comX/Twitter Handle: @azureprinthomesCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/azureprintedhomesOther URL: invest.azureprintedhomes.comBiographical Information: Gene Eidelman: Pioneering Sustainable and Affordable 3D Printing of HomesFrom developing multifamily housing to revolutionizing the construction industry with 3D-printed homes, Gene's journey in entrepreneurship is marked by innovation and impact. He co-founded his latest start-up, Azure Printed Homes in 2022. At Azure, Gene and his team are breaking new ground with a patented 3D printing process that constructs entire structures from recycled materials, fiberglass and other additives. This eco-friendly method is not only 70% faster but also 30% less expensive than traditional construction, revolutionizing how we think about building homes. Since May 2023, Azure Printed Homes has been delivering units ranging from workforce housing, affordable houses, homes for victims of natural disasters and units for outdoor hospitality industry, with a focus on sustainable, attainable housing for all. Azure current state-of-the art factory is in Los Angeles. They will be opening a factory in Colorado in 2025 and will be opening locations around the globe in 2026 and 2027. Azure is the winner of numerous awards and recognitions, including the 2024 Real Estate Tech Awards and 2025 Fast Company Global Innovator. Azure is currently raising its next round of funding at https://invest.azureprintedhomes.com. Gene is a sought-after speaker and thought leader in the fields of innovation, entrepreneurship, sustainability, 3D Printing, construction and real estate. He delivered a TED talk on the future of housing, which has over 500,000 views and has been selected as one of the most impactful TED talk this century. His work is paving the way for a future where affordable and sustainable housing is going to be attainable by all.X/Twitter Handle: @geidelmanLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/geneeidelmanInstagram Handle: @azureprintedhomesSupport Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today’s advertisers include FundingHope, Make Money with Impact Crowdfunding, SuperCrowdLA and Crowdfunding Made Simple. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact MembersThe following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support:Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on April 15, 2025, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.SuperCrowdHour, April 16, 2025, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Gene Massey, Chairman/CEO of MediaShares, will lead a session on "Secrets For Creating Great Content To Attract Investors." He’ll share expert insights on crafting compelling content that engages and converts potential investors. Whether you're launching a crowdfunding campaign or looking to enhance your storytelling strategy, this session is a must-attend! Don’t miss it!SuperCrowdLA: we’re going to be live in Santa Monica, California, May 1-3. Plan to join us for a major, in-person event focused on scaling impact. Sponsored by Digital Niche Agency, ProActive Real Estate and others. This will be a can’t-miss event. Has your business been impacted by the recent fires? Apply now for a chance to receive one of 10 free tickets to SuperCrowdLA on May 2nd and 3rd and gain the tools to rebuild and grow!  SuperCrowd25, August 21st and 22nd: This two-day virtual event is an annual tradition but with big upgrades for 2025! We’ll be streaming live across the web and on TV via e360tv. Soon, we’ll open a process for nominating speakers. Check back!Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.Igniting Community Capital to Build Outdoor Recreation Communities, Crowdfund Better, Thursdays, March 20 & 27, April 3 & 10, 2025, at 1:00 PM ET.Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit 2025, Crowdfunding Professional Association, Washington DC, October 21-22, 2025.Call for community action:Please show your support for a tax credit for investments made via Regulation Crowdfunding, benefiting both the investors and the small businesses that receive the investments. Learn more here.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 9,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe

25 min
Planning Is the Key to Crowdfunding Success
10 April 2025
Planning Is the Key to Crowdfunding Success

Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Has your business been impacted by the recent fires? Apply now for a chance to receive one of 10 free tickets to SuperCrowdLA on May 2nd and 3rd and gain the tools to rebuild and grow!Devin: What is your superpower?Jason: Ability to inspire excitement.Raising money through regulated investment crowdfunding is hard. Too many founders underestimate the difficulty, thinking that once their campaign goes live, the crowd will come running. The truth, as Jason Fishman explains, is that success starts long before a campaign launches.Jason, Co-Founder and CEO of Digital Niche Agency (DNA) and host of the "Test. Optimize. Scale." podcast, is one of the industry's most experienced investor acquisition experts. He helps founders raise capital by creating marketing funnels that turn strangers into advocates. In today’s episode, he shared the single most important element of a successful crowdfunding raise: planning."If you fail to plan, you plan to fail," Jason said. "Imagine launching a website tomorrow and trying to bring 50,000 people towards it and get 1,000 of those people to convert at a transactional value of $1,000 or more."That’s the scale of the challenge many founders face without realizing it. Jason broke down how campaigns that succeed aren’t just lucky—they’re methodical. They use strategies built on industry research and competitive marketing audits. These show founders what messaging and channels are working and which aren't, enabling them to craft a custom roadmap for every stage of their campaign.He encourages founders to go deep on pre-launch preparation. That includes clearly identifying audiences, traffic sources, and strategic partnerships. According to Jason, it also means fine-tuning the content and offering page to ensure it’s optimized for conversions."You still need to have a well-thought-out plan on where that traffic's coming from," he noted, even for small campaigns targeting $50,000. "One way or the other, I need to figure out how am I getting those actual visits to my offering page."Jason and his team at DNA have helped clients raise hundreds of millions of dollars from the crowd. The secret? They treat marketing as a science—and a strategy-first mindset is always step one.To hear more from Jason, check out this episode and join us at SuperCrowdLA, where he’ll speak twice and be available throughout the event. Don’t miss the chance to learn from one of the best in the business.tl;dr:Jason Fishman explains why strategic planning and marketing are essential for crowdfunding success at any scale.He shares how the most successful campaigns use research and competitor audits to map traffic and conversions.Jason emphasizes that even small campaigns must create momentum with targeted audiences and compelling content.His superpower, generating excitement, helps him motivate teams, founders, and friends to rally around a vision.Jason encourages understanding your audience’s fears and desires to inspire action and build lasting engagement.How to Develop Inspiring Excitement As a SuperpowerJason Fishman’s superpower is his ability to inspire excitement and rally people around a shared goal. “Getting people excited…has been present my whole life,” Jason explained. He shared how this skill underpins his success in building impactful marketing campaigns, emphasizing that understanding what drives and motivates people is key. Jason applies this talent to craft compelling messaging and visuals that move audiences to action.Illustrative Story:Jason shared a personal anecdote about planning a wedding for his wife’s cousin, who had been overwhelmed by the process. By addressing objections and highlighting exciting details, Jason turned their reluctance into enthusiasm. The result was a beautiful wedding overlooking the beach, with Jason even serving as the DJ. This story exemplifies his ability to energize others and create positive outcomes.Tips for Developing the Superpower:Understand Your Audience: Identify what excites and motivates them, as well as their fears.Communicate the Vision: Show others what success looks like and why it matters.Address Objections: Turn concerns into opportunities by re-framing challenges in a positive light.Leverage Energy: Use your enthusiasm to inspire and rally others around shared goals.By following Jason’s example and advice, you can make inspiring excitement a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileJason Fishman (he/him):Co-Founder and CEO of Digital Niche Agency DNA and Host of the "Test. Optimize. Scale." Podcast, Digital Niche Agency (DNA)About Digital Niche Agency (DNA): DNA is a full-service digital marketing agency specializing in surpassing client goals. Our team has over 25 years of experience in Marketing, Start-Ups, and Business Development. While working with clients and launching brands we have learned what works and how to implement a revenue-driving marketing strategy. Watching the digital marketing landscape evolve everyday, our primary objective is to offer the latest technologies and techniques to small to mid level businesses. With a focus on two areas, Content Development and Content Distribution, the DNA model is built for both brand value and performance. Our success is truly measured by the growth rate of our clients companies. Whether you are looking for Social Media, SEO, Content Marketing, Digital PR, Web/ Mobile Media Buying, Marketing Plans, Influencer Marketing, Instagram Ads, Traffic to CrowdFounding Platforms, Investor Materials, CPI / Burst and AOS Campaigns, Development, Video, or Digital Advertising, we know how many options there are out there and have structured ourselves so that you can get everything you need from DNA. We have relationships with the top vendors in the digital world and provide the ability to work with one partner to manage all areas of your digital brand at below industry standard rates. With this approach we want to make the process easy, so we can begin getting you more market share with our formula.Website: digitalnicheagency.comX/Twitter Handle: @DNAgency_CACompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/digitalnicheagencyBiographical Information: Jason Fishman has 15+ years experience as a “New Media Enthusiast”, who genuinely enjoys planning, activating, and managing scalable marketing strategies across the full-spectrum of verticals and goals. He is an expert in digital channels including Search Engines, Social Media Platforms, Programmatic Ad Exchanges, Influencer Networks, Email Automation, Content Marketing, and Partnerships. He has held leadership roles at all sides of the marketing table: Agency, Brand, and Vendor, which explains his ability to structure unique opportunities for DNA clients.Jason managed the Product Marketing Division of a major Mobile Ad Network who exclusively represented ad inventory for 1,500+ Print Publishers' Mobile/Tablet apps and worked with many Top 100 Advertisers. Leveraging traffic algorithms, Jason now takes this knowledge and applies it to scale brands with effective marketing tactics.Since launching DNA in 2014, Jason and the team have worked with over 750 brands and deliver industry-leading results across eCommerce, Lead Generation and Digital Funding campaigns. DNA is now an Inc 5000 company, who has worked with over 350 Reg CF, Reg A+, Reg D, and Digital Asset campaigns that have produced 9-figures of funding.Jason has been showcased in Panel and Individual presentations at a high volume of Tech and Marketing conferences, along with his “Test. Optimize. Scale.” Podcast. He is also committed to a number of Thought Leadership content projects for 2024, including the Forbes Agency Council. Jason manages a Los Angeles team with experience in all aspects of the user journey.Linkedin: linkedin.com/company/digital-niche-agencyInstagram Handle: @digitalnicheagencySupport Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today’s advertisers include FundingHope, Make Money with Impact Crowdfunding, SuperCrowdLA and Crowdfunding Made Simple. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact MembersThe following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support:Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on April 15, 2025, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.SuperCrowdHour, April 16, 2025, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Gene Massey, Chairman/CEO of MediaShares, will lead a session on "Secrets For Creating Great Content To Attract Investors." He’ll share expert insights on crafting compelling content that engages and converts potential investors. Whether you're launching a crowdfunding campaign or looking to enhance your storytelling strategy, this session is a must-attend! Don’t miss it!SuperCrowdLA: we’re going to be live in Santa Monica, California, May 1-3. Plan to join us for a major, in-person event focused on scaling impact. Sponsored by Digital Niche Agency, ProActive Real Estate and others. This will be a can’t-miss event. Has your business been impacted by the recent fires? Apply now for a chance to receive one of 10 free tickets to SuperCrowdLA on May 2nd and 3rd and gain the tools to rebuild and grow!  SuperCrowd25, August 21st and 22nd: This two-day virtual event is an annual tradition but with big upgrades for 2025! We’ll be streaming live across the web and on TV via e360tv. Soon, we’ll open a process for nominating speakers. Check back!Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.Devin Thorpe joins Entrepreneurs On Fire to share powerful insights on impact investing and doing well by doing good. Tune in on April 10 to hear Devin’s inspiring conversation with host John Lee Dumas!Igniting Community Capital to Build Outdoor Recreation Communities, Crowdfund Better, Thursdays, March 20 & 27, April 3 & 10, 2025, at 1:00 PM ET.Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit 2025, Crowdfunding Professional Association, Washington DC, October 21-22, 2025.Call for community action:Please show your support for a tax credit for investments made via Regulation Crowdfunding, benefiting both the investors and the small businesses that receive the investments. Learn more here.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 9,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe

25 min
Unlocking Growth: The Strategic Power of Crowdfunding with Alex Fisher
8 April 2025
Unlocking Growth: The Strategic Power of Crowdfunding with Alex Fisher

Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Has your business been impacted by the recent fires? Apply now for a chance to receive one of 10 free tickets to SuperCrowdLA on May 2nd and 3rd and gain the tools to rebuild and grow!Devin: What is your superpower?Alex: Thinking deeply and critically about a number of things.Crowdfunding has revolutionized how businesses raise capital, but not all crowdfunding is created equal. In today’s episode, Alex Fisher, CEO and CCO of Netcapital Securities, shared how her team empowers businesses by leveraging a comprehensive suite of tools including Reg A, Reg D, and Reg CF offerings. Her insights highlight the importance of tailoring fundraising strategies to meet the unique needs of each company, ensuring both flexibility and success.Alex explained, “When people hear crowdfunding, they kind of lump all of the different offering types and ways to raise capital together.” Netcapital’s approach, however, recognizes the nuances of these methods. For instance, Reg CF allows companies to raise up to $5 million from the general public, while Reg D removes the cap but limits investments to accredited investors. Combining these strategies can create opportunities for businesses to achieve their goals more effectively.For Alex, the innovation lies in the ability to use these regulations strategically. She noted, “Companies who look to utilize both offering types at the same time are being very strategic… using the Reg CF bucket to open the investment opportunity to their broad network,” including customers and social media followers. Meanwhile, Reg D can attract larger investments from accredited investors such as venture capitalists.One of the most exciting developments Alex discussed is the potential for liquidity in crowdfunding. While much of the focus has been on raising capital, Netcapital is exploring ways to offer investors opportunities for future liquidity. This forward-thinking approach benefits both issuers and investors, enhancing the overall value of crowdfunding.Netcapital’s role as both a broker-dealer and a funding portal sets it apart from other platforms. “Under Reg CF, companies are limited to listing on one portal at a time,” Alex explained. “That restriction doesn’t exist in Regulation A or Regulation D and doesn’t apply to broker-dealers.” This flexibility allows Netcapital to collaborate with other platforms, creating a synergistic ecosystem that benefits companies and investors alike.By combining innovative strategies with a deep understanding of regulatory frameworks, Alex and her team at Netcapital are helping businesses raise capital smarter, faster, and more effectively.If you’re considering crowdfunding for your business, Alex’s expertise offers a roadmap for success. As she put it, “It’s very facts and circumstances based… You want to understand the stage of the company, the industry, and the networks they’re a part of.”tl;dr:Alex Fisher explains how Netcapital combines Reg CF, Reg A, and Reg D to fundraise strategically.She highlights the untapped potential for liquidity in crowdfunding, benefiting both issuers and investors.Netcapital’s broker-dealer status allows for unique flexibility and collaboration across fundraising platforms.Alex’s intellectual curiosity drives her personal growth and her ability to connect with clients.She shares actionable tips for fostering intellectual curiosity to fuel professional and personal success.How to Develop Intellectual Curiosity As a SuperpowerAlex Fisher’s superpower is her intellectual curiosity, a trait she describes as “thinking deeply and critically about a number of things.” This mindset drives her to question established norms, explore new ideas, and continuously improve both personally and professionally. Alex explained, “It’s about not just accepting things for how they are and constantly thinking about how to do things better.” Her curiosity fuels her ability to connect with clients on a deeper level, understanding not just their business goals but also their personal motivations.Illustrative Story:Alex shared how rekindling her love of reading helped her rediscover her intellectual curiosity. After years of focusing solely on textbooks, regulations, and professional development, she began reading for personal interest in 2022. Since then, she has read over 70 books, which has broadened her perspective and improved her ability to think creatively. This shift has positively impacted her professional life by enabling her to approach challenges with fresh ideas and a more holistic understanding.Tips for Developing Intellectual Curiosity:Ask “Why” and “How” Questions: Dive deeper into processes, systems, and decisions to understand their purpose and function.Read Widely: Explore books and resources outside your professional field to gain new perspectives.Embrace Continuous Improvement: Focus on finding better ways to do things, even if the current method works.Connect Personally: Take time to understand the motivations and passions of the people you work with.Be Open to Exploration: Allow yourself to engage in activities that don’t have an immediate or tangible impact.By following Alex Fisher’s example and advice, you can make intellectual curiosity a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileAlex Fisher (she/her):CEO & CCO, Netcapital Securities Inc.About Netcapital Securities Inc.: Netcapital Securities, a wholly owned subsidiary of Netcapital Inc. (Nasdaq: NCPL, NCPLW), is an SEC-registered, FINRA member broker-dealer.Netcapital Securities specializes in supporting companies with equity capital raises under Regulation A and Regulation D and in partnering with other broker-dealers to collaboratively syndicate deals.Website: netcapital.comBiographical Information: Alexandria (Alex) Fisher is a seasoned business strategist and compliance specialist, passionate about expanding founders' access to funding and investors' access to the private capital markets.Alex is currently the CEO and CCO of Netcapital’s subsidiary broker-dealer, Netcapital Securities Inc., which specializes in supporting companies with equity capital raises under Regulation A and Regulation D and partnering with other broker-dealers to collaboratively syndicate deals.Alex is an advisor to startup companies and is a member of Global Women in Venture Capital (VC).Previously, Alex managed various regulatory compliance programs at a Series A venture-backed startup and at Fidelity Investments.Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/alexandria-fisherSupport Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today’s advertisers include FundingHope, Make Money with Impact Crowdfunding, SuperCrowdLA and Crowdfunding Made Simple. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact MembersThe following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support:Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on April 15, 2025, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.SuperCrowdHour, April 16, 2025, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Gene Massey, Chairman/CEO of MediaShares, will lead a session on "Secrets For Creating Great Content To Attract Investors." He’ll share expert insights on crafting compelling content that engages and converts potential investors. Whether you're launching a crowdfunding campaign or looking to enhance your storytelling strategy, this session is a must-attend! Don’t miss it!SuperCrowdLA: we’re going to be live in Santa Monica, California, May 1-3. Plan to join us for a major, in-person event focused on scaling impact. Sponsored by Digital Niche Agency, ProActive Real Estate and others. This will be a can’t-miss event. Has your business been impacted by the recent fires? Apply now for a chance to receive one of 10 free tickets to SuperCrowdLA on May 2nd and 3rd and gain the tools to rebuild and grow!  SuperCrowd25, August 21st and 22nd: This two-day virtual event is an annual tradition but with big upgrades for 2025! We’ll be streaming live across the web and on TV via e360tv. Soon, we’ll open a process for nominating speakers. Check back!Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.Crowdfunding Made Simple with Devin D. Thorpe: AI-Powered Fundraising Strategies, Wednesday, April 9, 2025, at 1:00 PM ET.Devin Thorpe joins Entrepreneurs On Fire to share powerful insights on impact investing and doing well by doing good. Tune in on April 10 to hear Devin’s inspiring conversation with host John Lee Dumas!Igniting Community Capital to Build Outdoor Recreation Communities, Crowdfund Better, Thursdays, March 20 & 27, April 3 & 10, 2025, at 1:00 PM ET.Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit 2025, Crowdfunding Professional Association, Washington DC, October 21-22, 2025.Call for community action:Please show your support for a tax credit for investments made via Regulation Crowdfunding, benefiting both the investors and the small businesses that receive the investments. Learn more here.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 9,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe

25 min
Crowdfunding for Equity: Sarah Hardwick’s Mission to Democratize Investment
3 April 2025
Crowdfunding for Equity: Sarah Hardwick’s Mission to Democratize Investment

Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Has your business been impacted by the recent fires? Apply now for a chance to receive one of 10 free tickets to SuperCrowdLA on May 2nd and 3rd and gain the tools to rebuild and grow!Devin: What is your superpower?Sarah: Building community and starting movements based on values.Equity crowdfunding is reshaping the investment landscape, breaking down barriers to capital and empowering underrepresented entrepreneurs. Sarah Hardwick, an entrepreneur and expert in equity crowdfunding, is at the forefront of this movement, leveraging her expertise to make investing more accessible to all.Sarah understands firsthand the challenges entrepreneurs face in securing funding. “Traditional fundraising methods often exclude a vast majority of small business owners,” she said. “Equity crowdfunding provides a way for everyday investors to support businesses they believe in while giving founders a viable alternative to venture capital.”Through her work with The Crowd, Sarah helps businesses navigate the complexities of launching successful crowdfunding campaigns. She emphasizes that equity crowdfunding is not just about raising money—it’s about building a community of engaged supporters who become brand ambassadors. “When people invest, they feel a sense of ownership. They want to see the business succeed, and they help spread the word,” she explained.Sarah highlighted the importance of transparency and storytelling in crowdfunding. A compelling narrative can make the difference between a successful campaign and one that struggles to gain traction. “Investors connect with authenticity. They want to know who they’re backing, why the business matters, and how it will make an impact,” she said.The Crowd itself is leveraging equity crowdfunding to fuel its own growth, showcasing the model’s effectiveness. By raising capital from the public, the company practices what it preaches, proving that this funding method can drive meaningful expansion.As more entrepreneurs turn to equity crowdfunding, Sarah believes the financial world is moving toward greater inclusivity. “This is about democratizing investment. It’s about allowing more people to participate in wealth creation, not just the elite few,” she said.For founders considering this route, Sarah offers clear advice: Be prepared, be transparent, and engage with your audience. With the right approach, equity crowdfunding can be a powerful tool for growth and impact.tl;dr:Sarah Hardwick shares insights on how equity crowdfunding is transforming access to capital for entrepreneurs.The conversation highlights the importance of transparency and storytelling in building successful crowdfunding campaigns.Sarah explains how The Crowd is leveraging equity crowdfunding to grow and empower other businesses.She reveals her superpower, visionary storytelling, and how it helps businesses connect with investors.Practical advice is shared on crafting compelling narratives to engage investors and build community support.How to Develop Visionary Storytelling As a SuperpowerSarah Hardwick’s superpower is visionary storytelling. She has a unique ability to craft compelling narratives that resonate with investors, turning ideas into movements and businesses into community-driven ventures.“A great story isn’t just about facts—it’s about connection,” Sarah said. “Investors want to know the people behind the company, what drives them, and how their investment can make a difference.” Through her expertise in equity crowdfunding, she has demonstrated how storytelling transforms a fundraising campaign into a movement, making investors feel like they are part of something bigger.One striking example of Sarah’s storytelling superpower in action was a campaign she helped structure for a mission-driven startup. The founder had an inspiring backstory but struggled to articulate it in a way that engaged potential investors. Sarah worked closely with them to refine their message, focusing on their journey, their impact, and their vision for the future. With a compelling narrative in place, the campaign exceeded its fundraising goals, proving the power of authentic storytelling.For those looking to develop visionary storytelling as a skill, Sarah offers the following actionable tips:Define your “why” clearly—investors want to understand your deeper purpose.Be authentic—genuine passion and honesty build trust with potential supporters.Keep it simple—clarity and focus make your story easier to remember and share.Use multimedia—videos, images, and testimonials enhance the emotional connection.Engage consistently—interact with your audience and keep them updated throughout your journey.By following Sarah’s example and advice, you can make visionary storytelling a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileSarah Hardwick (she/her):Entrepreneur, Expert in Equity Crowdfunding , The CrowdAbout The Crowd: The Crowd (JoinTheCrowd.co) is a values-driven crowdfunding consultancy dedicated to helping companies raise capital and build movements. Founded by Sarah Hardwick, a pioneer in values-based marketing, The Crowd goes beyond traditional fundraising to align purpose-driven brands with passionate investors. With a proven track record of helping companies like Aptera raise millions, The Crowd specializes in strategic storytelling, community engagement, and investor activation to turn crowdfunding campaigns into long-term success stories.Website: sarahhardwick.comOther URL: jointhecrowd.coBiographical Information: Sarah Hardwick – Crowdfunding Expert & Marketing VisionarySarah Hardwick is a seasoned entrepreneur and marketing strategist with over 20 years of experience in values-driven marketing and crowdfunding. She founded Zenzi, pioneering purpose-led campaigns for brands like Nestlé and Chiquita, and later served as CMO of Aptera Motors, leading a record-breaking $140M crowdfunding campaign. Now, through The Crowd, Sarah helps ethical, mission-driven companies navigate equity crowdfunding, raise capital, and build engaged communities that drive lasting impact. With a background in Communication and Marketing from the University of Denver, she is dedicated to leveraging the power of community for both business success and social good.X/Twitter Handle: @sarahz Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/sarahhardwickSupport Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today’s advertisers include FundingHope, AMIBA, SuperCrowdLA and Crowdfunding Made Simple. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact MembersThe following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support:Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on April 15, 2025, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.SuperCrowdHour, April 16, 2025, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Gene Massey, Chairman/CEO of MediaShares, will lead a session on "Secrets For Creating Great Content To Attract Investors." He’ll share expert insights on crafting compelling content that engages and converts potential investors. Whether you're launching a crowdfunding campaign or looking to enhance your storytelling strategy, this session is a must-attend! Don’t miss it!SuperCrowdLA: we’re going to be live in Santa Monica, California, May 1-3. Plan to join us for a major, in-person event focused on scaling impact. Sponsored by Digital Niche Agency, ProActive Real Estate and others. This will be a can’t-miss event. Has your business been impacted by the recent fires? Apply now for a chance to receive one of 10 free tickets to SuperCrowdLA on May 2nd and 3rd and gain the tools to rebuild and grow!  SuperCrowd25, August 21st and 22nd: This two-day virtual event is an annual tradition but with big upgrades for 2025! We’ll be streaming live across the web and on TV via e360tv. Soon, we’ll open a process for nominating speakers. Check back!Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.Igniting Community Capital to Build Outdoor Recreation Communities, Crowdfund Better, Thursdays, March 20 & 27, April 3 & 10, 2025, at 1:00 PM ET.Asheville Neighborhood Economics, April 1-2, 2-25.Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit 2025, Crowdfunding Professional Association, Washington DC, October 21-22, 2025.Call for community action:Please show your support for a tax credit for investments made via Regulation Crowdfunding, benefiting both the investors and the small businesses that receive the investments. Learn more here.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 9,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe

25 min
Nourish + Bloom Market is Revolutionizing Grocery Shopping with AI-Powered Innovation
1 April 2025
Nourish + Bloom Market is Revolutionizing Grocery Shopping with AI-Powered Innovation

Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Has your business been impacted by the recent fires? Apply now for a chance to receive one of 10 free tickets to SuperCrowdLA on May 2nd and 3rd and gain the tools to rebuild and grow!Devin: What is your superpower?Jilea: Turning vision into realityTraditional grocery shopping is being transformed by cutting-edge technology, and Jilea Hemmings is leading the charge. As the Founder and CEO of Nourish + Bloom Market, she has pioneered the first autonomous grocery store in the U.S. that seamlessly integrates artificial intelligence and robotics to enhance the shopping experience.Jilea’s vision for the future of grocery shopping is rooted in convenience, accessibility, and sustainability. By eliminating checkout lines and enabling a frictionless purchasing process, she has created a store that caters to busy professionals, parents, and communities seeking healthier food options with ease. “We wanted to build a space where people could shop efficiently while still having access to fresh, high-quality products,” Jilea explained during our conversation.Her journey to launching Nourish + Bloom Market was driven by a deeply personal mission. After her son was diagnosed with autism, Jilea became passionate about nutrition and the role it plays in health. This led her to develop a business that prioritizes both wellness and innovation. “Our goal was not only to make shopping more efficient but also to ensure that our community has access to nutritious foods,” she shared.Beyond convenience, Nourish + Bloom Market also champions sustainability. The store’s model reduces food waste by using real-time inventory tracking and smart purchasing recommendations, ensuring that customers get fresh food while minimizing excess stock. “We’re leveraging technology to create a smarter, more responsible way to shop,” Jilea said.As impact-driven entrepreneurs continue to shape the future of retail, Jilea’s story stands as an inspiring example of how technology and purpose can come together to make a meaningful difference. Her vision for Nourish + Bloom Market isn’t just about making grocery shopping easier—it’s about making it better for people and the planet.tl;dr:Jilea Hemmings shares how Nourish + Bloom Market is revolutionizing grocery shopping with autonomous technology.Her journey began with a personal mission to provide healthier, more accessible food options.She explains the role of AI and robotics in creating a seamless and efficient shopping experience.Jilea discusses how visionary leadership helped her turn an ambitious idea into reality.She offers advice on embracing change, identifying gaps, and leveraging technology to drive innovation.How to Develop Visionary Leadership As a SuperpowerJilea Hemmings’s superpower is visionary leadership—her ability to see beyond the present and build innovative solutions for the future. She defines her strength as thinking ahead and executing on bold ideas, even when others may not immediately see the potential."I’ve always believed that innovation comes from seeing what’s missing and creating it," Jilea explained in today’s episode. "When we built Nourish + Bloom Market, we weren’t just opening a store—we were creating a new way for people to shop, integrating technology to make life easier and healthier."Jilea’s superpower was on full display when she launched Nourish + Bloom Market, the first autonomous grocery store in the U.S. Her vision wasn’t just about convenience—it was about making fresh, healthy food more accessible to everyone. Recognizing gaps in the traditional grocery model, she leveraged AI and robotics to eliminate checkout lines, ensuring a seamless and efficient shopping experience.For those looking to develop their own visionary leadership, Jilea’s approach offers valuable insights:Embrace change: The world is evolving—see change as an opportunity rather than a challenge.Identify gaps: Look for what’s missing in your industry and imagine how you can fill the void.Execute fearlessly: Bold ideas require action. Take the first step even if the path isn’t fully clear.Leverage technology: Innovation often comes from integrating new tools and ideas in unique ways.Stay mission-driven: Visionary leadership isn’t just about being first—it’s about making a real impact.By following Jilea Hemmings’s example and advice, you can make visionary leadership a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileJilea Hemmings (she/her):Founder and CEO, Nourish + Bloom MarketAbout Nourish + Bloom Market: Nourish + Bloom Market is the worlds first Black-owned autonomous grocery store and the first to accept EBT in AI-powered frictionless checkout, pioneering a seamless and inclusive shopping experience. Based in Atlanta, Georgia, the market leverages cutting-edge AI and smart technology to enhance food accessibility and convenience. Committed to bridging food deserts, Nourish + Bloom offers fresh, high-quality, and locally sourced products while integrating sustainability, innovation, and community impact. Through strategic partnerships and technology-driven solutions, the market is redefining the future of grocery retail, making healthy, on-demand shopping more accessible to all.Website: nourishandbloommarket.comOther URL: wefunder.com/nourish.and.bloomBiographical Information: Jilea Hemmings is a visionary entrepreneur and the founder of Nourish + Bloom Market, the world’s first Black-owned autonomous grocery store and the first to accept EBT in AI-powered frictionless checkout. A pioneer in the retail technology and food accessibility space, she is dedicated to bridging food deserts and redefining the future of grocery shopping through innovation and sustainability. With a background in business development and a passion for leveraging technology to drive social impact, Jilea has been recognized for her leadership in reshaping the retail landscape. Her work with Nourish + Bloom Market, alongside her commitment to community empowerment, continues to make a lasting impact on the industry and underserved communities.X/Twitter Handle: @jileahemmingsSupport Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today’s advertisers include FundingHope, AMIBA, SuperCrowdLA and Crowdfunding Made Simple. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact MembersThe following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support:Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on April 15, 2025, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.SuperCrowdHour, April 16, 2025, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Gene Massey, Chairman/CEO of MediaShares, will lead a session on "Secrets For Creating Great Content To Attract Investors." He’ll share expert insights on crafting compelling content that engages and converts potential investors. Whether you're launching a crowdfunding campaign or looking to enhance your storytelling strategy, this session is a must-attend! Don’t miss it!SuperCrowdLA: we’re going to be live in Santa Monica, California, May 1-3. Plan to join us for a major, in-person event focused on scaling impact. Sponsored by Digital Niche Agency, ProActive Real Estate and others. This will be a can’t-miss event. Has your business been impacted by the recent fires? Apply now for a chance to receive one of 10 free tickets to SuperCrowdLA on May 2nd and 3rd and gain the tools to rebuild and grow!  SuperCrowd25, August 21st and 22nd: This two-day virtual event is an annual tradition but with big upgrades for 2025! We’ll be streaming live across the web and on TV via e360tv. Soon, we’ll open a process for nominating speakers. Check back!Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.Igniting Community Capital to Build Outdoor Recreation Communities, Crowdfund Better, Thursdays, March 20 & 27, April 3 & 10, 2025, at 1:00 PM ET.Asheville Neighborhood Economics, April 1-2, 2-25.Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit 2025, Crowdfunding Professional Association, Washington DC, October 21-22, 2025.Call for community action:Please show your support for a tax credit for investments made via Regulation Crowdfunding, benefiting both the investors and the small businesses that receive the investments. Learn more here.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 9,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe

25 min
Preserving Tradition and Sustainability: How Alejandro Medina is Transforming Indian Cuisine
27 March 2025
Preserving Tradition and Sustainability: How Alejandro Medina is Transforming Indian Cuisine

Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Has your business been impacted by the recent fires? Apply now for a chance to receive one of 10 free tickets to SuperCrowdLA on May 2nd and 3rd and gain the tools to rebuild and grow!Devin: What is your superpower?Alejandro: Cultivating connection, using food and hospitality to bring people together and build community.Bibi Ji isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a tribute to family, tradition, and sustainability. Alejandro Medina, its owner, brings Indian culinary heritage to Santa Barbara while championing regenerative farming and natural wines.Inspired by his mentor, Rajat Parr, Alejandro developed Bibi Ji to honor generations of Indian culinary tradition. The restaurant’s name itself, a term of endearment for a respected female figure, reflects the homage paid to grandmothers and mothers who passed down cherished recipes. Alejandro meticulously recreates traditional Kolkata dishes using local, sustainably sourced ingredients.A major pillar of Bibi Ji’s philosophy is its dedication to natural wines. Contrary to the belief that Indian cuisine pairs best with beer, Alejandro curates an extensive selection of natural wines. “People care so much about where their food comes from, but we often feel sometimes that it’s overlooked about what they’re drinking,” Alejandro said. His goal is to highlight wines that are farmed and crafted with the same care as the restaurant’s ingredients.Beyond the plate and glass, Alejandro takes sustainability a step further by prioritizing regenerative agriculture. The restaurant sources from farmers who practice organic and biodynamic methods, ensuring the land remains fertile for future generations. “I’m here to do my best part that I can for future generations and giving back to the land in any way that we can,” Alejandro shared. Even seemingly small choices, like harvesting cover crops for use in dishes rather than allowing conventional farms to spray them with pesticides, contribute to his mission of reducing waste and environmental impact.Bibi Ji is currently raising capital on SMBX to support its growth. Alejandro and his team recently relocated the restaurant, doubling its size and requiring significant renovations. The funds will help expand operations, restructure loans, and sustain their commitment to quality and sustainability.Alejandro’s passion for food, wine, and environmental responsibility has positioned Bibi Ji as a culinary destination that respects tradition while pioneering change. By blending heritage recipes with forward-thinking sustainability, he is reshaping perceptions of Indian cuisine while making a positive impact on the planet.tl;dr:Alejandro Medina honors Indian culinary traditions at Bibi Ji, blending authentic flavors with sustainable, local ingredients.The restaurant features natural wines, challenging the notion that Indian food pairs best with beer.Alejandro prioritizes regenerative agriculture, working with farmers who use organic and biodynamic methods.Bibi Ji is raising funds on SMBX to support its expansion, operational growth, and financial restructuring.Alejandro’s superpower is cultivating connection, using food and hospitality to bring people together and build community.How to Develop Building Connections Through Food and Hospitality As a SuperpowerAlejandro Medina’s superpower is cultivating connection—an ability to bring people together through food, wine, and hospitality. “For me, it’s really about bringing people together, kind of forgetting what’s going on in the world, just for that moment in time that we’re having a meal or we’re enjoying a bottle of wine,” he explained. His restaurant, Bibi Ji, isn’t just a dining experience—it’s a communal space where people feel welcome, appreciated, and connected.Illustrative Story: Alejandro’s commitment to connection extends beyond his restaurant. Growing up in a Bolivian-American family, he learned the importance of giving back and strengthening communities. One of his most impactful experiences was donating clothes to local villages near his family’s ranch in Bolivia. This formative act of generosity shaped his perspective on hospitality—not just as a business, but as a way to create meaningful relationships and uplift others. At Bibi Ji, he carries this philosophy forward, treating every guest like family and ensuring his restaurant serves as a hub of warmth and belonging.Tips to Develop This Superpower:Embrace Open-Mindedness: Alejandro believes that learning never stops. Be curious about different cultures, foods, and perspectives.Prioritize Genuine Interactions: Whether in business or daily life, take the time to connect with people on a personal level.Practice Generosity: Give back in small or big ways—whether through hospitality, community service, or simple acts of kindness.Create Shared Experiences: Whether it’s through food, conversation, or storytelling, find ways to bring people together in meaningful ways.Stay Present: Engage fully in conversations and interactions, valuing each moment as an opportunity to strengthen bonds.By following Alejandro Medina’s example and advice, you can make cultivating connection a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileAlejandro Medina (he/him):Owner, Bibi JiAbout Bibi Ji: Bibi Ji is a modern Indian restaurant with a low-intervention wine program.Website: bibijisb.comCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/bibijisantabarbaraOther URL: smbx.in/wbibBiographical Information: Alejandro Medina is the Owner and Managing Partner at Bibi Ji, Santa Barbara’s first modern Indian restaurant and natural wine bar. Having grown up in Santa Barbara, Alejandro has strong ties to the region and it’s food and wine industry. After several years delving into the local wine industry in 2018 (at just 33 years old), he founded Bibi Ji which has become a fixture in the local Santa Barbara restaurant community. Instagram Handle: @bibijisbSupport Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today’s advertisers include FundingHope, Pivotal Health, SuperCrowdLA and Crowdfunding Made Simple. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact MembersThe following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support:Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on April 15, 2025, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.SuperCrowdHour, April 16, 2025, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Gene Massey, Chairman/CEO of MediaShares, will lead a session on "Secrets For Creating Great Content To Attract Investors." He’ll share expert insights on crafting compelling content that engages and converts potential investors. Whether you're launching a crowdfunding campaign or looking to enhance your storytelling strategy, this session is a must-attend! Don’t miss it!SuperCrowdLA: we’re going to be live in Santa Monica, California, May 1-3. Plan to join us for a major, in-person event focused on scaling impact. Sponsored by Digital Niche Agency, ProActive Real Estate and others. This will be a can’t-miss event. Has your business been impacted by the recent fires? Apply now for a chance to receive one of 10 free tickets to SuperCrowdLA on May 2nd and 3rd and gain the tools to rebuild and grow!  SuperCrowd25, August 21st and 22nd: This two-day virtual event is an annual tradition but with big upgrades for 2025! We’ll be streaming live across the web and on TV via e360tv. Soon, we’ll open a process for nominating speakers. Check back!Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.Igniting Community Capital to Build Outdoor Recreation Communities, Crowdfund Better, Thursdays, March 20 & 27, April 3 & 10, 2025, at 1:00 PM ET.Asheville Neighborhood Economics, April 1-2, 2-25.Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit 2025, Crowdfunding Professional Association, Washington DC, October 21-22, 2025.Call for community action:Please show your support for a tax credit for investments made via Regulation Crowdfunding, benefiting both the investors and the small businesses that receive the investments. Learn more here.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 9,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe

25 min
A Cool Solution: How ThermoShade is Fighting Urban Heat with Passive Cooling Technology
25 March 2025
A Cool Solution: How ThermoShade is Fighting Urban Heat with Passive Cooling Technology

Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Has your business been impacted by the recent fires? Apply now for a chance to receive one of 10 free tickets to SuperCrowdLA on May 2nd and 3rd and gain the tools to rebuild and grow!Devin: What is your superpower?Emily: Informed decision-makingCities across the world are grappling with rising temperatures, making outdoor spaces increasingly unlivable. The urban heat island effect exacerbates the problem, and traditional cooling solutions often come with high energy costs or water consumption. ThermoShade, founded by Emily Dinino, offers an innovative alternative—a cooling technology that provides relief without requiring electricity or water.ThermoShade’s high-tech shade panels use passive radiative cooling, leveraging phase change materials to absorb heat during the hottest parts of the day and recharge overnight. “We saw a gap in the market,” Emily explained. “Shade alone is not cutting it. People and animals need a solution that provides real relief, and we’re delivering just that.” These advanced panels can make shaded areas feel up to 20 degrees cooler than traditional awnings.Emily developed ThermoShade while earning her MBA at UCLA. Inspired by firsthand experiences of extreme heat in Los Angeles, she and her team conducted over 100 interviews with scientists, engineers, and potential customers to refine the concept. “We realized that most existing solutions required electricity or water—resources that aren’t always available or sustainable,” Emily said. “By applying phase change materials in a new way, we created a cooling solution that’s both effective and accessible.”Beyond urban environments, ThermoShade is exploring applications in agriculture, particularly for dairy farms where heat stress impacts cattle productivity. The company is currently conducting a pilot study with Fresno State to analyze how the technology can improve livestock health and efficiency.ThermoShade is currently raising capital through a regulated investment crowdfunding campaign on MicroVentures. “We believe crowdfunding makes sense for us because people understand the challenges of extreme heat,” Emily said. “It’s an opportunity to engage the public in a solution they can benefit from directly.”With climate change making extreme heat an increasingly urgent issue, innovative and sustainable solutions like ThermoShade are more critical than ever. By leveraging advanced materials and smart design, Emily and her team are helping cities, communities, and industries adapt to a warming world without exacerbating the problem.tl;dr:ThermoShade’s innovative panels use phase change materials to provide passive cooling, reducing heat by up to 20 degrees.Emily Dinino developed ThermoShade during her MBA at UCLA, conducting extensive research to refine the technology.The company is raising funds on MicroVentures to scale its impact and expand into new markets.A pilot study with Fresno State aims to assess the effectiveness of ThermoShade in agriculture, particularly for dairy cattle.Emily’s superpower is informed decision-making—she synthesizes data, perspectives, and insights to drive innovation and solve complex challenges.How to Develop Informed Decision-Making As a SuperpowerEmily Dinino’s superpower is informed decision-making—the ability to synthesize data, perspectives, and insights to confidently determine the best course of action.“Being a founder means navigating an overwhelming amount of input—from investors, customers, and advisors. I take in all that information, challenge assumptions, and make informed decisions that align with our mission,” Emily explained.One defining moment of this ability occurred in her role as a finance manager at an ed-tech nonprofit. Tasked with developing a 10-year strategic plan, Emily had to balance competing priorities from the board, funders, co-founders, and department heads. By distilling complex financial and operational data into a cohesive model, she secured buy-in from all stakeholders, ensuring the plan’s success.For those looking to develop this superpower, Emily offers the following insights:Actively listen to diverse perspectives. Understand not just what people are saying, but why they believe in their approach.Challenge assumptions. Question conventional wisdom to uncover the best path forward.Use data to validate decisions. Gather and analyze information before committing to a course of action.Stay confident in your expertise. Recognize that while advice is valuable, you know your business best.Surround yourself with trusted mentors. Seek guidance from experienced individuals who can help refine your thinking.By following Emily’s example and advice, you can make informed decision-making a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileEmily Dinino (she/her):Founder and CEO, ThermoShadeAbout ThermoShade: ThermoShade's mission is to make cities and communities more resilient to climate change by providing a cooling alternative that is clean, effective, and affordable. ThermoShade is a high-tech passive cooling shade panel that can be affixed to any outdoor structure, creating a shady space that feels up to 20°F cooler than under a basic awning. Implementing ThermoShade will help avoid electricity related GHG emissions, improve grid resilience and affordability, deliver energy savings to customers, and improve public health and safety outcomes.Website: getthermoshade.comOther URL: https://invest.microventures.com/offerings/thermoshade?referral_code=ThermoShadeSuperpowersForGoodBiographical Information: Emily Dinino is the Founder & CEO of ThermoShade. She spent two years studying the problem of extreme heat as her master’s thesis and is passionate about finding solutions to protect people and animals impacted by heat stress. Emily has extensive experience in finance and entrepreneurship across investment banking, venture capital, and nonprofit finance. She has been an investor in mission-driven technology and consumer companies from Pre-Seed to Series C and is intimately familiar with the challenges early-stage companies face. Emily holds a BA from Vanderbilt University and an MBA from UCLA Anderson School of Management.Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/emilydinino and linkedin.com/company/thermoshadeInstagram Handle: @getthermoshade, @emilydininoSupport Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today’s advertisers include FundingHope, Pivotal Health, SuperCrowdLA and Crowdfunding Made Simple. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact MembersThe following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support:Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on April 15, 2025, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.SuperCrowdHour, April 16, 2025, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Gene Massey, Chairman/CEO of MediaShares, will lead a session on "Secrets For Creating Great Content To Attract Investors." He’ll share expert insights on crafting compelling content that engages and converts potential investors. Whether you're launching a crowdfunding campaign or looking to enhance your storytelling strategy, this session is a must-attend! Don’t miss it!SuperCrowdLA: we’re going to be live in Santa Monica, California, May 1-3. Plan to join us for a major, in-person event focused on scaling impact. Sponsored by Digital Niche Agency, ProActive Real Estate and others. This will be a can’t-miss event. Has your business been impacted by the recent fires? Apply now for a chance to receive one of 10 free tickets to SuperCrowdLA on May 2nd and 3rd and gain the tools to rebuild and grow!  SuperCrowd25, August 21st and 22nd: This two-day virtual event is an annual tradition but with big upgrades for 2025! We’ll be streaming live across the web and on TV via e360tv. Soon, we’ll open a process for nominating speakers. Check back!Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.Igniting Community Capital to Build Outdoor Recreation Communities, Crowdfund Better, Thursdays, March 20 & 27, April 3 & 10, 2025, at 1:00 PM ET.Asheville Neighborhood Economics, April 1-2, 2-25.Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit 2025, Crowdfunding Professional Association, Washington DC, October 21-22, 2025.Call for community action:Please show your support for a tax credit for investments made via Regulation Crowdfunding, benefiting both the investors and the small businesses that receive the investments. Learn more here.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 9,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 9,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe

25 min
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