What's Next Now!

Hosted by Gary Danoff

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Oct 2026

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Improving human connection. It's what we all want and need. Hear the inspiring stories of founders, orchestrators, leaders and doers shaping how to hold onto the human touch in a fast evolving AI world. Enjoy listening to the impact they have made to help shape the lives of customers, employees and citizens and how you can do the same.

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October 14, 202651 min

What Remains

Here we are : Five years and Fifty episodes of What's Next Now! Wow! Episode 50 is here (and it's a big one) My guest, Dr. Alexa Hagerty, is an anthropologist, AI ethicist, and author of Still Life with Bones, a New York Times Book Review Editor's Choice. She worked alongside forensic teams recovering the disappeared in Argentina and Guatemala. Today she studies how AI is shaping our future, from the minerals mined to build it to the way it talks to us. We get into: • Why AI that never pushes back may be dulling a skill we need most: misunderstanding each other, then repairing it • The difference between digital relationships and synthetic ones • Why the AI ethics experts exist, but the funding doesn't • How a weekly tango class (a hug, really) helped her heal. I didn't see that coming either. It's a conversation about history, technology, and hope. And about what ordinary people can do when the future feels uncertain. Thank you for being part of building the community of What's Next Now! We have so much more to learn, feel and do! With so much gratitude, resilience and hope for the future, Gary Episode Highlights: [1:52] - Dr. Alexa Hagerty 's work blends anthropology, human rights, technology, and AI ethics to explore societal impact![4:51] - Dr. Hagerty's research taught her that confronting historical atrocities can reveal their relevance to today.[7:44] - Hear how Alexa's storytelling balances horrific forensic work with everyday experiences that helps readers process the darkness.[9:00] - Alexa included her limited perspective to honestly show how she struggled and found strength through camaraderie.[11:55] - Even after accidentally damaging a bone, the team’s kindness reminded Dr. Hagerty that she wasn’t alone![15:19] - Argentina’s forensic human-rights teams emerged from families’ determination to uncover the truth about disappeared loved ones.[17:29] - Hear how young students and grieving mothers drove Argentina’s forensic movement by pursuing truth, justice, and accountability.[20:34] - Dr. Hagerty's research now examines how AI technologies can reproduce violence and shape futures, connecting back to her earlier work.[23:44] - We need meaningful AI governance, oversight, and public accountability before technology gets beyond our control![25:52] - The expertise and ideas exist, but AI ethics has been severely weakened by lackluster funding.[29:11] - Alexa explains how, despite setbacks, a robust AI ethics ecosystem remains, and recent fears could refocus attention on its work.[32:17] - Dr. Hagerty asserts that AI’s sycophancy may affect mental health while weakening the relational skills humans need to thrive.[34:18] - Young people risk losing essential relational skills by relying on unrealistic, always-agreeable AI interactions.[36:00] - Hear how my “human to digital ratio” measures how technology affects trust, connection, and relationship quality.[38:17] - Dr. Hargerty explains the difference between 100% digital and 100% synthetic.[39:47] - For Alexa, tango unexpectedly became a vital source of human connection, touch, and healing during difficult fieldwork.[42:22] - Tango demonstrates how human connection, repair, music, touch, and togetherness can help societies heal![45:40] - I praise Alexa’s book and its enduring message that love and justice can never be eradicated![48:26] - Ordinary people can transform suffering into justice and collectively create positive change during difficult times! Links & Resources: Email Gary: gary.danoff@lhh.com Gary Danoff LinkedIn LHH LinkedIn Dr. Alexa Hagerty Website Dr. Alexa Hagerty - Still Life with Bones: Genocide, Forensics, and What Remains Hopi Elders - “We Are the Ones We’ve Been Waiting For”

September 16, 202532 min

From Tech Start-up to Yoga Founder!

Welcome back, friends! I am back with a new episode of What's Next Now! and am happy to be joined by Susan Mondi Bowen , my yoga teacher, mentor, and friend! She was among the first 500 employees at Salesforce.com, working in the early days of Silicon Valley when internet startups were still considered risky bets. Throughout our conversation, Susan draws some striking parallels between yoga and technology. Just as cloud computing works seamlessly in the background, yoga, she explains, can integrate into our lives as a quiet, grounding “technology” for being fully present. She brings this to life with a simple but powerful practice which she calls the “three-second space” which involves pausing, engaging all five senses, and being present in the moment. She challenges listeners to try it as a 30-day experiment, noting how profoundly it can transform decision-making, stress, and perspective. Susan and I also talk about her belief that the turning point in any big change comes when the suffering of staying the same finally outweighs the fear of stepping into the unknown and how, for her, it was realizing that chasing success and material things such as ten pairs of shoes or endless hours of work was actually draining her life, not enriching it. She therefore decided to take a risk and try something different, and Thrive Yoga was born. Of course, Susan doesn’t shy away from the business side, either. She’s candid about leading with kindness and compassion, while also being direct and holding staff accountable to the studio’s vision. That balance of authenticity, firmness, and care is a true throughline in how she approaches her students, employees, and community. If you have ever wondered what it takes to leap from a high-powered career into something radically different, or if you’re curious about the intersection of yoga, business, and living fully, this is an episode worth your time! Episode Highlights: [2:18] - Hear how Susan found that tech’s risk and energy mirrored yoga’s potential for innovative living.[4:14] - Susan explains that the word vinyasa means “flowing presence” like yoga or cloud computing quietly supporting life’s experiences.[6:37] - Living fully means embracing the present moment beyond just success, wealth, or biological impulses.[9:53] - I note how calming through breathwork seems simple but can actually be tough with real-life stressors.[10:52] - Susan argues that you have to truly want change in order for it to happen; it comes down to motivation.[13:22] - I highlight Susan’s bold move from tech into pioneering yoga entrepreneurship but wonder, why yoga, and why then ?[14:13] - Susan committed to yoga over tech when suffering outweighed fear.[17:02] - Susan asserts that core beliefs, not certainty, drive change.[19:55] - Susan uses curiosity and listening in order to design programs that meet people’s deeper needs.[22:33] - Susan and I discuss how Thrive Yoga uses Feng Shui to create relaxation and a natural atmosphere.[25:10] - Hear how Susan balances compassion with honesty, mentoring staff while upholding her vision.[28:24] - I wrap up by highlighting key points from throughout the episode. Links & Resources: Email Gary: gary@garydanoff.com Gary Danoff LinkedIn LHH LinkedIn Susan Mondi Bowen LinkedIn Thrive Yoga LLC Website Thrive Yoga LLC LinkedIn John Perkins - Confessions of an Economic Hit Man

March 31, 2025Episode 4829 min

60 Days and Counting!

I am honestly so excited to share this week’s episode because it’s one that stuck with me long after we finished recording. If you have ever faced a layoff or felt the pressure of a ticking clock, you will definitely want to tune in to this conversation! My guest for this episode, Namrata Kulkarni , is a highly skilled data architect and business intelligence engineer who came to the U.S. in 2015 to pursue her master’s degree at Syracuse University. Like many immigrants, her journey has not been easy, but it has shaped her into the person whom she is today, and after eight years with the same company, Namrata was laid off while on an H1B visa, which meant that she had only sixty days to land a new role or risk losing her right to stay in the country! This is pressure which most of us cannot imagine, but what really personally struck me was how Namrata responded. She skipped the shock and jumped straight into action, choosing gratitude over resentment. In her own words, “The layoff didn’t happen to me—it happened for me.” I honestly had to pause when she said that because how often do any of us reframe setbacks that way?! Listen in as Namrata opens up about the challenges of job hunting for the first time outside of her company, relearning how to interview, and wrestling with whether or not to tell her family that she had been laid off. There is also a vulnerable moment in which she talks about the well-meaning but unhelpful things people say such as “I’m so sorry” which simply don’t land the way people tend to think that they do. (Speaking as someone who’s been laid off more than once, I personally felt that deeply.) What is especially inspiring here is not just that she landed one job offer but TWO in a job market that is anything but stable right now, and she did it by focusing on what was in her control - preparation, mindset, and leaning on the relationships that she had built over the years. If you are facing uncertainty, dealing with a career change, and/or supporting someone who is, you will definitely take something away from this episode, and if you haven’t yet, I also highly recommend that you check out or revisit episode 43 of the show in which I speak with Rebecca Reeder, a pastor-turned-AI analyst who offers yet another incredible career story! Thanks for listening and being part of these conversations! Episode Highlights: [2:02] - Namrata reveals that she has been in the data industry for almost 10 years. [4:42] - Speak from the heart, and don't expect anything back.[5:41] - Hear how, moving to the U.S. in 2015, Namrata grew independent and grateful for her journey. [8:13] - Embracing her layoff, Namrata felt gratitude, trusting her instincts and cherishing SCOR’s support. [11:04] - Namrata shares how her colleagues’ support affirmed her skills, inspiring her to seek new opportunities. [12:24] - I point out how the layoff was a chance for Namrata to reinvent herself. [13:13] - Thanks to support and extra preparation time, Namrata took on interviews under intense pressure. [16:20] - Hear how Namrata overcame shame and networked tirelessly. [17:45] - Refining her skills and her resume, Namrata trusted the universe while pushing through interview anxiety. [20:03] - Truly believing that she was the right fit, Namrata practiced relentlessly until confidence replaced interview anxiety. [22:40] - Namrata argues that performing well requires pursuing what truly excites and energizes you. [25:25] - Starting at Amazon feels surreal for Namrata, with her focus now on learning and effectively contributing. [26:38] - Life’s serendipity often redirects plans.[28:15] - Namrata credits her network in helping her land interviews, proving that referrals and support make a difference. Links & Resources: Email Gary: gary@garydanoff.com Gary Danoff LinkedIn LHH LinkedIn Namrata Kulkarni LinkedIn What’s Next Now! - “From Pastor to AI Ethicist”

November 30, 2024Episode 4733 min

RUM & EQ

This week, I welcome Evan Watkins , an expert in emotional intelligence, who helps us unravel a subject that truly resonates with me - emotional intelligence in everyday life! Imagine that your career is sailing smoothly, or perhaps it is facing turbulence with unforeseen changes like a layoff or a surprising new opportunity. How do we navigate such unpredictable turns? Evan helps us break down how emotional intelligence, described simply as the "intelligent use of your emotions," can serve as our compass. He introduces us to the RUM model - Recognize, Understand, and Manage - which provides a framework for emotionally intelligent decisions in both life and work. Think of it not as your typical cocktail but as your emotional cocktail, blending self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and relationship management! If you Google "how to control your anger," you will see 1.2 million search results, but Evan humorously points out how many of these just recycle the same age-old advice. Instead, emotional intelligence teaches us to channel emotions like anger, not just control them, harnessing their energy positively in workplaces and beyond. Evan and I discuss intriguing examples such as Max Scherzer, the baseball pitcher whose intentional and controlled anger powers his performance. We also would be remiss to not talk about AI. As we pivot into the rapidly advancing world of technology, Evan shares his musings on how AI and emotional intelligence may intertwine. They’re more intersectional than we often think, with emotion-aware avatars and other tools changing the communication game. I hope that you will dive into this episode filled with wisdom and wit, insights, and practical tips that encourage us all to focus on the human touch in an increasingly digital world. In summary, Evan and I discuss how emotional intelligence can be developed to effectively take on both expected and unexpected life and career changes. Evan emphasizes the practical applications of emotional intelligence in handling workplace dynamics and anger management, while also exploring its intersection with AI technology to enhance communication and interaction. Episode Highlights: [2:45] - Evan lives in Oceanside with his wife, a professor at UCSD, and their border collie Wendell; he surfs daily and is a writer shopping his second book![4:26] - Emotional intelligence involves recognizing, understanding, and managing emotions to improve life and relationships.[7:41] - Soft skills, such as emotional intelligence, are important for generations affected by limited socialization during COVID.[9:05] - Emotional intelligence is learnable; practicing key skills post-COVID can help improve relationships and workplace dynamics.[11:16] - LEADx offers a free, validated emotional intelligence assessment ![13:28] - Evan argues that anger, when managed, can improve focus, persistence, and resilience, as shown in various studies.[15:48] - Evan discusses how Max Scherzer uses anger as motivation but ensures it doesn’t overwhelm him, balancing focus and control.[17:34] - Recognizing emotions in real-time can reduce their intensity and improve conflict resolution.[20:46] - Emotional intelligence is essential for adapting to rapid AI advancements, blending with technical skills effectively.[22:47] - Evan points out how future emotional intelligence tools could help refine tone in communication.[25:30] - The LEADx book offers strategies and assessments which help readers develop emotional intelligence and track progress.[28:37] - Evan explains how nudges based on assessments offer tailored strategies for personal and team development in real-time contexts.[31:12] - In closing, emotional intelligence involves recognizing, understanding, and managing emotions to enhance relationships and interactions. Links & Resources: Gary Danoff LinkedIn Evan Watkins LinkedIn LEADX Website LEADx’s EQ Assessment Kevin Kruse & Evan Watkins - Emotional Intelligence (A LEADx Guide)

September 6, 2024Episode 4640 min

From Conflict to Convergence

Is it possible…to go from conflicting ideas, opinions and dug in positions to ultimately finding solutions on our most polarizing issues? These are places where we have deep conflict. It seems like we are battling so many headwinds these days to imagine such a possibility. Many of the sources we watch or listen to are fed from the outrage industrial complex perpetuating our current culture of fear and blame and the ‘us’ versus ‘them’ mentality. In our conversation, Rob shares his journey from a career in public policy to becoming a thought leader on collaborative problem-solving. Rob and I explore the very real possibility of how the use of collaborative problem solving has the potential for positive outcomes even when it comes to significant differences. This isn’t possible all the time and we talk about why. But the uses are more frequent than most people have thought about so far. Rob tells stories and we discuss how seemingly impossible agreements are made by people on very opposite sides of tough and gritty issues including healthcare, gun control and recidivism. You’ll be surprised and enlightened to learn how agreements were reached. Perhaps one of the most compelling parts of our discussion is Rob's take on the current loneliness crisis made so much worse by the pandemic and digital communication. He offers valuable insights into how we can rebuild and strengthen relationships, particularly among those in the workforce who have launched their careers during COVID and and grown up in a more digital world. The approach and lessons from the conversation and book apply to those in business, on Boards, in the public sector and in your own community! Episode Highlights: [1:44] - Raised in Poughkeepsie, New York, Rob worked in public policy and now lives in Bethesda, Maryland.[3:12] - Rob credits Mariah Levison, coauthor of From Conflict to Convergence and CEO of Convergence , with adding depth and insight to the book’s lessons.[3:41] - The structure of the book focuses on mindset, building blocks, and processes for conflict resolution.[5:35] - How might the book relate to solving major national problems?[7:06] - Rob believes that bringing people together is possible by applying collaborative, diverse viewpoints.[10:37] - Rob points out that conflict can be constructive and liberating, leading to empathy and better relationships.[13:32] - Building trust and exploring shared values can help people overcome initial negative attitudes and disagreements.[16:32] - Rob discusses how the pandemic and remote work have strained relationships and how fostering connection requires creating supportive communities.[18:22] - Hear how a collaborative project showed that shared goals can overcome differences and result in improvements.[21:37] - I particularly relate to Rob's story’s theme of finding common ground and trust, even with initial differences.[22:28] - Rob advocates for trust, which can develop through deep understanding and dialogue, even between people with opposing views.[25:28] - Bridging divides requires grassroots and top-down efforts; role models and media can help foster cooperation.[28:01] - I suggest using influencers to teach collaborative problem-solving and improve relationships.[29:44] - Cultural change in Congress is challenging, but effective leadership and new models can help foster better communication.[31:31] - Rob advocates for candidates who emphasize working well with others and finding common ground on issues.[33:24] - Data and real conversations potentially reveal that Americans are less divided than the media suggests.[35:12] - Rob adds that honest conversations reveal surprising truths and improve understanding across division.[37:50] - What's next now for Rob? Links & Resources: Email Gary: gary.danoff@lhh.com Gary Danoff LinkedIn Rob Fersh LinkedIn From Conflict to Convergence: Coming Together to Solve Tough Problems Convergence

July 9, 2024Episode 4531 min

Tiny House, Big Impact!

Joining me for this episode is Ethan Waldman, a leading figure in the tiny house movement. Ethan’s journey from a web designer to a tiny house expert is nothing short of inspiring, and his conversation here with me is definitely one for those of you who are seeking a shift in how you live and impact the planet. Not only does Ethan live in a tiny house, he’s built an entire community around it! The founder of thetinyhouse.net , Ethan is also the author of the guidebook and online course Tiny House Decisions and host of Tiny House Lifestyle Podcast , which recently celebrated its 300th episode! Ethan recounts a transformative bike trip along the Pacific coast. Expecting the journey to be life-changing, he was surprised by his reaction upon returning home. The simplicity of living out of a few bags contrasted with the abundance of stuff he had accumulated, a revelation that pushed him towards tiny house living. Listen as Ethan explores the whys and hows of tiny house living, breaking down the process into actionable steps: understanding your motivation, deciding between a mobile or stationary tiny house, and whether to build it yourself or hire professionals. He also shares the challenges and rewards of DIY construction, providing a realistic perspective on what it takes to create your own tiny home. For those curious about minimalism, Ethan also offers practical tips on decluttering, starting with the easiest area: your wardrobe. He shares how small experiments, like packing lightly for a trip, can be a stepping stone towards embracing a simpler lifestyle. His advice is grounded in real experiences and interviews with minimalism experts, making it accessible for anyone interested in the philosophy. We also discuss the broader implications of the tiny house movement. While there are significant challenges in converting commercial spaces into residential ones, Ethan’s optimism about the movement’s growth is palpable, and he highlights how some states, like California, are already leading the way with progressive legislation that makes it easier to integrate tiny houses into urban landscapes. Ethan, in closing, reflects on his journey and what’s next now for him. With the landscape of online education evolving, he’s contemplating new directions for his business. Whether you’re a tiny house enthusiast or just curious about alternative living, this episode offers a wealth of information and inspiration, so tune in, get inspired, and perhaps take your first step towards a more intentional way of living! Episode Highlights: [1:36] - Ethan reveals that he is a tiny house author, speaker, teacher, and creator of the Tiny House Lifestyle Podcast . [3:04] - Dissatisfied with corporate life, Ethan built a tiny house to pursue entrepreneurship after a sabbatical.[5:47] - I reflect on Ethan's clarity from biking, realizing possessions hinder life’s true desires.[7:47] - Ethan suggests starting decluttering with clothes and recommends trying a minimalist trip for a reset. [10:47] - Ethan defines the tiny house movement as advocating for homes under 450ft² with efficient space use.[13:19] - Ethan notes that converting commercial buildings into housing is challenging due to interior space and construction differences.[15:38] - Ethan notes nonprofit tiny home projects for veterans. [18:56] - Start with why you want a tiny house, and then decide on mobility or permanence.[21:22] - Ethan notes a pandemic-driven surge in tiny house interest, now suggesting lower-priced used options. [24:47] - Ethan discusses options for moving tiny houses and challenges in financing them traditionally. [28:06] - Hear what’s next now for Ethan. [30:07] - Ethan reveals where he can be found online. Links & Resources: Schedule Listening Time with https://www.garydanoff.com/contact Gary Danoff LinkedIn thetinyhouse.net Tiny House Decisions Tiny House Lifestyle Podcast

June 24, 2024Episode 4431 min

Learning, Leaders and Teams

I am thrilled to welcome Tony McGaharan to the show. Tony is the dynamic founder of People Playbook and has a rich background that spans from Google to coaching basketball in Sweden. Right from the very beginning, Tony's warmth and humility shine through as he shares his background. Proudly from Belfast, he learned the values that drive him: hard work, treating people well, and having the courage to take risks. His transition from a secure job at Google to founding his own company wasn’t easy, and he discusses the courage that it required for him to leave Google. Having recently left Google myself to best serve clients as a coach and mentor, I totally relate to this part of Tony’s journey! We also touch on the importance of maintaining an identity beyond work, a challenge Tony and I both faced after leaving Google. Tony’s journey also leads us into a fascinating discussion about coaching. He sheds light on the cultural differences in attitudes towards seeking help and support. In places like Belfast, people are more inclined to value personal relationships and community over job titles, a perspective which has deeply influenced Tony's approach to coaching and mentoring, where the focus is on people rather than just business outcomes. We have a great discussion about how men typically (not always) have a harder time asking for help and want to be sure that outcomes can be measured in ways that help advance their career or reason for coming to coaching. To which I say: of course, yes and absolutely they should expect this. We also talk about other unexpected benefits clients receive from coaching when it is included as part of a corporate or team kick off in order to help extend the benefits of the event. Tony’s background in coaching basketball also comes into play as he draws parallels between sports coaching and leadership development. We also, of course, discuss what’s next now for Tony, with Tony envisioning growth that is thoughtful and sustainable, focusing on working with the right people, including both clients and his team. Tony’s insights into courage, identity, and the value of a supportive community are invaluable for anyone looking to make a significant change in their life or career. Tune in to hear more about his journey and the exciting work he's doing at People Playbook! Episode Highlights: [0:56] - Join me in welcoming Tony McGaharan of People Playbook to the show![1:14] - Tony gives us a little bit of background information about himself.[2:49] - Tony reveals that leaving his secure job at Google took years of struggle, courage, and his mother's trust.[4:51] - Tony’s strong support network taught him that his identity is more than just his job.[7:14] - Tony feels that being from Belfast humbles you.[8:02] - Tony finds his identity in values, mission, and personal passions, not in work status.[10:19] - Tony’s courage to leave Google stemmed from valuing altruism over high earnings.[13:21] - We learn how Tony’s coaching journey in Sweden unexpectedly led him to professional basketball, ultimately shaping his leadership philosophy today.[16:10] - Where did Tony get the name People Playbook?[18:09] - I ask Tony about encouraging male leaders to view coaching as beneficial, despite potential perceptions of weakness.[20:23] - Tony agrees, stressing the need to align coaching benefits with business outcomes for male leaders.[23:56] - Hear about the importance of long-term support for leaders through coaching and mentoring relationships.[26:27] - I highlight the privilege of helping others find their vision and providing support through accountability.[27:31] - Tony emphasizes the importance of company over journey or destination in business growth.[30:59] - Tony explains why he is grateful for my own transition from Google. Links & Resources: Schedule Listening Time with https://www.garydanoff.com/contact Gary Danoff LinkedIn Tony McGaharan LinkedIn People Playbook

March 27, 2024Episode 4344 min

From Pastor to AI Ethicist

Don't miss this thought-provoking conversation as Rebecca Reeder navigates the intersections of faith, technology, and ethics, offering a glimpse into the evolving landscape of AI and its profound impact on our society. And hear about ‘What’s Next Now’ for Rebecca as she reflects on authenticity, alignment, and the pursuit of a fulfilling career. Links & Resources: Schedule Listening Time with https://www.garydanoff.com/contact Gary Danoff LinkedIn Rebecca Reeder LinkedIn Thomas Merton Author Page Adam Grant’s Hidden Potential Book Episode Highlights: [0:59] - My guest in this episode is Rebecca Reeder .[1:19] - Rebecca transitioned from religious ministry to AI analytics with Alvarez and Marsal in 2023.[3:00] - Rebecca shares how her college internships led her from diverse experiences to a career in vocational ministry.[5:24] - Hear how Rebecca realized as a pastor that genuine connections dwindled, prompting her shift towards alignment and integrity.[7:39] - Thomas Merton's teachings helped Rebecca realize that she lived by external expectations, prompting a quest for genuine connections and impact.[9:54] - Rebecca's pivot to analytics stemmed from strategic thinking, network connections, and natural affinity for data.[12:08] - I praise Rebecca's authenticity, connecting it to her technical background and AI's potential.[15:37] - Rebecca values Amplify's focus on enhancing customer experience through AI-driven efficiency.[17:22] - I simplify AI as computers processing 0s and 1s to provide useful human insights.[21:35] - Rebecca highlights Adam Grant's two-part brainstorming process for optimal teamwork and idea generation.[24:03] - Hear how Rebecca tends to use polite prompts, preferring phrases like "can you" and "will you please."[27:27] - Rebecca believes that her communication skills have improved through specificity and clarity in interactions.[30:36] - Rebecca learned from an Adam Grant podcast about AI guardrails, citing Khan Academy's Conmigo project.[32:00] - Rebecca notes ChatGPT's role in her Python learning, emphasizing AI's guidance over mere solutions.[34:24] - I discuss refining prompts for AI, emphasizing the importance of critical thinking alongside AI integration.[37:01] - Learn how Rebecca optimized productivity by using ChatGPT to personalize evaluation methods.[40:02] - Rebecca embraces Sal Khan's vision for Khan Academy: personalized teaching assistants for all, promoting individualized learning.[42:02] - What's next now for Rebecca?

February 19, 2024Episode 4245 min

From Funders to Founders - Both Perspectives

What is it like to fund a startup as a private investor or as part of a private equity firm? What is it like to be a founder–the roller coaster journey from idea conception to gaining customers and making it to minimal viable product (MVP) and beyond? Sophie Wang , an experienced professional with a rich background in finance, private equity, and venture capital is a person who can answer these questions because she has been on both sides of the equation! One of the fascinating topics that we explore is the paradigm shift in AI, with Sophie delving into a comparison between 2023 and 1993. Just as the internet was developed far before web browsers popularized it in the early 90s; AI has been around a long time and has become popularized since the introduction of ChatGPT in late 2022. Drawing parallels between generative AI and the internet revolution, she emphasizes the need for realistic expectations and patience as we navigate the early stages of this transformative technology. Sophie and I also touch on the critical lessons for founders, such as the importance of asking "Why me?" and "Why now?" These questions serve as a framework for evaluating the uniqueness of a founder's skill set and understanding the timeliness of their venture. Her dedication to showcasing the experiences and perspectives of immigrant technologists is not only inspiring but also enriching for anyone aspiring to create meaningful impact. As we close, Sophie hints at what's next now for her, including potential collaborations and a new podcast. You won't want to miss what's next for Sophie Wang. Links & Resources: Schedule Listening Time with ⁠https://www.garydanoff.com/contact⁠ ⁠Gary Danoff LinkedIn⁠ ⁠Sophie Wang LinkedIn⁠ ⁠Sophie Wang Substack Newsletter⁠ Episode Highlights: [1:17] - My guest in this episode is Sophie Wang . [1:46] - Sophie gives us some background information about herself. [3:17] - Always tending to your contact garden is crucial for success.[5:59] - I point out how delightful it is when connections happen.[7:16] - Sophie appreciates the parallel between 2023's generative AI revolution and 1993's internet revolution.[10:40] - I highlight the decade-long period between internet milestones.[13:08] - Sophie advises founders to focus on personal passion and deep understanding when choosing startup domains.[15:14] - I appreciate Sophie's insightful three-point answer and share a Shark Tank example, emphasizing passion and learning.[17:56] - Sophie highlights the acceleration of global tech collaboration through open source communities, citing examples such as Hugging Face.[19:43] - I discuss the challenging funding landscape in 2023, emphasizing the need for pragmatic valuation.[21:53] - Hear Sophie address the challenging funding period, emphasizing the importance of considering valuation benchmarks.[23:21] - Sophie discusses macro management, pointing out how Macro shifts normalize down rounds.[26:26] - Efficient markets prompt early-stage founders to ask "Why me?" and "Why now?" for idea validation.[31:04] - Immigrant experience, personal connection, and a desire to contribute all drove Sophie to start her blog.[33:17] - Contemplating immigrant entrepreneurship led Sophie to explore motivations and share inspiring narratives for broader impact.[35:19] - Connecting deeply with Sophie's motivation, I appreciate her focus on immigrant attributes in entrepreneurship.[37:40] - Sophie expresses appreciation for her personal coach for helping her bring objectivity and support in navigating challenges.[40:09] - What's next now for Sophie?[41:29] - Sophie reveals where she can be located online.

January 22, 2024Episode 4134 min

Empower Your Body

Join me this week as I sit down with Dr. Ayhan Cetiner, the owner of Elite Orthopedic and Sports Therapy. Ayhan’s core beliefs: you’ve only got one body, so empower it to last you a long time; you have to put in the reps and work so make time for it; it isn’t all about how much weight you lift or how many marathons you conquer. Before diving into our personal journey, Ayhan provides insights into his background as a physical therapist, including the role that chance encounters can play in what you end up doing, over and over again. Spoiler alert: he never intended on becoming a physical therapist. We explore the crucial element of genuine care in Ayhan's approach to his clients, discussing the challenges faced in the corporate world, where numbers often take precedence over individualized care. And how as a founder you reach many crossroads to decide ‘if’ and ‘how’ you want to scale the business you birthed. None of it is automatic or always clear. Ayhan sheds light on the importance of building relationships and the impact of reducing pain on the dynamics of that relationship. And if you take that in a different direction, it is about solving problems and (reducing pain) and lessening friction in any relationship we are in. Maybe feeling better in our own body can help with that? The episode wraps up with Ayhan reflecting on the future of his practice and What's Next Now for him. Very cool what Ayhan has decided: despite external pressures to expand, he remains committed to the personalized approach that defines his current success. Ayhan's dedication to his clients, coupled with his reluctance to compromise one-on-one relationships, sets the tone for a thought-provoking exploration of the soul of his business. Join us in this episode as we challenge preconceptions about physical therapy and highlight the transformative power of personalized, caring healthcare. Episode Highlights: [0:57] - My guest today is Ayhan Cetiner, owner of Elite orthopedic and Sports Therapy. [1:25] - Ayhan fills us in on some background information about himself.[3:04] - After reflecting on his post-school journey, Ayhan started as a tech and discovered physical therapy.[6:00] - Ayhan explains that after returning to his previous job, now under a larger company, he prioritized quality patient care.[7:59] - Hear why Ayhan values one-on-one care.[9:37] - Building unique, impactful relationships in one-on-one healthcare, Ayhan focuses on reducing pain and empowering individuals.[11:50] - I commend Ayhan's approach to personalized pain resolution and feel that he would bring the same caring approach to a different profession as well.[13:08] - Ayhan shares a funny story involving a client's back pain from a thick wallet.[16:55] - I express how Ayhan's dedication to educating clients sets him apart, as teaching about muscles and promoting mobility is crucial.[17:53] - People who sit often develop muscle tightness; even regular exercisers tend to neglect crucial stretching.[19:47] - Ayhan touches upon how a 70-year-old, reflecting with a college athlete, would likely emphasize body maintenance, mobility, and endurance.[21:53] - The remarkable resilience of a 70-year-old body, exemplified in a client's progress, highlights underestimated capabilities.[24:49] - Focusing on physical concerns, Ayhan provides extensive education and personalize well-being to individual goals.[27:10] - Ayhan prioritizes making therapy relevant, addressing mobility, flexibility, and strength, and focusing on positive possibilities.[29:19] - What's next now for Ayhan?[32:41] - Ayhan reveals how listeners can get in touch with him.[33:49] - Changing how therapy is perceived, Ayhan aims to make it accessible, educational, and empowering. Links & Resources: Schedule Listening Time with https://www.garydanoff.com/contact Gary Danoff LinkedIn Email Ayhan: acetiner@gmail.com