Episodios
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As travel trends shift, and young people drive demand for simple, integrated, experience-focused journeys, its critical to respond with innovative solutions that are ahead of the curve. That's where today's guest comes in.
We're sitting down with Alex Ibrahim, the Corporate CFO at Yanolja. South Korea's top travel and accommodation booking platform. In this role, Alex leverages his expertise in the capital markets to strengthen the company's financial management and drive strategic initiatives, supporting its continued global expansion and growth.
He brings over 20 years of experience from his distinguished career at the New York Stock Exchange, where he played a pivotal role in facilitating IPOs, Capital raises for numerous global enterprises across Asia, North America, and South America.
We chatted about what excites him about Yanolja, and the bold moves the company is making to reimagine travel around the globe.
Highlights:
Alex explains Yanolja's background and founding story (2:50)Alex discusses his career at the NYSE, and why he made the leap to Yanolja (4:17)Yanolja's edge over its competitors (6:21)The B2C and B2B aspects of the business (7:07)Yanolja's data advantage (10:10)How Yanolja prioritizes which geographies they focus on (10:59)How Yanolja's data-driven services provide efficiency and profitability for their customers' businesses (12:12)How Alex sees AI shifting the industry in the next 5-10 years (13:06)Yanolja's strategy as its connected with their acquisition of Go Global Travel (14:36)The opportunities inherent in the fragmentation of the industry (15:21)The company's customer demographics and what Alex means by "democratizing" travel (16:34)Alex discusses how Yanolja prioritizes data privacy (18:36)How the company's Korean origins influence the business (19:23)Alex's advice for aspiring tech leaders, and his travel recommendations (20:27)Links:
Alex Ibrahim on LinkedIn
Yanolja on LinkedIn
Yanolja Website
ICR LinkedIn
ICR Twitter
ICR Website
Feedback:
If you have questions about the show, or have a topic in mind you'd like discussed in future episodes, email our producer, [email protected].
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As the world embraces cryptocurrency, blockchain technology, and deregulated finance, there's a massive transformation on the horizon. But if you're going to invest in these innovations, you need to be incredibly diligent and have a deep understanding of the tech. Today's guest has both.
We're sitting down with Pete Najarian, who is the Managing Partner of RW3 Ventures. RW3 is a digital asset venture firm built in partnership with The Raptor Group. The Raptor Group is a multi-sector venture firm with significant investments across fintech, sports and gaming, healthcare, and digital assets.
Pete has significant dedicated digital asset experience, having previously served in senior leadership roles for two leading digital asset operating businesses: Zappo, which was ultimately acquired by Coinbase in 2019, and BitGo, the leader in digital asset security, custody, and liquidity. They provide the operational backbone for more than 1, 500 institutional clients and over 50 companies. They also process 20 percent of all the global Bitcoin transactions by value.
Prior to that, Pete spent 20 years plus building and leading the global emerging markets businesses for some of the world's largest banks, UBS and RBS in particular.
Highlights:
Pete's experience in finance, discovering cryptocurrency, and founding RW3 (3:11)Pete's approach to investing at RW3 (6:25)Bitcoin, and Pete's outlook on when to invest in crypto (7:19)Analyzing Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies' place in the market (8:54)Pete breaks down the opportunities opened up by blockchain innovation (10:31)The use and value of cryptocurrency technology in the world economy (12:36) How Pete makes decisions on blockchain investments (15:04)How RW3 assists clients (17:47)Pete breaks down the relationship between traditional finance and cryptocurrency (20:07)Pete's predictions on the future of blockchain technology and finance field (23:12)Understanding decentralized finance (24:03)Government involvement in cryptocurrency (25:39)Some of Pete's current investments at RW3 (29:01)Qualifications for an investment at RW3 (32:11)Links:
Pete Najarian on LinkedIn
RW3 Ventures on LinkedIn
RW3 Ventures Website
ICR LinkedIn
ICR Twitter
ICR Website
Feedback:
If you have questions about the show, or have a topic in mind you'd like discussed in future episodes, email our producer, [email protected].
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Longevity in any business is something to celebrate, but when a media company can successfully evolve through several decades of seismic shifts, it's also a huge lesson in the art of pivoting. Today's guest has navigated through 41 years of change and his company has come through stronger than ever.
We're sitting down with Andy Goldberg, CEO of PCH Media. Andy is leading PCH's multi-year transformation as the company continues to pivot from direct-to-consumer retail towards an identity and data-driven advertising business. This includes a concerted effort to attract and hire top media talent to align with the company's new focus. The company is aimed at creating incremental shareholder value based on PCH's unique value exchange and unparalleled ability to generate peer audience authentication, permission first-party data, and tremendous user engagement.
Andy has led the company through several successful evolutions via acquisitions in the online search, casual games, and mobile advertising markets. In addition to being CEO, he's also Chairman of the Board of Directors and a past member of the Board of Directors and Executive Committee of the Direct Marketing Association.
Recognized for excellence in the industry, Andy has been honored with the Silver Apple Award from the Direct Marketing Club of New York. He earned a BS in Marketing from the Wharton School at UPenn.
PCH's background and history (3:16)How Andy got involved at PCH and his path to leading transformation initiatives (4:43)User base and engagement at PCH (7:50)The value of PCH's audience and engagement data to marketers and advertisers (9:02)How PCH partners with clients to help them build their databases (13:24)The differences between zero, first, and third-party data (14:47)Andy's take on the discussion around depreciating third-party cookies (16:39)PCH's marketing collaborations with third-party players (19:12)The role of AI in the evolution of PCH (20:39)Andy's outlook on future goals and opportunities for PCH (22:31)
Highlights:Links:
Andy Goldberg on LinkedIn
Publishers Clearing House on LinkedIn
Publishers Clearing House Website
ICR LinkedIn
ICR Twitter
ICR Website
Feedback:
If you have questions about the show, or have a topic in mind you'd like discussed in future episodes, email our producer, [email protected].
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Breaking away from the norm will always attract skepticism, especially from industry veterans. But these risks often lead to the most significant rewards. Our guest today has not only challenged the status quo in business but did so with fearless commitment and a willingness to be the newcomer in any field.
In this episode, we're diving into part two of our conversation with Larry Connor—a trailblazer in business and beyond. Larry is an entrepreneur, nonprofit activist investor, and adventurist, known for founding The Connor Group, a real estate investment firm that thrives on doing things differently.
Last week, we explored Larry's unique approach to leading The Connor Group. Today, we shift our focus to his remarkable journey outside of the business world, beginning with his impactful philanthropic efforts.
Highlights:
Larry discusses Kids & Community Partners, and the importance of investing in the future (2:33)How Larry started The Greater Dayton School, and its approach to education (4:51)Larry tells the story behind his space mission (7:30)Diving to the Mariana Trench (10:44)Building, and jumping off of the world's largest hot air balloon (12:40)Larry's advice to businesses that want to solidify a culture of accountability in the workplace (14:57)What excites Larry about the future of The Connor Group and Kids & Community Partners (17:00)Links:
Larry Connor on LinkedIn
The Connor Group on LinkedIn
The Connor Group Website
ICR LinkedIn
ICR Twitter
ICR Website
Feedback:
If you have questions about the show, or have a topic in mind you'd like discussed in future episodes, email our producer, [email protected].
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Hiring top talent is a proven game plan for any business, but there’s untapped power in taking risks—especially on professionals with unconventional, strategic backgrounds that keep your company fresh and forward-thinking. Today’s guest is no stranger to risks of any kind. He took that leap with his company, and it's been thriving for over 30 years. And he continues to take extraordinary leaps today — both inside and outside of the business world.
Today we're sitting down with Larry Connor, an entrepreneur, nonprofit activist investor, and adventurist. In business, he's best known for founding the Connor Group, a real estate investment firm that has grown its assets from zero to $5 billion over a 30-plus-year period.
The company operates luxury apartment communities in 18 markets and has earned national accolades as a top workplace. Connor has been featured in Forbes and USA Today, among other national publications.
During the stress and uncertainty of COVID-19, Larry made $1.6 million on stock market investments, but instead of building his own wealth, he distributed all the money to his frontline associates in the form of bonuses. He also organized a small business loan program that helped Ohio-based entrepreneurs survive the economic downturn.
Larry is also a philanthropist. And the Connor Group's success has been critical to those efforts. It helped fund Connor Group Kids and Community Partners, which has devoted $175 million to nonprofit causes, including the Greater Dayton School, Ohio's first private non-religious school for under-resourced students, which Larry founded in 2022. Kids and Community Partners will devote over $800 million to nonprofit initiatives over the next decade.
In 2022, Connor piloted AX 1, the first private mission to the International Space Station. That mission came on the heels of his research work 36,000 feet under the ocean in the Mariana Trench, making him the first human being to reach the deepest part of the ocean and space within a year. Larry followed that feat by leading a team of four U.S.
Air Force pararescue specialists in a 38,139-foot leap from a hot air balloon setting a Guinness World Record for the highest halo formation skydive. Connor has also won multiple titles as a professional racecar driver. He is an accomplished pilot, rated in both helicopters and fixed wing aircraft, with extensive hours piloting a fighter jet and competing in national and aerobatic competitions.
As you can tell there's a LOT to cover with someone like Larry, so we're making this interview a two-parter. Be sure to check out next week's episode to get his full, amazing story.
Highlights:
Larry's background and early entrepreneurial ventures (4:28)How Larry decided to get involved in the real estate industry (8:25)Larry discusses The Connor Group's impressive industry stats (10:22)Why Larry founded The Connor Group without experience, or real estate professionals (12:19)Larry's outlook on The Connor Group's culture and mission statement (13:53)The origins and evolution of The Connor Group's culture (15:27)Why everyone at The Connor Group uses pencils (18:07)Larry describes what differentiates The Connor Group's approach from field competition (19:00)Links:
Larry Connor on LinkedInThe Connor Group on LinkedIn
The Connor Group Website
ICR LinkedIn
ICR Twitter
ICR Website
Feedback:
If you have questions about the show, or have a topic in mind you'd like discussed in future episodes, email our producer, [email protected]. -
Navigating the intricate landscape of ESG and shareholder activism requires a deep understanding of both market dynamics and investor expectations. That's why expert guidance is indispensable for companies looking to build lasting value and trust with their stakeholders.
Today we're sitting down with Lyndon Park, Head of ICR Governance Solutions. Lyndon advises boards and management teams on complex corporate governance, ESG and shareholder activist event-driven issues to align clients with investor and market expectations.Before joining ICR, Lyndon was Head of Global Corporate Governance at Dimensional Fund Advisors, where he oversaw the firm's global stewardship and ESG initiatives prior to Dimensional, Lynden was a partner and Head of Governance and Listing Standards at EQX, a capital market startup. He began his career in governance at BlackRock by supporting BlackRock's board of directors on intercompany governance matters before serving as one of BlackRock Investment Stewardship teams' lead governance analysts, overseeing portfolio companies representing about 450 billion of BlackRock's AUM.
Lyndon is a recognized thought leader in ESG and shareholder activism, frequently participates on panels, and his perspectives have been published or quoted in numerous leading media outlets like the Wall Street Journal and the Financial Times.
Highlights:
Takeaways from the 2024 proxy season (3:25)What companies can do differently to avoid Executive comp challenges (6:00)What companies can do do differently when under duress during proxy season (8:58)Lyndon discusses the effects of the Universal Proxy Card (11:45)Themes surrounding proxy contests (13:53)Lyndon discusses MNA-driven attacks (16:06)Examining the recent Starbucks ESG activist campaign (17:25)The current anti-ESG movement, and Lyndon's take on that (19:24)Lyndon's advice on what are easy wins in ESG strategy in this moderating DEI climate (21:50)Lyndon shares what he sees coming for 2025 (25:05)How the best boards and management teams tackle this landscape (28:17)Links:
Lyndon Park on LinkedIn
ICR LinkedIn
ICR Twitter
ICR Website
Feedback:If you have questions about the show, or have a topic in mind you'd like discussed in future episodes, email our producer, [email protected].
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When you're a founder, you need creative ways to grow your business. Today's guest recognized that need, and built her company on it.
We're sitting down with Keri Findley, Founder and CEO of Tacora Capital. Keri has two decades of experience in structured credit investing at leading firms, and as a private investor. She founded Tacora in 2022, securing a $250 million investment from renowned venture capitalist Peter Thiel.
From 2009 to 2017, Kerry ran the structured credit portfolio for Third Point, the multi-billion dollar hedge fund founded by Dan Loeb. She was the first woman and the youngest person to be made partner at Third Point. Prior to that, she held a similar position at D.B. Zwirn, and began her career at Morgan Stanley.
Keri currently serves as an advisor to Firework Ventures and 8VC, and is on the boards of Hearth, Karus, Point Digital, and Architect.
Highlights:
Keri summarizes her introduction to finance (2:51)Falling into the industry, and growing up as a 'math person'(3:22)Keri describes what it was like to begin in the finance industry in the late 2000's (4:28)Types of assets in the payment processing platform (6:10)Leaving her job, and how Keri came to found Tacora Capital (7:21)Working with Peter Thiel, and more about their partnership (9:14)Keri describes the audience, and kinds of investors that are attracted to Tacora Capital (10:10)Tacora's unique approach and structure in venture capital (11:14)Keri discusses whether she would rather Tacora be at a later-stage (12:50)Tacora's reason for focusing on Fintech and Insuretech fields (14:37)Keri gives an example of the opportunities Tacora has provided to one of their portfolio companies (16:00)Where Tacora's pipeline for new deals is sourced from (16:52)How the current financial and economic climate effects the work done at Tacora (18:22)How Tacora avoids risky situations and maintains discipline in their work (20:16)Keri predicts the future of the venture capital market based on recent history (21:37)'Non-dilutive capital' and Tacora's approach to companies facing down-rounds (25:15)Why Keri decided to settle the company in Austin, Texas (27:07)Keri predicts how the banking model will change in the near future (30:04)Tacora's short-term goals and plans (31:22)Links:
Keri Findley on LinkedInTacora Capital Website
ICR LinkedIn
ICR Twitter
ICR Website
Feedback:
If you have questions about the show, or have a topic in mind you'd like discussed in future episodes, email our producer, [email protected]. -
As today's guest will tell us, breakfasts have recently overtaken Friday dinners as the number one dining out experience of choice. So in the always-competitive hospitality industry, restaurants that do those meals particularly well are in a fantastic position.
Chris Tomasso definitely understands how to excel in this space. Chris is the CEO of First Watch Restaurants, which trades under the symbol FWRG. Prior to taking the helm in 2018, Chris served as President for three years and as Chief Marketing Officer from 2006 to 2015. Before joining First Watch, Chris led strategic branding and marketing for renowned national and international brands such as Cracker Barrel and Hard Rock Cafe International.
In 2021, Chris was named one of the restaurant industry's most admired C-suite leaders by FSR Magazine. Later that year, he led First Watch into Wall Street with their IPO.
Chris earned a BA from the University of Central Florida and is an active alum who currently serves on the University of Central Florida Foundation Board of Directors. He was inducted into the University's Nicholson School of Communication and Media Hall of Fame in 2016.
Highlights:
Chris describes First Watch's background and market concept (2:57)Competition and First Watch's position in the market (4:08)Chris describes First Watch's business model (6:17)First Watch's unique shift schedule, and why it attracts employees (8:43)Chris' approach to business operations (10:36)Chris describes the importance of remaining in the restaurant atmosphere as a CEO (12:06)How First Watch incorporates developing technology into their business (13:59)How Chris applies his marketing background in his role at First Watch (15:30)Chris' capital allocation strategies (17:21)More on First Watch's disruptive business model, and their strategic market placement (18:54)Chris' view on inflation and its ongoing impact on the hospitality industry (20:28)Chris describes the impact of First Watch to becoming a public company (22:09)How Chris was introduced to the hospitality industry (24:27)Links:
Chris Tomasso on LinkedIn
First Watch Restaurants on LinkedIn
First Watch Restaurants Website
ICR LinkedIn
ICR Twitter
ICR Website
Feedback:
If you have questions about the show, or have a topic in mind you'd like discussed in future episodes, email our producer, [email protected].
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On the surface, successful growth in business might seem to be about rapid expansion. But that's not the right strategy for every business. Growth has to align with the business's principles, be at the right pace, and it can't endanger the brand's image and identity along the way. Today's guest has reset his growth strategy to reinforce and preserve brand identity.
We're sitting down with Chris Schultz, CEO of Voodoo Doughnut. Chris has a remarkable track record in expanding renowned brands, both nationally and globally with over four decades of industry experience. In the 1990s, he played a vital role in Starbucks' US and international growth, including entry into the UK market.
Chris was a founding team member at ModPizza, growing it from one store to over 300 locations worldwide. His strategic acumen and leadership made ModPizza a fast, casual industry leader. Since 2017, as CEO at Voodoo Doughnut, he's tripled the company's size and expanded from 5 to 22 locations in 7 states.
Chris has twice been recognized as one of the most innovative and influential CEOs by National Restaurant News, and recently as one of the top 25 food and beverage executives of 2023 by C-Suite Magazine. Throughout his career, Chris has consistently demonstrated his ability to build and nurture successful restaurant brands. His innovation, passion, and commitment to exceptional customer experiences make him a respected industry leader.
Highlights:
Chris' journey in the restaurant business, and his path to Voodoo (3:10)Voodoo's history and unique identity (4:29)Chris describes what differentiates Voodoo in their market (6:35)Chris talks about Voodoo's unique consumer base and following (8:01)Voodoo's growth strategy, and the importance of maintaining brand identity amidst expansion (10:03)Chris' approach to expansion, and new locations for Voodoo (10:56)Chris' approach to innovation with the Voodoo brand (12:29)How Voodoo finds its employees and keeps them motivated and engaged in the unique culture (15:54)How Voodoo maintains consistency amongst its varied brand presence (18:31)Chris' approach to tech innovation at Voodoo (20:26)Chris discusses Vodoo's 'Giving Doughnuts' program (23:37)Chris reflects on his biggest successes as CEO at Voodoo (24:53)The advice Chris would have given himself during his early days in the restaurant business (27:29)Links:
Chris Schultz on LinkedIn
Voodoo Doughnut on LinkedIn
Voodoo Doughnut Website
ICR LinkedIn
ICR Twitter
ICR Website
Feedback:
If you have questions about the show, or have a topic in mind you'd like discussed in future episodes, email our producer, [email protected].
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For industry dominators, success rarely hinges on a 'one-size-fits-all' approach. Instead, they master their market by focusing on specific demographics and creating tailored strategies unique to needs and preferences. Today's guest has used this method to craft customized solutions in his unique market.
Today, we're sitting down with Doug Sanders, Heritage Grocers Group Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. Doug's extensive career in the grocery industry spans 38 years across multiple and wide-ranging sectors including supermarket retail, wholesale food distribution, retail technology solutions, natural and organic foods, in addition to Hispanic and ethnic-focused specialty formats.
Over the past 20 years, Doug has held the role of chairman and CEO for multiple private equity-owned grocery companies, including Sprouts Farmers Market, Cardenas Markets, and Heritage Grocers Group. In 2011, he led the sale of Sprouts Farmers Market to Apollo Global Management, followed by two successful acquisitions and an initial public offering In 2013.
In 2022, Doug spearheaded the sale of Cardenas Markets from KKR to Apollo joining Cardenas Markets and Tony's Fresh Market under the parent company Heritage Grocers Group.
Highlights:
Heritage's history and background (2:58)Doug's journey in the industry and opportunity at Heritage (4:16)Doug expands on Heritage's demographic and unique consumer base (6:47)What makes Heritage a competitive industry player (7:18)How Heritage prioritizes and celebrates authenticity in it's culture (8:33)Doug discusses the environment and atmosphere at Heritage stores (9:45)How Doug creates a company culture at Heritage (11:14)Field competition (12:34)Doug's approach to maintaining culture amid expansion (13:48)Doug's outlook on technology and innovation in the industry (16:06)Customer stories that left an impact on Doug and his work (18:03)Heritage's unique brand foundation collaborations (19:31)What excites Doug the most about the future of Heritage (20:33)Doug's predictions for Heritage's future growth and expansion (22:17)Links:
Doug Sanders on LinkedIn
Heritage Grocers Group on LinkedIn
Heritage Grocers Group Website
ICR LinkedIn
ICR Twitter
ICR Website
Feedback:
If you have questions about the show, or have a topic in mind you'd like discussed in future episodes, email our producer, [email protected].
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In the world of wealth management, working with clients is a deeply personal endeavor that requires more than just financial expertise. By looking inward first, and prioritizing a strong team culture and personal and professional development, companies can cultivate a strong trust and connection with clients. Today's guest has made this approach the foundation to his business.
Today we're sitting down with Rob Skinner, who is a founding partner and the co-CEO of IEQ Capital. He has served as a financial advisor to wealthy families and institutional investors for over two decades. Rob began his career at Fidelity Investments in 1995 before joining Merrill Lynch as first vice president of investments.
In 2008, he co-founded Luminous Capital, an independent registered investment advisory firm where he served as Chief Investment Officer, Co-Head of Investment Research, and Co-manager of Portfolio Construction. Luminous Capital was acquired by First Republic Bank in 2012.
Active in the community, Rob serves on the Board of Directors for the First Tee of Monterey County, the Board of Directors of the Pebble Beach Company Foundation. He's a Trustee of PGA REACH, the charitable foundation associated with PGA of America, as well as the Naval Postgraduate School Foundation. Rob and his wife actively support numerous foundations and charities in and around the Monterey peninsula.
Rob holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Connecticut, which, if you haven't heard has won national championship titles, back to back in men's basketball. Go Huskies!Highlights:
Rob's early influences and beginnings in wealth management (4:15)Founding Luminous Capital (5:52)Background on IEQ Capital, and company mission (6:37)What differentiates IEQ from competitors (7:13)IEQ's ideal client profile (8:34)How the IEQ team works with clients on wealth management (9:30)Rob walks us through IEQ's client screening process (10:18)The value of culture at IEQ (11:10)The use of technology at IEQ (12:00)How being a founder has informed Rob's work with his clients (13:30)How Rob approaches liquidity planning with clients (14:41)Rob breaks down IEQ's partnership with Stone Point Capital (15:33)The benefits for smaller firms (18:37)What Rob has learned from entrepreneurs during his time in wealth management (19:19)The importance of fostering a fun and enjoyable environment and culture (20:43)Links:
Rob Skinner on LinkedIn
IEQ Capital on LinkedIn
IEQ Capital Website
ICR LinkedIn
ICR Twitter
ICR Website
Feedback:
If you have questions about the show, or have a topic in mind you'd like discussed in future episodes, email our producer, [email protected].
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Venture Capital is all about the cash — but in a crowded field, money is a commodity. To truly stand out, you have to go above and beyond for your portfolio companies. Today's guest has set themselves apart by providing exceptional support.
We're sitting down with Seth Spergel, who is a managing partner of Merlin Ventures, where he's responsible for identifying cutting-edge companies for Merlin to partner with and invest in. Seth has more than 20 years of experience building, selling, and investing in software and startups.
Prior to Merlin Ventures, Seth was VP for Infrastructure Technologies at In-Q-Tel, a strategic investment firm that invests in startups that meet the mission needs of government customers. There he led a team of technology experts to evaluate companies and identify novel uses of their technology within the In-Q-Tel customer set.
Before In-Q-Tel, Seth was the VP of engineering for ThinkGeek, an online seller and manufacturer of geeky toys and clothing. He also spent 12 years at IBM in roles ranging from software developer to sales manager.
Highlights:
Merlin's background and evolution into VC (3:44)What differentiates Merlin in the VC market (7:32)What an ideal portfolio looks like for Merlin (8:38)Seth walks us through the support system Merlin provides their companies (9:21)The unique guidance Merlin offers on compliance and political relations (12:57)Seth tells the story of one of Merlin's successful exits (14:52)Seth's advice for founders seeking funding (17:59)Current trending market opportunities (18:50)How cloud computing and migration are affecting the cybersecurity space (20:35)Seth describes the current state of Israel's funding environment (22:00)Values and culture at Merlin (25:35)Seth's predictions for the future of Merlin and the VC market (26:55)Links:
Seth Spergel on LinkedIn
Merlin Ventures on LinkedIn
Merlin Ventures Website
ICR LinkedIn
ICR Twitter
ICR Website
Feedback:
If you have questions about the show, or have a topic in mind you'd like discussed in future episodes, email our producer, [email protected].
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In the effort to recover from the impact of the pandemic, the hospitality industry has had a surge of innovation, ideas, and new technologies. And while the boost has been essential to getting the industry back on its feet, it has also intensified the competition. Today's guest is setting their company apart with a consumer-focused approach.
We're sitting down with Matt Tucker, who is the head of Tock, a technology driven hospitality business owned by Squarespace, and trading under the symbol SQSP.
Matt oversees commercial success and growth of the Tock business, which includes a reservation system, table management, carry-out operations and events for operators across 33 countries. Matt came to Squarespace after nearly two decades of experience building teams and operating companies of all sizes and has a strong background in hospitality tech and the startup world.
Most recently, Matt served as President and COO of Olo, the leading provider of SaaS solutions to the chain restaurant industry, serving almost 90,000 locations. He spent nearly nine years there, taking the company from 10 people and one product to a public company with over 700 team members, six core products and nearly 200 million in revenue.
Prior to Olo, Matt was on the founding team of LendingTree and was also the founder of Rely Software. He has an MBA from Georgetown and a BA in Political Science from the University of Michigan.
Highlights:
Matt's background and path to restaurant software (4:09)Matt describes Tock's founding and current work (5:11)How Tock works in the restaurant to optimize reservations (7:01)Matt explains how Tock targets customers, and ROI agreements (8:35)Data captured through Tock, and what makes Tock's approach to data optimization unique (10:34)Matt talks about recent economic hurdles and how Tock has navigated the atmosphere (14:04)Matt discusses Tock's versatility in the restaurant industry (16:11)How Squarespace and Tock's work interconnect (17:49)Field competition and the state of the restaurant technology market (20:00)Tock's senior team and their history in hospitality (22:57)Links:
Mathew Tucker on LinkedIn
Tock on LinkedIn
Tock Website
ICR Twitter
ICR LinkedIn
ICR WebsiteFeedback:
If you have questions about the show, or have a topic in mind you'd like discussed in future episodes, email our producer, [email protected]. -
In a landscape where standing out demands both innovation and accessibility, finding ways to connect with a broad audience is crucial. Today's guest has been on a career-long quest to revolutionize the culinary world by blending tradition with modernity, creating products that not only appeal to diverse audiences but also prioritize health and taste.
Today we are lucky enough to sit down with Chef Ming Tsai, who is not only an Iron Chef, he's also a James Beard and Emmy Award winner, and a Chef-partner at BABA at the Yellowstone Club in Big Sky, Montana. He's also President of the National Advisory Board for Family Reach and the author of five cookbooks.
Chef Ming was the host and the Executive Producer of the longest-running cooking series on PBS, Simply Ming, and just received acclaim for his new mini-series titled Simply Ming: Better for You. He founded MingsBings, a consumer packaged goods startup bringing chef quality, better-for-you, convenient food to the frozen food aisle.
Beyond being the first East meets West option of its kind, MingsBings supports the mission of the Dana Farber Cancer Institute and Family Reach. To date, Chef Ming has helped raise $12 million for Family Reach.
In 2022, Chef Ming became Iron Chef Ming Tsai as he joined the cast of five world-class chefs in the Netflix series, Iron Chef: Quest for an Iron Legend.Highlights:
Chef Ming's first cooking experiences, and introduction to the culinary world (4:21)Chef Ming's favorite dishes from childhood (7:19)What Chef Ming learned from his family's restaurant (7:46)How Chef Ming adjusted from Chef to businessperson (8:44)Early mistakes and lessons from running a restaurant (10:54)Chef Ming explains his East meets West cuisine style and influence (11:45) Work in the TV and entertainment industry (14:35)Chef Ming discusses his time on Iron Chef (16:50) Chef Ming's approach to writing cookbooks (18:07)The inspiration behind MingsBings (19:17)Philanthropic work for Family Reach (21:54)Chef Ming tells stories about his famous friends in the culinary world (25:21)Links:
Ming Tsai on LinkedIn
MingBings on LinkedIn
MingBings Website
ICR LinkedIn
ICR Twitter
ICR Website
Feedback:
If you have questions about the show, or have a topic in mind you'd like discussed in future episodes, email our producer, [email protected].
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In the current macro environment with growing inflation and financial uncertainty, it's no wonder companies are actively seeking alternative solutions to safeguard their businesses. But today's guest is more than just an alternative; he's a game-changer for his clients, helping them maximize their financial outcomes.
Today we're sitting down with Raj Imteaz, who serves as the Head of ICR Capital's Convertible and Equity Derivatives Advisory Team, where he focuses on complex capital markets transactions across all industry verticals. Raj advises boards and management teams on structuring and executing convertible debt transactions, convertible preferred and mandatory offerings, structured share repurchases, cap calls and call spreads, hedging and monetization strategies, and warrant management solutions.
Raj joined ICR Capital from Matthew South, where he was the Head of Technology origination, advising clients on multiple convertible and equity derivatives transactions. Previously, Raj spent 15 years at Barclays, where he was a Managing Director in the equity-linked and hybrid solutions team and led the origination efforts across several sectors.
During his career, Raj has advised on and executed more than 200 convertible and equity derivative transactions, totaling over a hundred billion dollars of deal value.
Highlights:
Raj gives us an overview of the current economic environment (4:03)What a convertible is and the role of advisors (6:01)How advisors can save businesses time and money (8:45)What makes Raj's team of advisors unique (10:18)Raj describes some of his team's stand-out deals (13:41)Links:
Syed Raj Imteaz LinkedInICR LinkedIn
ICR Twitter
ICR Website
Feedback:
If you have questions about the show, or have a topic in mind you'd like discussed in future episodes, email our producer, [email protected]. -
This week we’re looking back at one of our most popular episodes of the last 6 months: our conversation with Charles Baker.
Every investment comes with plenty of responsibility, but in a multifaceted market like sports and entertainment with varied revenue streams and worldwide integration, navigating this complex landscape can be overwhelming. Today's guest is helping his clients make sure that all the bases are covered. Literally.
We're sitting down with Charles (Chuck) Baker, who chairs Sidley Austin's Entertainment, Sports, and Media Group. Chuck represents investors in professional sports, businesses and teams, and advises on sports and entertainment transactions. He has decades of experience in the sports industry and has represented sports franchise purchases across multiple leagues, including the NFL, Major League Baseball, Major League Soccer, the NBA, the NHL, the National Women's Soccer League, and multiple European football leagues.
Recently, Chuck represented Genius Sports in its multi-year strategic partnership with the NFL and the Canadian Football League, and also advised on the acquisition minority interest in the Los Angeles Lakers, the Charlotte Hornets, as well as the 6+ billion dollar purchase of the Washington Commanders.
Chuck has been highly recognized in the field of sports and entertainment law by multiple national publications. Most recently, the National Law Journal named him to its 2022 list of sports gaming entertainment law trailblazers. The Sports Business Journal also named him to their 2021 Power Players list, and Law 360 added him to their 2020 Sports Betting MVPs.
Chuck is an active board member for the March of Dimes and Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. He is also an adjunct professor and advisory board member at the University of Miami School of Law, and a distinguished lecturer at NYU's Tisch Institute for Sports Management, Media and Business.
Chuck was also an associate for former Senator, Dollar Bill Bradley, one of Tom's all time favorite Knicks!
Highlights:
Chuck's work background and how he came across his opportunity at Sidley Austin (4:34)Secular trends currently driving the sports and entertainment investment market (7:56)Chuck describes the investor audience specific to sports and entertainment (9:54)Current sports markets with high deal flow (12:58)Chuck tells the story of the Chelsea FC deal and his role in the transaction (15:14)The current trend and future of sports investments going international (17:53)Chuck describes Sidley Austin's recent partnership with Arctos (20:10) Market competition, industry saturation, and the market's outlook (23:11)How streaming and entertainment consumption affect media rights (25:17)Women's sports and growing investment markets (27:17)How market developments and investments affect fan experience (28:54)Chuck's most recent wins with his own sports teams (29:45)Links:
Charles Baker
Charles Baker on LinkedIn
Sidley Austin on LinkedIn
Sidley Austin Website
ICR LinkedIn
ICR Twitter
ICR Website
Feedback:
If you have questions about the show, or have a topic in mind you'd like discussed in future episodes, email our producer, [email protected].
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Lithium-ion batteries are playing a big part in clean energy development, but making the battery itself clean and efficient will be crucial for the future of this technology. Today's guest is right at the center of making that happen.
We're sitting down with Ajay Kochhar, who is President, CEO, and Co-Founder of Li-Cycle, a leading global lithium-ion battery resource recovery company that trades under the symbol LICY. Before founding Li-Cycle in 2016, Ajay gained extensive technology and project development experience through progressive roles with Hatch's industrial clean tech and advisory practices.
While working in that space, he garnered in-depth engineering and project management experience through clean technology development in the lithium, cobalt, nickel, copper, gold, lead, zinc, molybdenum, and rare earth metals industries. His technical expertise spans the entire project life cycle from conceptual and pre-feasibility studies to construction and commissioning.
Ajay describes the use and benefits of lithium-ion batteries (3:50)What makes lithium-ion battery recycling unique (4:19)Ajay's career history and how he spotted a gap in the market (6:42)Ajay describes Li-Cycle's IP portfolio (8:31)What it means for companies to be 'environmentally friendly' (9:46)The benefits of domestic production and infrastructure (11:36) Economics and dual-revenue business model at Li-Cycle (12:49)Ajay discusses competition in the industry (15:50) Ajay's thoughts on the electric-vehicle adoption (18:05)Current and short-term priorities for Li-Cycle (20:00)Relationship with China in the lithium-ion industry (21:51)How the Inflation Reduction Act impacts businesses like Li-Cycle (23:00)Ajay's opinion on what investors miss when measuring company value (24:01)
Highlights:Links:
Ajay Kochhar on LinkedIn
Li-Cycle on LinkedIn
Li-Cycle Website
ICR LinkedIn
ICR Twitter
ICR Website
Feedback:
If you have questions about the show, or have a topic in mind you'd like discussed in future episodes, email our producer, [email protected].
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To be a great consultant, a deep understanding of an industry is table stakes, but you also have to connect with the needs of the employees that work within it, while helping a business grow and change appropriately. It's not an easy formula to master, but today's guest has figured it out.
Today we're sitting down with long-time FOICER - that stands for friend of ICR - Fred LeFranc. Fred is the Managing Partner and Co-Founder of Results Thru Strategy, a consulting firm focused on the hospitality industry. Fred and his team help companies improve their strategic planning, organizational development, marketing, and performance management, as well as enhance their technology-based systems. They also help with executive coaching.
Fred's four decades in the hospitality industry include stints as COO, CEO, Board Member, and President of a number of hospitality and technology brands, including Flat Rock Grill, Ruby's Diner, Fishbowl Marketing, and Louise's Trattoria. Inc. Magazine actually featured his corporate turnaround from Louise's which included design, concept development, food production, IT systems, and operational executions as a great milestone in his career.
Highlights:
Fred's introduction to the hospitality industry (4:09)How Fred transitioned from hospitality to consulting (5:07)Fred's outlook on the current state of the hospitality industry (7:16)Common challenges for businesses in the hospitality landscape (8:30)Fred describes what it takes to be a great CEO in hospitality (9:48)Areas where companies are under-investing in their business (11:32) Fred describes his approach to technology integration in hospitality (13:20)How technology can amplify branding and business (15:26) Businesses that are excelling in their take-out and delivery services (16:40)The importance of understanding service channels (17:53)Most common mistakes made by early-stage companies (18:50)Biggest mistakes made by mature companies (20:03)Fred talks about his time as CEO of Engelman's Bakery (22:02)How Fred advises businesses amidst labor and inflation challenges (24:32)What Fred is seeing in M & A in the industry (26:13)Fred's projected future trends in hospitality (26:57)Most gratifying client engagements in Fred's portfolio (28:05)Links:
Fred LeFranc on LinkedIn
Results Thru Strategy on LinkedIn
Results Thru Strategy Website
ICR Twitter
ICR LinkedIn
ICR Website
Feedback:
If you have questions about the show, or have a topic in mind you'd like discussed in future episodes, email our producer, [email protected]. -
Outsourcing our sustainability efforts does help us get one step closer to an eco-friendly future, but to make a true impact we have to develop our own resources and processes. Our guest today is helping to drive the green revolution right here at home.
Joining us on this episode is Dr. Denis Phares. After establishing himself as a tenured professor of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering at the University of Southern California, Dr. Phares left academia to found Dragonfly Energy in 2012. The stock trades under the symbol DFLI.
His focus is on developing technologies that will change the way we store and harness renewable energy. With three decades of extensive experience in the fields of energy, nanotechnology, fluid mechanics, and powder processing, Dr. Phares has positioned himself as a leading expert in green energy storage and has spent the last 15 years focused on advancing lithium-ion battery technology.He holds a number of patents, some of which are key in fundamental battery cell manufacturing.
Denis received a BS in physics from Villanova University, an MS and a PhD in environmental engineering science from the California Institute of Technology, and for good measure, he also has an MBA from the University of Nevada at Reno.
Highlights:
Denis' transition from professor to entrepreneur(3:56)Behind Dragonfly Energy's unique energy storage focus (5:01)The birth of Battle Born Batteries (5:47)Current outlook on the RV market's stability (8:23)Dragonfly Energy's partnership with RV giant Forest River (9:16)Dragonfly Energy's current target market and growth strategy (10:05) Research & development and the importance of IP (11:42)Denis breaks down battery technology and how they work (12:55)Findings from Dragonfly Energy's recent energy assessment (15:58)The scalability of lithium-ion battery technology (17:18)Product expansion and innovation at Dragonfly Energy (18:34)Why Dragonfly Energy's HQ is in Nevada (21:02)Denis discusses lithium mining in the US (22:01)Current verticals Dragonfly Energy is exploring (23:18)Denis provides an overview of the current state of producing solid-state batteries (25:25)Denis explains the value of becoming a public company (27:10)Links:
Denis Phares on LinkedIn
Dragonfly Energy on LinkedIn
Dragonfly Energy Website
ICR LinkedIn
ICR Twitter
ICR Website
Feedback:
If you have questions about the show, or have a topic in mind you'd like discussed in future episodes, email our producer, [email protected].
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There's a reason it's called healthcare – care and carefulness are at the core, and if you want to be successful in the field, you've got to understand the significance of compliance, exceptional service, and continuous expansion. Today's guest has mastered that formula.
We're sitting down with Thomas Sandgaard who is Chairman, President, and CEO of Zynex, which trades on the NASDAQ under the symbol ZYXI. Thomas founded the company in 1996, but before that, he held management positions with companies such as ITT, Siemens, GN Danavox DataCo, and Phillips.
Thomas is also the Founder and CEO of Sandgaard Capital, a private equity investment firm and family office. Additionally, he's the Founder and President of the Sandgaard Foundation, which seeks to address the tragic opioid and fentanyl crisis here in the States by helping to fund initiatives that save lives from overdoses, help people escape the cycle of relapse, and support victims and their families.
Thomas has a degree in electronic engineering from Denmark's Syddansk University, Engineering, and an MBA from Copenhagen Business School.Highlights:
Zynex's background and business model (3:57)How Thomas got into the medical device industry (5:39)The pain management market (7:04)Zynex's target audiences (8:17)Competition in the field (9:14)Zynex's line of products (10:37) Thomas explains Zynex's total addressable market (11:21)Patient monitoring part of the business (12:56)How Zynex builds and maintains their sales force (14:45)Thomas' philosophy on customer service (17:22)How Zynex is diversifying its product range (18:10)Thomas describes how he prioritizes investments and balances growth and profitability (19:16)Zynex's first quarter growth reports (20:38)Zynex's new M-Wave NMES device (21:48)Thomas' take on the barriers to entry in the medical device industry (23:13)Thomas' work as a musician (24:38)The Sandgaard Capital Foundation and its mission (25:55)Links:
Thomas Sandgaard on LinkedIn
Zynex Medical on LinkedIn
Zynex Medical Website
ICR LinkedIn
ICR Twitter
ICR Website
Feedback:
If you have questions about the show, or have a topic in mind you'd like discussed in future episodes, email our producer, [email protected].
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