Guest Speakers:

• Dario Fusato: CEO of Savvly
• Tony Derossi: Co-founder of Savvly

About the Guests:

• Dario Fusato is the CEO of Savvly, a platform revolutionizing personal pensions and long-term financial security with market-driven solutions. He has extensive experience in building fintech solutions aimed at removing financial uncertainty.

• Tony Derossi is the co-founder of Savvly, an online platform designed to optimize retirement savings through innovative risk-sharing algorithms. With a background in insurance, technology, and strategic consulting, Tony brings a wealth of knowledge to the fintech and retirement planning industries.

Episode Overview: In this episode, we dive into the innovative approach Savvly is taking to reshape retirement planning and financial security. Dario and Tony share their journey from successful corporate careers to entrepreneurship, the challenges of pioneering a new market, and their vision for the future of Savvly. The discussion covers key lessons learned, strategies for balancing innovation with risk management, and the importance of building a community around a startup.

Key Questions Discussed:

1. What inspired Dario and Tony to transition from corporate careers to founding Savvly?
2. How do their corporate experiences influence the way they build and scale Savvly?
3. What advice do they have for aspiring entrepreneurs, especially those transitioning from corporate roles?
4. What are the unique challenges of innovating in the fintech space for retirement solutions?
5. What are Savvly's long-term goals and how do they plan to achieve them?

Connect with the Guests:

• Dario Fusato: LinkedIn
• Tony Derossi: LinkedIn
• Savvly Website: www.savvly.com

Closing Notes: If you’re interested in learning more about Savvly’s approach to financial longevity and retirement planning, be sure to visit their website or connect with Dario and Tony on LinkedIn.

Guests:

• John Lenker, Marketing Strategist & Communications Artist at LENKER
• Kevin deLaplante, Philosopher & Marketing Specialist at LENKER

Episode Summary:

Join us for a fascinating conversation with John Lenker and Kevin deLaplante, two experts from LENKER, as they delve into the world of marketing, critical thinking, and entrepreneurship.

John, a seasoned marketing strategist with a passion for ethical marketing, shares his insights on developing and promoting products and services that resonate with audiences. Kevin, a former philosopher turned marketing specialist, brings a unique perspective on critical thinking and decision-making in the business world.

Together, they discuss:

• Their career journeys and how they arrived at their current roles at LENKER
• The importance of competitive analysis and effective research when exploring new business ideas
• The role of AI in idea research and decision-making
• Key factors entrepreneurs should consider when evaluating marketing and business opportunities
• The balance between AI and human judgment in business
• Essential questions entrepreneurs should ask themselves before pursuing a new venture
• Lessons learned from both successful and unsuccessful ventures
• The unique challenges and opportunities of working with Bitcoin millionaires
• How to qualify a business and conduct a comprehensive market opportunity analysis
• Strategies for staying ahead of industry trends and advancements
• The impact of effective competitive analysis on business success
• The future of AI integration in business decision-making
• Risk management strategies for entrepreneurs

Resources:

• LENKER website: https://lenker.com
• Kevin deLaplante's website: https://kevindelaplante.com/my-writing
• The Argument Ninja Podcast: [Link to podcast]

Call to Action:

If you're looking to enhance your marketing strategies, refine your critical thinking skills, or navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship, this episode is a must-listen!

Connect with John & Kevin:

• John Lenker on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnlenker/
• Kevin deLaplante on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevindelaplante/

Show notes Mark Kleyner

Mark is the co-founder of Dream VC, an entrepreneur, ecosystem builder and early-stage investor in Emerging Markets. Mark has worked within VCs in the UK, US, Europe and Africa and actively advises, coaches and mentors several very early stage West & East African startups - who have gone on to raise upwards of $10m in Venture Financing, and joined programs like Google's Black Founders Fund Africa, PioneerApp, TechStars and Y Combinator. Mark is passionate about empowering the private sector to take responsibility for making people's lives better and is a big advocate for Consumer and Enterprise Software Startups as mediums to improve lives around the world. Mark is also a co-founder of Dream VC, a leading remote program, helping founders, entrepreneurs and working professionals across the African continent and among the diaspora to break into the Venture Capital industry as emerging investors.

Beyond these activities, Mark is an active startup mentor in 9+ Accelerators and Incubators at Startupbootcamp, Impact Hub Lagos, Seedstars, Founder Institute and Village Capital. Mark is also a startup mentor with FasterCapital and StartupLoungeAfrica.

Dream VC and the mission you are on.

The current investment landscape in Africa and some key trends shaping it?

The role of diaspora investment in driving economic development and entrepreneurship in Africa?

The unique opportunities that investors can find in African markets compared to other regions?

How do political stability and regulatory environments impact investment decisions in Africa?

How necessary is local knowledge and partnerships when investing in African markets?

What are some key resources or sources of information that investors can leverage to stay informed about investment opportunities and developments in Africa?

Connect with Mark

https://www.linkedin.com/in/markkleyner/

https://www.dream-vc.com/

Introduction:

• Welcome Note: The host introduces Sidharth Saxena, highlighting his role as the CEO and founder of Docyt, an innovative all-in-one financial management solution for small businesses.
• Episode Overview: Brief overview of the topics to be covered, including real-time bookkeeping, the role of AI in small business operations, and insights into building a successful tech startup.

Main Discussion:

1. Background and Journey:

• Sid’s Story: Sid shares his background and the journey leading up to the founding of Docyt, detailing his career path and experiences.

• Navigating Challenges: Sid discusses how he navigated building a business in a field where he wasn't initially considered an expert and the strategies he employed to gain credibility and expertise.

• Benefits for Small Businesses: Exploration of the advantages of real-time bookkeeping for small businesses, emphasizing why it’s crucial for efficiency and financial accuracy.

• Transformative Impact: Sid shares his insights on how AI will continue to transform the operational aspects of small businesses, making them more efficient and competitive.

• Driving Innovation: A look at the Docyt team and their roles in fostering AI innovation in small business operations, highlighting key contributors and their expertise.

• Further Engagement: Information on how listeners can connect with Sid and learn more about his work and Docyt’s offerings.

Website Best AI-Bookkeeping Software for Multiple Businesses | Docyt

Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/sidharthsaxena/

In the fast-paced world of tech entrepreneurship, experience is invaluable. Oleg Golynker, a seasoned tech entrepreneur, manager, and investor since the mid-90s, shares his insights garnered from a journey marked by both epic failures and mind-blowing successes.

With a track record spanning decades, Oleg's journey in the tech industry has been nothing short of remarkable. From founding CTO of Global-e (Nasdaq: GLBE) to his current venture, Trueli, Oleg's career is a testament to the ever-evolving landscape of tech entrepreneurship.

At Global-e, Oleg played a pivotal role in solving significant challenges for millions worldwide, culminating in one of the most celebrated IPOs of 2021. Now, with Trueli, Oleg aims to tackle another pressing issue – rescuing memories from the digital clutter that plagues our smartphones.

1. Approaching New Ventures: Oleg sheds light on how the anticipation of an exit from a previous venture impacts the approach to starting a new company. Drawing from his wealth of experience, he discusses the importance of strategic planning and foresight in navigating the entrepreneurial landscape.
2. Evolution of Startup Culture: Having witnessed the evolution of startups over the last two decades, Oleg shares his observations on how working at a startup has changed. From organizational structures to technological advancements, Oleg provides valuable insights into adapting to the ever-changing startup environment.
3. Understanding Your Product: Oleg emphasizes the significance of thoroughly understanding the product or service you are selling. By delving into the importance of product-market fit and customer-centric approaches, Oleg offers invaluable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.

To learn more about Oleg Golynker and his ventures, connect with him on LinkedIn or visit Trueli's website,

https://www.linkedin.com/in/oleggolynker/

https://www.trueli.me/

Episode Title: How AI is Disrupting Sales and Marketing with Raj Prasad

Episode Description: In this episode of The Silicon Valley Podcast, our host dives deep into the world of AI in marketing with expert Raj Prasad. With over 25 years of marketing experience, including roles as a CEO and Fractional CMO, Raj has developed a deep understanding of brand development and revenue growth. Join us as Raj shares insights from his impressive career and explores the transformative impact of AI on marketing strategies. From search engine optimization to targeted advertising, learn how AI is revolutionizing the way marketers understand consumer behavior and optimize their campaigns. Whether you’re a small business owner or a seasoned marketer, this episode is packed with valuable advice on integrating AI into your marketing efforts.

Key Questions and Topics:

1. Career Journey: Raj, can you tell our audience a little bit about your career up to this point?
2. AI in Marketing Applications: What are some specific applications of AI in marketing that you find most impactful?
3. SEO and Content Optimization: Can you discuss the impact of AI on search engine optimization (SEO) and content optimization?
4. Consumer Behavior Analysis: How has AI changed the way marketers understand and analyze consumer behavior?
5. Revolutionary AI Tools: Can you share examples of AI-powered tools or platforms that have revolutionized marketing strategies?
6. Future of Targeted Advertising: How do you see AI shaping the future of targeted advertising and audience segmentation?
7. Campaign Performance and ROI: In what ways does AI contribute to improving marketing campaign performance and ROI?
8. Social Media Marketing: How can marketers leverage AI to optimize their social media marketing efforts?
9. Challenges and Limitations: What challenges or limitations do marketers face when implementing AI in their strategies?
10. AI for Small Businesses: How can small businesses or startups with limited resources benefit from AI in their marketing efforts?
11. Future Role of Marketers: How do you see AI influencing the role of marketers in the future?
12. Advice for Marketers: What advice would you give to marketers who are considering integrating AI into their marketing strategies?

About Raj Prasad: Raj Prasad has over 25 years of marketing experience, including roles as a CEO and Fractional CMO. He has developed a deep understanding of brand development and revenue growth, focusing on using a range of marketing tools, such as PPC, SEO, Influencer Marketing, and Event Marketing, to build and strengthen brands. A key achievement was leading the product management for an Online Franchise Dealer Portal, an innovative B2B subscription model, which generated $24 million in revenue over four years. His approach centers around implementing effective digital marketing strategies, contributing to enhanced brand recognition and business performance. This experience is well-suited for roles requiring a strategic yet hands-on approach to digital marketing, where data-driven decisions and a clear vision are essential for driving growth.

Connect with Raj Prasad:https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajpras/ Raj Prasad | LinkedIn

Listen Now: Tune in to this insightful conversation with Raj Prasad and discover how AI can transform your marketing strategies for better performance and results.

Make sure to subscribe to The Silicon Valley Podcast for more expert insights and discussions on the latest trends in technology and business. Don’t forget to leave us a review and share this episode with your network!

Episode Summary:

In this episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with J.P. Keating, a prominent figure in the supply chain and mobility sectors. J.P. shares his extensive career history and provides deep insights into the rapidly evolving world of supply chain technology, mobility startups, and the complexities of navigating these industries. From discussing the sexiness of supply chain tech to addressing the critical challenges and sustainability considerations, J.P. offers a comprehensive look at the present and future of these dynamic fields.

Key Topics Covered:

1. Career Background:
   • P. Keating gives an overview of his career journey and experiences that have shaped his expertise in supply chain and mobility sectors.
2. Supply Chain Technology:
   • Why supply chain tech is one of the most exciting fields in technology today.
   • The impact of recent advancements and why people should be excited about this sector.
3. Evolving Mobility:
   • Navigating the complexity of mobility startups amidst advancements in autonomous vehicles, electric vehicles, and other technologies.
4. Regulations and Policies:
   • The importance of understanding regulations and policies when building or investing in companies within the supply chain and mobility spaces.
5. Challenges in the Sector:
   • Unique challenges faced by startups and investors in supply chain and mobility compared to other sectors.
6. Technology Evolution:
   • How technologies like human-less electric cargo planes evolve compared to software MVPs and iterative testing.
7. Resilience to Disruptions:
   • Assessing the resilience of supply chain startups to disruptions caused by global events like the COVID-19 pandemic.
8. Sustainability Initiatives:
   • Evaluating the sustainability practices of companies in the supply chain and mobility industries.
9. Economic Impact:
   • The importance of supply chain and mobility to the overall economics of cities and countries.
   • How the adoption of new technologies can impact GDP.
10. Global Interest:
    • Identifying the regions and stakeholders most interested in supply chain and mobility technologies.
11. Philosophy on Success:
    • P. shares his philosophy on "stacking bills without anyone knowing who you are" and its implications for business success.
12. Exit Strategies:
    • Discussing the preferred exit strategies for companies in the supply chain and mobility sectors.
    • IPO vs. earlier round exits.
13. Value to Founders:
    • Why founders should be excited to have J.P. and his team on their cap table.
14. Success Stories:
    • P. shares a compelling story of a company he worked with or one in the supply chain and mobility space.
15. Connect with J.P.:
    • How listeners can learn more about J.P. Keating and his current projects.

Listener Takeaways:

• Gain insights into the cutting-edge developments in supply chain and mobility technologies.
• Understand the challenges and opportunities in navigating these rapidly changing industries.
• Learn about the importance of sustainability and regulatory knowledge in building successful startups.
• Discover the economic impact and global interest in supply chain and mobility advancements.
• Hear real-world success stories and practical advice from an industry expert.

Resources:

• P. Keating's LinkedIn

LinkedIn Profile: Ms. Thelma Ekiyor-Solanke

In this episode, we dive into the Nigeria Office for Philanthropy & Impact Investing (NPO) with distinguished panel members Ms. Thelma Ekiyor-Solanke, Ms. Ayodele Olojede, Ms. Elizabeth Oguegbu, and Mr. Tola Adekunle-Johnson. They share insights into the NPO's objectives, strategies, and initiatives aimed at fostering job creation and economic growth in Nigeria.

• Ms. Thelma Ekiyor-Solanke: Chairperson of the NPO, providing a brief overview of her role and background.
• Ms. Ayodele Olojede: Representative from Wema Bank and NPO Implementing Committee member, sharing her expertise and involvement.
• Ms. Elizabeth Oguegbu: Representative from Access Bank and NPO Implementing Committee member, introducing her role and contributions.

• The origin and evolution of the Nigeria Office for Philanthropy & Impact Investing.
• The role and significance of the NPO in Nigeria's economic landscape.

• How the NPO collaborates with the Vice President's office to streamline efforts.
• The integration of public and private sector initiatives.

• Primary objectives of the NPO and the strategies in place to achieve them.
• Key focus areas and intended outcomes.

• Developing a robust pipeline of companies.
• Resources and support required to scale up job creation efforts.

• Definition and criteria for women recipients (founders, co-founders, advisors).
• Long-term goals and impacts of this allocation criterion.

• Conditions and potential matching investment requirements tied to grants.
• Efficiency in deploying grants to ensure timely job creation.

• Specific sectors targeted for capital deployment.
• Rationale behind the selection of these sectors.

• Possibilities of other African countries adopting a similar model.
• Expected outcomes and benefits for the broader African continent.

• Opportunities for Silicon Valley investors to partner with and invest in the NPO initiative.
• Ways to foster collaboration and mutual growth.

• Plans for companies to expand into new markets.
• Strategies for growth and international expansion.

• Assurance mechanisms for proper utilization of grant money.
• Governance structures tied to financial assistance.

• Information companies need to provide to secure funding.
• Criteria and eligibility requirements for applicants.

• Additional support provided to companies beyond funding.
• Resources and mentorship available to aid business growth.

• Importance of technology and innovation in the NPO's investment strategy.
• Future trends and opportunities.