Problem Obsession Beats Solution Fixation in Startups - Business Insights with Sam Chan, VP of Programs @ Launch Academy

The Sustainable Tech Podcast

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57:50

Alex (@alex_kamenca) and Carley (@carleymitus) are both members of our Action Academy Community that purchased TWO small businesses last thursday! Want To Quit Your Job In The Next 6-18 Months Through Buying Commercial Real Estate & Small Businesses? 👔🏝️ Schedule A Free 15 Minute Coaching Call With Our Team Here To Get "Unstuck" Want to know which investment strategy is best for you? Take our Free Asset-Selection Quiz Check Out Our Bestselling Book : From Passive To Passionate : How To Quit Your Job - Grow Your Wealth - And Turn Your Passions Into Profits Want A Free $100k+ Side Hustle Guide ? Follow Me As I Travel & Build: IG @brianluebben ActionAcademy.com…

for ca. et år siden 27:43

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Join us as Sam Chan from Launch Academy reveals why 'problem obsession' rather than 'solutions oriented' is key in the startup scene. In this episode, we give you business insights and unpack the art of identifying and sticking with genuine customer problems to create impactful tech products. Learn how to balance your passion for building with the market's need for practical solutions. This conversation is a goldmine for anyone ready to turn their startup idea into a reality without getting lost in the innovation noise.

Launch Academy has been a hub for innovators, helping over 3000 companies and facilitating the raising of $3 billion across 35 countries. Visit them here https://www.launchacademy.ca/ for more info!

🚀 Learn more about Launch Academy:
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33 episoder

#Tech #Business #Éphémère Creative #Technology #Small Business #Entrepreneurship #Sustainability #Digital Products #Non-Profit #Software #Hardware

The Sustainable Tech Podcast

Problem Obsession Beats Solution Fixation in Startups - Business Insights with Sam Chan, VP of Programs @ Launch Academy

The Sustainable Tech Podcast

published for ca. et år siden

Del

MP3•Episode hjem

Launch Academy has been a hub for innovators, helping over 3000 companies and facilitating the raising of $3 billion across 35 countries. Visit them here https://www.launchacademy.ca/ for more info!

🚀 Learn more about Launch Academy:
https://www.launchacademy.ca/

🗣️ Get a FREE consultation here!

https://goec.io/contact-us/

🚀 Subscribe to the podcast:

https://smalltechpodcast.com/

✉️ Subscribe to the newsletter:

https://s.goec.io/stp-newsletter

🎥 Watch on YouTube:

https://s.goec.io/stp-youtube

📄 Read the EC blog:

https://s.goec.io/ec-blog

🛠️ Need help building something?

https://s.goec.io/build-together

33 episoder

#Tech #Business #Éphémère Creative #Technology #Small Business #Entrepreneurship #Sustainability #Digital Products #Non-Profit #Software #Hardware

Alle episoder

The Sustainable Tech Podcast

1
Kelvin's path to fully electrifying urban heating with Dr Marshall Cox 22:32

for 21 weeks siden22:32

22:32

In this episode of The Sustainable Tech Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Marshall Cox, founder of Kelvin, a company revolutionizing energy efficiency in urban buildings. Marshall shares his journey from material science research to entrepreneurship, detailing how a personal frustration with apartment heating sparked the creation of Kelvin’s flagship product, the Cozy. We dive into the challenges of scaling hardware solutions, navigating the cleantech funding ecosystem, and the surprising hurdles of energy efficiency certifications. Marshall also provides insightful perspectives on the intersection of hardware and sustainability, the critical role of electrification in decarbonizing buildings, and Kelvin’s innovative approach to making these upgrades financially accessible. Whether you're passionate about climate tech, curious about urban energy solutions, or simply love a good founder story, this episode is packed with inspiration and valuable insights. Learn more on the Kelvin website: https://kel.vin/ 🚀 Subscribe to the podcast: https://sustainabletechpodcast.com/ ✉️ Subscribe to the newsletter: https://s.goec.io/stp-newsletter 🎥 Watch on YouTube: https://s.goec.io/stp-youtube…

The Sustainable Tech Podcast

1
How Coding Bootcamp Lighthouse Labs is Transforming Tech Education - With Co-Founder Khurram Virani 31:52

for 24 weeks siden31:52

31:52

In this episode of The Sustainable Tech Podcast, I chat with Khurram Virani, co-founder and CTO of Lighthouse Labs, Canada’s leading coding bootcamp and tech career accelerator. We dive into Khurram's inspiring journey from living on a couch in Vancouver to building an educational powerhouse. We discuss the evolution of tech education, Lighthouse’s unique curriculum, and the impact they’ve had in making tech careers accessible. Khurram also shares fascinating insights about using AI for personalized learning and the challenges of starting up with multiple co-founders. Don’t miss this episode if you're curious about coding bootcamps, tech education, or the impact of technology on learning! LinkedIn Profile - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kvirani/ Lighthouse Labs Bootcamp - https://www.lighthouselabs.ca/ Chapters: 0:00 - Introduction 1:20 - Meet Khurram Virani, CTO of Lighthouse Labs 3:05 - The Early Days: Starting Lighthouse Labs in Vancouver 5:55 - Why Vancouver? The Vision Behind the Move 7:45 - Building a Startup From Scratch: The Challenges 10:10 - Developing the Curriculum for a Coding Bootcamp 12:35 - Community-Driven Education at Lighthouse Labs 14:20 - From Consulting to Building an Education Product 16:00 - The Evolving Tech Stack at Lighthouse Labs 17:50 - Trends in Tech Education and Employment 19:40 - Why Cybersecurity is Booming 21:35 - How AI is Shaping Education 24:00 - Using AI to Personalize Learning at Lighthouse Labs 26:30 - Making Tech Education Accessible: Equity and Impact 29:15 - The Mission and Vision of Lighthouse Labs 31:40 - Closing Thoughts and a Cool Product Recommendation 🚀 Subscribe to the podcast: https://sustainabletechpodcast.com/ ✉️ Subscribe to the newsletter: https://s.goec.io/stp-newsletter 🎥 Watch on YouTube: https://s.goec.io/stp-youtube…

The Sustainable Tech Podcast

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Building Community Through Fun Kids' Haircuts with Bubbles Haircair For Kids 30:30

for 26 weeks siden30:30

30:30

In this episode, I sit down with Alex Weaver Crawford, founder of Bubbles Haircare, a salon concept designed exclusively for children. Alex shares her journey from running a creative agency to building a kid-focused salon. Bubbles offers more than just haircuts—it’s about creating an experience where children feel at ease, and parents get a much-needed break. We explore the challenges of running a brick-and-mortar business, how Bubbles integrates technology like online booking systems and payment solutions, and the importance of building a community-focused space. Whether you're curious about entrepreneurship, love hearing about innovative startups, or are just interested in making haircuts easy and fun, this episode is for you! LinkedIn Profile - https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-weaver-crawford/ Bubbles Hair - https://bubbleshair.ca/ Chapters: 0:30 – Introduction to Bubbles Haircare 2:15 – From Design to a Kids-First Hair Salon 5:10 – The Story Behind Bubbles 8:40 – Managing a Brick-and-Mortar Business with Tech 11:00 – The Importance of Community and Inclusivity at Bubbles 14:35 – Challenges of the Haircare Industry 20:10 – Using AI, Design Tools, and Tech at Bubbles 25:30 – Entrepreneurship in New Brunswick and Beyond 28:45 – Alex’s Product Plug: Casper Glow Light 🚀 Subscribe to the podcast: https://sustainabletechpodcast.com/ ✉️ Subscribe to the newsletter: https://s.goec.io/stp-newsletter 🎥 Watch on YouTube: https://s.goec.io/stp-youtube…

The Sustainable Tech Podcast

1
How Keen to Help Makes Volunteering Easy for Companies and Nonprofits 27:59

for 28 weeks siden27:59

27:59

In this episode, I had a fascinating conversation with Mateo Jeanneau, CEO and co-founder of Keen to Help, a company making it easier for businesses to connect with volunteering opportunities. Mateo shares the story behind Keen to Help and how it grew from a simple side project during the pandemic into a platform that helps companies and their employees engage in meaningful team-building while giving back to their communities. We dive into how Keen to Help balances the needs of nonprofits with corporate volunteer programs, creating win-win situations for everyone involved. From helping schools to now working with major companies, Mateo's journey is filled with insights about building something that truly matters. Whether you’re a nonprofit looking for support or a company seeking new ways to contribute, you’ll find something valuable in this chat. LinkedIn Profile - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mateo-jeanneau/ Keen to Help - https://www.keentohelp.com/ Chapters: 00:35 - What is Keen to Help? 01:20 - How Mateo started Keen to Help during the pandemic 03:00 - From side project to full-fledged business 04:25 - The role of McGill’s Dobson Entrepreneurship Center 06:00 - Meeting co-founder Alex and building the platform 07:45 - Using WordPress and building without coding experience 09:35 - How Keen to Help’s platform operates 11:05 - Balancing product development and customer needs 12:50 - Lessons learned from customer discovery 14:20 - Transition from schools to companies and managing stakeholders 17:00 - Developing volunteer kits for companies and nonprofits 19:25 - Short-term goals and long-term vision for Keen to Help 22:45 - The challenges of managing logistics and operations 24:30 - The future of Keen to Help and expanding impact 🗣️ Get a FREE consultation here! https://goec.io/contact-us/ 🚀 Subscribe to the podcast: https://sustainabletechpodcast.com/ ✉️ Subscribe to the newsletter: https://s.goec.io/stp-newsletter 🎥 Watch on YouTube: https://s.goec.io/stp-youtube 📄 Read the EC blog: https://s.goec.io/ec-blog 🛠️ Need help building something? https://s.goec.io/build-together…

The Sustainable Tech Podcast

1
How Preception Uses Technology to Train Spatial Awareness in Athletes - Leigh Sembaluk, CEO & Founder 36:06

for 30 weeks siden36:06

36:06

In this episode, I chat with Leigh Sembaluk, the CEO and founder of Preception, a company focused on training and measuring spatial awareness, decision-making, and speed of thought in athletes. We dive into his journey from being a footballer and coach to launching a tech company, building both hardware and software to improve player performance. Leigh also shares insights into Pro Instinct, their mobile app, and how it’s being used to eliminate barriers for youth athletes and beyond. From lessons learned through hardware development to the importance of fostering youth talent, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways for athletes, coaches, and tech enthusiasts alike. LinkedIn Profile - https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighsembaluk/ Preception - https://preception.io/ Pro Instinct - https://www.proinstinctapp.com/ Chapters: 00:35 - What is Preception and Pro Instinct? 02:45 - How Pro Instinct Evolved During COVID 05:10 - Leigh’s Transition from Athlete to Tech Founder 08:05 - The Challenges of Measuring Spatial Awareness 10:40 - How Preception Helps Athletes Train Smarter 13:30 - Pro Instinct’s Impact on Youth Sports 15:50 - Collaborating with the North American Indigenous Games 18:10 - Lessons Learned from Building Hardware and Software 21:30 - The Importance of Rest and Balance in Startups 24:05 - Bringing a Team Sport Mindset to Tech 26:50 - Advice for Aspiring Tech Founders 30:00 - Leigh's Favorite Small Tech Product: Pocket FC 🗣️ Get a FREE consultation here! https://goec.io/contact-us/ 🚀 Subscribe to the podcast: https://sustainabletechpodcast.com/ ✉️ Subscribe to the newsletter: https://s.goec.io/stp-newsletter 🎥 Watch on YouTube: https://s.goec.io/stp-youtube 📄 Read the EC blog: https://s.goec.io/ec-blog 🛠️ Need help building something? https://s.goec.io/build-together…

The Sustainable Tech Podcast

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How StarLuv uses AI to encourage you to buy and sell new and pre-loved clothes - Adilya Dragan CEO & Founder 33:02

for 32 weeks siden33:02

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In this episode of The Sustainable Tech Podcast, I chat with Adilya Dragan, the inspiring CEO & Founder of StarLuv. StarLuv is an AI-powered marketplace that encourages people to buy and sell both new and pre-loved clothing. Adilya shares her journey of building a tech company from the ground up and discusses her mission to fight textile waste and fast fashion’s impact on our planet. Her passion for sustainability is contagious, and she offers deep insights into how AI can be a force for good. From her personal motivations to real-life challenges in the fashion industry, this conversation is full of valuable lessons for anyone interested in tech, sustainability, or making a positive impact. Whether you're a startup founder, a tech enthusiast, or someone passionate about the environment, you’re going to find this episode enlightening. Dive in to learn how StarLuv is making a difference! LinkedIn Profile - https://www.linkedin.com/in/adilya-dragan/ StarLuv - https://starluv.ca/ Chapters: 00:10 - Meet Adilya Dragan, CEO of StarLuv 01:00 - The Start of StarLuv's Journey 03:20 - Challenges in Building an AI-Powered Marketplace 05:15 - The Environmental Cost of Fast Fashion 07:40 - How AI Helps List and Sell Clothes Faster 10:05 - The Future of Sustainable Fashion 12:25 - Customer Discovery and Market Insights 15:00 - Encouraging Responsible Consumption 18:30 - The Role of Gen Z in Sustainable Fashion 21:50 - Building a Movement for Positive Impact 24:10 - Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs 🗣️ Get a FREE consultation here! https://goec.io/contact-us/ 🚀 Subscribe to the podcast: https://sustainabletechpodcast.com/ ✉️ Subscribe to the newsletter: https://s.goec.io/stp-newsletter 🎥 Watch on YouTube: https://s.goec.io/stp-youtube 📄 Read the EC blog: https://s.goec.io/ec-blog 🛠️ Need help building something? https://s.goec.io/build-together…

The Sustainable Tech Podcast

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Empowering Music Artists: Laura Simpson’s Mission to Support Artists with Side Door 27:47

for 34 weeks siden27:47

27:47

In this episode, we talk with Laura Simpson, the CEO and co-founder of Side Door, a platform that empowers music artists by connecting them directly with venues and audiences. Laura shares her journey from the non-profit world to creating a tech startup that’s making a real impact in the music industry. Discover how Side Door is helping artists perform in unique spaces, build connections, and sustain their careers. This conversation dives into innovation, community, and the future of live music. LinkedIn Profile - https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurasimpsongraham/ Side Door - https://sidedooraccess.com/home Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction 01:10 - Laura's Background in Non-Profits 02:45 - The Birth of Side Door 04:30 - From Idea to Startup: Laura’s Journey 06:15 - Overcoming Tech Industry Challenges 08:05 - The Importance of Clear Communication 10:00 - Co-founding with Dan: How It All Started 12:25 - Building a Remote Team Across Canada 14:15 - Adapting During the Pandemic 17:05 - The Role of Venture Capital 19:20 - What’s Next for Side Door 🗣️ Get a FREE consultation here! https://goec.io/contact-us/ 🚀 Subscribe to the podcast: https://smalltechpodcast.com/ ✉️ Subscribe to the newsletter: https://s.goec.io/stp-newsletter 🎥 Watch on YouTube: https://s.goec.io/stp-youtube 📄 Read the EC blog: https://s.goec.io/ec-blog 🛠️ Need help building something? https://s.goec.io/build-together…

The Sustainable Tech Podcast

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Building a Mobile Market: The Journey of The Farmer's Truck with Fred Laforge 28:46

for 36 weeks siden28:46

28:46

In this episode, we dive deep into the story of The Farmer's Truck, a revolutionary mobile market solution that’s transforming access to fresh food in underserved communities. Fred Laforge, co-founder and CEO, shares his journey from tech to impact-driven entrepreneurship. Learn how The Farmer's Truck is making a difference, the challenges faced, and the innovative solutions developed along the way. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation! LinkedIn Profile - https://www.linkedin.com/in/fredlaforge/ The Farmer's Truck - https://farmerstruck.com/ 🗣️ Get a FREE consultation here! https://goec.io/contact-us/ 🚀 Subscribe to the podcast: https://smalltechpodcast.com/ ✉️ Subscribe to the newsletter: https://s.goec.io/stp-newsletter 🎥 Watch on YouTube: https://s.goec.io/stp-youtube 📄 Read the EC blog: https://s.goec.io/ec-blog 🛠️ Need help building something? https://s.goec.io/build-together…

The Sustainable Tech Podcast

1
Raising Values-Driven Kids with Tiny Souls | Insights from Shadi Toloui-Wallace 31:30

for 38 weeks siden31:30

31:30

This week, we're excited to have Shadi Toloui-Wallace, the founder and chief creative officer of Tiny Souls. Tiny Souls is a media company dedicated to creating values-based children's content and parenting resources for early childhood education. Join us as Shadi shares her incredible journey from a touring musician to building a successful media company, her vision for Tiny Souls, and the impact she hopes to achieve. Shadi's Linkedin Profile - https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaditolouiwallace TinySouls - https://www.tinysoulsmedia.com/ 🗣️ Get a FREE consultation here! https://goec.io/contact-us/ 🚀 Subscribe to the podcast: https://smalltechpodcast.com/ ✉️ Subscribe to the newsletter: https://s.goec.io/stp-newsletter 🎥 Watch on YouTube: https://s.goec.io/stp-youtube 📄 Read the EC blog: https://s.goec.io/ec-blog 🛠️ Need help building something? https://s.goec.io/build-together…

The Sustainable Tech Podcast

1
GridBid: Advancing Home Decarbonization | Small Tech Podcast with Matt Lanigan 23:49

for 40 weeks siden23:49

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In this episode of the Small Tech Podcast, we sit down with Matt Lanigan, co-founder of GridBid, the innovative platform simplifying heat pump retrofits for homeowners. Join us as we explore Matt's journey from civil engineering to tech entrepreneurship, the challenges of building a tech product, and the future of home decarbonization. Discover how GridBid is making sustainable living accessible and efficient. Matt's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-lanigan-p-eng-pmp-1b5ab08a/ GridBid - https://gridbid.co/ 🗣️ Get a FREE consultation here! https://goec.io/contact-us/ 🚀 Subscribe to the podcast: https://smalltechpodcast.com/ ✉️ Subscribe to the newsletter: https://s.goec.io/stp-newsletter 🎥 Watch on YouTube: https://s.goec.io/stp-youtube 📄 Read the EC blog: https://s.goec.io/ec-blog 🛠️ Need help building something? https://s.goec.io/build-together…

The Sustainable Tech Podcast

1
From Video Games to Healthcare Tech with Cyrus Greenall - Co-Founder of Firstline 31:44

for 42 weeks siden31:44

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Welcome to the Small Tech Podcast! In this episode, we sit down with Cyrus Greenall, co-founder of Firstline. Explore the evolution of healthcare tech and how Firstline is revolutionizing clinical guidance for healthcare providers. Learn about Cyrus's transition from game development to healthcare innovation. Join us for an in-depth discussion on the impact of Firstline on global health and the future of clinical decision-making. Cyrus's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cyrusg/ Firstline - https://firstline.org/ 🗣️ Get a FREE consultation here! https://goec.io/contact-us/ 🚀 Subscribe to the podcast: https://smalltechpodcast.com/ ✉️ Subscribe to the newsletter: https://s.goec.io/stp-newsletter 🎥 Watch on YouTube: https://s.goec.io/stp-youtube 📄 Read the EC blog: https://s.goec.io/ec-blog 🛠️ Need help building something? https://s.goec.io/build-together…

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1
Empowering Neurodivergent Learners: Priya Tronsgard on Building Edify Learning Spaces 29:33

for 44 weeks siden29:33

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🎙️ In the latest episode of the Small Tech Podcast, we talk with Priya Tronsgard, the founder of Edify Learning Spaces. Edify is a platform that connects neurodivergent children with tutors who understand their unique learning needs. Priya’s journey is personal. As a mother of neurodivergent kids, she saw how hard it was for them to fit into traditional schools. This inspired her to create Edify, where kids with ADHD, autism, and other learning differences can get the support they need. Her entrepreneurial experience started young. Priya helped run a DJ business to support her family. This early experience taught her the importance of focusing on customers and resilience. Priya also spent five years in Japan, working in education. There, she learned about different teaching methods and the value of adapting to cultural contexts. These insights have shaped how she runs Edify. At Edify, Priya blends technology with personalized teaching. The platform carefully matches kids with the right tutors, ensuring they get the best possible support. Even as a non-technical founder, Priya leverages strong community relationships to navigate the tech world. Looking ahead, Priya is excited about growing Edify. She aims to expand its reach and continue supporting more families with her innovative approach. Priya’s story is a powerful example of how personal experiences can drive professional success and create positive change. Through Edify, she’s making a real difference in the lives of neurodivergent children and their families. 📚 Learn more about Edify Learning Spaces here! https://edifylearningspaces.com/ 🗣️ Get a FREE consultation here! https://goec.io/contact-us/ 🚀 Subscribe to the podcast: https://smalltechpodcast.com/subscribe ✉️ Subscribe to the newsletter: https://s.goec.io/stp-newsletter 🎥 Watch on YouTube: https://s.goec.io/stp-youtube 📄 Read the EC blog: https://s.goec.io/ec-blog 🛠️ Need help building something? https://s.goec.io/build-together…

The Sustainable Tech Podcast

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Building Tech to Help Kids Learn to Read: Janessa Farrell's QuestRead Journey 24:38

for 46 weeks siden24:38

24:38

Welcome to another episode of the Small Tech Podcast! Today, we have Janessa Farrell, an inspiring guest who has turned her passion for teaching into a tech startup. Janessa is the co-founder and CEO of QuestRead, a fun reading game for kids that helps improve their reading skills. Questread was recently accepted into the Ocean Programs Accelerator Cohort 10, a big step for the app's growth. Janessa taught in Title I schools in Chicago for 15 years, working with kids who struggled with reading. She noticed that motivation was key to their success, so she created QuestRead to make reading more engaging. Her journey into tech began when the pandemic stopped her plans for further education. Instead, she volunteered at Simbi, a reading platform, where she eventually became the head of product. This role gave her the skills she needed to build QuestRead. Janessa's story shows the power of perseverance and adaptability. Her commitment to helping kids read better through technology is truly inspiring. Janessa's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/questread/ QuestRead - https://www.questread.com/ 🗣️ Get a FREE consultation here! https://goec.io/contact-us/ 🚀 Subscribe to the podcast: https://smalltechpodcast.com/subscribe ✉️ Subscribe to the newsletter: https://s.goec.io/stp-newsletter 🎥 Watch on YouTube: https://s.goec.io/stp-youtube 📄 Read the EC blog: https://s.goec.io/ec-blog 🛠️ Need help building something? https://s.goec.io/build-together…

The Sustainable Tech Podcast

1
Crafting a Sustainable Future: Liz Gosselin's Entrepreneurial Journey 23:48

for 48 weeks siden23:48

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In this episode of the Small Tech Podcast, we talk with Liz Gosselin, one of the co-founders of R&G Strategic: the sustainability agency. Liz shares her journey from school to the startup scene at Volta, where she started working closely with tech companies and developed a passion for sustainability. She discusses how important it is for businesses to genuinely adopt sustainable practices and avoid greenwashing. Liz gives some advice for new entrepreneurs about the value of finding a supportive community and staying committed to their true values as they tackle challenges in sustainability and innovation. 🌱 Learn more about R&G Strategic: https://www.rgstrategic.com/ 👶 Learn more about My Kid's Future: https://www.mykidsfuture.net/ 🗣️ Get a FREE consultation here! https://goec.io/contact-us/ 🚀 Subscribe to the podcast: https://smalltechpodcast.com/subscribe ✉️ Subscribe to the newsletter: https://s.goec.io/stp-newsletter 🎥 Watch on YouTube: https://s.goec.io/stp-youtube 📄 Read the EC blog: https://s.goec.io/ec-blog 🛠️ Need help building something? https://s.goec.io/build-together…

The Sustainable Tech Podcast

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Digital Marketing for Tech Startups with Ashley Mason 25:31

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