The First Buck

In this episode of the First Buck podcast, host Nic Cary interviews Zuby Udezue, an independent rapper, author, podcast host, and creative entrepreneur who has built a massive following of over 2 million people on social media. Zuby shares his journey of independent success, emphasizing the importance of resilience, authenticity, and long-term thinking when building a personal brand and business. He offers insights on turning followers into customers, stepping outside your comfort zone, and mastering the art of self-promotion. The episode provides valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs on leveraging social media, creating multiple income streams, and staying committed to your vision in the face of challenges. ​ Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: • Discover how to build an authentic personal brand that resonates and attracts loyal customers. • Learn the power of long-term thinking and persistence in achieving independent success. • Gain insights on leveraging social media to grow your audience and turn followers into paying customers. • Understand the importance of stepping out of your comfort zone to unlock new opportunities. • Find out how to create multiple income streams to sustain and grow your business. ​ In this episode... ​ Nic Cary interviews Zuby and they discuss the lessons learned during his career journey including: ​ • The importance of staying authentic and true to your values to build a loyal audience. • The value of persistence and long-term thinking in achieving independent success. • The necessity of stepping out of your comfort zone to unlock new opportunities and growth. ​ ​ Sponsor for this episode... ​ This episode is brought to you by Sky’s The Limit, one of the largest nonprofit programs for underrepresented young adult entrepreneurs in the US. Sky’s The Limit is a quick-growing digital platform that connects entrepreneurs with their peers, volunteer business mentors, training resources, and funding. ​ Our goal is to develop the social capital that founders need to chase their business dreams. ​ To learn more, visit https://www.skysthelimit.org.

In this episode of the First Buck podcast, host Nic Cary interviews Samuel Harrison, co-founder and managing partner of Faction, a blockchain venture capital fund, and a seasoned advisor in the crypto and digital currency space. Drawing from his extensive experience investing in early-stage ventures and advising top technology companies, Sam shares insights on the critical role of execution in turning ideas into impactful businesses. He emphasizes the importance of building strong teams, leveraging networks, and navigating the challenges of a rapidly evolving tech landscape. The episode offers valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs on identifying opportunities, managing risks, and driving innovation in competitive industries. ​ Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: • Discover why execution is more important than the idea itself when building a successful startup. • Learn how to recruit and empower a strong, high-performing team to drive your vision forward. • Gain insights on identifying market gaps and leveraging them to create impactful ventures. • Understand the value of resilience and adaptability in navigating challenges within fast-changing industries. • Find out how to validate your ideas and secure funding effectively to maximize growth potential. ​ In this episode... ​ Nic Cary interviews Howard and they discuss the lessons learned during his career journey including: ​ • The importance of aligning investments with values to create both financial returns and meaningful social impact. • The value of resilience and adaptability in overcoming challenges and thriving in dynamic markets. • The necessity of fostering collaboration and building strong networks to drive innovative solutions and long-term success. ​ ​ Sponsor for this episode... ​ This episode is brought to you by Sky’s The Limit, one of the largest nonprofit programs for underrepresented young adult entrepreneurs in the US. Sky’s The Limit is a quick-growing digital platform that connects entrepreneurs with their peers, volunteer business mentors, training resources, and funding. ​ Our goal is to develop the social capital that founders need to chase their business dreams. ​ To learn more, visit https://www.skysthelimit.org.

In this episode of the First Buck podcast, host Nic Cary interviews Howard Fischer, Co-Founder and Chief Evangelist of Gratitude Railroad, an organization focused on aligning capital with purpose to drive social and environmental change. Drawing from his extensive experience as a hedge fund manager and impact investor, Howard shares insights on navigating risks, making thoughtful investments, and balancing profit with purpose. He discusses the importance of resilience, fostering meaningful relationships, and leveraging capital to address big challenges. The episode offers valuable lessons for entrepreneurs on taking bold steps, seeking impact-driven opportunities, and building businesses that create lasting change. ​ Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: • Discover how to align profit with purpose to create businesses that drive meaningful social and environmental impact. • Learn the importance of taking calculated risks and making thoughtful investments in your entrepreneurial journey. • Understand how to build strong networks and leverage mentorship to accelerate growth and success. • Gain insights on identifying market gaps and turning overlooked opportunities into impactful ventures. • Find out how resilience and adaptability can help you navigate challenges and thrive in uncertain environments. ​ In this episode... ​ Nic Cary interviews Howard and they discuss the lessons learned during his career journey including: ​ • The importance of taking bold, calculated steps to pursue meaningful opportunities despite uncertainty. • The value of aligning personal values with business goals to create impactful and fulfilling ventures. • The necessity of resilience and adaptability to overcome challenges and thrive in dynamic environments. ​ ​ Sponsor for this episode... ​ This episode is brought to you by Sky’s The Limit, one of the largest nonprofit programs for underrepresented young adult entrepreneurs in the US. Sky’s The Limit is a quick-growing digital platform that connects entrepreneurs with their peers, volunteer business mentors, training resources, and funding. ​ Our goal is to develop the social capital that founders need to chase their business dreams. ​ To learn more, visit https://www.skysthelimit.org.

In this episode of the First Buck podcast, host Nic Cary interviews Katharine Weymouth, Chief Operating Officer at Togetherly Parents, a community supporting parents with struggling teens and young adults. Drawing from her extensive leadership experience, including her tenure as CEO and Publisher of The Washington Post, Katharine shares lessons on navigating large-scale disruptions, building resilient teams, and embracing career pivots. She emphasizes the importance of adaptability, fostering trust, and leveraging diverse experiences to drive impactful change. The episode offers valuable insights for entrepreneurs and leaders on transforming challenges into opportunities and thriving in evolving landscapes. ​ Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: • Discover how to navigate large-scale disruptions while maintaining focus and resilience. • Learn strategies for building and leading high-performing teams that adapt to change. • Understand the value of embracing career pivots and leveraging diverse experiences for growth. • Gain insights on fostering trust and accountability within your organization. • Find out how to turn challenges into opportunities and create impactful, sustainable change. ​ In this episode... ​ Nic Cary interviews Katharine and they discuss the lessons learned during her career journey including: ​ • The importance of surrounding yourself with talented, diverse teams and empowering them to succeed. • The value of embracing risk and stepping out of your comfort zone to discover unexpected opportunities. • The necessity of owning mistakes, learning from them, and fostering a culture of resilience and accountability. ​ ​ Sponsor for this episode... ​ This episode is brought to you by Sky’s The Limit, one of the largest nonprofit programs for underrepresented young adult entrepreneurs in the US. Sky’s The Limit is a quick-growing digital platform that connects entrepreneurs with their peers, volunteer business mentors, training resources, and funding. ​ Our goal is to develop the social capital that founders need to chase their business dreams. ​ To learn more, visit https://www.skysthelimit.org.

In this episode of the First Buck podcast, host Nic Cary interviews Samir Goel, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Esusu, a platform dedicated to unlocking financial stability for renters by enabling credit-building through rent payments. Inspired by his family's experiences as immigrants facing financial barriers, Samir shares how Esusu addresses economic inequality and empowers underserved communities. He emphasizes the importance of mission-driven entrepreneurship, resilience, and the power of personal experience in shaping impactful solutions. The episode offers valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs on building businesses that drive social change, navigating challenges, and creating opportunities that foster financial inclusion. ​ Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: • Discover how mission-driven entrepreneurship can create lasting impact and inspire positive change in underserved communities. • Learn why resilience and a strong sense of purpose are essential for overcoming obstacles in the startup journey. • Understand the value of building inclusive solutions that address real-world problems and serve diverse communities. • Gain insights on leveraging personal experiences to shape meaningful, customer-focused products. • Find out how to develop partnerships that amplify your mission and accelerate growth in the social impact space. ​ In this episode... ​ Nic Cary interviews Samir and they discuss the lessons learned during his career journey including: ​ • The importance of creating solutions that address real needs and promote financial inclusion for underserved communities. • The value of resilience and staying true to your mission, especially when facing obstacles in the entrepreneurial journey. • The power of personal experience in driving meaningful innovation that positively impacts others' lives. ​ ​ Sponsor for this episode... ​ This episode is brought to you by Sky’s The Limit, one of the largest nonprofit programs for underrepresented young adult entrepreneurs in the US. Sky’s The Limit is a quick-growing digital platform that connects entrepreneurs with their peers, volunteer business mentors, training resources, and funding. ​ Our goal is to develop the social capital that founders need to chase their business dreams. ​ To learn more, visit https://www.skysthelimit.org.

In this episode of the First Buck podcast, host Nic Cary interviews Vince McSweeney, Chief Creative Officer at McCann Central, a global marketing leader with an impressive track record across national and international brands. Vince shares insights on building authentic brands that resonate with audiences, drawing from his unique journey from chef to creative director. He emphasizes the importance of understanding brand identity, balancing warmth with competency, and leveraging distinctive qualities to stand out in competitive markets. The episode offers valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs on navigating pressure, maintaining authenticity, and making their brand memorable. ​ Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: • Discover how to create a brand that balances warmth with competency to build genuine connections with customers. • Learn why authenticity is key to making your brand stand out and gain lasting trust. • Gain insights on leveraging your unique qualities to differentiate yourself in a competitive market. • Find out how to manage pressure effectively and stay focused during challenging times. • Understand the power of building a strong brand personality to leave a memorable impression on your audience. ​ In this episode... ​ Nic Cary interviews Vince and they discuss the lessons learned during his career journey including: ​ • The importance of building strong, aligned teams that share a common vision for sustainable success. • The value of identifying and addressing unmet needs to create impactful solutions in new markets. • The necessity of balancing profit with purpose to drive meaningful, long-term growth. ​ ​ Sponsor for this episode... ​ This episode is brought to you by Sky’s The Limit, one of the largest nonprofit programs for underrepresented young adult entrepreneurs in the US. Sky’s The Limit is a quick-growing digital platform that connects entrepreneurs with their peers, volunteer business mentors, training resources, and funding. ​ Our goal is to develop the social capital that founders need to chase their business dreams. ​ To learn more, visit https://www.skysthelimit.org.

In this episode of the First Buck podcast, host Nic Cary interviews Samantha Roady, CEO of Simply Business' U.S. operations, a leading digital insurance marketplace for small businesses. With nearly 25 years of C-suite experience, Samantha shares insights on scaling complex businesses, building brand-driven strategies, and navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship. She discusses the importance of preparation, resilience, and effective marketing, offering practical advice for small business owners on leveraging grassroots efforts, referrals, and online platforms for growth. The episode emphasizes how embracing setbacks as opportunities and balancing long-term goals with urgent priorities are key to building sustainable success. ​ Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: • Discover how to build effective grassroots marketing and referral programs to grow your business without a big budget. • Learn the importance of preparation and resilience in navigating challenges and achieving sustainable success. • Understand how to balance long-term goals with day-to-day priorities to maintain focus and momentum. • Gain insights on building high-performing teams by hiring for grit, curiosity, and collaboration. • Find out how to leverage online platforms to expand your reach and connect with the right customers. ​ In this episode... ​ Nic Cary interviews Sam and they discuss the lessons learned during her career journey including: ​ • The importance of building strong, aligned teams that share a common vision to achieve long-term success. • The value of identifying unmet needs and bringing proven solutions to new markets to create impact. • The necessity of balancing profit with purpose to drive sustainable growth in both for-profit and nonprofit ventures. ​ ​ Sponsor for this episode... ​ This episode is brought to you by Sky’s The Limit, one of the largest nonprofit programs for underrepresented young adult entrepreneurs in the US. Sky’s The Limit is a quick-growing digital platform that connects entrepreneurs with their peers, volunteer business mentors, training resources, and funding. ​ Our goal is to develop the social capital that founders need to chase their business dreams. ​ To learn more, visit https://www.skysthelimit.org.

In this episode of the First Buck podcast, host Nic Cary interviews John Simon, an entrepreneur, investor, and co-founder of the Greenlight Fund, an organization dedicated to addressing economic mobility challenges by scaling innovative nonprofits across the U.S. In this episode, John shares insights from his diverse experiences in both for-profit and nonprofit sectors, emphasizing the importance of identifying unmet needs, building strong teams, and leveraging mentorship to create sustainable impact. He discusses how balancing business and philanthropy has shaped his career, offering valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs on leadership, strategic planning, and making a meaningful difference. ​ Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: • Discover how identifying unmet needs can unlock new business opportunities and drive social impact. • Learn the importance of building strong, value-aligned teams to ensure sustainable growth. • Gain insights on balancing profit and purpose to create meaningful, long-term success. • Understand how mentorship can accelerate progress and help overcome entrepreneurial challenges. • Find out why strategic planning is essential for scaling both for-profit ventures and nonprofit initiatives. ​ In this episode... ​ Nic Cary interviews John and they discuss the lessons learned during his career journey including: ​ • The importance of identifying unmet needs and leveraging innovative solutions to address them. • The value of building strong, aligned teams that share a common vision and purpose. • The necessity of balancing profit with impact to create sustainable, long-term success. ​ ​ Sponsor for this episode... ​ This episode is brought to you by Sky’s The Limit, one of the largest nonprofit programs for underrepresented young adult entrepreneurs in the US. Sky’s The Limit is a quick-growing digital platform that connects entrepreneurs with their peers, volunteer business mentors, training resources, and funding. ​ Our goal is to develop the social capital that founders need to chase their business dreams. ​ To learn more, visit https://www.skysthelimit.org.

In this episode of the First Buck podcast, host Nic Cary interviews Gary Izunwa, Co-founder and CEO of Tangent, an employee referral platform designed to make job referrals accessible to everyone, not just the well-connected. In this episode, Gary shares his insights on social mobility, leveraging networks, and overcoming challenges as an entrepreneur. He emphasizes the importance of building meaningful connections, developing resilience, and embracing failure as part of the entrepreneurial journey. The episode highlights how aspiring entrepreneurs can break barriers, tap into hidden opportunities, and create lasting impact in their communities. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: In this episode... Nic Cary interviews Gary and they discuss the lessons learned during his career journey including: Sponsor for this episode... This episode is brought to you by Sky’s The Limit, one of the largest nonprofit programs for underrepresented young adult entrepreneurs in the US. Sky’s The Limit is a quick-growing digital platform that connects entrepreneurs with their peers, volunteer business mentors, training resources, and funding. Our goal is to develop the social capital that founders need to chase their business dreams. To learn more, visit https://www.skysthelimit.org.

In this episode of the First Buck podcast, host Nic Cary interviews Eric Kessler, a serial entrepreneur and founder of Arabella Advisors, where he led the firm’s growth into a leader in the philanthropic sector, advising on billions of dollars in resources annually. Eric shares how he transitioned from public service to entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of having a mission-driven approach, surrounding yourself with adaptable people, and validating your market before launching a business. The episode highlights key insights on building teams, navigating challenges, and making a lasting impact through social entrepreneurship. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: In this episode... Nic Cary interviews Eric and they discuss the lessons learned during his career journey including: Sponsor for this episode... This episode is brought to you by Sky’s The Limit, one of the largest nonprofit programs for underrepresented young adult entrepreneurs in the US. Sky’s The Limit is a quick-growing digital platform that connects entrepreneurs with their peers, volunteer business mentors, training resources, and funding. Our goal is to develop the social capital that founders need to chase their business dreams. To learn more, visit https://www.skysthelimit.org.

In this episode of the First Buck podcast, host Nic Cary interviews Richard Bynum, Chief Corporate Responsibility Officer at PNC Financial Services Group, where he leads initiatives on community development, diversity, and PNC’s $88 billion Community Benefits Plan. Bynum discusses building a culture of service, the importance of diversity, and how entrepreneurs can leverage mentorship and resources for growth and impact. The episode emphasizes how aspiring entrepreneurs can develop business acumen, build a supportive team, and leverage community resources to drive meaningful impact and long-term growth. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: - Discover how to build a culture of service that drives both business success and social impact. - Learn the value of forming strong relationships with mentors and advisors for personal and professional growth. - Understand the importance of financial planning and capital management for long-term business sustainability. - Gain insights on how diversity and inclusion can strengthen your business strategy and problem-solving approach. - Find out how to leverage community resources and corporate partnerships to support your entrepreneurial journey. In this episode… Nic Cary interviews Richard and they discuss the lessons learned during his career journey including: - The importance of building strong relationships and a culture of service in both business and community work. - The value of diversity and inclusion in fostering innovation and effective problem-solving. - The necessity of financial acumen and strategic planning to support sustainable business growth and impact. Sponsor for this episode... This episode is brought to you by Sky’s The Limit, one of the largest nonprofit programs for underrepresented young adult entrepreneurs in the US. Sky’s The Limit is a quick-growing digital platform that connects entrepreneurs with their peers, volunteer business mentors, training resources, and funding. Our goal is to develop the social capital that founders need to chase their business dreams. To learn more, visit https://www.skysthelimit.org.

In this episode of the First Buck podcast, host Nic Cary interviews Sharmadean Reid MBE, Founder and CEO of The Stack World, discusses her journey from launching WAH Nails to creating a platform that powers women's networks and communities. She shares insights on achieving gender equity through community building, the importance of innovation, and supporting women in business. Sharmadean's dedication to her mission earned her the Veuve Clicquot Bold Future award in 2021. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: In this episode... Nic Cary interviews Sharmadean and they discuss the lessons learned during her career journey including: Sponsor for this episode... This episode is brought to you by Sky’s The Limit, one of the largest nonprofit programs for underrepresented young adult entrepreneurs in the US. Sky’s The Limit is a quick-growing digital platform that connects entrepreneurs with their peers, volunteer business mentors, training resources, and funding. Our goal is to develop the social capital that founders need to chase their business dreams. To learn more, visit https://www.skysthelimit.org.

In this episode of the First Buck podcast, host Nic Cary interviews Amanda Jenkins, Chief Impact Officer at 10x Banking, where she leads the 10x Impact Agenda focused on people, community, and the planet. Amanda shares her journey from the Lloyd's insurance market to senior roles in New York law firms and her passion for tackling inequality. The episode emphasizes the importance of building relationships, mentorship, and fostering inclusivity and sustainability in business for impactful change. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: In this episode... Nic Cary interviews Amanda and they discuss the lessons learned during her career journey including: Sponsor for this episode... This episode is brought to you by Sky’s The Limit, one of the largest nonprofit programs for underrepresented young adult entrepreneurs in the US. Sky’s The Limit is a quick-growing digital platform that connects entrepreneurs with their peers, volunteer business mentors, training resources, and funding. Our goal is to develop the social capital that founders need to chase their business dreams. To learn more, visit https://www.skysthelimit.org.

In this episode of the First Buck podcast, host Nic Cary interviews Dr. Mahsa Vazin, founder of PawCo, a plant-based dog food company with a mission of making the world a greener place, one meal at a time. Dr. Vazin, with a PhD in nanoscience and experience at Impossible Foods, shares her entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing innovation, sustainability, and community support. She discusses the growing plant-based pet food market and its positive impact on pet health and the environment, highlighting that with determination and the right support, aspiring entrepreneurs can achieve their goals. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: In this episode... Nic Cary interviews Dr. Mahsa and they discuss the lessons learned during her career journey including: Sponsor for this episode... This episode is brought to you by Sky’s The Limit, one of the largest nonprofit programs for underrepresented young adult entrepreneurs in the US. Sky’s The Limit is a quick-growing digital platform that connects entrepreneurs with their peers, volunteer business mentors, training resources, and funding. Our goal is to develop the social capital that founders need to chase their business dreams. To learn more, visit https://www.skysthelimit.org.

In this episode of the First Buck podcast, host Nic Cary interviews Dax Hansen, a partner at Perkins Coie, a leading international law firm, emphasizes the significance of having a clear vision, the necessity of mentorship, and the critical role of networking and relationship building in achieving business success. The episode concludes with Dax emphasizing that passion fuels perseverance, but success in entrepreneurship requires a clear vision, structured planning, mentorship, and financial understanding. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: In this episode… Nic Cary interviews Dax and they discuss the lessons learned during his career journey including: Sponsor for this episode... This episode is brought to you by Sky’s The Limit, one of the largest nonprofit programs for underrepresented young adult entrepreneurs in the US. Sky’s The Limit is a quick-growing digital platform that connects entrepreneurs with their peers, volunteer business mentors, training resources, and funding. Our goal is to develop the social capital that founders need to chase their business dreams. To learn more, visit https://www.skysthelimit.org.

In this episode of the First Buck podcast, host Nic Cary interviews Sekou Kaalund, Executive Vice President and Head of Branch and Small Business banking for US Bank, where he oversees the organization’s 2,200+ branches across 26 states. emphasizes the significance of having a clear vision, the necessity of mentorship, and the critical role of networking and relationship building in achieving business success. The episode concludes with Sekou emphasizing that passion fuels perseverance, but success in entrepreneurship requires a clear vision, structured planning, mentorship, and financial understanding. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: In this episode… Nic Cary interviews Sekou and they discuss the lessons learned during his career journey including: Sponsor for this episode... This episode is brought to you by Sky’s The Limit, one of the largest nonprofit programs for underrepresented young adult entrepreneurs in the US. Sky’s The Limit is a quick-growing digital platform that connects entrepreneurs with their peers, volunteer business mentors, training resources, and funding. Our goal is to develop the social capital that founders need to chase their business dreams. To learn more, visit https://www.skysthelimit.org.

In this episode of the First Buck podcast, host Nic Cary interviews Seth Godin, a renowned entrepreneur and bestselling author. Seth shares his journey from early ventures, like selling ice cream sandwiches, to becoming a marketing guru. He discusses the difference between actual and perceived risk, the importance of genuine value, and the power of small, manageable risks. Seth emphasizes learning by doing, forming supportive peer groups, and picking the right customers. The episode concludes with Seth advocating for giving forward and creating a positive impact. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: The difference between actual and perceived risk in entrepreneurship.The importance of offering genuine value and building trust with customers.Strategies for taking small, manageable risks to grow your business.The value of learning by doing and forming supportive peer groups.The concept of giving forward and creating a positive impact through your ventures. In this episode… Nic Cary interviews Seth and they discuss the lessons learned during his career journey including: The importance of distinguishing between actual risk and perceived risk, and how managing perceived risk can lead to innovative and successful ventures.The value of creating genuine value for customers and building trust through empathy and authentic offerings.The power of small, manageable risks and iterative learning, emphasizing the significance of starting with small projects and growing sustainably. Sponsor for this episode... This episode is brought to you by Sky’s The Limit, one of the largest nonprofit programs for underrepresented young adult entrepreneurs in the US. Sky’s The Limit is a quick-growing digital platform that connects entrepreneurs with their peers, volunteer business mentors, training resources, and funding. Our goal is to develop the social capital that founders need to chase their business dreams. To learn more, visit https://www.skysthelimit.org.

In this episode of the First Buck podcast, host Nic Cary interviews Check Warner, an early stage VC and one of the founding partners of Ada Ventures. Check shares her journey from her early jobs in telesales and advertising to her pivotal switch to venture capital. She discusses the importance of taking risks, the value of sales skills and the significance of diversity in venture capital. She also shared her approach to building and developing teams. The episode concludes with Check stressing the importance of looking after yourself and recommended reading. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: In this episode… Nic Cary interviews Check and they discuss the lessons learned during her career journey including: Sponsor for this episode... This episode is brought to you by Sky’s The Limit, one of the largest nonprofit programs for underrepresented young adult entrepreneurs in the US. Sky’s The Limit is a quick-growing digital platform that connects entrepreneurs with their peers, volunteer business mentors, training resources, and funding. Our goal is to develop the social capital that founders need to chase their business dreams. To learn more, visit https://www.skysthelimit.org.

Stephen Bediako is a social entrepreneur, innovator, impact investor and design expert. They talk about Stephen's journey from selling household goods door-to-door in East London at 13 to starting the Social Innovation Partnership. He emphasizes the importance of education, family support, and the shift in social impact measurement towards integrating profitability and social responsibility. Stephen also discusses the Pathway Fund, which supports black and minoritized fund managers and social enterprises in the UK. He highlights the value of mentorship, maintaining personal well-being, and building a strong, supportive team in managing the stresses of entrepreneurship. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: • The critical role of education, family support, and mentorship in entrepreneurial success. • The evolving importance of integrating profitability and social responsibility in business. • Practical advice on conducting market research and finding product-market fit. • Strategies for managing stress and maintaining personal well-being while running a business. In this episode… How can education and encouragement from family play a crucial role in guiding a person towards a professional career and higher studies? How does building long-term relationships with mentors provide you with valuable insights, credibility, and support throughout his entrepreneurial journey? As an aspiring entrepreneur, why do you need to prioritize collaboration and teamwork? Sponsor for this episode... This episode is brought to you by Sky’s The Limit, one of the largest nonprofit programs for underrepresented young adult entrepreneurs in the US. Sky’s The Limit is a quick-growing digital platform that connects entrepreneurs with their peers, volunteer business mentors, training resources, and funding. Our goal is to develop the social capital that founders need to chase their business dreams. To learn more, visit https://www.skysthelimit.org.

In this episode of the First Buck podcast, host Nic Cary interviews Anne Boden, founder and former CEO of Starling Bank. Boden shares her journey as an entrepreneur and offers insights and advice for early-stage entrepreneurs. She discusses her first job at Lloyd's Bank, the importance of perseverance and taking risks, and the challenges she faced in starting her own bank. Boden also talks about her upcoming book, "The Female Founders Playbook," which provides guidance for female entrepreneurs. She emphasizes the need to hire for strengths rather than weaknesses and highlights the importance of embracing stress and seeking inspiration from other entrepreneurs' stories. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: