Game Changers Silicon Valley
Eli Steele's documentary, "Killing America," emerges from a profound silence into a loud, defining statement about the currents sweeping through American education. Born deaf, Steele transcends the boundaries of sound to explore the ideological framework shaping the narratives within schools across the nation. Through his lens, Steele investigates the dilution of meritocracy, the ascent of indoctrination, and the looming shadow of censorship, crafting a narrative that questions whether we are on the verge of educational decay or the brink of an academic renaissance. "Killing America" is not...
info_outline Breaking the cycle, Crime, Drug Addiction, RecidivismGame Changers Silicon Valley
We share a highly visible, universal concern: the persistent cycle of crime, drug addiction, and recidivism. My interview with former San Jose Mayor and current Congressional candidate Sam Liccardo, provides a deeper insight into the pernicious nature of this cycle. Sam underscores the deep-seated connection between these elements, painting a picture of a cycle that perpetuates itself but believes it can be dismantled with strategic intervention. His insights, drawn from years in public service, propose a pivot from punitive to rehabilitative justice. At the core of Liccardo’s argument is...
info_outline Guns, Border, and Immigration ReformGame Changers Silicon Valley
Everyone agrees: We are witnessing unprecedented political polarization and deep divides tearing our country's fabric. Since the current leadership in Congress cannot come to terms, the voters have little option but to send a message by electing new representatives and senators to Congress. I had an opportunity to interview a newcomer in the upcoming primary elections in California. Peter Dixon has impressive international accomplishments, entrepreneurial experience, served as a marine in combat, and a common sense approach to addressing big issues. He believes in finding creative...
info_outline The Crisis in Public SafetyGame Changers Silicon Valley
In the run-up to the 2024 elections, Anna Cheng Kramer, a candidate for California's 15th Congressional District, captures the quintessential American narrative of the underdog. The story of Anna Chang Kramer, who is vying for a congressional seat in California's 15th District, offers a unique insight into the immigrant experience. Kramer's narrative, which began in Taiwan, weaves through a background of finance, integrity, and a growing sense of public duty to the community. Kramer’s campaign, anchored in enhancing public safety, speaks directly to the growing concerns among...
info_outline The Stigma of Mental IllnessGame Changers Silicon Valley
No one wants to admit they are being treated for depression, bi-polar disorder or having thoughts about suicide. The fact is, today's stressful lifestyles will overwhelm the coping mechanisms of many people. My guest believes it's time to remove the stigma and treat mental illness "just like any other disease." Homeless encampments in commercial districts remain a visible and complex challenge. My guest, Dr. Peter Fund, provides insights about the extent of mental illness among the homeless. Government officials appear unable to formulate a plan to address what appears to be...
info_outline Law & Order Silicon ValleyGame Changers Silicon Valley
In today's blog, we delve into the critical role judges play in our justice system. We had the privilege of speaking with Johnene Stebbins, a seasoned deputy district attorney running for Judge in Santa Clara County. Join us as we explore the responsibilities and challenges judges face in maintaining fairness, integrity, and public safety. We discuss the correlation between the decriminalization of drugs and the rise in homelessness. Drawing insights from our conversation with Joanne Stebbins, we explore the challenges faced by local governments in addressing this complex problem.
info_outline Quantifying Startup RiskGame Changers Silicon Valley
In 2023, approximately 3,200 venture-backed firms in the U.S. went out of business, according to data from PitchBook. These startups had collectively raised about $27.2 billion. Since the failure of Silicon Valley Bank in March 2023, this situation has been described as the most difficult year for startups in at least a decade, with many companies quietly shutting down. So the question is: What is taking place in the early-stage investor community to navigate this re-defined landscape? Is it business as usual or is there a new investor emphasis on quantitative tools to make better...
info_outline Unlocking the Startup Asset ClassGame Changers Silicon Valley
Three Key Steps in Constructing the Startup Asset Class One fundamental building block to startup investing is defining the sectors and technologies that will fit your organization's definition of a startup asset class. A second critical step involves creating an education program to explain the purpose, risks, diversification, time horizon, and expected returns in a portfolio of early-stage technology companies. But what can catalyze the growth of your startup investing and the ecosystem is tapping into state funding to support innovation and economic development. But as...
info_outline Restructuring the UniversityGame Changers Silicon Valley
Universities face many challenges in their goal of educating students for engagement in the 21st century economy. In this podcast, we delve into this transformative shift in academia, where the traditional model of university education is being reimagined and revitalized. The University of Cincinnati is at the forefront of this educational revolution, fostering an environment where academic knowledge meets practical application and where failure is viewed not as a setback but as a critical component of learning and innovation. My guest is Kate Harmon, the Executive Director at the...
info_outline The Prop 19 Fix for a Taxation NightmareGame Changers Silicon Valley
A Crusade for Justice Imagine inheriting your family home, only to find a tax bill that forces you to sell. It's not fiction; it's the startling reality under California's Proposition 19. In this episode, we uncover how this law is upending lives and what's being done to challenge it. Meet Gina C. Louis, our advocate guest driving the charge against this controversial law. Her analysis and expertise shed light on a situation that's more than just numbers – it's about preserving the inheritance structure and legacy of the family home.
info_outlineAll entrepreneurs need an exit plan, an opportunity to see their company, generally through an acquisition with an established corporation. The difficult question is knowing when to sell, the terms of the sale and finding the right acquisition partner. This podcast challenges that assumption. It’s actually the buyer who is controlling the decision to acquire and the terms of the transaction.
Part 1 of this podcast explores the sequence of events for a Founder and CEO to take his venture-backed company to an exit. We start with a board meeting, where Ken, the Founder, and CEO is informed that a decision has been made to bring in an experienced manager to be the new CEO and take the company to the next level.