What If...with Elizabeth Gortmaker

What If? It’s the first question on every entrepreneur's mind. What if I could change that? What if this existed? What if we did it differently? What if other people wanted what I was creating? What if I actually succeeded? Our alumni have started hundreds of businesses around the world. They are innovating, creating change, and driving the future. And we want to tell you those stories. WHAT IF… is a collection of conversations with entrepreneurs from the Belmont community telling us the story behind their "what if..." We can't wait to tell you these stories.

What If…We Could Keep Creators Creating? 11/14/2022

What If…We Could Keep Creators Creating? What If…We Could Keep Creators Creating? Trevor Hinesley (Computer Science + Audio Engineering Technology ’12) is the founder and CTO of Soundstripe, a music tech company providing royalty-free music for videos. Launched in 2016 with the mission to keep creators creating, Soundstripe has been named one of Inc. 5000’s fastest-growing companies. In today’s episode, we talk about bootstrapping your business, building a company based on your passions, and managing a growing team. This episode is sponsored by No Baked Cookie Dough, founded by Belmont alums Jimmy and Megan Feeman. Mention this podcast, or use code “WhatIf” to receive 50% off your order at What If...is produced by Old Soul. Music by Stephen Gordon. To learn more, visit BelmontETP.com YouTube: @Belmont Entrepreneurs Facebook: BelmontCenterforEntrepreneurship Instagram: @belmont.etp /episode/index/show/6a4ecc05-f838-48b1-9a6a-1e6941208ca1/id/24910251

No Baked Cookie Dough: Megan & Jimmy Feeman 11/04/2022

No Baked Cookie Dough: Megan & Jimmy Feeman Megan and Jimmy Feeman (Music Business & Finance '15) are the founders of No Baked Cookie Dough. NoBaked makes cookie dough that’s meant to be eaten raw, straight out of the jar. Now available online, in scoop shops, and select retailers throughout the Southeast, No Baked is revolutionizing the dessert industry! In today's episode we talk about running a business with your spouse, scaling a small business, and maintining motivation. This episode is sponsored by Studio Bank, founded by Belmont alum Harry Allen. Visit to learn more. What If...is produced by Old Soul. Music by Stephen Gordon. To learn more, visit YouTube: @Belmont Entrepreneurs Facebook: BelmontCenterforEntrepreneurship Instagram: @belmont.etp /episode/index/show/6a4ecc05-f838-48b1-9a6a-1e6941208ca1/id/24910224

Helping Our Music Evolve: Logan Crowell 10/31/2022

Helping Our Music Evolve: Logan Crowell What If...There Was a Community Center for Musicians? Logan Crowell (Music Business '16) is the founder of HOME: Helping Our Music Evolve, a Nashville-based home for artist development and music production. He's created a supportive community that connects artists, producers, and business professionals to help creatives thrive in the music industry. In today's episode we discuss the changes in the music industry, the power of bringing musicians together, and digging deep to find your focus. This episode is sponsored by No Baked Cookie Dough, founded by Belmont alums Jimmy and Megan Feeman. Mention this podcast, or use code "WhatIf" to receive 50% off your order at What If...is produced by Old Soul. Music by Stephen Gordon. To learn more, visit YouTube: @Belmont Entrepreneurs Facebook: BelmontCenterforEntrepreneurship Instagram: @belmont.etp /episode/index/show/6a4ecc05-f838-48b1-9a6a-1e6941208ca1/id/24831231

Belmont University President: Dr. L Gregory Jones 10/24/2022

Belmont University President: Dr. L Gregory Jones In today’s episode, we talk about Belmont’s new strategic vision, the entrepreneurial mindset, and how we can be a beacon of hope for our community. Belmont University’s President, Dr. L Gregory Jones joins us today to discuss Belmont’s new strategic vision and focus on entrepreneurship across campus. He shares about our inaugural Hope Summit taking place on campus this week and how Belmont is bringing entrepreneurial leaders from across the world together to inspire innovation. This episode is sponsored by Studio Bank. Visit StudioBank.com to learn more. What If...is produced by Old Soul. Music by Stephen Gordon. To learn more, visit YouTube: @Belmont Entrepreneurs Facebook: BelmontCenterforEntrepreneurship Instagram: @belmont.etp /episode/index/show/6a4ecc05-f838-48b1-9a6a-1e6941208ca1/id/24768801

Waterstep: Mark Hogg 10/10/2022

Waterstep: Mark Hogg What If...Clean Water Could Change Lives? Mark Hogg (Management '85) is the founder of Waterstep, a social enterprise providing access to clean water to people around the world. Water is the first step to achieving health, getting an education, and learning work skills. Water can transform a community and Mark's work over the last 30 years has helped countless people. In today's episode we discuss pursuing your passions, the importance of training and education, and how one person's vision can change the world. This episode is sponsored by Where The Well Things Are. Visit to learn more about Belmont's student-run boutique. What If...is produced by Old Soul. Music by Stephen Gordon. To learn more, visit YouTube: @Belmont Entrepreneurs Facebook: BelmontCenterforEntrepreneurship Instagram: @belmont.etp /episode/index/show/6a4ecc05-f838-48b1-9a6a-1e6941208ca1/id/24641523

ABEDNEGO Boutique: Meredith Mazie 10/10/2022

ABEDNEGO Boutique: Meredith Mazie What If...I Could Open My Own Shop? Meredith Mazie (Music '10) is the founder of in the heart of Nashville, TN. Meredith used her passion and creativity to start her business, and shows us that with faith our dreams are possible! In today's episode we talk about pursuing in career in something other than what you studied in college, believing in yourself, and the power of hard work. This episode is sponsored by House Of. Visit to learn more about Belmont's student-run boutique. What If...is produced by Old Soul. Music by Stephen Gordon. To learn more, visit YouTube: @Belmont Entrepreneurs Facebook: BelmontCenterforEntrepreneurship Instagram: @belmont.etp /episode/index/show/6a4ecc05-f838-48b1-9a6a-1e6941208ca1/id/24641409

Studio Bank: Harry Allen 10/03/2022

Studio Bank: Harry Allen What If... We Could Bring Creativity into Banking? Harry Allen (Management '04 + MBA '10) is the co-founder of Studio Bank, a boutique bank in Nashville, TN. Studio Bank's new banking model empowers creatives and provides sophisticating banking solutions to organizations, families, and individuals. In today's episode, we talk about supporting your community, the role of creativity in entrepreneurship, and humble leadership. This episode is sponsored by founded by Belmont alum, Kirk Slawek. What If...is produced by Old Soul. Music by Stephen Gordon. To learn more, visit YouTube: @Belmont Entrepreneurs Facebook: BelmontCenterforEntrepreneurship Instagram: @belmont.etp /episode/index/show/6a4ecc05-f838-48b1-9a6a-1e6941208ca1/id/24398271

REBOOT Recovery: Evan and Jenny Owens 09/26/2022

REBOOT Recovery: Evan and Jenny Owens What If...We Could Offer a Lifeline to the Hopeless? Evan and Jenny Owens (Musical Performance '05 + Occupational Therapy '05) are the founders of REBOOT Recovery, the nation's largest faith-based response to trauma and suicide. Over the past 10 years, their work has helped thousands of people in 7 countries around the world. In today's episode, we talk about hope and healing, running a venture as a married couple, and their new book "Healing What's Hidden." | book This episode is sponsored by Where The Well Things Are. Visit to learn more about Belmont's student-run boutique. What If...is produced by Old Soul. Music by Stephen Gordon. To learn more, visit YouTube: @Belmont Entrepreneurs Facebook: BelmontCenterforEntrepreneurship Instagram: @belmont.etp /episode/index/show/6a4ecc05-f838-48b1-9a6a-1e6941208ca1/id/24276087

Danger School: Kristin Sweeting 09/19/2022

Danger School: Kristin Sweeting What If... Being an Entrepreneur Means I can Design My Life? Kristin Sweeting (founder of and ), studied Music Education at Belmont University before graduating in 2010. Kristin helps brands and businesses shine through intentional imagery and strategic coaching. With 10 years of experience photographing weddings and thoughtful brands worldwide, Kristin has also created scalable systems and supportive community for creative entrepreneurs wanting to make a big impact with her Danger School. In today's episode, we talk about turning your passion into income, designing the life you want to live, and the power of entrepreneurial creativity. | This episode is sponsored by House Of. Visit to learn more about Belmont's student-run boutique. What If...is produced by Old Soul. Music by Stephen Gordon. To learn more, visit YouTube: @Belmont Entrepreneurs Facebook: BelmontCenterforEntrepreneurship Instagram: @belmont.etp /episode/index/show/6a4ecc05-f838-48b1-9a6a-1e6941208ca1/id/24276021

Slim & Husky's: EJ Reed 09/12/2022

Slim & Husky's: EJ Reed What if...Pizza and Beer Can Change our Neighborhood? EJ Reed (founder of Slim & Husky's Pizza Beeria) received his MBA at Belmont University in 2012. Since launching Slim & Husky's in 2015, the business has grown to 11 restaurants with many more on the way. In today's episode, we talk about entrepreneurial drive, rapid growth, and love for your community. This episode is sponsored by founded by Belmont alum, Kirk Slawek. What If...is produced by Old Soul. Music by Stephen Gordon. To learn more, visit YouTube: @Belmont Entrepreneurs Facebook: BelmontCenterforEntrepreneurship Instagram: @belmont.etp /episode/index/show/6a4ecc05-f838-48b1-9a6a-1e6941208ca1/id/24275961

Season 2 Trailer 08/29/2022

Season 2 Trailer What If? It’s the first question on every entrepreneur’s mind. What If I could innovate, create change, and drive the future? Our Belmont entrepreneurs are doing just that! “What If…” is a collection of stories from the Belmont Entrepreneur community to inspire you to start and keep going. I’m Elizabeth Gortmaker and I am excited to bring you Season 2 of “What If…”! We’re bringing you amazing stories starring the founders of Soundstripe, Studio Bank, No Baked Cookie Dough, and many more. Our first episode of Season 2 launches on September 12. Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast platform so you don’t miss it. Until next time be sure to keep asking ‘What If?’ /episode/index/show/6a4ecc05-f838-48b1-9a6a-1e6941208ca1/id/24178821

What If...with Dr. Jeff Cornwall 06/20/2022

What If...with Dr. Jeff Cornwall For our final episode of the season, we interviewed Dr. Jeff Cornwall, founder of Belmont University’s Entrepreneurship Program. Jeff came to Belmont in 2003 and developed the Entrepreneurship Major as well as our Center for Entrepreneurship. Over the past 20 years, Jeff has taught hundreds of students, mentored countless young entrepreneurs, and has changed the entrepreneurial landscape in Nashville and abroad. In today’s episode we discuss the start of Belmont’s program, his academic career, and his thoughts on everything he’s learned over the years. SHOUTOUT of the Week: Matt (Business ’06) and Maggie Kuyper (Psychology ’07) are the founders of . Connecting character with craftsmanship, Harpeth Painting provides residential and commercial painting services with amazing quality. And a bonus, Maggie is Dr. Cornwall’s daughter! To learn more visit What If… is produced by . Music by Stephen Gordon. Learn more about us by visiting our website: YouTube: @ Facebook: Instagram: @ /episode/index/show/6a4ecc05-f838-48b1-9a6a-1e6941208ca1/id/23474351

Isaac Ezell: HOPE International 06/13/2022

Isaac Ezell: HOPE International What If…Entrepreneurs Could Change the World? Isaac Ezell (Associate Director of Development at HOPE International) received his BBA in Business from Belmont in 2007. Isaac has been serving entrepreneurs around the world with HOPE International for the last 11 years. HOPE invests in the dreams of families in the world’s underserved communities by providing biblically based training, savings services, and loans that restore dignity and break the cycle of poverty. In today’s episode we’ll talk about the power of entrepreneurship in developing communities, what redemptive entrepreneurship looks like, and how his time at Belmont equipped him to take on his leadership role at Hope. SHOUTOUT of the week: Nicole Brandt Minyard (Religion and the Arts ’14) started in Nashville, TN. Daybreak Arts is a social enterprise nonprofit that creates artistic and economic opportunities for people experiencing homelessness by providing access to creative resources needed to achieve personal fulfillment and success. Daybreak Arts provides a space and materials for the artist to work as well as a platform to sell their artwork, leading to economic stability. To learn more about the incredible work Nicole is doing in Nashville, visit What If… is produced by . Music by Stephen Gordon. Learn more about us by visiting our website: YouTube: @ Facebook: Instagram: @ /episode/index/show/6a4ecc05-f838-48b1-9a6a-1e6941208ca1/id/23306681

Ladybird Taco: Keely & Gabe Scott 06/06/2022

Ladybird Taco: Keely & Gabe Scott What If...Life Throws You Limes and You Make Frozen Limeade? Keely Scott graduated from Belmont in 2004 with a Mass Communications degree. Her husband, Gabe Scott is a twenty-year veteran of the music industry. In 2020, they opened and have had an incredible journey of ups and downs ever since. LadyBird Taco is a fast casual restaurant in Nashville, TN specializing in breakfast and lunch tacos alongside a full barista service all day. With house-made tortillas, queso and salsa, Ladybird has become an instant hit. But the past two years have brought a unique set of challenges and setbacks as Keely and Gabe navigated Covid and an unforeseen health scare. In today’s episode we’ll talk about the opening of the restaurant, what it’s like to be the spouse of an entrepreneur, and how their faith has given them strength to persevere. SHOUTOUT of the week: Will Hobbs (Psychology ’12) started in 2020. Kolacho is a local, family-owned and operated pop-up serving the Nashville community some good ol' Texas breakfast kolaches. A kolache is a type of pastry with origins in Czechoslovakia and modern roots in Texas. To taste your own, find Will Hobbs at What If… is produced by . Music by Stephen Gordon. Learn more about us by visiting our website: YouTube: @ Facebook: Instagram: @ /episode/index/show/6a4ecc05-f838-48b1-9a6a-1e6941208ca1/id/23269460

2022 Entrepreneur Village Highlight 05/30/2022

2022 Entrepreneur Village Highlight At the end of each academic year, the Cone Center for Entrepreneurship hosts an annual Entrepreneurship Village. Our outdoor marketplace event allows Belmont entrepreneurs to sell products, practice their pitches, and show-off their business ideas. For our 2022 village, 40 Belmont entrepreneurs, consisting of current students and alumni, set up tents and booths to promote their ventures to over 1,000 guests. This week’s bonus episode highlights some of our Belmont entrepreneurs from this year’s village. To learn more, visit BelmontETP.com What If… is produced by . Music by Stephen Gordon. Learn more about us by visiting our website: YouTube: @ Facebook: Instagram: @ /episode/index/show/6a4ecc05-f838-48b1-9a6a-1e6941208ca1/id/23267669

Walker Brothers Beverage Co.: Sam Walker 05/23/2022

Walker Brothers Beverage Co.: Sam Walker What If…We Started a Feel-Good Family Business? Sam Walker (founder of ) studied Music Business before graduating from Belmont University in 2014. Walker Brothers was founded by Sam and Luke Walker, two brothers that loved craft beer, but didn’t love the way it made them feel. So, like all good entrepreneurs, the two headed to their garage to create a solution - a beverage that would taste just as nuanced and flavorful as the best craft beer, but be easier on the digestive system and more conducive to a healthy lifestyle overall. Using a SCOBY inherited from their aunt, the brothers began to brew kombucha, eventually creating the light, refreshing, and probiotic-filled kombucha you enjoy today. Their motto, A Family Culture, reflects these origins, as well as their commitment to treating their customers, employees, business partners, and the planet with care and respect. Cheers! SHOUTOUT of the week: Steve Soderholm (Music Business ’12) started Ranger Station in 2015. Ranger Station is a luxury fragrance company specializing in candles, body care, and personal fragrances. They create clean, sustainable, and handmade products that are good for you and the environment. What If… is produced by . Music by Stephen Gordon. Learn more about us by visiting our website: YouTube: @ Facebook: Instagram: @ /episode/index/show/6a4ecc05-f838-48b1-9a6a-1e6941208ca1/id/23180366

Leaf Global FinTech: Tori Samples 05/16/2022

Leaf Global FinTech: Tori Samples What If…We Created Virtual Banking Beyond Borders? We have a special episode this week and instead of an interview, we’ll be sharing a talk given to our Belmont students earlier this semester as part of our Moench Entrepreneurship Lecture Series. Our speaker is Tori Samples, founder, and CTO of . Leaf helps people safely store and transports assets across borders. Currently working in several countries in Africa, Leaf has plans to expand and serve the 2 billion people around the world who do not have access to financial services. Tori Samples is a young entrepreneur with an incredible story. In today’s episode, she will share her story as a self-proclaimed “unlikely entrepreneur”, present her formal pitch, and share how Belmont’s Cone Center for Entrepreneurship is sponsoring 10 refugee artists through her NFT initiative If you’d like to watch the video version to see her slides, please visit What If… is produced by . Music by Stephen Gordon. Learn more about us by visiting our website: YouTube: @ Facebook: Instagram: @ /episode/index/show/6a4ecc05-f838-48b1-9a6a-1e6941208ca1/id/23120669

The Escape Game: Jonathan Murrell 05/09/2022

The Escape Game: Jonathan Murrell What if…We Disrupt the World of Entertainment? Jonathan Murrell (founder of ) studied Entrepreneurship at Belmont before launching his business. In 8 years, the Escape Game has grown to 25 locations across the US with nearly 1,000 employees. And they aren’t stopping anytime soon! In today’s episode we talk about the entrepreneurial work ethic, valuing your people, and not being afraid to succeed. SHOUTOUT of the week: Matt Horvath (Video Production ’12) is the founder of Pack Films. They partner with businesses, brands, and agencies to tell stories through video. They produce amazing videos to inspire and help you connect with your audience. Visit to check them out! What If… is produced by . Music by Stephen Gordon. Learn more about us by visiting our website: YouTube: @ Facebook: Instagram: @ /episode/index/show/6a4ecc05-f838-48b1-9a6a-1e6941208ca1/id/23033651