The Finjan Show

A podcast about entrepreneurship, leadership and globalization where we bust myths on leadership, management, culture, global and education.

The FInjan Show: How to Digitally Network 08/13/2025

The FInjan Show: How to Digitally Network Your host of The Finjan Show, Faris Alami explains how to network effectively in the digital age by focusing on building genuine relationships rather than selling. He offers practical tips like researching contacts beforehand, maintaining a professional online presence, engaging thoughtfully on social media, respecting introduction etiquette, and consistently following up to nurture connections. The episode highlights that intentional digital networking builds trust and lasting business opportunities. /episode/index/show/b578c1a3-9088-4c4e-82fc-8b476cfa93d6/id/37719965

Jamie Meyer on The Finjan Show 08/11/2025

Jamie Meyer on The Finjan Show Host of The Finjan Show, Faris Alami, interviews Jamie Meyer, founder of Nine Carat Business Consulting, as she shares how she moved from corporate management in Australia to international consulting after realizing her passion for unlocking potential in multiple organizations. She highlights the ups and downs of entrepreneurship—navigating uncertainty, embracing personal growth, and gaining her first global clients through persistence—advising others to focus on resilience and never wait for the “perfect” moment to act. To contact Jamie: To apply as a guest on The Finjan Show: /episode/index/show/b578c1a3-9088-4c4e-82fc-8b476cfa93d6/id/37719890

The FInjan Show: Digitalization of Your Business 08/08/2025

The FInjan Show: Digitalization of Your Business Your host of The Finjan Show, Faris Alami explains how businesses can begin digitalizing by focusing on four basic steps: setting up a professional email address, launching a simple website, building a social media presence, and maintaining consistent communication with customers. He emphasizes that digitalization doesn’t need to be complicated or expensive—starting with these foundational elements quickly builds trust and credibility, allowing businesses to grow their digital footprint over time in manageable, strategic steps. /episode/index/show/b578c1a3-9088-4c4e-82fc-8b476cfa93d6/id/37719775

Karwan Qadir on The Finjan Show 07/30/2025

Karwan Qadir on The Finjan Show Host of The Finjan Show, Faris Alami, interviews Karwan Qadir, a Kurdish entrepreneur, who describes leaving his comfort zone to independently launch a furniture business as a student, despite his family’s financial stability. Rejecting family support, he overcame skepticism, grew the business internationally, and highlights that real experience, persistence, and embracing discomfort are key to entrepreneurial success. Throughout, Karwan’s approach to business aligns with core entrepreneurial principles: embrace discomfort, adapt to changing circumstances, and let purpose—not money—drive long-term success. Contact Karwan on To apply as a guest on The Finjan Show: /episode/index/show/b578c1a3-9088-4c4e-82fc-8b476cfa93d6/id/37537810

The FInjan Show: The Power of 7 in Marketing 07/28/2025

The FInjan Show: The Power of 7 in Marketing Your host of The Finjan Show, Faris Alami explains the “777 Marketing” strategy—a highly practical framework for business development and customer engagement. The approach is designed to help businesses plan intentional, multi-touch campaigns tailored to their industry’s natural sales cycle, ensuring outreach never becomes pushy or overly sales-focused. Alami’s detailed step-by-step walkthrough illustrates how, with consistent and thoughtful interaction, entrepreneurs can foster trust, optimize the timing for each touch, and increase the likelihood of conversion—while keeping the customer relationship authentic and value-driven. /episode/index/show/b578c1a3-9088-4c4e-82fc-8b476cfa93d6/id/37536400

Dr. Linda Lausell Bryant on The Finjan Show 07/25/2025

Dr. Linda Lausell Bryant on The Finjan Show Host of The Finjan Show, Faris Alami, welcomes Dr. Linda Lausell Bryant, Clinical Associate Professor and Director of the Doctorate in Social Work program at NYU, as she shares her journey creating the Institute for Adaptive Leadership and Human Services. Dr. Lausell Bryant emphasizes that impactful entrepreneurial efforts sometimes require careful, incremental groundwork and ecosystem support before making public announcements. Also discussing the challenges she faced, particularly institutional changes and leadership transitions that threatened the continuity of her work. Drawing on her background as the child of immigrants, she stresses the importance of resilience and persistence in overcoming setbacks. Her core message underscores meeting people where they are—both in social work and institutional leadership—to foster collaboration and progress. To apply as a guest on The Finjan Show: /episode/index/show/b578c1a3-9088-4c4e-82fc-8b476cfa93d6/id/37482225

The FInjan Show: Entrepreneurship Coaching 07/23/2025

The FInjan Show: Entrepreneurship Coaching Your host of The Finjan Show, Faris Alami explores the essential role of coaching in the entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing that coaching, mentoring, advising, and consulting are all valuable but distinct tools for business owners at different stages. Alami highlights that effective coaching involves listening, asking insightful questions, and encouraging entrepreneurs to reflect, rather than simply providing answers. /episode/index/show/b578c1a3-9088-4c4e-82fc-8b476cfa93d6/id/37481880

Justin Breen on The Finjan Show 07/21/2025

Justin Breen on The Finjan Show Host of The Finjan Show, Faris Alami, welcomes Justin Breen, Founder and CEO of BrEpic Communications. Breen's business model focuses on addressing problems he personally experienced, such as the frustration with traditional PR firms, and now he exclusively works with top-tier visionaries willing to invest in high-level results. He illustrates how his participation in increasingly exclusive and expensive mastermind groups elevated the caliber of peers he engages with, shifting his environment from scarcity to abundance. For Breen, daily mindset work is crucial, as it attracts valuable networks and new opportunities. Contact Justin: To apply as a guest on The Finjan Show: /episode/index/show/b578c1a3-9088-4c4e-82fc-8b476cfa93d6/id/37481730

The Finjan Show: Small Business Centers 05/19/2025

The Finjan Show: Small Business Centers Your host of The Finjan Show, Faris Alami dives into the concept of Small Business Centers—what they are, why they matter, and how to build one in your own community. Whether you're a government agency, nonprofit organization, or a mission-driven entrepreneur, Ferris shares real-world insights from setting up centers across the globe, including lessons learned, common pitfalls, and key components for success. /episode/index/show/b578c1a3-9088-4c4e-82fc-8b476cfa93d6/id/36443225

Lawrence Jackson on The Finjan Show 05/16/2025

Lawrence Jackson on The Finjan Show Host of The Finjan Show, Faris Alami, welcomes Lawrence Jackson, financial strategist and founder of Emerging Enterprise Group, for a conversation about entrepreneurship, resilience, and purpose. Lawrence shares his journey from being laid off by banks to building a thriving consulting and training business that supports entrepreneurs and small business owners across Detroit. From running training programs with organizations like ProsperUs Detroit, TechTown, and the Great Lakes Women’s Business Council, to launching a music album after years of dedication, Lawrence opens up about the highs and lows of his path—and how faith, integrity, and commitment have guided him through it all. Contact Lawrence: emergebiz1.com To apply as a guest on The Finjan Show: /episode/index/show/b578c1a3-9088-4c4e-82fc-8b476cfa93d6/id/36443135

The Finjan Show: Startup Success and Failure 05/14/2025

The Finjan Show: Startup Success and Failure Your host of The Finjan Show, Faris Alami opens up a candid conversation about the fine line between startup success and failure — and how both are often misunderstood. Drawing from global experience with thousands of entrepreneurs, Ferris questions rigid definitions of failure and emphasizes the value of learning through doing. From misunderstood business closure stats to why 80% of microloans may not be repaid, Ferris unpacks the many layers behind why some ventures fold — and why that doesn’t mean the entrepreneur failed. He highlights the role of timing, education, misallocated resources, and resilience, encouraging a shift in mindset: celebrate the effort, not just the outcome. /episode/index/show/b578c1a3-9088-4c4e-82fc-8b476cfa93d6/id/36442345

Mohamed Amin Ahmed on The Finjan Show 05/12/2025

Mohamed Amin Ahmed on The Finjan Show Host of The Finjan Show, Faris Alami, welcomes Mohamed Ahmed, founder of Average Mohamed, a grassroots initiative combatting extremist ideologies by promoting peace and democracy through an Islamic lens. Mohamed shares how a rise in ISIS recruitment in Minnesota inspired him to take action—using storytelling, cartoons, and face-to-face dialogue to counter radicalization. From retail entrepreneur to community leader, he talks about the highs and lows of running a nonprofit, the power of public diplomacy, and the importance of reaching youth where they are. An inspiring conversation about faith, resilience, and reclaiming the narrative. To apply as a guest on The Finjan Show: /episode/index/show/b578c1a3-9088-4c4e-82fc-8b476cfa93d6/id/36441840

The Finjan Show: Your Habits Make You Who You Are 05/09/2025

The Finjan Show: Your Habits Make You Who You Are Your host of The Finjan Show, Faris Alami, explores how the small habits we create every day shape not only our individual identities—but also the future of our communities. Drawing from over a decade of global experience in entrepreneurship and small business development, Fares shares how consistent, purpose-driven actions can lead to long-term impact, especially in underserved and underrepresented communities. From personal routines to building thriving startup ecosystems, this episode dives into the importance of persistence, cultural change, and playing the long game in economic development. /episode/index/show/b578c1a3-9088-4c4e-82fc-8b476cfa93d6/id/36441225

Bette Schanafelt on The Finjan Show 05/07/2025

Bette Schanafelt on The Finjan Show Host of The Finjan Show, Faris Alami, welcomes Bette Schanafelt, a former corporate high-achiever who made a bold leap into entrepreneurship. After 35 years in corporate America, Betty realized she was unfulfilled. Her desire to help others understand the power of financial literacy led her to build her own financial services practice. Faris and Betty dive into her story as an immigrant who came to the U.S. with just $500 in her pocket, her decision to pivot careers during the COVID-19 pandemic, and how she turned a passion for educating others into a thriving business. Betty opens up about the highs and lows of starting over, building a client base, and finding purpose in her “second act.” To apply as a guest on The Finjan Show: /episode/index/show/b578c1a3-9088-4c4e-82fc-8b476cfa93d6/id/36440090

The Finjan Show: Data Backup Plan 05/05/2025

The Finjan Show: Data Backup Plan Your host of The Finjan Show, Faris Alami, dives into a critical but often overlooked topic for entrepreneurs and small business owners: having a reliable digital backup plan. Drawing from his personal experiences working with resilient entrepreneurs around the world — and his own journey navigating unexpected challenges — Faris stresses the importance of always having a backup plan. Not just for your business or your customers, but for your data as well. /episode/index/show/b578c1a3-9088-4c4e-82fc-8b476cfa93d6/id/36439005

Devin Milller on The Finjan Show 04/28/2025

Devin Milller on The Finjan Show Host of The Finjan Show, Faris Alami, welcomes Devin Miller, founder of Miller IP, a law firm dedicated to helping startups and small businesses protect their intellectual property. Devin shares his passion for entrepreneurship and recounts his journey from working at large law firms to founding his own company. He reflects on growing his business from just himself and a paralegal to a full team, all while navigating the inevitable highs and lows of entrepreneurship. Devin emphasizes the importance of having a solid strategy and plan when starting a business, while also advising entrepreneurs to stay flexible and ready to pivot. The conversation also dives into the balance between work and family life, the value of mentorship, and the resilience required to keep moving forward through both challenges and successes. Contact Devin: To apply as a guest on The Finjan Show: /episode/index/show/b578c1a3-9088-4c4e-82fc-8b476cfa93d6/id/36296695

The Finjan Show: Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development 04/25/2025

The Finjan Show: Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development Your host of The Finjan Show, Faris Alami, explores the crucial role of supporting entrepreneurship and small business development within economic and workforce development, particularly in underserved communities. He discusses the challenges faced by those tasked with supporting startups and small businesses, especially when they lack the necessary experience or resources. Faris shares practical insights on how to launch and sustain successful programs, covering topics like choosing the right types of businesses to support, understanding the needs of entrepreneurs, and selecting the best programs and funding options. This episode is a valuable resource for anyone involved in economic development or looking to help local entrepreneurs thrive. /episode/index/show/b578c1a3-9088-4c4e-82fc-8b476cfa93d6/id/36296235

Jeffrey Friedland on The Finjan Show 04/23/2025

Jeffrey Friedland on The Finjan Show Host of The Finjan Show, Faris Alami, welcomes Jeffrey Friedland, to uncover the highs, lows, and hard lessons of a career built on bold moves and reinvention. Jeffrey shares how he became CEO of a NASDAQ-listed company at just 29, launched a global investor event business hosting over 230 conferences in one year, and helped companies go public in the U.S., Canada, and Europe. He also opens up about his foray into China, the cannabis industry, and a jaw-dropping story involving reclaiming a stolen factory with the help of Olympic security guards. For anyone wondering what’s possible when you follow the deal—and your gut—this episode is for you. To apply as a guest on The Finjan Show: /episode/index/show/b578c1a3-9088-4c4e-82fc-8b476cfa93d6/id/36268635

The Finjan Show: Understanding the Resilient Entrepreneur Mindset 04/21/2025

The Finjan Show: Understanding the Resilient Entrepreneur Mindset Your host of The Finjan Show, Faris Alami, elaborates on the Resilent Entrepreneuer Canvas — a practical tool developed through conversations with thousands of entrepreneurs navigating global crises. From the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic to past economic downturns, the canvas captures how resilient leaders think, adapt, and move forward in uncertainty. Faris discusses the four key pillars, mindset, self and environment, business assessment, and moving forward. This episode is perfect for anyone looking to lead through change, overcome setbacks, or build a more thoughtful, sustainable business approach. /episode/index/show/b578c1a3-9088-4c4e-82fc-8b476cfa93d6/id/36225595

Marvin Storm on The Finjan Show 04/18/2025

Marvin Storm on The Finjan Show Host of The Finjan Show, Faris Alami, welcomes Marvin Storm, a seasoned professional with a diverse background in entrepreneurship and tech. Marvin shares his journey of launching startups, managing operations, and leveraging technology to drive growth. He also discusses the often-overlooked aspect of business exits—how to plan and execute a successful exit strategy, including key lessons learned from his own experiences. Whether you’re an entrepreneur looking to build or eventually exit your business, Marvin’s insights offer valuable advice on innovation, strategy, and the power of perseverance. /episode/index/show/b578c1a3-9088-4c4e-82fc-8b476cfa93d6/id/36155975

The Finjan Show: Entrepreneurship Passion 04/16/2025

The Finjan Show: Entrepreneurship Passion Your host of The Finjan Show, Faris Alami, reflects on the relationship between passion and entrepreneurship. He challenges the common idea that passion is a prerequisite for starting a business, highlighting how many entrepreneurs discover their passion after launching ventures out of necessity. Faris dives into the entrepreneurial mindset, problem-solving, and creating opportunities in your community—encouraging listeners to start their journey, even if the passion comes later. /episode/index/show/b578c1a3-9088-4c4e-82fc-8b476cfa93d6/id/36155580

Roman Golshteyn on The Finjan Show 04/14/2025

Roman Golshteyn on The Finjan Show Host of The Finjan Show, Faris Alami, welcomes Roman Golshteyn, founder of The Computer Guy (TCG) LLC, to share his remarkable journey from immigrant to long-time entrepreneur. Roman talks about the pivotal moment he left a secure job as a help desk technician at a major law firm to follow his dream—and how that leap of faith turned into a successful 20+ year business providing IT and cybersecurity services to small businesses across Metro Detroit. /episode/index/show/b578c1a3-9088-4c4e-82fc-8b476cfa93d6/id/36089125

The Finjan Show: Developing an Entrepreneurship Ecosystem 04/11/2025

The Finjan Show: Developing an Entrepreneurship Ecosystem Your host of The Finjan Show, Faris Alami, explores the big picture of entrepreneurship ecosystem development—what it is, why it matters, and how it can transform communities. Faris breaks down the key components, from startup culture and small business support to workforce development and the creation of an entrepreneurial mindset. Whether you're looking to spark innovation in your city, country, or your own backyard, this episode walks through practical steps to help lay the foundation for a thriving ecosystem. /episode/index/show/b578c1a3-9088-4c4e-82fc-8b476cfa93d6/id/36086655

Diondre Borel on The Finjan Show 04/09/2025

Diondre Borel on The Finjan Show Host of The Finjan Show, Faris Alami, welcomes Diondre Borel, founder of Cr8 Elite and former professional NFL player, to talk about the journey from professional sports to entrepreneurial success. Diondre shares his passion for training and uplifting others, how he transformed a side hustle into a thriving business, and the grit it took to overcome the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. Tune in for real talk on resilience, reinvention, and building a purpose-driven career after the game. Contact Diondre here: To apply as a guest on The Finjan Show: /episode/index/show/b578c1a3-9088-4c4e-82fc-8b476cfa93d6/id/36007835

The Finjan Show: Economic Developments Mentorship 04/07/2025

The Finjan Show: Economic Developments Mentorship Your host of The Finjan Show, Faris Alami, discusses mentorship within the economic development community. What does mentorship really mean—and how does it differ from coaching, advising, consulting, or counseling? Faris explores these distinctions while reflecting on how meaningful mentorship can empower individuals to carve their own unique paths. Whether you're a mentor, a mentee, or someone navigating both roles, this conversation will challenge you to think deeply about your role in someone else’s journey—and how to inspire growth without giving all the answers. /episode/index/show/b578c1a3-9088-4c4e-82fc-8b476cfa93d6/id/36007635

Laszlo Heckler on The Finjan Show 03/28/2025

Laszlo Heckler on The Finjan Show Host of The Finjan Show, Faris Alami, welcomes Laszlo Heckler, founder of Achieve180 and an inspirational speaker who has motivated teams across multiple companies. Laszlo’s journey is one of resilience—from experiencing homelessness and being adopted to overcoming poverty and learning English as a second language. Now a successful entrepreneur, he turned his passion for fashion into a thriving business. Tune in as he shares his powerful story of perseverance, mindset shifts, and the lessons he’s learned along the way. To apply as a guest on The Finjan Show: /episode/index/show/b578c1a3-9088-4c4e-82fc-8b476cfa93d6/id/35793215

The Finjan Show: Entrepreneurship and Holidays 03/26/2025

The Finjan Show: Entrepreneurship and Holidays Your host of The Finjan Show, Faris Alami, discusses challenges around the holidays for entrepreneurs as they get pulled in many directions, including finding the balance between work and rest — especially for those who work in a service industry. How can business owners use this time to reflect on business goals? /episode/index/show/b578c1a3-9088-4c4e-82fc-8b476cfa93d6/id/35792785

Francy Lucido on The Finjan Show 03/24/2025

Francy Lucido on The Finjan Show Host of The Finjan Show, Faris Alami, welcomes Francy Lucido of Michigan Staffing / Aspen Search Group, talking about how she utilized her resources to start her business now. Hear Francy discuss how she includes DEI practices and finds strategic solutions to modern problems. To contact Francy: To apply as a guest on The Finjan Show: /episode/index/show/b578c1a3-9088-4c4e-82fc-8b476cfa93d6/id/35701185

The Finjan Show: Resilient Entrepreneur Canvas 03/21/2025

The Finjan Show: Resilient Entrepreneur Canvas Your host of The Finjan Show, Faris Alami, discusses the eight sections and four elements of the Resilient Entrepreneur Canvas, your personal blueprint for a bulletproof business. All businesses face adversity sooner or later, but the ones that recover and thrive are those who understand how to take inventory of what they have, and how to adapt to changes. /episode/index/show/b578c1a3-9088-4c4e-82fc-8b476cfa93d6/id/35700825

Casey Czuj on The Finjan Show 03/19/2025

Casey Czuj on The Finjan Show Host of The Finjan Show, Faris Alami, welcomes Casey Czuj, owner of Pure Vibes LLC. For over 15 years, Casey has been working with clients on neurological issues, as well as assisting entrepreneurs with starting integrative medicine practices. To apply as a guest on The Finjan Show: /episode/index/show/b578c1a3-9088-4c4e-82fc-8b476cfa93d6/id/35640800

The Finjan Show

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