The Jason Cavness Experience

The Jason Cavness Experience where I talk to entrepreneurs and other interesting people.

Christopher Seminatore on Geofencing, Precision Marketing, and Building a 7-Figure Veteran-Owned Agency 03/24/2026

Christopher Seminatore on Geofencing, Precision Marketing, and Building a 7-Figure Veteran-Owned Agency In this episode of The Jason Cavness Experience, I sit down with Christopher Seminatore. U.S. Navy Veteran and founder of GetGeofencing.com to break down precision marketing, location-based advertising, and how he bootstrapped a 7-figure agency without outside funding. Christopher shares how his military experience shaped his approach to entrepreneurship, risk, and execution. We unpack what geofencing actually is, how it works, and why location-based targeting is becoming one of the most effective forms of digital advertising. Instead of broad, spray-and-pray marketing, Christopher focuses on precision drawing digital boundaries around physical locations and delivering ads directly to devices within those zones. We also discuss: • Transitioning from military service to entrepreneurship • Bootstrapping without investors • How geofencing marketing works in simple terms • Precision targeting vs traditional digital ads • Building recurring revenue • Competitor targeting strategies • Remote-first business systems • Discipline and long-term execution Christopher proves you don’t need venture capital to scale. You need clarity, systems, and consistent follow-through. If you’re a founder, marketer, or v Veteran entrepreneur serious about monetizing attention with precision, this episode delivers practical insight. Military Creator Con I’m a featured speaker at Military Creator Con, where veterans, creators, and entrepreneurs come together to turn content and audience into opportunity. If you’re building a brand or monetizing content, this is the room to be in. Sign up to attend here: Connect with Christopher Seminatore LinkedIn: Website: Instagram: @chrisseminatore Connect with Jason Cavness LinkedIn: Instagram: TikTok: Podcast: https://www.thejasoncavnessexperience.com /episode/index/show/cavnesshr/id/40255575

Vaishnavi Balakrishnan on Building SWANN, Youth Leadership, and Advancing Girls’ Health & Education 03/17/2026

Vikram Chalana on Building Pictory, Democratizing Video with AI, and Scaling a Global SaaS Platform 03/10/2026

Taylor Rae at Military Creator Conference: Geofencing, AI in Marketing 03/03/2026

Taylor Rae at Military Creator Conference: Geofencing, AI in Marketing In this episode of The Jason Cavness Experience, I sit down with Taylor Rae, founder of Rae Enterprise and the Success Club App, and a participant at Military Creator Conference. We talk about how marketing strategy, community building, and disciplined execution intersect for creators and founders. Taylor breaks down how she built Rae Enterprise around geofencing and programmatic display advertising, helping businesses target the right customers with precision. During the episode, she walks through a live-style demo explaining how geofencing actually works. Showing how businesses can draw digital perimeters around physical locations and serve ads directly to devices that enter those areas. We discuss the role AI now plays in marketing, how founders should think about automation, and why creativity still matters. We also explore the Success Club App. Her platform designed to connect entrepreneurs and foster accountability-driven growth. As part of Military Creator Conference, Taylor represents creators who are turning marketing skillsets into scalable businesses. We discuss what creators often misunderstand about growth, how to build real community instead of vanity metrics, and why long-term positioning beats short-term hype. If you're a creator, founder, or marketer trying to build something sustainable, this conversation delivers practical insight. What We Talked About • Participating in Military Creator Conference • A practical demo of how geofencing works • Building Rae Enterprise through targeted marketing • AI’s role in modern marketing strategy • Programmatic advertising and customer targeting • Launching and scaling the Success Club App • Community-building vs follower counts • Founder discipline and long-term positioning • Applying strategic thinking from poker to business Connect with Taylor Rae LinkedIn: Instagram (Marketing): Instagram (Success Club App): https://www.instagram.com/our.success.club/ Military Creator Conference Website: Connect with Jason Cavness LinkedIn: Instagram: TikTok: Podcast: /episode/index/show/cavnesshr/id/40171120

Barry Gipson on Military Creator Con, Facebook Monetization, and Building a Veteran Content Brand 02/24/2026

Emily Power on Seaweed Innovation, Regenerative Products, and Building Ocean-Positive Businesses 02/17/2026

Wesley Nicholson on Leadership, Community, and Building Two Maids of Kent 02/10/2026

Hans Bjordahl on Digital Transformation, Culture-Led Design, and Building Technology That Actually Works 02/03/2026

Hans Bjordahl on Digital Transformation, Culture-Led Design, and Building Technology That Actually Works In this episode of The Jason Cavness Experience, Jason sits down with Hans Bjordahl, co-founder and CEO of Culture Foundry, to talk about digital transformation, experience-driven design, and what it really takes to build technology that serves people and organizations effectively. Hans shares his background in building and leading digital teams, how Culture Foundry approaches complex modernization projects, and why culture, process, and people matter just as much as technology. He explains how many digital transformation efforts fail not because of bad tools, but because of misalignment between strategy, execution, and organizational culture. The conversation explores user-centered design, modern content platforms, government and enterprise digital work, and what leaders should prioritize when modernizing legacy systems. Hans also discusses leadership, scaling teams, and how to create digital products that are both functional and human-centered . This episode is especially valuable for founders, operators, and leaders navigating digital transformation in complex or regulated environments. Topics Discussed • Hans’s background and path to founding Culture Foundry • What digital transformation really means in practice • Why culture and alignment matter in technology projects • User-centered and experience-driven design • Modernizing legacy platforms and systems • Common mistakes organizations make during digital transformation • Balancing strategy, design, and engineering • Leadership lessons from scaling digital teams • Building technology that actually gets adopted • Long-term thinking in enterprise and government tech Connect with Hans Bjordahl LinkedIn: Connect with Culture Foundry Website: Instagram: Connect with Jason Cavness LinkedIn: Instagram: TikTok: Podcast: /episode/index/show/cavnesshr/id/39909840

Akalpit Gadre on Technical Leadership, Quantum Computing, and Building in Cloud, AI, and Cybersecurity 01/27/2026

Sabina Nawaz on Executive Presence, Power, and What Changes When You Become the Boss 01/20/2026

Sabina Nawaz on Executive Presence, Power, and What Changes When You Become the Boss In this episode of The Jason Cavness Experience, Jason sits down with Sabina Nawaz, an executive coach and leadership advisor who works with founders, CEOs, and senior leaders navigating power, influence, and responsibility at the highest levels. Sabina shares what she’s learned from years of coaching executives as they step into positions of authority and why leadership often becomes harder, not easier, as power increases. She explains how authority subtly changes behavior, how communication breaks down at the top, and why well-intentioned leaders can unintentionally create silence, fear, or distance on their teams. Jason and Sabina discuss executive presence, emotional regulation, feedback, and how leaders can stay grounded and human while still holding accountability. Sabina also talks about the ideas behind her book, You're the Boss, and what leaders need to understand once they’re officially “in charge.” This episode is especially valuable for founders, CEOs, and operators who are scaling their influence and want to lead with clarity, self-awareness, and trust. Topics Discussed • How power changes leadership behavior • Why communication often breaks down at senior levels • Executive presence and influence • Managing authority without creating fear • Feedback loops and honest conversations • Emotional regulation for leaders • Listening as a core leadership skill • Blind spots that appear as leaders gain power • Staying human while holding accountability • Coaching executives through high-stakes decisions • Lessons from working with CEOs and founders • What changes when you officially become “the boss” Connect with Sabina Nawaz LinkedIn: Website: https://sabinanawaz.com/ Instagram: Book – You’re the Boss: Connect with Jason Cavness LinkedIn: Instagram: TikTok: Podcast: /episode/index/show/cavnesshr/id/39710160

Tait Covert on Building Sentry Computing and Practical IT Leadership 01/13/2026

Shonta Riles on Building Poppin Notary, Community Trust, and Expanding a Local Service Business 01/06/2026

Taylor Black on AI, Startups, Microsoft, and Building a Life Through Foster Care and Adoption 12/30/2025

Taylor Black on AI, Startups, Microsoft, and Building a Life Through Foster Care and Adoption In this episode of The Jason Cavness Experience, Jason sits down with Taylor Black for a wide-ranging conversation that spans AI, startups, big tech, and family life. Taylor shares his experience working at Microsoft, where he’s been close to how AI is being built, adopted, and misunderstood inside large organizations. He talks about how startups and founders should think about AI realistically not as hype, but as a tool that rewards clarity, discipline, and execution. Beyond tech, Taylor opens up about his family’s journey through fostering and adoption, what it’s taught him about responsibility, patience, and long-term thinking, and how building a family reshapes how you approach work and leadership. He reflects on balancing ambition with presence, and why success isn’t just about what you build professionally, but what you commit to personally. This is an honest conversation about building companies, adopting new technology responsibly, and choosing to show up fully at work and at home. Topics Discussed • Taylor’s role at Microsoft and exposure to AI at scale • How large companies actually adopt AI • The gap between AI hype and real-world execution • How startups should think about using AI • Discipline and clarity as advantages in tech and business • Lessons from working inside a major tech company • Fostering and adopting children and what it teaches about leadership • Balancing startup ambition with family responsibility • Long-term thinking in both business and life • Redefining success beyond career milestones Support CavnessHR CavnessHR is building an AI-native HR system for small businesses with 49 or fewer employees automation plus a dedicated HR Business Partner. Invest on Wefunder Download 7 free eBooks Join the Builders Club Connect with Taylor Black LinkedIn: /episode/index/show/cavnesshr/id/39448590

Scott Strong on Sales Discipline, Customer Service and Building a Service-First Business 12/23/2025

Brandie Henry on Communication, Dance, Hip Hop, Leadership and Serving Youth and Families 12/16/2025

Brandie Henry on Communication, Dance, Hip Hop, Leadership and Serving Youth and Families In this episode of The Jason Cavness Experience, Jason sits down with Brandie Henry. A communication coach, consultant, educator and community advocate whose work bridges personal development, professional leadership, youth services and creative expression. Brandie runs S4S Management, where she coaches leaders on communication, clarity and emotional intelligence, while also serving the community through her work with Southwest Youth and Family Services (SWYFS). Brandie shares how her early foundation in dance shaped her understanding of expression, confidence and presence long before she ever studied communication formally. She talks about the connection between rhythm, movement and emotional awareness, and how hip hop’s influence helped her develop a grounded and authentic communication style. Jason and Brandie dig into communication patterns, nervous system regulation, leadership, community programs, family support, and how growing up around hip hop culture gives people an intuitive understanding of timing, energy and storytelling. They even get into her Top 5 rappers list and why those artists shaped her perspective. This is a memorable, wide-ranging conversation that blends leadership, creativity, culture and community impact. Topics Discussed • How dance shaped Brandie’s early communication skills • The influence of hip hop on expression, confidence and storytelling • Brandie’s Top 5 rappers list and why each one matters • How she helps leaders communicate with clarity and emotional awareness • The mission of S4S Management and the people she serves • Trauma-informed communication and why presence matters • Brandie’s work supporting families at Southwest Youth & Family Services • What youth and parents need most from community programs • How nervous system regulation affects communication • Why people fall into autopilot when speaking or listening • Creating safe spaces for difficult conversations • Leadership, awareness, identity and authenticity • Brandie’s advice for anyone who wants to communicate with more intention Support CavnessHR Invest on Wefunder: Download 7 free eBooks: Join the Builders Club: Connect with Brandie Henry LinkedIn: Her Company – S4S Management: Southwest Youth & Family Services: /episode/index/show/cavnesshr/id/39377170

Liz Galloway on Adventure, Branding, Storytelling and Building a Life Without Limits 12/12/2025

Liz Galloway on Adventure, Branding, Storytelling and Building a Life Without Limits In this episode of The Jason Cavness Experience, Jason sits down with Liz Galloway a global brand strategist, PR pro, experiential marketer, storyteller, TEDx curator, wellness advocate, and adventure-driven entrepreneur. Liz’s work spans luxury hospitality, wellness retreats, publishing, consulting, media production and high-impact brand development across Central America, Europe and the U.S. Liz shares how she built a life and career around curiosity, creativity and courage blending strategy with soul to help brands cut through noise and connect with people on a deeper level. She and Jason explore the power of storytelling, experiential branding, adventure as a lifestyle, and why reinvention is essential for personal and professional growth. A vibrant, wide-ranging conversation full of insights for creatives, founders, marketers and anyone designing a meaningful life or meaningful work. Topics Discussed • Liz’s background in branding, PR and experiential marketing • What makes a story compelling in today’s world • Why strong brands need emotional resonance, not just visuals • Adventures that shaped her perspective and leadership style • The rise of experiential marketing and immersive experiences • How she coaches TEDx speakers and curates powerful talks • Building wellness, travel and transformational retreats • Authentic storytelling in the age of social media • Balancing creativity with business execution • How to build a brand people genuinely care about • Liz’s advice for founders reinventing themselves Support CavnessHR CavnessHR is building an AI-native HR system for small businesses with 49 or fewer employees automation plus a dedicated HR Business Partner. Invest on Wefunder: Download 7 free eBooks: Join the Builders Club: Connect with Liz Galloway LinkedIn: Website: Instagram: /episode/index/show/cavnesshr/id/39284340

HR Laws Every Small Business Owner Must Follow: A Practical Breakdown for Companies with 49 or Fewer Employees 12/09/2025

HR Laws Every Small Business Owner Must Follow: A Practical Breakdown for Companies with 49 or Fewer Employees In this solo livestream episode, Jason Cavness walks small business owners through the HR laws you must follow when you have 49 or fewer employees. Jason draws from more than 30 years of HR experience, 25 years as a retired U.S. Army officer, and over a decade working with startups to explain complicated HR rules in a simple, practical way. Jason covers what federal government actually requires, why most HR mistakes come from confusion rather than bad intent, and how ignoring even one rule can lead to fines, audits, lawsuits, and massive headaches for small business owners. Using real examples, stories from his career, and questions from livestream viewers, Jason breaks down what every employer needs to know: overtime rules, payroll tax obligations, discrimination laws, onboarding requirements, union rules, ADA accommodations, pregnancy protections, military employment rights, OSHA issues, misclassification risks, and more. If you’re a founder, small business owner, or early-stage startup leader, this episode gives you a straightforward roadmap for staying compliant and protecting your business before something goes wrong. Topics Discussed • Why HR feels complicated and why it really isn’t • The real reason most small businesses get fined • Drug-Free Workplace Act and who it does and does not apply to • Audio monitoring vs video monitoring rules • Polygraph testing and the extremely rare cases where it’s allowed • Military employment rights and what employers must provide • Workplace safety, chemical safety sheets, and OSHA basics • Employee rights to discuss wages, schedules, and working conditions • Equal Pay Act misunderstandings and why negotiation habits matter • Minimum wage, overtime, exempt vs non-exempt rules • Why you must pay overtime even when you tell someone not to work it • I-9 verification, E-Verify, and immigration compliance • Payroll tax responsibilities • ADA and reasonable accommodation requirements • Pregnancy discrimination and common employer mistakes • Genetic information discrimination and health insurance issues • Title VII Civil Rights Act protections • LGBTQ workplace protections • Age discrimination rules and why age 40 is the legal threshold • COBRA continuation for companies offering health benefits • Worker misclassification and how calling someone a contractor doesn’t make them one • Why unions form and how employers accidentally trigger unionization • What CavnessHR is building to automate HR and prevent these problems Support CavnessHR CavnessHR is building an AI-native HR system for small businesses with 49 or fewer employees automated compliance plus access to a dedicated HR Business Partner. Invest on Wefunder: Download 7 free eBooks based on The Jason Cavness Experience: Join the Builders Club: Connect with Jason Cavness LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncavness Instagram: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jasoncavness Podcast: /episode/index/show/cavnesshr/id/39308300

Marketing, Mindset, and Modern Strategy with Nicholas White 12/05/2025

Marketing, Mindset, and Modern Strategy with Nicholas White In this episode of The Jason Cavness Experience, Jason sits down with Nicholas White. A Seattle-based marketing strategist, startup advisor, entrepreneur, and operator with experience at Amazon, Microsoft, and multiple early-stage ventures. Nick has led digital marketing programs for major B2B/B2C brands, driven pipeline expansion, advised early-stage founders, and built systems that blend creativity, data, and practical execution. His approach to modern marketing is shaped by curiosity, experimentation, and a deep understanding of customer psychology. Jason and Nick dive into how marketing is evolving, what founders consistently get wrong, where AI fits into the modern toolkit, and how to align product, sales, and marketing around real customer needs. A sharp, value-packed episode for founders, marketers, and builders. Topics Discussed: • From Amazon/Microsoft to advising startups • What separates good marketing from great marketing • Curiosity as the foundation of strong strategy • Brand vs. demand why founders confuse the two • Building early-stage marketing teams • Using AI for content, research, and GTM • How to connect marketing execution to revenue • Creative psychology and differentiation • Leadership lessons across corporate + startup worlds • Budgeting, channels, and prioritization • Common hiring mistakes founders make • Nick’s advice for marketing leaders and founders Support CavnessHR Help Build the Future of HR CavnessHR is creating an AI-native HR system for small businesses with 49 or fewer employees automation plus a dedicated HR Business Partner. Invest on Wefunder: Download 7 free eBooks: Join the Builders Club: Connect with Nicholas White: Website: https://nicholasgwhite.net/ LinkedIn: Connect with Jason Cavness: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncavness Instagram: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jasoncavness Podcast: /episode/index/show/cavnesshr/id/39233815

Inside the Founder Grind: HR Laws, Wefunder, Startups, and Building in Public — Jason Cavness Live 12/02/2025

Inside the Founder Grind: HR Laws, Wefunder, Startups, and Building in Public — Jason Cavness Live In this solo episode of The Jason Cavness Experience, Jason goes live to break down everything he’s building across CavnessHR, the Wefunder campaign, HR law education, livestreaming strategy, and the behind-the-scenes founder grind people rarely talk about. Jason talks through his work on the HR Laws Livestream Deck, what small businesses keep getting wrong about HR compliance and why he’s pushing hard to create accessible education for founders who can’t afford expensive consultants. He also gives an update on the CavnessHR Wefunder campaign, the ebooks rollout, the Builders Club, and how he’s approaching daily content, livestreaming, and building in public to grow the platform. This livestream dives into HR automation, startup strategy, social media execution, bourbon rotation, livestream tech setups, Opus Pro clips, and the reality of pushing toward a world-class HR product for small businesses. If you want a real, unfiltered look at the life of a founder building multiple things at once this is it. Topics Discussed • The HR Laws livestream deck and why HR compliance needs to be simplified • How CavnessHR is rebuilding HR for small businesses • The Wefunder campaign update and what investors should know • The 7-ebook strategy and how it supports the Wefunder raise • The CavnessHR Builders Club and early supporter benefits • Daily livestreaming routines and camera setup improvements • Why creators should rotate bourbons on livestreams • How Jason uses Opus Pro for mass short-form video creation • Platform posting strategy: LinkedIn, TikTok, X, Instagram, YouTube • When to upload livestreams as podcast episodes • Why short (<30s) clips currently outperform 60–90s content • Responding to comment engagement and audience growth • How to run your own solo livestreams more effectively • The mindset required to build in public while fundraising Support CavnessHR Be Part of the Future of HR CavnessHR is creating an AI-native HR system for small businesses with 49 or fewer employees automation plus a dedicated HR Business Partner. 💸 Invest in CavnessHR on Wefunder: 📚 Download 7 free eBooks based on The Jason Cavness Experience: 🤝 Join the CavnessHR Builders Club: /episode/index/show/cavnesshr/id/39220210

The Legend Behind 300+ Games: Culturalization, Creativity & Courage with Kate Edwards 11/28/2025

The Legend Behind 300+ Games: Culturalization, Creativity & Courage with Kate Edwards In this episode of The Jason Cavness Experience, Jason sits down with Kate Edwards. An award-winning 30+ year leader in the global game industry, culturalization pioneer, former Executive Director of the IGDA, former head of the Global Game Jam, CEO of Geogrify, and CXO/Co-Founder of SetJetters. Kate has worked on more than 306 games across genres including RTS, FPS, racing, horror, and AAA franchises like Age of Empires, Battlefield, Mad Max, Jade Empire, and Indiana Jones. She is widely known for establishing the discipline of game culturalization, helping studios navigate geography, culture, geopolitics, and global markets. Jason and Kate dive deep into her journey from Microsoft geographer to global industry leader, her work on major titles, running IGDA during Gamergate, giving historic talks at the Royal Geographical Society, and consulting for studios around the world. Kate also opens up about battling imposter syndrome, embracing introversion as a superpower, protecting creative teams, and why the future of games depends on cultural awareness and authentic storytelling. A powerhouse episode for anyone in gaming, tech, leadership, or creative industries. Topics Discussed: • How Kate pioneered the field of game culturalization • Working on 300+ games across global studios • Her path from Microsoft to founding Geogrify • Cultural risks, geopolitical challenges, and narrative world-building • Behind the scenes of Age of Empires, Jade Empire, Battlefield, Indiana Jones, and more • The evolution of gaming from Pong to massive AAA franchises • Indie studios shaking up the industry • Speaking worldwide and navigating stage nerves • Gamergate, harassment, and standing up for underrepresented creators • Diversity, representation, and global game development • Her dream studios and game franchises • Why introversion can be a creative advantage • Imposter syndrome, leadership, and creative courage Connect with Kate Edwards: 🌐 Website: 🔗 LinkedIn: 🐦 X (Twitter): 📸 Instagram: Support CavnessHR Help Build the Future of Small Business HR CavnessHR is building an AI-native HR system for small businesses with 49 or fewer employees automation + a dedicated HR Business Partner 💸 Invest in CavnessHR on Wefunder: 📚 Download 7 Free eBooks from The Jason Cavness Experience: 🤝 Join the CavnessHR Builders Club: /episode/index/show/cavnesshr/id/39189050

curtmaier mixdown 11/25/2025

curtmaier mixdown In this episode of The Jason Cavness Experience, Jason sits down with Curt Maier. A U.S. Military Veteran, nuclear submarine reactor operator, engineer, and now M&A focused business leader who buys, builds, and transforms companies using a systems-driven mindset forged under extreme pressure. Curt shares what it was really like working on nuclear submarine reactors, how the Navy shaped his discipline and problem-solving, and why the engineering habits he learned underwater still guide every business decision he makes today. Jason and Curt dive into the lessons from nuclear operations that apply directly to leadership, M&A strategy, business turnarounds, systems thinking, and running companies in the real world. Curt explains how he evaluates businesses, what founders usually get wrong, and why Veterans often make exceptional operators and acquirers. This episode blends military intensity, engineering precision, and entrepreneurial execution a rare combination and an incredibly valuable one. Topics Discussed: • What it’s actually like to serve aboard nuclear submarines • The mindset required to operate and maintain nuclear reactors • How nuclear engineering habits translate directly into business leadership • The transition from military engineering to entrepreneurship • How Curt evaluates companies for acquisition • What most business buyers overlook during due diligence • Systems thinking: the common link between reactors and businesses • Why Veterans excel at M&A, operations, and turnarounds • Curt’s career path from submariner → engineer → founder → acquirer • The realities of buying and fixing businesses • Lessons from high-stakes decision-making • The future of engineering, leadership, and Veteran entrepreneurship • Curtis’ advice for Veterans considering acquisition entrepreneurship Support CavnessHR Help Build the Future of Small Business HR CavnessHR is creating an AI-native HR system built specifically for small businesses with 49 or fewer employees combining automation with a dedicated HR Business Partner. Here’s how you can support the mission: 💸 Invest in CavnessHR on Wefunder 📚 Download 7 Free eBooks based on The Jason Cavness Experience 🤝 Join the CavnessHR Builders Club Connect with Curt Maier LinkedIn: /episode/index/show/cavnesshr/id/39145280

Financial Healing, Credit, and Closing the Wealth Gap with Tierrá Bonds 11/21/2025

Financial Healing, Credit, and Closing the Wealth Gap with Tierrá Bonds In this episode of The Jason Cavness Experience, Jason sits down with Tierrá Bonds, Founder & CEO of Take Charge Credit Consulting. To dig into the financial realities so many people quietly struggle with credit, debt, generational trauma, and why the racial wealth gap continues to grow in the U.S. Tierrá breaks down her journey from her early struggles with credit to becoming one of the leading trauma-informed financial coaches working with individuals, nonprofits, and government agencies across Washington State. She shares how childhood experiences shape our relationship with money, why credit systems are designed the way they are, and the truth behind predatory lending, payday loans, rent reporting, and how the system keeps people stuck. The conversation dives deep into motherhood, entrepreneurship, financial trauma, the psychology of money, the realities of poverty vs. “American poverty,” building wealth later in life, and how Tierrá helps people repair credit, rebuild confidence, and create generational change. If you’ve ever dealt with financial stress, avoided looking at your credit report, or felt like you were “behind,” this episode will hit home. Topics Discussed: • Motherhood, entrepreneurship, and finding life balance • Travel stories, cultural experiences, and exploring the world • Trauma-informed financial coaching and why money triggers people • Generational wealth gaps and the racial credit gap • Credit myths, credit utilization, and how the system really works • Payday loans and predatory financial structures • Rent vs. homeownership and the importance of education • Why many families avoid talking about money • Business credit vs personal credit and TikTok myths • Working with nonprofits, cities, and the Department of Commerce • Why many entrepreneurs aren’t ready to be business owners • Funding disparities for Black women founders • Mental health, financial shame, and asking for help • Tierrá’s long-term vision: entrepreneurship, investment, and social impact • Advice for anyone trying to finally get their financial life in order Support CavnessHR Help Fix HR for Small Businesses CavnessHR is building an AI-native HR system for small businesses with 49 or fewer employees. Automation + a dedicated HR Business Partner built to save small businesses time, money, and stress. Here’s how you can support the mission: 💸 Invest in CavnessHR on Wefunder Be early. Own equity. Help us rebuild the future of small business HR. 📚 Download 7 Free eBooks based on The Jason Cavness Experience Leadership, startups, AI, growth, and more. 🤝 Join the CavnessHR Builders Club Exclusive updates, early access, community, and product influence. Connect with Tierrá Bonds & Take Charge Text for a free credit game plan: 206-971-1269 (text “Jason”) Email: Website: https://www.takechargecc.com South Seattle Emerald Article: (search her name) B.O.B.E Symposium info: /episode/index/show/cavnesshr/id/39118545

Andrea Jordan — Creativity, Courage, and Building Human-Centered AI 11/18/2025

Andrea Jordan — Creativity, Courage, and Building Human-Centered AI Andrea Jordan — Creativity, Courage, and Building Human-Centered AI Episode Summary: In this episode of The Jason Cavness Experience, Jason sits down with Andrea Jordan, Founder & CEO of Empathium, an AI-powered platform focused on helping people strengthen emotional intelligence, communication, and connection through role-play, self-awareness tools, and human-centered design. Andrea shares her journey as a parent, founder, and creative problem-solver and the unique path that led her from writing and imagination-filled childhood days to becoming a leader in Seattle’s fast-growing AI community. She breaks down how she built her platform in just three days, how community shaped her entrepreneurial path, and why courage is a skill you build, not something you’re born with. The conversation covers her panel at Seattle AI Week, her experience winning pitch competitions, the incubator she joined (C619), and the systemic challenges she sees in healthcare, training, burnout, and tech accessibility. Andrea also gives a live demo of her personalized communication and self-awareness platform and explains how role-play, scenario training, and micro-learning can help people navigate everything from crisis de-escalation to tough family conversations. This episode is packed with insights on AI, empathy, leadership, burnout, resilience, and the power of showing up as your full self especially when you’re the “only one in the room.” Topics Discussed: • How Andrea balances parenting, creativity, and building a startup • Why courage is a skill, not a personality trait • The origins of Empathium and the inspiration behind TEND • Using AI to build empathy, not replace it • The power of micro-learning and real-time scenario practice • What Andrea learned from Seattle AI Week and winning multiple pitch competitions • Navigating burnout vs. moral injury • The importance of community for founders especially women and Black founders • Her experience joining an incubator • How AI tools can transform healthcare, training, and communication • The emotional reality of being a founder and decision-maker • Why emotional connection is at the center of all human work • Advice for anyone who’s the “only one” in a room or industry • Why authenticity beats assimilation in the startup world Support CavnessHR and Help Us Build the Future of Small Business HR CavnessHR is building an AI-native HR system specifically for small businesses with 49 or fewer employees combining automation with a dedicated HR Business Partner to save time, reduce risk, and make HR actually work. If you believe small businesses deserve better, here’s how you can get involved: 💸 Invest on Wefunder Be an early owner as we rebuild our platform with our Vietnam dev team. 📚 Download 7 Free eBooks from The Jason Cavness Experience Leadership, AI, startups, founder stories, and more: 🤝 Join the CavnessHR Builders Club Help shape the product. Be part of the community. Connect with Andrea Jordan & Empathium Website: LinkedIn: Connect with Jason Cavness LinkedIn: Instagram: Podcast Website: /episode/index/show/cavnesshr/id/39056270

Eleanor Knight: From Kayaking the World’s Toughest Rivers to UW Law at 19 11/11/2025

Eleanor Knight: From Kayaking the World’s Toughest Rivers to UW Law at 19 Eleanor Knight: From Kayaking the World’s Toughest Rivers to UW Law at 19 In this episode, Jason Cavness talks with Eleanor Knight, a world-class whitewater kayaker, entrepreneur, and soon-to-be law student at the University of Washington. From running her first summer camp at 11, to building a swim school at 15, to earning a bronze medal on the world stage Eleanor’s story is one of grit, curiosity, and relentless focus. She shares what extreme kayaking taught her about fear, leadership, and discipline and how those same lessons drive her toward a future in business and law. About the Guest Eleanor Knight is a professional kayaker, entrepreneur, and University of Washington student heading to law school. She has represented the U.S. at the World Championships in freestyle kayaking, finishing 3rd globally. A lifelong athlete and founder of Droplet Swim School, Eleanor has balanced sports, academics, and entrepreneurship with an uncommon clarity of purpose. She’s also a writer for The Daily UW and part of Young Tech, a Seattle-based founder network connecting early-stage entrepreneurs. We Talk About • Getting accepted into law school at the University of Washington • Starting Droplet Swim School at 15 and building early business instincts • Lessons learned from competing at the Kayak World Championships • How to balance risk, performance, and passion • The beauty and danger of kayaking the world’s most intense rivers • What entrepreneurship and extreme sports have in common • Mental toughness and staying calm under pressure • The rescue story that changed how she approaches life and leadership • Young Tech and community-building in Seattle’s startup scene • Networking advice for introverts who want real connections • The discipline behind elite athletic performance • Building confidence as a young woman in high-pressure environments • Her transition from athlete to future attorney • Why leadership is about precision, not control • Preparing mentally for law school and future challenges Guest Advice “Being calm under pressure is something kayaking taught me. If you can stay focused when the river turns against you you can handle anything in life. Connect with Eleanor Knight • Instagram → • LinkedIn → Free Resources & Ways to Support CavnessHR • Invest in CavnessHR on Wefunder: • Download 7 Free eBooks: • Join the Builders Club: /episode/index/show/cavnesshr/id/38955800

Building a Legacy & Laughter with Blue — Comedy, Community, and Authentic Leadership 11/06/2025

Building a Legacy & Laughter with Blue — Comedy, Community, and Authentic Leadership In this episode of The Jason Cavness Experience, host Jason Cavness sits down with Daniel Blue a comedian, community leader, and banker whose humor and heart have made an impact well beyond the stage. Blue shares his journey from comedy clubs to community boards, reflecting on how laughter, mentorship, and service have shaped his purpose. Listeners will walk away inspired to lead with authenticity, give back with intention, and never lose their sense of humor along the way. About the Guest: Daniel Blue is a Seattle-based comedian and community advocate whose work bridges entertainment, finance, and service. Beyond the stage, he serves on multiple nonprofit boards including Teen Feed and the YMCA Social Impact Committee, and is active in the Sunrise University Rotary Club. By day, he helps families and small businesses achieve financial stability through his career in banking; by night, he uses comedy to bring people together through storytelling, empathy, and laughter. We Talk About: • How comedy became a tool for connection and healing • Blue’s journey from finance to the stage • The role of community service in shaping his life philosophy • Lessons learned from Teen Feed and Rotary Club leadership • Navigating work-life balance and parenting in a busy world • Finding authenticity and choosing the right people to surround yourself with • How laughter breaks down walls in leadership and mentorship • Stories from the banking world and lessons in financial literacy • The intersection of comedy, sales, and customer service • Mentorship and the value of giving back to your community • The evolving world of comedy and social media influence • What great comedians teach us about resilience and timing • The parallels between stand-up, leadership, and entrepreneurship • Navigating generational wisdom and raising the next generation • The mindset behind consistent personal and professional growth Guest Advice: “Be yourself — because that’s the only way you’ll ever connect with people who truly see you. The minute you fake it, you lose the magic.” Connect with Daniel Blue: • Facebook → • Instagram → • LinkedIn → • Teen Feed → Free Resources & Ways to Support CavnessHR: • Builders Club → • Wefunder → • eBooks → /episode/index/show/cavnesshr/id/38903010

The Path Forward: Transforming Lives and Communities with Andrea Suarez of We Heart Seattle 10/31/2025

The Path Forward: Transforming Lives and Communities with Andrea Suarez of We Heart Seattle The Path Forward: Transforming Lives and Communities with Andrea Suarez of We Heart Seattle Episode Summary: In this episode of The Jason Cavness Experience, host Jason Cavness talks with Andrea Suarez, founder of We Heart Seattle, a volunteer-powered organization leading a grassroots effort to address homelessness through community engagement, cleanup operations, and direct outreach. Andrea shares her journey from a successful corporate career to founding a movement that mobilizes thousands of volunteers, fosters human connection, and takes action where bureaucracy often stalls. She opens up about her firsthand experiences on the streets of Seattle, her perspective on addiction and treatment-first models, and the need for practical, human-centered solutions to homelessness. The conversation also covers Andrea’s political aspirations, her experiences running for office, and her candid take on what she calls the “homeless industrial complex.” Her stories of personal redemption and community transformation highlight the power of individual effort in creating collective change. Topics Discussed: • How Andrea founded We Heart Seattle and what inspired her shift from corporate work to activism • The realities of homelessness, fentanyl addiction, and public safety in Seattle • Why Andrea believes in a “treatment before housing” model • The role of civic engagement and volunteerism in solving systemic problems • How social media and community organizing fuel local change • The challenges of running a nonprofit in a complex public policy environment • Andrea’s experiences in local politics and the lessons learned from campaigning • Success stories of individuals and communities transformed through We Heart Seattle • Why small, consistent acts of kindness can create massive impact Support CavnessHR and Join the Movement: CavnessHR is building an AI-native HR system for small businesses with 49 or fewer employees —automating HR tasks while providing access to a dedicated HR Business Partner. • 💸 Invest on Wefunder: • 📚 Download 7 Free eBooks from The Jason Cavness Experience: • 🤝 Join the CavnessHR Builders Club: Be part of shaping the future of small business HR. Andrea's Links: 🌐 Website: LinkedIn: Instagram: X (Twitter): https://x.com/weheartseattle X (Founder’s Account): Facebook Group: Connect with Jason Cavness: LinkedIn: Instagram: Podcast Website: CavnessHR: https://www.cavnesshr.com /episode/index/show/cavnesshr/id/38857555

Innovative Entrepreneurship and Marketing: Insights with Taylor Rae 10/29/2025

From the Army to AI: Building CavnessHR and Bridging Tech Between the U.S. and Vietnam 10/25/2025

From the Army to AI: Building CavnessHR and Bridging Tech Between the U.S. and Vietnam In this special solo episode, Jason Cavness shares the full story behind his journey — from dropping out of high school to serving 25 years in the U.S. Army, and ultimately becoming a founder building an AI-powered HR platform for small businesses. Jason walks through the lessons that shaped him as a leader, the transition from military life to entrepreneurship, and the creation of CavnessHR — a company built to save time and money for businesses with 49 or fewer employees through automation and a dedicated HR Business Partner. He also explores how his partnerships with TechBank and Earth VC in Vietnam are expanding the company’s impact internationally, and how initiatives like the Builders Club, Wefunder campaign, and The Jason Cavness Experience podcast all work together to amplify the CavnessHR mission. This episode is both a reflection on leadership and a roadmap for founders navigating uncertainty, growth, and purpose. Key Topics Covered • Jason’s journey from high school dropout to Army officer • Leadership lessons from 25 years in the U.S. Army • Transitioning from military service to tech entrepreneurship • The vision behind CavnessHR and empowering small business owners • Strategic partnerships with TechBank and Earth VC in Vietnam • Building community through the CavnessHR Builders Club • Fundraising insights from the ongoing Wefunder campaign • How the podcast became a storytelling engine for CavnessHR • The future of HR automation and AI for SMBs Links & Resources 🚀 Wefunder Campaign → 🎧 The Jason Cavness Experience → 📚 Free eBooks → 👥 Join the Builders Club → About the Host Jason Cavness is a tattooed INFJ, Retired U.S. Army Officer, and founder of CavnessHR, an AI-native HR platform built for small businesses with 49 or fewer employees. Through The Jason Cavness Experience, he spotlights founders, investors, and innovators shaping the future of work and technology — all while building a global bridge between the U.S. and Vietnam startup ecosystems. His motto: Be Great Every Day. /episode/index/show/cavnesshr/id/38750835

Pizza, Robots, and Kindness — How Lee Kindell Turned MOTO Pizza Into a Tech-Fueled Community Movement 10/05/2025

Pizza, Robots, and Kindness — How Lee Kindell Turned MOTO Pizza Into a Tech-Fueled Community Movement About Lee Kindell Lee Kindell, founder of MOTO Pizza, has redefined what it means to build a restaurant brand with heart and innovation. What began as a small post-retirement passion project turned into one of Seattle’s most talked-about food success stories. Known for its Detroit-style pizzas, Filipino-inspired toppings, and a 120-year-old sourdough starter named Betty, MOTO Pizza blends craft, culture, and community in every slice. When the pandemic hit, Lee pivoted fast—scaling MOTO from a neighborhood idea into a growing chain with locations in Belltown, Edmonds, and even T-Mobile Park. But the story doesn’t stop there: Lee is using robotics and AI automation to streamline pizza production while keeping its handmade soul intact. In 2026, he plans to launch pizza drone delivery, pushing the boundaries of what food tech can be—all while keeping kindness and community at the center. What We Talk About • Lee’s journey from hostel owner to pizza visionary • How the pandemic accelerated MOTO Pizza’s rise • Balancing craftsmanship and technology in the food industry • Why kindness and community come before profit • Robotics, automation, and the next frontier in restaurant tech • Sourcing ingredients sustainably & the slow food movement • The realities of scaling without losing your identity • The plan for pizza-by-drone delivery in 2026 • Creativity, culture, and leadership lessons for founders • And yes… pizza in space. 🍕🚀 Connect with Lee Kindell 🌐 Website – 🔗 LinkedIn – 📸 Instagram – 🎵 TikTok – Episode Sponsor — Sentry Computing Keeping your business tech secure and performing at its best can be challenging. With Sentry Computing, the IT partner of choice for businesses of all sizes, you get thoughtful human interaction and innovative professional IT services. • Managed IT • Cybersecurity • AI Consulting • Cloud Consulting • Business Automation 🔗 Learn more → Free Resources & Ways to Support CavnessHR 📚 Get 7 free eBooks with insights from The Jason Cavness Experience → 👥 Join the Builders Club → 💸 Support CavnessHR on Wefunder → /episode/index/show/cavnesshr/id/37931045

Defending the Future — Scott Alldridge on AI, Quantum Threats, and Building a Cybersecurity Culture That Lasts 09/28/2025

Defending the Future — Scott Alldridge on AI, Quantum Threats, and Building a Cybersecurity Culture That Lasts About Scott Alldridge Scott Alldridge is the CEO of IP Services and a Certified Chief Information Security Officer (CCISO) with over 30 years of global experience in IT management and cybersecurity. Starting his tech career at just 19, Scott has built a reputation as a leader who bridges technology, business, and human behavior to create resilient organizations. He is also the President of the IT Process Institute (ITPI) and co-author of the bestselling VisibleOps book series, which has sold more than 400,000 copies worldwide. As the creator of the TotalControl™ framework, Scott has helped enterprises align IT operations with business outcomes — driving measurable security and performance improvements across industries. Harvard-certified in Technology and Privacy, Scott is also recognized as a CISSP, AI MS Certified, ITIL Expert, and international keynote speaker shaping the next generation of cybersecurity practices. What We Talk About • The evolution of IT and cybersecurity over 30 years • How leadership drives modern security strategy • The intersection of AI, quantum computing, and emerging cyber threats • Zero Trust, microsegmentation, and immutable backups • The global impact of the VisibleOps methodology • Common myths about cloud security and cyber insurance • How to evaluate and select the right IT service providers • The FBI’s involvement in modern cybercrime cases • Understanding the Dunning-Kruger effect in cybersecurity • Building a culture of integrity, process, and resilience • The future of security — from people to process to technology Scott’s Offers 🎁 Free Executive Companion Book (normally $17.95) → Text SECURE25 to 541-359-1269 🔐 Complimentary Penetration Test (valued $3K–$7K) → Text SECURE25 to 541-359-1269 (qualification required) Connect with Scott Alldridge 🌐 LinkedIn – 🏢 Company – 📘 Author Website – 📷 Instagram – 📱 Text: 541-359-1269 Episode Sponsor — Sentry Computing Keeping the technology essential to your business safe and performing optimally can be challenging. With Sentry Computing, the IT partner of choice for businesses of all sizes, you get thoughtful human interaction and innovative professional IT services. Boost productivity and eliminate risk with: • Managed IT • Cybersecurity • AI Consulting • Cloud Consulting • Business Automation 🔗 Learn more → Free Resources & Ways to Support CavnessHR 📚 Get 7 Free eBooks from The Jason Cavness Experience → 👥 Join the Builders Club — help shape the future of small business HR → 💸 Support CavnessHR on Wefunder — invest in our AI-powered HR platform → 🎧 Listen on all platforms → /episode/index/show/cavnesshr/id/37848740

The Jason Cavness Experience

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