The Jason Cavness Experience
The Jason Cavness Experience where I talk to entrepreneurs and other interesting people.
info_outline
Steve Vincent 39 Years Of Service And He's Not Done
10/20/2026
Steve Vincent 39 Years Of Service And He's Not Done
Steve Vincent did 25 years in the Navy, retired as an O-6, and has now spent 14 more years at the same company. He's about to turn 62. His wife has a passport that needs stamps. By most measures, it's time to slow down. He's not doing it. Not yet. Steve says he still has something to contribute, he genuinely likes the team he works with, and he gets zero satisfaction out of selling software just to sell software. The work has to actually help people, or it's not worth doing. He's already thinking about what comes after full-time work too, getting involved with Rotary Club and childhood literacy efforts in Gig Harbor. So he's never just stopped with nothing pulling him forward. Steve is Technology Partnerships Manager at TIAG, where he's currently program manager on TIAG's new prime position on the NASA SEWP GWAC a 10-year, $60 billion government-wide contract. We get into why he still hasn't slowed down, the humbling reality of military-to-civilian transition (including corporate hiring managers who wanted a specific position player, not an "executive-level utility infielder") How TIAG uses SBIR funding to get new technology into federal agencies' hands, and the veteran health tech work he's done identifying and treating traumatic brain injury. We also discuss: Why staying "in the game" matters more to him than the retirement math The moment he realized small business, not big corporate, was actually his better fit How SBIR funding turned into a mobile app now in clinical trials for the Navy The 2% Ability One subcontracting mandate every SDVOSB should know about Identifying and treating traumatic brain injury outside combat car accidents, domestic abuse, and more Practical transition advice: certifications, Apex Accelerators, and apprenticeship programs like Apprenti Steve's links LinkedIn: TIAG: Jason links https://linktr.ee/jasoncavness
/episode/index/show/cavnesshr/id/42947663
info_outline
Barbara Kvelstein Investigates Child Traffickers While Running A Med Spa
10/13/2026
Barbara Kvelstein Investigates Child Traffickers While Running A Med Spa
Barbara Kvelstein had one facial in her entire life before she bought a medical aesthetics clinic. No aesthetics background, no nurse practitioner license, no industry experience. Just a business she found on LoopNet and a willingness to learn on the way. Barbara is the founder of Nordic Clinic and creator of Norderm, a Scandinavian-inspired skincare line launching out of the clinic. Before any of that, she spent over a decade as a human rights lawyer and anti-trafficking investigator, and traveled to nearly 90 countries as a professional-level tennis player and model. We get into how she went from zero industry knowledge to running a ten-person healthcare business, what she learned building it alongside her husband, former pro tennis player Hans Podlipnik, and some hard truths from her anti-trafficking work that most parents have never heard. We also discuss: Why she believes the "stranger danger" model of trafficking prevention is mostly wrong The $24,000-a-year health insurance bill that still couldn't get her family timely care What she learned buying a business with zero industry expertise Why she's building Nordic Clinic and Norderm around a Scandinavian approach to preventative health Raising kids as professional athletes without pushing them into sports early Barbara's links: Instagram: TikTok: LinkedIn: Nordic Clinic: Jason links: The Jason Cavness Experience: YouTube: LinkedIn:
/episode/index/show/cavnesshr/id/42872975
info_outline
Dr. Dave Hester on AI Governance, Consciousness, and Why We're Not Ready for What's Coming
10/06/2026
Dr. Dave Hester on AI Governance, Consciousness, and Why We're Not Ready for What's Coming
We're building artificial intelligence the way we built nuclear weapons, without the wisdom to manage it. Neuroscientist and AI ethics advisor Dr. Dave Hester argues that regulation isn't coming from Congress; it's coming from you, your company, and the engineers who know the real risks. If the researchers behind GPT and Claude are asking for a slowdown, we should pay attention. This is not a podcast about AI slop or image filters. This is about the moment right before we decide whether AI serves everyone or just the people who can afford it. It's also about consciousness, multiverse theory, why your brain is constantly connecting memories you didn't know were there, and how to actually change a habit (spoiler: it's not willpower). We also discuss: • What most AI mental health chatbots get dangerously wrong • Why psychedelics are helping combat veterans more than the VA ever did • The neuroscience of why some people have no internal dialogue and how that changes their life • Genetic engineering, CRISPR, and who really gets access • The Seattle tech ecosystem and what makes the Pacific Northwest different • How your kids' brains are literally outpacing education • Whether a second version of you exists in another multiverse Guest: Dr. Dave Hester (LinkedIn: go4dave, bio.site/musingyu) Host: Jason Cavness (The Jason Cavness Experience, linkedin.com/in/jasoncavness) Subscribe to The Jason Cavness Experience for new episodes every Tuesday.
/episode/index/show/cavnesshr/id/42549745
info_outline
How a Gold Star Military Spouse Built a 3D Printing Company Around Real Math
09/29/2026
How a Gold Star Military Spouse Built a 3D Printing Company Around Real Math
Paula Thomas left Amazon after 14 years as a software engineer. She's now running Viter Manufacturing—a 3D printing company focused on custom retail displays. But she's not a typical startup founder. She's a Gold Star military spouse, which means her husband died in service. Her approach to building a company around grief, resilience, and curiosity is the opposite of the hype-and-speed culture that dominates tech. In this conversation, we talk about why most 3D printing startups fail (the hidden costs nobody tracks), how to know when to push through and when to walk away, the power of learning out loud and getting called out publicly, and why innovation actually requires the customer sitting at the table with you from day one. We also discuss: • Why resilience is a skill you build early, not something you develop in crisis • The brutal math behind 3D printing pricing and why so many entrepreneurs get it wrong • Gold Star families, TAPS and the resources most military families don't know exist • From software engineering to 3D printing: what skills transfer, what doesn't • Beta programs that flip the script on R&D costs • How military spouses are the most underemployed demographic in America • Why listening is harder than talking,and why it matters more Paula links: Weiter Manufacturing weiter-mfg.com Paula Thomas on LinkedIn — linkedin.com/in/paula-thomas Jason links: The Jason Cavness Experience thejasoncavnessexperience.com Jason on LinkedIn — linkedin.com/in/jasoncavness Cavness LLC — cavness.io
/episode/index/show/cavnesshr/id/42507035
info_outline
20 And Building A Brand — Chancy Williams
09/22/2026
20 And Building A Brand — Chancy Williams
Chancy Williams didn't know the difference between GSM and cotton blend six months ago. Now he's running his own streetwear brand, Majority, funded entirely out of a 9-to-5 job and a college class schedule. Chancy is 20, a double major in international business and marketing, and the son of one of my old Army buddies. We get into why he started a clothing brand before he had a real job, what happened when his first bulk order came back ruined, and why he thinks his generation needs to stop waiting for permission to start something. We also discuss: Why he chose sweatpants and hoodies as his first drop instead of T-shirts Getting burned by an overseas manufacturer and what he'd do differently Funding a business entirely himself while working retail in Florida The lesson that changed how he thinks about marketing before inventory exists What "Majority" as a brand name actually means to him Chancy's links Personal: Majority (Instagram): Majority (TikTok) ? (TikTok): Jason's links
/episode/index/show/cavnesshr/id/42386425
info_outline
How He's Taking On a $2 Billion Software Giant — Keith McCall
09/15/2026
How He's Taking On a $2 Billion Software Giant — Keith McCall
Keith McCall is building a company that watches the Earth from above. Omniris pulls imagery from drones, satellites, and IoT sensors, overlays it on a map, and adds the one thing that makes data powerful time. Capture the same field or cell tower ten times across a year and you get a living database, a digital twin more useful than anything sitting in a spreadsheet. His network of 4,000 independent drone pilots has flown Walmart's headquarters, Amazon distribution centers, 11,000 Verizon cell towers, and solar farms around the world. Keith is the CEO of Omniris, along with the ag-tech company Pollen Systems and the wine venture Everyvine. He and Jason get into why he ripped out a $2 billion incumbent and bet on open source, how he handles data sovereignty across Azure, AWS, and on-premise servers from Saudi Arabia to Chile, and why he thinks the billions being poured into AI valuations could evaporate faster than anyone expects. We also discuss: Why he went open source to scale past a $2 billion competitor The AI valuation bubble and how Chinese model distillation could wipe it out Smart cities. Why Seattle's cameras, drones, and traffic lights aren't on one geospatial layer The coming food crisis and the aging-farmer knowledge problem behind his ag-tech work Hiring for communication, collaboration, and compassion over pedigree Ranking family offices first and venture capital last when raising money Keith's links: LinkedIn: Omniris: Pollen Systems: Everyvine: Eastside Entrepreneurs: Jason links: LinkedIn: Follow the show so you don't miss an episode.
/episode/index/show/cavnesshr/id/42318700
info_outline
Why Local Government Stops Improving — Brien Kennedy
09/08/2026
Why Local Government Stops Improving — Brien Kennedy
Most elected officials face voters. Many local officials never face an opponent. Brien Kennedy left a career scaling e-commerce businesses at Amazon, Microsoft, Nuun Hydration, and SmartyPants Vitamins to work inside the Kitsap County Superior Court. What he saw was a system that people depend on during some of the hardest moments of their lives. But often cannot understand or navigate. Now he is running in only the third contested race for Kitsap County Clerk in 28 years. We also discuss: • Why uncontested elections create complacency • What a county clerk actually controls • Why 20 to 30 people each week enter divorce court without a lawyer • How confusing court processes punish people who cannot afford representation • Using dashboards, audits, and data to make government accountable • What Amazon taught Brien about writing, preparation, and measurable results • How he helped scale SmartyPants Vitamins and Nuun Hydration toward acquisition • Why local elections can affect your daily life more than national politics Brien's links Website: Instagram: Facebook: Local leadership matters more than most people realize. Follow The Jason Cavness Experience for more conversations with founders, operators, veterans, and community leaders working to create real change. Find every episode and connect with Jason here:
/episode/index/show/cavnesshr/id/42286315
info_outline
Culture Is a Business Advantage Suleiny Altamirano
09/01/2026
Culture Is a Business Advantage Suleiny Altamirano
Preserving culture requires more than celebrating it. The traditions also need customers, economic opportunity, and a path to the next generation. Suleiny Altamirano, founder and CEO of Tizana Mexicana, shares how moving from Guerrero, Mexico, to Seattle inspired her to build a bridge between Mexican artisans and new markets. She explains why trust matters more than technology, how immigrant founders can build a new support system, and why social impact companies still need a sustainable business model. We also discuss: • Why immigrant founders need to create a new family of mentors, supporters, and collaborators • How Tizana Mexicana works with approximately 175 artisans • Why artisan products cannot compete on price alone • How cultural traditions disappear when creators cannot earn a living • Building trust across language, banking, technology, and communication barriers • Why founders should talk about their ideas before they feel ready • Balancing social impact with profitability • Expanding beyond Washington and bringing more artisans to Seattle • The role of community in entrepreneurship and leadership Suleiny' links" LinkedIn: Website: Instagram: @tizanamexicana Jason’s CTA: Subscribe to The Jason Cavness Experience on YouTube for more conversations with founders, operators, and builders turning personal experience into meaningful companies. Jason’s links:
/episode/index/show/cavnesshr/id/42244920
info_outline
Why Most Influencer Marketing Fails with Alex Shebar
08/25/2026
Why Most Influencer Marketing Fails with Alex Shebar
Most brands do not have an influencer problem. They have a strategy problem. Alex Shebar, founder of NYC Social Club, explains why generic campaigns, rigid scripts, and oversized creator lists fail to generate meaningful results. He breaks down how brands can find creators who match their audience, test content without wasting their budget, and build smaller communities that actually care. We also discuss: • Why 10 engaged followers can be more valuable than 1,000 passive ones • How community managers keep online communities alive • Why brands should stop trying to reach everyone • The problem with publishing 100 mediocre posts a day • How to identify and amplify content that is already working • Why niche creators are becoming more valuable • How Alex built NYC Social Club and began working with major brands • What hackathons teach builders about deadlines and creativity • Why consistency matters more than one viral moment Alex's links: NYC Social Club: LinkedIn: TikTok: Instagram: Jason links:
/episode/index/show/cavnesshr/id/42215315
info_outline
Why Encryption Fails Under Pressure with Josh Thomas
08/18/2026
Why Encryption Fails Under Pressure with Josh Thomas
The strongest encryption in the world cannot protect you when someone can force you to unlock your phone. Josh Thomas, founder of Deniable, explains why conventional mobile security ignores coercion and how plausible deniability changes the equation. He also shares a hard-earned rule for builders: decide what would make you kill a project before your identity, money, and emotions become attached to it. We also discuss: • Why institutions often capture problems instead of solving them • How incentives shape behavior inside nonprofits and the United Nations • Why every startup should establish a kill metric • Building technology for high-risk environments • What Josh learned traveling through North Korea and Central Asia • Raising globally curious children • Why people across borders have more in common than we assume Josh's links: LinkedIn: Deniable: Karakoram: Jason links:
/episode/index/show/cavnesshr/id/42201055
info_outline
From Army Veteran to AI Sales Leader with Ben King
08/11/2026
From Army Veteran to AI Sales Leader with Ben King
Ben King spent six years in the Army before starting over in the startup world as a Sales Development Representative. He brought discipline, leadership, and resilience, but still had to learn a new industry, prove himself in a new environment, and build his civilian career one sales conversation at a time. Now at Loop8, Ben is helping companies move beyond AI hype and use automation and cloud technology to solve real business problems. This conversation explores what veterans bring to tech, what startup sales actually demands, and why successful AI adoption should begin with the mission not the tool. We also discuss: • Starting over as an SDR after leaving the Army • Translating military experience into civilian value • Why veterans are built for high-pressure sales environments • The habits that create long-term sales success • Building go-to-market systems inside a growing company • Selling AI without exaggerating what it can do • How Loop8 approaches AI, automation, and cloud infrastructure • Why business outcomes matter more than flashy technology Sponsor This episode is sponsored by 2BAR Spirits, a Northwest grain-to-glass distillery with an all-female production team. The first Seattle distillery to produce bourbon, 2BAR Spirits creates approachable whiskey designed to bring people together. 2BAR Spirits also sponsored The Jason Cavness Experience Deep Tech Demo Day. Ben's links Ben King on LinkedIn: Email Ben: [email protected] Loop8: Cloudy with a Chance of Awesome podcast: Jason links
/episode/index/show/cavnesshr/id/42139755
info_outline
Quantum Does Not Need to Solve Everything Lori Salow Marshall
08/04/2026
Quantum Does Not Need to Solve Everything Lori Salow Marshall
Quantum will not transform every workload and that is exactly why deep-tech founders need to stop selling it as a universal solution. Lori Salow Marshall explains where quantum computing can create real commercial value. Why it must be integrated with classical systems, and how science led companies can translate technical breakthroughs into focused market opportunities. She also breaks down why deep-tech founders should lead with the urgent problem they can solve today not every possible application their technology may support in the future. We also discuss: • Why quantum is fundamentally different from AI and cloud • The problems that create an exponential scaling wall • Where quantum may create value in pharmaceuticals, materials and financial services • Why quantum computing will be use-case driven • The role of classical and quantum hybrid architectures • Why deep-tech founders try to tell too much of the story • How to commercialize science without oversimplifying it • Why category creation matters for emerging technologies • How ecosystems influence product, funding and acquisition strategy • What Lori learned from taking her own technology company to market • Why technical possibility does not guarantee customer demand Lori's Links: LinkedIn: The Quantum Links Group: Ecosystem Entanglement Substack: Email: Jason links:
/episode/index/show/cavnesshr/id/42134840
info_outline
Military Creator Con Is Building a New Veteran Lane
07/28/2026
Military Creator Con Is Building a New Veteran Lane
Military Creator Con exists because the military community is bigger than resumes, contractor jobs, and transition checklists. James Van Prooyen, Air Force retiree and co-founder of Military Creator Con, talks about building a home for military-connected creators, podcasters, entrepreneurs, artists, writers, performers, and builders. We get into why Veterans need more creative paths, how community turns ideas into momentum. Why the next chapter after service does not have to look like the last one. We also discuss: • Why Military Creator Con needed to exist • What military transition still gets wrong • Why veterans and military spouses need creator-focused spaces • How podcasting opened doors for James • Why relational networking beats transactional networking • What made Military Creator Con work as a standalone event • The role of sponsors, volunteers, and community • How running shaped James’ mindset • Why military people are already creators, even if they do not call themselves that James' links Email: LinkedIn: Website: Phone: 719-322-8269 Jason links
/episode/index/show/cavnesshr/id/42106220
info_outline
Turning Any Car Into a Plug-In Hybrid: Tom Gurski Blue Dot Motorworks
07/21/2026
Turning Any Car Into a Plug-In Hybrid: Tom Gurski Blue Dot Motorworks
On this episode of The Jason Cavness Experience, Jason sits down with Tom Gurski, founder and CEO of Blue Dot Motorworks, an MIT-trained mechanical engineer who spent his career at the front end of product development. From Stirling engine generators at DEKA Research (Dean Kamen's company) to his own consultancy, Carbide Enterprises, to global sanitation projects in some of the world's poorest communities. Tom is now building a bolt-on electric propulsion system that converts any light-duty gas vehicle into a plug-in hybrid cutting fuel use by up to 80% without giving up the gas engine, in about a one-day installation. Jason and Tom get into how the technology actually works, why it's "vehicle agnostic," the business model and pricing, and why Tom believes retrofitting the existing 1.5 billion gas cars on the road is a "need to have," not a "nice to have," solution for hitting climate targets. The conversation also covers: Why Seattle is a tough environment for hardware startups compared to the Bay Area Tom's Wefunder campaign and lessons on raising a "family and friends" round the right way The upcoming Founder Summit (July 15, Seattle Climate Innovation Hub) and PNW Climate Week Nuclear energy, wind turbines, and the "birds vs. wind turbines" myth A carbon tax and dividend policy idea Tom would implement as "climate czar" Washington's EV mileage tax and the ferry-contract controversy The emotional rollercoaster of founder life, burnout, and staying mission-aligned Tom's advice for aspiring engineers in the age of AI Tom'sLinks: Blue Dot Motorworks: Invest via Wefunder: Tom Gurski on LinkedIn: Jason Cavness links:
/episode/index/show/cavnesshr/id/42040525
info_outline
Why Podcasting Creates Opportunities You Can’t Plan For with Jason Cavness
07/14/2026
Why Podcasting Creates Opportunities You Can’t Plan For with Jason Cavness
Jason Cavness didn’t leave the Army to become “Major Cavness” in a different uniform. He wanted a clean break. That decision pulled him into startups, podcasting, tech events, Vietnam business relationships, and a career built around one simple habit: say yes when the opportunity is aligned, then figure it out. Mark Shriner talks with Jason about the transition from military life to entrepreneurship, why podcasting is more than content, how in-person relationships beat cold outreach, and what it really takes to keep building when you’re introverted, scattered, nervous, and still moving forward. We also discuss: • Leaving the Army without chasing another military-adjacent job • How LinkedIn opened Jason’s door into startups • Why podcasts rarely monetize the way people expect • Using a podcast to build relationships, credibility, and opportunity • What Vietnam taught Jason about assumptions, hospitality, and business • Why warm intros and in-person events still matter • Public speaking as a trust shortcut • Being an introvert who still hosts events, podcasts, and rooms • Seattle’s tech ecosystem and the value of being where builders gather Jason Cavness: https://linktr.ee/
/episode/index/show/cavnesshr/id/42040190
info_outline
Why Clarity Beats Better Tech with Crystal Clarity
07/07/2026
Why Clarity Beats Better Tech with Crystal Clarity
A better product does not always win. The clearer story often does. Crystal Clarity, Chief Operating Officer at s2s Public Relations, joins The Jason Cavness Experience to talk about why founders struggle to explain what they actually do. Why deep tech companies need to stop leading with features and how AI is flooding the internet with content that feels productive but often makes real connection harder. We also discuss: • Why founders often solve before they understand the problem • How to make complex science and deep tech understandable • Why people care less about features and more about feeling understood • The future of PR, marketing, and AI-generated content • Why human experience still matters in a world of synthetic media • Media trust, misinformation, and the collapse of shared reality • Crystal’s career path from broadcast journalism to Pacific Science Center to s2s PR • Empty nesting, parenting, music, and the next stage of life Crystal's links Company: LinkedIn: Jason links https://linktr.ee/jasoncavness
/episode/index/show/cavnesshr/id/41850870
info_outline
Why Bad Leadership Works — Daniella Young
06/30/2026
Why Bad Leadership Works — Daniella Young
Daniella Young has built a brand by saying the thing most people avoid: bad leaders, bad groups, cult dynamics, and toxic loyalty are not fringe problems. They show up in politics, companies, the military, families, social media, and anywhere people stop questioning the room they are in. Jason and Daniella talk about turning trauma into work, why “followers” should not become worshippers, how she built a creator-led book business, why she focuses on bad leadership instead of good leadership, and what most people misunderstand about cults, scams, fame, politics, parenting, and platform building. We also discuss: • Talking to Khloe Kardashian and handling criticism for using big platforms • Why confidence can make people more vulnerable to scams and cults • The economics of traditional publishing vs self-publishing • Building a personal brand around your actual story • Why “front of the room advantage” changes how people see you • Veterans, identity, and the danger zone after leaving the military • Social media trolls, monetization, and standing out on purpose • Parenting after trauma • Politics, corruption, term limits, and leadership failure • Why there are no rules for creators right now Daniella's links Instagram: TikTok: YouTube: Website: Jason links https://linktr.ee/cavnesshr
/episode/index/show/cavnesshr/id/41795195
info_outline
Why AI Sales Should Make Selling More Human with Swetha Puvvada
06/23/2026
Why AI Sales Should Make Selling More Human with Swetha Puvvada
AI sales is often framed as replacement. Swetha Puvvada sees it differently: the real opportunity is using AI to remove the busy work so sellers can get back to listening, understanding pain, and having better conversations. Swetha is Head of Product & Growth at Teameight, an AI SaaS company building an augmentation platform for sales teams. We talk about product, GTM, customer feedback, career growth, mountaineering, and how she went from early-career intern to owning product and go-to-market inside a startup. We also discuss: • Why AI should augment sales instead of replacing sellers • How Teameight helps ramp new sellers faster • Why negative customer feedback is useful when it is specific • What makes someone a good salesperson • How Swetha moved from internship to Head of Product and GTM • Why younger talent needs broader product and systems thinking • How mountaineering teaches trust, risk, and preparation • Being one of the few women in tech and mountaineering • Why taking opportunities matters more than waiting for permission Swetha links LinkedIn: Teameight: Jason links https://linktr.ee/admin
/episode/index/show/cavnesshr/id/41697220
info_outline
The Roti Robot Problem with Komal Kashiramka
06/16/2026
The Roti Robot Problem with Komal Kashiramka
Fresh roti is simple to eat and hard to automate. Komal Kashiramka is building Poshan, a robotics company developing next-generation kitchen appliances, starting with an automatic roti maker designed to create soft roti that lasts for hours. Komal shares how she moved from Microsoft and Meta into entrepreneurship. Why hardware requires a different level of patience than software and what founders can learn from customer discovery, AI, parenting, and building something people will trust in their kitchens. We also discuss: • Why soft roti is the real product challenge • Building a hardware company in the R&D phase • What AI changes for junior engineers • Why fundamentals still matter in software • Leaving corporate life without having everything figured out • Startup 425 and Seattle Public Library business resources • Raising kids while building a company • RotiTales and making roti easier to understand Komal links Poshan Website: Poshan LinkedIn: RotiTales Website: RotiTales Instagram: RotiTales LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/rotitales/ RotiTales Facebook: RotiTales YouTube: Jason links Jason’s Linktree: Jason’s LinkedIn: YouTube Channel:
/episode/index/show/cavnesshr/id/41410020
info_outline
How Grief Becomes Art with Eden Marryshow
06/09/2026
How Grief Becomes Art with Eden Marryshow
Most people run from grief. Eden Marryshow turned it into a film. In this conversation, Eden breaks down the emotional process behind filmmaking, storytelling, creativity, and why the best art usually comes from the most personal places. We talk about losing family, directing actors, independent filmmaking, community, and the long path creators take back to who they were before the world told them to stop creating. This episode is also a masterclass on storytelling itself from Star Wars and Scorsese to creative discipline, ego, collaboration, and why limitations often produce better art than unlimited budgets. We also discuss: • Why most people know who they are by age six • The connection between grief and creativity • Directing actors without ego • Why independent creators have to learn everything • The psychology behind great storytelling • Rocky, Star Wars, Goodfellas, and favorite films • Why “story is king” in filmmaking • How schools often suppress creativity • Building community through storytelling • NFL talk, Giants football, and leadership Guest links Instagram: @edenmarryshow Email: Jason Linktree
/episode/index/show/cavnesshr/id/41328515
info_outline
Most Entrepreneurs Should Quit — Nathan Kaiser
06/02/2026
Most Entrepreneurs Should Quit — Nathan Kaiser
Entrepreneurship isn’t freedom it’s volatility, pressure, and constant uncertainty. Nathan Kaiser built 2bar Spirits by embracing that reality, not ignoring it. He breaks down why most people shouldn’t start companies, what actually keeps a business alive, and how constraints, not capital, create better outcomes. This is a raw look at building something real in a crowded, unforgiving industry. We also discuss: • Why starting a company is usually the wrong financial move • How constraint beats capital in building a business • The myth of overnight success (and the Tito’s example) • Why focus wins over product expansion • The real role of rejection in sales and growth • How long-term thinking applies to both whiskey and life Nathan Kaiser LinkedIn: 2bar Spirits: Email: Jason links LinkedIn: Instagram: TikTok: Podcast: Website:
/episode/index/show/cavnesshr/id/40680940
info_outline
Why Most Founders Mismanage Money — Morgan Rogers
05/26/2026
Why Most Founders Mismanage Money — Morgan Rogers
Most founders don’t fail because of bad ideas. They fail because they run out of moneyand don’t know why. In this episode of The Jason Cavness Experience, I sit down with Morgan Rogers from NOW CFO to break down what actually happens inside companies when the financial side isn’t dialed in. Morgan works with founders, operators, and investors every day cleaning up messy books, preparing companies for fundraising, and helping them avoid decisions that quietly destroy businesses. She’s helped scale a Seattle office by over 500% and has seen the same pattern over and over again. But the real story is this: Most founders don’t understand their numbersand it costs them everything. We get into the uncomfortable truth: cash flow problems, bad assumptions, and delayed decisions kill more companies than competition ever will. This is a video podcast available on YouTube and podcast platforms. What We Talked About • Why cash in your bank account doesn’t mean you’re profitable • The difference between a bookkeeper, controller, and CFO • When startups should actually bring in financial help • The hidden cost of messy books • Why most founders wait too long to fix financial problems • How to prepare for fundraising the right way • Why networking (done right) drives real revenue • Scaling a business development engine • When to shut down vs keep pushing forward Connect with Morgan Rogers LinkedIn: Email: Website: Connect with Jason Cavness LinkedIn: Instagram: TikTok: Podcast: Military Creator Con I’ll be speaking at Military Creator Con on leveraging content to create opportunities. Sign up here: Power Note Profit is opinion. Cash flow is reality.
/episode/index/show/cavnesshr/id/40637395
info_outline
How Founders Actually Build Momentum with Nick Hughes
05/19/2026
How Founders Actually Build Momentum with Nick Hughes
From a failed startup to launching Founders Live across 155 cities and 58 countries, Nick explains what founders really need early on: community, storytelling, validation, and consistent action. He also breaks down why most people wait too long to start, how 99-second pitches force clarity, and what he’s learned traveling through startup ecosystems around the world. Nick also shares how Founders Live evolved from a simple Seattle pitch event into a global founder marketplace connecting startups with legal, development, hiring, and growth resources. We also discuss: • Why founders overthink getting started • How storytelling creates startup momentum • Building startup ecosystems outside Silicon Valley • Why the crowd votes at Founders Live • Lessons from running communities across 58 countries • What startup culture looks like in Africa and Southeast Asia • The future of Founders Live’s marketplace model • Running a global remote-first company • Nick’s upcoming 90-day Africa tour • Why entrepreneurship is a universal human drive Nick Hughes LinkedIn Nick Hughes Instagram Founders Live Jason Links Also check out The Jason Cavness Experience Deep Tech Demo Day during Seattle Deep Tech Week. A showcase bringing together founders, investors, operators, and emerging deep tech startups across the Seattle ecosystem. https://www.deep-tech-week.com/seattle-2026/events/the-jason-cavness-experience-deep-tech-demo-day-part-of-seattle-deep-tech-week
/episode/index/show/cavnesshr/id/41234215
info_outline
Why Most Teams Are Broken — Mimi Nguyen
05/12/2026
Why Most Teams Are Broken — Mimi Nguyen
Most teams don’t fail because of strategy. They fail because people can’t align. In this episode of The Jason Cavness Experience, I sit down with Mimi Nguyen to break down why teams struggle to work together and what actually fixes it. Mimi has lived across Vietnam, the United States, and Malaysia, and brings a rare perspective on culture, communication, and decision-making. She’s led initiatives that drove a $7M+ uplift and achieved 90% product adoption. But the real story is how she got teams to stop working against each other. We get into the uncomfortable truth: misaligned incentives, poor communication, and lack of trust kill more progress than bad ideas ever will. This is a video podcast available on YouTube and podcast platforms. What We Talked About • Why most teams are misaligned from the start • The real reason projects fail inside companies • How Mimi aligned marketing, sales, and operations • The $7M+ uplift project breakdown • Driving 90% adoption through behavior change • Why trust is harder than data • Data vs intuition in decision-making • The limits of AI in data science • Cultural intelligence as a competitive advantage • Living and working across Vietnam, Malaysia, and the U.S. • Fear of putting yourself out there and staying private Connect with Mimi Nguyen LinkedIn: Connect with Jason Cavness LinkedIn: Instagram: TikTok: Podcast: Military Creator Con I’ll be speaking at Military Creator Con on leveraging content to create opportunities. Sign up here: Power Note Alignment beats intelligence. Every time.
/episode/index/show/cavnesshr/id/40598710
info_outline
Why Small Businesses Struggle — Hugo Nicolas
05/05/2026
Why Small Businesses Struggle — Hugo Nicolas
Most small businesses don’t fail because of bad ideas. They fail because they don’t understand the system. In this episode of The Jason Cavness Experience, I sit down with Hugo Nicolas from Washington State’s Office for Regulatory Innovation and Assistance (ORIA) to break down what actually stops businesses from growing. Hugo went from a small village in Mexico to helping thousands of business owners navigate permits, licenses, and government processes. He’s seen firsthand where people get stuck and it’s not where most think. We get into the real problems: confusing regulations, lack of awareness, and why too many founders ignore the “unsexy” parts of business until it’s too late. If you’re building a business or thinking about itT his episode will save you time, money, and frustration. This is a video podcast available on YouTube and podcast platforms. What We Talked About • Why most small businesses fail (and it’s not the idea) • The hidden cost of ignoring permits and regulations • Hugo’s journey from undocumented immigrant to state leader • The biggest mistakes new business owners make • Why business structure matters more than you think • How to navigate government without wasting time • Free resources most entrepreneurs never use • The power of resilience and adapting fast Connect with Hugo Nicolas LinkedIn: Website: Connect with Jason Cavness LinkedIn: Instagram: TikTok: Podcast: Military Creator Con I’ll be speaking at Military Creator Con on how to leverage content to create opportunities. Sign up: Power Note The difference between struggling and scaling is not effort. it’s knowing how to navigate the system.
/episode/index/show/cavnesshr/id/40579465
info_outline
Tattoo Culture, Craft, and Business with Tim McCarthy
04/28/2026
Tattoo Culture, Craft, and Business with Tim McCarthy
In this episode of The Jason Cavness Experience, I sit down with Tim McCarthy, owner of Tsunami Tattoo in Tacoma and a veteran tattoo artist with more than three decades of experience in the industry. Tim shares his journey from starting tattooing in 1989 to apprenticing in Denver, working in San Jose and Albuquerque, and eventually building Tsunami Tattoo into one of Tacoma’s most respected tattoo shops. We talk about how tattoo culture has evolved over the years, the discipline required to become a great tattoo artist, and what it takes to run a successful tattoo business. We also discuss the importance of apprenticeship, how artists develop their style, and why trust between artist and client is critical when creating permanent artwork. Tim explains how the industry has changed with social media and how shops like Tsunami Tattoo continue to build strong reputations through craftsmanship and consistency. This episode is a video podcast available on YouTube and podcast platforms. What We Talked About • Tim McCarthy’s start in tattooing in 1989 • Apprenticing in Denver and early tattoo career • Working in San Jose and Albuquerque tattoo shops • Opening and growing Tsunami Tattoo in Tacoma • How tattoo culture has evolved over the decades • The apprenticeship path for tattoo artists • Building trust between artist and client • The impact of social media on tattoo artists and shops • Running a long-term creative business Connect with Tsunami Tattoo Website: Instagram: TikTok: Connect with Tim McCarthy Instagram: Connect with Jason Cavness LinkedIn: Instagram: TikTok: Podcast: Power Note Great tattoo artists combine creativity, discipline, and trust. Tim McCarthy’s decades of work show how craftsmanship and reputation build lasting businesses in creative industries.
/episode/index/show/cavnesshr/id/40504620
info_outline
Local Politics, Schools, and Public Safety — Ryan Logan
04/21/2026
Local Politics, Schools, and Public Safety — Ryan Logan
In this episode of The Jason Cavness Experience, I talk with Ryan Logan, a teacher and political candidate running for Washington State House. Ryan shares his perspective on education, community safety, and the policy challenges facing South King County. Ryan discusses what motivated him to step into politics, how his work in the Auburn School District shaped his views, and why he believes more community members should participate in civic leadership. We also explore the realities teachers face in classrooms today, the intersection of public policy and education, and the broader issues affecting communities across Washington State. This conversation covers local governance, political accountability, and what it takes to step forward as a candidate when you believe your community needs change. This episode is a video podcast available on YouTube and podcast platforms. Topics Discussed • Ryan Logan’s background growing up in Renton and Kent • His work in the Auburn School District • Why he decided to run for Washington State House • Challenges facing public education today • The impact of drug addiction and public safety issues in local communities • Civic engagement and community involvement • Policy priorities for South King County • What voters should understand about local government Connect with Ryan Logan Website: Email: Phone: (253) 249-6408 Connect with Jason Cavness LinkedIn: Instagram: TikTok: Podcast: Power Note Change in communities often begins with individuals who decide to step forward. Conversations like this highlight how civic engagement, leadership, and local action shape the future of neighborhoods and cities.
/episode/index/show/cavnesshr/id/40421630
info_outline
Josh Kotoff on YouTube Strategy, Creator Optimization, and Building a High-Performance Content Engine
04/14/2026
Josh Kotoff on YouTube Strategy, Creator Optimization, and Building a High-Performance Content Engine
In this episode of The Jason Cavness Experience, I sit down with Josh Kotoff to break down YouTube strategy, creator growth, and what most founders get wrong about content optimization. Josh conducted a deep dive into my YouTube channel and turned that audit into a tactical discussion on positioning, thumbnails, titles, structure, and audience clarity. This conversation is a masterclass on treating content like a long-term leverage asset instead of a vanity metric. If you're serious about building a content engine that compounds, this episode delivers practical insight. What We Cover • Conducting a YouTube channel audit • Why most YouTube channels stall • Title and thumbnail strategy for higher click-through rates • Viewer psychology and retention strategy • Audience clarity and channel positioning • Structuring long-form content for performance • Turning podcasts into strategic assets • Data vs instinct in creator growth • Building consistency without burnout • Treating content like a business system Josh focuses on the fundamentals packaging, positioning, and performance metrics that compound over time rather than chasing trends. Military Creator Con I’m a featured speaker at Military Creator Con. A conference for veterans, creators, and entrepreneurs building brands and businesses intentionally. If you're monetizing attention or building a content brand, this is the room to be in. Sign up here: Connect with Josh Josh's LinkedIn: Josh's Instagram: Company Website: https://www.bluestreamyoutubeagency.com/ Connect with Jason Cavness LinkedIn: Instagram: TikTok: Podcast:
/episode/index/show/cavnesshr/id/40267485
info_outline
Military Creator Con Speaker: Most Veterans Are Doing It Wrong
04/07/2026
Military Creator Con Speaker: Most Veterans Are Doing It Wrong
Military Creator Con is where Veteran builders, creators, and operators level up and this conversation shows why that matters. Travis Partington breaks down the uncomfortable truth: most veterans stay stuck because they never adapt after service. From rebuilding after a career-ending injury to building Oscar Mike Radio into a mission-driven platform, this is about ownership, discipline, and doing the work long after the uniform comes off. We also discuss: • Why most veterans struggle after leaving the military • The entitlement vs responsibility mindset gap • Why most podcasts fail before episode 10 • How Travis built Oscar Mike Radio over 9+ years • Community access TV as an underrated growth channel • The power of consistency over talent Military Creator Con Jason Cavness speaking April 17 at 2PM Arlington Hilton Discount codes: JasonC10 JasonC50 Travis’ links LinkedIn: Facebook: Website: Email: [email protected] YouTube: Connect with Jason Cavness LinkedIn: Instagram: TikTok: Podcast: YouTube: Website:
/episode/index/show/cavnesshr/id/40732410
info_outline
Dr. Badri Narayanan Gopalakrishnan on Global Economic Strategy, Trade Policy, and Vision India@2047
03/31/2026
Dr. Badri Narayanan Gopalakrishnan on Global Economic Strategy, Trade Policy, and Vision India@2047
On this episode of The Jason Cavness Experience, I sit down with Dr. Badri Narayanan Gopalakrishnan. Economist, global strategy leader, policy advisor, and academic with nearly 25 years of international experience. Dr. Badri has served as Joint Secretary at NITI Aayog (Government of India), where he led Trade and Commerce, Strategic Economic Dialogue, International Cooperation, and Vision India@2047. He currently serves as an Honorary Non-Resident Fellow at NITI Aayog and holds multiple global academic and policy appointments. With 15 published books, over 250 research papers, and thousands of academic citations including work published in Nature. Dr. Badri brings deep perspective on global trade, economic diplomacy, sustainability, and long-term development strategy. We discuss: • The future of global trade and economic realignment • India’s Vision 2047 and long-term strategic planning • U.S.–India economic relations • International cooperation in a multipolar world • Economic modeling and policy impact • Sustainability and climate strategy • Bridging academia, government, and industry • Advising the World Bank, IMF, Google, Amazon, USDA, McKinsey, and more • Long-term economic strategy vs short-term cycles Dr. Badri also shares insights from founding Infinite Sum Modelling LLC, a global advisory firm with offices across North America, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia advising over 100 organizations worldwide. This episode is especially valuable for founders, policymakers, investors, and leaders thinking beyond quarterly cycles and toward generational strategy. Military Creator Con I’m a featured speaker at Military Creator Con, a conference bringing together veterans, creators, and entrepreneurs focused on building brands, businesses, and long-term leverage. If you’re serious about turning experience into opportunity, this is the room to be in. Sign up here: What We Talked About • Leading trade and economic strategy at NITI Aayog • Vision • Economic diplomacy and global cooperation • Sustainability and environmental strategy • Academic research influencing policy • Founding Infinite Sum Modelling • Advising governments and global corporations • Long-term economic planning Connect with Dr. Badri Narayanan Gopalakrishnan LinkedIn: Company Website: Personal Academic Site: X (Twitter): @badrinarayanang Connect with Jason Cavness LinkedIn: Instagram: TikTok: Podcast:
/episode/index/show/cavnesshr/id/40256760