10-Minute Tech Talks: Business Insights and Growth Hacks for Time-Crunched Entrepreneurs
Are you an entrepreneur building a technology company and looking to grow fast? In 10 minutes or less, this show teaches and inspires entrepreneurs to build better companies by tapping some of the smartest technology, entrepreneurial and business minds from Pittsburgh's technology and innovation ecosystem. Produced by the Pittsburgh Technology Council, get weekly tech insights, trends and inspiration to keep you on track or open up new business Possibilities. And if you have a little extra time on your hands we'll also post deep dive interviews from our guests on Pittsburgh's only technology talk radio show TechVibe that airs every Sunday morning at 6 AM on 100.1 FM AM 1020 KDKA.
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What Makes a Tech Company Worth Buying? A Pittsburgh Entrepreneur Explains
05/11/2026
What Makes a Tech Company Worth Buying? A Pittsburgh Entrepreneur Explains
What makes a company worth buying? Most people think it’s revenue. Or technology. Or market share. But after spending more than 30 years building Pittsburgh-based engineering firm IQ Inc., founder Barbara VanKirk believes the answer starts somewhere else entirely: People. In this episode of 10 Minute Tech Talks, you’ll hear how VanKirk built a company culture around growth, curiosity, and leadership—and why those values ultimately attracted a global acquisition from Critical Software. You’ll also hear her candid reflections on being one of the only women in engineering rooms early in her career—and why confidence and belonging still matter in tech today. If you’re building a company or building yourself as a leader, this conversation delivers a few lessons worth stealing. Listen VanKirk's entire interview Produced by the Pittsburgh Technology Council, this is a podcast for tech and manufacturing entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.
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Tech Entrepreneur Hiring Hack: Why AI Skills Matter More Than Experience
05/04/2026
Tech Entrepreneur Hiring Hack: Why AI Skills Matter More Than Experience
What if the best hire for your company isn’t the most experienced… but the most AI-enabled? In this quick hit from the Pittsburgh Technology Council's TechVibe Radio interview with Sandesh Sukumaran, founder of Outcome Logix, we dig into a major shift happening right now: companies are rethinking experience—and leaning hard into talent that knows how to use AI tools to move faster and smarter. The hiring game is no longer about years—it’s about leverage. The entrepreneurs who win are the ones building teams that know how to use AI, not just teams with long resumes. If you’re hiring, scaling, or just trying to stay competitive, this one might change how you build your team. Listen to the entire interview Produced by the Pittsburgh Technology Council, this is a podcast for tech and manufacturing entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.
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Tech First, Not Tech Only: How Entrepreneurs Can Find Friction, Fix Processes, and Lead With Data
04/27/2026
Tech First, Not Tech Only: How Entrepreneurs Can Find Friction, Fix Processes, and Lead With Data
What happens when you stop treating technology like overhead and start using it to give people their time back? In this episode, we talk with Monica Fletcher of Auberle, a nonprofit leader who’s thinking like a startup operator. She’s finding friction, digitizing clunky processes, using data to make smarter decisions, and rolling out AI in a way that supports people instead of replacing them. A few takeaways to listen for: why “tech first” does not mean “tech only” how to spot friction points that are quietly draining your team why the best use of AI might be giving your people more time for the work only humans can do Even though Monica works in human services, the lessons here travel really well for founders, managers, and anyone trying to build a smarter, more efficient organization. Produced by the Pittsburgh Technology Council, this is a podcast for tech and manufacturing entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.
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Product Management Whiz Dan Olsen on Why Entrepreneurs Need to Pay Attention to Vibe Coding Right Now
04/20/2026
Product Management Whiz Dan Olsen on Why Entrepreneurs Need to Pay Attention to Vibe Coding Right Now
What happens when building a product gets radically easier? You’re about to find out. Today’s featured voice is Dan Olsen, author of The Lean Product Playbook and keynote speaker for ProductCamp Pittsburgh. In this excerpt, Dan dives into the fast-rising world of vibe coding and why it matters a whole lot more than just writing code faster. He explains how AI tools are making it easier for non-technical founders, product leaders, and startup teams to create prototypes, test ideas, and move from concept to customer feedback without getting stuck waiting on design or engineering resources. But here’s the real spark under the hood: when it becomes easier to build almost anything, the real competitive edge shifts to knowing what to build, why it matters, and how to validate it before wasting time and money. Dan makes the case that product management fundamentals are becoming more important, not less, in the AI era. You’ll also hear why entrepreneurs should stop thinking of these tools as just shiny demos or productivity hacks. Dan sees them as a way to unlock faster experimentation, better customer testing, and maybe even the next wave of one-person or ultra-lean companies. So if you’ve been wondering whether AI is changing how products get built, or whether vibe coding is something founders can actually use, this conversation will get your wheels turning. Check out ProductCamp Pittsburgh Check out The Lean Product Playbook Produced by the Pittsburgh Technology Council, this is a podcast for tech and manufacturing entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.
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The Real Cost of Building Robots? Time. HEBI Robotics Explains
04/12/2026
The Real Cost of Building Robots? Time. HEBI Robotics Explains
What if the biggest breakthrough in robotics is not the robot itself, but the time you save building it? In this episode of 10 Minute Tech Talks, we sit down with Bob Raida and Dave Rollinson of and they explain how modular design can help engineers move faster, cut development friction, and avoid reinventing the wheel, while also showing how that same approach is opening doors for applications in industry and even space. This is a great lesson for entrepreneurs: the value of your product is not always just what it does, but how much friction it removes for the people using it. Hebi’s approach is a reminder that saving time, reducing complexity, and building with confidence can be a real competitive edge. Produced by the Pittsburgh Technology Council, this is a podcast for tech and manufacturing entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.
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From Idea to Market: How HEBI Robotics Found the Real Business
04/05/2026
From Idea to Market: How HEBI Robotics Found the Real Business
What happens when a company starts with one cool idea, then realizes the real business is hiding in the pieces they built along the way? In this episode of 10 Minute Tech Talks, Bob Raida and Dabe Rollinson of HEBI Robotics share how it evolved from snake robots to a modular robotics platform designed to help people build faster, test sooner, and get real tools into the real world. Their idea is simple: build, test, learn, repeat. HEBI found value not by clinging to the original idea, but by recognizing what customers could actually use and moving toward it. This is a smart reminder for any entrepreneur: sometimes the first idea is not the business, but the capabilities you build along the way might be. HEBI's story is a great lesson in product-market fit, staying adaptable, and testing early before you burn years on the wrong problem. Produced by the Pittsburgh Technology Council, this is a podcast for tech and manufacturing entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.
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How Tech Entrepreneurs Can Grow Companies Without Losing Their Souls
03/30/2026
How Tech Entrepreneurs Can Grow Companies Without Losing Their Souls
How do you build a business that can stand the test of time and keep your soul intact? In this episode of 10 Minute Tech Talks, Lou Camerlengo of fivestar* shares the kind of hard-earned insight entrepreneurs rarely get from a playbook. Rather than chasing growth for growth’s sake, Lou explains how fivestar* has stayed relevant by building deep client relationships, staying adaptable, and creating a company that is truly “built to evolve.” You’ll hear why long-term partnerships matter more than quick wins, how staying close to customers can shape smarter strategy, and why culture and flexibility are essential for lasting success. For entrepreneurs trying to grow without losing their edge, this conversation delivers practical lessons you can put to work right away. 3 key takeaways Long-term client relationships beat short-term wins Sustainable growth often comes from trust, service, and becoming a real partner. The best companies stay built to evolve Markets shift, customer needs change, and durable businesses adapt without losing their identity. Staying close to the customer is a competitive advantage Small, smart, responsive teams can punch far above their weight when they listen well and move with purpose. Produced by the Pittsburgh Technology Council, this is a podcast for tech and manufacturing entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious. Keywords
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How AI and Lidar Are Turning Maps Into Intelligent Machines
03/23/2026
How AI and Lidar Are Turning Maps Into Intelligent Machines
AI is transforming everything — but some of the most powerful applications are happening in places most people never see. In our Techvibe interview with Woolpert CEO Neil Churman, he explains how AI, lidar, and geospatial data are turning maps into machines that can detect landslides, monitor infrastructure, and help prevent disasters before they happen. It’s a fascinating look at how real-world AI is changing industries that have existed for more than a century. Woolpert is a global architecture, engineering, and geospatial technology firm that uses advanced tools like AI, lidar, and digital twins to design infrastructure, map the world, and help organizations build and manage everything from airports and pipelines to data centers and smart cities. Make sure you check out the with Woolpert CEO Neil Churman. Produced by the Pittsburgh Technology Council, this is a podcast for tech and manufacturing entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.
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From Steel Mills to AI: Why Pittsburgh’s Tech Future Is Built on Its Industrial DNA
03/16/2026
From Steel Mills to AI: Why Pittsburgh’s Tech Future Is Built on Its Industrial DNA
Pittsburgh is often called a comeback city. But Woolpert CEO Neil Churman sees something deeper. As discovered in his Techvibe interview, Neil believes the same industrial DNA that built America’s steel industry is now powering the region’s rise in AI, robotics, and infrastructure technology. In this short conversation, Neil shares a personal story about his great-grandfather working in the steel mills — and why that legacy still shapes the future of innovation.” Woolpert is a global architecture, engineering, and geospatial technology firm that uses advanced tools like AI, lidar, and digital twins to design infrastructure, map the world, and help organizations build and manage everything from airports and pipelines to data centers and smart cities. Be sure to listen to the full TechVibe interview where we dive deeper into AI, infrastructure, and the companies helping build the next generation of technology. Produced by the Pittsburgh Technology Council, this is a podcast for tech and manufacturing entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.
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Hey Tech Entrepreneurs! Here's Why AI Won’t Replace Experts
03/09/2026
Hey Tech Entrepreneurs! Here's Why AI Won’t Replace Experts
AI is everywhere right now, and there’s a lot of fear about what it means for jobs. And Woolpert CEO Neil Churman sees it differently. He believes AI won’t replace experts — it will make them better. Woolpert is a global architecture, engineering, and geospatial technology firm that uses advanced tools like AI, lidar, and digital twins to design infrastructure, map the world, and help organizations build and manage everything from airports and pipelines to data centers and smart cities. As part of the Pittsburgh Technology Council's TechVibe Radio deep dive conversation, Neil shares how curiosity, collaboration, and new technology are reshaping leadership and helping companies unlock the full potential of their teams. Be sure to check out where we explore AI, infrastructure, and Pittsburgh’s role in the global innovation economy. And don’t forget to subscribe to 10 Minute Tech Talks for quick insights from the entrepreneurs and innovators building the future. This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.
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Why Tech Entrepreneurs Win by Ignoring AI Hype
03/02/2026
Why Tech Entrepreneurs Win by Ignoring AI Hype
Are you building technology or are you building results? In this episode, you are going to hear why some leaders believe AI has been massively overhyped and massively undersold all at the same time. And why? The companies that win aren't just chasing trends. They are chasing outcomes. Pittsburgh Technology Council CEO Audrey Russo interviewed Jonathan Jungk of Palantir and Chris Johnson of TeleTracking Technologies at the Pittsburgh Tech Council's 2026 Think!AI Summit to get their insights. So if you care about growth, revenue, and real impact, this one is for you. Hit PLAY and listen right now. Produced by the Pittsburgh Technology Council, this is a podcast for tech and manufacturing entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.
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Why Smart Tech Entrepreneurs Don’t Let AI Make the Final Call
02/23/2026
Why Smart Tech Entrepreneurs Don’t Let AI Make the Final Call
Here's a quick question for you. If your software can make decisions for your customers, should it, or should it simply make them smarter? In this episode of 10 Minute Tech Talks, you will get a front-row seat at the Pittsburgh Technology Council's 2026 Think!AI Summit. You're going to hear why some of the most advanced AI leaders in healthcare believe technology should recommend not rule. And by getting this wrong, can cost you trust adoption, possibly even the entire market. The Tech Council's CEO, Audrey Russo interviewed Jonathan Jungk of Palantir and Chris Johnson of TeleTracking to get their insights. They reveal that the goal isn't to replace human judgment. It is to elevate it. If your product makes users feel smarter, safer, and more confident, you win. If it makes them feel replaced. You lose. Produced by the Pittsburgh Technology Council, this is a podcast for tech and manufacturing entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.
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What Every Entrepreneur Should Know About Scaling a Technology Venture
02/16/2026
What Every Entrepreneur Should Know About Scaling a Technology Venture
What does it really take to scale a startup when early traction turns into real momentum? In this episode of 10 Minute Tech Talks, Jonathan Kersting of the Pittsburgh Technology Council and TechVibe Radio breaks down a powerful segment from his TechVibe interview with Wendy McSparren and John Mihalik, co-founders of Admirra, a fast-growing mental health technology startup. You’ll learn how they: Scaled from early customers to national growth Built a strong startup team without losing focus Kept their SaaS product simple and competitive Used customer feedback to guide development Prepared their company and infrastructure for long-term success This episode is packed with practical insights for entrepreneurs, startup founders, and business leaders who want to grow smarter, not just faster. After listening, check out to hear Wendy and John’s complete story, including their origin, partnership, and mission to expand access to mental health care through technology. If you’re building, scaling, or planning your next move, this episode is for you. Subscribe, follow, and keep learning with 10 Minute Tech Talks.
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Love, Leadership, and Launching a Technology Startup
02/09/2026
Love, Leadership, and Launching a Technology Startup
Building a startup is hard. Building a startup with your spouse? That’s a whole different level of difficulty. Today on 10 Minute Tech Talks, we’re exploring how Wendy McSparren and John Mihalik built Admirra together, not just as co-founders, but as partners in life. Admirra provides software and service solutions for private mental health practices to help them onboard new clients and efficiently manage business workflows. This is a story about trust, boundaries, leadership, and learning how to win together. Wendy and John remind us that startups aren’t just built on code and capital. They’re built on trust, patience, and the willingness to grow together. Admirra works because its founders work, first as partners, then as entrepreneurs. Listen to their entire Produced by the Pittsburgh Technology Council, this is a podcast for tech and manufacturing entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.
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Why Entrepreneurs Should Pay Attention to How Healthcare Uses Technology
02/02/2026
Why Entrepreneurs Should Pay Attention to How Healthcare Uses Technology
What you’re about to hear isn’t just a conversation about healthcare. It’s a masterclass in how modern organizations use technology to scale expertise, reduce friction, and make better decisions at speed. In this episode, we excerpted a segment from the Pittsburgh Technology Council's Health Care Reinvented Podcast featuring Highmark leaders Maria Baker and Mari Vandenburg as they talk about how artificial intelligence and predictive analytics are transforming healthcare by synthesizing massive amounts of data and turning it into clear, actionable insights for clinicians. For entrepreneurs, the parallels are immediate. This is about using AI to give experts superpowers, eliminating low-value work, and designing systems that surface the next best action instead of overwhelming people with dashboards and noise. If you’re building a company, leading a team, or thinking about how AI actually creates value beyond the buzzwords, this clip offers real-world lessons from one of the most complex industries on the planet. Produced by the Pittsburgh Technology Council, this is a podcast for tech and manufacturing entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.
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The Fast Lane for Entrepreneurs Who Code: AI Is the On-Ramp, Not the Destination
01/26/2026
The Fast Lane for Entrepreneurs Who Code: AI Is the On-Ramp, Not the Destination
AI is everywhere right now. It can write code, generate content, fix bugs, and give you a starting point in seconds. But if you’re an entrepreneur building a real product, you’ve probably already realized something important: AI alone isn’t enough. In this 10 Minute Tech Talk, we are joined again by Greg Lutz from Mescius, a Pittsburgh-based software company that’s spent decades building tools for developers who need to move fast and build things that actually work in the real world. In this clip, Greg shares a grounded, practical perspective on where AI truly adds value, where it can lead you astray, and why purpose-built development tools still matter more than ever. If you’re using AI to accelerate your work but wondering how to turn those quick wins into sustainable software, this conversation is exactly what you need to hear. And check out Code Clinic at Produced by the Pittsburgh Technology Council, this is a podcast for tech and manufacturing entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.
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Save Time and Frustration: Every Tech Entrepreneur That Codes Needs This Resource
01/19/2026
Save Time and Frustration: Every Tech Entrepreneur That Codes Needs This Resource
You’re building something. You’re moving fast. And at some point, the code starts slowing you down. Today’s 10 Minute Tech Talks is for founders and entrepreneurs who are doing some of their own development and wondering if there’s a smarter way to build without reinventing every wheel. Greg Lutz from Mescius, a Pittsburgh-based company that’s been helping developers save time for more than two decades, joins Host Jonathan Kersting to detail Code Clinic. Greg breaks down Code Clinic, a free, approachable learning resource designed to help developers solve real problems, learn faster, and ship better software, without needing to be an expert on day one. If you’ve ever thought, “There has to be a better way to do this,” this one’s for you. And check out Code Clinic at In our next 10 Minute Tech Talks, we’ll go deeper with Greg into how AI fits into this picture, where it helps, where it falls short, and why real development tools still matter more than ever. Stay tuned. Produced by the Pittsburgh Technology Council, this is a podcast for tech and manufacturing entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.
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How a Tech Entrepreneur Turned Broken Networking into Scalable Opportunity
01/12/2026
How a Tech Entrepreneur Turned Broken Networking into Scalable Opportunity
Why do so many promising business conversations quietly disappear after a handshake? In this episode of 10 Minute Tech Talks, we explore a problem every tech entrepreneur knows too well. You meet the right people. You have great conversations. And somehow… nothing happens next. ConfirmedApp.com Founder David Radin breaks down why networking isn’t broken because of people, but because of systems. And how recognizing that gap led to him building Confirmed Meet & Greet to solve it. If your business depends on relationships, sales, or partnerships, this insight could change how you think about in-person connections forever. Plus, provide a reminder that the most powerful startup ideas often come from everyday frustrations we’ve all learned to tolerate. Until someone decides not to. Just like David. This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.
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A Tech Entrepreneur’s Wake-Up Call: When Your Product Is Just a Feature
01/05/2026
A Tech Entrepreneur’s Wake-Up Call: When Your Product Is Just a Feature
What if the thing you’re most proud of building… is the thing holding your business back? Today on 10 Minute Tech Talks, we’re digging into a moment every tech entrepreneur eventually faces. You’ve got momentum, a smart team, and something that looks polished and impressive, until you realize it doesn’t actually solve the problem. Host Jonathan Kersting interviewed serial entrepreneur David Radin of ConfirmedApp.com on the Pittsburgh Technology Council's TechVibe Radio Show to pull back the curtain on why David's team walked away from months of work, scrapped a “good” idea, and made the hard call most founders avoid. If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re building a real product or just a shiny feature, this episode is for you. Here’s the takeaway. The hardest part of being a tech entrepreneur isn’t building. It’s knowing what not to build. In our next episode, David takes this lesson one step further and shows how a real-world frustration at networking events sparked an entirely new product idea. One rooted in human behavior, not hype. Because once you kill the wrong idea, you finally make room for the right one. This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.
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The AI Mistakes Tech Entrepreneurs Keep Making
12/29/2025
The AI Mistakes Tech Entrepreneurs Keep Making
If AI is everywhere, why are so many companies still struggling to make it work? In Part One "Why Tech Entrepreneurs Can’t Treat AI as an Experiment Anymore", we talked about how AI crossed into the business mainstream. Now it’s time for the harder question: why do so many implementations stall, underperform, or quietly fail? In this episode of 10 Minute Tech Talks, we talk to Justine Kasznica and Chris Farmakis of Babst Calland to get into the real blockers, from data quality and security risks to leadership missteps and workforce anxiety — and what smart organizations are doing to overcome them. This is where AI strategy meets reality. AI doesn’t fail because the technology isn’t powerful enough. It fails when leadership treats it like a tool to buy instead of a capability to build. Produced by the Pittsburgh Technology Council, this is a podcast for tech and manufacturing entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.
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Why Tech Entrepreneurs Can’t Treat AI as an Experiment Anymore
12/22/2025
Why Tech Entrepreneurs Can’t Treat AI as an Experiment Anymore
When did AI stop being a fun experiment… and start becoming table stakes for running a business? In just a year, AI has gone from “interesting” to essential. But while nearly every company is talking about it, only a fraction are actually seeing real returns. In this episode of 10 Minute Tech Talks, you’ll hear from Justine Kasznica and Chris Farmakis of Babst Calland on why AI adoption has exploded, what’s driving CFOs a little crazy right now, and how the companies getting it right are separating themselves from the pack. This is the moment AI stopped being optional, and became core to how business gets done. So here’s the takeaway: AI is officially mainstream, but success is far from guaranteed. Some companies are unlocking massive efficiency gains. Others are burning money and wondering what went wrong. In our next episode, we’ll dig into why so many AI initiatives fail, and what leaders must do differently if they want real ROI instead of expensive experiments. If you’re asking yourself, “Okay, so how do we actually do this right?” — you’ll want to catch Part Two. Produced by the Pittsburgh Technology Council, this is a podcast for tech and manufacturing entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.
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Why Every Tech Entrepreneur Needs to Rethink 5G Connectivity in 2026
12/18/2025
Why Every Tech Entrepreneur Needs to Rethink 5G Connectivity in 2026
What if the next breakout startup isn’t powered by better software… but by better connectivity? Today’s 10 Minute Tech Talk is all about removing the invisible limits that hold entrepreneurs back. We are joined by Jay Noschese from T-Mobile for Business, and this conversation flips the script on how founders should think about 5G. We’re not talking faster phones. We’re talking about new business models, new customer experiences, and entire industries being reshaped because connectivity can now be customized, optimized, and trusted for mission-critical work. Hit PLAY, and you’ll hear how technologies like 5G Advanced and network slicing are already powering live sports broadcasts, massive events, and healthcare systems where failure isn’t an option. And more importantly, you’ll start to see what this unlocks for entrepreneurs building what’s next. If you’re a founder, operator, or innovator asking, “What can I build now that wasn’t possible before?” You’re in the right place. Let’s jump in. This Pittsburgh Technology Council podcast is for tech and manufacturing entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.
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The Hard Truth Every Tech Entrepreneur Needs Before Building Anything
12/11/2025
The Hard Truth Every Tech Entrepreneur Needs Before Building Anything
What if the biggest threat to your startup isn’t the competition, but the decisions you make in the first six months? In this episode of 10 Minute Tech Talks, we dive into a powerful segment from our TechVibe Radio interview with Juliana Keeling and Joe Swider of Terravive, the fast-growing company reinventing single-use products with American-made compostable materials. Their journey hasn’t been driven by hype or shortcuts — it’s been shaped by sharp strategic thinking, disciplined growth, and a relentless commitment to building a real business from the ground up. In this clip, Juliana and Joe open up about the lessons most founders learn too late: • Why a great idea means nothing without true product-market fit • How accelerators can accelerate the right things — including funding that doesn’t cost you equity • The danger of jumping at the first investor check, and how early dilution can quietly sink a company • What authentic partnership looks like when the stakes get high • Why staying scrappy and in control ended up being their greatest advantage This is a candid, practical look at entrepreneurship from two people who have fought through the messy middle and come out stronger. Whether you’re building something new or trying to course-correct something established, their insights land with uncommon clarity. Give it a listen — your future self will thank you. for their full TechVibe interview. This is a Pittsburgh Technology Council podcast for tech and manufacturing entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.
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Checkmate Thinking: How Chess Can Help Entrepreneurs Turn Strategy Into a Superpower
12/04/2025
Checkmate Thinking: How Chess Can Help Entrepreneurs Turn Strategy Into a Superpower
What if the key to better leadership, sharper decisions, and next-level strategy was sitting on a chessboard? Host Jonathan Kersting with the Pittsburgh Technology Council and TechVibe Radio dives into a conversation that every founder, innovator, and builder needs to hear. We’re featuring a powerful slice of his TechVibe Radio interview with Ashley Lynn Priore, the force behind Queens Gambit and Queenside Ventures. She launched her first nonprofit at just 14 years old. Today she’s empowering thousands of kids each year, guiding CEOs, and—yes—working with NFL players looking to think three moves ahead. Hit PLAY, you’ll learn how Ashley turns chess into a real-world strategy framework, why inclusive leadership matters, and how bold thinking—like cold-emailing NFL teams—can unlock huge opportunities. Plus TechVibe Cohost and Tech Council CEO Audrey Russo joins the conversation. Have more than 10 minutes? This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.
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Ramen-Fueled Beginnings to $3M Breakthrough: A Tech Entrepreneur’s Journey
11/24/2025
Ramen-Fueled Beginnings to $3M Breakthrough: A Tech Entrepreneur’s Journey
What does it take for a small, bootstrapped tech company to leap from building dashboards… to designing AI-powered drones for the U.S. Army? Today on 10 Minute Tech Talks, dive into one of the most unlikely — and inspiring — pivots in tech as we welcome James Julius, founder and CEO of Visimo. James reveals how his team evolved from early-stage ramen budgets to landing a $3 million defense contract, why staying close to customers drove every major turning point, and how rapid prototyping and AI are transforming what small teams can build. From bootstrapping to battlefield-ready AI drones, Visimo’s journey shows that when you stay curious, stay agile, and stay close to your customers, big opportunities follow. If you’re an entrepreneur, innovator, or anyone navigating fast-moving technology, this is a segment you do not want to miss. Produced by the Pittsburgh Technology Council, this is a podcast for tech and manufacturing entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.
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Tech Entrepreneurs: Stop Reinventing the Wheel — Start Building Like Lego
11/17/2025
Tech Entrepreneurs: Stop Reinventing the Wheel — Start Building Like Lego
What if scaling your tech business was as simple—and as flexible—as snapping together a few Lego bricks? In this 10 Minute Tech Talks episode, we break down how modular, on-demand infrastructure is becoming a game-changing advantage for today’s tech entrepreneurs. Dave Tomassoni of Megaport gives insights reveal why agility is no longer a luxury — it’s a competitive necessity. Dave details: 1. How adopting a “Lego mindset” can reduce complexity and help you scale globally without slowing down. 2. The hidden ways your current network setup may be costing you money, time, and competitive advantage. 3. Why the most successful tech entrepreneurs build for flexibility first — and how you can, too. If you want the blueprint for faster scaling, leaner operations, and smarter tech decisions, press play and get the insight every modern entrepreneur needs. Produced by the Pittsburgh Technology Council, this is a podcast for tech and manufacturing entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.
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The Tech Entrepreneur’s Edge: Agility, AI, and Always Staying Curious
11/10/2025
The Tech Entrepreneur’s Edge: Agility, AI, and Always Staying Curious
What if the secret to staying ahead in business isn’t mastering every new technology — but learning how to adapt faster than it changes? In this episode, Jonathan Kersting's TechVibe Radio Cohost and Tech Council CEO Audrey Russo talk with Michelle O’Neill, Senior Director of Web Solutions and Delivery at Brunner — a marketing agency that’s been fusing creativity and technology for decades. Michelle shares: How she carved her own path inside Brunner, What entrepreneurs can learn about agility and lifelong learning, and Why she believes AI should be seen as a tool — never a replacement for human creativity and connection. Dive into this conversation to find your entrepreneurial edge.. And if you have a few more minutes, be sure to listen to our entire Techvibe interview The Pittsburgh Technology Council produces this podcast for tech and manufacturing entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.
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Key Leadership Lessons From a Black Belt: How Entrepreneurs Can Build Discipline, Confidence, and Resilience
11/03/2025
Key Leadership Lessons From a Black Belt: How Entrepreneurs Can Build Discipline, Confidence, and Resilience
What can earning a black belt in karate teach you about running a startup? CGI’s Manoj Mishra shares how discipline, quiet confidence, and servant leadership form the backbone of strong leadership — in business and beyond. Manoj joined TechVibe Radio to dive deep on how his journey to a black belt informed his leadership and being a better human. If you have a few more minutes, for his full interview. Whether you’re leading a global team or building your first startup, the message is the same — discipline keeps you consistent, quiet confidence earns trust, and servant leadership inspires others to follow. If you want to grow as a leader, start by mastering yourself. Remember, the best tech leaders are always learning, on and off the mat. Hit Play now for these amazing insights! The Pittsburgh Technology Council produces this podcast for tech and manufacturing entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.
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The New F Word! Baryons Uses Human-Centered Technology to Help People FLOURISH
10/31/2025
The New F Word! Baryons Uses Human-Centered Technology to Help People FLOURISH
What if your AI could help you live well — not just work better? In this episode of TechVibe, host Jonathan Kersting talks with Mike Hruska, founder of Baryons, about how his new AI platform is redefining what it means to flourish in life and work. After two decades leading Problem Solutions, Hruska’s latest venture uses voice-based, human-first technology to help people reflect, reframe, and rediscover purpose. Drawing from science in positive psychology, Baryons engages users in short, mentor-like conversations designed to boost mental wealth, creativity, and clarity — all while maintaining privacy and emotional safety. Hruska’s mission? To democratize human flourishing at scale. He believes that when people feel centered, purposeful, and connected, they don’t just improve their own wellbeing — they elevate entire organizations. Key Takeaways: Only one-third of today’s workforce is truly thriving — Baryons aims to change that. AI can be used to build mental wealth and emotional resilience, not just productivity. “Flourishing” isn’t about success or status — it’s about living well, every day. Voice-driven interactions are the future of human-centered technology. Why Listen: If you’re an entrepreneur, innovator, or leader curious about how AI can empower people — not replace them — this conversation offers a glimpse into the future of technology designed for human potential. Hit PLAY and get ready to FLOURISH! Try Baryons for Yourself: Free Trial: Up to three calls per month; $20/month for full access Website: — use code PITT to skip the waitlist The Pittsburgh Technology Council produces TechVibe to explore Pittsburgh's technology and innovation ecosystem.
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Disruptive Tech Update: This Platform is Rethinking AI From the Brain Up!
10/27/2025
Disruptive Tech Update: This Platform is Rethinking AI From the Brain Up!
What if the next breakthrough in AI doesn’t come from a giant data center or another LLM, but from a small Pittsburgh startup that’s building artificial intelligence modeled on the human brain? Hit PLAY to hear from Chris Paradise and Nick Retos of Digital Dynamics AI—two founders chasing an idea that could redefine what AI is capable of. In just a year, they’ve gone from concept to prototype, and their KARIOS platform already challenges the limits of traditional AI thinking. Be one of the first to learn about this potentially disruptive AI technology. Let’s jump into a clip from the full TechVibe Radio interview where they explain how biomimicry and brain-inspired design could push AI to the next frontier. And if you have a few more minutes for the full interview. Produced by the Pittsburgh Technology Council, this is a podcast for tech and manufacturing entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.
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