In today's episode of The Edge of Excellence podcast, Matt is joined by Samantha Gold, founder of Motette, a children’s clothing brand.

During the conversation, Samantha shares her unconventional career journey marked by bold transitions and an unyielding passion for growth. Starting in tech sales, she reflects on the challenges and triumphs of shifting industries and embracing new roles, highlighting the importance of adaptability and resilience. Throughout the discussion, her positive mindset and willingness to take risks emerge as key drivers of her success.

You'll discover how curiosity and networking opened unexpected doors, leading Samantha from corporate leadership to entrepreneurship. Get a glimpse into the complexities of launching a product-based business—from finding the right manufacturing partner overseas to navigating legal hurdles and industry-specific regulations. Along the way, the importance of community feedback and co-creation becomes clear, showing how involving customers early can help refine ideas and build loyalty.

Building a product-based business from scratch? Thinking of pivoting your career to match your actual life (not just your resume)? Samantha Gold breaks it down with honesty, strategy, and style. Hit play to learn how she launched a community-first brand while raising two kids and leaving the corporate world behind.

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What You Will Learn In This Show:

• How Samantha organically built an inner mom circle to co-create her clothing brand, Motette.

• The importance of building a community for entrepreneurs to drive sales and get business insights.

• Samantha's decision to study abroad in Sydney, Australia, and switch from a zoology degree to a business degree.

• Her career progression, from sales development to account executive, and her time consulting in the fashion industry, eventually leading to CEO of a women's clothing company.

• The inspiration behind Motette, driven by Samantha's desire for elevated basics for her children.

• And much more...

Guest Bio:

Samantha Gold is the founder of Motette, a children’s clothing brand she launched in 2024, inspired by her experience as a mom to Blair and Wesley. Motivated by the lack of thoughtfully designed options for kids, she created a line of elevated, functional pieces featuring refined prints, timeless silhouettes, and soft, breathable bamboo fabrics. Motette is built to support the rhythms of childhood while offering parents reliable quality and design. Prior to launching her own ventures, Samantha served as CEO of a contemporary women’s brand and held senior roles at Fortune 500 tech companies. With over 15 years of experience in retail, e-commerce, and digital strategy, she brings a cross-functional, hands-on approach to building and scaling enduring consumer brands.

Resources:

Samantha's Instagram

Samantha's LinkedIn

Motette

Disclaimer:

The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of The Edge of Excellence podcast or its affiliates. The content

In today's episode of The Edge of Excellence podcast, Matt is joined by Caden Brunell, a junior at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse and entrepreneur.

In this engaging conversation, Caden shares a journey marked by determination, growth, and the relentless pursuit of improvement. From humble beginnings in a small town, you'll hear how early experiences in sports and family businesses laid a foundation of grit and discipline. As the path twists through shifting ambitions and unexpected challenges, it highlights the importance of stepping outside comfort zones and embracing the learning process.

The conversation explores the realities of balancing hard work with personal sacrifice, exploring the tension between short-term pleasures and long-term goals. You'll discover lessons about leadership, managing stress, and building confidence, as well as stories of overcoming nervousness and taking on responsibilities far beyond typical expectations. Caden reflects on pivotal moments of decision-making that shaped both mindset and direction, demonstrating how real-world experience often trumps theoretical planning.

This episode is a nuanced exploration of what it takes to carve out a meaningful and successful path in life, offering inspiration without prescribing easy answers.

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What You Will Learn In This Show:

• Caden's roots in Columbus, Wisconsin, a small town with about 5,000 people, and his involvement in various sports growing up.

• How his early jobs, including working for his father's landscaping business, helped him develop a strong work ethic and competitive mindset.

• The importance of getting out of one's comfort zone, particularly in communication and sales.

• Caden's approach to sourcing customers, learning from family friends in the construction industry, and building a digital presence.

• The value of his busy college years, despite the initial feeling of missing out on social activities, as it helped him develop crucial skills and self-awareness.

• And much more...

Disclaimer:

The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of The Edge of Excellence podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Listeners should consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to their situation. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that any reliance on the content is at your own risk.

In today's episode of The Edge of Excellence podcast, Matt is joined by Kash Fadaie, Founder of Fadaie Insurance Services Inc.

In this intriguing conversation, Kash shares a transformative personal experience that reshaped his understanding of self and purpose. Through a unique practice, he describes reaching a profound state of bliss and clarity that transcends ordinary consciousness, leading to a deeper connection with their authentic self. This awakening sets the stage for a journey of personal growth and entrepreneurial vision.

Matt and Kash explore the power of self-awareness and the importance of distinguishing between fleeting doubts and true inner knowing. You'll hear how embracing one’s genuine nature can influence leadership, team culture, and the way a business is built. The conversation hints at how this clarity fosters creativity, confidence, and meaningful relationships, making it an essential foundation for success.

This episode teases an unconventional career path that combines purpose, service, and entrepreneurial opportunity, inviting curious minds to explore further.

Don't miss another episode of The Edge of Excellence podcast. Leave a review and subscribe today

What You Will Learn In This Show:

• Kash's background starting with his parents' roles in the Iranian Navy and their migration to Florida.
• How his early experiences in business taught him the importance of hard work, adaptability, and building relationships.
• How meditation helped Kash achieve a state of bliss and inner peace, which became a pivotal moment in his life.
• The unique aspects of the insurance industry, such as its recession-proof nature, residual income potential, and the opportunity to provide peace of mind to clients.
• The potential of the insurance industry for young entrepreneurs, emphasizing its mobile, residual income, and scalable nature.
• And much more...

Guest Bio:

Kash Fadaie is a visionary Iranian-born entrepreneur and the founder and CEO of a thriving insurance agency headquartered in The Woodlands, Texas. After launching his first business at age 13 and exploring over a dozen ventures, he found lasting success in the insurance industry in 2004. By 2006, Kash had built a scratch agency from the ground up, leading it to become a \$10 million enterprise with a large client base across California and Texas. A graduate of the Maharishi University of Management, Kash integrates Transcendental Meditation and yoga into his life, promoting clarity and balance. Known for his calm leadership, he inspires cohesive teams through creativity, patience, and trust. Kash is deeply committed to personal and professional excellence.

Resources:

Fadaie Insurance Services Inc.

Disclaimer:

The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of The Edge of Excellence podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Listeners should consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to their situation. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that any reliance on the content is at your own risk.