In this episode of The Intern Whisperer Podcast, host Isabella Johnston welcomes Spencer Elliott, the Director of Smart Cities at Plug and Play Tech Center. Spencer, an experienced CEO and investor, shares his journey from startup founder to venture partner and discusses how he’s helping shape the future of startups in Orlando and beyond.

Learn about the innovative ecosystem Plug and Play is building for startups, especially within the smart cities space, and how Spencer is connecting companies to valuable resources, partners, and funding opportunities.

Spencer also dives into the future of entrepreneurship, including trends like AI, smart cities, and how central Florida’s startup scene is evolving.

Reasons to Listen:

1. Gain insights on how Plug and Play helps accelerate startup growth and build impactful partnerships.

2. Discover how Spencer’s experience as a mentor and investor influences his approach to supporting entrepreneurs.

3. Learn about the concept of smart cities and its role in shaping future tech and infrastructure.

4. Hear Spencer’s advice for entrepreneurs seeking funding and how they can avoid common pitfalls.

5. Explore the future of AI, smart cities, and tech entrepreneurship, with a glimpse into Spencer’s predictions for 2030.

Links:

Website: https://www.plugandplaytechcenter.com/locations/orlando-fl Website: https://www.futurefunders.vc/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/spencerelliott1/

We hope you enjoy this week's episode of The Intern Whisperer.

The Intern Whisperer Podcast is brought to you by Employers 4 Change - Increasing #Skills #DiversityEquityInclusion #recruitment and #management for #interns and #employees alike.

Apply today to be an #Employer4Change that invests in #intern #talent and #employees.

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In this episode of The Intern Whisperer Podcast, host Isabella Johnston sits down with Chuck Goldstone, founder of Chuck Goldstone | Strategies and Stories and the New Venture Institute. Chuck has coached and mentored thousands of startups across the globe, helping them use storytelling and strategic communication to secure funding, create partnerships, and stand out in competitive markets.

Chuck shares insights from his book Strategies & Stories, offering a framework for entrepreneurs to communicate effectively and engage their audience. He discusses the importance of differentiation in a crowded field, the power of simplicity, and how to craft compelling stories that move investors and markets to action. Chuck also dives into the impact of AI on entrepreneurship and how it will shape communication strategies, customer engagement, and business growth by 2030.

Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, investor, or job seeker, Chuck’s expertise will help you craft your story, build stronger connections, and achieve your goals.

Key Takeaways:

1. The power of storytelling in differentiating your startup.
2. How to simplify complex messages for your audience.
3. The evolving role of AI in communication and entrepreneurship.
4. Best mentoring advice for entrepreneurs and job seekers.

Links:

Strategies & Stories: Tell Me More Book by Chuck Goldstone on Amazon (link below) https://www.amazon.com/Strategies-Stories-Indispensable-Entrepreneurs-Innovators/dp/B0CGWYV5R2

Websites: https://chuckgoldstone.com/

https://strategiesandstories.com

Free: https://chucksroundtable.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckgoldstone/

We hope you enjoy this week's episode of The Intern Whisperer. The Intern Whisperer Podcast is brought to you by Employers 4 Change - Increasing #Skills #DiversityEquityInclusion #recruitment and #management for #interns and #employees alike.

Apply today to be an #Employer4Change that invests in #intern #talent and #employees.

Want a break? Play Intern Pursuit Game on Steam.

Thank you to our sponsor Cat 5 Studios.

Podbean: https://internwhisperer.podbean.com

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8c_T19-pyfghVuAEbOMmHg

Follow us on our social channels

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In this episode of The Intern Whisperer Podcast, we’re joined by Jerrid Kalakay, PhD. Jerrid and I go back to when we worked together at Rollins College. He is an expert in social entrepreneurship, higher education, and an author.

His book is entitled, Igniting Innovation: A Guide to Entrepreneurship and Positive Change. Jerrid shares his unique career journey—from his experiences in the business world to becoming a professor dedicated to empowering the next generation of social entrepreneurs.

He discusses the core principles of his book, emphasizing how entrepreneurs can use innovation to drive positive change in their communities and beyond. In the second half of the show, Jerrid dives into a thought-provoking discussion on the impact of artificial intelligence on higher education and entrepreneurship.

Jerrid reflects on the opportunities and challenges AI presents to educators, entrepreneurs, and social innovators as we approach 2030. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or an educator, Jerrid's insights will inspire you to think critically about the role of innovation in shaping the future.

Key Takeaways

1. Social Entrepreneurship: Jerrid emphasizes how entrepreneurs can use innovation to create positive change in their communities.
2. Higher Education's Role: As a professor, Jerrid highlights the importance of preparing students to lead and innovate for social good.
3. AI’s Impact: He explores the challenges and opportunities AI brings to education and entrepreneurship, as well as the ethical implications.
4. Preparing for 2030: Jerrid encourages listeners to embrace innovation and think critically about the future shaped by AI and technology.

Links:

Website: http://www.dosalaslatincoffee.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jerridkalakay/

Available on Amazon - Igniting Innovation: A Guide to Entrepreneurship and Positive Change

https://www.amazon.com/Igniting-Innovation-Entrepreneurship-Positive-Change/dp/B0DPBPWM4Q

We hope you enjoy this week's episode of The Intern Whisperer. The Intern Whisperer Podcast is brought to you by Employers 4 Change - Increasing #Skills #DiversityEquityInclusion #recruitment and #management for #interns and #employees alike.

Apply today to be an #Employer4Change that invests in #intern #talent and #employees.

Want a break? Play Intern Pursuit Game on Steam.

Thank you to our sponsor Cat 5 Studios.

Podbean: https://internwhisperer.podbean.com

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8c_T19-pyfghVuAEbOMmHg

Follow us on our social channels

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/employers4change

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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/employers4change

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