Synopsis
A weekly podcast exploring startups, technology, and entrepreneurship in Kentucky and beyond.
Episodes
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292. Amplify Startups: Larry Horn on Supporting Entrepreneurship and Innovation in Louisville and Beyond
22/07/2024 Duration: 48minIn this episode, Logan Jones and Evan Knowles sit down with Larry Horn, CEO of Amplify Startups (formerly Amplify Louisville), to discuss the dynamics of the startup ecosystem in Kentucky. They explore themes like the distinction between entrepreneurship and innovation, the challenges and opportunities in Louisville, and the importance of collaboration with corporates and other organizations. Larry shares insights on Amplify's initiatives, the role of the state in supporting startups, and the future outlook for Kentucky's innovation hubs. The conversation also touches on how Amplify navigates the balance between urban and rural support and the need for affordable startup spaces in Louisville. Be the first to see new episodes, along with a summary, key takeaways, and upcoming events, by subscribing to Middle Tech's Spotlight Series Newsletter: https://middletech.beehiiv.com/ Get in touch in the comments below, or reach out to us on social media:Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/middletechpo
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291. TruDiagnostic: Varun Dwaraka & Hannah Went on The Future of Biological Aging and Longevity
15/07/2024 Duration: 41minIn this episode, Logan and Evan sit down with Hannah Went and Varun Dwaraka of TruDiagnostic to discuss the cutting-edge science and technology behind biological age testing and longevity research. TruDiagnostic aims to offer biological age testing to healthcare providers, focusing on how understanding epigenetics can lead to preventative medicine. They delve into the importance of personalized medicine, share user experiences, such as those of Brian Johnson, and discuss the future potential of epigenetic testing in healthcare systems. Be the first to see new episodes, along with a summary, key takeaways, and upcoming events, by subscribing to Middle Tech's Spotlight Series Newsletter: https://middletech.beehiiv.com/ Get in touch in the comments below, or reach out to us on social media:Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/middletechpodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/middletechpod/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/middletech/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@middletechpod?lang=enFaceb
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290. The Potential Impact of AI on Society
08/07/2024 Duration: 31minIn this episode, Evan provides an overview of artificial intelligence (AI), its origins, and its various types. He discusses the potential impact of AI on society, including economic transformation, healthcare advances, scientific progress, ethical and societal considerations, and global governance. Evan also shares practical applications of AI, such as food label analysis and customer support automation. He delves into the components of AI, including large language models, prompts, context windows, vector databases, retrieval augmented generation, and AI agents. Finally, Evan shares his personal experience building an AI company and offers insights on the evolving AI landscape. Be the first to see new episodes by subscribing to Middle Tech's Spotlight Series Newsletter: https://middletech.beehiiv.com/ Get in touch by reaching out to us on social media: Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/middletechpod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/middletechpod/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.co
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289. The Current State of Nuclear Energy: An Overview with Logan Jones
01/07/2024 Duration: 10minLogan Jones breaks down recent news coming out of the nuclear energy space, how AI is accelerating the growth of energy demand, and what the near future could hold for nuclear technology. Be the first to see new episodes by subscribing to Middle Tech's Spotlight Series Newsletter: https://middletech.beehiiv.com/ Get in touch by reaching out to us on social media: Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/middletechpod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/middletechpod/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/middletech/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@middletechpod?lang=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/middletechpod Logan Jones’ Socials X: https://x.com/lojo_ky Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lojo_ky/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lojo/ Evan Knowles’ Socials X: https://x.com/EvanKnowles_ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evanmknowles/ Middle Tech is proud to be supported by: KY Innovation: https://www.kyinnovation.com/ Bolt Marketing: https://www.buildwithbolt
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288. Awesome Inc: Brian Raney on Building Kentucky's Startup Ecosystem
17/06/2024 Duration: 46minBrian Raney is the CEO and Co-Founder of Awesome Inc - a company that exists to create and grow high tech startups through a variety of initiatives, such as hosting community events, leading technology education courses, and offering a shared workspace environment.This episode was part of a live recording event in collaboration with Awesome Inc and Chase Bank. Brian shared stories from the early days of Awesome Inc, how permission to fail was the advice that encouraged him to start the company, and how they’ve built the startup community that we know today. Be the first to see new episodes, along with a summary, key takeaways, and upcoming events, by subscribing to Middle Tech's Spotlight Series Newsletter: https://middletech.beehiiv.com/ Get in touch in the comments below, or reach out to us on social media:Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/middletechpodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/middletechpod/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/middletech/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@middletechpod?
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287. Cloverleaf: Darrin Murriner and Kirsten Moorefield on Transforming the way Teams Interact
10/06/2024 Duration: 57minDarrien Murriner and Kirsten Moorefield are the co-founders of Cloverleaf - a platform that enhances team performance through personalized coaching and behavioral insights. By integrating tools like strength-based assessments and continuous, automated coaching, Cloverleaf helps teams improve communication, collaboration, and overall effectiveness. Cloverleaf was first featured on Middle Tech for episode 179 back in January of 2022. They've returned to share how generative AI has impacted the business, how they've tripled their revenue since 2022, and their plans for the $7.3m they just raised in a series A at the end of March. Be the first to see new episodes, along with a summary, key takeaways, and upcoming events, by subscribing to Middle Tech's Spotlight Series Newsletter: https://middletech.beehiiv.com/ - 00:00 Welcome to Middle Tech Podcast 01:07 Meet Darren Mariner and Kirsten Moore of Cloverleaf 04:52 Cloverleaf's Journey and Vision 11:29 How Teams Use Cloverleaf 17:15 Focusing on E
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286. borderless: Raffi Kayat on the Progress and Evolution of borderless Payments
03/06/2024 Duration: 46minIn this episode of Middle Tech Podcast, Logan Jones and Evan Knowles welcome back Raffi Kayat, founder of borderless, a global payments platform. Rafi discusses the challenges and surprises of fundraising in Kentucky compared to the coastal tech hubs, emphasizing the need for determination and grit in the entrepreneurial journey. He also shares updates on Borderless, including new product offerings, significant partnerships, and the company's evolution over the past four years. The conversation highlights the unique benefits and challenges of building a tech company in Kentucky, focusing on community support and the need for better fundraising education. Learn more about borderless at getborderless.com Visit us at MiddleTech.com Follow Us Twitter Instagram
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285. Endeavor: Jake Budler on the Positive Trend Line of Entrepreneurship in the Midwest
27/05/2024 Duration: 53minIn this episode, Logan and Evan sit down with Jake Budler, the Director of Entrepreneur Experience at Endeavor Midwest. They discuss various topics, including Jake's experience as a founder of a small business, the Indy Tech Tour, the strengths of the Midwest startup ecosystem, and the importance of building relationships. Jake emphasizes the value of in-person connections, the unique opportunities in the Midwest, and the need for founders to ask for help and advice. In the second part of the conversation, Jake Budler discusses the impact of trust-based relationship building and social currency in the startup world. He highlights the growth and success of Endeavor Midwest over the past 10 years, with entrepreneurs generating millions of dollars in revenue and creating thousands of jobs. Jake also emphasizes the importance of big exits and loud failures in the ecosystem, as they contribute to the growth and learning of future entrepreneurs. He shares a story of making a connection between Rabbit Hole, a bo
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284. Blue North: Dave Knox on The Future of Northern Kentucky’s Startup Scene
20/05/2024 Duration: 52minIn this episode of the Middle Tech Podcast, hosts Logan Jones and Evan Knowles sit down with Dave Knox, Executive Director of Blue North. They delve into the mission and impact of Blue North, part of the Kentucky Innovation Hub network, and explore how it serves as a vital connector for high-growth tech entrepreneurs in Northern Kentucky. Dave shares insights on the importance of creating supportive environments for entrepreneurs, the launch of SparkHouse, and the significance of mental health in the startup journey. Listen in to learn about the transformative initiatives driving Northern Kentucky’s entrepreneurial ecosystem forward. Learn more about Blue North at bluenorthky.com Visit us at MiddleTech.com Follow Us Twitter Instagram
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283. CleanSpace: Aram Street & Eric Griffin on Disrupting Traditional Cleaning
13/05/2024 Duration: 37minIn this episode, Logan sits down with Aram Street and Eric Griffin from the CleanSpace team, winners of the recent Five Across pitch competition. They explore their entrepreneurial journey, the inception of CleanSpace, and how they are innovating the cleaning service industry. The duo shares insights on their transition from offering a traditional service to developing a comprehensive tech-driven solution that caters to on-demand cleaning needs, reshaping how cleaning services are delivered. Learn more about CleanSpace at cleanspace.com Visit us at MiddleTech.com Follow Us Twitter Instagram Facebook
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282. RealizedCare (formerly BehaVR): Aaron Gani on Acquiring Fern Health, VR Therapeutics, & Digitized Healthcare
06/05/2024 Duration: 45minIn this episode, Aaron Gani, Founder and CEO of RealizedCare (formerly known as BehaVR, from episode 150), discusses the journey of building their VR therapeutics company and the recent acquisition of Fern Health. After acquiring Fern Health, BehaVR rebranded as RealizedCare as they broadened the scope of their technology to include more than VR. RealizedCare is a digital therapeutics company that digitizes evidence-based therapies to improve access to care and address the high cost of healthcare by providing treatments via virtual reality. Learn more about RealizedCare at RealizedCare.com Visit us at MiddleTech.com Follow Us Twitter Instagram Facebook
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281. Non-Competes Illegal and TikTok Ban
29/04/2024 Duration: 26minIn this episode, Logan and Evan delve into two major news stories that are shaping the business and technology landscape: the FTC's proposed ban on non-compete agreements and the potential ban or forced sale of TikTok in the United States. They kick off the discussion by exploring the FTC's initiative to restrict non-compete clauses, examining its potential economic impacts and the legal hurdles it may face. Logan argues that the ban could be an overreach by the FTC in how companies protect their intellectual property, while Evan counters that such agreements can suppress wage growth and limit opportunities for employees, highlighting the broad implications for both business owners and workers. Transitioning to the TikTok bill, they dissect the reasons behind the proposed legislation, focusing on concerns over Chinese ownership and control of the app. The hosts debate the implications of banning TikTok, weighing the arguments for safeguarding privacy and freedom of expression against national securit
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280. Chase Minnifield of EZOS on the Continuous Evolution and Expansion of the Kentucky Market
15/04/2024 Duration: 51minIn this episode, Evan and Logan interview Chase Minnifield, the CEO and co-founder of EZOS, a software platform for property management. Chase shares his journey from being an NFL player to becoming a successful entrepreneur. He started with a services-based company called Helping Hands and then transitioned to building Easy Turn, a software solution for property inspections and invoicing. Over time, Easy Turn evolved into EZOS, a comprehensive operating system for large commercial properties. Chase emphasizes the importance of selling a product while it's being built and continuously seeking customer feedback to improve and expand the offering. Chase Minifield discusses the decision to expand into the multifamily housing market and the challenges of raising capital. He emphasizes the importance of having the flexibility to build the product they want and the need for capital to reach their goals. Chase also highlights the unique position of his company in revolutionizing property management through the u
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279. Amanda Ralston of NonBinary Solutions on Pioneering Change in Neurodivergent Healthcare
08/04/2024 Duration: 39minIn this episode, Logan and Evan sit down with Amanda Ralston, founder of NonBinary Solutions. They explore her transition from applied behavior analysis to tech entrepreneurship, focusing on innovative solutions for neurodivergent conditions. Amanda discusses the challenges in standardizing autism treatment, her forthcoming SaaS product, and her unique approach to fundraising. The episode also delves into the importance of authenticity in entrepreneurship and using customer feedback in product development. Amanda shares insights into her mission to effect change in healthcare and technology and her goals for her company. Visit us at MiddleTech.com Follow Us Twitter Instagram Facebook
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278. Stevens Bonhomme of Feedcoyote: From Microsoft to the Startup World
01/04/2024 Duration: 40minIn this episode of the Middle Tech Podcast, Logan Jones and Evan Knowles welcome back Stevens Bonhomme, CEO of Feedcoyote, a platform connecting freelancers globally. Stevens discusses his transition from Microsoft to launching Feedcoyote, driven by a passion to solve freelancing challenges. He sheds light on the journey of creating and growing Feedcoyote, including moving to Kentucky for its vibrant startup ecosystem and winning major pitch competitions. Insights into building a diverse, global team and strategies for user growth and funding are shared. Stevens’ experience highlights the realities of entrepreneurship, from initial concept to establishing a thriving business in the competitive tech world. Visit us at MiddleTech.com Follow Us Twitter Instagram
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277. Brian Frey on the Intersection of AI and Copyright Law
25/03/2024 Duration: 58minIn this episode, Logan and Evan are joined by Professor Brian Frey, a law professor at the University of Kentucky's College of Law. They discuss the impact of artificial intelligence on copyright law, delving into the complexities and controversies surrounding AI's ability to generate texts, images, and videos. Frey shares insights into how AI challenges traditional notions of authorship and creativity, emphasizing how AI content lacks inherent meaning until consumed and interpreted by humans. The conversation also touches on the future of intellectual property rights in an AI-dominated landscape, exploring potential shifts from protecting specific works to valuing the brand associated with content creators. Frey's background in film art and his current role at UK provide a unique perspective on the intersection of technology, law, and creativity. Visit us at MiddleTech.com Follow Us
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276. Complet3D: Eric Sparks on the Transformative Power of 3D Printing
18/03/2024 Duration: 23minIn this episode, Logan and Evan explore the world of 3D printing with Eric Sparks, founder and CEO of Complet3D. Based in Lexington, Kentucky, Complet3D began by addressing the urgent need for PPE during the COVID-19 pandemic and has since expanded into various sectors. Eric discusses how 3D printing technology has evolved, sharing insights into its applications in healthcare, including how it saved time and costs in a critical surgery. The episode also covers the technology's integration into education, highlighting its role in project-based learning and curriculum development. Additionally, Eric touches on the economic benefits of 3D printing in manufacturing and its potential to revolutionize the industry. Throughout the discussion, Eric offers personal insights and experiences, demonstrating how 3D printing is transforming our approach to problem-solving across different fields. Visit us at MiddleTech.com Follow Us
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275. goTenna: Andrea Garrity & Jameson Morgan on Empowering Critical Connections Off-Grid
11/03/2024 Duration: 54minIn this episode, Logan and Evan welcome Andrea Garrity, Chief Growth Officer, and Jameson Morgan, Director of Partnerships from Gotenna. They discuss goTenna's transition from consumer-focused products to vital communication technologies in defense and emergency situations. The conversation explores the role of goTenna's mesh network radios in ensuring connectivity for first responders in challenging conditions, and how the company's shift has impacted national security and emergency preparedness. Andrea and Jameson also share insights into Gotenna's collaborations within the Kentucky startup ecosystem and discuss the wider importance of reliable communication during disasters. This episode provides a thorough look at the intersection of advanced communication technologies, startup dynamics, and emergency response infrastructure. Visit us at MiddleTech.com Follow Us Twitte
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274. Edelen Renewables: Adam Edelen on Bringing the Promise of Renewable Energy to Forgotten Places
04/03/2024 Duration: 01h03minIn this episode of Middle Tech Podcast, Logan Jones and Evan Knowles talk with Adam Edelen, CEO of Edelen Renewables. The discussion explores Adam's transition from Kentucky state government to renewable energy, focusing on his goal to introduce sustainable energy solutions to overlooked regions in America. The conversation covers the challenges of entrepreneurship in Kentucky, the role of renewable energy in economic development, and the importance of learning from failure. Adam shares insights on the renewable energy sector's growth, its impact on Kentucky, and the potential for innovation in energy technology. The episode also includes a dialogue on Kentucky's business environment and how it can better support entrepreneurs. Visit us at MiddleTech.com Follow Us Twitter Instagram
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273. AI Advancements: Sora’s Ai Generated Video, Google’s Gemini 1.5, and Nvidia’s Staggering Valuation
26/02/2024 Duration: 01h13minIn this episode, Logan Jones and Evan Knowles dive into the latest developments in the artificial intelligence space. They discuss the AI revolution, emphasizing NVIDIA's rise as a key player in the AI gold rush. The episode delves into the transformative impact of AI on media production, illustrating how tools like OpenAI's Sora are reshaping content creation. It also addresses the critical issues of AI ethics and safety, underscoring the importance of responsible AI deployment. Additionally, listeners will gain insights into the infrastructure behind AI advancements, with discussions on NVIDIA's strategic moves and Google's Gemini 1.5 model. This episode is a treasure trove of information for anyone interested in understanding and navigating the rapidly evolving world of AI. Visit us at MiddleTech.com Follow Us Twitter