In this episode of C2 Biz Growth, host John Hale III talks with Ursula Dudley Oglesby, President and CEO of Dudley Beauty Corporation, about transforming a $10 kitchen startup into a global multicultural beauty brand.

Ursula shares powerful lessons on entrepreneurship, leadership, innovation, and family legacy, revealing how Dudley Beauty continues to empower communities through purpose-driven growth. She discusses bootstrapping, technology in business, hiring for culture, and the company’s expansion into online retail and industrial markets.

Tune in to hear how faith, family, and strategy fuel long-term success in the beauty industry and beyond.

In this episode of C2 Biz Growth, host John Hale III welcomes Sophia Velastegui, a globally recognized leader in artificial intelligence, technology strategy, and corporate innovation. With senior leadership roles at Microsoft, Google, Apple, and Aptiv, Sophia brings unmatched expertise in integrating AI into organizations of all sizes.

She shares her journey from a mechanical engineering background to spearheading AI initiatives at some of the world’s largest tech companies. Together, they explore the evolution of AI, the rise of generative AI, and how CEOs and business leaders can strategically harness its potential. Sophia highlights the importance of trust, user adoption, and leadership in successfully navigating the AI landscape while underscoring why continuous learning and adaptability are vital in this fast-changing era.

Whether you are a business leader, innovator, or simply curious about how AI is reshaping industries, this conversation offers practical insights and forward-looking strategies to help you stay ahead.

In Episode 15 of C2 Biz Growth, host John Hale III sits down with Michael Downing, a Silicon Valley entrepreneur, investor, and CEO of MDSV Capital. With over 25 years of experience founding five software companies and investing in more than 65 early-stage startups, Michael offers an insider’s perspective on the evolving world of venture capital and business growth.

He unpacks the rise of emerging managers and micro funds, explains how smaller funds have consistently outperformed larger ones, and explores what startups must demonstrate to stand out in a crowded marketplace. Michael also shares his personal journey from a cattle ranch in Texas to leading multiple successful exits, as well as his perspective on AI’s transformative role in shaping the future of business.

Whether you’re a founder seeking funding, an aspiring investor, or simply interested in how venture capital is shifting, this episode provides invaluable insights into investment strategies, technology innovation, and the entrepreneurial mindset.