Leslie interviews Virginia Puccio, CEO of Fuel AI. They discuss Virginia's journey from working in tech to founding her own company, the importance of women in the AI space, and the ethical considerations in AI development. Virginia shares her insights on leadership, the challenges of building a startup, and how community ties influence her leadership style. The conversation emphasizes the need for diversity in tech and the role of everyday people in shaping AI.

About Our Guest

• Virgina Puccio, Co-Founder of Fuel AI
• Fuel AI website
• Connect with Virginia on LinkedIn
• Follow Fuel AI on LinkedIn

Key Takeaways

• Fuel AI aims to democratize the AI industry by allowing individuals to monetize their data.
• Women in tech can help reduce bias in AI systems.
• Leadership is about inspiring and rallying people, not just managing them.
• Building a startup involves continuous self-reinvention and learning.
• Community ties shape leadership styles and decision-making.
• Sports experience translates well into business leadership.
• Ethical considerations in AI are crucial for building trust.
• Transparency with users is essential for ethical AI practices.
• Everyday people can contribute to AI development through platforms like Fuel AI.

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Host Leslie Youngblood engages in a deep conversation with EJ Kim and Marina Pen, co-founders of NNABI, a wellness startup focused on supporting women through perimenopause. They discuss the concept of perimenopause as a 'second puberty,' the personal challenges they faced, and how they navigate leading a company while managing their health. The conversation emphasizes the importance of education, community support, and self-care for women in midlife, as well as the mission of NNABI to empower women during this transformative phase of life.

About Our Guests

• EJ Kim and Marina Pen, Co-Founders of NNABI
• Connect with EJ on LinkedIn
• Connect with Marina on LinkedIn
• NNABI website
  
  

Key Takeaways

• Perimenopause is often referred to as a second puberty, highlighting the need for education and support.
• Women often feel overwhelmed during perimenopause, mistaking symptoms for personal failings.
• Understanding perimenopause can lead to better management of symptoms and improved quality of life.
• Building a business while managing health challenges requires pacing and self-care.
• Leadership evolves with age and experience, leading to greater confidence and clarity.
• The health and wellness space often normalizes women's discomfort, which needs to change.
• Creating a supportive community is essential for women navigating perimenopause.
• Resilience and purpose drive the founders to continue their mission despite challenges.

Host Leslie Youngblood speaks with Mandana Milano, founder of Peony Talent, about the challenges and fears that come with entrepreneurship, particularly focusing on financial literacy and the necessity of rebuilding a business. They discuss the importance of facing financial fears, the value of active learning, and the need to adapt and evolve in response to market changes. Mandana shares her personal experiences of navigating financial uncertainty and the various phases of rebuilding her business, emphasizing the importance of staying true to one's mission and values while embracing change.

About Our Guest

• Mandana Mellano, founder of Peony Talent
• Peony Talent website
• Connect with Mandana on LinkedIn
• Follow Peony Talent on LinkedIn

Key Takeaways

• Financial literacy is crucial for entrepreneurs.
• Don't avoid financial discussions; lean into them.
• It's okay to feel overwhelmed by finances.
• Rebuilding is a necessary part of business growth.
• Trust your intuition when making business decisions.
• Active learning can change the trajectory of your business.
• Stay true to your mission while adapting to change.
• Change is scary, but it's also an opportunity for growth.
• You can learn from financial missteps; they are not failures.
• Bet on yourself and your abilities. You won't be disappointed.