Best NC IDEAs Podcasts (2025)

1
SBP#12 Founder to Advisor-Dan Wilson's Journey of Selling His Multi-Million Dollar Business to Helping Other Business Owners Plan Their Exit-Viking Mergers & Acquisitions 1:45:45

Play Pause

3h ago1:45:45

1:45:45

In this episode of the Stay Broke Podcast, we sit down with Dan Wilson, Managing Partner of Viking Mergers & Acquisitions and a man who’s lived every side of entrepreneurship — from the grind of startup life to the strategy of multimillion-dollar exits. Dan’s story begins in the U.S. Air Force, where discipline, structure, and leadership became the…

1
SBP#11 -75 Years of Small Business Success | Joe Kimray of B&W Hardware | Wake Forest, NC 2:04:42

7d ago2:04:42

2:04:42

In this episode of the Stay Broke Podcast, Randy Kerr sits down with Joe Kimray, co-owner of B&W Hardware — a 75-year-old Wake Forest landmark that’s now serving its fourth generation of customers. Joe shares what it’s like marrying into a multigenerational family business and learning how to “retrovate” — blending old-school service with new ideas…

1
The Geography of Opportunity | w/ Nathan Goldschlag | Ep. 27 38:24

2d ago38:24

38:24

We are excited to welcome Dr. Nathan Goldschlag, Director of Research at the Economic Innovation Group, to the Ecosysteming Podcast. His work sheds light on the forces shaping business dynamism, innovation, and economic opportunity in communities nationwide. Host Thom Ruhe and Dr. Goldschlag dive into Opportunity Zones, economic divides between nei…

1
Kingsdown Mattresses. Designer’s Guide To A Better Night’s Sleep. 38:34

2d ago38:34

38:34

Lori and George welcome mattress expert Craig Wilson from Kingsdown Mattresses, and discuss secrets on how to select the perfect mattress. Made in North Carolina customized comfort, using patented technology to ensure each individual gets the perfect sleep for their body type and sleeping style. Enjoy a casual conversation about the changing techno…

1
SBP#10 Leadership, Legacy & Community with Mayor Vivian Jones of Wake Forest 1:30:28

16d ago1:30:28

1:30:28

In this non-political episode, Mayor Vivian Jones shares how a shop owner’s perspective shaped her journey from running a downtown restaurant with her sister to serving Wake Forest as commissioner and then mayor. We cover the practical stuff founders need: navigating permits and renovations, activating underused spaces, façade and small-business gr…

1
SBP#9: From Selling Shoes to Shaping Mindsets | Ilia Kolosov (AIDA Dance USA) 1:16:35

19d ago1:16:35

1:16:35

When Ilia Kolosov first started selling ballroom dance shoes out of a duffel bag, he had no idea it would lead to an international brand. Today, as the founder of AIDA Dance USA and Ballroom Portal, Ilia has built a company grounded in discipline, integrity, and a deep passion for craftsmanship — but the path wasn’t easy. In this episode of the Sta…

1
The Myth of the Mega Deal | w/ Greg LeRoy | Ep. 26 39:04

22d ago39:04

39:04

Each year, state and local governments award nearly $90 billion in economic development subsidies to corporations. Greg LeRoy, Executive Director of Good Jobs First (GJF), knows this issue better than anyone. Dubbed “the leading national watchdog of state and local economic development subsidies,” Greg founded GJF in 1998. GJF is a full-service pol…

1
SBP#8 From Idea to Local Favorite: The Burger Shop Story with Jennifer Wood 1:42:13

1M ago1:42:13

1:42:13

In this episode of the Stay Broke Podcast, we sit down with Jennifer Wood, the owner of The Burger Shop in Wake Forest, NC, to share a story that’s about far more than food. Jennifer never planned to run a restaurant—she didn’t even like burgers. But life had other plans, and her journey from military wife and stay-at-home mom, to single mother, to…

1
SBP#7 Davis88 inspires by sharing the grind, growth, and genuine heart behind his journey 48:41

1M ago48:41

48:41

In this episode of the Stay Broke Podcast, we sit down with DAVIS88, a talented North Carolina artist who shares his inspiring journey from picking up a guitar for the first time to chasing his dream of becoming a full-time musician. From taking voice lessons and learning the ropes of the music industry to creating his first EP in Wilmington, NC, D…

1
Why North Carolina Is a Worthwhile Project w/ Rep. Dante Pittman | Ep. 25 35:14

1M ago35:14

35:14

By NC IDEA

1
Furniture Trends From The High Point Furniture Market and Designer Insights 45:26

1M ago45:26

45:26

By inspiringcharlotte

1
SBP#6 All About Ground Cover's solutions to small town problems: distribution and labor 1:04:35

1M ago1:04:35

1:04:35

Today we are venturing to western Pennsylvania to sit down with Paul McCall and Greg Mcneish, founders of All About Ground Cover INC. Learn how the built a successful nursery business in a small town. With creative solutions for distribution and labor; using available resources and partnering with the Amish.…

1
SBP #5 | Building Businesses & Communities: Brad Walker of Launch Wake Forest 2:05:21

2M ago2:05:21

2:05:21

Brad Walker sold the software company he and his wife built—then moved to Wake Forest, NC and doubled down on helping entrepreneurs. In this episode, Brad shares how he started Launch Wake Forest and Launch Rolesville through the Rotary Club, why he earned his real estate license to buy and sell commercial properties, and how teaching the Launch Wa…

1
SBP#4 Innovating an industry with Michael Donato Founder of KnifePurveyor.com 1:49:40

2M ago1:49:40

1:49:40

A detailed account of how Mike Donato created the revolutionary "Three-Pronged System" for evaluating top tier knives. Making Knife Purveyor the premier destination for collectors and enthusiasts of high-end custom and investment grade knives.

1
SBP#3 Collegiate Athlete to Award Winning Pool Cleaner and the Injury that Caused It All JD Broderick-JB's Pool Care 1:28:35

2M ago1:28:35

1:28:35

Go on a journey with JD owner/operator JB's Pool Care. A lesson in overcoming adversity and seeking opportunity. JD is proof that you can be recognized in any industry for being the best. Top 30 under 40 and Green to clean champion because of his focus on the customer experience. If a Tragic car accident couldn't steal his drive then nothing will.…

1
The Triangle Tweener Fund Strategy w/ Scot Wingo | Ep. 24 48:26

2M ago48:26

48:26

We are joined by Scot Wingo, General Partner of the Triangle Tweener Fund, Co-Founder and CEO of ReFiBuy.ai, and longtime Podcaster. Having successfully started and exited multiple companies, he has become a champion of the Triangle’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, supporting founders and fueling growth in countless ways. In 2015, Scot created the Tria…

1
SBP#2 Capstone Design Group Founder Michael Chase 1:12:58

2M ago1:12:58

1:12:58

Discussing market trends, the customer experience, and getting outside your comfort zone to gear up for expansion

1
SBP#1 Turning 1 location into 10 Wash World Laundry Founder Josh Ridinger Stay Broke Podcast 1:16:03

2M ago1:16:03

1:16:03

Josh Ridinger, Owner of Wash World Laundry shares his journey of change the laundry industry. From coming up with the idea while obtaining his masters to purchasing his first location. Now building his fourth location, But planning his tenth. with a goal of building 6 mor locations over the next 5 years.…

1
How He Won $125K from NC IDEA w/ Bernard Worthy | Ep. 23 43:07

2M ago43:07

43:07

If you’re an aspiring founder eager to understand how to leverage your local ecosystem, this episode is for you. Episode 23 of Ecosysteming features Bernard Worthy, Co-Founder and CEO of LoanWell. As both an NC IDEA SEED ($50K) and NC BEC Growth ($75K) grantee, Bernard offers a powerful perspective on how local resources and networks can shape entr…

1
Exploring the World of Upholstery Fabrics 1:01:06

3M ago1:01:06

1:01:06

This month George and Lori with Goods Home Furnishings discuss the finer details of upholstery fabrics. They explore the new trends in durable, indoor fabrics, as well as the many changes in beautiful outdoor fabrics that are making their way into the home . With special guest Tara Albrecht From Valdese Weavers you’ll get a peek at the magic that g…

1
America the Entrepreneurial w/ Victor W. Hwang | Ep. 22 42:44

3M ago42:44

42:44

Episode 22 of Ecosysteming is here! This week, host Thom Ruhe sits down with Victor W. Hwang, Founder & CEO of Right to Start, for a powerful conversation on entrepreneurship as a fundamental right and what it will take to level the playing field for everyone. Victor is a seasoned entrepreneur who has launched multiple companies, organizations, and…

1
How to Build an Ecosystem that Builds Back w/ Nicola Corzine | Ep. 21 33:52

3M ago33:52

33:52

On this episode of Ecosysteming, we are thrilled to feature Nicola Corzine, CEO and Executive Director of the Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center. As the founding leader of this nonprofit dedicated to expanding access and knowledge in entrepreneurship, Nicola brings over 18 years of experience in venture investment, entrepreneurship, and nonprofit leader…

1
Designer Insights into Furniture Trends and Inspiring Ideas For Your Home 44:14

4M ago44:14

44:14

Welcome to the debut episode of Inspiring Charlotte, the official podcast from Goods Home Furnishings in Pineville, NC. Hosts Lori Zannino and George Plumides share their unique journeys into interior design and discuss the evolution of Charlotte’s hottest neighborhoods. Learn about current furniture trends, performance fabrics, custom upholstery, …

1
Why Society Values Diversity to Win, Not to Share w/ Farad Ali | Ep. 20 46:05

3M ago46:05

46:05

Our 20th episode of Ecosysteming is here! Join host Thom Ruhe for a thoughtful conversation with Farad Ali—business leader, executive consultant, community builder, and passionate advocate for equity. Farad has spent his career advancing the economic empowerment of underrepresented communities and currently serves on several influential boards. In …

1
Taking Cutting-Edge Research to Market w/ Paul J. Corson | Ep. 19 49:35

4M ago49:35

49:35

This week on Ecosysteming we are joined by Paul Corson. With nearly three decades of experience pursuing entrepreneurial initiatives across the U.S., Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, and Asia, Paul’s work spans the public and private sectors, NGOs, and higher education. His journey has taken him from startups to shaping public policy at the …

1
Community Is the New Currency w/ Laura Smailes | Ep. 18 44:35

4M ago44:35

44:35

In Episode 18 of Ecosysteming, we are joined by Laura Smailes, Relationship Manager at Everblue and former Assistant Director of Charlotte’s Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation (CEI). A longtime NC IDEA MICRO reviewer, Laura has helped shape Charlotte’s entrepreneurial landscape by supporting students, faculty, and community partners in deve…

1
From Entrepreneur to a New Kind of Mayor w/ Mayor Leonardo Williams | Ep. 17 46:48

5M ago46:48

46:48

In this episode of Ecosysteming, host Thom Ruhe speaks with Mayor Leonardo Williams of Durham, North Carolina, about leadership, economic development, entrepreneurship, and the untold story behind his viral speech at the 2024 Democratic National Convention. Mayor Williams reflects on his journey—from music teacher to entrepreneur to public office—a…

1
#3: Queens Who Shaped History — From Thrones to Modern Parallels 7:44

5M ago7:44

7:44

Welcome to Season 1, Episode 3 of Shakespeare’s Quills! 🎙️ 👑 Warrior. Diplomat. Trailblazer. In this episode, we uncover the untold stories of six legendary female rulers—from Cleopatra to Hatshepsut—and draw bold connections to modern leaders like Angela Merkel and Greta Thunberg. Join Archana, Andrea, and Cypher as we reframe history through a fe…

1
What Two Decades in the NC Ecosystem Taught Him w/ David Baxter | Ep. 16 33:49

6M ago33:49

33:49

We are thrilled to welcome David Baxter, Chief Pixel and Strategist at Big Pixel, to this week’s episode of Ecosysteming. Big Pixel is a fully US-based strategic design and development firm that specializes in UX, startups, and a little bit of magic. Their mission? Helping businesses get to the core of what they truly want to achieve. As the leader…

1
Resilience, Recovery, and a Shot of Optimism w/ Jeffrey Kaplan | Ep. 15 43:28

6M ago43:28

43:28

Navigating a natural disaster is no easy feat — and our friends in Western North Carolina are still grappling with the lasting effects of Hurricane Helene. In this episode, we are joined by ECOSYSTEM partner Jeffrey Kaplan, CEO of Optimist Ventures and Director of Venture Asheville. With deep experience in the entrepreneurial landscape, Jeffrey and…

1
#2: The Future of Education (pt. 2) — Student Ideas 5:07

6M ago5:07

5:07

Welcome to Season 1, Episode 2 of Shakespeare’s Quills! 🎙️ What if school wasn’t about tests and textbooks? In this episode of Shakespeare’s Quills, Maryam, Madeeha, and Cypher explore bold new ideas for education—personalized learning, immersive tech like AR and VR, and the importance of creativity and student voice in shaping the classroom of tom…

1
The Blue Economy Boom w/ Heather McWhorter | Ep. 14 44:15

7M ago44:15

44:15

In this episode of Ecosysteming, we welcome our friend and #ECOSYSTEM partner Heather McWhorter, Director of the UNCW Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship. Host Thom Ruhe and Heather dive into her journey to Wilmington, NC, and the incredible growth of the region’s coastal startup ecosystem. They explore the rising tide of the Blue Economy—an…

1
Why Empathy Is the Most Valuable Currency w/ Liz S. Brigham | Ep. 13 47:07

7M ago47:07

47:07

It’s not every day you get a masterclass in leadership and team building. On this week’s episode of Ecosysteming, host Thom Ruhe is joined by Liz S. Brigham for an insightful conversation on leading with purpose. As the W. Spencer Mitchem Executive Director of The Hurt Hub@Davidson and an NC IDEA #ECOSYSTEM partner, Liz brings deep experience to No…

1
Is Your Startup Ready for a $50M Fund? w/ Tim McLoughlin | Ep. 12 43:37

7M ago43:37

43:37

On this week’s episode of Ecosysteming, host Thom Ruhe talks with Tim McLoughlin, Managing Partner at Cofounders Capital. Tim’s connection to NC IDEA dates back to 2015 when he served as a Young Entrepreneur in Residence—now known as a Startup Analyst Associate. Since then, he’s become an active investor and advisor to several companies across the …

1
Strengthening Trust in Our Communities w/ José Alvarez | Ep. 11 44:58

8M ago44:58

44:58

Another episode of Ecosysteming with our host, Thom Ruhe, featuring Prospera USA Vice President José Alvarez . In this special episode, we explore Prospera’s expansion to North Carolina and why they chose our state as their next hub for empowering Hispanic entrepreneurs. As an NC IDEA board member, #ECOSYSTEM partner, and #SEED core reviewer, José …

1
The Blueprint for a Thriving Entrepreneurial Ecosystem w/ Jim Roberts | Ep. 10 49:28

8M ago49:28

49:28

To mark ten episodes of Ecosysteming, host Thom Ruhe is joined by Jim Roberts, Founder of the Network for Entrepreneurs in Wilmington, the WALE Angel Network, and NC IDEA ECOSYSTEM partner. With years of experience as an ecosystem leader and NC IDEA reviewer, Jim has contributed to several entrepreneurial ecosystems and now focuses on supporting Wi…

1
The Fabric of Our Economy w/ Anne Wiper | Ep. 9 49:44

9M ago49:44

49:44

In this episode of Ecosysteming, host Thom Ruhe speaks with Anne Wiper, CEO of The Textile Engine: NSF Regional Innovation Engine. They discuss her accomplished career at Nike, Salomon, Pearl Izumi, Smartwool, and beyond, leading up to her work accelerating innovation in textile sustainability and circularity. Learn how rural North Carolina is uniq…

1
How to Submit a Strong NC IDEA Grant Application w/ Frank Pollock | Ep. 8 40:27

9M ago40:27

40:27

Episode 8 of Ecosysteming features host Thom Ruhe in conversation with Frank Pollock, Co-Founder of Home Lending Pal and a leader in other roles. As a former NC IDEA SEED ($50K) grant recipient and a reviewer for both MICRO ($10K) and SEED ($50K), Frank offers unique insights into the grant process. Recently named one of four regional Entrepreneurs…

1
Why NC Founders Look Elsewhere for Funding w/ Lauren McCullough | Ep. 7 34:01

10M ago34:01

34:01

In this episode of Ecosysteming, host Thom Ruhe speaks with Tromml CEO and Co-Founder Lauren McCullough. As both an NC IDEA MICRO ($10K) and SEED ($50K) grant recipient and a former Program Director at NC IDEA, Lauren brings a unique perspective to the table. Together, they dive into the current state of North Carolina’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, …

1
The Power of an Entrepreneurial Mindset w/ Gary Schoeniger | Ep. 6 42:20

10M ago42:20

42:20

In the first episode of Ecosysteming for 2025, host Thom Ruhe sits down with his long-time friend and ELI Founder and CEO, Gary Schoeniger. Together, they explore the underlying beliefs and assumptions that drive entrepreneurial behavior. A world-renowned expert on mindset, Gary authored Who Owns the Ice House: Eight Life Lessons from an Unlikely E…

1
What Makes NC's Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Unique w/ Krista Covey | Ep. 5 41:15

11M ago41:15

41:15

This week on Ecosysteming, host Thom Ruhe sits down with Krista Covey, President and CEO of First Flight Venture Center. A seasoned ecosystem leader, Krista serves on the NC IDEA board and is a Founding Advisory Board Member for Carry Venture Capital. With a proven track record of building and leading award-winning innovation hubs in North Carolina…

1
How AI is Shaping our Legal System w/ Sonja Ebron | Ep. 4 40:16

12M ago40:16

40:16

Join host Thom Ruhe for a conversation with Dr. Sonja Ebron, CEO and Co-Founder of Courtroom5, to explore AI's impact on the legal system. Courtroom5 equips self-represented litigants with the resources they need to navigate the U.S. civil court system. Dr. Ebron, an NC IDEA SEED and NC BEC GROWTH grantee and a member of the NC IDEA Board, shares i…

1
#1: The Future of Education – Comparing Global Systems 16:15

12M ago16:15

16:15

Welcome to Season 1, Episode 1 of Shakespeare’s Quills! 🎙️ In this episode, we take a deep dive into "The Future of Education", exploring and comparing education systems from around the globe. Join us as we discuss the unique features, strengths, and challenges of these systems. 📝 Topics Covered: What makes each education system unique Strengths an…

1
Why Investing in Ourselves Beats Corporate Handouts w/ Tom Snyder | Ep. 3 52:53

12M ago52:53

52:53

In Episode 3 of Ecosysteming, host Thom Ruhe sits down with Executive Director of RIoT, ECOSYSTEM partner, and long-time friend, Tom Snyder. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on why investing in homegrown entrepreneurs is more impactful than offering economic incentives to attract industry giants. Together, they explore strategies to str…

1
Water Conservation: How Do You Do It? 7:15

1y ago7:15

7:15

How can we conserve water?💙 💙💙💙💙In this episode of Shakespeare's Quills, hosts Andrea and Archana, along with guests Fatima, Zeen, and Maryam, explore practical ways to conserve water in daily life. They discuss simple tips for saving water in the bathroom and kitchen, efficient gardening practices, and strategies for families and students to reduc…

1
Innovative Transport Solutions for India's Future 2:00

1y ago2:00

2:00

How can you solve India’s traffic and pollution problem? 💚💚 In this episode of Shakespeare's Quills, host Andrea, joined by guest Ameena, explores the exciting changes in India's transportation system focusing on innovative solutions for overcoming challenges such as traffic, pollution, and urbanization. Topics include the rise of electric vehicles…

1
How She's Revolutionizing Women's Healthcare w/ Leah Wyrick | Ep. 2 37:32

1y ago37:32

37:32

In this episode of Ecosysteming, host Thom Ruhe sits down with NC IDEA MICRO ($10K) and SEED ($50K) grantee Leah Wyrick, founder of Three Strands Recovery Wear. Leah shares her journey as a founder from Winston-Salem, NC, and how her mother’s battle with breast cancer inspired her to develop an innovative recovery bra that is transforming the heali…

1
Valli: A Deeper Analysis 2:21

1y ago2:21

2:21

Events that showcases Valli's character traits that provides an in depth analysis of how Valli's actions and dialogues reveal her personality, using textual evidences.

1
Madam Rides the Bus — Themes and Significance 2:57

1y ago2:57

2:57

Explore Themes and Significance of Madam Rides the Bus by Vallikkannan from the perspective of a bunch of teenagers 👍

1
This Thing of Ours w/ John Austin | Ep. 1 37:02

1y ago37:02

37:02

In the debut episode of Ecosysteming, NC IDEA CEO and host Thom Ruhe sits down with long-time friend, retired colleague, and self-appointed NC IDEA historian, John Austin. Together, they explore the evolution of North Carolina’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and reflect on the nearly 20-year history of the Foundation. They also discuss today’s entrepre…