Successfully Funded

Fresh off the sale of Mommybites, an online resource for expectant parents, Rebecca Dixon invested her background in media sales and community building in the*gameHERS, a long-overdue social-networking platform for female gamers. A lifelong fan of math, Rebecca breaks down the essential formula that inspires their crowdfund: in terms of the overall market value, gaming > 2(music + movies). We talk about how their community has grown to over 600,000 in under three years (hint: talk to them), setting an entrepreneurial example for her tween daughters, and the perplexing double standard of how moms and dads are judged as parents.

"When you're with Nixplay, you're not the product," says CEO Mark Palfreeman, whose subscribers retain secure ownership of every photo they share using smart digital picture frames and a mobile app intuitive enough for every family member to use. Nixplay is also a personal passion for Mark, who spends most of his time seven time zones away from his wife and children. Now that Nixplay has amassed $330 million in lifetime revenue and a community of over 3 million users, Mark (and COO Joel Durbridge) discuss their new Reg A crowdfund, setting aside time in his calendar every day to talk to his kids, and why boarding school didn't turn him into a looney.

Simple Labs CEO Mike Slone grew up in Louisville, where bourbon distillers accept losing the "angel's share" as the cost of doing business. When he saw California vintners facing the same problem, he created the Cogni — a wireless, barrel-aging monitor that finally gives centuries-old winemaking techniques a high-tech upgrade — which saves enough precious product to pay for itself within six months. We talk about the success of the Simple Labs crowdfund, finding the mentors he needed to build his business plan, and how developing the Cogni during COVID saved him from binge-watching Tiger King.

Pneumeric CEO and Chief Medical Officer Johnathon Aho grew up in the shadow of the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, but it wasn't until he began studying engineering at Michigan Tech that he decided he wanted more in his life than writing code. So he pivoted to medicine, returned to Mayo, and in 2017 developed Capnospot, a visual detection device for treating collapsed lungs. We talk about why the usual therapy (listening for a gush of air from the chest cavity) fails as much as half the time, his 20 or so patents, Midwestern frugality, and why so much of a physician's life involves dealing with human goop. 

Kristian Hansen and Marshall Conley are building the slø jeans empire almost entirely on a massive TikTok platform, which provides constant crowdsourcing, propels their marketing, and accounts for over $10 million in estimated revenue potential. And their non-gendered, made-to-order denim is just the start. We talk about applying their "fash-tech" business plan into other clothing lines that need an upgrade, balancing their efforts with carbon offsets, and re-creating a time when quality merchandise was worth waiting for. 

Moments after Dan O'Toole hatched the idea of Dronedek — a versatile, secure receptacle for autonomous delivery systems that protects against the 1.7 million packages that are stolen every day — he called his patent attorney. And three years later, when the patent came through, he learned he had beaten Amazon by four days. Buoyed by the success of his second crowdfund (which has raised nearly $500,000), Dan has big plans for re-shaping consumer behavior, lowering the world's carbon footprint, and announcing a name change that's soon to Arrive.

Kettle is the result of the right pivot with the right idea at the right time. Originally hatched as a workspace broker, Kettle emerged from the pandemic as a hybrid workspace management software platform whose equity crowdfund has already raised over $1.72 million. We talk with CEO Nick Iovacchini about the massive new market opportunity of redefining work, why his baseball career influenced his entrepreneurial skills, why most employees value their time over their compensation, and the perils of "anticipointment."

After spending most of his life in and out of wheelchairs, GOGOTECH CEO John DeBenedette talks about why he developed ABBY in order to end 40 years of stagnant design and soaring prices. (Check out the ABBY crowdfund here.) And the accolades for ABBY's high-tech and lower-cost design keep coming, most recently from Melinda French Gates. We talk about how living in a wheelchair changes your perspective, his deep respect for assisted caregivers, and the sympathy he still has for the truck driver who nearly sheared his leg off.

The term "accredited investor" means nothing to Chris Lustrino, who knows firsthand that analyzing private companies is literally not rocket science. He created KingsCrowd as a data company designed to map an analyst's talents and instincts for investing in public companies onto the very different playing field of private equity. We talk about the blog that kick-started his career, how equity crowdfunding might function in a bear market, and life as "a capable quant with an empathetic, human side."

Bruce Berkoff is one of that rare breed of scientist marketers who enjoys the discovery almost as much as he enjoys telling people about it. And as CMO of Lightsense Technology, his job is to spread the word about the crowdfund for his company's miniature, handheld spectrometer platforms that are helping solve some major problems in public health, including detecting opioids, viral pathogens, and bacterial pathogens. We talk about his extensive expertise in physics, biophysics, and business development, raising his kids in Korea, and the mud puddle that sent him westward.

CEO Jake Whitman named his company Really Good Boxed Wine because that's what it is: top-quality wine in 100% recyclable packaging with half the environmental impact of glass bottles. And his branding experience at P&G must have paid off, because the RGBW crowdfund has raised nearly $1.3 million. In our first double-guest interview, he and COO Amy Troutmiller, a career hospitality/beverage executive and credentialed sommelier, discuss their complementary partnership, why wine has a longer life in their airtight packaging, and why Cincinnati and Charlotte should duke it out to determine who gets to call itself the Queen City.

If your podcast just languishes on a dead RSS feed, does it really exist? YouTube and TikTok use algorithms to help consumers discover new content, but podcasters can't build audiences the same way because the platforms are too busy promoting their expensive talent. CEO Amit Kukreja has created the solution with Audea, a search engine that uses proprietary data and IP to help the spoken word go viral. We talk about his content strategies, debating his older sister, and why the Audea crowdfund wouldn't exist without Michael Jackson.

After 14 years of investment banking, Sam Payrovi has launched ArkHAUS, a fleet of 40-foot electric boats that connect to form a network of next-generation floating social clubs. Part SoHo House and part WeWork, ArkHAUS will be scalable in waterways all over the world, and its "Party Up Top, Research Down Below" program generates free electricity for researchers studying the water's ecosystem. We talk about grinding it out at Bear Stearns. his new pals at the Coast Guard, and why he never had the temperament to be the doctor his parents wanted. 

On his wife's birthday last year, Vijay Chetty asked himself: Why can't all mail be digital? And why do businesses spend $1.6 trillion on direct-mail campaigns, most of which end up unread in landfills? His answer is Zipinmail: By assigning a cloud-based mailbox to every residential, commercial, and P.O. Box., it will cut marketers' mailing costs by 90% and save 400 million trees every year. We talk about the huge potential upside for crowdfund investors, his first impressions of America as a student in Alabama, and achieving what has eluded the Postal Service for decades.

Peter Clark developed his work ethic as the third of 11 children of a dad who, at 68, still climbs trees as part of his arborist business. Clark and his co-founder Jerusha Greenwald created the SoAct app to harness that energy into helping like-minded activists organize for social good. We talk about the revenue plans around subscriptions, merchandise, and fundraising, the challenges of expanding the app based on the feedback from their thousands of users, and why New Jersey is the best state in the union. 

As 5G technology becomes more prevalent, so too have studies linking cellphone radiation with cancer and other health problems. Lambs has emerged as a health-and-wellness and tech firm that specializes in fabrics that protect us from that radiation. We talk to CEO Arthur Menard de Calenge about Lambs's successful crowdfund, growing up in France, and marketing serious topics with humor. 

Inspired by his long career in IT services, Matt DeVico built Dteckt (including its core product, Persona Monitoring), with a specific eye toward serving the customers who need the most help understanding cybersecurity threats. His strategy for finding market share in such a crowded space is to market personal safety, rather than resort to the over-present fearmongering. We talk about the software ecosystems that are most secure (and most vulnerable), taking inspiration from his father's mentorship, and his frank assessment of his crowdfunding experience. 

Shawn Wehan spent 17 years as a lay minister in the Roman Catholic Church before starting Givsum, an all-in-one platform that nonprofits and service clubs can use for online donations, volunteer management, event ticketing, memberships, and more. The transition to a profit-based model was seamless, because the volume-based model has already signed over 700 Rotary Clubs throughout the country. We talk about the nuance and critical thinking of Jesuit teachings, how to compartmentalize startups and family, and building a business in paradise.

Soon after he started his first spirits company in 2011, Adam von Gootkin (whose name anagrams to "Gonna Omit Vodka") learned his family's interest in potent potables dates back to the 1800s and includes his great-grandfather's speakeasy during Prohibition. We talk about how Highclere Castle Gin began with a cold email to Highclere Castle, how marketing a super-premium brand requires building an emotional experience with the customer, and how his childhood informs his instincts for balancing entrepreneurship and family.

After careers as a journalist at CNN and an environmental lobbyist, Gary Skulnik started his career as a serial entrepreneur in sustainable energy. His latest company is Neighborhood Sun, which dramatically expands access to solar power by connecting providers with local customers without the need to install rooftop panels. He shares his strategies behind his equity raise (which currently sits at around $1.7 million), how J-school prepared him to communicate as a CEO, and why he's glad he didn't follow his dad's advice to become a lawyer.

Acquire Invest represents the sum total of the skill sets Brian Harstine has built creating companies, managing wealth, and studying Web 3 and blockchain. By tokenizing investments into smart shares, Acquire will train retail investors to use its upcoming app, due later this year, and its transparent, real-time data to get access to investments normally reserved for accredited investors. We talk about Nashville as a burgeoning financial hub, the many life metaphors of golf, and how he'll know he's succeeded when his mom is a daily active user.

As a college student, Chris Dooley learned that a mechanical engineer's job is to solve problems every day. And after running Marvel's Toy Biz division and leading the Roomba's marketing campaign, his fifth startup venture, Puraclenz, is a three-pound filter that can clean the indoor air and exposed surfaces of mold and viruses in a 3,000-square-foot room. We talk about his childhood in Hong Kong (where "everything's a startup") and how his five kids have inspired his 80 (eight-zero!) inventions.

As a child in Trinidad, Trevor Castor read everything -- often at night, by lantern light after the power grid failed. When he had to learn to swim, he taught himself with a book. After years of research into the healthful effects of cannabis, his third company, Aphios Pharma, has patented a nanotechnology drug-delivery platform that helps patients with cancer, infectious diseases, and central nervous system disorders absorb and maintain the pain maintenance of cannabis six to eight times more efficiently.

When he graduated high school at 16 and launched his performing career in his native Venezuela, Daniel established his ability to set a goal and work relentlessly to achieve it. We discuss how his experience and influences as an actor, writer, director, and producer in New York City led to his current role as an L.A.-based entrepreneur and founder of happiTV, the streaming service made by and for members of the LGBTQ+ community.

As Ecco Bella launches Boon Broth, the first vegan alternative to the $1 billion bone broth market, Sally discusses her early roots as an animal rights activist and debunks a few myths about bone broth (and describes how Boon Broth supersedes it in quality). We also outline her plans for expansion and salute her husband, on whom she tests every recipe.

Kickbooster’s Pledge Manager leverages the checkout built by parent company, Bold Commerce, to provide creators and backers with a reliable and secure transaction experience.

Pledge Manager also aims to address some of the common complaints creators have about similar products on the market. Kickbooster focuses on a performance-based pricing model, structuring its fees around the funds raised in Kickbooster instead of charging a fee based on the funds raised during the crowdfunding campaign— an approach that is notably different from competing products. The software company also excludes shipping from its fee calculation, something creators are dinged on during their campaign and after with most other pledge management solutions.

Pledge Manager has been in a closed beta for the past few months and is now open for public access. Creators can learn more and register to use the product by visiting kickbooster.me/pledgemanager.

On episode 231 of Successfully Funded, I got to talk with Sophie Saget from the Kickstarter campaign Ewilan’s Quest. Ewilan’s Quest will be an animated series. This means that each episode’s plot will connect with the following episode’s plot over one, two, or even three seasons.

Currently, they are in the first stage of the project, and that’s the development stage. Sophie talks about tackling the task of adapting Pierre Bottero’s work into episodes for the series, writing narrative arcs, and laying out the graphics.

On episode 229 of Successfully Funded - a rebroadcast of episode 202, complete with new intro and musical guest - I spoke with Hannah Forbes from the Indiegogo campaign, QuenchSea: Turn Seawater into Freshwater. QuenchSea is a groundbreaking, low-cost, portable, manually powered device that instantly turns seawater into drinkable freshwater. It is the world’s only low-cost portable seawater desalination device, and it is the ultimate survival tool! Check out their Indiegogo campaign today. Listen to the end for musical guest the Erers!

Episode 228 is a rebroadcast of an episode when we talked with Josh Ledgard, founder of KickoffLabs. KickoffLabs helps you grow your audience so you can reach new customers. They believe in simple tools that create smarter campaigns to amplify your audience by delivering higher conversion rates and social engagement. Their goal is to help established businesses grow and new businesses to launch. Any dumb tool can generate a landing page for you. But running a smarter campaign with KickoffLabs creates engagement and delivers more return on investment than traditional techniques. Their campaigns leverage the combined power of conversion-focused landing pages and widgets, social media referrals for increased virality, and regular follow-up through email. Check out their awesome product here! And listen all the way to the end for musical guests Volcano and the New Radio Standard!

On episode 225 of Successfully Funded, I got to talk with Teo Son about the Indiegogo campaign, Olive Pro: 2-in-1 Hearing Aids & Bluetooth Earbuds. These wireless earbuds combine brilliant speech understanding and automated background noise cancellation to bring true, ultra-crisp sound quality for better music listening, clearer conversations, and less noise. Olive Pro is tuned to capture 99.8% of sounds within the hearing range, without distortion, and offers sound modes that can be adjusted to your environment. Olive Pro also gives a personalized music experience for different levels of hearing loss. Check out the Indiegogo campaign today!

On episode 224 of Successfully Funded, I got to talk with Kyle Sellers about the Kickstarter Campaign, EPIC New ROCK SUGAR Album! Beyond MASHUPS, Beyond COVERS... Rock Sugar takes the best and biggest pop hits of the 80's (and with the new album, pop hits all the way up to today!) and mashes them up with hard rock and heavy metal classics! Throw in the fact that it's fronted by Jess Harnell, the voice of your childhood (Animaniacs, Transformers, Crash Bandicoot, Rick and Morty), and Rock Sugar truly is a one of a kind experience! Check out the Kickstarter Campaign Today!

Kyle's Domain: CrowdfundMBA.com/Jeff

On episode 223 of Successfully Funded, I got to talk with Mike Drez from Brightside Innovations about their Indiegogo Campaign, Zumy: Pro Studio Quality Light For Video Meetings. Zumy is the portable, clip-on light to help you look brilliant in Zoom meetings, videos, and pics. Zumy attaches directly to your laptop for more confident and clear video meetings. You're no longer tethered to your lamp or ring light. Zumy allows you to roam around the house and still have great lighting! Zoom better anywhere! Check out the Indiegogo Campaign Today!

On episode 222 of Successfully Funded, I got to talk with Martin Willers from Transparent about their Kickstarter Campaign, Light Speaker — A portable sound and light experience. The Light Speaker is a portable bluetooth speaker inspired by a traditional lantern. It has a simple and functional form. The light feels like a real flame, glowing together with your music. The Light Speaker features their signature ‘Transparent sound’ meaning it's tuned to channel the true intention of the artist. It has a big, open, omnidirectional sound delivering rich bass, stable mid tones and crisp high notes. Check out their Kickstarter Campaign Today!

On episode 221 of Successfully Funded, Shawn got to talk with Roshan Thomas from the Indiegogo Campaign, Biktrix Juggernaut HD Duo: Ultimate Range E-Bike. This is an extreme performance eBike with 1500W mid-drive motor & 2002Wh battery. Up to 35 mph & 200-mile range. With the Biktrix Juggernaut, you can go as far as you desire—and never worry about range. C-NET is quoted, “This is the e-bike that will get you to the mountain top.” Check out their Indiegogo Campaign Today!

On episode 220 of Successfully Funded, I got to talk with Cleve Oines from the Kickstarter Campaign MÄNNKITCHEN Pepper Cannon: The Pepper Mill for Pepper Lovers. With the Pepper Cannon, you can pepper your steak in 7 cranks instead of 70. At up to 10x the output of top-rated pepper mills, the Pepper cannon produces extravagant quantities of fresh ground pepper. The Pepper Cannon is precision engineered to produce the widest range of ground pepper at the fastest speed.  It's a quantum leap forward in pepper milling. Does the Pepper Cannon look like a million bucks? Of course it does. It performs even better.  Check out their Kickstarter Campaign today!

On episode 219 of Successfully Funded, I got to talk with Filip Mierzwa & Simon Köstler from the Kickstarter Campaign STUR Skillet: The German Cast-Iron Skillet - Made to Last. The STUR Skillet is your new everyday pan: replace your non-stick skillets with smoother & lighter cast iron that lasts forever. 100% made in Germany, it’s amazingly durable: The STUR Skillet is produced in Germany from one piece of cast iron. Cast with the highest precision and machined on the bottom as well as the inside, its robust material resists heat deformation and won’t leave you gripping a wobbly handle. It’s built for everyday cooking and made to last. Check out their Kickstarter Campaign Today!

On episode 218 of Successfully Funded, Shawn got to talk with Adam Leeb from the Indiegogo Campaign Traveler: Ultimate Distraction-Free Writing Tool. Say goodbye to writer's block! Traveler is the only device designed to help you focus on writing. Whether it's your novel, screenplay, or blog, write wherever you go. Traveler removes the ability to get distracted. There isn’t a web browser, email client, or even any notifications which means all that energy required to resist temptation is now freed for a more useful purpose, your writing. The effect is real, and it works. Check out their Indiegogo Campaign Today!

On episode 217 of Successfully Funded, I got to talk with Matt MacDonald from The Classic Crime about their Kickstarter Campaign, The Classic Crime's 7th Full-Length Studio Album. The campaign for LP7 is like LP6 (Patterns in the Static) in that it begins without any songs written. The goal is the same, to invite the audience into the songwriting process! The Classic Crime is looking into 2021 with their new record. New Year. New Songs. New Stuff. Check out their Kickstarter Campaign Today!

On episode 216 of Successfully Funded, I got to talk with Juan Garcia Mansilla from the company Unit 1 Gear about their Kickstarter campaign, FARO by UNIT 1: A Sleek, Visibility-First Smart Helmet. FARO is a smart helmet that delivers style, safety and comfort with a state-of-the-art light system, ventilation, MIPS and fall detection. Helmets aren’t exactly stylish. Unit 1 Gear set out to design an urban helmet that is safe, comfortable & ventilated but also sleek & stylish. FARO by UNIT 1 is a smart Helmet you'll actually want to wear. Check out their Kickstarter Today!

On episode 215 of Successfully Funded, I got to talk with Brad Ellis from Wyvern Gaming about their Kickstarter campaign, Stargate SG-1 Roleplaying Game. Stargate SG-1 Roleplaying Game is a sci-fi tabletop game where you assume the role of a member of Stargate Command on a Stargate Team. The world of Stargate SG-1 is perfect for a tabletop roleplaying game. Every time you play, you can step through the gate and wind up in nearly any type of environment. Do you want to save Earth? The Galaxy? You can! Check out their Kickstarter Today!

On episode 214 of Successfully Funded, I got to talk with Jason Miceli from the company Phase Shift Games about their Kickstarter campaign, Dungeon Drop: Dropped Too Deep and Tavern Tales. Dungeon Drop is a dungeon crawler for 1-4 players, playable in 15 to 20 minutes. Prepare to drop deeper with an epic expansion to the premier "drop-style" tabletop game. Then complete your story with Tavern Tales! Your Epic Journey Awaits!  Check out their Kickstarter Today!

On episode 213 of Successfully Funded, I got to talk with Keith Matejka from the company Thunderworks Games about their Kickstarter campaign, Cartographers Heroes + 3 Map Pack Expansions. This is the stand-alone follow up to the critically acclaimed map-drawing game - Cartographers: A Roll Player Tale. With 6 all-new scoring cards, 4 new ambush cards, 4 new hero cards in the explore deck, and 2 new map sheets to add variety to your Cartographers game: Cartographers Heroes offers new ways to play Cartographers! Check out their Kickstarter Today!

On episode 212 of Successfully Funded, I got to talk with Ariel Bloomer from the rock band Icon For Hire about their Kickstarter campaign, Icon For Hire: Amorphous. Amorphous describes that feeling of finding growth in the midst of incredible discomfort and embracing the process even when it stings. While the world has been in isolation, facing tragedy and growth, Icon For Hire has been watching and creating. Listen in as we talk about releasing an album, without a record label, and in the middle of a pandemic! And while you're at it, check out their Kickstarter here!

On episode 211 of Successfully Funded, I got to talk with Ted Meister from the company Think Tank Photo about their Kickstarter campaign, Think Tank Photo: MindShift ROTATION CAMERA BACKPACK. How many times have you passed up a photo opportunity because you didn’t want to stop and take off your backpack to get your camera out? With the Rotation backpack, you can access your camera gear in seconds ­— without taking off the backpack. Simply rotate the integrated belt pack to the front of your body and BOOM! Your camera is at your fingertips. Snap the shot, slide the belt pack back in and you’re on your way! Check out their Kickstarter Today!

On episode 210 of Successfully Funded, I got to talk with Etai Rahmil from the Kickstarter campaign, Pure Over: Welcome to an all glass coffee making experience. Pure Over uses a built-in glass filter which allows coffee’s rich flavor to fully develop. The process makes coffee using just glass, water and ground beans, delivering a bolder, more flavorful cup of pour over coffee. With art and design at its core, Pure Over is made to be a new staple in your at home coffee routine. Check out their Kickstarter Today!

On episode 209 of Successfully Funded, I got to talk with Casey Cutsail from the Kickstarter campaign, Schedge: The Smarter Way to Replace Your Windshield Wiper. Schedge reinvents the process of windshield wiper replacement with a solution that is painless for the earth, and your wallet. With easy-to-follow instructions, auto-ship refills, and a lifetime warranty on the frame, Schedge is turning a smart concept into a no-brainer.  Check out their Kickstarter Today!

On episode 208 of Successfully Funded, I got to talk with David Lin from the Indiegogo campaign, Deeper Connect Mini: World's 1st Decentralized VPN & Firewall- For life. Deeper Connect improves internet experience, protects online privacy and outperforms any traditional VPN. The design concept of Deeper Connect is plug-and-play with zero-configuration. The installation process is so simple even grandparents can do it in 5 seconds. Check out their Indiegogo campaign today!

On episode 207 of Successfully Funded, I got to talk with Chase Larson from the Kickstarter campaign, Cell: The Expandable Wireless Charger that Cleans Your Phone. Cell is a UV Sanitizer and Wireless Charger. Remove 99.9% of germs in 60 seconds with 4 UVC LEDs while powering your electronics with 2 powerful 15W wireless charging coils. Cell will sanitize anything in 1-minute while you wirelessly charge — you’ll love using it every day.  Check out their Kickstarter Today!

On episode 206 of Successfully Funded, I got to talk with Andrei Majewski from the Kickstarter campaign, PomaBrush – The Most Powerful Silicone Electric Toothbrush. Premium US Tech meets Italian Design in the coolest minimalist toothbrush. Holding PomaBrush feels right. Its soft all-silicone body is gentle to the touch. It's lightweight, perfectly balanced. Press its single button, and feel the most powerful silicone electric toothbrush spring to life. PomaBrush is the toothbrush YOU want to use.  Check out their Kickstarter Today!

On episode 205 of Successfully Funded, I got to talk with Phoebus Torralba from the Kickstarter campaign, CutiePi Tablet - Raspberry Pi, Untethered. The CutiePi is an ultra portable Raspberry Pi creation kit, in a convenient and affordable tablet package. Plus, the CutiePi tablet is 100% open source and hackable. At just 12mm thin, CutiePi is probably the thinnest Pi tablet in the world! Liberate your Pi project from the desk, and start creating wherever an idea strikes you.  Check out their Kickstarter Today!

On episode 204 of Successfully Funded, Shawn got to talk with Vincent Buso from the Kickstarter campaign, FunKey S. FunKey S is the the world's smallest foldable handheld console. Ultra-compact, foldable, powerful and comfortable, the FunKey S is the perfect handheld for playing retrogames anywhere, anytime! The FunKey S is tiny enough to fit on your keychain, while powerful and comfortable enough to let you play thousands of retro games. Back the Kickstarter Campaign today!

On episode 203 of Successfully Funded, I got to talk with Richard Jolley from the Indiegogo campaign, Nu Grip 4 in 1. Nu Grip 4 in 1 is the World's First Floating Tripod for your Action Camera and Smartphone from the company NuBEAR. Nu Grip is The Ultimate Travel Tripod for your GoPro, DJI and Smartphone. It has a versatile grip and stable tripod, that extends to 22.25 inches / 565mm and it floats in water! It's innovative patent-pending tripod system allows you to capture hands-free underwater shots.  Back the Indiegogo campaign today!

On episode 202 of Successfully Funded, I got to talk with Hannah Forbes from the Indiegogo campaign, QuenchSea: Turn Seawater into Freshwater. QuenchSea is a groundbreaking, low-cost, portable, manually-powered device that instantly turns seawater into drinkable freshwater. It is the world’s only low cost portable seawater desalination device and it is the ultimate survival tool! Check out their Indiegogo campaign today.

On episode 201 of Successfully Funded, I got to talk with Radina Popova from the Kickstarter campaign, Origami Bottle. Origami Bottle is the new space saving bottle from the company DiFOLD. DiFOLD Origami Bottle is the most compact, stable and elegant collapsible bottle AND it is also kickstarting a bigger REUSE REFOLD REVOLUTION! It is the flagship product that comes out of our collapsible design technology and opens up a whole new foldable reusable world!  Back the Kickstarter Today!

On episode 199 of Successfully Funded, Shawn Neal got to talk with Eli Packouz from the Kickstarter campaign, Instafloss - The 10 Second Floss That Will Make You Smile. Instafloss is a multi-jet water flosser delivering an amazingly comfortable and effective flossing experience in only 10 seconds. With Instafloss, you get both the most convenient and the most effective cleaning possible. Check out their Kickstarter today.

On episode 198 of Successfully Funded, Shawn Neal got to talk with Christian Reed from the Kickstarter campaign, M1 Caliber | A Better Way to Measure. The M1 Caliber measuring device eliminates the need to measure and mark materials, significantly lowering your time to make cuts from your list, increasing safety by keeping everything measurement-related in a centralized location, and is hassle-free allowing you to measure even without your tape measure and marking pencil handy. The M1's simplicity, intuitiveness, and usefulness makes you wonder "how does this not exist already?" Check out their Kickstarter today.

On episode 197 of Successfully Funded, I got to talk with Sam Force from the Kickstarter campaign, Roadie 3. Roadie 3 is the companies new flagship automatic instrument tuner. It helps you find your sound fast with quicker rotation and enhanced accuracy to keep your tunings consistently dead-on. Roadie 3 is built with carefully tooled and proprietary audio algorithms. Its next-generation vibration detection delivers improved tuning accuracy and enhanced noise immunity. Back the Kickstarter Today!

On episode 196 of Successfully Funded, I got to talk with Oleg Domansky from the Kickstarter campaign, Jammy EVO. With Jammy EVO, you’ll finally get a creative tool to translate your guitar skills into playing any instrument there is, compatible with your computer and mobile devices. Jammy EVO’s multi-channel MIDI output will allow you to assign different instruments to each string. How about playing drums on the lower E, dropping a bass line on A and D, then adding piano to the mix on G, B, and higher E without even having to switch among the instruments? As a guitar player, I can tell you Jammy EVO is truly revolutionary. Check out their Kickstarter today!

On episode 195 of Successfully Funded, I got to talk with Dale Backus from the Kickstarter campaign, Ohsnap Grip. Ohsnap is a powerful grip, stand, and magnet wrapped inside a super-thin frame, now compatible with snapcharge: our magnetic wireless charger! It makes life with your phone happy, productive, and care-free without the ugly bulk. Ohsnap works for all phones and finger sizes, and is easily adhered to the back of your phone in less than 20 seconds. Check out their Kickstarter Today. 

On episode 194 of Successfully Funded, I got to talk with Matthew Hassett, CEO, of the company Loftie. Loftie is a brand dedicated to creating a better tech-life balance for people everywhere. Because technology is only as good as the way it makes us feel, Loftie designed an alarm clock that makes you feel optimally rested, relaxed, and refreshed. Happy. And now, with a little help from you, their out to retake slumberland. One good night's sleep at a time. Check out Loftie on Indiegogo Today.

On Episode 192 of Successfully Funded, I got the chance to talk with Evi Triantafyllides from the Kickstarter campaign, The Book of Cultures. "The Book of Cultures" is a picture book with 30 fictional stories featuring characters (buddies) from different countries. The stories are lovingly created to introduce children to the wonders of our world and encourage them to embrace diverse perspectives. A magical, educational experience for young readers to discover the differences that make our planet so special, but also to uncover the similarities we often overlook. Learn more about this amazing children's book by clicking here. 

Marek is the founder of the MIMIGroup agency, which deals with consulting for startups in terms of product launches. According to the data provided by PARP - 4 out of 10 projects from Poland that collected the largest funding were carried out by MIMIGroup.

If you have questions about crowdfunding feel free to reach out to Marek marek@mimigroup.pl

On episode 190 I got the chance to talk with Michael Beim from the Kickstarter campaign, offGrid. °Grid (offGrid), is a palm-sized MIDI/OSC controller that lets you make music anywhere. °Grid gives your apps the natural feel of a traditional instrument using motion, gesture, touch, and velocity-sensitivity. Make beats, play keys, launch clips - °Grid fits any style and skill level. It’s instantly compatible with all of your existing devices - just pair & play. Check out their Kickstarter today!

On episode 189 of Successfully Funded, I got to talk with Sky Gilbar and David Silerander from the Kickstarter campaign, Hitch. Hitch is the first full-size water bottle with a removable barista-approved cup hidden inside. The bottle and cup are full sizes (18oz bottle / 12oz cup), double-walled, vacuum insulated, stainless steel, leak-proof, and BPA free. With a bottle, you'll love, and a cup that's always with you, go zero waste and carry better. Become a Backer Today.

Show Notes - https://www.woodshed.agency/podcast

Music - https://open.spotify.com/artist/19d7d9AnxzGlETn7StImdN?si=SGUrsBx2RjuHcM7E0JMUFg

Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fqriApSF_5w&list=PLFAjEty4qTFXB-oWk6N-xT4KoBNdKxtce

On episode 188 - I got to talk with Tamás Marczali from the company AiT Smart One. Simply put, AiT Smart One is a GameChanger smart desk. It's an app-controlled - height-adjusting, fully customizable design with many built-in features. The application compiles office-friendly personalized fitness and stress relief exercises, to help you achieve your GOALS and to help you relax while at work. It informs you of the air quality of the room and tells you when it’s time to open a window. Currently AiT Smart One is open for pre-order over on Indiegogo. As of today, they have raised over $285k for their product. Learn more by using this link https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/ait-smart-one-the-gamechanger-smart-desk#/

Disclaimer: During the intro recording of the episode we had some technical hiccups and a weird buzzing sound showed up. We are working through the tech issues to make sure this doesn't happen again for future episodes.

On episode 187 of Successfully Funded, I got to talk with Olivier Momma from the Kickstarter campaign, Ekster Key Holder. The Ekster Key Holder is a minimalist solution that keeps all your keys organized, secure, and easy to access. The Ekster Key Holder organizes all your keys in a compact, silent stack, which you can flip through with just one hand. Say goodbye to keys jingling in your pockets, or jabbing you in the leg. To learn more about their Kickstarter, visit - https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/eksterwallets/ekster-key-holder-say-goodbye-to-lost-keys-and-clutter?

Episode 186 of Successfully Funded is a special one. We're launching a new series of episodes that focus on investment crowdfunding and offerings hosted by me, Woodshed Agency Co-Founder Shawn Neal.  In this episode, I got the chance to talk with Popcom Founder and CEO Dawn Dickson where we discuss her second Reg CF Offering on Start Engine. Self-service and automation are the future of retail. PopCom is at the forefront with an automated retail technology platform for vending machines and kiosks that allows retailers to engage and understand customers, sell more products, and learn from big data. Listen to this interview to learn more.

Show Notes:

Start Engine: https://www.startengine.com/popcom

Hand Sanitizer from Detroit Bus Company: https://thedetroitbus.com

Music from the episode: https://open.spotify.com/artist/19d7d9AnxzGlETn7StImdN?si=6YcCVWR4SH6Elrm7qPLazQ

Kickstarter - https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/calfpro/calfpro?ref=6r62vo&token=e67991ca

Show Notes - https://www.woodshed.agency/successfully-funded/episode-185-calfpro

Music - https://open.spotify.com/artist/19d7d9AnxzGlETn7StImdN?si=Uc5tu0z_QD2fFm8M1oqFGQ

On episode 184 of Successfully Funded, I got to talk with James Kelly from the Kickstarter campaign, NatureDry Jacket. The mission for Woolly? More wool. Less plastic. Next comes NatureDry: the 100% merino all-weather jacket. Woolly is making a  plastic-free performance outdoors jacket a reality. Woolly has been in the wool business for 8 years. Their complete line of high blend premium merino clothing in everyday styles at reasonable prices is designed to make a full wool life possible. Thousands of repeat customers and Kickstarter backers have already joined us in our mission to ditch synthetics for high-performance all-natural wool, join the flock! Check out their Kickstarter today!

On episode 183 I got to talk with Sergio Landau from the Kickstarter campaign The Neo. The NEO makes delicious, in-home espresso easily and affordably. We designed this product knowing that Moka pots, many pod machines, and other in-home brewers claim to make espresso, but really only provide you with a cup of strong coffee, unless you want to pay hundreds or even thousands of dollars. The NEO is a simple, environmentally friendly, cost-effective, and fun product, all while producing delicious espresso. Learn more by visiting their Kickstarter.

On episode 182 of Successfully Funded, I got to talk crowdfunding with Lin Jiang from the Kickstarter, Crave Natural. Crave Natural is inspired by traditional Asian recipes, they offer low-sugar, high-protein, high-fiber oats in unique flavors and purpose-driven benefits to help you achieve your wellness goals through some delicious oats. Crave Natural offers low-sugar, high-protein, high-fiber oatmeal with four distinct flavors and purpose-driven benefits - energy, glow, calm, and focus. Every Crave Natural flavor starts with a base of organic gluten-free oats, almonds, hemp seeds, and flax seeds. This base provides a complete protein profile and a hearty texture. Learn More - https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/linjiang/crave-natural-a-new-era-of-breakfast

On episode 181 of Successfully Funded I got the chance to talk with Griffin Macaulay from the very successful Kickstarter, The Griffon's Saddlebag. The Griffon's Saddlebag is a hobby-turned-career passion project that releases new magic items (and other content) for 5th edition every day. Griffin’s daily content is released on Instagram, Twitter, and Reddit, and is made possible by the support of his community through Patreon and Kickstarter. This 200+ page book is a compendium of every item made in the Saddlebag's first year, including 365 game-ready, illustrated magic items, 12 new character subclasses, 2 new settings, and an evil villain that can be easily added into your favorite ongoing campaigns. This content is written and designed following the existing standards and precedents set by the official 5e materials to make it easier to read and integrate into your games. Check out the Kickstarter page today!

On Episode 180 of Successfully Funded, I got the chance to talk with Sam Gross from the campaign, Nomad Kitchen. The Nomad Kitchen gives you a compact removable kitchen system, great for everyone from the hardcore adventurer to the casual weekend warrior. Beyond wilderness exploration, the Nomad Kitchen’s uses extend to tailgating, festivals, and emergency preparedness. After selecting to place the box on the driver side or passenger side and lifting the box into your trunk you just need to open and loosen the ratchet straps, clip the front strap hooks to the cargo tie-down anchor, and ratchet them until they are snug. Sound pretty awesome to me! To learn more visit their Indiegogo page.

On this episode of Successfully Funded, I got to Zoom chat with Ruxin Wang from the Kickstarter project, Clicbot. So what is this project all about? Clicbot is your family’s newest friend. He listens, he thinks, and he even reacts. His personality is contagious, and his playful design makes him even more lovable. More than that, he’s an engaging teacher that knows how to make learning fun. Clicbot’s character and personality were designed by Carlos Baena, an award-winning designer. Clicbot’s personality adjusts depending on how you build and code him- each setup (and there are more than 1000 setups) has its own unique combination of use cases, ensuring that Clicbot is forever-engaging and always fun. Their Kickstarter raised over 600K and had more than 1600+ backers. This campaign truly was Successfully Funded. Check out the project now on Indiegogo InDemand.

On this episode of the Successfully Funded Podcast, we talked with John Ledgard, Founder of KickoffLabs. KickoffLabs helps you go beyond landing pages. Quickly and easily setup giveaways, sweepstakes, and product launches where fans earn points and rewards for referring friends and promoting your brand. Check out the webpage here!

On this episode of the Successfully Funded Podcast, we talk to Daan van der Lecq, Creative Director and Co-Founder of Bucqle! Bucqle is the world’s most innovative accessory to tighten your pants and skirts to the perfect fit around the waist and is therefore the modern replacement of your belt.  Bucqle is not only ultra slim and way smaller than a belt, it is also hardly visible and creates a neat look.  Check out the Bucqle Kickstarter to learn more!

On this episode of the Successfully Funded Podcast, we talk to Brady Whitney, Inventor, Designer, and Writer of CODEX SILENDA. Codex Silenda is a five-page book that features five intricate puzzles. Each page features a unique puzzle that requires the user/reader to unlock the corresponding bolts in order to progress to the next page. As you progress through the book, a story engraved on to the back of each page begins to develop. The story follows the adventure of an apprentice of Leonardo Da Vinci as the student stumbles onto Vinci’s latest invention, the Codex. Unfortunately, the wooden book is an enchanted trap that captures any thieves or snoopy apprentices, forcing them to have to solve it’s 5 mysterious puzzles in order to escape. You, the puzzler must now help the Apprentice solve the puzzles before the Master can return to the shop and fire the Apprentice for his trespass. Check out the Kickstarter to get yourself a Codex!

On this episode of the Successfully Funded Podcast, we talk with Shelby Olson, Marketing Strategist at Kickbooster. Kickbooster creates crowdfunding tools that help project creators raise more, and manage less. Affiliate marketing (sometimes called referral marketing or influencer marketing) is a sales and marketing strategy where you, the creator, encourage your backers, media partners, and brand advocates to refer their network to your crowdfunding campaign in exchange for a reward when that referral leads to a pledge. Kickbooster helps creators run and manage their affiliate, referral, and influencer marketing programs all in one integrated platform. Their platform allows you to focus on building relationships with brand ambassadors, while they take care of the tracking, validating, reporting and commission management.  Take a look at their website if you’d like to learn more!

In this episode of the Successfully Funded Podcast, we talk to Jordan Clark, the Founder of Dooeys Slippers. Tired of having to choose between wearing unsupportive slippers or comfortable outdoor shoes in your home? Meet Dooeys slipshoes ™ - the perfect cross between a slipper and a shoe that are ready for everything you do at home. Dooeys provide the coziness of a slipper with the all-day comfort and style of outdoor shoes, and they're made from sustainable materials that are about to revolutionize the fashion industry. Uppers made from supple vegan apple leather and recycled polyester vegan suede are durable and lightweight. The fluffy, fibrous lining is made from eucalyptus tree fibers, and is naturally moisture-wicking, breathable and super soft. Sugarcane EVA soles combine with cork or coconut husk insoles to give you ample arch support, shock absorption and cushioning. We believe in creating the change we want to see. That's why we've chosen sustainable materials that can usher in systemic improvements to the fashion industry. Our materials not only offer great performance, but are also better for the planet. Wherever possible, we use textiles with a low production footprint, and otherwise we choose recycled materials. Check out the Dooeys Kickstarter to learn more!

On this episode of the Successfully Funded Podcast, we talk to Vince Dickson, the founder of HUNU: The Coffee Cup that Fits in Your Pocket. They started out with one very clear thought. Single use cups are convenient. Reusable cups are not. How can someone change that? By designing a cup that fits in your pocket as easily as your phone or keys ensuring that its always with you when you need it. Silicone is very non porous meaning that it is incredibly easy to clean. If you are out and about during the day a simple rinse out with water or even a wipe with a napkin will often be enough. At the end of the day using some dish soap in the sink or taking the lid and band off and popping everything in the dishwasher works great. It had to be compact enough to comfortably carry around in a pocket all day. It had to be sturdy enough to safely hold a hot drink. It had to be made using the highest quality food grade materials. It had to look good and be light and durable.  Check out their kickstarter if you want to learn more!

On this episode of the Successfully Funded Podcast, we talk with Scott Vennell, the Co-Founder of Hapbee. Hapbee ("Happy") is the world's first wearable that lets you feel calm, alert, focused, relaxed or sleepy on command - all with just a few taps on your smartphone. This unique product allows you to experience the feelings and sensations you desire almost instantly, without ingesting any harmful substance or chemical, while having the ability to return to your normal baseline state within a matter of minutes. Using patented technology and proprietary software, Hapbee sends predictable, low-wavelength electromagnetic signals throughout your body, emulating your favorite feelings and sensations, without the use of potentially harmful substances and chemicals. You're in total control thanks to Hapbee's unique SignalMap functionality. Since Hapbee's different signals are mapped to specific feelings, you have complete control of which feeling or sensation you'd like to prompt with just a couple taps from your smartphone! Most importantly, Hapbee does not require potent chemicals to evoke the feelings and emotions you desire. Hapbee puts you in complete control of the emotions or feelings you want – when you want them - giving you complete control of your state and empowering you to become more mindful of how you feel on a daily basis This kind of awareness in itself is a powerful movement toward living a better life. Check out their Indiegogo if you’d like a Hapbee yourself!

On this episode of the Successfully Funded Podcast, we talk to Gary Paitre, Creative Director and Co-Founder of Vampire: The Masquerade Chapters. Vampire: The Masquerade – CHAPTERS is a campaign game which includes, as part of the rich narrative and story arc, many immersive scenarios that adapt to your playing style. Depending on your approach and decisions, you will impact the story and experience a custom adventure. As an “RPG in a box”, you will experience advanced dialogue possibilities, deep investigation sequences, and powerful combats. No game master required! Choose your character, make your decisions, gain experience points and level-up over time. The game is a mature and visceral experience based on several branching mechanisms. Your decisions in the game may have consequences (good or bad); the difference is thin in the World of Darkness. All along the campaign, your Status and Masquerade level will be tracked, influencing the course of your experience. Fully replayable, the story can be played again from different angles, with new characters and different choices. Check out the kickstarter if you’d like to experience this game yourself!

On this episode of the Successfully Funded Podcast, we talk with Russell Nohelty, the creator of the Cthulhu is Hard to Spell series. Do you love Lovecraft? Have you read or even considered reading the first volume of Cthulhu is Hard to Spell? Do you want to dive into the world of Lovecraft’s gods and monsters? If so the second volume of Cthulhu is Hard to Spell features everything amazing from the first volume, with even more Lovecrafty goodness. These books are a love letter to Lovecraft fans of all kinds, from those that obsess about Cthulhu, to the ones that never want to leave Arkham, to the ones that keep a copy of the Necronomicon under their pillow, and everyone in between. Whether you are a casual fan or a rabid one, this series has got you covered. The second volume features stories by Paul Jenkins (Spider-Man) and Tony Donley (Grimm’s Fairy Tales), Ray-Anthony Height (Wakandaverse), Christian Gossett in his first comic book art duties since The Red Star years ago, and a fantastic cover by Aaron Alexovich (Invader Zim). In total, over 70+ creators contributed 38 incredible stories to this 160-page hardcover collection, and the results are pretty mind blowing. Want to read this for yourself? Hop over to the kickstarter to get yourself a copy!

On this episode of the Successfully Funded Podcast, we talk with Allysha Lavino, the author of the book The Heretic. The Heretic is a full-length epic novel complete with:

Explore the mysteries of history and the science of magic in this epic adventure through the Languedoc of Southwest France. Follow the clues, discover the research, and embark on YOUR own personal quest. Cultural anthropologist Lily Ann Harper is on a quest for facts, when mysterious Sir Anthony Leclair invites her to Rennes-le-Château. As he teasingly reveals secrets of the ancient past, Lily is thrust back through history. Awakened by a power she can't explain, she struggles to understand the proof Sir Anthony has found. An ancient power flows through the land, but this Wisdom has always been a deadly heresy. To overcome an age-old enemy, Lily must embrace the magic of the ancestors and find her place in the Pattern. Check out The Heretic Kickstarter to learn more about this exciting narrative!

“THE HERETIC” ON AMAZON:
https://www.amazon.com/The-Heretic/dp/194046885X
<https://www.amazon.com/The-Heretic/dp/194046885X/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?keywords=the+heretic&qid=1583599561&sprefix=the+heretic&sr=8-2>

JOIN THE HERETICS:
www.allyshalavino.com/the-Heretic

SACRED MYSTERY TOURS:
www.sacredmysterytours.com

SOCIALS:
www.facebook.com/allyshalavinoauthor
www.twitter.com/allyshalavino
www.instagram.com/allyshalavino

On our new episode of the Successfully Funded Podcast, we talk with Matt Hawkins on the release of Witchblade Hardcover Volume One.  In November 1995, one of the most iconic comic book characters made her debut. The saga lives on in this recollection of the first issues of the original Witchblade series, including Tales of The Witchblade. They are celebrating 25 years of Witchblade with this Kickstarter exclusive dust jacket, and every copy will be signed by Witchblade co-creator & Top Cow founder: Marc Silvestri. The hardcover includes Witchblade #1-19, THE DARKNESS #9 & 10, and TALES OF THE Witchblade #1/2, 1, 2, & 3. Not only does this honor the character but legendary artists and writers that told the first stories: Michael Turner, Brian Haberlin, David Wohl, Marc Silvestri, and Christina Z! Take a look at the Witchblade kickstarter if you’d like a copy of the book yourself!

On this episode of the Successfully Funded Podcast, we talk with Matt Aiken, founder of Keymaster Games and PARKS Expansion: Nightfall + PARKS Memories. In 2019, 9,781 backers brought PARKS, a board game that celebrates the US national parks, to life. PARKS is a collaboration with the Fifty-Nine Parks Print series, featuring art from over 30 artists, that brings the wonder of the US National Parks to life around a table with friend and family. In this campaign, you can pre-order a copy of PARKS along with the new expansion, Nightfall, and the new standalone matching game, Parks Memories. The national parks exist to preserve many wonders of nature, but they also harbor some of the darkest skies and clearest views of the stars. This is the reason you might hear the saying “Half the Park is after Dark.” It is the inspiration for PARKS Expansion: Nightfall. Nightfall offers a whole new year of hiking for PARKS lovers to explore. It includes 24 new Park cards that reward instant actions when visited, a new Year deck along with ways to obtain new Year Cards while hiking, plus the introduction of Camping, which grants powerful once per season actions to those hikers that do not dally on the trail. Check out their kickstarter to learn more!

On this episode of the Successfully Funded Podcast, we talk with Amaury Kosman, the CEO of Circular Smart Ring | Sleep, Energy, Performance, Evolved. On the outside, Circular is sleek, seamless, and discreet. On the inside, it’s powered by advanced mechanical customization and intuitive AI. When it comes to user experience, they’ve made no compromises. The result? A seamless experience that works for you day & night. Circular never sleeps, but you’ll sleep better. That’s because what Circular does best is synthesize and analyze your body signals (night and day!) for unique recommendations and advanced wellness correlations to improve your well-being. With Circular, you can learn about the effect of your sleep on your daily performance and the effect of your activities on the quality of your sleep and your future wellness.   Get real-time, personalized recommendations. Control your ring, visualize your progress, meet (and compete with!) your wellness community, and get impactful recommendations through the Circular app. Check out the Circular Smart Ring Kickstarter to learn more!

On this episode of the Successfully Funded Podcast, we talk to Rosston Meyer on Jim Mahfood’s Pop Up Funk books. From ‘Pop Life’ to ‘Grrl Scouts’ to ‘Thrilling,’ beloved comic artist and illustrator Jim Mahfood’s most well-known artwork has been transformed into Pop Up Funk - a three dimensional explosion of art from the dark master of psychedelic groove.  Pop Up Funk is a beautifully illustrated pop up art book, paper engineered and published by Poposition Press.  The book features artist Jim Mahfood's unique style in a three dimensional pop up format. Pop Up Funk includes six pop up spreads each measuring 11" x 17" when open: Funky Beats, Sir?, Grrl Scouts, Pure Gonzo, Everybody Loves Tank Girl, Pop Life and Thrilling. Check out their kickstarter if you want to hop on the psychedelic craze!

On this episode of the Successfully Funded Podcast, Ray Flor the founder of LearnPlay shares their innovative sensory children’s toy called Halftoys Babies. For those of you who haven't heard of Halftoys, these are collectible toys made to provide tactile, audible, and visual satisfaction. Halftoys are magnetic puzzle toys you can see inside and out. Enter sensory paradise by tinkering with their removable puzzle skeleton and snapping their magnetic shells on and off. Fidget to your heart's content with these adorable toys! These impossibly cute Baby Dinos and Animals are the perfect gift for both kids and adults, and are guaranteed to put a smile on your face. To keep up to date on their progress, take a peek at their Kickstarter!

On the newest episode of the Successfully Funded Podcast, we talk with Douglas Beltran, the Vice President of Albicchiere: Smart Wine Preservation & Dispenser. Albi allows you to open and change between your favorite wines without worrying about the opening date or wasting a bottle just for one glass of wine. This new technology allows you to drink it for up to 6 months from the opening date, 8x times longer than other systems.  With Albi, you can buy a preservation system and a little cellar at the lowest cost on the market. You can set your preferred temperature for each individual bottle of wine or follow the recommendations of the wineries by simply using the Albi app. Albicchiere uses NFC technology that automatically recognizes the wine inside and will bring it to the ideal serving temperature for that specific type of wine, be it 4°C - 20°C (39.2°F - 68°F). Now your wine can truly be enjoyed as it was intended to be.  Albi is the easiest way to get your wine to its’ optimum temperature. To learn more, take a look at Albicchiere’s Kickstarter for more information!

This time around on the Successfully Funded Podcast, we spoke with Nadia Hopkins, founder of PranaCure Breathers. Breathing is a way we return to the moment, and when we’re in the moment we feel more peaceful, focused and self-aware. Think of all the stress, anxiety and overwhelm happening in the world. The Breather is an aromatherapy inhaler that is fun and easy to use. When you choose one and breathe deeply, you get a dose of healing herbs. These aren’t just any herbs – only the highest quality, sustainably sourced organic plant essences. The designed three therapeutic formulas in combinations make breathing easy even easier. They last up to 3 months of regular use!

Take a look at the PranaCure Kickstarter if you’re interested in more information!

On this episode of the Successfully Funded Podcast, we talk with Jim Loughlin, Co-Creator of the TiGr® BLUE High Carbon Steel Strong and Light Bike Lock. The flexible steel bow is easy to wrap around the things you want to secure: bike frame (and a wheel whenever possible) to a bike rack. The clip attaches to the bike just like a bottle cage, easy. It holds the lock snug while you ride. Being lightweight and hard to cut, the TiGr® Bike Lock is a durable and safe option for keeping your bike secure. Find more information on the TiGr® KickStarter page.

To kick off the new year for the Successfully Funded Podcast, we spoke to Yamin, the VP of Sales and Marketing of KamiBaby: All-in-One Smart Monitor for Babies. When your baby or toddler has a good night’s sleep, you can too! Ever wonder if your baby is breathing while they are sleeping? Worry no more, thanks to KamiBaby, you can view your baby’s breathing through proprietary image processing and AI techniques, to see a magnified visual of your baby’s breathing. You can view it live from your Kami App anytime, anywhere! KamiBaby is more than a baby monitor. Using the latest AI and Edge computing technologies, parents will be able to see their baby's breathing amplified, making the parenting experience easier.  Every parent with KamiBaby can keep track of their baby or toddler, receive relevant alerts, and have an extra pair of eyes to help make parenting a little bit easier within those precious first few years. KamiBaby is your all-in-one intelligent companion for your baby or toddler. Check out KamiBaby’s Indiegogo page!

Successfully Funded is back with a brand new season and guests to talk with! On episode 158, I got to speak with Pierandrea Quarta, the founder and CEO of REBO Smart Bottle.  REBO Smart Bottle is one of the most important organizations that collect ocean plastic waste in multiple developing countries. They support clean-ups in Haiti, Philippines and Indonesia, in order to tackle some of the biggest sources of plastic waste that pollute our oceans. REBO is good for you as well as the environment. It helps keep you healthy because:

Check out their Indiegogo if you’d like to learn more about REBO and the positive impact you can help make!

In episode 157 I got to talk with Darius Grandberry from the Startengine campaign Leagueswype. Leagueswype is the ultimate way to commission season-long fantasy play. It is a debit card with a personality and a mobile wallet perfect for the fantasy sports community. Users can collect, store, and transfer money in an efficient and secure manner via instantaneous transfers to and from linked credit or debit card accounts. However, aside from offering a quick, easy, and secure solution for transferring funds, the application also provides a suite of features that streamlines the user’s fantasy sports experience. Instead of keeping track of multiple sites, players can manage all of their leagues on one easy-to-use platform by integrating Leagueswype with their favorite fantasy sites. It’s a convenient way to manage all rosters and wallets. The platform also provides users a way to engage with their peers via direct messaging and message board features. Who doesn’t need an easy way to talk a little smack? Furthermore, fantasy players can access up to date and relevant sports related news, with the source and subject of content tailored to their preferences for a customized experience. Finally, users can save money and score discounts by taking advantage of offerings made exclusively to them. All of this in a secure environment across web and mobile devices. Check out their equity crowdfunding campaign today.

In episode 156, I got to talk with Steven Smith from the company Vegan Fine Foods. VFF opened their flagship store in Fort Lauderdale, Florida in March 2018, but the journey began long before that. It started in May, 1997. After years in graduate school, Steven gained a lot of weight and his health was failing. That led to the decision to take control of his health, cleanse his system, and get back on track. It led to the decision to change from a fast-food, meat-based diet to a plant-based, vegan diet.

In episode 155 I got to sit down and talk with Michael Oraschewsky Chief Executive Boar @ TBJ Gourmet. TBJ's trendsetting and award-winning products are sold direct to consumers online and through a network of 5 Event Sales Representatives, on QVC, in 5,500 retail food stores including Walmart, Acme, and Shop-rite and served in 1,000 restaurants. Totally bootstrapped, they went from $100k Year 1 revenue to just under $1 million in Year 5. Right now they are raising capital to fuel the fire following our proven roadmap: testing new products, restaurants to drive product awareness, retail for the win. Check out their Wefunder equity crowdfunding campaign.

In episode 154, I got to talk with OPTIMUS project creator Yi Zhang about their premium luggage now on Kickstarter. Optimus luggage is durable, timeless and at the lowest possible price. 

In episode 152 I got to talk with the creators of INUBOX. INUBOX captures, processes & contains liquid and solid dog waste in a hygienic way. After each use, it releases a treat for your dog’s training. Our patented process prevents bad odors & delivers an eco-friendly sealed bag for disposal. INUBOX is THE next step for your smart home.

Wendy, as a self-confessed tree-hugger, is living proof that it is possible to combine business savvy with a passion for improving the environment. She believes that everyone can make a difference and that one of the most powerful ways to do that is through investing. The World Tree Carbon Offset Program is a sustainable timber investment based on the Empress Splendor tree, the fastest growing tree in the world.

Empress trees provide valuable hardwood lumber within just 10 years. They also absorb 11 times more carbon than any other tree. Participants in the program both offset their carbon footprint and share in the profits, if any, of the sale of the lumber.

World Tree investments are available in Canada and the USA.

In episode 150 I got to talk with creator Carter Malloy about his new equity crowdfunding platform,  Acretrader. AcreTrader was created with a simple mission: provide investors direct access to the highly attractive asset class of farmland. Before AcreTrader, an investor’s options were extremely limited in gaining exposure to this alternative asset, and what few options there were carried the burden of high fees, limited or no liquidity (often 10+ years of capital commitment) and/or no control over portfolio composition.

In episode 149 - I got to talk with Kyle Schut from the successful Kickstarter Straton Legera Watch. Straton Watch Co. ® was established in 2015 by watch and car enthusiast Kyle. Combining his passions, he created a brand which has successfully launched four Kickstarter campaigns to date for various Straton watches and delivered more than 6000 watches worldwide. Kyle is proud to present his latest retro creation the "Legera". The Legera Standard and Legera Bullhead is available with two movement options for each of the cases, either the Swiss Made Valjoux 7750 Automatic for the Legera Bullhead, and  Valjoux 7753 Automatic for the Legera Standard. The Quartz versions will house the Seiko/TMI VK67 meca-quartz for the Legera Bullhead and Seiko/TMI VK63 meca-quartz for the Legera Standard. Why have we chosen both Automatic and Quartz movements? Some customers prefer Automatic movement and some prefer a Quartz movement, price is a decision factor.

In Episode 148, I got to talk with the creators of Dango Modular Watches. The watches have been in development for over one year and they wanted to create a collection that compliments and completes their everyday gear. When they decided to enter the market, they wanted to do it their way, with every detail unique to the vision and built from ground zero. Introducing the TREK, a field watch, DIVE, a sport watch that accompanies you on every adventure, and CHRONO, an automotive inspired chronograph watch. Check out their Kickstarter.

In episode 147 I got to talk with Alison Buehler about her successful Kickstarter campaign, Relatable Chapter Book Series for Diverse Developing Readers. Only 15% of African American 4th graders in Mississippi scored at the proficient reading level on the National Literacy Exam last year. That number is unacceptable.

Children become fluent readers by DEVOURING early chapter book series like Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Captain Underpants, or Magic Tree House. 

There are virtually NO popular chapter book series written by African American authors. Only 7% of all children's books are authored by African American, Native American, and Hispanic Americans combined.

How likely are kids to love reading if they never encounter a character they can relate to?

Take a moment to listen to our amazing conversation to learn more about this successful Kickstarter campaign.

In episode 146- I got to talk with artist Jonboy Meyers. Jonboy is currently running a successful Kickstarter campaign for his new volume 2 Sketchbook. Jonboy is, an Illustrator and Concept Designer for Toys, Video Games, Comic Books, Film and Animation.  Some of his current works are Concept and Design For Riot Games' LEAGUE OF LEGENDS Property, Rebooting SPAWN with Todd McFarlane, Rebooting TEEN TITANS for DC Comics, and Rebooting INHUMANS with Al Ewing for Marvel Comics. For more information check out his work here: https://www.instagram.com/jonboy007007/

In episode 145, I got to talk with corporate and securities lawyer, Mark Roderick. Since the JOBS Act of 2012, Mark has spent all of his time in the Crowdfunding space and today is one of the leading Crowdfunding and Fintech lawyers in the United States. To learn more about Mark, go to his website www.CrowdfundAttny.com

Mr. Roderick represents dozens of portals and other participants in the Crowdfunding industry, providing both technical knowledge and industry expertise.

Mr. Roderick has spent more than 30 years representing entrepreneurs and their businesses in a wide variety of transactions, including:

For more information go to their Kickstarter today.   

In episode 143 - I got to talk with Jordan Draper from the Kickstarter campaign TOKYO SERIES TABLETOP GAMES. What is the TOKYO SERIES?? 12 unique games about life in Tokyo that can be played stand alone or mixed together! You can learn more about the series on his website jordandraper.com, and read about the first three games that were on Kickstarter here.