Global Entrepreneurship Week: Insights from the Startup Stories DSM Podcast

As we celebrate Global Entrepreneurship Week, to get inspired and informed on all things related to startups and small business growth, the Small Business and Startup Stories DSM Podcast is a must-listen. Co-hosted by Diana Wright and Emily McLain at the Greater Des Moines Partnership, this podcast showcases success stories, challenges, and valuable advice from local entrepreneurs. Below are some standout episodes that provide fresh insights for business owners and startup enthusiasts.

5 Standout Episodes of the Small Business and Startup Stories Podcast

1. Navigating Early-Stage Startup Challenges

Learn how early-stage entrepreneurs in Des Moines overcame their initial challenges to build thriving businesses. This episode dives into the importance of perseverance, partnerships, and maintaining a clear vision.

Episode: VizyPay focuses on helping rural small-and-medium sized businesses
Guests: Austin Mac Nab and Frank Pagano, VizyPay (Waukee, Iowa)

2. Innovating in Traditional Industries

Listen to how local startups are disrupting traditional industries. From tech to healthcare, discover how entrepreneurs are using innovation to create change and open new opportunities.

Episode: Growth of local startup OpenLoop leads to recognition in health technology industry
Guest: Jon Lensing, OpenLoop (Des Moines, Iowa)

3. Raising Capital in a Growing Startup Ecosystem

Raising funds is one of the biggest hurdles for startup founders. This episode features insights on how to navigate the funding landscape by partnering with financial institutions that provide funding solutions to small businesses.

Episode: Pivotal Business Partners: Helping small businesses and entrepreneurs find capital
Guest: Jim Langin, Pivotal Business Partners (Des Moines, Iowa)

4. Building a Multi-Generational Business

People can make or break a business. In this episode, founders share how they built strong family-owned businesses from the ground up, emphasizing the importance of relationships, values, and being involved in the community.

Episode: In its third generation of family ownership, Toad Valley Golf Course celebrated 50th year
Guest: Allison Brady, Toad Valley Golf Course (Pleasant Hill, Iowa)

5. The Power of Mentorship in Entrepreneurship

Mentorship is a key factor in the success of many entrepreneurs. This episode highlights the value of building mentorship into a business model catered to bridging the gap between urban and regenerative farming with Iowa’s immigrant and refugee community.

Episode: Cultivating Inclusion: How In Harmony Farm serves disadvantaged Iowans
Guests: Gina Ross and Andy Behnke, In Harmony Farm (Earlham, Iowa)

These episodes and many more are available for streaming on the Small Business and Startup Stories DSM Podcast. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or an established business owner, there's a wealth of knowledge to help you grow your startup. Tune in today for valuable insights that can help you navigate your entrepreneurial journey!