Master Your Finances(Official 107.7 The Bronc Podcast)

Today, we're joined by three high school interns from 1435 Capital, Caroline Ma, Liam Ott, and Nivas Palaniappan. The three share how what got them interested in the world of venture capital and the start of the internship at 1435 Capital. They also share their experience interning at 1435 Capital, what they've been doing at 1435, and what they've learned during their internship.

Today, we're joined by Robert V. Jones, Founder, President, and CEO of Presafe Technologies, former chairperson of the Air Traffic Control Assosciation Aviation Cybersecurity Programming Committee, and serves on the board of the NYU Alumni Association. He provides insight on his experience with Air Traffic Control, how he got connected with that, and what he learned.. Robert also shared how he got connected to AI, cyber insurance, and quanum computing and what the future of it looks like.

Today, we're joined by Tamarra Causley Robinson, an executive coach and leadership development expert who helps professionals and organizations unlock their full potential with a background as a director of information technology at PWC, and extensive experience coaching leaders at all levels where she specializes in helping individuals find their voice, lead with confidence, and navigate change effectively. She provides insight on her work in information technology and how she got her start in it. Tamarra also shared how she started her own business, what she learned about herself in the process, and how she helps people navigate moving into a position where they manage and oversee larger groups.

Today, we're joined by Amar Hirani, a Venture Partner at 1435 Capital who helps high growth technology companies scale through disciplined operations and data driven decision making with a background leading large scale operations at Amazon and scaling multi market businesses. He provides insight on how Amazon worked to reduce water, energy, and trash efficiency, the changes that went along with that reduction, and the return aspect of Amazon. Amar also shared how he got his start in Amazon, the hiring process, and how he's applying the work he did at Amazon to his current work at 1435 Capital.

Today, we're joined by Matt Wizeman, a business owner, transition planning advisor, and leadership coach who helps entrepreneurs increase the value of their companies and prepare for successful exits. He provides insight on exit planning, including how he got into the business, tips for people planning to leave their business in the future, and how to start taking steps away from your business. Matt also shared the importance of exit planning, and why business owners should plan ahead.

Today, we're joined by Curtis Lee, a seasoned finance and investment professional with deep experience in venture engagement and economic development and Senior Partner at 1435 Capital in Princeton, NJ. He provides insight on the world of hedge funds, how he broke into the industry, and what sparked his interest in alternate investments. Curtis shared what brought him to 1435 Capital and a look into the company's future.

Today's guest, Brad Smith, is a lifelong adventurer- married to his wife, Beth, since 1988, father of three adult children, and a competitive athlete who's spent decades on the tennis and squash courts and is now an active pickleball player and college squash official.

He's been investing in real estate since age 19, owning hundreds of units over the years across cities like Hoboken, Jersey City, and Chicago.

Now, he channels his passion into two lavender farms that double as destination event venues. The newest, Princeton Lavender, features 8.l6 acres of lavender fields, friendly farm animals, and a tunning post-and-beam event barn designed for gatherings of all sizes. He loves collaborating with musicians, caterers, and guests to bring memorable events to life.

Today, we're joined by David Demuth, a seasoned financial executive based in the greater New York area and the co-founder of CFO Consulting Partners, LLC. Since 2006, David has guided organizations across technology, real estate, manufacturing, healthcare, and insurance. He provides high-level CFO suite services with a strong focus on strategic planning, mergers and acquisitions, and risk management. With a global perspective and decades of hands-on expertise, David brings a wealth of insight into what it takes to build resilient, forward-thinking financial organizations.

On this episode, Kurt Baker talks to Barbara Forshner, who has dedicated more than 20 years to the health care industry. She is driven by a personal passion for advocating for the dignity and well-being of seniors. Her journey began when she witnessed the lack of respect her grandfather received in a long-term care facility - an experience that inspired her to become his advocate and ultimately pursue a career focused on improving senior care.

For the past three years, Barbara has been the Director of Sales at Brookdale Hamilton, NJ,where she continues to guide families through the challenging process of finding the right senior living community for their loved ones. Her deep industry knowledge, extensive professional network, and compassionate approach have made her a trusted resource and advocate for countless families.

On this episode of Master Your Finances, Kurt Baker speaks to Anthony Pinto, who has over 30 years of experience in the automotive industry and has built Pinto Automotive Group into a trusted destination for car sales and services in Trenton and Mercer County, NJ. Starting from humble beginnings in detailing, he mastered every part of the business and is now known for his integrity, customer focus, and community commitment. Beyond the dealership, Anthony is passionate about fitness, personal growth, giving back locally, and spending time with family.

Deepika Chandola is the proud owner of Board and Brush South Brunswick, a DIY creative studio where community and creativity come together. With a background in hospitality and a passion for supporting local, she's dedicated to inspiring connection, confidence, and joy through hands-on workshops.

On this week's episode of Master Your Finances, Kurt Baker interviews Annette Murphy, the Director of Home Care and Care Management at Springpoint and a Fellow of the Academy of ACLA. With Over 30 years in health care, she is a licensed clinical social worker, certified dementia practitioner, and national leader in advancing compassionate, ethical care for older adults and their families.

Today on the show we're joined by Ben Jen; entrepreneur, investor, and the force behind Ben Jen Holdings, a venture capital and consulting firm that's backed some of the most innovative startups in tech, health, and finances. Ben is passionate about helping founders grow from early traction to scale, and he brings a wealth of experience, insight, and perspective on what it really takes to build the next big thing.

What does it take for high school students to break into the world of venture capital, and thrive?

Today, we're joined by three standout Venture Analysts from 1435 Capital who are doing just that. Meet Steven Tunison, Ansh Vasani, and Suhani Pandya, rising stars who've taken initiative in finance, entrepreneurship, and research long before most peer even think about it.

Steven is a junior at George School and an award-winning analyst with a deep background in economics and student leadership. Ansh, a rising junior at Stanford Online High School, is a club leader, scout, and founder of a nonprofit focused on financial literacy. And Suhani, from The Brearly School, brings impressive experience in industry research advocacy for women in venture capital.

Together, they're helping source deals, conduct due diligence, and explore the future of investing, all while still in high school. Let's hear how they got started, what they've learned, and where they're headed next.

Please welcome Steven, Ansh, and Suhani!

What does it take to thrive as both a creative and a business leader in the world of architecture?

Meet Eric Gartner, AIA, LEED, AP, principal partner at SGP Architects, where he has led the firm's national and international growth across the U.S., Latin America, and Africa. With a Masters of Architecture from the University if Virginia, Eric blends creative vision with a strong sense of environmental and social responsibility -- championing sustainable design and community-centered development.

As an architect, Eric realized that creativity alone wasn't enough to sustain and grow a successful practice. He shares how building business acumen, forming trusted partnerships and stepping outside his comfort zone became key to leading a resilient and respected firm.

From Rwanda to New York, from design to development -- please welcome Eric Gartner!

What if reducing hidden costs could boost your profits and set your business up for a successful exit?

Today's guest is Michael Neil, a cost-reduction strategist and executive advisor with Schooley Mitchell, North America's largest independent cost-reduction consulting firm. He helps business owners across the U.S. and Canada lower essential expenses, increase profitability, and strengthen their businesses for long-term growth or sale-all through a performance-based model.

Outside of work, Michael fosters rescue dogs with his family and serves on the board of a major hunger relief non-profit in Greater Philadelphia.

Please welcome, Michael Neil!

What does it take to thrive in venture capital while making an impact in public service and education?

Meet Ronan Pell, Venture Analyst at 1435 Capital, where he sources investment opportunities and supports diligence and fundraising. He's led a student investment fund, developed a national civics curriculum, and conducted real estate research at Linneman Associates. Ronan has also served as a Congressional intern and represented the U.S. in Taiwan through the NSLI Y program.

Today, he shares insights on early-stage investing , youth leadership, and building financial expertise through experiences.

What does it take to manage wealth with integrity and lead through service? Meet Donald J. Loff, a seasoned financial advisor with over 40 years of experience and a strong record of leadership in both private wealth and nonprofit governance. He currently serves as Treasurer at Capital Health. Today, he’ll discuss how to build lasting financial strategies while leading with purpose—both in wealth management and community service. 

What does it take to fund the future of deep tech and drive innovation that transforms human and planetary health? Meet Sean O'Sullivan, managing general partner of SOSV, a global venture capital firm with 1.5 billion in assets under management, a pioneer in computer based street mapping and co-founder of Mapinfo. Sean has spent decades backing visionary founders tackling the world's most pressing challenges. Under his leadership, SOSV has become the number one most active investor in climate tech since 2017. With top portfolio companies valued in the billions beyond venture capital, Sean is a committed philanthropist directing millions to education and humanitarian causes.

What does it take to lead with courage, serve with purpose, and make an impact across industries? Meet John. D Hanson, a leadership expert, keynote speaker, and season professional with a career spent in the military, healthcare, ministry, finance, and manufacturing. From top performance at a fortune 10 company discerning as a senior leader in the Ohio Army National Guard, John has earned recognition for excellence and resilience. While working full time and serving in the military reserve, he earned two degrees with a perfect GPA. Today John inspires others through his best selling books, Winning Secrets and Heroic Leadership as well as high impact workshops on leadership, trust, and service.

What does it take to help business owners achieve lasting success and navigate the challenges of growth? Meet Sal Levatino, a business coach. With over 15 years of experience, Sal specializes in transforming businesses by focusing on both effective strategies and seamless implementation. He works closely with clients to create customized action plans that turns today's transactions into tomorrow's transformations. Today, he's committed to empowering smaller businesses to reach their full potential.

What does it take to navigate the challenges of senior living and ensure a seamless transition for aging adults? Meet Olga St. Pierre, a senior living specialist and real estate expert, with over 16 years of experience helping seniors and their families make informed decisions about transitioning to new living arrangements. Through a passionate and full service approach, Olga provides guidance, trusted professionals, and educational resources for a stress-free move for your loved ones.

What does it take to unlock your full potential in sales and in real life? Meet Davidson Hang, head of Business Development at Untap Your Sales Potential. Through mindset, community, and courageous self-leadership, Davidson helps sales professionals go beyond tactics and step into lasting personal growth. Today, he shares how vulnerability. consistency, and belief can transform not just your numbers, but your life.

John Cox is the founder of Streamline Pool Pros. Initially set on becoming a police officer, John shifted gears towards law school before encountering an unexpected hurdle that prevented him from finishing his degree. He turned adversity to opportunity and embarked on a dynamic career path, leading him to settle in the contracting industry.

Andrew Fallon works with Ben Jen at 1435 Capital, where he brings fresh insights and new perspectives to the venture capital world. Andrew didn't follow the traditional path to get here; he attended a non-target school and started his career in treasury at an insurance firm. In this episode, Kurt and Andrew explore how he turned his non-traditional route into an opportunity, what he's learned from his journey, and how you too can leverage unconventional experiences into a successful career in finance and investing.

Meet Eric Hadley, a leader who turned his passion for service into action. From earning his Eagle Scout rank, serving with the Military Sealift Command and US Coast Guard, Eric’s career spans global humanitarian missions and leadership in the oil industry. Now as the founder and CEO of Got Your Six Coffee Co., he is fueling support for veterans and first responders one cup at a time.

How can AI revolutionize businesses and drive real-world impact beyond just investment returns? Meet Daniel Pace, a financial expert with over seven years of market outperformance who has now set his sights on the rapidly evolving AI sector. As the founder of Genuine AI, he provides custom AI solutions to help businesses and nonprofits thrive. Join Kurt and Dan as Dan shares his insights on AI's potential and how technology can drive meaningful change.

What does it take to revolutionize geriatric care and bring quality medical services directly to older adults? Meet Dr. Arun Rao, a fellowship-trained and board-certified geriatrician. As the founder and CEO of Geriatrics Planning & Solutions, Inc., Dr. Rao is dedicated to providing medical care through a direct-pay house call service, ensuring that seniors receive the attention they need in the comfort of their home. Through leadership roles at Weill Cornell Medical College and Penn Medicine Princeton Health, he joins Kurt to share his expertise, insights, and passion for redefining geriatric care. 

Want to take your business to the next level? Meet Kerri Fox, the powerhouse behind Fox Consulting. With expertise in marketing, operations, and HR, Kerri turned her corporate experience into a lifeline for small businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, Fox Consulting is the go-to for tailored business growth and support. In this episode, Kerri shares game changing insights on strategic planning to help your business thrive.

How can businesses unlock profitability and stay competitive in today's fast changing market? Joining us is Mathias Hemberger, a seasoned leader with global expertise. Mathias has excelled across industries and continents through managing iconic brands at Unilever and driving transformation at Firmenich. Now with ERA Group, he helps midsize organizations improve profitability. In this episode, Mathias shares his insights on leveraging resources, optimizing vendor management, and driving sustainable growth.

Live fully. Die ready. Niki Weiss, a digital thanatologist and creator of the My Final Playbook app, is redefining how we approach death and legacy planning. Niki’s mission is to normalize the essential end-of-life conversations. Through My Final Playbook, Niki helps people preserve the digital legacy of their loved ones. Join host, Kurt Baker, as Niki shares her expertise in addressing the emotional, legal, and logistical aspect of end-of-life planning.

What does it take to thrive in business and adapt in times of change? Meet Noelle Stary, founder of 20 Lemons, a full-service marketing agency and NJ’s first coworking space. As a seasoned entrepreneur, Noelle brings innovation to every venture. Join host, Kurt Baker, as Noelle shares her journey, business insights and lessons on adapting to today’s economy.

Meaghan Andre-Brown is a board-certified pediatrician and lifestyle doctor dedicated to reshaping pediatric care through her innovative practice, Empowering Pediatric Wellness. Empowering Pediatric Wellness is built around direct primary care and offers families personalized healthcare without the limitations of traditional insurance. Dr. Meaghan believes that every parent deserves a doctor who listens, supports, and empowers them to make informed decisions about their children’s health.

Curious about what it takes to turn change into strategic advantage? Ken Roberts is a master at guiding businesses through transformation. As the owner and lead trainer of Better Ways Agility LLC, Ken has helped companies boost profitability, improve customer satisfaction, and elevate employee engagement. Ken empowers leaders to not only adapt to change but to thrive in it.

Get ready to explore the future of healthcare and innovation with Nach Dave, a healthcare executive and regulatory affairs expert, and Junaid Mian, a pharmacist, entrepreneur, and investor. With over 23 years of experience in the pharmaceutical and medical devices industry, Nach has been instrumental to medtech startups. Junaid sees the space economy as a driver for economic growth. In this episode, Nach and Junaid share their insights into healthcare, biotech, and space driven innovation.

Ready to delve into the world of children’s literature and educational innovation? Meet Yobe Qiu, an esteemed educator and author dedicated to transforming early childhood learning. As the founder of “byyobeqiu”, Yobe created a tech platform to provide impactful literacy experiences to children. With a passion for creating diverse and multicultural children’s books, Yobe hopes to inspire young minds to embrace multiculturalism and the joy of learning!

Ready to discover the future of startup innovation? Meet John Snee, the founder and managing partner of Trenton Makes. Trenton Makes is the city of Trenton's first startup accelerator. With over 8 years of venture capital experience, John is a key figure in shaping east coast entrepreneurship.

Venturing into the intersection of cutting-edge technology and finance? Meet Isabella DiStasio and Pierce Siegel, two ambitious high school students making significant strides in the venture capital world. In this episode, they discuss their journey at 1435 Capital Management, the challenges they face, and how they balance their venture capital and academic duties.

Interested in the dynamic world of Venture Capital at a young age? Meet Alexander Advani, a college sophomore, and Ayush Dave, a high school junior, who are both navigating the complexities of investment in tech and FinTech start up. In this episode, we hear of their unique experiences and lessons they've learned in the fast-paced world of Venture Capital.

Ready to shield yourself from phone scams? Meet Gogie Padilla, a seasonal fundraiser and CEO of Answer Sure, LLC. After her mother nearly fell victim to a phone scam, Gogie founded Answer Sure to provide a unique vetting service to prevent fraudulent calls.

On This Episode of Master Your Finances, Meet: J.J. Lee, Founder and Trademark Lawyer, Law firm PLLC, in Ann Arbor Michigan. With over fifteen years of experience, and over seven thousand trademarks registered. J.J. specializes in helping entrepreneurs safeguard their brands. Tune in for expert insights on trademark law and practical tips for securing your businesses identity.

Searching for guidance in the startup world? Meet David Stengle! a seasoned expert in startup ecosystems. With experience, as an Operator, Investor, and Advisor. He'll share insights in the start-up community Building, Governance, Inclusion, and Metrics, all while highlighting his work with Startup Grind Princeton and Board++. Tune in to learn practical strategies for growing your start up and fostering your innovation!

Looking for ways to enhance leadership and team dynamics in your business? Host, Kurt Baker, sits down with Rich McLaughlin, an expert who has over 20 years of experience in transforming small business teams. In this episode, Rich reveals practical strategies for driving growth, fostering a collaborative workplace, and discusses how impactful the people who make up your business truly are!

Are you aware of the potential risks and challenges your business could face if you were to experience unforeseen circumstances like death, incapacity, divorce, or the departure of a business partner? Host, Kurt Baker, sits down with Len Garza, the founder of Garza Law. Garza Law is a legal practice that specializes in business and estate law. In this episode, Len will help you understand the importance of having a plan in place to help you address these unforeseen events!

Eager to set clear measurable financial goals, foster disciplinary approaches, hurdle obstacles without excuse and consistently align actions with your aspirations? Host, Kurt Baker, sits down with Steve Walsh, the founder and president of the venture capital firm, Bison Equity Group. With over 25 years of financial and investment expertise, Steve’s career is a testament to bold decisions and innovative strategies. In this episode, Steve will help you flee from your entrepreneurial comfort zone and elevate your vision!

Are you seeking empowerment and growth in your life’s journey? Have you felt stuck or unsure about your path? Host, Kurt Baker, sits down with Davidson Hang, who once struggled with insecurity and self-doubt and truly understands the challenges of feeling lost and unfulfilled. Through his own experiences, Hang has developed a system to empower individuals seeking joy and abundance in their lives. In this episode, Hang will discuss strategies to break free from scarcity mindsets, transform your career, and discover the power of mentorship through LinkedIn all while sharing inspiring tales of personal achievements and growth, shedding light on the resources available to help you thrive!

Are you interested in gaining a fresh perspective on food and how it impacts our bodies and minds? Do you wish to explore nutritious recipes and receive informative handouts on making healthy food choices? Host, Kurt Baker, sits down with Marion Reinson, the executive director of Eating For Your Health, a non profit organization based in Princeton, New Jersey. Eating For Your Health is dedicated to bringing nutritional knowledge from a clinical setting to the kitchen, where real transformation takes place!

Do you want to discover effective strategies for making life long decisions and managing the challenges of aging? Host, Kurt Baker, sits down with Justin Scott, Esq., a certified life resource planner who focuses in the areas of elder law, estate planning, asset planning, and estate administration. Justin stands out as one of the Top 2% and Top 100 attorneys. In this episode, Justin will empower you with valuable insights and provide guidance for your future planning! 

Brent Ritchie, who is the founder and president of EnRitch Investment Group Inc, with over 18 years of experience in real estate, infrastructure, engineering, construction and project management. He will guide on redirecting your funds to gain control of your financial future.

Ryan Mcfarland, is a prominent figure in the hemp industry, and in this episode he shares his expertise in all things hemp. During this episode, he will introduce his hemp company called "WHEREZHEMP", which also consists of white label product catalogs offering a wealth of knowledge about the hemp industry.

Vincent Little, head coach of The Amerikick National Competition Team, will share a step by step system on how to get involved in the community outreach and produce quality organic leads as a business owner.

Dan Javan, the founder and CEO of Suntuity, which is a nationwide renewable energy company that specializes in residential solar, commercial, and utility scale projects. With over two decades of experience, Dan is uniquely qualified to help you feel empowered and confident in your ability to apply the insights and knowledge he shares about clean energy adoption.

Abhijay Edavalapati, a Senior at Bridgewater High School, who serves as a Venture analyst at 1435 Capital Management, evaluating growth stage companies and aiding seed stage startups in due diligence. Rithanya Senthilvel, a Junior at West Windsor Plainsboro High School, works as a Venture analyst at 1435 Capital involved in due diligence and report writing. They will share their journey in establishing "The Homeroom Fund", a venture capital fund co founded with Andrew Somers and Akash Patel.

Akash Patel and Andrew Somers, who are recent high school graduates making waves in the finance industry. Akash who is a Venture Analyst at 1435 Capital is adept at analyzing companies, conducting due diligence, and sourcing deals. Additionally, as an incoming freshmen at Northwestern University studying Economics and Mathematics. Andrew, who is going to the University of Virginia for business with a finance concentration, works on assessing startups, writing research reports and deal sourcing as an analyst at the same company. Together, they will share insights gained during their summer experiences as a work on starting their own venture capital fund called Homeroom Fund, offering valuable advice for highschoolers interested in finance and venture capital.

Lisa Linkowsky, is the founder of Milestone Franchising, and has 10 years experience in the franchise industry, training and mentoring franchisees to help them build their business and adapt a realistic approach to business ownership. She will make you feel informed and educated as she introduces a website where you can obtain monthly articles and view TV shows that interviews franchisees and franchisors.

This episode consists of our guest Mr. Richard Balka, who is the CEO & President of The Home Rubber Company, and his goal is to aid listeners to gain appreciation for Trenton based businesses that remains for a long time.