The Innovation Conversation

The Innovation Conversation

di Ricardo Pascual

Imprenditoria Notizie informatiche

Stagione 1

Building Startups, Web3 Development, and Innovation with Odev.tech

Innovation Conversation: Building Startups, Web3 Development, and Innovation with Odev.tech In this episode of Innovation Conversation, host Ricardo Pascual talks with the team at Odev.tech, a development firm with over a decade of experience supporting startups and scaling businesses with senior development services. They share hard-earned lessons from working with founders and highlight how the right team and technologies can make or break a startup. They dive into: Why budget management is critical when starting a business. How to craft a clear and concise pitch that sells your idea. Managing scope creep and expectations while building your MVP. Building teams with senior developers — and why adding a strong salesman is essential. Web3 vs Web2 development — and how Web3 empowers startups and disrupts traditional industries. The potential and pitfalls of AI models like ChatGPT in development and business. The importance of responsible data custody in the AI era. Why embracing innovation and specialization is key in the evolving tech landscape. Tune in for real-world advice on team building, product development, and staying ahead in the age of AI and Web3. Brought to you by Startup Summit 2025 — Europe’s leading startup and investor summit, happening September 18–19, 2025, in Lisbon. 🎟️ Learn more and secure your spot at www.startupsummit.io 🕒 Chapters 00:00 — Introduction and Background of Odev.tech 08:33 — Advice for Starting a Business 11:58 — Challenges of Building an MVP 25:25 — The Power of Combining Coding and Sales Skills 26:08 — Differences in Business Practices Across Countries 29:31 — The Impact of Web3 and AI on the Industry 35:22 — The Significance of Specialization and Innovation in Startups 36:58 — Web3: Empowering Individuals and Disrupting Traditional Businesses 42:40 — The Benefits and Risks of AI and Technology in Software Development

Customizable QR Codes, Social Connection, and Startup Growth with Santiago Sanchez

Innovation Conversation: Customizable QR Codes, Social Connection, and Startup Growth with Santiago Sanchez In this episode of Innovation Conversation, host Ricardo Pascual sits down with Santiago Sanchez, co-founder of Scammy Company, to explore how they’re transforming clothing into a tool for social connection using customizable QR codes. Santiago shares the startup’s journey, their target market, and their vision for the future. They dive into: How customizable QR codes on clothing allow customers to link photos, social media, and contact information. Why their brand focuses on university students — especially those looking for creative ways to connect. Success stories of people meeting (and even dating) through their QR-coded clothing. How Scammy Company is improving both their tech (link tree functionality) and garment quality. Expansion plans into new markets like Miami and creative new use cases — such as digital menus for restaurants. Tune in for an inside look at an innovative startup blending fashion, technology, and human connection. Brought to you by Startup Summit 2025 — Europe’s leading startup and investor summit, happening September 18–19, 2025, in Lisbon. 🎟️ Learn more and secure your spot at www.startupsummit.io 🕒 Chapters 00:00 — Introduction to Scammy Company 03:41 — Customizable QR Codes on Clothing 11:44 — Connecting and Dating through QR Codes 16:24 — Improving Link Tree Functionality and Garment Quality 23:33 — QR Codes as Digital Menus in Restaurants

ESG, Impact Investing, and the Future of Venture Capital with Laura Iriarte

Innovation Conversation: ESG, Impact Investing, and the Future of Venture Capital with Laura Iriarte In this episode of Innovation Conversation, host Ricardo Pascual sits down with Laura Iriarte, Head of PR and Communications at Zero 100 Conferences, to dive deep into the rising importance of ESG and impact investing in the venture capital landscape. Laura shares her journey from sustainability to venture capital and explores how ESG principles are shaping the future of investing. They dive into: The growing role of ESG and impact investing in venture capital, driven by regulations and investor expectations. How founders can better tailor their pitches to meet investor requirements. The unique influence of family offices in alternative assets like venture capital and private equity. Insights into the Spanish startup ecosystem and its strong ties to Latin America. Opportunities in Latin America’s vibrant startup ecosystems in countries like Chile, Mexico, and Colombia. Why ESG reporting is critical for tracking progress and improvement. The importance of diversity, inclusion, and flexible policies to support working parents. How ESG and impact investing contribute to a more balanced and sustainable world. Tune in for a timely discussion on how sustainability and social responsibility are becoming central to the future of startups and investing. Brought to you by Startup Summit 2025 — Europe’s leading startup and investor summit, happening September 18–19, 2025, in Lisbon. 🎟️ Learn more and secure your spot at www.startupsummit.io 🕒 Chapters 00:00 — Introduction and Background 02:07 — The Rise of ESG and Impact Investing 04:54 — The Importance of ESG for Investors 08:19 — Tailoring Pitches to Investor Requirements 13:30 — Navigating the Challenges of Fundraising 21:42 — The Hardships of Being a VC 24:43 — The Role of Family Offices 26:01 — The Spanish Startup Ecosystem and Latin America 28:25 — Startup Ecosystems in Latin America 29:22 — The Importance of ESG Reporting and Data Gathering 36:18 — Promoting Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace 39:01 — Supporting Working Parents with Flexible Policies 50:31 — ESG and Impact Investing for a Sustainable World

Reinventing Cybersecurity and Password Management with MyCena

Innovation Conversation: Reinventing Cybersecurity and Password Management with MyCena In this episode of Innovation Conversation, host Ricardo Pascual sits down with Julia and Brendan from MyCena, a cybersecurity company offering a revolutionary solution that removes the need for employees to create, remember, or reset passwords. They explain how their approach reduces risk and cuts IT help desk costs while enhancing enterprise security across industries. They dive into: How MyCena eliminates password-related problems for employees and enterprises. The significant cost savings for IT help desks — up to 50%. Why MyCena’s cybersecurity solution is industry-agnostic and applicable to any sector. Challenges in market adoption and customer education. How their solution stands up against AI and quantum computing threats. Fundraising strategies and plans for scaling MyCena. Personal advice and inspiration for startup founders navigating cybersecurity and tech markets. Tune in for a fascinating look at how innovation in cybersecurity can reshape enterprise operations and reduce costs at scale. Brought to you by Startup Summit 2025 — Europe’s leading startup and investor summit, happening September 18–19, 2025, in Lisbon. 🎟️ Learn more and secure your spot at www.startupsummit.io 🕒 Chapters 00:00 — Introducing MyCena.co and Their Cybersecurity Solution 03:03 — The Inspiration Behind MyCena's Solution 04:22 — MyCena's Industry-Agnostic Solution and Customer Base 06:29 — Market Reception and Adoption Challenges 08:11 — The Impact on IT Help Desk Costs and Enterprise Security 12:11 — MyCena's Solution in the Face of AI and Quantum Computing Threats 16:19 — Fundraising and Growth Plans for MyCena 24:56 — Personal Inspiration and Advice for Startup Founders

Unlocking R&D Tax Incentives — Insights from RCK Partners

Innovation Conversation: Unlocking R&D Tax Incentives — Insights from RCK Partners In this episode of Innovation Conversation, host Ricardo Pascual sits down with James and Gajan from RCK Partnersto discuss how companies can leverage R&D tax incentives to drive innovation and reduce tax liabilities. They offer a deep dive into the eligibility criteria, application process, and real-world success stories from industries like software, gambling, and food tech. They dive into: How R&D tax incentives encourage innovation by offsetting R&D costs. The crucial role of specialists in ensuring compliance and maximizing claims. Success stories showing the real impact of R&D tax credits on business growth. Industry-specific considerations for R&D eligibility — including software, gambling, and food tech. Understanding the boundaries of science and technology for R&D tax relief. How recent government policy changes are reshaping R&D claims. The unique self-regulatory approach of RCK Partners that reduces inquiry risks. Tune in for valuable insights on how innovation funding strategies can help startups and established businesses stay competitive and fuel growth. Brought to you by Startup Summit 2025 — Europe’s leading startup and investor summit, happening September 18–19, 2025, in Lisbon. 🎟️ Learn more and secure your spot at www.startupsummit.io 🕒 Chapters 00:00 — Introduction to RCK Partners and R&D Tax Incentives 05:39 — Application Process and Benefits of R&D Tax Claims 09:45 — Success Stories: Impact of R&D Tax Credits 15:34 — Industry-Specific Considerations for R&D Tax Claims 27:24 — Understanding the Fields of Science and Technology for R&D 30:33 — Impact of Government Policy on R&D Claims 36:39 — Unique Selling Points of RCK Partners 39:23 — Reaching Out to RCK Partners for R&D Advice

Lessons from Startup to Exit and AI Innovation with Chris Sayer

Innovation Conversation: Lessons from Startup to Exit and AI Innovation with Chris Sayer In this episode of Innovation Conversation, host Ricardo Pascual sits down with Chris Sayer, founder, investor, and entrepreneur, to discuss his journey from launching startups to successful exits and the key lessons he learned along the way. Chris shares real-world insights into building companies, finding talent, and leveraging market opportunities. They dive into: The importance of having a clear vision and surrounding yourself with talented people. Key lessons from founding and exiting startups. How to find and attract the right investors and team members. The current state of the startup market and what founders should know. His involvement with HiBooks, an AI-powered online accounting platform. How Kapeta uses AI and automation to streamline software development processes. Tune in for a founder’s perspective on startup growth, overcoming challenges, and building the next wave of AI-driven innovation. Brought to you by Startup Summit 2025 — Europe’s leading startup and investor summit, happening September 18–19, 2025, in Lisbon. 🎟️ Learn more and secure your spot at www.startupsummit.io 🕒 Chapters 00:00 — Introduction and Background 03:02 — From Investor to Founder: The Story of Dexter.io 08:39 — Lessons Learned from the Journey 14:13 — Low Points and Overcoming Challenges 18:37 — Investing in People and Assessing Opportunities 21:21 — The Current Startup Market 23:33 — Post-Exit and Current Ventures 27:37 — Approaching Investors and Finding Talent 31:13 — HiBooks: AI-Enabled Accounting Software 33:48 — Kapeta: Streamlining Software Development

Leadership, Cybersecurity, and AI for Social Impact with Stefano Calvetti

Innovation Conversation: Leadership, Cybersecurity, and AI for Social Impact with Stefano Calvetti In this episode of Innovation Conversation, host Ricardo Pascual sits down with Stefano Calvetti, a leader with over 30 years of experience across the military, intelligence, IT, and coaching fields. Stefano shares his journey from leading tactical and strategic teams to pioneering leadership development and social impact initiatives. They dive into: Lessons from a career spanning military leadership, intelligence operations, and IT. How to navigate leadership challenges in the digital age. The role of coaching in enhancing self-confidence, influence, and positive impact. The founding of Besage.ai, a company using AI and machine learning to foster deeper human understanding. Insights from When Leaders Talk, Stefano’s podcast focused on leadership across industries. How technology and coaching intersect to build better leaders and societies. Tune in for a deep and insightful conversation on leadership, technology, and shaping a more empowered future. Brought to you by Startup Summit 2025 — Europe’s leading startup and investor summit, happening September 18–19, 2025, in Lisbon. 🎟️ Learn more and secure your spot at www.startupsummit.io 🕒 Chapters 00:00 — Introduction and Background 04:02 — Lessons from Military, Intelligence, and IT Leadership 10:45 — Navigating Leadership in the Digital Age 15:22 — The Power of Coaching for Influence and Impact 20:18 — Launching Besage.ai: AI and Machine Learning for Social Growth 26:40 — Insights from the When Leaders Talk Podcast 31:55 — Merging Technology and Coaching for a Better Future

Startup Health, Scaling, and AI-Powered Sales with Tomas Blacjak

Innovation Conversation: Startup Health, Scaling, and AI-Powered Sales with Tomas Blacjak In this episode of Innovation Conversation, host Ricardo Pascual sits down with Tomas Blacjak from Leadspicker.comto discuss the company’s evolution, the personal challenges of running a startup, and how they’re planning for future growth with AI-driven solutions. They dive into: The importance of taking care of your health and finding balance while building a startup. Why surrounding yourself with supportive people — and removing toxic individuals — is key to success. Lessons on investing in sleep, avoiding shortcuts, and maintaining a positive mindset. How hobbies and activities outside of work can help reduce burnout and improve well-being. Leadspicker’s future plans: scaling their user base, expanding into the US market, and leveraging AI agents for automated sales processes. Tune in for a real-world conversation about the intersection of startup growth, leadership, and founder well-being. Brought to you by Startup Summit 2025 — Europe’s leading startup and investor summit, happening September 18–19, 2025, in Lisbon. 🎟️ Learn more and secure your spot at www.startupsummit.io 🕒 Chapters 00:00 — Introduction and Company Background 08:05 — Dealing with Stress and Maintaining Balance 13:01 — Building a Supportive Team and Removing Toxicity 21:05 — Lessons Learned and Personal Well-being 27:53 — Future Plans for Leadspicker.com

Innovation Conversation: Resilience, Startup Growth, and AI Innovation with Roman Zomko

In this episode of Innovation Conversation, host Ricardo Pascual sits down with Roman Zomko, founder and CEO of Impressit.io, to talk about the journey of building a tech company through times of crisis and the role of resilience in the Ukrainian startup ecosystem. They dive into: How shared values and teamwork shape a strong company culture. The realities and challenges of starting and scaling a tech company. Navigating unexpected challenges like COVID-19 and the ongoing war in Ukraine. The resilience and innovation powering the Ukrainian startup scene. The launch of AssistMe AI, Impressit’s new product that automates workflows for customer support companies. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about entrepreneurship, adaptability, and tech innovation even in the face of adversity. Brought to you by Startup Summit 2025 — Europe’s leading startup and investor summit, happening September 18–19, 2025, in Lisbon. 🎟️ Learn more and secure your spot at www.startupsummit.io 🕒 Chapters 00:00 — Introduction and Background 07:27 — Challenges of Starting a New Business 15:16 — Impact of COVID-19 and the War in Ukraine 37:18 — The Ukrainian Startup Ecosystem and the Future

Innovation Conversation: Launching Web3 Startups, Fundraising, and AI Innovation with Trevor Koverko

In this episode of Innovation Conversation, host Ricardo Pascual sits down with Trevor Koverko, founder and CEO of Sapien.ai, to explore the challenges and opportunities of launching startups at the intersection of Web3 and AI. Trevor shares his experience building companies in the blockchain ecosystem and offers insights on navigating fundraising and scaling in the Web3 space. They dive into: Key differences between building a Web3 startup and a traditional venture-backed company. Unique challenges and opportunities in crypto fundraising. Why human input and data labeling are critical to improving AI model performance. Best practices for building and managing a global, distributed team. The mindset founders need to survive and thrive in fast-evolving industries. Tune in for a founder’s view on Web3 innovation, AI’s future, and what it takes to succeed in the next wave of startups. Brought to you by Startup Summit 2025 — Europe’s leading startup and investor summit, happening September 18–19, 2025, in Lisbon. 🎟️ Learn more and secure your spot at www.startupsummit.io 🕒 Chapters 00:00 — Introduction and Background 09:42 — Sapien and the Role of Humans in AI 23:11 — The Importance of Location 27:17 — Building a Global Team 37:41 — The Magic Wand

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