Latitude

In this episode of 43North Latitude, Nicole Camarre, VP of Investments, sits down with Jaxon Stuart, Principal at Spacestation Investments! Jaxon shares his perspective on investing in founders from non-traditional markets, the unique advantages of building outside the coasts, and how grit, humility, and community can be a founder’s greatest assets. Learn how Spacestation Investments approaches venture capital with a “geography agnostic” mindset and why the next big brand could come from anywhere. Listen now!

Ever wondered what it really takes to build a company from the ground up? In this episode with Adam Spector, CEO @ Chore, we dive into: Observations about successful founder mindsets Turning challenges into opportunities Lessons learned from building Chore If you're trying to launch your own startup or level up your leadership, this conversation is a must-listen.

Most founders are chasing the wrong thing—and it’s killing their startups. Rob Snyder, CEO of Waffle and Reframe, breaks down the biggest mistake early-stage founders make: focusing on pain points instead of projects. In this episode, we dive into: 🚀 The real way to find product-market fit 🛠️ Why your customers’ “pain points” don’t actually matter 📈 How to use case studies to close deals faster If you're trying to scale your startup, this conversation is a must-listen.

Lise shares the untold stories behind Google’s legendary IPO, the secret meetings at Denny’s, and why a Playboy article almost derailed everything. From Buffalo’s grit to Silicon Valley’s boardrooms, she unpacks what it takes to go public, why some IPOs crash and burn, and what founders need to know before taking the leap.

In this episode of Latitude, we sit down with Alex Killian—a partner at Bold Ventures, a champion for founder wellness, and a key player at Endeavor. From working with undercapitalized founders to leveraging Buffalo’s unique ecosystem, Alex shares his insights on what it takes to build thriving startups. We explore: Buffalo is more than wings and snow—it’s a thriving hub of talent, creativity, and opportunity. Join us as Alex talks about creating meaningful change, building global connections, and the importance of mentorship in today’s venture landscape. 🎧 Listen now to hear how Alex is helping redefine Buffalo’s startup scene, and don’t forget to subscribe to Latitude for more stories that inspire innovation.

43North welcomed Landon Campbell from Drive Capital on the Latitude Podcast! As a "Fly in a VC" guest, Landon visited with our Y9 cohort, sharing Drive Capital's story, their early-stage funding model, and key insights and tips for founders as they prepare for investor meetings.

In this episode of the Latitude Podcast, we're joined by David Lord and Taylor Lord from Guidesly, who are part of our new Y9 cohort. From their roots in the industry to their integration into the Buffalo community, David and Taylor share valuable insights and exciting plans for the future. Tune in to learn how Guidesly is changing the game for outdoor enthusiasts and guides alike. Connect with Guiseley LinkedIn: Guidesly LinkedIn: David Lord LinkedIn: Taylor Lord Guidesly Website Guidesly.com

Join us on the Latitude podcast as we dive into the journey of Jane Chen and her visionary co-founders of StepWise. Explore how StepWise is breaking down barriers in the energy sector and addressing critical bottlenecks. Learn about Jane's experience at 43North Finals, and her unexpected journey to national TV, and discover why their team chose Buffalo as the ideal place to nurture StepWise's growth. LinkedIn: Jane Chen LinkedIn: Austin Hunt LinkedIn: Ethan Brewer

Discover the keys to entrepreneurial success as Helen Min, Managing Partner at Phenomenal Ventures, shares insights on playing to your strengths in the startup world. Helen, a Buffalo native with a background in major tech companies and advertising, discusses the evolving role of AI, the power of complementary strengths in founding teams, and the crucial art of storytelling for startup founders. Connect with Helen: Twitter: @helen_min Website: Phenomenal Ventures Visit 43north.org to learn more

Join us in this episode of Latitude with 43North as Justine Palkowski, Senior Marketing Manager, welcomes Daricus Releford, Co-founder and CEO of StoreCash, a Y9 43North company. Discover how StoreCash's app helps you save 7-15% at your favorite stores, the unique QR code payment system, and how it differs from other cashback platforms. Explore the financial benefits for everyday shoppers and the exciting move to Buffalo. Plus, get insights into Daricus's entrepreneurial journey and his experience as a Black founder navigating the startup landscape. Connect with Daricus: LinkedIn: Daricus Releford Download StoreCash: Download StoreCash App Storecash Website Other Mentions: About 43North’s Program Scott Wayman, Kangarootime Evan Leapart, Kredit Academy and Black Men Talk Tech

Delve into the remarkable journey of Kredit Academy as founder Evan Leaphart shares the inspiring evolution from grappling with credit card debt to securing a groundbreaking $1 million investment at 43North. Explore the challenges, the innovative approach to financial literacy, and the profound impact on youth empowerment. This narrative unfolds against the backdrop of Evan's decision to relocate from Miami to Buffalo, New York, participating in 43North’s accelerator program. Show Notes: Black Men Talk Tech: In addition to being the visionary behind Kredit Academy, Evan Leaphart discusses his instrumental role in founding Black Men Talk Tech—a community-driven initiative addressing the resource gap for Black entrepreneurs in the tech industry. This platform offers essential support, networking opportunities, and education, contributing to the success of underrepresented individuals in the startup ecosystem. Connect with Evan and Mike: LinkedIn: Evan Leaphart LinkedIn: Mike Gross Learn more about Kredit Academy and Kiddie Kredit: Kredit Academy Website Download Kidding Kredit

Join host Justine Palkowski in a captivating conversation with Whitman Kwok, founder of KAV, as they explore his inspiring journey to Buffalo after earning a spot in 43North's Y9 cohort. Discover how KAV is transforming the cycling landscape, not just with cutting-edge helmets but by building a thriving community both on and off the road. Key Points: Connect with Whitman and KAV: LinkedInkavhelmets.comkavsports

Join 43North's Latitude Podcast for an insightful episode featuring Steve Case, Chairman and CEO at Revolution LLC, author of “The Rise of the Rest.” and former co-founder of AOL. In this conversation with 43North President Colleen Heidinger, discover the significance of regional collaboration, key to building a thriving tech hub. Steve's return to Buffalo, where he explored innovation in 2015, unveils valuable lessons for shaping a brighter future for Buffalo and beyond. Tune in for a compelling discussion on innovation beyond the coasts. Click here for full show notes

In this episode, CJ Maurer, the driving force behind The Gist, a dynamic inbound marketing agency headquartered at Buffalo's iconic Seneca One Tower, joins forces with the 43North team. Together, they explore the intricate world of mastering your CRM to supercharge sales through the dynamic landscape of inbound marketing. RESOURCES 43North: 43north.org The Gist: thegistinbound.com Twitter: @thegist Connect with CJ: LinkedIn

Get ready for a thrilling episode as Maniac from Trainwreck Sports takes over the Latitude Podcast. In this special edition, we dive deep into the preparations and secrets behind the scenes of 43North Finals. Joined by the talented members of the 43North Marketing Team – Tiffani, Devin, and Maura – Maniac explores the newest developments, creative planning, the esteemed judging panel, scripted vs. spontaneous moments, and what the team is most excited about this year. Get FREE Tickets to 43North Finals Follow Trainwreck Sports

John B Johnson, Identity Architect, discusses how to optimize your brand identity to directly benefit your marketing efforts, product development, and more. Listen to John's tips on why your branding needs to be more than a logo, and how a small studio helped 43North Y7 Portfolio Company, ShearShare! RESOURCES Click here for full show notes John’s Instagram: @johnbcreating a small studio Instagram: @asmallstudioco a small studio website: asmallstudio.com

Brett Brohl, Managing Partner at Bread and Butter Ventures, joins Cindy Sideris, Sr. Platform Manager at 43North, to discuss four mistakes founders can make when scaling their startup. RESOURCES Apply: 43North Accelerator Program Website: Bread & Butter Ventures Open Office Hours: Book Here Twitter: @brettbrohl LinkedIn: Brett Brohl YouTube: Brett’s Brain

43North sits down with Twipes (Y8) co-founders, AL Borz and Elle McIntosh. Twipes moved from London, UK to Buffalo, NY in 2023 to join 43North’s Y8 cohort and to expand their sustainable business in the United States. RESOURCES Apply: 43North Accelerator Program Website: Twipes.com Instagram: @twipesuk Twitter: @twipesuk TikTok: @twipesuk LinkedIn: Ellenor McIntosh, Alborz Bozorgi

Dominic Costanzo relocated from Richmond, VA to Buffalo, NY to contribute to the growth of Buffalo’s Startup Ecosystem. In this episode, Dom sits down with Cindy Sideris to discuss the qualities of successful emerging tech ecosystems in mid-sized cities.

ShearShare co-founders Dr. Tye and Courtney Caldwell are married co-founders who have found success in both business and their relationship. From moving their business to Buffalo, NY, to writing best-selling books, we dive deep into their secrets for making it all work at the Latitude podcast with 43North. RESOURCES Show Notes: The Key to a Successful Co-Founder Relationship Apply: 43North Accelerator Program Website: ShearShare ShearShare App: Download the App Instagram: @ShearShare Twitter: @ShearShare TikTok: @ShearShare Books: Mentored by Failure, The Happiness Journal