Founded in FoCo Podcast

In this episode, Kris Monkou (https://thewholebeingcoach.com) shares insights on preventing burnout, building capacity, and establishing boundaries for sustainable success. Discover practical strategies for entrepreneurs and leaders to manage energy, say no effectively, and create systems that support well-being. Takeaways- Rest increases productivity and flow, like professional athletes.- Boundar...

Dr. Nereida Perdigon joins Nick Armstrong on the Founded in FoCo podcast to talk about emotional and mental health education, especially in the Latino community. She shares her journey from being a single mom and domestic violence survivor to becoming an entrepreneur and educator. The conversation covers workplace bullying, creating inclusive environments, and what attendees can expect from her bi...

A great photo is more than just an image—it’s a reflection of your confidence and credibility. Joining Nick on this episode of the Founded in FoCo podcast is Julie Ulstrup, an award-winning Fort Collins portrait photographer, shares how she helps clients see their own brilliance through photography. Julie, a former educator and school counselor, discusses the deep connection between self-perceptio...

Artists are creators—but they’re also business owners. In this episode of the Founded in FoCo podcast, Nick is joined by Meredith Badler from the Colorado Business Committee for the Arts (CBCA). Meredith shares how the arts fuel Colorado’s economy and why legal and business knowledge is essential for creative professionals. Meredith dives into the Colorado Attorneys for the Arts (CAFTA) program, w...

If your marketing feels like a grind, you’re doing it wrong. In this episode of the Founded in FoCo podcast, Shannon Hernandez shares how joyful, ethical marketing can transform your business. Shannon, founder of Joyful Business Revolution, breaks down why permission-based marketing and authentic storytelling are the keys to real connections—and real results. She’ll show you how to align your mark...

What if leadership felt more like mixing the perfect DJ set—where every beat, transition, and interaction creates an experience that truly resonates? Eryc Eyl joins Nick Armstrong on the Founded in FoCo podcast to explore the art of heart-led leadership and building workplaces that put people first. Eryc unpacks six essential disciplines that help leaders foster human flourishing, blending insight...

How do you turn bold ideas into thriving businesses? Join Founded in FoCo Co-Lead Organizer Nick Armstrong as he sits down with Mark Schreiber from the CSU Institute for Entrepreneurship to explore the power of human-centered design and programs like Venture Validator. In this episode, you'll discover how design thinking helps entrepreneurs—whether product- or service-based—truly understand custom...

What does it take to unlock peak performance—not just in work, but in life? Dr. Brad Cooper, an elite master's athlete and PhD in performance psychology, joins Nick Armstrong on the Founded in FoCo podcast to reveal the science (and art) of functional mental toughness. From optimizing sleep, exercise, and nutrition to fueling motivation and resilience, Dr. Cooper shares powerful insights on how to...

Learn how nonprofits can pitch their missions like pros and secure game-changing funding in this episode of the Founded in FoCo podcast. Nick is joined by Maya and Alex to dive into Trout Tank , a live-pitch event helping nonprofits connect with donors—think Shark Tank , but for a good cause. Maya Ortega (Trout Tank co-creator) and Alex Koenigsberg (Arula founder) break down what makes a compellin...

Charles Howes is the Founded in FoCo Co-Lead Organizer and Peter Bostwick is the Founded in FoCo Exhibitor Hall Lead. Charles joined Founded in FoCo in to play a pivotal role in nurturing entrepreneurial growth in Northern Colorado. With a keen interest in building community-focused initiatives, he emphasizes job creation and economic development. Charles brought new tools and structures to help g...

Gus Vieweg is an expert in utilizing improv techniques to enhance business communication and team dynamics. As the head of the social track for Founded in Foco, Gus brings a wealth of experience in organizing impactful networking events. With a background that includes facilitating workshops and events designed to break down barriers and build genuine connections, Gus uses his passion for improv t...

Beth Bostwick and Dayle Wickizer are the Founded in FoCo AI Track Leads. Beth Bostwick is an expert in leveraging generative AI to empower small businesses. She is a key player in the planning team for Found in FoCo and a passionate advocate for using AI as a tool for business growth and innovation. Dayle Wickizer is a technology enthusiast and strategist who specializes in AI implementation for s...

Phil Donaldson and Karen Joy Fritz lead the Creative Track for Founded in FoCo. Phil has been involved with Founded in FoCo since 2020, contributing to the development of the Nonprofit and Builder Tracks. Now focused on the Creative Track, he brings his expertise from Fort Collins’ vibrant music scene, where he performs with the FoCo Motown Revue . Karen, a Fort Collins-based entrepreneur with ove...

Dayle Wickizer is the CEO and founder of Intentional Results Consulting. With a rich background in executive operations management, she plays the vital role of a fractional Chief Operating Officer (COO), providing part-time executive support to businesses. Her expertise lies in helping leaders execute their strategies, optimize operations, and scale their businesses effectively. Wickizer's exp...

Sara Rosinsky is the talented and experienced copywriter behind Shiny Red Copy. Having been in the advertising industry since the days when horses were a primary mode of transportation, Sara has honed her craft to perfection. She's a sole proprietor who helps businesses reach their customers via clear messaging and brand articulation. She has a rich background that includes starting in adverti...

Diana Rogers Jaeger is a seasoned consultant adept at propelling organizations and individuals toward their maximum potential. She lends her expertise through her company, Love to Appreciate Consulting, with a focal point on leadership development as well as employee engagement and retention. Diana crafts strategic solutions that honor the symbiotic relationship between businesses and their workfo...

Abby Veliquette is a seasoned coach and consultant based in Fort Collins, Colorado. She is the founder of Sequoia Leadership, where she specializes in helping organizations, teams, and individuals focus on both the "how" and "what" of work. With a lifetime interest in leadership, Abby holds a background in nonprofit leadership, organizational communication, and a PhD in organiz...

LeAndra Foster is an esteemed expert in the field of profitability coaching and entrepreneurship. Her experience includes guiding fellow entrepreneurs in recognizing and correcting profitability issues within their businesses. She is known for her strategic approach to addressing business needs from the ground up, akin to Maslow's hierarchy of needs but applied to business processes. LeAndra h...

Stefanie Merrill is the K-12 Work Based Learning Business Liaison for the region, whose role involves substantial interaction with businesses every day. With an extensive background in education and business partnerships, Stefanie is dedicated to enhancing the relationship between high school students and the business community by facilitating work-based learning opportunities. Nick Peterson serve...

Amanda Fuel is a keynote speaker and coach for public speakers, known for her work encouraging people from diverse backgrounds to share their unique stories on stage. With a passion for advocating for uncommon voices, Amanda has experience in public speaking, marketing, leading meetup groups such as Conscious Business Connection, and operating a sticker company called Dolphin Feet. She has also be...

Julia Semple is a seasoned massage therapist with over 17 years of experience in the industry. She is the proud owner of Therapeutic Massage of Noco, where she specializes in providing relief for chronic pain and stress. By integrating her intuitive touch and in-depth knowledge of the human body, Julia is committed to improving the well-being and performance of her clients. Julia is passionate abo...

Adam Eggleston, a coffee aficionado turned entrepreneur, is the passionate owner of Oak Coffee Co., based in Fort Collins. His unique business model involves aging coffee with various spirits like whiskey, bourbon, and rum to enhance the flavor profile of the beloved beverage. With a Master's in Business Administration from a state university and an extensive background in community engagement...

In the latest episode of “Founded in FoCo,” Ann Baron takes the spotlight with host Nick Armstrong to explore the art of networking for introverts and the pivotal role of personalized introductions in the professional sphere. Ann imparts her wisdom on cultivating authentic, enduring relationships, which are essential for business success in today’s competitive environment. Ann Baron underscores th...

Dr. Erika Michalski is a beacon of authenticity in the consulting world, known colloquially as "Consultant Barbie". Holding a doctoral degree, she has made her mark as an internationally recognized master performance consultant specializing in talent development and employee engagement. Erika has an extensive background in academic and corporate environments, assisting organizations thro...

Katie Huey, an innovative coach and facilitator who offers a fresh perspective on integrating comfort, compassion, and support in the face of personal and collective grief in the workplace joins Nick on this episode of the Founded in FoCo podcast. The conversation delves into the nuances of human resilience and the transformative power of thoughtful, individually tailored interactions. Katie bring...