• How Podcasting Leads to Growth/Simon Chou - Personal Branding, Community, Hot Sauce ~ Spark of Ages Ep 32
    Feb 23 2025

    Building a personal brand through podcasting can be a game changer for marketers looking to connect authentically with their audience. Simon Chou, host of @marketingonmars shares strategies for growing a podcast, engaging communities through unique events, and leveraging technology to streamline marketing efforts.

    • Insights on the current podcast landscape and listener demographics
    • The significance of consistency in podcasting
    • Steps to cultivate a powerful personal brand online
    • Importance of building community both digitally and in-person
    • The transformative role of AI in enhancing marketing strategies

    Ever wondered how the perfect blend of hot sauces and marketing strategies can create a captivating podcast experience? Simon Chou, the marketing maestro behind "Marketing on Mars," joins us to share the secret sauce behind his show's success. From tackling hot sauce challenges with top marketers to leveraging platforms like LinkedIn and YouTube for personal brand building, Simon reveals how consistency and creativity can grow your podcast audience. Discover the art of balancing education and entertainment in content creation and how Simon's unique approach keeps listeners coming back for more.

    Our conversation takes a deep dive into the power of influential guests and the complexities of managing podcast metrics across diverse platforms. Unpacking the journey of "Marketing on Mars," Simon explains how high-profile guests have boosted listenership and the significance of community building in the digital age. Whether it's engaging with Vancouver's vibrant community or navigating career transitions, Simon's insights on personal branding offer listeners a roadmap to preparing for life beyond their corporate identities.

    Journey with us through Simon's transition from finance to marketing, where human connection and innovation take center stage. This episode is packed with personal stories, networking strategies, and invaluable marketing insights. Explore how Simon's knack for creating engaging communities informs his current projects. As we venture into the evolving landscape of podcasting and marketing, listeners are invited to harness the transformative potential of building authentic connections and thriving communities.


    Email us with any feedback for the show: spark@postion2.com
    Find more great content like this at: https://www.position2.com/
    If you like what you here, please drop us a comment!

    SUBSCRIBE TO @Position2Inc FOR MORE EPISODES!

    Rajiv Parikh: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajivparikh/

    Simon Chou: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simonchou1/


    #podcasting #community #personalbranding #marketingschool #entrepreneur #innovation #growth #technology #innovatorsmindset #innovators #innovator #product #revenue #founder #entrepreneurship #growthmindset #growthhacking #enterprise #business #company #companies #smartgrowth #efficiency #process #podcast #comedy #desi #indian #community

    Website: https://www.position2.com/podcast/

    Rajiv Parikh: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajivparikh/

    Sandeep Parikh: https://www.instagram.com/sandeepparikh/

    Email us with any feedback for the show: spark@postion2.com

    Show more Show less
    1 hr and 4 mins
  • The Innovation Leap that's happening in India/Kumar Ganapathy ~ 3iPartners, Deep Tech, Impact - Spark of Ages Ep 31
    Feb 8 2025

    This episode with Kumar Ganapathy "dives" (yes we know AI loves this word) deep into the realm of deep tech in India, exploring impactful investment strategies and the entrepreneurial spirit necessary for success in this complex landscape. Listeners gain insights into the challenges faced by founders, the importance of resilience, and the unique opportunities that lie within the Indian market.

    • Introduction of Kumar, his background and 3i Partners
    • Explanation of deep tech and its significance
    • Investment strategies focusing on India as a starting point
    • Resilience as a key trait among successful entrepreneurs
    • Case studies of 1090 and advanced battery technology companies
    • Importance of understanding market needs and refining messaging
    • Exploration of AI's role in transforming drug discovery
    • Reflection on India's evolving tech investment landscape

    Join us on the Spark of Ages podcast as we chat with Kumar Ganapathy, the visionary founder and managing director of 3i Partners. Kumar takes us on his riveting journey into the realm of deep tech investing, focusing on the critical role of health and climate tech for upcoming innovations. He shares his strategic vision of beginning investments in India with the goal of expanding globally, seeking the brightest minds in science and technology to lead the charge. Kumar's unique insights stem from his rich experience in tech entrepreneurship, providing a fresh perspective on how deep tech can create defensive moats and tackle significant societal issues.

    We explore the importance of creating a "wow" factor that captures market attention, starting with accessible market segments, and building a world-class team. Kumar shares a powerful example of an Indian company that developed affordable gel packs for temperature control, revolutionizing cold chain logistics. This innovation illustrates how transformative technologies can drive efficiency, sustainability, and lasting industry impact. Additionally, we touch on the promise of India's green hydrogen economy and cutting-edge battery technology, which could potentially transform the nation's energy landscape.

    Our conversation also highlights the entrepreneurial spirit of India, exemplified by companies like PadCare, which pioneers sustainable recycling solutions. We discuss the importance of frugal innovation, and how India's approach can offer a strategic edge in tech development. Kumar reflects on his personal journey and investment choices, emphasizing the significance of finding one's ikigai in entrepreneurship. Throughout the episode, we explore the balance of passion, skill, and market needs as a pathway to career satisfaction and success.


    Rajiv Parikh: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajivparikh/

    Kumar Ganapathy: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kumar-g-9342742

    Kumar is currently a founder and Managing Director of 3iPartners, an early-stage impact fund that invests in promising social entrepreneurs in India. 3iPartners focuses on deep tech startups in the areas of Tech Bio, Climate Tech, and Frontier Tech, seeking to support visionary founders who are disrupting industries with innovative technologies and scalable business models.

    #entrepreneur #indiancompany #deeptech #growth #innovation #sales #technology #innovatorsmindset #innovators #innovator #product #revenue #revenuegrowth #management #founder #entrepreneurship #growthmindset #growthhacking #enterprise #business #bschools #bschoolscholarship #comp

    Website: https://www.position2.com/podcast/

    Rajiv Parikh: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajivparikh/

    Sandeep Parikh: https://www.instagram.com/sandeepparikh/

    Email us with any feedback for the show: spark@postion2.com

    Show more Show less
    58 mins
  • How the US Air Force will use AI/Jason Hansberger, Tim Henderson - Great Power Competition, HAWs, Kill-Chain ~ Spark of Ages Ep 30
    Jan 26 2025

    This episode explores how technology, specifically AI, is reshaping military strategy and national defense. Colonel Jason Hansberger and Author/Entrepreneur Tim Henderson discuss the implications of AI in warfare, the ethical considerations surrounding autonomous weapons, and the U.S. military's strategic innovations.

    • Examining the significant U.S. defense budget and global military expenditure
    • Understanding the new age of Great Power Competition
    • Addressing the role of AI and innovation in military operations
    • Discussing the ethical implications of autonomous capabilities
    • Highlighting DAF Stanford AI Studio’s mission and objectives
    • Exploring practical AI applications within current military contexts
    • Assessing the future of military technology and decision-making processes

    Colonel Jason Hansberger and Tim Henderson join us for an eye-opening discussion about the ever-evolving world of technology and defense. Colonel Hansberger, with his expertise in Air Force strategy, and Henderson, a former submarine officer and author, offer a unique lens on how artificial intelligence is transforming military operations. As we navigate a landscape marked by geopolitical challenges, such as North Korea's involvement in Ukraine and Donald Trump’s re-election, we examine America’s strategic role on the global stage and the ethical considerations that come with the use of AI and autonomous technologies in defense.

    Our conversation takes a broader approach as we explore the global competition for AI supremacy. We analyze the economic and political ramifications of controlling semiconductor manufacturing and advanced computing technologies. This episode looks into the historical ties between military applications and technology, the controversies that arise when tech giants merge with defense projects, and how initiatives like the DAF Stanford AI Studio can bridge the gap between academia, the industry, and the military. We even consider the profound impact AI could have on decision-making processes in complex environments and the nuanced dynamics of autonomous warfare.

    As we wrap up, we get personal with our guests, learning about their aspirations beyond their military careers. Tim shares his plans to publish novels inspired by military service, while Jason reflects on his life philosophy of seeking significance over success. Together, we address pressing recruitment challenges faced by the military and propose innovative solutions that could enhance outcomes.

    Jason Hansberger: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-hansberger-b1b15374

    Jason Hansberger is a leader in technology and strategy currently serving as the Director of the DAF-Stanford AI Studio and AMC/CC Special Advisor & Director, Technology Capability Development for the United States Air Force

    Tim Henderson: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-henderson-53772116

    Tim Henderson is a multifaceted professional with a background spanning military service, finance, and real estate development. He is a former submarine officer and nuclear engineer from the United States Naval Academy, where he served in various roles on a ballistic missile submarine, ultimately as a Missile Officer. For the past 18 years, he has been a multifamily developer and general contractor in Silicon Valley and is the President of Cypress Group. He is also the author of the novel "Nobody Wins Afraid of Losing".

    Producer: Anand Shah & Sandeep Parikh
    Technical Director & Sound Designer

    Website: https://www.position2.com/podcast/

    Rajiv Parikh: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajivparikh/

    Sandeep Parikh: https://www.instagram.com/sandeepparikh/

    Email us with any feedback for the show: spark@postion2.com

    Show more Show less
    1 hr and 12 mins
  • Devising Investment Strategy for AI/Ashish Aggarwal, Akash Agarwal, Viral Tolat - 2024 vs 2025, IPO Market, Fake Companies ~ Spark of Ages Ep 29
    Jan 13 2025

    The episode explores the investment landscape in both public and private markets, focusing on technological opportunities and insights for 2025. Key discussions include the importance of resilience against market volatility, the impact of AI on innovation, and an outlook on the IPO market.

    • Highlights of recent economic performance and predictions for future growth
    • Role of AI and technology in shaping investment strategies
    • Discussion on the importance of preparing for black swan events
    • Diverging opinions on IPOs and their focus on early investor liquidity
    • Growing relevance of AI in venture capital decision-making

    AI is reshaping our tech landscape, and we're here to dissect its profound influence. Google and NVIDIA are at the forefront, with Google's ventures like Waymo and Google Cloud setting the stage for future growth, despite antitrust challenges and fierce competition from platforms like TikTok and Instagram. As we discuss NVIDIA's leap into consumer-friendly AI, we also explore the compelling world of alternative investments, from Bitcoin's potential surge in 2025 to the emerging opportunities in private credit and early-stage venture capital. Diversification in high-risk investing and the potential of black swan events by 2025 are also up for discussion.

    We'll also have our guest enter the "Spark Tank" and play a game of "Two Truths and a Lie," exploring some of the wildest, futuristic business ventures.

    Roundtable Guests:
    Ashish Aggarwal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashishaaggarwal/

    Ashish is a highly active investor in AI/ML, and a two-time founder with significant experience building and scaling products. Ashish is also a Partner at Chamaeleon, a VC firm that uses a proprietary AI platform for sourcing deals, showcasing his focus on the intersection of AI and finance.

    Akash Agarwal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aagarwal/

    Akash is an accomplished entrepreneur and technology leader with a strong background in SaaS and AI. Last year he founded Agilitas, a CPG AI platform innovating the way food and beverage products are formulated.

    Viral Tolat: https://www.linkedin.com/in/viral-tolat-a0b942/

    Viral Tolat is a technology entrepreneur and investor with 30 years of experience in fintech, specializing in AI and crypto. With advanced degrees from the University of Miami and Stanford, he is currently developing a foundation AI model for finance at Neural Engines, Inc., and serves on the board of Quadency, a retail crypto trading platform.

    Subscribe, rate, and comment to never miss an episode! 🚀

    Producer: Anand Shah & Sandeep Parikh
    Technical Director & Sound Designer: Sandeep Parikh, Omar Najam
    Executive Producers: Sandeep Parikh & Anand Shah
    Associate Producers: Taryn Talley
    Editor: Sean Meagher & Aidan McGarvey

    All content on the Spark of Ages Podcast is for your general information and use only and is not intended to address your particular requirements.

    In particular, the content does not constitute any form of advice, recommendation, representation, endorsement or arrangement and is not intended to be relied upon by users in making (or refraining from making) any specific investment or other decisions. We try to provide content that is true and accurate as of the date of publishing; however, we give no assurance or warranty regarding the accuracy, timeliness, or applicability of any of the contents.

    Guests, present

    Website: https://www.position2.com/podcast/

    Rajiv Parikh: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajivparikh/

    Sandeep Parikh: https://www.instagram.com/sandeepparikh/

    Email us with any feedback for the show: spark@postion2.com

    Show more Show less
    1 hr and 6 mins
  • GTM Predictions for 2025 and Beyond/Jon Miller, Abhi Ingle, Michael Ni ~ Spark of Ages Ep 28
    Dec 27 2024

    The episode centers on the evolution of marketing in an AI-dominated landscape, discussing whether traditional marketing roles are becoming irrelevant as organizations shift towards more integrated structures. Key topics include the importance of brand, human relationships, and the challenges of relying on outdated metrics as the industry heads toward 2025.

    • Examining concerns around the relevance of marketing in the AI era
    • Discussing the blurred lines between marketing and sales roles
    • Reflecting on the need for a new definition and strategic role for marketing leaders
    • Identifying mistakes in current go-to-market strategies
    • Highlighting the significance of building brand awareness and meaningful customer experiences
    • Analyzing the implications of AI and future marketing trends
    • Exploring innovations in experiential marketing

    Rajiv Parikh: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajivparikh/

    Sandeep Parikh: https://www.instagram.com/sandeepparikh/

    Jon Miller: https://www.linkedin.com/

    Abhi Ingle: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ingle-abhi/

    Mike Ni: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelni/

    Subscribe, rate, and comment to never miss an episode! 🚀

    Producer: Anand Shah & Sandeep Parikh
    Technical Director & Sound Designer: Sandeep Parikh, Omar Najam
    Executive Producers: Sandeep Parikh & Anand Shah
    Associate Producers: Taryn Talley
    Editor: Sean Meagher & Aidan McGarvey

    #entrepreneur #innovation #growth #sales #technology #innovatorsmindset #innovators #innovator #product #revenue #revenuegrowth #management #founder #entrepreneurship #growthmindset #growthhacking #salestechniques #salestips #enterprise #business #bschools #bschoolscholarship #company #companies #smartgrowth #efficiency #process #processimprovement #value #valuecreation #funny #podcast #comedy #desi #indian #community

    Website: https://www.position2.com/podcast/

    Rajiv Parikh: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajivparikh/

    Sandeep Parikh: https://www.instagram.com/sandeepparikh/

    Email us with any feedback for the show: spark@postion2.com

    Show more Show less
    59 mins
  • GTM = "Get The Money"/Bobby Napiltonia - Building a Marketplace, Distribution, Hershey ~ Spark of Ages Ep 27
    Dec 7 2024

    Welcome to another electrifying episode of the Spark of Ages podcast! Today, we sit down with the legendary Bobby Napoltonia, whose 36-year journey has forever shaped the tech landscape. From bringing sound to computers to democratizing the telecommunications industry, Bobby’s fingerprints are all over the tech we use daily. 🙌 Join Bobby and your hosts Rajiv and Sandeep Parikh as they chat about everything from building Salesforce's AppExchange to why his strategy isn't 'go to market' but 'get the money'.

    Find out how Bobby's visionary strategies have reshaped companies like Twilio and Salesforce, and why thinking outside the box is crucial for success in today's fast-paced tech landscape. From leveraging marketplaces to achieving groundbreaking partnerships, Bobby's insights promise to challenge conventional thinking and inspire transformative ideas for your business journey.

    Explore the trends reshaping the tech world, from the urgent need to tackle online identity fraud in gaming to the environmental impact of AI. Bobby sheds light on the critical issues of re-shoring manufacturing to the U.S. and the promising potential of robotics to address societal challenges like care deficits in aging populations. Learn why diversity in tech is more than just a buzzword and how it's shaping the future of innovation, as we highlight inspiring stories of overcoming funding barriers for African-American entrepreneurs through ventures like the "Super Foundry."

    Expect laughs, insights, and even a Hershey's chocolate quiz! 🍫 Tune in to uncover Bobby's views on scaling companies, the future of AI, and wild stories about traveling with the circus! 🎪 📌 Discover how these adventures translate into valuable business lessons and a roadmap for aspiring entrepreneurs. With Bobby's infectious enthusiasm and wealth of knowledge, this episode is a treasure trove of insights into the tech industry and the entrepreneurial mindset, ensuring you walk away with a fresh perspective on your own journey.


    Bobby Napiltonia: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobby-napiltonia-8b82624/

    Subscribe, rate, and comment to never miss an episode! 🚀

    Producer: Anand Shah & Sandeep Parikh
    Technical Director & Sound Designer: Sandeep Parikh, Omar Najam
    Executive Producers: Sandeep Parikh & Anand Shah
    Associate Producers: Taryn Talley
    Editor: Sean Meagher & Aidan McGarvey


    #gotomarket #robotics #entrepreneur #innovation #growth #sales #technology #innovatorsmindset #innovators #innovator #product #revenue #revenuegrowth #management #founder #entrepreneurship #growthmindset

    Website: https://www.position2.com/podcast/

    Rajiv Parikh: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajivparikh/

    Sandeep Parikh: https://www.instagram.com/sandeepparikh/

    Email us with any feedback for the show: spark@postion2.com

    Show more Show less
    1 hr and 3 mins
  • Creating Signal Not Noise/Melissa Rosenthal - The New PR, Driving In-Bound, Listicles ~ Spark of Ages Ep 26
    Nov 23 2024

    What if your company's marketing could transform into its own dynamic trade publication? Learn from Melissa Rosenthal, co-founder of Outlever, as she shares her innovative approach to modern marketing on the Spark of Ages podcast. With Melissa's deep insights, we challenge outdated marketing strategies and unveil how companies can thrive in an AI-driven world by streamlining their tech stacks and targeting meaningful growth. Her experience at ClickUp underscores the importance of consolidating marketing efforts into efficient, multi-functional platforms.

    Join us as we uncover Outlever's transformative tactics that help businesses reach new heights by focusing on inbound marketing and audience-first content. Melissa reveals how human writers, empowered by technology, craft narratives that break away from traditional public relations, creating impactful stories that resonate with audiences and drive engagement. This fresh approach not only positions companies as industry leaders but also redefines what it means to connect with consumers in today's fast-paced digital landscape.

    The episode also explores Melissa's personal transition from the media to the tech industry, highlighting her adaptability and foresight in navigating career disruptions. We discuss the shift away from VC-backed hyper-growth models towards more sustainable, self-funded strategies that prioritize profitability and authentic engagement. Through Melissa's experiences with BuzzFeed and Cheddar, we gain valuable insights into the power of strategic decision-making and the importance of innovation in evolving marketing and technology landscapes.

    Website: https://www.position2.com/podcast/

    Rajiv Parikh: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajivparikh/

    Sandeep Parikh: https://www.instagram.com/sandeepparikh/

    Email us with any feedback for the show: spark@postion2.com

    Show more Show less
    1 hr and 1 min
  • Secret Sauce of CMOs/Alice Crowder - Chicken Sandwich Wars, Segmentation, Hedonistic Index ~ Spark of Ages Ep 25
    Nov 8 2024

    Join Rajiv Parikh on the Spark of Ages podcast as he explores the secrets behind Krispy Krunchy Chicken's rise in the Chicken Sandwich Wars. With insights from Alice Crowder, the CMO who has transformed the brand's offerings into must-have menu items we'll learn about marketing innovation, and why KKC is a cut above the rest. Discover the secrets behind their mouth-watering chicken, growth strategy, and how Alice’s leadership is fueling a nationwide craze. Get a firsthand look at how strategic data use and innovative marketing have redefined roles in the fast-food sector, amidst technological evolution.

    Explore the unique challenges of marketing a restaurant within a convenience store setting, an environment where traditional demographics give way to occasion-based consumer behaviors. From regular C-store diners to third-party delivery service users, we discuss the distinctive strategies that cater to each segment, and how these approaches enhance brand awareness and consumer loyalty. Through platforms like Uber Eats and Grubhub, learn how KKC is expanding its reach and market basket size, all while maintaining the freshness and quality that define its "hot store" concept.

    Wrap up with a lighthearted game that uncovers surprising fast-food myths and truths, revealing the quirks of the industry. Hear about grassroots marketing campaigns like the MyKKC challenge, which engage consumers through creativity and passion. Alice shares how KKC aligns new product ideas with consumer expectations using a structured innovation funnel, ensuring a harmonious balance between enjoyment and strategic marketing. This episode promises a fascinating journey through the competitive and ever-evolving world of fast-food marketing. Tune in for rich flavors of marketing wisdom, laughter, and maybe a bit of chicken envy. 🍗🔥 📚

    Alice Crowder: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alicecrowder

    Krispy Krunchy Chicken: https://www.instagram.com/krispykrunchychicken/

    West With the Night by Meryl Barkham: https://www.amazon.com/West-Night-Beryl-Markham-ebook/dp/B0B4VCG4SY


    Producer: Anand Shah & Sandeep Parikh
    Technical Director & Sound Designer: Sandeep Parikh, Omar Najam
    Executive Producers: Sandeep Parikh & Anand Shah
    Associate Producers: Taryn Talley
    Editor: Sean Meagher & Aidan McGarvey

    #chickensandwichwars #dataanalytics #innovation #growth #branding #sales #data #analytics #product #revenue #revenuegrowth #management #entrepreneurship #growthmindset #growthhacking #salestechniques #salestips #enterprise #business #companies #smartgrowth #efficiency #process #processimprovement #value #valuecreation #funny #podcast #comedy #desi #indian #community

    Website: https://www.position2.com/podcast/

    Rajiv Parikh: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajivparikh/

    Sandeep Parikh: https://www.instagram.com/sandeepparikh/

    Email us with any feedback for the show: spark@postion2.com

    Show more Show less
    52 mins