Advertise on podcast: Founded in FoCo Podcast

In this episode, Chase Carlton, CEO and founder of Fenix Cyber (https://fenixcyber.com), explains how small businesses and nonprofits can tighten up their cybersecurity and use AI and automation without losing control of their data. Learn why Chase recommends mapping your workflows first, building inside the platform you already pay for, and keeping a human in the loop on every critical process. Takeaways Keep humans in the loop on any AI-driven process.Map your workflow first, then automate it with low-code tools like Power Automate, Zapier, or n8n, and call AI only for the steps that need it.Building inside the platform you already use (often Microsoft 365) keeps AI behind the logins and permissions you already have.Structured workflows are cheaper to run, easier to audit, and easier to fix than handing a whole process to an AI agent.Approval workflows like time-off and travel requests are some of the easiest processes to automate first.Knowing your security posture can be uncomfortable, and it beats not knowing.Learn more about Chase and get Fenix Cyber’s free cyber risk assessment at: https://fenixcyber.com/benchmark The Founded in FoCo Podcast is hosted by Nick Armstrong, Lead Organizer of Founded in FoCo and Geek-in-Chief of WTF Marketing (https://wtfmarketing.com). Hear more great interviews with founders in and around Fort Collins at: https://foundedinfoco.com

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.- Boundaries are a muscle that can be developed with practice.- Self-awareness is key to recognizing burnout early.- Creating personalized rhythms helps sustain energy.- Saying no is essential for capacity management.Learn more about Kris at: https://thewholebeingcoach.comThe Founded in FoCo Podcast is hosted by Nick Armstrong, Lead Organizer of Founded in FoCo and Geek-in-Chief of WTF Marketing (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://wtfmarketing.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠). Hear more great interviews with founders in and around Fort Collins at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://foundedinfoco.com⁠

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 bilingual session at Founded in FoCo. Tune in to learn more about her work and insights. The Founded in FoCo Podcast is hosted by Nick Armstrong, Lead Organizer of Founded in FoCo and Geek-in-Chief of WTF Marketing (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://wtfmarketing.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠). Hear more great interviews with founders in and around Fort Collins at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://foundedinfoco.com⁠

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-perception, business success, and personal growth. She also reveals how her practice in kung fu influences her approach to both photography and entrepreneurship.If you want to build confidence in your brand, career, or personal life, this episode is full of insights on authenticity, self-expression, and personal development.The Founded in FoCo Podcast is hosted by Nick Armstrong, Lead Organizer of Founded in FoCo and Geek-in-Chief of WTF Marketing (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://wtfmarketing.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠). Hear more great interviews with founders in and around Fort Collins at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://foundedinfoco.com⁠

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, which connects artists with legal support, and previews CBCA’s upcoming Founded in Foco sessions on copyright law and funding strategies. If you're an artist or creative entrepreneur, this episode is packed with insights to help you protect and grow your work. The Founded in FoCo Podcast is hosted by Nick Armstrong, Lead Organizer of Founded in FoCo and Geek-in-Chief of WTF Marketing (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://wtfmarketing.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠). Hear more great interviews with founders in and around Fort Collins at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://foundedinfoco.com⁠

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 marketing with your values and ditch tactics that feel forced. If you’re a freelancer or business owner looking for a better way to engage your audience, this episode is for you. The Founded in FoCo Podcast is hosted by Nick Armstrong, Lead Organizer of Founded in FoCo and Geek-in-Chief of WTF Marketing (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://wtfmarketing.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠). Hear more great interviews with founders in and around Fort Collins at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://foundedinfoco.com⁠

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 insights from leadership, DJing, and human-centered design. They dive deep into the power of empathy, the difference between building an organization and cultivating one, and why recognizing human needs isn’t just good ethics—it’s good business. The Founded in FoCo Podcast is hosted by Nick Armstrong, Lead Organizer of Founded in FoCo and Geek-in-Chief of WTF Marketing (⁠⁠⁠⁠https://wtfmarketing.com⁠⁠⁠⁠). Hear more great interviews with founders in and around Fort Collins at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://foundedinfoco.com⁠

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 customer needs and build better businesses from the ground up. Hear inspiring success stories, dive into the vibrant CSU entrepreneurial community, and pick up expert tips on early prototyping, engaging customers, and refining ideas through real-world feedback.Whether you're launching your first venture or leveling up an existing one, this conversation is packed with insights to sharpen your strategy and spark new opportunities.The Founded in FoCo Podcast is hosted by Nick Armstrong, Lead Organizer of Founded in FoCo and Geek-in-Chief of WTF Marketing (⁠⁠⁠⁠https://wtfmarketing.com⁠⁠⁠⁠). Hear more great interviews with founders in and around Fort Collins at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://foundedinfoco.com⁠

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 push past plateaus and sustain high performance. He breaks down the myths, personalizes the strategies, and offers practical tools to help you build grit, sharpen focus, and find joy in the process. The Founded in FoCo Podcast is hosted by Nick Armstrong, Lead Organizer of Founded in FoCo and Geek-in-Chief of WTF Marketing (⁠⁠⁠⁠https://wtfmarketing.com⁠⁠⁠⁠). Hear more great interviews with founders in and around Fort Collins at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://foundedinfoco.com⁠

Learn how nonprofits can pitch their missions like pros and secure game-changing funding in this episode of theFounded in FoCo podcast. Nick is joined by Maya and Alex to dive intoTrout Tank, a live-pitch event helping nonprofits connect with donors—thinkShark Tank, but for a good cause. Maya Ortega (Trout Tank co-creator) andAlex Koenigsberg (Arula founder) break down what makes a compelling nonprofit pitch, the biggest fundraising challenges, and how storytelling builds trust with donors. Plus, they share insights into nonprofit-focused sessions atFounded in FoCo—including grant writing and more. The Founded in FoCo Podcast is hosted by Nick Armstrong, Lead Organizer of Founded in FoCo and Geek-in-Chief of WTF Marketing (⁠⁠⁠⁠https://wtfmarketing.com⁠⁠⁠⁠). Hear more great interviews with founders in and around Fort Collins at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://foundedinfoco.com⁠

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 grow Founded in FoCo to help connect innovators, business professionals, and creatives. Peter is an entrepreneur and dedicated team member of Founded in FoCo, leading the Exhibitor Hall space. Peter brings a wealth of experience from his entrepreneurial endeavors and consultative roles, aiming to facilitate connections within the local business ecosystem. In this episode of the Founded in Foco Podcast, host Nick Armstrong is joined by Charles Howes and Peter Bostwick to discuss the upcoming Founded in FoCo event. This gathering is a cornerstone for entrepreneurs, creatives, and business professionals looking to innovate and thrive. The episode offers a sneak peek into the enhancements and new features of the event, such as an expanded Resource Hub and a special focus on emerging trends like artificial intelligence. The discussion highlights the inclusive and opportunity-rich environment of Founded in FoCo, a key event for entrepreneurs in Fort Collins, designed to foster connections and spark new collaborations. Charles and Peter dive deep into the offerings, including structured networking activities, the importance of connecting introverts and extroverts alike, and how they've integrated community feedback to evolve the event consistently. They stress the event's theme, "Be Future Ready, the Power of Connection and Innovation," underscoring its role in equipping attendees with valuable insights and resources. The Founded in FoCo Podcast is hosted by Nick Armstrong, Lead Organizer of Founded in FoCo and Geek-in-Chief of WTF Marketing (⁠⁠⁠https://wtfmarketing.com⁠⁠⁠). Hear more great interviews with founders in and around Fort Collins at: ⁠⁠⁠https://foundedinfoco.com

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 to foster community building, aiming to make networking accessible and effective for introverts and extroverts alike. Gus Vieweg joins Nick Armstrong on the Founded in FoCo podcast to discuss the significance of community engagement in entrepreneurship and networking. They explore how intentional facilitation in networking events can benefit both introverts and extroverts, creating genuine connections. Gus explains his journey from being a newcomer in Fort Collins to a key player in its entrepreneurial scene. Through the lens of his improv background, Gus shares how these skills can enhance business interactions and foster genuine connections. The Founded in FoCo Podcast is hosted by Nick Armstrong, Lead Organizer of Founded in FoCo and Geek-in-Chief of WTF Marketing (⁠⁠⁠https://wtfmarketing.com⁠⁠⁠). Hear more great interviews with founders in and around Fort Collins at: ⁠⁠⁠https://foundedinfoco.com

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 small businesses. She has been involved as a speaker and now a track lead for Founded in FoCo and is focused on creating accessible opportunities for small business learning and networking. In this episode of the Founded in FoCo podcast, host Nick Armstrong delves into the emerging role of generative AI in small business strategies with Beth Bostwick and Dayle Wickizer, the Found in FoCo AI Track Leads. Beth and Dayle emphasize the power of AI as a transformational tool rather than a threat and highlight Founded in FoCo's AI track as a learning opportunity for small businesses to embrace AI's potential and improve their operations. The conversation identifies key elements of AI implementation, such as developing the right mindset and understanding AI governance. Featuring local speakers, Found in FoCo aims to demystify AI and present practical applications for small businesses. Beth and Dayle share their excitement for this immersive track, encouraging small business owners to engage curiosity and foster a continuous learning mentality. They stress the importance of asking questions without fear and building a supportive network of like-minded peers in the AI space. The Founded in FoCo Podcast is hosted by Nick Armstrong, Lead Organizer of Founded in FoCo and Geek-in-Chief of WTF Marketing (⁠⁠⁠https://wtfmarketing.com⁠⁠⁠). Hear more great interviews with founders in and around Fort Collins at: ⁠⁠⁠https://foundedinfoco.com

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 over 30 years of experience, transitioned from the corporate world to focus on supporting small businesses and artists. She is passionate about the creative arts and their potential to drive community and economic growth, leveraging her insights through her work on the Freelancer and Creative Tracks. In this episode of the Founded in FoCo podcast, host Nick Armstrong explores the intersection of creativity, entrepreneurship, and community building with Phil and Karen. They discuss the upcoming Creative Track, designed to empower and sustain artists and small businesses in Northern Colorado. Founded in FoCo, scheduled for March 2025, brings together diverse disciplines, from music and fine arts to entrepreneurship, fostering resilience and growth in the region. Phil highlights the importance of building strategic relationships, while Karen emphasizes how thriving arts enhance quality of life for all of us. Together, they share their vision for the Creative Track as a cornerstone for integrating arts and business within Northern Colorado’s economic framework. The Founded in FoCo Podcast is hosted by Nick Armstrong, Lead Organizer of Founded in FoCo and Geek-in-Chief of WTF Marketing (⁠https://wtfmarketing.com⁠). Discover more interviews with founders around Fort Collins at ⁠https://foundedinfoco.com⁠.

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 experience encompasses corporate-level operations, general management of smaller companies, and running her own solo operations, bringing a wealth of knowledge and practical tips to visionaries and business leaders. In this insightful episode of the "Founded in FoCo" podcast, host Nick Armstrong is joined by Dayle Wickizer, who shares her expertise as a fractional COO. The engaging conversation delves into the nuances of assisting small to medium-sized businesses in achieving operational excellence and navigating the challenges unique to smaller ventures. Wickizer advocates for a hands-on approach to helping leaders turn their visionary ideas into successful executions through customized strategies, policies, procedures, and automation. The episode further explores how Wickizer's corporate expertise translates into strong fractional COO work, aiding businesses without the budget for a full-time operations manager. She emphasizes the importance of aligning leadership philosophies, communication styles, and business goals to ensure a fruitful collaboration. The discussion pivots to the potential of AI technology integration in daily operations and the literacy skills necessary for entrepreneurs to stay competitive in an ever-evolving landscape. Learn more about Dayle's work at: https://www.intentionalresultsco.com/ The Founded in FoCo Podcast is hosted by Nick Armstrong, Lead Organizer of Founded in FoCo and Geek-in-Chief of WTF Marketing (⁠⁠https://wtfmarketing.com⁠⁠). Hear more great interviews with founders in and around Fort Collins at: ⁠⁠https://foundedinfoco.com