Episodes

In this episode of Tools, Talents & Techniques, Dustin Sutton sits down with Jonah Mitro, co-founder of Precision Pro Golf, to unpack what it really takes to build a successful golf tech company. From humble beginnings to becoming a major player in the golf rangefinder space, Jonah shares the ups, downs, and pivotal lessons learned along the way. The conversation covers everything from navigating supply chain headaches and rising tariffs to battling knockoff products from overseas—and why being ...

In this episode, Mark Murphy—NYT bestselling author and founder of Leadership IQ—unpacks what separates great leaders from the rest. He shares insights on coaching vs. managing, the real reason promoting top performers can fail, and why your intention as a leader matters just as much as your action. Mark emphasizes that leadership is about inspiring others to reach for more—not just getting tasks done. He breaks down the core differences between leadership and management, highlights the risks o...

In this episode, Dustin Sutton interviews Jan, the founder and CEO of Virtuix, who shares his journey of creating the Omni, an omnidirectional treadmill for virtual reality. Jan discusses his early inspirations, the challenges of designing the Omni, and the importance of problem-solving in entrepreneurship. He reflects on his background in engineering and investment banking, the lessons learned, and the pivotal moment when a demo video of the Omni went viral, leading to a successful Kickstarter ...

In this conversation, Liz Powers, co-founder and CEO of ArtLifting, shares her journey of creating a platform that champions artists with disabilities. She discusses the genesis of ArtLifting, the importance of art therapy, and the impact of their business model on artists' lives. Liz emphasizes the significance of community support, the lessons learned throughout her entrepreneurial journey, and the broader societal impact of their work. Takeaways Liz Powers is the co-founder and CEO of ArtLi...

In this episode, Dustin Sutton interviews Matthew E. Drane, a successful commercial real estate advisor and founder of Revolt CRE. Matthew shares his journey from a traditional upbringing in Cincinnati, Ohio, to becoming a prominent figure in the real estate industry. He discusses the influence of his family, early career experiences, and the importance of mentorship and networking. Matthew emphasizes the significance of defining success in various aspects of life and the lessons learned through...

In this episode, Dustin Sutton interviews Jamar Williams, founder and CEO of Promo Drone. Jamar shares his journey from Baltimore to San Diego, detailing his experiences in banking and music, and how they shaped his entrepreneurial spirit. He discusses the inception of Promo Drone, the lessons learned throughout his entrepreneurial journey, the importance of mentorship, and the challenges of navigating a new business landscape. Jamar emphasizes the significance of community and exposure in achie...

FREEWYLD Founder and Entrepreneur Eric Moeller In this episode, Dustin Sutton interviews Eric Moeller, the founder of FreeWyld, a cabin experiential company located in Idyllwild, California. Eric shares his journey from a blue-collar upbringing in New Jersey to becoming a successful entrepreneur in the real estate and hospitality industry. He discusses the unique charm of Idyllwild, the importance of disconnecting from technology, and the experiences that shaped his entrepreneurial mindset. Er...

In this episode, Tyrome ('Ty') Smith shares his journey from a small-town upbringing in Pennsylvania to a successful career supporting the intelligence community and working with startups. He discusses the importance of asking the right questions, the role of mentorship in his life, and the power of letting go of unhelpful ideas and habits. Ty emphasizes the significance of reading and continuous learning as a means to contribute to collective expertise. In this conversation, Dustin Sutton and T...

In this episode, Dustin Sutton interviews Marty Gorsich, CEO of the Century Club of San Diego, discussing his journey from sports management to leading the Farmers Insurance Open. Marty shares insights on mentorship, the importance of attitude, and finding fulfillment in one's career. He emphasizes the value of community impact through sports events and the lessons learned from early career frustrations. The conversation highlights the significance of understanding what truly matters in work an...

In this reflective episode, Dustin Sutton discusses the challenges faced in 2024 and how they contribute to personal growth and success. He emphasizes the importance of viewing obstacles as learning opportunities and expresses gratitude for the support system around him. As he looks forward to 2025, he shares insights gained from his experiences, including the value of gratitude and the excitement for future possibilities. Takeaways Challenges are integral to success and personal growth. Obst...

Andia Winslow, a Yale alumna and an incredibly versatile talent whose achievements span from sports to voice acting. Andia, an Emmy, Telly, and Society of Voice Arts Award winner, delves into her multifaceted journey, sharing experiences that stretch from her origins in Seattle to her groundbreaking moments on the professional golf circuit and beyond. Andia’s story begins with her historic achievement in 2006 when she became the fourth African American to compete in LPGA Tour history, joining t...

In this episode, Tonya Torosian, CEO of Promises2Kids, shares her journey from a community-focused upbringing in Wisconsin to leading a nonprofit dedicated to supporting foster youth in San Diego. She discusses the importance of mentorship, the challenges faced by foster youth, and the innovative programs being implemented to address homelessness and parenting education. Tonya emphasizes the need for nonprofits to operate with a business mindset while maintaining a mission-driven focus. The con...

In this conversation, Dan Engel shares his remarkable journey from a successful investment banker to a dedicated nonprofit leader after battling stage four melanoma. He discusses the importance of giving back, the creation of the Miracle League of San Diego, and the profound impact it has had on the community and his own life. Engel emphasizes the significance of continuous learning and the power of purpose in overcoming life's challenges. In this conversation, Dan Engel shares his inspiring jo...

In this conversation, the founders and key members of Sunday Golf share their journey of creating a unique golf bag company. They discuss the origins of their product, the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the importance of customer feedback in product development. The conversation also highlights the significance of team culture and camaraderie in their growing business, as well as their future plans for innovation and expansion in the golf industry. Takeaways The idea for Su...

Stephen Clarke brings a wealth of knowledge and experience from over two decades in strategy, governance, innovation, engagement, and leadership development. Currently, he serves as a Global Executive Director at JLL, focusing on driving innovation, growth strategy, digital transformation, and AI within the Global Markets Advisory business. Stephen's distinguished career has seen him in pivotal roles at major firms like PepsiCo, McKesson, Deloitte, IBM, Cognizant, and Lloyds Banking Group. Ep...

Chris Chiari - Founder/CEO at The 420 Hotels In this conversation, Chris Chiari shares his journey from a childhood in New Jersey to becoming the founder of the 420 Hotels in Denver, a unique cannabis hospitality venture. He discusses his early experiences, the lessons learned from previous careers, and the vision that drove him to create a safe and legal space for cannabis consumption. Chris also delves into the challenges of navigating the evolving cannabis landscape, the importance of build...

In this episode, Keith Carson shares his extensive journey through business development and sales, reflecting on his early life, education, and the transition from ministry to the corporate world. He discusses the challenges he faced in sales, the importance of relationships, and the lessons learned from starting his own medical device company. Keith emphasizes the distinction between business development and sales, and the significance of leadership in guiding teams towards success. In this co...

Empowering Future Generations in Biotech with Ross Marshall In this episode, Dustin Sutton interviews Ross Marshall, an executive at Bioversity, focusing on his journey from the energy sector to the biotech industry. They discuss the importance of diversity and inclusion in biotech, the innovative workforce initiatives being implemented, and the role of community engagement in creating pathways for underrepresented talent. Ross shares insights on the challenges and successes of his work at Mass...

Donnie Dee, the president and CEO of San Diego Rescue Mission, shares his journey from working with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes to leading a mission to help the homeless. He explains how he developed a burden for people experiencing homelessness and the root causes of the issue. Donnie discusses the disjointed efforts and lack of coordination in addressing homelessness in San Diego and emphasizes the importance of addressing the heart issues that contribute to homelessness. He highlight...

Join us on "Tools, Talents & Techniques" as we delve into the inspiring story of Dr. Josephine Polich, the ingenious mind behind ActivMend and a beacon for aspiring entrepreneurs. Transitioning from a high-tech corporate boardroom to chiropractic and inventing, Dr. Jo shares her multifaceted journey and the creation of ActivMend, a revolutionary product designed to accelerate recovery and reduce swelling. In this episode, Dr. Jo opens up about the hurdles she faced in validating ActivMend's eff...

Craig Robinson's career in commercial real estate has been varied and impressive. He has worked in various roles, including corporate services, investment development, advisory, and global division management. His journey into real estate was non-traditional, as he didn't grow up in a family or neighborhood involved in the industry. He initially pursued a career in engineering but realized his passion for people and urban renewal. Overcoming challenges of not knowing what he didn't know and find...

Chris Campbell, CEO of Simpli-Fi Automation, discusses the concept of technology transfer and how his company helps bring advanced technologies from government agencies to the commercial market. He shares his journey of discovering technology transfer and the process of licensing advanced technologies from NASA. Chris also talks about his background in engineering and his passion for invention and creation. He emphasizes the importance of building relationships and the value of the USPTO pro bon...

Episode Summary Jeff Woolson serves as Managing Director of CBRE's Golf & Resort Group. Since 1991, Jeff has been personally involved in the sale of over $2.9 billion of properties in 22 states and 10 foreign countries. These properties include golf clubs and resorts, ski resorts, marinas, master-planned golf communities and developable land. Over 90% of the transactions Jeff has completed involved the representation of owners, where he has employed a variety of marketing techniques including t...

Jermaine L. Murray, also known as "the Jobfather," is a career coach and recruiter on a mission to help 500 Black people get jobs in tech. He shares his origin story, growing up in Toronto and his early career aspirations. After struggling to find a job in his field, he discovered the power of a well-crafted resume and began helping his friends land jobs. This led him to start his own business, focusing on advocating for Black people and helping them overcome the challenges of finding employment...