In this episode of Business Innovators, host Robert Tuchman welcomes Gregg Renfrew, founder of Beautycounter and Counter, for an in-depth discussion on entrepreneurship, leadership, and resilience.

Gregg shares her experience building Beautycounter into a billion-dollar brand that redefined standards for product safety, transparency, and clean beauty. She reflects on the challenges of scaling rapidly, selling to private equity, and ultimately buying back the company she created.

Together, Robert and Gregg explore what it takes to sustain purpose while managing growth, how to make difficult decisions during transitions, and why staying true to core values remains essential in a changing marketplace.

This conversation offers valuable lessons for founders, executives, and business leaders seeking insight into long-term brand building, ownership strategy, and navigating high-stakes pivots.

Get to know more about Robert Tuchman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roberttuchman

Presented by Amaze Media Labs

https://amazemedialabs.com/

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How Data, AI, and Empathy Are Reshaping Healthcare with Jennifer Paganelli (President, Earned Media & Integration, Real Chemistry)

Healthcare is complicated, fast-moving, and deeply personal. The people who lead in this space need more than expertise—they need real-world EQ.

In this episode, I sit down with Jennifer Paganelli Schwartz, President of Earned Media & Integration at Real Chemistry and a powerhouse in healthcare communications. With deep experience navigating everything from media strategy to data analytics and AI, Jennifer shares how empathy, collaboration, and curiosity have shaped her leadership style. We get into how Real Chemistry helps humanize science, why communication is a differentiator in healthcare, and how she evaluates talent.

From growing up as an only child in Jersey to helping companies tell stories that literally save lives, her journey is packed with insight. If you’re thinking about leadership, health, or just working on your own communication game, this one’s for you.

Jennifer’s grounded, real-talk take on leadership left me thinking about how we all show up for the people around us. Hit play if you want a front-row seat to how smart, human-first leadership actually works.

Specifically, this episode highlights the following themes:

• Why empathy and humility matter in healthcare leadership
• The role of storytelling, data, and AI in shaping modern health communications
• How to build resilient teams that lead through change

Link from this episode:

• Know more about Jennifer Paganelli Schwartz: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-paganelli-schwartz-a2ba2a18
• Learn more about Real Chemistry: https://www.realchemistry.com
• Get to know more about Robert Tuchman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roberttuchman

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The Real Journey of Building a Startup with Uri Levine (Co-founder, Waze)

What does it really take to build a successful startup?

Uri Levine, co-founder of Waze and author of Fall in Love with the Problem, Not the Solution, shares the raw reality of entrepreneurship—failures, pivots, and the long road to product-market fit.

Uri Levine is a serial entrepreneur, investor, and mentor who has built and guided multiple startups, including Waze and Moovit. With decades of experience, he’s passionate about helping founders navigate the unpredictable world of startups by focusing on solving real problems and making smart, strategic decisions.

In this episode, we talk about the truth behind startup success, the emotional rollercoaster, the failures that pave the way for breakthroughs, and why resilience is the most critical trait for any founder. Uri also shares insights from his new book edition, which includes a crucial chapter on crisis management and how startups can survive and adapt through tough times.

Don’t miss this conversation with one of the minds behind one of the most impactful navigation apps in the world.

Specifically, this episode highlights the following themes:

• Why solving a real problem is the foundation of every great startup
• The role of failure in finding product-market fit and achieving success
• How founders can navigate crises and keep their startups alive

Link from this episode:

• Know more about Uri Levine: https://www.linkedin.com/in/uri-levine/?originalSubdomain=il
• Check out Uri’s website: https://urilevine.com
• Get his book, Fall In Love with the Problem, Not the SolutionNew edition available on February 18, 2025): https://urilevine.com/book
• Get to know more about Robert Tuchman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roberttuchman

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Success isn’t just about talent, it’s about strategy, mindset, and the willingness to change. Kristin Kenney has built a business that helps individuals shift from chaos to clarity, setting them on a path toward personal and professional transformation.

Kristin Kenney, founder of High Gear Advisors, works with high-performing individuals to help them move through crisis, navigate transitions, and achieve personal and professional breakthroughs.

In this episode, we explore how her unique background, from growing up around the world to working in high-stakes corporate environments, shaped her ability to create strategic change for her clients.

We discuss the power of daily incremental change, the importance of mindset shifts, and why success requires more than just ambition, it takes structure, logic, and the right support system. Kristin also shares the personal experiences that led her to develop High Gear and how she’s helping clients achieve lasting change.

Don’t miss this episode to learn how Kristin is redefining personal and professional development through strategy and structure.

Specifically, this episode highlights the following themes:

• Moving from chaos to clarity through strategic daily actions
• The importance of structure and logic in personal transformation
• How High Gear Advisors helps individuals achieve personal and professional success

Link from this episode:

• Know more about Kristin Kenney: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-kenney
• Get to know more about Robert Tuchman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roberttuchman

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Turning Struggles into a $2 Billion Real Estate Career with Matthew Baron

Success doesn’t come without challenges, and Matthew Baron’s story proves it. From a childhood shaped by his immigrant parents’ hard work to building a $2 billion real estate empire, Matt’s journey is as inspiring as it is insightful.

In this episode, I sit down with Mattew Baron, the founder and CEO of Baron Property Group. We explore his incredible journey from a college dropout and cold-calling stockbroker to becoming one of the most respected figures in real estate development. Matt shares how resilience, risk-taking, and the "immigrant mentality" propelled him forward.

He also talks about the importance of "burning the boats" and fully committing to your goals without a backup plan.

If you’re ready to take on challenges and turn setbacks into opportunities, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in for Matthew’s invaluable insights and leave with actionable takeaways to apply in your own career.

• The value of resilience and a strong work ethic in building a successful career
• Why embracing failure is essential to achieving big goals
• Insights into real estate trends in New York and Miami

Link from this episode:

• Know more about Matthew Baron: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewmbaron
• Learn more about Baron Property Group: https://www.baronprop.com
• Get to know more about Robert Tuchman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roberttuchman

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Empowering Women Entrepreneurs with Rebecca Minkoff (Co-Founder, Female Founder Collective)

As women continue breaking barriers in business, there are stories that inspire and remind us of the power of resilience and innovation. Rebecca Minkoff’s journey is one of those stories.

Rebecca Minkoff, celebrated designer, author, and co-founder of the Female Founder Collective, shares how she built a thriving global brand from scratch. In this episode, we discuss the challenges of entrepreneurship, the importance of connecting with consumers, and her mission to support women in business.

Rebecca also reflects on her 20-year milestone in the fashion industry, her podcast "Super Women," and how she balances a thriving career with motherhood.

Don’t miss this episode to learn how she’s shaping the future for women in business.

Specifically, this episode highlights the following themes:

• Building a brand through resilience and innovation
• The Female Founder Collective’s mission to support women entrepreneurs
• Balancing motherhood and a career in the creative industry

Link from this episode:

• Know more about Rebecca Minkoff: https://rebeccaminkoff.com
• Follow Rebecca on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rebeccaminkoff
• Listen to Rebecca’s Podcast: Super Women with Rebecca Minkoff
• Order Rebecca’s Book on Amazon: Fearless: The New Rules for Unlocking Creativity, Courage, and Success
• Learn more about Female Founder Collective: https://femalefoundercollective.com
• Get to know more about Robert Tuchman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roberttuchman

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BONUS EPISODE - From the Innovate or Die podcast

Communities thrive when resources, investments, and opportunities come together to create a flourishing environment.

However, not all communities are given the same access to these critical elements. The American Heart Association (AHA) recognizes this gap and is working tirelessly to bridge it through their EmPOWERED to Serve Business Accelerator Program.

We sit down with Pamela Garmon Johnson, Vice President of Health Equity and National Partnerships at the AHA, to talk about the incredible impact of this incredible program. Pamela sheds light on how investing in under-resourced communities can drive economic growth and why health equity matters.

The Accelerator program has already invested over $1.3 million into 166 businesses, enabling them to generate nearly $400 million in additional investments. Pamela is excited to welcome more philanthropists, VCs, and partners to the finale event on October 9th and aims to expand collaborations with other accelerators. The goal is to further increase the program's impact and help the AHA secure additional funds for these transformative businesses.

Don't miss this compelling deep dive into how strategic support in health innovation can reshape the futures of many. Tune in, get inspired, and learn how even the smallest seed of investment can bloom into a tree of communal well-being.

Specifically, this episode highlights the following themes:

• How the EmPOWERED to Serve Business Accelerator program supports innovative entrepreneurs in underserved communities.

• Success stories of entrepreneurs creating transformative change through their businesses.

• The AHA’s approach to health equity and why it matters.

Link from this episode:

• Get to know more about Pamela Garmon Johnson: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pamela-garmon-johnson-6042323

• Learn more about EmPOWERED to Serve Business Accelerator Program: https://www.empoweredtoserve.org/en/business-accelerator-program/national?utm_source=iod&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=etsba2024

• Get to know more about Travis Albritton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travis-albritton

• Get to know more about Robert Tuchman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roberttuchman

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The collectibles market is rapidly evolving, and the way we value these items is shifting right along with it.

In this episode, we explore how market-based pricing is transforming collectibles from nostalgic items to serious assets. I’m joined by Josh Luber, co-founder of both StockX and Fanatics Collectibles, and a trailblazer in turning collectibles into high-value assets.

We dive into his path from building StockX into a powerhouse resale marketplace, to helping launch Fanatics Collectibles and its innovative approach to trading cards, to his latest project, ghostwrite. Josh shares insights on market-based pricing, the influence of timing and culture on collecting, and his strategies for creating value in an evolving market.

Don’t miss his journey, his ideas, and what he sees for the future of collectibles. Tune in now!

Specifically, this episode highlights the following themes:

• How market-based pricing is reshaping collectibles
• The journey of building StockX and Fanatics Collectibles
• The creation of ghostwrite and the future of collectibles

Link from this episode:

• Get to know more about Josh Luber: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshluber
• Learn more about ghostwrite: http://www.ghostwrite.com
• Follow Josh Luber on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joshluber
• Follow ghostwrite on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_ghostwrite_
• Get to know more about Robert Tuchman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roberttuchman

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