💡Eric Samdahl

GHSD Group

Eric Samdahl, the charismatic and ingenious mind at the helm of GHSD Group, revolutionizing business consulting with a zest unmatched. 

Imagine a blend of Gary Vaynerchuk's engaging enthusiasm and Simon Sinek's insightful storytelling, sprinkled with Ryan Reynolds' playful charm. That's Eric for you, transforming decades of visionary leadership into actionable insights that elevate, innovate, and infuse joy back into your business ventures. 
As an acclaimed author of "It's Not Just a Journal or Adult Coloring Book" and the upcoming "The Intuition Effect," Eric doesn't just talk business; he redefines it through the power of intuition, sharing this groundbreaking approach on international stages. 
 
With a track record that includes:

- Skyrocketing a CPG company's profits by $1.1M in just 5 months
- Boosting sales for a product-based company by $950K within 6 months
- Unveiling an additional $200K profit in 20 minutes for an e-commerce brand
- Growing revenue by $1M in 6 months for an International service-based company

...and many more victories 

The essence of the Intuition Effect thrives among those with the audacity to dream big and the courage to actually do it. Tailored for entrepreneurs and CEOs who recognize that growth is propelled by consistent, repeatable processes, it resonates with the intellectually curious—those unafraid to probe deeper, question the status quo, and embrace a bold approach to business. This methodology is not a one-size-fits-all solution; it's designed for the visionary willing to explore beyond traditional boundaries, not for those hesitant to take decisive steps towards transformation.

Ready to infuse your life with The Intuition Effect? Let's grab a Coke and a smile (IYKYK)! No really!!!

Founder

Madison Green

I believe that golf is more than just a sport—it's a tapestry of character, values, and timeless moments. It's where everyone, regardless of background or status, can come together and share a passion. A game that tells tales about a person more than words ever could. It's a realm where you should be unapologetically you, whether that means sporting the quirkiest attire or simply enjoying a chilled drink as you wait for your turn. In this world, a hearty laugh is just as crucial as a 300-yard drive, and while being able to count your strokes is handy, cherishing each one is everything.

Golf stands as a testament to our beliefs: that traditions can be honored, while making room for innovation; that the sport should be accessible; and that it's high time the greens echoed with more laughter, flair, and vigor. We hold onto the conviction that every round should be an adventure, everyone’s attire a statement, and every player a testament to the joyous, fun-filled future we envision for golf.

In Texas, we're known for our tenacity, our ability to forge ahead with vigor and determination. It's this very Texas spirit that breathes life into Madison Green. Texas has given the world legendary golfers like Ben Hogan and Byron Nelson, who not only mastered their craft but also embodied the spirit of golf as we see it – a blend of grit, grace, and unyielding passion. Their legacies remind us that golf is more than a game; it's a testament to the enduring spirit of those who play it.

This; is why I started Madison Green.

Be you, play fast, and remember... slow golf really does; suck.

Founder 

ZADASI LLC

At the core of every business or entrepreneurship challenge is a personal limiting belief.

Our work at ZADASI is geared toward creating a better, more equitable future where women founders and women in business have the tools and resources they need to reach the next inflection
point and succeed both in business and in their personal lives, by offering a safe, confidential community that facilitates the elimination of blocks that hinder business growth and a network of experts that foster it.

We provide speed to clarity for women founders and women in business.

Co-Founder 

The HT Group

Working alongside existing leadership teams to evaluate the organizational structure, build/evaluate systems and processes, evaluate comp plans and bring the different functional areas of the business to bear in order to act on the intent of the leadership team. 

HT Group, our mission has always been about changing lives. This isn’t just a marketing catch-phrase! To us, this is a way of life. When the pandemic started, our leadership gathered together to brainstorm on how we could impact our community and change lives while so many were hurting around us.

Executive Advisor

VERCO Group

Designed and drive corporate strategy, help set the strategic direction, define and refine the key questions, prioritize initiatives and resources against key performance metrics, and work cross-functionally to operationalize initiatives.

Distill complex ideas from data, research, and trends into compelling stories for who, what, why, and how.

Identify, Organizational, and prioritize initiatives based on data, customer feedback, and other inputs.

COO | Director of Strategy

Fringe Sport

Ecommerce and retail company.
Directly responsible for all warehouse operations, including shipping and receiving, safety, managing, development of the team that ships 4000-5000 items per month.  Work on various projects that include Finance, ERP systems, marketing, and sales. Created new warehouse flow and systems that increased efficiency by 20%. Also reduced order cycle time by 5%. Negotiated with shipping vendors to save 20% on a volume of over 1M.

Warehouse Operations Manager

COLORADO FASTENERS

Colorado Fasteners, Edwards, CO, 2004 – 2018
COO / OPERATIONS DIRECTOR
B2B and Ecommerce company
●	Responsible for sales management functions for both outside and inside salespeople, including training and performance management, developed metrics and programs that increased sales by 6% 
●	Operational responsibility for a 35-employee construction fastener company with two physical locations and eight mobile locations, driving more than $10M revenue selling and delivering product direct-to-customer. 
●	Assessed and selected a vendor, negotiated terms, and managed implementation of a new industry-specific ERP system resulting in an ROI of 14 months.
●	Accountable solely for managing supply chain and associated vendor negotiations in excess of 30,000 discrete SKU numbers. Increased inventory turn to 4.3
●	Navigate negotiation, purchase, and integration of a market competitor into the organization, including staff, inventory, and adding new systems into the existing location within 6 months of acquisition.
●	Integrated full-scale E-commerce website with existing ERP, which decreased inbound customer call volume by 18%.
●	Managed WMS for multiple locations, for both mobile and brick and mortar. This includes Picking, Receiving, and Cycle Counting. Implemented a metrics-based bonus system for warehouse staff. Increasing productivity by 8% and decreased errors by 4%.

 COO / Operations Director

Bouquets

Bouquets, Beaver Creek, CO, 2002 –  2004
Retail, B2B, and E-commerce luxury good company
GENERAL MANAGER
●	Directed profit, loss, and operations for high-end floral and home décor business at a single resort location with annual revenue of $1,500,000. 
●	Increased floral delivery by 13% through process improvement and delivery practices while maintaining design.
●	Negotiated and produced holiday décor for Park Hyatt and Ritz Carlton Resorts these two accounts contributed 14% to annual sales.

General Manager

The Golden Bear

The Golden Bear, Vail, CO 1999 – 2002
E-commerce and Retail Luxury goods company
COO/OPERATIONS MANAGER
●	Profit and loss responsibility for two luxury jewelry, clothing,​ home décor and E-commerce stores with 17 employees and annual sales of $14,000,000 
●	Generated complimentary lines by utilizing contacts within the jewelry industry, resulting introduction of 3 new lines yielded an additional $200,000 profit the first year
●	Responsible for hiring, and sales / process coaching, providing reports and presentations on health and performance of all aspects of the business to Owner
●	Developed sales goals, budget and market planning yielding growth of 12%

COO / Operations

𝗘𝗿𝗶𝗰 is the visionary force behind 𝗚𝗛𝗦𝗗 𝗚𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗽 and the creator of 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝘂𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗘𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁™, revolutionizing business consulting. Imagine the dynamism of Gary Vaynerchuk, the narrative prowess of Simon Sinek, and the wit of Ryan Reynolds. That’s Eric, channeling decades of leadership into strategies that elevate and reinvigorate businesses.

Eric has a unique ability to see what others cannot. His deep analytical skills and creative vision enable him to diagnose and optimize businesses with precision.

Here are some notable and remarkable achievements:

​​✅ Catapulting a CPG company to a $1.1M profit surge in just 5 months.

✅ Elevating a product-based business with an ADDITIONAL $950K in sales within 6 months.

✅ Unlocking an additional $200K profit for an e-commerce venture in just 20 minutes.

✅ Amplifying an international service-based company’s revenue by $1M in 6 months.

To illustrate the impact, one company owner above wanted to travel at will. Eric showed her how that could happen with systems and processes, allowing her team to run the business.

His genuine care for clients results in solutions that are both effective and impactful. Working with Eric is a game-changer. His blend of empathy, expertise, and visionary leadership uncovers hidden potential and drives sustainable growth.

With 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝘂𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗘𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁™️, Eric champions an innovative paradigm harnessing intuition to redefine business success. This philosophy has captivated audiences worldwide, positioning Eric as a luminary on the international speaking circuit. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝘂𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗘𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁™️ is a call to those bold enough to dream and act with conviction. It's designed for entrepreneurs who recognize that growth is fueled by consistent, repeatable processes and appeals to the intellectually curious, those unafraid to question the status quo and adopt a daring approach to business. 

Eric’s experience allows him to grasp both the big picture and finer details, providing insights that transform businesses from the inside out. By uncovering inefficiencies, identifying growth opportunities, or realigning strategies to market demands, Eric's approach is strategic and intuitive. His solutions are innovative, practical, and results-driven.

With Eric by your side you'll work smarter, not harder. 

Experience the transformative journey with Eric and see the profound impact he can have on your business. 
𝗦𝗵𝗼𝗼𝘁 𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗮 𝗗𝗠 𝘁𝗼 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻.

Co-Founder, CTO

Capital, Brand & Global Expansion  

★ I connect visionary founders with global capital and serious investors across the United States, the Middle East, and the GCC.  
★ My work sits at the intersection of brand credibility, capital access, and international growth — ensuring high-potential companies are not just visible, but investable.

As Managing Partner & COO of BrandBeat Global, I lead investor-grade brand strategy, market positioning, and growth architecture across technology, luxury, hospitality, media, and impact. My mission is to build companies that command respect in capital markets — not just attention in the marketplace.

★ Branding is not decoration — it is credibility.  
★ Credibility is what attracts capital.

What I Do

→ Capital Access & Private Capital Strategies  
As Head of StallionGates Capital & Investments, our capital brokerage and private capital strategies platform partnered with Stonegate Investments, I connect founders with growth capital, family offices, institutional capital, and cross-border funding structures designed for scale.

→ Venture & Investor Networks  
Co-Founder of Apex Investor Partners, a private capital and investor network supporting high-growth companies through curated deal flow, strategic syndicates, and bespoke investment vehicles aligned with investor mandates.

→ Regional & Market Expansion  
Partner at Bahrain Venture Park, a public-private venture ecosystem providing institutional capital access, infrastructure, and direct market entry into Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and the wider GCC.

→ Founder & Impact Platforms  
Founder of One Million Mics and The Philanthropy Project, giving founders and nonprofits visibility, credibility, and capital momentum through media platforms and social-impact-driven initiatives.
My Strategic Model  

Brand → Credibility → Capital → Global Expansion

📍 Las Vegas & Dubai  
🌍 USA -  UAE -  KSA -  Bahrain  
🎯 Founder investability -  Capital brokerage -  Cross-border scale  
📩 Lauren@LaurenLaPointe.com  
🌐 LaurenLaPointe.com | BrandBeatGlobal.com | ApexInvestorPartners.com

Lauren LaPointe

I am thrilled to announce that I have joined the Global Entrepreneurship Network (GEN)!
GEN is a phenomenal global ecosystem that operates in 200 countries, with a mission to make it easier for anyone, anywhere, to start and scale a business. It’s a powerful community of entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and ecosystem builders all dedicated to breaking down barriers and fueling innovation.

This mission aligns perfectly with my passion for connecting visionary founders with the capital, resources, and strategic partnerships they need to succeed. Being part of GEN will provide an incredible platform to collaborate with leaders from around the world, share insights, and contribute to building a more supportive and inclusive environment for entrepreneurs globally.

I’m excited about the journey ahead and the collective impact we can make in empowering the next generation of world-changing innovators. I'm looking forward to connecting with others who are part of this incredible network. Let's continue to build the future, together!

#Entrepreneurship #GlobalNetwork #Innovation #VentureCapital #StartupEcosystem #Founder #GEN #MakingADifference #GlobalConnector

Lauren  LaPointe 

💰🌍 Helping founders secure funding & scale globally | Private Capital Strategist | CEO, Stalliongates Capital | Co‑Founder, Apex Investor Partners | Managing Partner & COO, BrandBeat Global

Securing investment begins with a compelling pitch deck. Our latest article breaks down the essentials of creating a winning pitch deck for your startup. 

Check out the article now to learn how to capture the attention of investors and turn your vision into reality!

#StartupFunding #PitchDeck #Entrepreneurship #InvestmentReady

A compelling pitch deck is one of the most crucial elements for attracting investors to your startup. It’s your opportunity to grab their attention, p

Open article: How to Create a Winning Pitch Deck for Your Startup by Lauren LaPointe • 5 min read

How to Create a Winning Pitch Deck for Your Startup

What’s the difference between founders who close rounds in 60 days vs. 18 months?

It’s not the product.
It’s not the pitch deck.
It’s not even the market.

It’s access.

Access to the right investors at the right time through the right introduction.

Apex Investor Partners exists to give exceptional founders that access.

We’ve built a global network of:
• Family offices actively investing in tech
• VCs deploying capital across stages
• Institutional investors seeking innovation

And we facilitate introductions at the world’s premier tech events.

2026 is your year. Make it count.

Apply for membership → apexinvestorpartners.com


#StartupFunding #VentureCapital #FamilyOffice #TechStartups #Fundraising #Founders #CES2026 #GITEX #Investors #StartupLife #Entrepreneurship #CapitalRaising

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thephilanthropyproject

onpointeetiquette

laurenlapointellc

internationalballroomdanceindustryassociation

one-million-mics

https://thewomenweadmire.com/2023/10/24/the-top-50-women-leaders-of-the-mountain-region-for-2023

Top 50 Women Leaders of the Mountain Region for 2023

2019 Most Dedicated Competitive Student of the Decade

2018 Blackpool British Open Pro/Am American Rhythm Champion Bronze Medal Finalist

2016 & 2018 World Pro/Am International Standard Champion

2x World DanceSport Series Champion

5 time Dancers Cup Tour Top Student Champion

US National Top Student Champion

OSHA Covid19 Awarness

Prevention, identification and management of infections in health workers in the context of COVID-19

Transmission-based Precautions

HIPPA

HIPPA for Business Associates

Certified Quality Event Planner (CQEP)™

Certified Guest Service Professional (CGSP)

Covid-19 Contract Tracing

Pandemic Compliance Advisor

WHO COVID-19 Mass Gatherings Risk Assessment Training

COVID-19 Compliance Officer 

CPR & AED

Certificate in Event Planning Foundation

Event Creation Certificate

Strategic Thinking

Time Management: Working from Home

The Diploma in Hospitality Operations will help me start their careers in the hospitality industry in Las Vegas.  This comprehensive program provided the necessary tools to build a career in, general management training and an opportunity to concentrate on a specific focus which I picked as conferences and events. 

As a TISOH student  I am actively advancing my knowledge and earning my Degree in Hospitality.  I am developing a foundation of knowledge in Event Planning and Conference Management;  mastering the skills to plan, design, coordinate and execute.

I am a Certified Guest Service Professional (CGSP®) The CGSP® designation is the highest acknowledgment of awarding-winning guest service for employees in the hospitality and tourism industry.

I am also going to keep my training going as I am going to continue my education.

Meeting Professionals International

INTERNATIONAL LIVE EVENTS ASSOCIATION

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION FOR CATERING AND EVENTS

NDCA

COO & Managing Partner | Global Brand Strategist | Investor & Philanthropist | Expert in Market Expansion, Strategic Positioning & Pitch Development | Corporate Etiquette Advisor for Fundraising & Investor Success

As a dynamic leader in entrepreneurship, branding, and philanthropy, I specialize in helping individuals and organizations achieve their highest potential through strategic vision, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

With extensive experience as a Managing Partner at Brandbeat Global, I’ve guided businesses in crafting powerful branding strategies, creating impactful marketing campaigns, and achieving sustainable growth. My work is rooted in the belief that every brand has a story to tell, and I’m passionate about helping clients transform their vision into a legacy.

Beyond branding, I am deeply connected to the world of philanthropy and event production. Inspired by a family legacy of giving back, I’ve organized transformative events that bridge purpose and community, raising funds and awareness for causes close to my heart.

I’m also the founder of the International Ballroom Dance Industry Association (IBDIA), a groundbreaking initiative to unite and support the global ballroom dance community. By fostering connections, sharing resources, and empowering dancers, my mission is to build a platform where artistry and opportunity thrive.

My unique approach combines the elegance of etiquette, the drive of entrepreneurship, and the impact of philanthropy to create experiences that inspire, connect, and elevate. Whether you’re a fellow entrepreneur, a creative professional, or someone who shares a passion for making a difference, I invite you to connect. Together, we can build something extraordinary.

📧 Contact me at Lauren@LaurenLaPointe.com
🌐 Explore my work: LaurenLaPointe.com | BrandbeatGlobal.com

📢 Attention everyone! Looking for an incredible read? Click on this link to see my full profile to dive into my fascinating world and discover all the amazing things I have done. Don't miss out on this captivating journey! 

Lauren LaPointe Profile

Media Profile

Lauren’s One Pager

We specialize in crafting personal brands that are authentic, impactful, and unforgettable. Our approach combines your personal story with our expertise in branding, resulting in a persona that's not only true to you but also compelling to your audience. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a professional, or a leader in your field, we help you articulate your vision, showcase your unique strengths, and create a brand presence that's both influential and inspiring.

Gravitas

IBDIA-PROFILE.pdf

We connect aspiring and early-stage entrepreneurs with the guidance and resources they need to thrive.

KAUFFMAN FASTTRAC

Educating, Inspiring and Connecting Entrepreneurs Nationwide Every Wednesday Morning

1 MILLION CUPS

I volunteered my time to help raise funds for the Kansas City Ballet.

I wspent many years volunteering my time in many different departments with the Lyric Opera.   The main goal was learning how to raise money and funds to get back.

I have been getting the word out and spreading the good news about this amazing performing arts center. 

I have helps with many activities and events throughout the years living in Kansas City. 

Marriage Equality New York's NYC Wedding March - Honorary Chairman(September 26, 2010)

Muriel McBrien Kauffman Foundation is a private foundation established by Muriel Irene Kauffman in 1987 with a vision toward communities in which the arts flourish.

The Foundation’s mission is to support organizations and programs that enhance the quality and accessibility of the arts in the greater Kansas City community.

 

The Foundation provides significant annual funding for the Kansas City Symphony, the Lyric Opera of Kansas City, the Kansas City Ballet, and the Harriman-Jewell Series, which were appropriated by Mrs. Kauffman in 1994 when she established $1 million endowments for each organization. Other significant grantees include the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, UMKC Conservatory of Music, Kansas City Repertory Theatre, ArtsKC – Regional Arts Council and the Kansas City Art Institute. Examples of some of the smaller grantees to which annual funding is provided include The Coterie Theatre, Owen/Cox Dance Group, Kansas City Chorale, Charlotte Street Foundation, and Youth Symphony of Kansas City.




We provide housing, employment opportunities, and a loving support system for homeless LGBTQ+ young adults so that they can live fearlessly as their authentic selves.
​
Within one of our homes, these young adults learn responsibility, accountability, financial independence, life skills, but most of all; how to love themselves.
​
Currently we have homes in Boca Raton, FL and Colorado Springs, CO. with other homes opening up around the country soon. If you would like to sponsor one of our next homes, we'd love to hear from you.

🌍 Helping founders secure funding & scale globally | Private Capital Strategist | CEO, Stalliongates Capital | Co‑Founder, Apex Investor Partners | Managing Partner & COO, BrandBeat Global

I’ll be at the 5th anniversary of LEAP this April. It’s one of the few events where you can meet 200k+ people from around the world, hear from 1,000 global speakers, discover tech from 1,800+ exhibitors and connect with 600+ startups in one place.

If you’re attending, would be great to connect. You’re only #oneLEAPaway from your next connection.

Secure your pass and join me here: 

https://lnkd.in/g82ycNbp

📅 13–16 April 2026
📍 Riyadh, KSA

Las Vegas for CES 2026 — and the buzz is already real.

For the next 4 days, I’m here with one mission:

Connecting visionary founders with strategic capital.

At Apex Investor Partners, we don’t just make introductions. We build bridges between founders who are changing industries and investors who want to be part of that change.

If you’re a founder showcasing at CES — or an investor looking for your next opportunity — I want to meet you.

📍 I’m available for meetings throughout the week and after.  
🔗 apexinvestorpartners.com

The best deals at CES don’t happen on stage. They happen in the conversations after.

Let’s have one.

#CES2026 #LasVegas #StartupFunding #VentureCapital #FounderLife #InvestorRelations #ApexInvestorPartners

Your vision deserves to be seen.

Too many brilliant founders are out here grinding, building something incredible, but struggling to get the attention they deserve. Your product is solid. Your hustle is real. But is your brand telling your story the right way?

At Apex Investor Partners, we help founders like you elevate your brand, sharpen your message, and position yourself to attract the right opportunities. We’re not here to just make things look pretty. We’re here to help you build a brand that opens doors.

Whether you’re preparing for your next big pitch or ready to take your company to the next level, we want to connect with you.

Join our community of visionary founders and investors. Let’s build something powerful together.

Visit us at apexinvestorpartners.com and take the first step.

#Founders #Entrepreneurship #BrandElevation #StartupLife #BuildYourLegacy #ApexInvestorPartners 

Shafaat Hashmi

Serial Entrepreneur | Business Strategist | VC & Investor | Board Member | Investments Advisor | Brand Architect | Public Speaker

Most people think AI is going to magically turn their idea into a unicorn.

AI is powerful. It can surface patterns, speed up research, and generate more ideas in an hour than most teams do in a week. It is an incredible assistant.

But it is still working with yesterday’s data. It can remix what already exists, it cannot feel what needs to exist next. It recognizes patterns, it does not create vision.

The leap from “good startup” to “unicorn” is still very human.  

It comes from intuition about the market, taste in product, the ability to read people, and the courage to make a call when the data is unclear. That is founder work. That is leadership.

If we lean on AI for everything, we risk building companies that are optimized but not original. Efficient, but forgettable.

The winners will be the founders who treat AI like an amplifier, not a replacement. Use it to move faster, see more, and test smarter. But keep the human touch on the steering wheel: the judgment, the values, the vision.

AI can help you build a company.  

It still takes a human to build a unicorn.

Sometimes I wonder if we’re all just trying to carve out a legacy in the noise. It’s not about the fame or the fortune, though those are nice. It’s about the quiet imprint you leave behind, the ripple effect of your choices. I’ve seen founders chase growth at all costs, only to realize that scaling without soul is just... empty. And yet, the temptation to push harder, faster, bigger—it's relentless. Honestly, I get it. But what if the real success is in the pause? In the moments we stop to ask, what am I really building here? Not just a business, but a story worth telling. I think that’s where true impact begins—when you start to see your work as part of something larger than yourself. It’s messy, it’s imperfect, and sometimes it feels like you’re just stumbling forward. But maybe that’s the point. Maybe the legacy isn’t about perfection. It’s about persistence, authenticity, and the willingness to be vulnerable in the process.

Artificial Intelligence did not wake up one day and decide to lie to the world. People did that.

Somewhere along the way, AI stopped being treated like a useful tool and started being treated like a toy or a way to get attention. Fake headlines claim celebrities are in critical condition when they are perfectly fine. Videos show giant creatures roaming cities that never existed. Some people truly believe alligators are eating humans or that dinosaur-sized reptiles are taking over the world. None of this is real. It is all created by AI.

Then, after these stories spread, people turn around and say that AI is dangerous or evil. That is not the truth. The real problem is how AI is being used.

Blaming AI for false information is like blaming a camera for fake photos or a printer for lies in newspapers. AI does not choose what to create. Humans tell it what to do. When AI is used without responsibility, it creates fear and confusion.

Yes, if we keep using AI to spread fake stories and scare people, it will look dangerous. But that does not mean AI itself is bad. It means we are using it the wrong way.

While fake stories go viral online, AI is doing many positive things quietly in the background.

AI helps doctors find diseases earlier and more accurately. It helps read medical scans, predict health risks, and speed up the creation of new medicines. In places where doctors are limited, AI tools help people get care they would not otherwise receive.

AI allows small businesses to do things that once required large teams. Business owners can analyze data, manage marketing, handle customer questions, and plan finances more easily. This gives small businesses a real chance to compete with big companies.

AI takes care of repetitive tasks so people can focus on creative thinking, planning, and problem-solving. Instead of replacing people, AI can help them work better and use their skills more effectively.

AI helps people with disabilities through tools like speech-to-text, translations, and learning support. It helps break down language barriers and allows more people to take part in school, work, and daily life.

In business and education, AI helps find patterns and insights that people might miss. This helps leaders make smarter decisions based on facts instead of guesses.

The biggest problem is not AI. The problem is using powerful technology without thinking about the consequences.

We need better education about online content. We need clear labels on AI-generated videos and images. We need honesty from creators and accountability from platforms that share this content.

If we use it to lie, scare people, or spread fake stories, it becomes harmful. If we use it to heal, educate, and improve lives, it becomes powerful and helpful.

The future of AI depends on how we use it. AI itself is not the enemy. Our choices are what matter most.

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CES 2026 Day 1: Getting the Lay of the Land

Day 1 at #CES is all about walking around, taking it all in, and figuring out what’s actually worth paying attention to. Today was a busy day for me anyways, so I didn’t have a lot of time since the doors open at 10 AM and I only had a few hours because of a prior commitment. But from the first take my thoughts are…..There’s a lot of flash and a lot of noise!  

Here’s what I’m noticing so far:

AI is everywhere. And I mean everywhere. It’s not just a feature anymore…it’s becoming the foundation. 

Samsung and LG are showing off incredible TVs, but the bigger story is how AI is being baked into everything from home appliances to cars.

Nvidia’s presentation stood out. They weren’t focused on gaming stuff this time. Instead, they talked about how AI is going to power robots, self-driving cars, and entire factories. That’s a big shift.

Robots are having a moment. There are almost more humanoid robots on the floor than humans. 😂 Some look like they belong in a sci-fi movie.

For me, Day 1 is about listening and learning. Tomorrow I’ll start going deeper. But right now, I’m just soaking it in and asking: What’s real? What’s hype? And what’s going to matter six months from now?

More to come.

#CES2026 #Tech #Innovation #AI #FutureTech

There’s this misconception that innovation is all about the new, the shiny, the disruptive. But I’ve come to believe that real innovation is often about refinement. About taking what’s good and making it better. About listening to your clients, your team, your community—and then acting on that feedback. It’s not glamorous, and it’s rarely instant. But it’s honest work. I’ve seen brands stumble because they chase the next big thing without really understanding what their audience needs. And that’s when the magic is lost. So, maybe the secret to staying relevant isn’t about constantly reinventing yourself, but about deepening your understanding of who you serve. Because at the end of the day, relevance is about resonance, not just novelty.

Mark your calendars,2026 is closer than you think, and the marketing game is about to flip again. 

But this time, it's not about adding another tool to your kit. It's about tuning into new emotions. 

We're heading into an era where AI-generated nostalgia feels real, and digital avatars can almost pass as human. 
Content no longer needs to be polished to perfection; it needs to evoke feelings. 
Brands will craft their sonic DNA,think signature sounds that instantly connect. 

We're moving from campaigns to emotional ecosystems,where how your brand makes people feel becomes the ultimate metric. 

Performance metrics are outdated. Presence is everything now. 

That's the core message I've been sharing with founders at every recent conference. 

Forget the hype. 
Here are 8 real trends shaping communications in 2026,things you should start integrating now: 

- Emotion-first branding 
- Interactive digital identities 
- Sound recognition as a brand asset 
- Micro-worlds and fandom economies 
- Local activation over global sweep 
- Creator-level authenticity 
- Community-led co-creation 
- AI-powered storytelling that feels human 

These aren't just buzzwords. They're signals of a deeper shift,how audiences trust, choose, and stay loyal to brands is changing fast. 

Which of these are you already building into your strategy? 

Let's swap notes. I'm diving into these trends with startups, fashion brands, and tech teams right now. 

It's time to rethink what your brand stands for. Are you ready?

Most startups think branding is just a logo and some colors. 
But after helping over 950 startups with their go-to-market and working alongside branding pros, I've realized it's actually a structured process. 

And no, you can't just slap together a logo and call it a day. 

Here's how real branding works: 

Step 1: Start with foundations , vision, customer, product. 
Without clarity here, you're building on quicksand. 
I interview founders, customers, and sales teams to get to the core. 
If you don't have this, your brand will be shaky at best. 

Step 2: Build core definitions , value props, proof points, objections, use case stories, messaging architecture. 
Most teams skip this step and go straight to design. 
That's like painting a beautiful house on a shaky foundation. 
This is where your brand identity is born. 

Step 3: Create the brand book , briefing designers with context, positioning, audience insights, the competitive landscape. 
Good designers don't just "make it look modern." 
They need strategy, clarity, and purpose. 
Your brand book becomes your single source of truth. 

Step 4: Test your messaging , Landing pages, email sequences, sales decks. 
If your words don't convert, no amount of pretty design will save you. 
Test, optimize, then finalize. 

Step 5: Measure outcomes , track how your brand performs across touchpoints. 
Is it driving the results you need? 
Brand isn't a one-time project; it's a living system that evolves with you. 

And here's the kicker , this process takes at least 6-8 weeks. 
Most startups want it done in 2 weeks, then wonder why their brand feels so generic. 

Because real branding isn't quick, it's strategic. 

What's your biggest branding challenge right now? 
Let's talk.

Ever wonder why most leaders talk about growth but don't really follow through? 

Everyone says they're future-focused. 
But most are just playing it safe, sticking to old formulas, and hiding behind being "busy." 

Here's the harsh truth: 

Growth isn't just about making more money. 
AI isn't just about tech. 
Personal branding isn't just about likes or followers. 

It's about having the guts to be seen. 
To get challenged. 
To shake things up before someone else does it for you. 

Let's keep it real. 

Growth today? It's kinda opposite. 
We obsess over quarterly numbers, NPS, churn. 
But the brands that truly win? 
They build movements, not just products. 
They use AI to create something new, not just automate the old stuff. 
And they put real people front and center, flaws and all. 

I've sat with startup founders and Fortune 500 execs who love to talk disruption. 
But when it's time to take a big leap? 
Most of them freeze up or wait for someone else to give the green light. 

Here's what's really holding us back: 

→ Playing small because it feels safe 
→ Waiting for permission to lead 
→ Treating AI as a checkbox, not a way to rethink your biz 
→ Thinking personal branding is only for influencers 

That mindset kills your momentum before it even gets going. 

So, what if you flipped the script? 

→ What if AI was your growth sidekick, not the enemy? 
→ What if your story was your biggest edge? 
→ What if your brand was so strong that your ideal clients and talent found you? 

I've seen founders transform overnight when they: 
↳ Stop hiding behind tech specs and start sharing their story 
↳ Use AI to solve real problems in water, energy, infrastructure, not just cut costs 
↳ Be open about failures and lessons learned, not just wins 

When you do that? Growth stops being a dream. It's a must. 
You'll attract partners, investors, and customers who want to build the future with you. 
You'll stop holding back. 
You'll start leading. 

Let's be real: this isn't for everyone. 
If you want to stay comfy, AI will seem like a threat. 
If you just want to blend in, your biz will stay invisible. 
But if you want real growth? You gotta be willing to be seen. 

So ask yourself: 

→ What's one honest truth about your business or journey you're scared to share? 
→ How could AI help you finally solve a problem you've been ignoring? 
→ Who needs to see the real you before they buy into your vision? 

The leaders who stop hiding and show up fully , that's how legacies are built. 

If you're done waiting for permission and ready to lead with clarity and impact, 
what's stopping you?

You closed your first round, built an MVP, and have early revenue but investor meetings keep stalling at ‘keep us updated.’ 

Usually it isn’t your product holding you back; it’s investor–founder fit. 

At Apex Investor Partners, founders get access to a curated global network of VCs, family offices, and institutional investors actively backing high-potential tech. 

Discover if you’re truly ready to scale: visit ApexInvestorPartners.com and apply as a Founder today.

Shafaat Hashmi

There’s this quiet pressure we all feel—whether it’s to scale faster, raise more capital, or just keep up with the relentless pace of change. I get it. I’ve been there.

But sometimes, the most strategic move is to pause. To really listen. To ask yourself what your true purpose is beyond the metrics and milestones.

Because if you’re building a venture or a movement, it’s not just about growth. It’s about meaning. About creating something that resonates deeply, not just superficially.

And honestly, that kind of impact takes time. It’s a slow, deliberate process. But it’s the only way to build something that lasts beyond the hype.

We’re in Las Vegas. Your Calendar is About to Get Full.

The energy at #CES 2026 is incredible. Thousands of founders. Hundreds of investors. Endless possibilities.

But the real deals? They happen in the margins.

At Apex Investor Partners, we connect visionary founders with strategic capital. We engineer partnerships that matter.

For Founders: Access experienced investors who understand your vision and bring more than just capital—they bring networks, expertise, and doors that open.

For Investors: Discover pre-vetted founders building transformative companies aligned with your investment thesis.

I’ll be in Las Vegas January 6-9. Not just during CES—but afterwards too. Because the best conversations happen when the conference buzz settles.

If you’re raising capital, building something bold, or looking for curated deal flow—let’s talk.

📅 Schedule a meeting! 
🔗 Learn more: apexinvestorpartners.com


#CES2026 #Founders #Investors #StartupFunding #VentureCapital #Entrepreneurship #Innovation #LasVegas #FounderLife #InvestorNetwork #Fundraising #TechConference #StartupEcosystem #StrategicPartnerships #ApexInvestorPartners

Excited to share a preview of my upcoming book, Heart Over Image: A Champion’s Guide to Competing Against the Odds.

Throughout my 10+ year career as a professional ballroom dancer, I learned that success is built on more than just talent. It requires a strategic approach to mental fortitude, navigating industry politics, and overcoming personal adversity. This book is designed as a mentorship guide, offering the practical strategies and insider knowledge I wish I had when I started. It’s for anyone in a competitive field who aims to succeed without sacrificing their integrity or well-being.

Stay tuned for the official launch.

#Mentorship #CareerAdvice #CompetitiveStrategy #SportsPsychology #Author #BookAnnouncement #HeartOverImage

Not Feeling 100% Today, But CES 2026 Doesn’t Stop

Sometimes you have to watch from the sidelines. I wasn’t feeling great today, so instead of being on the floor in Vegas, I’ve been tuned into the CES livestreams from home.

And honestly? I’m still blown away by what I’m seeing.

Here’s what stood out to me today:

Robots that actually do stuff. Not just concepts — real products. SwitchBot showed a robot that picks up your clothes and loads the washing machine. Roborock unveiled a vacuum that walks up and down stairs. We’re getting closer to robots that genuinely help around the house.

TVs are getting ridiculous (in a good way). LG’s Wallpaper TV is thinner than a pencil and mounts flush to your wall. TCL’s new display hits 10,000 nits of brightness. And Dolby Vision 2 is rolling out to sports broadcasts. If you love watching games at home, this matters.

Dell brought back the XPS. After a confusing rebrand last year, they listened to feedback and the XPS 14 and 16 are back with beautiful OLED displays.

IKEA showed up to CES for the first time. And they brought affordable smart home gear — $6 smart bulbs, $8 smart plugs. Finally, smart home tech that doesn’t break the bank.

Samsung’s tri-fold phone is real. People got hands-on with the Galaxy Z TriFold. Three screens. One device. The future of mobile is folding in more ways than one.

Even from my couch, I can see where things are headed. AI isn’t just a buzzword anymore — it’s being built into everything. Robots, TVs, wearables, even pet health trackers.

The companies that figure out how to make this tech useful (not just flashy) are the ones to watch.

Hope to be back on my feet tomorrow. In the meantime, the livestreams are worth your time.

What caught your eye from CES this week?

#CES2026 #Tech #Innovation #AI #Robotics #SmartHome #FutureTech

Sometimes I wonder if we’re all just trying to carve out a legacy in the noise. It’s not about the fame or the money, though those are nice side effects. It’s about the imprint we leave behind, the ripple effect of what we build and how we influence others. But honestly, it’s messy. It’s imperfect. And sometimes, I catch myself questioning if I’m doing enough, if my work really matters in the grand scheme.

And then I remember—legacy isn’t about perfection. It’s about persistence, authenticity, and the willingness to be vulnerable. To admit when you’re lost, to ask for help, to pivot when needed. That’s where the real impact lives.

Building something that lasts? It’s a slow burn. It’s a series of small, sometimes awkward steps. But those steps, they add up. They become the story you tell when you’re gone.

So, if you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure, you’re not alone. We’re all just trying to figure it out as we go. And maybe, that’s the point.

taplio

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💡Eric Samdahl

Lauren LaPointe

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taplio

The Battle

💡Eric Samdahl

Lauren LaPointe

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Engagements

Likes

Performance Score.css-goub6s{font-size:var(--chakra-fontSizes-md);font-weight:500;color:var(--chakra-colors-gray-600);display:block;margin-top:var(--chakra-space-1);}Lauren LaPointe's LinkedIn Performance

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Performance ScoreLauren LaPointe's LinkedIn Performance