In an E&I Studio first, we welcome two guests onto the podcast to share details about the important work they're helping bring to the Central Valley. Dr. Pablo Paredes Romero welcomes Gloriamar Gámez and Gehad Elhanafy of BEAM Circular to explore the concept of the circular economy, where agricultural waste is looped back into the production cycle to create positive impact on the environment and job market.

This episode highlights the work of transforming organic waste into valuable bio-based products and the organization's pivotal initiatives like the Innovation Voucher Program and the Technical Assistance Program, which provide financial and technical support to foster local innovation.

Co-produced by the Warrior Entrepreneurship and Innovation program and the Office of Strategic Communications and Marketing at Stanislaus State. The E&I Studio is edited and recorded in the KCSS studios on the campus of Stanislaus State.
The views expressed by guests on this podcast are not necessarily those of the University.

Join Dr. Pablo Paredes Romero and guest Danny Bernstein as they delve into the untapped potential that is the Central Valley bioeconomy and plans to leverage innovation to revitalize the region. The founder and Managing Partner of HawkTower, Danny emphasizes the importance of equitable opportunities, accessible partnerships, and community outcomes integral to his investment strategy.

The Central Valley's agricultural legacy provides fertile ground for transformative technological solutions. With less than 1% of venture capital flowing to areas like Davis, Fresno, and Modesto, Danny's efforts to spur innovation and create lasting opportunities for under-leveraged regions are highlighted in this episode.

Co-produced by the Warrior Entrepreneurship and Innovation program and the Office of Strategic Communications and Marketing at Stanislaus State. The E&I Studio is edited and recorded in the KCSS studios on the campus of Stanislaus State.
The views expressed by guests on this podcast are not necessarily those of the University.

Join Dr. Pablo Paredes Romero and guest Marian Kaanon as they explore her approach to community development. CEO of the Stanislaus Community Foundation and 2022 Champions of the American Dream honoree, Marian has spearheaded initiatives that have transformed the Central Valley's business and nonprofit sectors. From her early life traversing different countries to leading the charge in philanthropic efforts, Marion’s leadership is marked by deliberate data-driven decision-making.

With a focus on community leadership, Marion’s stories of intentional relationships and dedicated service provide a compelling blueprint for building a thriving, interconnected community. Tune in as we explore how her unique experiences have shaped her vision and driven her impactful work in Stanislaus County.

Co-produced by the Warrior Entrepreneurship and Innovation program and the Office of Strategic Communications and Marketing at Stanislaus State. The E&I Studio is edited and recorded in the KCSS studios on the campus of Stanislaus State.
The views expressed by guests on this podcast are not necessarily those of the University.

Join us as we explore what it means to lead with authenticity and resilience through the lens of Oscar Garcia's career. As a first-generation program creator and proud Latinx entrepreneur, Oscar's narrative provides valuable lessons on the significance of hard work, cultural identity, and community support. Listen in as we discuss the pivotal moments in his life, his path to becoming an international speaker, and his mission to empower others by sharing the lessons he learned from his diverse experiences.

Co-produced by the Warrior Entrepreneurship and Innovation program and the Office of Strategic Communications and Marketing at Stanislaus State. The E&I Studio is edited and recorded in the KCSS studios on the campus of Stanislaus State.
The views expressed by guests on this podcast are not necessarily those of the University.

Discover the integral role of community in shaping Ann Endsley's dynamic career and philanthropic ventures in this insightful episode. Owner of multiple local businesses and the 2024 Champions of the American Dream Honoree, Ann grew up in a supportive environment where she developed a keen awareness of community needs and engaged in various volunteer projects from a young age.

Her move to the Central Valley unveiled a blend of prosperous multi-generational businesses and under-served communities, prompting her to initiate projects that bridged these gaps. Ann's entrepreneurial spirit led her to advocate for food accessibility and local agriculture, making healthy food available to local families. Join Dr. Pablo Paredes Romero as he and Ann explore her collaborative communication strategies and resilient approach to fostering a sense of unity and success across her diverse enterprises.

Co-produced by the Warrior Entrepreneurship and Innovation program and the Office of Strategic Communications and Marketing at Stanislaus State. The E&I Studio is edited and recorded in the KCSS studios on the campus of Stanislaus State.
The views expressed by guests on this podcast are not necessarily those of the University.

With the academic year coming to a close at Stan State and with two seasons of the E&I Studio in the can, the student-led Warrior Entrepreneurship and Innovation (WEI) Group recently hosted the inaugural WEI Fair — an ambitious celebration of all things entrepreneurial. The capstone of the WEI Fair was the E&I Studio Season 1 Reunion. Six guests returned for another conversation with Dr. Pablo Paredes Romero, this time in front of a live audience, to reflect on their podcast experiences and to dive even deeper into their entrepreneurial lives. The result was a captivating, fun and enlightening event that put a punctuation mark on a successful academic year for the WEI Program.

Co-produced by the Warrior Entrepreneurship and Innovation program and the Office of Strategic Communications and Marketing at Stanislaus State. The E&I Studio is edited and recorded in the KCSS studios on the campus of Stanislaus State.
The views expressed by guests on this podcast are not necessarily those of the University.

Larry Rivera, a Latinx entrepreneur proudly representing Modesto, California, shares his inspiring story in the world of business as the CEO and co-founder of Mango Crazy, a vibrant restaurant chain renowned for its creative fusion of Mexican street food and drinks. Larry recalls his humble beginnings in 2014 within the Central Valley. Larry and his business partner Andy Lopez first started with just a few small locations around the Modesto area. But due to their shared endless dedication, hard work, and innovative thinking, they have propelled Mango Crazy’s influence and growth into the Bay Area and eventual establishment of future franchises.

In this engaging episode of E&I Studio, Dr. Pablo Paredes Romero and Larry Rivera delve deeper into the qualities that define a successful entrepreneur. Reflecting on his upbringing in a challenging neighborhood, Larry discusses how the adversities and business dynamics of his community shaped his entrepreneurial mindset. His early experiences instilled in him the importance of unwavering determination and adaptability in the face of challenges. Through his journey, Larry exemplifies the power of relentless pursuit and perseverance in turning dreams into accomplishment.

Co-produced by the Warrior Entrepreneurship and Innovation program and the Office of Strategic Communications and Marketing at Stanislaus State. The E&I Studio is edited and recorded in the KCSS studios on the campus of Stanislaus State.
The views expressed by guests on this podcast are not necessarily those of the University.

Charlie Nguyen is a fascinating storyteller with a passion for building community through outreach and artistry. The chief advocate at the nonprofit organization Chalk Wild, Charlie and his team distribute clear-fronted canvas backpacks for children to create artwork on. Charlie advocates for the use of art as a motivator for children to help heal from trauma. His dedication to fostering a culture of innovation and inclusivity in the Central Valley stems from confronting and healing from his own trauma as a young adult. Charlie’s entrepreneurial spirit shines through his nonprofit work, demonstrating that true impact comes from empowering others.

On this episode of Entrepreneurship & Innovation Studio, Dr. Pablo Paredes Romero and Charlie discuss how entrepreneurship is not only a journey — it's about diving into the profound impacts of personal experiences and the enduring influence of human connection. The two illuminate the intricate, colorful tapestry of life's challenges, resilience and the unwavering pursuit of creativity and innovation in shaping not only one's own narrative but also the lives of the community around them.

Co-produced by the Warrior Entrepreneurship and Innovation program and the Office of Strategic Communications and Marketing at Stanislaus State. The E&I Studio is edited and recorded in the KCSS studios on the campus of Stanislaus State.
The views expressed by guests on this podcast are not necessarily those of the University.