Symplicity Conversations

On a special ArtPrize themed episode of Symplicity Conversations, we are joined by Rob Sharp, a young fiber artist, shares his journey from crocheting as a hobby to creating a massive crochet bouquet for Art Prize, exploring themes of slowing down, intentionality, and imagination. Rob's piece, "Yours Truly" is featured in the Symplicity Communications Building during the ArtPrize event in Grand Rapids, September 17th-October 3rd. Vote for Rob's piece here: ArtPrize Entries See more of Rob's work here: https://www.instagram.com/rob.sharp.handcrafted and here: https://www.tiktok.com/@rob.sharp.handcrafted Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Rob Sharp and his crochet art 02:29 Rob's background and how he started crocheting during COVID 04:43 The inspiration behind the large crochet bouquet 08:51 The symbolism of flowers and connection in Rob's work 12:06 The process and challenges of creating a 12-foot crochet bouquet 16:18 How art prize and community support influence emerging artists 17:41 The importance of imagination and childhood wonder in art 22:50 Rob's future plans and encouragement for aspiring artists Key Topics Rob Sharp's background and how he started crocheting during COVID The transition from making sweaters to creating large-scale art pieces The process and time investment of over a thousand hours and 100 skeins of yarn The significance of flowers and their representation in Rob’s work The role of imagination and wonder in art, inspired by childhood and movies Support from family and community in pursuing artistic goals The impact of art exhibitions like Art Prize on emerging artists Encouragement to think bigger and pursue creative dreams

In this episode, host Catherine Ripley is joined by Patrick Hayes, Chief Experience Officer and Field CISO at Third Wave Innovation, to discuss the cybersecurity challenges faced by nonprofits, the importance of data protection, and how organizations can prepare for and respond to cyber threats, especially with the rise of AI and automation. Key Topics: Cybersecurity challenges for nonprofits Importance of data protection and trust Impact of AI and automation on security Cyber insurance and risk management Best practices for cybersecurity in small organizations Chapters 00:00 Introduction to cybersecurity challenges for nonprofits 02:07 The importance of trust and reputation in cybersecurity 03:58 Real-world examples of cyber threats to organizations 06:51 Valuable data targeted by attackers 10:05 Prioritizing cybersecurity protections for small nonprofits 12:57 Understanding MDR and its role in security 15:52 Monitoring and responding to cyber threats 24/7 18:46 Attackers' tactics and social engineering 22:09 The significance of cyber insurance and risk management 25:03 Common mistakes in cyber insurance applications 27:48 Aligning cybersecurity with organizational strategy 31:09 The role of third-party providers and MSPs 34:08 Privacy policies and legal considerations 36:54 Building a cybersecurity strategy with board involvement 40:12 Funding cybersecurity through community support 43:01 The upcoming Nonprofit Technology and Innovation Summit 45:48 Final thoughts on cybersecurity as a business priority

In this episode, Monica Steimle-App and Richard App share their journey of launching Innovar Advisors, a consulting firm focused on helping organizations navigate growth, strategy, and transformation. They discuss the importance of community, leadership, collaboration, and the lessons learned from their diverse experiences. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Monica and Richard and their new venture 04:55 The timing and challenges of starting a new business 08:34 Their approach to helping businesses navigate change 12:00 Leadership challenges and the importance of diverse teams 15:11 Balancing work and personal life as partners 19:41 Rapid fire questions: personal preferences and insights 20:18 Recommended books and influential reads 21:04 Technology essentials and analog preferences 23:06 Common leadership challenges today 24:47 The value of surrounding yourself with the right team 25:15 Embracing change and reacting with resilience 26:51 The importance of authentic giving and community involvement 28:58 Transition from corporate to small business leadership 29:25 Supporting leaders through difficult decisions 30:45 Building a network of trusted advisors 33:09 Celebrating successes and overcoming setbacks 36:54 The community of West Michigan and its future 40:32 Community projects and long-term vision 44:26 Overcoming imposter syndrome and self-doubt 46:54 How to connect with Monica and Richard Key Topics: The decision to launch Innovar Advisors and the journey behind it The importance of community and local partnerships in business How diverse experiences strengthen leadership and business strategies The role of collaboration and networking in business growth Balancing personal and professional life as business partners Lessons learned from starting and growing a new business The impact of technology and innovation on small businesses Strategies for navigating change and uncertainty in business The importance of authenticity and giving back to the community Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders

Elizabeth Goede, founder of Ratliff Consulting, shares her extensive experience with AI, entrepreneurship, and how organizations can navigate the rapidly evolving AI landscape responsibly. This episode covers AI's impact on business, ethical considerations, and practical strategies for implementation. Chapters 00:34 — Introduction to the episode and guest 01:52 — Quote of the day from Alan Kay 02:50 — Elizabeth’s journey into AI and entrepreneurship 04:31 — The evolution of AI from 2012 to today 08:04 — The bias and diversity issues in AI development 08:50 — Ethics and responsible AI use 10:23 — AI’s role in internal and external business processes 13:01 — Helping businesses understand AI’s real potential 16:07 — What kind of organizations Elizabeth works with 20:37 — The importance of data as a company asset 28:02 — Common misconceptions about AI 29:16 — The biggest misconceptions about AI today 35:45 — The launch of Spark AI Lab and its mission 42:33 — Elizabeth’s platform for women in tech and AI 50:00 — Exciting future of AI and entrepreneurship 53:32 — Closing thoughts and key takeaways Key Topics: Ethical considerations and bias in AI Data management and governance in AI Practical applications of AI in business processes The importance of human oversight and soft skills in AI

In this episode, Bana Qashu shares her entrepreneurial journey, leadership lessons, and insights into navigating the fast-paced tech industry. Discover how genuine relationships, resilience, and strategic partnerships drive success in business. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Bana Qashu and her background 02:00 The importance of hard work and resilience in entrepreneurship 03:44 Bana’s career journey from nonprofit to technology 06:20 Building a network and seeking mentorship 09:04 The challenges of starting and scaling a business 12:13 Leveraging AI and technology to support business operations 14:07 Bana’s consulting approach and market strategy 16:55 Opportunities in the tech industry and partnerships 19:58 The power of giving back and building a positive culture 26:52 Rapid-fire questions: books, AI, and personal preferences 40:44 Advice for emerging women leaders and entrepreneurs 44:42 The importance of authenticity, self-trust, and resilience 48:00 Closing remarks and key takeaways from Bana's story Key Topics: Bana Qashu’s career transition from nonprofit to technology The importance of authentic relationships and networking Challenges and lessons of entrepreneurship Building strategic partnerships in tech Leveraging technology and AI for business growth The role of resilience and self-trust in success Balancing work and personal growth as an entrepreneur The significance of giving back and mentorship