deming

How Hope Macgregor’s Entrepreneurial Journey Took Flight Through Music

Emily Iliff — Thu, 24 Apr 2025 11:30:00 +0000

How Hope Macgregor’s Entrepreneurial Journey Took Flight Through Music Emily Iliff Thu, 04/24/2025 - 05:30

Colton Sontrop , Emily Iliff

Hope MacGregor never imagined her path would transition from flying helicopters over Afghanistan to standing on stage, guitar in hand. But if there’s one constant in her life, it’s embracing the pivot, and doing so with purpose.

Hope explored a wide range of career paths. From college to law to military service, the journey from Army pilot to singer-songwriter was far from what she expected. Now, a part of the Veterans Entrepreneurship Program taught by Erick Mueller, she is obtaining the needed soft and hard skills to grow her music career.

A Rediscovered Passion

In what she describes as a “rebellious decision,” Hope veered away from the typical route many teenagers take. Though she initially planned to attend Oklahoma State, she ultimately found herself at West Point, stepping into military service that would further develop her resilience and sense of purpose.

Her time in the military was transformative, but after completing her active duty service obligation, Hope was ready for a change.

While transitioning out of service into law school, Hope faced a series of personal challenges. Her father came to offer support, and stumbled upon one of her old guitars, which she hadn’t touched in years. This unexpected discovery reignited a long-suppressed passion, ultimately sparking the beginning of her music career.

Learning to Lead Her Art

Hope's business formally began when she established her LLC. The emotional and creative foundation was already there, but this was the moment where she formally began treating it like a business.

The Veteran Entrepreneurship Program at Oklahoma State University played an important role in helping her transition her passion to a successful business. Though she had already formed an LLC for her music, she admitted feeling overwhelmed by the practical demands of entrepreneurship: like filing taxes and navigating business law. With a background in military aviation and limited exposure to the world of business, she turned to the program after a Google search for Veteran resources. The program, designed specifically for Veterans, offered her a structured environment to gain foundational knowledge in areas like finance, taxes, and marketing.

Beyond the technical skills, the Veteran Entrepreneurship Program gave her a sense of community and validation. She initially walked into the program feeling intimidated, but she quickly found support and encouragement from both peers and instructors. The experience helped her realize that she wasn’t alone in her learning curve and that entrepreneurship could look different for everyone. It gave her the tools and confidence to pursue her music career seriously while honoring her values and personal style, reinforcing her identity as both a Veteran and an artist.

A Voice with Values

For Hope, music isn’t just a career, it’s how she communicates with the universe. “Songwriting is how I pray,” she shares. Her sound, a blend of blues, country, and classic rock, falls under the broad umbrella of Americana. Genre is secondary to her mission of emotional honesty. Every song she writes comes from a real, raw place, each word with an honest meaning.

Hope resists the industry’s pressure to conform, especially for female artists. She refuses to dress or perform in a way that doesn’t align with her values, and that resistance itself

has become part of her voice. She admits that she likes the rebellion of it, describing how her songs speak to people who don’t see themselves in mainstream music.

Like any artist, Hope has dreamed of stadium tours. But for now, she gravitates toward intimate venues where she can connect with audiences face-to-face. Music is powerful to her when she shares a “real truth”. This has fueled a debut album in October of 2023 and a major tour slated for July.

Building a Business with Heart

Though she's found her calling, Hope is quick to point out the realities of the music world. Although there are days where she wonders if entrepreneurship is harder than the Army, she remains grounded, balancing her art with a flexible day job to fund her career. Her entrepreneurial spirit drives her to forge a sustainable, self-directed life.

What truly distinguishes her as an entrepreneur is her desire to live on her own terms. For her, entrepreneurship is not defined by full-time self-employment or profit margins; it’s about designing a life that enables passion-driven work, even if it means taking an unconventional route to get there.

Hope’s career isn’t defined by profits or business plans. It’s fueled by passion and determination.

“Being an entrepreneur, for me, is setting my life up in a way that I can do what I want to do when I want to do it.”

That clarity of purpose has guided her through career pivots, personal challenges, and the leap into music. Her journey reflects a broader truth: entrepreneurship is deeply personal. It’s more than just about building something new.

Hope’s journey reminds us that entrepreneurship isn’t limited, it’s also about building a life filled with meaning, authenticity, and courage. Once in the cockpit, and now on stage, Hope is writing her own authentic story.

Photography by: 1, 2: Nicole Gray. 3: Hannah Gore

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How Ben Scarbeary is Channeling Creativity Into Entrepreneurial Impact at CU �鶹ӰԺ

Emily Iliff — Thu, 17 Apr 2025 11:30:00 +0000

How Ben Scarbeary is Channeling Creativity Into Entrepreneurial Impact at CU �鶹ӰԺ Emily Iliff Thu, 04/17/2025 - 05:30

Emily Iliff

When Benjamin Scarbeary began creating video game content on YouTube during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic, he didn’t expect it to spark a lasting passion for entrepreneurship. Now a freshman at CU �鶹ӰԺ and a proud Deming Center Ambassador, Ben is channeling that same energy into helping other students discover the possibilities of entrepreneurial thinking.

A Colorado native with deep family roots in small business ownership, Ben was surrounded by entrepreneurship from a young age. His mom and both grandparents each run their own businesses, so carving out a path in business felt like a natural step. Still unsure whether he’ll major in marketing or entrepreneurship, Ben has already begun building his foundation through real-world experience.

Ben's first introduction to marketing and entrepreneurship came through producing YouTube videos centered around gaming. With schools closed due to Covid-19 and extra time on his hands, he dove into video creation, not just for entertainment, but as a way to explore digital media and grow an audience. Over time, the process revealed a passion not just for gaming, but for building something that could connect with others.

Ben’s connection to the Deming Center came shortly after arriving at CU �鶹ӰԺ. While applying for a venture launch program, ultimately unavailable to freshmen, he was encouraged to explore the ambassador program instead. That suggestion led him to stop by the Deming Center, where he quickly realized it was a space filled with people who shared his drive to build, create, and grow. Now, as an ambassador, he’s embraced the opportunity to help other students uncover resources they may not know exist.

Scaling Impact On and Off Campus

Ben’s involvement as a Deming Center Ambassador has been driven by his passion for building connections and sparking engagement. An aspect that stands out in his role is the ability to contribute to event planning: creating experiences that bring students together and inspire meaningful conversations around entrepreneurship. For Ben, these moments go beyond just day-to-day logistics; they represent real opportunities to see ideas come to life and to witness the excitement that can emerge when students share what they're working on.

One event in particular has become a highlight: Shark Tank. This student pitch event has become a campus favorite, drawing a mix of participants: some attending just for fun, others stepping up to pitch serious ventures. For Ben, the value is in the diversity of ideas and the creative energy that fills the room. Events like this have helped spread the Deming Center's presence among students, where anticipation for these events now build year after year.

As he looks ahead, Ben recognizes the importance of not just attracting new students to the Deming Center, but also keeping existing members engaged. While many students sign up for updates and participate in events, there isn’t always a clear next step for those ready to dive deeper. Creating more pathways for continued involvement, especially as students’ needs evolve from freshman year to graduation, is one area Ben hopes to innovate and refresh. By refining the balance between outreach and long-term engagement, he believes the Deming Center can continue to be an amazing resource and community space for all aspiring entrepreneurs on campus.

Entrepreneurial Momentum

This experience as a solo founder has shaped the way Ben approaches his role at the Deming Center. Having personally navigated the ups and downs of running a venture, he brings a practical lens to event planning and student support. He’s quick to identify when something didn’t work, and just as eager to iterate and improve. Whether it’s troubleshooting event attendance or suggesting new resources, he’s constantly thinking about how to increase impact through both experimentation and empathy.

These skills are what has taken his passion for content creation and turned it into a growing venture of his own. What began during the early days of the pandemic as a solo YouTube channel has since evolved into a freelance business focused on influencer marketing. Over time, Ben realized that his real interest wasn’t just in gaming, it was in crafting content that resonates with people. That realization led him to shift from making videos for himself to helping others grow their online presence.

In 2023, he began working with a wide variety of clients, from small wellness consultants to major finance influencers with large followings. This period became a crash course in marketing strategy, video production, and platform algorithms: all of which helped him refine his focus and develop his own unique value proposition. He officially launched a solo-run influencer marketing agency dedicated to helping creators optimize their content and expand their reach.

Ben is already thinking ahead for his venture. Currently operating as a one-person team, he’s exploring ways to scale his services, possibly through tools or resources tailored to the influencer space. With experience on both sides, as a creator and a marketer, he’s positioned to understand the challenges of growing a digital presence and is focused on building solutions that are efficient, scalable, and creator-friendly.

The Power to Create Change

As an entrepreneurial-minded student at CU �鶹ӰԺ, Ben is not only building a venture, he's also working to build a better entrepreneurial ecosystem at CU �鶹ӰԺ. Despite the abundance of opportunities on campus, he’s noticed that many students, especially those outside of the Leeds School of Business, remain unaware of the Deming Center and the support it offers.

This gap in awareness is something Ben hopes to help bridge. Whether through more inclusive events, stronger outreach, or clearer pathways for involvement, he believes there is more to be done to connect students with the tools they need to thrive. It’s a challenge he acknowledges is complex, but also one he’s passionate about addressing through his role as a Deming Ambassador.

For Ben, entrepreneurship isn’t just about starting a business, it’s about truly creating change.

“My personal definition of entrepreneurship is the power and the ability to create change.”

Whether he's launching influencer campaigns, planning events that spark ideas, or mentoring fellow students, that mission stays at the center of everything he does. His journey is just beginning, but it already serves as a powerful example of what happens when creativity, community, and opportunity come together.

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Creative Distillation - Episode 80

Emily Iliff — Thu, 17 Apr 2025 11:30:00 +0000

Creative Distillation - Episode 80 Emily Iliff Thu, 04/17/2025 - 05:30

Emily Iliff

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Inside Ted Church’s Anthem Branding Journey

Emily Iliff — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 11:30:00 +0000

Inside Ted Church’s Anthem Branding Journey Emily Iliff Thu, 04/10/2025 - 05:30

Emily Iliff

Ted Church didn’t set out with the intention of building a standout merchandise agency- at least not at first. What started as a spontaneous trip to �鶹ӰԺ on a snowy Ohio afternoon led to a pivot that would shape the rest of his life. He gave up a Division I soccer commitment, fell in love with CU �鶹ӰԺ’s sunshine and energy, and never looked back.

From a young age, Ted had an entrepreneurial spark. Whether it was mowing lawns, selling vacuum cleaners door-to-door, or spotting gaps in the college merch scene, he was always looking for creative ways to hustle. When he landed at CU, he quickly noticed the lack of stylish, customized campus gear. That observation turned into action- partnering with his uncle to bring edgy, original products to Greek life and local bars. At just 19, he was learning the ropes of licensing, manufacturing, and campus marketing on the fly.

By senior year, he was already handling sizable orders for national companies through friends in the dot-com and entertainment scenes. He realized he was making more running his own apparel business than most entry-level roles could offer.

The journey didn’t stop there. Over time, Ted evolved his business into what would eventually become Anthem Branding: a �鶹ӰԺ-based creative agency that brings a design-first mindset to branded merchandise.

Where Strategy Meets Style

Anthem Branding stands out as more than just a promotional products company. It’s a full-service merchandise agency that blends the strategic mindset of an ad agency with the hands-on execution of custom product design. From apparel and packaging to brand development and sourcing, Anthem helps businesses tell their stories through high-quality, thoughtfully designed products.

What sets the company apart is its commitment to creativity. Ted and his team treat every project as an opportunity to push boundaries, whether they're designing limited-edition apparel for a lifestyle brand or helping a startup build out their first swag collection. Instead of simply slapping logos on water bottles and calling it a day, Anthem takes a collaborative approach: getting to know the brand, understanding its audience, and creating something that actually resonates.

Forged in Fire

Like all businesses, Anthem Branding didn’t necessarily find success overnight. Early years were full of tight margins, big swings, and nonstop problem-solving. Ted often describes entrepreneurship as a daily “knife fight”- a phrase that encapsulates the constant hustle of meeting deadlines, managing client expectations, and juggling cash flow, all while trying to scale a growing operation.

Operating in a deadline-driven industry like branded merchandise means pressure is always high. Clients have launch events, music tours, and seasonal promotions that can’t shift. That kind of demand meant Ted and his team had to be not just creative, but dependable. Whether it was sourcing custom gear for a band or pitching ideas to MTV and Atlantic Records on self-made trips to New York, Ted learned quickly that energy, confidence, and follow-through were often more important than having every detail locked down from the start.

When it comes to managing risk, Ted leans into action over analysis. He believes in taking the leap, learning from the process, and adjusting as you go. That mindset has kept the business flexible and open to unexpected opportunities. Sometimes, products they didn’t expect to take off end up becoming bestsellers; and when that happens, they double down, adapt, and repeat the cycle. Taking calculated risks, chasing ambitious clients, and bringing unmatched creative energy to every project.

That relentless energy helped differentiate Anthem from the pack. In an industry where it’s common to slap a logo on generic swag and call it a day, Ted wanted every touchpoint: emails, packaging, the website, to reflect the same level of thought and brand identity as the products themselves. That creative consistency became a core part of Anthem’s ethos and what ultimately built its reputation as the go-to partner for companies looking to elevate their merchandise.

Leading by Example

At the core of Ted’s approach is a strong belief in leadership through action. For him, leadership isn’t about being the loudest voice in the room, it’s about showing up, being approachable, setting the pace, and trusting his team. While his natural drive pushes things forward, he’s mindful that not everyone operates at the same tempo, and he’s constantly learning how to delegate effectively and support his team’s growth.

What drives Anthem’s culture, and Ted’s leadership, is a shared belief in creativity, collaboration, and character. There’s a deep respect for doing what you say you’re going to do and following through with consistency and care. Optimism also plays a big role: it’s the mindset that fuels bold ideas and keeps the team moving forward, even when things get tough.

A Legacy of Creativity

As for legacy, Ted hopes that Anthem is remembered for raising the creative bar. Whether it’s the custom gear they’ve developed for major brands, the innovative building they designed in �鶹ӰԺ, or the team members who’ve gone on to thrive in their careers, he wants people to look back on Anthem as a place that stood out- where people learned, grew, and contributed to something genuinely unique.

When asked to define entrepreneurship, Ted doesn’t reach for a buzzword-filled answer. For him, it all comes down to optimism, grit, and a relentless belief in your ability to figure things out. It’s about being comfortable in the chaos, solving new problems daily, and having the guts to say, “What could go right?”

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Creative Distillation - Episode 79: Elvira Solji from the University of New South Wales

Emily Iliff — Thu, 03 Apr 2025 11:30:00 +0000

Creative Distillation - Episode 79: Elvira Solji from the University of New South Wales Emily Iliff Thu, 04/03/2025 - 05:30

Emily Iliff

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Made in Colorado: The Story Behind a Family Business Changing How We Move

Emily Iliff — Thu, 03 Apr 2025 11:30:00 +0000

Made in Colorado: The Story Behind a Family Business Changing How We Move Emily Iliff Thu, 04/03/2025 - 05:30

Emily Iliff

Judy Kochevar, co-founder of The Hand Truck Company, LLC, shares her journey from a corporate marketing career to becoming an entrepreneur. After a journey in corporate America, she moved back to Pueblo and teamed up with her husband’s cousin, who had invented a multi-directional hand truck to solve the common issue of maneuvering plywood in tight spaces. Together, they launched a family-run business focused on innovation, safety, and ergonomic design—proudly crafted in Colorado. The company currently holds two patents and one provisional patent.

A New Chapter Begins in Pueblo

Judy never set out to revolutionize how people move heavy objects, but when a cousin walked into her Pueblo, Colorado, home with a prototype hand truck that could pivot in ways she’d never seen, she knew she was looking at something special.

"We never set out to reinvent the wheel—literally—but once Richard showed me the prototype, we knew we had something different."

A third-generation Coloradan with a background in marketing and business, Judy had worked with major companies like Campbell Soup, Conoco, and Intel. After earning her MBA from Arizona State University, Judy’s career had taken her across the country—from Houston to Atlanta to Phoenix—before eventually bringing her back home to recover from health issues. It was during this period of rest and reflection that the seed of a new business was planted.

A Family-Driven Solution to an Everyday Problem

While back in Pueblo, Judy reconnected with family, including her cousin’s husband, Richard Cortese. Richard, an industrial designer, had recently created a unique hand truck while trying to solve a practical problem: moving plywood through narrow doorways. When existing tools didn’t meet his needs, he began sketching and prototyping a multi-directional hand truck that could rotate 360 degrees and lock at various angles.

Once the design was finalized and a patent secured, Richard approached Judy with the idea of teaming up. With his engineering background and her expertise in marketing and business, they formed a partnership to bring the innovative product to market. What began as a personal solution quickly evolved into a broader business opportunity—one focused on solving real-world problems through ergonomic and efficient design, all while keeping the business rooted in Colorado.

Challenging the Status Quo in a Century-Old Industry

Building something new in an industry dominated by a few major players hasn’t been easy. The hand truck industry is long-established, with only a small number of U.S.-based companies maintaining dominance over the market. Breaking through that barrier—and getting noticed—has proven to be one of the company’s biggest challenges.

Because The Hand Truck Company’s product sits in the specialty segment, it hasn’t always been easy to convince buyers to consider an alternative to the well-known brands. Many purchasers stick with what’s familiar. However, the story changes once users—particularly warehouse workers and movers—try the product themselves. The improvements are immediately felt, whether by tall individuals experiencing less back strain or shorter users who no longer feel the physical toll in their shoulders and hips. Even small innovations, like a built-in strap to secure cargo, have gone a long way in improving safety and usability.

Since the first Hand Truck 360 was invented, other products have followed—such as the Wheeler 360 for the beer industry, Attachit Straps that turn a regular hand truck into a furniture dolly, and the new E-track Attachit Strap for the transportation industry. All of these products were invented because the team listened to the needs of their customers.

"You don’t ever want to be a one-product company."

Investing in Growth Through RCWS

Amid the daily demands of running a business, Judy has remained committed to learning and growth. She attended the Rural Colorado Workshop Series (RCWS) in Pueblo, a program led by Erick Mueller and Visda Carson that equips local entrepreneurs with the tools they need to succeed. For Judy, already engaged with the Southern Colorado Small Business Development Center (SBDC), RCWS offered a different kind of value.

RCWS delivers practical, hands-on business training tailored for small business owners. Focused on real-world topics like scaling, pricing, and brand positioning, RCWS makes complex concepts accessible and actionable.

What sets RCWS apart is its engaging, high-energy format and its commitment to serving entrepreneurs outside major startup hubs. By bringing expert-led education directly to local communities, it empowers business owners across Colorado to make smarter, more strategic decisions for long-term growth.

Advice for Future Founders

As the company’s products were made to protect those front-line workers who are moving products every day, Judy sees her entrepreneurial journey as both demanding and deeply rewarding. For students or aspiring founders who might feel like they’re too early or too late to begin, she’s living proof that there’s no one right time to start—just be able to solve a problem.

"There’s never really a 'too late' when it comes to starting a business, as long as you’re solving a real problem. I’m learning every day. Entrepreneurship challenges you in ways the corporate world doesn’t. You’re steering the ship, and that means surrounding yourself with the right team and being willing to grow constantly."

Judy encourages students to intern with small businesses or startups to gain exposure to the fast-paced, all-hands-on-deck nature of entrepreneurship. She also emphasizes the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people, whether that’s a marketing expert, a finance advisor, or a trusted manufacturer. With a strong team and a clear mission, even the most difficult challenges become more manageable.

Built in Colorado, Built to Last

At its core, The Hand Truck Company is a product-driven business solving everyday problems—built entirely in Colorado by a team that believes in doing things the right way. It’s not just about innovation; it’s about values. The company has never considered outsourcing production and remains proudly committed to keeping operations, manufacturing, and jobs within the state. That commitment to local craftsmanship is part of what sets the brand apart in an industry that hasn’t changed much in centuries.

From reimagining a centuries-old tool to navigating the modern challenges of distribution and scaling, Judy Kochevar’s story highlights what’s possible when perseverance meets purpose. For any student on the fence about entrepreneurship, it’s a powerful reminder that the right time to start isn’t defined by age or experience—but rather by your willingness to learn, lead, and stay the course.

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Erick Mueller (MBA’99)

Jane Majkiewicz — Wed, 26 Mar 2025 15:00:00 +0000

Erick Mueller (MBA’99) Jane Majkiewicz Wed, 03/26/2025 - 09:00

Jane Majkiewicz

Executive Director, Deming Center for Entrepreneurship

When Leeds spoke with Erick Mueller in 2022 (see previous article below), he was recalibrating after returning from solo teaching a weekend entrepreneurship workshop in Hayden, Colorado.

Fast-forward three years, and the Deming Center is still thriving under Mueller’s leadership. The Rural Colorado Workshop Series is now in its 11th year and has helped more than 800 rural and Native American entrepreneurs start and grow ventures. In 2024, the program earned the Excellence in Specialty Entrepreneurship Education award—the Deming Center’s third honor from the Global Consortium of Entrepreneurship Centers (GCEC).

Despite Mueller’s unfaltering pace, his office remains a calming, welcoming space, with his therapy dogs, Khaya and Auggie, greeting guests. The center’s “mighty team” of three staff members organizes programs, events, speakers, workshops and mentorships that have a far-reaching impact on entrepreneurship at Leeds, CU �鶹ӰԺ, Colorado and beyond.

The influence of programs like Entrepreneurship and Empowerment in South Africa (EESA), which is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, continue to amaze Mueller.

One of many success stories is Peter Wanberg, who drew inspiration from EESA to create Jubilee Roasting Company and City Park Farmers Market. “He was inspired in South Africa to see how a company can be mission-driven,” Mueller said. “Peter worked extra hard to find sustainable resources—going to South America—and he has really built a purpose-driven coffee business.”

Strengthening entrepreneurial leadership

With a strong startup culture at CU, the Deming Center has positioned Leeds as a leader in entrepreneurship and innovation. This year, Mueller joined the GCEC board, a role he believes will benefit CU �鶹ӰԺ, Colorado and the broader global entrepreneurial ecosystem.

“It really is a ‘high tide raises all boats organization,’” he explained. “We’re in the business of changing lives,” he emphasized, noting that it’s about collaboration more than competition. A prime example is Deming’s Buffs with a Brand, a first-of-its-kind program for student-athletes, a model that Mueller has shared with other colleges, including Eastern Michigan University and UCLA, to create similar initiatives.

“We’re in the business of changing lives.”

Erick Mueller (MBA’99)

Applied learning

Mueller brings real-world experience to the center, having been an angel investor, business entrepreneur, and co-founder of Funovation, a company specializing in interactive attractions with over 600 locations in 33 countries. Though no longer in an operational role, he is still engaged in strategy and relationship building.

“I have always appreciated how lucky our students are,” he said. “They have faculty in entrepreneurship with a mix of thought leaders focused on research and practitioners who have been there, done that, had successes and failures, and everything in between.”

Sharing this knowledge, he added, is “really, really, really fun.”

Pioneering new programs

This year, the Deming Center introduced the Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition (ETA) program, responding to student demand—particularly among MBA students—and to address the upcoming transition of millions of Baby Boomer-owned businesses, what’s being referred to as the “silver tsunami."

“We want to help society transition these businesses well,” Mueller said, emphasizing the risk of losing jobs and services. The ETA program, the first of its kind in the Rocky Mountain region, launched with a course and speaker series, with a conference in the works.

Additionally, the Founders Program, launching this September, will provide recent Leeds alumni with continued support to scale their ventures post-graduation.

Embracing change and opportunity

Mueller champions resilience in entrepreneurship. “We are one of the best countries that can put failure into context,” he believes, as the very foundation of America is based on experimentation.

For him, the entrepreneurial mindset is the best mindset to be able to navigate these turbulent times. “You know how to adjust to change, problem solve, and look at solutions innovatively … If everyone is looking at doom and gloom, who is looking at the opportunities that can emerge because of all this change?”

Entrepreneurs.

As the father of two teenagers, Mueller shares his optimism at home as he marvels watching his children’s lives unfold.

“You just love them, support them, high-five them and say, ‘I’ve got your back.’”

Just like what he does every day at Leeds—with students, colleagues and the entire entrepreneurial community. As the center continues its forward trajectory, Mueller’s steadfast dedication remains—to be of service.

Faces of Leeds: Erick Mueller (published December 2022)

Even Erick Mueller’s therapy dogs seem able to sense how tired he is this Monday afternoon.

Mueller has just returned from solo teaching a rural entrepreneurship workshop in Hayden all weekend—one way he volunteers to help budding founders—and is about to attend a reception for Buffs With a Brand, the initiative the Deming Center for Entrepreneurship created to help student-athletes market themselves in the age of NIL.

Perhaps out of respect, or just being tired themselves, his two English retrievers, Khaya and Auggie, are resting quietly under his desk.

But once he starts talking about his favorite subject, Mueller quickly gets his second wind.

“Entrepreneurship is an amazing platform,” he said. “It’s pretty special to know you’ve helped change the trajectory of someone’s life in a positive way, whether it’s employing someone in a business or giving a student the tools and knowledge to help them on their journey. It keeps me coming back for more.”

Mueller has been with Leeds since joining as an adjunct professor in 2003, but even as he rose through the ranks of the Deming Center, he remained a founder. He’s created five businesses and remains co-founder and chairman of Funovation, which specializes in developing fun attractions that, as he put it, remind the world to play.

“I’m a firm believer that our faculty should be doing what they teach,” he said. “I get to teach what I do and do what I teach. That delivers that much more of an impactful, practical, tangible learning experience.”

Entrepreneurship for all

Something he emphasizes in his teaching is that entrepreneurship is not just for people who want to start a company.

“Entrepreneurship is not starting a business—it’s a way of thinking that you can use at a big or small company,” he said. “We help people by giving them the tools, programming and classes to go as far down the path as they want.”

The opportunity to help create impact is what excites Mueller about his work.

“The word I use a lot is unleash—our work at the center unleashes the entrepreneurial excitement in everybody,” Mueller said. “It’s amazing to see the light bulb go on for someone who starts by saying, ‘I can’t do it,’ and then they leave by saying ‘I can do this, I have the tools to do it and I’m inspired to do it.’”

You won’t hear him use the word “unleashed” when he talks about his other avenue to create impact. After his mother died while he was young, Mueller and his siblings got a puppy, Tippy Tail, “and to an extent, she saved my life,” he said. “Having the unconditional love of a puppy when you’re a teenager, dealing with angst—it was a tough time.”

“It’s pretty special to know you’ve helped change the trajectory of someone’s life in a positive way, whether it’s employing someone in a business or giving a student the tools and knowledge to help them on their journey.”

Erick Mueller (MBA’99)

That firsthand experience with an animal’s power to heal left a deep impression. In his early 30s, he adopted a pair of dogs, Max and Pula, who became mainstays in children’s hospitals and, especially, retirement homes. He’s continuing that tradition with Auggie and Khaya, both recently certified as therapy animals.

“For me, it all comes back to impact,” Mueller said. “My journey has been about being of service—whether with puppies, as teacher, a founder, a dad or a community member. I feel very blessed to give back to others.”

As executive director of the Deming Center for Entrepreneurship, Erick Mueller is a champion of an entrepreneurial mindset and driving innovation on the global business stage.

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Creative Distillation - Episode 78: Rob Hahn, founder of Avanti, and Chuck Eesley from Stanford

Emily Iliff — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 11:30:00 +0000

Creative Distillation - Episode 78: Rob Hahn, founder of Avanti, and Chuck Eesley from Stanford Emily Iliff Thu, 03/20/2025 - 05:30

Emily Iliff

Pull up a seat and pour yourself a Mezcal Negroni, because this episode of Creative Distillation is an instant classic. Hosts Jeff York and Brad Werner take us to the sunny rooftop of Avanti Food & Beverage in downtown �鶹ӰԺ, where they sit down with Avanti’s founder, Rob Hahn, to uncover the entrepreneurial journey behind one of Colorado’s most innovative culinary incubators. From its roots in Spanish food halls to becoming a launchpad for up-and-coming chefs, Avanti is redefining the restaurant business, one small kitchen at a time.

But that’s just the first course. The conversation takes an unexpected and fascinating turn with the return of Stanford professor Chuck Eesley, whose latest research, recently published in Nature, reveals how digital ad algorithms are fueling the spread of misinformation. The findings are staggering: nearly one-third of ad dollars intended for news sites end up funding misinformation. Chuck proposes a bold solution to bring transparency to this murky world, and let’s just say, Brad is so impressed he grants Chuck the highest honor: deeming him a professor worthy of tenure.

With a perfect blend of cutting-edge research, entrepreneurial insights, and a healthy dose of Negroni-fueled humor, this is an episode you don’t want to miss. Cheers!

Listen to Episode 78 Here.

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Buff Gold Ventures: Investing in CU’s Next Generation of Startups

Emily Iliff — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 11:30:00 +0000

Buff Gold Ventures: Investing in CU’s Next Generation of Startups Emily Iliff Thu, 03/20/2025 - 05:30

Emily Iliff

In the evolving landscape of venture capital, Buff Gold Ventures has positioned itself as a pivotal player in supporting innovative startups emerging from the University of Colorado ecosystem. Co-founded by Mark Lupa and Sally Hatcher, the firm takes a hands-on approach in guiding entrepreneurs through the complex process of launching and scaling their businesses.

Buff Gold Ventures is a venture capital firm dedicated to investing in early-stage, deep-tech startups, with a strong focus on companies originating from CU �鶹ӰԺ. The firm’s portfolio spans diverse sectors, including biotechnology, climate tech, and next-generation semiconductor technologies. Mark and Sally bring extensive experience in venture capital and entrepreneurship, leveraging their networks to support promising companies.

Sourcing and Evaluating CU-Born Startups

Startups find their way to Buff Gold Ventures through multiple channels. One primary source is CU �鶹ӰԺ’s Venture Partners program, which helps commercialize university research into viable businesses. Buff Gold Ventures actively scouts promising startups from CU’s various schools, including Leeds School of Business. Over the past three years, the firm has evaluated more than 200 startups, many of which were founded by CU graduates who transitioned into entrepreneurship after gaining industry experience.

When evaluating a potential investment, Buff Gold Ventures prioritizes several key factors. The most critical element is the team: their expertise, cohesion, and ability to navigate the inevitable challenges of a startup. Next is market potential and product-market fit, ensuring that the business addresses a real need with a viable solution. Additionally, de-risking is an essential consideration- whether the startup has made progress in reducing uncertainties related to technology, market acceptance, and operational execution. Finally, a well-structured business plan is crucial, as it demonstrates the founders’ strategic thinking and preparedness for scaling their venture.

Beyond Capital: Strategic Support and Mentorship from Buff Gold Ventures

Entrepreneurs must understand that venture capital is not the right path for every business. Mark and Sally emphasize that VC funding comes with significant expectations, including aggressive growth targets and investor oversight. Before seeking venture capital, founders should explore other funding avenues such as grants, angel investments, or accelerator programs. Importantly, founders should be well-versed in dilution: understanding that raising capital means giving up equity, and that success is about growing the overall pie rather than fixating on ownership percentage.

While funding is crucial, Buff Gold Ventures offers much more than just capital. The firm provides extensive mentorship and networking opportunities, helping founders connect with legal experts, real estate advisors, financial consultants, and potential customers. Additionally, Buff Gold Ventures often takes a seat on the board of their portfolio companies, offering strategic guidance to navigate the complex startup landscape. This hands-on approach ensures that founders receive not just financial backing but also operational and strategic support.

Avoiding Pitfalls and Cultivating Resilience

According to Mark and Sally, one of the biggest mistakes founders make is overconfidence. While conviction is essential, investors are drawn to entrepreneurs who remain open to learning and evolving. Another common pitfall is fear of dilution: some founders hesitate to give up equity, prioritizing control over the long-term growth potential of their company. Additionally, poorly targeted outreach is a frequent misstep; many startups blindly email investors without researching whether their firm aligns with their industry or investment stage. Founders should focus on building relationships rather than sending mass outreach messages.

Reflecting on their portfolio, Mark and Sally highlight key traits shared by the most successful startups. The best teams consist of members with diverse yet complementary skills who collaborate effectively. Resilience is another defining characteristic- successful founders navigate obstacles with adaptability and determination. Strong communication skills, both within the team and with external stakeholders, significantly impact a startup’s trajectory. Lastly, integrity is a fundamental trait: transparent and ethical founders build trust with investors, partners, and customers, which is crucial for long-term success.

Buff Gold Ventures and the Future of Venture Capital in Colorado

Venture capital has changed dramatically over the last 50 years, and Colorado has seen a substantial increase in funding opportunities. Buff Gold Ventures has observed a rise in national VC firms establishing a presence in the state, particularly post-COVID. This influx of capital has created more opportunities for deep-tech and hardware startups, areas that historically faced funding challenges. With growing support from institutions like CU �鶹ӰԺ, local accelerators, and private investors, Colorado is becoming a thriving hub for innovation.

Buff Gold Ventures is entering a new phase as it prepares to make the final investments from its first fund. Moving forward, the firm plans to raise a second fund, allowing them to continue investing in CU-affiliated startups and expanding their impact. With a strong commitment to fostering innovation, Buff Gold Ventures aims to support the next generation of disruptive companies while delivering solid returns to its investors.

Buff Gold Ventures exemplifies the critical role that venture capital can play in nurturing startups and driving economic growth. By combining capital with mentorship, strategic guidance, and an extensive network, the firm empowers entrepreneurs to turn their ideas into impactful businesses. As they continue to invest in CU-born innovations, Buff Gold Ventures is shaping the future of entrepreneurship in Colorado and beyond.

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Community Impact: The Entrepreneurial Journey of Peter Wanberg

Emily Iliff — Thu, 13 Mar 2025 11:30:00 +0000

Community Impact: The Entrepreneurial Journey of Peter Wanberg Emily Iliff Thu, 03/13/2025 - 05:30

Emily Iliff

From his early days at CU �鶹ӰԺ to launching multiple ventures, Peter Wanberg has consistently sought out opportunities to learn, create, and make an impact. His experiences, both in the classroom and in real-world settings like the Entrepreneurship and Empowerment in South Africa (EESA) program, has shaped his approach to business, emphasizing hands-on learning and resilience. Over the years, Peter has transformed ideas into thriving ventures, proving that entrepreneurship is as much about innovation as it is about perseverance and purpose.

At CU �鶹ӰԺ, Peter pursued a dual degree in marketing and management at the Leeds School of Business, where he was introduced to the world of entrepreneurship. His interest in this field led him to explore additional educational opportunities, including the Entrepreneurship Certificate Program. Although Peter was also drawn to the arts and took classes throughout his time at CU, it was the hands-on learning experiences in entrepreneurship that truly resonated with him. One of the most impactful aspects of his education came through the Entrepreneurship and Empowerment in South Africa (EESA) program, which provided him with invaluable real-world experiences. This program took Peter to South Africa, where he was part of a small, culturally diverse team working on solving business problems in a completely different context.

Lessons in Problem-Solving and Adaptation

One of the most significant takeaways from Peter’s time in South Africa was the importance of problem-solving in unfamiliar and resource-challenged environments. The EESA program is structured around the idea of learning by doing: students were tasked with identifying and solving real-world business problems, often in under-resourced or developing markets. Peter's team was tasked with solving complex challenges that required not only entrepreneurial creativity but also cultural sensitivity and teamwork. The program was an eye-opening experience, teaching him that entrepreneurship is not just about finding solutions, but about adapting and thinking on your feet in situations where resources may be scarce.

The small-team aspect of the EESA program was especially important. Peter credits the program for helping him develop key management and teamwork skills that have stayed with him throughout his entrepreneurial career. Working in an international team, where each person brought a different perspective and way of approaching problems, forced Peter to learn how to navigate diverse communication styles and problem-solving approaches. This experience would later prove invaluable as he started his own businesses, where collaborating with people from different backgrounds and with different skill sets would become a regular part of his work. Learning to manage diverse teams and understand varying viewpoints was an essential skill that Peter continues to apply today. The EESA program also reinforced the idea that entrepreneurship is often about identifying a problem and approaching it from every angle, breaking it down into manageable parts and solving it step by step.

Brewing Community and Expanding Opportunity

After graduating in 2014, Peter carried these lessons with him as he ventured into the world of business. He founded a coffee company, Jubilee, entering an industry that was competitive and often under-resourced for small startups. Peter found that entrepreneurship was less about the grand vision and more about the day-to-day challenges that require constant adaptation and perseverance. His time at CU �鶹ӰԺ and the EESA program gave him the confidence to tackle these challenges head-on. He was no longer intimidated by obstacles, knowing that every setback was just another problem to solve.

The idea for Jubilee was born out of Peter's desire to combine his passion for community engagement with his entrepreneurial drive. He wanted to create a unique space in North Aurora, a neighborhood where such community-focused spaces were limited. His vision was clear: to build a coffee shop that could serve as a hub for connection and networking, a place where people could work, meet, or simply find a safe and welcoming environment.

However, as with most entrepreneurial endeavors, challenges arose. Peter recognized that merely relying on foot traffic in a non-traditional location would not be enough to sustain the business. To address this, he expanded his concept beyond just a café, starting a coffee roasting company as well. This move allowed him to distribute his product outside the confines of his physical location, opening the door to broader growth. Jubilee wasn't just a coffee shop; it became a community-driven space that included an artist co-working area, where local creatives could collaborate and grow. This multifaceted approach to the business model helped him build something that was not only sustainable but also impactful in the community.

From Coffee to Farmers Markets

In addition to his coffee business, Peter and his wife, Margo, launched the City Park Farmers Market in Denver five years ago, which has since become a thriving and essential part of the community. The market, which emphasizes local food producers and growers, fills a significant gap in the Denver market, where farmer-focused markets were previously scarce. The couple’s dedication to creating a space where local food producers could flourish has allowed the City Park Farmers Market to grow year after year. Peter’s deepened passion for supporting local farmers and advocating for better food access in communities has driven this initiative forward. Now, with their move to Lafayette, Peter and Margo are in the process of launching a new farmers market in the area, further cementing their commitment to fostering community connections and promoting local businesses.

Peter describes himself as more of a small business owner in the beginning, focused on operating a local coffee shop. However, as his career progressed and he ventured into multiple business projects, he began to identify more as an entrepreneur. To him, entrepreneurship is about continuously ideating, problem-solving, and taking risks across various ventures. It’s not just about launching one business, but about bringing multiple ideas to life, each contributing to a broader vision of growth, community impact, and resilience. Peter’s story reflects the many faces of entrepreneurship, from small business ownership to innovation and problem-solving in different sectors, all driven by a passion for community and service.

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