Karen Rands - Compassionate Capitalist

As I talk with entrepreneurs and investors, I’m often struck by how many people underestimate the risks tied to crypto investing, especially when it comes to taxes. Right now, the IRS has slowed down audits, but that doesn’t mean the storm has passed. It’s just gathering strength.Today, I sit down with Janna Scott, founder of DeFi Tax, to pull back the curtain on what’s really happening with crypto tax reporting. Janna shares how she uncovered major flaws in widely-used tax software, why exchange statements can’t be trusted, and how compounded penalties can turn a small mistake into a devastating financial burden.What I love about Janna’s approach is that she not only sounds the alarm, she has built a blockchain-first solution that ensures accuracy, audit-readiness, and peace of mind.Whether you’ve dabbled in crypto, trade regularly, or run a business that accepts crypto payments, this conversation is your wake-up call to get prepared before the IRS comes knocking.TakeawaysPopular crypto tax tools often produ

In this episode, I share how everyday people can grow wealth and create impact through equity crowdfunding. Drawing from my new book Inside Secrets to Crowdfund Investing: Follow Jane’s Journey, I break down the myths that hold people back from angel investing and show how a diversified, consistent approach can build generational wealth.You’ll meet “Jane,” a relatable mid-career professional who discovers how to shift from risky real estate to smart startup investing. I also introduce the Compassionate Capitalist Academy, which provides a roadmap for anyone ready to turn passion and purpose into profit.If you’ve ever thought you’re too old, too busy, or don’t have enough money to invest in entrepreneurs, this conversation will change your perspective.Key TakeawaysEquity crowdfunding makes angel investing accessible to everyone, starting with as little as $100.Diversification and consistency are the keys to long-term portfolio success.Common false beliefs, like “I don’t know enough,” “I don’t have time,” or “I

Raising capital is one of the biggest hurdles for entrepreneurs. Many capital raising campaigns fail because founders fall into common traps.In this episode of the Compassionate Capitalist™ show, I talk with Karl Dakin, Founder of Dakin Capital, about what it really takes to succeed. We clear up the myths around crowdfunding and share practical strategies entrepreneurs can use to connect with investors.Karl explains his Know, Trust, and Buy framework, helping founders build credibility so investors feel secure, making returns the “icing on the cake.”We also explore Reg CF, Reg D 506(c), and Reg A+, what they are, how they’ve evolved, and why Reg D 506(c) has become a hot tool for attracting high-net-worth investors.Entrepreneurs will learn how to:Craft pitches that inspire confidence.Build trust with transparency and storytelling.Leverage social media to drive momentum.Whether you’re new to crowdfunding or experienced, this conversation gives you actionable insights to raise capital with strategy and confiden

If you’ve ever wondered how angel investing works, this episode is for you.On this episode of the Compassionate Capitalist™ show, I’m joined by my cohost Erik Nelson for a conversation with Sig Mosley, the “Godfather of Angel Investing” in Atlanta. From his early days at MSA to completing over 200 angel investments, Sig has built a legacy as an investor and a champion of compassionate capitalism, using investment to uplift communities.We explore his views on what makes a founder worth backing, why supporting underrepresented entrepreneurs is smart business, and how angel investors drive innovation and growth. Sig also shares insights on market awareness, smart risk-taking, and the next generation of investors.Packed with wisdom, real-world stories, and a few laughs, this episode offers actionable insights whether you’re starting your investing journey or preparing to pitch.Key TakeawaysSig Mosley is a leading figure in compassionate capitalism.Angel investing requires a willingness to take risks.Successful fo

In this episode of The Compassionate Capitalist™ Show, I’m joined by Dominick Wallace, a business lending expert, to answer key questions many entrepreneurs face: Should you borrow? What kind of funding? When’s the right time?We cover the three types of money businesses use to grow: investor capital, revenue, and debt. While investor funding often feels like the best route, we explain why smart use of debt can actually cost less in the long run and help you stay in control.Dominick and I talk about how using business credit, instead of your personal credit can make a big difference when applying for loans. And for those who already raised capital, using those funds to unlock a revolving credit line can give your business a cushion when cash flow dips.The truth is, another economic storm is coming. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Preparing now could be the difference between staying afloat and shutting down, just like many businesses experienced during the pandemic.If you're thinking about funding options

In today’s episode of The Compassionate Capitalist™ Show, I team up with Erik Nelson, President of Coral Capital, Mountain Share Transfer, and Sterling Holdings, for a deep dive into one of the most mission-critical skills for any founder: the investor pitch.Whether you’re a startup founder preparing for your first angel pitch or a growth-stage CEO aiming to engage an investment banker for a potential IPO, your pitch deck can either open doors, or close them. This is your chance to tell a compelling story that sparks interest, builds trust, and moves investors to act.Together, Erik and I break down the essentials of a winning investor presentation; what belongs in your deck, how to position your business model, what investors really want to know, and how to avoid the common pitfalls that derail even promising companies.We also explore the nuances of investor psychology, how to leave room for curiosity (and follow-up questions), and why practice and preparation are non-negotiable. This episode was first record

In this episode of The Compassionate Capitalist Show, I dive deep into the world of Reg A+ equity crowdfunding, one of the most powerful yet misunderstood tools for democratizing wealth creation. Whether you're a retail investor looking to diversify beyond the stock market or an entrepreneur seeking alternative capital without VC strings attached, this conversation is for you.I break down the Four W’s of Crowdfunding; Who can invest, What makes Reg A+ different, Where to find promising opportunities, and Why this matters now more than ever. Drawing from my upcoming book and years of experience advocating for economic empowerment, I show how Reg A+ opens the door for everyday people to invest like the wealthy and for founders, especially those often overlooked by traditional finance, to raise significant capital while staying in control.From transparency in offerings to strategies for vetting deals, you'll walk away with actionable insights to make smarter investment choices or structure a campaign tha

How do you know if a startup is a good investment, or a red flag in disguise? In this episode of The Compassionate Capitalist Show, I share what I look for when reviewing a founder’s pitch deck, business plan, forecasts, and offering documents.When I led the Network of Business Angels and Investors and produced major venture conferences, I had to vet hundreds of companies. That’s why I created my 10-point checklist and scoring system; Green Light, Yellow Light, Red Light to assess whether a business is truly capital ready.I’ll walk you through the critical areas investors should evaluate: financial literacy, value proposition, market understanding, and competitive landscape. I also highlight the importance of a strong management team, realistic ROI potential, and avoiding the trap of overvaluation, especially with so-called unicorns.Whether you're raising capital or reviewing deals, you’ll learn how to steer clear of the "capital abyss" and the dreaded "plateau of death" where returns

In this episode of The Compassionate Capitalist Show, I sit down with blockchain expert Tony Erwin to unpack the real-world ways blockchain is disrupting business and transforming finance. We dive into five powerful use cases, provenance tracking, payment solutions, digital identity, customer engagement, and the tokenization of real-world assets and what they mean for entrepreneurs and investors alike.We also explore Georgia’s emerging role as a hub for blockchain innovation, thanks to its vibrant fintech community and policy environment that’s beginning to embrace digital assets. Tony shares insights from his work with P2P Cash and explains why educating lawmakers and business leaders about blockchain’s potential is critical for future growth.If you’ve been curious about how blockchain fits into the future of business, this conversation will give you clarity, and maybe even a little excitement about what’s ahead.After listening to my conversation with Tony Erwin, here are the key takeaways to remember:Blockc

In this episode of The Compassionate Capitalist Show, I sit down with Ali Madhavji, an inspiring entrepreneur whose journey from refugee to global blockchain leader is nothing short of remarkable.We dive into the game-changing potential of blockchain technology and how it’s already transforming industries like finance and healthcare. Ali shares insights from his experience as a venture capitalist and the critical role VCs play in fueling innovation.We also touch on the powerful intersection of AI and blockchain, and how these technologies together can drive financial inclusion and help lift communities out of poverty. If you're curious about where entrepreneurship and emerging tech are headed, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

In this episode of The Compassionate Capitalist Show, I sit down with Jenny Kassan, a seasoned attorney, author, and president of the Crowdfunding Professional Association to discuss how crowdfunding can be a powerful tool to close the wealth gap and fund businesses without compromisingownership or vision.Jenny shares her journey from Yale Law School to the front lines of economic justice, advocating for community-based investment models that empower underrepresented entrepreneurs. We unpack the systemic barriers to capital, the widening racial wealth gap, and why traditional financing often leaves small businesses behind.This episode dives into the practical and strategic side of raising capital, exploring revenue-based financing, the pros and cons of debt vs. equity, and how to align your fundraising strategy with your business model. Whether you're a founder, investor, or policymaker, you'll walk away with powerful insights on how to fund innovation while building stronger local economies.

In this episode, I dive into the core of what Compassionate Capitalism really means and that’s creating wealth for yourself while lifting up entrepreneurs in the process. One of the most powerful tools we have today to make that happen is crowdfunding investing.I break down the different types of crowdfunding, and why equity crowdfunding is such a game changer, not just for startups, but for everyday investors who want to put their money to work with meaning.I also tackle the big question: "Is it risky?" Sure, there are risks, but I explain how to navigate them wisely. More importantly, I stress how critical it is that women and minorities get equal access to these wealth-building opportunities.If you've ever thought about investing in a way that aligns with your values, this episode is your roadmap. Join me as we explore how you can build wealth with purpose through crowdfunding investing. Key takeaways from the episode:Compassionate Capitalism means building wealth while making a difference.Cr

In this episode of The Compassionate Capitalist Show, I sit down with Dr. Howard Polansky former dentist turned financial coach, to explore how small business owners can escape the cycle of debt and regain control of their finances. Learn how to use lines of credit strategically, reduce interest payments, and improve cash flow without sacrificing growth.If you're tired of letting your finances control your future, this episode will show you how to become your own CFO - a Cash Flow Optimizer, so you can grow your business and live the life you’ve worked so hard to build.Key Takeaways:Many startups rely on personal credit to get off the ground, which can become a long-term burden.Investors prefer to fund revenue-generating strategies, not debt repayments.Lines of credit, when cycled properly, can lower interest and reduce monthly payments.Interest-only payments offer flexibility for businesses needing cash flow.Not all debt is created equal—know the difference between fixed loans and lines of credit.Paying

In this episode, I sit down with communication expert Alfred Poor to talk about a skill every entrepreneur needs but only few truly master - how to show up and stand out on video. Whether you are pitching to investors, leading a virtual team or presenting at a conference, your presence on screen can make or break your message.We talk about the practical stuff like posture, eye contact, and why those fancy virtual backgrounds might be hurting more than helping. We talk about the importance of being intentional in how you communicate, how to ease presentation jitter and why strong openings and closings are key to leaving a lasting impression.If you are a founder or visionary leader, this conversation will give you the tools to connect with your audience, build credibility and guide them towards that all-important next step in your business journey.After listening to my conversation with Alfred Poor on this episode of The Compassionate Capitalist Show, here are six key lessons I want you to take to heart when sh

If you've ever thought about selling your business or investing in one that might be sold down the road, this episode is for you.In this episode of The Compassionate Capitalist Show, I sit down with Rob Levin, Managing Partner at CIS Ventures, to talk about what it really takes to prepare your business for a successful and profitable exit.Rob brings a wealth of experience from his time at Ernst & Young, his years as a serial entrepreneur, and now as an M&A advisor helping business owners avoid the common pitfalls that tank deals or leave money on the table.What I love about Rob's approach is how focused he is on intentionality. He doesn’t just help businesses get sold—he helps them get ready to be sold the right way, to the right buyer, for the best possible outcome.We dig into so much during this conversation, from setting expectations with buyers, to keeping your top talent through a transition, to organizing your books and systems so you’re not scrambling at the last minute. Rob also shares

Episode Summary:True innovation often begins decades before commercialization—sparked by boldCompassionate Capitalists funding risky ideas to solve global challenges.In this episode of The Compassionate Capitalist Show,Karen Rands sits down with Melissa Beck, President of AnonymousPhilanthropy, to reveal how strategic giving, grounded in entrepreneurialprinciples, can drive breakthroughs—from AI to virtual reality to spaceexploration.Melissa is leading the charge to transform the coming GreatWealth Transfer into a Great Giving Transfer—inspiring individuals,families, and corporations to use their inherited or earned wealth withstrategy and measurable impact.We’ll explore why investing in communities, buildingsustainable wealth, and solving systemic issues are not only moral imperativesbut also smart, scalable strategies for lasting change. Melissa’s journey—fromSilicon Valley to nonprofit leadership to managing billion-dollar philanthropicportfolios—provides a powerful roadmap for making money matter.This is

What if your most passionate customers could also be your investors?That question sparked an entire movement—and helped reshape the future of early-stage finance. In this episode of The Compassionate Capitalist Show, I sit down with one of the original architects of the investment crowdfunding revolution, Sherwood “Woodie” Neiss.Woodie is the Principal at Crowdfund Capital Advisorsand the co-founder of the regulated investment crowdfunding movement. He literally walked the halls of Congress to help pass the JOBS Act, giving everyday people the right to invest in startups and private companies—an asset class that had been historically restricted to the wealthy.He’s also behind a suite of groundbreaking platforms:• CrowdfundCapitalAdvisors.com• D3VC.ai – Diversified data-driven VC• CClear.ai – Data & insights on the crowdfunding market• GUARDD.com – Governance & compliance tools for digital assets•

What Happens After a 9-Figure Exit? You Keep Building.

The Key to Powerful Conversations That Drive SuccessAs a founder, you’re always communicating—whether you’re hiring, pitching to investors, or navigating tough conversations with employees or the media. But are you using interview skills to your advantage?In this episode of The Compassionate Capitalist Show, I sit down with Kim Chandler McDonald, an award-winning author, storyteller, and the Co-Founder & CEO of 3 Steps Data and FlatWorld Integration. Kim has spent her career helping leaders master communication while also driving innovation in data security, governance, and compliance.We dive into insights from her latest book, An Interviewer’s Guidebook: Turning Conversations into Captivating Stories, and explore how founders can leverage interview techniques to strengthen their business relationships, refine their messaging, and communicate with confidence.

The Hidden Financial Leaks That Could Sink Your BusinessCash flow is king. But mismanaged cash flow? That’s a silent killer.Too many businesses—especially in high-growth industries like construction and manufacturing—are profitable on paper but bleeding cash in reality. The reason? Poor financial structure, lack of strategic budgeting, and failing to track hidden costs.Today on The Compassionate Capitalist Show, I sit down with Luke Boyenger, CEO of Cruzumi CFO & Advisory—a firm dedicated to helping contractors and construction companies maximize profits and take control of their finances.✔️ How to fix your cash flow leaks before they sink your business✔️ The critical difference between a CFO, Controller, and VP of Finance (because not all CFOs are created equal)✔️ Why “profit” doesn’t mean you can take out cash—and how high-growth businesses should actually fund expansion ✔️ The hidden financial mistakes that put construction companies out of business (Luke literally wrote the book on this!)✔️ Why smart