Welcome to Startup Leap! In this episode, we dive deep into the journeys of student founders from undergraduates to PhDs who have turned their academic projects, wild ideas at university into industry-transforming startups.

Join us as Maria and Yvonne bring real stories from founders like the co-founder of Shazam, fintech innovators, and graduates who took the bold step to build their companies even before completing their studies. Hear insights from entrepreneurs across various industries, their experiences during their MBAs, and the critical decisions they faced. Whether you're a curious student or a future founder, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical advice to help you take the leap.

00:00 Welcome and Introduction

00:17 Diving into Founder Stories

01:08 Shazam: From MBA Project to Apple Acquisition

02:33 Luna: The MBA Entrepreneurship Project

03:34 Finding Your Path in Entrepreneurship

05:19 Gravity Sketch: From Academic Research to Startup

07:58 Josh Sandler: Accidental Entrepreneur to Serial Founder

09:38 Carmelle's Financial Tech Journey

11:12 Ivan Beckley: Medical Student to Health Tech Founder

12:18 Riham Satti: Neuroscientist to Tech Founder

13:12 Founder Dilemma: To Leap or Not to Leap

17:06 Benjamin Fernandez: Young FinTech Visionary

19:58 Dare Okodjou: Raising Capital from Classmates

21:30 Reflections and Closing Thoughts

Youtube: https://youtu.be/tALAnfyiZ1M

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Episode ID: 1000725652817

GUID: 05981a82-f660-48c2-a9c2-23c3eeae02fa

Release Date: 09/09/2025, 10:30:40