Varsity Ventures
Varsity Ventures
Podcast Description
AI and other emerging tools have made it easier than ever for the next generation to start a business. But launching something and building something people actually use? That’s a whole different game.
I’m Hendrick McConnell, and this is Varsity Ventures — a podcast where I interview both rising and seasoned entrepreneurs to uncover what it really takes to create something that lasts.
This show is for teens who are dreaming of starting a business, now or in the future.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast focuses on entrepreneurship, particularly the challenges and insights faced by both emerging and experienced entrepreneurs, with episodes discussing topics such as turning ideas into products, building businesses with AI, and overcoming startup hurdles, demonstrated by Adrien Treuille's journey with Streamlit.
AI and other emerging tools have made it easier than ever for the next generation to start a business. But launching something and building something people actually use? That’s a whole different game.
I’m Hendrick McConnell, and this is Varsity Ventures — a podcast where I interview both rising and seasoned entrepreneurs to uncover what it really takes to create something that lasts.
This show is for teens who are dreaming of starting a business, now or in the future.
Welcome back to Varsity Ventures. I’m your host, Hendrick McConnell.
Today, we’re talking with Liesl Leach — a builder who’s never been afraid to take the hard road. She’s worked in global finance, launched startups, and led teams through digital transformation. But more importantly, she’s turned real-world problems — from supporting aging parents to helping underrepresented founders raise capital — into platforms that make a difference.
In this episode, Liesl shares how she went from teaching in rural Thailand with the Peace Corps, to raising money for her own ventures, to creating Backable, a company that’s challenging the myths of fundraising and opening doors for founders who don’t fit the Silicon Valley stereotype.
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s really like to start something, to pivot, and to fight for your ideas — this conversation is packed with lessons for the next generation of entrepreneurs.
Connect to Liesl on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lieslleach/
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