Tech Ecosystem Unleashed: Building San Antonio's Entrepreneurial Empire With Charles Woodin

Ever wondered how tech ecosystems are built from the ground up? Join us for an insightful conversation with Charles Wooden, the dynamic CEO of Geekdom, as he reveals the secrets behind San Antonio's booming entrepreneurial scene. From helping startups navigate the critical stages of business development to fostering a community where diverse entrepreneurs thrive, Charles shares the mission and impact of Geekdom’s incubator, accelerator, and co-working programs. With a strong foundation in understanding markets and effective communication, these initiatives are transforming ideas into scalable businesses, securing San Antonio's reputation as a hub of innovation.
The episode takes a personal twist, recounting a journey from Michigan to McAllen, Texas, during the transformative NAFTA era. Experience the cultural shift through the eyes of a young individual who eventually found purpose in the Air Force as a Korean linguist, and later, as a mentor. This tale of transition and self-discovery underscores the value of mentorship and community in entrepreneurial success. We discuss the pivotal moments that inspire the leap from side hustle to full-time pursuit and how a supportive environment can turn entrepreneurship into a pathway for generational wealth and legacy building.
We also spotlight San Antonio Startup Week, a celebration of startup culture that has seen nearly a decade of success. Delve into the "Invest In" theme emphasizing impact, Latinx, women, innovation, and San Antonio’s unique charm. Get inspired by the stories of remarkable figures like Arlan Hamilton, who joined us to share her journey from adversity to founding a successful venture capital firm. With record-breaking attendance and exciting events like the "Pitch It to Win It" competition, this episode is a celebration of the milestones and diverse investments fueling startup success in San Antonio.