Keystone Sessions

What does it take to build a billion-scale company and disrupt the analytics industry? In this episode, Learie Hercules, founder and CEO of Heft iQ, shares his incredible journey from growing up in Trinidad and Tobago to revolutionizing how companies harness data with AI agents. Now based in Kansas City, Hercules isn’t afraid to challenge the local startup ecosystem and share what needs to change for the region to thrive. Topics Covered: • Why most companies fail at turning data into actionable insights. • How Learie’s global background shaped his entrepreneurial mindset. • The bold vision behind Heft iQ’s auto-generated dashboards and Tableau-killer tools. • Why Kansas City’s startup scene needs a shake-up to compete nationally. • His advice for founders, from scaling strategies to mastering investor conversations. Listen to discover the mindset and strategies needed to build a high-growth company, navigate startup challenges, and create game-changing innovation.

What does it take to build a game-changing company in an industry as challenging as GovTech? In this episode, John Thompson, founder and CEO of PayIt, shares his entrepreneurial journey from starting with zero customers to scaling a company that transforms how governments serve their citizens. Topics Covered: • The challenges of disrupting an old-school industry. • Navigating the tough early years without a single customer. • Building a mission-driven company while staying true to his vision. • Why he rejected Silicon Valley investors to keep PayIt in Kansas City. • His advice for startup founders, including the importance of grit and action. Listen to learn what it takes to innovate in the public sector, secure funding, and lead with purpose.

In this episode, we’re diving deep into the transformative power of music education with community leaders Clint Velazquez, Enrique Chi, and Kyla Pitts-Zevin. From the neuroscience behind music’s impact on the brain to stories of mentorship and resilience, this conversation explores how teaching music goes far beyond the notes—it builds stronger, more connected communities. We'll Discuss: -The profound ways music influences student success and emotional well-being. -Inspiring stories from their groundbreaking programs like Harmony Project KC, Bass Academy Music, and Rebel Song Academy. -The cultural importance of amplifying diverse stories in American music. -How music can heal, unite, and inspire change for generations. Whether you’re an educator, a music lover, or someone curious about the arts' role in building communities and driving innovation, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration. Tune in now to hear how the arts shape our world—or how to better support creative education! 🔗 Stay connected: 🔹 Subscribe for more inspiring conversations about community, education, and innovation! 🔹 Follow us on social: https://www.instagram.com/keystoneinnovationdistrict?igsh=MWUwaDVxamxsNHZ6aw==