Philly Tech Connect by Philadelphia Tech Entrepreneurs

Reimagining Insurance & Health Access

🎧 Welcome to another inspiring episode of the Philly Tech Connect Podcast!
This week, we're joined by Alison Hummel, the founder of Activated Health, a trailblazing insurance agency focused on access, transparency, and community wellness.
🔹 About This Episode:Alison takes us on her journey from top-performing insurance salesperson to launching her own agency—during a divorce, no less—and explains why the word “insurance” didn’t make it into her business name. We dive deep into why tech, strategy, and trust are at the core of Activated Health's growth.
🔸 In This Episode, You'll Discover:
Why “Activated Health” has a K in it — and what that has to do with IP and identity.
How Alison uses platforms like RetireFlow to streamline compliance-heavy processes.
Why seminars, local partnerships, and showing up IRL are part of her go-to-market strategy.
Common insurance misconceptions (spoiler: don’t wait for an emergency).
What’s ahead for Activated Health and how Alison balances being a business owner and a mom.
🔹 Why Listen?Whether you're a founder, a techie, or just someone who puts off their insurance paperwork 😅 — Alison’s story will give you a new perspective on building a business that cares.
🔸 Connect with Alison:🌐 Website: https://activatedhealth.com/📸 Instagram: @activatedhealth🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alison-hummel-2021/
🔹 Join Our Community:Philly Tech Entrepreneurs is more than just a podcast — it's your launchpad into the local tech scene. Come network, share, and grow with us.
🗓 Meetup: https://www.meetup.com/philadelphia-entrepreneur/💬 Slack: https://join.slack.com/t/phillytechent-tve1415/shared_invite/zt-1zmhmlqxu-3mBvJSZ2F0Uj4y9UUAevWw🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/philadelphia-tech-entrepreneurs/
👍 Like, comment, and subscribe for more insights from the brilliant minds shaping Philly’s tech future.
#PhillyTechConnect #HealthcareInnovation #WomenInTech #Entrepreneurship #InsuranceTech #PhillyStartups

Fixing Chaotic Software Teams

🎧 Welcome to another energizing episode of the Philly Tech Connect Podcast! This week, we're joined by Jordan Ambra, CTO, consultant, and founder of Serenity Software—a company dedicated to helping SaaS teams cut through the chaos and build better products.
🔹 About This EpisodeJordan has seen it all: stressed-out teams, buggy rollouts, and the classic “hair-on-fire” dev culture. Through Serenity Software, he helps founders bring peace of mind to their workflows—what he calls "peace of mind as a service."
🔸 In This Episode, You'll Learn:
Why most software chaos starts with people, not code
The 3 P’s that every tech founder should master: People, Process, Product
How growth often leads to inefficiency—and how to fix it
Why humility in leadership matters more than ever
The subtle power of alignment, trust, and clear communication
Tips for scaling without burning out your team
🔹 Why Listen?If you're a founder, CTO, or team lead struggling with fast growth, team misalignment, or chaotic processes—this episode is packed with grounded wisdom, real-world stories, and takeaways you can apply right now.
🔸 Connect with Jordan Ambra:Website: https://serenity.software/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordanambra/
🔹 Join Our Community:Philly Tech Entrepreneurs is more than a podcast—it's a growing community of makers, builders, and dreamers. From monthly meetups to expert-led workshops, we’re here to help Philly’s startup scene thrive.
📍Meetup: https://www.meetup.com/philadelphia-entrepreneur/💬 Slack: https://join.slack.com/t/phillytechent-tve1415/shared_invite/zt-1zmhmlqxu-3mBvJSZ2F0Uj4y9UUAevWw🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/philadelphia-tech-entrepreneurs/
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#PhillyTechConnect #SaaSFounders #SoftwareDevelopment #StartupLeadership #TeamManagement #PhillyTech #Entrepreneurship

Using AI & Real-World Data to Improve Healthcare

🎧 Welcome to another powerful episode of the Philly Tech Connect Podcast! In EP 68, we sit down with Dr. Lixia Yao, founder and CEO of Polygon Health Analytics—a company using real-world healthcare data and AI to improve patient outcomes.
🔹 About This Episode:Dr. Yao shares her incredible journey from working at Merck and Mayo Clinic to launching her own tech startup. With a background in biomedical informatics, she saw a major gap in the healthcare system—and decided to do something about it. Now, through Polygon Health Analytics, she’s bringing together science, data, and AI to tackle drug discovery, clinical development, and health economics.
🔸 In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
How Dr. Yao’s career in pharma and academia shaped her vision for health tech
The role of real-world data and AI in transforming healthcare
The challenges of launching a startup in a complex, highly regulated space
Why now is the time for innovation in health analytics
Advice for anyone transitioning from corporate or academic paths into entrepreneurship
🔹 Why Listen?Whether you're a startup founder, healthcare professional, or simply passionate about innovation—this episode is packed with knowledge, inspiration, and game-changing ideas.
🔸 Connect with Dr. Lixia Yao:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yaolixia/Polygon Health Analytics: https://polygonhealthanalytics.com/
🔹 Join Our Community:Philly Tech Entrepreneurs is where Philly’s most driven tech minds come together. From founders to designers to developers—we're building something great.👉 Meetups: https://www.meetup.com/philadelphia-entrepreneur/👉 Slack: https://join.slack.com/t/phillytechent-tve1415/shared_invite/zt-1zmhmlqxu-3mBvJSZ2F0Uj4y9UUAevWw👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/philadelphia-tech-entrepreneurs/
👍 Like, Comment, and Subscribe for more stories from the boldest builders in Philly tech.#PhillyTechConnect #HealthcareAI #TechEntrepreneur #PhillyStartups #WomenInTech

Gamifying Local Commerce

🎧 Welcome to Episode 67 of the Philly Tech Connect Podcast! We're excited to introduce Peter Chung, artist, designer, and entrepreneurial spirit behind the innovative startup, Boba Face.
🔹 About This Episode: Join us as Peter discusses his fascinating transition from a background in art and synthetic biology to launching a startup that’s all about enhancing local commerce through gamification. Learn how Boba Face is set to transform mom-and-pop shops with its boba-themed gameplay.
🔸 In This Episode, You'll Discover:
How Peter navigated the shift from academia to entrepreneurship without a technical background.
The challenges and rewards of developing a mobile gaming platform for local businesses.
Insights into the startup cultures in Philadelphia vs. Oregon and the importance of community support.
Sneak peek into the relaunch of Boba Face and what it means for local shoppers and businesses.
🔹 Why Listen? If you’re fascinated by startups, innovation, or just love a good underdog story, this episode will not disappoint. Peter's journey offers a wealth of knowledge on collaboration and creativity in business.
🔸 Connect with Peter: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peterbchung/
🔹 Join Our Community: Philly Tech Entrepreneurs isn’t just a podcast; it's a growing community of innovators and creators. Join our meetups and workshops to network and share knowledge with like-minded tech enthusiasts.
Meetup: https://www.meetup.com/philadelphia-entrepreneur/Slack: https://join.slack.com/t/phillytechent-tve1415/shared_invite/zt-1zmhmlqxu-3mBvJSZ2F0Uj4y9UUAevWwLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/philadelphia-tech-entrepreneurs/
 
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#PhillyTechConnect #Innovation #LocalBusiness #Gamification #TechCommunity

Empowering the ADHD Community

🎧 Welcome to Episode 66 of the Philly Tech Connect Podcast! This week, we're excited to feature Matt Canning, a Philly-based entrepreneur and founder of Nolex, a groundbreaking platform designed to empower individuals with ADHD.
🔹 About This Episode:In this engaging conversation, Matt shares his journey to creating Noplex, a platform that goes beyond traditional productivity tools. Learn how Noplex uses ADHD-friendly strategies, AI-driven insights, and connections to behavioral health professionals to tackle the unique challenges of daily life for those with ADHD.
🔸 In This Episode, You'll Discover:
How Matt’s personal experiences inspired the creation of Noplex.
The innovative design of Noplex, including separate spaces for task curation and execution.
How AI insights are improving ADHD care and support.
Why Matt views the ADHD community as an underserved yet vibrant group.
🔹 Why Listen?Whether you're an entrepreneur, tech enthusiast, or someone passionate about creating inclusive solutions, this episode will inspire and educate you.
🔸 Connect with Matt:Website: Coming Soon!LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewcanning
🔹 Join Our Community:Philly Tech Entrepreneurs is more than just a podcast—it's a thriving network of tech innovators and entrepreneurs in Philadelphia! Join us for monthly meetups, workshops, and networking events.
Meetup: https://www.meetup.com/philadelphia-entrepreneur/Slack: https://join.slack.com/t/phillytechent-tve1415/shared_invite/zt-1zmhmlqxu-3mBvJSZ2F0Uj4y9UUAevWwLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/philadelphia-tech-entrepreneurs/
👍 Like, Share, and Subscribe to hear more stories of innovation and entrepreneurship from the heart of Philadelphia's tech scene.
#PhillyTechConnect #ADHDSupport #Entrepreneurship #TechCommunity #Innovation

Revolutionizing Fashion Repair

🎧 Welcome to another transformative episode of the Philly Tech Connect Podcast! In this episode, we're thrilled to have Emily Watts, CEO and co-founder of Coblr.
🔹 About This Episode: Join us as Emily shares her journey from a strategic leader to an entrepreneurial innovator. She discusses the inception of Coblr and how it's set to change the repair industry for fashion items like shoes and handbags.
🔸 In This Episode, You'll Discover:
The story behind Coblr and its mission to bring sustainability to fashion.How Emily and her team are using AI to streamline repair processes.Challenges in the industry and how Coblr is overcoming them.🔹 Why Listen? If you're interested in entrepreneurship, tech innovations, or sustainable fashion, this episode will provide you with deep insights and inspiration.
🔸 Connect with Emily on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/memily-watts/
🔹 Join Our Community: Philly Tech Entrepreneurs isn't just a podcast; it's a thriving hub for connecting, learning, and growing with like-minded tech enthusiasts and entrepreneurs. Don't miss our monthly meetups and workshops!
Meetup: https://www.meetup.com/philadelphia-entrepreneur/events/305514087/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/98631239/admin/dashboard/.
👍 Like, Share, and Subscribe for more inspiring stories and expert insights from the heart of Philadelphia's tech scene.
#PhillyTechConnect #FashionTech #SustainableFashion #TechInnovation #Entrepreneurship

Tech Leadership and Community Impact

🎧 Welcome to an inspiring episode of the Philly Tech Connect Podcast! In this episode, we're thrilled to have Neeraj Vir., a tech leader, and social innovator.
🔹 About This Episode: Join us as Neeraj Vir shares his journey from arriving in the U.S. in 2000 to becoming a managing partner and CEO at Amalgam Incorporated, and co-founder of Lotus Rise. He delves into his work in digital transformation, app modernization, and AI solutions, alongside his passion for making technology accessible through nonprofit initiatives.
🔸 In This Episode, You'll Discover:
Neeraj Vir's strategies for managing multiple businesses and the importance of team collaboration.How Lotus Rise works to democratize technology access.Insights into future tech trends such as AI, cloud computing, blockchain, and cybersecurity.Neeraj Vir's views on the importance of interpersonal skills and strategic partnerships in achieving business success.🔹 Why Listen? Whether you're a tech enthusiast, an aspiring entrepreneur, or interested in the integration of technology and social good, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and motivation.
🔸 Connect with Neeraj Vir: LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/neerajvir
🔹 Join Our Community: Don't miss our regular meetups and workshops where you can network and learn with like-minded tech enthusiasts in Philadelphia. 🤝
Meetup: Philly Tech Meetup Slack: Join Philly Tech Slack LinkedIn: Philly Tech Entrepreneurs LinkedIn
👍 Like, Share, and Subscribe for more episodes packed with expert insights and stories from Philadelphia's vibrant tech scene.
#PhillyTechConnect #TechnologyLeadership #SocialInnovation #TechPodcast #PhillyTech

Mastering Tech Evolution

🎧 Welcome to another riveting episode of the Philly Tech Connect Podcast! In EP 63, we're honored to feature Christopher Feamster, a visionary in the tech industry with two decades of experience.
🔹 About This Episode: Join us as Chris shares the journey of Nexus Systems from its early days to becoming a leader in digital solutions. With a focus on enterprise transformation and digital innovation, he provides invaluable insights into adapting business strategies in response to technological advancements and market demands.
🔸 In This Episode, You'll Discover:
The evolution of cloud computing and IT integration over the last 20 years.How Nexus Systems is integrating AI responsibly to shape the future of enterprise solutions.Chris's perspective on balancing automation with human oversight to enhance efficiency without compromising precision.Insights into Cognify, Nexus’s initiative on sustainable AI deployment.🔹 Why Listen? For tech enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, and anyone interested in the strategic role of technology in business, this episode is a gold mine of expertise and forward-thinking strategies.
🔸 Connect with Chris on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cfeamster/
🔹 Join Our Community: Philly Tech Entrepreneurs isn’t just about listening; it's about connecting and growing together. Attend our monthly meetups and workshops to engage with like-minded tech aficionados and innovators. 🌐
Meetup: https://www.meetup.com/philadelphia-entrepreneur/ Slack: [Join our Slack] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/philadelphia-tech-entrepreneurs/
👍 Like, Share, and Subscribe to stay updated with the latest in Philly’s tech scene!
#PhillyTechConnect #CloudComputing #TechLeadership #Innovation #TechPodcast

Revolutionizing Software Development

🎧 Welcome to Episode 62 of the Philly Tech Connect Podcast! This time, we're thrilled to have Pierce Baugh, a pioneer in the low-code and no-code development arena.
🔹 About This Episode: Join us as Pierce shares his journey founding Strategic Database Systems, aimed at making custom software development accessible to all. Discover the transformative power of low-code and no-code platforms and how they can help businesses of all sizes scale and innovate.
🔸 In This Episode, You'll Discover:
How low-code and no-code platforms can streamline the development process.The economic and technical benefits of these platforms, including scalability and integration capabilities.Important considerations for security and maintenance when using low-code solutions.Pierce’s advice on leveraging these tools for creating MVPs and expanding your business.🔹 Why Listen? If you’re interested in simplifying your development processes or looking to understand the latest trends in tech that can impact your business strategy, this episode is packed with valuable insights and actionable advice.
🔸 Connect with Pierce: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/piercebaugh/🔹 Join Our Community: Philly Tech Entrepreneurs isn't just about podcasts; it's a thriving community of innovators and tech aficionados. Don’t miss our monthly meetups and workshops where you can network and learn from the best in the field. 🤝
Meetup: https://www.meetup.com/philadelphia-entrepreneur/ Slack: https://join.slack.com/t/phillytechent-tve1415/shared_invite/zt-1zmhmlqxu-3mBvJSZ2F0Uj4y9UUAevWw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/philadelphia-tech-entrepreneurs/
👍 Like, Share, and Subscribe for more tech insights and inspiring stories straight from the heart of Philadelphia’s tech community.
#PhillyTechConnect #LowCodeNoCode #TechInnovation #SoftwareDevelopment
These formats should help maintain a consistent and engaging tone that resonates with the community and attracts new members.

Advanced Data Challenges

🎧 Welcome to another enlightening episode of the Philly Tech Connect Podcast! In this episode, we're thrilled to have Michael Canzoneri, a veteran in tech entrepreneurship and leadership.
🔹 About This Episode: Join us as Michael shares his valuable experiences from working at three "Unicorns" and going through an IPO to his most cherished moments of helping others grow professionally. His journey is packed with lessons on team-building, leadership, and personal growth within the tech industry.
🔸 In This Episode, You'll Discover:
How Michael led teams to generate over $40M/year in revenue.His approach to balancing deep technical work with strategic leadership.Insights from his roles as a Gartner advisor and an Oracle Certified expert.The importance of mentorship in Michael’s career and its impact on his professional life.🔹 Why Listen? If you're looking to learn from someone who has successfully navigated the complexities of high-stakes environments and found fulfillment in helping others succeed, this episode is for you.
🔸 Connect with Michael: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-canzoneri-2830651/
🔹 Join Our Community: Philly Tech Entrepreneurs isn't just a podcast; it's a vibrant community of tech lovers and innovators. Participate in our monthly meetups and workshops to connect, learn, and grow together. 🤝
Meetup: https://www.meetup.com/philadelphia-entrepreneur/ Slack: [Insert Slack Community Invite Link] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/philadelphia-tech-entrepreneurs/
👍 Like, Share, and Subscribe for more inspiring stories and expert insights from the heart of Philadelphia's tech scene.
#PhillyTechConnect #Mentorship #TechLeadership #CareerGrowth #Entrepreneurship