Join us for an in-depth conversation with Beth Ott, Director of Entrepreneurial Programming at StartingBlock in Madison, as we explore the evolution of entrepreneurship education and community building in Wisconsin.
In this episode
Beth shares her unique journey from educator to entrepreneur, co-founding House on Jenny Street and teaching the innovative "Clark Tank" program. We dive deep into Starting Block's comprehensive program offerings, including their groundbreaking LEAP Year initiative - a "third option" for young adults beyond the traditional college-or-work binary.
Discover how Starting Block is transforming entrepreneurship education through practical, hands-on programs like Level Set (their 6-week pre-accelerator) and Next Level (12-week accelerator), plus industry-specific accelerators with partners like American Family Insurance. Beth reveals the key "light bulb moments" founders experience and shares insights about Madison's vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem.
We also explore the challenges and opportunities in Wisconsin's startup landscape, the importance of community collaboration, and how the Midwest can develop solutions tailored to regional problems.
Topics Covered
→ Beth's transition from education to entrepreneurship
→ StartingBlock's program portfolio and impact
→ LEAP Year: Creating a third option for young adults
→ Founder success stories and breakthrough moments
→ Madison's entrepreneurial ecosystem strengths
→ Building effective startup community networks
→ The future of entrepreneurship education
Segments
00:00 - Intro
01:24 - Beth's Education Background and Teaching Philosophy
02:37 - From Furniture Flipping to Entrepreneurship
03:56 - Clark Street Community School and Clark Tank Program
08:41 - Joining Starting Block Madison
10:46 - Starting Block's Program Overview
14:17 - Introducing LEAP Year - The Third Option
22:53 - LEAP Year Application Process and Structure
27:25 - Sponsor Break
28:59 - Founder Success Stories and Light Bulb Moments
35:06 - Madison's Entrepreneurial Community Strengths
40:26 - Startup Wisconsin's Vision and Ecosystem Challenges
45:49 - Building Midwest Startup Collaboration
49:47 - Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
51:43 - Shout Outs and Contact Information
Resources Mentioned
🔻 Connect With Us 🔻
Subscribe to the Startup Wisconsin Newsletter
Upcoming Events (400+ every year)
https://www.startupwi.org/events
Follow us on LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/company/startup-wisconsin/
Interested in being a guest? Reach out!
Startup Wisconsin's mission is to connect, educate, inspire, and grow tech startup communities across the state, not just during events, but year-round. This podcast is part of that vision, creating deeper connections and sharing the knowledge that helps Wisconsin's startup ecosystem thrive.
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