1117: Global Passion Projects #2: Next-Level Change Makers: Philanthropy, Leadership and Innovation

What do Bluetooth technology, royal heritage, and a billion-dollar gender gap in venture capital have in common?

This episode of Thrive LouD with Lou Diamond reveals the surprising, passionate connections that are powering global change—and it all unfolds at the Global Passion Project in Southampton.

Join host Lou Diamond as he sits down with an eclectic mix of world changers, including His Royal Highness Prince Mario-Max Schaumburg-Lippe, early stage investor David Hamilton Nichols, and Rajiv Kapoor of Chai Ventures. Together, they pull back the curtain on the bold initiatives reshaping the future—spanning breakthrough health technology, the convergence of AI and human connection, and the fight to get more women into the highest ranks of venture capital. You’ll discover the Viking origins of Bluetooth, why restaurant jobs are AI-proof, and the unconventional ways today’s leaders are uniting passion, profit, and philanthropy.

Key highlights include:

• The royal link between King Harald Bluetooth and wireless tech – and what that means for modern innovation
• A sneak peek into Cherish Hells’ AI-powered health device, built to revolutionize care for aging populations
• David Hamilton Nichols on investment trends, AI’s dual-edged sword, and why “some of this BS just isn’t worth it”
• Rajiv Kapoor’s quest to make venture funding more inclusive for women, and the ecosystem approach needed to close the gender gap
• Plus, quickfire speed rounds on passions, pilates, swimming in the ocean, boating, and more

This conversation is brimming with energy, expertise, and actionable inspiration for anyone ready to level up their impact.

Episode Overview & Timestamps:

00:00:02 – Introduction to Thrive Loud and the Global Passion Project

00:01:01 – Prince Mario-Max Schaumburg-Lippe on heritage, technology, and philanthropy

00:02:05 – The Bluetooth king, cherished health innovations, and media influence

00:07:03 – Investing in the future: why health, hospitality, and hands-on jobs will always matter

00:08:06 – How to connect with Prince Mario-Max and his take on working royalty

00:09:07 – Rapid-fire: passions, work-life balance, and ocean adventures

00:10:04 – David Hamilton Nichols: Investing where purpose meets profit

00:11:09 – AI, automation, and the convergence of industries

00:13:24 – The magic of people, passion, and transformative business models

00:14:06 – Advice for tough days: hit reset and focus on what matters

00:14:44 – Ski trips and what’s next for David Hamilton Nichols

00:15:05 – Meet Rajiv Kapoor of Chai Ventures: betting on women and the VC ecosystem

00:16:04 – Where women dominate: consumer, health, and the future of work

00:17:17 – The reach of the Global Passions Project and the power of human connections

00:18:15 – Tackling the VC gender gap: the ecosystem puzzle and early financial literacy

00:19:45 – Openness, friendship, and finding your tribe

00:20:09 – Rajiv Kapoor’s speed round: pilates, Netflix, and surfing with the community

00:20:58 – Connect with Chai Ventures and the story behind the chai

00:21:44 – Closing thoughts and how to stay linked up with Thrive Loud

Ready to be inspired by those truly “thriving loud?” Hit play and join the movement!