Nonprofit podcast spotlights local stories of social entrepreneurs

A new Cincinnati-produced podcast aims to amplify the voices of social entrepreneurs and the people who help them grow.

“ON THE FLY!” is a new show from Flywheel Social Enterprise Hub, a nonprofit that coaches and supports socially minded startups. The podcast will feature conversations with founders, coaches and investors working to create businesses that generate both financial returns and positive social impact.

The podcast, recorded at University of Cincinnati’s 1819 Innovation Hub, is available on Apple, Spotify and other major platforms.

“We’re excited to launch ‘ON THE FLY!’ and introduce more people to the benefits of creating, sustaining and investing in social enterprises,” said Donna Zaring, Flywheel’s executive director. “We want to use today’s preferred channel of communication to share our story and the stories of the hundreds of founders and subject matter experts we have worked with.”

Going behind the mic

The podcast’s host is Joan Kaup, a longtime Flywheel coach with more than 40 years of experience in Cincinnati’s business and nonprofit sectors. Kaup, who holds an MBA in entrepreneurship from Xavier University, said she enjoys helping founders share what drives them.

“I like hearing the passion in their voices as they talk about their origin stories and vision,” Kaup said. “Some episodes will make you laugh out loud, but I hope each one leaves you with a nugget to think about.”

Producing the show is Joey Scarillo, a Flywheel coach and project manager at Grey Midwest. Scarillo previously worked for Grey New York, where he hosted and produced award-winning marketing podcasts. He said “ON THE FLY!” allows him to combine his podcasting experience with his commitment to supporting mission-driven businesses.

The first three episodes debut June 26, coinciding with Flywheel’s “Demo Day” event, where five early-stage entrepreneurs will pitch their ventures to an audience of prospective investors and supporters. This year’s featured startups include:

• The Magical Adventures at Park Clinic
• Prtty Pckup LLC
• Cindependent Film Center
• Early Affirmations
• From Fatherless to Fearless

“Demo Day” takes place from 4-6 p.m. June 26 at the 1819 Innovation Hub, 2900 Reading Road.

“Some episodes will make you laugh out loud, but I hope each one leaves you with a nugget to think about,” Kaup said.

Demo Day registration