348 - From Tanzania to Tech: A Journey of Resilience and Innovation

348 - From Tanzania to Tech: A Journey of Resilience and Innovation

Doug Noll
Published on: 14/10/2025

In this episode of "Listening with Leaders," host Doug Noll interviews Joseph Rutakangwa, co-founder of Rwazi, an AI data company. Joseph shares his journey from hardship in Tanzania—where his family lost everything—to building a successful tech startup in the U.S. He discusses overcoming adversity, the challenges of launching Rozzi, and how their AI systems help enterprises make smarter, data-driven decisions.

LeadershipEntrepreneurshipBusiness Growth and StrategiesArtificial Intelligence and Technology
347 - From Fiddles to Fulfilling Business Needs: The Symphony of Entrepreneurship

347 - From Fiddles to Fulfilling Business Needs: The Symphony of Entrepreneurship

Doug Noll
Published on: 07/10/2025

In this episode of "Listening with Leaders," host Doug Noll interviews Ian Peterman, Founder of Peterman Design Firm. Ian shares his entrepreneurial journey, starting with a childhood greeting card business, and discusses how early business lessons and his father’s influence led him to product design. He explains Peterman Design Firm’s approach to innovation, commercialization, and remote teamwork. Ian and Doug explore the importance of empathetic listening in leadership, the company’s commitment to sustainability, and adapting through challenges like COVID-19.

LeadershipEntrepreneurshipBusiness Growth and StrategiesArtificial Intelligence and Technology
229 - Revolutionizing Creativity: The AI Impact on Entertainment

229 - Revolutionizing Creativity: The AI Impact on Entertainment

Doug Noll
Published on: 22/07/2024

In this episode of "Listening with Leaders," host Doug Noll interviews Larry Namer, founder of LJM Media and former founder of E! Entertainment Television. The conversation also touches on the importance of empathy in leadership, recent projects focused on social good, and the guest's passion for cooking. The episode offers a comprehensive look at the guest's career, innovations, and personal interests.

LeadershipEntrepreneurshipBusiness Growth and StrategiesArtificial Intelligence and Technology
228 - Leading with Empathy: The Key to Fostering a Productive Work Culture

228 - Leading with Empathy: The Key to Fostering a Productive Work Culture

Doug Noll
Published on: 16/07/2024

In this podcast episode, Swati Reichmuth, CFO and CEO of Rūne Labs, shares her career journey from mechanical engineering to management consulting and the startup world. Swati highlights the significance of understanding employees' motivations and creating a transparent, supportive environment. The host reflects on empathy's impact on leadership, aligning with Swati on the need to validate emotions. Swati also shares her passion for jigsaw puzzles and her involvement in advising startups, offering a comprehensive view of her professional and personal insights.

LeadershipSoftware DevelopmentPersonal GrowthArtificial Intelligence and Technology