Views from the Bus with Bob Rief - Powered by SDSI

Episode

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  Carmen Mirabella, Founder of Fulex 03.09.2026 30mnt

  How much margin does a growing company quietly lose to a supply chain that hasn't kept pace with its growth? Carmen Mirabella, founder of Fulex, joined Bob to break down third party logistics, from what really happens once your goods clear customs to how inventory accuracy, marketplace compliance, and the right carrier relationships can be the difference between a healthy business and one bleeding money without knowing it. Listen to Bob's latest Views from the Bus podcast to hear Carmen's take on where that margin actually goes, and how to get ahead of it.
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  Ross Garrett, CEO of Surfline 06.03.2026 49mnt

  What does it take to lead the world’s largest surf media company through constant waves of change? Surfline CEO Ross Garrett joined Bob Rief to discuss Surfline’s origins, the evolution of the surf industry, and the future of surf forecasting technology. Listen to the latest Views from the Bus podcast to hear Ross Garrett’s insights from our recent Eye of the Innovator event.
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  Adam Cheyer, Co-Founder of Siri 09.09.2025 18mnt

  Hey SDSI friends, periodically we run a series of interviews called the “Eye of the Innovator”. Past guests have been Pam and Beaver Theodasakis, Founders of praNa, and Spy or JK from Sanuk, or Tom Rinks, Founder of Sun Bum, bob Hurley and Bob McKnight Founder of Quiksilver. In this interview we meet Adam Cheyer, Founder of Siri…yes that Siri! Adam shared his history, experience with Steve Jobs and some suggestions for entrepreneurs everywhere. Apologies for the sound quality; we did not plan to record, so thisis iPhone based. Enjoy.
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  Guy Kawasaki 03.09.2025 1j 1mnt

  Here's what Guy Kawasaki and Bob Rief have to say on mission statements, the three stages of life, surfing, and much more. After such a great Q&A with a legendary guest speaker, it would be a shame not to share. Listen in on the new Views from the Bus podcast to hear what you missed at our recent Eye of the Innovator event with Guy Kawasaki.
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  Justin Renfro, Wefunder 26.06.2025 33mnt

  In this episode of Views from the Bus, Bob sits down with Justin Renfro, the Director of Growth at Wefunder, about how raising capital can be possible through community rounds. Traditionally companies relied on angel investors and venture capitalist for support. Now, with the help of Wefunder, founders can invite their customers, colleagues, friends, and family to invest. The result? A much wider funnel of support, creating an engaged community of individuals who are literally invested in your success.Listen in to learn how community-backed funding could be your company's competitive edge and learn more at Wefunder.com.
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  John Mclean, Beacons Capital Group 24.04.2025 33mnt

  In this episode of Views from the Bus, Beacons Capital Group Founder and CEO, John McLean, shared some amazing tips about non-dilutive debt. That may sound like a mouthful of financial jargon, but listen to the podcast and learn how capital preservation and growth strategies can quickly benefit your company. In one example John gave a rapid growth company in our space had simply outgrown their capital. As a last-ditch strategy, the Founders planned to offer 40% of their equity; instead, they sought advice and inventory financing through Beacon’s. Now a few years later, the sales scaled, the Founders retained their equity, and of course, their earnings scaled as well. Multi million dollar good decision. Listen in and check out Beacons Capital Group website!
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  Emily Irion, World Trade Center San Diego 27.03.2025 28mnt

  In the latest episode of View from the Bus, Bob chats with Emily Irion, Senior Manager at World Trade Center San Diego, part of the Regional EDC—an organization he calls one of the most high-minded he’s encountered. Emily highlights the EDC’s vital role in strengthening the local economy, partnering with 150+ businesses to keep San Diego globally competitive while providing free resources to help local businesses grow. Tune in to learn how they’re driving inclusive economic growth and ensuring every San Diegan benefits.
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  Krystal Gillis, Tighties 11.03.2025 47mnt

  In this episode of View from the Bus, Bob Rief chats with Krystal Gillis, Founder, and CEO of Tighties — a game-changing brand revolutionizing injury prevention and performance apparel. As a graduate of the SDSI Accelerator, Krystal shares her founder story, her journey of launching multiple businesses, and the importance of building a memorable brand.Hear her insights on entrepreneurship, overcoming obstacles, and creating products that truly make an impact. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation!View from the Bus is proudly sponsored by ⁠Procopio⁠—thank you for supporting this incredible community.
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  Neil Salyards, Procopio 20.02.2025 51mnt

  In the latest episode of View from the Bus, Bob sits down with Neil Salyards, Senior Associate at Procopio Law and an expert in intellectual property. Neil specializes in trademark and copyright protection, helping businesses safeguard their brands from day one.Together, Bob and Neil break down why IP protection should be a top priority for new companies, sharing real-world stories of brand protection in action. Whether you're launching a startup or looking to strengthen your existing business, this episode is packed with valuable insights on securing your brand’s future.View from the Bus is proudly sponsored by ⁠Procopio⁠—thank you for supporting a stronger, more protected business community!
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  David Newman, RX Smart Gear 29.08.2024 43mnt

  In the latest episode of the View from the Bus podcast, Bob chats with David Newman, Founder and CEO of RX Smart Gear. David’s entrepreneurial journey began when a friend dragged him to a CrossFit gym, where he quickly got hooked. Noticing the need for better jump ropes tailored to athletes, he launched RX Smart Gear—starting with custom ropes and growing into a full line of innovative fitness equipment. Hear David’s inspiring story in the full episode here! The Views from the Bus podcast is sponsored by Procopio! Procopio is a full legal service with an expertise in helping out entrepreneurs and SAL startups!
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  Sean Lake, BUBS Naturals 06.08.2024 42mnt

  In the newest episode of View from the Bus, Bob chats with Sean Lake, CEO and Co-founder of BUBS Naturals. They delve into Sean's inspiration behind the brand, rooted in the legacy of his friend and decorated Navy SEAL Glen 'BUB' Doherty, along with BUBS' commitment to health and wellness. Listen to Sean's story and the incredible journey of BUBS Naturals' conception and mission to keep people healthier for longer.
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  Bruce McFarland, American Wave Machine 29.04.2024 1j 1mnt

  In the latest episode of Views from the Bus, Bob interviews wave manufacturer and a pioneer in surfing Bruce McFarland owner of American Wave Machines. If you aren't familiar with American Wave Machine the San Diego company is a world leader in wave pool technology and their top of the line wave technology Perfectswell, is implemented in 5 wave pools around the world, with more to come. To listen in to their fascinating episode
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  Guy Kawasaki, Remarkable People 13.01.2024 54mnt

  In this episode of Views From The Bus , Bob Rief is joined once again by his good friend and legendary tech leader ⁠Guy Kawasaki⁠. In a really odd twist of events, Bob is going to be the interviewee and Guy is going to be the interviewer. After the episode be sure to check out Guy's podcast ⁠Remarkable People⁠! It features guests like Garrett McNamara, Sean Thompson, Jane Goodall, Margaret Atwood and Neil deGrasse Tyson. Lastly, big thank you to the official sponsor of the Views from the Bus podcast  ⁠Procopio, Cory, Hargreaves & Savitch LLP⁠⁠. Procopio is one of our most essential members providing a full legal service, and they are experienced in helping out entrepreneurs!
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  Kevin Tighe, Beachly 18.12.2023 48mnt

  In the latest episode of Views from the Bus, Bob talks with Kevin Tighe, CEO & Co-founder of Beachly. Beachly is a subscription brand rooted in beach, outdoor, and active lifestyles. They have also been named one of the top 500 fastest-growing brands in America for back-to-back years. We are also happy to announce Procopio, Cory, Hargreaves & Savitch LLP⁠ as the official sponsor of the Views from the Bus podcast. Procopio is one of our most essential members providing a full legal service, and they are experienced in helping out entrepreneurs!
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  Ron Hadler, Red Door Interactive 20.09.2023 38mnt

  In today's episode of Views From the Bus, Bob gets to something on the top of all business minds, Artificial Intelligence (AI) with Ron Hadler of Red Door Interactive! Ron is the VP of innovation for Red Door Interactive, San Diego's best full service agency. And our topic today is all about the brain in front of the change that's coming with Gen AI.  If you missed the previous presentation Ron did for our Ask the Expert series on Gen AI a few months ago, here's your second chance! 
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  Dana Rowley, SDSI Accelerator 31.08.2023 43mnt

  In this episode, we meet Dana Rowley, a prominent figure in San Diego's business scene. Dana directs the SDSI Business Accelerator, which has help given rise to over 140 emerging brands in the city. If launching one brand is a challenge, imagine kickstarting 140 – a truly remarkable feat. This episode is tailor-made for young business founders standing at a crossroad. Whether you're try to figure out how to get to scale, you're faced with a major pivot, looking for help with strategy with marketing or organizational issues, or maybe need gateways into the financial community. Whatever the reason, entrepreneurs and young business founder take a listen here. 
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  John Sarkisian, SDSI 17.08.2023 43mnt

  Welcome to View From the Bus podcast brought to you by San Diego Sport innovators. In today's episode, we have a special interview with John Sarkisian, one of San Diego's most successful entrepreneurs, an investor interested in emerging companies and technologies.
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  Wes Horbatuck, Driftline 18.07.2023 35mnt

  In today's episode of Views From the Bus, Bob sits down with Driftline's Co-founder, Wes Horbatuck. Driftline have a patented board shorts called Drifties, which have a specialized inner liner made out of wetsuit material, connected to a stylish outer boardshort shell. Listen in to hear Wes's story and journey with Driftline.
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  Steven Morris, The Beautiful Business 10.02.2023 48mnt

  In today's episode of Views From The Bus, we have a really amazing opportunity to interview Steven Morris. He is the author of a really great book called The Beautiful Business, which really is a must read for all CEOs. Steven is a true thought provocateur, a really good brand strategist, and business advisor. Listen in for a deep dive into the beauty of business!
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  Cristobal Murillo, Selk'bag 18.01.2023 35mnt

  In today's episode Bob talks with Cristobal Murillo, Co-founder and CEO of Selk'bag, who has implemented a very successful influencer marketing campaign to help get eyeballs on his unique wearable sleeping bags. Listen in to hear about his strategy to riding the viral wave of social media.