The InNOLEvation Mindset Podcast at Florida State University (FSU) has reached nearly 75,000 downloads since its launch in November 2020. The podcast serves as a platform for students and alumni to share their entrepreneurial journeys and business ideas, particularly those connected with the Jim Moran College of Entrepreneurship (JMC).
Mark McNees, a professor at JMC and the host of the podcast, brings his own experience as founder and CEO of RedEye Coffee to the role. He describes himself as a “serial entrepreneur” and aims to help guests reach their business goals. Speaking about his connection with podcast guests, McNees said: “I know the struggle; I know the sleepless nights, and I think because I’ve been there and shared that experience, there’s an automatic baseline trust. We’re talking about startups and I know the language. There’s an instant connection that I’ve found that has been really important.”
The popularity of podcasts has grown worldwide in recent years, with storytelling being a key factor in audience engagement. The InNOLEvation Mindset Podcast focuses on sharing authentic stories from entrepreneurs across FSU, not just from JMC.
McNees explained: “The goal of the podcast is twofold; it’s designed to give them a platform to tell their story with the credibility of FSU behind it. It’s important for our university to be telling the story of what’s happening at FSU. It’s a win-win.”
One notable episode featured FSU’s International Genetically Engineered Machine (iGEM) team discussing their development of a breathalyzer device aimed at helping patients with trimethylaminuria (TMAU), a rare metabolic disorder. McNees reflected on this interview: “That is one of so many (interviews) that have been so interesting to me. People who have TMAU are desperate for a cure, so it was remarkable to talk to the iGEM team. It became a mentoring session.”
The idea for starting the podcast came after McNees attended The InNOLEvation Challenge—an annual competition hosted by JMC where students from all majors compete for up to $20,000 in prize money by presenting innovative business ideas.
Reflecting on nearly five years of running the podcast, McNees highlighted its impact on both students and prospective applicants: “We’ve had students in Jim Moran College who applied because they want to be part of a college where things are happening as entrepreneurs. I think the secret is it has become a valuable storytelling tool for the college and FSU.”
The InNOLEvation Mindset Podcast is available on major podcast platforms and YouTube.
