Disrupting Online Travel Scams: How John Choate Is Rebuilding Trust Through Guaranteed Social Impact

In this episode of Disruption/Interruption, host KJ sits down with John Choate, co-founder of Apogee Travel, to discuss how the travel industry hides value, the illusion of price comparison, and how Apogee is disrupting the online travel agency model by turning every hotel booking into a charitable donation. Discover the truth behind loyalty programs, the commoditization of hotels, and how transparency and social good can reshape an entire industry.   Four Key Takeaways: The Illusion of Comparison Shopping [00:41]John explains how consumers believe they are comparison shopping for hotels, but in reality, prices are controlled and nearly identical across platforms. The Birth of Apogee’s Value Model [06:55]The story of how a charity hotel stay and a conversation with Steve Wynn inspired the idea of using hotel profits for social good. Exposing Loyalty Program Devaluation [24:15]John breaks down how hotel loyalty programs manipulate point values, creating “value blindness” for consumers. How Apogee Travel Disrupts the Industry [32:05]Apogee’s unique model: every booking generates a donation to a charity of the traveler’s choice, at no extra cost, while still earning brand rewards points.   Quote of the Show (34:20):"Most people think charity is emotional. In our model, it's structural. Travel's the largest overlooked fundraising engine in the world. We just plugged it in." – John Choate   Join our Anti-PR newsletter where we’re keeping a watchful and clever eye on PR trends, PR fails, and interesting news in tech so you don't have to. You're welcome.   Want PR that actually matters? Get 30 minutes of expert advice in a fast-paced, zero-nonsense session from Karla Jo Helms, a veteran Crisis PR and Anti-PR Strategist who knows how to tell your story in the best possible light and get the exposure you need to disrupt your industry. Click here to book your call: https://info.jotopr.com/free-anti-pr-eval   Ways to connect with John Choate: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnchoate/ Company Website:  https://apogeetravel.com   How to get more Disruption/Interruption:  Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/eccda84d-4d5b-4c52-ba54-7fd8af3cbe87/disruption-interruption Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/disruption-interruption/id1581985755 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6yGSwcSp8J354awJkCmJlD?si=22332d4cd4ef4e41See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Disruption/Interruption, host KJ interviews Matt Seefeld, CEO at MedEvolve, about the chaos and inefficiencies in the US healthcare revenue cycle. Matt shares how generative AI and a focus on human accountability can help providers achieve "zero touch" claims, reduce waste, and improve access to care, especially for small and rural hospitals.   Four Key Takeaways: The Real Cost of Healthcare is Obscured (3:00)The US healthcare system lacks alignment between consumers, providers, and payers, making it nearly impossible to know the true cost of care. Administrative Waste is a Billion-Dollar Problem (04:01)Most providers touch claims multiple times, with 63% of those touches being wasted effort due to system inefficiencies and payer games. AI is a Tool, Not a Cure-All (31:50)While AI can automate and improve processes, more than half of claim errors still require human intervention, and technology alone won't solve systemic issues. Access to Care is Shrinking for Many Americans (24:00, 27:00)As costs rise and reimbursements fall, small and rural hospitals are closing, and more Americans are forced to seek care through emergency services or go without.   Quote of the Show (31:50):"More than half—53%—of the errors that we see that humans have to get involved with come from AI solutions, so they're not smart enough yet." - Matt Seefeld   Join our Anti-PR newsletter where we’re keeping a watchful and clever eye on PR trends, PR fails, and interesting news in tech so you don't have to. You're welcome.   Want PR that actually matters? Get 30 minutes of expert advice in a fast-paced, zero-nonsense session from Karla Jo Helms, a veteran Crisis PR and Anti-PR Strategist who knows how to tell your story in the best possible light and get the exposure you need to disrupt your industry. Click here to book your call: https://info.jotopr.com/free-anti-pr-eval   Ways to connect with Matt Seefeld: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-seefeld-521319/ Company Website:  https://medevolve.com   How to get more Disruption/Interruption:  Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/eccda84d-4d5b-4c52-ba54-7fd8af3cbe87/disruption-interruption Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/disruption-interruption/id1581985755 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6yGSwcSp8J354awJkCmJlDSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Disruption/Interruption, host KJ interviews Rob Creighton, founder and CEO of Windlift, about pioneering in the drone industry by advancing unmanned flight abilities and energy efficiencies ready to empower defense and security operations in new ways. Windlift has created a drone platform that enables airborne surveillance and security systems that can fly higher, see further and stay aloft longer due super-smart, wind-friendly design. Rob shares his journey from genetics and environmental science to developing tethered drone technology for both military and civilian applications, aiming to create a world of energy abundance and security. Key Takeaways: How Windlift’s airborne wind friendly technology works and its advantages over traditional systems. — [10:55] The unexpected military applications of tethered drones for surveillance and security. — [20:30] The broader impact on agriculture, security, and global stability. — [36:22] Quote of the Show: (00:15:40) "We can actually take energy out of the wind, and use it to accelerate the vehicle."— Robert Creighton   Join our Anti-PR newsletter where we’re keeping a watchful and clever eye on PR trends, PR fails, and interesting news in tech so you don't have to. You're welcome.   Want PR that actually matters? Get 30 minutes of expert advice in a fast-paced, zero-nonsense session from Karla Jo Helms, a veteran Crisis PR and Anti-PR Strategist who knows how to tell your story in the best possible light and get the exposure you need to disrupt your industry. Click here to book your call: https://info.jotopr.com/free-anti-pr-eval   Ways to connect with Robert Creighton: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-creighton-3572702/ Company Website: https://www.windlift.com/   How to get more Disruption/Interruption:  Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/eccda84d-4d5b-4c52-ba54-7fd8af3cbe87/disruption-interruption Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/disruption-interruption/id1581985755 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6yGSwcSp8J354awJkCmJlDSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Disruption/Interruption, host KJ interviews Mark Mincy, Chief Commercial Officer at US RX Care, about the hidden complexities and conflicts of interest in the pharmacy benefits industry. Mark shares how his company is disrupting the status quo by demanding transparency, eliminating conflicts, and helping employers reclaim millions in savings. The conversation uncovers the tangled web of PBMs, rebates, and the urgent need for legislative and technological change.   Key Takeaways: The PBM System is Riddled with Conflicts of Interest [2:34]Mark explains how pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) and consultants often act in their own financial interest, not the employer’s or patient’s, leading to inflated drug costs. Rebates and Purchasing Contributions Inflate Drug Prices [8:59]The system of rebates and retrospective payments to PBMs can account for up to 80% of a drug’s cost, forcing manufacturers to raise prices and employers to pay more. Transparency and Fiduciary Duty are Essential for Reform [21:37]Mark’s company, US RX Care, operates with complete transparency, passes back all rebates, and offers per-member-per-month guarantees to eliminate guesswork and conflicts. Employers and Consumers Can Take Action [33:34]Mark recommends joining healthcare purchaser coalitions, hiring ERISA attorneys, and demanding non-conflicted consultants to protect interests and drive industry change.     Quote of the Show [31:27]:"Everything's intertwined. You want to move and do the right thing. These employers are between a rock and a hard place, so I do think some legislative action needs to occur." – Mark Mincy   Join our Anti-PR newsletter where we’re keeping a watchful and clever eye on PR trends, PR fails, and interesting news in tech so you don't have to. You're welcome.   Want PR that actually matters? Get 30 minutes of expert advice in a fast-paced, zero-nonsense session from Karla Jo Helms, a veteran Crisis PR and Anti-PR Strategist who knows how to tell your story in the best possible light and get the exposure you need to disrupt your industry. Click here to book your call: https://info.jotopr.com/free-anti-pr-eval   Ways to connect with Mark Mincy: LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-mincy-a185497 Company Website: https://us-rxcare.com   How to get more Disruption/Interruption:  Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/eccda84d-4d5b-4c52-ba54-7fd8af3cbe87/disruption-interruption Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/disruption-interruption/id1581985755 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6yGSwcSp8J354awJkCmJlD?si=22332d4cd4ef4e41See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Disruption/Interruption, host KJ interviews Stephan Luna Ng, founder of Moon Five Technologies, about breaking barriers to electric vehicle (EV) charging in apartments and multifamily homes. Stephan shares his journey from environmentalist to entrepreneur, the challenges of EV infrastructure, and how his company is making EV charging accessible, equitable, and resilient for renters and property owners alike.   Key Takeaways: EV Charging for Renters and Multifamily Homes [02:18]Stephan explains the unique challenges of providing EV charging in apartments and how Moon Five Technologies is solving them with a tenant-focused approach. Equity and Accessibility in Clean Tech [05:34]The current EV infrastructure often favors wealthier communities. Stephan’s mission is to make charging accessible for low-income and disadvantaged communities. Innovative Load Sharing and Resiliency [13:34]Moon Five’s system branches off individual tenant meters, enabling smart load sharing and even allowing EVs to power apartments during blackouts. Scaling Impact and Community Engagement [20:01]Stephan discusses rapid scaling, the importance of a waitlist, and how community feedback shapes their deployment strategy.   Quote of the Show [24:21]:"With something as important as changing the earth, do we wanna be signaling that we're retreating?" — Stephan Luna Ng   Join our Anti-PR newsletter where we’re keeping a watchful and clever eye on PR trends, PR fails, and interesting news in tech so you don't have to. You're welcome.   Want PR that actually matters? Get 30 minutes of expert advice in a fast-paced, zero-nonsense session from Karla Jo Helms, a veteran Crisis PR and Anti-PR Strategist who knows how to tell your story in the best possible light and get the exposure you need to disrupt your industry. Click here to book your call: https://info.jotopr.com/free-anti-pr-eval   Ways to connect with Stephan Luna Ng: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanlunang/ Company Website: moonfive.tech   How to get more Disruption/Interruption:  Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/eccda84d-4d5b-4c52-ba54-7fd8af3cbe87/disruption-interruption Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/disruption-interruption/id1581985755 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6yGSwcSp8J354awJkCmJlD?si=22332d4cd4ef4e41See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Disruption/Interruption, host KJ interviews Rob Creighton, founder and CEO of Windlift, about pioneering airborne wind energy and the future of mobile, resilient power generation. Rob shares his journey from genetics and environmental science to developing tethered drone technology for both military and civilian applications, aiming to create a world of energy abundance and security.   Key Takeaways: The limitations of fixed energy infrastructure and the need for mobile, resilient solutions.— [2:06] How Windlift’s airborne wind energy technology works and its advantages over traditional systems. — [10:55] The unexpected military applications of tethered drones for surveillance and security. — [20:30] The vision for energy abundance and the broader impact on agriculture, security, and global stability. — [36:22]   Quote of the Show: [36:22]"When we all have abundant energy and we can live our best lives." — Robert Creighton   Join our Anti-PR newsletter where we’re keeping a watchful and clever eye on PR trends, PR fails, and interesting news in tech so you don't have to. You're welcome.   Want PR that actually matters? Get 30 minutes of expert advice in a fast-paced, zero-nonsense session from Karla Jo Helms, a veteran Crisis PR and Anti-PR Strategist who knows how to tell your story in the best possible light and get the exposure you need to disrupt your industry. Click here to book your call: https://info.jotopr.com/free-anti-pr-eval   Ways to connect with Robert Creighton: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-creighton-3572702/ Company Website: https://www.windlift.com/   How to get more Disruption/Interruption:  Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/eccda84d-4d5b-4c52-ba54-7fd8af3cbe87/disruption-interruption Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/disruption-interruption/id1581985755 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6yGSwcSp8J354awJkCmJlDSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Disruption/Interruption, host KJ sits down with Micah Remley, CEO of Robin Powered, to discuss the challenges and opportunities of hybrid work. They explore how data-driven approaches can transform workplace culture, boost productivity, and help companies thrive in a post-pandemic world where flexibility and connection are more important than ever.   Key Takeaways: [2:06] Hybrid work is here to stay, but a one-size-fits-all solution doesn't work—companies must use data to create meaningful in-person experiences. [6:53] Culture is the tie that binds organizations; remote and hybrid work have made it harder to maintain, but it's essential for long-term success. [17:19] Proximity to high performers in the office can boost individual performance by 15% due to emulation and peer pressure. [22:05] Flexible, unstructured hybrid models often fail—coordinated team days and intentional office use are key to making hybrid work successful.   Quote of the Show [3:45]:"You're deeply passionate about what you're trying to disrupt... you feel it in your soul because you're putting yourself out there, trying to move the needle." – Micah Remley   Join our Anti-PR newsletter where we’re keeping a watchful and clever eye on PR trends, PR fails, and interesting news in tech so you don't have to. You're welcome.   Want PR that actually matters? Get 30 minutes of expert advice in a fast-paced, zero-nonsense session from Karla Jo Helms, a veteran Crisis PR and Anti-PR Strategist who knows how to tell your story in the best possible light and get the exposure you need to disrupt your industry. Click here to book your call: https://info.jotopr.com/free-anti-pr-eval   Ways to connect with Micah Remley: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/micah-remley-b6430740/ Company Website: robinpowered.com   How to get more Disruption/Interruption:  Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/eccda84d-4d5b-4c52-ba54-7fd8af3cbe87/disruption-interruption Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/disruption-interruption/id1581985755 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6yGSwcSp8J354awJkCmJlD?si=22332d4cd4ef4e41See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Disruption/Interruption, host KJ interviews Dr. Jay Greenstein, CEO of Embodi Health, about disrupting the status quo in healthcare. Dr. Greenstein shares his journey from chiropractor to tech entrepreneur, discusses the challenges of patient adherence, and reveals how his company is using AI, behavioral science, and gamification to transform musculoskeletal care and improve patient outcomes.   Key Takeaways: The Healthcare System is Broken [4:12]Dr. Greenstein explains how the U.S. healthcare system is plagued by barriers and value extractors, making it difficult for patients to access the right care. Evidence-Based, Non-Pharmacologic Care is Essential [7:14]He emphasizes the importance of following clinical practice guidelines that prioritize non-pharmacologic interventions like spinal manipulation and exercise. Gamification Improves Patient Adherence [16:27]Dr. Greenstein describes how his team built a gamified app to reward patients for adhering to care plans, leading to measurable improvements in outcomes. AI and Remote Monitoring Drive Better Outcomes [18:17]The Embody platform uses AI-driven, evidence-based home exercise programs and remote therapeutic monitoring to keep patients and providers connected and engaged.   Quote of the Show (4:12):"I want justice for humanity. I want justice for patients. I want justice for the healthcare system. Our system in the US is broken, and it can be fixed." – Dr. Jay Greenstein   Join our Anti-PR newsletter where we’re keeping a watchful and clever eye on PR trends, PR fails, and interesting news in tech so you don't have to. You're welcome.   Want PR that actually matters? Get 30 minutes of expert advice in a fast-paced, zero-nonsense session from Karla Jo Helms, a veteran Crisis PR and Anti-PR Strategist who knows how to tell your story in the best possible light and get the exposure you need to disrupt your industry. Click here to book your call: https://info.jotopr.com/free-anti-pr-eval   Ways to connect with Dr. Jay Greenstein: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjaygreenstein/ Company Website: https://embodihealth.com   How to get more Disruption/Interruption:  Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/eccda84d-4d5b-4c52-ba54-7fd8af3cbe87/disruption-interruption Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/disruption-interruption/id1581985755 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6yGSwcSp8J354awJkCmJlDSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Disruption/Interruption, host KJ sits down with Chris Cyrille, founder of SNTIMNT.AI, to discuss how he’s using data science and AI to bring clarity and confidence to crypto investing. Chris shares his personal journey, the challenges of the crypto market, and how his mission-driven approach is changing the way investors and institutions view digital assets. Key Takeaways: Personal Motivation Drives Innovation [3:52]Chris’s journey began with a personal loss, inspiring him to redirect capital toward causes like pediatric cancer and first-generation students. Crypto Volatility and Misinformation [6:25]The biggest challenge in crypto is volatility, fueled by meme coins, speculation, and misinformation, making it intimidating for new investors. Algorithmic Solutions for Peace of Mind [17:51]Sentiment AI’s algorithm “reads the room” to provide actionable signals, helping users invest with greater confidence and less stress. Staying Curious and Creative [26:34]Chris encourages listeners to maintain childlike wonder and curiosity, as unique perspectives drive creative solutions in any industry.   Quote of the Show (26:54):“Keep the childlike wonder and to stay curious. I believe that's where the creativity shows itself.” – Chris Cyrille   Join our Anti-PR newsletter where we’re keeping a watchful and clever eye on PR trends, PR fails, and interesting news in tech so you don't have to. You're welcome.   Want PR that actually matters? Get 30 minutes of expert advice in a fast-paced, zero-nonsense session from Karla Jo Helms, a veteran Crisis PR and Anti-PR Strategist who knows how to tell your story in the best possible light and get the exposure you need to disrupt your industry. Click here to book your call: https://info.jotopr.com/free-anti-pr-eval   Ways to connect with Chris Cyrille: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-cyrille/ Company Website: https://sntimnt.ai   How to get more Disruption/Interruption:  Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/eccda84d-4d5b-4c52-ba54-7fd8af3cbe87/disruption-interruption Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/disruption-interruption/id1581985755 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6yGSwcSp8J354awJkCmJlDSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Disruption/Interruption, host KJ sits down with Jim Foote, CEO and founder of First Ascent Biomedical. Jim shares his personal journey from technology executive to cancer care innovator, after his son’s diagnosis changed his life. Discover how he’s disrupting the status quo in oncology with AI-driven, personalized medicine that’s giving new hope to patients and families.   Key Takeaways: The Problem with Standard Cancer Care [3:53]The standard of care treats patients as if they are the same, but everyone is unique. This approach works two-thirds of the time, but leaves one-third of patients with few options. Functional Precision Medicine [13:04]Jim’s company tests up to 152 FDA-approved drugs on a patient’s biopsy to find the most effective treatment, providing doctors with data-driven options tailored to each individual. AI and Technology are Transforming Oncology [28:05]Advances in AI, robotics, and cloud computing have converged, making personalized cancer treatment faster, more affordable, and more effective than ever before. Impact and Future Vision [26:51]Jim’s goal is for every cancer patient to receive individualized treatment from the moment of diagnosis, improving outcomes and reducing unnecessary side effects.   Quote of the Show (14:40):“I literally have gone from trying and hoping to testing and choosing.” — Jim Foote   Join our Anti-PR newsletter where we’re keeping a watchful and clever eye on PR trends, PR fails, and interesting news in tech so you don't have to. You're welcome.   Want PR that actually matters? Get 30 minutes of expert advice in a fast-paced, zero-nonsense session from Karla Jo Helms, a veteran Crisis PR and Anti-PR Strategist who knows how to tell your story in the best possible light and get the exposure you need to disrupt your industry. Click here to book your call: https://info.jotopr.com/free-anti-pr-eval   Ways to connect with Jim Foote: LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-foote Company Website: https://firstascentbiomedical.com/   How to get more Disruption/Interruption:  Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/eccda84d-4d5b-4c52-ba54-7fd8af3cbe87/disruption-interruption Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/disruption-interruption/id1581985755 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6yGSwcSp8J354awJkCmJlDSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.