On this episode of PNC C-Speak, hosts Josh Schimmels of Los Angeles Business Journal and Todd Wilson of PNC Bank talk with Wemimo Abbey, co-founder and co-CEO of Esusu, one of the few Black-founded fintech unicorns in the United States. From humble beginnings in the slums of Lagos, Nigeria, to redefining financial inclusion in America’s boardrooms, Abbey shares his remarkable journey of grit, gratitude, and giving back. Driven by personal experience, Abbey and his team built Esusu around a mission to break down systemic barriers and create a financial system where everyone can be seen. In this candid conversation, Abbey talks through the challenges of startup life, the balancing act between purpose and profitability, and his relentless focus on customer needs. He also pulls back the curtain on raising $130 million after being turned down by over 300 investors and reveals how a “win-win-win” mindset has shaped Esusu’s rapid growth. You’ll be reminded that meaningful companies are built on conviction as much as on capital as you listen to this episode of PNC C-Speak, where we bring you inspiring stories behind business innovation and leadership in Los Angeles.

On this episode of PNC C-Speak, hosts Josh Schimmels, Publisher and CEO of the Los Angeles Business Journal, and Todd Wilson, Regional President for Greater Los Angeles at PNC Bank, welcome Dr. Jerry Nickelsburg, Director of the UCLA Anderson Forecast. Dr. Nickelsburg unpacks how evidence-based forecasts help businesses and policymakers navigate California’s complex economic terrain - from global supply chain shifts to the unique drivers powering LA’s growth. He reveals the secrets behind building a powerhouse team, the critical role of tech and talent in regional success, and practical advice for entrepreneurs and executives looking to leverage economic insights in their strategic planning. As you listen to this episode, you’ll gain invaluable perspectives on adapting, leading, and thriving in LA’s ever-evolving business landscape.

On this episode of PNC C-Speak, hosts Josh Schimmels, Publisher and CEO of the Los Angeles Business Journal, and Todd Wilson, PNC Bank Regional President for Greater Los Angeles, welcome Everett Sands, Founder and CEO of Lendistry, a fintech powerhouse making waves in small business finance. Everett shares powerful lessons from his family’s entrepreneurial past, the importance of financial literacy for business owners, and how Lendistry is bridging critical gaps in small business lending, deploying over $10 billion to underserved communities. With insights on strategic partnerships, AI’s role in finance, and preparing LA’s small businesses for upcoming economic opportunities like the Olympics and Super Bowl, this episode is packed with inspiration and actionable advice for leaders, entrepreneurs, and anyone invested in Los Angeles’ economic future.

In this episode of PNC C-Speak, we sit down with Allyson Felix, the most decorated U.S. Track and Field Olympian, who has seamlessly transitioned from the world of elite athletics to becoming a trailblazing entrepreneur. Hosts Josh Schimmels, Publisher of the Los Angeles Business Journal, and Todd Wilson, Regional President of PNC Bank, delve into Allyson's journey from the track to the boardroom. Discover how her experiences competing at the highest levels have shaped her business ventures, including the creation of Saysh, a women-focused lifestyle brand, and Always Alpha, a talent management firm aimed at empowering female athletes. Allyson shares insights into her company’s disruption of industry giants, the unique challenges she faced, and her vision for creating spaces for women in sports and beyond. Whether you’re passionate about entrepreneurship, branding, or women's sports, this inspiring conversation will leave you with a fresh perspective on leadership and innovation.

In this engaging episode of PNC C-Speak, we're diving deep into the vibrant economic landscape of Los Angeles with Stephen Cheung, President of the World Trade Center Los Angeles and the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation. Hosts Josh Schimmels, Publisher and CEO of the Los Angeles Business Journal, and Todd Wilson, PNC Bank Regional President for Greater Los Angeles, explore the untapped potential and unique opportunities that make Los Angeles a global powerhouse for business and innovation. Stephen shares how LA's vast and diverse industries—from entertainment and tech to bioscience and space commercialization—navigate the challenges and leverage the immense cultural and economic resources at their disposal. He discusses the importance of building public-private partnerships, the critical role of regional synergy, and how strategic location in LA offers unparalleled access to a global market. This episode offers insights and inspiration for entrepreneurs, investors, and other business leaders eager to understand the dynamics of one of the world's most enterprising regions.

On this episode of PNC C-Speak, hosts Josh Schimmels, Publisher and CEO of the Los Angeles Business Journal, and Todd Wilson, PNC Bank Regional President for Greater Los Angeles, sit down with Willow Bay, controlling owner of Angel City FC and Dean of the USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism. Willow shares her insights into the explosive growth and innovation within women's sports, emphasizing the team's mission-driven brand and focus on redefining norms for equity in athletics. She also delves into how USC is shaping future media leaders and the crossover between sports and media. This episode is a compelling exploration of entrepreneurship, leadership, and community impact in the ever-evolving Los Angeles sports and media landscape.

On this episode of PNC C-Speak, hosts Josh Schimmels, Publisher and CEO of the Los Angeles Business Journal, and Todd Wilson, PNC Bank Regional President for Greater Los Angeles, discuss the inspirational vision of Alex Israel, co-founder and CEO of Metropolis Technologies. Alex shares how his team has ingeniously leveraged AI and computer vision to revolutionize parking and urban mobility. From a garage startup to a billion-dollar enterprise, Metropolis Technologies exemplifies how innovative, disruptive thinking can transform everyday experiences and drive significant growth. In this conversation, you'll hear Alex’s insights on leadership, the future of urban spaces, and the role of culture in scaling a groundbreaking business. Plus, Alex shares valuable lessons on finding the right partners and navigating challenges through agility and obsession.

On this episode of PNC C-Speak, hosts Josh Schimmels, Publisher and CEO of the Los Angeles Business Journal, and Todd Wilson, PNC Bank Regional President for Greater Los Angeles, sit down with Raul Porto Jr., President of Porto's Bakery and Cafe, to dive deep into the history, legacy, and continued success of one of Los Angeles' most iconic family-owned businesses. Raul shares captivating stories of his mother’s entrepreneurial journey from Cuba, their strategy for maintaining high-quality standards, and the exciting future with their new Downtown Disney location. This is an inspiring listen about family business dynamics, growth through adaptation to the marketplace, and community impact.