{"type":"rich","version":"1.0","provider_name":"Transistor","provider_url":"https://transistor.fm","author_name":"Built for Good","title":"From Networks to Opportunity: How Colorwave Builds Economic Mobility","html":"","width":"100%","height":180,"duration":3005,"description":"In this episode of Built for Good, host Kian Alavi sits down with John Roussel, Co-founder and CEO of Colorwave. John shares the founding story of Colorwave, launched during the uncertainty of 2020 with a mission to close the wealth gap by connecting underrepresented professionals to opportunities within venture-backed startups.Key discussion topics include the importance of networks in accessing startup careers, how storytelling and positioning impact hiring outcomes, and the structure of Colorwave’s fellowship model. John explains how the program equips participants with startup literacy, relationship-building skills, and direct exposure to hiring companies. He also discusses evaluating risk tolerance when transitioning into early-stage companies and the differences between startup environments.The conversation also touches on adapting to changes in DEI funding, shifts in the venture ecosystem, and the growing influence of AI on hiring and workforce development. John highlights Colorwave’s focus on alumni leadership, partnerships, and upskilling initiatives to expand economic mobility. This episode provides actionable insights for professionals looking to break into startups, nonprofit leaders, and organizations focused on inclusive talent pipelines.Explore Colorwave: https://www.thecolorwave.org/ Explore Mazlo: https://www.mazlo.com/ Timestamped Overview 00:00 Founding Colorwave during 2020 05:02 Launching the first fellowship cohort 06:05 Scaling nationally through remote programming 10:21 The power of relationships in startup hiring 14:11 How the Colorwave fellowship works 17:52 Economic mobility and compensation outcomes 20:53 Storytelling and positioning for startup roles 22:03 Evaluating risk tolerance in career moves 24:38 Adapting to changes in tech and funding 26:43 Community-led growth and alumni leadership 29:17 AI upskilling and future workforce strategy#leadership #networking #network #socialimpact #founders #nonprofit #venturecapital","thumbnail_url":"https://img.transistorcdn.com/dLdLeQKAsyhiksWGcx-_m-2IyLCFbGi6IazWw66ovWM/rs:fill:0:0:1/w:400/h:400/q:60/mb:500000/aHR0cHM6Ly9pbWct/dXBsb2FkLXByb2R1/Y3Rpb24udHJhbnNp/c3Rvci5mbS8wMjcx/ZDM1NzY2MGE0MzI5/NGVhNDkwNzgwZjk3/NmNkMS5qcGc.webp","thumbnail_width":300,"thumbnail_height":300}