Transforming Visions into Realities
For many of us, life’s journey takes many paths. My career has significantly shifted from finance and banking to entrepreneurship. I began in finance and later ventured into entrepreneurship after gaining valuable experience in venture capital.
My roots are in Dublin, but I was raised in the vibrant streets of New York City. Life’s adventures led me to San Francisco, Lin, and Barcelona. Over a decade, I immersed myself in the European startup ecosystems, gaining a global perspective that I now bring back to the Bay Area.
Mentorship has been a cornerstone of my journey, particularly in Digital Health and Cannabis. I’ve had the honor of guiding and supporting startups, playing a pivotal role in the growth and development of these industries across Europe, the Middle East, and West Africa.
Upon returning to San Francisco, I recognized the significance of referral networking and hyperlocal marketing. At Understanding eCommerce, we focus on building connections within the community to drive business growth and establish a strong local presence.
My experiences, from my beginnings in finance to my entrepreneurial endeavors and mentorship efforts, have shaped my marketing and business development approach. We bring this collective experience, specifically tailored for the digital health, startup, cannabis, and hyperlocal industries, to our projects, instilling confidence in our understanding of each sector’s unique needs.
Mike possesses a remarkable fusion of deep expertise and skills rooted in his venture capital background. He has a keen understanding of business development grounded in solid fundamentals. Known for his razor-sharp intellect, Mike is refreshingly direct and concise in his approach. His clients fondly refer to him as the “Dr. Phil of Business,” appreciating his candid and straightforward style, which remains unflinching whether the truth is easy to hear or not.
– Melinda Zumski – Zumifi
Bernal Connect – Bernal Heights Community Hub
As proud residents of Bernal Heights, we’ve developed a hyperlocal platform connecting neighbors with local businesses, community events, and volunteer opportunities. This digital marketplace has helped strengthen our neighborhood’s economy while fostering meaningful connections among residents.
At Bernal Connect, we believe the journey to success should not be walked alone. Entrepreneurship is challenging yet crucial to our communities’ growth. We are on a mission to make it more accessible and less daunting.
CannaList Network – Cannabis
Our industry series explores the evolving cannabis landscape, focusing on medical research, policy reform, and social equity. Through business case studies, interviews, and storytelling, we’re working to destigmatize cannabis use while promoting responsible consumption and evidence-based education.
Networking within the Cannabis Community
Greening Projects – Supporting Sustainability
We follow the transformations of neglected city lots into thriving community gardens, documenting how residents build food security while reducing their carbon footprints. Working alongside urban farming experts and community organizers, we track the impact on neighborhood resilience and biodiversity.
We are dedicated professionals who provide consulting and other support services to create green, sustainable spaces within our urban environment. Our clients include community groups and individuals who wish to improve their neighborhoods and cities by enhancing the environment and engaging their communities. We assist them by providing professional services, such as planning, development, design, project and construction management.
Seasons of Pride – LGBTQ+ Rights & Resources
In partnership with advocacy groups, we’re building a comprehensive online resource center for LGBTQ+ individuals facing discrimination. The platform will provide legal information, mental health resources, and community support networks while documenting personal stories highlighting the ongoing need for equal rights protection.
Seasons of Pride supports diversity in the workplace through free QUEER jobs listings and free directories – gay and lesbian businesses, LGBTQ Freelancers, and Rainbow Travel – for the Queer Community.
Startup Stories: San Francisco Edition
Startup Stories: San Francisco Edition is dedicated to exploring the dynamic world of startups and venture capital in the San Francisco Bay Area. Recognized as a global hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, the San Francisco region has given rise to countless groundbreaking companies, disruptive technologies, and visionary founders.
This Week in Digital Health
Every week, we explore the transformative world of digital health startups and how technology is reshaping patient care, clinical workflows, and healthcare delivery. Through intimate conversations with founders, clinicians, and investors, our podcast uncovers the stories behind breakthrough innovations and hard-earned lessons from the frontlines of healthcare transformation.
Standing Out from the Crowd
Beginning in finance and venturing into entrepreneurship after gaining valuable experience in venture capital, I’ve navigated diverse landscapes. Though Dublin is my birthplace, the vibrant streets of New York City shaped my upbringing. My adventures led me to San Francisco, Berlin, and Barcelona, immersing myself in European startup ecosystems over a decade. Armed with a global perspective, I bring these insights back to the Bay Area.
Drawing on two decades of digital marketing expertise, we’ve embarked on a new journey focused on passion projects that deeply resonate with our values. Our initiatives range from strengthening our beloved Bernal Heights community in San Francisco to advocating for LGBTQ+ rights during challenging political times and empowering nonprofits to achieve their missions. Through this platform, we’ll share candid insights about our successes, failures, and the strategic thinking that drives our work.
