The Distinguished Entrepreneurs Lunch (DEL) program brings together students and entrepreneurs for candid conversations about the realities of building a business. Speakers range from UW–Madison alumni to founders and CEOs of high-growth companies, all united by their entrepreneurial mindset. This semester’s lineup offered honest reflections on both successes and setbacks, reminding students that entrepreneurship is as much about resilience as it is about innovation.
The semester began with Ralph Kauten, whose leadership roles at Promega and Lucigen have helped advance Wisconsin’s biotechnology landscape. He discussed co-founding the Valency Fund, a venture firm focused on helping young companies scale. Ralph encouraged students to embrace opportunities at the intersection of science, business, and leadership, sharing lessons learned from a career devoted to innovation.
Rich Scudellari followed with insights into his work across top investment firms such as TPG and Morgan Stanley and his entrepreneurial ventures in the creator economy. He described his path to becoming a Founding Partner at Penny Jar Capital, where he guides strategy, investor engagement, and deal execution. Drawing on his work with SC30 Inc., Stephen Curry’s business platform, Rich offered thoughtful perspectives on navigating finance, technology, and early-stage entrepreneurship.
We then welcomed David Epstein, a seasoned entrepreneur who has led companies across multiple industries. From his first job as a dishwasher to becoming President and CEO of Deli, Inc., North America’s leading sphagnum moss supplier, David highlighted the importance of curiosity and continuous learning. A Wisconsin School of Business alum and dedicated philanthropist, he encouraged students to absorb as much knowledge as possible at every stage in their careers.
Amy Jo Pedone shared how she left corporate America to pursue her passion for chocolate. Combining creativity with business expertise, she built Valenza Chocolatier, an award-winning artisan chocolate company known for its authentic Italian-inspired confections. Amy urged students to follow what excites them and trust that their skills will grow alongside their ambitions.
Grace Wang continued this theme by describing how her love for dogs, especially her own dog Beni (who she brought with her!), sparked the creation of Petphoria. What began as a search for organic treats has evolved into a luxury pet lifestyle brand celebrated for high-quality ingredients and thoughtful design. Along with running Petphoria, Grace also works full-time as a Sourcing and Procurement Consultant at American Family Insurance. She emphasized the importance of taking risks, managing balance, and finding work that brings joy.
Kelly Weight built on the idea of purpose-driven work by discussing how her passion for helping people inspired her to create Brillect. She explained how empathy, authenticity, and connection anchor her approach to leadership. Kelly encouraged students to stay curious, trust in their values, and remember the meaningful impact they can have on others.
Shayna Heitzel reflected on a career centered on collaboration and community-building. She shared experiences from helping lead the $100 million referendum to reimagine UW–Madison’s student unions to championing statewide venture capital initiatives that support underrepresented founders. Shayna highlighted the importance of partnership and intentional action, reminding students that innovation thrives when everyone has the opportunity to participate.
Kevin Scharnek brought high energy as he recounted his journey from selling T-shirts on campus to leading 14 West, a company known for world-class retail displays and branded merchandise for clients such as Miller Brewing Company, Kohl’s, and Milwaukee Electric Tool. He shared the creativity, risk-taking, and perseverance behind each business he launched, encouraging students to work hard, take bold chances, and never give up.
Ed Harris followed with stories from his early days launching Persoft, one of the fastest-growing software companies of the 1980s, to founding Financial Fitness Group and later Synnovation LLC, where he develops real-world solutions through 3D printing. He spoke about recognizing shifts in technology and embracing change, encouraging students to stay curious and continue building new ideas.
We wrapped up the semester with Jazmynn Appleton, who shared her inspiring journey as an entrepreneur, author, speaker, and community advocate. Beginning her career in the credit union industry, she later became a certified life coach and co-founded FOCUS, an accelerator supporting Black entrepreneurs across Wisconsin. She spoke about empowering women through financial education, helping founders secure storefronts, and expanding opportunities for success. Jazmynn also reflected on her work as a nationally recognized speaker and best-selling co-author of Wish We Had Known, Volume 2. Her message centered on confidence, community, and having the courage to pursue new paths.
We are deeply grateful to all the entrepreneurs who shared their time, experiences, and insights with our students this semester.
We also extend our sincere appreciation to Neider & Boucher, S.C., for their continued sponsorship of the Distinguished Entrepreneurs Lunch Program since the first lunch in fall 2013. Their support makes this program possible, and we are truly thankful for their commitment.
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