C2 Biz Growth
C2 Biz Growth features insightful information and lessons learned from entrepreneurs and CEOs who are growing and scaling their companies. We realize that being the CEO and leader can be a lonely position. However, Success breeds Success and our conversations with men and women on the “entrepreneurial battlefield” will inform, inspire, and drive you to keep marching onward and upward.
C2 Biz Growth is hosted by John Hale III, Founder and CEO of The Cornerstone Group, a business advisory and strategy consulting firm specializing in enhancing companies’ ability to accelerate growth and scale their businesses.
C2 Biz Growth
Leadership, Funding, and Exit Strategy with Maria Thompson - Episode 22
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Episode 22 of C2 Biz Growth, hosted by John Hale III, features an inspiring and deeply practical conversation with entrepreneur and venture partner Maria Thompson.
Maria shares her remarkable journey from a fine arts and industrial design background to building and scaling TJ Technologies into a nationally recognized alternative energy company, ultimately acquired by A123 Systems. She opens up about early funding rejections, the persistence required to survive as a founder, and why securing government funding can be a powerful alternative to traditional venture capital.
The discussion explores leadership, corporate governance, board dynamics, and the importance of building strong teams and relationships. Maria also breaks down acquisition readiness, exit strategy planning, and why bold decision making often creates unexpected opportunities.
This episode is packed with real world lessons for CEOs, founders, and emerging leaders navigating growth, funding, and long-term impact.