About this episode
Elianne Rodriguez, Executive Director of LEEAF (Los Angeles Economic Equity Accelerator & Fellowship), shares how a lifelong connection to small business—and a chance bus ride into downtown LA—sparked her mission to build more inclusive, community-rooted startup ecosystems.From selling Jordans and working multiple jobs, to launching a career in tech incubation and economic empowerment, Elianne’s story is a testament to resourcefulness, grit, and the belief that startup knowledge should be accessible to all. This episode explores her journey, the mission behind LEEAF, and what it really means to center equity in entrepreneurship.Here’s what’s covered:Growing up in a side-hustle-driven immigrant householdFinding her way into the startup world without traditional accessLaunching a tech incubator to demystify venture buildingHow LEEAF supports founders from underserved communitiesWhy language, location, and lived experience matter in program designBuilding infrastructure for entrepreneurs outside the typical startup moldThe future of equitable innovation in LA and beyondLearn more about LEEAF: https://www.calstatela.edu/leeaf
