TEDCO’s YouTube series is entering its second year. Watch these 5 key episodes from its first

You probably already know of at least one CEO who regularly publishes insightful interviews with tech and startup ecosystem thought leaders. But what about one who posts an interview with … themself in a Black Panther mask?

Assuming you don’t, meet Troy LeMaile-Stovall, who in summer 2020 took over the top job at Columbia-based TEDCO. In addition to his work leading the Maryland legislature-created entity, which offers funding and other support resources for startups and tech companies throughout the state, LeMaile-Stovall also hosts “TEDCO Talks,” an interview series and podcast in which he picks the brains of Maryland’s educational, finance and tech leaders.

That series is now commencing its second year, according to a statement TEDCO released Wednesday. During that first year, the series was a finalist for a BioBuzz media award that LeMaile-Stovall said “recognizes programs and campaigns that successfully engage, inform and connect our region.”

“We look forward to building on that success as we continue to hold meaningful, thoughtful conversations with innovative STEM entrepreneurs and leaders across the great state of Maryland,” he continued in the statement. 

“You take some risks when you start a new program; we’re so glad this one paid off with a loyal following and the BioBuzz recognition,” TEDCO’s chief marketing and communications officer Tammi Thomas added.

All the episodes are available via TEDCO’s YouTube page, as well as in audio/podcast form via iHeartRadio, Spotify and Apple. Before more episodes debut, here’s a quintet from the prior year (the first of which went online the same day of the announcement) whose interviewees reflect a cross-section of Maryland’s entrepreneurial and STEM leaders:

David Speer, executive director of the Maryland/Israel Development Center

Ellen Flowers-Fields, associate VP of the College of Southern Maryland

Nasir Qadree, founder of DC-area VC firm Zeal Capital Partners

Janet Currie, president of Bank of America in Greater Maryland

Claire Broido Johnson, managing director of the Maryland Momentum Fund

And just for fun, here’s that aforementioned interview with Black Wyyyldcat (aka LeMaile-Stovall in a Black Panther mask).