Leadership, Funding, and Exit Strategy with Maria Thompson - Episode 22
Wed Jan 28 2026
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.
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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.