Advisory Board
Guidance, accountability, and partnership for Unicorn Flames
Unicorn Flames' Advisory Board brings together Midwest founders and operators who are deeply invested in West Michigan's startup, creativity, and small business ecosystems. They provide guidance, accountability, and practical connections because they believe in building things that matter for our region.
Paul Schmidt
Paul Schmidt is a creative storyteller and founder of UnoDeuce Multimedia, with over a decade of experience in media production. He has worked across industries from ESPN broadcasts to nonprofit storytelling, and his passion is helping organizations share their mission through powerful video. Based in Michigan, Paul is committed to using creativity as a force for impact and community growth.
Bryce Kaiser
Bryce Kaiser is an impact-focused serial entrepreneur with experience building and scaling Michigan-based startups. He was on the early teams at Blue Medora, Varsity News Network, and 86 Repairs, and is the exited founder of Hoom House. Today, he leads Centered, a company creator focused on building high potential businesses with a balanced approach.
Chad Lawie
Chad Lawie is a technical entrepreneur and private equity investor with experience spanning mergers, acquisitions, and digital marketing. He co-founded LongerDays, a nationally recognized administrative services company acquired in 2016, and later founded WPharbor, which grew rapidly to serve a national customer base. Today, Chad leads investments in real estate and construction while continuing to advise businesses on growth and resilience.
Heather Aldridge Ibrahim
Heather Aldridge Ibrahim is a community leader whose work in affordable housing has strengthened downtown Grand Rapids. She now helps nonprofits expand their impact as a dedicated grant writer and consultant through HKI Consulting. Heather is committed to using her expertise to support organizations that build stronger, more equitable communities.
Amanda Lewan
Amanda Lewan is the co-founder of Bamboo, a leading hub for Michigan's creative and innovation ecosystem with five locations and over 1,500 members. She has launched community-led programs and conferences, including Detroit Startup Week, to expand access to capital and opportunities for founders. Recognized by Crain's Detroit and the Spirit of Detroit Award, Amanda continues to champion entrepreneurs and the growth of Michigan's startup community.
Jenna Weiler
Jenna is an experienced entrepreneur and business strategist with a gift for seeing the big picture while guiding projects through from concept to launch. She specializes in ideation, design research, workflow management, rapid prototyping, and testing. Drawing on human-centered design and systems thinking, she has helped companies and individuals navigate the launch and growth of new businesses and initiatives. Jenna is passionate about coaching others and equipping teams with the tools to transform bold ideas into sustainable ventures.