#098 - Bridging Communication Gaps: The Hi There Solutions Story with Chase and John Prieve

SummaryIn this episode of the AdaptX Podcast, Brendan Aylward speaks with Chase and John Prieve, founders of Hi There Solutions, a company dedicated to creating communication solutions for the deaf and hard of hearing community. They discuss their personal connections to the deaf community, the development of their products Hi There and Just Talk, and the challenges they face in scaling their business while ensuring compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The conversation highlights the importance of community feedback, the need for awareness in the market, and their vision for the future of accessibility technology.TakeawaysHi There Solutions was inspired by personal experiences with hearing loss.The company offers two main products: Hi There and Just Talk.Hi There provides instant video calling with captions in multiple languages.Just Talk facilitates face-to-face communication between deaf and hearing individuals.The business model includes both B2C and B2B approaches.Compliance with the ADA is crucial for businesses using their technology.The founders emphasize the importance of community feedback in product development.Funding challenges are common for startups in the accessibility space.The company aims to expand its reach to various industries and communities.Future plans include innovations in education, music, and gaming.Chapters00:00Introduction to Hi There Solutions00:49The Origin Story of Hi There Solutions04:55Understanding the Business Model and Compliance11:55Challenges in Accessibility and Business Expansion17:20Demonstrating Value Beyond the Deaf Community22:33Overcoming Entrepreneurial Challenges25:02Navigating Software Development as Non-Technical Founders26:02Funding and Scaling Challenges26:53Targeting Diverse Business Verticals27:53The Importance of the Deaf Olympics30:13Fitness Industry's Role in Accessibility31:56Leveraging University Resources for Growth32:59Challenges with Major Tech Companies34:58The Spark of Innovation from Personal Experience35:51Improving Fitness Accessibility for All37:48Vision for the Future of Hi There SolutionsJust Talk! : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n_4S5uhstu0 Hi There!!! : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-yhNWknAWNA Website: www.hitheresolutions.com Hi There Solutions Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hithere_solutions/?hl=en