Contributors

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Co-host

Philipp Willigmann

 Philipp is the Managing Partner of U-Path, a venture advisory firm specializing in corporate innovation, CVC strategy, and scaling high-growth companies. With over $350M deployed into startups—including two unicorns—he has helped Fortune 500s turn innovation into new business units. A passionate advocate for inclusive innovation, Philipp brings personal experience and professional leadership in accessibility, having led D&I initiatives at Deloitte and chaired Vontier’s Disability ERG. Today, he continues to bridge innovation and inclusion through venture investing and cross-border partnerships that drive impact across the U.S., Europe, and Asia. 

http://www.u-path.com/
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Co-host

Steve Schmith

Steve Schmith is a recognized expert and trusted strategist in the automotive and mobility industries, with more than 25 years of experience helping brands navigate change, drive growth, and stay ahead of the curve. He has built a career advising OEMs, dealers, and industry partners on how to connect business goals with emerging trends—translating insight into actionable strategy.


The former host of the Automotive News Daily Drive podcast, Steve has been a featured speaker at major industry events including CES and Digital Dealer. He is an expert contributor for Dealer Marketing Magazine, and has been featured on CBT News, Automotive News, and other leading platforms.


With a deep understanding of the forces reshaping automotive. manufacturing and the future of mobility, Steve brings clarity, strategic focus, and proven expertise to every challenge—making him a valued voice on insights shaping tomorrow.

Guests

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Guest

Benjamin Qiu

At Elliott Kwok Levine Jaroslaw Neils LLP, Benjamin and his team navigate complex CFIUS regulations, providing strategic legal advice that protects clients' interests amid changing geopolitical landscapes. Our collaborative efforts in fundraising initiatives enable organizations to secure essential capital, reflecting our commitment to clients' sustained growth and success.

In his role as Co-Chair of the Asian Affairs Committee, Benjamin offers nuanced perspectives on the intricate legal dynamics within Asian markets, contributing to the New York City Bar Association's understanding of foreign operations' challenges. Leveraging his language fluency, he bridges cultural and legal gaps, ensuring that the diverse needs of international stakeholders are met with expertise and foresight.

https://linkedin.com/in/benjaminqiu

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Guest

J. Carl Ganter

Carl Ganter leads operations, field work, and special projects at Circle of Blue. An award-winning journalist and photojournalist, his work has appeared in Time, National Geographic, Rolling Stone, and major broadcast networks. He holds an MSJ from Northwestern’s Medill School of Journalism and is a graduate of the University’s American Studies Program. Carl is a member of the World Economic Forum’s Global Future Council on the Energy Nexus and formerly served as vice chair of its Global Agenda Council on Water Security. He’s presented at Davos, Aspen Ideas Festival, Techonomy, and other major global forums. A recipient of the Rockefeller Foundation’s Centennial Innovation Award and a fellow of the Explorers Club, Carl blends storytelling with systems thinking to elevate the global conversation around water. He’s often found near the waters of northwest Michigan—or photographing from a small plane. 

https://www.circleofblue.org/

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