PODCAST E. 31 | Let’s Talk Impact With Christine Mastrangelo @ Cue Ball Capital
ABOUT CHRISTINE MASTRANGELO:
Christine Mastrangelo is a Partner at Cue Ball Capital, an early-stage investment firm bringing a purpose-driven, people-first and more patient approach to supporting entrepreneurs. Focusing on opportunities that shape new categories and shift cultural perceptions across technology, media and consumer brands, the firm is anchored by an evergreen capital base that allows for long-term transformation and impact. Christine originates and supports women-led and focused ventures and was on the founding team of MiniLuxe, the clean beauty brand that is elevating the nail care industry, where she played both operational and brand leader roles.
Prior to Cue Ball, Christine was an educator and creative writer. She is co-chair of the Boston Book Festival and has served as a mentor for the Tory Burch Foundation and Boston University’s Innovation Lab, where she received her undergraduate degree. Christine is a mom of two and lives in MA with her family.
ABOUT CUE BALL CAPITAL:
We started Cue Ball because we believe in the power of people and ideas, but feel that the structures for capitalizing them are dated. They’re too short-term, too insular and more financial-centric than human-centric. As entrepreneurs, we wanted another choice – one more purposeful, people-first, and truly patient.
We seek entrepreneurial passion meeting human perspective. Purpose and profit are not natural enemies, but allies to fuel each other. Our progressive and patient investment model endorses diverse entrepreneurs taking on category-defining and culturally-shifting ideas. Anchored by evergreen capital, we can take the long view. Microwave capitalism just isn’t us.
Venture growth is best when it turns to durable growth.We love this goal. Eleanor Roosevelt said, “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.”
Let’s make big change happen together.
ABOUT THE PODCAST:
Let’s Talk Impact is a podcast series that explores the intersection of entrepreneurship and social impact. Hosted by Justyna Kedra and produced by The New School’s Impact Entrepreneurship Initiative and WERULE, the podcast features interviews with a diverse range of changemakers. From government officials to activists and entrepreneurs, these guests share their insights on the evolving definition of impactful work and the motivations driving their efforts. By focusing on the stories behind the initiatives, Let’s Talk Impact aims to inspire and inform listeners about the power of entrepreneurship to create positive change in the world.
ABOUT THE HOST:
Justyna Kedra, the founder of WERULE, received her BFA degree from Parsons the New School where she successfully finished their toughest major: Fashion Design. Since then she worked in Public Relations with celebrities ranging from Jeremy Scott, Lady Gaga to Madonna at People’s Revolution under the wing of Kelly Cutrone. Justyna is also no stranger to the corporate world working for 6 years in financial services at American Express generating over 20 Billion in acquisitions for Centurion, Platinum, Green Cards as well features such as their most successful “Employee Card” treatment. She also served as an advisor to the American Express’ President of US Consumer Services on topics related to the team’s culture.
She is a mentor & a team member at The New School’s Impact Entrepreneurship Initiative and a mentor at the Tory Burch Foundation, the AARP Foundation x Bridge for Billions program for aspiring founders over 50. Because of her work, she was recognized as the youngest Champion of Change at the United Nations. A book she co-authored with Erika De La Cruz, Editor in Chief at The La Girl, has become a bestseller across multiple categories and is available at Barnes and Noble.
Justyna also hosts a podcast, a collaboration between WERULE and The New School’s Impact Entrepreneurship Initiative, called Let’s Talk Impact, which was in the top 5% most shared podcasts globally according to Spotify Wrapped.
ABOUT IMPACT ENTREPRENEURSHIP INITIATIVE:
The Impact Entrepreneurship Initiative (IEI) at The New School fosters a transformative approach to business and social change. We equip students with the skills to create innovative, inclusive, and sustainable ventures that address pressing global challenges. Through our interdisciplinary curriculum, experiential learning opportunities, and strong community partnerships, we empower students to become agents of positive change and build a more equitable world.
ABOUT WERULE:
WERULE is a global platform dedicated to connecting individuals with life-changing mentors. Founded in 2015, they started by sharing stories of successful female entrepreneurs, becoming a recognized resource for women seeking inspiration and guidance. Today, WERULE offers a wider range of resources, including an AI-powered mentorship app used by businesses and organizations worldwide. Their mission is to make mentorship accessible to everyone, regardless of background or stage in life. They believe in the transformative power of mentorship and strive to create a world where everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
HOSTED BY: Justyna Kedra (@thisisjustyna) & Kosi Dunn
PRODUCED BY: Janusz Kedra
Questions on our events, podcast, blog or Impact Entrepreneurship Initiative? Email Justyna Kedra at justyna@newschool.edu