WTOP News announces the launch of a new podcast

“Founding DC” presented by NFP celebrates local entrepreneurs with an inside look at the journey of building successful ventures in the DMV

Washington, D.C. – WTOP News today announced the launch of “Founding DC” presented by NFP, a dynamic podcast hosted by local restaurateur and entrepreneur Dan Simons. This innovative series dives into the stories behind some of the D.C. area’s most successful business ventures. Recorded in front of a live studio audience, the podcast will feature candid and lively conversations with local founders, exploring the highs, lows, and in-betweens of their entrepreneurial journeys. 

The “Founding DC” inaugural episodes feature exclusive and meaningful conversations with distinguished guests Seth Goldman—co-founder of Eat the Change and Honest Tea, and chair of Beyond Meat—and Mark Ein—entrepreneur, Chairman of Kastle Systems, and minority owner of the Washington Commanders.

Each episode of “Founding DC” will explore the beginnings of these ventures, the core values that shape their leaders, and the innovative strategies driving their achievements and so much more. Listeners will gain valuable insights as guests share their triumphs, setbacks, and lessons learned along the way. From exploring missed opportunities to reflecting on game-changing failures, “Founding DC” presented by NFP,aims to inspire and inform both current and aspiring entrepreneurs.

“Our mission with ‘Founding DC’ is to pay it forward by spotlighting the unique paths forged by local founders,” said Dan Simons, co-founder of Founding Farmers. “By sharing their stories, we hope to spark new ideas and connections, and ultimately celebrate the spirit of entrepreneurship that makes our community thrive.”

Each episode of “Founding DC” presented by NFP, will be recorded at WTOP Studios in Chevy Chase, MD, before an exclusive audience of approximately 50 local business leaders and influencers.

“As part of the community, WTOP News is a leader in engaging audiences across the region.” President of WTOP News, Joel Oxley. “With this endeavor we’re raising the profile of entrepreneurship in D.C. by connecting the local people and stories that make up the heart of D.C.’s thriving business community through content that is both interactive and multimedia.”

Join us as we celebrate the entrepreneurs shaping the future of Washington, D.C. Subscribe to “Founding DC” presented by NFP, on your favorite podcast platform and visit  WTOP News for updates and featured highlights. Shulman Rogers is a supporting sponsor of “Founding DC.”

About Dan Simons: Dan Simons is the co-founder and CEO of the Farmers Restaurant Group (FRG), which includes the popular Founding Farmers restaurants. With seven current locations, and a new location opening this March in Alexandria, FRG is best known for its award-winning farmer-owned restaurants, distillery, and catering company. Committed to sustainability, community engagement, and hospitality excellence, Dan brings a thoughtful, human-centered approach to the podcast. His engaging interview style encourages guests to share the personal and professional experiences that make their ventures exceptional.

About WTOP News:

WTOP has served the Washington region as the leading source for news, traffic and weather 24/7 for over 50 years, since 1969. Delivering timely, fact-based news across multiple platforms, WTOP can be heard on-air, online and across social channels and is committed to informing and inspiring its audience every day. WTOP and its sister news operation, Federal News Network, are owned by Hubbard Radio, LLC.