The entrepreneurial spotlight shines again this Thursday, September 11, 2025, at 7 PM ET on Cheddar TV, as Go Fund Yourself returns with Episode 6 of Season 3. Each week, the series blends entrepreneurship and entertainment, putting bold founders face-to-face with seasoned Titans Rory Cutaia, David Meltzer, and Jayson Waller. For viewers, it’s part Shark Tank, part reality drama. For entrepreneurs, it’s the opportunity of a lifetime.
This week’s lineup is all about community and craft: one startup reimagines how parents connect and grow, while the other takes a fresh swing at the booming craft spirits industry.
Illoominate: Parenting in the Digital Age
Parenting doesn’t come with a manual, but Illoominate is trying to change that. The company has built a parenting companion app designed to help caregivers learn, reflect, and connect with one another.
At the heart of Illoominate is a blend of education and empathy: a daily “Thought of the Day” for quick inspiration, blogs written by both experts and fellow parents, and interactive activities that strengthen bonds between children and caregivers. A private reflection journal rounds out the experience, encouraging parents to track progress and see their own growth over time.
Born from Bright Start Ed-Tech, Illoominate is more than just another app, it’s designed to scale. With the ability to expand into B2B partnerships (think school systems or employee wellness perks), it has multiple pathways for growth while still prioritizing peer-to-peer connection and moderated community spaces.
In a world where parents are often overwhelmed, isolated, and bombarded with conflicting advice, Illoominate is aiming to be the digital safe haven that builds confidence and resilience. Learn more about investment opportunities here.
Hook Hand Rum: A Spirit with a Story
On the other end of the spectrum, but equally committed to connection, is Hook Hand Rum, a family-owned craft spirit born in Dana Point, California.
Founded by two longtime bartenders with a deep love for hospitality, Hook Hand Rum pairs hands-on experience behind the bar with the marketing expertise of family members, including co-founder Andrew’s dad, Dan. Their flagship product is infused with blood orange and Madagascar vanilla, creating a smooth, premium spirit with a distinctive flavor profile.
But Hook Hand Rum isn’t just about what’s in the bottle, it’s about the story. With branding rooted in family, creativity, and the joy of bringing people together, the company is crafting not only spirits but also a lifestyle. Positioned for both retail distribution and on-premise placement in restaurants and bars, the challenge ahead will be scaling production, breaking into new markets, and navigating the crowded craft spirits space. Yet their hospitality-first DNA and storytelling edge give them a fighting chance to stand out. Investment information is here.
Titans, Tension, and Takeaways
Of course, no Go Fund Yourself episode would be complete without the Titans. Rory Cutaia, a seasoned entrepreneur and creator of the show, brings his sharp eye for scale and innovation. David Meltzer, known for his mix of business acumen and motivational wisdom, never shies from pressing founders on their vision and values. And Jayson Waller, the outspoken CEO who built and sold billion-dollar companies, brings a raw, unfiltered perspective on what it takes to succeed.
For founders like Illoominate and Hook Hand Rum, stepping onto this stage means more than pitching, it’s a test of clarity, grit, and adaptability. Can they tell their story in a way that cuts through? Can they convince investors that their product isn’t just good but scalable? And can they capture the imagination of viewers who might just become their next customers?
Why It Matters
Since its debut, Go Fund Yourself has become a must-watch for entrepreneurs and dreamers alike. For startups, the national exposure can be as valuable as the funding itself. The show has already helped companies secure investors, land partnerships, and build loyal customer bases simply by telling their stories on screen.
Episode 6 is no exception. By showcasing two very different ventures — one focused on the personal journey of parenting, the other on the collective experience of sharing a great drink — this week highlights the diversity of innovation and the universal power of storytelling.
Miss the live pitch? Watch the replay here. Want your shot on stage? Apply for Go Fund Yourself here.
