E6: Alton McDowell & Leyonna Barba of J.P. Morgan

“Founders solve problems that they can relate to. Either it’s personally impacted them, or someone in the family, or a friend. When you listen to that story, it’s inspiring.”

Between the two of them, Alton McDowell and Leyonna Barba have been at J.P. Morgan for over four decades. These days, Alton is the Co-Head of the Technology and Disruptive Commerce Group (Middle Markets) — Leyonna is a New York Market Executive within the same group. J.P. Morgan is truly an institution, dating back to the turn of the 19th century. We at Air are honored that they’ve partnered with us for this second season of Out to Lunch. The reasons why they chose to do so are crystal-clear here in Shane’s discussion with Alton and Leyonna. Above all, it’s a belief in the potential of passionate individuals — founders — to change the world, and the importance of increasing the diversity of that group. Shane sits down with Alton and Leyonna to discuss the necessity of amplifying founders’ stories, boosting founders with diverse backgrounds through J.P. Morgan’s deep network, and how operating out of New York can increase the impact of your actions.