From Startup Sunglasses to the Commencement Stage: Stephen Lease Returns to MSU Denver as Alumni Keynote Speaker Featuron BirdTalk

The MSU Denver Alumni Association is proud to feature Stephen Lease (’16), entrepreneur, CEO, and co-founder of goodr, in the newest episode of BirdTalk, the university’s official alumni podcast highlighting Roadrunners making an impact in business, culture, and beyond.

Hosted by Jamie Hurst, the episode revisits Lease’s unconventional journey from MSU Denver marketing student to leading goodr, a globally recognized active eyewear brand known for its bold culture and accessible price point. Lease reflects on the failures, pivots, and “starts and stops” that shaped his path as a serial entrepreneur, and how a simple question on a run ultimately led to building a category-defining company.

A Colorado native and graduate of the College of Business, Lease credits MSU Denver with helping lay the foundation for his career while also embracing his nonlinear academic journey, including a delayed graduation that ultimately became a defining part of his Roadrunner story.

In the episode, Lease also dives into the philosophy behind goodr’s distinctive company culture—ranging from  “safe friction” and structured problem-solving sessions designed to embrace challenges head-on. He also discusses leadership, vulnerability, and the importance of building environments where honesty and accountability drive growth.

Throughout the conversation, Lease reflects on what it means to be a Roadrunner and how MSU Denver’s accessibility shaped his ability to pursue opportunity. “I am incredibly proud of the accessibility this school has provided me,” he shares, emphasizing the value of an institution that meets students where they are.

The episode also serves as a preview of Lease’s role as alumni keynote speaker at Spring 2026 MSU Denver commencement, where he will return to campus to address graduates and share insights from his entrepreneurial journey.

This episode blends leadership lessons, startup storytelling, and reflections on culture, creativity, and reinvention, offering a candid look at how MSU Denver alumni continue to shape industries long after graduation.

The episode is now available on all major podcast platforms and here.

BirdTalk is MSU Denver’s official alumni podcast, sharing stories of Roadrunners advancing in entrepreneurship, business, aviation, and public service. To listen to this episode or explore more alumni success stories, visit https://www.msudenver.edu/alumni/birdtalk/