What's a perspective that we should pay more attention to in the workplace?
Breaking down psychological safety barriers as early as possible. Teams need to be able to feel safe to speak up, to take charge and to criticize if necessary.
What shift in mindset has allowed you to see things differently?
First-time founders are obsessed with product. Second-time founders are obsessed with distribution. This is so true, especially in B2C as B2C is not about who has the best product, but who has the best distribution, marketing and growth strategy implemented.
What book do you recommend the most?
It is a personal one, but dealing with life’s challenges, “The Untethered Soul” has had such a huge impact on my life so far that I can recommend it to every living human being.
What’s an important belief that informs the way you build and run your business?
Only through vulnerability can we create empathy and connection.
What motivated you to become an entrepreneur?
I love "0 to 1" and I love building new products and solutions for problems that have not been solved before. I love small teams, that are just forming out and I love creating a culture with in a team and company.
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Here’s More, From Other Founders Around the World
When times are tough, who or what is an anchor for you?
My co-founders are my anchor in work-related topics. Having an environment where failure is welcomed with a helping hand and where weakness is valued as openness, once you are down those people will drag you up.
What's a mistake that you're happy you've made?
When I was 16 (way before the internet) I founded a travel-partner agency to connect people from different backgrounds seeking travel companions. After a year, I had to close the agency due to a lack of customers and the confusion some callers had regarding the nature of the “service.” Despite this setback, I gained invaluable insights into sales, communication and people’s needs, solidifying my desire to run a business that helps people.
What motivated you to become an entrepreneur?
After graduating, I worked for an extremely well-paying automotive company. But I always had the feeling that there was more out there. So I quit and went into research with the aim of becoming a founder.
What should leaders understand about their own role and responsibility?
There are no overnight miracles, it's very hard work: both physically and emotionally. Requires resilience, grit, strategic approach and grind.