What motivates you to work as a leader / entrepreneur?
My values. I want people to feel heard, understood, and supported. Through my experience in life of not having this in moments when I needed it and knowing I can help others feel this way, it's inspiring. I also know that it doesn't take much, it's just showing someone you care a little. And it turns out that I do.
When times are tough, who or what is an anchor for you?
My network. I have a wonderful wife, a best friend, some really close friends, and a fulfilling spiritual relationship. Depending on my needs, I know I can call upon any or all of these, and do so often.
What's a mistake that you're happy you've made?
Judging others. At certain points of life, you feel like you know so much and have all the answers, when it turns out you're wrong. You don't have enough information to make these conclusions and your solutions aren't going to work "just like that." Messing up like this has allowed me to listen first, have compassion, and ask question after question. I want to get as much of the picture as I can before diving in trying to problem solve. I will always be working on this and can say I'm able to build better relationships, truly help, and gain new perspectives in the process.
What's a question you like asking — yourself or your colleagues?
"Is this in alignment with the bigger picture/ your needs / ...?" — This question allows me to keep a conversation on topic, understand what my teammate is thinking/seeing/feeling, collaborate, and get a real gauge on a situation. I learn more about potential clients, issues, expectations, and get a ton of new ideas from simply asking this question.
What’s an important belief / a guiding principle that informs the way you build and run your business?
My current favorite is to honor your f¢# yeses. If it's not a f¢# yes, it's a hell no. This will keep you from chasing things that you feel you "should do" and keep you on track to do the things you know that are right for you.
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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.