Building a Billion Dollar Company and Weathering Economic Downturns with Ben Thompson
Jun 1, 2022
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Ben Thompson shares his journey of building a billion-dollar company, navigating economic challenges, and discussing the future of work. Insights on remote work post-COVID, startup funding struggles, and the importance of understanding SaaS unit economics. The podcast also explores favorite books, leadership qualities, space exploration, and fostering collaboration among innovators.
Resilience and grit are crucial for success in business and personal challenges.
Valuable insights from diverse perspectives can be gained by listening to different podcasts.
Leadership qualities like grit and vision are essential for business success.
Innovative business ideas like a 'remote social network' can create new opportunities.
Passion, vision, and understanding of product value are key to business idea development.
Deep dives
Favorite Book - 'The Power of One'
One of Ben's favorite books is 'The Power of One' by Bryce Courtney. He appreciates the book for its themes of resilience and overcoming tough times.
Favorite Podcast - 'All-In Podcast'
Ben enjoys the 'All-In Podcast' for the insights shared by four experienced individuals, providing valuable learning and diverse perspectives on various topics.
Favorite Bestie - Friedberg
Ben considers Friedberg as a favorite 'bestie' due to his intelligence and humility, appreciating his unique qualities compared to others with potentially larger egos.
Great Leadership Quality - Grit and Vision
Ben attributes his leadership qualities to having grit and a clear vision. He emphasizes the importance of visualizing a product, understanding its value, and being passionate about its development.
Business Idea - Remote Social Network
Ben suggests that a valuable business idea could be a 'remote social network' that connects remote employees geographically for social interactions and meaningful connections.
Craziest Adventure Moment - Proposal in Nepal
Ben recounts proposing to his wife at the peak of a mountain in Nepal, followed by experiencing altitude sickness, leading to a challenging descent from the mountain.
Invitation to Podcast
In a jesting manner, a playful question about Ben joining their podcast is asked, adding a light-hearted touch to the conversation.
Best Thing About Space - Inspiration
Ben expresses his fascination with space, citing inspiration as the best thing about it. He admires the innovation and ambition demonstrated by space-related activities, such as SpaceX's endeavors.
Yacht Name - Alliance
Ben explains that his group of companies is called the 'Alliance,' leading to the name of his yacht being aligned with the brand name and theme of collaboration and shared opportunities.
Ben Thompson is the business mastermind between many amazing companies including the unicorn Employment Hero. We got into his origin story, the birth of Employment Hero, key business learnings, the future of work, downturn in tech markets and advice for young people. This isn’t an episode you want to miss.
