B Randall Willis has Seen and Influenced the Evolution of Digital Media

Summary

In this conversation, Jothy Rosenberg interviews B Randall Willis, discussing topics such as the importance of a name, their backgrounds in Detroit and Boston, the evolution of digital media, the characteristics of successful startups, the role of processes in startups, and the importance of storytelling and grit in entrepreneurship.

Takeaways

The importance of one's name and its impact on personal and professional identity

The influence of Detroit and Boston on his entrepreneurial journeys

The evolution of digital media and the challenges and opportunities it presents

The characteristics of successful startups, including a good idea, strong leadership, and adequate funding

The role of processes in startups and the need for a balance between structure and flexibility

The power of storytelling in engaging audiences and conveying a company's value proposition

The importance of grit and perseverance in the face of challenges and setbacks

Sound Bites

"My records got completely screwed up [because of my name]. Everything was under a different name."

"The internet as a business center has gotten extremely complicated."

"Is it a good idea and is the market receptive to that good idea?”

Links

B Randall’s RightAngle Consulting: https://therightangleconsulting.com/

Please leave us a review: https://www.podchaser.com/AdventuresOnTheCanDo

The book Think Like a Startup Founder (early access): https://www.manning.com/books/think-like-a-startup-founder

Jothy’s site for speaking, podcasting, and ruminating: https://jothyrosenberg.com

Jothy’s non-profit foundation The Who Says I Can’t Foundation: https://whosaysicant.org

Jothy’s TEDx talk on why people with a disability over-achieve: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PNtOawXAx5A

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and The Significance of a Name

03:04 From Detroit to Boston: An Entrepreneurial Journey

07:41 Characteristics of Successful Startups

22:23 The Power of Storytelling in Entrepreneurship

29:36 The Role of Grit in Startup Success