How I Built This with Guy Raz

Alienware: Frank Azor and Nelson Gonzalez

8 snips
Dec 12, 2022
Nelson Gonzalez and Frank Azor, co-founders of Alienware, share their remarkable journey from a small Miami shop to a leading gaming PC company. They recount their unique entry into a market dominated by traditional PCs, fueled by the passion for gaming and innovation. The duo discusses overcoming early financial hurdles and the art of personalizing gaming experiences. Their unexpected acquisition by Dell brought new challenges but also spurred growth, showcasing the importance of teamwork and perseverance in entrepreneurship. Dive into their inspiring story of success!
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ANECDOTE

Banking Challenges

  • Alienware's early business model involved online orders and credit cards, which was unusual in Miami then.
  • Banks often held their money, suspecting their legitimacy due to their location and innovative practices.
ANECDOTE

Board Game Hustle

  • Nelson Gonzalez and Alex Aguila created and sold a pro-wrestling board game.
  • They sold hundreds of copies via mail order, realizing this model's potential.
ANECDOTE

Sakai of Miami

  • Nelson Gonzalez started Sakai of Miami, a custom PC-building business, with Fabian Santistema.
  • Initially, they relied on friends, family, and word-of-mouth for customers.
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