Masters of Scale LIVE! Find your Trojan horse, w/Robert F. Smith
Dec 5, 2019
Robert F. Smith, founder and CEO of Vista Equity Partners, discusses the power of purpose-driven entrepreneurship. He shares personal anecdotes illustrating how success can align with societal impact, likening businesses to 'Trojan horses' that carry deeper missions. Smith emphasizes the importance of inclusive hiring practices in talent development and highlights the transformative potential of education and community support. His insights call for integrating personal values into business strategies, fostering a collective effort toward a more equitable future.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Bused to a White School
- Robert F. Smith was bused to a predominantly white school at the age of seven as part of a desegregation program.
- Despite initial differences, he found common ground with his classmates, realizing that they were more alike than different.
One Lucky Bus
- Smith reflects on the lasting impact of the desegregation program, noting the stark difference in outcomes between those who were bused and those who were not.
- He emphasizes the importance of fundamental education and caring communities in creating opportunities for all.
Persistence at Bell Labs
- As a high school student, Robert F. Smith persistently pursued an internship at Bell Labs, calling repeatedly for five months.
- This persistence landed him the internship, where he excelled due to his dedication, mentorship from Vic Hauser, and the joy of discovery he found in problem-solving.