Exit Paradox Adrien Cohen. 2x Unicorn Builder Talks Purpose After a Business Sale
Dec 28, 2023
Adrien Cohen, an accomplished entrepreneur known for building and selling Lazada for $3 billion and driving Tractable's growth, shares his profound insights. He discusses his transition from a finance career to venture philanthropy, aiming to cure paralysis. Adrien opens up about the challenges of balancing wealth and purpose, his family's journey through secretive wealth, and the emotional complexities post-business success. He also explores the need for funding in biotech and the importance of meaningful relationships in pursuing a fulfilling life.
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Childhood Privilege Fuels Drive
- Adrien Cohen felt he had "it too easy" compared to his immigrant parents who built their lives from nothing.
- This contrast drove his motivation to achieve more despite being privileged.
Quitting Goldman Sachs for Purpose
- Adrien quit his prestigious Goldman Sachs job because he hated the culture and found it meaningless.
- He preferred being a decision maker to just advising CEOs, even with uncertainty ahead.
Building Lazada From Scratch
- Adrien took $10 million from a German investor to launch Lazada, the Amazon of Southeast Asia, starting in Vietnam.
- They innovatively fulfilled orders by buying from stores and repackaging due to lack of infrastructure.
