Stan sits down with Tom Barton, a seasoned executive with 25 years of experience in technology infrastructure and software companies. In this episode, they delve into Tom's journey, discussing everything from raising capital to managing employees and negotiating high-stakes deals. Tom shares intriguing stories from his time at Planet Labs, a space company revolutionizing satellite imagery, and Rackable Systems, which he helped take public. Learn about the unique challenges of working with millennials, navigating ethical dilemmas, and the intricate details of negotiating compensation and acquisitions in the tech industry. This conversation is packed with valuable lessons in leadership, transparency, and strategic thinking.
00:56 Tom Barton's Career at Planet Labs
02:49 Challenges with Millennial Employees
04:27 Ethical Dilemmas and Negotiations
09:12 Acquisitions and Negotiation Strategies
17:33 Transition from Operations to Venture Capital
25:19 Introduction to Todd Ford and Initial Challenges
25:36 Discovering Rackable Systems
26:25 Securing Investment and Growing the Company
27:52 Competing with Industry Giants
29:02 Innovative Solutions and Key Partnerships
33:35 Employee Growth and Compensation Challenges
37:15 Negotiation Lessons and Transparency
40:16 Taking Rackable Public and Future Ventures
40:38 Founding Antares and the Vision for Space Software
43:20 Insights on Venture Capital and Investment Strategies
47:24 Lightning Round: Personal Insights and Recommendations
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