Silicon Slopes | Leaders Interviewing Leaders Washie CEO Rob Poleki
Sep 23, 2024
43:05
In this episode of our podcast, we dive deep into the inspiring journey of Rob, the founder of Washie, a revolutionary toilet seat that prioritizes hygiene and convenience. Rob shares his heartfelt story about his late friend, an entrepreneur who left a lasting impact on his life and the startup community.
Join us as we explore Rob's entrepreneurial path, from his initial idea sparked at the Salt Lake City Airport to the challenges he faced while launching his product. He candidly discusses the emotional toll of entrepreneurship, the importance of mental health, and the support systems that helped him navigate tough times.
Rob also recounts his unique experience of traveling to China with a local waiter, his journey on Shark Tank, and the pivotal moments that led to Washei's recent success in the market. With insights on building a business, the significance of community, and the lessons learned along the way, this episode is a must-listen for aspiring entrepreneurs and anyone interested in the realities of startup life.
00:00 - Introduction and Tribute to GLAAD
00:30 - Connection with GLAAD
01:15 - First Impressions of GLAAD
02:00 - The Entrepreneurial Journey Together
03:00 - The Impact of GLAAD's Passing
04:00 - Mental Health in Entrepreneurship
05:30 - Rob's Journey as an Entrepreneur
06:00 - The Founding Story of Washie
08:00 - Challenges Faced on Shark Tank
10:00 - The Decision to Keep Going
12:00 - The Role of YouTube in Learning
15:00 - Manufacturing and the Trip to China
18:00 - Building Relationships in China
20:00 - Funding and the COVID Impact
22:00 - Raising Money and Building a Community
24:00 - First Major Sales Win
26:00 - The Importance of Clean Restrooms
28:00 - Future Opportunities for Washie
30:00 - Overcoming Low Points
32:00 - Family Challenges and Moving to Utah
34:00 - Dealing with Bullying
36:00 - Reflections on Mental Health
38:00 - Looking Ahead for Washie
40:00 - The Value of the Entrepreneurial Journey
42:00 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts
If you enjoyed this video and want to support us please leave a LIKE, write a comment on this video and Share it with your friends. Subscribe to our channel on YouTube and click the icon for notifications when we add a new video. Let us know in the comments if you have any questions.
Our website: https://www.siliconslopes.com
Show Links: https://www.washiepro.com
Social:
Twitter - https://twitter.com/siliconslopes
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/siliconslopes/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/silicon-slopes/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8aEtQ1KJrWhJ3C2JnzXysw
Join us as we explore Rob's entrepreneurial path, from his initial idea sparked at the Salt Lake City Airport to the challenges he faced while launching his product. He candidly discusses the emotional toll of entrepreneurship, the importance of mental health, and the support systems that helped him navigate tough times.
Rob also recounts his unique experience of traveling to China with a local waiter, his journey on Shark Tank, and the pivotal moments that led to Washei's recent success in the market. With insights on building a business, the significance of community, and the lessons learned along the way, this episode is a must-listen for aspiring entrepreneurs and anyone interested in the realities of startup life.
00:00 - Introduction and Tribute to GLAAD
00:30 - Connection with GLAAD
01:15 - First Impressions of GLAAD
02:00 - The Entrepreneurial Journey Together
03:00 - The Impact of GLAAD's Passing
04:00 - Mental Health in Entrepreneurship
05:30 - Rob's Journey as an Entrepreneur
06:00 - The Founding Story of Washie
08:00 - Challenges Faced on Shark Tank
10:00 - The Decision to Keep Going
12:00 - The Role of YouTube in Learning
15:00 - Manufacturing and the Trip to China
18:00 - Building Relationships in China
20:00 - Funding and the COVID Impact
22:00 - Raising Money and Building a Community
24:00 - First Major Sales Win
26:00 - The Importance of Clean Restrooms
28:00 - Future Opportunities for Washie
30:00 - Overcoming Low Points
32:00 - Family Challenges and Moving to Utah
34:00 - Dealing with Bullying
36:00 - Reflections on Mental Health
38:00 - Looking Ahead for Washie
40:00 - The Value of the Entrepreneurial Journey
42:00 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts
If you enjoyed this video and want to support us please leave a LIKE, write a comment on this video and Share it with your friends. Subscribe to our channel on YouTube and click the icon for notifications when we add a new video. Let us know in the comments if you have any questions.
Our website: https://www.siliconslopes.com
Show Links: https://www.washiepro.com
Social:
Twitter - https://twitter.com/siliconslopes
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/siliconslopes/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/silicon-slopes/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8aEtQ1KJrWhJ3C2JnzXysw