21st Century Entrepreneurship

Andy Lothian is a beacon for entrepreneurs and leaders seeking depth and purpose in their work. In our conversation, Andy shares his insights into the entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, purpose, and creating value in the world. His perspective challenges the conventional portrayal of entrepreneurship, arguing that the essence lies far beyond the glamorized images of quick success and competition seen in shows like "Shark Tank" and "Dragon's Den." Instead, he posits, "Entrepreneurship is creating value in the world in a place that you think is important."Andy's journey from aspiring investment banker to leading Insights, a global organization focused on personal and leadership development, underscores the transformative power of listening to one's inner signals and aligning with one's true purpose. He reflects on this transition, saying, "It was like cotton candy, like candy floss. It was very tasty, but no nourishment." This metaphor vividly captures the emptiness of work devoid of personal meaning and the nourishment that comes from purpose-driven endeavors.A central theme of our discussion is the critical role of understanding oneself and one's motivations. Andy argues that successful entrepreneurship and leadership begin with the foundational question of "Who am I?" This introspection is the first step in creating a business that not only achieves financial success but also contributes positively to the world. He eloquently states, "You do it for the value you feel you can create in the world," highlighting the intrinsic motivation behind impactful entrepreneurship.The conversation also explores the concept of "BHAGs" (Big Hairy Audacious Goals) and the importance of setting visionary goals that stretch the imagination and drive innovation. Andy shares an anecdote from Insights' own journey, where a seemingly unattainable revenue goal sparked new thinking and accelerated growth. This story illustrates the power of ambitious goals to catalyze change and foster a culture of creativity and resilience.Andy's insights extend to the strategic dimensions of business, emphasizing the necessity of clear vision, purpose-driven goals, and adaptable planning in the face of unforeseen challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic. He remarks, "The goals are important, the critical success factors are important," underscoring the importance of flexibility and resilience in achieving long-term success.Beyond business strategy, Andy delves into the importance of human skills and connections in an increasingly technology-driven world. He advocates for a balance between leveraging technological advancements and preserving the human element in interactions and decision-making. In his view, "Rediscovering human" is paramount to navigating the complexities of the modern world and ensuring the enduring relevance of businesses and individuals alike.In conclusion, our conversation with Andy Lothian offers a profound exploration of the essence of entrepreneurship and leadership. It underscores the significance of self-awareness, purpose, and human connection in creating lasting value. For anyone looking to deepen their understanding of what it truly means to be an entrepreneur or leader in today's world, this episode is a treasure trove of wisdom and inspiration.

Ben Risser is the visionary behind Provident Financial Services, a firm dedicated to empowering small businesses, faith-based nonprofits, and private equity firms through expert financial guidance. In our comprehensive discussion, Ben shares his passionate belief in the transformative power of small businesses and nonprofits in enhancing community and national well-being. He articulates, "I believe when small businesses thrive, it lifts up a community economically...and I believe that makes for a stronger nation." His approach to financial services is not just about numbers; it's about fostering a healthier society.Risser's journey from aspiring pilot to financial guru is both unique and inspiring. Facing the challenges of retinitis pigmentosa, he shifted his aspirations from aerospace to finance, carrying with him a profound sense of purpose. "It forces you to sweep a lot of distractions off the table and say, what do I want to accomplish in my life?" His story is a testament to resilience and finding one's calling amidst adversity.Provident Financial Services, under Risser's guidance, specializes in part-time Chief Financial Officer (CFO) services or what's known as fractional CFO support. This innovative approach provides businesses with crucial financial insights and strategies for growth without the full-time overhead. Ben emphasizes the importance of financial literacy and situational awareness for business owners, stating, "Owners need to understand...where's cash leaking out of the boat and where are they really earning value with the customer?"A key aspect of Risser's philosophy is the empowerment of businesses to not only understand their financials but to use this understanding to make independent, strategic decisions. "We want to get more strategic, and we want our customers to get more and more independent in making financial decisions," Risser notes, highlighting the goal of moving from tactical support to strategic growth.Ben's engineering background infuses his financial expertise with a unique analytical rigor, allowing him to dissect and solve complex financial challenges with precision. This skillset is particularly beneficial for small businesses and startups, which, according to Risser, "desperately need a fractional CFO" to navigate the treacherous waters of financial management and growth.Risser also touches upon the critical role of credible financial reporting and planning for entrepreneurs seeking to raise capital. He illustrates this with the story of an entrepreneur client, underscoring the necessity of meticulous financial preparation. "You can't really build a financial proforma unless you have historical actuals to reference," he advises, highlighting the importance of accuracy from the outset.The conversation with Ben Risser is a deep dive into the vital role of finance in building stronger communities and businesses. His insights offer valuable lessons on resilience, strategic financial planning, and the transformative impact of conscientious financial management. As we explore Risser's approach to finance, it becomes clear that behind every successful business is a profound understanding of its financial heartbeat.

Antonio Wedral is the co-founder of Novos, an e-commerce SEO agency making waves in London by helping brands pivot from paid advertising to a more sustainable, SEO-driven approach. Our conversation traversed the inspiring journey of Novos, emphasizing the power of people-centric business models, the transformative potential of SEO in e-commerce, and the crucial balance between professional ambition and personal well-being.Antonio's entrepreneurial spirit was ignited by his parents' resilience, who, after fleeing the Yugoslav war, had to start anew in the UK. This foundational story is not just a tale of starting over but a lesson in perseverance and vision. "My parents...had to start everything from scratch...I think it probably put something within me where it just had like a motivation within me," Antonio shared, underscoring the profound impact of his family's experience on his ambition to create a business that puts people first.At the heart of Novos' philosophy is a commitment to building a company that values its employees as much as its clients. Antonio and his co-founder envisioned an agency that was not only a leader in SEO but also a champion for workplace culture. "We want to work with really cool clients...let's make this the best place to work in the UK," Antonio explained, highlighting their dual focus on client satisfaction and employee well-being.Antonio's insights into the SEO industry reveal a keen understanding of the challenges and opportunities present in the digital marketing space. He articulated the agency's mission to empower brands by reducing their reliance on paid advertising and increasing their visibility organically. This approach not only helps businesses achieve financial independence but also fosters a deeper connection with their audience.Moreover, Antonio touched on the importance of recognizing and addressing the mental toll that comes with entrepreneurship. His personal journey underscores the necessity of finding balance, stating, "You can't be super successful if you're burnt out. You need to find a balance." This candid reflection on mental health is a vital reminder for all professionals to prioritize their well-being alongside their career ambitions.Listeners can glean several key takeaways from this episode:The significance of a people-first approach in business.The transformative power of SEO for e-commerce brands.The importance of workplace culture in attracting talent and fostering innovation.The necessity of balance between professional success and personal health.Antonio's story is not just about the success of Novos; it's a broader narrative on the potential to revolutionize industries by focusing on the human element, whether it's through the services offered or the culture cultivated within.

RJ Burr is a seasoned veteran in the oil industry, with a family legacy deeply rooted in American oil. He is President and CEO at Panex. In our discussion, we explored the complexities and misconceptions surrounding the American oil sector, highlighting its pivotal role in both the national and global economy. RJ provided an insider's perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing the industry, particularly in light of the 2020 market crash and the COVID-19 pandemic. He shared insights into the resilience and adaptability required to thrive in such a volatile market, emphasizing the significant impact of independent companies, which drill the majority of the country's wells and produce most of its oil and natural gas.RJ's narrative is a testament to strategic foresight and the courage to act amidst adversity. He recounted, "when the crash happened, they were liquid. They had cash in hand, and they could do something. The second is when their opportunity presented itself, they had the courage to take action, to make a move." This approach has allowed his company, Panex, to capitalize on unprecedented acquisition opportunities, setting the stage for substantial growth and development in what he calls his "second life in oil."The conversation also delved into broader economic and environmental considerations, challenging prevalent narratives about oil and alternative energy sources. RJ argues against the dichotomy often presented between oil and green energy, advocating for a more nuanced understanding of energy's role in modern life and the limitations of current alternative energy solutions. He provocatively claims that "the free market fixes it all," criticizing the oversimplification of complex issues and the underestimation of oil's enduring value.Listeners will find RJ's perspectives both enlightening and provocative, offering a rare glimpse into the intricacies of an industry that remains foundational to our way of life, yet is often misunderstood. Key takeaways include the critical importance of agility and foresight in navigating market crashes, the underestimated impact of small independent companies on the oil landscape, and the need for a balanced and realistic approach to energy policy and environmental concerns.RJ's story is not just about oil; it's about innovation, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of opportunity in the face of uncertainty. His closing thoughts on the importance of integrity and partnership in business resonate beyond the oil industry, offering valuable lessons for entrepreneurs and investors across sectors: "Shame on you if you don't protect [your partners' trust] like it's your own."This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of energy, the dynamics of American industry, and the art of turning challenges into opportunities.

Michael Juergens is a multifaceted wine consultant, master of wine candidate, author, and punk rock drummer who shared his extraordinary journey of introducing winemaking to the Kingdom of Bhutan. We explored the unique tradition of Bhutanese name-giving by monks, which inspired the naming of his wine brand, Ser Chem, or "alcohol of the gods." Juergens' narrative weaves through his initial accidental marathon sign-up leading him to Bhutan, to the inception of the nation's first wine company under the guidance of local monks and the government.Juergens elucidates the challenges faced from selecting suitable grape varieties to navigating Bhutan's diverse climatic zones, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and experimentation in winemaking. His commitment to preserving Bhutan's carbon-negative status and biodiversity while introducing grapevines showcases a respectful and mindful approach to environmental sustainability. Juergens expresses the gravity of this responsibility: "The last thing I want is I bring in some new disease or some new fungus or some new pest or whatever that then wreaks havoc on the local environment and ruins the world’s happiest country."With vivid anecdotes, Juergens shares insights from his varied experiences, from running marathons in extreme conditions like Antarctica to the meticulous process of becoming a master of wine. His journey in Bhutan parallels the marathon's challenges—emphasizing perseverance, adapting to unexpected obstacles, and the profound sense of accomplishment in contributing to something pioneering and impactful. "Sometimes when I’m doing the Bhutan wine company, that’s the way I feel. Like there’s this we don’t know and we’re just going to keep running until we fall down," Juergens reflects, drawing a powerful analogy between his marathon experiences and his winemaking venture.From the episode, listeners can glean:The significance of names and traditions in shaping business ventures, as illustrated by the meaningful naming of Ser Chem.The complexities of starting a wine industry from scratch in a country with no prior viticulture, underscored by Juergens' detailed recounting of the initial challenges and innovative solutions.The importance of environmental stewardship and careful planning in agricultural innovation, a principle that Juergens deeply respects and incorporates into his work in Bhutan.The parallels between endurance sports and business ventures in terms of resilience and perseverance, offering a unique lens through which Juergens views his wine venture.Juergens' story is a testament to the power of passion, vision, and resilience in turning the improbable into reality. It offers inspiration for entrepreneurs and wine enthusiasts alike, demonstrating that with enough determination, one can indeed introduce the "taste of Bhutan to the rest of the world."

John and Mark X. Cronin, the dynamic father-son duo behind John's Crazy Socks, shared their incredible journey from a single idea to creating the world's largest sock store with a heartwarming mission to spread happiness. Their story is a testament to the power of love, determination, and the belief in the abilities of all individuals, regardless of their challenges.John, born with Down syndrome, has not only defied expectations but has also become a leading advocate for people with differing abilities. Through their business, John and Mark have demonstrated how a simple concept, like selling socks, can be transformed into a vehicle for social change. "We're not really a sock store. The socks become the physical manifestation of the story and the vision," Mark explains.The Cronins' journey underscores the importance of gratitude and doing for others as the keys to happiness. John's passion and entrepreneurial spirit, combined with Mark's supportive guidance, have led to remarkable achievements. They've addressed the United Nations, testified before the US Congress, and donated over $700,000 to charity, all while building a business that employs individuals with differing abilities.Their story is filled with lessons on overcoming adversity, embracing one's uniqueness, and the power of giving back. One of the most compelling takeaways is the idea that "everything we do is designed to spread some happiness," which guides their business decisions and philanthropic efforts.John and Mark's approach to creating a great place to work, making personal connections, and giving back to the community offers valuable insights for entrepreneurs and individuals alike. Their success demonstrates that with the right attitude and approach, it's possible to make a significant impact on the world while pursuing one's passions.By sharing their journey, John and Mark X. Cronin inspire us to look beyond limitations and recognize the potential in everyone. Their story is not just about socks; it's about how love, creativity, and a commitment to social good can create a ripple effect of joy and opportunity across the globe.

Levar Jackson, the Founder and CEO of Yogh Group, joins us to share his journey towards redefining the hospitality industry through sustainability. Yogh Group stands out as a beacon in the transition to an interconnected, intelligent, low-carbon world by weaving together hospitality, art, agriculture, and cuisine. Jackson's vision is clear: to lead the hospitality sector into a sustainable future without compromising on luxury or experience.Our discussion delves into how the Yogh Group is setting new benchmarks in sustainability. Jackson's approach is holistic, focusing not just on environmental impact but also on how spaces interact with their communities and ecosystems. He states, "Sustainability is just as much a corporate and commercial liability as it is a personal one," emphasizing the shared responsibility businesses have alongside individuals in fostering a sustainable future.Before his innovative venture into sustainable hospitality, Jackson was at the helm of Visual Renaissance, a full-service art strategy firm he led from 2009 to 2022. His experience curating unique art experiences for sophisticated properties has seamlessly transitioned into Yogh Group's operations, enriching its hotels with art museums that blend culture with sustainability.Throughout the conversation, Jackson highlights the importance of technology and innovation in achieving sustainability goals. He critiques the slow adoption of new technologies and the carbon credit market, advocating for more direct and efficient solutions. His philosophy of additive sustainability—providing alternatives rather than taking away—offers a fresh perspective on how the hospitality industry can evolve.Key takeaways from our conversation with Levar Jackson include the significance of integrating sustainability into the core business model, the role of art and culture in enriching the hospitality experience, and the urgent need for industry-wide adoption of sustainable practices. Jackson's work with Yogh Group illustrates the profound impact that visionary leadership can have on an industry, proving that sustainability and profitability can go hand in hand.Levar Jackson's pioneering efforts with Yogh Group serve as a powerful example of how the hospitality industry can lead the way into a sustainable future. His insights are a call to action for businesses to embrace sustainability as a pathway to innovation, profitability, and positive societal impact.

Kevin T. Carter is an investment expert with a rich history rooted in the evolution of financial markets and a deep dive into emerging economies. Throughout our conversation, we explored Carter's journey from a fresh college graduate with a keen interest in investment, sparked by the iconic book "A Random Walk Down Wall Street," to a visionary in the field of emerging markets. His early career began in an investment bank, where a casual interview turned into the launchpad for his investment career.Carter shared the profound influence of Burton Malkiel's work on his professional outlook, notably Malkiel's revolutionary idea of index funds which laid the groundwork for Carter's own innovations in investment strategies. "It was just an idea to Burt Malkiel back then," Carter recalls, highlighting the transformative potential of indexing and ETFs which now dominate the investment landscape.The narrative then shifts to Carter's disillusionment with the mutual fund business and his pioneering work in fractional share trading and direct indexing. His collaboration with Malkiel not only refined his investment philosophy but also led to the creation of groundbreaking financial services that democratized stock market access. "We filed a patent on fractional share trading... and now almost every brokerage firm in the world offers fractional share trading," Carter proudly notes, underlining the shift towards more inclusive investment models.Carter's journey took another significant turn with his engagement with Google employees and his eventual focus on emerging markets, particularly China and India. His firsthand experiences with these economies offered him a unique perspective on their potential for growth and innovation. "China's economy was growing at over 10%," he recalls, capturing the dynamism of these regions long before they became focal points for global investors.The discussion delves into the intricacies of emerging market investments, emphasizing the consumer-driven growth in these regions. Carter's approach to investment in emerging markets is not just about recognizing their growth potential but understanding the transformative impact of technology, particularly mobile internet, on these economies. "The second wave was China, right behind us, 2005 to 2020... Now, there's still growth in China, but... the third wave is going to be giant, and it's already happening," he explains, highlighting the ongoing evolution of global market dynamics.Carter's narrative on India's transformation is richly detailed, attributing a significant part of this change to Nandan Nilekani, Infosys' co-founder, who led the Aadhaar program since its inception in 2009. This initiative was a critical move towards digitizing the nation's identity verification processes, issuing a unique twelve-digit identification number linked with biometric data to every citizen. It was a monumental step in addressing the critical lack of formal identification and laid the foundation for the India Stack, an advanced digital infrastructure that facilitated the opening of 800 million digital bank accounts and propelled the country towards financial inclusivity. Coupled with the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) system revolutionizing payments—showcasing an 80% shift towards digital transactions with over 12 billion monthly transactions—India's narrative underlines a nation on the cusp of a technological and economic revolution. With a population exceeding 1.4 billion, a vibrant middle class, and a tech talent pool, under Prime Minister Modi's leadership, the country is poised to redefine its global stance, making it a focal point for investors in technology, consumer goods, and fintech sectors.

Taylor Willingham is the founder of the Willingham Law Firm, PLLC and creator of Posterity Planning. He is an estate planning attorney with a deep understanding of the intricate process of preparing for the future. In our conversation, we explored the profound impact of estate planning beyond the mere distribution of assets. Willingham shared insights into how individuals can leave a lasting legacy that encapsulates their values, wisdom, and life lessons for future generations.Willingham outlined three principal aspects of effective legacy planning: asset distribution, the importance of intangible legacies such as wisdom and digital footprints, and hierarchical succession. He emphasized, "Everybody always thinks about the assets and the money... I found that to actually be not the biggest thing," highlighting the growing significance of social media and digital platforms in preserving one’s legacy. This perspective shifts the focus from traditional estate planning towards a more holistic approach, considering the value of personal stories and wisdom passed down through generations.One of the most captivating aspects discussed was the concept of a 'sabayat', an ancient Egyptian tradition of leaving written instructions and wisdom for descendants. Willingham connected this to modern practices of sharing personal messages and stories through digital media, illustrating the timeless human desire to impart knowledge and guidance to the next generation.Willingham's personal journey, from struggling to establish his law practice during an economic downturn to his success as a founder of multiple companies, adds a layer of authenticity to his insights on perseverance and the importance of legacy. His story of recording his grandfather's life experiences and the unexpected connections that emerged from sharing these stories online underscores the potential for digital platforms to immortalize personal histories and values.The episode also delves into practical advice on managing digital legacies, emphasizing the importance of not deleting social media accounts of the deceased to preserve memories for loved ones. Willingham advises, "Do not delete them... You're erasing memories that other people would really want." This practical guidance, combined with the broader discussion on legacy planning, offers listeners a comprehensive understanding of the importance of thoughtful preparation for the future.Listeners will come away with a deeper appreciation for the intangible aspects of legacy planning, equipped with the knowledge to approach their own estate planning in a way that truly reflects their values and wishes. Willingham's expertise and personal experiences make for an engaging and informative discussion, offering valuable takeaways for anyone looking to leave a meaningful legacy.

Feras Alhlou, a distinguished mentor and seasoned entrepreneur, has leveraged his wealth of experience in Silicon Valley to guide founders through the complexities of launching and scaling businesses. His journey, marked by both significant achievements and challenging setbacks, embodies the essence of resilience and strategic foresight. In our conversation, Feras delves into the critical aspects of entrepreneurship, from the importance of resilience and continuous learning to the power of networking and mentorship.He shares poignant insights into his transition from facing personal career challenges to becoming an influential figure in the analytics domain and a published author. Feras's narrative is a compelling testament to the idea that overcoming adversity is not just about enduring but about learning, adapting, and thriving. "Life throws a lot of things at you... but then you have to do what you have to do," Feras reflects, encapsulating the resilience needed to navigate the unpredictable waters of the tech industry.A fervent advocate for continuous learning, Feras highlights how his foray into analytics and subsequent specialization not only transformed his career trajectory but also demonstrated the importance of aligning one's skills with evolving market demands. "We stumbled upon this thing called analytics... and business owners loved it, and we fell in love with it as well," he recounts, emphasizing the strategic pivot that fueled his success.Moreover, Feras underlines the indispensable role of networking in building and sustaining a successful entrepreneurial career. Drawing from Reed Hoffman's insights, he reminds us, "Your network is as important as your hard skills and soft skills," showcasing the integral role of community and connections in the entrepreneurial journey.The conversation with Feras Alhlou is not only an exploration of his personal and professional growth but also a rich source of practical advice for entrepreneurs at any stage of their journey. His story, punctuated by the highs of success and the lows of setbacks, serves as a blueprint for resilience, adaptability, and the profound impact of a supportive network. Listeners will emerge with a deeper appreciation for the nuanced challenges and opportunities in the tech industry, the criticality of niche specialization, and the unparalleled value of mentorship and community support.