ENTREPRENEURISM

In this episode of ENTREPRENEURISM, Scott interviews Minesh Pore, Co-Founder & CEO of BuyHive and Founder & CEO of SourcingGPT.ai, exploring how he's leveraging AI throughout his business. Minesh shares how he went from Yellow Pages ad sales to leading global sourcing teams, then bootstrapping BuyHive through the chaos of COVID by focusing relentlessly on revenue. He then reveals how SourcingGPT was born from thousands of hours of on-the-ground sourcing expertise, and how vertical AI agents can automate RFQs, supplier discovery, and landed-cost calculations—freeing people to focus on judgment, relationships, and growth. The conversation wraps with a founder’s playbook for starting AI-native businesses, failing fast, and making sure you’re actually solving real customer problems.Timestamped Show Notes[00:00] Teaser – Minesh describes how AI can write RFQs, find suppliers, and calculate shipping and duties in seconds, replacing “mundane tasks” with dashboards.[01:05] Show Intro – Scott introduces ENTREPRENEURISM and the show’s focus on the tensions and superpowers of real entrepreneurs.[02:37] Guest Intro – Scott welcomes Minesh Pore, highlighting his roles at BuyHive and SourcingGPT and his new book Everyone Is a Builder Now. [04:10] Early entrepreneurial roots – Minesh recalls selling Yellow Pages ads to every kind of small business and how discomfort and global moves (India, US, Taiwan, China, Europe) built his entrepreneurial mindset. [07:31] Leaving corporate and founding BuyHive – He explains selling his previous company to Blackstone, the shift to balance-sheet management, and why he left to build BuyHive as a network of on-demand sourcing experts. [09:31] Bootstrapping through COVID – With supply chains breaking and funding drying up, Minesh focused the team on one thing—revenue—using sales margins instead of venture capital and breaking even within eight months. [12:23] Choosing not to chase hyperscale – Minesh explains why he’s comfortable with steady 15–20% annual growth at BuyHive and doesn’t want investor pressure in a traditional industry. [13:11] Birth of SourcingGPT.ai – Collecting data from 3,000+ sourcing experts led to the idea of encoding their expertise into an AI tool that can save ~250 hours per SKU by automating supplier discovery, RFQs, duty and freight calculations, and compliance. [14:27] Why write a book on AI for non-technical people – After speaking at events and seeing fear and misinformation about AI, Minesh decided to show practical ways AI can make life more efficient—not replace people—and free time for higher-value work and family. [17:02] Where founders should start with AI – He urges entrepreneurs to honestly list the tasks and SOPs that don’t add real value (the “mundane tasks”) and target those first for automation. [18:13] Why 80–85% of corporate AI projects fail – Minesh cites top-down “we must do AI” initiatives, consultant-driven blue-sky ideas, and a lack of ground-level input on actual frustrations as key reasons many AI investments miss the mark. [19:22] Real examples: Amazon warehouses & sourcing workflows – From warehouse robotics to SourcingGPT’s automation of RFQs and supplier search, he illustrates how AI should target repetitive, low-value work. [20:40] Why you still need a human in the loop – Minesh stresses that AI should improve efficiency, not replace people; humans still provide brand context, aesthetic decisions, tech packs, and real-time judgment on changes like warehouse locations. [23:11] From individual productivity to organizational leverage – Scott and Minesh explore how freeing sourcing teams from grunt work lets them focus on content, new product development, and new business lines instead of headcount cuts. [25:27] Quick Fire: Entrepreneurial HacksBook every entrepreneur should read: The Hard Thing About Hard Things by Ben Horowitz.Morning habit: constantly asking, “How can I simplify today?”Tools he can’t live without: ChatGPT and Manus for automating browser-based work.Grounding habit: daily debriefs with his six-year-old daughter, whose simple stories reframe what really matters.Best business advice received: “Fail fast”—treat failure as learning and iterate honestly and quickly. [31:09] How to design an AI-native company in 2025 – Minesh, a non-technical founder, explains how no-code/low-code tools and AI copilots (like Manus, ChatGPT, Gemini, Grok, Lovable) let you ideate, build MVPs, and go to market fast without large teams. [33:18] Start with the problem, not the tech – He argues that in an AI-enabled world, your edge is understanding customers and solving their problems fastest; technology is widely available but customer insight is not. [34:46] Talking to 500 users before building – Minesh shares that he spoke one-on-one with about 500 early signups for SourcingGPT to deeply understand their challenges before locking in product direction. [35:56] Wrap-up & key takeaway – Scott closes on Minesh’s reminder that AI can help founders fail faster and build faster—but only if they’re solving real human problems. [36:05] Show Outro – Scott thanks listeners, invites feedback and shares the core message: entrepreneurship is about disciplined action, not just spotting opportunities. Quick Fire – Books & Tools MentionedBooksThe Hard Thing About Hard Things: Building a Business When There Are No Easy Answers – Ben Horowitz Amazon+1Apps / ToolsChatGPT – AI assistant from OpenAI used for everyday problem-solving and idea exploration. ChatGPTManus – An autonomous AI agent that can operate directly in your browser to execute multi-step tasks and automate workflows. Manus+1

Vanessa Hendriadi, CEO and Co-Founder of GoWork, has done what many founders only talk about: she deliberately stepped back from running the day-to-day and handed operational control to a GM—while staying firmly in the CEO seat. In this conversation, she shares how her engineering mindset, love of systems, and experience merging companies and surviving COVID laid the groundwork for a more scalable leadership model. Vanessa explains why delegating ownership (not tasks), embracing radical transparency, and framing her leaders as the “first team” in the company were critical to making the transition work. She also dives into the inner game: stoicism, daily movement, journaling, and protecting her energy “like equity” so the business now fits into the life she wants, not the other way around.Timestamped Show Notes[00:00] Cold Open – Delegating Ownership, Not TasksVanessa’s philosophy: “If I delegate the task it will die, but if I delegate the ownership, it will grow.”[00:35] Show IntroScott introduces ENTREPRENEURISM and the core tension of entrepreneurial life: opportunity, focus, and the struggle of scaling without becoming the bottleneck.[02:06] Meet Vanessa & GoWork at ScaleScott introduces Vanessa’s role as CEO & Co-Founder of GoWork and outlines the scope of the business: premium workspaces across Indonesia, strategic merger, funding through Series B, and surviving COVID while many competitors exited.[03:41] From Chemical Engineer to System BuilderVanessa recounts her path: studying chemical engineering in the U.S., MBA, early career roles, and returning to the family business.Realization that the existing culture “wasn’t hers” and that she wasn’t meant to inherit a system but to build one.[05:45] Connecting Real Estate ‘Hardware’ with Startup ‘Software’How exposure to her family’s real estate investments and her husband’s startup world led to the insight that someone had to connect the two.Founding Rework (later GoWork) in 2016 as an enablement platform for founders, corporates, and landlords—not just a co-working brand.[07:19] Superpower: Resonance and Human SystemsVanessa describes her superpower as “resonance”: connecting, absorbing, adapting, and amplifying what she learns from people.Scott connects this to the idea of culture and human systems as the true leverage for scaling.[09:49] Early Struggles: Motherhood, FOMO, and OverwhelmBuilding her first company while her second son was nine months old and the Indonesian startup ecosystem was exploding.Watching other founders grind 20-hour days and dealing with FOMO and the realization she couldn’t—and shouldn’t—try to do everything herself.[11:59] You Can’t Do Everything: The Seeds of DelegationThe awareness that she needed to empower others instead of being the single point of failure.Moving from personally hiring every employee to “cloning” leaders who can make similar quality decisions.[13:16] The Decision to Install a GMVanessa walks through the year-long emotional and strategic process of deciding to hand day-to-day operations to a GM.Balancing what’s good for her and what’s good for the company—refusing to optimize for only one side.[15:05] Transparency, Shared Ownership & Over-CommunicationUsing the same radical transparency that helped GoWork survive COVID to lead this transition.Bringing the entire leadership team into the process early: “I don’t know exactly how to do this, but I need your help, and I’m going to involve you in every step.”[16:04] What’s in It for Them: Elevating the Leadership TeamExplaining the “why” to her team in terms of their growth: more empowerment, higher levels of delegation, fewer dependencies on the founder as the safety net.Her ownership vs. task delegation philosophy and how she set clear lanes, metrics, and decision rights.[18:06] Shadowing, Step-by-Step Authority TransferThe GM initially shadows Vanessa; now Vanessa shadows the GM.Why this isn’t about stepping out but about everyone—CEO, GM, and managers—stepping up and taking real responsibility (including risk).[19:19] Humans, Not Machines: Leadership as Art and ScienceThe challenge of leading “non-engineerable” humans with different limits and stress responses.Ensuring people feel supported and not siloed; emphasizing the leadership team as each manager’s “first family” in the company.[20:44] The Leadership Team as Team #1Scott reinforces the idea that the leadership team must be the #1 team, not just a working group.Vanessa explains how aligning this “first family” unlocks accountability across departments.[21:08] Visionary CEO + Integrator GMScott frames Vanessa’s new structure using the “visionary and integrator” language from Rocket Fuel.Vanessa describes defining lanes between herself, the GM, and the rest of the leadership team to avoid confusion and disempowerment.[22:05] Pre-Mortems and Leading with QuestionsVanessa uses pre-mortems to anticipate failure modes of the transition (e.g., saying the GM owns decisions while she still intervenes).Instead of telling people what to do, she leans into questions—shifting from directive leader to coach-like leader.[23:33] Soft Stuff Is the Hard StuffScott reflects on the messy people equation and how coaching helps entrepreneurs become better coaches themselves.Vanessa underscores the importance of support systems—for leaders and for teams.[24:11] Quick Fire: Book Every Entrepreneur Should ReadVanessa recommends Meditations by Marcus Aurelius.She describes it as a “mental pressure valve” that reminds entrepreneurs how tiny most problems are in the grand scheme of things and helps them stop overreacting and start leading.[25:14] Quick Fire: Morning RoutineVanessa moves her body every morning: sometimes cardio, VO₂ max work, strength, or swimming—choosing based on how she feels.Movement is how she “unclogs” her mind and sets the tone for the day.[26:06] Quick Fire: Tools & Apps She Can’t Live WithoutAdmits WhatsApp (and for many, WeChat) runs half her company, life, and “drama.”Shares her Oura Ring as a key longevity tool—tracking sleep, steps, and stress; she checks the dashboard multiple times a day.[27:11] Quick Fire: Daily Habits – Journaling & AffirmationsJournals every morning in the Day One app: three prompts—wins from yesterday, something new she learned, and at least five items of gratitude.Often pairs journaling with short meditation or daily affirmations focused on positivity and gratitude.[28:15] Quick Fire: Best Business Advice“Build our life so that the business fits into it and not the other way around.”Explains how systems, empowered leadership, and protecting energy like equity helped her stop trying to be the hero and made the business run better.[30:28] Advice to Early-Stage EntrepreneursDon’t believe you are “the answer” to everything; build a strong second layer and support system from the start.Life happens—family, health, unexpected events—so you must design a company that can survive even when the stars don’t align.[31:39] Show OutroScott closes the conversation, thanks Vanessa, and reinforces the importance of disciplined action in entrepreneurship.Reminder to subscribe, share, and continue exploring the complexities of entrepreneurism.Quick Fire – Books, Tools & Resources (with Links)Book – Meditations by Marcus AureliusAmazon: https://www.amazon.com/Meditations-Marcus-Aurelius/dp/0812968255/App – Day One (Journaling)Official site: https://dayoneapp.comTool – Oura Ring (Sleep, Recovery & Readiness Tracking)Official site: https://ouraring.comApp – WhatsApp (Primary Communication Platform)Official site: https://www.whatsapp.com

In this dynamic episode, Jaeson Ma—serial entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and cultural bridge builder—unpacks his unlikely path from street-smart hustler to spiritual missionary to serial founder shaping the intersection of media, tech, and faith. Named to Variety’s 500 Most Influential Leaders and part of the Milken Institute’s Young Leaders Circle, Jaeson reflects on what drives him: purpose, persistence, and the power of belief. Scott and Jaeson explore what it means to bridge East and West, to define success through calling, and to stay grounded while creating global impact.⏱️ TIMESTAMPED SHOW NOTES[00:00] Jaeson’s opening reflection on purpose and authenticity [02:23] Scott welcomes Jaeson Ma to the show [03:06] The Paris Hilton + Musical.ly story and how Goodwater Capital landed a unicorn deal [09:20] From humble beginnings: selling candy in San Jose to support his family [13:19] Early lessons in fearlessness and persuasion [15:03] From street hustler to missionary—learning to “sell the gospel” [16:08] Mentorship under MC Hammer and lessons in faith, media, and venture capital [18:54] Missionary years across 40 countries and how they shaped his worldview [20:19] Discovering his life’s purpose: bridging East and West through culture and technology [21:13] The rise of Shanghai as the East-West nexus and what changed post-COVID [25:36] How geopolitics disrupted global collaboration—but why dialogue still matters [28:35] Defining success through calling, not comparison [33:23] Jaeson on his superpower: being a catalyzer who spots what’s about to blow up [36:02] Why he’s betting on OpenWav and the next evolution of the music industry [38:08] Quick-Fire Entrepreneur Hacks: Books, habits, mentors, and advice for founders [41:27] Jaeson’s closing words: “The only failure is not trying.” [42:56] Show outro📚 QUICK-FIRE RESOURCESBook: The Greatest Salesman in the World by Og Mandino — Amazon linkTool: ChatGPT — for creativity and productivityHabit: Daily gratitude and prayerMentor Mentioned: MC Hammer — for faith-based leadership and entrepreneurial example

From bootstrapping during the 2008 financial crisis to building a global clean energy business with associates in 15 countries, Andy Klump’s 17-year journey with Clean Energy Associates is a case study in resilience and intentional leadership.In this episode, Andy shares how he turned early chaos into structure with the help of an executive coach, built a culture that transcended borders, and led a values-driven team through exponential growth and a successful exit to Intertek in 2022. His reflections on culture, coaching, and personal sustainability make this one of the most actionable playbooks for founders looking to scale without losing their soul.⏱️ Show Notes[00:00] Early mistakes & realization that he was “his own worst enemy.”[03:40] Starting young — “Handy Andy’s Lawn Care” and early grit.[05:00] From Trina Solar to founding CEA in 2008 amid the financial crisis.[07:15] Spotting an opportunity in solar factory quality control and building an on-the-ground team in China.[10:00] Finding product-market fit and pivoting to focus on supply-chain and QC services.[11:25] Discovering culture as the true growth lever through EO and executive coaching.[13:20] The ‘WUB’ culture framework — We are Family, Have Fun, Unending Curiosity, Be Humble, Do the Right Thing, Results Matter, Own It, Perform Above and Beyond.[14:35] Scaling from 50 to 120 people through values-driven leadership.[15:40] Implementing Rockefeller Habits and the Scaling Up methodology.[17:10] CEO superpowers — bridging cultures and building trust across China and the West.[19:40] Realizing you can’t be both CEO and Head of Sales.[21:25] The threefold CEO focus — team, culture, strategy.[23:40] Growing across 15 countries and maintaining one culture.[28:00] Navigating a difficult exit and why “a little bit of humility” mattered most.[35:07] Quick Fire Books, Tools & Habits📚 BooksEverybody Matters: The Extraordinary Power of Caring for Your People Like Family — AmazonThe Leadership Challenge: How to Make Extraordinary Things Happen in Organizations — AmazonHyper Sales Growth: Street-Proven Systems & Processes by Jack Daly — AmazonFocus: The Future of Your Company Depends on It by Al Ries — AmazonPositive Intelligence: Why Only 20% of Teams and Individuals Achieve Their True Potential by Shirzad Chamine — Amazon🛠️ Tools & AppsPositive Intelligence App — supports daily mental fitness and mindset practiceGratitude Journal — Andy’s daily ritual for focus and positivity🕒 Habits & RoutinesMorning Routine: Meditation + gratitude journalingDaily Habit: Prioritizing sleep and exercise for sustained leadership energy💡Business AdviceBootstrap for as long as possible — “Keeping equity early gives you freedom later.”“There will always be a culture—if you don’t shape it deliberately, it will shape you.”Focus one-third of your time on each: team, culture, and strategy.[43:25] Final reflection — invest in culture and team early.[45:00] Show Outro.

David Steele embodies the spirit of the parallel entrepreneur. He is the founder and CEO of OneWealth Advisors, an independent registered investment advisory firm managing well over $1B in assets. In parallel, he is Executive Chairman of a restaurant group with 300 employees and also owns multiple yoga studios. In this conversation with Scott Pollack, David reflects on the grit it took to cold-call 500 prospects a day in his early years; the discipline of systems and financial prudence; and the principle that people simply want to feel loved and valued. He shares candidly about his ongoing battle with self-limiting beliefs, and why systematic behavior is the foundation of sustainable entrepreneurship.4. Show Notes[00:34] Show intro with Scott Pollack[02:06] Guest introduction: David Steele, founder/CEO of OneWealth Advisors ($1B+ AUM), restaurateur, and yoga studio owner[02:51] Starting out as a dishwasher → transition to Wall Street → first restaurant success[05:14] Balancing finance and hospitality; the “parallel entrepreneur”[07:20] Discovering his leadership role as nurturer, strategist, and coach[08:34] Entrepreneurial superpower: building shared ownership of culture and strategy[13:07] Biggest struggle: overcoming self-limiting beliefs[18:34] Universal principle: people want to feel loved and valued[23:50] Why systematic, disciplined behavior beats “hockey stick” fantasies[25:42] Cold-calling 500 dials a day: early sales discipline[27:05] Quick-fire entrepreneur hacksBook: How to Win Friends and Influence People (Amazon link)Tool/App: CalendarHabit: Exercise (90–120 minutes daily)Advice: “If you’re not in the service of others, you won’t be happy.” (from his mother)[33:10] Closing reflections on venture capital, founder struggles, and staying grounded[33:34] Show outro

Rich Robinson—globetrotting entrepreneur, educator, comedian, and ecosystem builder—shares how travel shaped his entrepreneurial mindset and why being a "curious connector" has been his lifelong superpower. To date, Rich has been a co-founder and/or senior exec in eight startups (three of which exited to public companies), and he has served as an investor, board member, advisor, or mentor to dozens more. From founding China’s first mobile gaming company to teaching at Peking University and now leading initiatives in AI, blockchain, and robotics, Rich offers candid stories of successes, failures, and the power of resilience. His philosophy: failure is just feedback, and entrepreneurship is one of the best ways to become your best self.Show Notes[00:00] Stoicism, resilience, and why only reaction and action are in your control.[02:10] Introducing Rich Robinson: globetrotting serial entrepreneur, educator, comedian.[03:40] How travel set Rich on fire and shaped his entrepreneurial worldview.[06:05] The China Internet dragon takes hold: fascination with China + the Web.[07:30] Cycling across Africa: the entrepreneurial metaphor of highs and lows.[09:18] Moving to China in the early Internet days.[11:20] Rich’s first startup—MiG Mobile Interactive Games—and hard lessons in funding.[13:34] Why a $40M exit didn’t benefit him as founder.[15:03] Discovering his superpower through Ray Dalio’s PrinciplesYou test.[18:07] Building communities and ecosystems across Asia.[20:06] Today’s focus: the trifecta of blockchain, AI, and robotics.[22:19] Why being a “curious connector” is a superpower anyone can cultivate.[23:04] Failures as gifts: how rejection, awkwardness, and mistakes fuel growth.[27:50] From China speed to Bali balance: redefining success and energy.[30:43] Quick-fire entrepreneur hacks.[38:06] Gratitude and storytelling as the engines of entrepreneurship.Quick-Fire RecommendationsBook: The Great CEO Within: The Tactical Guide to Company Building by Matt Mochary — Amazon linkMorning Routine: Meditation + journaling (Vipassana / Transcendental Meditation, TM.org)Tool/App: Freedom (site blocker) — freedom.toDaily Habit: Gratitude practiceBest Advice: “Sales cures everything. Every entrepreneur must learn how to sell.”

Michele Ferrario didn’t set out to become an entrepreneur. From McKinsey to private equity, Rocket Internet, and Zalora, his path built confidence until the right problem—and the right partners—pushed him to co-found StashAway in 2016. In this episode, Michele reflects on serendipity, culture, leadership style, and the delicate balance between empowerment and control. A consistent theme in his journey is that frugality buys freedom—less reliance on capital markets, more control of the company’s future.Show Notes[00:40] Show intro[02:11] Guest welcome: Michele Ferrario, Co-Founder & CEO of StashAway, South East Asia and the Middle East's largest digital wealth manager[03:10] Career journey from McKinsey to Rocket Internet to Zalora[05:13] Discovering a personal pain point with wealth management[07:12] Finding co-founders Nino and Freddie through a series of coffees[11:08] Navigating disagreements and building consensus as a leadership team[15:22] Entrepreneurial superpower: attracting and empowering talent[18:13] Struggles in balancing empowerment with control[21:11] Building a resilient leadership team over nine years[23:39] Avoiding key-man risk in a financial institution[27:07] Transparency through including the C-suite in board meetings[27:15] Quick-fire entrepreneur hacks[34:43] One lesson if starting StashAway over: why frugality buys freedom[36:35] Show outroQuick-Fire RecommendationsBooksRadical Candor by Kim Scott → AmazonThe 3HAG Way by Shannon Byrne Susko → AmazonThe Goal by Eliyahu M. Goldratt → AmazonGood to Great by Jim Collins → AmazonGreat by Choice by Jim Collins → AmazonTools/AppsGemini (Google AI)Google CalendarDaily Habits15–20 minutes of morning exerciseDedicated time with his four children to stay groundedAdviceFrom Oliver Samwer (Rocket Internet): If every day you make two steps forward and one step backward, you’re fine—you’re going in the right direction.

Lin Lin Jacobs, CEO and Co-Chair of the China International Beauty Expo, shares her unconventional journey from creative agency co-founder to leading Asia’s largest beauty industry trade show organizer. She opens up about joining her family business, navigating cultural clashes with her mother, and transforming massive trade shows into curated, experiential events. Lin Lin also reflects on leadership, discipline, and preserving curiosity in entrepreneurship.Show Notes[00:54] Show Intro (Scott Pollack)[02:17] Meet Lin Lin Jacobs – Serial entrepreneur and CEO of China International Beauty Expo[03:50] Early influences from her trailblazing mother, the first doctor in her family to turn entrepreneur[05:57] Founding a creative agency in London with Sam Jacobs and using it as a platform to connect with people despite being an “outgoing introvert”[07:29] Immersing in Beijing’s youth, music, and indie fashion culture to strengthen her connection to Chinese identity[11:37] Revitalizing cultural districts with design projects, including Daxila and Spoonful of Sugar café[13:16] Sustainability art project “Meeting Amy” — taking a farm-raised pig through fine dining, taxidermy, and street presentation to highlight full resource use[16:28] Entering the family business in 2016 and launching a new show at Shanghai’s National Exhibition and Convention Center[19:08] Building her own young, tech-forward, and collaborative culture that clashed at times with her mother’s more traditional, hierarchical style[22:34] Transforming trade shows from massive transactional halls into curated, thematic, and experiential events that maximize value for attendees[26:00] The grooming process that prepared her to be CEO and Co-Chair while protecting her from overexposure[30:16] Quick Fire Round:Book recommendation: Religion for Atheists by Alain de Botton – adopting timeless wisdom from religious traditions for community building and leadership (Amazon link)Morning success habit: 10–20 minutes of stretchingTool/app she can’t live without: Her phone (though not essential on holiday)Daily grounding habit: Making her bed and looking into sunlight or daylightBest business advice: “My life and my business are the sum of my habits” – build disciplined routines without imposing them on othersAdvice for new entrepreneurs: “Find ways to discover the comic in the seemingly tragic”[38:19] Show Outro

Sophie Chen has moved more than 10,000 families—but her toughest move was lifting SAE Relocation from obscurity to China’s first-tier relocation league. In this episode she unpacks a 20-year entrepreneurial journey: battling global giants, winning expat trust, and navigating the delicate dance of co-leading a company with her husband. Sophie explains how joining EO introduced strategy frameworks that unlocked new growth, why sport keeps her psychology sharp, and how mastering market cycles reshaped her approach to cash. Listeners will learn the importance of rhythm, resilience, and putting the right people in the right seats.[00:49] Show Intro (no summary)[02:20] Meet Sophie Chen—violinist-turned-relocation CEO and co-founder of SAE Relocation[03:30] From receptionist to logistics insider: her first taste of the industry[05:30] A mother’s nudge to “be your own boss” and quitting the safe path Sophie[07:13] Cracking China’s expat-relocation market against global giants Sophie[09:45] Climbing to first-tier status—15 years of gritty persistence[11:48] Annual “zero-to-one” resets: staying fresh by restarting goals each year[16:38] Sports mindset—yoga for calm, boxing for fight; guarding mental energy[17:16] Husband-and-wife dynamics: early power struggles → clear roles & family-first rules[22:06] Why her co-founder / husband, Ferasse, stepped back and how clear accountability lines unlocked scale[24:05] Joining EO (Entrepreneurs' Organization) & discovering Scaling Up frameworks that changed the game[29:05] Quick-Fire Hacks  • Book: Mastering the Market Cycle – Howard Marks  • Book: Scaling Up – Verne Harnish  • Morning ritual: phone outside bedroom, breathing practice, Duolingo French  • Tool/App: WeChat mission control → https://www.weixin.qq.com  • Wind-down: Instagram / Douyin scrolling → https://www.instagram.com[36:01] Daily grounding through sport & breath-work[37:24] One rule Sophie keeps: “Save up for the winter” after every boom[38:18] Show Outro (no summary)

In this insightful and wide-ranging episode, which highlights Alvin's key takeaways on the rise of AI-fueled bootstrapping, the concept of Abundanism, and the future of one-person unicorns, Alvin Wang Graylin — serial entrepreneur, tech leader, and co-author of Our Next Reality — shares his unique perspective on how AI is reshaping the world of startups. Alvin reflects on his personal journey, from bootstrapping businesses as a student to leading global tech initiatives, and how AI tools are now enabling founders to build what once required entire teams. He introduces the concept of Abundanism, a vision of a post-scarcity society where entrepreneurs are motivated by impact rather than wealth. Scott and Alvin explore the responsibilities of today’s entrepreneurs at this pivotal moment in history, as AI accelerates change at unprecedented speed.Show Notes[00:00] Alvin highlights how AI tools now provide the equivalent of an engineering team for $20/month — transforming startup economics and enabling leaner teams.[02:11] Introduction of Alvin’s background in AI, XR, semiconductors, cybersecurity, and leadership roles at HTC, Intel, IBM, and other major firms.[03:41] Alvin’s entrepreneurial origin story: immigrating from China, funding his education through early ventures, and starting his first company in college.[04:59] Founding Intel China’s office as an intrapreneur; launching an AI company in the early Internet era; lessons from the dot-com bust and pivoting through adversity.[07:04] Pioneering mobile natural language search and social networks in China, becoming official search provider for the Beijing Olympics — years ahead of global trends.[08:52] Building HTC’s XR ecosystem; creating an accelerator that invested in 100+ AI/XR startups; forming global VR alliances to drive industry growth.[09:36] The evolution of AI: symbolic vs. connectionist models, the long “AI winter,” and how advances in compute, data, and memory triggered today’s breakthroughs.[12:35] How AI transforms prototyping, customer acquisition, and scaling; why agility now matters more than grinding for funding; the rise of AI-fueled bootstrapping.[15:48] The vision of one-person unicorns: how AI agents and outsourcing can replace traditional large teams; what this means for entrepreneurship.[17:55] Managing AI agents vs. human teams: communication friction, bureaucracy, and politics fade in an AI-first organization.[20:00] Abundanism explained: a philosophy for a post-scarcity world where success is measured by societal benefit, not personal wealth.[24:01] The role of entrepreneurs in navigating the AI transition; moral leadership in shaping an equitable future; rethinking metrics of success.[26:16] How storytelling, media, and content creators can help shift mindsets toward abundance and shared prosperity.[29:17] Rapid-fire recommendations: Alvin’s daily habits, tools, and timeless business advice on cash flow, hiring, sales, and mentorship.[38:49] Outro: reflections on AI’s inflection point and the urgent responsibility entrepreneurs hold during this historic transformation.Mentioned BookOur Next Reality: How the AI-Powered Metaverse Will Reshape the World by Alvin Wang Graylin and Louis RosenbergQuick FireTool/App can't live without: ToodleDo — Alvin’s long-time digital tool for capturing and organizing ideas and tasks.Daily Habit: Consistent wake time, morning exercise, and breathing practice to sustain energy and focus.Book Philosophy: Read widely — history, philosophy, sociology, biographies — to build pattern recognition and broaden perspectives. Alvin reads 100+ books per year.Show Intro: [00:47]Show Outro: [39:04]

When Scott Empringham lost his marriage, his clients, and his company all in the same week, he found himself drowning in debt with no clear way forward. But instead of giving up, Scott chose to get up—one tiny step at a time. In this raw and revealing conversation, Scott shares how he rebuilt from the ground up by focusing first on himself, then on serving a highly specific niche. Along the way, he leveraged AI to reinvent how digital marketing gets done—and now teaches thousands to do the same. From humility to hustle to high-tech scaling, this episode is an unforgettable roadmap for navigating entrepreneurial collapse and comeback.Show Notes[00:00] Losing it all: divorce, debt, and the collapse of a $10M agency[02:09] Meet Scott Empringham[03:07] Big news: launching an AI-powered 2-day Asia tour[05:06] From billion-dollar man to broke—how it all unraveled[07:02] The underrated superpower: humility[08:29] Starting from zero with the tiniest goals imaginable[11:07] The 90-day $500K challenge: how urgency forced laser focus[12:19] Niching down and building back with “The Elite Marketing Method”[14:52] The courage to say no—and go all in on one niche[16:22] How AI supercharged his comeback strategy[21:03] Using GPTs to create clarity and accountability in business[23:41] AI as coach: using ChatGPT to spot blind spots and reschedule life[25:06] A-Players + AI: the new equation for business success[27:10] Coaching the ‘stressor’—a powerful story of accountability[28:46] Quickfire Round:[28:52] Book: The One Thing by Gary Keller – Amazon[29:38] Daily habit: Open the Bible before opening email[31:47] Favorite tool: X100 app (built by his 15-year-old daughter using Lovable.dev)[33:38] What keeps him grounded: Daily workouts, even with his 12-year-old son[35:03] Best advice: “The riches are in the niches.”[36:22] Show OutroMentioned ReadsThe One Thing by Gary Keller – AmazonScaling Up by Verne Harnish – AmazonYour Oxygen Mask First by Kevin Lawrence – Amazon

Arthur Hayes, co-founder and original CEO of BitMEX, joins Scott to discuss how he transformed a belief in crypto into the world’s first crypto derivatives unicorn. He didn't set out to disrupt financial systems—he just wanted to build the trading platform he wished existed. In this candid conversation, Arthur opens up about his early crypto convictions, why product-market fit was non-negotiable, and the painful cost of hiring the wrong people. As BitMEX scaled from 13 to 300 people in three years while growing the top line 350X, he navigated regulatory headwinds, media storms, and the challenge of keeping culture intact in a high-risk, high-reward industry.⏱️ Timestamped Show Notes[00:00] Cold open: Arthur’s #1 lesson—hire better people.[00:34] Show intro and guest welcome.[02:17] Arthur’s entrepreneurial origin story—jumping into crypto after losing his job.[04:05] From trading derivatives to building a platform: the BitMEX birth story.[05:08] Confidence and conviction when funding was scarce.[07:10] Product-market fit: why charging from day one mattered.[08:29] Pivoting to meet customer demand: offering 100x leverage.[11:11] Founder struggles—why HR was Arthur’s biggest pain point.[14:43] Overhiring, overpaying, and dealing with toxic culture.[16:25] Navigating the regulatory gray zones in crypto.[18:41] Staying focused through uncertainty.[19:06] Quick Fire Hacks:Book every entrepreneur should read: Who by Geoff Smart (Amazon)Daily habit: ExerciseCan’t-live-without app: TradingView (Link)Best advice: Focus on the supply (liquidity)[21:02] One key lesson: Be more selective in hiring.[22:16] Advice to new founders: Don’t build a business just to please your VC.[23:03] Show outro.

In this episode, Fred Crosetto traces his journey from a scrappy American kid in Asia to chairman of the AMMEX Group, a growing $300M conglomerate. Fred explains how early pivoting during the AIDS crisis, relentless direct-sales hustle, and spin-outs in China and the Philippines unlocked tremendous growth. You’ll learn why ruthless prioritization beats “shiny object syndrome,” and how to empower next-generation leadership teams. He closes with rapid-fire takes on his favorite books, daily routines, and his mantra: “Start—and never give up.”Show Notes[00:00] TeaserFred explains why he could’ve sold at any time—but chose to “evolve out” and keep running AMMEX Group.[00:48] IntroScott welcomes Fred Crosetto, founder & chairman of AMMEX Group.[02:03] Episode FramingWhy focus, delegation, and resilience define entrepreneurial success.[02:11] Meet Fred CrosettoSeattle native, UW alum, founded AMMEX in 1988—$300M+ revenue across North America, China & SE Asia.[03:38] Entrepreneurial OriginsAt 22, Fred reads Megatrends by John Naisbitt and moves to Taiwan.[04:45] Early Crisis & TurnaroundA disastrous launch amid the AIDS awakening teaches pivoting and perseverance.[06:16] First $1 M MilestoneBlock-and-tackle selling: cold calls, mailings, and personal hustle.[07:05] Core Philosophy“Make your strengths productive and your weaknesses irrelevant.”[08:24] Scaling Beyond Solo FounderBuilding a finance, tech & ops A-team around his sales superpower.[11:09] Embracing UncertaintyCycling through seven banks in 12 years; volatility as fertile ground.[14:34] Meeting Verne HarnishEarly mentorship from Verne Harnish, Mastering Business Dynamics, leads to implementing the Scaling Up framework.[15:11] Focus & PrioritizationThe five-priority habit: why saying “no” drives exponential wins.[19:46] Platform MomentShared-services spin-outs in China & the Philippines; empowering independent GMs.[22:44] Evolve OutIdentifying, empowering, then stepping aside for next-gen leaders.[27:01] Future Spin-Out: AI ServicesLeveraging in-house AI experiments into a standalone business.[29:34] Leadership Transition LessonsEnsuring clarity, candor, and autonomy when new leaders take the reins.[31:36] Quick Fire (Entrepreneur Hacks)[31:52] Scott: “What’s one book every entrepreneur should read?”Fred: “AI Driven Leadership by Jeff Woods”—plus classics like Scaling Up, Good to Great, Great by Choice, Shoe Dog, and The AI Factor.[33:14] Scott: “What’s one thing you do every morning?”Fred: “No ritual—just get up and go.”[33:43] Scott: “What’s one tool you can’t live without?”Fred: “My iPhone—I panic if I leave it behind.”[34:53] Scott: “What’s a daily grounding habit?”Fred: “Evening dog walks with my wife, Kristien—a moment to disconnect and reflect.”[35:28] Scott: “What’s the best piece of business advice you’ve ever received?”Fred: “Make your strengths productive and your weaknesses irrelevant.”[37:32] Scott: “If you could restart AMMEX from scratch, which lesson would you bring?”Fred: “Start—and never give up. Plans always take twice as long and cost twice as much, but persistence wins.”[38:17] Final LessonPersistence through chaos: expect plans to take twice as long and cost twice as much.[39:48] OutroScott wraps with upcoming guests and a reminder: entrepreneurship is disciplined action.Shout Outs (People)🔹 Verne Harnish – Mentor and Scaling Up architect who reshaped Fred’s focus practice🔹 EO Forum peers (Entrepreneurs’ Organization) – For the candid exit-plan roasting that sparked Fred’s platform epiphanyBooks Mentioned• Megatrends by John Naisbitt• AI Driven Leadership by Jeff Woods• The AI Factor by Astra Saxinas• Scaling Up by Verne Harnish• Good to Great by Jim Collins• Great by Choice by Jim Collins• Shoe Dog by Phil Knight

Host Scott Pollack interviews David Holvoet, a Belgian entrepreneur who has spent nearly three decades building a unique constellation of businesses across the wood products and construction industries. With $50M in annual revenue and operations across Europe and Asia, David has mastered the art of scaling by keeping things small—each business is run by a focused, autonomous team of just 10 to 15 people.David shares his journey from launching a student consultancy to navigating crises in the lumber trade, building a global supply chain, and structuring a group of companies that thrive without centralized control. Along the way, he offers insights into how to foster deep trust, give leaders real ownership, and stay resilient when things go sideways. This episode is packed with entrepreneurial lessons on building lean, staying nimble, and creating structure that unlocks freedom—for both you and your teams.Show Notes[00:00] TeaserDavid explains his core philosophy: Focus is essential for business—but he delegates that focus to small, autonomous teams so he can remain creatively unfocused.[00:46–02:09] Intro[02:09] Meet David HolvoetBelgian entrepreneur, nearly 30 years in China. David runs a portfolio of four companies in wood products and construction, operating across Europe and Asia with $50M in combined revenue.[03:02] Entrepreneurial OriginsDavid dodges a final paper in university by starting a China-based student consultancy. His first client: a Belgian wood veneer company—an experience that kickstarted his trading career.[06:16] The Rise—and Fall—of a Young TraderDavid’s early success in raw lumber trading crashes after a European storm floods the market. The lesson: never have all your eggs in one basket.[08:54] Learning from MistakesShifting from imports to exports, David launches a plywood business—learning the hard way about product quality. His commitment to resilience keeps the business alive and growing.[10:42] Why He’ll Never Manufacture AgainAfter a failed attempt at owning a flooring plant, David draws a hard line: outsource manufacturing, but invest in hard-to-copy IP like fire-rated door licenses.[13:14] Building a Constellation of Focused TeamsEach of David’s businesses has 10–15 people and runs independently with its own GM. The structure allows laser focus in the business—and strategic freedom for David.[16:46] Invisible Ownership, Visible LeadershipDavid puts his GMs front and center—outsiders often assume they’re the business owners. This increases accountability, loyalty, and agility.[20:25] Cross-Pollinating IdeasManaging multiple businesses allows David to share lessons across functions and geographies, turning traditional business models into competitive advantages.[22:29] Biggest Personal Struggle: TrustAfter several betrayals, David still chooses to trust—but now addresses red flags with radical candor and quick confrontation.[25:48] A Lesson in TransparencyA misstep in compensation transparency taught David the importance of managing ego and being more direct with his leadership team.[27:55] Quick Fire (Entrepreneur Hacks)📚 One Book Every Entrepreneur Should Read: How to Make Big Money in Your Own Small Business by Jeffrey J. FoxAlso mentions The Lean Startup and Blue Ocean Strategy.⏰ Morning Habit: Rocket-launch wakeup method: "3-2-1 Go!" + early morning exercise.🛠️ Essential Tool: His calendar. It drives the entire cadence of his life and business operations.🧘‍♂️ Grounding Practice: Evening dog walks with his wife Kristien—a daily ritual to reconnect and rebalance.💡 Best Advice Received:“To multiply in business, you must first learn to divide.”“Never waste a good crisis.” He shares how EU anti-dumping regulations actually elevated his company’s brand.[39:26] Outro

Scott Pollack hosts serial entrepreneur Gabrielle Chou, who has successfully built and sold three businesses—each one within a five-year window. Gabrielle explains the power of aligning your company’s strategy with the interests of three key stakeholders: customers, investors, and potential acquirers. She discusses lessons learned from scaling too fast, the importance of generating revenue early on, and how she navigated personal challenges and pivots in pursuit of lasting success. Listeners will also hear about her insights on balancing authenticity in leadership with the need to manage team morale and investor demands. Whether you’re a new founder or a seasoned CEO, Gabrielle’s story offers powerful insights into entrepreneurship done with discipline, vision, and heart.Show Notes with Timestamps[00:00–00:26] TeaserGabrielle briefly shares her remarkable achievement of building and exiting three companies, each in a five-year cycle.[00:27–01:58] Show Intro[01:59] Start of Main EpisodeScott welcomes Gabrielle, describing her background as a “true serial entrepreneur” with three exits.[02:03–02:34] Gabrielle’s Early Days & First VentureGabrielle recounts abruptly leaving a consulting job and needing immediate income, leading her to entrepreneurship.Discusses landing a proof of concept with L’Oréal and raising venture capital in the U.S.[02:34–07:08] The Power of Aligning Stakeholder InterestsGabrielle explains her “superpower”: building businesses with clear value propositions not only for customers but also for investors and potential acquirers.Shares how she factored acquisition strategies into each venture from the start.[07:08–09:45] Raising Capital & Early StrugglesDelves into the challenges of pitching VCs, especially when you’re an unfamiliar face in Silicon Valley.Discusses Y Combinator’s role in legitimizing her third company when prior investor pitches had failed.[09:45–14:05] Learning from Mistakes & Scaling BackGabrielle recounts burning through $2 million of early funding and having to cut from 60 employees down to 11.Highlights how vulnerability and honesty with her team helped rebuild trust and refocus on revenue generation.[14:05–20:32] Transitioning from Second to Third VentureExplains why her second, consumer-focused business model was not the right long-term fit.Shares personal challenges, including a family tragedy, which influenced the pause before founding her third venture.[20:32–30:00] The Third Startup’s AI VisionHow Allure Systems provided virtual try-on tech for fashion e-commerce.Balancing a disruptive product roadmap with real-world revenue demands.[30:00–37:03] Quick Fire (Entrepreneur Hacks)Book Recommendation:The Lean Startup by Eric Ries https://www.amazon.com/Lean-Startup-Entrepreneurs-Continuous-Innovation/dp/0307887898Value Proposition Design by Alexander Osterwalder https://www.amazon.com/Value-Proposition-Design-Customers-Strategyzer/dp/1118968050Morning Ritual: Coffee and family time.Can’t-Live-Without App: ChatGPT by OpenAI.Daily Grounding Habit: Breathing exercises.Best Business Advice: “Generate revenue” to confirm product-market fit.[37:03–38:51] Final Insights & Wrap-UpGabrielle underscores how revenue proves market demand and sets the stage for a smoother exit.Scott teases a future discussion on generative AI’s impact on entrepreneurship.[38:51–End] Show OutroScott thanks Gabrielle and invites listeners to stay tuned for upcoming guest interviews.Encourages subscribing, sharing, and leaving feedback for the Entrepreneurism podcast.

In this episode, Scott Pollack interviews Jacob Rothman, co-founder and co-CEO of Velong Enterprises, who has spent two decades building Velong into a 5,000-employee global operation that manufactures consumer goods for top retailers worldwide. Jacob shares how he and his partner Iven Chen have expanded manufacturing operations from a single town in China to include several facilities in Cambodia and India, overcoming cultural gaps, supply-chain hurdles, and unforeseen global events. He speaks candidly about the challenges and doubts that come with moving 20 years of knowledge, relationships, and equipment across borders. Listeners will learn the importance of perseverance, partnerships built on mutual respect, and staying flexible in a rapidly changing global landscape.Show Notes[00:00] TeaserJacob introduces the pivotal challenge of shifting manufacturing outside of China.He notes both the exciting growth opportunities and the lingering doubt around relocating a 20-year-old supply chain.[00:46–02:09] Intro[02:09] Meet Jacob RothmanScott highlights Velong’s substantial footprint: 5,000 employees and operations spanning China, Cambodia, and India.Jacob traces his early path in his family’s broom-and-brush business in California, followed by sourcing trips to China that evolved into a permanent venture.[06:37] Founding Velong EnterprisesJacob and Ivan Chen capitalize on the transition from traditional trading companies to more self-sufficient Chinese factories.Their co-CEO structure prioritizes teamwork and respect over formal job titles.[10:49] Personal Struggles & Culture ShiftsJacob emphasizes the importance of seeing Ivan as a genuine equal, moving beyond the “customer-vendor” relationship.Mutual respect, openness, and a shared vision prevent major co-founder conflicts.[13:04] Defining Moment: Supply Chain DiversificationTariffs and geopolitical changes prompt the expansion to Cambodia and India.Jacob compares China’s robust, on-demand supply chain to the “lunar landing” reality of building factories in developing regions.[17:41] Cambodia & India RealitiesLimited local suppliers and distinct cultural dynamics require more training and careful oversight.Jacob views these expansions as both a test of Velong’s resilience and its greatest growth catalyst.[21:02] Quick Fire (Entrepreneur Hacks)One Book Every Entrepreneur Should Read:Good Strategy/Bad Strategy by Richard RumeltMorning Success Habit: Daily exercise initiated during COVID.Essential Tool: Apple Notes for continuous list-making and organization.Grounding Practice: Vipassana meditation for mindfulness and humility.Top Advice Received: “Keep going” and “know your numbers.”[25:20] If Starting OverJacob stresses creating a culture that cuts through borders and biases.He attributes Velong’s global achievements to fostering true equality among team members.[27:30] Parting ThoughtsJacob reflects on “living his best life,” leading a company that impacts thousands of employees and their families.Scott wraps up the conversation, encouraging listeners to subscribe and share.[28:21] Outro

Host Scott Pollack interviews Yoan Rigart-Lenisa, a “parallel entrepreneur” who owns multiple businesses, from a digital transformation agency to trading companies to Thai restaurants. Yoan details how he and his brother identify new opportunities, empower specialist teams, and adapt to market changes—whether it’s shifting consumer habits or external pressures like COVID. A dedicated early riser, Yoan also talks about how time-blocking in his calendar and adopting structured operating systems, such as EOS, help him stay organized. Yoan illustrates how calculated risk-taking, strong partnerships, and an unwavering commitment to continuous learning can boost entrepreneurial success.Show Notes[01:55] – Setting the StageScott introduces Yoan, praising his parallel approach to entrepreneurship.Yoan offers a quick backstory on his first venture: exporting electric bicycles.[03:13] – From Bicycles to New FrontiersOutlining how spotting market gaps led Yoan to expand into different products and industries.Emphasizes seizing opportunity when it appears.[05:51] – F&B Success and PitfallsLaunching Urban Thai, eventually pivoting to Urban Tuk Tuk for delivery.Navigating evolving platforms (Sherpas, Meituan, Ele.me) and grappling with the impacts of COVID.[08:25] – Evaluating OpportunitiesBalancing market research and intuition to decide which ventures to pursue.Relying on collaboration with his brother, father, and trusted GM.[10:03] – Timing, Luck, and HumilityLocation can be everything; sometimes even great planning isn’t enough.Why every entrepreneur should stay open-minded and ready to pivot.[12:40] – Taming the CalendarYoan’s greatest struggle is time management, solved by meticulously scheduling tasks.[14:51] – Letting Experts ThriveStepping back from day-to-day operations by trusting specialists (e.g., chefs, developers).Building a culture of autonomy and problem-solving.[18:16] – Coaching and LeadershipYoan’s basketball coach background informs his supportive management style.Listening to individual team members to help them grow beyond their comfort zone.[20:19] – Quick Fire (Entrepreneur Hacks)Recommended Books (Guest’s Picks):Traction (EOS) by Gino WickmanThe Obstacle is the Way by Ryan HolidayMorning Routine: Wakes at 5:05 a.m. to work uninterrupted and possibly hit the gym.Crucial Tool: A digital calendar for meticulously planning his day.Daily Decompression: Short prayer at night to clear his mind.Best Business Advice: “Sell, sell, sell” — it’s simpler to handle capacity issues than a lack of revenue.[27:45] – Embracing EOS from the StartYoan wishes he’d integrated EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) earlier for transparency, shared goals, and solid KPIs.Open-book management helps everyone understand costs, margins, and growth targets.[31:45] – Wisdom for New EntrepreneursSurround yourself with peers, mentors, or a group like EO or EO Accelerator, because entrepreneurship can be isolating.Don’t let failures knock you down—treat them as learning moments.[34:48] – Closing RemarksScott thanks Yoan for the interview, highlighting how parallel entrepreneurship can inspire diverse leaders.Listeners are encouraged to subscribe, leave feedback, and share the show.

Host Scott Pollack interviews Xavier Naville, who recounts his journey from finance expert to unintentional CEO of a Chinese food-supply venture. From wrestling with imposter syndrome to forging trusted relationships with local team members, Xavier details his struggles scaling a business to $150 million in revenue. He shares lessons about staying resilient under pressure, asking for help when you don’t have all the answers, and investing in a clear company vision that sets the stage for collaborative decision-making and sustained growth. He further highlights how creating an empowering culture and embracing small, strategic steps can ultimately lead to big wins.[2:26] – Introduction to XavierScott introduces guest Xavier Naville, highlighting his journey from Paris to Shanghai and founding Creative Food Group, which grew to supply major restaurant chains in China.Xavier’s entrepreneurial path is captured in his book, The Lettuce Diaries: How a Frenchman Found Gold Growing Vegetables in China.[3:49] – Becoming an ‘Accidental CEO’Xavier explains how he found himself thrust into a CEO role at age 27 with no prior leadership experience or training.He discusses his imposter syndrome and how projecting overconfidence initially caused more problems than solutions.[5:42] – Greatest Personal Struggle: Confronting Imposter SyndromeXavier details how his inclination toward rapid, “top-down” decisions and reliance on financial analysis led to disengaged teams.Near-bankruptcy forced him to change tactics, ask for help, and empower local Chinese managers.[7:02] – Cultural Shifts and Team EngagementHow a critical lunch meeting with a potential key hire led to a game-changing decision on supplier contracts.Realizing that consulting team members strengthened trust and uncovered more effective solutions in the Chinese market.[11:04] – Finding the Right People & the Importance of TrustHow giving a capable team member decision-making authority not only solved immediate problems but boosted morale and loyalty.[15:42] – The “Refuse to Fail” MindsetXavier shares his ultimate “superpower”: staying the course through adversity.Emphasizes that talent plus sheer persistence helped turn the business from near collapse into a thriving enterprise.[18:56] – Navigating Growth Tensions & Culture ClashesHiring executives from large multinational companies brought in conflicting values and management styles.Highlights the need for clear behavior expectations and culture fit, not just high-profile résumés.[23:24] – Vision and StrategyThe power of crafting a shared vision that guides daily decisions.Why it’s essential to involve the entire leadership team in long-term goal setting, then continually revisit and reinforce it.[26:23] – Quick Fire (Entrepreneur Hacks)Must-Read Book #1: Obsessions of an Extraordinary Executive by Patrick LencioniMust-Read Book #2: Positive Intelligence by Shirzad ChamineMorning Routine: Wakes at 5 a.m., enjoys an espresso, and visualizes the day’s goals.Favorite Tool: ChatGPT, used as an “idea helper,” albeit with caution for potential inaccuracies.Daily Habit for Grounding: Structured exercise regimen coordinated via the TrainingPeaks app.Best Business Advice: Focus on what you can control, rather than events you cannot.[32:26] – Final Lessons & ‘The Road Not Taken’Xavier stresses the value of starting small and proving concepts before investing heavily.Cautions entrepreneurs against letting the excitement of big funding overshadow the need for agile experimentation.Mentioned Books & ToolsThe Lettuce Diaries by Xavier NavilleObsessions of an Extraordinary Executive by Patrick LencioniPositive Intelligence by Shirzad ChamineChatGPT (AI assistant)TrainingPeaks (fitness and workout planning APP)

What makes a successful entrepreneur? It’s certainly not just about spotting opportunities. The entrepreneurial journey is full of tensions that must be managed. The most successful master the balance between vision and execution, short-term demands and long-term goals, opportunities and distractions. ENTREPRENEURISM unpacks what separates great entrepreneurs from the rest, mining the entrepreneurial journey for practical insights. Hosted by CEO coach Scott Pollack, this podcast brings you candid conversations, bold ideas, and actionable strategies from entrepreneurs who have built thriving ventures. Ready to unlock your full potential? This is the show for you.