How I Built Two Billion-Dollar Companies Without Being a Tech Expert or an MBA | Iyinoluwa Aboyeji
Description
In this episode, we sit down with Iyinoluwa Aboyeji, co-founder of Andela, Flutterwave, and Future Africa. From narrowly missing a tragic plane crash to building some of Africa’s most impactful tech companies, Iyin shares his remarkable journey, driven by faith, service, and an unrelenting desire to create opportunities for others.🔑 Key Topics & Lessons with Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction“I may not be technical, but I can sell” – Iyin’s unique entrepreneurial edge.02:00 – Faith as a Foundation“I see entrepreneurship as a ministry to help people flourish.”04:30 – Surviving a Plane Crash“That moment made me realize life isn’t a game. I had to take it seriously.”06:45 – Turning Pain into Purpose“I wanted to honor my friends who died by creating impact in their absence.”09:00 – Discovering Entrepreneurship“I thought solving Nigeria’s problems meant working at the UN—until I learned what entrepreneurship could do.”12:00 – First Startup Lessons with Bookneto“Solution selling means listening to your customers and building what they need.”17:45 – Navigating Failure and Pivoting“Our professors hated us—until we helped them make money.”27:00 – The Power of Collaboration“Working alone? You might build a $10M company. With a strong team? A $1B company.”31:00 – From Andela to Flutterwave“You don’t need an MBA to run a company. You need the opportunity.”35:00 – Continuous Learning as a Superpower“I read books, articles, and talk to people to stay sharp and connected.”38:00 – Overcoming Imposter Syndrome“I’m confident because I know how little I know—and that’s okay.”41:00 – Mastering the Art of Selling“Step into your customer’s shoes, reverse-engineer their needs, and offer solutions they can’t resist.”43:00 – Impact Over Profit“It’s not about the unicorns. It’s about the lives we’ve changed.”46:00 – Advice to Young Entrepreneurs“Be more attuned to God’s leading and take risks—it’s a kingdom principle.”📚 Recommended Resources by Iyinoluwa Aboyeji:1. Zero to One by Peter Thiel – Understanding what technology can truly do.2. Founders at Work by Jessica Livingston – Real stories of startup struggles and successes.3. The Bible – Timeless wisdom for clear thinking, resilience, and purpose-driven entrepreneurship.🛠️ Top Advice for Entrepreneurs:“Find a customer and build around their needs. Be willing to take risks, collaborate with the best, and always be learning.”





















