Why Resilience Is the #1 Trait Jenny Fielding Looks For in Founders

In this episode of The Tech Leader's Playbook, Jenny Fielding shares her insights on entrepreneurship, venture capital, and the importance of resilience and grit in the startup world. She discusses her journey from being a founder to a venture capitalist, the lessons learned from her successes and failures, and the unique thesis of her fund, Everywhere Ventures. Fielding emphasizes the significance of timing in startups and the characteristics that make successful founders. She also highlights the importance of global entrepreneurship and the stories of founders building companies outside of Silicon Valley. In this conversation, Avetis Antaplyan shares inspiring stories from successful founders around the world, highlighting their unique journeys and the characteristics that contributed to their success. The discussion also touches on the role of technology, particularly AI, in modern entrepreneurship, and the importance of being a global citizen in today's interconnected world. Antaplyan concludes with insights on the common traits of startup failures and the notion that it's never too late to pursue an entrepreneurial path.TakeawaysGrit and resilience are essential traits for entrepreneurs.It's never too late to start your entrepreneurial journey.Personal pain can drive innovative startup ideas.Failures provide valuable lessons for future success.Timing is crucial in the startup landscape.Being too early can hinder a startup's success.Founders must be adaptable and willing to pivot.Resilience, or 'elasticity', is crucial for entrepreneurs.Moxie, or boldness, is a key characteristic of successful founders.Leadership is tested in times of crisis, revealing true character.Successful entrepreneurs often share emotional stories of their journeys.Utilizing technology, especially AI, is essential for modern businesses.Global citizenship is important for entrepreneurs in a connected world.Stubbornness can hinder a founder's ability to adapt and succeed.Not all successful startups are AI-focused, but they must leverage technology.It's never too late to start an entrepreneurial journey. Chapters00:00 The Importance of Grit and Resilience in Entrepreneurship02:09 Jenny Fielding's Journey into Venture Capital06:00 Lessons from Success and Failure in Startups10:04 Transitioning from Founder to Investor14:06 The Unique Thesis of Everywhere Ventures17:57 Key Characteristics of Successful Founders20:49 Global Entrepreneurship and Lessons from Around the World22:19 The Everywhere Mindset: Charting Your Own Path26:47 Resilience and Moxie in Entrepreneurship29:48 Leadership in Crisis: Stories of Humanity30:47 Lessons Learned: Characteristics of Successful Founders34:02 The Role of Technology: AI and Beyond39:45 Building Cross-Border Companies: Global Citizenship41:10 Common Traits of Startup Failures43:20 Final Thoughts: It's Never Too Late to StartJenny Fielding’s Social Media Links:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennyfielding/https://www.instagram.com/jennyfielding_/Jenny Fielding’s Website:https://www.jennyfielding.com/Resources and Links:https://www.hireclout.comhttps://www.podcast.hireclout.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/hirefasthireright

In this episode of The Tech Leader's Playbook, Avetis Antaplyan speaks with Rohini Kasturi, CEO of HG Insights, about the transformative role of data intelligence in driving revenue growth and operational efficiency. They discuss the evolution of data usage in the context of AI, the importance of creating a growth playbook, and the need for precise intelligence in decision-making. Rohini shares insights on market dynamics, the impact of AI on sales and marketing, and the balance between automation and human insight. The conversation also touches on hiring trends, adapting to rapid change, and the future of service businesses in a data-driven world.TakeawaysTarget the right markets with the right product offerings.Data intelligence is crucial for guiding business decisions.Creating a growth playbook aligns teams towards common goals.Understanding market dynamics helps in defining TAM, SAM, and SOM.AI enhances productivity and revenue growth.Tailored messaging resonates better with prospects.Communication is key during organizational transformations.Data quality and context are essential for accurate insights.Service businesses must adapt to the new economy.Leaders need to balance automation with human insight.Chapters00:00 The Role of Data in Revenue Growth02:56 Rohini Kasturi's Journey in Data Management05:46 Shifts in Data Usage for AI09:02 Driving Revenue Growth with Data Intelligence12:06 Creating a Growth Playbook14:51 Understanding Market Dynamics: TAM, SAM, SOM18:07 AI's Impact on Sales and Marketing21:00 Balancing Automation and Human Insight23:52 Risks of Relying on AI-Driven Insights27:13 Hiring Trends in the Current Economic Climate30:05 Adapting to Rapid Change in Business32:51 Future Strategies for Data-Driven Companies35:46 The Evolution of Service Businesses38:58 Final Thoughts on Leveraging DataRohini Kasturi’s Social Media Links:https://www.linkedin.com/in/rohinikasturi/Rohini Kasturi’s Website:https://hginsights.com/Resources and Links:https://www.hireclout.comhttps://www.podcast.hireclout.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/hirefasthireright

In this compilation episode of The Tech Leader's Playbook, top thought leaders share their insights on business growth, innovation, and marketing ROI. The discussion covers the power of mastermind groups in gaining industry-leading perspectives and the complexities of scaling B2B service businesses. Experts break down key strategies for success, including the importance of talent acquisition, a strong sales culture, and niche specialization. The conversation also highlights the role of customer feedback in shaping business strategy, the necessity of disrupting and evolving existing business models, and the common pitfalls companies face when integrating AI. Additionally, the episode explores the critical decision-making process of building versus buying technology solutions and introduces the Launch First Method—a game-changing approach for startups to gain traction and validate their products early on.TakeawaysMastermind groups provide valuable insights from industry leaders.Marketing ROI can vary significantly based on strategy and execution.B2B service businesses often struggle with scaling due to reliance on grassroots marketing.A strong sales culture is essential for growth in service businesses.Documenting processes becomes crucial as a company scales beyond a certain size.Niche specialization can lead to significant growth opportunities.It's important to say no to certain opportunities to focus on what truly matters.Customer retention is as important as acquisition for sustainable growth.Investing in talent is critical for overcoming growth challenges.Sales processes and storytelling are key components of successful marketing. You have to shut down the other things to achieve growth.Diversification is key to staying competitive.Listening to customers is crucial for innovation.AI integration requires cultural acceptance and a solid game plan.The Launch First Method can help startups validate their ideas early.Creating high-fidelity prototypes can attract early customers.Chapters00:00 Mastermind Insights: The Power of Perspective05:00 Marketing ROI: Expectations and Strategies10:01 B2B Playbook: Scaling Service Businesses15:08 Overcoming Growth Challenges: Talent and Sales Culture19:51 Service vs. Tech: Scaling Challenges and Strategies26:09 Navigating Growth and Innovation Challenges30:03 The Importance of Customer Feedback32:54 The Necessity of Cannibalization for Growth34:47 Integrating AI: Common Pitfalls and Strategies39:02 Build vs. Buy: Strategic Decisions in AI Implementation40:55 The Launch First Method: A New Approach to StartupsResources and Links:https://www.hireclout.comhttps://www.podcast.hireclout.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/hirefasthireright

In this episode of The Tech Leader's Playbook, Lior Weinstein shares his journey into the world of AI, discussing the evolution of technology, the significance of hardware advancements, and the emergence of new AI models. He emphasizes the limitations of current AI intelligence, clarifying misconceptions about its capabilities and the future of AI technology. The discussion also touches on the rapid growth of AI investments and the implications for various industries. In this conversation, Avetis Antaplyan and Lior Weinstein explore the evolving landscape of employment in the age of AI, discussing how traditional professions like plumbing and electrical work are thriving while software engineers face challenges. They dive into the potential of AI to enhance business operations, the importance of customer discovery for startups, and the optimistic outlook for entrepreneurship. The discussion also touches on the role of the elderly in the workforce and the significance of integrating AI effectively into business strategies.TakeawaysLior's first experience with AI was at age 14.The hardware advancements, particularly from companies like NVIDIA, have accelerated AI's utility.AI's recent progress is due to both hardware and software innovations.Emerging models are combining different technologies for improved efficiency.AI is fundamentally about probabilities and statistics, not true intelligence.Misconceptions about AI often lead to overestimating its capabilities.The future of AI is driven by significant financial investments and attention.AI's ability to generate content is based on statistical likelihoods, not factual accuracy.The concept of 'hallucination' in AI refers to its tendency to generate plausible but incorrect information.AI can enhance traditional professions and business operations.Customer discovery is crucial for minimizing startup risks.The future of entrepreneurship is bright with AI tools.AI will create more self-employed individuals rather than increase unemployment.CTOX helps businesses access technology leadership affordably.Integrating AI requires understanding specific business needs.AI should enhance human capabilities, not replace them.Chapters00:00 The Genesis of AI Passion02:57 The Evolution of AI Technology05:55 The Hardware Revolution in AI09:01 Emerging AI Models and Innovations11:56 Understanding AI Intelligence and Limitations23:55 The Future of AI: Myths and Realities29:25 The Changing Landscape of Employment31:42 AI's Role in Enhancing Traditional Professions34:43 The Launch First Method for Startups39:25 The Future of Entrepreneurship in the AI Era43:15 Optimism vs. Pessimism in Technological Advancement51:11 The Renaissance of the Elderly in the Workforce52:26 CTOX: Bridging Technology Leadership and Business Needs54:50 Integrating AI Effectively in BusinessLior Weinstein’s Social Media Links:https://www.linkedin.com/in/liorweinstein/Lior Weinstein’s Website:https://ctox.com/Resources and Links:https://www.hireclout.comhttps://www.podcast.hireclout.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/hirefasthireright

In this episode of The Tech Leader's Playbook, Avetis Antaplyan and Brent Kedzierski discuss the concept of human-centric work design, exploring its implications for workplace efficiency and employee engagement. Brent shares insights from his extensive experience in organizational psychology, emphasizing the importance of understanding worker dynamics, the role of technology, and the need for structured work environments to enhance productivity. The conversation dives into metrics of work intensity and density, the significance of achieving a flow state, and common inefficiencies that hinder productivity in modern workplaces. Brent advocates for a shift towards more intentional work structures, such as time blocking, to foster deeper focus and collaboration among employees. In this conversation, Brent and Avetis explore the intersection of technology, automation, and human adaptation in the workplace. They discuss the fears surrounding automation, the implications of the Fourth Turning theory on the future of work, and the importance of human-centric design in technology. The dialogue also touches on the evolving job market, the necessity for companies to adapt, and the significance of employee satisfaction and engagement in a rapidly changing environment.TakeawaysUnderstanding worker dynamics can lead to improved performance and satisfaction.Technology should enhance human capacity, not replace it.Flow state is essential for maximizing productivity and creativity.Interruptions significantly reduce work efficiency and focus.Time blocking can help create structured work environments.Cognitive flexibility is becoming a crucial skill in the modern workplace.Many employees feel they lack clear performance expectations and feedback.Reducing unnecessary meetings can lead to more productive work hours.People fear technology will replace them.The Fourth Turning theory explains cycles in society.Technology is hitting a peak with AI advancements.Companies need to rethink their reliance on technology.The job market is shifting towards service-related roles.Happy employees lead to better productivity.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Human-Centric Work Design05:37 Intensity and Density in Work Metrics16:20 The Flow State and Productivity22:13 Inefficiencies in the Workplace28:04 Structuring Work for Efficiency33:36 The Technology Trap and Human Adaptation44:11 The Future of Work and Human-Centric Design51:07 The Shift in Job Markets and Human Skills57:22 The Human Condition and Workplace SatisfactionBrent Kedzierski’s Social Media Links:https://www.linkedin.com/in/brentkedzierski/Brent Kedzierski’s Website: https://www.humanwrks.com/

In this episode of The Tech Leader's Playbook, Avetis Antaplyan interviews Vladimer Botsvadze, a leading expert in digital transformation and AI. They discuss the evolution of digital marketing, the importance of personal branding, and how AI is reshaping marketing strategies. Vladimir emphasizes the need for emotional intelligence and authentic connections in a noisy digital marketplace, highlighting the significance of community and storytelling in building a personal brand. He shares insights on common mistakes startups make and the importance of long-term thinking in digital marketing.TakeawaysTesla's market cap illustrates the power of personal branding.Consumers prefer ad-free experiences, valuing their time.Marketing must focus on human connection, not just algorithms.Emotional intelligence is crucial in the age of AI.Authentic, human content is more effective than automated content.Direct communication with consumers is essential for success.Startups should position themselves as media companies.Building a community fosters trust and loyalty.Providing value leads to long-term success in marketing.Content creation is vital in a crowded digital space.Chapters00:00 The Power of Personal Branding02:54 The Evolution of Personal Branding05:58 The Impact of AI on Marketing Strategies08:52 Balancing AI and Human Touch in Marketing11:53 Building Authentic Connections in a Noisy Market14:58 The Importance of Community in Personal Branding17:58 Long-Term Thinking in Digital Marketing20:59 Common Mistakes Startups Make in Marketing24:00 The Role of Storytelling in Marketing26:52 Future Projects and Building AuthorityVladimer Botsvadze’s Social Media Links:https://www.instagram.com/vladimerbotsvadzehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/vladimerbotsvadzeVladimer Botsvadze’s Website:https://www.vladimerbotsvadze.com/Resources and Links:https://www.hireclout.comhttps://www.podcast.hireclout.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/hirefasthireright

In this episode of The Tech Leader's Playbook, David Hirschfeld shares his extensive experience in the tech industry, focusing on the transformative impact of AI on startups and business operations. He emphasizes the importance of understanding product-market fit, the distinction between needs and wants, and the lessons learned from both successful and failed ventures. Hirschfeld also discusses practical applications of AI, particularly in healthcare, and the common pitfalls companies face when integrating AI into their workflows. In this conversation, David Hirschfeld discusses the cultural acceptance of AI in companies, the importance of having a strategic implementation plan, and the fear of missing out that drives many organizations to adopt AI hastily. He emphasizes the need for companies to assess whether to build or buy AI solutions based on their core competencies. Additionally, he introduces the 'Launch First' method for startups, which encourages early customer engagement and financial commitments to validate product ideas before full development. The discussion concludes with practical advice for founders on workflow and market validation.Takeaways AI is a transformative force in the tech industry. Understanding product-market fit is crucial for startup success. Founders often confuse needs with wants in their market. Fear is a significant driver of consumer purchasing decisions. Listening to customer feedback is essential for product development. Successful startups focus on solving problems, not just building products. AI can automate processes and improve efficiency in businesses. Cultural acceptance is vital when integrating AI into workflows. Startups should prioritize selling over seeking funding. Education and training can help alleviate fears about AI. Companies often lack a strategic game plan for AI. Fear of missing out can lead to hasty AI adoption. Understanding AI's limitations is essential for effective use. Deciding to build or buy AI solutions depends on core competencies. The 'Launch First' method can improve startup success rates. Early customer engagement is key to validating product ideas. Focus on solving customer problems rather than just features. The Mom Test is a valuable resource for understanding customer needs.Chapters00:00 The Evolution of AI in Tech02:59 Understanding Product-Market Fit06:01 The Importance of Needs vs. Wants08:57 Learning from Success and Failure12:13 Navigating AI in Business14:57 Practical Applications of AI in Healthcare22:09 Cultural Acceptance of AI in Companies23:04 Implementation Strategies for AI24:26 The Fear of Missing Out on AI26:32 Build vs. Buy: AI Solutions28:35 The Launch First Method for Startups40:27 Advice for Founders on Workflow and LaunchingDavid Hirschfeld’s Social Media Links:https://www.linkedin.com/in/dhirschfeld/https://www.instagram.com/tekyzinchttps://www.facebook.com/dmhirschfeldDavid Hirschfeld’s Website:https://tekyz.com/Resources and Links:https://www.hireclout.comhttps://www.podcast.hireclout.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/hirefasthireright

In this episode of The Tech Leader's Playbook, Avetis Antaplyan and Mike Robbins explore the significance of authenticity and psychological safety in leadership and team dynamics. They discuss how personal experiences shape leadership styles, the importance of aligning individual and team goals, and the necessity of fostering an environment where team members can bring their whole selves to work. The dialogue emphasizes the role of trust, vulnerability, and emotional intelligence in creating high-performing teams and a positive workplace culture. In this conversation, Avetis Antaplyan discusses the evolving landscape of leadership, emphasizing the importance of adapting to changing circumstances while maintaining a strong organizational culture. He explores the balance between performance and culture, the necessity of accountability and psychological safety, and the value of individuality within teams. Antaplyan also highlights the significance of trust, healthy competition, and leading with humanity, especially during crises. He concludes with key leadership principles that focus on authenticity, emotional intelligence, and cultural awareness.Takeaways Success is not solely based on talent; other factors play a role. Psychological safety allows teams to speak up without fear. Emotional intelligence is crucial for effective leadership. Authenticity in the workplace leads to stronger collaboration. Team chemistry is as important as individual talent. Aligning personal and team goals enhances performance. Bringing your whole self to work fosters a supportive environment. Vulnerability is key to building trust among team members. Balancing performance and culture is essential for success. Accountability is more effective in a psychologically safe environment. Individuality within teams enhances overall performance. Healthy competition fosters trust and collaboration. Leading with humanity is crucial during crises. Cultural intelligence helps navigate diverse work environments. Curiosity is vital for understanding and connecting with others. Trust in oneself and interest in others are essential for leadership. Chapters00:00 The Journey to Authentic Leadership02:56 The Importance of Team Chemistry06:10 Aligning Individual and Team Goals08:57 Bringing Your Whole Self to Work12:00 Creating Psychological Safety15:12 Fostering Authenticity in Teams17:57 Balancing Personal and Professional Lives21:11 Building Trust and Vulnerability26:24 Navigating Leadership in Changing Times29:03 Balancing Culture and Performance32:52 The Role of Accountability and Psychological Safety37:35 Embracing Individuality in Team Dynamics40:49 Building Trust Through Healthy Competition43:04 Leading with Humanity During Crisis46:12 Key Leadership Principles for SuccessMike Robbins’s Social Media Links:https://www.facebook.com/mikerobbinspage/https://www.instagram.com/mikedrobbins/https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrobbins/https://x.com/mikedrobbinshttps://www.youtube.com/@mikerobbinsvideoMike Robbins’s Website:https://mike-robbins.com/

In this compilation episode of the Tech Leaders Playbook, we dive into the essential lessons learned from being part of a mastermind group. They discuss the importance of leveraging the knowledge of others, building strong teams, and navigating the misinformation prevalent in entrepreneurship. The conversation emphasizes the significance of customer experience, effective sales strategies, and the challenges of outsourcing. Additionally, they explore the implications of AI in business and how to define success beyond mere revenue growth.TakeawaysLeverage the knowledge of others to solve problems.Building a strong team is crucial for success.Misinformation in entrepreneurship can lead to poor decisions.Customer obsession is key to business success.Sales strategies should focus on unique messaging.Quality should be prioritized over price in outsourcing.AI adoption should be strategic, not rushed.Success metrics should include employee retention and growth.Execution is the true measure of success.Engaging directly with customers enhances understanding and service.Chapters00:00 Mastermind Insights: Learning from the Best02:55 Building a Strong Team: The Key to Success06:08 Navigating Misinformation in Entrepreneurship08:58 Customer Obsession: The Heart of Business11:54 Sales Strategies: The Introvert's Advantage15:06 Quality vs. Price: The Outsourcing Dilemma17:58 AI FOMO: The Rush to Adopt Technology21:08 Defining Success Beyond Revenue23:56 Conclusion: The Path ForwardResources and Links:https://www.hireclout.comhttps://www.podcast.hireclout.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/hirefasthireright

In this episode of The Tech Leader's Playbook, Avetis Antaplyan interviews Brian Hamilton, a prominent entrepreneur and chairman of LiveSwitch. They discuss Hamilton's journey from starting small businesses as a child to founding Sageworks, a pioneering fintech company. The conversation dives into the importance of financial data for small businesses, the evolution of LiveSwitch, and the critical role of team building and leadership in entrepreneurship. Hamilton emphasizes the need for credible information and the dangers of misinformation in the entrepreneurial landscape, while also highlighting the significance of time and persistence in achieving business success. In this conversation, Brian Hamiton and Avetis Antaplyan discuss the importance of customer engagement and the human touch in business. They emphasize that technology cannot replace the need for direct interaction with customers and share insights on how to foster a customer-centric culture. Additionally, they explore the social impact of entrepreneurship, particularly through the 'Inmates to Entrepreneurs' initiative, which helps formerly incarcerated individuals start their own businesses. The discussion highlights the significance of building relationships, understanding customer needs, and the role of mentorship in business success. Takeaways Brian Hamilton started his entrepreneurial journey at a young age. Building a business requires shifting goals at different stages. Team building is crucial for scaling a business effectively. Misinformation about entrepreneurship is widespread and harmful. Time is essential for achieving success in business. AI will play a role in enhancing business communication in the future. Leadership philosophies must adapt to the fast-paced tech environment. Customer obsession is crucial for business success. Engaging directly with customers provides invaluable insights. Technology should enhance, not replace, customer interactions. Building relationships humanizes the customer experience. Feedback from customers is essential for improvement. Mentorship plays a vital role in entrepreneurship. Understanding customer struggles leads to better solutions. Hard work and dedication are key to success in business. Chapters 00:00 The Journey of Entrepreneurship 06:02 Building a Business with Purpose 12:05 Leadership Lessons from Experience 17:57 Innovating with LiveSwitch 24:00 Navigating the Future of Tech and AI 26:50 The Importance of Customer Engagement 35:41 Building Relationships with Customers 40:53 Social Impact and Entrepreneurship 44:34 Purpose and Profitability in Business 46:00 Leadership Habits and Advice Brian Hamilton’s Social Media Links: https://www.instagram.com/brianhamiltonnc https://x.com/brianhamiltonnc Brian Hamilton’s Website: https://brianhamilton.org/ Resources and Links: https://www.hireclout.com https://www.podcast.hireclout.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/hirefasthireright