Speaking with Richard was a real treat for me. The company he started and still leads has had a very positive impact on my son. Richard is a self-proclaimed math enthusiast.
And, as he says, he likes to solve math problems, teach, and build things. So, when he revealed some of his personal challenges in becoming a CEO, they were very different than what you might expect. Because, as he says, "People are all different, they're snowflakes, you can't treat them as widgets, you can't treat them like math problems."
After we discussed his challenges in shifting from Founder to CEO, he and I came up with 4 actions you can take that will help you make it an easier transition.
Dan understands delegation. He has mastered the art of delegation in a unique way. He shares his unique approach to delegation, his systematic review of talent, and how he communicates with his team.
The best startups a born out of Founder frustrations. Haley is a lawyer who hated the manual process for helping Founders and attorneys with deal flow. So, she created a collaborative SaaS platform that is having a big impact. She also knows being a Founder is hard work. Balancing giving the team direction with empowering the team was a challenge for her. She explains what she learned in this interesting interview.
Sometimes focusing on simplification is the most important action a Founder can take. Austin knows this. He helps entrepreneurs, like you, simplify and focus. And, he too knows the perils and pitfalls of being a Founder and leader. He candidly shares the story of when one of his team members ask him: Have you thought about hiring a CEO? His response to this question will amaze you.
There's a dirty word in some entrepreneurial circles. It starts with s...no, not that word. It's structure. Yes, some Founders shy away from structure, processes, and systems just at the time the business needs a bit more. Christian experienced this himself and is helping Founders like you better navigate this important part of entrepreneurial leadership.