Finding Passion and Purpose As An Entrepreneur

I’ve been an entrepreneur all my life. Have never held a “real” job. So you’d think I’ve probably always done something for work that I loved to do… right? That’s not quite true. Actually, not even close. You see, entrepreneurs (or someone who wants to break out of their day job and become an entrepreneur … Continued

Entrepreneurship Is About Being A Kid Again

Think back to when you were a kid… a really young kid. Or, if you have kids or know young kids (under 5 years old) think of them. Think about how fearless kids are at that age. How kids go out and “do it” first… and ask for forgiveness later. How kids don’t really care … Continued

Your Customers Have Evolved. Have You?

Recently, at one of my companies (Carrot, our software company) we ran a promotion and discovered some pretty cool stuff about our customers that we wouldn’t have predicted. This one customer behavior insight changed the way we’re now doing some things. This one insight could be a “make or break” key to your own success … Continued

Need Business Funding? Look To Your Customers For The Cash.

At our Entrepreneur Meetups (www.UmpquaEntrepreneurs.com) the biggest question new entrepreneurs have is… “Where do I get the money to start my business?” I asked the same question when I got started. I’ll answer it by telling a story on how I “bootstrapped” several companies with very little money. Before I dive in, I understand that … Continued

It’s All In Your Head – Inside An Entrepreneurs Mind

I’ve spoken with thousands of entrepreneurs, worked with hundreds, and went into business with a handful over the last 10 years. It’s been a wild ride. A fun ride. Lots of ups… some definite downs… and one common thread that I’ve seen all successful entrepreneurs and businesses have that others don’t. More on that in … Continued