The Founder Hour
Pat & Posh
Welcome to "The Founder Hour," where your hosts Pat and Posh dive deep into the stories of successful entrepreneurs and business innovators. Each episode uncovers the journeys, struggles, and triumphs that define today's most influential founders. From tech start-ups to creative ventures, "The Founder Hour" provides an unfiltered look at the hard work and persistence needed to scale a business from the ground up. Engaging interviews reveal personal anecdotes and lessons learned, offering invaluable insights for anyone fascinated by the dynamics of entrepreneurship. Join us as we explore a diverse array of industries and backgrounds, highlighting the unique paths these trailblazers have taken to achieve their dreams. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur, a seasoned executive, or simply a fan of inspiring stories, "The Founder Hour" promises to enrich your understanding of what it truly takes to make it in the competitive world of business. Don't miss an episode—each one is a masterclass in leadership, innovation, and perseverance, delivered straight from those who've lived through it.
Episodes
Ken Grossman | How Sierra Nevada Brewing Company Pioneered Craft Beer
In this enlightening episode, Ken Grossman, the founder of Sierra Nevada Brewing Co., discusses his journey from a curious homebrewer to a pioneering figure in the craft beer industry. Grossman shares stories from his early life, detailing his passion for mechanics and science, which eventually led him to brewing. He explains the inception of Sierra Nevada, emphasizing the struggles and innovations along the way, including the unique challenges of setting up a brewery with limited resources and navigating a rapidly consolidating industry. The conversation also covers the broader impacts of the craft beer movement, Grossman's views on the current market trends, and his strategies for adapting to changing consumer preferences.
Amy Liu | How a Battle with Eczema Led to Tower 28
Amy Liu shares her journey from growing up in a Taiwanese immigrant family in California to founding Tower 28. She discusses her early exposure to entrepreneurship through her father's real estate ventures and contrasts it with her mother's stable but unfulfilling corporate job. Initially following a traditional career path in consulting and eventually business school, Amy felt compelled to find work that matched her passion, similar to her father’s enthusiasm for his work. This led her to pivot into the beauty industry, where she spent over two decades in various roles before starting her own company. Tower 28 was born out of her necessity for beauty products that cater to sensitive skin, driven by her personal battle with eczema. The episode delves into the challenges and successes she faced while creating products that are not only effective but also accessible and aesthetically appealing.
Dave Asprey | Founder of Bulletproof and Father of Biohacking
In this insightful episode of "The Founder Hour," hosts Pat & Posh delve deep into the life and innovations of Dave Asprey, recognized as the "Father of Biohacking" and the mind behind the renowned wellness brand, Bulletproof. The discussion traverses Asprey's early struggles with health issues and obesity, his transformative experiences with biohacking, and the inception of Bulletproof Coffee—a pivotal moment in the wellness industry. Asprey also shares personal anecdotes from his childhood, touches on his stint in Silicon Valley, and discusses his philosophies on health, aging, and the interplay of technology and wellness. The episode not only highlights Asprey’s entrepreneurial journey but also his profound impact on modern health paradigms through biohacking.
Marc Lore | Mercenary to Missionary: The Man Behind Jet.com, Diapers.com, and Wonder
In this revealing episode of the Founder Hour, Marc Lore, the entrepreneurial force behind Jet.com and Diapers.com, shares his transition from a profit-focused businessman to a mission-driven innovator. Lore recounts his early experiences with entrepreneurship, influenced by his parents' hard work and unique career paths. The discussion delves deep into his major business ventures, highlighting the strategic decisions and personal motivations behind them. Lore's latest projects, including the founding of a new city, Talosa, and his startup, Wonder, are explored in detail. These initiatives reflect his commitment to creating sustainable and transformative societal impacts, showcasing his evolution from a 'mercenary' motivated by money to a 'missionary' driven by a desire to contribute positively to society.
Scott McNealy | Co-Founder and Former CEO of Sun Microsystems
Scott McNealy, co-founder of Sun Microsystems, shares his experiences from childhood, college days, and his career trajectory. McNealy discusses how sports, particularly golf and hockey, have influenced his business strategies and leadership style. He reflects on his upbringing, family life, and his father's influence, underscoring the importance of competitiveness and discipline instilled early on. Throughout the episode, McNealy highlights various parallels between sports and business, emphasizing teamwork, individual responsibility, and the mental rigor required in both fields. He also touches on his time at Harvard and Stanford, providing insights into his academic and early professional experiences. Additionally, McNealy discusses the inception and evolution of Sun Microsystems, his leadership style, and the dynamic tech landscape of Silicon Valley during the 1980s.