17. Adi Eckhouse Barzilai - Chess and Optimism

Adi Eckhouse Barzilai is co-founder and CEO at DeeDa:Do, based in NYC, and was the founder of RealFace, a company focused on bringing back human perception to digital processes. In this conversation we discuss her journey from sitting with an inspired idea to finally taking the plunge and leaving the security of her well paid job to set up RealFace. She emphasizes how vital it is to work with partners who share the same core values as you and the importance of surrounding yourself with talented people who you can learn from. Adi talks about RealFace getting acquired by Apple and the bittersweet nature of selling a company that you built with a view to longevity. She also speaks candidly about embarking on her new startup DeeDa:DO and what she wants to do differently this time around. An eternal optimist, Adi believes that it’s absolutely necessary to look at the world through rose-coloured glassed if you’re going to be an entrepreneur and touches on the importance of creating your own narrative when faced with setbacks. One of Adi's other interests is chess, and as a former chess champion she is passionate about teaching chess to girls. We hear about the program she has set up to do that in NYC and the importance she places on STEM subjects and making them accessible to all. This podcast was made possible with the kind support of Emanuel Arbib of IAM Capital Group, a global alternative investment group, and the individuals Elissa Bayer and Avital Eusgeld.