5: Bob Mighell - Reinventing the Motorcycle

This episode takes you into the world of Bob Miles, an entrepreneur whose career spans building snowboards, refurbishing operating room equipment, and rethinking motorcycle design. With a career shaped by curiosity and grit, Bob shares how he grew his businesses, including a medical equipment company that turned sustainability into a practical advantage long before it was a buzzword. He also reflects on scaling a company to $6 million in revenue and being recognized as one of the fastest-growing private businesses. We explore the story behind Tilting Motor Works, Bob’s groundbreaking three-wheeled motorcycle innovation. Initially dismissed by skeptics, his idea proved its worth through performance and persistence. Bob discusses the unexpected challenges of marketing a product that disrupts a traditional industry and shares what it’s like to balance customer feedback with bold ideas. From turning heads at motorcycle shows to sparring with industry giants like Harley-Davidson, this story is a candid look at the realities of chasing innovation. Now an Entrepreneur-in-Residence at the University of Oregon, Bob finds joy in mentoring students and helping shape the next wave of innovators. He talks about the value of connecting with people, learning by doing, and the unexpected lessons that come from decades of trial and error. Whether you're interested in motorcycles, sustainability, or just hearing about the creative process behind bold ideas, Bob’s perspective offers a fresh take on entrepreneurship. Timestamps: 0:00 - Intro: Meet Bob Mighell and the origin of his entrepreneurial journey3:15 - Snowboards to surgery: Early business ventures and sustainability lessons7:45 - The 20-year grind: Building and scaling a medical equipment company12:20 - Designing for impact: The idea behind Tilting Motor Works16:05 - Breaking through industry skepticism: How Bob’s prototype turned heads22:45 - Harley-Davidson and the motorcycle market: Lessons in disruption28:10 - Challenges of scaling: Converting interest into sales34:50 - Why three-wheeled vehicles are misunderstood in the market40:25 - Selling Tilting Motor Works: Lessons learned from a successful exit45:10 - Entrepreneurship in practice: Bob’s role at the University of Oregon51:30 - Sales skills and CRM systems: The underestimated tools for scaling57:15 - Creativity vs. operations: Finding balance in long-term business growth1:03:00 - Navigating AI and innovation in today’s business climate1:07:45 - Final thoughts: Advice for entrepreneurs and what’s next for Bob Mighell