Speaking Startup: Sleep science and entrepreneurship

Entrepreneurs are often known for working around the clock to keep their business afloat. But is sacrificing sleep for work actually what’s best for business? According to Jeff Gish, an Assistant Professor of Entrepreneurship at the University of Central Florida, the answer is no. Gish’s research shows that a lack of sleep can have a negative impact on decision making. “We found that when you're sleep deprived, you still come up with the same amount of ideas, but they're just not as good. So they aren't as commercially viable when you're sleep deprived. And you're more likely to fall for or pursue an ill fated business opportunity,” Gish said. On the latest episode of the Speaking Startup podcast, we dig into the subject of sleep in entrepreneurship. Plus, we hear from Maxine Clark, the founder of Build-A-Bear Workshop. The entrepreneur made her name building a retail empire but has focused her recent efforts on enabling other entrepreneurs and bridging racial and economic divides in St. Louis.