The Art of Parallel Entrepreneurship with Yoan Rigart-Lenisa

Host Scott Pollack interviews Yoan Rigart-Lenisa, a “parallel entrepreneur” who owns multiple businesses, from a digital transformation agency to trading companies to Thai restaurants. Yoan details how he and his brother identify new opportunities, empower specialist teams, and adapt to market changes—whether it’s shifting consumer habits or external pressures like COVID. A dedicated early riser, Yoan also talks about how time-blocking in his calendar and adopting structured operating systems, such as EOS, help him stay organized. Yoan illustrates how calculated risk-taking, strong partnerships, and an unwavering commitment to continuous learning can boost entrepreneurial success.Show Notes[01:55] – Setting the StageScott introduces Yoan, praising his parallel approach to entrepreneurship.Yoan offers a quick backstory on his first venture: exporting electric bicycles.[03:13] – From Bicycles to New FrontiersOutlining how spotting market gaps led Yoan to expand into different products and industries.Emphasizes seizing opportunity when it appears.[05:51] – F&B Success and PitfallsLaunching Urban Thai, eventually pivoting to Urban Tuk Tuk for delivery.Navigating evolving platforms (Sherpas, Meituan, Ele.me) and grappling with the impacts of COVID.[08:25] – Evaluating OpportunitiesBalancing market research and intuition to decide which ventures to pursue.Relying on collaboration with his brother, father, and trusted GM.[10:03] – Timing, Luck, and HumilityLocation can be everything; sometimes even great planning isn’t enough.Why every entrepreneur should stay open-minded and ready to pivot.[12:40] – Taming the CalendarYoan’s greatest struggle is time management, solved by meticulously scheduling tasks.[14:51] – Letting Experts ThriveStepping back from day-to-day operations by trusting specialists (e.g., chefs, developers).Building a culture of autonomy and problem-solving.[18:16] – Coaching and LeadershipYoan’s basketball coach background informs his supportive management style.Listening to individual team members to help them grow beyond their comfort zone.[20:19] – Quick Fire (Entrepreneur Hacks)Recommended Books (Guest’s Picks):Traction (EOS) by Gino WickmanThe Obstacle is the Way by Ryan HolidayMorning Routine: Wakes at 5:05 a.m. to work uninterrupted and possibly hit the gym.Crucial Tool: A digital calendar for meticulously planning his day.Daily Decompression: Short prayer at night to clear his mind.Best Business Advice: “Sell, sell, sell” — it’s simpler to handle capacity issues than a lack of revenue.[27:45] – Embracing EOS from the StartYoan wishes he’d integrated EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) earlier for transparency, shared goals, and solid KPIs.Open-book management helps everyone understand costs, margins, and growth targets.[31:45] – Wisdom for New EntrepreneursSurround yourself with peers, mentors, or a group like EO or EO Accelerator, because entrepreneurship can be isolating.Don’t let failures knock you down—treat them as learning moments.[34:48] – Closing RemarksScott thanks Yoan for the interview, highlighting how parallel entrepreneurship can inspire diverse leaders.Listeners are encouraged to subscribe, leave feedback, and share the show.