Profitably Tackling the "Most Wicked" Problems - with Paolo Narciso.

In today's episode, Sean sits down for a conversation with Paulo Narciso, a seasoned entrepreneur and author of "The Founder's Journey." Paulo shares his insights on the importance of focusing on sustainability over scalability for early-stage entrepreneurs, emphasising the need for a mindset shift from founder to CEO as businesses grow. He discusses his role as a Build Fellow at Stand Together Ventures Lab, where he tackles some of society's most pressing issues, particularly in healthcare.  KEY TAKEAWAYS Founders should prioritise the sustainability of their business rather than merely aiming for rapid scalability. This involves ensuring that the organisation can endure over time while maintaining its culture and achieving its original vision. Transitioning from a founder to a CEO requires a significant shift in mindset. Founders must acknowledge their new responsibilities and develop the necessary skills, both hard and soft, to lead an organisation effectively. Founders should engage in self-reflection to understand their motivations for growth and the changes they need to make. This internal change is crucial for external success and helps in building a sustainable organisation. It is essential to continuously monitor the effectiveness of strategies and be willing to adapt them based on real-time feedback. Regular evaluation helps ensure that the organisation is on the right path to achieving its objectives. As organisations grow, founders must learn to delegate responsibilities and trust their team members. This involves hiring individuals with diverse skills and allowing them to contribute in ways that enhance the overall success of the business. BEST MOMENTS "The moment you recognise that need for growth is the moment of self-reflection." "Sustainability is about how do I create that future, not scaling." "If the ladder is not leaning against the right wall, every step just gets you to the wrong place faster." "The most successful founders are the ones that scratch their own back." "Change doesn't happen if somebody doesn't internalise it." HOST BIO Meet Your Host: Sean O’Hara, MBA – Entrepreneur, Sales Strategist, and Relentless Business Optimist. With over 20 years in the entrepreneurial trenches—guiding scrappy startups and Fortune 1000 giants alike—Sean brings a rare mix of strategic insight and real-world experience to every conversation. Known for his sharp sales acumen and down-to-earth style, he doesn’t just talk business—he lives it. Sean’s superpower? Asking the right questions, then stepping back to let the wisdom flow. His curiosity-driven interview style unlocks actionable insights, powerful stories, and the kind of truth today’s entrepreneurs actually need. If you’re serious about building a business that lasts, Sean’s the guide you’ll want in your corner. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/