Divot

David Spinks spent years building one of the most respected communities in Silicon Valley, co-founding CMX, advising top companies on belonging, and helping define an entire industry around community building. But beneath the success, achievement, and ambition, he still felt empty.In this episode with Derek Andersen, David Spinks breaks down the hidden emotional cost of high performance, why so many ambitious people struggle with loneliness, burnout, self-worth, and fulfillment, and why success alone never creates lasting happiness.He explains the dangerous relationship between ambition and identity, the loneliness epidemic affecting modern society, why high achievers often never feel “good enough,” and how startup culture conditions people to tie their worth to achievement, productivity, and external validation.The conversation goes deeper into belonging, emotional safety, purpose, fatherhood, mental health, Silicon Valley culture, spirituality, enoughness, and what it actually means to build a meaningful life without sacrificing your well-being, relationships, and inner peace.Follow David - Instagram: https://x.com/DavidSpinksFollow Derek - X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/derekjandersenEpisode Partners:Google for StartupsGrab the new Google for Startups Future of AI report at https://goo.gle/futureofgenmediaTimestamps:03:11 — What Community & Belonging Really Mean04:34 — The Loneliness Epidemic & Social Media Addiction06:40 — What It Truly Means to Feel Like You Belong12:33 — Can Businesses Ever Replace Real Community?15:39 — How Communities Mirror Human Nature & Leadership19:40 — Silicon Valley, Success & the Need to Prove Yourself23:51 — Why Success Never Makes You Feel “Enough”24:19 — The False Tradeoff Between Ambition & Happiness28:00 — Elon Musk, Steve Jobs & the Price of Greatness31:37 — Is Making a Dent in the Universe Worth the Cost?36:20 — Why “Saving the World” Often Starts at Home41:04 — The Hardest Lesson: You Are Already Enough44:22 — The One Idea David Wishes Everyone Believed45:19 — Best Advice for Overcoming Fear & Hard Things46:03 — Fatherhood, Presence & What Really Matters47:27 — Why Measuring Your Life Can Be DangerousFollow Divot:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivotpodX (Twitter): https://twitter.com/divotdotorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divotpodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divotpodLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divotdotorgHashtags:#successmindset #highachievers #selfworth #ambition #loneliness #mentalhealth #personalgrowth #burnout #foundermindset #divotpodcast

Shardul Shah has backed some of the most important technology companies of the last decade. From Datadog to Wiz, his investments have helped shape the future of cybersecurity, cloud infrastructure, artificial intelligence, and enterprise software.In this episode, Derek Andersen, Shardul Shah, partner at Index Ventures, breaks down the mindset behind billion-dollar startups, how elite founders think about AI, venture capital, acquisitions, intuition, ambition, and building category-defining companies.He explains why most startup founders misunderstand venture capital, why imagination matters as much as execution, and the two questions every entrepreneur must answer before selling their company.The conversation goes deeper into trust, relationships, founder psychology, ego, and purpose, why the best investors study people more than markets, how intuition shapes billion-dollar decisions, and what separates iconic founders from short-term operators.Plus, the untold stories behind Wiz’s $32 billion acquisition, Datadog’s early days, Michael Jordan’s influence on competition, Nas, Dave Chappelle, and the investing philosophy behind some of the most successful startup outcomes of the last decade.Follow Sahil - Instagram: https://x.com/shardul_shahFollow Derek - X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/derekjandersenEpisode Partners:Google for StartupsGrab the new Google for Startups Future of AI report at https://goo.gle/futureofgenmediaTimestamps:02:43 — How a Random Encounter Changed His Entire Life05:16 — Why Great Startup Founders Can Come From Anywhere08:06 — Why Shardul Refuses to Invest Over Zoom13:32 — Why Engineers Are Being Measured By Token Usage14:39 — The Trait Every Billion Dollar Founder Shares20:09 — The Brutal Truth About Boardroom Disagreements24:03 — How Building Communities Led To Billion Dollar Companies27:11 — Why Datadog Looked Like a Terrible Investment29:03 — The Mindset Required To Invest Before Everyone Else33:29 — Inside Wiz’s Historic $32 Billion Acquisition35:40 — The 2 Questions Every Founder Must Answer36:24 — If You Can 10X Your Company, Never Sell40:17 — The Difference Between Your Heart & Your Mind42:00 — The Ancient Philosophy That Changed How He Thinks49:34 — Why Michael Jordan Obsessed Him With Competition52:23 — Dave Chappelle, Nas & The Best Night of His Life54:00 — The Truth About Intuition & Great DecisionsFollow Divot:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivotpodX (Twitter): https://twitter.com/divotdotorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divotpodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divotpodLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divotdotorgHashtags:#shardulshah #wiz #datadog #venturecapital #startupfounders #artificialintelligence #cybersecurity #foundermindset #entrepreneurmindset #divotpodcast

Sahil Bloom grew up with one scoreboard: money. He worked his way into top private equity firms, built a career most would envy, and still felt hollow, until he started questioning what wealth actually means.In this episode with Derek Andersen, Sahil Bloom, NYT bestselling author of The Five Types of Wealth, breaks down the framework redefining how millions think about success, time wealth, social wealth, mental wealth, physical wealth, and financial wealth.He explains the arrival fallacy that traps high achievers, why ambition without direction destroys more lives than failure ever could, and how building a "margin of freedom" early determines whether you'll ever actually escape the golden cage.The episode goes deeper into identity, purpose, and what a good life actually looks like, why your quest matters more than your goals, how to stop living by someone else's design, and the one conversation with his wife that changed everything.Follow Sahil - Instagram: https://x.com/SahilBloomFollow Derek - X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/derekjandersenEpisode Partners:Google for StartupsGrab the new Google for Startups Future of AI report at https://g.co/futureofgenmediaTimestamps:01:05 — The 5 Types of Wealth That Actually Matter02:09 — Why Chasing Money Leads You Off a Cliff05:16 — Why Success Feels Empty After You Achieve It07:16 — You’ll Always Want More Money (Here’s Why)11:40 — Humans Need a Quest to Feel Alive16:19 — Ambition Without Direction Is Miserable18:21 — Direction not Speed (The Life Rule That Matters)20:15 — Why People Stay Stuck in “Good Enough” Lives27:27 — How to Actually Change Your Life28:25 — The Danger of Winning the Wrong Game50:16 — What Real Confidence Actually Means58:35 — The Best Advice for Doing Hard ThingsFollow Divot:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivotpodX (Twitter): https://twitter.com/divotdotorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divotpodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divotpodLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divotdotorgHashtags:#5typesofwealth #sahilbloom #wealthmindset #founderjourney #entrepreneurmindset #purposedriven #timewealth #buildingmeaningfullife #personalgrowth #divotpodcast

Before becoming a global spiritual leader, Neil L. Andersen was a farm boy learning discipline, responsibility, and faith long before the world ever knew his name. For Derek Andersen, this isn’t just another interview, it’s a conversation with his father.In this conversation, he shares his journey from building a successful business to serving worldwide as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, traveling across 50+ countries, and speaking to millions about faith, resilience, and purpose.He explains how faith is built like a muscle, why humility is the foundation of real strength, and how serving others creates a deeper sense of fulfillment than success alone. He also shares lessons on leadership, discipline, and making decisions that align with what truly matters.The episode goes deeper into identity, forgiveness, and meaning, why achievement won’t fix how you feel inside, how to navigate suffering, and what people realize actually matters at the end of life.Follow Neil - Instagram: https://x.com/AndersenNeilLFollow Derek - X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/derekjandersenEpisode Partners:Google for StartupsEverything you need to build and scale AI agents, from tools to expert guidance: https://g.co/startupagentguideTimestamps:01:14 — The Burden Everyone Carries in Life02:23 — The Real Game of Life: Good vs Evil08:23 — Growing Up on a Farm09:31 — The Experience That Expanded His World11:21 — From Self to Service12:40 — Why Helping Others Creates Meaning16:48 — Faith Is a Muscle23:41 — How to Rebuild Faith When You’ve Lost It27:19 — Why Humility Is the Source of Real Strength30:22 — Speaking About Faith in a Modern World32:54 — What Happens After Death40:01 — The Danger of Ego and Recognition45:08 — The Call That Changed His Life53:04 — Becoming an Apostle57:13 — His Core Responsibility01:03:20 — The Hardest Part: Helping People in Pain01:14:00 — Forgiveness: Why You’re Never Too Far Gone01:18:13 — The One Idea He Would Teach the World01:19:08 — How He Measures a Good LifeFollow Divot:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivotpodX (Twitter): https://twitter.com/divotdotorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divotpodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divotpodLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divotdotorgHashtags:#faith #faithjourney #forgiveness #purpose #meaningoflife #lifelessons #personalgrowth #selfimprovement #mindset #humility #service #familyvalues #fatherandson #spiritualgrowth #resilience #leadership #divotpodcast

Brian Santiago is the Athletic Director at BYU, one of the most respected leaders in college sports. Over nearly three decades inside BYU athletics, he rose from the coaching staff to Athletic Director, helping lead one of the most competitive and values-driven programs in the country into the Big 12 and national relevance.But his journey wasn’t just about winning. From losing control as a young competitor to learning how to channel intensity, Brian shares the defining moments that shaped his leadership. From showing up for athletes in their hardest moments to building meaningful relationships across the world, this conversation reveals what it actually takes to lead at the highest level.This episode goes deeper into belief, identity, and what winning really means. Brian breaks down why we are all born to win, why most people never reach their potential, and how to develop a competitive edge without losing yourself. It’s a powerful reminder that success without character is empty, and that the real game is who you become.Follow Brian - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bsant25Follow Derek - X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/derekjandersenEpisode Partners:Google for StartupsEverything you need to build and scale AI agents, from tools to expert guidance: https://g.co/startupagentguideTimestamps:00:01:31 — Jimmer Fredette & What Real Greatness Looks Like00:04:04 — 163 Shots, Almost No Misses (Inside Elite Competitors)00:06:18 — Why Great Leaders Always Show Up for Their People00:10:14 — The Power of Relationships (This Changes Everything)00:12:34 — Why Most People Stop Seeing Others00:19:57 — The Jacket Story (Real Leadership in Action)00:25:12 — Turning an Enemy Into a Fan (The “Snake” Story)00:27:53 — Why BYU Is “One of One” (Faith, Discipline & Focus)00:31:05 — Why Top Athletes Choose Purpose Over Money00:41:27 — We Were Born to Win (The Core Philosophy)00:42:25 — The Lesson That Changed His Life (Control vs Intensity)00:46:40 — “I Didn’t Come Here to Watch” (Winner Mentality)00:59:27 — Find a Way. Never Let Up. (Final Message)Follow Divot:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivotpodX (Twitter): https://twitter.com/divotdotorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divotpodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divotpodLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divotdotorgHashtags:#leadership #highperformance #mindsetshift #personaldevelopment #winningmindset #successprinciples #businessstrategy #divotpodcast

Tina Roth-Eisenberg is one of the most influential community builders in the world, founder of Creative Mornings (25,000+ people, 70+ countries), and the creator behind multiple iconic products like Tattly, TeuxDeux, and CreativeMornings’ global movement. Often called the Michael Jordan of community, she has spent nearly two decades building brands, products, and spaces that bring people together at scale.Before all of that, she felt completely alone after moving to New York. That experience led her to create a simple, free gathering that turned into a global movement. In this conversation with Derek Andersen, she breaks down why most communities fail, why generosity beats monetization, and how the best communities become self-sustaining.This episode goes deeper into identity, success, and what actually matters. Tina explains why success won’t fulfill you, how to move from your head to your heart, and why community is ultimately how we heal in a world that has become transactional.Follow Tina - X (Twitter): https://x.com/swissmissFollow Derek - X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/derekjandersenEpisode Partners:Google for StartupsEverything you need to build and scale AI agents, from tools to expert guidance: https://g.co/startupagentguideTimestamps:04:32 — Why Creativity Dies When Life Feels Too Comfortable06:36 — The Loneliness That Sparked Creative Mornings07:49 — The Simple Idea That Built a 25,000+ Global Community09:10 — When You Know an Idea Has Real Momentum (Google + Mailchimp)11:11 — The Feeling of Real Community (Why People Come Back)13:53 — Community Is How We Heal15:17 — Generosity vs Monetization (Why Most Communities Fail)17:48 — What Makes a Community Actually Work (Values + Trust)18:54 — Why People Crave Community More Than Ever25:15 — The Journey From Head to Heart35:17 — The Book That Changed How She Builds Community36:11 — The Hardest Lesson: You Can’t Escape Yourself37:04 — The Limiting Belief That Holds Most People Back41:02 — Redefining Success: Peace Over AchievementFollow Divot:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivotpodX (Twitter): https://twitter.com/divotdotorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divotpodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divotpodLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divotdotorgHashtags:#communitybuilding #creativemornings #leadershipmindset #personaldevelopment #founderjourney #businessstrategy #networking #divotpodcast

Before leading a $4B company, Adam Edmunds spent years trying to prove he was good enough. From cold emailing CEOs as a student to building his first company, his journey started with uncertainty and a relentless need for validation.In this conversation with Derek Andersen, Adam shares how he became CEO of Entrata, a platform powering over 20,000 apartment communities worldwide, raising $700M+ and reaching a $4B+ valuation. He breaks down what it really takes to scale a company at that level.Adam explains why relationships are the most valuable currency in business, how great leaders recruit over years, not weeks, and why reputation determines the ceiling of your success. He also shares hard lessons on hiring, culture, and long-term thinking.The episode goes deeper into identity, failure, and self-worth, why success doesn’t fix how you feel about yourself, and how learning to stop seeking external validation changed everything about how he leads and lives.Follow Adam - X (Twitter): https://x.com/adamedmundsFollow Derek - X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/derekjandersenEpisode Partners:Google for StartupsEverything you need to build and scale AI agents, from tools to expert guidance: g.co/startupagentguidePulleyManage your cap table with intuitive tools built to help founders make informed decisions without breaking stride: https://tinyurl.com/PulleyPartnerTimestamps:03:52 — The Power of Starting Before You’re Ready07:41 — Cold Emails That Changed His Life Forever12:58 — Building His First Company From Scratch18:36 — Inside a $4B Company (Entrata Breakdown)24:11 — How Great CEOs Think About Hiring Talent30:27 — Why Relationships Are the Ultimate Business Asset36:48 — Leadership, Culture, and Scaling Teams43:55 — The Hidden Cost of Success and Achievement50:12 — Why Success Doesn’t Fix Your Self-Worth56:34 — Redefining Identity Beyond Business1:01:22 — What Actually Matters at the EndFollow Divot:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivotpodX (Twitter): https://twitter.com/divotdotorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divotpodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divotpodLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divotdotorgHashtags:#ceomindset #startupgrowth #scalingbusiness #founderjourney #leadershipskills #buildinginpublic #entrepreneurmindset #businessstrategy #personalgrowth #divotpodcast

Before building Crumbl, Jason McGowan was a tech founder focused on virality, creating products used by over 120 million people. He then made a bold move: leaving tech to start a simple cookie business.In this conversation with Derek Andersen, Jason shares how Crumbl grew from one chocolate chip cookie into a $1B+ franchise with 1,000+ locations across the U.S. He explains how product-market fit, A/B testing, and viral growth turned a simple idea into a national brand.Jason breaks down why product matters more than marketing, how customer obsession drives growth, and how Crumbl built a viral experience through sharing, weekly drops, and community feedback.The episode also explores leadership, success, and why money doesn’t create lasting happiness. Jason reflects on family, purpose, and what truly matters after building a billion-dollar company.Follow Jason - X (Twitter): https://x.com/jasonmcgowanFollow Derek - X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/derekjandersenEpisode Partners:PulleyManage your cap table with intuitive tools built to help founders make informed decisions without breaking stride. https://tinyurl.com/PulleyPartnerTimestamps:04:32 — Building the Perfect Cookie With A/B Testing07:18 — The Bubblegum Cookie Failure (Hard Lesson)08:54 — The Simple Idea Behind Crumbl’s Viral Growth17:58 — Owning the Customer (Lessons from Facebook)20:03 — How Crumbl Accidentally Became a Franchise22:43 — Why Product Matters More Than Marketing26:18 — Reading Reddit as CEO (Customer Obsession)30:34 — Scaling Crumbl Nationwide34:16 — Weekly Drops: The Genius Behind the Menu44:48 — Money Doesn’t Buy Happiness (Real Talk)46:25 — Family, Purpose, and What Actually Matters54:53 — The Truth About Success and Fulfillment59:26 — Just Get Started (Final Advice)Follow Divot:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivotpodX (Twitter): https://twitter.com/divotdotorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divotpodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divotpodLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divotdotorgHashtags:#NegotiationSkills #Stanford #BusinessNegotiation #Persuasion #Leadership #Startups #VentureCapital #Entrepreneurship #DealMaking #DivotPodcast

Before teaching negotiation at Stanford, Stan Christensen spent decades advising leaders on high-stakes negotiations around the world. From corporate finance on Wall Street to the consulting arm of the Harvard Negotiation Project, he has worked across more than 75 countries helping leaders navigate complex negotiations where the outcome can shape companies, careers, and international relationships.In this conversation with Derek Andersen, Stan explains why most people misunderstand negotiation. Instead of treating it like a battle where one side wins and the other loses, he argues that the best negotiators focus on preparation, deep listening, and creative problem-solving to build outcomes where both sides leave stronger.Stan shares lessons from venture capital negotiations, startup fundraising, job offer negotiations, and company acquisitions. He explains why founders should never negotiate with only one investor, why controlling the process matters when selling a company, and why the biggest mistake negotiators make is agreeing to deals they should walk away from.The episode goes deeper into leadership, persuasion, and human psychology, exploring why negotiation is ultimately about relationships.Subscribe to Stan’s Podcast - YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AllThingsNegotiationFollow Derek - X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/derekjandersenEpisode Partners:DelveDelve uses AI agents to handle SOC 2, ISO 27001, GDPR, and more - Divot listeners get $1,500 credits to get started: https://delve.co/deals/divotPulleyManage your cap table with intuitive tools built to help founders make informed decisions without breaking stride. https://tinyurl.com/PulleyPartnerTimestamps:00:04:06 — The Steve Young Story: Giving People What They Value Most00:05:18 — Why Fairness Matters in Negotiation00:06:12 — Preparing for High-Stakes Negotiations00:07:34 — Why the Best Negotiators Listen More Than They Speak00:08:45 — Why Negotiation Is Creative Problem Solving00:11:06 — The Biggest Mistake in Business Negotiations00:12:29 — How to Negotiate a Job Offer (Early vs Senior Career)00:17:30 — Venture Capital Negotiations: Why Founders Need Leverage00:29:51 — Selling a Company: Why You Must Control the Process00:39:27 — The Story That Solved a 100-Year Conflict00:46:07 — How Stan Measures Success in LifeFollow Divot:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivotpodX (Twitter): https://twitter.com/divotdotorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divotpodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divotpodLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divotdotorgHashtags:#NegotiationSkills #Stanford #BusinessNegotiation #Persuasion #Leadership #Startups #VentureCapital #Entrepreneurship #DealMaking #DivotPodcast

Before building one of the fastest-growing legal technology companies in the United States, Ryan Anderson was a practicing lawyer frustrated by deadlines, paperwork, and systems that made it easy to miss critical details. Instead of accepting the chaos of legal operations, he decided to build a better system.In this conversation with Derek Andersen, Ryan shares how that decision became Filevine, a legal tech platform now serving nearly 6,000 customers, employing more than 700 people, and generating more than $200 million in annual revenue. He explains how AI is transforming legal work and why technology can dramatically improve outcomes for lawyers and their clients.Ryan also opens up about rebuilding Filevine to become an AI-native company. From rewriting years of engineering work to navigating one of the fastest-moving industries in the world, he reflects on leadership, conviction, and what it takes to adapt when technology changes everything.The episode goes deeper into entrepreneurship, justice, and purpose, exploring why access to legal systems is expanding and why great lawyers will become even more powerful with AI.Follow Ryan - X (Twitter): https://x.com/ryanm_andersonFollow Derek - X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/derekjandersenEpisode Partners:DelveDelve uses AI agents to handle SOC 2, ISO 27001, GDPR, and more - Divot listeners get $1,500 credits to get started: https://delve.co/deals/divotPulleyManage your cap table with intuitive tools built to help founders make informed decisions without breaking stride. https://tinyurl.com/PulleyPartnerTimestamps:02:42 — What Filevine Actually Does (Legal AI Explained)04:08 — The Problem That Inspired Filevine05:03 — The Risk Conversation With His Wife09:03 — Meeting the Engineer Who Built the Vision11:56 — The Founder Mindset: “I’ll Figure It Out”18:20 — The Day Ryan Quit His Job22:14 — Rewriting Filevine for the AI Era25:41 — How AI Is Changing Software Teams31:28 — Why the Legal Industry Could Grow 100x44:55 — The Future of Law: AI Running Legal Work55:20 — The Mindset to Build a Billion-Dollar Company01:06:10 — Ryan’s Real Definition of SuccessFollow Divot:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivotpodX (Twitter): https://twitter.com/divotdotorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divotpodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divotpodLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divotdotorgHashtags:#RyanAnderson #LegalAI #LegalTech #Entrepreneurship #SaaS #ArtificialIntelligence #Leadership #Justice #Innovation #DivotPodcast

Before becoming one of the most respected independent mechanics in the United States, Dave Bell was a young man battling addiction, jail time, and the fear of losing everything. Over the past 36 years, he rebuilt his life the same way he rebuilds engines, with discipline, precision, and relentless ownership.In this conversation, Dave shares how he grew from a one-bay storage unit during the 1990 recession into a 33,000-square-foot auto center with 35 employees, and how an unexpected leap into social media led to more than 8 million followers across YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram. He explains why opposition is an opportunity, how elite mechanics think, and why authenticity online outperforms any marketing budget.Dave also opens up about addiction, faith, jail, and the turning points that changed his trajectory. From reading Atlas Shrugged behind bars to building one of the largest independent automotive brands in the world, he reflects on agency, momentum, and the power of choosing who you become.The episode goes deeper into leadership, fatherhood, and legacy, exploring what it means to master yourself, redefine a misunderstood industry, and live by a simple philosophy: never let anyone else define who you are.Follow Dave - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davesautocenterFollow Derek - X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/derekjandersenEpisode Partners:DelveDelve uses AI agents to handle SOC 2, ISO 27001, GDPR, and more - Divot listeners get $1,500 credits to get started: https://delve.co/deals/divotPulleyManage your cap table with intuitive tools built to help founders make informed decisions without breaking stride. https://tinyurl.com/PulleyPartnerTimestamps:02:42 — From 300 Followers to 8 Million: The Unexpected Breakthrough09:07 — “Who Are You?” The Identity Wake-Up Call13:19 — A Mission Bigger Than Cars: Changing an Entire Industry16:55 — Fearless: What Separates Elite Mechanics from Everyone Else26:42 — “Don’t Ever Let Anyone Define You” (A Father’s Turning Point)33:14 — The 4 O’s: Turning Opposition Into Opportunity45:17 — Drugs, Fast Money & Walking Away Before It Was Too Late50:48 — Rock Bottom at 35: Addiction, Faith & Choosing a Different Path57:35 — Six Months in Jail & The Book That Rewired His Mind01:01:50 — The Hard Truth: The Moment You Blame, You Lose01:09:40 — Momentum, Waves & The “Perfect Soup” Theory of Life01:10:11 — In the End, Only One Thing MattersFollow Divot:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivotpodX (Twitter): https://twitter.com/divotdotorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divotpodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divotpodLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divotdotorgHashtags:#DaveBell #Entrepreneurship #AddictionRecovery #MechanicLife #Leadership #BusinessGrowth #SocialMediaSuccess #AtlasShrugged #PersonalDevelopment #Agency #Momentum #AutoIndustry #DivotPodcast

Recorded at LinkedIn headquarters in Mountain View, this episode features Tomer Cohen, former Chief Product Officer of LinkedIn and one of the product leaders behind how over one billion professionals connect, work, and create economic opportunity at global scale.In conversation with Derek Andersen, Tomer breaks down what it takes to build great products inside large organizations, how LinkedIn evolved into a mobile-first platform, and what product leadership really means when operating at massive scale.The discussion expands into AI and the future of work, where Tomer explains the rise of the full-stack product builder, how AI is collapsing traditional roles across product, design, and engineering, and why builders who combine vision, empathy, and execution will define the next generation of companies.The episode closes with deeply personal reflections on growth mindset, restraint, resilience, faith, and the idea that true freedom lives in the space between stimulus and response.Follow Tomer - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomercohenFollow Derek - X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/derekjandersenEpisode Partners:DelveDelve uses AI agents to handle SOC 2, ISO 27001, GDPR, and more - Divot listeners get $1,500 credits to get started: https://delve.co/deals/divotPulleyManage your cap table with intuitive tools built to help founders make informed decisions without breaking stride. https://tinyurl.com/PulleyPartnerTimestamps:00:00 — Between Stimulus and Response: Where Freedom Truly Lives08:55 — Rebuilding LinkedIn for Mobile Before It Was Obvious11:02 — Turning LinkedIn Into a Daily Habit, Not a Transaction13:34 — Why Authentic Voices Beat Corporate Talk Every Time18:24 — Conviction Over Titles: Choosing Where to Make Impact20:28 — The Rider and the Elephant: How Organizations Really Move24:42 — What Separates a Good Product from a Truly Great One31:34 — Restraint: The Hidden Skill Behind Billion-Dollar Products35:09 — Slowing Down to Fix the Core Before Scaling39:12 — The Rise of the Full-Stack Product Builder42:02 — How AI Is Collapsing Roles and Restoring Meritocracy53:25 — The Truth About Success: There Are No Shortcuts59:55 — The Final Lesson: Choosing How You RespondFollow Divot:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivotpodX (Twitter): https://twitter.com/divotdotorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divotpodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divotpodLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divotdotorgHashtags:#TomerCohen #LinkedIn #ProductLeadership #BuildingGreatProducts #AI #FutureOfWork #ProductManagement #StartupLeadership #GrowthMindset #DivotPodcast

Recorded on Sand Hill Road at the iconic offices of Kleiner Perkins, this episode features Mamoon Hamid, one of the most influential investors of this generation. Mamoon has backed category-defining companies, including Slack, Figma, Box, Yammer, Glean, Intercom, and more, and now serves as a partner stewarding one of Silicon Valley’s most historic venture firms.In conversation with Derek Andersen, Mamoon breaks down how great investors evaluate founders, why conviction starts with why, and what separates category creators from incremental startups.The discussion expands into AI, where Mamoon shares why this cycle is fundamentally different from every prior technology wave. He explains why AI is not just software but labor, how it’s reshaping productivity across professions, and why adoption and monetization are happening faster than ever, from copilots to autonomous agents transforming how work gets done.The episode closes with deeply personal reflections on resilience, immigration, parenting, faith, and purpose.Follow Mamoon - X (Twitter): https://x.com/mamoonhaFollow Derek - X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/derekjandersenEpisode Partners:DelveDelve uses AI agents to handle SOC 2, ISO 27001, GDPR, and more - Divot listeners get $1,500 credits to get started: https://delve.co/deals/divotPulleyManage your cap table with intuitive tools built to help founders make informed decisions without breaking stride. https://tinyurl.com/PulleyPartnerTimestamps:00:00 — “God Is the Best of Planners” — Faith, Loss & Letting Go of Control01:40 — Inside the Most Powerful Room in Silicon Valley (Why It’s Rarely Used)05:05 — What Elite Investors Actually Listen For in Founder Pitches06:55 — Why Metrics Don’t Matter If You Can’t Explain Your “Why”10:30 — How Slack & Box Were Backed When the Market Didn’t Exist14:25 — Why AI Is the Biggest Technology Shift in 30 Years18:50 — AI Isn’t Software — It’s Labor (And That Changes Everything)23:30 — The Future of Work: What Humans Will Do Better Than AI27:10 — Leaving Your Own Firm to Rebuild a Legendary One31:05 — The Apprenticeship Model That Built Venture Capital Giants35:45 — Growing Up Between Germany & Pakistan — Lessons in Resilience39:30 — How Do You Raise Resilient Kids in an Easy World?42:55 — Why Sports Might Be the Best Teacher of Grit49:55 — The Hajj: Witnessing the Best of Humanity Under Extreme Conditions56:20 — Inshallah — Ambition, Failure & Accepting God’s Will59:35 — How Mamoon Hamid Measures a Life Well LivedFollow Divot:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivotpodX (Twitter): https://twitter.com/divotdotorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divotpodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divotpodLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divotdotorgHashtags:#MamoonHamid #KleinerPerkins #VentureCapital #AI #FutureOfWork #Startups #Founders #FaithAndWork #Leadership #DivotPodcast

Before becoming a leader at the intersection of fashion, retail, and technology, Julie Bornstein built her career through persistence, curiosity, and conviction. Early on, she broke into the industry by reaching out directly to designers she admired, setting the foundation for a career that would later span Nordstrom, Sephora, Stitch Fix, and multiple consumer technology companies shaping how people discover what they wear.In this conversation, Julie shares what she learned building and scaling consumer products and why fashion is one of the most complex categories for technology to understand.Julie also reflects on the rapid shift now underway in commerce, as AI begins to reshape how people search, discover, and decide. She discusses why traditional e-commerce search fails in taste-based categories, how large language models unlock new possibilities for personalization, and what this moment has in common with earlier platform shifts like social and mobile.The episode goes deeper into purpose and long-term thinking, exploring trust, incentive alignment, and how technology should serve people rather than manipulate them.Follow Julie - X (Twitter): https://x.com/juliebornsteinFollow Derek - X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/derekjandersenEpisode Partners:DelveDelve uses AI agents to handle SOC 2, ISO 27001, GDPR, and more - Divot listeners get $1,500 credits to get started: https://delve.co/deals/divotPulleyManage your cap table with intuitive tools built to help founders make informed decisions without breaking stride. https://tinyurl.com/PulleyPartnerTimestamps:02:18 — She Broke Into Fashion by Writing Letters (No Network, No Shortcuts)05:01 — The Business of Fashion Explained Simply (How Brands Really Make Money)06:40 — Why Online Shopping Became Overwhelming (Too Much Choice Kills Confidence)07:28 — Why Most Fashion Brands Fail (No Point of View, Wrong Pricing)10:29 — Who Really Decides Fashion Trends? (Luxury, Runways & Fast Fashion)14:28 — The Nordstrom Leader Who Saw E-Commerce Before Anyone Else16:03 — Why Stitch Fix Didn’t Work for People With Real Taste18:29 — Selling a Startup: 40K Customers vs 400M Users at Pinterest23:52 — The 3 Reasons She Sold Her Company (Price, Market Crash, Team)26:33 — Why ChatGPT Made AI Shopping Finally Possible30:49 — Why Fashion Search Is Broken (Taste-Based, Not Keyword-Based)34:10 — The Rule Behind Daydream: If the Customer Wins, We Win44:30 — The Legacy She Wants to Leave (Making Shopping Smarter & Better)Follow Divot:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivotpodX (Twitter): https://twitter.com/divotdotorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divotpodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divotpodLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divotdotorgHashtags:#JulieBornstein #AIShopping #FutureOfCommerce #ConsumerAI #FashionTech #RetailInnovation #Startups #Founders #Technology #DivotPodcast

Before becoming one of the most respected early-stage investors in Silicon Valley, Niko Bonatsos was an immigrant from Greece navigating academia, visas, and uncertainty while searching for opportunity in the United States. Over the next 15 years, he became a Managing Director at General Catalyst, investing in iconic companies like Snap and Discord and backing technical founders long before their ideas became obvious to the world.In this conversation, Niko shares what he learned investing through multiple technology cycles and why most successful companies don’t start with the right idea.Niko also reflects on the resurgence of San Francisco as the center of the AI revolution, how ChatGPT reshaped the startup landscape almost overnight, and why this moment feels similar to the early days of social networking and mobile. From recognizing momentum before metrics to investing in overlooked builders, he offers a rare inside look at how early-stage conviction is actually formed.The episode goes deeper into purpose and legacy, exploring immigration, perseverance, parenting, and how Niko measures a life well lived. Rather than chasing status, money, or permanence, he explains why helping deeply obsessed builders bring their dreams to life and empowering others along the way is the mark that truly matters.Follow Niko - X (Twitter): https://x.com/bonatsosFollow Derek - X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/derekjandersenEpisode Partners:DelveDelve uses AI agents to handle SOC 2, ISO 27001, GDPR, and more - Divot listeners get $1,500 credits to get started: https://delve.co/deals/divotPulleyManage your cap table with intuitive tools built to help founders make informed decisions without breaking stride. https://tinyurl.com/PulleyPartnerTimestamps:02:42 — Stanford & Silicon Valley: One Intertwined Ecosystem06:18 — Why Founders Keep Chasing the Same Startup Ideas07:37 — Investing Before Consensus: The Real Seed Advantage08:22 — Why Most Successful Companies Don’t Start With the Right Idea09:49 — San Francisco Is Back: The AI Gravity Shift13:24 — Why Niko Invested Early in Snap15:44 — Discord: How a Failed Startup Became a Generational Company18:42 — Talent Is Universal, Opportunity Is Not21:17 — The Signals That Make an Investor Lean In26:49 — Can AI Replace Venture Capitalists?31:30 — The Rise of Tiny Teams and Explosive Growth34:01 — Why Non-AI Companies Are Fighting a Knife Fight38:13 — Leaving General Catalyst: A New Chapter42:18 — Alexander the Great & the Question of Legacy48:19 — “Just Get Started”: The One Idea He’d Give Everyone50:51 — How Niko Measures a Life Well LivedFollow Divot:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivotpodX (Twitter): https://twitter.com/divotdotorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divotpodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divotpodLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divotdotorgHashtags:#NikoBonatsos #VentureCapital #AI #Startups #SiliconValley #EarlyStageInvesting #Founders #Snap #Discord #GeneralCatalyst #Entrepreneurship #Innovation #DivotPodcast

Before becoming one of the most influential evangelists in the history of technology, Guy Kawasaki was part of Apple’s original Macintosh team, working directly with Steve Jobs during the early days of personal computing. His career has been defined by independent thinking, deep curiosity, and a lifelong commitment to building and evangelizing products that truly matter.In this conversation, Guy reflects on working with Steve Jobs, the difference between mission-driven and ego-driven leadership, and why the best products are built by people solving problems for themselves. He shares hard-earned lessons from Silicon Valley on creativity, obsession, grit, and what it really takes to build things that last.Guy also discusses his role as Chief Evangelist of Canva, the global design platform democratizing creativity for millions worldwide, and how recognizing great products early shaped his journey. From writing 18 books to advising startups and founders, he explains why authenticity consistently outperforms imitation in entrepreneurship and product building.The episode goes deeper into purpose and legacy, exploring learning later in life, embracing setbacks, redefining success, and measuring impact not by status or money, but by one simple idea: empowering people.Follow Guy - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/guykawasakiFollow Derek - X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/derekjandersenEpisode Partners:DelveDelve uses AI agents to handle SOC 2, ISO 27001, GDPR, and more - Divot listeners get $1,500 credits to get started: https://delve.co/deals/divotPulleyManage your cap table with intuitive tools built to help founders make informed decisions without breaking stride. https://tinyurl.com/PulleyPartnerTimestamps:1:09 — Starting Surfing at 60: Obsession Beats Talent3:49 — Growing Up in Hawaii: Identity, Culture & Perspective6:44 — Everybody Has Something to Hide: Privacy, Signal & Freedom12:44 — Writing 18 Books: Why Most People Shouldn’t Write One16:57 — Build for Yourself: The Origin of Great Products18:20 — Working With Steve Jobs: Mission Over Ego19:40 — Mission-Driven vs Ego-Driven Leadership22:35 — The Halo Effect: Why You Should Be Skeptical of Authority27:22 — Steve Jobs vs Elon Musk: Focus vs Scale30:51 — Don’t Be the Next Steve Jobs. Be the First You33:08 — Finding Your Calling: Loving the Entire “Sandwich”46:31 — Jane Goodall: Purpose Without Retirement52:19 — Guy’s Golden Touch: Finding Gold Early57:24 — Grit as the Real Advantage58:25 — Family, Legacy & Measuring a LifeFollow Divot:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivotpodX (Twitter): https://twitter.com/divotdotorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divotpodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divotpodLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divotdotorgHashtags:#GuyKawasaki #SteveJobs #ElonMusk #Apple #Canva #Entrepreneurship #Startups #Creativity #ProductBuilding #Leadership #Innovation #SiliconValley #Grit #Purpose #DivotPodcast

Before becoming one of the most respected surfboard shapers in the world, Bob Pearson built his craft through obsession, experimentation, and more than six decades of hands-on learning. Since shaping his first board in 1964, Bob has remained committed to one belief: mastery is never finished.Over his career, Bob has shaped more than 100,000 surfboards, becoming a defining force in modern surfboard design and big wave surfing. From his factory in Santa Cruz, California, he has worked closely with legendary surfers including Laird Hamilton, Jay Moriarty, Jamie Mitchell, and others who pushed the limits at waves like Mavericks, Jaws, Waimea, Sunset, and Nazaré. His boards were featured throughout the film Chasing Mavericks, shaping the equipment ridden in the movie.The episode also explores Bob’s friendship with Jay Moriarty, the mindset required for big wave surfing, and the deeper meaning of surfing beyond performance, connection, community, mental health, and joy. At 77 years old, Bob still works nearly every day, driven by curiosity, gratitude, and a lifelong passion for the ocean.Follow Bob - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pearsonarrowFollow Derek - X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/derekjandersenEpisode Partners:DelveDelve uses AI agents to handle SOC 2, ISO 27001, GDPR, and more - Divot listeners get $1,500 credits to get started: https://delve.co/deals/divotPulleyManage your cap table with intuitive tools built to help founders make informed decisions without breaking stride. https://tinyurl.com/PulleyPartnerTimestamps:1:27 — Working 7 Days a Week2:08 — Shaping 100,000+ Boards4:54 — Surfboard Design Is Logic5:38 — Every Board Has Tradeoffs6:07 — 100+ Ways to Shape a Board7:07 — From 5ft Boards to Big Wave Guns7:19 — Why Top Surfers Work With Bob9:47 — Collaboration Beats Guesswork11:54 — When Mastery Actually Begins16:04 — Finding Mavericks Before the Hype18:14 — Chasing Mavericks & Meeting Jay25:18 — The Iconic Wipeout Explained29:56 — Injury, Fear & Healing in the Ocean38:07 — Bells Beach & Teaching in Australia40:26 — Surviving Sharks in Big Surf43:58 — Bali Before Surf Tourism48:20 — How to Handle Conflict in the Water55:05 — One Idea for the World1:01:40 — The Mark Bob Wants to LeaveFollow Divot:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivotpodX (Twitter): https://twitter.com/divotdotorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divotpodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divotpodLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divotdotorgHashtags:#BobPearson #SurfboardShaping #BigWaveSurfing #Mavericks #ChasingMavericks #SurfingLegends #LairdHamilton #JayMoriarty #SurfDesign #SurfCulture #OceanLife #MentalHealth #Craftsmanship #Mastery #DivotPodcast

Before becoming one of the most influential venture capitalists in Silicon Valley, Tim Draper built a career defined by early conviction, independent thinking, and a willingness to back ideas long before they reached mainstream belief. Over decades, Tim has invested in and supported some of the most transformational companies of the modern era, shaping how the world communicates, moves money, explores space, and builds technology.In this conversation, Tim reflects on backing category-defining companies, including Tesla, SpaceX, Skype, Hotmail, Twitch, and Robinhood, investments that went on to create hundreds of billions of dollars in enterprise value and permanently change global industries. He also shares the impact of Draper University, where thousands of founders have been trained, leading to thousands of companies launched and multiple billion-dollar outcomes.The episode dives deep into Bitcoin and economic freedom, tracing Tim’s early belief in decentralized systems, his experience buying Bitcoin as early as 2011, and why he views it not as a trade but as a long-term technological shift with global implications, especially in a world of inflation, fragile banking systems, and unstable currencies.Follow Tim - X (Twitter): https://x.com/TimDraperFollow Derek - X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/derekjandersenEpisode Partners:DelveDelve uses AI agents to handle SOC 2, ISO 27001, GDPR, and more - Divot listeners get $1,500 credits to get started: https://delve.co/deals/divotTimestamps:1:50 — Making a Divot: Entrepreneurs, Impact & Building for the Future4:14 — Entrepreneurs Are Superheroes From Day One5:06 — Mindset Beats Talent: Why Entrepreneurship Can Be Taught6:52 — Real Results: Founders Trained, Companies Built, Unicorns Created8:05 — Risk as Identity: When “Crazy” Becomes Your Advantage10:10 — Be Your Own Media Company: Turning Attention Into Power11:56 — Failure Doesn’t Matter: Why Nobody Remembers Your Mistakes13:30 — Boom and Bust: Who Actually Survives Tech Cycles14:24 — The Cost of Inaction: Missing Facebook, Uber & Airbnb17:21 — Buying Bitcoin at $4: Conviction Before Consensus18:55 — Why Bitcoin Survived: The Unbanked, Remittances & Reality20:54 — Predictions vs Regulation: When the Future Gets Delayed25:43 — Bitcoin vs the Dollar: Inflation, Power & Store of Value32:14 — The SVB Wake-Up Call: When Banks Aren’t Safe36:26 — Independent Thinkers Win: Why the 1% Build Everything41:09 — Fixing Broken Systems: Growth, Markets & California48:24 — Raising Independent Humans, Not Followers50:39 — The Core Belief: You Have Your Own Path52:31 — Measuring a Life by Impact, Not StatusFollow Divot:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivotpodX (Twitter): https://twitter.com/divotdotorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divotpodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divotpodLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divotdotorgHashtags:#TimDraper #VentureCapital #Entrepreneurship #Startups #Investing #BillionDollarCompanies #Bitcoin #EconomicFreedom #Innovation #Founders #Leadership #FutureOfTechnology #DivotPodcast

In this episode of Divot, we sit down with Aparna Chennapragada, Chief Product Officer for AI at Microsoft, to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping the way products are built, teams collaborate, and companies scale in an increasingly automated world.Aparna has spent her career at the intersection of technology and human behavior, from leading product at Google and YouTube to shaping Microsoft’s AI strategy today. In this conversation, she shares how the rapid acceleration of AI is compressing years of innovation into months, forcing leaders to rethink how they build, experiment, and make decisions.We discuss what it means to design AI-native products, why traditional development cycles no longer apply, and how the best teams are adapting to constant change. Aparna also reflects on leadership in an era of uncertainty, the importance of curiosity over certainty, and what it takes to build systems that genuinely help people work better.This episode offers a thoughtful look at the future of work, product development, and the mindset required to build responsibly in an AI-driven world.Follow Aparna - X (Twitter): https://x.com/aparnacdFollow Derek - X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/derekjandersenTimestamps:01:44 – “This Time Is Different”: Why AI Adoption Is Unprecedented02:13 – The Brick Phone Story: How Slow Adoption Used to Be03:32 – The “Scanned Brochure” Moment: Early Web vs Early AI04:27 – AI Agents at Work: Prompts as the New PRDs05:37 – Designers Are Unlocked: Building End-to-End With AI Tools06:26 – The “Barbell Team”: Model Whisperers + Product Builders07:31 – How Aparna Stays Ahead: Build Things (No Shortcuts)09:55 – Thin Steps vs Fat Steps: What Got Easy, What Became the Bottleneck11:17 – Making AI a “Contact Sport”: Building Reflexive AI Habits14:33 – Why Startups Win Next: Rethinking Workflows Beats “Just Add AI”15:54 – The Data Flywheel Problem: Designing for “Learnability”17:16 – The Next Phase: Products That Improve via UI Reward Signals17:45 – Small Teams That Ship: Why ~10 People Can Build Fast Now18:42 – Startup Opportunities: Rewriting the Web for AgentsFollow Divot:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivotpodX (Twitter): https://twitter.com/divotdotorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divotpodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divotpodLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divotdotorgHashtags:#DivotPodcast #Leadership #Entrepreneurship #BuildingInPublic #SmallBusiness #FounderJourney #PurposeDriven #LongTermThinking #StartupLife #Grit #MeaningfulWork

Josh Reeves, co-founder and CEO of Gusto, shares how he built one of the most trusted platforms for small businesses, and what it truly takes to scale a company with purpose.In this episode, Josh breaks down the realities of building and leading a high-growth startup, navigating regulation, designing products for long-term impact, and maintaining culture as teams and responsibilities scale. He explains how focusing on customers, discipline, and long-term thinking has shaped Gusto’s journey and why sustainable growth matters more than chasing short-term wins.This conversation is a deep dive into founder mindset, leadership, and building enduring companies, essential listening for entrepreneurs, operators, and anyone serious about building something that lasts.Follow Josh - X (Twitter): https://x.com/joshuareevesFollow Derek - X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/derekjandersenTimestamps:01:44 – Why Most Startups Fail Before They Even Begin02:27 – The Hidden Cost of Regulation03:48 – Why Payroll and Benefits Matter More Than You Think05:39 – The Real Reason Running a Business Feels So Hard07:44 – The Benefit That Completely Changed Employee Loyalty09:31 – What Sustainable Growth Actually Looks Like11:34 – The Three Metrics That Truly Matter in Business13:58 – Why Chasing Hypergrowth Can Destroy Great Companies15:48 – Building a Company Meant to Last for Decades17:20 – The Leadership Mindset That Separates Great Founders18:54 – Why Being “Busy” Is Not the Same as Making Progress20:21 – How to Identify People Who Will Actually Succeed22:46 – How AI Is Changing the Way Teams Work24:06 – Why Helping Others Is the Ultimate Advantage25:32 – The Life Lessons That Shape Great Leaders27:20 – Gratitude, Perspective, and Staying Grounded29:33 – What Success Really Means (And What It Doesn’t)31:43 – The One Principle That Guides Every Decision33:22 – A Simple Philosophy for a Meaningful LifeFollow Divot:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivotpodX (Twitter): https://twitter.com/divotdotorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divotpodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divotpodLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divotdotorgHashtags:#DivotPodcast #Leadership #Entrepreneurship #BuildingInPublic #SmallBusiness #FounderJourney #PurposeDriven #LongTermThinking #StartupLife #Grit #MeaningfulWork

Before he became an award-winning filmmaker and humanitarian, Brandt Andersen built a tech company from scratch, scaled it to tens of millions in revenue, and sold it before moving into filmmaking, where he went on to produce major films like Everest, Lone Survivor, and American Made. But behind the success is a life shaped by extremes: a skydiving accident that nearly killed him, surviving the Malibu fires with his son, and years spent inside war zones helping people in crisis.In this conversation, Brandt shares the real stories behind I Was a Stranger, his new film inspired by the Syrian refugee crisis. He explains how meeting smugglers, soldiers, parents, and children across Syria, Turkey, Jordan, and Haiti reshaped his understanding of judgment, fear, and humanity.This episode is also deeply personal. Brandt is Derek's older brother. Together, they revisit the moments that forged their bond: childhood chaos, life-or-death situations, and the lessons Brandt passed down through the way he lives. Their conversation reveals the heart, flaws, courage, and philosophy of a man who has spent his life running toward the fire for others, and the profound impact that has had on Derek.Learn More About Brandt - Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brandt_AndersenFollow Derek - X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/derekjandersenTimestamps:1:39 — Who Brandt Andersen Really Is & Why His Story Matters3:03 — The Skydive That Should Have Killed Him8:47 — What Facing Death Taught Brandt About Life14:02 — The Wild Childhood Stories That Shaped Him18:10 — The Banksy Above His Fireplace & His Dark/Light Identity22:30 — From Startup Exit to Hollywood Storytelling28:41 — Producing Everest, Lone Survivor & American Made32:12 — The Real Families Who Inspired I Was a Stranger36:55 — Inside Syria: Crisis Through Human Eyes41:38 — “Don't Judge People by Their Worst Day”45:52 — Haiti Earthquake: Chaos, Hunger & Purpose52:10 — The Moment That Changed His View of Humanity1:12:03 — Trapped in the Malibu Fires With His Son1:29:45 — What Brandt Ultimately Wants People to UnderstandFollow Divot:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivotpodX (Twitter): https://twitter.com/divotdotorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divotpodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divotpodLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divotdotorgHashtags:#BrandtAndersen #IWasAStranger #Filmmaking #Storytelling #SyrianRefugeeCrisis #HumanitarianAid #WarZones #Resilience #Courage #PurposeDrivenLife #LoneSurvivor #Everest #AmericanMade #Leadership #PersonalGrowth #DivotPodcast

Before he became chairman of the Napoleon Hill Institute, David Meltzer lived a life driven by scarcity, ambition, and the need to prove himself. Raised by a single mother in Akron, he chased success to change their future, eventually becoming a multimillionaire and CEO in the sports world. But behind the achievements was an identity built on ego, bad habits, and external validation, leading to the breaking point that forced him to confront who he’d become.In this conversation, David shares the mindset shift that saved his marriage, the four values that rebuilt his identity, and how losing over $100M became the foundation for a healthier, more purposeful life. He explains how faith, gratitude, sleep discipline, and time mastery helped him recover, along with the frameworks he teaches today to serve his mission of empowering over a billion people. From stop-drop-and-roll to emotional chemistry and using failure as fuel, David breaks down the tools that rebuilt his life from the inside out.A vulnerable and practical look at reinvention, this episode reveals what it truly takes to grow through loss and rebuild meaning. If you’re navigating change, recovering from setbacks, or redefining success, David’s story offers perspective, resilience, and a blueprint for living with intention.Follow David - X (Twitter): https://x.com/davidmeltzerFollow Derek - X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/derekjandersenTimestamps:0:00 — David’s Life: The Fall That Saved Him2:21 — Akron Roots: Scarcity, Survival & a Single Mom Who Never Quit4:58 — The Dream Life That Almost Destroyed Him7:06 — His Wife’s Warning: The Sentence That Changed Everything8:44 — Rebuilding the Man: The Four Values That Brought Him Back10:51 — Losing $100M: The Collapse He Was Finally Prepared For13:02 — The Habits That Saved His Marriage, Mind & Future17:47 — Failing Faster: Why Losing Is the Only Way to Win22:06 — Emotional Alchemy: Training His Reactions Every Single Day29:32 — “Stop, Drop & Roll”: The Method That Resets His Entire Life34:39 — Ego, Pain & Perspective: Understanding the Chemistry of a Breakdown42:18 — Turning Trauma Into Purpose: How He Rewrote His Story53:17 — The One Lesson He Wants to Leave Humanity55:38 — “What I Hope God Says to Me When I Arrive”Follow Divot:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivotpodX (Twitter): https://twitter.com/divotdotorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divotpodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divotpodLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divotdotorgHashtags:#DavidMeltzer #Reinvention #Resilience #Mindset #LifeLessons #PersonalGrowth #SelfImprovement #OvercomingFailure #EmotionalIntelligence #SpiritualGrowth #Leadership #DivotPodcast

Before becoming the photographer trusted by the world’s biggest icons, Squint built his path on discipline, creativity, and a lifelong commitment to mastering storytelling. Raised in Palo Alto and shaped by years inside a TV studio before he turned 18, he grew from a kid with a camera into a filmmaker and cinematographer behind iconic portraits of Nas, Michael B. Jordan, Dave Chappelle, Draymond Green, and Steph Curry. As co-creator of the New York Times bestselling book Shot Ready, his black-and-white, emotionally driven style reflects a belief that great photography comes from patience, intention, and truly seeing people.In this conversation, he breaks down the ingredients of a powerful photograph, motion, eyes, framing, intimacy, and explains why rejection became his greatest superpower. He shares how he wrote a list of dream subjects at age 12 and photographed every name on it, how fatherhood reshaped his purpose, and why staying in the Bay Area defined his career more than any move to LA or New York. Squint reflects on rediscovering black-and-white photography after losing his father and earning Steph Curry’s trust through consistency, humility, and discipline.A grounded masterclass in photography, vision, resilience, and legacy, showing what it takes to create work that endures. This episode is a reminder that great art is built on love, discipline, and showing up, especially when the world tells you no.Follow Squint - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamsquintFollow Derek - X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/derekjandersenTimestamps:0:00 Introduction & how Squint became a visual storyteller3:48 First camera at age five5:17 Running a TV studio at eight6:44 Deciding at ten to do this forever8:09 The list he wrote at age 129:46 Shooting Nas for the first time12:12 How he processes rejection13:46 The Killers story16:30 Identity vs his work18:47 What makes a great picture20:31 Reading emotion through the eyes22:37 Atmosphere vs the subject26:13 Black and white vs color28:41 Training his eye32:59 Mastering relationships in the industry35:32 Showing people how he sees them48:53 Steph Curry’s discipline & ego50:20 Losing his father & rebuilding56:01 What makes a great dadFollow Divot:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivotpodX (Twitter): https://twitter.com/divotdotorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divotpodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divotpodLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divotdotorgHashtags:#PhotographyMasterclass #VisualStorytelling #BlackAndWhitePhotography #CinematicPortraits #ShotReady #StephCurry #CreativeDiscipline #IconicImages #ArtOfSeeing #LegacyAndPurpose #CreatorsJourney

Before helping elevate the rise of global entrepreneurship, Christine Tsai, CEO & Founding Partner of 500 Global, built her path on curiosity, consistency, and an instinct for spotting potential early. From her beginnings in tech to guiding an investing platform that now reaches founders across dozens of countries, her journey reflects a belief that great companies can start anywhere, and that humility, resilience, and long-term thinking still define the world's strongest leaders.In this conversation, she breaks down the traits she's seen across exceptional founders, the realities of building companies through cycles, and how early-stage investing has evolved over the last decade. She shares lessons on ownership, clarity, adaptability, and speed, and why the most enduring teams evolve faster than the markets around them. Christine reflects on backing thousands of founders worldwide, what she looks for in leaders under pressure, and how a global perspective shapes better decisions and more intentional company building.A grounded masterclass in global insight, founder psychology, and building with purpose, offering a rare perspective on what it takes to scale, endure, and create lasting impact in a rapidly shifting world.Follow Christine - X (Twitter): https://x.com/christine_tsaiFollow Derek - X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/derekjandersenTimestamps:0:00 — Early Curiosity, Identity & Finding Her Path3:12 — Lessons From Google & YouTube's Early Days6:58 — The Decision to Build a Global Investing Platform10:45 — Launching 500 & the Chaos of the First Years14:40 — How Early-Stage Investing Changed Over a Decade18:26 — The Traits She Sees in Exceptional Founders22:51 — Speed, Humility & the Signals That Truly Matter26:33 — Surviving Cycles & Leading Through Volatility30:55 — What Backing 3,000+ Founders Teaches You35:18 — Global Perspective: Why Innovation Comes From Everywhere39:07 — Leadership Moments That Define a CEO43:50 — Legacy, Purpose & Why Relationships Are the Real ScorecardFollow Divot:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivotpodX (Twitter): https://twitter.com/divotdotorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divotpodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divotpodLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divotdotorgHashtags:#GlobalFounders #VentureCapital #StartupLeadership #EarlyStageInvesting #FounderMindset #ScalingStartups #GlobalInnovation #WomenInVC #LeadershipLessons #BuildingEnduringCompanies #Entrepreneurship #500Global

Before helping lead the transformation of Salt Lake City’s urban core, Mike Maughan’s journey was shaped by discipline, faith, service, and a belief that leadership is defined by integrity above everything else.In this conversation, he shares how he built his career across organizations with massive community impact, from Qualtrics to Smith Entertainment Group, and the lessons behind navigating billion-dollar city projects, activating live experiences, and helping bring an NHL team to Utah. He breaks down the principles that great leaders use to build trust, make clear decisions, and “never get blocked,” even in environments filled with complexity.He reflects on the power of in-person connection in the age of AI, the importance of working with good people, and why ego and humility must coexist for leaders to scale. From frameworks for choosing what matters to the truth about toxic cultures, he explains why solving meaningful problems creates better careers than chasing passion.A grounded masterclass in clarity, purpose, and impact, proving that real leadership is built on service, courage, and the commitment to make things happen.Follow Mike - X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/MikeMaughanFollow Derek - X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/derekjandersenTimestamps:0:00 — Why Being Different Beats Being 10x Better1:25 — Transforming Salt Lake City’s Urban Core5:26 — The Value of In-Person Connection in the AI Era8:42 — A Framework for Choosing What Actually Matters10:02 — Working With Good People & Recognizing Integrity14:15 — The Cost of Toxic Environments19:03 — Don’t Chase Passion — Solve Big Problems25:05 — Ego + Humility: The Rare Leadership Combo31:01 — Building Five for the Fight & Meaningful Causes36:23 — Service as a Competitive Advantage43:36 — How Great Leaders Deliver Hard News57:44 — Bringing an NHL Team to Utah & Making Vision RealFollow Divot:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivotpodX (Twitter): https://twitter.com/divotdotorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divotpodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divotpodLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divotdotorgHashtags:#Leadership #PurposeDriven #ScalingImpact #CommunityBuilding #HighPerformance #AIandHumanConnection #SportsBusiness #FoundersMindset

Before leading global teams and raising more than $170 million to back exceptional founders, this journey started in a crowded home on the West Side of Detroit filled with Motown, discipline, and faith.In this conversation, she shares how she went from Detroit public schools to Cass Tech and Wharton, then entered Silicon Valley and scaled teams from 14 to more than 1,000 at Google. From global leadership assignments to becoming a first-time CEO, she breaks down the lessons behind leading with conviction, humility, and principle.She reflects on navigating high-stakes decisions, building trust at the executive level, and helping guide a major strategic transaction with one of the world’s most iconic companies. From serving on public company boards to investing at the Series A and B stage, she explains how operating experience shapes venture judgment and why she built a fund designed to support underestimated talent at scale.A masterclass in purpose-driven leadership, discipline, and belief, proving that success does not require sacrificing values, family, or faith, and that building with integrity is not a weakness, but a competitive advantage.Follow Stacy - X (Twitter): https://x.com/sbp04Follow Derek - X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/derekjandersenTimestamps:0:00 — Growing Up in Detroit: Faith, Family & Strong Women2:18 — Motown Culture, Community & Early Joy4:01 — Hard Things Young: Grit & Gratitude in Scarcity5:47 — “God Will Make a Way”: Faith in Difficult Moments6:58 — Two Things Can Be True: Effort vs Surrender8:32 — Education as Escape: Earning a Shot at Cass Tech10:12 — Wharton Dreams Without a Roadmap12:45 — Breaking Into Tech & Entering Silicon Valley16:22 — From 14 to 1,000 Employees: Learning to Lead at Scale19:06 — Leading in India: Humility, Culture & Listening22:54 — Becoming CEO: Pressure, Confidence & Faith28:30 — The IKEA Deal: Inside a Transformational Acquisition33:44 — How Great Boards Really Work (No Surprises Rule)48:10 — Building Cherry Rock Capital & Investing With Purpose50:20 — How She Chooses Founders & Helps Them Scale1:11:26 — Mind Over Matter: Overcoming Hard Seasons1:12:12 — Marriage Strength & Building a Life Together1:12:42 — Legacy: Faith, Kids, Meaning & Life’s Real ScorecardFollow Divot:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivotpodX (Twitter): https://twitter.com/divotdotorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divotpodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divotpodLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divotdotorgHashtags:#Leadership #SiliconValley #WomenInTech #TaskRabbit #Google #VentureCapital #FaithInBusiness #Entrepreneurship #FounderMindset #ScalingStartups

Before the cloud powered the modern enterprise, it started with a college dorm, a borrowed garage, and a vision to make work simpler.In this conversation, Aaron Levie, co-founder and CEO of Box, shares how he turned a college project into a billion-dollar SaaS company. From building during the early days of the internet to leading through massive technological shifts, Aaron reveals the lessons behind Box’s evolution from a storage startup to a global platform used by 70% of the Fortune 500.He reflects on the rise of AI, how it’s reshaping the software industry, and why this moment mirrors the early days of cloud computing. From the changing economics of software to the new era of AI agents, Aaron explains what it takes to stay relevant and keep innovating when the rules of business change overnight.A masterclass in resilience, adaptability, and leadership from one of Silicon Valley’s most curious minds, proving that innovation is less about technology and more about the people who dare to rethink it.Follow Aaron - X (Twitter): https://x.com/levieFollow Derek - X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/derekjandersenTimestamps:0:00 – Welcome to Divot: Making Your Mark on the World0:19 – From College Project to $4 Billion Company1:31 – Free Rent, Big Dreams & Dropping Out2:43 – The Birth of Box and the Cloud Idea3:49 – The Pivot That Changed Everything6:45 – AI Disruption: Startups vs Incumbents10:56 – The New Economics of AI and Software13:07 – What Clay Christensen Still Teaches Us15:31 – AI Agents and the Future of Work20:17 – Managing Teams in the AI Era26:10 – How Box Shifted to an AI-First Company40:41 – Leadership, Abundance Mindset & Life LessonsFollow Divot:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivotpodX (Twitter): https://twitter.com/divotdotorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divotpodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divotpodLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divotdotorgHashtags:#AI #FutureOfWork #Leadership #Startups #Entrepreneurship #SaaS #CloudComputing #AIInnovation #AaronLevie #Box #TechLeadership #DivotPodcast

Before Radical Candor reshaped how leaders give feedback, it began with a simple idea, that caring personally and challenging directly can coexist.In this conversation, leadership expert Kim Scott, bestselling author of Radical Candor and Radical Respect, reflects on how honesty, empathy, and courage transform the way we work and lead. She shares the real story behind creating Radical Candor, coaching top CEOs at Dropbox and Qualtrics, and how her experiences at Google and Apple University shaped her approach to management and life.You'll learn how to give feedback that inspires growth, build teams rooted in respect, and create cultures where truth replaces fear. From her first lessons in Moscow to building global impact in Silicon Valley, Kim reveals why clarity is kindness, and why radical candor is the foundation of lasting trust.A timeless conversation for founders, creators, and leaders searching for authenticity, courage, and connection in a noisy world.Kim – X (Twitter): https://x.com/kimballscottFollow Derek – X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/derekjandersenTimestamps:0:00 – Love and Truth: The Heart of Radical Candor0:32 – Meet Kim Scott: Redefining Modern Leadership1:09 – From Google and Apple to a Global Movement5:07 – From Moscow to Silicon Valley: An Unlikely Journey10:20 – The Birth of Radical Candor with Dan Pink13:22 – The “Bob Story”: When Kindness Becomes Cruel20:15 – The Radical Candor Framework Explained24:25 – Why the Feedback Sandwich Doesn't Work31:15 – Speaking Truth to Power: Feedback Up, Down & Sideways39:00 – Radical Respect: Humanity over Hierarchy50:07 – Coaching Tech CEOs and Building Trust58:42 – Radical Candor at Home and Final ReflectionsFollow Divot:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivotpodX (Twitter): https://twitter.com/divotdotorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divotpodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divotpodLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divotdotorgHashtags:#RadicalCandor #Leadership #FeedbackCulture #HonestLeadership #RadicalRespect #WorkCulture #StartupLeadership #EmotionalIntelligence #LeadershipDevelopment #DivotPodcast

Before Netflix changed entertainment forever, it began with a small idea, mailed in an envelope, and a lot of doubt.In this conversation, Marc Randolph, co-founder and first CEO of Netflix reflects on how experimentation, rejection, and persistence shaped one of the world’s most influential startups. He shares the real story behind challenging Blockbuster, creating the first subscription model, and learning why curiosity often matters more than certainty.You’ll hear rare insights on how to test ideas quickly, stay optimistic through failure, and build a lasting culture without losing yourself in the process. More than a story of business success, this is about designing a meaningful life, where ambition and balance can coexist.A timeless reflection for founders, creators, and leaders searching for clarity, courage, and direction in their own journey.Marc - X (Twitter): https://x.com/mbrandolphFollow Derek - X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/derekjandersenTimestamps:0:00 - Intro & Early Lessons - Learning to love the hard parts of the journey1:00 - Founding Netflix - The idea, early experiments, and the DVD-by-mail breakthrough8:00 - Beating Blockbuster - Finding product-market fit and using subscription to win17:00 - That Will Never Work - Rejection, optimism, and lessons from failure26:00 - Customer Obsession - Testing, talking to users, and learning fast35:00 - Subscription Revolution - Reinventing media and business models44:00 - Disruption Strategy - Why big companies can’t pivot and how startups win54:00 - Looker Story - Building again, scaling a B2B SaaS, and selling to Google1:03:00 - Redefining Success - What truly matters after billions made1:12:00 - Work-Life Balance - Designing a life that scales with your ambition1:20:00 - Founder Mindset - Focus, intuition, and ignoring noise1:27:00 - Legacy & Wisdom - Optimism, empathy, and success beyond workFollow Divot:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivotpodX (Twitter): https://twitter.com/divotdotorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divotpodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divotpodLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divotdotorgHashtags:#NetflixStory #Entrepreneurship #Innovation #Leadership #StartupLessons #WorkLifeBalance #Resilience #SiliconValley #BusinessGrowth #FoundersJourney #Inspiration #StreamingRevolution

The journey from playful ideas to world-changing companies is never simple.Known as the father of the video game industry, the founder of Atari, and Chuck E. Cheese has spent five decades at the intersection of play, technology, and entrepreneurship. In this episode, he shares how fun, innovation, and relentless curiosity shaped Silicon Valley, and why the future of learning depends on making it fun.From pioneering the first home video games and building Atari into a cultural phenomenon, to creating Chuck E. Cheese and inspiring a generation of entrepreneurs, including Steve Jobs, he has shaped industries and defined eras. Today, his focus is on AI and education through his new venture, Exodexa, which he believes can transform how children learn by turning school into play.He reflects on the happy accidents that led him to Atari, the unconventional culture that made Atari thrive, and why playfulness is essential to creativity and innovation. He opens up about raising eight children, the lessons he learned from mentors like Intel's Bob Noyce, and why persistence and relentlessness have been his greatest tools in overcoming challenges.This is a raw and inspiring conversation for entrepreneurs, creators, and leaders who want to shape the future by rethinking what's possible.Nolan - X (Twitter): https://x.com/nolbushnellFollow Derek - X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/derekjandersenTimestamps:0:00 - Introduction3:10 - Childhood & influence of play7:30 - The early “happy accidents” that led to Atari12:45 - Chuck E. Cheese origin & branding17:50 - Short fun vs long fun in product design22:30 - Culture at Atari / Silicon Valley roots27:15 - AI's future and reinvention of education31:40 - Passion, intensity, and entrepreneurial mindset36:55 - Thoughts on raising eight children41:20 - Lessons from mentors, especially Bob Noyce45:30 - Advice on persistence and relentlessness50:10 - Legacy: fun, learning, and transformationFollow Divot:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivotpodX (Twitter): https://twitter.com/divotdotorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divotpodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divotpodLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divotdotorgHashtags:#Entrepreneurship #Leadership #Atari #ChuckECheese #ArtificialIntelligence #Education #Startups #Resilience #Innovation #SiliconValley #Gaming #FutureOfLearning

Work is changing fast, but how do you build cultures and teams that thrive through it?In this episode, Anne Raimondi, COO and Head of Business at Asana, shares lessons from two decades leading fast-growth companies like Zendesk, SurveyMonkey, and TaskRabbit, serving on boards including Gusto and Patreon, and teaching leadership at Stanford GSB.She opens up about growing up as the child of immigrants, why curiosity became her leadership superpower, and how she balances ambition with humility. You'll hear her talk about building resilient culture, using humor in high-pressure rooms, navigating perfectionism, and bringing AI into teams with trust and clarity.Follow Anne Raimondi - X (Twitter): https://x.com/anneraimondiFollow Derek - X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/derekjandersenTimestamps:0:00 - From San Jose roots to Asana's COO1:13 - Childhood lessons from immigrant parents2:21 - Seeing herself as a problem solver2:46 - Curiosity as a leadership superpower4:12 - Building advocacy with customers and employees5:15 - Staying lighthearted in high-pressure rooms7:19 - Using humor and honesty to diffuse tension9:03 - Leading without yelling: turning up the right "dials"11:04 - Rallying teams around the customer's voice13:03 - What makes someone have outsized impact14:34 - Healthy ambition vs. territorial behavior17:24 - Why fun and joy matter at work18:26 - Defining culture: mission + values + norms20:17 - How to evaluate a company's culture23:01 - Can you change culture or must you choose it?24:34 - Leadership training and conscious leadership at Asana26:07 - Serving on boards: how she got her first seat29:07 - How board work makes you a better operator33:49 - Why she wanted to be in the boardroom33:57 - On being a "recovering perfectionist"34:54 - Balancing family, career, and letting go of perfection35:57 - What her kids might say about her work39:45 - Privilege, gratitude, and immigrant perspective39:45 - AI's impact on how teams are built42:02 - How to bring AI into a resistant culture43:19 - Asana's "AI first" approach46:07 - The leader she most admires48:16 - The one idea she'd implant in everyone's mind49:08 - Hardest accomplishment: 30-year marriage50:20 - Her best advice on resilience and bouncing back50:55 - What she's most proud of in her career52:02 - The measure of a life well lived53:11 - The impact she hopes to leave on the worldFollow Divot:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivotpodX (Twitter): https://twitter.com/divotdotorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divotpodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divotpodLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divotdotorgHashtags:#DivotPodcast #Leadership #Culture #Curiosity #JoyAtWork #Asana #Entrepreneurship #Resilience #TeamBuilding #AI

In this episode, Neal Harmon, CEO and co-founder of Angel, reveals how he went from a dairy farm in Idaho to building one of the fastest-growing entertainment companies in the world. Angel is behind global hits like Sound of Freedom, The Chosen, and Dry Bar Comedy — all chosen and funded by audiences, not executives.Neal shares the painful story of surviving a Disney lawsuit, why The Chosen split was harder than Disney, and how resilience, faith, and community helped Angel scale against all odds. He explains the secrets to viral storytelling, why constant testing wins, and how community-driven content is rewriting the rules of media.This is a story of resilience, disruption, and purpose, a blueprint for every builder, leader, and creator who wants to build something that lasts.Follow Neal Harmon - X (Twitter): https://x.com/nealsharmonFollow Derek - X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/derekjandersenTimestamps:0:00 - Intro: from Idaho farm to Hollywood disruptor2:30 - Why Angel gives audiences the power to greenlight stories6:00 - Building hits like Sound of Freedom, The Chosen, and Dry Bar Comedy10:00 - Lessons from AuraBrush, Squatty Potty, and viral ads15:00 - Surviving Disney's $62M lawsuit and crowdfunding $11M in 5 days21:00 - Why lawsuits can build resilience, not break it26:00 - The pain of The Chosen split and lessons learned33:00 - Angel Guild and the future of audience-driven entertainment38:00 - Preparing for AMGX: scaling with community investors44:00 - Family, faith, and raising 10 kids while building a company50:00 - What makes Angel Studios different from Hollywood55:00 - Neal's advice: why failure isn't real until you quit1:00:00 - Final reflections: leadership, humility, and legacyFollow Divot:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivotpodX (Twitter): https://twitter.com/divotdotorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divotpodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divotpodLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divotdotorgHashtags:#DivotPodcast #Entrepreneurship #Leadership #Resilience #AngelStudios #SoundOfFreedom #TheChosen #DryBarComedy #DisruptHollywood #BusinessStrategy #StartupStories #CommunityBuilding #FaithInBusiness

The journey from startup to global brand is never easy, but it’s the moments of crisis that define true leaders.In this episode, Jeremy Andrus, CEO of Traeger Grills and former CEO of Skullcandy, shares how he transformed two consumer brands into icons. From taking Skullcandy public to reinventing Traeger into the world’s number one wood-pellet grill company, Jeremy reveals the resilience and grit required to lead through chaos, culture shifts, and the toughest year of his career after going public.We dive into the formula for building products people love, why culture and community fuel legendary brands, and how Jeremy redefined success from chasing money to creating meaning. He also opens up about raising a family of six, designing daily habits for strength, and why joy, not status, is the ultimate measure of life.This is a raw and inspiring conversation for entrepreneurs, leaders, and anyone who wants to build with purpose and lead with resilience.Follow Jeremy Andrus – Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremy_andrus/Follow Derek – X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/derekjandersenTimestamps:0:00 – Intro: turning products into experiences2:00 – Food, community, and the emotional power of brand6:00 – Why Traeger is about more than grills10:00 – TVAC: the formula for building products that people love13:00 – From financial pressure to purpose-driven leadership18:00 – Sharing success with your team and rewarding loyalty26:30 – Surviving IPO challenges and leading through 202228:30 – Finding happiness while going through pain34:00 – Ego, humility, and separating identity from success40:00 – Family, partnership, and redefining balance48:00 – Morning routines, mini-habits, and building daily strength57:00 – Teaching grit and tenacity to the next generation1:03:00 – Core principles for building an authentic brand1:09:00 – Culture, community, and scaling values worldwide1:13:00 – Rapid fire: best advice, resilience, and measuring lifeFollow Divot:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivotpodX (Twitter): https://twitter.com/divotdotorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divotpodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divotpodLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divotdotorgHashtags#DivotPodcast #Leadership #Entrepreneurship #Resilience #BusinessGrowth #BrandBuilding #WorkLifeBalance #PersonalGrowth #CommunityBuilding #Success #Traeger #Skullcandy

The world is changing fast — and there’s no going back.In this episode, legendary Silicon Valley investor Navin Chaddha (Managing Partner at Mayfield) lays out a powerful prediction: “Every business will become an AI business — no exceptions.”We dive into what that really means for founders, industries, and the future of work. Navin introduces the concept of “vibe coding”, where 8 billion people can become builders — simply by describing what they want. He shares why SaaS is dying, how vertical AI models will dominate entire industries, and why physical AGI will transform the real world — from robots to logistics to healthcare.He also explains how billion-dollar companies will soon be built by teams of two or three people, thanks to the power of AI-native architecture.This episode is a wake-up call for every founder, builder, and leader who wants to stay ahead in the new AI era.Follow Navin Chaddha – X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/NavinChaddhaFollow Derek – X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/derekjandersenTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction00:38 - The Excitement of AI Technology02:10 - The Future of Coding and Development04:20 - Collaborative Intelligence in Action05:00 - The Era of 8 Billion Builders06:01 - Democratizing Entrepreneurship with AI07:42 - The Impact on Venture Capital08:54 - The Renaissance of Hardware11:44 - AI's Role in Physical Applications13:50 - Disruption in Home Appliances19:20 - Barriers to Physical AGI20:52 - Reimagining Industries with AI26:15 - The Great Equalizer of AIEpisode Partners:SalesforceStart faster with Salesforce Starter Suite.https://www.salesforce.com/form/signup/freetrial-salesforce-starter/?d=701ed000007ZTPhAAOFollow Divot:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivotpodX (Twitter): https://twitter.com/divotdotorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divotdotorgTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divot.orgLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divotdotorg/#DivotPodcast #AI #VerticalAI #AGI #FutureOfWork #NavinChaddha #MayfieldFund #VibeCoding #StartupStrategy #Innovation #TechInvesting #SaaSIsDead

How do you build an AI company trusted by the world's top enterprises, while surviving political oppression, hacking a country's internet, and rewriting the future of work?In this episode, Waseem Alshikh, co-founder and CTO of Writer, shares his extraordinary story. At 17, he launched his first startup in Syria — only to be imprisoned when the government tried to steal it for one dollar. In retaliation, he shut down the country's internet and fled to Lebanon. From there, he taught himself English, built groundbreaking NLP tools, and eventually launched one of the world's most trusted AI platforms.We explore how Writer built its own LLMs to serve enterprises like Uber, Deloitte, and Spotify; how AI agents are replacing outdated internal tools; and how a new generation of founders is reshaping pricing, trust, and innovation in the AI era.This episode is a masterclass in surviving chaos, scaling with focus, and building AI-first from Day One.Follow Waseem Alshikh - X (Twitter): https://x.com/waseem_sFollow Derek Andersen - X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/derekjandersenTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction to the Syrian Regime Collapse00:49 - Early Success with Digital Mapping01:42 - Government Takeover and Jail Experience04:00 - Hacking the Internet for Revenge05:36 - Escape to Lebanon and New Beginnings06:44 - Learning English and Computer Science08:08 - Transitioning to AI and Open Source09:22 - Building Generative AI Models10:15 - The Challenge of Language Localization12:44 - Why We Built Our Own AI Models13:30 - Enterprise Solutions and Customer Trust18:04 - The Role of AI in Productivity24:11 - Evolving Business Models in AI28:35 - Future of AI in Regulated Industries32:29 - Open Source vs. Proprietary AI34:08 - Starting an AI Company Today38:11 - The Journey from Startup to GrowthEpisode Partners:SalesforceStart faster with Salesforce Starter Suite.https://www.salesforce.com/form/signup/freetrial-salesforce-starter/?d=701ed000007ZTPhAAOFollow Divot:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivotpodX (Twitter): https://twitter.com/divotdotorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divotdotorgTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divot.orgLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divotdotorg/#DivotPodcast #AI #Innovation #StartupJourney #EnterpriseAI #MissionDriven #Resilience #WriterAI #FutureOfWork #Leadership #CTO #SaaS #DerekAndersen

How do you choose the right quest — the kind of mission that truly matters, and can survive in today’s world of regulation, politics, and entrenched incumbents?In this episode, Founders Fund General Partner and Anduril co-founder Trae Stephens shares his philosophy of “Good Quests” — and what entrepreneurs must get right when tackling hard, meaningful problems. We dive deep into how AI will transform defense and national security, why the future of warfare is distributed and AI-driven, and how entrepreneurs can navigate government sales and political opposition.From raising capital to surviving regulated markets, this is a tactical and inspiring conversation for anyone building in ambitious, frontier spaces.This episode is a masterclass in mission-driven entrepreneurship, AI strategy, and playing to win in a changing world.Follow Trae Stephens – X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/traestephensFollow Derek Andersen – X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/derekjandersenTimestamps:0:00 - Introduction: The Naivety of Building Products0:20 - Welcome to Divot and Episode Overview1:10 - Guest Introduction: Trae Stephens1:32 - The Concept of Good Quests for Founders3:50 - Identifying a Good Quest and Its Importance6:40 - Market Size and Its Relevance to Good Quests8:42 - Governance and Board Seats in Venture Capital10:02 - Coaching Founders on Ethical Considerations11:21 - Founding Anduril: Early Data Points and Insights14:58 - Raising Capital: Strategies for Founders17:55 - Selling to the U.S. Government and International Markets21:18 - The Role of AI in Defense and Future ImplicationsEpisode Partners:SalesforceStart faster with Salesforce Starter Suite.https://www.salesforce.com/form/signup/freetrial-salesforce-starter/?d=701ed000007ZTPhAAOFollow Divot:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivotpodX (Twitter): https://twitter.com/divotdotorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divotdotorgTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divot.orgLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divotdotorg/#DivotPodcast #AI #Innovation #DefenseTech #Entrepreneurship #GoodQuest #MissionDriven #StartupLessons #Regulation #Leadership #TraeStephens

In this inspiring conversation, we explore how AI will transform the future of business and work, and what it means for us as humans. You’ll hear why AI will soon perform 80% of human jobs, why full AI-first tools will surpass today’s co-pilots, and why most of AI’s impact will happen outside of tech.But this is also a powerful life masterclass. From building billion-dollar startups to raising a family and staying energized at 70, we dive deep into resilience, happiness, and living an internally driven life.You’ll learn how to power through failure, lead through change, balance ambition with presence, and why the most significant measure of life is doing what you love.Follow Vinod Khosla – X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/vkhoslaFollow Derek – X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/derekjandersenaTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction to AI and Entrepreneurial Vision05:01 - The Future of AI Development and Adoption10:01 - AI's Impact on Business and Job Transformation15:02 - AI as a Tool for Small Businesses and Innovation20:00 - The Role of Startups and Disruption in AI25:00 - Preparing for an AI-Driven Future30:02 - Lessons from Building Tech Companies35:01 - Staying Relevant and Evolving as an Investor40:00 - Balancing Work, Family, and Personal Growth45:01 - Long-Term Relationships and Life Priorities50:00 - Measuring Success and Living PurposefullyEpisode Partners:SalesforceStart faster with Salesforce Starter Suite.https://www.salesforce.com/form/signup/freetrial-salesforce-starter/?d=701ed000007ZTPhAAOFollow Divot:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivotpodX (Twitter): https://twitter.com/divotdotorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divotdotorgTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divot.orgLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divotdotorg/#DivotPodcast #AI #FutureOfWork #Entrepreneurship #Resilience #Leadership #SmallBusiness #Innovation #AGI #Mindset #Success

In this episode, Kobie Fuller invites us into his home gym — and into the mindset that’s driven him through elite athletics, startup investing, fatherhood, and personal growth. From sprint workouts to 24-hour fasts, Kobie shares how he uses physical discipline to sharpen mental clarity and lead with purpose.He breaks down two core ideas that changed his life: “It takes what it takes” and neutral thinking — frameworks he learned from late mentor Trevor Moawad to overcome self-doubt, pressure, and negativity.We explore how Kobie handles failure, centers his faith, coaches his kids, balances ambition with presence, and defines what it truly means to win. This is a masterclass in mindset, emotional leadership, and how to build a life that actually matters.Follow Kobie – X (Twitter): https://x.com/kobiefullerFollow Derek – X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/derekjandersenTimestamps:0:00 – Introduction1:40 – Inside Kobie’s gym: how fitness drives clarity2:00 – Track workouts, aging, and athletic self-awareness5:16 – Why the 800 is the most brutal race6:13 – Coaching his kids, and what youth sports reveal8:20 – “It takes what it takes” – the mindset behind greatness11:25 – Neutral thinking vs. toxic positivity14:18 – Road rage, emotional discipline, and living by the Golden Rule20:47 – Teaching neutral mindset to his kids22:11 – Preemptive emotional mapping with Trevor Moawad25:18 – Balancing work, presence, and guilt as a founder & father28:00 – Monday fasts, spiritual resets, and weekly discipline31:10 – Building long-term investor-founder relationships32:30 – Having a spouse who helps you stay grounded33:17 – Trusting God’s plan when life doesn’t go your way35:37 – Accomplishing hard things: track, leadership, and family40:45 – Privilege, pressure, and staying grateful42:49 – The person he admires most: Jim Lowry43:44 – What he’s most proud of (it’s not Harvard)44:30 – Meeting God and leaving the world better45:05 – How he will measure his lifeEpisode Partners:SalesforceStart faster with Salesforce Starter Suite.https://www.salesforce.com/form/signup/freetrial-salesforce-starter/?d=701ed000007ZTPhAAOFollow Divot:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivotpodX (Twitter): https://twitter.com/divotdotorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divotdotorgTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divot.orgLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divotdotorg/#DivotPodcast #MindsetMatters #ItTakesWhatItTakes #NeutralThinking #EmotionalDiscipline #Fatherhood #Faith #Leadership #KobieFuller

Most people fail at leadership because they complicate what should be simple. Greg Osborn’s approach is different. After leading in Vietnam, raising a family with old-school work ethic, and building businesses in Silicon Valley as the tech boom took off, he learned that success comes from two things: giving people the right training and keeping them motivated.In this conversation, Greg breaks down why teams succeed or fail based on this simple principle — and how you can apply it in business, family, and life. You’ll hear how his leadership lessons from the Vietnam battlefield translated into managing people, teaching his kids, and running companies.This is timeless advice that still works today — practical, proven, and refreshingly clear.Follow Derek – X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/derekjandersenTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction to Greg Osborne and His Garage05:01 - Camping Adventures with Greg Osborne's Family10:01 - The Joy of Making and Solving Problems15:00 - Early Life, Education, and Military Background20:01 - College Basketball Career at Stanford25:01 - Physical Challenges and Surgeries Over the Years30:01 - Reflections on Basketball and Life Experiences35:01 - Military Training and Assignment to Vietnam40:02 - Experiences in Vietnam and Impact of War45:01 - Teaching GED to Soldiers and Life Lessons50:01 - 54 Years of Marriage and Family Life55:00 - Raising Children and Teaching Responsibility01:00:00 - Reflections on Joy and Family01:05:00 - Personal Anecdotes and Life Lessons01:10:00 - Challenges and Sacrifices in Life01:15:02 - Real Estate Experiences and Business Ventures01:20:01 - Encounters with Tech Industry Leaders01:25:00 - Growth of Silicon Valley and Early Tech Companies01:30:01 - Closing Thoughts and Final ConversationsEpisode Partners:SalesforceStart faster with Salesforce Starter Suite.https://www.salesforce.com/form/signup/freetrial-salesforce-starter/?d=701ed000007ZTPhAAOFollow Divot:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivotpodX (Twitter): https://twitter.com/divotdotorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divotdotorgTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divot.orgLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divotdotorgFollow Derek – X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/derekjandersen#DivotPodcast #Leadership #TeamSuccess #Entrepreneurship #SimpleAdvice #Motivation #HighPerformance #Mindset #PaloAlto

America used to lead the world in innovation. Now, it's falling behind — and no one in power wants to face the truth.In Part 2 of this eye-opening conversation, we dive into how the U.S. lost its edge in science, technology, and defense. From bloated bureaucracies to outdated mindsets, the systems that once fueled American greatness are now holding it back.You'll hear war stories from the frontlines of government innovation, uncover the forgotten WWII playbook that built modern America, and learn how China quietly leapfrogged U.S. capabilities. We explore why bold ideas get killed, how real change gets buried, and what kind of leadership we desperately need today.This isn't just about startups — it's about the future of the country.Follow Steve – X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/sgblankFollow Derek – X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/derekjandersenTimestamps:3:37: Hacking for Defense -- how a new form of national service is changing how national security problems are solved6:27: Why DoD struggles to innovate11:31: How China beat the U.S. at innovation21:00: How the U.S. became a science superpower27:00: Faith vs. facts: how decisions should be made35:15: Why the Office of Strategic Capital is one of the most creative things to happen to DoD40:47: How to get to the outcome you want: Fact-based conversations vs. Faith-based conversations43:51: Putting startup risk in context50:34: Redefining service52:30: Retirement, legacy & how to measure your lifeEpisode Partners:SalesforceStart faster with Salesforce Starter Suite.https://www.salesforce.com/form/signup/freetrial-salesforce-starter/?d=701ed000007ZTPhAAOM/Follow Divot:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivotpodX (Twitter): https://twitter.com/divotdotorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divotdotorgTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divot.orgLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divotdotorg/#DivotPodcast #InnovationCrisis #AmericanDecline #Startups #GovernmentInnovation #Leadership #SiliconValley #ChinaVsUS #SteveBlank

Most founders follow advice that sets them up to fail.In this episode of Divot, we sit down with one of the most influential minds in startup history — Steve Blank.Before reshaping modern entrepreneurship, Steve co-founded E.piphany, a CRM company that went public in 1999 and soared to an $8 billion valuation. After multiple startups and hard-won lessons, he created the startup playbook that changed how companies are built — from customer discovery to the Lean Startup.Steve’s teachings are used at Stanford, Columbia, and Berkeley, adopted by Y Combinator, and taught in U.S. national security programs through his Hacking for Defense initiative. He’s helped thousands of founders avoid failure and build with truth instead of hype.This conversation is a masterclass in resilience, innovation, and clarity for any builder, founder, or operator.Follow Steve – X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/sgblankFollow Derek – X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/derekjandersenTimestamps:6:30: After 21 years of doing startups, deciding what was next10:39: What makes startup founders different14:11: “Adventure Capital” and how the entrepreneurial ecosystem has evolved18:43: Origin of the Lean Startup method and why it changed everything22:33: Why customer discovery is key to startup success29:34: How to choose what kind of startup to build32:45: Failure is the greatest teacher a founder can have35:29: Hubris and other company killers37:42: Why showing up more than most people counts for a lot39:17: Entrepreneurship is not a job. It’s a calling44:38: How AI is changing everything about how startups are built46:56: Making a dent in the universe with Lean LaunchPad, I-Corps, Hacking for Defense50:21: The three pillars of Lean and how they work together to drive entrepreneurial success52:58: Why smart founders don’t outsource customer discoveryEpisode Partner:SalesforceNo matter your team size or industry, Salesforce Starter Suite is your scalable CRM solution for growth. https://www.salesforce.com/form/signup/freetrial-salesforce-starter/?d=701ed000007ZTPhAAOFollow Divot:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivotpodX (Twitter): https://twitter.com/divotdotorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divotdotorgTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divot.orgLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divotdotorg/#SteveBlank #LeanStartup #E.piphany #StartupAdvice #CustomerDiscovery #Entrepreneurship #DivotPodcast #StartupFailure

Liz Wiseman is one of the world’s leading voices on leadership and talent development. A Wall Street Journal best-selling author of Multipliers and Impact Players, Liz’s work has helped shape leaders at Apple, Google, Meta, and beyond.In this episode, she shares how growing up in Silicon Valley, facing early life challenges, and leading major teams taught her the power of multiplying — not diminishing — the people around you.Learn why most managers accidentally hold teams back, how to create real ownership, and what separates contributors from true impact players.Follow Liz – X (Twitter): https://x.com/LizWisemanFollow Derek – X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/derekjandersenTimestamps:0:00 – Growing up in Silicon Valley & donut shop lessons2:30 – Getting held at gunpoint as a teenager5:00 – Lessons about ownership, mistakes, and leadership8:00 – Why micromanagement kills creativity10:00 – Diminishers vs. Multipliers explained13:00 – Accidental diminishers: how good intentions backfire17:00 – Understanding the power you have as a leader20:00 – Why space, not pressure, fuels great teams24:00 – Being underutilized is exhausting: why it drains people27:00 – The difference between contributors and impact players30:00 – Impact players dive into uncertainty instead of waiting35:00 – How childhood lessons shape leadership styles40:00 – Why willingness beats talent early in your career45:00 – How to create a stretch-and-safety environment48:00 – Coaching yourself and others to become impact players53:00 – Parenting lessons and raising confident adultsEpisode Partners:NotionStartups get up to 6 months free of Notion with unlimited AI. Use code SGXNotion: https://ntn.so/startupGoogle CloudAccelerate your AI startup with Google for Startups Cloud Program: https://partners.startupgrind.com/partner/google-cloud/Follow Divot:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivotpodX (Twitter): https://twitter.com/divotdotorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divotdotorgTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divot.orgLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divotdotorg/#Leadership #Multipliers #ImpactPlayers #StartupLeadership #TeamDevelopment #DivotPodcast

His family lost their home, memories, and peace — in minutes. What came next would define his legacy. Rich Raddon, co-founder and co-CEO of ZEFR, opens up about losing everything in a wildfire — and what it taught him about rebuilding, resilience, and leading with heart.From sleeping in his office to supporting a 200-person team while navigating grief, Rich shares how tragedy transformed his leadership — and how ZEFR became a category leader in brand safety, working with billions of impressions across YouTube, TikTok, and Meta.We go deep on faith, therapy, family, purpose, and the mindset it takes to turn pain into clarity — and companies into movements.Follow Rich – X (Twitter): https://x.com/richraddonFollow Derek – X (Twitter): https://x.com/derekjandersenTimestamps:0:00 – The fire that changed everything3:00 – Evacuation, loss, and finding only ashes6:30 – Journals, photos, heirlooms: what was lost10:00 – Strangers, neighbors, and unexpected grace13:00 – The role of therapy and grief processing17:00 – Leading a startup while homeless21:00 – How pain forged a new leadership style26:00 – Rebuilding life in San Clemente30:00 – ZEFR’s rise in the brand safety space34:00 – YouTube, Meta, TikTok: managing billions of impressions38:00 – The emotional weight of impact42:00 – Rich’s personal framework for optimism and faith45:00 – What he hopes his kids will rememberEpisode Partners:NotionStartups get up to 6 months free of Notion with unlimited AI. Use code SGXNotion: https://ntn.so/startupGoogle CloudAccelerate your AI startup with Google for Startups Cloud Program: https://partners.startupgrind.com/partner/google-cloud/Follow Divot:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivotpodX (Twitter): https://x.com/divotdotorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divotdotorgTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divot.orgLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divotdotorg/#RichRaddon #StartupResilience #BrandSafety #Zephyr #Movieclips #WildfireRecovery #MentalHealthForFounders #FaithInBusiness #DivotPodcast

What does it take to create $100B+ in value while staying grounded, humble, and deeply human?In this episode of Divot, Derek sits down with one of Silicon Valley’s most respected VCs — a former founder turned long-term investor who’s helped build companies like Lyft, HashiCorp, and Poshmark, with more than 45 IPOs and acquisitions and over 40,000 jobs created across his portfolio.As Managing Partner of Mayfield Fund, Navin Chaddha shares his journey from IIT Delhi to Stanford, from founding three companies to backing over 60, and how his core philosophy — bet on people, not markets — has guided him for over two decades in venture.We talk about spotting great founders early, what it means to lead with compassion, and why long-term relationships and karma are the foundation of real success.If you're a startup founder, investor, or just someone who wants to learn what truly great leadership looks like — this is one of the most insightful episodes we’ve ever done.Follow Navin – X (Twitter): https://x.com/NavinChaddhaFollow Derek – X (Twitter): https://x.com/derekjandersenTimestamps:0:02 - Introduction to the Episode and Guest.2:12 - Navin Chaddha’s Early Life and Education.10:01 - Why Startups Fail and What Drives Success.13:42 - Passion vs. Practicality in Business.19:20 - Venture Capital as a Service and Learning.25:42 - Embracing Failure to Learn and Improve.36:08 - The Differences of Opportunities in India and the U.S.39:49 - The Early Days of Tech Startups.48:18 - The Benefits of Helping Others.55:01 - How Navin Decides to Invest in a Company.1:02:00 - Navigating Difficult Decisions as a Leader.1:08:52 - Where to Start with Acquisitions and IPOs.1:14:12 - Should a Founder Sell?1:21:31 - Looking Towards the Future of AI.1:36:01 - Final Piece of Advice. Episode Partners:NotionStartups get up to 6 months free of Notion with unlimited AI. Use code SGXNotion: https://ntn.so/startupGoogle CloudAccelerate your AI startup with Google for Startups Cloud Program: https://partners.startupgrind.com/partner/google-cloud/https://partners.startupgrind.com/partner/google-cloud/Follow Divot:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivotpodX (Twitter): https://x.com/divotdotorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divotdotorgTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divot.orgLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divotdotorg/#VentureCapital #AirbnbMiss #StartupInvesting #NavinChaddha #MayfieldFund #MidasList #SiliconValleyVC #FounderAdvice #StartupEmpire #DivotPodcast

What if the biggest problem in the NBA today was also the key to unlocking its future?In this episode, we sit down with Kirk Goldsberry — bestselling author of SprawlBall and Hoop Atlas, current University professor, former NBA strategist and ESPN analyst — to talk about how spatial analytics, Steph Curry, and the three-point revolution changed the game forever. And why it might be time to change it again.From his early days mapping court data to working with the Spurs, MIT, and Harvard, Kirk shares the inside story of how shot charts became mainstream, why he believes we need to rethink the corner three, and how the culture of basketball is shaped by math, emotion, and identity.We explore how rules evolve, why bigs might dominate the next era, and what the NBA must do to stay competitive, creative, and culturally relevant. If you're into basketball, analytics, or game-changing innovation, this is a must-watch.Follow Kirk – X (Twitter): https://x.com/kirkgoldsberryFollow Derek – X (Twitter): https://x.com/derekjandersenEpisode Partners:NotionStartups get up to 6 months free of Notion with unlimited AI. Use code SGXNotion: https://ntn.so/startupGoogle CloudAccelerate your AI startup with Google for Startups Cloud Program: https://partners.startupgrind.com/partner/google-cloud/Follow Divot:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivotpodX (Twitter): https://x.com/divotdotorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divotdotorgTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divot.orgLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divotdotorg/#KirkGoldsberry #NBAAnalytics #StephCurry #BasketballInnovation #ThreePointRevolution #ShotCharts #SprawlBall #HoopAtlas #DivotPodcast #SportsAnalytics

How do you go from sneakers to $4B in sales, revolutionize collectibles, and invent a new market for toys? In this episode, Josh Luber, co-founder of StockX and the creator of Ghosts, breaks down his game-changing journey in the hype economy.From building StockX — the $4B sneaker resale platform — to launching Ghosts, his innovative collectible toy brand, Josh reveals his secrets to turning scarcity, storytelling, and data into something people are obsessed with.We dive deep into the science behind hype, how Josh uses Dutch auctions to drive fair pricing, and why collectibles have become emotional investments. Ghosts isn’t just another toy — it’s a culture-shifting experience that makes every piece a masterpiece. Plus, hear about his NBA partnerships, collaborations with Astroboy, and Rocky’s Matcha.Whether you're an entrepreneur, a sneakerhead, a toy collector, or just love hearing about next-gen business models, this episode is a must-watch.Hit subscribe for more interviews with founders disrupting industries and building empires.Follow Josh - X (Twitter): https://x.com/joshluberFollow Derek - X (Twitter): https://x.com/derekjandersenEpisode Partners: NotionStartups get up to 6 months free of Notion with unlimited AI. Use code SGXNotion: https://ntn.so/startupGoogle CloudAccelerate your AI startup with Google for Startups Cloud Program: https://partners.startupgrind.com/partner/google-cloud/Follow Divot:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivotpodX (Twitter): https://x.com/divotdotorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divotdotorgTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divot.orgLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divotdotorg/#JoshLuber #StockX #Ghosts #Collectibles #SneakerCulture #HypeEconomy #DutchAuction #Toys #StartupJourney #DivotPodcast

How does a creative entrepreneur go from selling beanies to becoming the "Branding Whisperer" behind some of the most culturally iconic brands of our time? Shaun Neff is the legendary brand builder and founder of Neff Headwear, and the force behind Moon, Pattern, Base, and Sun Bum. He’s partnered with stars like Kendall Jenner, Millie Bobby Brown, and Snoop Dogg — and he's also co-owner of the X Games and LAFC.In this inspiring conversation, Shaun breaks down the mindset, strategy, and raw storytelling behind his brand magic. You’ll hear how he spots breakout markets, builds products people obsess over, and navigates real partnerships with A-list talent.From launching the disruptive fragrance brand Noise to saving Sun Bum from the brink, Shaun reveals how to build lasting brands that scale — and how staying true to your story is the ultimate superpower.👉 Subscribe for more founder stories that move culture and scale companies.Follow Shaun - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shaunneff/Follow Derek - X (Twitter): https://x.com/derekjandersenEpisode Partners:NotionStartups get up to 6 months free of Notion with unlimited AI. Use code SGXNotion: https://ntn.so/startupGoogle CloudAccelerate your AI startup with Google for Startups Cloud Program: https://partners.startupgrind.com/partner/google-cloud/Follow Divot:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivotpodX (Twitter): https://x.com/divotdotorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divotdotorgTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divot.orgLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divotdotorg/#ShaunNeff #BrandingWhisperer #BrandStrategy #InfluencerMarketing #StartupAdvice #DivotPodcast

How does someone go from washing cars and selling rugs to investing in billion-dollar startups like Dropbox and DoorDash? Pejman Nozad arrived in America with $700, no English, and zero connections, but today, he’s one of the most influential investors in Silicon Valley.In this episode, Pejman shares his extraordinary journey from immigrant to Forbes’ #1 seed investor, revealing the networking secrets, mindset shifts, and high-stakes risks that changed his life. He breaks down how he built relationships with top VCs, the strategy behind spotting unicorn startups early, and how much he learned from a $500M mistake on investing in Facebook.This is a must-watch if you're someone that feels like they are starting from nothing, building a startup, investing, or just someone looking for inspiration. Learn what separates billion-dollar entrepreneurs from the rest and how to break into the startup world—no matter where you start.FollowPejman - X (Twitter): https://x.com/pejmannozadFollow Derek - X (Twitter): https://x.com/derekjandersenEpisode Partners:NotionStartups get up to 6 months free of Notion with unlimited AI. Apply now in the partner drop-down list, and enter code SGXNotion: https://ntn.so/startupGoogle CloudAccelerate your AI startup with the Google for Startups Cloud Program. Apply today: https://partners.startupgrind.com/partner/google-cloud/Follow us:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivotpodX (Twitter): https://x.com/divotdotorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divotdotorgTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divot.orgLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divotdotorg/#Startups #AngelInvestor #SiliconValley #Entrepreneurship #VentureCapital #PejmanNozad #FounderLessons #ImmigrantSuccess

Justin Kan built Twitch, sold it for nearly $1 billion, and still felt unfulfilled. In this episode, he shares the truth about money, success, and happiness—and how to break free from the endless chase for more.Who is Justin Kan?Justin Kan is a tech entrepreneur, investor, and former Y Combinator partner, best known as the co-founder of Twitch, which Amazon acquired for $970 million in 2014. Before that, he launched Justin.tv, one of the first live-streaming platforms, which later pivoted into Twitch. He also co-founded Socialcam (acquired by Autodesk for $60 million) and Atrium, a legal tech startup that raised $75 million before shutting down. Today, he runs Goat Capital, helping early-stage founders build the next generation of startups. Beyond business, Justin has been open about mental health, burnout, and finding fulfillment beyond financial success.Follow Justin - X (Twitter): https://x.com/justinkanFollow Derek - X (Twitter): https://x.com/derekjandersenEpisode Partners:NotionStartups get up to 6 months free of Notion with unlimited AI. Apply now, select Startup Grind in the partner drop-down list, and enter code SGXNotion to build and scale your company with just one tool: https://ntn.so/startupGoogle CloudAccelerate your AI startup with the Google for Startups Cloud Program. Apply today: https://partners.startupgrind.com/partner/google-cloud/Follow us:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivotdotorgX (Twitter): https://x.com/divotdotorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divotdotorgTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divot.orgLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divotdotorg/

Doug Leone believes that the toughest challenges create the strongest people. From immigrating to the U.S. at age 11 and struggling through his teenage years to becoming the global leader of Sequoia Capital, Doug’s journey is filled with hard-earned lessons on resilience, success, and leadership.Who is Doug Leone?Doug Leone is a billionaire venture capitalist and former Global Managing Partner at Sequoia Capital. He joined Sequoia in 1988 and became a managing partner in 1996, later taking on the global managing role in 2012. Throughout his career, Doug has played a pivotal role in backing companies like ServiceNow, Nubank, Wiz, Airbnb, RingCentral, and Palo Alto Networks, while also leading Sequoia’s expansion into China and India. Before joining Sequoia, he worked in sales and management roles at Sun Microsystems, Hewlett-Packard, and Prime Computer.In this episode of Divot, we explore:Why early struggles shape the most successful peopleThe hardest moments of Doug’s career—and how he turned them into winsHow Sequoia built one of the strongest VC cultures in Silicon ValleyWhat great founders have in commonThe mindset needed to win in business and lifeDoug helped shape companies like ServiceNow, Nubank, Wiz, and Aruba Networks. Now, he’s sharing what he’s learned so you can apply it, too.Episode Partners:Notion Startups get up to 6 months free of Notion with unlimited AI. Apply now, and enter code SGXNotion to build and scale your company with just one tool.Google Cloud Accelerate your AI startup with the Google for Startups Cloud Program. Apply today. Follow us:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivotdotorgX (Twitter): https://x.com/divotdotorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divotdotorgTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divot.orgLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divotdotorg/Follow Derek Andersen:X (Twitter): https://x.com/derekjandersen