Capitalism: Hero or Villain?
As 10 year-old boy, I came across my mom and dad’s degrees from San Jose State. Mom studied social work; Dad studied management. This was the first time I remember making any connection between school and work. Mom was a social worker; dad ran a small business. It was...
read moreA Tribute to My Dad
While in graduate school, a close friend asked me how I became an entrepreneur. As I reflected on the question, I was embarrassed to confess that I had never identified the influential factors that led me to start two companies in my twenties. How did I grow so...
read moreHow To Evaluate Investor Alignment
Startup founders eager for cash can put the long-term vision of their venture at risk if they make assumptions about investors and why they want to participate…when investors’ motivations diverge from founders’, friction ensues — so it’s up to you, as a founder,...
read moreExpand your creativity with associational thinking
“Innovation is now the primary driver of growth, property, and quality of life.” -Paul Romer Innovation drives economic progress. Here I share with Fast Company readers how associational thinking can strengthen our creativity, and how a few of the...
read moreDiscover your core values and align your startup culture
Business and non-profit leaders regularly hear leadership gurus extol the benefits of creating and articulating organizational values. But how can we discover our own values? Here I share three questions that helped me discover my values with Forbes.com readers....
read moreDefining Startup Values is a Double-Edged Sword
When I started my latest venture, I knew I wanted to create a values-driven startup, but wondered “How can articulated values avoid feeling lifeless or patronizing?” Values are the assumptions that drive thinking and action, and the character and...
read moreJay Sears’ Remarks from Renaissance Weekend
As 2011 draws to a close I’m reflecting on the highlights of my year. Among them was attending Renaissance Weekend for the first time over Labor Day weekend. “Ren Weekend” is an ideas festival attended by super accomplished leaders. To my delight,...
read more