Entrepreneurial Resource: How I Built This from NPR

In my time in the Fellowship and lurking in the local startup scene, I’ve noticed something about those who are entrepreneurs or have a desire to become an entrepreneur. They have drive. And not this #drive #motivation #griding kind of drive. I’m talking about constantly working, day and night, on a singular goal until their vision is met. Like capital “D” Drive. Like the kid who just got a skateboard and spends hours outside every night for months just so they can do a kick flip. Failing over and over again but eventually succeeding; and when they do, the payoff is amazing. This is the entrepreneurial spirit. But I also think you need another trait to truly succeed and that is the willingness to seek out knowledge, advise, and mentorship from those who’ve failed before you. This is where NPR’s podcast and radio show How I Built This comes in.

How I Built This is a podcast hosted by Guy Raz about innovators, entrepreneurs, and idealists, and the stories behind the movements they built. Each episode is a narrative journey marked by triumphs, failures, serendipity and insight told by the founders of some of the world’s best known companies and brands. This show is made for those who have built something from nothing or dream of doing so to see how others have done it and to see how they can apply those lessons to themselves.

The show covers a wide range of industries—from retail to software and even to the creator of Power Rangers—to show you the real trails and tribulations of starting a new venture straight from the horses mouth. Guy Raz has a unique ability to pull out the most open and personal side of these entrepreneurs so that we have a clear view of what was going through their head when they experienced success and when they thought they were going to have to close shop.

Check it out! You can find this podcast for free on iTunes and NPR One. See some links below to my favorite episodes!

Zappos: Tony Hsieh 

Cliff Bar: Gary Erickson

Warby Parker: Dave Gilboa & Neil Blumenthal