Business Blindspots

James Pederson

Success isn't about avoiding challenges it's about how you overcome the challenges when they come your way. In Business Blindspots, we dive deep into the journeys of accomplished individuals across various fields who have achieved remarkable success by embracing the invaluable lessons learned from their mistakes. Our podcast features candid conversations about business-related missteps and personal challenges that have shaped these remarkable individuals.

Episodes

  1. 05/08/2024

    Navigating Venture Capital and Healthcare

    James welcomes Megan Linder to talk about the integration of venture capital in the health tech sector. Throughout the conversation, they discuss the complexities and nuances of navigating this highly regulated industry that accounts for 20% of the US GDP. Megan talks about how venture capital's risk-taking approach contrasts with healthcare's cautious, regulation-heavy nature, discussing the differing timelines and methodologies involved. They also talk about how personal experiences with healthcare can profoundly inform and enhance one’s impact in the venture capital landscape and why venture capital can align business owners with experienced clinicians and a marketing team that understands healthcare’s unique challenges. They also cover the ethical considerations of investment, and the potential of venture capital to substantially improve patient outcomes while achieving financial stability for health systems, especially in the post-COVID era. Megan talks about her educational pursuits and personal motivations in the venture capital field, the significance of patient experience, and the need for innovative care models that prioritize value-based care. Key Topics: Growth of venture capital in health techContrast between venture capital and healthcare regulationInfluence of personal healthcare experiences on venture capital strategiesImportance of clinician involvement and specialized marketing teamsChallenges of implementing health tech solutionsTransparency and ethics in venture capitalImpact of venture capital on healthcare system improvementsSuccess stories in health tech venture capitalAdvice for selecting venture capital partnersCareer paths in venture capital

    47 min
  2. 04/24/2024

    From Classroom to Boardroom: A Story of Business Evolution

    What are some of your biggest lessons you learned? James welcomes Rachel Miller, Co-Founder of PageWheel.ai. She shares her personal journey from teaching to learning the world of online marketing and then leveraging her knowledge to build her own technology company. Rachel gets candid about her experiences with a large team walking out, and the lessons she learned from that painful moment. She shares what led her to her AI software company, detailing its evolution from concept to market. Rachel also touches on her investment strategies, including an interest in purchasing a mushroom farm, highlighting her approach to diversifying her portfolio to ensure financial stability. James and Rachel also talk about the practical use of AI in business, particularly in content creation. James questions the ethical implications of AI content for individuals trying to create perceived expertise, while Rachel offers transparency on her management strategies and her evolving customer service model. For more information on PageWheel.ai, visit: https://pagewheel.com/expert Key Topics: Rachel's journey from teacher to business leaderThe aftermath of a team walkoutPage Wheel software development and rebrandingInvestment strategies and diversificationAI technology in content creationList building for insurance agentsEthical concerns about AI-generated contentProfit and loss managementMembership model for customer serviceImpact of influencer culture on entrepreneurship

    53 min
  3. 04/10/2024

    The Transformational Power of Discipline

    In this episode of Business Blindspots, James welcomes Chris Bova, former Recon Marine, CIA Contractor, and Director of Business Development at Staccato Ranch. Chris shares his journey from the adrenaline-fueled battles of Marine Recon to the operations of the CIA, finding his way in civilian life, and eventually connecting to his purpose through Staccato Ranch. Chris gets candid about his personal battles, from facing the loss of a comrade to overcoming the vices that once controlled him. James and Chris discuss themes of abundance, the pitfalls of social media, and the transformational power of discipline and stoicism. Chris also talks about harnessing these philosophies to reinvent himself and how he now assists others in doing the same, emphasizing the sustenance provided by clean eating and strong mentorship ties. Chris gets candid about the successes, struggles, and lessons that define true leadership and personal growth. Episode Breakdown: Discussing his journey into the militaryHow his challenging military deployment turned into prideful achievementStories of enduring physical and mental challenges, resisting quitting.How different military branches have distinct leadership structuresLife after the MarinesRealizing one's limitations after the militaryLearning lessons the hard way through burning bridgesNew, seeking alignment, diverse work experiences and gratitude Changing perspective is the battle in lifeAmbassador for We Defy, promoting jiu-jitsu.Focus on self-improvement, not comparing to others.Understanding the power of dedication

    47 min
  4. 03/27/2024

    Cultivating Champions: Insights on Mentorship and Mindset

    How does the grit and determination to become a professional athlete translate into the real world? In this episode of Business Blindsports, James welcomes Major League Pitcher, Logan Verrett to talk about his journey of not being the best throughout most of his childhood, to digging in and winning a World Series ring. Logan talks about his constant drive for resilience, dedication, and mental fortitude. He discusses why, although, he wasn't an athlete where everything came to him natural, he took his love for baseball and decided not making it to pros wasn't going to be an option. Logan shares his journey including stories from his season in Korea, navigating cultural differences while enjoying the local hospitality and cuisine. He also shares insights into the mental game of baseball, the importance of a positive team environment, and how these experiences have shaped his business acumen in real estate. Logan also discusses some lighter moments from his career, including quirky pregame rituals and locker-room antics, and he offers his perspective on social media trends and their impact on mental toughness. To connect with Logan, you can visit him at: https://www.compass.com/agents/logan-verrett/ Episode Breakdown: Logan shares his journey into his love for baseballLogan discusses his experience and his season in KoreaDid Logan think he would make it to the pros right away?Why playing other sports was so crucial to his successWhen baseball really clicked for himWhy children who excel at a really young age can hit problems later onWhy athletes struggle with mental toughness despite talentWhy Logan took on a Mentor role for aspiring players in baseballWhy it's so natural for players to move into coachingWhy clubhouse camaraderie is essential for lasting in baseballHow supporting other's success can improve your ownBuilding mental resilience requires incredible driveMentorship and hard work lead to successPlayer pregame rituals

    53 min
  5. 02/28/2024

    An Inside Look Into Investing in Mineral Rights

    In this episode of Business Blindsports, we're venturing into the often-overlooked world of mineral rights with Blake Harris, a seasoned oil and gas entrepreneur with a transformative career story. Blake shares how his journey began in the heart of Texas, where his early career as a landman and a turn of events in the oil industry sparked his ambition to own and operate in the mineral rights sector. Blake shares how his first deal didn't go at all as anticipated. However, instead of causing him to back out of the industry, he dug deeper, figured out what went wrong, and mitigated the risks in his second deal so it didn't happen again. They also discuss Blake's evolution from short-term transactions to embracing a more robust, long-term investment philosophy, exhibiting the patience and passion it takes to build a lasting business and now fund in the oil and gas sector. Key Topics: How Blake started as a Pumper in an oil fieldA Landman's role in US mineral rights ownershipHow the Landman secures leases, company lays off workersThe first oil deal that fell apartUnderstanding what went wrong in the first dealAnticipated drill schedule not met, revenue affectedHow the first opportunity lead to learning opportunities and self-discoveryWhy Blake Became obsessed with owning oil and gasStories about some of the sellersDiverse property owners impact mineral buyers' challengesWhy Mineral owners are advised never to sell their mineralsHow to make decisions based on economic value added

    43 min
  6. 02/14/2024

    The Path to Entrepreneurial Success With Colleen Fischer

    Have you struggled with imposter syndrome when growing your business? Unfortunately, it's something every entrepreneur has to learn to overcome in order to achieve success. In this episode of Business Blindsports, James is joined by Genius House Media co-owner Colleen Fischer. They talk about Colleen's decision to build a company with her husband in media production. They discuss how they were able to leverage a big client to help take that leap, but how they had to find their footing and their niche when it became time to grow. Colleen shares her journey as an entrepreneur, from navigating imposter syndrome and logistical challenges in the early years of her business to finding success in storytelling and technical skills. She also discusses what it's been like growing a company with your spouse and what has worked for them in being able to build an incredible relationship, all while building a successful business. To connect with Colleen, visit: https://www.geniushousemedia.com/ Episode Highlights: How Colleen was able to land a big client immediatelyMoving to growth after figuring out her nicheStruggling with imposture syndromeAdding storytelling to their toolboxThe challenges of building a business with your spouseSmall business with long-term partners and creating efficient operationsLearning to accept the changing landscape of entrepreneurshipHow finding peace of mind helped her move forwardOccasional reading for inspiration, not continuous consumptionInspiring videos that helped her connect to her whyConsidering options for future company growth and competitionWhy starting a business requires a solid plan

    46 min
  7. 01/27/2024

    How To Thrive In Adversity With Former Dallas Cowboy Jameill Showers

    How do you deal with adversity? In this episode of Business Blindspots, James welcomes former Dallas Cowboy, Jameill Showers. Jameill shares his stories of how he had to deal with major adversity several times in his life. The first time was when he lost his starting role at A&M to Johnny Manziel and had to transfer schools.  Jameill also opens up about their time playing for the Cowboys and how it was a dream come true for them as their family hails from Texas. However, the transition to civilian life proved to be tougher than expected, with a hamstring injury and the onset of COVID-19 exacerbating the challenges. Jameill talked about why he considered various career paths, including strength conditioning and obtaining a real estate license, but eventually found themselves in a managerial position in medical device sales. However, he ended up finding his true passion in real estate, and talks about his journey making another big career move. Notable moments: Discussing the Johnny Manziel situation at Texas A&M and why he ended up having to move schoolsOvercoming challenges, finding guidance, and betting on himselfA&M game, senior year success, and getting NFL attention.Playing for the Cowboys and struggling as a quarterbackWhy moving to defense in the pros proved to be challengingWhy the combination of an Injured hamstring and COVID changed everythingTransitioning to a new role, adapting football skillsHow the University of YouTube helped to set him up for business success Struggling with long hours and limited family time in a new careerMissed real estate opportunity, and the gratitude for savings and footballAdversity is a stepping stone to successMoving to real estate professional without experienceWhy now he embraces his faith

    48 min

About

Success isn't about avoiding challenges it's about how you overcome the challenges when they come your way. In Business Blindspots, we dive deep into the journeys of accomplished individuals across various fields who have achieved remarkable success by embracing the invaluable lessons learned from their mistakes. Our podcast features candid conversations about business-related missteps and personal challenges that have shaped these remarkable individuals.