The RAW Founder

shadi yazdan
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Updated Weekly

THE RAW Founder is about what it really takes to build, lead and grow a business. I’m Shadi Yazdan, a 4x founder with 2 exits and an AI advisor to business leaders. I talk about the decisions, mistakes, pressure, growth, leadership and AI issues founders face behind closed doors. Some episodes feature candid conversations with founders and leaders. Others are my take on what business owners need to pay attention to now. No polished version of entrepreneurship. Just the real stuff.

  1. Sep 4

    OpenAI Agents Bypassed Read-Only Controls: What Leaders Need to Know

    Researchers say thousands of AI agents found a way around an apparent read-only limit, then used an old website to share answers and coordinate with one another. What happened matters. But the bigger lesson for leaders is easy to miss. Watch or listen to this short video to understand what this incident means for any company testing / using AI agents. If you or your leadership team is deciding where AI agents belong and how much authority they should have, send me a message on https://www.systrategy.co/ #AIGovernance #AgenticAI #AILeadership 📌 ⁠Free AI Readiness Assessment⁠ 📌 Book a ⁠Free Strategy Call⁠ 📌 Learn more at ⁠https://www.systrategy.co/⁠

  2. Jul 29

    AI Governance Alert ⚠️

    Your contracts and agreements were likely written before AI became part of everyday business. That creates gaps around data use, confidentiality, ownership, disclosure, responsibility, and vendor accountability. A new policy will be in place in Europe as of August 2, 2026 where companies will be required to disclose how they are or will be using AI. I believe North American companies should also prepare themselves for this. If your business is using AI in any shape or form, or your employees, vendors, or clients are using it, now is the time to review what your agreement actually says. Reach out to discuss what your organization should have in place: https://calendly.com/chat-with-shadi/1-1-meeting #digitaltransformation #aiadoption #aigovernance

  3. 08/15/2025

    That's Not an AI Agent!

    Not every “AI agent” is what it claims to be, most are just fancy bots with clever marketing. In this video, you’ll discover: 👉 What a true AI agent actually is👉 How to spot the difference between a real agent and an overpriced bot👉 Why it matters for your time, money, and results👉 How to think about AI agents strategically — even if you’re not technical If you’re tired of AI hype and want to make smart, sustainable decisions, this will give you the clarity to cut through the noise and focus on what truly drives growth. Because your business doesn’t need more bots. It needs intelligent support, built on strategy — not just tools. 📌 Free AI Readiness Assessment📌 Book a Free Strategy Call📌 Learn more at https://www.systrategy.co/

  4. 12/19/2024

    Burnout, Growth, and Reinvention

    In this RAW and vulnerable podcast episode, entrepreneur Roslyn McLarty opens up about her transformative journey through burnout, revealing the hidden challenges faced by women founders. Discover how pushing past traditional expectations and reconnecting with your authentic self can be the key to both personal healing and professional success. This isn't just a story of struggle, but a powerful roadmap for entrepreneurs seeking balance, self-compassion, and true purpose beyond business achievements. Follow Roslyn's journey here on her website Within and Instagram Ready to take your business to the next level? Whether you're looking to scale with AI or need expert guidance on your growth strategy, I’m here to help. ⁠Let's chat⁠!

  5. 12/18/2024

    Inner Management for Scaling Your Business Successfully

    In this RAW episode, entrepreneur Sohale Sizar joins me to unpack the often unspoken emotional landscape of building a business. Beyond tactical strategies, we dive deep into the personal transformations required to truly grow as an entrepreneur—exploring how self-awareness, gratitude, and the willingness to shift perspectives can turn challenges into opportunities. This isn't just another business podcast—it's a candid conversation about the inner work of entrepreneurship that will resonate with anyone seeking meaningful growth. Connect with Sohale here: @solightsobright  Follow Soul’s IG: @bringonsoul  Ready to take your business to the next level? Whether you're looking to scale with AI or need expert guidance on your growth strategy, I’m here to help. Let's chat!

  6. 09/19/2024

    Optimizing your Business Finances for Any Future Path

    We’re taking a break from our usual business strategies and AI tips / advise to bring you an essential conversation with financial expert Rush Imhotep. This episode dives deep into financial strategies specifically for SMB owners, focusing on the crucial aspects of succession planning and defining your ultimate business goals—whether that's exiting, selling, or preparing for retirement. Wherever you are in your business journey, it's vital to understand your endgame. You can't build effectively without knowing your destination. Rush offers investment advice with a unique, holistic approach, shedding light on common financial mistakes and providing actionable solutions to balance short-term needs with long-term aspirations. Don’t miss out on these game-changing tips! _________________________ Connect with Rush here: Instagram: @rush.gram  LinkedIn: rush imhotep Free consultation: https://www.northwesternmutual.com/financial/advisor/rush-imhotep/

  7. 09/04/2024

    Navigating the Evolution of AI in Business

    Tone in as my guest as I discuss the practical steps business leaders should take to effectively integrate AI, emphasizing the importance of aligning AI adoption with clear business goals and involving your team in this transformative process. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting to explore AI, this episode offers valuable perspectives on harnessing its power for meaningful results. Follow Courtney Here! Follow KnownWell Here!

  8. 09/03/2024

    Building Adaptability and Resilience in the Age of AI

    AI offers powerful tools that enhance efficiency and decision-making, but it's human traits like adaptability and resilience that truly drive innovation and creativity. In this episode, we'll explore how embracing a people-first approach, fostering collaboration, and aligning with a clear purpose can help businesses navigate current challenges and pave the way for long-term success. Joining us is Rachael Lowell Ellison, an organizational psychologist, executive coach, and future-of-work expert with nearly 20 years of experience guiding organizations from small businesses to Fortune 500 companies ----------------------------- Connect with Rachael Lowell Ellison on LinkedIn Register for SHIFT Experience Fall2024 starting Sep 16, 2024 here Read Rachael’s Huffington Post Article on Workplace Flexibility

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About

THE RAW Founder is about what it really takes to build, lead and grow a business. I’m Shadi Yazdan, a 4x founder with 2 exits and an AI advisor to business leaders. I talk about the decisions, mistakes, pressure, growth, leadership and AI issues founders face behind closed doors. Some episodes feature candid conversations with founders and leaders. Others are my take on what business owners need to pay attention to now. No polished version of entrepreneurship. Just the real stuff.

Information

  • Creator
    shadi yazdan
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    25
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © shadi yazdan
  • Show Website
    The RAW Founder