ENTREPRENEURISM

David San Roman, co-founder and CEO of Anken Group, recounts how he transformed from architect to accidental entrepreneur in Shanghai’s early 2000s boom. What started as subleasing extra office space grew into one of Shanghai’s leading urban renewal platforms responsible for over 138,000 square meters of distinctive office developments. He explains how persistence, customer focus, and fluency in the language of capital helped shape Anken’s growth. David also reveals why he sees entrepreneurship not as a path to "exit," but as an ongoing evolution—today steering Anken toward asset management and deeper integration with financial markets.Show Notes[00:00] Teaser – “Persistence beats resistance.”[00:24] Show Intro[01:56] Welcome David San Roman – Founder of Anken Group[02:51] From architecture and design to spotting real estate opportunities[04:03] The accidental first project: subleasing design office space[06:01] Shared offices before “co-working” was a thing[08:15] Meeting unmet demand for small businesses in Shanghai[10:01] Entrepreneurial superpower: persistence and staying power[12:28] Learning the “language of capital” to finance projects[16:25] Operating spaces in China: cultural challenges & key hires[17:44] Anken’s tenant-first philosophy—reframing the landlord–tenant relationship[19:25] Breaking norms: why even clean toilets mattered to tenant satisfaction[21:28] Evolution vs. exit—reframing growth as transformation[23:45] Moving toward asset management and financial markets[27:26] Still finding the entrepreneurial journey fun after 20 years[29:46] Entrepreneur Hacks Quick Fire:Book: The Right Stuff by Tom Wolfe (Amazon link)Morning routine: Cycling through Shanghai at 4:30amTool/App: StravaDaily habit: Sports & walking the dogBest advice: “Don’t get personal—most business conflicts stem from poor planning, not malice.”[35:27] One lesson if starting over: deeply understand capital markets[36:10] Show Outro

In this insightful and wide-ranging episode, which highlights Alvin's key takeaways on the rise of AI-fueled bootstrapping, the concept of Abundanism, and the future of one-person unicorns, Alvin Wang Graylin — serial entrepreneur, tech leader, and co-author of Our Next Reality — shares his unique perspective on how AI is reshaping the world of startups. Alvin reflects on his personal journey, from bootstrapping businesses as a student to leading global tech initiatives, and how AI tools are now enabling founders to build what once required entire teams. He introduces the concept of Abundanism, a vision of a post-scarcity society where entrepreneurs are motivated by impact rather than wealth. Scott and Alvin explore the responsibilities of today’s entrepreneurs at this pivotal moment in history, as AI accelerates change at unprecedented speed.Show Notes[00:00] Alvin highlights how AI tools now provide the equivalent of an engineering team for $20/month — transforming startup economics and enabling leaner teams.[02:11] Introduction of Alvin’s background in AI, XR, semiconductors, cybersecurity, and leadership roles at HTC, Intel, IBM, and other major firms.[03:41] Alvin’s entrepreneurial origin story: immigrating from China, funding his education through early ventures, and starting his first company in college.[04:59] Founding Intel China’s office as an intrapreneur; launching an AI company in the early Internet era; lessons from the dot-com bust and pivoting through adversity.[07:04] Pioneering mobile natural language search and social networks in China, becoming official search provider for the Beijing Olympics — years ahead of global trends.[08:52] Building HTC’s XR ecosystem; creating an accelerator that invested in 100+ AI/XR startups; forming global VR alliances to drive industry growth.[09:36] The evolution of AI: symbolic vs. connectionist models, the long “AI winter,” and how advances in compute, data, and memory triggered today’s breakthroughs.[12:35] How AI transforms prototyping, customer acquisition, and scaling; why agility now matters more than grinding for funding; the rise of AI-fueled bootstrapping.[15:48] The vision of one-person unicorns: how AI agents and outsourcing can replace traditional large teams; what this means for entrepreneurship.[17:55] Managing AI agents vs. human teams: communication friction, bureaucracy, and politics fade in an AI-first organization.[20:00] Abundanism explained: a philosophy for a post-scarcity world where success is measured by societal benefit, not personal wealth.[24:01] The role of entrepreneurs in navigating the AI transition; moral leadership in shaping an equitable future; rethinking metrics of success.[26:16] How storytelling, media, and content creators can help shift mindsets toward abundance and shared prosperity.[29:17] Rapid-fire recommendations: Alvin’s daily habits, tools, and timeless business advice on cash flow, hiring, sales, and mentorship.[38:49] Outro: reflections on AI’s inflection point and the urgent responsibility entrepreneurs hold during this historic transformation.Mentioned BookOur Next Reality: How the AI-Powered Metaverse Will Reshape the World by Alvin Wang Graylin and Louis RosenbergQuick FireTool/App can't live without: ToodleDo — Alvin’s long-time digital tool for capturing and organizing ideas and tasks.Daily Habit: Consistent wake time, morning exercise, and breathing practice to sustain energy and focus.Book Philosophy: Read widely — history, philosophy, sociology, biographies — to build pattern recognition and broaden perspectives. Alvin reads 100+ books per year.Show Intro: [00:47]Show Outro: [39:04]

Arthur Hayes, co-founder and original CEO of BitMEX, joins Scott to discuss how he transformed a belief in crypto into the world’s first crypto derivatives unicorn. He didn't set out to disrupt financial systems—he just wanted to build the trading platform he wished existed. In this candid conversation, Arthur opens up about his early crypto convictions, why product-market fit was non-negotiable, and the painful cost of hiring the wrong people. As BitMEX scaled from 13 to 300 people in three years while growing the top line 350X, he navigated regulatory headwinds, media storms, and the challenge of keeping culture intact in a high-risk, high-reward industry.⏱️ Timestamped Show Notes[00:00] Cold open: Arthur’s #1 lesson—hire better people.[00:34] Show intro and guest welcome.[02:17] Arthur’s entrepreneurial origin story—jumping into crypto after losing his job.[04:05] From trading derivatives to building a platform: the BitMEX birth story.[05:08] Confidence and conviction when funding was scarce.[07:10] Product-market fit: why charging from day one mattered.[08:29] Pivoting to meet customer demand: offering 100x leverage.[11:11] Founder struggles—why HR was Arthur’s biggest pain point.[14:43] Overhiring, overpaying, and dealing with toxic culture.[16:25] Navigating the regulatory gray zones in crypto.[18:41] Staying focused through uncertainty.[19:06] Quick Fire Hacks:Book every entrepreneur should read: Who by Geoff Smart (Amazon)Daily habit: ExerciseCan’t-live-without app: TradingView (Link)Best advice: Focus on the supply (liquidity)[21:02] One key lesson: Be more selective in hiring.[22:16] Advice to new founders: Don’t build a business just to please your VC.[23:03] Show outro.

Host Scott Pollack interviews David Holvoet, a Belgian entrepreneur who has spent nearly three decades building a unique constellation of businesses across the wood products and construction industries. With $50M in annual revenue and operations across Europe and Asia, David has mastered the art of scaling by keeping things small—each business is run by a focused, autonomous team of just 10 to 15 people.David shares his journey from launching a student consultancy to navigating crises in the lumber trade, building a global supply chain, and structuring a group of companies that thrive without centralized control. Along the way, he offers insights into how to foster deep trust, give leaders real ownership, and stay resilient when things go sideways. This episode is packed with entrepreneurial lessons on building lean, staying nimble, and creating structure that unlocks freedom—for both you and your teams.Show Notes[00:00] TeaserDavid explains his core philosophy: Focus is essential for business—but he delegates that focus to small, autonomous teams so he can remain creatively unfocused.[00:46–02:09] Intro[02:09] Meet David HolvoetBelgian entrepreneur, nearly 30 years in China. David runs a portfolio of four companies in wood products and construction, operating across Europe and Asia with $50M in combined revenue.[03:02] Entrepreneurial OriginsDavid dodges a final paper in university by starting a China-based student consultancy. His first client: a Belgian wood veneer company—an experience that kickstarted his trading career.[06:16] The Rise—and Fall—of a Young TraderDavid’s early success in raw lumber trading crashes after a European storm floods the market. The lesson: never have all your eggs in one basket.[08:54] Learning from MistakesShifting from imports to exports, David launches a plywood business—learning the hard way about product quality. His commitment to resilience keeps the business alive and growing.[10:42] Why He’ll Never Manufacture AgainAfter a failed attempt at owning a flooring plant, David draws a hard line: outsource manufacturing, but invest in hard-to-copy IP like fire-rated door licenses.[13:14] Building a Constellation of Focused TeamsEach of David’s businesses has 10–15 people and runs independently with its own GM. The structure allows laser focus in the business—and strategic freedom for David.[16:46] Invisible Ownership, Visible LeadershipDavid puts his GMs front and center—outsiders often assume they’re the business owners. This increases accountability, loyalty, and agility.[20:25] Cross-Pollinating IdeasManaging multiple businesses allows David to share lessons across functions and geographies, turning traditional business models into competitive advantages.[22:29] Biggest Personal Struggle: TrustAfter several betrayals, David still chooses to trust—but now addresses red flags with radical candor and quick confrontation.[25:48] A Lesson in TransparencyA misstep in compensation transparency taught David the importance of managing ego and being more direct with his leadership team.[27:55] Quick Fire (Entrepreneur Hacks)📚 One Book Every Entrepreneur Should Read: How to Make Big Money in Your Own Small Business by Jeffrey J. FoxAlso mentions The Lean Startup and Blue Ocean Strategy.⏰ Morning Habit: Rocket-launch wakeup method: "3-2-1 Go!" + early morning exercise.🛠️ Essential Tool: His calendar. It drives the entire cadence of his life and business operations.🧘‍♂️ Grounding Practice: Evening dog walks with his wife Kristien—a daily ritual to reconnect and rebalance.💡 Best Advice Received:“To multiply in business, you must first learn to divide.”“Never waste a good crisis.” He shares how EU anti-dumping regulations actually elevated his company’s brand.[39:26] Outro

In this episode, Scott Pollack interviews Jacob Rothman, co-founder and co-CEO of Velong Enterprises, who has spent two decades building Velong into a 5,000-employee global operation that manufactures consumer goods for top retailers worldwide. Jacob shares how he and his partner Iven Chen have expanded manufacturing operations from a single town in China to include several facilities in Cambodia and India, overcoming cultural gaps, supply-chain hurdles, and unforeseen global events. He speaks candidly about the challenges and doubts that come with moving 20 years of knowledge, relationships, and equipment across borders. Listeners will learn the importance of perseverance, partnerships built on mutual respect, and staying flexible in a rapidly changing global landscape.Show Notes[00:00] TeaserJacob introduces the pivotal challenge of shifting manufacturing outside of China.He notes both the exciting growth opportunities and the lingering doubt around relocating a 20-year-old supply chain.[00:46–02:09] Intro[02:09] Meet Jacob RothmanScott highlights Velong’s substantial footprint: 5,000 employees and operations spanning China, Cambodia, and India.Jacob traces his early path in his family’s broom-and-brush business in California, followed by sourcing trips to China that evolved into a permanent venture.[06:37] Founding Velong EnterprisesJacob and Ivan Chen capitalize on the transition from traditional trading companies to more self-sufficient Chinese factories.Their co-CEO structure prioritizes teamwork and respect over formal job titles.[10:49] Personal Struggles & Culture ShiftsJacob emphasizes the importance of seeing Ivan as a genuine equal, moving beyond the “customer-vendor” relationship.Mutual respect, openness, and a shared vision prevent major co-founder conflicts.[13:04] Defining Moment: Supply Chain DiversificationTariffs and geopolitical changes prompt the expansion to Cambodia and India.Jacob compares China’s robust, on-demand supply chain to the “lunar landing” reality of building factories in developing regions.[17:41] Cambodia & India RealitiesLimited local suppliers and distinct cultural dynamics require more training and careful oversight.Jacob views these expansions as both a test of Velong’s resilience and its greatest growth catalyst.[21:02] Quick Fire (Entrepreneur Hacks)One Book Every Entrepreneur Should Read:Good Strategy/Bad Strategy by Richard RumeltMorning Success Habit: Daily exercise initiated during COVID.Essential Tool: Apple Notes for continuous list-making and organization.Grounding Practice: Vipassana meditation for mindfulness and humility.Top Advice Received: “Keep going” and “know your numbers.”[25:20] If Starting OverJacob stresses creating a culture that cuts through borders and biases.He attributes Velong’s global achievements to fostering true equality among team members.[27:30] Parting ThoughtsJacob reflects on “living his best life,” leading a company that impacts thousands of employees and their families.Scott wraps up the conversation, encouraging listeners to subscribe and share.[28:21] Outro

Host Scott Pollack interviews Xavier Naville, who recounts his journey from finance expert to unintentional CEO of a Chinese food-supply venture. From wrestling with imposter syndrome to forging trusted relationships with local team members, Xavier details his struggles scaling a business to $150 million in revenue. He shares lessons about staying resilient under pressure, asking for help when you don’t have all the answers, and investing in a clear company vision that sets the stage for collaborative decision-making and sustained growth. He further highlights how creating an empowering culture and embracing small, strategic steps can ultimately lead to big wins.[2:26] – Introduction to XavierScott introduces guest Xavier Naville, highlighting his journey from Paris to Shanghai and founding Creative Food Group, which grew to supply major restaurant chains in China.Xavier’s entrepreneurial path is captured in his book, The Lettuce Diaries: How a Frenchman Found Gold Growing Vegetables in China.[3:49] – Becoming an ‘Accidental CEO’Xavier explains how he found himself thrust into a CEO role at age 27 with no prior leadership experience or training.He discusses his imposter syndrome and how projecting overconfidence initially caused more problems than solutions.[5:42] – Greatest Personal Struggle: Confronting Imposter SyndromeXavier details how his inclination toward rapid, “top-down” decisions and reliance on financial analysis led to disengaged teams.Near-bankruptcy forced him to change tactics, ask for help, and empower local Chinese managers.[7:02] – Cultural Shifts and Team EngagementHow a critical lunch meeting with a potential key hire led to a game-changing decision on supplier contracts.Realizing that consulting team members strengthened trust and uncovered more effective solutions in the Chinese market.[11:04] – Finding the Right People & the Importance of TrustHow giving a capable team member decision-making authority not only solved immediate problems but boosted morale and loyalty.[15:42] – The “Refuse to Fail” MindsetXavier shares his ultimate “superpower”: staying the course through adversity.Emphasizes that talent plus sheer persistence helped turn the business from near collapse into a thriving enterprise.[18:56] – Navigating Growth Tensions & Culture ClashesHiring executives from large multinational companies brought in conflicting values and management styles.Highlights the need for clear behavior expectations and culture fit, not just high-profile résumés.[23:24] – Vision and StrategyThe power of crafting a shared vision that guides daily decisions.Why it’s essential to involve the entire leadership team in long-term goal setting, then continually revisit and reinforce it.[26:23] – Quick Fire (Entrepreneur Hacks)Must-Read Book #1: Obsessions of an Extraordinary Executive by Patrick LencioniMust-Read Book #2: Positive Intelligence by Shirzad ChamineMorning Routine: Wakes at 5 a.m., enjoys an espresso, and visualizes the day’s goals.Favorite Tool: ChatGPT, used as an “idea helper,” albeit with caution for potential inaccuracies.Daily Habit for Grounding: Structured exercise regimen coordinated via the TrainingPeaks app.Best Business Advice: Focus on what you can control, rather than events you cannot.[32:26] – Final Lessons & ‘The Road Not Taken’Xavier stresses the value of starting small and proving concepts before investing heavily.Cautions entrepreneurs against letting the excitement of big funding overshadow the need for agile experimentation.Mentioned Books & ToolsThe Lettuce Diaries by Xavier NavilleObsessions of an Extraordinary Executive by Patrick LencioniPositive Intelligence by Shirzad ChamineChatGPT (AI assistant)TrainingPeaks (fitness and workout planning APP)