LinkedIn member 1,434. It goes to show how Robert has been plugged into the startup scene for a long time.  Listening to and joining social networks.  He visits trade shows and finds value in the conversations that can develop in those discussions.

He’s failed in previous startups, he’s worked side hustles while working with  companies.  Essentially, Robert has continued to build knowledge to be ready to build his next startup – Gatestaff.

Yet, when a Venture Capitalist calls his baby ugly he listens and ultimately changes the direction of his company based on the feedback. Does that mean this startup is the success he is looking for?  It’s hard to say.  He’s watched and participated.  He’s seen failure and watched success.

But this team has a focus that seems real.  They have three people on the team right now yet Robert mentions ‘culture’ numerous times in our podcast.  Specifically, he says ‘the culture of the company is product focused.’  Repeating they want to build great products.  Let’s hope they have that runway.

Robert has value outside of his own startup.  He’s like any entrepreneur – he’s got lots of crazy ideas.  Some of them relate back to what Charlotte companies can do to attract startups to the city.  His experience and being in the scene give him insight from communities such as San Francisco and reflect Charlotte has a long ways to go to be the open startup community it thinks it wants to become.

Listen to Robert weave these tales and more into part II of our podcast today.

 

William Bissett is an Investment Advisor Representative with Secrest Blakey & Associates, a Registered Investment Adviser.  Opinions expressed on this program do not necessarily reflect those of Secrest Blakey & Associates. The topics discussed and opinions given are not intended to address the specific needs of any listener. 

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