Christopher Lochhead Follow Your Different™

On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we have a conversation with John Spagnola, CEO of Ublendit, about innovation and category creation in the spirits industry.

John shares his journey, emphasizing the strategic advantage of creating new categories rather than competing in existing markets. He discusses the success of Hideout Vodka and introduces a new agave spirit, the “77,” designed for health-conscious consumers.

The episode also explores the impact of celebrity endorsements and meaningful partnerships, such as Hideout Vodka’s initiative with the National Parks.

You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go.

John starts off the conversation by reflecting on the challenges faced by smaller brands in a market controlled by a few large companies like Diageo and Constellation Brands. These giants can easily undercut smaller brands on price, making it difficult for them to compete. John emphasizes that merely trying to fit into the existing market is a trap that many fall into.

Instead of competing within established markets, John advocates for creating new categories. This approach not only differentiates products but also attracts attention from larger companies, who view category creators as innovative rather than as threats. He cites the success of brands like Screwball Whiskey and 21 Seed, which created unique categories and achieved significant valuations.

John shares the story of Hideout Vodka, which gained traction by securing a partnership with MGM properties in Las Vegas. This partnership allowed Hideout Vodka to become the vodka of choice in several MGM hotels, marking a significant win for a smaller player in the industry. However, as the brand began to grow, John realized they were falling into the trap of merely trying to fit into the existing market.

Recognizing the need for innovation, John and his team brainstormed a new product idea involving Cheech and Chong, the iconic duo known for their association with cannabis culture. They conceptualized a vodka product called “The Judge’s Water,” which cleverly ties into a memorable scene from Cheech and Chong’s movie “Up in Smoke.” The product not only serves as vodka but also converts into a bong, appealing to their fan base in a novel way. This product sold over 5,000 units quickly, showcasing the power of category creation.

John believes that aligning with well-known figures can turbocharge category creation and drive consumer interest. He shares his excitement about developing an apple pie whiskey, initially inspired by Martha Stewart, but now considering other celebrity partnerships that could elevate the brand even further.

John then discusses the potential for high acquisition multiples in the spirits industry, noting that companies can achieve impressive valuations, especially when they have a unique product and a celebrity endorsement. He highlights the average revenue multiples in the spirits sector, which can reach as high as 21x for celebrity-backed brands, making it an attractive space for innovation and investment.

To hear more from John Spagnola and his ventures in Category Creation, download and listen to this episode.

If you want to hear about our previous discussion about the Custom Spirits Category, check out this previous episode at FYD 212.

John Spagnola is the CEO of Ublendit, LLC. Ublendit is a pioneer in the custom spirts category. They are the first to create custom spirits for hotels, bars, nightclubs, restaurants and special events.

John is also Managing Partner at Venture Santa Cruz, where they identify new markets to make a difference in and disrupt them.

He’s based in Santa Cruz, CA.

Follow John Spagnola!

Ublendit.com | LinkedIn

We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and subscribe on Apple Podcast / Spotify!

On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we have an insightful conversation with Dr. Judy Ho, a renowned clinical and forensic neuropsychologist, to explore attachment theory and its impact on personal and professional relationships.

Dr. Judy Ho explains how early caregiver relationships shape our emotional responses and interactions throughout life. They also discuss the nature versus nurture debate, cultural influences on empathy, and the potential for healing attachment wounds at any age.

This episode also delves into managing negative self-talk and understanding attachment styles, offering practical strategies for fostering healthier relationships and personal growth.

You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go.

Attachment theory, as explained by Dr. Judy Ho, is a psychological model that describes the dynamics of long-term interpersonal relationships between humans. It focuses on the bond formed with primary caregivers during early childhood, which lays the foundation for how individuals perceive themselves and navigate challenges in life.

This bond is crucial because, as infants, we are entirely dependent on adults for survival. The lessons learned during this formative period are deeply ingrained, influencing our behavior and emotional responses well into adulthood.

Christopher Lochhead brings up the nature versus nurture debate, questioning whether core human qualities like love and empathy are innate or learned. Dr. Judy Ho explains that these traits are a combination of both biological drives and environmental influences. While there may be an innate tendency to care for those we are related to, much of how we express love and empathy is shaped by our environment and the behaviors modeled by others.

Christopher shares a personal story about an encounter with an immigrant in distress, highlighting cultural differences in perceptions of generosity and empathy. Dr. Ho notes that culture significantly shapes our values and behaviors.

In individualistic cultures like the United States, personal independence is often prioritized, whereas collectivist cultures emphasize community support and shared resources. This cultural context can profoundly influence how individuals respond to acts of kindness and generosity.

The conversation shifts to the possibility of healing attachment wounds, even for those who have experienced difficult childhoods. Dr. Ho reassures listeners that healing is possible at any age, regardless of whether the original caregivers are available for discussion. The key is to develop a secure attachment to oneself, which involves recognizing and addressing the patterns formed due to past experiences.

Christopher reflects on the concept of “re-parenting” oneself, a process he learned about in his early twenties. Dr. Ho explains that this involves revisiting past experiences and providing oneself with the nurturing and support that may have been lacking during childhood. It is essential to understand that many individuals carry the misconception that they are to blame for their caregivers’ shortcomings, leading to negative self-talk and a distorted self-image.

To hear more from Dr. Judy Ho & her thoughts on self-healing and building healthy relationships, download and listen to this episode.

Dr. Judy Ho is a triple board-certified clinical and forensic neuropsychologist, television and media personality, and tenured associate professor at Pepperdine University.

She specializes in evidence-based therapies for mental health and has published extensively on various psychological topics.

Dr. Ho is also the author of Stop Self-Sabotage, focusing on personal growth and overcoming self-defeating behaviors. In addition to her academic work, she is a frequent guest expert on TV shows and podcasts, offering insights on mental health, relationships, and wellness.

Follow Dr. Judy Ho!

Website | LinkedIn | X (formerly Twitter)

We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and subscribe on Apple Podcast / Spotify!

On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, our guest Grace Vandecruze treats us to an extraordinary story of resilience, determination, and financial empowerment.

Grace shares her remarkable journey from a childhood marked by poverty and homelessness to becoming a successful entrepreneur and financial advisor.

You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go.

Grace’s story begins in Guyana, where she was raised by her grandmother. Her grandmother’s unwavering belief in her potential played a crucial role in shaping Grace’s mindset. Despite limited resources, her grandmother’s love and generosity instilled in her the philosophy of “believe beyond your limits.”

Grace’s family immigrated to the United States when she was 14, seeking better opportunities. They faced numerous challenges, including homelessness. Despite these hardships, her determination to succeed never wavered. She viewed education as the key to breaking the cycle of poverty and worked tirelessly to excel academically.

The COVID-19 pandemic prompted Grace to shift her focus toward financial empowerment. She had been educating community groups about financial literacy, introducing concepts like investing and personal finance. In addition, the tragic events surrounding George Floyd’s death further motivated her to publish her book, “Homeless Millionaire: Six Pillars to Uplift to Financial Abundance,” to empower others during a time of crisis.

Grace’s book is designed to be accessible and practical, filled with tools and resources to help readers navigate their financial journeys. She likens the process to climbing a mountain, where she supports readers every step of the way.

Grace reflects on her identity as a woman, an immigrant, and a person of color, asserting that these aspects of her life are not disadvantages but rather unique strengths that set her apart. She believes that everyone has the potential to transcend stereotypes and limitations through mindset and determination.

Grace likens life to mountain climbing, where reaching a peak is just a momentary celebration before facing the challenges of the descent. She emphasizes the importance of continuous growth and the pursuit of new challenges.

To hear more from Grace Vandecruze & her amazing journey, download and listen to this episode.

Grace Vandecruze is a financial advisor, CPA, and Founder of Grace Global Capital, LLC, with over 20 years of Wall Street experience. She has advised on transactions exceeding $5 billion and holds an MBA from The Wharton School.

Grace’s life was transformed after a fire left her family homeless, fueling her passion for financial wellness. An accomplished mountaineer and sailor, she inspires others through her resilience.

Grace has been recognized by Business Insurance and Directors & Boards, and frequently contributes to financial media as a speaker and thought leader.

Find out more about Grace Vandecruze!

LinkedIn | X (formerly Twitter) | Homeless to Millionaire

We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and subscribe on Apple Podcast / Spotify!

On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we engage in a compelling conversation with Adam Frankl, a seasoned expert in the tech startup world.

With over two decades of experience, Adam shares his insights on the current state of tech startups, particularly in light of the rapid advancements in artificial intelligence (AI).

In our conversation with Adam, we delve into actionable advice and thorough explanations to guide aspiring entrepreneurs and tech enthusiasts, so stay tuned to learn more about the current state of startups.

You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go.

Adam Frankl begins by highlighting the paradox of the startup environment in 2024. On one hand, launching a tech startup has never been easier due to the availability of advanced tools and resources. Entrepreneurs now have access to productivity tools, social media for distribution, and the ability to build audiences quickly. This democratization of technology allows startups to reach potential customers and create impactful products more efficiently than ever before.

However, this ease of entry has led to intense competition. The number of startups has surged, making the market more crowded. Founders must navigate not only the challenges of building their products but also the pressures of macroeconomic trends, such as fluctuating valuations and the uncertain IPO landscape.

They then move into the topic of the transformative impact of AI on startups. Adam observes that every startup he has worked with in the past year has integrated AI into their operations, not just in product development but across all aspects of the business. This integration allows startups to enhance productivity, streamline processes, and innovate at an unprecedented pace.

He emphasizes that the speed at which startups can achieve traction today is remarkable. For instance, he shares a story about a relatively new startup that has already generated revenue and is on track to become a billion-dollar company, all within a year of its founding. This rapid growth is largely attributed to the use of AI in various functions, from coding to marketing.

A key insight from Adam is the importance of focusing on the problem rather than the product. He argues that successful founders prioritize understanding the pain points of their target audience. By concentrating on the problem, startups can create solutions that resonate deeply with potential customers. This approach aligns with the principles of the lean startup movement, which advocates for validating problems before developing products.

Adam explains that when founders articulate the problem they aim to solve, they attract the attention of those who experience that problem. This creates a community of potential customers eager to engage with the startup, even before a product is fully developed. He stresses that the first product may not be perfect, but if it addresses a significant pain point, customers will be willing to invest in it.

To hear more about Adam Frankl’s thoughts on the current landscape of startups, download and listen to this episode.

Adam Frankl is the author of “The Developer Facing Startup,” a guide dedicated to helping developers navigate the complexities of launching and scaling their own tech startups.

With over a decade of experience in software engineering and entrepreneurship, Frankl combines his deep technical expertise with a passion for innovation. He has successfully co-founded multiple startups and understands the unique challenges faced by developer-entrepreneurs.

His book distills practical advice, actionable strategies, and real-world insights to empower developers in their journey from coding to company creation.

Follow Adam Frankl!

LinkedIn | The Developer Facing Startup

We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and subscribe on Apple Podcast / Spotify!

On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we engage in a thought-provoking dialogue with Dr. Susan Liautaud, a renowned ethicist and professor at Stanford University.

With Dr. Liautaud, we explore the complexities of ethical decision-making in today’s fast-paced world, focusing on leadership, resilience, and the impact of emerging technologies like AI. Dr. Liautaud also emphasizes the importance of character in leadership and the ethical implications of technology.

You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go.

Dr. Liautaud underscores the critical role of character in leadership, noting that while experience and track record are crucial, the emphasis on character seems to have diminished in recent years.

She expresses concern that many organizations prioritize short-term gains over ethical considerations, leading to a culture where difficult decisions are avoided. This avoidance can have dire consequences, as seen in various high-profile corporate scandals.

Christopher Lochhead shares his observations about the communication styles prevalent in different regions, contrasting the directness he experienced growing up in Montreal with the more indirect communication often found in Silicon Valley. He expresses frustration with what he perceives as a culture of passive-aggressiveness, where people avoid confrontation and use euphemisms to address issues.

Dr. Liautaud agrees, stating that clarity and directness are not just cultural preferences but ethical responsibilities.

The conversation touches on the phenomenon of “imposter syndrome,” particularly among younger professionals. Christopher shares his perspective that feeling like an imposter often stems from a misunderstanding of one’s own capabilities. Dr. Liautaud concurs, noting that the label of “imposter syndrome” can be misleading and that it is essential for individuals to recognize their growth and learning in new roles.

Dr. Liautaud then highlights the broader implications of perfectionism in the workplace, suggesting that the pursuit of unattainable standards can lead to unethical behavior, such as cheating or avoidance. She emphasizes that organizations must foster an environment where individuals feel safe to express their challenges and seek support without fear of judgment.

To hear more from Dr. Susan Liautaud and the how adhering to Ethical Responsibilities can affect and improve the workplace, download and listen to this episode.

Dr. Susan Liautaud teaches cutting-edge ethics at Stanford University and serves as Chair of the Council (trustees) at the London School of Economics and Political Science.

She advises corporations, NGOs, and governmental bodies and their leaders on internationally complex ethics matters and is the Founder of the Ethics Incubator.

Connect with Dr. Susan Liautaud

Website | LinkedIn | X / Twitter |  Stanford Profile

We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and subscribe on Apple Podcast / Spotify!

On this episode of the Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we have a conversation with Dr. Robert Wolf and delve into the harrowing yet inspiring story of his father, a Hungarian Jewish man who survived the Holocaust and escaped oppressive regimes.

This episode is not just a recounting of historical events but a powerful call to action against the rising tide of anti-Semitism and cultural intolerance.

You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go.

Dr. Robert Wolf’s book, “Not a Real Enemy”, is a poignant reminder of the atrocities of the Holocaust. His father’s story, filled with both tragedy and resilience, underscores the importance of remembering and educating others about this dark chapter in history.

Because of this, Dr. Wolf expresses deep concern over the current rise in anti-Semitism, noting alarming statistics such as the belief among some young Americans that the Holocaust is a myth. This ignorance is dangerous and highlights the need for proactive education and awareness.

The conversation also touches on the power of resilience and redemption. Dr. Wolf shares his father’s journey of rebuilding his life after the Holocaust, emphasizing the importance of integrity and dedication to helping others.

They then explore the complexities of geopolitical tensions, particularly focusing on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the broader implications involving Iran. Dr. Wolf and Christopher discuss the historical prejudices and the potential for cooperation and economic growth among Arab nations.

Throughout the episode, Dr. Wolf emphasizes the importance of education and community engagement in combating ignorance and fostering a more inclusive society. He advocates for proactive efforts to educate others about the Holocaust and the dangers of hatred.

To hear more from Dr. Robert Wolf and his thoughts on Antisemitiism and the current world events, download and listen to the episode.

Dr. Robert J. Wolf is a neuroradiologist with an educational background from the University of Michigan Medical School, Brown University, and Yale University.

Inspired by his parents’ harrowing experiences escaping communist Hungary and the Holocaust, Dr. Wolf authored “Not a Real Enemy,” which recounts his family’s survival and the tragic history of Hungarian Jews during World War II.

He shares these stories with audiences worldwide, aiming to preserve and highlight this important history.

Learn more about Dr. Robert Wolf!

Website | LinkedIn | X (formerly Twitter) | Facebook | Not A Real Enemy

We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and subscribe on Apple Podcast / Spotify!

On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different we have an in-depth conversation with Shelane Etchison, a veteran who is currently running for office in the US government.

This episode is a compelling exploration of Shelane’s remarkable journey from a non-military background to serving in the Army, her experiences in combat, and her motivations for running for political office.

You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go.

Shelane begins by recounting her early life, noting that she did not come from a military family. Growing up in a dual-citizen household with her mother from British Columbia, Canada, she developed a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunities available in the United States. The events of September 11, 2001 profoundly impacted her, sparking her interest in the military and leading her to join ROTC during her undergraduate studies.

Initially, Shelane faced significant challenges in ROTC, feeling out of place and unsure of herself. After a brief withdrawal, she explored Air Force ROTC but ultimately returned to Army ROTC, where she found her footing.

Her determination to serve was fueled by a sense of duty and a desire to prevent future attacks on American soil. She reflects on the internal dialogue that motivated her:

“Someone has to go and bear the burdens of defending this nation.”

– Shelane Etchison

Shelane articulates her views on the significance of military service in shaping effective leaders. She believes that the skills and values learned in the military—such as discipline, teamwork, and strategic thinking—are essential for political leaders. Her perspective challenges the conventional notion of leadership, advocating for a model that prioritizes service and accountability.

Throughout the conversation, Shelane emphasizes the need for political reform, particularly in how veterans are treated and represented in government. She shares her vision for a more inclusive political landscape, where diverse voices, especially those of veterans, are heard and valued. This vision is rooted in her belief that true leadership involves listening to the needs of the community and acting in their best interests.

Shelane expresses deep concern about the current polarization in American politics, which she believes is detrimental to the country. She argues that there is a significant crisis of genuine leadership, and she feels compelled to step up and represent the values she believes in. Drawing from her military experience, she emphasizes the importance of leaders who prioritize the needs of the people over party interests.

Shelane’s decision to run as an independent candidate is rooted in her desire to challenge the two-party system, which she views as increasingly out of touch with the electorate. She points out that a majority of Americans are registered as independents, yet they often lack viable candidates on the ballot. By running as an independent, Shelane aims to provide a new choice for voters who are frustrated with the current political landscape.

To hear more from Shelane Etchison and her views on how to change the government from within, download and listen to this episode.

Shelane Etchison is a former Army officer and aspiring congressional candidate. Raised in Florida, she became the first in her family to join the military after the events on September 11. She served in Iraq and was part of a Special Operations program in Afghanistan.

After 11 years of service, she earned an MBA and MPP from Harvard. Shelane has worked on economic development and security consultancy projects and is committed to bringing principled leadership to North Carolina, inspired by her experiences and concerns about the current political climate.

Find out more about Shelane Etchison!

Etchison for Congress | LinkedIn | X (formerly Twitter) | Facebook

We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and subscribe on Apple Podcast / Spotify!

On this episode of the Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we have a conversation with Roman Sheremeta, a distinguished behavioral economist and professor at Case Western Reserve University.

Roman shares his personal experiences and insights on the ongoing war in Ukraine, highlighting the resilience of the Ukrainian people and the devastating impact of the conflict.

The discussion covers the global implications of the war, the importance of standing against aggression, and the role of strength in maintaining peace. Christopher and Roman also address broader geopolitical issues, including the US government’s response and the need for strong leadership and unity.

You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go.

Roman Sheremeta recounts the harrowing impact of the war on Ukraine, highlighting the destruction of infrastructure and the psychological toll on the population.

He shares his personal experiences of visiting a children’s hospital in Ukraine, where the war’s impact on the hospital and its patients is heart-wrenching. Roman also discusses the challenges faced by his family and friends in Ukraine and his efforts to raise funds to support his alma mater, which has also been affected by the conflict.

Despite the devastating circumstances, Roman emphasizes the resilience and determination of the Ukrainian people. He describes the daily challenges faced by Ukrainians, including the constant threat of air raids and the psychological burden of living in a war zone. He also shares the emotional toll of losing friends and family members in the conflict.

Roman highlights the global implications of the war, emphasizing the need for strength and unity in the face of tyranny. He warns of the potential for further aggression if the international community does not take a stand against the war.

“This is not just a Ukrainian war; this is something that concerns the whole of humanity. If we don’t stop this evil now, it will only be emboldened, leading to real trouble.”

– Roman Sheremeta

Christopher and Roman discuss the role of strength in maintaining peace and deterring aggression, drawing on historical examples and behavioral economics principles.

Both Christopher and Roman share personal experiences of standing up against aggression. Christopher recounts defending two older women from harassment, while Roman shares a story of intervening to stop a thief. These experiences highlight the importance of strength in deterring aggression and the challenges of doing so within the current legal and societal framework.

The conversation then touches on the complexities of democracy and international relations. Roman provides insights into the motivations behind the war and debunks false narratives about the situation. Both Christopher and Roman express frustration with the lack of consistent support for countries facing aggression and call for a more principled approach to international conflicts.

To hear more from Roman Sheremeta and how the global community can help end the war, download and listen to this episode.

Roman Sheremeta is a renowned economist specializing in experimental and behavioral economics. He earned his Ph.D. from Purdue University and currently serves as an Associate Professor of Economics at Case Western Reserve University. Sheremeta’s research primarily focuses on conflict resolution, competitive behavior, and decision-making processes, gaining him international recognition and numerous academic accolades.

In addition to his academic roles, Sheremeta is a frequent contributor to leading economic journals and conferences. His innovative experiments and studies have significantly advanced the understanding of economic behavior under various conditions, impacting both theory and practical applications.

Beyond academia, Sheremeta is actively involved in consulting for private and public organizations, applying his expertise to solve real-world economic issues. His work has influenced policy-making and business strategies globally, cementing his reputation as a leading voice in the field of economics.

Connect with Roman Sheremeta!

LinkedIn | X (formerly Twitter)

We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and subscribe on Apple Podcast / Spotify!

On this episode of the Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different we have a conversation with Mike Maples Jr., co-founder of Floodgate, about his new book “Pattern Breakers.”

We explore the concept of Pattern Breakers, non-consensus thinking, and the breakthrough sequence for startups. Mike shares some insights on the role of language in defining new patterns and the significance of early adopters. The conversation provides valuable perspectives on the mindset and strategies essential for entrepreneurial breakthroughs and category design.

You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go.

Mike Maples Jr. introduces the concept of pattern breakers as individuals or companies that disrupt the status quo by proposing radically different futures. These entities don’t just imagine a different future; they live in it, tinkering with new technologies and experiencing firsthand the opportunities to break the limits of current thinking, feeling, and acting.

Mike also discusses non-consensus thinking, and how is crucial it is for pattern breakers. It involves challenging widely accepted norms and beliefs to create transformative value. He emphasizes that breakthrough startups often face resistance from the present and the status quo, making it essential for founders to be disagreeable in the right situations.

The first step in the breakthrough sequence is achieving insight breakthroughs. Founders need to immerse themselves in the future they envision, understanding new opportunities and creating new patterns. Mike uses examples of legendary founders like Marc Andreessen and Bob Metcalfe, who were visitors from the future, to illustrate this point.

Once insight breakthroughs are achieved, the next step is to achieve product-market fit. This involves building what’s missing for early adopters and lighthouse customers, who play a crucial role in shaping the direction of a startup. Founders must listen to these early believers and co-create the future with them.

The final step in the breakthrough sequence is driving growth. This involves creating a movement and category design, gradually moving more people to the envisioned future. Mike highlights the importance of using differentiated language to escape the comparison trap and the conformity trap, leading people into a different future.

Big companies can also create breakthroughs by harnessing inflections and insights to change the future. Mike discusses different approaches big companies can take, such as sustaining innovation, organic growth, mergers and acquisitions (M&A), and partnering. However, he also acknowledges the challenges and biases that come with being a successful company.

One effective strategy for big companies is backcasting, where leaders stand in the future and look back to the present, envisioning how they achieved a radically different future. This approach helps companies switch their mental scaffolding from being in the present and looking forward to being in the future and looking back to the present.

To hear more from Mike Maples Jr on Pattern Breakers and creating breakthroughs for your company, download and listen to this episode.

Mike Maples Jr. is an entrepreneur turned venture capitalist.

He’s co-founder of Silicon Valley based, early-stage VC Floodgate. And the host of the popular “Starting Greatness” podcast.

Investments include Twitter, Lyft, Bazaarvoice, Sparefoot, Ayasdi, Xamarin, Doubledutch, Twitch.tv, Playdom, Chegg, Demandforce, Rappi, Smule, and Outreach.

Connect with Mike Maples Jr.!

Floodgate | Twitter | LinkedIn | Starting Greatness Podcast

Check out Mike’s new book, Pattern Breakers!

Amazon Books | Porchlight Books | Starting Greatness | Pattern Breakers Newsletter

We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and subscribe on Apple Podcast / Spotify!

On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we engage in a captivating discussion with neuroscientist and author, Kelly Clancy.

We explore the profound impact of games on human behavior and society, highlighting their dual nature as both trivial pastimes and cognitive tools. Kelly delves into how games shape intelligence, social structures, and even political systems.

The conversation also touches on the gamification of life, the role of games in learning and social bonding, and the potential benefits and pitfalls of gaming. This episode offers a fresh perspective on the universal appeal and transformative power of games.

You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go.

Kelly Clancy introduces the concept of the dual nature of games, highlighting their role as both simple entertainment and complex cognitive tools. Games are often dismissed as mere pastimes, but they serve as mental scaffolding that helps individuals understand and navigate complex social systems.

Games have played a significant role throughout history, shaping intelligence and social structures. From ancient board games to modern video games, they have been instrumental in teaching strategic thinking, cooperation, and competition.

Christopher and Kelly discuss how games serve as a framework for understanding societal rules and structures. Games like Monopoly can illustrate the foundational thinking behind economic systems such as capitalism and socialism.

Kelly emphasizes the universal nature of play across species and its evolutionary significance. Games are not just a human phenomenon; they are observed in various animal species, highlighting their fundamental role in development and social bonding.

Throughout history, games have been used as tools for conflict resolution and social bonding. They provide a structured environment for competition and cooperation, helping to resolve disputes and build relationships.

Uncertainty is also a key aspect of games that captivates the brain and drives learning. The unpredictability of outcomes keeps players engaged and motivated to improve their skills.

Games also serve as a window into understanding human behavior. The spectator element of games, such as watching sports or eSports, allows individuals to observe and analyze the actions and strategies of others.

To hear more from Kelly Clancy and the hidden power of Games, download and listen to this episode.

Kelly Clancy is a distinguished neuroscientist and author, known for her contributions to understanding biological information processing and agency. Her research has been funded by prestigious fellowships, including those from HFSP, EMBO, and the Branco Weiss Fellowship. Kelly’s work delves into the principles of sensory representations and the interplay between agency and sensory perception in the brain. She has published extensively in top scientific journals and has received the Regeneron Prize for Innovation in Biomedicine.

Kelly’s debut book, Playing with Reality: How Games Have Shaped Our World, explores the impact of games on human cognition and society. Her essays have been featured in renowned publications such as Harper’s Magazine, Wired, and The New Yorker, reflecting her talent for making complex scientific concepts accessible and engaging to the public. Her interdisciplinary approach bridges neuroscience and literature, making her a prominent voice in contemporary science communication​.

Connect with Kelly Clancy!

Website | X (formerly Twitter)

We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and subscribe on Apple Podcast / Spotify!