Summary

Tony Rothacker, founder of Youngster.co, shares his journey in the startup space and the story behind his company. Youngster.co aims to connect generations by leveraging the wisdom of seniors and the tech skills of young people. The conversation explores the challenges of technology, the importance of ethical platforms, and the need for long-term thinking. Tony also discusses the benefits of bootstrapping and the lessons learned from failures in the startup world. The chapter concludes with a discussion on the impact of Youngster.co in creating jobs and helping the community. 

Tony Rothacker shares his journey from growing up in Slovakia to becoming a successful entrepreneur and founder of Youngster.co. He discusses the challenges he faced as a child in Slovakia and the decision to move to Germany. Tony emphasises the importance of teachers and mentors in shaping his life and the impact they can have on young people. He also highlights the significance of mental health and finding balance in life. Tony shares his love for nature and the ocean, and how it provides him with inspiration and refuge. He offers advice for early stage startup founders and discusses the benefits and threats of social media and AI. Tony concludes by discussing his plans for the future, including expanding to New Zealand and helping Aboriginal communities.

Takeaways

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe/follow our podcast for more insightful discussions on startups and entrepreneurship. Leave a review on your favourite podcast platform to let us know what you think!

Disclaimers: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast owner or sponsor. Any content provided is for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as professional advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for specific advice tailored to your situation.

CHAPTERS

02:35 - Introduction and Background

04:02 - The Story Behind Youngster.co

09:20 - The Importance of Wisdom and Balance

10:35 - The Challenges of Technology and Social Media

12:17 - Addressing Loneliness and Isolation

13:49 - The Need for Ethical Technology Platforms

15:36 - Long-Term Thinking and Serving Humanity

17:13 - Learning from Failures in the Startup World

22:01 - The Challenges of Bootstrapping

23:57 - The Importance of Customer Traction

25:54 - Helping the Community and Creating Jobs

28:18 - Becoming an Entrepreneur

29:18 - Childhood in Slovakia

30:42 - Moving to Germany

31:45 - Learning English in London

32:48 - The Impact of Teachers

33:35 - The Importance of Mental Health

35:35 - Finding Refuge in Nature

36:49 - Advice for Early Stage Startup Founders

38:55 - The Napkin Test

40:37 - Creating Human Connections in the Age of AI

43:46 - The Importance of Surrounding Yourself with Amazing People

45:07 - The Benefits and Threats of Social Media and AI

47:58 - Expanding to New Zealand and Helping Aboriginal Communities

49:02 - The Question No One Has Asked