Today on Take the Stage, we talk to Jarron Smith. Jarron is COO and Managing Director at Zeal Capital Partners, a diverse-founded and led venture capital firm that invests in enduring companies to generate above-market rate returns and impact. With a unique background that defies convention, Jarron brings a fresh perspective to the table, championing the power of diverse management teams and the principles of inclusive investing. Join us as we dive deep into Jarron's journey, explore the transformative impact of Zeal Capital's approach, and uncover the secrets of leading from behind.
Episode Outline and Highlights
[ 02:04]: Jarron shares his background, from his upbringing in California to his family's move to Texas. He discusses how focusing on academics and athletics led him to the University of Pennsylvania.
[ 04:29]: Jarron talks about his early career from corporate internships starting in high school to EY, and his executive MBA at Columbia.
[ 06:54]: Jarron explains his transition from EY to TIAA, taking on an internal strategy and innovation role and later becoming Chief of Staff.
[ 11:28]: Alexis and Jarron discuss how his experience as a collegiate baseball player shaped his leadership philosophy and approach to business. Key lessons include understanding the balance of power, awareness of the game, competition, self, and role, and regulating emotions.
[ 20:57]: Jarron shares his journey to finding the right executive coach.
[ 30:40]: Jarron explains Zeal Capital's differentiated strategy of inclusive investing and outlines its five pillars.
[ 44:56]: Jarron provides tangible examples of how Zeal's investments have created impact, focusing on the Zeal's portfolio company, Asusu, which has unlocked $22 billion in new credit activity and enabled tens of thousands of people to access mortgages, student loans, credit cards, and auto loans.
[ 52:13]: Jarron offers tactical advice for navigating career changes, including strategically approaching the first 90 days in a new role.
[ 01:03:57]: Jarron discusses the power of being a generalist and developing a broad understanding of what success looks like across an organization.
[ 01:06:16]: Jarron explains the concept of “leading from behind” - setting goals and then applying gentle, consistent pressure to support the team in outperforming.
[ 01:11:04]: Alexis and Jaron wrap up by reflecting on Zeal Capital's impactful work and Jarron's insightful career philosophies.
Special Mentions
National Advisory Council of A Better Chance (ABC), an organization that has placed over 18,000 students from underrepresented communities in top college preparatory schools.
Connect with our guest
Jarron Smith's LinkedIn
Zeal Capital Partners | LinkedIn
Connect with Alexis:
LinkedIn | alexis@career-rockstars.com
