Description

Keywords:  tech entrepreneur, startup journey, leadership in tech, business processes, small business tools, automation, digital transformation, fractional CTO, customer experience, technology solutions

Summary:  In this episode, Mitch Beinhacker interviews tech entrepreneur Ben Johnson, who shares his journey from a young paperboy to a successful entrepreneur in the tech industry. Ben discusses the challenges he faced in various startups, the importance of leadership and clear communication in tech, and how he helps small businesses navigate technology and automation. He emphasizes the need for businesses to modernize and adapt to changing environments, and the role of fractional CTO services in providing affordable tech solutions for small companies. The conversation also touches on the significance of effective business processes and the tools available for small business owners to enhance their operations.

Takeaways

• Ben's entrepreneurial journey began with a paper route at 13.
• He built an online travel agency during the early days of the internet.
• Identifying businesses that are behind the times is key to his strategy.
• Automation and online systems can significantly improve business efficiency.
• Leadership clarity is crucial for tech teams to be productive.
• The 'cone of uncertainty' helps businesses plan effectively.
• Small companies often overlook the importance of leadership training.
• Technology should serve business goals, not complicate them.
• Custom solutions can enhance customer experience beyond off-the-shelf products.
• Fractional CTO services provide affordable tech expertise for small businesses.

Titles

• Overcoming Fear in Technology Adoption
• How to Modernize Your Business Operations

Sound Bites

• "I feel like my entrepreneurial journey goes back to my paper route."
• "We actually built an online travel agency."
• "I specifically look for businesses where the core business is very much behind the times."

Chapters

00:00The Journey of a Tech Entrepreneur

11:58Navigating the Challenges of Tech Startups

20:49The Importance of Leadership in Tech

29:59Building Effective Business Processes

39:02Tools and Automation for Small Businesses

54:04Connecting with the Tech Community