Summary: This guy knows exactly how to build a viable business and attract people to it. Sean Simone is the Founder and board member of SeNSE — a hub where entrepreneurs can pitch their ideas in Baton Rouge, LA., VP of an online marketing firm called BlueReach, and CEO/Co-founder of Yellow Jacket — the first consumer-grade stun-gun smart phone case. All by the age of 23. I had a chance to sit down with him at his new office at TenBR (a new co-working network for startups) and talk to him about how he got involved in the local entrepreneur scene. Interview with Sean Simone Where did you grow up? (2:25) How did you start Sense? (3:43) Tribes by Seth Godin (book reference) "Attract people, not promote" How they watched Shark Tank to plan Pitch Night (6:19) Educatainment = Education + Entertainment How did you overcome the fear of failure? (7:38) "I don't work to avoid fear, I work to get achievement — that's what drives me." Tell me more about Blue Reach? (9:55) "We learned marketing through doing it" In social media, no conversation is too small. (16:35) What is Yellow Jacket? (17:50) How they raised capitol for Yellow Jacket. (19:20) Why Indiegogo over Kickstarter? (22:25) How he got the last amount funded (24:45) Loupe Theory Studios (Filmed Indiegogo video) The sound Yellow Jacket in action — Warning: loud (28:25) How did you come up with the name? (29:15) What's the biggest mistake you see new entrepreneurs making? (30:12) "Take feedback, not personally, but as a welcomed opportunity" What do you like to do for fun, outside the office? (31:45) "I really love educating myself" It's all about balance (34:08) Super Rich by Russell Simmons (book reference) What's next and how can people contact you? (37:40) Makers by Chris Anderson (book reference) BOUNS: Ask Sean a question in the comments GIVEAWAY: One random selected commenter will get a free Yellow Jack iPhone case! ($140 value) All you have to do is comment below to win. The winner will be selected on 3/7/13. UPDATE: Winner picked, watch the video. Check out Sean at: Website: YellowJacket.com (taking online orders + all new website in March '13) Email: defend@yellowjacket.com Twitter: @Yellow_Jacket Facebook: /YellowJacketCase Play the interview This is an audio version of this interview. I'm starting a new podcast in-which I interview amazing people doing the unthinkable in the entrepreneurial/heath & fitness communities. DO enjoy :) Subscribe at: - iTunes (please leave a 5 star review) - YouTube - Stitcher Radio - The blog (in-which you'll get more)
