Startup Spark

Interview with the entrepreneur and author, Ben Casnocha - Part 3

by steve on June 20th, 2007

I recently had an opportunity to interview Ben Casnocha, an entrepreneur who just published his first book, called “My Startup Life”.

As you might have read in part 1 and part 2 if this three part interview, we discussed entrepreneurship, failure and growth.

Here is part 3 we wrap up by discussing coaches, advisors and mentors.

Let’s continue…

SS: Can you share some your thoughts on the power of mentors and having good coaches?
BEN: They’re hugely important. We all need a support network – no matter how old.
SS: You talk about the difference of mentors vs advisors. What are the differences in your opinion?
BEN: Mentors can advise on life issues. Business advisors usually focus just on professional issues. We need some of both.
SS: What three people that you haven’t connected with would you like to?
BEN: There are a lot of (obvious) people I’d like to meet, but no one in particular sands out.
SS: Was Comcate a catalyst in reaching out to some of the most connected business people?
BEN: Yes. When you are running a venture you have a platform on which to do things – such as meet interesting people.
SS: Do you think growing up in San Francisco helped?
Yes. When you’re surrounded by as much entrepreneurship that exists in the Bay Area, it rubs off on you.
SS: You and your Dad are co-founders, can you share with me how important the parent child relationship is in helping a young entrepreneur?
BEN: You need to have a support network. Whether it’s a parent, mentor, teacher, coach, whoever, you need to have that role. It doesn’t always have to be a parent – although that can help.
SS: If you had to tell people three things about your book so that they go out and buy, read it and re-read it cover to cover, what would they be?

BEN: First, the story will be entertaining. People like to be entertained. I hope reading my book is fun.

BEN: Second, read my book if you want to understand the entrepreneurial way of thinking. I argue that entrepreneurship is more a life idea than a business idea.
BEN: Third, if you’re looking for practical insight about how to get your business off the ground or moving faster, my book contains powerful from respected business leaders who contribute guest essays – in addition to my own theories and musings.
SS: Lastly, if you want people to remember one thing when they think about Ben Casnocha, what would that be?

BEN: I guess I don’t have any single thing, sorry!

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POSTED IN: Business, Entrepreneur Interviews, Leadership, Passion, Young Entrepreneurs