Episode Description: In this episode, we sit down with legendary entrepreneur and scientist T.J. Rodgers, the founder of Cypress Semiconductor, investor in clean energy, and advocate of free-market principles. With a career spanning decades in Silicon Valley, Rodgers has been at the forefront of technological innovation, business strategy, and corporate governance. We dive into his experiences building and leading companies, his views on boardroom dynamics, and his insights into the future of entrepreneurship, manufacturing, and clean technology.

Guest Bio: T.J. Rodgers is a pioneering scientist, entrepreneur, and investor known for founding Cypress Semiconductor and making transformative investments in SunPower and Enphase Energy. With degrees from Dartmouth and Stanford, Rodgers has played a key role in shaping the semiconductor and renewable energy industries. He has also been active in corporate governance, leading successful proxy fights and serving on multiple boards. Beyond tech, Rodgers is a passionate winemaker and a strong advocate for laissez-faire capitalism.

Topics Discussed:

• How running a business today differs from 30 years ago
• The key questions every CEO should be able to answer
• Strategies for retaining top talent in a competitive job market
• Building a culture that fosters execution and results
• Insights from working with industry legends like John Doerr and Sequoia Ventures
• The evolving role and expectations of board members
• Critical mistakes to avoid in corporate leadership
• Lessons from turning around Enphase Energy
• Managing company debt: when to expand, clean up, or maintain it
• Balancing innovation and regulation in Silicon Valley
• The current state and future of the solar industry
• Lessons learned from a lifetime of leadership and entrepreneurship

Links & Resources:

• More about T.J. Rodgers
• Enphase Energy
• Clos de la Tech Winery