On today's episode of "How Leaders Think" Kenny Lange sits down with Dawson Barksdale, Chief Encouragement Officer and founder of Local. Dawson dives deep into the world of venture capital, sharing his personal journey and insights on what it takes to successfully navigate this complex landscape. They discuss the pivotal steps for founders considering VC money, the importance of aligning with the right partners, and how to maintain a clear vision amidst challenges. Dawson also sheds light on the role of self-awareness in leadership and the impact of having a mentor. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned business leader, this conversation is filled with actionable advice and profound reflections on the entrepreneurial experience.

Other places to find the “How Leaders Think” podcast:

* Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-leaders-think-with-kenny-lange/id1434737807

* Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2wKtzb6KaF1vNlG9TsZkzh

* Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy50cmFuc2lzdG9yLmZtL2tlZXAtcmlzaW5nLXdpdGgta2VubnktbGFuZ2U=

* Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b13c5d64-50db-4626-9685-c356116ec54b

* YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KennyLange/podcasts

* Website: https://howleadersthink.kennylange.com/

Dawson Barksdale Resources:
LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dawsonbarksdale/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LOCALCarWash
Website: https://www.localcarwash.us/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558732441518

Books Mentioned:
Start with Why: https://amzn.to/3EfbNap
The Infinite Game: https://amzn.to/40Re7gO
Leaders Eat Last: https://amzn.to/3CkOjAl
The Follower Effect: https://amzn.to/4jDfpTN

#LeadershipInsights #VentureCapital #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #InnovationTips

• (00:00) - Starting a Venture Capital Firm
• (04:12) - Venture Capital Perception Shift
• (07:20) - AI Investment: Bubble and Discipline
• (11:58) - Validating Customer Willingness to Pay
• (17:02) - Navigating VC Challenges for Founders
• (18:43) - Aligning Founder and VC Goals
• (21:25) - Creating Alignment in Partnerships
• (26:35) - "Mentorship in Decision Making"
• (28:33) - Power of Honest Feedback
• (34:43) - Understanding Impact and Audience Awareness
• (35:56) - Defining Venture Capital Identity
• (39:54) - "Commitment's Sobering Reality"
• (42:27) - "Understanding Your 'Why'"
• (47:46) - "Engage with Our Leadership Podcast"