It takes a village. Entrepreneurship is hard work. The impact that our advisors are making in the lives of the entrepreneurs in Nashville is intangible. We want you to know who they are and why they are a big deal. Welcome to out “Meet Your Advisor” feature that will run its course until we have introduced you to all the “doing it, done it or invested in it” people who are navigating our city’s entrepreneurs.
What do you tell startups most when it comes to budgeting/financing?
Truly knowing the story behind your numbers and understanding what is “inside” a number is what allows you to make strategic decisions, rather than being overwhelmed by the unknown.
You helped create one of Nashville’s Top 3 commercial real-estate firms. What skills did you use most to achieve that? What’s your best advice to use during negotiations?
Problem-solving – each turn in the road was something new. Whether it was hiring our first employee, or getting the first loan from the bank. Each milestone brought something new that we’d never done before. As for negotiations, think ahead and get what you need before you need it so you aren’t in a must-have situation during negotiations. It allows you more freedom during your negotiations.
What do you see as one of the EC’s advisor program’s biggest successes?
The diversity in the types of businesses and entrepreneurs that have access to this program.
What have you gotten out of being an advisor at the EC?
Being able to help break down the often overwhelming big picture that turns away so many potential entrepreneurs and put it into manageable bites so people are motivated to progress forward has been extremely rewarding. Additionally, there are so many fresh new ideas, perspectives, and technologies that I learn something new every day.
What is your personal motto?
“Be what you want, but always be you.” – Brittany Thompson, age 17
In moments of self-doubt or adversity, how do you build yourself back up?
As I believe Cameron Herold said, “entrepreneurship is like a roller coaster, one day you will be at the highest high and the next instant you could be upside down or at the lowest low”. As long as I’m moving forward and enjoying the ride, I remind myself that most likely another big curve is coming and hold on tight!
