Growth: Erik Mitisek - Aligning Values and Mission | E30

What if the key to success lies not just in what you do, but in the people you surround yourself with?

In episode 30, we shared with Erik Mitisek, a serial entrepreneur and founder of Denver Startup Week, he opened up about his philosophy on building a human-powered life. He emphasizes the importance of cultivating meaningful relationships, creating inclusive startup cultures, and surrounding yourself with the right people. Erik talks about the power of karma, the impact of early hires on company culture, and the value of healthy conflict in team success. He also offers advice on how job candidates can stand out in the interview process and the critical factors to consider when choosing partners and investors. This is a must-listen episode if you are looking for ways to go to the next level in different areas of your life. 

[00:00 - 04:15] Building a Human-Powered Life

• How to create powerful connections with people
• How did Ryan and Bennie meet Erik 
• What are indexing relationships?

[04:16 - 08:57] Creating an Inclusive Startup Culture

• Denver Startup Week celebrates all entrepreneurs
• How to align values and culture
• Setting a vision drives inclusivity

[08:58 - 14:01] Surrounding Yourself with the Right People

• The people around you influence your life
• Goodwood Club: a reflection of shared values and goals
• Handling disappointments in Relationships

[14:02 - 26:01] Building Successful Teams

• Why you should avoid people with high egos
• How to pick the right people when starting a company
• Healthy conflict with respect and ego-free discussions
• Intellectually safe environments foster innovation

[26:02 - 30:18] Leadership Advice for Founders and Employees

• Candidates who offer solutions and follow-up stand out
• Be a "fire hunter" when building a team
• Align values, heart, and outcomes when selecting people
• How to stand out in an interview process

Key Quotes:

"I've always believed that everything great that happens to anyone is the result of a human interaction." - Erik Mitisek

"I think the best teams have a healthy level of conflict. And that healthy level of conflict is conflict that is very respectful, being able to leave your ego at the door." - Erik Mitisek

"Pick your partners and people wisely.” - Erik Mitisek

Connect with Erik Mitisek:
Twitter: @ErikMitisek
Instagram: @erikmitisek
LinkedIn: Erik Mitisek

Reach out to Bennie Fowler!
Instagram: @benniefowler1
Twitter: @BennieFowler123

Reach out to Ryan Harris!
Instagram: @ryanharris_68
Twitter: @ryanharris_68

WANT TO LEARN MORE?
Follow us on Instagram: @gridiron_growthpodcast

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