The Entrepreneur Gene

Today’s episode showcases Laurie as she interviews Dr. Harry Cohen, President and CEO of Sunny Owl Productions and author of “Be the Sun, Not the Salt.” The conversation starts with discussing the essential traits that differentiate entrepreneurs—such as the ability to tolerate risk and navigate ambiguity. Harry also discusses the significance of instilling an entrepreneurial culture in both large corporations and family-owned businesses, emphasizing the impact of positive energy in leadership. The conversation is enriched with personal anecdotes, including Dr. Cohen’s TEDx experience and his advice for fostering kindness both in oneself and towards others. The episode also offers practical takeaways for cultivating a heliotropic mindset and enhancing professional and personal relationships.

Takeaways:
  • To succeed, entrepreneurs must tolerate risk, ambiguity, and difficulty. Cultivate a belief in your mission and purpose, and maintain confidence that you will overcome obstacles.
  • Aim to create a positive impact on those around you. Be the "sun" not the "salt" by fostering psychological safety and making people feel valued and motivated.
  • Use rituals and positive self-talk to maintain a confident and optimistic mindset before key moments, like giving presentations or meeting with clients.
  • Whether in a corporate or family-owned business, cultivating a supportive and innovative culture is crucial. Encourage risk-taking and learning from failures rather than punishing them.
Quote of the Show:
  • “You got to have the confidence in yourself to say, I believe in my mission and my purpose and no matter what is in front of me, I will overcome those obstacles.” - Harry Cohen
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Creators and Guests

Host
Laurie Barkman
Producer
Rayanne Pruitt

What is The Entrepreneur Gene?

Discover The Entrepreneur Gene with show host Laurie Barkman! Listen weekly as we talk with founders and CEOs exploring the rewards and challenges of the entrepreneurial path. This show is sponsored by Business Transition Sherpa, getting your business unstuck so you can grow, scale, and exit while enjoying the journey. Join our community of entrepreneurs at https://thebusinesstransitionsherpa.com