In this episode, Bryan interviews entrepreneur and innovator John Sarkisian. They explore the balance between innovation and operations in business, sharing lessons from John’s journey with SKLZ and Light Helmets. From building trust with inventors to scaling a business into retail giants, John offers actionable insights on leadership, mentorship, and product development. They also discuss the groundbreaking advancements in sports safety with Light Helmets, emphasizing the importance of strong teams, clear vision, and resilience. Tune in for a powerful start to the year filled with inspiration for entrepreneurs and leaders alike.

Key Moments

• 00:00 Introduction to Innovation and Operations
• 02:58 The Genesis of Skills and the Hit Away Device
• 10:02 Scaling Skills: From Product to Company
• 18:47 Transitioning to Retail: Challenges and Strategies
• 21:31 John's Superpower: Product Instinct and Leadership
• 22:22 Building a Strong Team for Business Success
• 29:07 The Importance of Leadership in Entrepreneurship
• 30:07 Innovations in Sports Safety: The Light Helmet
• 36:30 Navigating Challenges as an Entrepreneur
• 41:15 Key Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Connect with John Sarkisian

• LinkedIn: @johnsarkisian
• www.lighthelmets.com
• www.sklz.com

Connect with Bryan:

Check out the website: www.whatsnextpodcast.com
Connect with Bryan on Instagram: @bryanfinnerty22
Connect with Bryan on LinkedIn: @bryanfinnerty

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