Richard Parker, an expert in acquiring businesses, shares his journey of transforming business aspirations into reality. After facing a crossroad in his personal life, he realized the importance of making decisions based on uncertainty and the worst-case scenario. He emphasizes the value of buying a good business at a great price, rather than starting a risky startup. Richard also discusses the importance of humility and surrounding yourself with people who are smarter and more skilled. This episode offers valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and business owners.

About the guest:

Richard Parker is an expert in acquiring businesses and has transformed business aspirations into reality for over 30 years. He has acquired 13 companies and one co-investment, ranging from $50,000 to over $200 million. Richard's program, "How to Buy a Good Business at a Great Price," has empowered and guided prospective business buyers in 80 countries around the world. He has been featured in top-tier publications such as Forbes and The New York Times and has written over 300 published articles showcasing his authority in the field. Richard also served as a mentor in the Dalio family office, working with Ray Dalio's son and imparting the art of acquiring businesses.

Resources:

website: www.RichardParker.com

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richparker1/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RichardParkerDiomo

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/richardparkerdiomo/

Youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@richardparkerdiomo

Timestamps:

2:44 Facing crossroads in business and personal life

7:30 Acquiring a business after stock market investment went bust

10:11 There are no guarantees with a Startup

14:00 An MBA doesn’t mean that you know how to become a business owner

16:13 When you don’t have options, it is incredibly easy to make decisions

18:11 Thinking outside the box

20:08 Mitigating risks

26:25 What is the mission plan?

29:25 Startups are like adding jet fuel to the economy

35:21 Overcoming ego

41:49 Learn about yourself by asking questions

44:50 Embrace being wrong

45:20 A Small habit that has made a difference

47:55 Linking what you do to what you can do for the community

51:10 Connect with Richard Parker

• Richard Parker's personal crossroads, including his decision to separate and get a divorce, served as a catalyst for change and prompted him to evaluate his life and make important decisions.

• Acquiring existing businesses can be a more practical and lucrative option compared to starting a startup, as it provides immediate income and the potential for growth through acquisitions.

• When faced with uncertainty, it is important to determine the time available to make a decision and allocate probabilities to potential outcomes to make a better decision.

• Richard emphasizes the importance of humility and surrounding oneself with people who are smarter and more skilled, as this leads to personal and professional growth.

• Successful business owners often focus on building a great business or empowering others rather than solely pursuing financial gain.

Connect with Daphna:

www.daphnahorowitz.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/daphnahorowitz/

https://www.facebook.com/PEACSolutions

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In this episode of Leadership Live, host Daphna Horowitz interviews Dr. Ilan Samish, CEO and founder of Amai Proteins, an Israeli food tech startup. Dr. Samish discusses his journey from academia to entrepreneurship and the development of a sugar substitute that is healthier, tastier, and more sustainable than traditional sweeteners. He also shares insights on the importance of effective communication, the impact of the recent conflict in Israel on his company, and the resilience and unity of his team. Don't miss this inspiring conversation with a leader who is making a difference in the world.

About the guest:

Dr. Ilan Samish is the CEO and founder of Amai Proteins, an Israeli food tech startup that has developed the first sugar substitute that tastes just like sugar. With a background in computational protein design and genetics, Dr. Samish has a stellar academic career and has made significant contributions to the field. He is also a former journalist and lecturer, bringing a unique perspective to his work. Dr. Samish is passionate about helping people reduce their sugar intake and improve their health.

Resources:

Amai Proteins website: www.miproteins.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ilansamish

Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.co.il/citations?user=HI8y1D8AAAAJ

ResearchGate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ilan_Samish

Key Takeaways:

• Dr. Samish's unconventional skill in journalism has served him well in his leadership journey, particularly in communicating complex scientific concepts to a wider audience.

• Amai Proteins has developed a sugar substitute that is made from sweet proteins found in the jungle, offering a healthier alternative to traditional sugar.

• The protein-based sweetener is zero-calorie, sustainable, and has a taste that is indistinguishable from sugar.

• The recent war in Israel had a significant impact on MI Proteins, with the loss of a lead researcher and employees affected by military duty. However, the company rallied together and continued to deliver on their mission.

Timestamps:

3:45 Journalism has been an unconventional skill that has helped shape Ilan’s view on science

7:15 Communication is an important skill to develop from an expert to a leader

9:00 The journey to developing Amai Proteins - the mindset and the quilt

16:07 Taking unconventional routes in life

18:37 The innovation and difference between ordinary sugar and the substitute

24:20 The Effect of sugar and Obesity to people and World

26:30 War in Israel - everything changed

32:40 Importance of mental health support after traumatic events

38:09 Losing a colleague- what happened next?

39:19 Transformation and resilience in the face of challenges

44:30 Key lessons in the transition

49:40 If you had a magic wand, what would you change about your world?

Connect with Daphna:

www.daphnahorowitz.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/daphnahorowitz/

https://www.facebook.com/PEACSolutions

Did you enjoy this episode of Leadership Live podcast? Leave us a review HERE.