The Anatomy of an Entrepreneur: Taryn Rose at TEDxBayArea Ignite

Summary

In this inspiring talk, Teran shares her journey from an orthopedic surgeon to a successful entrepreneur, attributing her risk-taking nature to a genetic predisposition linked to the DRD4 gene. She emphasizes the importance of resourcefulness, networking, and love for one's venture as key to entrepreneurial success. Teran also highlights the role of luck, technology, and the power of perseverance in overcoming challenges and achieving goals, encouraging listeners to embrace their dreams and innovate.

Takeaways

• 🧬 The entrepreneur's DNA: Teran mentions a genetic predisposition linked to the dopamine receptor that influences risk tolerance, suggesting some people are biologically more inclined to embrace entrepreneurial ventures.
• 🌐 Historical context of entrepreneurship: The US has been shaped by immigrants, who are often risk-takers and entrepreneurs, contributing to the nation's entrepreneurial spirit.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family influence: Teran's family background as immigrants and adventurers has significantly influenced her entrepreneurial journey.
• 💡 Resourcefulness: Teran emphasizes the importance of being resourceful, opportunistic, and flexible, especially when starting a business with limited resources.
• 🎾 Adaptability: She shares her personal story of adapting to circumstances, such as convincing her father to let her play tennis instead of cheerleading, demonstrating the ability to reimagine possibilities.
• 🔗 Networking: Teran highlights the power of networking, using her experience of starting a shoe company without industry connections but successfully leveraging her network to find the right partners.
• ❤️ Love over passion: She differentiates between passion and love for one's work, suggesting that love, like for a family member, provides enduring commitment even in tough times.
• 🦸‍♀️ Bravery and courage: Teran discusses the need for bravery to overcome fears and take bold steps, which is essential for an entrepreneur facing numerous challenges and rejections.
• 🍀 Creating luck: She references a study suggesting that a positive mindset can increase one's luck, encouraging entrepreneurs to be vigilant for opportunities and to create their own luck.
• 💻 Technology's role: Teran acknowledges the role of technology in enhancing productivity and efficiency, allowing her to balance her entrepreneurial ventures with personal life.

Q & A

What is the significance of the DRD4 gene variant in relation to entrepreneurship?

The DRD4 gene variant, specifically DRD4-7R, is associated with a higher tolerance for risk, anxiety, and fear due to its effect on the dopamine receptor. This gene variant is more prevalent in individuals who have migrated far from their origins, which may contribute to a nation's entrepreneurial spirit.

How did Teran's family history influence her entrepreneurial journey?

Teran's family history as immigrants from Vietnam, who took significant risks to escape and start a new life in the United States, instilled in her a sense of adventure and risk-taking, which are traits common among entrepreneurs.

What is the importance of resourcefulness for an entrepreneur according to Teran?

Resourcefulness is crucial for entrepreneurs because startups often lack sufficient resources and face uncertain paths. Teran emphasizes the need to be opportunistic, flexible, and creative in the face of challenges.

Can you explain how Teran's father demonstrated resourcefulness during their escape from Vietnam?

Teran's father demonstrated resourcefulness by cold-calling physicians from a phone booth in a refugee camp in Arkansas, eventually securing sponsorship from a doctor and his wife, which allowed the family to settle in the United States.

What personal anecdote does Teran share to illustrate the concept of reimagining possibilities?

Teran shares the story of wanting to be a cheerleader but being discouraged by her father. She reimagined her possibilities by becoming a tennis player instead, showcasing her resourcefulness and determination.

How did Teran leverage networking to enter the shoe industry?

Teran used her networking skills to connect with individuals in the shoe industry by leveraging her retail therapy experiences and connections made at Barney's. This led to meetings with friends of friends who eventually helped her launch her first shoe collection.

What role did love play in Teran's entrepreneurial journey?

Love was a driving force for Teran, as she likened her commitment to her company to the unconditional love for her children. This love allowed her to persevere through challenging times without giving up.

How does Teran define the difference between luck and bravery in the context of entrepreneurship?

Teran defines luck as a mindset where one believes they are fortunate, which can lead to being in the right place at the right time. Bravery, on the other hand, is about overcoming fears and daring to take bold actions despite potential obstacles.

What advice does Teran give for increasing one's luck?

Teran advises to be creative, vigilant, and open to random opportunities. She also suggests networking, talking about one's dreams and projects, and maintaining a positive and approachable demeanor to attract luck.

How has technology played a role in Teran's life and her ability to balance work and personal life?

Technology, such as the Blackberry and later smartphones, allowed Teran to be productive and efficient, enabling her to manage her business while attending to her personal life, including her children's activities.

What is Teran's vision for the future of technology in relation to women's lives?

Teran envisions a future where technology enhances women's lives by improving productivity and efficiency, such as fashion accessories that monitor health or a network that connects people with products they admire.