Be Fast! Plus 9 Other Lessons in Entrepreneurship From Founder Michael True

In this week’s episode of the Turning Pro Podcast, hosts Ben Sharf and Adrian Alfieri chat with Michael True, the co-founder and CEO of Prescient AI. 

Michael's journey from a corporate role at IBM to spearheading an AI-driven marketing analytics company highlights his relentless drive for innovation and success. His story provides valuable insights into the startup world, balancing personal well-being with professional responsibilities and the future of AI in marketing.

His journey shows the true power of resilience and innovation. Prescient AI’s transformative approach to data science and marketing analytics has redefined industry standards, showcasing how AI can drive meaningful business solutions. In this episode, Michael shares how he navigated the startup landscape, from predicting music hits to securing significant funding.

Catch Season 2, Episode 4 of the Turning Pro Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or YouTube.

The top 10 highlights from this week’s episode:

1.  Follow Your Heart: Michael’s path began at IBM, where he honed his skills in analytics and AI. His transition to startup life was driven by a desire to create impactful solutions and escape the corporate grind.

2. Identify and Solve Core Problems: Prescient AI was born out of a need to improve marketing mix models. Michael's firsthand experience with the limitations of existing tools led to the development of a more efficient, AI-driven solution.

3. The Power of Fast Decision-Making: Michael emphasizes the importance of speed in startup culture. Prescient AI’s success is partly due to its ability to quickly adapt and implement changes, a crucial factor in staying ahead of the competition.

4. Build a Winning Team: Hiring talented and driven individuals has been key to Prescient AI’s growth. Michael's approach to building a competitive and collaborative culture has attracted top talent from major tech companies.

5. Be Resilient: Securing funding was challenging, with Michael facing over 100 rejections before landing his first investment. This persistence paid off, culminating in a successful $10 million raise.

6. Find What Sets You Apart: Prescient AI’s models have proven their worth in various applications, from predicting hit songs to optimizing marketing spend. Michael’s focus on practical, measurable outcomes sets Prescient AI apart.

7. Embrace Continuous Learning: Michael's commitment to learning and adapting has been vital. He encourages continuous improvement and staying updated with the latest advancements in AI and data science.

8. Balancing Personal and Professional Life: Maintaining a balance between work and personal life is crucial for long-term success. Michael shares how running and personal time help him stay focused and energized.

9. Effective Communication: Clear and direct communication is essential in any team. Michael stresses the importance of transparency and accountability in fostering a productive work environment.

10. Cultivating a Competitive Edge: Prescient AI’s culture of competitiveness and innovation drives its success. Michael's background in sports and his relentless drive to win translate into a powerful business ethos.

Michael’s entrepreneurial journey is filled with lessons on innovation, perseverance, and leadership. By following his insights on speed, problem-solving, and team building, aspiring entrepreneurs can navigate their own paths to success.

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