I think one of the reasons VH1 is what it is, is the idea that leaders need to lead. Let me explain, everybody in the band played an absolute integral part, unquestionably, but Edward Van Halen played a irreplaceable role.

He was, if you will, the blazing center. He was the blazing center of Van Halen and certainly the blazing center of Van Halen One. This is paralleled in the founders of startups. The right team is essential, but a blazing center is the fuel for any new company. What does the blazing center consist of?  Hmmm… the blazing center is a combination of a few things:

• Vision
• Strategy
• Momentum
• Execution
• Differentiation
• Communication

The blazing center is the person that sees the future, and says let’s go get it, we can do this and here is how.   The blazing center is the person who can see it. Who reaches out, and creates it.

Todays required listening: id220364749

Van Halen and Startups. Is an ongoing series of thoughts and observations that look at the parallels between the classic CD/Album Van Halen 1 and Startups. Ill be looking through the lens of Van Halen 1 to discuss technology start up strategy.

Van Halen 1 is arguably the most focused, balanced rock record in history. So what does Van Halen 1 have to do with a media or technology start up? Strangely enough, the parallels are pretty amazing. That’s where I am going with this blog series. It will be a fun look through the lens of this one record, VH1, to discuss elements on a technology start up that I’m a part of.  Gene Simmons was the initial first believer in VH1. He produced an entire record on the band that was never released. I call it Van Halen Zero. I’m sure it’s amazing. Advisor, board member, early stage angel investor, mentor, whatever you prefer to call this role, his or her value is significant. Our platform’s, “Gene Simmons” Advisory Board, is both amazing, and humbling. Entrepreneurs, venture capital,  entertainment innovators that have started, launched, scaled, exited successful companies in numerous verticals. While we are still in stealth mode,  our Advisory Board of has been incredibly generous.  We are grateful to have them thinking with us.

More to come.

A significant first step. I hope you’ll give byo.fm a try and let me know what you think.