In this episode of 'I Do What I Do,' I interview Eric Collins, CEO and Co-Founder of Impact X Capital, Serial Entrepreneur, Author, TV Presenter. Eric shares his inspiring thoughts on the importance of having a purpose to the significant challenges in raising funds and navigating a tough economic environment. Eric shares insights from his diverse roles as an entrepreneur, TV presenter, and author, highlighting the value of perseverance, honesty in feedback, and recognizing opportunities. The episode also delves into the competitive nature of innovation, the importance of networking, and the process behind his book 'We Don't Need Permission.' This episode explores the essence of being an entrepreneur, highlighting the necessity of embracing a bit of madness and enduring hard work without immediate rewards. It underscores the importance of being a disruptor, making sacrifices, and wisely evaluating advice from experienced individuals while staying committed to one's own path. With reflections on personal resilience, the transformative impact of artificial intelligence, and heartfelt acknowledgments, this conversation offers a rich tapestry of experiences and lessons for innovators and disruptors alike.
CHAPTERS
00:00 Hello!
00:30 Meet Eric Collins: Investor,Serial Entrepreneur, Author and TV Presenter
01:58 Eric's Journey and Purpose
04:52 Navigating Challenges and Temptations
08:16 Insights on Venture Capital and Entrepreneurship
19:58 The Birth of 'We Don't Need Permission'
26:15 Evaluating Startups: Using Marshmallow & Pace (now Flyr) as examples
31:14 Pivoting During a Crisis: The Resilience of Entrepreneurs
32:43 The Importance of Networking
41:23 The Role of Technique in Success
44:37 Artificial Intelligence: Past, Present, and Future
48:39 Lipton Tea Time
THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT…
Ursula Burns - 'Where You Are Is Not Who You Are'
Jason Pinto - I am lucky to have Jason on this podcast as well. Here is his episode
MEET:
ERIC COLLINS 👋🏾
Eric is an investor, serial entrepreneur, technology executive, and award-winning author of *We Don't Need Permission: How Black Business Can Change Our World*. As CEO and Co-Founder of Impact X Capital Partners, he empowers underrepresented entrepreneurs. Eric has been a C-suite executive at four fast-growth companies that exited to firms like Microsoft, Medtronic, and Digital Turbine.
In 2018, he co-founded Impact X, which launched its second fund in 2023 and has over 50 investments, including the UK unicorn Marshmallow. Featured in major outlets like Bloomberg, CNN, and The Guardian, Eric is a sought-after speaker and advocate for diversity in business.
Beyond his career, The Arts and uplifting folks are important to Eric, it is part of his DNA. Eric serves on the boards of UnLtd Foundation and Autograph ABP, and is involved in the arts through projects like Philomela's Chorus. He also supports The Prince’s Trust and Audi as a brand ambassador, and is affiliated with the Dorchester Collection’s Legend Series.
🔗 CONNECT with Eric
Eric D. Collins (LinkedIn) , @eric_dcollins (Instagram) & @EricDCollins (Twitter / X)
https://www.impactxcapital.com/