In this episode of The Rundown with Ramon, small business expert Ramon Ray, publisher of ZoneofGenius.com, dives into a wide range of topics that every entrepreneur should hear—from the startup story of Raising Cane’s to how we give and receive feedback, and even how you text (yes, it says something about you). With insight from Seth Godin, Guy Raz, Chris Schembra, and others, Ramon explores what it means to build a business with purpose, resilience, and heart.
Whether you’re launching your first product or figuring out how to scale, this episode reminds us that success starts with mindset, communication, and taking small, intentional steps forward.
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Related – He grew his business one bowl of chili at a time – Chris Schembra
Related – How thinking differently can help give you an edge
Key Takeaways
- Progress over perfection: Raising Cane’s founder Todd Graves built a billion-dollar brand through trial, error, and grit.
- Pick your feedback wisely: Seth Godin reminds us that who you listen to shapes your future.
- Texting styles say more than you think: A lighthearted WSJ piece challenges us to think about how we communicate.
- Lean businesses are real businesses: Ramon debunks the myth that it takes big capital to get started.
- You’re either a sprinter or a marathoner: Guy Raz’s two entrepreneur types—and how knowing your style changes the game.
Todd Graves on the Billion-Dollar Grind
Raising Cane’s founder Todd Graves didn’t have instant success. He was told “no” repeatedly, and the early days were marked by mistakes, missed shifts, and exhaustion. But he believed in his idea: serve a craveable meal consistently, and success would come.
As Jason Feifer of Entrepreneur reported, Graves’ mindset was to keep moving forward—even if it meant only making $30 in his first month. One of his biggest lessons? Focus on progress, not perfection.
Feedback Filters: Seth Godin’s Advice
Seth Godin posed a powerful question: Who are you listening to—and why? Whether it’s trolls online or trusted customers, the source, tone, and timing of feedback all matter.
“Pick your feedback, pick your future.”
Godin emphasizes that thoughtful critique at the right time can help us grow. But not all feedback deserves equal attention. Entrepreneurs should build filters for what—and who—they respond to.
“You Text Like a Boomer”: Why Style Still Counts
In a fun nod to The Wall Street Journal’s column by Johanna Goldman, Ramon reflects on texting habits. Do you punctuate? Use emojis? Write full sentences?
While the article is humorous, it underscores an important truth: communication style can create (or confuse) clarity. The real goal? Ensure your message comes through clearly—no matter your generation.
Chris Schembra’s Pasta-Fueled Gratitude Movement
Ramon gives a heartfelt shoutout to Chris Schembra, who built a global community around dinner tables and a single powerful question:
“Who have you not given enough thanks to?”
What started with pasta and strangers in a small Manhattan apartment turned into 750+ gratitude events and a bestselling book. It’s a reminder that vulnerability builds trust, and trust builds connection.
Starting a Lean Business: You Don’t Need Millions
Ramon reminds us that most small businesses don’t start with venture capital or big checks. They start with:
- An idea
- A clear customer
- A service mindset
- And the grit to get going
Referencing ZoneofGenius.com’s own resources, he breaks down how service-based businesses in particular can launch with minimal startup costs.
Are You a Sprinter or a Marathoner?
Guy Raz (host of How I Built This) has said entrepreneurs typically fall into two categories:
- Sprinters: They move fast, raise money, scale quickly.
- Marathoners: They build slowly and steadily for the long run.
Ramon challenges listeners to identify their own style. There’s no wrong answer—what matters is knowing which path fits your personality and goals.
Final Word: Secure Your Business
As always, this episode is sponsored by Bitdefender Small Business Security. Ramon compares it to locking your car or front door—it’s just common sense.
Whether you’re texting a friend, planning your next launch, or navigating feedback, this episode reminds us that building a business is a daily decision to move forward—flaws and all.
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