Thomas L. Welter, Chief Operating Officer at Empower Brands, a multi branded franchising platform, and community fellow at Nebraska Center for Entrepreneurship, loves to get involved with the center whether it's through speaking in classes or having one-on-ones with students. We asked Tom why he volunteers his time and insight, and to provide advice to students interested in entrepreneurship.
?? Why do you contribute your time/insights to students at Nebraska?
"Nebraska?is a natural fit?for?me and the people resonate with me.? Being an agriculturally based economy has created a DNA in the state and University of Nebraska-Lincoln of hard working people which can never be discounted.? ?Working with students in a classroom setting or in real life scenarios has been more rewarding?for?me than the games we won in Memorial Stadium 40 years ago.?My time with entrepreneurs like Brooke Bode at?Cattle Kettle?reveals to me the strength of upcoming leaders who super smart, creative and who look at the world from a different lens, solving age old problems with new views and solutions.?I am shown daily that our future is very bright."
???Is there any popular entrepreneurial advice that you agree/disagree with, and if so, why?
"I consistently dispel the notions that perception is reality with the fact based response of? "Reality is Reality".?I have seen too many scenarios where people or projects were not evaluated on fact or what I call the real world.?I am a firm believer in the principle of Results Matter which utilizes the basis that process and systems are necessary and beneficial but that the outcome ultimately is what shows up on the scoreboards of America."
?? What advice do you have for students pursuing business ownership or careers in the ecosystem?
"Embark on the things that bring you joy in your life whether it be work, recreation, family.?Know that business ownership has tremendous rewards and requires the application of grit to bring it from thought or theory to life.?Surround yourself with the best people that share your passion?for?your business."
?? What's one book or podcast that changed your life?
"Leading Change by John Kotter.?Kotter lit a fire in me at a time in my career when I needed perspective."
?? Anything else you'd like to share?
"Good ideas, products or services do not always make?for?a good business.?You have to ensure the path to profitability in what you are doing and then demonstrate it."
#BuildSomething #GrowSomething
