From living in your car to living your entrepreneurial dreams with tech founder Chris Williams

Chris founded Aginto, a digital and marketing firm, in 2011. Clients include small and midsize companies in health care, law, industrial sectors and home services. Chris’ amazing never-quit backstory, before Aginto, includes a major life turnaround: He was unemployed, living alone, first in his car, then in a run-down motel in Sarasota with sticky floors. Desperate, he started his business while working an overnight shift at a Goodwill donation center in Sarasota. Business Observer Managing Editor Mark Gordon and Chris talked about how he was able to get through that time — which includes having an infant daughter. One key, says Chris, is he was grateful for what he had, no matter how little that was, while also never being content.     

3 Takeaways:

1. (11:40) Don’t misconstrue gratefulness with content
2. (14:50) Leadership is about serving those who you are leading
3. (15:50) The 1 on 1 is a powerful leadership tool

Timestamps:

(00:00) This episode is sponsored by Kerkering Barberio!

(00:30) Introducing Chris Williams, Managing Director of Aginto

(01:30) Rapid fire questions

(04:15) What is Aginto?

(07:00) Starting a business from 0

(11:30) Keeping a positive mindset

(14:25) Characteristics of a good leader

(16:30) Leadership advice

(19:30) Involvement with Salvation Army

(21:20) What is happening in 2025 for Aginto?

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