Ilya Bodner, a start-up enthusiast, joins host Kevin Stoller to discuss his different business ventures. Today he has a number of different startups — some local — and he shares his learning experience from his first ventures. In this episode you’ll also learn more about how the EO works, and hear some examples of things they talk about in their groups.

Key Takeaways:

[1:28] Ilya shares his “lifeline” story — moving to Columbus after he immigrated from Russia, he started his own business at the age of 19. Furthering this experience, he had several startup ventures, and learned from the successes and failures of each.

[4:44] What things surprised Ilya when he arrived in the U.S.? In this business world, he is surprised by the wide range of knowledge people have about where he comes from, and how his background affects his interactions with his projects and business ventures.

[8:09] What were the major turning points in Ilya’s ventures early on? His first business partner really showed him how important it is to have a partner that really complements your skill set. He also speaks to the importance of getting focused on what you want to achieve.

[12:04] Ilya explains how he juggles more than one venture at one time, and how he learned over the years to prioritize all the different projects.

[13:35] Kevin and Ilya talk about the way having a family fits into the puzzle of business ventures, and what positive things come in terms of time management and prioritizing.

[16:18] Ilya talks about joining the Columbus chapter of EO, and how joining has helped him network, and influence others by sharing his stories. Even after nearly a year of joining, he is still discovering all that the group has to offer. Ilya discusses some of the things they talk about in their groups, and shares some of his personal testimonies.

[22:04] What would make the next ten or so years of life a success for Ilya? He talks about numbers for his companies, selling some of his ideas, and being comfortable in his own skin, and the success he hopes for his children.

[24:02] Ilya shares the ventures he’s currently working on, and what kinds of people he is looking for, to grow his company. He’d love to have conversations about finding success and growing a happy family.

Mentioned in This Episode:

Columbus Chapter of Entrepreneurs Organization

Bold Penguin

ROOT Insurance

The Shipyard, LLC