Why Most Entrepreneurs Fail (And Never Know Why)
- ETW Writer
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
Mini Synopsis:
In this episode of Show Your Value, Lee Benson sits down with John Caplan, CEO of Payoneer and longtime entrepreneur, to unpack the real reasons most startups don’t make it. They explore the tension between timing and innovation, the personal journey of building companies with purpose, and why complacency is the ultimate enemy to growth.
Introduction:
Most people think startups fail because of bad ideas. But John Caplan shares a deeper truth: most fail because they’re too early. In a world obsessed with disruption, the real challenge is holding your vision long enough to let the market catch up. Lee and John dive into what it really means to build enduring companies, stay relentlessly curious, and lead from the front.
Key Themes & Takeaways:
Timing Over Talent: Great ideas can fail if they’re too early. Success often depends on whether you’re in the "zone of possible."
Entrepreneurship as Art: For John, creativity isn’t just for artists. Company building is a form of artistry, channeled into service.
Complacency is the Killer: In uncertain times, companies must charge ahead even without all the data. Leaders must lead from the front.
Global Value Creation: Payoneer helps small businesses participate in the global economy, acting as a "superconductor" for ambition.
The Power of Community: Healthy companies are built by people who take their mission personally. Strong cultures are intentional and high-performing.
Failure Is a Muscle: John believes in taking more shots. Fail fast, learn faster, and keep creating.
Real Leadership: Stop chasing incrementalism. Build teams of people with courage, values, and relentless curiosity.
Notable Quotables:
"Most companies fail because they’re too soon, not because their idea was wrong."
"Entrepreneurship is how I channel my creativity."
"Complacency is the enemy of success. Charge ahead."
"Brilliance is evenly distributed. Opportunity isn’t."
"You can fail professionally but still succeed as a human."
Resources Mentioned:
John Caplan: CEO of Payoneer
Company: https://www.payoneer.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johncaplan/
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