In the inaugural episode of The Breakout CEO: Inside the Strategic Moves of Scaling CEOs, Jeff Holman speaks to the Founder and CEO at Startup Ignition Academy, John Richards. John shares his journey from academia to building and scaling businesses, including launching the first internet yellow pages and mentoring Utah’s top startups.

He discusses the importance of mentorship, pattern recognition, and the unique Utah startup culture. John also offers practical advice on lean startup methodology, choosing scalable business models, and building operational foundations before scaling.

Listeners are encouraged to nominate CEOs with compelling breakout journeys.

Check out John's work HERE.

Connect with John on LinkedIn HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.