Episode 42 | Arvindh Sundar | Put The Player First

31st May 2023
1hr 24mins

Episode Description

In this conversation, Arvindh Sundar shares his journey from a career in IT to becoming an entrepreneur focused on applied game design workshops. He discusses the challenges of transitioning from a stable job to entrepreneurship, the impact of ADHD on his learning and working style, and his philosophy of 'Learn, Do, Make, Ship.' Arvindh emphasizes the importance of validating ideas through customer interactions and building in public to foster engagement and credibility. In this conversation, Arvindh Sundar shares his journey of self-discovery, particularly focusing on his ADHD diagnosis and how it has shaped his identity and approach to life and work. He discusses the importance of understanding one's strengths and weaknesses, the transformative power of empathy, and how he has gamified various aspects of his life to enhance productivity and motivation. The conversation also touches on the influence of gaming culture and e-sports, as well as the thought process behind making significant life changes, such as quitting a job. Arvindh emphasizes the potential of gamification as a tool for personal development and overcoming everyday challenges. In this conversation, Arvindh Sundar discusses the effectiveness of gamification in workshops, emphasizing the importance of real learning over mere engagement. He shares innovative marketing strategies he employs to boost attendance and engagement in his workshops, particularly in the online space. Arvindh reflects on his experiences with workshop failures and the lessons learned, including the significance of audience alignment and feedback. He also addresses the ethical challenges in the knowledge entrepreneurship space, advocating for integrity and genuine value in offerings.

Key Takeaways

  • Arvindh transitioned from IT to entrepreneurship due to varied interests.
  • ADHD has shaped Arvindh's approach to learning and business.
  • The philosophy of 'Learn, Do, Make, Ship' is crucial for entrepreneurs.
  • Validating ideas through customer feedback is essential.
  • Building in public helps in marketing without direct selling.
  • The customer is the hero in the business narrative.
  • Assumptions can trip up entrepreneurs; validation is key.
  • Arvindh emphasizes the importance of storytelling in marketing.
  • Creating value for customers leads to successful products.
  • Entrepreneurs should focus on minimizing risks while innovating. Knowing who you are makes a big difference in life.
  • Understanding your strengths allows you to design your life effectively.
  • ADHD can present unique challenges, but awareness is key.
  • Empathy plays a crucial role in personal and professional relationships.
  • Gamification can transform mundane tasks into engaging experiences.
  • The journey of self-discovery often involves trial and error.
  • Building a supportive community can enhance productivity.
  • Setting clear goals and rewards can motivate behavior change.
  • Life can be approached like a game, with levels and challenges.
  • Quitting a job can be a thoughtful process that respects relationships. Gamified workshops can overshadow real learning outcomes.
  • Effective workshop design requires understanding participant psychology.
  • Pre-workshop marketing can significantly boost attendance.
  • Engaging participants online is a major challenge.
  • Feedback loops are essential for improving workshop effectiveness.
  • Understanding audience demographics is crucial for workshop success.
  • Offering additional support post-workshop enhances participant experience.
  • Maintaining energy in online sessions requires creativity and adaptability.
  • Ethics in knowledge entrepreneurship is becoming increasingly important.
  • Creating value for participants should be the primary focus.

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Compiled by
Pooja Gajraj
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