At INNOVATION Insights…We transform our clients' career journeys through the art of storytelling via our consulting, coaching, and career management services.
Hosting Garry Johnson III, MBA, on the Innovation Insights Podcast was a transformative experience. As someone deeply passionate about the intersection of entrepreneurship, equity, and innovation, I was inspired by Garry’s journey and steadfast commitment to empowering others. Garry happened to appear on one of my social media feeds, and I was immediately intrigued. Earlier this year, we honored him as one of our Innovators of the Week. Our conversation underscored the profound impact one individual can have when they channel their talents toward uplifting an entire community.
Garry’s philosophy that every business venture is an experiment resonated deeply with me. He described entrepreneurship as a series of systematic tests, each offering opportunities to learn about oneself, one's passions, and the world. This perspective is pragmatic and empowering—it reframes setbacks as essential components of a more extensive journey. It is a mindset that every aspiring entrepreneur can adopt to stay resilient in the face of challenges.
A Multifaceted Innovator
Garry’s work spans industries, from his nonprofit, First Founders Inc., to his for-profit consultancy, Bison Venture Partners. Through First Founders, he has helped over 200 entrepreneurs secure over $500,000 in non-dilutive funding, making entrepreneurship accessible to underrepresented startup founders. His for-profit ventures extend that mission by collaborating with venture capital firms and angel investors to connect Black entrepreneurs with essential resources.
One aspect of Garry’s work that stood out was his emphasis on building financial models for the Black community. He articulated the importance of acknowledging the racial wealth gap and strategizing solutions rooted in ownership and investment. His approach—educating entrepreneurs, fostering community investment, and creating systems that generate equity—provides a tangible framework for addressing historical disparities.
Lessons in Serial Entrepreneurship
Garry's entrepreneurial journey was influenced by his mother, who exemplified resourcefulness and grit through her ventures. From helping with property cleanouts as a child to founding multiple businesses, Garry has embraced the idea that entrepreneurship does not have to fit a single mold. Instead, it can—and should—be expansive, creative, and tailored to one’s passions and skills.
His venture into coffee with Bison Venture Partners Coffee exemplifies this approach. Initially a personal experiment to explore e-commerce tools, it evolved into a meaningful business with a social impact component: donating a portion of proceeds to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Garry’s ability to turn a curiosity into a profitable and purpose-driven enterprise reminds us that innovation often arises from unexpected places.
The Role of Community and HBCUs
A key theme throughout our conversation was community. Garry emphasized the need for entrepreneurs to build ecosystems of support, ranging from mentors to advocates. His experiences at Prairie View A&M University’s pitch competition and his current work at Howard University illuminated HBCUs' vital role in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. These institutions are academic hubs and incubators for Black talent and creativity, often despite resource disparities.
His creation of Bison Venture Partners during his MBA journey at Howard is a testament to this spirit. By uniting like-minded individuals to invest in Black businesses and communities, Garry demonstrates the power of collective action. His work underscores the idea that we can achieve more significant impact together than individually.
Embracing Technology and Innovation
Another highlight of our discussion was Garry’s use of artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT to streamline processes and unlock new opportunities. He shared how AI helped him draft business plans, create content, and even win a pitch competition. However, he also acknowledged AI's limitations and ethical considerations, including biases in programming and environmental impacts.
His approach to technology is emblematic of his broader philosophy: use the tools available but remain intentional and critical about their application. This balance of pragmatism and reflection is essential for entrepreneurs navigating an increasingly tech-driven world.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
When asked about his advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, Garry responded profoundly: "Just get started." He encouraged listeners to embrace experimentation and take actionable steps, no matter how small. Whether it is building a basic website, crafting a prototype, or seeking feedback, the act of beginning is often the most significant hurdle.
As Garry explained, feedback is an invaluable gift. It allows entrepreneurs to refine their offerings, ensuring they meet real needs and create genuine value. His emphasis on iteration and responsiveness highlights the importance of staying connected to one's audience and remaining adaptable.
Defining Innovation
A pinnacle of the podcast was Garry’s definition of innovation: “The combination of seemingly disconnected things that create value for others.” This perspective encapsulates his approach to entrepreneurship—melding creativity, purpose, and practicality to drive meaningful change.
His book, The Ghetto VC, uses rap lyrics to teach venture capital concepts and is a perfect example of this principle. By intersecting cultural relevance with technical knowledge, Garry creates a unique educational resource that speaks directly to his community.
Moving Forward
Reflecting on this conversation, I am struck by Garry’s ability to balance ambition with a deep sense of responsibility. He does not view entrepreneurship as a solo pursuit but as a vehicle for collective empowerment. His work challenges us to think bigger—not just about our individual goals but about how we can create systems that uplift others.
Garry’s journey is far from over, and I am excited to see how he continues to innovate and inspire. For those who listened to this episode, I hope you are as motivated as I am to take action, support your community, and embrace the power of experimentation.
Let us all remember that entrepreneurship is not just about building businesses—it is about creating better futures.
Subscribe to INNOVATION Insights News
Download a Free Copy of "10 Tips to Tell Your Career Story"
Collaborations & Partnerships
Visit the INNOVATION Insights Store
Discover transformative seminars and workshops,
exclusive gift items, empowering gift cards, and free creative coloring pages.
Comments