Jim Mckelvey

Jim McKelvey, co-founder of Square and entrepreneur who helped build the mobile card reader that transformed small-business payments. He tells the story behind losing a $2,000 sale that sparked Square, the headphone-jack hack that bypassed Apple, breaking into a closed payments industry, and the candid pitch listing 140 reasons they might fail.

Jim McKelvey, entrepreneur, glassblower, and Square cofounder, shares the wild origin of Square and the idea born from one lost sale. He explains the Innovation Stack and why true innovation often comes from necessity. He recounts battling competitors, building mission-driven teams, the personal toll of startup life, and lessons from glassblowing and unexpected leadership.

Jim McKelvey, co-founder of Block Inc and a glassblower, shares insights from his journey in entrepreneurship and healthcare innovation. He discusses the crucial role of timing in business and decision-making, inspired by lessons from glassblowing. Jim offers a thoughtful perspective on wealth and frugality, maintaining a simple lifestyle despite his billionaire status. He delves into the intricacies of the Federal Reserve's decisions amid economic challenges and advocates for revolutionary changes to expedite drug trials, emphasizing safety and effectiveness in healthcare.

Jim McKelvey, co-founder of Square and author of "The Innovation Stack," discusses his entrepreneurial journey and the importance of innovation and resilience in business. He shares insights on customer loyalty shaped by chaos, using real-world examples from Starbucks and Delta. McKelvey also explores the concept of micropayments through his project Invisibly, empowering users in the digital economy. He reflects on his evolution from hands-on leadership to mentorship, emphasizing collaboration, and the need for fair compensation for creators in an evolving landscape.

Jim McKelvey, co-founder of Square, is a tech pioneer and author known for his innovative approach to business. In this engaging conversation, he reveals how Square not only thrived against Amazon but redefined digital payments. Jim delves into the concept of the 'innovation stack' and shares strategies for overcoming challenges and competition. He also explores the emotional complexities of entrepreneurship, addressing the balance of wealth and vulnerability. With insights on navigating the future of digital payments, his wisdom is a treasure for any aspiring innovator.