Startup School Radio Episode 48: Remix's Sam Hashemi, Le Tote's Brett Northart and Rakesh Tondon - Startup School Radio Recap

Podcast: Startup School Radio

Published: 2016-06-18

Duration: 54 min

Summary

In this episode, Kat Mignolet interviews Sam Hashemi, CEO of Remix, about transforming public transit through innovative software, as well as insights from the co-founders of Le Tote on their fashion rental service. The discussion highlights the intersection of technology and government efficiency.

What Happened

The episode kicks off with host Kat Mignolet welcoming Sam Hashemi, co-founder and CEO of Remix, who shares his unique journey from NASA to starting his own company. Sam emphasizes his passion for government work and the impact that modern technology can have on public services. He recounts how his experience redesigning systems for the International Space Station and other NASA projects opened his eyes to the transformative potential of design in government. This realization ultimately led him to explore opportunities in public transit, where outdated tools were still prevalent.

Sam explains that while many might perceive government as slow-moving, he found that showcasing innovative solutions can quickly break down bureaucratic barriers. His side project, which began as a simple mapping tool for urban planners, gained unexpected traction after receiving enthusiastic feedback from transit planners across the U.S. This response prompted Sam and his co-founders to officially launch Remix, focusing on providing much-needed technological upgrades to public transit agencies. The narrative highlights the team's evolution from designers and engineers to entrepreneurs navigating the complexities of government sales, ultimately learning the importance of sales in achieving their goals.

Key Insights

Key Questions Answered

What led Sam Hashemi to transition from NASA to Remix?

Sam Hashemi's journey from NASA to founding Remix was driven by his passion for government and the realization of the significant impact modern design could have. His experience at NASA, where he worked on redesigning systems for astronauts and scientists, made him aware of how strategic design could enhance performance and efficiency. He saw similar opportunities within government services, particularly in public transit, which prompted his move to create a solution that could modernize outdated tools.

How did Remix start as a side project?

The inception of Remix began as a small side project aimed at helping urban planners who were struggling with outdated methods, such as using paper maps for transit planning. Sam and his team initially created a simple online tool for sketching bus routes. The tool gained traction when transit planners responded positively, leading to a flood of requests for features, which indicated a clear demand for their solution and ultimately convinced them to pursue it as a business.

What challenges did the Remix team face in learning about government sales?

Sam Hashemi and his co-founders initially had no experience in sales, particularly in navigating the complexities of selling to government entities. They found the word 'sales' intimidating and felt unprepared for that aspect of running a business. However, through their experience in Y Combinator and by engaging with potential customers, they learned the importance of understanding sales processes and developed strategies to effectively communicate their product's value to government clients.

What is the significance of the side project approach in startups?

Sam's experience highlights the significance of starting with a side project, especially when exploring new business ideas. The initial feedback and engagement from users can provide critical insights into market needs and validate the concept. For Remix, this approach allowed Sam and his co-founders to test their ideas rapidly and pivot based on real-world interactions, ultimately guiding them toward a successful launch.

How does Remix aim to improve public transit systems?

Remix aims to improve public transit systems by providing modern software solutions that enhance the planning and operational aspects of transit agencies. By replacing outdated tools with intuitive digital platforms, they empower urban planners to visualize transit routes and make data-driven decisions. This transformation not only increases efficiency but also enhances the overall experience for both planners and the public, demonstrating the potential of technology in public services.