Grant Shonkwiler is a leadership coach, game developer, and author dedicated to building great leaders who, in turn, create high-performing, happy teams. With a strong background in the gaming industry, Grant now focuses on transforming leadership standards to empower individuals and teams to thrive in their creative endeavors.
Could you describe your initiative/startup’s purpose and vision and how it benefits its target audience?
Great leaders = happy game creators, happy creators make great games.
Our mission is to improve the standard of leadership in the game industry by empowering great leaders.
As far as entrepreneurship is concerned, your journey is quite inspiring. What are some of your most significant accomplishments and how did you achieve them?
I had some significant accomplishments before starting my own business; those were mostly launching successful games. Now my greatest accomplishments are making great leaders, and watching their teams be successful and happy. I’ve been able to help dozens of teams ship games at the highest quality, by helping their leaders.
Being a entrepreneur, what kind of response have you received from your users/consumers? (You can also talk about your recognitions/awards here)
I have had an overwhelmingly positive response from those I coach and their teams. Most people say things like, “I wish I had this years ago,” and “Without a doubt you’ve made my leadership journey easier and more exciting.”
In what ways has your life changed since you began your entrepreneurial journey?
I have a lot more freedom over my life and schedule. I went from working 50+ hours a week for someone else, to working less than 40 hours a week for myself.
Do you have anyone who is the biggest support system in your life? Please let us know.
My wife is my biggest supporter. She has encouraged me throughout my entire entrepreneurial journey. She is also a great leader in her own right, responsible for large projects with bigger teams than I’ve ever worked with. I learn from her and get support from her.
What key pieces of advice/insights would you offer to aspiring entrepreneurs?
Find the thing that the world needs that you are passionate about providing. Do that first, then figure out how to make money off of it. Find someone who supports you—a partner works, but a mentor is key—someone who will tell you, “You need to keep going!” or “You need to shut it down.”
Do you think ‘GENDER’ affects entrepreneurship? Your views
Yes and no. I think anyone can be a successful entrepreneur; there are challenges no matter who you are. I do know that there are more challenges for women who are founders than men, so seeking more community and support is essential. The most important thing is that you have a vision, you have a plan, you have allies, and you do the work.
Share your Website and Social Media Handles.
https://www.shonkventures.com/
