‘Be a heat-seeking missile’

Sometimes the world works in mysterious ways. It throws us curveballs, setbacks and even unexpected tragedies. How we respond to those challenges is one of the best predictors of success, says Mike Maher, Philadelphia entrepreneur and founder of Benjamin’s Desk co-working space in Center City.

The 34-year-old CEO and professional risk-taker took time out of his busy schedule to meet with students from IHHE at the dynamic Pennovation Center in Gray’s Ferry. He shared deeply personal stories about losing one brother to drug addiction and another to prison after a fatal drunken driving accident. Maher was able to overcome these obstacles and more by turning to his faith and being resourceful.

“Be a heat-seeking missile,” he told the group. “Develop a high tolerance for uncertainty.”

Maher also preached radical transparency – the idea of keeping your partners, stakeholders and investors apprised of what you’re doing and why every step of the way. This creates a level of trust that is crucial to building a business. Take Curalate for example. The tech startup, which has offices in Benjamin’s Desk, reached a lucrative deal with investors when first taking off. But their initial concept – an Airbnb for storage – failed to garner any traction. The founders were about to give up when their investors told them to keep the money and come up with a better idea. So they went back to the drawing board and drafted the plan for the current multimillion company.

“Always have a plan, but don’t fall in love with your plan,” Maher said. “Learn how to make quick decisions with limited information.

Maher’s personal journey to success was mired by countless problems, including taking out risky loans and teaming up with the wrong people. Finding the right fit is another key to building a long-lasting and successful business, he said. Whether it comes to finding a job, applying to college or creating your own business, finding the right group of people at the right time and place will dictate the trajectory of your career.

“Be decisive,” he said. “Make bad decisions and then figure out how to make the right ones.”