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Interview with Alex Klein, Co-Founder of Ubindi

Published

1 year ago

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Interview with Alex Klein, Co-Founder of Ubindi

Alex Klein is a serial entrepreneur and globe trotter who’s founded multiple companies in several countries. From tiny lifestyle bootstrapped businesses to Silicon Valley funded startups and multi-million Dollar alternative energy projects. Currently, he is the co-founder at Ubindi — “Simple software for teachers”.

Where did the idea for Ubindi come from?

I was co-founder in a previous company, YogaTrail. That’s the largest yoga portal on the internet, and it became very bloated, trying to serve everyone in the yoga world (students, teachers, studios, teacher training programs, retreats, yoga brands) in all possible ways. As a result of trying to do everything for everyone, it did nothing spectacularly well. We also saw that most independent teachers out there struggle with the admin and business side of their teaching business, that there weren’t any good tools for them (most products are much too complicated and expensive). So we decided to build something new: simple software for independent teachers. And not just yoga teachers, Ubindi works for any kind of “Teacherpreneur”. Immediately upon launching, we saw we were on to something great, Ubindi is now enthusiastically being used by thousands of teachers in dozens of countries.

What does your typical day look like and how do you make it productive?

We work from home (my co-founder is also my wife), so it’s very relaxed. Wake up and make coffee, wake up the others (we have two dogs) and talk about life and the day coming at us. Then answer the customer support requests and check some of the company vitals (KPIs). Then I’m ready to get started being productive, usually around 8:00am.

My wife and I work in the same living room but throughout much of the day we put on headphones, listen to music and focus on whatever task or project we’re working on. For me, the key to being productive is to work on the important or difficult thing first thing in the morning or as early as possible, while ignoring everything else (cutting out distractions such as emails coming in, news headlines, social media, etc).

After getting the “important thing for the day” done, we plan out what the next important things might be for the following day, then get into not so important chores or tasks at a leisurely pace. By 4pm we’re mentally exhausted, so we pretty much stop working. Every afternoon or early evening we go on walks (minimum 90 minutes) in nature with the dogs where any work related discussion or topic of conversation is not allowed. This works wonders to clear the head and keep from burnout or high anxiety levels, even if there are fires to put out of stressful things happening with the company.

How do you bring ideas to life?

When there’s a feature we might add to our platform, or a new marketing strategy to get into, or any new kind of idea to pursue: first thing is to decide if it’s a good idea or not – even if it may be fun to pursue, I try to gauge the potential of the idea, the work that would be required to bring it to life, the “return on investment”. If it’s not a GREAT idea according to these considerations, I will forget it BEFORE investing a lot of time or money into it. Over the years, I have become very good at saying “no”, to others who come to me with ideas but also to myself when an idea pops up in my own mind. Being able to say “no” is one of the most important and useful powers an entrepreneur can have – it enables focus and making good progress on the important stuff, while avoiding “run after shiny new objects” syndrome.

But once I’ve decided that an idea is worth pursuing and bringing to life, I first make a plan (basically a to-do list) and lay out the tasks to be done in smaller and smaller increments. Then it’s just going down the list, executing one step at a time.

What’s one trend that excites you?

Crypto currencies. I’m seeing very dark days ahead as regards the economy, inflation, taxation, surveillance and censorship, government-run digital currencies,… and I believe that crypto currencies could be the way for people to remain free (by making them independent of banks, allowing them to be entrepreneurial, enabling them to store & preserve wealth, etc.). We have plans for Ubindi to facilitate crypto payments between students and teachers as soon as we see mass-adoption by the ordinary, non-tech savvy person.

What is one habit of yours that makes you more productive as an entrepreneur?

Waking up early and using my morning energy to work on the important things before anything else. Everyone is different, but for me it’s the case that I wake up feeling sharp, refreshed, energetic. And as the day goes on, I become more sluggish, tired, and less productive. So I’ve learned to do the important and demanding things during the time where I’m very productive. Someone else might have different times during the day when they are more “in the zone” – I think it’s a good idea to work during those times, and not others. Working when you’re not “in the zone” usually means just wasting time and not getting things done.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Think about starting your own business, and think about capitalism not as an evil system that’s designed to just keep the little guy down, but as a brilliant meritocracy which offers you the very best path to freedom. “Freedom” being defined as being able to do what you want, when you want. I was already 40 years old before I started my first business, and for me that was a complete game changer as regards my outlook on life. I do wish I had become an entrepreneur much sooner!

Tell us something that’s true that almost nobody agrees with you on.

One of the most effective ways to get someone to achieve something great is to make it difficult for them.

It’s a paradox… but in my own life the nay-sayers and obstacles served only to harden my determination, to become inspired to prove them wrong or to overcome the obstacles.

As an entrepreneur, what is the one thing you do over and over and recommend everyone else do?

Say “no” to things that aren’t seriously GREAT propositions or precisely in line with what your current plans or goals are.

Just because one user says “please build this feature” – don’t do it, unless you’re sure that most of your other users or customers are also needing that feature. When a potential partner approaches with an idea that would change your direction or lead to a slowdown of your progress on your current trajectory, just say “no”.

There are only so many things we can do in the small amount of time we have (in a day, during the week, or in our life). It’s important to stay focussed only on the most important things and say “no” to everything else. I actually find myself saying “no” to people and things several times a day.

What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business?

The overall strategy that we pursue is to “provide value to our customers”, above all. This means to always think about everything from their perspective. Imagining we are them when we design features for our application, asking ourselves “what’s in it for them” when we write blog articles or create any other content, and always responding to support requests immediately. Helping users in any and all ways possible, even if it means that sometimes we recommend they go to a competitor.

This strategy pays off in many, many ways (builds trust, makes people stick with our product even if there are better ones, makes them recommend Ubindi to others, and generally lets us have great conversations where we can discover what customers really want or need).

What is one failure you had as an entrepreneur, and how did you overcome it?

One big failure I experienced was when our lead developer had made himself “indispensable”, not communicating with others on the team and creating things and writing code that only he could understand and/or fix or modify. And then this person quit, from one day to the next. At the time it seemed like a “game over” devastating kind of a problem… but we quickly found other people to replace him, and they were a pleasure to work with. Lesson learned: never let an employee become “indispensable”.

What is one business idea that you’re willing to give away to our readers?

Coming from the world of software, one business idea I’ve been thinking about (but won’t do because I’m good at saying “no” to distractions) is a “find my dog” web application for dog owners to register their pets, with pictures. The users could be alerted when a dog goes missing in their neighborhood to keep an eye out for the dog who got lost. Could be free for everyone, but the platform could charge money for people who want to spend money on ads (on Facebook and other places) to serve “lost dog” posters to anybody living near the lost dog location. Just an idea… to succeed, it would require a critical mass in one city or area and then expand from there.

What is the best $100 you recently spent? What and why?

I joined a “Mastermind” group with MicroConf (a networking community for SaaS entrepreneurs), it cost over $100 to do so. But it’s been well worth the investment, having a group of 4 other entrepreneurs to talk to once a week, share tips and ideas, get advice, be accountable a bit… and just having a place to connect with people who are grappling with similar things as entrepreneurs is really great.

What is one piece of software or a web service that helps you be productive?

Our company uses ClickUp for project planning, and it’s very powerful and intuitive… so I use it for personal note taking and “project management” just for myself, too. ClickUp is free unless you want special features and unlimited storage.

What is the one book that you recommend our community should read and why?

Nothing to do with entrepreneurship, but 1984 is a must. Seems to be a blueprint for certain powerful actors and governments nowadays.

What is your favorite quote?

“This too shall pass” – originally found in the Bible but actually Abraham Lincoln’s favorite saying, one he once said was applicable in any and every situation one could encounter. I like this quote because it applies not only to problems and bad times (where it has a calming and hopeful effect when thinking about it), but also to good times where it can be important to realize that whatever great thing is going on, it’s temporary and most probably not the end-all be-all solution to everything. Helps me keep perspective.

Key Learnings:

  • The best time to work is different for everyone, but it’s usually at a particular time of day. Use that time to tackle the most important things on your schedule.
  • Learn to say “no” – say “no” to any- and everything that is not in line with your intended trajectory. It’s the only way to keep focussed.
  • “This too shall pass”: no matter how terrible or how great a situation seems to be, it’s good to keep perspective and keep in mind that everything is temporary.
Originally published on IdeaMensch.
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Exclusive Interview with The NET ZERO ENERGY Buildings Expert Anastasia Makarska: Shaping a Greener Future

Published

4 months ago

on

June 3, 2023

By

Anastasia Makarska

Welcome to an exclusive interview with Anastasia Makarska, a renowned figure in the world of commercial real estate development. Anastasia’s resolute commitment to sustainability and her unique background in physics and engineering have revolutionized the real estate landscape, transforming spaces into sustainable and coveted marvels. 

In this interview, we delve into the concept of Net Zero Energy Buildings (NZEB) and the challenges associated with building codes for NZEB. Join us as we explore the visionary force behind Anastasia’s remarkable projects and her dedication to shaping a greener future.

Anastasia, thank you for joining us today. Let’s start by discussing the concept of Net Zero Energy Buildings. Could you explain to our audience what exactly is meant by a Net Zero Energy Building (NZEB)?

Anastasia: Certainly. A Net Zero Energy Building, or NZEB, is an approach to construction that focuses on creating energy-efficient buildings that are connected to the power grid while also generating renewable energy to offset their energy consumption. The aim is to achieve a balance where the amount of renewable energy produced either on-site or nearby matches or exceeds the building’s annual energy needs, resulting in virtually no net energy consumption.

That’s fascinating. It’s clear that NZEBs hold tremendous potential in terms of sustainability. How are developers and building owners embracing this concept, and what are some innovative features we can find in NZEBs?

Anastasia: Developers and building owners are increasingly interested in constructing zero energy buildings, driven by corporate objectives and regulatory requirements. The building and design community is actively embracing this challenge and leading the way with innovative and forward-thinking projects.

NZEBs incorporate a wide range of energy-efficient strategies, from simple to highly intricate. These include maximizing the utilization of passive solar heat gain and shading, integrating high-efficiency heating and cooling systems, appliances, windows, and doors, enhancing insulation, natural ventilation, air sealing, and incorporating advanced renewable energy solutions like solar photovoltaics and geothermal energy systems. 

The goal is to create buildings that regulate temperature fluctuations, minimize energy consumption, and reduce environmental impact.

It’s impressive how NZEBs combine various technologies and strategies to achieve sustainability. Now, let’s delve into building codes. What role do building codes play in the construction of NZEBs, and what codes and standards exist for this purpose?

Anastasia: Building codes play a crucial role in guiding the construction of net zero energy buildings. Currently, there are codes and standards in place to assist designers, architects, builders, and contractors in creating more energy-efficient and sustainable structures compared to previous years.

In the United States, professionals in the building industry can refer to the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), which has been adopted in approximately 44 states and territories. Across North America, ASHRAE 90.1 provides significant guidance, and the International Green Construction Code (IgCC) serves as another valuable resource. In Canada, there are the National Energy Code of Canada (NECC) and the National Energy Code for Buildings (NECB).

That’s helpful to know. Given the increasing need for more rigorous energy and building codes, what are some of the challenges faced in developing codes specifically tailored for NZEBs?

Anastasia: The development of codes specifically tailored for NZEBs faces several challenges. As industry professionals and officials work on designing new codes to facilitate the transition to net zero energy, there is still no consensus on the structure of the code, its comprehensive scope, and ensuring that buildings achieve net zero energy status throughout their lifecycle.

To ensure buildings perform as intended, it is essential to establish post-construction reporting, analysis, and a framework for oversight and enforcement. 

Current codes and standards often rely on energy proxies without a requirement for actual quantification of energy usage. There are also gaps in the inclusion of certain types of energy usage in calculations. 

To achieve the goal of net zero energy buildings, methodologies need to evolve, modeling capabilities should be enhanced, and real-world outcomes must be measured.

Overcoming those challenges will be crucial for the success of NZEBs. Could you tell us about the advantages that net zero energy buildings offer to building owners, occupants, and the environment?

Anastasia: Absolutely. Net zero energy buildings provide several advantages. Buildings account for a significant portion of fossil fuel energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. By increasing the number of net zero energy buildings, we can reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and effectively lower carbon emissions.

Some key advantages of NZEBs include protection for building owners against future energy price hikes, enhanced occupant comfort, health, well-being, and productivity, reduction in energy consumption and associated costs, improved reliability of energy supply, increased resale value due to high demand for net zero buildings, contribution towards achieving zero energy targets, and minimized environmental impact. These advantages create value for building owners, occupants, and the planet.

Those advantages make a compelling case for embracing net zero energy buildings. As a visionary force in real estate development, how do you see the future of NZEBs and their potential impact on communities and the environment?

Anastasia: I believe the future of net zero energy buildings is incredibly promising. As awareness of the need for sustainability grows, NZEBs will become the norm rather than the exception. They have the potential to reshape communities and serve as catalysts for positive change.

Net zero energy buildings can create vibrant, sustainable communities that prioritize the well-being of both residents and businesses. By reducing energy consumption, minimizing environmental impact, and offering enhanced comfort and productivity, NZEBs have a transformative effect on the communities they serve. They not only contribute to the preservation of our planet but also provide value for investors, businesses, and communities alike.

Thank you for sharing your insights, Anastasia. Before we conclude, could you tell our audience about any upcoming projects or initiatives that you’re particularly excited about in the realm of net zero energy buildings?

Anastasia: Certainly. I’m thrilled to be working on a groundbreaking project that aims to create a net zero energy residential community. This community will embody the principles of sustainable living and showcase the potential of NZEBs on a larger scale. It will integrate cutting-edge technologies, energy-efficient systems, and sustainable materials to provide residents with an exceptional living experience while minimizing the community’s environmental footprint. I believe this project will serve as a blueprint for future developments and inspire others to embrace the vision of net zero energy living.

Conclusion

As we conclude this insightful interview with Anastasia Makarska, it is evident that she is a visionary force transforming the real estate industry through sustainable development. Anastasia’s dedication to creating sustainable and desirable spaces, her commitment to excellence, and her unwavering belief in the power of net zero energy buildings have positioned her as a leading authority in commercial real estate.

Through her innovative projects and expertise, Anastasia is shaping the world we live in, one groundbreaking project at a time. Her visionary approach, fueled by her unique background in physics and engineering, has redefined the boundaries of commercial real estate development and paved the way for a greener and more sustainable future.

Witness the remarkable journey of Anastasia Makarska as she continues to revolutionize the real estate landscape and leave an indelible mark on the communities she transforms into sustainable and coveted marvels.

If you would like to get in touch with Anastasia Makarska you can contact here

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From a Small AC Repair Company to a Household Name in Austin TX

Published

5 months ago

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May 18, 2023

By

AC Repair Austin

The Success Story of Grande Air Solutions

What makes a successful company?

Well, while there is no one secret alone that can make you a success in the business world, the story of determined employees and aspiring entrepreneurs shed light on what makes a business thrive. Grande Air Solutions was established in 2011 by young, honest entrepreneurs Isael Garcia and Petra Lugo. They are both described as honest entrepreneurs ready to take on any challenge, which is what drove them to make this company a success. You’ll be able to find Isael and Petra engaging regularly with their customers and employees. As both will tell you, honesty is the first and foremost important feature to have in a company. Customers look for honesty in an AC repair Austin team when they’re looking to spend their money on a service. Whether the customer needs a new HVAC system or AC repair, they want to make sure that they’re getting their money’s worth.

Grande Air Solutions | Best Austin Heating And Air Company

Reliable and Affordability Make a Difference

Another key aspect that can take an HVAC company from a small-sized business to a household name is reliability. It can be a distressing situation when the AC breaks down in the middle of a hot summer day. The homeowner does not want to wait for hours on end waiting for the technician to arrive at their home. An HVAC company like Grande Air Solutions that is known for reliability will always be there for their customers, especially if it’s an HVAC emergency. Along with reliability, affordable prices are other factors that can make any company a success if it’s done right. This is where Grande Air Solutions shines as well. They offer their services along with affordable prices for all customers.

Building a Solid Reputation

How do you stand out from the rest of the competition?

It can be difficult to achieve a level of uniqueness among your competitors. However, this is where this company has also succeeded when it comes to Austin heating and air services. Building a solid reputation for years has propelled Grande Air Solutions from a small AC repair company to the well-known, trusted name it is today within the Austin area. The company has been able to deliver high-quality service to its customers, which has resulted in returning customers. This is also known as customer loyalty. The business has many five-star reviews, which potential customers look for in an HVAC company. Isael and Petra envisioned a company that carries the type of professionalism and friendly service that has exceeded the expectations of many of the company’s customers. In a nutshell, the entire team of employees are the ones who have helped build a respectable reputation for Grande Air Solutions.

Trusted and Trained Technicians

A company is only as good as its members. Another reason why this HVAC company has excelled in every aspect of the business is the team. The company’s technicians are well-trained and experienced in the HVAC field. When the technician arrives to fix or install the HVAC system, the customer knows exactly what they’ll be getting. The homeowner will always get quality service because it’s the results that speak volumes. Grande Air Solutions hires technicians who are experienced in the field and properly trained. Having the proper credentials also essential for any successful HVAC company to have, such as certifications and proper licensing. 

Connecting With the Community

Starting from a small, humble HVAC company, Grande Air Solutions has been able to grow significantly thanks to the help of people. As a family-owned business, the company also knows the importance of closeness in the community. The company has been able to give back as much as they’ve received from their local communities. In fact, the company strives to give much more. By collaborating with local charitable organizations, they are able to offer the basic necessities of life, much-needed monetary donations, help for nonprofit organizations, and other support. Being a household name among the people holds a responsibility to provide a role model as a reliable HVAC company in all aspects, including helping the community. 

Expanding Service Areas

Although it may be difficult to expand services in the beginning as a smaller business, one of the reasons the company has been able to grow is because of its determination to expand. Now, Grande Air Solutions is proud to offer Austin heating and air services throughout more of the areas. The company has been able to offer services in Buda, Cedar Park, Georgetown, Kyle, and more, just to mention a few. All of these cities are located in Texas. Investing time and money in their employees is one reason why the company has become a household name in Austin. As the team grows, more service areas are sure to open in the future.  

Offering a Wide Range of HVAC Services

Knowing about the HVAC basics is important. However, this company has been able to expand and grow because its technicians are always learning something new in the field. As technology advances, the area of HVAC also continues to improve. This can include learning about smart thermostats, the new A2L refrigerants, and the new UV light purifiers. Whatever the case may be, the company has continued its success by offering new and improved HVAC services. The wide range of alternatives gives customers the power to choose what they want for their home.

Continuing the Success Without Letup

It can be discouraging and even disheartening when the challenge of a business gets you down. However, the key is to keep on going. Just like this company has shown continuous effort to succeed, it is vital for a business to keep on going without letup. Any business is likely to face ups and downs as they continue to expand. The important thing to keep in mind is that you are doing everything for the customer. Grande Air Solutions is an excellent example of a company that has put its customers first. It is their top priority to deliver quality AC repair, installations, and other HVAC services. Rest assured that the future looks bright for the company as it holds a special place for the residents of Austin, Texas, and nearby communities. 

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An Inside Look at One & Only Electrical Service Inc. with CEO Moshe Sabag

Published

5 months ago

on

May 7, 2023

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An Inside Look at One & Only Electrical Service Inc. with CEO Moshe Sabag

With thousands of electrical problems solved and many years of experience, they’ve become a reliable and experienced choice for those in need of electrical solutions. In this interview, we’ll be speaking with Moshe Sabag, the CEO of One & Only Electrical Service Inc. We’ll explore the ins and outs of the electrical industry, the company’s commitment to quality service, and their approach to customer satisfaction. So, let’s dive into the world of electrical services with Moshe Sabag.

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and your role in One & Only Electrical Service Inc.?

Moshe Sabag: My name is Moshe Sabag and I am the CEO of One & Only Electrical Service Inc. I have been in the electrical business for over a decade and have gained extensive experience and knowledge in the field. As the CEO, my role is to oversee the company’s operations and ensure that we provide top-notch service to our clients.

What inspired you to start One & Only Electrical Service Inc.?

Moshe Sabag: My passion for the electrical industry inspired me to start One & Only Electrical Service Inc. I saw a need for a reliable and affordable electrical contractor company in the Tri-Valley area and wanted to provide that service to the community.

What sets One & Only Electrical Service Inc. apart from other electrical contractors in the area?

Moshe Sabag: One & Only Electrical Service Inc. stands out from other electrical contractors in the area because of our commitment to providing exceptional service to our clients. We take pride in being the best local electrician for our clients.  We are licensed and insured, and our electricians are highly trained and experienced. We also offer a wide range of services, including EV charging station installation, smart switches ( Lutron, Brilliant, Leviton, Noon) installation, and all house rewire.

Can you tell us more about the EV charging station installation service you offer?

Moshe Sabag: We specialize in EV charging station installation and can install a charging station for any electric vehicle, including Tesla (car charger tesla ) and BMW. We also offer a range of electrical services, including recessed light installation,led light, electrical panel upgrades, and wiring repairs. We will assess your home or business and recommend the best charging station for your needs. Our electricians will install the charging station safely and efficiently, ensuring that it is up to code and functioning properly.

What is your approach to customer service?

Moshe Sabag: At One & Only Electrical Service Inc., we prioritize customer satisfaction above all else. We offer same-day service and are available 24/7 for emergencies. Our friendly and dedicated customer service representatives are always ready to answer any questions or concerns you may have.

Can you share a success story from One & Only Electrical Service Inc.?

Moshe Sabag: We recently installed an EV charging station for a client who had just purchased a Tesla. They were thrilled with our service and professionalism, and have since recommended us to several of their friends and colleagues. It’s always rewarding to know that we’ve provided a valuable service to our clients and exceeded their expectations.

What kind of training and certifications do your electricians have?

Moshe Sabag: Our electricians are highly trained and experienced, and we make sure they are up-to-date with the latest technology and techniques in the industry. They are all licensed and insured, and have undergone extensive training and certification programs to ensure they are able to provide the highest quality service to our clients.

As a Bay Area electrician, what are some of the unique challenges you face when providing electrical services to your clients?

Moshe Sabag: “Being a Bay Area electrician, we face a range of challenges when providing electrical services to our clients. One of the biggest challenges is keeping up with the latest technological advancements in the field, as the Bay Area is known for its innovative and tech-driven culture.

What do you see as the future of the electrical industry?

Moshe Sabag: The electrical industry is constantly evolving, with new technology and advancements in renewable energy. As the demand for renewable energy sources increases, we will likely see a shift towards more sustainable and environmentally-friendly solutions. We also expect to see continued growth in the EV charging station industry, as more people switch to electric vehicles.

What are some of the biggest challenges facing the electrical industry today?

Moshe Sabag: One of the biggest challenges facing the electrical industry today is the shortage of skilled labor. As the demand for electrical services continues to grow, there is a need for more qualified electricians to meet that demand. Another challenge is keeping up with the latest technology and advancements in the industry, which requires ongoing education and training.

What advice would you give to someone looking for a reliable electrician?

Moshe Sabag: When looking for a reliable electrician, it’s important to do your research and choose a licensed and insured electrical company. Look for reviews and testimonials from previous clients, and ask for references. It’s also important to choose a company that offers a wide range of services, so that they can address all of your electrical needs.

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