Listen to our Latest Better Learning Podcast EPISODE 302: Designing Schools for Students with Sarah Dirsa

EPISODE 186: Creating a Culture of Generosity and Giving

July 10, 2024

Mike Beckham's story begins in the nonprofit sector, where he developed a deep understanding of mission-driven work. Transitioning to the business world, he founded Simple Modern in 2015, a company now known for its premium drinkware and lifestyle products. Beckham emphasizes that at the core of entrepreneurship lies a desire to solve problems and bring new ideas to life. He believes that entrepreneurship is a form of creativity, where individuals get paid to solve problems and create something valuable.

Overview:

A key takeaway from Beckham’s journey is the significance of a growth mindset. He shares that successful entrepreneurs are experimenters who love learning and decoding what people want. This mindset, combined with the ability to understand where to apply new knowledge, is crucial for entrepreneurial success.

Beckham stresses the importance of having a clear mission and purpose from the outset. Simple Modern’s commitment to generosity, donating at least 10% of annual profits to nonprofit organizations, is a testament to this principle. He believes that building a company without knowing its mission and purpose is like trying to drive a car without knowing where you’re going.

Mike Beckham’s story is a powerful example of how a clear mission, a growth mindset, and a commitment to values can drive entrepreneurial success. His journey offers valuable lessons for anyone looking to make a difference through entrepreneurship. Tune in to the Better Learning Podcast to hear more about his inspiring journey and insights.

Meet Our Guest:

Meet Mike Beckham:
Follow on Mike Beckham on Social Media:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikebeckhamsm/
Twitter: https://x.com/mikebeckhamsm
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikebeckham/
Website: https://www.mikebeckhamblog.com/

Sound Bites to Ponder:

“Entrepreneurs are first and foremost, they’re kind of experimenters that love learning and love kind of decoding what’s going on and what people want and how to serve people.”

“Entrepreneurship is getting paid to solve problems.”

“It usually starts with survival first and then we find our way.”

“Having the desire to learn and the willingness to grow plus the judgment of understanding where to apply that, that’s what gets you where you want to be.”

“Building a company when you don’t know the mission and the purpose is like building a car while you’re trying to drive it without knowing where you’re trying to drive.”

Takeaways:

  • Entrepreneurship is driven by a belief in a vision and a desire to solve problems.
    Having a growth mindset and a love for learning are key traits of successful entrepreneurs.
  • Entrepreneurship is a form of creativity, where individuals create something new and bring it to the world.
  • A company can prioritize both values and purpose, creating a unique culture and giving back to the community.
  • Entrepreneurs often combine different skills and experiences to find innovative solutions. Start with a clear mission and purpose in entrepreneurship.
  • Embrace a growth mindset and be willing to learn and grow.
  • Build relationships and have a clear vision before starting a business.
  • Transform and adapt your business model when faced with challenges.
  • Create a culture of generosity and giving in organizations.

The Host:

While students may only be 20%-25% of our population today, they are 100% of our future. That is why education is one of the most important investments a country can make and the sole purpose for the existence of the Better Learning Podcast.

The Better Learning Podcast brings on valued guests that talk about ways we can improve education for our kids. Because after all, they are 100% of our future!

Kevin Stoller:
Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

Kay-Twelve
LinkedIn Profile
Twitter Profile

If you are interested in being on the show or know someone who would be a great guest, please visit the Better Learning Podcast website.

Our Partners:

Who made this episode possible?
Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) – https://www.a4le.org/
Education Leaders’ Organization – https://www.ed-leaders.org/
Second Class Foundation – https://secondclassfoundation.org/

Be a Guest on the Better Learning Podcast!

Are you rethinking what learning environments can be? We are always looking for thoughtful school leaders, designers, and educators to join the Better Learning Podcast and share real stories from the field.

As a guest, you will take part in meaningful conversations about student centered design, planning, and collaboration and how these ideas show up in real schools. We explore what is working, what is evolving, and what educators can do today to create learning spaces that truly support students and teachers.

If you are passionate about improving learning environments and have insights, experiences, or lessons to share, we would love to have you on the podcast.

Better Learning Podcast Request Form

"*" indicates required fields

Step 1 of 2

Name*

About the podcast

The Better Learning Podcast explores the ideas, strategies, and stories shaping today’s learning environments. Host Kevin Stoller sits down with school leaders, designers, and educators to uncover how thoughtful design, planning, and collaboration can transform schools into spaces that truly put students first.

Through in-depth conversations, the podcast highlights how Radically Student Centered™ approaches can make a tangible difference in schools, inspiring educators, administrators, designers, and anyone passionate about the future of learning.