In this episode, host Taylor Baker speaks with Rick Kroon, a serial entrepreneur and CEO behind ventures including Airside Logistics, Epic Water, and Norma Jean’s Cheesecake. The conversation explores Rick’s entrepreneurial journey, the lessons he learned through setbacks and partnerships, and how he continues to build mission-driven businesses across multiple industries.
What You’ll Learn
- Why natural sales ability and relationship-building can be a powerful foundation for entrepreneurial success.
- How early career experiences in logistics and freight brokerage can develop the skills needed to launch and scale businesses.
- The importance of learning through trial and error when mentors or formal guidance are not available.
- Why choosing the right business partners is one of the most critical decisions an entrepreneur will make.
- How personal values and life experiences can shape the mission behind new ventures.
- What it takes to persist through regulatory, legal, and financial obstacles when building a company.
- How focusing your time and energy by eliminating distractions can accelerate progress toward major goals.
- Why mission-driven innovation such as reducing plastic waste and improving access to cleaner water can create both impact and business opportunity.
Rick Kroon’s story illustrates the resilience required to build meaningful businesses over time. From freight brokerage to launching a water company focused on sustainability and starting a family-inspired food brand, his journey highlights how persistence, adaptability, and purpose can guide entrepreneurs through setbacks toward long-term success.
To learn more about Rick Kroon and their work.