Most founders obsess over growth. Very few think about what happens if it all ends.
In this episode, James Rose opens up about the most difficult transition of his career, going from founder and CEO to employee after a business collapse. We explore the emotional toll of losing control, the identity shock that follows, and how this experience fundamentally changed how James now builds companies.
If you’re scaling, struggling, or quietly worried about what failure might mean for you personally, this conversation is a must-watch.
👉 Watch the full episode to hear how James rebuilt from the lowest point of his career.
Here’s what you’re in for:
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:17 James Rose’s First Business Venture
02:07 The Impact of the Global Financial Crisis
04:09 Transitioning From Founder to Employee
11:21 Re-entering Entrepreneurship Through M&A
15:29 Market Trends and Acquisition Strategies
29:58 Advice for Founders on Valuation and Exits
36:35 Where to Learn More About James
ABOUT James Rose
James Rose is an entrepreneur, operator, and investor with experience building, losing, and rebuilding companies. After scaling a business to millions in revenue and experiencing a painful boom-and-bust cycle, James transitioned from CEO to employee, a humbling shift that reshaped his leadership philosophy.
Today, he is the CEO and founder of Inflective Group, where he applies those lessons to building resilient, scalable businesses.
Connect with James on LinkedIn
Check out Inflectiv Group
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