What Founders Can Learn From Failing in Public
Failure is an inevitable part of the entrepreneurial journey, yet it remains one of the most taboo topics in business circles. Entrepreneurs often present a polished exterior, showcasing only their successes while hiding the struggles that shape their paths. Clark Lagemann, Co-CEO of Avidon Health, is no stranger to this duality. His journey offers a raw and inspiring look at how public failure can become a catalyst for growth and resilience.
Lagemann’s story begins with a stark reality many founders face: the silent struggle behind the scenes. Despite his company earning public accolades, he found himself grappling with significant financial challenges. The weight of potential failure hung heavy, compounded by feelings of anxiety, stress, and depression. The fear of letting down his family and facing ridicule from friends added layers of emotional turmoil. Yet, in this darkness, Lagemann found a crucial lesson—one he now shares with fellow entrepreneurs.
“If you feel like this, trust me, you are not alone,” Lagemann often tells aspiring founders. “And if you haven’t felt like this, you probably haven’t worked hard enough.” These words cut through the facade of perfectionism that often surrounds entrepreneurship. They remind us that the emotional struggles of building a business are not only normal but also a sign of dedication and effort.
Lagemann’s journey took an unexpected turn when he decided to confront his challenges head-on—literally. To rebuild his confidence and regain control of his mental health, he signed up for a triathlon at Sandy Hook. The experience proved transformative. As he crossed the finish line, cheered on by supporters, he felt a renewed sense of purpose. For the first time in months, he was able to silence the doubts that had plagued him.
The clarity and measurable success of athletic competition stood in stark contrast to the ambiguous nature of entrepreneurship. In business, there are no clear finish lines or definitive moments of victory. This lack of structure can be overwhelming, especially when paired with the pressure to succeed. But Lagemann discovered that the discipline required for triathlon training could be applied to his business approach. Waking up at 4 or 5 a.m. to train before tackling the demands of his company taught him the value of focus and perseverance.
Today, Lagemann leads Avidon Health with a renewed sense of purpose. His mission to address significant healthcare challenges is driven by the same resilience that carried him through his darkest days. His story serves as a powerful reminder that failure is not the end but a stepping stone to success. For founders everywhere, Lagemann’s journey offers a valuable lesson: embrace your struggles, learn from your setbacks, and trust that you are never truly alone in the entrepreneurial journey.
From Setbacks to Success: The Power of Resilience
Clark Lagemann’s journey didn’t end with the triathlon at Sandy Hook. Emboldened by his newfound confidence, he set his sights on an even greater challenge: the IRONMAN Lake Placid, a grueling 17-hour race in upstate New York. This endurance test pushed him to his limits, both physically and mentally, but it also reinforced the discipline he had cultivated through triathlon training. The lessons he learned from these experiences—perseverance, focus, and the importance of clear goals—became cornerstone principles in his entrepreneurial mindset.
Lagemann’s willingness to confront and learn from failure extends beyond his personal struggles. He openly acknowledges past mistakes in his business career, particularly in identifying product-market fit and making necessary pivots. These experiences, though challenging at the time, proved invaluable as he refined his approach to building and scaling Avidon Health. His ability to reflect on setbacks and extract actionable insights has been instrumental in shaping the company’s direction and mission.
Today, Avidon Health stands as a testament to Lagemann’s resilience and vision. The company is driven by a clear mission to address significant healthcare challenges, a goal that resonates deeply with Lagemann’s entrepreneurial spirit. His transition from a career in corporate sales to the helm of a healthcare startup was motivated by a desire to tackle inefficiencies and gaps in the system that he witnessed firsthand. This purpose-driven approach has not only fueled Avidon Health’s growth but also inspired others to pursue entrepreneurial paths rooted in solving real-world problems.
Lagemann’s story is a powerful reminder that entrepreneurship is not a linear journey. It is marked by highs and lows, moments of clarity and periods of doubt. Yet, it is precisely these challenges that forge the resilience and determination needed to succeed. For aspiring founders, his experiences offer a roadmap for navigating the uncertainties of business while staying true to their vision. As Lagemann continues to lead Avidon Health, his journey serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for anyone facing their own entrepreneurial struggles.
Conclusion
Clark Lagemann’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience in entrepreneurship. By confronting public failure head-on and embracing the lessons learned from setbacks, he transformed his struggles into the foundation of his success. The discipline and focus he gained through endurance sports became the cornerstone of his business approach, demonstrating how personal growth can directly impact professional achievements.
For founders facing their own challenges, Lagemann’s story offers a clear roadmap: acknowledge your struggles, learn from your failures, and trust in the process. Entrepreneurship is not a linear journey but one defined by resilience, determination, and the courage to keep moving forward. As Lagemann continues to lead Avidon Health with purpose and passion, his experiences serve as a beacon of inspiration for anyone navigating the complexities of building a business.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can founders build resilience in the face of failure?
Founders can build resilience by acknowledging their struggles, learning from setbacks, and maintaining a growth mindset. Engaging in activities like endurance sports, as Clark Lagemann did, can also foster discipline and focus, which are essential for navigating entrepreneurial challenges.
What role does public failure play in an entrepreneur’s journey?
Public failure can be a catalyst for growth and a humbling reminder of the realities of entrepreneurship. It allows founders to learn from their mistakes, gain empathy, and build a stronger connection with their audience and team.
How can entrepreneurs apply the lessons from Clark Lagemann’s story to their own businesses?
Entrepreneurs can apply Lagemann’s lessons by embracing transparency about their struggles, staying focused on their mission, and cultivating resilience through personal and professional challenges. His story emphasizes the importance of perseverance and learning from failure.
What is the key takeaway from Clark Lagemann’s entrepreneurial journey?
The key takeaway is that failure is not the end but a stepping stone to success. By confronting challenges head-on and maintaining a purpose-driven mindset, entrepreneurs can turn their struggles into opportunities for growth and innovation.