In this episode of The Founders’ Journey, Ryan Heckman sits down with Vance Brown, renowned entrepreneur and civic leader, to explore his evolution from ambitious North Carolina student to Colorado software pioneer. Vance shares his remarkable journey through three successful software ventures – from family-run Buildsoft to billion-dollar FrontRange Solutions to bootstrapped Cherwell Software.
Vance reveals the emotional undercurrents of entrepreneurship – from early competitive drive to debilitating burnout – and his pivotal shift from success to significance. They discuss how personal crises became catalysts for growth, the spiritual dimensions of leadership, and how Vance transformed Colorado Springs’ tech ecosystem through Exponential Impact and the National Cybersecurity Center. Tune in for profound insights on building companies with purpose and finding meaning beyond achievement.