In this candid and thought-provoking episode of Build to Last, we sit down with serial entrepreneur Jean-François Rousseau (JF) for a wide-ranging conversation about building enduring businesses, navigating acquisitions, and the lessons only failure can teach.
JF shares his remarkable journey—from being “forced” into entrepreneurship at 16 to building a portfolio of companies with over 100 employees. With a sharp eye for opportunity and a people-first approach to leadership, JF reveals the real challenges of scaling, exiting operations, and balancing multiple ventures. The conversation flows through hard-earned wisdom about letting go, building trust, and staying relentlessly focused on learning. If you’ve ever thought about buying a business, leading through change, or building a team that runs without you—this episode is a goldmine.
🔗 Links and Resources Mentioned
Connect with Jean Francois on Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeanfrancoisrousseau/
Entrepreneurs' Organization (EO) – A global peer network for entrepreneurs - https://eonetwork.org
Wallace McCain Institute – An Atlantic Canadian Entrepreneurship peer group - www.wallacemccaininstitute.com
Henry Mintzberg – Canadian academic and author known for work on business strategy - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Henry_Mintzberg
Warren Rustand – Renowned leadership speaker and mentor - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Warren_S._Rustand
EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) – A business management framework - https://www.eosworldwide.com/what-is-eos
EMP Program (Entrepreneurial Masters Program) – A program for growth-minded business leaders - https://www.eoapac.com/upcoming-events/entrepreneurial-masters-program-emp
The Hummingbird Project – Feature film JF worked on as a technical advisor - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt6866224/
Crucial Conversations – Book on effective communication in high-stakes situations - https://cruciallearning.com/books/