Episode 211

211 Steven Webster - Tech, Sports, and Entrepreneurship: A Unique Career Fusion

In this episode of SaaS Fuel, Jeff delves into the remarkable journey of Steven Webster, the founder of Asensei - who leverages AI and computer vision technology to transform traditional fitness equipment into ‘smart’ devices that provide real-time coaching and movement recognition, enhancing user engagement and performance in both home and gym settings. Steven shares how his passion for sports and technology led him to study computer science, sell a company to Adobe, and work on groundbreaking projects at Microsoft.

Discover how Asensei is revolutionizing the fitness and healthcare industries with AI and computer vision, turning traditional fitness equipment ‘smart’ and meeting the growing demand for home fitness solutions.

Tune in to learn about the future of fitness technology, including DNA-assessing smart mirrors and gamified boxing bags, and how martial arts principles have shaped Steven’s entrepreneurial success.

Key Takeaways

00:00 Entrepreneurs must embrace giving back early.

04:37 Employee excitement fosters purpose, unity, and giving.

06:15 Integrate purpose into business for lasting impact.

10:23 Left Microsoft to lead in movement recognition.

14:32 Early company focus on problem-solving and monetization.

17:58 Encouraging others to unlock athletic potential at home.

20:15 Track and customize workouts with smart technology.

22:29 Challenges of building a startup during uncertainty.

26:32 Developed rowing app, built partnerships, gained popularity.

31:38 Entrepreneurs succeed by building products for others.

33:52 Assisted stretching workshops with technology for customer acquisition.

38:23 Accountability is key to maintaining motivation.

42:11 Tracking whole body, skeleton and biomechanics.

42:55 Ascensi innovated smart textiles for wearable tech.

46:45 Love problem, pivot, technology, improve, find success.

51:13 Lessons learned: grow into higher valuation.

55:46 Reps, persistence, and refining for success in business.

57:22 Steven shares journey, insights, offers more info.

Tweetable Quotes

“It's not a transition as much as a journey. Yeah, it kind of feels like I'm at the place I was always destined to go.” - 00:00:15 Steven Webster

“That the way for us to be a pervasive technology was to be an ingredient in other people's products, rather than to be direct to consumer, right?” - 00:06:50 Steven Webster

“So we give a lot of control to the end customer on what the user experience will be, but we give them all the ingredients and the underlying AI that can capture movement and understand movement.” - 00:07:57 Steven Webster

“One in two people don't ever join a gym or join a yoga class because they're intimidated or because they don't have the confidence to do it. And so, at home is a great place to break down those barriers.” - 00:10:07 Steven Webster

“So Post-it notes and Excel spreadsheets are great clues for opportunities for innovation.” - 00:23:11 Steven Webster

SaaS Leadership Lessons

Leverage Passion for Innovation: Steven’s journey from a martial arts coach to a tech innovator demonstrates how passion can drive groundbreaking innovations. His deep understanding of sports and fitness, combined with his expertise in computer science, allowed him to create cutting-edge solutions in the fitness industry. Harness passion and domain knowledge to inspire innovation and drive their business forward.
Embrace Technology to Solve Real Problems: Steven identified the potential of AI and computer vision in transforming fitness and healthcare. By focusing on real world problems, such as enhancing home fitness experiences and making traditional equipment ‘smart,’ he developed solutions that met market needs. Focus on solving tangible problems with technology to create impactful products.
Importance of Storytelling in Product Development: Steven emphasizes the importance of storytelling, which he utilized through a high quality video to articulate the vision of Asensei. Effective storytelling helps in gaining investor support, building a brand and engaging customers. Master the art of storytelling to clearly communicate their vision and value proposition.
Adaptability and Strategic Pivoting: This includes Steven’s strategic pivot from connected apparel to computer vision technology amidst challenges like the chip shortage and supply chain crises. Adaptability in the face of unforeseen challenges is crucial for sustaining growth. Be ready to pivot strategically when necessary to align with market demands and technological advancements.
Building a Resilient and Persistent Team: Drawing from his martial arts background, Steven highlights the significance of persistence, team building and leadership. These qualities are essential in navigating the startup landscape, overcoming obstacles and achieving long-term success. Focus on fostering a resilient team culture, emphasizing continuous improvement and collective effort.