At Columbus Startup Week powered by Chase for Business, J.D. Vance talked with Todd Connor, CEO of Bunker Labs, about his upbringing, how the military shaped his approach to life and business and what is next for his life in Ohio.
Small Town Complexities
J.D. said the initial purpose of writing the book was to give people an understanding of the struggles of the American white working class, and a personal analysis of a culture in crisis. In his description of small town life, the outside world might stereotype these people as simple- it’s quite the opposite.
J.D. admitted he was nervous about writing this book and exposing not only his life and vulnerabilities to the world, especially when he asked Silicon Valley venture capitalist Peter Thiel to offer his thoughts, but his family’s challenges as well. The book has been regarded as a must read and a #1 New York Times best seller. While Hillbilly Elegy wasn’t intended to have a political overtone, as “Hillary Clinton nor Trump appeared once in the book,” he said, critics say this book gives insight into the American Trump voter.
Hoorah!
For many, the military is considered a positive escape from one’s troubled environment. J.D. went on to join the Marine Corps where he learned life lessons that helped him deal with the situation back at home and guide his future.
What’s Next for J.D.
Fast forwarding to today, J.D. shared how he will be working with Steve Case on his Rise of the Rest Tour that focuses on raising awareness about entrepreneurship happening in other cities as well as launching a non-profit to address the Opioid epidemic in Ohio. Watch the entire interview from Columbus Startup Week here on Tech.Co This article is part of a Startup Week content series brought to you by CHASE for BUSINESS. Startup Week is celebration of entrepreneurs in cities around the globe. CHASE for BUSINESS is everything a business needs in one place, from expert advice to valuable products and services. Find business news, stories, insights and expert tips all in one place at Chase.com/forbusiness.
