While risk and reward may seem like simple motivating factors, each is complex. Let’s break down each element, to better appreciate how they affect early-stage founders, entrepreneurs, and their ventures.

Entrepreneurs should routinely question their assumptions about even the most basic and positive things, like these four broad subjects: Innovation, networking, fundraising, and team-building.

Founders of ventures must earn the trust and keep the confidence of four constituencies: customers, team, investors, allies.

Let’s consider three simple things – product, customer, desire. For each, I’ll share three quotes of insightful advice from successful entrepreneurs.