Harnessing the Hustle with Matan Slagter
In this episode, Aaron Gordon sits down with Matan Slagter, founder of Armadillo, to delve into the intricate journey of building a small business from the ground up. Matan shares his experiences adapting to new roles, emphasizing the importance of...
In this episode, Aaron Gordon sits down with Matan Slagter, founder of Armadillo, to delve into the intricate journey of building a small business from the ground up. Matan shares his experiences adapting to new roles, emphasizing the importance of flexibility, trust in team members, and the art of delegation. Discover how Matan's diverse career in the insurance industry equipped him with the skills and insights to launch a successful InsurTech startup amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Aaron and Matan explore the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, the value of a solid leadership team, and the wisdom behind striving to make oneself "obsolete" as a leader. Join us as we uncover valuable lessons on resilience, innovation, and maintaining a hustler's spirit in the face of adversity.
Get To Know Matan Slagter
Matan Slagter is the Co-Founder and CEO of Armadillo, a platform offering subscription-based home warranties. A former Managing Director at AIG, he has extensive experience in the insurance industry, having started as an actuary and most recently leading market disruption for AIG's personal insurance business. Recognizing a gap in the home warranty market, Slagter launched Armadillo with co-founder Lansdon Robbins, which recently debuted in 20 markets and has partnered with Hornbeam Insurance to support its offerings. Slagter holds a degree from Binghamton University.
3 Episode Key Takeaways
1. Flexible Thinking is Crucial: Matan emphasizes the importance of evolving as a leader and being open to new ideas. Flexibility allows founders to delegate responsibilities and build competent leadership teams effectively.
2. Trust in Your Team: Building trust in capable team members is essential. Matan highlights how trusting others and developing a strong leadership team is vital for the growth and sustainability of any business.
3. Innovative Solutions: Armadillo provides homeowners with qualified technicians for home repairs, akin to roadside assistance for homes, showcasing how innovative solutions can address everyday needs and disrupt traditional industries.
Show Overview:
01:15 Matan's journey: immigrant hustler building a successful brand.
09:28 Insurance: a smart, stable, and interesting career.
12:00 Led innovations in InsurTech at AIG.
15:54 Taking risks is easier after trying stability.
18:08 Startups grow quickly, requiring rapid adaptation.
20:00 Flexibility and delegation are crucial for founders.
23:22 Armadillo is a smaller, caring, and effective insurance company.