Former Uber exec explains how to turn failure into innovation | Emil Michael

Innovation requires failure, and even great leaders like Steve Jobs and Elon Musk have experienced failures. Embracing failure can lead to quicker progress and learning from mistakes.

Uber had a successful business model from the start, offering a revolutionary consumer experience. The partnership with Travis Kalanick fueled exponential growth and a focus on attracting customers and drivers globally.

Travis Kalanick's exponential thinking and ambition, paired with Emil Michael's financial and legal expertise, led to Uber becoming the fastest-growing company. Their partnership balanced strategic planning with rapid expansion.

The changing tech landscape demands global thinking and ambitious expansion. Uber's approach involved launching and expanding into new countries, requiring deep understanding of local ecosystems and regulations.

Uber's innovative approach to global expansion involved creating a Launch team that researched and executed launches in various countries. By systematizing the process, Uber successfully expanded to 90 countries within two years.

Operating in China posed significant financial challenges for Uber due to fierce competition from local companies like DiDi. The decision to merge with a competitor in China was a strategic move to reduce costs and increase profitability.