Welcome to Startup Pulse! I’m Anshuman Sinha, and today I have the pleasure of interviewing Robert Steel, a seasoned entrepreneur and co-founder of Thumbz Up.
Robert’s journey is inspiring, reflecting decades of innovation, entrepreneurship, and a commitment to making a difference in the technology world.
Early Days: Skateboards, Coding, and Mainframes
Robert’s love for technology began at a very young age. It all started when, at just eight years old, he stumbled upon his neighbor’s garage filled with two massive tape drives.
This neighbor, an engineer, introduced young Robert to the world of coding, and the spark was lit. Robert began learning to code on mainframes, long before personal computers like the Apple II became available.
While most kids were playing outside, Robert was dialing into the Air Force’s mainframe using an acoustic coupler, nurturing his passion for computers.
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By the time he was 13, Robert had already turned his hobby into a profession. He became a paid programmer on the Apple II while still in high school, a remarkable achievement for someone so young. By his junior year in college, Robert had founded his first software company and earned $50,000—a sum that most students could only dream of at that time.
The Entrepreneurial Spirit
Robert Steel’s career has been defined by his relentless drive and ability to turn passion into profit. He understands the importance of hard work and always believed in getting paid for his skills. This entrepreneurial mindset carried him through the years as he went on to co-found several successful companies.
One of Robert’s early ventures, CAD Microsystems, continues to thrive after more than 30 years. Another notable success was iBite, a pioneering mobile technology company that developed solutions used by giants like AOL, Cisco, and Oracle. He even created the first software to bring PowerPoint presentations and MapQuest to handheld devices—a significant breakthrough in the world of mobile technology.
Thumbz Up: Bridging Small Businesses and Social Media
Robert’s latest venture, Thumbz Up, is a reflection of his passion for technology and entrepreneurship.
It is a marketing platform that connects small businesses with everyday social media users. The idea is simple: people get paid to post about their favorite local businesses on platforms like Instagram or TikTok. It’s a win-win situation—small businesses gain visibility, and regular people earn money by promoting places they love.
The inspiration for Thumbz Up came from Robert’s experiences with friends in Los Angeles, many of whom were struggling to make a living while pursuing their creative passions.
Seeing the $200 billion digital advertising industry, Robert realized that there was an opportunity to help people earn money by leveraging their social media presence.
Building Something Bigger
The journey of Thumbz Up wasn’t without challenges. Even the name itself faced opposition from major players like Meta (formerly Facebook). But Robert’s belief in thinking big and not giving up led to success. Today, Thumbz Up is a platform that empowers everyday people to promote brands and earn money in a simple and effective way.
For small businesses, it’s a game-changer. Instead of spending huge amounts on traditional advertising, they can now reach local customers through the social networks of loyal patrons.
Robert shared a real-life example of how someone earned $10 just by posting a photo of their coffee on Instagram—proving the power of word-of-mouth marketing in the digital age.
Lessons for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Robert Steel’s journey offers valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs. His story highlights the importance of starting early, being persistent, and never being afraid to think big. Robert’s career is a testament to the fact that with passion, hard work, and a bit of creativity, you can turn your dreams into reality.
From coding in a neighbor’s garage to running multiple successful companies, Robert’s path has been a remarkable one. His story shows that in the world of technology and entrepreneurship, the possibilities are endless.
Conclusion
As we wrap up this episode of Startup Pulse, Robert’s journey reminds us of the importance of following our passions and never giving up. Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur or simply curious about the world of tech, there’s a lot to learn from Robert’s experiences.
Remember, you are not alone in this startup journey. Join our online startup meetups and participate in the Startup Pulse Podcast to gain insights into entrepreneurship while ensuring your long-term success. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories on Startup Pulse—where innovation meets entrepreneurship.
