From Setbacks to $80M+ Raised: How James Larsen Scaled E-Zinc

Описание: In this episode, Mark sits down with James Larsen, CEO of e-Zinc, a Mississauga-based clean tech company that’s raised over $80M and developed the world’s first 24-hour zinc battery energy storage systems. James shares how a childhood spent off-grid in nature gave him a deep sense of purpose, how he deliberately stacked skills in engineering, EPC, consulting, and strategy, and why having a clear North Star, patience, and faith in the process were crucial to eventually leading a mission-driven energy storage company.

James also opens up about navigating some of the toughest moments of his journey—like losing the company’s founder and having their battery lab burn down in the same two-week span—and how tenacity, values, and team culture helped them push through. They dive into building a values-based organization, staying focused on your core business instead of chasing shiny opportunities, how to think about raising capital and choosing the right investors, and why the entrepreneur’s “code” ultimately comes down to never giving up.

👉 Learn more about e-Zinc: www.e-zinc.ca

💡 Book Recommendations from James Larsen:
• The Five Dysfunctions of a Team — Patrick Lencioni
• The Tao of Physics — Fritjof Capra
• The Hard Thing About Hard Things — Ben Horowitz

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