Advice Line with John Zimmer of Lyft

In this episode of The Advice Line, Guy Raz is joined by John Zimmer, the co-founder of Lyft, who revisits his entrepreneurial journey after stepping away from his role at Lyft. After years of leading the ride-sharing company and facing numerous challenges, both he and Logan Green transitioned into board roles and then left the company entirely. Zimmer explains that while he loved his time at Lyft, he felt it was the right moment for him to explore new endeavors while ensuring Lyft had the right leadership.

Zimmer shares the emotional transition he experienced after leaving Lyft, emphasizing how difficult it was to shift from a high-pressure role to having more free time. He discusses the balance of self-care, acknowledging that even leaders face mental health challenges. He stresses the importance of prioritizing sleep, diet, and exercise, sharing how these basics directly impact one's ability to help others.

The conversation then shifts to Zimmer’s new business venture, Yes And, which aims to create consumer businesses that deliver positive outcomes and align with modern expectations of health and sustainability. He briefly details the mission behind Yes And and how it differs from typical capitalist models by focusing on beneficial products.

Throughout the episode, Zimmer and Raz take questions from callers, offering business advice and insights. They discuss overcoming challenges in business growth, the importance of community support, and strategies for effectively entering larger markets. Zimmer also underscores the value of happiness and enjoyment in the entrepreneurial journey, reminding listeners that success isn't just about reaching goals but also about personal growth and well-being.