In a captivating conversation with Rishi Yadati, CEO of Think Prile, Bert Cherian, CEO of Meta Results, shares his entrepreneurial journey filled with struggles, revelations, and invaluable lessons that have shaped his life and career. 

**The Genesis of an Entrepreneur**

Bert began his entrepreneurial journey with a humble design house in Chennai. Under his leadership, the company was among the first to adopt computer technology in design—a bold move at the time. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance and adaptability, as he recalls the challenges of hustling for clients and learning the ropes of entrepreneurship on the go. Eventually, a major order led to a merger with a larger company, propelling him forward on his entrepreneurial path.

His foray into business was atypical, beginning with a question from a college friend about the relevance of his Indian identity. This inquiry spurred Bert to explore India and work in a remote village, where he and his wife faced the harsh realities of subsistence farming. This period of his life imbued Bert with resilience and underscored the fact that not everyone is cut out to be an entrepreneur, despite the allure it holds today.

**Understanding the True Essence of Entrepreneurship**

Bert emphasizes that entrepreneurship isn’t just about making money. It’s often characterized as “eating glass and staring into the abyss” because of the sheer mental fortitude it requires. Successful entrepreneurship is more about addressing personal challenges and transforming oneself than simply developing a product or company. Bert advocates tackling problems worth solving as a core motivator for entering into business.

One of his notable ventures was revolutionizing the way classified ads were placed at Hindu newspapers by creating a call-in system, which alleviated the need for long queues. This innovation marked another crucial milestone in his career, underlined by a willingness to learn and adapt—qualities critical for any entrepreneur.

**The Motivation Behind the Mission**

Bert’s mission in life, shaped by his experience in the village, is to build people and leaders. He saw firsthand the dire need for leadership with integrity and creativity. His transition into the learning and development (L&D) industry was a natural progression of this mission, allowing him to empower others and cultivate leadership in various capacities.

**Influences and Inspirations: Guided by Books and Movies**

Books have been instrumental in Bert’s growth. He cites “Zero to One” by Peter Thiel and “The Hard Thing About Hard Things” by Ben Horowitz as valuable reads for budding entrepreneurs. Additionally, he recommends “The Personal MBA” for its accessible insights into the business world.

Movies also play a part in Bert’s inspiration, with “Gladiator” being a staple for its embodiment of courage—a crucial trait for any business leader. 

**Fostering Long-term Growth and Development**

Unlike traditional short-term workshops, Bert champions long-term interventions that make a lasting impact. He integrates knowledge application with hands-on coaching and regular learning supplements, such as book reviews and assessments. His approach to training focuses on sustained self-development rather than quick fixes.

**Navigating Challenges with Character**

Bert recounts a particularly challenging period when he was forced out of a successful business. It was the support from clients who valued his character that helped him bounce back. This experience reinforced the significance of integrity and staying true to one’s principles.

**Encouraging Continuous Learning in Small Businesses**

Bert dispels the myth that small companies do not require coaching and development. He believes every individual and team must invest in self-improvement. Simple activities, like team breakfasts based on book discussions, can foster a culture of learning without heavy time or financial investment.

**Conclusion**

Bert Cherian’s story is a profound reminder of the resilience, adaptability, and continuous learning necessary for entrepreneurial success. His insights encourage us to embrace challenges as they come and to consistently invest in personal and professional growth.