Recently, I had the pleasure of talking with Leo Riza, founder of TimeSet, about his startup. I encourage you to read our conversation to find out when Leo Riza found the first investor, what inspired him to get involved with the TimeSet startup, and what he thinks about the startup culture in Florida, U.S. Apart from that, you can see an excellent example of a well-made video that attracts people to sign up with TimeSet.
Przemyslaw Mantaj
Hawatel
Leo, can you tell us a bit about yourself and your experience with startups?
Leo Riza
TimeSet
I have worked the past 2 decades on industrial design, engineering and production of products for startup companies and inventors. Products, range from Industrial, medical, consumer and transportation. No matter what your product is, there is usually one thing in common and that is there is always a problem. You just need to solve it with the “product”.
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Przemyslaw Mantaj
Hawatel
Can you say in a few sentences what TimeSet startup is about and what it does?
Leo Riza
TimeSet
At timeset we believe a community of members defines a virtual culture. We believe members of a community are compelled to inspire each other via shared experiences.
TimeSet shields members from unsolicited commercialism, while optimizing an individual’s access to the wealth of information resources available on the internet. Timeset is a “smart” social network, giving community members priority over commercial agents. Banner ads and unwanted commercial contact are prohibited, allowing TimeSet to operate as an inconspicuous personal assistant, connecting members and offering personally relevant information in real-time.
Przemyslaw Mantaj
Hawatel
What inspired you to get involved with the TimeSet startup?
Leo Riza
TimeSet
Well, seeing how the world is becoming compartmentalized and everyone fears everyone else around the world, it seems like an unnecessary environment is being created that brings down the human motive to do good in this world. TimeSet brings people under one roof – their inspirations and accomplishments. The main goal is to pass on your knowledge! Work together and make it a great environment to exchange thoughts. We want to unite the world regardless of everyone’s background.
Przemyslaw Mantaj
Hawatel
TimeSet is a mobile app for both iOS and Android; are you considering building a Web version?
Leo Riza
TimeSet
Yes. We are working on the web app portion. Our members will have the ability to upload as well as post from any PC.
Przemyslaw Mantaj
Hawatel
What factors did you take into consideration while deciding on the form and design of TimeSet?
Leo Riza
TimeSet
Our members make sure to give us constant feedback. We believe TimeSet will evolve to be a great world for people to share their memories. The design however constantly evolves and will continue to do so in the future. We cherish feedback our members send us. We make sure to pay attention to what the new features would bring to the platform.
Przemyslaw Mantaj
Hawatel
What are the major features in the major phases of the product?
Leo Riza
TimeSet
It is quite simple really.
Przemyslaw Mantaj
Hawatel
What are TimeSet’s plans for the next six months?
Leo Riza
TimeSet
We continue to thrive as our members are signing up. We plan to continue the development of the platforms as well as providing innovative and user friendly functionalities.
Przemyslaw Mantaj
Hawatel
What have you learned from early versions of the TimeSet?
Leo Riza
TimeSet
So much – where do I start? Not even a single day passes by without learning new things from our members.
Przemyslaw Mantaj
Hawatel
Your video promotion of TimeSet is amazing: very short, clear, and emotional. When I watched it, I decided to install the mobile app. Can you tell us a bit about how the video was made and by whom?
Leo Riza
TimeSet
We created the video internally and shot it on Siesta Key beach which is an amazing place to be in. The beach is 15 minutes away. The video was a collaboration of a team effort. We still have other videos coming out as well.
Przemyslaw Mantaj
Hawatel
Do you have any investors? If yes, at what stage was TimeSet when you had the first conversation with the investor?
Leo Riza
TimeSet
We have multiple investors as well as advisors keeping us both on track as well as financially stable. My first meeting was just a face to face, heart to heart meeting. We had nothing but an idea which led to our first prototype. Then things just started coming together and we caught momentum. Now we have the app on both iOS and Android platform with users signing up daily.
Przemyslaw Mantaj
Hawatel
Could you give a few tips for young founders about how to attract investors to their idea?
Leo Riza
TimeSet
If you have a great idea, things come along the way they should. Investors usually know a good opportunity when they see it.
Przemyslaw Mantaj
Hawatel
Which books would you recommend for young founders or entrepreneurs?
Leo Riza
TimeSet
I know this is going to sound cliché but hey it is what it is…... “The Art of War” by Sun Tzu.
Przemyslaw Mantaj
Hawatel
What do you think about the startup culture in FL, U.S.?
Leo Riza
TimeSet
I think it has its challenges. Finding talent is not as easy as in California. But if you look hard, you can find quite some talent from all over the world. The TimeSet team is the proof. They have accomplished the impossible so far. What else can I ask for?
Przemyslaw Mantaj
Hawatel
Can you convince the reader to start using TimeSet in three sentences?
Leo Riza
TimeSet
If you believe you have goals and would like to accomplish them. If you would like to inspire and share your experience with others from around the world that share the same interest, then TimeSet is the place for you. Become a member of the community and pass on the knowledge.
Przemyslaw Mantaj
Hawatel
Thanks for the interview Leo!