Akeem Shannon embodies the definition of not “sticking” to the safe route. Growing up in the St. Louis area, Akeem headed off to college with big plans to make his family proud. Quickly into his college career, Akeem found himself struggling to make the grades and eventually landed on the academic probation list. He was embarrassed to tell his family and tried to hide the fact that he was flunking out of school.
Quickly after coming home, Akeem found himself in the cellphone industry working his way up the ladder with his success in sales. Although he was earning more than most his age, he didn’t feel fully fulfilled and ended up leaving the job. Akeem’s enthusiasm led him to a role at Square as a business consultant but he always felt like he wanted to pursue his own business, he quit Square a year later.
After a late night conversation with his uncle, Akeem came up with the idea of a “sticky phone” which is now called Flipstik. Flipstik is a phone accessory that allows you to stick your phone on almost any surface. Akeem’s determination shows through the trials of building a start-up and flying all over the country to get his product in the hands of celebrities and business leaders. After an interaction with Snoop Dogg, Akeem made it onto Shark Tank to pitch his product.
Akeem Shannon is an example of a true American entrepreneur. In this episode, Lucas & Marissa chat with Akeem about the struggles of building a start-up, his early life, and having the mindset to be successful.