Fireside Chat with Radford Alumni Chance Smith

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Chance Smith never thought that he would be where he is today, as a student at Radford University,
back in 2012. But here he is today sharing his story as the creative mind behind GoghNow. 


The music enthusiast was inspired by travel and his own life experiences. Smith realized that he

could be the one to change that by creating an app that brings musicians right to your location. 


On Friday February third, Chance Smith, class of 2012, came to speak to students for the first

of the Fireside Chat series hosted in the Venture Lab. Smith had the chance to share advice and

inspiration to over 40 students. 


Here are the top seven pieces of advice that Chance had for the students.


  • What has been the most challenging part about your role as a leader in your company?

It was getting out of our own head! I think we were ”in” the business for so long that we had

to shift focus to working “on” the business.

  • In college, did you ever think or believe that you would be where you are today?

I did not, I actually thought I would be doing something else. 

  • Do you aspire to be anything else other than an entrepreneur?

I’ve almost centered my life around it. It’s a lifestyle. I’ll intentionally go to places just so

I know I can meet certain people. It's within me. 

  • How do you know an idea is worth making a business out of?

Customer discovery, going out and talking to people. “What do you like about this?

Why do you like this?” Research starts to add up and they validate what you are actually

trying to accomplish.

  • What steps would you recommend for entrepreneurial students?

  • What can they do now, to sort of prepare them for entrepreneurship later?

Take this time to really invest in yourself. Learn the tools, learn the basics, really refine

your skillset. 

  • Who has been your mentor throughout your entrepreneurship journey?

Life is my mentor, I've learned how to utilize my network.

  • What steps would you take now? 

Get on the front end of technology, Start things, fail fast and try again, Stay fearless, and

create value











By: Jessica Britton


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