Jeremy Zuckerman: Today’s Notable Young Entrepreneur

Today’s Notable Young Entrepreneur is WINR Games founder Jeremy Zuckerman, who believes in using technology to make changes for the better. We caught up with him to find out how he applies this philosophy to his work and what advice he would share with other young professionals…

Elevator Pitch: Describe your job in a nutshell.
I am the founder of a mobile gaming company called WINR Games. We are the creators of Big Time, the first app that gives users the chance to win cash by playing games on their phones. Think Candy Crush meets contest. We are excited to be the first game company that shares its ad revenue with its players in the form of a weekly cash prize.

Why did you start working at your company? What was the inspiration for this career route?
I have always been a game addict. A couple of years ago, I looked around and noticed everyone around me was obsessively playing games, like Temple Run and Clash of Clans, for virtual rewards. And that’s when I had my “aha” moment! I thought, imagine how excited people would get if they could play the same types of games on their smartphones for the chance to win actual money. I figured if I didn’t pursue the idea quickly, somebody else would.

What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
The best part is definitely watching the games we create come to life. I also love the fact that I get to give strangers money every week! It is so awesome hearing their reactions. The most challenging part is the stress that comes with running your own company, and the obstacles you face getting it off the ground.  

What is one sign that you’ve seen over the years to suggest that your work/life balance is off?
A few months ago I pinched a nerve in my neck. I realized that I wasn’t exactly handling the stress of starting a business well. 

Where do you see yourself in five years?
Hopefully I am still running this company… it’s only eight months young, but I have high hopes!

What is one major challenge that you’ve had to overcome in your career? How did you overcome it?
At the beginning of my career in management consulting the biggest challenge was learning to speak up. I quickly realized that my thoughts and ideas were the only reason I was there, and the only way I could have an impact (and keep my job) was to speak up.

What does success look like to you? Does Money = Happiness?
Money definitely doesn’t equal happiness. But, money equals freedom, and freedom makes it much easier to find your happiness.

What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
So far, quitting my job to take a big risk and start this company. People thought I was crazy to leave a great consulting job, but I was lucky to have had a lot of support from friends and family.

Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Do something that makes you happy. 

Where is your favourite place to wine/ dine in your city and why?
My “go-to” spots in Toronto are Khao San Road for amazing Thai food, 416 Snack Bar for great drinks and snacks, and the Marben patio in the summer.

When you’re not working how do you love to spend your “Me” time?
Playing basketball with my buddies. 

Where is your favourite place to travel? Why?
Hawaii. I’ve only been once, but I am dying to get back.

If you had to choose a theme song, what would it be?
Chuck Mangione – Land of Make Believe.

If you weren’t doing what you’re doing, what would you be doing?
I would probably be trying to come up with the next great idea.

Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
I believe that every company should give back. I just launched a charitable side to my app called Big Time Cares. With Big Time Cares, players are now able to support a charity of their choice by playing our games. Along with the weekly individual draws, there is a charity donation up for grabs, as well. In the app, players select one of four charities they want to support that week, then all of the tickets they collect will go to towards that charity, in addition to the individual draw. At the end of the week, the charity with the most support/tickets will win the donation. We will be rotating between a few charities each week, with the plan of expanding the list of causes in the future. 

What to you is notable?
Using technology to make changes for the better.

Blackberry, iPhone, Android, or Other? 
I held on to my beloved BlackBerry for as long as I could, but I finally caved and got an iPhone (so I could play more games!)

#NOTABLE

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