Edition #22: James Chapman

Here at GCUC we are immensely fortunate to cross paths and work with so many amazing people. Through our work, we’ve cultivated a global community of people we think you should know about.

Community of Cultivators is a blog series we created to introduce you to coworking game changers and connectors. Each month, we’ll release new interviews that we hope inform and inspire you.

This month we chatted with James chapman. James is the Founder and CEO of Plain Sight. The Detroit-based, serial entrepreneur has a passion for helping other budding entrepreneurs. Prior to moving to Detroit, he ran a workspace in his hometown Chattanooga from 6pm – midnight for side-hustlers that work full-time during the day. Check out what he has to day say below.

What in your life are you most proud of cultivating or creating? Why?

I would say my side-hustle coworking space. The space was open between 6pm – midnight for people who worked during the day. Bringing this group together not only gave me fulfillment because I was helping people work towards their dreams, but also because it lead me to the idea for launching my now startup Plain Sight.

Where do you personally feel the most sense of community?

Anytime I’m around other Founders. They just get it. The ups, the downs, the uncertainties, etc. It’s just a group that I can relate to, and talking to them makes me feel like everything will be alright.

What is one piece of advice you give everyone that works with and/or for you?

Relax. I don’t believe in adding additional pressure to situations. I’m always one to try to get people to relax. The people who work with me are passionate about what we’re building and I like that, but that passion can sometimes create additional pressure to perform well. I think people are at their best when they feel relaxed and comfortable while pursuing their passions.

If you had $500 to spend- what would you buy?

Probably just some Vans shoes and swag. It’s my favorite brand.

What advice would you give to someone thinking of becoming an entrepreneur?

Go for it, but test all of your assumptions. Actually, assume all of your assumptions are wrong haha. Go into it with that mindset. That you only think you know, and you’re going to talk to and test with as many people as possible before you make the full leap.

What is the best habit you ever started? What habit do you want to start but haven’t yet?

Meditation in the mornings. Great way to start the day. Journaling is something I want to start, but haven’t yet.