Vivek Shah is a Los Angeles entrepreneur who excels at launching companies with unique concepts. Serving as CEO of Gauge AI, he is integrating AI systems into several businesses. In addition to delivering scalable AI data platforms, Vivek Shah directs investments into restaurants across the Los Angeles area.
Mr. Shah’s past ventures include DriverChatter, an app-based platform that connected local Uber and Lyft drivers, and Strance, an app-based livestream talent show using YouTube clips. He also launched Gowd, a subscription-sharing app that connected people with similar interests, enabling them to divide the costs of expensive subscriptions.
He is also founder of Los Angeles Hope for Kids, where he allocates funds toward community outreach, mentorship, and educational support. He is responsible for coordinating the efforts of volunteers and ensuring that results align with organizational goals. An avid traveler, he has visited more than 50 countries and enjoys activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and skydiving in his free time.
What is your typical day, and how do you make it productive?
I wake up usually around 5:30 am and head straight to the gym. I have a 2-year-old labradoodle that I take out and play with, then I start working. In the evening, I take him out again.
How do you bring ideas to life?
By just getting them done.
What’s one trend that excites you?
Artificial Intelligence.
What is one habit that helps you be productive?
I never procrastinate. If I can do something right now, I get it done now.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Dream within reason. Once you achieve that dream, dream further. Keep dreaming.
Tell us something you believe almost nobody agrees with you on?
I don’t really have beliefs. Either I know something for a fact or I don’t. Anything in the middle is just speculation.
What is the one thing you repeatedly do and recommend everyone else do?
Work out every day.
When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?
Play Xbox.
What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business or advance in your career?
Be persistent. Let go of ideas that are losses, even if those ideas mean a lot to you.
What is one failure in your career, how did you overcome it, and what lessons did you take away from it?
I had to stop the DriverChatter app due to the pandemic. Drivers went off the streets and didn’t need to chat with one another. I moved on to different ideas. Always have backup plans/options.
What is one piece of software that helps you be productive? How do you use it?
Google Gemini. I use it for pretty much everything.
Do you have a favorite book or podcast you’ve gotten a ton of value from and why?
The 48 Laws of Power. It opened up my perspective and taught me how to actually accomplish things in life.
What’s a movie or series you recently enjoyed and why?
Black Mirror. Every episode is unique and mostly futuristic. Opens my mind to future technology.
Key learnings
- Persistence and generosity often pay off.
- Never stop dreaming.
- Be proactive and don’t procrastinate.
- Embrace new technologies and watch for new opportunities.