May 23, 2025
What if your wake-up call came with screeching tires?
In this episode of The One Away Show, Ian Tien—CEO and Co-Founder of Mattermost—shares the near-death moment that forced him to rethink his entire life. One second, he was saving his car from crashing. The next, he realized he was living the very life he swore he’d avoid.
From his pivot out of corporate comfort at Microsoft to the founding of Mattermost, Ian takes us through the mindset shifts that shaped his journey—from systems thinker to mission-driven builder. He talks about how business school became a launchpad for both family and founder life, and why impact over ego has become his compass.
Bryan and Ian dig deep into self-awareness, leadership, creative ambition, and building technology that matters—literally. Whether you're facing burnout or at a crossroads in your own path, Ian’s story is a reminder: the scariest moments can become your clearest ones.