What does it take to turn personal tragedy into entrepreneurial triumph? In this episode of FOMO Sapiens, host Patrick J. McGinnis interviews Payam Zamani, a remarkable entrepreneur whose journey from fleeing persecution in Iran to building a successful career in Silicon Valley is nothing short of inspiring. Fleeing his homeland, Payam made his way to the United States, where he transformed the hardships of his early life into a foundation for resilience and business success. As the co-founder of AutoWeb and an investor in over 50 companies, Payam’s story is a testament to the power of optimism and core values in entrepreneurship, and his belief in leading with love—whether it’s for the planet, people, or even competitors. From his early struggles to his current success, Zamani offers a profound reflection on how overcoming life’s greatest challenges can lead to building something truly meaningful. This is more than just a business story; it’s a powerful lesson in hope, perseverance, and the pursuit of purpose-driven entrepreneurship.
Meet our guest:
Payam Zamani is an entrepreneur, investor, and the founder of One Planet Group, a closely held private equity firm that owns a suite of online technology and media businesses.
Born in Iran, Zamani was forced to flee at the age of 16 due to his religious beliefs as a Baha’i. He was offered asylum in the United States in 1988, settling in the San Francisco Bay Area. Upon graduation from the University of California, Davis, he and his brother founded AutoWeb, one of the first online car marketplaces, which they took public in 1999.
Since then, he has built and currently owns multiple technology and media businesses, has invested in more than 50 companies, and is striving to redefine capitalism in an attempt to elevate business to serve humanity. He has been named the “Best CEO for Diversity,” is the recipient of Tahirih Justice Center’s Hope Award, and received an Award of Distinction from UC Davis in 2018. Zamani and his wife, Gouya, have two daughters, Sophia and Ella.
For media and speaking requests, and to suggest a guest for the show, please email letsconnect@patrickmcginnis.com.
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