Furkat Kasimov is a visionary entrepreneur and digital technology expert known for his relentless drive, innovative mindset, and ability to turn ambitious ideas into reality. From humble beginnings to becoming a recognized leader in the tech and business world, his journey is one of perseverance, calculated risks, and groundbreaking solutions.
In this exclusive interview, he shares his insights on entrepreneurship, the biggest challenges he’s faced, and the lessons behind his book Don’t Do This: A Guide to Business Survival. Whether you’re an aspiring business owner or a seasoned entrepreneur, Kasimov’s experiences and advice offer valuable takeaways for success in an ever-evolving landscape.
1. What’s your story? How would your friends and family have described you?
I started out with nothing more than a big idea and an unshakeable belief that I could make it. Growing up in humble circumstances, I learned early on that hard work, perseverance, and a willingness to take risks are the only paths to success. Every setback taught me something valuable and every win, no matter how small, fueled my passion for innovation.
My friends and family would describe me as relentlessly determined, creative, and, at my core, a person who never lost sight of where I came from. They’d say I see challenges as opportunities and believe that with enough grit and vision, even the impossible can become a reality.
2. As an entrepreneur, what is it that motivates and drives you?
Every morning, I wake up driven by the challenge of turning a bold idea into a reality that can change lives. The thrill of overcoming obstacles, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, and creating something that leaves a lasting impact is what fuels me.
It’s not just about building wealth—it’s about creating value, inspiring innovation, and making the world a better place. That sense of purpose and the desire to leave a legacy are what motivate me every single day.
3. Who inspired you to write your first book? And what makes your book “Don’t Do This” different and appealing to readers?
Jack Ma of Alibaba was a key inspiration—his resilience and candid discussion about his failures taught me that every setback is a stepping stone. I was also influenced by Kenneth Griffin of Citadel who openly shares the lessons learned from past mistakes.
My book “Don’t Do This: A Guide to Business Survival” stands out because it’s not about success stories; it’s a deep dive into the pitfalls and missteps that can derail a business. It’s a practical guide that exposes the real errors entrepreneurs make, offering readers actionable insights on how to navigate the complex world of business while learning from both my experiences and those of trailblazers in the industry.
4. What are the main elements for starting and running a successful business?
I believe success starts with deep self-awareness and empathy. Knowing your strengths and limitations, and understanding the unique perspectives of your team, fosters an environment where trust and open communication can flourish.
Embracing vulnerability is another key ingredient. When leaders are willing to admit mistakes and share lessons learned, it creates a culture where taking calculated risks is encouraged, and failures are seen as stepping stones rather than setbacks.
5. Describe the 3 biggest challenges you faced during your business journey.
There have been several hurdles, but three stand out:
Adapting to Regulations: When California introduced CCPA, it took us six months and significant R&D to build compliance automation tools. This required a lot of resources: human and money to comply with regulations that no other state has.
Cutting Costs Without Sacrificing Quality: Laying off people is never easy but it is something that businesses have to do to survive. It’s very hard to maintain your previous capabilities with fewer people.
Scaling and Onboarding a Global Network: Managing hundreds of new affiliates weekly was a nightmare until I built the LeadsMarket Affiliate Certification Program —an online course that streamlined onboarding and educated thousands, ultimately fueling our global expansion.
6. You are an AVA Digital Awards Winner, tell us more please.
The award reflects my commitment to pushing boundaries and staying ahead in digital marketing and technology. I received 2025 AVA Digital Gold Award for Using AI Twin to Create Long Form Videos in Multiple Languages. This is a new technology that is not yet widely used in marketing, but it is becoming popular.
7. If you had one piece of advice for someone just starting out, what would it be?
Create a business plan. It’s the blueprint that forces you to fully understand every aspect of your venture before you take the leap. A well-crafted plan compels you to define your vision, analyze your market, and chart a clear path to growth. It not only helps you identify potential challenges and pitfalls early on but also forces you to think strategically about how to overcome them.
This process can save you significant time, money, and effort by preventing costly mistakes that many first-time entrepreneurs make. In essence, your business plan isn’t just a document—it’s a rigorous exercise in self-reflection, planning, and risk management that sets the foundation for sustainable success.
8- If you were to start from zero again, what would you do differently?
I would build a network of mentors and a diverse, high-caliber team from day one. Learning from others and surrounding yourself with different perspectives can accelerate your growth and help you avoid early missteps.
9. What drives you to keep going when it gets really tough and any final words?
Embrace every setback as a stepping stone, and never lose sight of your vision. The challenges you face today are the building blocks for tomorrow’s success. Stay focused, be adaptable, and remember that true greatness comes from the persistence to keep moving forward no matter how hard the road gets.
