Local
3-minute interview - Steve Bursten
November 24, 2008
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What drives you now as an entrepreneur, even at 71?
The pleasure of seeing people succeed and do well with a package I’ve brought to them. The Internet has changed everything, and I want to be a part of it before the end of this life.
What advice would you give to older people who are looking to change careers or start up a business?
I would say to someone who’s coming into their 60s that getting into a new business is as thrilling as getting a new job, or a new wife. It’s really energizing. Many people are afraid to get into their own business — they want the security of being in a corporate framework. But the only real security is being able to make money because of initiative.
How’d you get your start in the business?
I’ve been in the business since 1960. I find the field is one where the customers love what they’re doing — it’s a very exciting industry. I had actually retired, but the time is ripe for a new kind of business.
What’s the deal with this ColorVan?
I actually invented the ColorVan in 1973 — the first one in history. I’ve brought that back as ExciteVan. It’s a traveling billboard — it works like television. It creates awareness just by driving around. It’s an awareness vehicle. Double entendre there.
Are you ever going to retire?
I think by 75, I’ll try to cut back to 40 hours a week — a normal workweek. My children are grown — it’s kind of what drives a painter or an artist or a writer. I’m driven by creativity.
But is 70 the new 50?
Absolutely.
