Chris Barton: Shazam Founder

  • Co-founder of Shazam: Chris Barton co-founded Shazam, the innovative music recognition app that revolutionized the way people discover and interact with music. Shazam’s groundbreaking technology has since become a global phenomenon, with millions of users worldwide.
  • Entrepreneurial Visionary: With a keen eye for innovation and entrepreneurship, Chris Barton has established himself as a visionary leader in the tech industry. His ability to identify market gaps and develop groundbreaking solutions has earned him widespread acclaim and recognition.
  • Tech Expertise: With a background in computer science and extensive experience in the tech sector, Chris Barton is a seasoned expert in technology and digital innovation. His insights into emerging trends and disruptive technologies make him a sought-after speaker and advisor in the tech community.
  • Impactful Speaker: Chris Barton is not only a successful entrepreneur but also an engaging and impactful speaker. Whether addressing audiences at tech conferences, universities, or corporate events, Chris captivates listeners with his dynamic speaking style and thought-provoking insights.
  • Investor and Mentor: Beyond his entrepreneurial ventures, Chris Barton is actively involved in mentoring and investing in startups. His passion for fostering innovation and supporting emerging entrepreneurs underscores his commitment to driving positive change in the tech ecosystem.

Travel & Fee Range:**

  • Travels from: San Francisco, CA, USA
  • **Fee range: On Request
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Keynote Topics

The truth is that anyone can create game-changing innovations, and these can redefine any part of an organization – from products to business models to processes.

We can learn from the unorthodox thinking found at disruptive startups. Immersive conviction and unexpected perspectives are common at these maverick companies. This thinking has roots in defiance and leads to incredible hidden opportunities.

Five Unexpected Methods of Disruptive Thinking

Chris Barton has identified five ways of thinking that are the foundation of game-changing innovation. He calls them “Start from Zero”. They are fundamentally different than the way our brains are wired to think, and each has a clear methodology.

The first one is thinking from “basic truths”, known by scientists as “first principles thinking”. Aristotle called these “the first basis from which a thing is known.” Building on these fundamental truths is how Elon Musk, Steve Jobs, Henry Ford, Thomas Edison, and Leonardo Da Vinci came up with their breakthrough ideas.

Why doesn’t everyone do this? Elon Musk says, “It’s mentally easier to reason by analogy rather than from first principles.” By default, people approach problems from the basis of established processes. Our brains are wired this way. As a result, new ideas often generate only slight improvements.

Thinking from basic truths can be employed anytime creative thought is used. The result can be dramatic breakthroughs in products, business models, and business processes.

This is just one of the five unique ways of thinking that drive breakout innovation from Chris Barton. This is the thinking that led to Shazam.

Unleash the game-changing possibilities at your organization. Disrupt your thinking. Supercharge innovation.

In a world where technology has become an integral part of our lives, Chris Barton stands out as a visionary who has not only revolutionized the way we interact with it but has also epitomized the spirit of innovation and perseverance. As the creator of the iconic app Shazam, Barton’s journey from ideation to acquisition […]

In a world where technology has become an integral part of our lives, Chris Barton stands out as a visionary who has not only revolutionized the way we interact with it but has also epitomized the spirit of innovation and perseverance. As the creator of the iconic app Shazam, Barton’s journey from ideation to acquisition by Apple for $400 million is nothing short of remarkable. With a fervent belief in using technology to bring magic into the everyday, Barton has consistently pushed the boundaries of what is possible, leaving an indelible mark on the tech industry and beyond.

Chris Barton | Business Innovation

Early Life and Education:

Chris Barton’s upbringing was influenced by his multicultural heritage, with a French mother and British father, both esteemed university professors. However, despite his academic lineage, Barton faced challenges in his own academic journey due to undiagnosed dyslexia. While traditional learning methods posed difficulties for him, Barton’s dyslexia also provided him with a unique perspective and problem-solving approach that would later prove instrumental in his entrepreneurial endeavors.

The Birth of Shazam:

The inception of Shazam stemmed from Barton’s desire to solve a common problem – identifying songs. Frustrated by the lack of a solution, he embarked on a journey to create an app that could recognize music simply by listening to it. The result was Shazam, a groundbreaking application that seamlessly merged technology and entertainment. Today, with over two billion downloads worldwide, Shazam remains one of the most popular and enduring apps in existence, a testament to Barton’s ingenuity and vision.

Entrepreneurial Spirit:

Barton’s success with Shazam was just the beginning. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a relentless drive to innovate and disrupt industries. His involvement in the early stages of Google and Dropbox further solidified his reputation as a tech pioneer. Despite facing obstacles along the way, including skepticism and setbacks, Barton’s unwavering commitment to his vision propelled him forward, earning him recognition as a leader in the tech community.

Overcoming Adversity:

One of Barton’s most inspiring qualities is his ability to turn adversity into advantage. Despite grappling with dyslexia, he refused to let it define him or limit his potential. Instead, he embraced it as a “superpower” that enabled him to think differently and approach problems from unconventional angles. Barton’s journey serves as a powerful reminder that success is not determined by one’s limitations but by one’s ability to harness their unique strengths and persevere in the face of adversity.

The Power of Storytelling:

In his speeches, Barton’s storytelling prowess captivates audiences, taking them on a journey of innovation, resilience, and triumph. Through personal anecdotes and insights gained from his entrepreneurial journey, he inspires individuals and organizations to embrace creativity, challenge the status quo, and pursue their boldest aspirations. Barton’s ability to weave narrative and technology into a compelling narrative leaves a lasting impression on all who hear him speak, igniting a spark of inspiration and possibility.

The Future of Innovation:

With his latest venture, Guard, Barton continues to push the boundaries of technology with the aim of saving lives. By leveraging AI to detect drowning in swimming pools, he demonstrates his commitment to using technology for social good and addressing critical issues facing society. As Barton looks to the future, his unwavering optimism and belief in the power of innovation to solve complex problems serve as a beacon of hope for the possibilities that lie ahead.

Why Event Planners Should Book Chris Barton through Speakers Inc:

Event planners seeking to inspire and energize their audience need look no further than Chris Barton. As a renowned entrepreneur, innovator, and storyteller, Barton brings a unique blend of expertise, passion, and authenticity to every speaking engagement. Whether discussing the journey of Shazam, the power of resilience, or the future of technology, Barton’s insights resonate with audiences of all backgrounds and industries. By booking Chris Barton through Speakers Inc, event planners can ensure a memorable and impactful experience that sparks creativity, ignites curiosity, and leaves a lasting impression on their audience. Don’t just host an event – create magic with Chris Barton as your speaker.

Conclusion:

In a world where innovation is revered and resilience is celebrated, Chris Barton stands as a shining example of what is possible when passion, creativity, and perseverance intersect. From the creation of Shazam to his ongoing commitment to using technology for social good, Barton’s legacy is one of inspiration, innovation, and impact. As he continues to push the boundaries of what is possible, Chris Barton reminds us that the greatest magic lies not in what we can imagine, but in what we can create.

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