What was the inspiration behind founding Aviron, and what does the company do?

Aviron is a game-based connected rowing machine. Where we differ from most of the connected products out there, aside from obviously being a rowing machine, is that we use game design and psychology to make the fitness experience fun and exciting—some would say addictive. 

I really built the product for myself. I think when you start a company, you should try to solve a problem that is affecting you or someone you know, or because it’s a passion. For me, it was two things. 

For one, I hate cardio, and I think a lot of people hate cardio. 

Second, I learned about Peloton and I thought it was a great concept—how you could get the same type of workout experience as a boutique fitness studio in the comfort of your home. But after purchasing a Peloton, I found the class, instructor-led texperience didn't resonate with me. I'm someone who's a little more competitive.

I like short, more intense workouts vs. long form cardio, unless I’m being active in a team sports environment. So marrying video games with a rowing machine—which is one of the best or most efficient exercises out there—is how the idea behind the product came about.