ABOUT

Welcome to BUILDING BIGGER + BETTER BUSINESSES. This is my passion project. I’m Craig Rhinehart, and I’m trying to help other entrepreneurs on their business journey by sharing proven methods, insights and opinions from a lifetime spent in the trenches succeeding, and failing forward, at business. Business is ever changing but the core principles remain the same.  My goal is to help you build a bigger and better business and avoid the same mistakes that I, and others, have made.  You will make enough of your own :-)

 

I feel a sense of obligation about this. Over the course of my professional life, I’ve gained enough expertise in starting, growing, fixing, scaling, selling, and buying businesses to be in a position to do this - as well as having the necessary credibility to be taken seriously. I learned by doing - often the hard way - starting back in the dark ages of new business creation and growth.

 

I’ve worked with businesses across various industries, particularly in the tech space within healthcare, government, retail, financial services, insurance, sports, media, entertainment, and a few more. These businesses almost always involved bringing innovative products and services to market.

 

My entrepreneurial journey began early - I started my first business at 14, another at 19, and purchased my first company at 22. Since then, I’ve played an executive level role in 10+ acquisitions (as both a "seller and "buyer" roles) and three successful turnarounds.

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Two of the "seller" role acquisitions were by IBM (the buyer). I went from being an entrepreneur to an intrapreneur for 11 years.

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As a seasoned leader, I’ve built high-performing teams, streamlined operations, and tackled the challenge of creating scalable, differentiated, and durable offerings and businesses. I often write and speak about those experiences, including corporate entrepreneurship and value-driven innovation.

 

My expertise spans a broad range of technology, including artificial intelligence, e-commerce, content management, records management, streaming and digital media, big data, advanced analytics, natural language processing, process automation, and case/care management.

 

As a long-time entrepreneur (and intrapreneur), I selectively consult on projects where I can add value and bring my expertise to help organizations accelerate growth and overcome challenges. I also enjoy mentoring CEOs, entrepreneurs and veterans through several university and government programs.

 

Originally from Baltimore, I now live near both Baltimore and Washington, DC. When I’m not working, you can find me on the golf course, at the grill, listening to music, or indulging in photography.