Success was the only option.
When Sam Zietz was 14, too small to haul TV boxes in his dad’s appliance store, they put him on the sales floor. That moment changed everything.
It taught him how to listen, how to help people find what they really needed, and, maybe most importantly, how to earn on commission. Long before he wore maize and blue, Sam was learning that games and businesses are won in the trenches.
Years later, after a successful run in law and finance, Sam found himself asking a different question: How do I build something of my own?
That question led to TouchSuite, a fintech company he founded on the heels of 9/11 with no Plan B. He quit a prestigious job, had a newborn at home, and made himself a promise: one deal a day, or he wouldn’t go home.
“Every day in our company’s history, we’ve done at least one deal.”
That level of persistence, and an early eye for underserved businesses, eventually led Sam to GRUBBRR, a startup building self-ordering kiosks and automation tools. He came on early, invested in the vision, and helped lead it to global scale.
Sam saw what many missed. The cashier job was disappearing. Restaurants were short-staffed. Consumers were ready for self-serve, and businesses needed help.
He bet big on automation, and built a system so good that global giants like NCR and Verifone now sell his product.
But he’s quick to point out: it’s not about replacing people. It’s about helping businesses survive and freeing people to do more meaningful work.
In our podcast conversation with Sam, he shares lessons from the grind (including how cold plunges taught him about public speaking), his thoughts on stablecoins and AI, and why he believes entrepreneurship is still the most powerful force for change in this country.
“Every relationship has to be a win-win. If not, it won’t last.”
That philosophy shows up everywhere, from how he handles negotiations to how he mentors young founders.
He may have started small, but Sam Zietz thinks big. And through it all, the mindset never wavered.
Success was the only option.
From the Lightning Round⚡
- Favorite book: Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell
- Best piece of advice he’s received: Think big!
- Hobbies: Pickleball, College Football #GoBlue
Disclaimer: The information provided in this content is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Locality Bank makes no warranty, express or implied, nor assumes any legal liability or any responsibility for the accuracy, correctness, completeness, or any actions taken based on the information provided. Loan programs, terms, and requirements are subject to change. Deposit accounts are subject to account opening requirements. Always consult a qualified professional for specific guidance related to your situation.
