Today on the PositiveStocks Podcast, we’re featuring a true legend of Silicon Valley — Ray Zinn. If you don’t know his story yet, you’re in for a masterclass in entrepreneurship, perseverance, and principled leadership.
Ray is best known as the founder and longtime CEO of Micrel Semiconductor, a company he started back in 1978 with just $5,000 in his pocket. Against all odds, he built Micrel into a global leader in semiconductors, serving industries from telecommunications to automotive to consumer electronics. And here’s what makes his journey extraordinary: Ray ran Micrel profitably for decades, kept the company debt-free, and refused to rely on layoffs — even during tough economic times.
His leadership style has always been about putting people first: employees, customers, and partners. That focus on culture and long-term thinking made Micrel one of the most respected companies in the industry. Ray later captured these hard-earned lessons in his bestselling book Tough Things First, which has become a go-to resource for entrepreneurs and leaders who want to build companies that last.
But Ray’s story doesn’t stop there. He’s also an inventor, investor, mentor, and sought-after speaker. He continues to guide startups, inspire business leaders, and share practical advice with anyone willing to take on the tough things that come with running a business. His insights are down-to-earth, authentic, and rooted in decades of real-world experience.
So sit back and get ready — this episode is about resilience, innovation, and leadership that stands the test of time. Ray Zinn’s journey is a reminder that business success is not just about products and profits, but about values, vision, and the people you bring along with you.
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