Meet Robert Lederhilger | Tech Entrepreneur & Web Hosting Specialist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Robert Lederhilger and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Robert, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?

Starting my own business was a decision fueled by a combination of passion, observation, and a deep-seated desire to fill a gap I noticed in the market. The digital world is continually evolving, and with it, the needs of digital agencies that are at the forefront of this transformation.

My background in technology and keen interest in the progression of digital services led me to identify a distinct need for specialized web hosting services tailored specifically for digital agencies. These agencies are unique; their demands and challenges are different from those of standard businesses or individual clients. They manage multiple projects, each with its own set of requirements, complexities, and expectations for performance, security, and scalability.

Understanding these nuanced needs, I saw an opportunity to create a service that could offer more than just hosting. I envisioned a partnership where agencies could trust us to handle all aspects of their online infrastructure, allowing them to focus on their core activities—creating innovative digital experiences for their clients.

The thought process behind starting my own business wasn’t just about identifying a market need. It was also about my personal aspirations to build something that mattered, something that solved real problems and supported the growth and success of other businesses. By specializing in web hosting for digital agencies, I aimed to create a platform that was not only robust, scalable, and secure but also backed by a knowledgeable team passionate about empowering digital creators.
In essence, my decision to launch this business was driven by a combination of recognizing a specific market need, my personal passion for technology and service excellence, and the ambition to create a solution that supports the vibrant community of digital agencies navigating the complex digital landscape.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?

Starting an ecommerce company with two friends back in 1999 felt like the beginning of a thrilling adventure. The internet was still relatively young, and the possibilities seemed endless. Unfortunately, like many others, the 2008 recession dealt us a crippling blow, putting an end to that chapter of my career. This setback, though daunting, paved the way for significant growth in my professional life. I transitioned to managing web hosting infrastructure for Mars, overseeing more than 1,200 websites globally. This position was a masterclass in understanding the digital backbone of a global corporation and sharpened my skills immensely.

After my tenure at Mars, I spent seven years with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) where I ascended from a Senior Web Hosting Engineer to IT Operations Manager. Each role I’ve held has been a building block, adding to my expertise and knowledge, particularly within the realms of web hosting and digital operations.

The culmination of these experiences led me to start SOLUENCY—a web hosting solution tailor-made for digital agencies. The genesis of SOLUENCY, a portmanteau of “Solution” and “Agency”, was inspired by my time at Mars. Working closely with numerous digital agencies, I pinpointed a gap in the market for a hosting service that catered specifically to their unique needs. SOLUENCY was born out of an ambition to fill that void, leveraging my deep understanding of both the technical and client-facing sides of web hosting and digital agency operations.

The path to where I am today professionally wasn’t easy, peppered with both high peaks and deep valleys. The fall of my first ecommerce venture was a profound disappointment. Yet, it’s from my failures, not my successes, that I’ve drawn the most valuable lessons. Bill Gates once remarked, “Success is a lousy teacher.” This resonates with me deeply. Overcoming challenges such as reinventing yourself after a business failure, adapting to new industries, and climbing the corporate ladder have all reinforced the importance of resilience, continuous learning, and the drive to innovate.

What sets me apart is this blend of experiential learning, failure, and success which has imbued me with a unique perspective on technology’s role in business and the importance of building supportive, adaptable solutions for digital agencies. My story isn’t just about the professional hats I’ve worn; it’s about endurance, evolution, and the relentless pursuit of solutions that make a difference.

What I want the world to know about me, about SOLUENCY, is the story behind it—the story of someone who believes in the transformative power of understanding your failures, learning from them, and using that knowledge to build something meaningful. The path wasn’t laid out for me; I built it from the lessons learned along the way. And that’s the ethos SOLUENCY carries forward to every digital agency it partners with: a foundation built on resilience, innovation, and a profound understanding of the digital landscape.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?

If my best friend were visiting for a week, I’d be thrilled to showcase the jewels of our region, trying to encapsulate the essence of Anna Maria Island, St. Petersburg, and Tampa in a tour that balances relaxation with adventure, cultural immersion with culinary delights.

We would start our escapade at Anna Maria Island, particularly Bradenton Beach, indulging in the serene beauty and the laid-back vibe of the Gulf Coast. Mornings would begin with sunrise walks along the coast, followed by breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh seafood omelets and tropical fruit bowls. We’d rent golf carts to explore the island’s charming neighborhoods, stopping at small galleries and boutiques along the way. The afternoons would be reserved for beach relaxation and perhaps even a jet ski adventure, offering a thrilling glimpse into the Gulf’s azure waters. Dining under the stars at The Beach House Restaurant would cap off our island days, with fresh catch dishes and live music adding to the ambiance.

Transitioning from island tranquility to urban vibrancy, our next destination would be St. Petersburg. Known for its thriving arts scene, we’d immerse ourselves in the creative energy of the city. A visit to the Salvador Dalí Museum would be a must, marveling at the surreal masterpieces housed within its strikingly modern architecture. We’d explore the Sunken Gardens, a century-old botanical paradise, providing a lush escape amidst the city’s bustle. The evenings would see us at downtown eateries and rooftop bars, enjoying craft cocktails and the culinary diversity St. Pete offers, from Asian fusion to traditional Southern barbecue.

Our adventure would culminate in Tampa, a city that fuses historic charm with modern dynamism. The historic Ybor City neighborhood would be on our list, where we’d take a walking tour to learn about the city’s cigar-making past and perhaps even try hand-rolling our own. We’d spend an exhilarating day at Busch Gardens, challenging ourselves on roller coasters and appreciating the extensive wildlife exhibits. To get a taste of Tampa’s lively food scene, we’d visit Armature Works, a restored mixed-use building where we could sample a variety of local foods from different vendors, overlooking the picturesque Hillsborough River.

No trip with my best friend would be complete without just hanging out, and both St. Petersburg’s and Tampa’s vibrant riverwalks offer the perfect backdrop for leisurely strolls, casual conversations, and soaking in the panoramic water views. These cities not only promise fun and excitement but also moments of connection and reflection, making for an unforgettable week.

In essence, this trip would be a mosaic of experiences, from the tranquil shores of Bradenton Beach and the artistic pulse of St. Petersburg to the historical richness and adventurous spirit of Tampa. Each destination contributes its own color to what I believe is the epitome of a memorable visit to our corner of Florida.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?

Absolutely, the notion of recognizing the many hands that have molded and shaped our journeys resonates deeply with me. It’s a humbling exercise to look back and pinpoint the influences, the moments of support, and the guiding lights along the path that have led me to where I am today.

If I were to dedicate my shoutout, it would, without hesitation, begin with God. My faith has been the bedrock of my resilience, the source of my strength, and the compass in my moments of uncertainty. It’s through this relationship that I’ve found the courage to pursue my passions, the grace to accept my failures as lessons, and the wisdom to see every success as a blessing and an opportunity to do more—not just for myself but for others.

This belief system has not only shaped my personal ethos but has also greatly influenced my professional life. It’s instilled in me a sense of purpose, a commitment to integrity, and a profound respect for the interconnectedness of our stories. Each achievement I’ve celebrated is a testament to this unwavering faith and the confidence it has instilled in me to take leaps, sometimes into the unknown, with the trust that guidance and support are always within reach.

Beyond my personal faith, I owe an immense debt of gratitude to the countless individuals—mentors, family, friends, and even strangers—who have offered their wisdom, encouragement, and sometimes, their critique. Each one has contributed a verse to the ongoing poem of my life.

However, acknowledging God at the forefront is essential for me because it’s through this lens of faith that I’ve learned to value and cherish every interaction, every piece of advice, and every gesture of support. It’s a powerful reminder that we’re all part of a larger narrative, connected in ways we often don’t realize, and that every person who touches our lives enriches our story in a meaningful way.

In essence, my shoutout goes to God and the vast network of supportive individuals who stand as proof of His love and grace manifesting in my life. They deserve immense credit and recognition in my story, for it is their contributions that have enabled me to grow, learn, and advance on this incredible journey.

Website: https://www.soluency.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertlederhilger/

Other: https://profile.smartcards.biz/@soluency
https://www.robertlederhilger.com/

Image Credits
Robert W. Lederhilger III