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In this keynote address at the LoneStarRuby Conf 2010, Tom Preston-Werner shares his journey from childhood curiosity to entrepreneurial success. He emphasizes the importance of ignorance as a catalyst for learning and innovation, highlighting how a lack of knowledge can lead to significant discoveries and accomplishments.

Key Points:  
- **Early Influences**: Tom grew up in Iowa, fascinated by items salvaged from burned houses, which sparked his interest in how things work. He developed a passion for learning through books that explained complex systems, fostering a desire to create.  
- **Ignorance as a Tool**: He illustrates that many of his achievements stemmed from not knowing the difficulties of tasks, such as buying and remodeling a house. His naivety led him to undertake projects that expanded his skills, such as home improvement and auto mechanics.  
- **Experiments in Building**: By sharing his experiences with a Jeep rebuild and a house renovation, Tom emphasizes the value of hands-on learning and persistence. Each project taught him practical skills and problem-solving.  
- **Entrepreneurial Ventures**: Tom transitioned to starting his own company, Q6 Media, after recognizing the demand for web design and graphic services. The jump from a steady job to entrepreneurship involved risks but ultimately proved rewarding.  
- **Creation of Gravatar**: He discusses the inception of Gravatar as a side project during his time at Powerset, underlining how he navigated challenges and the eventual sale to Automattic.  
- **Innovation Mindset**: Tom advocates for creating solutions for complex problems and encourages attendees to trust their ideas and collaborate with others to achieve success.  
- **Focus on Feedback and Learning**: He stresses the importance of iterative processes, receiving feedback, and maintaining curiosity in the creative and entrepreneurial journey.

Conclusions: 
Tom concludes by encouraging the audience to embrace ignorance and curiosity as essential components of discovery and innovation. He reminds them that every journey begins with small steps and that continuous learning will lead to personal and professional growth. He urges attendees to pursue their passions and emphasizes the importance of networking and collaboration in achieving success.

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