Podcasts about crowded market

This episode takes me back to the early days of Neat Apparel, when Claudio and I were just getting started. For those who don't know, Claudio is my business partner on Neat - our sweat-proof Shopify brand and he has one of the most fascinating backgrounds of anyone I've ever worked with.He graduated from Stanford at 20. Climbed to the top of Wall Street. Then pivoted into entrepreneurship—first with a soccer brand, and now with me in performance apparel. In this conversation, we talked through the moment we decided to go all in on Neat.We broke down the actual negotiations that brought us together, why we decided to buy IP before launching, and how we thought about scaling the brand through content, storytelling, and founder alignment. Looking back, it's wild to see how much of that conversation still shapes how we run Neat today.

➡️Like this episode? Leave a review here: RateThisPodcast.com/commondenominator➡️ Subscribe to my #POSITIVITY newsletter: https://moshepopack.com/newsletter/Think you've mastered success in business, creativity, or life? You might be overlooking the one trait that changes everything. Russ Ruffino, a business coach, high-ticket strategist, and transformational leader who's helped over 5,000 coaches and experts generate more than $100 million, reveals why empathy is the ultimate entrepreneurial edge.On this episode of Common Denominator, I explore how empathy transforms marketing, drives better client results, reframes challenges into opportunities, and fuels lasting growth through gratitude and abundance.➡️Timestamps: 00:00 Intro 02:35 The Impact of AI on Film and Acting 05:36 Lessons from Bartending: Understanding Human Behavior 08:24 Empathy in Marketing: Connecting with Your Audience 12:03 The Importance of Life Experience in Coaching 15:21 The Moral Obligation of Coaches 18:48 Strategies for Attracting Clients to Live Events 21:05 Capturing Attention in a Crowded Market 25:58 Gratitude and Success in Business➡️Show Links:Website: https://russruffino.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/russruffino/?hl=en Website: https://moshepopack.com/podcast/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mpopack Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mpopack Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MoshePopack X: https://www.twitter.com/MPopack

Send us a textCarlos Corrador shares his journey from aspiring lawyer to founding Condor Agency, a specialized marketing firm for B2B tech services companies. We explore how deep specialization, personal branding, and adapting to AI are critical for survival in today's rapidly changing business landscape.• Started as a sports journalist in Venezuela before discovering digital marketing through website building• Moved to Chicago for a master's in digital marketing before founding Condor Agency• Specializing in a niche is crucial - "the riches are in the niches"• Marketing effectively requires understanding who your ideal customer is before investing in campaigns• Personal branding requires focusing on an industry or specific topic where you can provide unique insights• Content should provide deeper value than what people can get from ChatGPT• The "crawl, walk, run" approach ensures businesses build proper foundations before scaling marketing efforts• Paid promotion of specialized content can put you in front of decision-makers who would never find you organically• With AI disrupting traditional roles, specialists will survive while generalists may struggle• Focusing on what AI cannot yet do well positions you to thrive during technological disruptionFind Carlos at condoragency.com or connect with him on LinkedIn.Support the showFollow the Podcast on Social Media! Tesla Referral Code: https://ts.la/joseph675128 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@securityunfilteredpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/secunfpodcast/Twitter: https://twitter.com/SecUnfPodcast

In 2025's hyper-competitive staffing landscape, staffing firm branding is no longer optional—it's the deciding factor between being ignored and being the go-to choice for clients and candidates. In this in-depth conversation, Brad Bialy and Becca Searns from Haley Marketing reveal how staffing companies can differentiate themselves in a commoditized market by building a brand that is authentic, consistent, and memorable across every touchpoint.   If your staffing firm still thinks “brand” means a logo and some colors, this episode will change your perspective.   Expect to Learn: 1. Why branding in staffing is more important now than ever before 2. How to move beyond visual identity into voice, tone, and value proposition 3. What the best staffing firms do differently to create trust and loyalty 4. How to integrate brand into every medium—from your website to sales collateral 5. The role AI can play in personalization, content creation, and CRO (without losing your brand voice) 6. Proven website strategies that improve conversions while reinforcing your brand identity   This episode should inspire you to explore staffing marketing strategies and recruiting firm differentiation so you can rise above generic, AI-generated content and stand out from competitors. You'll also hear why companies like top-ranking Haley Marketing clients consistently show up on page 1 for staffing firm branding searches—and how you can adopt similar strategies. 

Would you turn down funding after being featured on Shark Tank? Eric Bandholz did. In this episode, he breaks down how Beardbrand became one of the most iconic DTC companies 0 built on freedom, grit, and a wild Reddit strategy.Jim talks with Eric Bandholz, founder of Beardbrand, about the raw, real story of building a DTC cult brand from scratch. Eric shares how he turned a niche grooming obsession into a 7-figure business - without funding, with help from Reddit, and by staying fiercely true to his values. It's a founder story that throws out the rulebook.Key Topics Covered:Why school nearly derailed his founder pathThe power of community-led growthHow Reddit became his early traction channelGetting featured on Shark Tank (and what happened next)Bootstrapping lessons and the real gift of staying leanProduct expansion done rightWhy building a network is your secret growth weaponIf you believe in the power of community, conviction, and scrappy marketing - you'll love this episode.Resources:Ecommerce ConversationsBeardBrandJim Huffman websiteJim's TwitterGrowthHitThe Growth Marketer's PlaybookThe Shopify Growth ShowAdditional episodes you might enjoy:Startup Ideas by Paul Graham (#45)Nathan Barry: How to Bootstrap a Company to $30M in a Crowded Market (#41)How I Met My Biz Partner and Less Learned Hitting $2M ARR (#44)Ryan Hamilton on his Netflix special, touring with Jerry Seinfeld, & how to write a joke (#10)How We're Validating Startup Ideas (#51)

What if you could build a $25M+ business without raising a single dime?Jesse Pujji has done it - multiple times. From bootstrapping his first agency to launching Gateway X and scaling productized services in the DTC world, Jesse has a blueprint for founders who want to build big without giving away equity. In this episode, he shares how you can do the same. In this episode, Jim sits down with Jesse Pujji (Founder of Gateway X, Co-Founder of Ampush) to break down how he's built, scaled, and exited businesses without venture capital. Jesse reveals his “Bootstrap Advantage” framework, why he believes most founders overcomplicate their growth strategy, and the exact levers he focuses on to grow companies from zero to eight figures.This isn't a theory session - it's a behind-the-scenes look at the systems, mindset, and tactics Jesse uses to build bootstrapped giants.Key Topics Covered:The Bootstrap Advantage: Why it's the best path for most foundersHow Jesse validates new business ideas (quickly and cheaply)The difference between “Productized Services” and traditional agenciesGrowth levers bootstrapped founders must focus onThe psychology of staying lean while scaling bigJesse's personal workflow for launching multiple businesses at once If you're a Shopify founder, DTC marketer, or just someone tired of the VC hamster wheel, this episode is your blueprint.Resources:Jesse Pujji Twitter / XBootstrapped GiantsGatewayXJim Huffman websiteJim's TwitterGrowthHitThe Growth Marketer's PlaybookThe Shopify Growth School Additional episodes you might enjoy:Startup Ideas by Paul Graham (#45)Nathan Barry: How to Bootstrap a Company to $30M in a Crowded Market (#41)How I Met My Biz Partner and Less Learned Hitting $2M ARR (#44)Ryan Hamilton on his Netflix special, touring with Jerry Seinfeld, & how to write a joke (#10)How We're Validating Startup Ideas (#51)

In this episode of High Velocity Radio, Lee Kantor interviews Nicky Billou, author and founder of eCircle Academy. Nicky shares strategies for entrepreneurs--especially coaches and consultants--to overcome mental blocks, niche down, and sell authentically. He also discusses using multiple marketing channels, the importance of clear messaging, and leveraging podcasting and AI. The episode highlights how […]

In this episode of High Velocity Radio, Lee Kantor interviews Nicky Billou, author and founder of eCircle Academy. Nicky shares strategies for entrepreneurs--especially coaches and consultants--to overcome mental blocks, niche down, and sell authentically. He also discusses using multiple marketing channels, the importance of clear messaging, and leveraging podcasting and AI. The episode highlights how […] The post Niche Down to Stand Out: The Secret to Thriving in a Crowded Market appeared first on Business RadioX ®.

They didn't just launch a wine brand - they created a whole new category. In this episode, Kendra Kawala shares how Maker Wines went from cold outreach to category leader.Jim talks with Kendra Kawala, co-founder of Maker Wines, about how she turned B2B sales grit into DTC scale. From walking into wine shops cold to managing complex supply chains with 15 wineries, Kendra reveals the realities of launching a new product category — and why going B2B-first gave them an edge most DTC brands miss.TOPICS DISCUSSED IN TODAY'S EPISODEWhy Maker Wines isn't your typical DTC brandThe early grind of B2B-style salesManaging logistics across 15 partner wineriesWhat business school got right  and wrongChoosing the right co-founder for scaleOrder economics and conviction at launchApplying B2B thinking to consumer marketingIf you're launching something new — or want to scale smart — this is the episode you'll come back to twice.Resources:https://www.makerwine.com/Jim Huffman websiteJim's TwitterGrowthHitThe Growth Marketer's PlaybookThe Shopify Growth School Additional episodes you might enjoy:Startup Ideas by Paul Graham (#45)Nathan Barry: How to Bootstrap a Company to $30M in a Crowded Market (#41)How I Met My Biz Partner and Less Learned Hitting $2M ARR (#44)Ryan Hamilton on his Netflix special, touring with Jerry Seinfeld, & how to write a joke (#10)How We're Validating Startup Ideas (#51) 

John Pasmore, thinks the answer is yes — but not if we keep doing things the old way. In this episode, the CEO and founder of Latimer AI lays out the company's strategy for inclusive AI: replace scraped social content with vetted academic material, digitize underrepresented history, and build guardrails with purpose.Charna and John also explore the implications for enterprise, healthcare, and education — sectors where small biases can cause serious harm.  TIMESTAMPS[00:00:00] — Intro  [00:02:00] — John's Journey into AI[00:04:00] — Data Sources & Historical Archives[00:06:00] — Underrepresented Digital Histories[00:08:00] — Flawed Training Sets in LLMs[00:10:00] — Measuring & Detecting Bias[00:12:00] — Algorithmic Bias in Hiring[00:14:00] — Copyright & Ethical Data Use[00:16:00] — Multimodal Platform Rollout[00:18:00] — Enterprise Privacy & LLM Hosting[00:20:00] — Optimism & Intergenerational Impact[00:22:00] — Founding in a Crowded Market[00:26:00] — Charna's Takeaways on Systemic Bias[00:28:00] — Guardrails vs Structural Solutions[00:30:00] — Training Data vs Output Behavior[00:32:00] — Algorithmic vs Contextual Bias[00:34:00] — Providing Cultural Context to LLMs[00:36:00] — Community-Based Data Labeling[00:38:00] — The Yard Tour & HBCU Partnerships[00:40:00] — Wrapping up the Season & What's Next QUOTESJohn Pasmore “If a company is using AI to look at resumes, what is it? How is it classifying people's names or, we're surprised that sometimes it's using the name and coming to some conclusion about the desirability of a candidate just based on their name, where maybe that wasn't the intent."Charna Parkey “Instead of modifying the model itself, we can say, okay, here's a historical context, here's a new cultural insight, and here's the situation. Now tell me about the outcome, right?" 

It started with a nickname. Then became a joke. And somehow… a 6-figure DTC brand. In this episode, Ryan Rock shares how Fatboy was born and how he turned culture, community, and UGC into a real business.Jim sits down with Ryan Rock to tell the unconventional story behind Fatboy - a brand that started as a laugh between friends and ended up hitting six figures. From pop-up marketing to micro-influencer strategy, Ryan breaks down what it really takes to turn momentum into money (without VC money or fancy tactics).Key Topics Covered:How Fatboy started from an inside jokeThe early wins and major milestonesUGC-first growth and creative content playsPop-ups, local events, and offline hustleBuilding clubs and communities around the brandMicro-influencer and word-of-mouth strategyIf you're thinking about launching a DTC brand — or want to grow without paid ads — this episode is packed with scrappy tactics and founder truths.Resources:Fat Boy Surf ClubJim Huffman websiteJim's TwitterGrowthHitThe Growth Marketer's PlaybookThe Shopify Growth School Additional episodes you might enjoy:Startup Ideas by Paul Graham (#45)Nathan Barry: How to Bootstrap a Company to $30M in a Crowded Market (#41)How I Met My Biz Partner and Less Learned Hitting $2M ARR (#44)Ryan Hamilton on his Netflix special, touring with Jerry Seinfeld, & how to write a joke (#10)How We're Validating Startup Ideas (#51) 

One of the most-listened and shared episodes of 2024 - an episode that multiple people reached out months later to say "this single episode helped me launch my business." So, that's cool. It's on standing out in a crowded market, and it's on mice. Specifically, the guy who got rid of ours. There are four lessons, a framework, Customer Journey Mapping and the Feature Fold. TackleboxIdea to Startup NewsletterIdea to Startup BotSugar (but it stinks)00:30 Intro02:00 We've Got Mice05:15 The Mouse Man's Funnel07:50 Smooth Jazz08:21 One - Build Your Funnel to Match Customer Emotion11:45 Good Questions For Your Funnel12:30 Two - Contrast from the Feature Fold14:30 Saving your Customers a Decision15:53 Three - Take Yourself Seriously19:14 Four - The Things Other People Stink At22:14 The End22:50 Recap of the Four Lessons

In today's fast-evolving digital marketplace, attention is scarce, and trust even more so. In an era of remote work, AI-driven marketing, and constant digital noise, storytelling has emerged as one of the most powerful tools to cut through the clutter. In fact, research shows that people who used storytelling techniques to remember information recalled 7 times more than those who used standard study methods—demonstrating how narrative structure significantly boosts retention and impact.So, what makes storytelling such a crucial business strategy now? And how can leaders and organizations harness it not just to sell, but to inspire, differentiate, and build lasting relationships?In this episode of DisruptED, host Ron J. Stefanski welcomes longtime colleague and friend Daniel Sieger, founder of Stories for Good, to explore why storytelling isn't just helpful anymore—it's essential. Together, they discuss how the modern communications landscape has transformed, what makes a story resonate, and how authenticity can be a competitive advantage.Key takeaways from the episode:Storytelling builds trust and breaks through noise. In a world where 56% of salespeople say their biggest challenge is getting a client's attention, a compelling personal narrative can be the difference-maker.Authenticity and passion are key. People instinctively recognize when a story feels fake. Sieger emphasizes that practiced, real storytelling creates human connection, even over Zoom.Leaders must take an “outside-in” approach. Organizations often underestimate their own impact. By listening to customer stories, companies can uncover their real value and build better narratives.Daniel Sieger is a veteran brand strategist and storytelling expert with over 30 years of experience leading communications for top companies including Toyota, McGraw-Hill Education, and Cengage. He specializes in crafting compelling brand narratives that drive engagement, leading successful rebranding efforts and launching high-impact content strategies such as Cengage Unlimited and Today's Learner. As founder of Stories for Good, Sieger now helps mission-driven organizations develop authentic, memorable storytelling across media, marketing, and leadership platforms.

What would make someone spend a small fortune on the domain Couch.com? In this episode, Alex Back reveals the real reasons  and how it helped him build and sell a 7-figure business.Jim sits down with Alex Back, founder of Couch.com and Apt2b, to unpack the journey of bootstrapping an eCommerce brand and exiting with impact. From domain strategy to traffic growth and earnouts, this is a masterclass in building smart and selling well. Alex doesn't hold back on what worked, what flopped, and what he'd do differently.Key Topics Covered:Why “couches” was the niche of choiceThe surprising ROI of a premium domainBuilding sustainable traffic through SEOStructuring a strong co-founder relationshipWhat makes the right time to sellSmart growth hacks that moved the needleWhy earnouts might be underratedIf you're building, buying, or selling an eCom brand — this episode is packed with real talk and hard-won insights. Subscribe for more tactical founder convos like this.Resources:Couch.comJim Huffman websiteJim's TwitterGrowthHitThe Growth Marketer's PlaybookThe Shopify Growth ShowAdditional episodes you might enjoy:Startup Ideas by Paul Graham (#45)Nathan Barry: How to Bootstrap a Company to $30M in a Crowded Market (#41)How I Met My Biz Partner and Less Learned Hitting $2M ARR (#44)Ryan Hamilton on his Netflix special, touring with Jerry Seinfeld, & how to write a joke (#10)How We're Validating Startup Ideas (#51)

Tired of being seen as “just another” agent, coach, or service provider? Today, Coach Micheal Burt breaks down a step-by-step framework to explain your value in a way that gets attention and gets paid. Whether you're in insurance, real estate, sales, or coaching... This strategy will show you how to position yourself as a specialist, not a commodity.If you're struggling to stand out, this is your playbook for differentiation, persuasion, and bold articulation.___________________Events:https://www.coachburt.com/eventsMasterclass:https://offer.coachburt.com/preydrivemasterclassregisterHire Me To Speak:https://www.coachburt.com/hirecoachCheck out my Books:https://www.coachburt.com/resources

It's brutal out there. You can build something amazing—beautiful design, flawless code, real value—and still watch it disappear into the crowd. There's this hard truth: building the app is only half the battle. The ones that make it usually combine sharp timing, smart distribution, and a deep understanding of what real users actually need. And in a world where algorithms, privacy rules, and AI keep shifting the ground, staying seen takes more than just a good idea—it takes relentless adaptability. Lior Eldan is the COO and co-founder of Moburst, a global digital marketing agency known for its mobile-first expertise. He's helped brands like Google, Reddit, and Pfizer scale through smart digital strategies. Today, he breaks down the real challenges behind app growth—stressing that building a solid product isn't enough. Eldan highlights the need for sharp user acquisition tactics, app store optimization, and keeping pace with fast-moving tech like AI. His focus: strategy, adaptability, and results-driven marketing. Stay tuned! Resources: Ready to experience hypergrowth? Let's talk! Follow Lior Eldan on Facebook Connect with Lior Eldan on LinkedIn

Most brands start online. Robert Nelson did the opposite and it changed everything. He used real-world feedback, military discipline, and pop-up precision to launch a thriving DTC brand.In this episode, Robert Nelson of Just Mystic shares the unconventional path his brand took to gain traction - starting offline with brick-and-mortar and pop-up activations before ever building a Shopify store. With a Marine mindset and data-driven instincts, Robert explains why starting on the ground gave him an edge online.Whether you're validating a product or scaling DTC, this episode shows why doing it the “wrong” way might be exactly right.Key Topics Covered:Why starting with a physical location validated the product fasterHow in-person pop-ups revealed customer behavior and pain pointsThe move from offline to Shopify — and what changedMilitary leadership lessons applied to brand-buildingUsing basic retail economics to unlock higher marginsFollow The Shopify Growth Show for more real founder playbooks - from brick-and-mortar rebels to AI-native operators.Resources:Just MysticJim Huffman websiteGrowthHitAdditional episodes you might enjoy:Startup Ideas by Paul Graham (#45)Nathan Barry: How to Bootstrap a Company to $30M in a Crowded Market (#41)How I Met My Biz Partner and Less Learned Hitting $2M ARR (#44)Ryan Hamilton on his Netflix special, touring with Jerry Seinfeld, & how to write a joke (#10)How We're Validating Startup Ideas (#51) 

Iris Saar Isaacs is the Designer and Creative Director at inSync Design. inSync Design is an award-winning jewellery brand creating high-quality Australian-made, contemporary jewellery that is unique, timeless and affordable from their studio in Melbourne. In this episode, Iris gets candid about her journey of founding and growing her business and how she makes inSync Design stand out in the market. She discusses how she pivoted from wholesale to online retail during the pandemic, how she scaled her business internationally, and the importance of pricing, marketing, and exclusivity for fellow creatives and aspiring business owners. Resources and links: inSync Design website Iris Saar Isaacs on LinkedIn Connect: Alexander Spencer website Alexander Spencer on X Alexander Spencer on Facebook Alexander Spencer on LinkedIn This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

We've all done it (hopefully). You take a job in a market where you aren't the biggest fish in the pond...or even the 4th biggest.But we still have a property that brings value. So, how do we convince brands when there are bigger entities they can invest in?This week, we dive into a listener question about selling sponsorships in a crowded market and how creativity can take you over the top.--The Inches Podcast is a podcast that looks at sports & event sponsorship and how digital is affecting the industry and landscape. Hosted by Rich Franklin, VP of Partnerships at the Coachella Valley Firebirds and Nick Lawson, Co-founder of SQWAD.

We bought a DTC brand. Now we're putting it through the GrowthHit wringer. This is the actual strategy we're using to scale Neat Apparel — and yes, we're sharing everything.In this solo episode, Jim Huffman shares the full behind-the-scenes growth plan for Neat Apparel — a sweat-proof clothing brand recently acquired by GrowthHit. You'll hear the exact tactics he's using to revamp the site, increase AOV, build email flows, and tackle paid ads — all with a bootstrapped budget and a sharp eye on product-market fit.If you want a real-time blueprint for scaling a Shopify brand in a red-ocean category, this is it.Key Topics Covered:Why “shut up and listen” was step one post-acquisitionAOV > ROAS: The case for bundling and upsellsHow they're balancing paid media and scrappy growthTheir ad creative testing process (30+ angles)SEO, seasonality, and what they're betting on long-termFollow The Shopify Growth Show for more build-in-public breakdowns like this. Real playbooks, no fluff.             Resources:The Shopify Growth SchoolNeat WebsiteJim Huffman websiteJim's TwitterGrowthHitThe Growth Marketer's PlaybookAdditional episodes you might enjoy:Startup Ideas by Paul Graham (#45)Nathan Barry: How to Bootstrap a Company to $30M in a Crowded Market (#41)How I Met My Biz Partner and Less Learned Hitting $2M ARR (#44)Ryan Hamilton on his Netflix special, touring with Jerry Seinfeld, & how to write a joke (#10)How We're Validating Startup Ideas (#51)

In the latest episode of Founded & Funded, Madrona Partner Vivek Ramaswami sits down with Harley Sugarman, founder and CEO of Anagram, to unpack how one pivot, a flood of cold outreach, and relentless focus on behavior change transformed a niche tool into an enterprise platform serving companies like Disney and Pfizer.   From landing enterprise logos off of nothing but wireframes, to outmaneuvering the 800-lb gorilla in a legacy industry — Harley's tactics are a masterclass for any founder trying to stand out in a crowded market. Transcript: https://www.madrona.com/how-anagram-landed-disney-with-cold-outbound-security-awareness-training Chapters:  (00:00) Introduction (01:53) Harley Sugarman's Background and Journey (03:24) Founding Anagram (04:21) Initial Vision and Pivot (05:50) Challenges and Market Realities (06:54) Customer Feedback and New Direction (09:25) Executing a Startup Pivot (11:31) Cold Outreach Success (14:20) Security Awareness Training that works (18:52) Competing in a Crowded Market (24:48) Enterprise Sales Strategy (27:04) Fundraising Journey (28:54) Choosing the Right Investors (33:32) Advice for Founders (36:33) Future of Security Training

Robert Friedman is a prominent branding expert known for his ability to help businesses articulate their unique identities and connect meaningfully with their audiences. His journey began in large advertising agencies, where he developed a deep understanding of consumer behavior and marketing strategies. Transitioning to entrepreneurship, he founded Fearless Branding, driven by his passion for helping companies differentiate themselves in a crowded marketplace. Friedman emphasizes that successful branding is built on a singular, meaningful idea that transcends products or services, focusing on storytelling and emotional connections. Robert advocates for a structured approach to branding, encouraging businesses to answer fundamental questions about their identity, purpose, and audience. By clarifying these elements, companies can create compelling narratives that resonate with their target markets. His transformative work has led to remarkable success stories, such as a personal injury law firm that significantly increased its case sizes after redefining its brand narrative. He believes that fearlessness in branding is essential, urging businesses to embrace their unique identities and take bold risks to foster authentic connections with their audiences. To learn more about Robert Friedman's insights and strategies for effective branding, visit his website Fearless Branding. Access valuable resources, including a downloadable PDF and an opportunity to attend an informative webinar that will help you elevate your brand and connect with your audience more effectively. Don't miss the chance to transform your branding approach and achieve greater success!  For the accessible version of the podcast, go to our Ziotag gallery.We're happy you're here! Like the pod?Support the podcast and receive discounts from our sponsors: https://yourbrandamplified.codeadx.me/Leave a rating and review on your favorite platformFollow @yourbrandamplified on the socialsTalk to my digital avatar

In this episode, Craig McGrouther sits down with Ellis Hammond, VP of Capital at Aspen Funds, fresh off our co-hosted mastermind in Austin. Ellis shares his unconventional journey from college pastor to raising $250M+ in equity and reveals why Aspen's oil and gas fund raised $60M in just 60 days while their industrial fund struggles at $4M.His key insight for fund managers: "The lifeblood of your business is 100% correlated to the cash flow you generate" - which is why smart sponsors are adding private credit funds paying 10-12% to create recurring revenue while building long-term wealth. Learn more about Lone Star Capital at www.lscre.com Apply to attend the LSC Summit 2025: www.lscsummit.com Get a FREE copy of the Passive Investor Guide:https://www.lscre.com/content/passive-investor-guide Subscribe to our newsletter and receive our FREE underwriting model package:https://www.lscre.com/resource/fof-underwriting-toolkit Follow Rob Beardsley:https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-beardsley/Read Rob's articles:https://www.lscre.com/blog

Mastering Product Marketing: Insights from Gal Ko, Founder of BoldPMMIn this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge interviews Gal Ko, Founder and CEO of BoldPMM. Gal shares his journey from surfing adventures to leading BoldPMM, a product marketing firm focused on helping businesses create compelling stories and scale through strategic marketing. The episode provides valuable insights into overcoming market saturation, using podcasts for strategic marketing, and the importance of storytelling for CEOs and marketers looking to stand out in competitive markets.The Importance of Storytelling and Strategic Marketing in Today's MarketGal Ko emphasizes that effective product marketing is built on one key principle: storytelling. Product marketers must craft a narrative that resonates with their target audience, aligning with their needs, desires, and pain points. This narrative forms the foundation for a company's go-to-market strategy, ensuring that messaging is consistent and engaging across all channels. By focusing on values and the problems a product solves, marketers can differentiate their brand and build stronger connections with potential customers.However, Gal highlights a critical challenge—market saturation. With the overwhelming amount of content and ads online, it's harder than ever for startups and established companies to stand out. Traditional marketing tactics often fail to break through the noise, especially for startups in competitive markets like Israel. Gal recommends diversifying content channels, shifting focus from paid ads to value-driven content, and leveraging niche communities to engage with potential customers directly. This approach not only cuts through the noise but also fosters organic, lasting relationships with customers.One of the most powerful tools Gal advocates for is podcasting. As an effective marketing tool, podcasts allow for deeper, long-form storytelling that resonates with a targeted audience, including executives and decision-makers. Gal shares that podcast appearances allow business leaders to showcase their expertise, offer valuable insights, and establish authority in their industry. By using podcasts strategically, businesses can amplify their reach, build credibility, and position themselves as thought leaders—especially in competitive markets where breaking through the noise can be particularly challenging.About Gal KoGal Ko is the Founder and CEO of BoldPMM, a product marketing firm dedicated to helping businesses create impactful stories and market their products effectively. With extensive experience in marketing and a passion for innovation, Gal works with businesses to differentiate their brands and drive success through strategic marketing efforts.About BoldPMMBoldPMM is a product marketing firm that specializes in storytelling and go-to-market strategy for businesses looking to make a lasting impact in their industries. They help companies build compelling narratives, connect with their target audience, and navigate market saturation to achieve meaningful business growth.Links Mentioned in This EpisodeBoldPMM WebsiteGal Ko on LinkedInEpisode HighlightsStorytelling for Product...

You're a virtual assistant. You've invested time, energy, and money into your business. But here's the reality: The VA market feels crowded. It feels competitive. Sometimes it seems like everyone's offering the same services, the same skills, at the same prices. Doesn't it? So how do you rise above all that noise? How do you stand out in a way that attracts your ideal clients and lets you build a business that's both profitable and fulfilling? That's exactly what I want to unpack with you today. Because the secret to standing out isn't about trying to be the loudest or cheapest. It's not about having the flashiest website or the most complicated service packages. No, the secret to standing out is much simpler. And it starts with confidence and clarity. Let's talk about 4 secrets to standing out.   Standing out in a crowded VA market isn't magic or luck. It's about showing up with clarity, confidence, and value. It's about leaning into who you are and what you do best. I know you can do this. I'm here to cheer you on and guide you if you want. It's the only reason I'm here at all, is to help you become a ridiculously good VA. If you want to work with me or learn more about my coaching, courses, or membership programs, just visit YourVAMentor.com/links. You can start by connecting with me on your favourite social platform. But if you want me to help you create a tailored offer or craft your marketing message? Let's do it. Remember, standing out starts with one step. Take that step today. That's all I've got for you today.  Thank for tuning in, I'll see you next time!

Software-as-a-service business acquisitions are in trouble. What is responsible for a downward trend in multiples and acquisition dollar amounts? It has a lot to do with AI, but it may not be what you think.I recently recorded an in-depth session for ​Rob Walling's SaaS Launchpad​. This module is called AI in SaaS, and I share over a dozen pitfalls, unobvious risks, and hard-earned insights from my own AI SaaS building journey. The course was already great, but... you know... ;) Use the code ARVID150 to get $150 off until June 8th.The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/ai-is-a-threat-to-saas-multiples/ The podcast episode:  https://tbf.fm/episodes/393-ai-is-a-threat-to-saas-multiplesCheck out Podscan, the Podcast database that transcribes every podcast episode out there minutes after it gets released: https://podscan.fmSend me a voicemail on Podline: https://podline.fm/arvidYou'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.comPodcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcastNewsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletterMy book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.comHere are a few tools I use. Using my affiliate links will support my work at no additional cost to you.- Notion (which I use to organize, write, coordinate, and archive my podcast + newsletter): https://affiliate.notion.so/465mv1536drx- Riverside.fm (that's what I recorded this episode with): https://riverside.fm/?via=arvid- TweetHunter (for speedy scheduling and writing Tweets): http://tweethunter.io/?via=arvid- HypeFury (for massive Twitter analytics and scheduling): https://hypefury.com/?via=arvid60- AudioPen (for taking voice notes and getting amazing summaries): https://audiopen.ai/?aff=PXErZ- Descript (for word-based video editing, subtitles, and clips): https://www.descript.com/?lmref=3cf39Q- ConvertKit (for email lists, newsletters, even finding sponsors): https://convertkit.com?lmref=bN9CZw

Let me ask you something: When your clients talk about what you do—do they repeat your language, or do they describe you the same way they describe everyone else in your space? Because here is what I see happening with a lot of high-achieving women entrepreneurs: They are amazing at what they do… but their ideas sound generic. Their offers sound like everyone else's. And that is exactly why they are getting overlooked—or underpaid. The fix? It is all about turning your ideas into branded intellectual property.

Think the land business is too crowded to break in? Think again. In this episode of The Land Academy Show, Steven Jack Butala and Jill DeWit tackle one of the biggest myths in real estate: that the market is too saturated to succeed. They dive into why that's simply not true—and how the real winners are thriving not despite the competition, but because they know exactly where and how to play. You'll also hear a real-life question from the Land Academy community about what to do when your land photos fall flat—and why setting clear expectations (and knowing when to push back) is key to running a top-tier operation. From drone photos to apex predators (yes, really), this episode is your permission slip to stop making excuses and start standing out in a so-called "crowded" market.

Your traffic isn't the problem. Your ads aren't broken. Your positioning is off. And that's why you're stuck.In this solo episode, Jim Huffman shares a live coaching session that breaks down how to actually fix brand positioning — using case studies from Neat Apparel, GrowthHit, and breakout brands like Rocket Money, Warby Parker, and Figma. You'll learn how better positioning unlocks conversion rate gains, improves messaging, and becomes the foundation for scalable growth.This is the episode for Shopify founders ready to get serious about messaging, differentiation, and the real reasons customers buy.Key Topics Covered:Why your brand pitch likely isn't working (and how to fix it)Two frameworks to improve your positioning todaySpeaking to 3 customer types: informed, afflicted, and obliviousCase studies: Spanx, Truvani, Adam Shoes, Rocket Money & moreReal examples from GrowthHit and Neat Apparel's positioning playbookLearn live from Shopify experts. Join our biweekly AI-powered growth sessions - free for founders and marketers - https://shopifygrowthschool.com/ Resources:Shopify Growth SchoolGrowth Marketing OS (Operating System) GrowthHitJim Huffman websiteJim's LinkedinJim's Twitter Additional episodes you might enjoy:Startup Ideas by Paul Graham (#45)Nathan Barry: How to Bootstrap a Company to $30M in a Crowded Market (#41)How I Met My Biz Partner and Less Learned Hitting $2M ARR (#44)Ryan Hamilton on his Netflix special, touring with Jerry Seinfeld, & how to write a joke (#10)How We're Validating Startup Ideas (#51) 

In this episode of the Your Dream Business Podcast, I had a great chat with thought leader Sara Connell. We talked about what it really means to be a thought leader these days, and how being authentic and thinking outside the box are key. Sara busts the myth that everything's already been said, and encourages people to lead with their own voice and ideas. We also got into why being visible matters now more than ever, touching on things like the “trust recession” and Google's “zero moment of truth.” She shared super practical tips on how to stand out—even in crowded spaces—and make sure your audience is actually paying attention. Plus, we talked about writing books, and Sara gave some smart frameworks to make the process less overwhelming. If you're a coach, course creator, or membership owner wanting to boost your influence, this episode is full of helpful insights. KEY TAKEAWAYS COVERED IN THE PODCAST Your voice is still needed—even in a crowded space. Sara debunks the idea that everything's already been said. She encourages you to lead with your own thoughts and trust that your unique perspective can make an impact. Visibility builds trust—if done right –We explored how being seen isn't just about showing up, but about showing up with intention. Concepts like the “trust recession” and Google's “zero moment of truth” show why strategic visibility matters more than ever. Writing a book doesn't have to be overwhelming – Sara shares simple frameworks to help you structure and write a book efficiently, turning what feels like a massive project into a doable, powerful tool for influence. If you enjoyed this episode then please feel free to go and share it on your social media or head over to Apple podcasts or Spotify and give me a review, I would be so very grateful. LINKS TO RESOURCES MENTIONED IN TODAY'S EPISODE Connect with Sara on Instagram, Facebook, Youtube, Website Connect with Teresa on Website, (Grow, Launch, Sell), Sign up to Teresa's email list,  Instagram, LinkedIn, or

Your personal brand is the one thing you carry with you—through every pivot, job, or business evolution. In this kickoff episode of the Personal Branding Series, I'm sharing why now is the time to take your personal brand seriously—and how to begin aligning how you show up with how you want to be seen.Whether you're starting fresh, evolving your niche, or just feeling disconnected from how you show up online, this episode will help you take the first step toward more confident, consistent visibility. Key Takeaways:Why your personal brand is your most powerful business assetHow the online space has changed—and what that means for your visibilityWhy “just working hard” isn't enough anymore to get noticedThe simple first step to start aligning your brand: Google yourselfHow I help coaching clients build intentional, trust-building personal brands Mentioned in This Episode:Join my email community to get weekly brand-building resources https://shellyniehaus.com/tips Resources:Client Attraction Clarity Call: https://shellyniehaus.com/connectPodcast Listeners Resource Guide - https://resources.shellyniehaus.com/guideList Builder Growth Scorecard - https://resources.shellyniehaus.com/scorecardMarketing Makeover Strategy Session - https://resources.shellyniehaus.com/marketingmakeoverThe Business Power Hour - https://resources.shellyniehaus.com/powerhour Women Entrepreneurs In Prayer Call - https://resources.shellyniehaus.com/prayercallEmail Quickstart Guide - https://resources.shellyniehaus.com/emailguideProfitable FB Profile Guide - https://resources.shellyniehaus.com/fbprofileKit - https://partners.convertkit.com/shellyniehausEquipt360 All-in-One Markerting Software - https://equipt360.com/?_from=shelly75 Connect with Shelly Niehaus:Website: https://coaching.shellyniehaus.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shellyniehaus/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelly-niehaus-7680652/

In this episode of Property Investing Insights with Right Property Group, Victor and Reshmi Kumar sit down with Phil Tarrant to discuss the changing landscape of property and finance. The trio explores the increasing presence of women in finance, with Reshmi highlighting the positive shift towards a more inclusive industry compared to two decades ago. Victor reflects on the challenges today's investors face, noting that while information is more accessible, the market is also saturated with competing voices and strategies, making it harder to build trust and stand out. The conversation also covers the influx of younger, tech-savvy investors, who are reshaping the industry with fresh perspectives. Both Reshmi and Victor emphasise the importance of having a clear investment strategy and a solid exit plan, highlighting that retiring debt is the ultimate goal, achievable through surplus income, portfolio income, selling assets or, humorously, winning the lottery. The trio says that investors should ensure each property purchase aligns with their long-term financial goals, and that focusing on capital growth is crucial to achieving financial freedom. As the property landscape continues to change, they advise investors to view their journey as a process requiring clear goals, adaptability, and an understanding of how to navigate the market effectively.

What if the polished ads you spent thousands on were actually hurting your brand?In this episode, we explore how real, imperfect content is outperforming big-budget campaigns — and why most Shopify founders are still getting it wrong.Jim Huffman sits down with William Gasner, co-founder of Stack Influence, to unpack the real power behind UGC (user-generated content) and why it's become a secret weapon for smart eCommerce brands. From influencer seeding to ad fatigue, they get brutally honest about what actually drives conversions in 2025 — and how founders can stop wasting money and start scaling with authenticity.Key Topics CoveredWhy UGC outperforms professional ads in today's marketThe overlooked value of product seeding (and how to do it right)How to build a content machine that fuels both ads and organic growthWhy creative freedom often leads to better results than tight scriptsThe truth about influencers, follower counts, and what really matters Resources:Jim Huffman websiteJim's TwitterGrowthHitThe Growth Marketer's Playbook Additional episodes you might enjoy:Startup Ideas by Paul Graham (#45)Nathan Barry: How to Bootstrap a Company to $30M in a Crowded Market (#41)How I Met My Biz Partner and Less Learned Hitting $2M ARR (#44)Ryan Hamilton on his Netflix special, touring with Jerry Seinfeld, & how to write a joke (#10)How We're Validating Startup Ideas (#51) 

Liz Long, co-founder of Nearshore.ai, shares her extensive knowledge on transforming innovative ideas into actual products. Liz discusses the critical steps in product design, manufacturing, and supply chain management, offering invaluable tips for startups and established businesses alike. With a background in launching successful brands and an accelerator, Liz provides a wealth of practical advice, from navigating production phases to leveraging global supply chains. She also explores current trends, the importance of specialized products, and effective inventory management strategies. Whether you are a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned professional, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you thrive in the e-commerce and manufacturing spaces. TOPICS DISCUSSED IN TODAY'S EPISODEStarting a Brand: The Initial StepsDesigning Your Product: Key ConsiderationsFinding the Right Factory and Supply ChainBudgeting and Cost ManagementNavigating Production and Quality ControlChoosing Manufacturing LocationsManaging Inventory and Cash FlowFinal Mile: Shipping and FulfillmentExploring Current Trends in Fashion and Product SpecializationThe Rise of the Drop Model and Its ChallengesLiz's Journey: From Reusable Shopping Bags to Product AcceleratorThe Transition to Nearshore and Its ImpactBalancing Work and Family: Liz's Personal InsightsConclusion and Final ThoughtsResources:Jim Huffman websiteJim's TwitterGrowthHitThe Growth Marketer's Playbook  Additional episodes you might enjoy:Startup Ideas by Paul Graham (#45)Nathan Barry: How to Bootstrap a Company to $30M in a Crowded Market (#41)How I Met My Biz Partner and Less Learned Hitting $2M ARR (#44)Ryan Hamilton on his Netflix special, touring with Jerry Seinfeld, & how to write a joke (#10)How We're Validating Startup Ideas (#51) 

What if your hardest season became your biggest breakthrough?Ming Zhao built a $24M skincare brand in just 2 years—while pregnant and going through Y Combinator. This isn't just a startup story. It's a story of pressure, clarity, and purpose colliding at once.In this raw and revealing episode, Ming Zhao, CEO and co-founder of PROVEN Skincare, shares how she transformed corporate burnout into one of the fastest-growing beauty startups—scaling to $24 million in just 24 months. She opens up about building a data-driven business during one of the most demanding periods of her life, and how AI, science, and personal insight helped reshape the future of skincare.Key Topics Covered:How AI and data are transforming skincareThe Skin Genome Project explainedNavigating Y Combinator while pregnantBuilding a business model rooted in scienceLiving the “Love your job, live your life” mindsetResources:ProvenJim Huffman websiteJim's TwitterGrowthHitThe Growth Marketer's Playbook Additional episodes you might enjoy:Startup Ideas by Paul Graham (#45)Nathan Barry: How to Bootstrap a Company to $30M in a Crowded Market (#41)How I Met My Biz Partner and Less Learned Hitting $2M ARR (#44)Ryan Hamilton on his Netflix special, touring with Jerry Seinfeld, & how to write a joke (#10)How We're Validating Startup Ideas (#51) 

After building a successful VC-backed company, Esben Friis-Jensen took a different path — bootstrapping his next SaaS startup to $5M ARR with just a team of 3.In this episode, he shares why he turned down venture funding, how he built an efficient, product-led growth engine, and lessons on scaling smart without sacrificing ownership or speed. (00:00) - Introduction (00:32) - Meet Esben Friis-Jensen (02:30) - The Decision to Bootstrap (06:27) - Product-Led Growth Strategy (11:25) - Competing in a Crowded Market (18:54) - The Role of AI in Business Operations (22:08) - Efficiency and Execution in Small Teams (27:48) - Making Tough Decision (31:17) - Revenue Metrics (32:10) - Speed of Decisions (38:43) - Challenges and Benefits of Founder-Led Companies (40:49) - Joining a Bootstrapped Company  Never miss a new episode, join our newsletter on revenueformula.substack.com

DJ Eidson is the President and Co-founder of Limitless Minds, where he spearheads efforts to make elite mindset coaching accessible to everyone. Through their digital platform and programs, Limitless Minds has empowered hundreds of individuals and teams across organizations like Microsoft, Johnson & Johnson, Chick-fil-A, Bristol Myers Squibb, Goldman Sachs, Harvard Business School, and many others to enhance their performance and gain a competitive edge—just as Super Bowl-winning quarterback Russell Wilson, one of DJ's co-founders, has done throughout his career.As a sought-after speaker and co-host of The Room Tilters podcast, DJ shares practical strategies for navigating change, overcoming adversity, and thriving under pressure — and as you'll hear echoed throughout our conversation today, DJ embodies a commitment to excellence, pragmatic stoicism, and an inspirational presence that inspires and empowers others to realize their fullest potential.We cover the parallels between sports and business, the power of mindset, neutral thinking, what it means to be resilient, impacting a billion people, kindness as a business strategy, leading by example, love of Cleveland, and a whole lot more…I find there's a certain magic at the intersection of peak performance and deep humility, and I felt that's exactly where DJ — and this whole conversation — resides. I had a lot of fun listening to DJ's stories, wisdom, and reflections on entrepreneurship, and I hope you all do as well.00:00:00 - From Pharmaceuticals to Entrepreneurship  00:09:35 - The Power of Mindset  00:12:01 - Early Influences and Entrepreneurial Spirit  00:18:39 - Building Limitless Minds  00:22:33 - Evolving Vision and Services  00:24:18 - Lessons from Sports to Business  00:29:10 - Differentiation in a Crowded Market  00:31:31 - Measuring Resiliency  00:32:45 - The Evolution of Limitless Minds  00:37:47 - Understanding Client Impact  00:42:23 - Aiming for Global Impact  00:44:49 - The Importance of Intentional Mindset  00:50:15 - Hidden Gem-----LINKS:https://limitlessminds.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/dj-eidson-limitlessminds/-----SPONSOR:Roundstone InsuranceRoundstone Insurance is proud to sponsor Lay of The Land. Founder and CEO, Michael Schroeder, has committed full-year support for the podcast, recognizing its alignment with the company's passion for entrepreneurship, innovation, and community leadership.Headquartered in Rocky River, Ohio, Roundstone was founded in 2005 with a vision to deliver better healthcare outcomes at a more affordable cost. To bring that vision to life, the company pioneered the group medical captive model — a self-funded health insurance solution that provides small and mid-sized businesses with greater control and significant savings.Over the past two decades, Roundstone has grown rapidly, creating nearly 200 jobs in Northeast Ohio. The company works closely with employers and benefits advisors to navigate the complexities of commercial health insurance and build custom plans that prioritize employee well-being over shareholder returns. By focusing on aligned incentives and better health outcomes, Roundstone is helping businesses save thousands in Per Employee Per Year healthcare costs.Roundstone Insurance — Built for entrepreneurs. Backed by innovation. Committed to Cleveland.-----Stay up to date by signing up for Lay of The Land's weekly newsletter — sign up here.Past guests include Justin Bibb (Mayor of Cleveland), Pat Conway (Great Lakes Brewing), Steve Potash (OverDrive), Umberto P. Fedeli (The Fedeli Group), Lila Mills (Signal Cleveland), Stewart Kohl (The Riverside Company), Mitch Kroll (Findaway — Acquired by Spotify), and over 200 other Cleveland Entrepreneurs.Connect with Jeffrey Stern on LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffreypstern/Follow Lay of The Land on X @podlayofthelandhttps://www.jeffreys.page/

In this episode of The Tech Trek, Amir sits down with Sasha Gainullin, CEO of Battleface, to explore how focusing on a small, underserved niche in the travel insurance industry unlocked global opportunity. Sasha shares how Battleface used in-house technology to revolutionize the outdated travel insurance model, expanding from serving adventure travelers to powering major partners through their service platform, Robin Assist. This is a conversation about focus, customer empathy, and tech-driven disruption—valuable for any founder or product leader.

In this episode of Ignite, healthcare marketers can gain valuable insights into the importance of aligning marketing strategies with macroeconomic factors and consumer needs. Marketing expert Jennifer Rusk joins Cardinal's CEO, Alex Membrillo,in a discussion that highlights the necessity for marketers to think like CMOs, considering broader economic trends to inform business strategies and create effective marketing plans. This episode encourages marketers to return to fundamental business practices, emphasizing the significance of treating employees and clients well, which can lead to sustainable business growth and improved lead acquisition outcomes. RELATED RESOURCES Connect with Jennifer - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferrusk/  Veterinarian Marketing Strategies: Tips and Ideas to Drive Growth - https://www.cardinaldigitalmarketing.com/healthcare-resources/blog/digital-marketing-strategies-tips-ideas-veterinarians/  Mastering Brand Identity in Healthcare: How to Stand Out in a Competitive Market - https://www.cardinaldigitalmarketing.com/healthcare-resources/podcast/master-healthcare-brand-identity-stand-out-in-competitive-markets-craig-kartchner-honorhealth/ 

In this episode, I sit down with Lucas Kraft, co-founder of Wonderbelly, the fastest-growing OTC digestive brand of 2024—known for its bold branding and clean, effective products. Lucas shares how his deeply personal recovery journey from an eating disorder led to the creation of a brand that's rewriting the rules of wellness. We talk about what it really takes to build an authentic identity, how to craft a voice that stands out in a saturated market, and what marketers and founders need to know about branding with purpose in a regulated space. Key Takeaways:// The origin story behind Wonderbelly—and how personal healing can spark powerful innovation// Why your brand voice is your first (and most important) impression// The key elements of crafting a bold and authentic identity that connects with today's consumer// How to create content that educates and entertains in a regulated industry// Why standing for something real gives your brand staying power// How to balance storytelling with compliance and still be creative// Lucas' advice for launching a disruptive brand in 2025 and beyondConnect with Lucas: LinkedIn Learn more about Wonderbelly: Website | LinkedIn____Say hi! DM me on Instagram and let us know what content you want to hear on the show - I can't wait to hear from you! Please also consider rating the show and leaving a review, as that helps us tremendously as we move forward in this Marketing Happy Hour journey and create more content for all of you. ⁠Join our FREE Open Jobs group on LinkedIn: ⁠Join now⁠Get the latest from MHH, straight to your inbox: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join our email list!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow MHH on Social: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ |⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Colin Zima is the cofounder and CEO of Omni, a data platform that combines the consistency of a shared data model with the speed and freedom of SQL. They recently raised their $69M Series B led by ICONIQ Growth. He was previously the Chief Analytics Officer at Looker.Colin's favorite book: Blink (Author: Malcolm Gladwell)(00:01) Introduction(01:10) What Is a Data Model and Why It Matters(03:27) Gaps in the Modern Data Stack(05:38) The Staying Power of SQL(07:29) Origin Story: Why Omni Was Created(10:13) Lessons from Building the MVP(12:48) Go-to-Market Insights: Zero to Ten Customers(16:02) Founder-Led Sales and Marketing Tactics(18:58) Company Building: Recruiting and Product Challenges(21:34) Product Positioning in a Crowded Market(23:26) Design Philosophy in Enterprise Software(28:21) Omni's Tech Stack and Development Strategy(28:57) Real-World Use of AI Inside the Company(31:01) Future of Data Tooling and Role of AI(33:49) Rapid Fire Round--------Where to find Colin Zima: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colinzima/--------Where to find Prateek Joshi: Newsletter: https://prateekjoshi.substack.com Website: https://prateekj.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prateek-joshi-infiniteX: https://x.com/prateekvjoshi 

Struggling to make your interior design business stand out in a crowded market?In this episode, I sit down with Nicole Lashae Ben, a design strategy expert who reveals how interior designers and product manufacturers can boost their brand awareness and revenue. Nicole shares her journey from watching HGTV as a middle schooler to creating Thrive in Design, a company that helps creative professionals develop powerful marketing strategies.Nicole offers practical advice for designers looking to elevate their brand, including the importance of finding a specific niche and creating partnerships with complementary brands. She explains how design thinking and strategic storytelling can help you connect with clients emotionally, using examples from successful companies like Nike.Ready to elevate your interior design brand and increase your client base? Tune in now and start your journey to a more successful, distinctive design brand!Featured Guest:⁠Nicole Lashae Ben⁠, MA, CEO and Founder of ⁠Thrive In Design⁠, is a seasoned expert in the interior design industry with over 17 years of experience. A graduate of Syracuse University and the Savannah College of Art and Design, she founded Thrive In Design to help interior product companies boost brand awareness and revenue through a human-centered approach. Nicole has successfully implemented strategies that have generated over $15 million in sales and won over two dozen sales awards for top international brands. Her proprietary method, A.C.E. The Journey, enhances customer experiences and equips sales teams to secure more specifications. Nicole is passionate about the intersection of design and strategy, striving to ensure that both thrive in the industry.Why you've got to check out today's episode:Learn how to collaborate with complementary brands to scale your design businessUnderstand how finding your specific niche and telling your authentic brand story across all platforms can transform your businessGet practical advice on avoiding burnout while building a successful design businessCheck out the show notes >>> How to Make Your Interior Design Brand Stand Out in a Crowded Market NEXT STEPS:Get on the waitlist Launch Your Business Bootcamp to secure your spotJoin the My Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!Grab your freebies:Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my CareerConnect With Me:Email: podcast@rwarddesign.comInstagram: @rwarddesign Website at rwarddesign.comThanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...

This episode features an interview with Kamal Thakarsey, CMO at Smartling, an AI Translation Platform that helps companies grow globally, faster. Kamal shares his strategy to stand out in a crowded market. He also dives into understanding trends, educating your customer, and testing even your smallest hypothesis.Key Takeaways:Fight complacency in your messaging. Companies may be comfortable with what they are doing, and comfortable sticking with the status quo, so you need to demonstrate the value of changing their approach. Test everything, from button colors to CTAs and beyond. Testing often surprises you and proves your hypotheses wrong. If you're in a crowded market, focus on truly understanding your market and customers. Investing in that research can support your efforts to differentiate. Quote:   Being an established market, there's lot of kind of noise that's happening and every company kind of raising your hand and saying, we do this, we do this.I think for us also a big part of our strategy is like standing out really like trying to show the market that like we are kind of being industry leaders and helping the space move forward. , I think it's also really about for us, also about how we really highlight kind of the value we bring to an organization and a team. Not just like, tactically, here's some solutions, we help you kind of of do better, but like, what do we actually bring the table and how are we going to help you be successful? I think to me, that's really just like foundational to them, like how we kind of run our programs and campaigns and how more effective they can be, rather than just kind of de facto doing things because we should be doing them. So, you know, one thing I really stress is just really continue to do like market research and understanding, you know, what are their priorities? What are the business initiatives? What are their executives and leaders asking them on an ongoing basis?How can we then understand those trends and that feedback and really put together, you know, smart, timely, relevant campaigns that are going to reach them? Because, like I said, we're in a crowded market with a lot of different vendors, both in the software and the services side, and we have to stand out.Episode Timestamps: *(03:35) The Trust Tree: Capturing the marketing and targeting accounts *(12:24) The Playbook: Driving intent through search*(36:59) The Dust Up: Advocating for self-service *(41:50) Quick Hits: Kamal's quick hits Sponsor:Pipeline Visionaries is brought to you by Qualified.com. Qualified helps you turn your website into a pipeline generation machine with PipelineAI. Engage and convert your most valuable website visitors with live chat, chatbots, meeting scheduling, intent data, and Piper, your AI SDR. Visit Qualified.com to learn more.Links:Connect with Ian on LinkedInConnect with Kamal on LinkedInLearn more about SmartlingLearn more about Caspian Studios

Text the show!“In a saturated market, the goal is not to compete. The goal is to create your own lane.” -Victoria MarcouillierExplore the art of standing out in an overcrowded market with Victoria as she shares insights from her journey with BrandWell Designs, helping numerous business owners overcome the challenge of brand differentiation. Uncover the secrets to strategic design and brand clarity, emphasizing the importance of understanding your audience and identifying what makes you unique before diving into the visual elements of your brand. Learn how a well-defined internal brand can guide your external branding efforts, ultimately leading to pricing power and long-term success, even in competitive industries.Craft compelling brand stories and establish niches that truly resonate with your audience. Victoria discusses a three-step approach to building an authentic brand narrative, defining your niche, and communicating the transformation you offer. Using real-world examples, such as an interior designer, she highlights how focusing on the specific problems you solve can differentiate your services effectively. Additionally, explore the power of client feedback and creating a unique brand identity by developing signature offers or frameworks that set your business apart. Tune in to discover actionable steps for defining your brand's transformation and making your mark in the market.Links Mentioned in Today's Episode:Stand Out with Strategic Design with BrandWell DesignsFor show notes, head to www.thebrandingbusinessschool.com/thepodcast/ Show notes for episodes 1-91 can be found at www.brandwelldesigns.com/thepodcast/ Follow BrandWell on Instagram. Follow The Branding Business School on Instagram. Save 50% off your first year of Honeybook using this link! Save 50% off your first year of Flodesk using this link! Get $30 off your first month of Nuuly using this link! Get up to $150 off your first box of Factor Meals using this link!

In this episode, we explore the essential steps to take an idea and grow it to a seven or eight-figure brand, particularly focusing on Shopify and direct-to-consumer markets. Key points include optimizing product offerings, building a strong business model, creating a unique category, investing in conversion rate optimization, leveraging paid and organic traffic, and more. This comprehensive guide is based on years of experience and is packed with actionable insights aimed at helping you build and scale your Shopify store effectively. TOPICS DISCUSSED IN TODAY'S EPISODEGet the Product RightLaunch with a Flagship ProductSolve a Real ProblemEarly adoptersChoose Your VillainGet the Business Model RightCreate a MovementCreate Your Own CategoryPick a FightBuild a CommunityIrresistible offerTest Activation TacticsTurn Customers into MarketersInvest in Organic TrafficRetention is KeyInvest in Conversion Rate OptimizationMaster Meta and InstagramOptimize Google AdsUse Proven Tech StackKnow Your NumbersLaunch StrategyCalendar Your Marketing Resources:Jim Huffman websiteJim's TwitterGrowthHitThe Growth Marketer's Playbook  Additional episodes you might enjoy:Startup Ideas by Paul Graham (#45)Nathan Barry: How to Bootstrap a Company to $30M in a Crowded Market (#41)How I Met My Biz Partner and Less Learned Hitting $2M ARR (#44)Ryan Hamilton on his Netflix special, touring with Jerry Seinfeld, & how to write a joke (#10)How We're Validating Startup Ideas (#51) 

Ask Jac & Ben A Question!Step into the world of wedding photography with Craig Peterman, a visionary who has mastered the art of building a brand that resonates with couples. Join us as we explore Craig's inspiring journey, starting from his roots in high school photography to becoming a sought-after name in the wedding industry. His unique approach to storytelling, where candid moments take center stage, offers invaluable insights for aspiring photographers looking to make their mark.Discover how Craig emphasizes an authentic client experience, crafting luxury services that cater to each couple's narrative. We'll dive into the challenges of navigating a saturated market and learn how fostering genuine relationships holds the key to success. You'll also hear about the importance of capturing the unscripted moments that truly reflect the joy and chaos of wedding days.With practical advice on branding and marketing strategies tailored to the wedding photography landscape, Craig shares the lessons he's learned throughout his career. So, whether you're a newly-engaged couple or a photographer keen on refining your craft, there's something in this episode for you!Join the conversation, subscribe to our podcast, and don't forget to share your favorite moments from the episode! The Wedding AcademyThe Wedding Academy is an industry certification body & recognised globally.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

Jim is joined by Craig Swanson as they delve into the world of custom GPTs and their applications. They discuss how to utilize AI for tasks like copywriting and strategy development, and learn about the advancements in AI tools such as ChatGPT and Claude. They also showcase practical implementations, from setting up knowledge bases to effective prompt engineering. Tune in to see real-world examples of how custom GPTs can enhance productivity and creativity, and get insights on upcoming AI innovations and tools. TOPICS DISCUSSED IN TODAY'S EPISODEDevelopment of AI ToolsSelecting Appropriate AI ToolsCustom GPTs: Adding Personalization to AITechniques for Effective Prompt EngineeringUses of Custom GPTsCreating a Knowledge Base for GPTsExamples and Case Studies from Real-World ScenariosAdvanced AI Functions and In-depth ResearchExpanding AI in Teams and Future StrategiesConclusion and Future PerspectivesResources:Jim Huffman websiteJim's TwitterGrowthHitThe Growth Marketer's PlaybookAdditional episodes you might enjoy:Startup Ideas by Paul Graham (#45)Nathan Barry: How to Bootstrap a Company to $30M in a Crowded Market (#41)How I Met My Biz Partner and Less Learned Hitting $2M ARR (#44)Ryan Hamilton on his Netflix special, touring with Jerry Seinfeld, & how to write a joke (#10)How We're Validating Startup Ideas (#51) 

In today's podcast, we dive deep into the journey of high achievers with Sherif Shakar, the CEO and founder of CEOS (Chief Executive Operating System). Sharif shares invaluable insights on how mindfulness can significantly benefit business leaders, emphasizing the importance of being intentional and creating space between stimulus and response. He elaborates on the challenges faced by CEOs managing large teams and offers tactical advice on managing time, focusing on the right tasks, and leading effectively. Sharif also discusses the transition from running small businesses to scaling up and the crucial role of a strong hiring process. If you're aiming to take your company to the next level and seek fulfillment in the process, this episode is a must-listen.TOPICS DISCUSSED IN TODAY'S EPISODEHappiness and AchievementMindfulness for Business LeadersAM and PM Bookends for SuccessCEOS: Chief Executive Operating SystemScaling Up: From Project Manager to CEOSharif's Journey and InsightsResources:CEO-SSherif Sakr LinkedInGrowth Marketing OS (Operating System) GrowthHitJim Huffman websiteJim's LinkedinJim's Twitter  Additional episodes you might enjoy:Startup Ideas by Paul Graham (#45)Nathan Barry: How to Bootstrap a Company to $30M in a Crowded Market (#41)How I Met My Biz Partner and Less Learned Hitting $2M ARR (#44)Ryan Hamilton on his Netflix special, touring with Jerry Seinfeld, & how to write a joke (#10)How We're Validating Startup Ideas (#51) 

In the journey of building a successful service-based business, this thought holds true regardless of where you are in your business: consistency is key. Whether you're a seasoned freelancer or just starting out, maintaining momentum with intentional marketing efforts is essential for attracting valuable clients. Enter the concept of the Marketing Minute Trust Ladder, a fundamental tool that helps to guide your efforts and keep you persistent through the highs and lows of business growth.Topics Covered In This Episode:Consistency and momentum are key to achieving results in marketing efforts.Different levels of the trust ladder determine the number of touchpoints required for landing clients.Cold calling and cold emailing are at the lowest trust level, requiring larger numbers for potential results.Cold messaging on social media provides slightly more trust, with the need for fewer contacts than cold calling/emails.Responding to job opportunities in Facebook Groups has a higher trust level due to community connections.Live events and networking offer face-to-face interaction, building significant trust and client acquisition potential.Referrals and upgrading current clients represent the highest trust level, leading to the easiest sales.Identifying your most effective marketing methods and sticking to the trust ladder can guide you on the amount of time needed for outreach.Find the full show notes at:  https://brandimowles.com/244Loved This Episode? Check Out More Here. ⬇️CLICK HERE TO LEARN ABOUT THE ART OF COLD CALLING: STRATEGIES THAT WORK WITH ASHLEY MONKAdditional Resources:Ready to learn the step-by-step process on how to start your business including how to land your first client?! REGISTER HERE for my free training so you can find a way to work from home.Are you looking to find, pitch, and land high-paying clients? CLICK HERE for Booked & Banked, my step-by-step process to stand out in your marketing and find your next consistent client.Check out some of our previous episodes to get started on landing consistent clients below!The 4 Marketing Mistakes That Are Costing You Clients and Cash - LISTEN HEREFast-Track Your Clients: How To Get Quick Decisions Without High Pressure - LISTEN HEREStanding Out in a Crowded Market: 5 Pitching Strategies to Land Your Dream Clients - LISTEN HEREFollow the Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/serve-scale-soar/id1477998650Follow Brandi on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandimowlesFollow Brandi on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Brandiandcompany