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Justine Tiu is the co-founder of The Woobles, a company that makes beginner-friendly crochet kits designed to help anyone confidently create their first plush.Before launching The Woobles in 2020, Justine was thriving at Google, where she rose from UX designer to one of the youngest leaders on her team. But behind the success, she was quietly battling burnout, imposter syndrome, and a sense that something was missing. In search of happiness, she picked up crocheting—and it quickly became her creative escape. What started as a personal outlet soon sparked the idea for something bigger. She left corporate life behind to launch The Woobles from their garage.In this episode, Justine shares how she went from feeling unfulfilled in her corporate job to testing out multiple business ideas—none of which quite stuck—before stumbling upon a creative outlet that changed everything. What began as a simple Etsy shop eventually grew into a multi-million dollar business. Justine and her husband both quit their jobs to eventually go all-in on The Woobles, navigating everything from learning how to manufacture physical products to handling customer support themselves in the early days. She opens up about the steep learning curve, the mental health challenges of building a brand from scratch, and how customer feedback became their guiding compass. We also dive into the real story behind their Shark Tank experience, the importance of product-market fit over polished branding, the power of a strong support system, and so much more.In this episode, we'll talk to Justine about:* How childhood creativity shaped Justine's career path. [03:10]* How corporate experience helped her start her own business. [05:59]* Justine's experience with fear and impostor syndrome. [08:55]* The mental health benefits of hobbies outside work. [09:36]* Turning a personal hobby into a business. [11:46]* Justine's experience working in Google. [13:25]* Burnout and the search for true happiness. [16:00]* Quitting their fulltime job and starting an Etsy shop. [17:38]* Early business ideas before launching The Woobles. [19:19]* Why owning your brand and online presence matters. [23:32]* The challenges of quality control in physical products. [25:22]* Mental health struggles and the role of family support. [26:27]* How running a business differs from a corporate job. [28:31]* The importance of focusing on what you can control. [29:32]* Experience on Shark Tank and its impact. [31:14]* Embracing uncertainty can lead to unexpected growth. [35:57]* Product-market fit comes before branding. [44:32]* Why a strong support system is key to balancing life and business. [48:36]This episode is brought to you by beeya: * Learn more about beeya's seed cycling bundle at https://beeyawellness.com/free to find out how to tackle hormonal imbalances. * Get $10 off your order by using promo code BEHINDHEREMPIRE10Follow Yasmin: * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yasminknouri/* Stay updated & subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.behindherempire.com/Follow Justine: * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dilly.ofapickle/* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewoobles/* Website: https://thewoobles.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In episode 167 of Joe & Reese's Pickle & Boot Shop, Joe tells the story of the sideways turd in Stall 2. Reese shares his dream of a pill that makes poop smell like lavender. They look up real museums about poop and fake Guinness records. You'll also hear about some million-dollar ideas they'll never follow through on, like Shark Tank but with more poop jokes. We hope you hate it.Patreon: www.patreon.com/pickleandbootshop Merch: www.bonfire.com/store/the-pickle-and-boot-shop--shop/ Email: thepickleandbootshop@gmail.com Instagram: joeandreesepabs Diabolical Discussion by Daniel Rock: facebook.com/groups/diabolicaldiscussion Good Eats: beefaro
Send us a textBrian Vermeire and Kristina Hughes, founders of Frame Your Feline, return to the podcast to share their journey from creating innovative cat furniture to landing a spot on Shark Tank.• Frame Your Feline offers wall-mounted frames that cats naturally jump into, becoming "living masterpieces"• Traditional cat furniture takes up floor space and often looks unattractive in homes• Their frames provide cats with vertical space while maintaining home aesthetics• Only 100 businesses out of 50,000 applications make it onto Shark Tank episodes• Both founders actively support cat rescue efforts through fostering and fundraising• The Shark Tank episode featuring Frame Your Feline airs April 18th at 8pm on ABCCheck out their Shark Tank episode airing April 18th at 8pm on ABC or streaming on Hulu the next day. Follow Frame Your Feline on social media- Instagram Facebook & YouTube. Visit the Frame Your Feline Website to see their products in action!TURN YOUR #CAT INTO A LIVING MEOWSTERPIECE!Cats are magnificent creatures. They are works of art. So what better way to marvel at their beauty then to have them framed on your wall? Frame Your Feline where your cat becomes a work of “living art”.Once they jump into the Feline Frame Ensemble they are immediately transformed into a masterpiece!Support the showSupport the Podcast by buying cute merch! Check out the Your Story Matters Official Store with items supporting both The Story of My Pet Podcast. & Podcast Your Story Now.Shop our affiliate sponsors: Learn more & shop Nuvita CBD Use code Julie10 for 10% for you & pets!Learn more & shop Little Words Project Use code FURMOM for 15% for you & gifts for friends and family!The Story of My Pet Podcast and Blog- Website - Instagram - TwitterContact your host via Email- julie@thestoryofmypetpodcast.comConnect with your host, Julie Marty-Pearson – Website - YouTube - Instagram - Facebook - LinkedIn - ...
Larry is joined by billionaire entrepreneur and ‘Shark Tank' co-star Daniel Lubetzky, and they begin their conversation by analyzing the importance of independent thought in today's political climate. They then focus on the objectives of the Builders Movement initiative, and Daniel's efforts to curb political extremism and heal divisions within the business community (9:17). After the break Daniel shares how the story of his father surviving the Holocaust has inspired his unifying world view, and postulates on the damaging effects anti-semitism has had historically on different societies around the world (25:46). Daniel and Larry end the pod by shining a light on ‘Shark Tank', relaying advice for young entrepreneurs, and breaking down the success of Kind LLC (52:01). Host: Larry Wilmore Guest: Daniel Lubetzky Producers: Chris Sutton and Brandy LaPlante Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
In this episode, I sat down with Vicky Pasche, the incredible force behind Dapper Boi, a gender-inclusive, size-inclusive apparel brand with a mission rooted in confidence and authenticity. What began as Vicky's search for clothes that fit her body and identity has grown into a full-blown movement. From scrappy Kickstarter launches to launching on Nordstrom, this is a story of resilience, creativity, and staying true to your why. We talk about the power of fit, why confidence is Dapper Boi's actual product, and the wild ride of building a business from scratch. Vicky doesn't hold back; she shares the highs, the lows, the viral videos, the sacrifices (including selling her house), and what it means to truly serve a community that has long been ignored by mainstream fashion.
Pat & JT kick it off with a birthday shoutout to Sophia, who turns 20 today. Crazy how time flies! Then it's a whirlwind of bananas and eggs—literally—as they celebrate the Savannah Bananas' ESPN takeover and the Omaha-founded Deviled Egg Company heading to Shark Tank. But the real chaos? Katy Perry, Gail King & friends want astronaut status after their Blue Origin trip. Plus: a true crime rec you haven't seen yet (PD True). Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss an episode! Also follow up on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram This is another Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a podcast network and digital media production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat Media Network by going to HurrdatMedia.com or the Hurrdat Media YouTube channel! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Looking for the best eCommerce profit optimization software to scale your brand? In this episode, we sit down with Adam Callinan, serial entrepreneur and founder of Pentane, a platform designed to help early-stage and scaling DTC brands turn their numbers into strategic decisions—without needing a CFO.Adam shares actionable strategies for improving your ecommerce workflow, maximizing ecommerce profit, and building a business that scales intelligently. Whether you're running a Shopify store or launching a new DTC product, this conversation is packed with valuable insight into eCommerce financial tools, SaaS for consumer brands, and the math behind sustainable growth.Discover how to:Create real-time automated P&L software dashboards for smarter, faster decisionsUnderstand and optimize your ad spend strategy for eCommerceUse metrics and levers to achieve profitability goalsImprove your real-time business metrics without waiting weeks for a P&LLearn from a founder with multiple exits and Shark Tank product successThis episode is a goldmine for founders, marketers, and operators trying to cut through the chaos and create meaningful, data-backed growth with eCommerce growth systems that actually move the needle.Whether you're just getting started or already at $5M+ in revenue, Adam's insights around profitability optimization for startups will help you define your path forward.00:00 – Intro to Adam Callinan and Pentane01:15 – From medical devices to BottleKeeper and Shark Tank02:45 – Building eCommerce systems with no team or investors04:10 – What Pentane is and why it works06:00 – Ad spend, profitability, and how Pentane calculates optimal strategy08:05 – Fixed expenses, pricing, and conversion rate hacks10:00 – What type of businesses should use Pentane12:00 – API integrations: Shopify, QuickBooks, Amazon, Google Ads13:20 – Why “Pentane”? The story behind the name14:00 – The role of AI in business decision-making15:30 – Final thoughts and how to get started with PentaneTo check out the YouTube (video podcast), visit: https://www.youtube.com/@drchrisloomdphdDisclaimer: Not advice. Educational purposes only. Not an endorsement for or against. Results not vetted. Views of the guests do not represent those of the host or show. Click here to join PodMatch (the "AirBNB" of Podcasting): https://www.joinpodmatch.com/drchrisloomdphdWe couldn't do it without the support of our listeners. To help support the show:CashApp- https://cash.app/$drchrisloomdphdVenmo- https://account.venmo.com/u/Chris-Loo-4Spotify- https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/christopher-loo/supportBuy Me a Coffee- https://www.buymeacoffee.com/chrisJxClick here to schedule a 1-on-1 private coaching call: https://www.drchrisloomdphd.com/book-onlineClick here to check out our bookstore, e-courses, and workshops: https://www.drchrisloomdphd.com/shopClick here to purchase my books on Amazon: https://amzn.to/2PaQn4pFor audiobooks, visit: https://www.audible.com/author/Christopher-H-Loo-MD-PhD/B07WFKBG1FFollow our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/chL1357Follow us on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/drchrisloomdphdFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thereal_drchrislooFollow our Blog: https://www.drchrisloomdphd.com/blogFollow the podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3NkM6US7cjsiAYTBjWGdx6?si=1da9d0a17be14d18Subscribe to our LinkedIn newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6992935013231071233Subscribe to our email list: https://financial-freedom-podcast-with-dr-loo.kit.com/Thank you to all of our sponsors and advertisers that help support the show!Financial Freedom for Physicians, Copyright 2025
Have you ever had a great idea but hesitated to act on it? Have you ever failed and wondered if that failure defined you? Have you ever chased success only to question if you were following the right path? For every aspiring entrepreneur, creator, or dreamer wrestling with self-doubt, Akeem Shannon's story is not only relatable—it's a blueprint for turning trials into triumphs. In this episode, Akeem shares the untold moments behind his rise: ⚉ The power of storytelling ⚉ First taste of entrepreneurship and failure ⚉ From pivotal failures to taking the leap ⚉ Building Flipstik from scratch ⚉ Facing doubts and family fears ⚉ Shark Tank rejection ⚉ Rapping for investor ⚉ The Plot Twist: From rap pitch to meeting P. Diddy and Snoop Dogg ⚉ Why the story matters more than the product ⚉ Success isn't always about the money ⚉ Performing under pressure ⚉ Sales is storytelling ⚉ Use-case: The product's impact to the deaf community ⚉ What is the next level of brand growth ⚉ What is the One-Thing Rule ⚉ Why you need the right mentor for you After losing his college scholarship, Akeem was forced to find work for $10 an hour at a local cell phone shop. But he leveraged the sales skills learned there to become the top sales professional at not 1 but 2 Fortune 500 companies. After an accomplished sales career, Akeem chose to pursue his dream of entrepreneurship. He struggled at first but eventually scaled his company Flipsitk from a single mall kiosk to an Inc Magazine Top 50 Fastest Growing Consumer Brand. With the help of celebrities like Snoop Dogg, appearances on Shark Tank and The Today Show, and distribution in 3000 retailers including Target, Best Buy, and AT&T, Akeem has now made customers out of 1 million consumers. Akeem's stories have entertained and inspired on the stages of South By South West (SXSW), the Consumer Electronic Show (CES), Fast Company, Bank of America, the Smithsonian, and many more. MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: ⚉ [Book] The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho - https://www.amazon.com/Alchemist-Deluxe-Paulo-Coelho/dp/0063442469/ ⚉ [Video] Shark Tank: The Shark's Best Rap EVER! (Flipstik) | Shark Tank US | Shark Tank Global - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fSDqS5TextM ⚉ [Movie] Air - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Air_(2023_American_film) CONNECT WITH AKEEM:
How do we overcome fears about the future? As some of you may know, we spend the winter in Palm Desert, and we have these little bunnies that come and visit us in our backyard. As I was writing this blog about fear, one of the bunnies, a little baby, was slowly coming closer and closer to the table where I was sitting... Listen to the Podcast to learn more. About the Host: Certified Speaking Professional CSP®, Recipient of the Peter Legge Philanthropic Award in 2024, the Most Empowering Confidence Coach in North America in 2023 and 2021 Canadian Presenter of the Year, Nathalie Plamondon-Thomas is a Confidence Expert. She is the author of 18 books, including 12 no.1 bestsellers and a book co-written with Kevin Harrington from the Shark Tank, endorsed by Tony Robbins. She is the Founder and CEO of the THINK Yourself® ACADEMY, offering keynotes and trainings, leading-edge online courses, laser-focus business strategy and one-on-one transformation coaching. Along the past two decades, she has inspired over 100,000 audience members and empowered thousands of clients internationally to get rid of their negative self-talk. She combines over 10 years of experience in human resources, 25 years of experience in sales and over 30 years of distinguished service in the fitness industry. She is Vice-President on the national board of directors of the Canadian Association of Professional Speakers and received the 2022 and 2023 President's Award. Links: nathalie@thinkyourself.com Web: www.thinkyourself.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThinkYourselfAcademy LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathaliept/ Instagram: @nathaliepthinkyourself Book your FREE 15-min Virtual Coffee: www.thinkyourself.com/schedule Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below! Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app. Leave us an Apple Podcasts review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.
Jimmy Snipes talking about his first NHL goal. Good timing with Snipes with the Holloway injury. Is Snuggerud paying rent to Schenn? Getting Jackson a private jet to head up to WPG for Game 1. We were born here, what's your excuse? Fights in the YouTube chat. Is Kansas City celebrating the Chiefs victory? The Late Night Score. Slowing it down for just a sec to reflect. A TMA festival. Revolutionizing the game day experience with Release The Hoosier. Doug in a kissing booth. Leaving with the pathogens you came with. A The Dotem announcement coming Monday. Pizza bandits. Jeremy Rutherford joins us in studio. Not happy with the Ducks because now he's gotta go to Winnipeg instead of Vegas. The Blues chances to upset the Jets. Holloway not really close. Winnipeg's health. Blues still gonna be a tough out. JR wants the next round to be at The Shark Tank. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
In Episode 93 of JK + 1, Jonathon Kinchen sits down with Ian Sambor, the Executive Producer of Netflix's brand-new documentary series Race for the Crown, debuting globally on April 22. Sambor, whose impressive credits include King of Collectibles: The Goldin Touch and the Emmy-winning Shark Tank, joins JK to discuss the making of this highly anticipated deep dive into the high-stakes world of professional horse racing.Race for the Crown comes from the same production team that brought you Formula 1: Drive to Survive and follows owners, trainers, and jockeys through a full Grade I stakes season—culminating in the legendary Triple Crown: the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness Stakes, and the Belmont Stakes. With unprecedented access and cinematic storytelling, the six-episode docuseries takes viewers behind the scenes of the “most exciting two minutes in sports” and far beyond, offering a raw and riveting look at what it takes to chase glory in one of the most tradition-rich and grueling sports on earth.Sambor talks with JK about the inspiration for the series, the challenges of capturing such a fast-moving and emotionally charged sport, and his hopes for how the show will shine a new light on horse racing's passionate community. They also reflect on the larger-than-life personalities within the industry—including billionaire owners like Michael Repole and Michael Iavarone—and the courage and dedication of the featured jockeys like Irad Ortiz Jr., Frankie Dettori, Javier Castellano, John Velazquez, Katie Davis, Umberto Rispoli, and many more.Together, they explore how Race for the Crown captures the essence of the sport: a mix of heart-pounding competition, generational legacy, and the relentless pursuit of one nearly impossible goal—winning the Triple Crown. With only 13 horses in history ever having completed the feat, the stakes are always sky-high and the stories are as compelling as any in sports.This episode also highlights the human side of racing, including the camaraderie, the sacrifice, and the hope that drives everyone involved—from those training in the early morning light to the owners gambling millions on potential greatness.Don't miss this in-depth conversation as JK and Ian go beyond the camera lens to talk storytelling, legacy, and the power of great people doing great things in a great sport!Watch Race for the Crown only on Netflix, starting April 22.
En este episodio me senté con Karla Berman, inversionista, empresaria y shark en Shark Tank México. Hablamos sobre cómo organiza su tiempo, su experiencia en Shark Tank, los mitos del emprendimiento, cómo piensa una CEO que también es mamá. Una conversación sincera sobre productividad, dinero, maternidad y decisiones difíciles. Episodio ideal para quien quiere entender mejor el mundo real de los negocios sin filtros.
Our Jules checks in from the Shark Tank following the announcement that Sharks captain Logan Couture announces he will no longer play hockey. Ian and AJ jump on to reflect on Couture's career and more. Teal Town USA - A San Jose Sharks' post-game podcast, for the fans, by the fans! Subscribe to catch us after every Sharks game and our weekly wrap-up show, The Pucknologists! Check us out on YouTube and remember to Like, Subscribe, and hit that Notification bell to be alerted every time we go live!
In Episode 93 of JK + 1, Jonathon Kinchen sits down with Ian Sambor, the Executive Producer of Netflix's brand-new documentary series Race for the Crown, debuting globally on April 22. Sambor, whose impressive credits include King of Collectibles: The Goldin Touch and the Emmy-winning Shark Tank, joins JK to discuss the making of this highly anticipated deep dive into the high-stakes world of professional horse racing.Race for the Crown comes from the same production team that brought you Formula 1: Drive to Survive and follows owners, trainers, and jockeys through a full Grade I stakes season—culminating in the legendary Triple Crown: the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness Stakes, and the Belmont Stakes. With unprecedented access and cinematic storytelling, the six-episode docuseries takes viewers behind the scenes of the “most exciting two minutes in sports” and far beyond, offering a raw and riveting look at what it takes to chase glory in one of the most tradition-rich and grueling sports on earth.Sambor talks with JK about the inspiration for the series, the challenges of capturing such a fast-moving and emotionally charged sport, and his hopes for how the show will shine a new light on horse racing's passionate community. They also reflect on the larger-than-life personalities within the industry—including billionaire owners like Michael Repole and Michael Iavarone—and the courage and dedication of the featured jockeys like Irad Ortiz Jr., Frankie Dettori, Javier Castellano, John Velazquez, Katie Davis, Umberto Rispoli, and many more.Together, they explore how Race for the Crown captures the essence of the sport: a mix of heart-pounding competition, generational legacy, and the relentless pursuit of one nearly impossible goal—winning the Triple Crown. With only 13 horses in history ever having completed the feat, the stakes are always sky-high and the stories are as compelling as any in sports.This episode also highlights the human side of racing, including the camaraderie, the sacrifice, and the hope that drives everyone involved—from those training in the early morning light to the owners gambling millions on potential greatness.Don't miss this in-depth conversation as JK and Ian go beyond the camera lens to talk storytelling, legacy, and the power of great people doing great things in a great sport!Watch Race for the Crown only on Netflix, starting April 22.
Today on the podcast, I'm joined by the incredible Hailey Marie—veteran, entrepreneur, and founder of a brand that's changing the game for women in uniform. From serving in the Air Force to launching a comfort-first, military-approved bodysuit and pitching on Shark Tank, Hailey's story is the perfect mix of grit, authenticity, and inspiration ✨ We chat about: Her journey from military life to entrepreneurship What inspired her to create a product for women in service The steps she took from idea to launch (and Shark Tank!) What it really takes to scale a business sustainably Navigating identity, wellness, and leadership as a woman in business Why honoring your health is key to long-term success Whether you're a founder, a dreamer, or someone craving a deeper sense of purpose in your work—this episode is packed with motivation and behind-the-scenes wisdom. ➡️ Join Magali's Unlock Your Vitality Community now with 50% off + a 2-week free trial.
Wellness + Wisdom | Episode 732 Have you ever wondered if the dream you're chasing is really yours? Anne-Laure Le Cunff joins Josh Trent on the Wellness + Wisdom Podcast, episode 732, to share how to stop living someone else's life by removing unconscious scripts, the key to living an authentic life, and how embracing liminal spaces, questioning societal scripts, and running tiny experiments can free us from the pressure of finding our purpose. "We always think that we're following our own definition of success, but it's just amazing how many of our scripts are copy-pasted from other people. And not wanting to disappoint your parents is actually a really strong driving force." - Anne-Laure Le Cunff
Burnie and Ashley discuss US Tax Day, the drop of American tourism, Apple Maps, Katy Perry in space, biggest rivals, Waymo, angel investing, Shark Tank, Mark Cuban: nice billionaire, and Judge Judy's easiest case.Support our podcast at: https://www.patreon.com/morningsomewhereFor the link dump visit: http://www.morningsomewhere.comFor merch, check out: http://store.morningsomewhere.com
Episode 455 features Megan Reilly, co-founder of Tippi Toes and now part of Jesse Itzler's Adventure ClubFind Megan Online:Website: https://www.megan-reilly.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meganlreilly-speakerInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/meganlreilly/?hl=enListen to Who Is Your Momma on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6er3DfXbIQOSQXIBJAXnVF?si=y-BJ1ehnQS-JgIAUzFAFRgAbout MeganMegan Reilly started as an entrepreneur at age 19 and over the last two decades built an international franchise, received multiple offers on Shark Tank, started a top 12 podcast and ignited crowds all around the country as a keynote speaker. As owner and COO of Tippi Toes, Inc, Megan, helped grow the company from a part time business to 70 franchises over 23 years. During her tenure Megan wrote children's music albums that reached number 1 on iTunes chart. In August 2024 Megan successfully exited her company.Megan is the creator and host of one of the Top 12 Parenting Podcasts on Apple Podcasts, Who Is Your Momma Podcast, where she speaks to the mothers of some of the world's most successful, CEOs, athletes, and entertainers. Megan currently works as a Director of membership for Jesse Itzler's Adventure Club. Megan is a Top Voice on LinkedIn and engages regularly with thousands of followers on the platform. Megan speaks to organizations all across the country sharing the lessons she has learned from more than 20 years as a thriving entrepreneur.Megan and her husband Chris have been married since 2007 and have three daughters.++++++++
Pat Yates is a seasoned entrepreneur with a focus on e-commerce. In 2014 he struck a deal with Robert Herjavec on the Emmy Award winning show “Shark Tank”. Pat grew a single slipper kiosk business into a multimillion-dollar e-commerce focused business. During that time Pat has done licensing deals with DreamWorks, NCAA, NFL and Disney. In 2015 he struck up a relationship with Mark the founder of Quiet Light and continued eventually leading him to becoming an M&A advisor. He speaks on stages around the world and is an expert in the Ecom space.> Here's a glimpse of what you would learn…. Impact of "Shark Tank" on brand visibility and entrepreneur experiences.Importance of networking and community among entrepreneurs.Process and considerations for getting featured on "Shark Tank."Current challenges in the e-commerce market, including inflation and interest rates.Strategies for improving business performance before selling.Understanding business valuations and the significance of EBITDA multiples.Importance of preparation and accurate financial records for business sales.Actionable strategies for enhancing business value and growth.Role of technology and data analysis in e-commerce decision-making.Value of attending industry events for networking and learning opportunities.In this episode of the Ecomm Breakthrough Podcast, host Josh Hadley welcomes back Pat Yates, a seasoned entrepreneur and M&A advisor at Quiet Light Brokerage. Known for his successful "Shark Tank" deal with Robert Herjavec, Pat shares insights on leveraging the show's exposure, the importance of networking, and the current e-commerce landscape. He emphasizes the need for thorough preparation before selling a business, understanding financials, and maintaining realistic expectations. Pat also highlights the value of data-driven decision-making and the potential of AI tools to enhance business operations. This episode is a must-listen for entrepreneurs aiming to scale their businesses to new heights.Here are the 3 action items that Josh identified from this episode:Action Item #1 Consider "Shark Tank": Entrepreneurs with products that appeal to a broad audience should consider applying to "Shark Tank."Action Item #2 Maintain Accurate Financial Records: Running both accrual and cash basis books is crucial for understanding the business's financial position and preparing for potential exits.Action Item #3 Focus on Growth: Entrepreneurs should prioritize growth, especially if they are considering an exit.Resources mentioned in this episode:Josh Hadley on LinkedIneComm Breakthrough ConsultingeComm Breakthrough PodcastEmail Josh Hadley: Josh@eCommBreakthrough.comQuiet Light BrokerageExit Preneur PlaybookAmazon Business ReportsGoogle SheetsClaude AIChatGPTProsper ShowBillion Dollar Seller SummitThe E-MythDelivering HappinessScattered MindsShark TankBeyond the TankSpecial Mention(s):Adam “Heist” Runquist on LinkedInKevin King on LinkedInMichael E. Gerber on LinkedInRelated Episode(s):“Cracking the Amazon Code: Learn From Adam Heist's Brand Scaling Secrets” on the eComm Breakthrough Podcast“Kevin King's Wicked-Smart Tips for Building an Audience of Raving Fans” on the eComm Breakthrough Podcast“Unlocking Entrepreneurial Greatness | Insider Secrets With E-myth Author Michael Gerber” on the eComm Breakthrough PodcastThis episode is brought to you by eComm Breakthrough Consulting where I help seven-figure e-commerce owners grow to eight figures. I started my business in 2015 and grew it to an eight-figure brand in seven years.I made mistakes along the way that made the path to eight figures longer. At times I doubted whether our business could even survive and become a real brand. I wish I would have had a guide to help me grow faster and avoid the stumbling blocks.If you've hit a plateau and want to know the next steps to take your business to the next level, then email me at josh@ecommbreakthrough.com and in your subject line say “strategy audit” for the chance to win a $10,000 comprehensive business strategy audit at no cost!Transcript AreaJosh Hadley 00:00:00 Welcome to the Ecomm Breakthrough podcast. I'm your host, Josh Hadley, where I interview the top business leaders in e-commerce. Past guests include Kevin King, Aaron Cordovez and Michael E Gerber, the author of the E-myth. Today I am speaking with Pat Yates. He's actually a returning guest here to the ...
All Aboard the Innovation Express: RSAC 2025 On Track for Cybersecurity's FutureLet's face it—RSAC isn't just a conference anymore. It's a movement. A ritual. A block party for cybersecurity. And this year, it's pulling into the station with more tracks than ever before—figuratively and literally.In this On Location episode, we reconnect with Cecilia Murtagh Marinier, Vice President of Innovation and Scholars at RSAC, to dive into what makes the 2025 edition a can't-miss experience. And as always, Sean and Marco kick things off with a bit of improvisation, some travel jokes, and a whole lot of heart.From the 20th Anniversary of the Innovation Sandbox (with a massive $50M investment boost from Crosspoint Capital) to the growing Early Stage Expo, LaunchPad's Shark-Tank-style sessions, and the new Investor & Entrepreneur track, RSAC continues to set the stage for cybersecurity's next big thing.And this year, they're going bigger—literally. The expansion into the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts brings with it a mind-blowing immersive experience: DARPA's AI Cyber City, a physically interactive train ride through smart city scenarios, designed to show how cybersecurity touches everything—from water plants to hospitals, satellites to firmware.Add in eight hands-on villages, security scholars programs, coffee-fueled networking zones, and a renewed focus on inclusion, mentorship, and accessibility, and you've got something that feels less like an event and more like a living, breathing community.Cecilia also reminds us that RSAC is a place for everyone—from first-timers unsure where to begin to seasoned veterans ready to innovate and invest. It's about showing up, making a plan (or not), and being open to the unexpected conversations that happen in hallways, lounges, or over espresso in the sandbox village.And if you can't make it in person? RSAC has made sure that everything is accessible online—600 speakers, 600 vendors, and endless ways to engage, reflect, and be part of the global cybersecurity story.So whether you're hopping in the car, boarding a flight, or—who knows—riding a miniature DARPA train through Northridge City, one thing's for sure: RSAC 2025 is going full speed ahead—and we're bringing you along for the ride.⸻
As much as I avoid real life drama with all my might, I've been guilty of falling into some of these White Lotus character traps in business. Yes it's a show about people who are conflicted and struggle through their emotions and relationships (among other many things), but it actually has some solid lessons that can be valuable in the startup/fundraising process. From Belinda desperately holding onto an investor's maybe, to Saxon who wraps his whole identity up in his business. Ahem… sound familiar? There are some moments that hit close to home. Why is it so dangerous to zero in and “hope” one investor will come through? And how do you avoid that? In this episode, I share 2 valuable lessons that popped up watching what is arguably one of the best series on MAX. Well, that is, if you like that cringey, luxury, drama, murder, kind of thing. About Your Host Jayla Siciliano, Shark Tank entrepreneur turned real estate investor, excels in building brands, teams, and products. CEO of a bi-coastal luxury short-term rental company, she also hosts the Seed Money Podcast where she's on a mission to help early-stage entrepreneurs turn their ideas into reality! Connect: Website: https://seedmoneypodcast.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaylasiciliano/ Subscribe and watch on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@seedmoneypodcast/ Please rate, follow and review the podcast on https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/seed-money/id1740815877 and https://open.spotify.com/show/0VkQECosb1spTFsUhu6uFY?si=5417351fb73a4ea1/! Hearing your comments and questions helps me come up with the best topics for the show! The information in this podcast is educational and general in nature and does not take into consideration the listener's personal circumstances. Therefore, it is not intended to be a substitute for specific, individualized financial, legal, or tax advice.
Meet Brandon Davis, the college senior who's turning the collections industry on its head with his AI startup, Interval. While most of his classmates are polishing resumes and stressing over job applications, Brandon is running a growing tech company with multiple employees—all before graduation day.Brandon's entrepreneurial journey began early, watching Shark Tank with his father and seeing ordinary people building extraordinary businesses. From selling fidget spinners to classmates to running a landscaping service as a teenager, his path to founding Interval was paved with the hustle that defines true entrepreneurs. After cycling through nearly 20 different startup ideas during a university incubator program, Brandon and his co-founder landed on a solution that businesses were actually willing to pay for: automated collections.What makes Interval AI fascinating isn't just the technology—it's the problem it solves. Every business struggles with accounts receivable at some point, whether it's from expired credit cards, forgetful customers, or those deliberately avoiding payment. Traditional collection methods are expensive, inefficient, and frankly, nobody wants to make those awkward calls. Interval's AI automation tackles this universal pain point, delivering results at a fraction of the cost of human collection efforts.Perhaps the most thought-provoking aspect of Brandon's story is his perspective on risk. While conventional wisdom paints entrepreneurship as the risky path and traditional employment as secure, Brandon argues the opposite. In an economy where recent graduates might submit hundreds of job applications before landing a position, building your own business offers a different kind of security—one where you control your destiny rather than hoping to survive the next round of corporate layoffs.Whether you're a seasoned business owner looking to improve cash flow or an aspiring entrepreneur searching for inspiration, Brandon's journey demonstrates that success comes to those willing to persist through failures and pivot until they find what works. Check out interval-ai.com to learn how AI might transform your collections process, or connect with Brandon through his podcast "Get Over Yourself" to follow his entrepreneurial journey.How to connect with Brandon?Website: https://getoveryourselfpodcast.com/Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/get-over-yourself/id1586568369YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC03QFF2URssz6Q1awVk1FhQFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/dodgerdavis16/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandon-davis-bba062223/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/getoveryourself_podcast/ Support the show
Get Noticed! Send a text."Sabir was an early employee in Vayner Media and helped start our e-commerce division." says Gary Vaynerchuk.Neil Patel, FOUNDER @ NEIL PATEL DIGITAL, says "Sabir takes a very long term approach to marketing, which is refreshing. Sabir Semerkant, the growth expert that Shark Tank investors turn to for scaling e-commerce brands came on the show to explain how he turns promising ecom brands into $10M/yr+ profitable winnersBonus $500 discount on his 8D program when you mention that you hear him on The UnNoticed Entrepreneur show.Key topics:00:38 Introduction to the 8D framework03:45 Why most e-commerce businesses struggle with lopsided growth06:42 Breakdown of the eight dimensions for sustainable growth08:53 Aurum Brothers case study: from £1.5M to £3M+ in one year16:07 The implementation-focused Rapid 2X accelerator programme#E-commerceGrowth #ScalingBusiness #ProfitableE-commerce #8DFramework #MarketingStrategyEveryday AI: Your daily guide to grown with Generative AICan't keep up with AI? We've got you. Everyday AI helps you keep up and get ahead.Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifyFree - Quizzes, Calculators And FormsOutGrow - Quizzes, Calculators And Forms - over 21 industry vertical templates.Designrr.io Creates eBooks & LeadmagnetsTransform content into eBooks, Show Notes, Dynamic Flipbooks, Transcripts, PDFs and Web pages.Kajabi Course Platform Kickstarter!Get the foundations you need to start your online business On Kajabi For $69/mo. Turn text to video, in minutes.Create studio-quality videos with AI avatars and voiceovers in 130+ languages. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showBe a podcast guest. Share your story.Learn how to get noticed by podcast hosts.Check out the Podcast Guest Blueprint - click the link below.https://academy.theunnoticed.cc/
Dave Rubin of “The Rubin Report” talks about the “Real Time with Bill Maher” audience being completely shocked by the details of Maher's meeting with Donald Trump and Kid Rock; Josh Rogin angering Bill Maher by accusing him of being a useful idiot for Donald Trump's PR stunt; former “Meet the Press” host Chuck Todd admitting to a “Piers Morgan Uncensored” the real reason that mainstream media chose to ignore the scandal of Joe Biden's cognitive decline; ,”Meet the Press'” Kristen Welker pushing back on Corey Booker's baseless accusations of the Trump administration using Trump's tariff policy for insider trading; Tim Walz being booed and accused of stolen valor by military veterans; Winston Marshall asking “Club Random's” Bill Maher what kind of change he would like to see from the Democratic Party; Scott Bessent pointing out Bernie Sanders hypocrisy on his hated of billionaires and oligarchy; CNN's Kasie Hunt being surprised when her question about Trump's tariffs for “Shark Tank's” Kevin O'Leary backfires; Piers Morgan and Bill Maher pushing back against Josh Rogin and the left's hypocrisy on Columbia University's Mahmoud Khalil; and much more. WATCH the MEMBER-EXCLUSIVE segment of the show here: https://rubinreport.locals.com/ Check out the NEW RUBIN REPORT MERCH here: https://daverubin.store/ ---------- Today's Sponsors: Rumble Premium - Corporate America is fighting to remove speech, Rumble is fighting to keep it. If you really believe in this fight Rumble is offering $10 off with the promo code RUBIN when you purchase an annual subscription,. Go to: https://Rumble.com/premium/RUBIN and use promo code RUBIN 1775 Coffee - Get the Longevity Bundle featuring their top-selling Anti-Aging Coffee, the ultra-rare Peaberry blend, an exclusive 1775-branded tumbler, plus more premium coffee and limited-edition merch you can't find anywhere else. Get $250 worth of 1775 COFFEE + exclusive merch FOR ONLY $99. Only 1,000 units available. Every dollar you spend enters you to win a blacked-out 2024 Tesla Cybertruck plus $30,000 cash! Rubin Report viewers get 15% off their order. Go to: https://1775coffee.com/RUBIN and use code RUBIN BlueChew - BlueChew is the original brand offering chewable tablets for better sex combining the active ingredients of Viagra and Cialis into ONE chewable. Try your first month of Blue Chew tablets FREE when you use promo code RUBIN. Go to: http://bluechew.com/ and use promo code RUBIN Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
MSNBC's Ari Melber hosts "The Beat" on Monday, April 14, and reports on Donald Trump and El Salvador's president uniting against a SCOTUS ruling and the economy. Shark Tank's Kevin O'Leary, Andrew Weissmann and Lee Gelernt join.
This week Devo is sharing some tips and tricks for border crossing. Meanwhile, Shark Tank is headed out for a rip, bud. The Arrogant Worms are blowing up and acting like they don't know anybody, and Mikey Mason is coming to terms with attending cons as a geriatric. 1. "Out For a Rip" by Shark Tank 2. "Canadian Famous" by The Arrogant Worms 3. News of the Stupid! 4. "Gen X at the Con" by Mikey Mason Shark Tank can be found on your favorite streaming service The Arrogant Worms' new album can be found at ArrogantWorms1.bandcamp.com Mikey Mason's new album can be pre-ordered at MikeyMason.bandcamp.com Thank you to our Patreon backers for making this show possible!!!
It seems we have reached an inflection point in the fight to adopt what President Trump has called an “America First Investment Policy”: Last week, two influential Wall Street financiers appear to have broken with their colleagues' determination to continue investing in China first. Friday morning, Shark Tank personality Kevin O'Leary objected to the unfairness of Communist Chinese companies enjoying privileged access to U.S. capital markets. He demanded that Paul Atkins, the Securities and Exchange Commission's newly confirmed chairman, ensure that they instead comply with our laws and regulations – just as O'Leary's companies and everybody elses' must. Later that day, BlackRock chairman Larry Fink declared that “nefarious” Chinese companies should be delisted from our capital markets. If he now walks the walk, and divests his company's vast holdings propping up Xi Jinping's regime, we may finally stop underwriting our enemy. This is Frank Gaffney.
Will Trump save Washington from Climate Commitment Act gas tax? The Washington State Senate voted to cap rent increases at 10%. Scandalous allegations at Seattle City Light. REI issued an apology for endorsing Doug Burgum. // Brian Heywood announces two new initiatives, and details next week’s big protest against property tax increase. // MSNBC’s Joe Scarborough was very disappointed to hear that SCOTUS’s immigration ruling actually favored Donald Trump. ‘Shark Tank’ host Kevin O’Leary said he’s willing to live with the economic consequences of putting pressure on China.
Think you're saving enough for your Canadian retirement — or are you just chasing returns while missing the wealth-building moves that Canadians like Shark Tank's Kevin O'Leary swear by?For many aspiring high-net-worth Canadians and incorporated business owners, the drive to grow wealth often leads to chasing the next hot stock or investment trend. But as Kevin O'Leary reminds us, real financial freedom comes from discipline, strategy, and maximizing tax-sheltered opportunities that most overlook. In this episode, we break down the exact number O'Leary says you need to retire comfortably — and how he'd invest it to protect and grow wealth.Whether you're earning over $200K annually or just starting to scale your incorporated business, this conversation will challenge your assumptions. We dive deep into why RRSPs are still one of the most underused tools for wealth creation, who's actually maxing out their contribution room, and how the wealthiest Canadians are using strategies rooted in long-term thinking — not hype-driven returns.What you'll learn:Learn how high-income earners and incorporated business owners can strategically use RRSPs to unlock long-term financial security.Discover why many Canadians are leaving hundreds of thousands in unused RRSP contribution room — and how to avoid making a big retirement planning miscue.Understand the costly habits of “late to the party return chasers” and how disciplined retirement planning with or without the RRSP can ensure you have the retirement income you're striving for.Hit play now to learn Kevin O'Leary's retirement target, how he'd invest it, and how you can follow a smarter path to a “Mr. Wonderful” financial future.Ready to take a deep dive and learn how to generate personal tax free cash flow from your corporation? Enroll in our FREE masterclass here and book a call hereDiscover which phase of wealth creation you are in. Take our quick assessment and you'll receive a custom wealth-building pathway that matches your phase and learn our CRA compliant tax optimized strategies. Take that assessment here.Canadian Wealth Secrets Show Notes Page:Consider reaching out to Kyle …taking a salary with a goal of stuffing RRSPs;…investing inside your corporation without a passive income tax minimization strategy;…letting a large sum of liquid assets sit in low interest earning savings accounts;…investing corporate dollars into GICs, dividend stocks/funds, or other investments attracting cordporate passive income taxes at greater than 50%; or,…wondering whether your current corporate wealth management strategy is optiReady to connect? Text us your comment including your phone number for a response!Canadian Wealth Secrets is an informative podcast that digs into the intricacies of building a robust portfolio, maximizing dividend returns, the nuances of real estate investment, and the complexities of business finance, while offering expert advice on wealth management, navigating capital gains tax, and understanding the role of financial institutions in personal finance.
n this engaging episode of Shark Theory, host Baylor Barbee recounts his experiences as a guest judge at a Shark Tank-style competition for fourth-graders. The competition, held at the stunning facilities of Minnett Elementary in Frisco, is brilliantly organized by Misty Lewin. Baylor shares the insights he gained from this event, highlighting the invaluable lessons that even young students can impart about confidence, entrepreneurial spirit, and the power of conviction. Baylor emphasizes the idea that age is not a barrier to pursuing dreams, as illustrated by the aspiring young entrepreneurs he encountered. He encourages listeners to act on their ideas and dreams regardless of age, underscoring that "it's all about the execution." Baylor also stresses the importance of knowing oneself and one's value, noting how some students showed remarkable understanding of their products down to profit margins and sourcing, often surpassing adult businesspeople. Through vivid stories and examples, Baylor drives home the message of standing firm in one's beliefs and values, exemplifying true confidence. Key Takeaways: Age is no obstacle to pursuing dreams; it's the execution that counts. Understanding your product deeply—including profit margins and sourcing—is crucial. Know yourself, your strengths, and your values to effectively "sell" yourself in any situation. Investment is about buying into people, not just ideas; confidence and conviction attract investment. Stay committed to your goals and standards, and don't let distractions divert you from your path. Notable Quotes: "It's all about the execution of it." "In every situation, you are in the business of selling." "You have to believe in yourself first and foremost." "The people that really win in life are those that know their value and aren't willing to settle for less." "True confidence in life is the ability to stand in front of anyone and everyone and stand for and defend whatever it is you believe in."
Host Bill Calkins welcomed GrowerTalks' editor in chief Chris Beytes and editor Jennifer Zurko to the podcast to share thoughts on the event—the plants, the trends, the fish tacos—and the overall impact spring trials has on the professional horticulture industry. When Chris, Jen and Bill return from Spring Trials each year, folks in the industry always ask for overall thoughts, hot new varieties expected to be big sellers and what they consider to be industry breakthroughs. It was Bill's bright idea to record a podcast answering some of these questions and of course, his partners in crime for the annual trek westward agreed to it. Here are the questions the three tackled in this episode: If the 2025 California Spring Trials were a person, how would you describe their 2025 vibe? Name a few new introductions from CAST 2025 that stand out in your mind—and why. Do you go to CAST looking for something specific or just to see what's new and report back via the magazine, videos and social media? If you could have ONE new introduction shipped to your house for free, what would it be? What are some new intros that you feel are Instagram-ready? What new variety should launch on Shark Tank? Name some 2025 CAST varieties that got major promotion at the event that you think will live up to the hype? Were there any new intros that made you think, “what the heck is that” OR that surprised you? What's a new product you haven't seen yet that you WISH would be introduced (i.e. if you were launching your own product, what would it be?) What's ONE reason why a grower who's never been to Spring Trials should go at least once? CHECK OUT BALL PUBLISHING'S INDUSTRY-LEADING COVERAGE OF THE 2025 CALIFORNIA SPRING TRIALS: Daily Newsletters YouTube Playlist (26 Videos) Facebook Instagram (@growertalksgreenprofit) LinkedIn
New season, new guests. This episode's guest has worked with Mr. Beast, Selena Gomez, and more—and you've definitely seen him on your own TV. Nik's got Kevin O'Leary of Shark Tank to give us the run down of entrepreneurship, creativity, and crowdfunding. He's done everything from low-budget ads to working with multimillion dollar commercials. Why does creativity still matter, and how does bad creative affect the whole project? It matters more than we think. Is crowdfunding still relevant today? Plus, why are some celebrity brands failing? The truth is, people smell BS from a mile away. The audience knows whether it's authentic or not, and that makes or breaks the products' success. And, what's Kevin's REAL opinion on Poppi after choosing not to invest in it on Shark Tank? He shares what he thinks of the product and why Shark Tank is the American Dream personified. Prescient AI is the world's smartest marketing decision engine, powered by the most dynamic MMM. Forecast, test, optimize, and scale top-of-funnel spend with confidence. Visit https://prescientai.com/limited Don't forget to check out Nik's helpful hacks here: nik.co/tiktokads nik.co/everydaydose Want more DTC advice? Check out the Limited Supply YouTube page for more insider tips. Check out the Nik's DTC newsletter: https://bit.ly/3mOUJMJ And if you're looking for an instant stream of on-demand DTC gold, check out the Limited Supply Slack Channel for Nik's most unfiltered, uncensored thoughts. Follow Nik: Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/mrsharma
The MIRPs talk about news, TV, and other nonsense before hitting a gold mine of softballs thanks to @PeterWG. You can join, too! noonerpodcast@gmail.com
In this episode of the Building Texas Business Podcast, I sit down with Jacob Robinson, the founder of Dig World, a construction-themed amusement park. Jacob's journey from owning a commercial cleaning business to launching a theme park was inspired by his son Pierce's courage in overcoming a severe illness. Jacob shares how this personal experience drove him to create a space where families can make lasting memories by operating real construction equipment. We also explore Jacob's unexpected invitation to appear on Shark Tank, which initially seemed too good to be true. Jacob describes the rigorous preparation process for the show and how securing a deal with Robert Herjavec provided significant exposure and credibility for Dig World. This experience sparked interest in franchise opportunities nationwide, propelling the business forward. However, Jacob's path has not been without challenges. He reflects on the operational setbacks faced during Dig World's grand opening and the importance of resilience in entrepreneurship. Jacob emphasizes learning from these failures and the need to be patient and ready for success. Throughout the episode, Jacob discusses his leadership evolution, focusing on servant leadership and building a passionate, customer-focused team. He highlights the importance of creating a culture of trust and creativity to ensure a safe and memorable experience for all visitors. Jacob remains committed to expanding DigWorld while offering an affordable alternative to traditional family outings. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS I discussed Jacob Robinson's inspiring journey from running a commercial cleaning company to founding Dig World, a construction-themed amusement park inspired by his son Pierce's battle with a severe illness. Jacob shared the story of how an unexpected email invitation led to his appearance on Shark Tank, which resulted in a significant deal with Robert Herjavec and propelled Dig World into the national spotlight. We explored the challenges faced during Dig World's opening day, highlighting the operational setbacks that resulted in temporary closure and how these experiences taught valuable lessons about patience and readiness. Jacob explained the development of custom technology to enhance safety and functionality in the park's machinery, ensuring a secure and manageable experience for visitors operating real construction equipment. We discussed the importance of building a passionate and customer-focused team, emphasizing a culture of creativity and care that enhances the visitor experience and supports the company's mission. Jacob described his evolution from a fear-driven leadership style to one centered on servant leadership, focusing on resilience and motivating his team positively through setbacks. As Dig World plans for expansion, Jacob remains committed to offering an affordable, enriching alternative to traditional family outings, while also contemplating new mascots and improvements to machinery safety. LINKSShow Notes Previous Episodes About BoyarMiller About Dig World GUESTS Jacob RobinsonAbout Jacob TRANSCRIPT (AI transcript provided as supporting material and may contain errors) Chris: Jacob, I want to welcome you to Building Texas Business. Thanks for taking time to come on the podcast. Jacob: No, thank you. I'm so honored to be here. Chris: So we can see from behind you. You know Dig World's your company. Take a minute to tell the listeners what Dig World is. What do you do? What are you known for? Jacob: Yeah, great question. So we are a construction theme park where we allow kids and adults to operate real construction equipment. So we let them drive real skid steers, real excavators, real UTVs would take you up and boom lifts, the whole deal. And the only thing is you need to be three years old or older. And so we truly are a fun family theme park, but we allow you to operate real construction equipment. Chris: Wow, I mean, that's amazing Real construction equipment. I can't wait to get into more of the details behind that, but first I have to ask you what was the inspiration to start a company like this? Jacob: Yeah, it's crazy. You don't wake up with a dream every day to start a construction theme park. Chris: Yeah, maybe a construction theme park, but not one where a three-year-old can operate. That's right. Jacob: That's fair? That's fair? Well, no. So we, my wife and I, were blessed. We have three amazing kids. We have nine-year-old, a five-year-old and almost a two-year-old, and so life is good and hectic right now. But my nine-year-old son, pierce, was born in 2015, a happy, healthy baby boy, and life progressed just normally and just fine. And then, in 2017, one morning on a Saturday morning, my wife found him in his crib unconscious and after rushing him to the hospital, we learned that he had contracted bacterial meningitis. We weren't sure if he was going to make it through the weekend, but the Lord had different plans. He was in a coma 12 days and we were in the hospital 75 days. And when we left the hospital, pierce left with a whole host of issues he's nonverbal, he's epileptic, he's deaf in both ears, you know, wheelchair and mental capacity of call it maybe a one-year-old, but but he is a happy little boy and, as I was telling somebody else, you know Pierce sees the world the way that we should all see the world. He doesn't see your skin color. He doesn't see your income. He doesn't see what car you drive. As long as you hang out with them, you've, we could bring people together. You know, you conceptually always understand that life is short, but when you're faced with something like that, you really understand that life is short and precious and so you want to bring people together and create memories and have good times and not just look up and say, man, all I did was work for 40, 50 years. And here I am, and so we had this idea. You know, as I told somebody, we're pretty good arrogant Texans. We thought we could build a theme park. It couldn't be that hard, right. And man, we were wrong and we'll get into that, I'm sure, at some point in the show. But Pierce's always loved construction equipment garbage trucks, dump trucks, really thinking that whole, everything in that category. And so we said, hey, we really think we could build a theme park where kids could actually come and operate real construction equipment. And for the listeners out there, some of you may be thinking, oh, this must be some toned down version. No, these are real. These are 3027s, these are 305s, these are 243 skid steers, and so these are the real deal that we have re-engineered to where it's safe, but these are the real deal that you get to operate the park. So that's how we got started. Pierce is the inspiration behind the park, the inspiration behind really a lot of things that I do in life, and bringing people together to create memories that last a lifetime. Chris: My gosh, I mean what? I mean? That's a mic drop story, jacob. I mean, you know, blessings to you and Pierce and your whole family. I hope to get the chance to meet him one day. Yes, he's the coolest member of our family. So, yes, that is amazing. So, wow. I love the inspiration and the story and this whole idea of bringing people and families together for those memories. So were you in the construction business when you started this, or what? Jacob: were you doing? I would say yes and no. I had a commercial cleaning company. I started in 2015. That was my job. We just recently sold that business and where we started that business was in the construction cleaning space. So anytime a general contractor would go and build a big building or a hotel or an office building, we would come in, we would work for the general contractor and we would do the final clean on that building. So I was kind of in the construction space. We, you know we answered to GCs all day, but I am not a construction guy by trade. I was an ag major at Texas A&M, so I was a janitor turned theme park guy. So it's been a very interesting career, as you can ask my CPA wife from all the meandering roads that we've taken. Chris: Yeah, so you know we're on inspiration. So then let's yeah, let's kind of dig into what a lot of entrepreneurs and business owners you know face is that first step right Of actually getting the courage to, to chase that dream. So let's take us back to that. What was that like? You know what were, you know what were the first steps like, what were the feelings? Like? How'd you convince that CPA wife that you know CPA wife that this wasn't quite as crazy as it sounded? Jacob: Yes, I'm not sure, when we crossed that line that the craziness went out the window. We may have been there for a couple of years, but I would say to those entrepreneurs out there it's easy to say and it's cliche to say, but everybody sees the end of the story, everybody sees Dig World. Now We've been open, we're on Shark Tank, we're franchising. You know everybody's going ah, great idea. Listen, that was not the case when we first started. We went back and counted. I had roughly 248 pitch meetings where they told me no, that I was crazy, it was never going to work. Nobody's ever going to come to this, nobody's. You know, it's not safe All these kinds of things. And so 248, it's a lot of meetings. It's a lot of meetings. It's a lot of no's. It's a lot of no's. To keep coming home and go, no, it was a good meeting. It was a good meeting. What did they give you? Money? Not at all, quite the opposite, but it was a good meeting, right? And so to those entrepreneurs out there that you, you, if you're pounding your head against the pavement and going, man, if one more person tells me no, hey, I've been there with you, I know what that's like. Keep pressing on, keep going. If you have the vision and you have the conviction behind it, I promise you, at some point you are going to find somebody that believes in your vision for no other reason than you've just been at it for so long and you've got conviction behind it that somebody will take a flyer on you. But it was difficult. It was difficult. We started in 2019, and then COVID hit right, and so we told people not only were we the crazy theme park people running around asking people to invest, but then we were the crazy people saying hey, listen, not only are we going to build it, we're going to get a whole bunch of people together. And that messaging wasn't going over very well during COVID, and so you know, we had all of these factors that were not going in our favor. And then, finally, in 21, in 2021, we had a first couple of people start to say yes, and then Domino's started to fall, and then we opened in March of 2022. And, frankly, that was an epic failure, too, that we can talk about as well, but it was a long journey. It was a long journey, and so my encouragement to those that are out there, either on that journey or those that are at the beginning of that journey is take a step, just take a step. Right, do something. Just call somebody and say your dream out loud, right? Call somebody and say hey, listen, I'm going to let a three-year-old drive a skid steer. Right, and the more you start to say it out loud, the better that muscle is going to become being flexed. And then, all of a sudden, you're going to be the confident person that walks in the room and goes no, yeah, of course we're going to put a three-year-old on skid steer. We're going to let them drive an excavator. We're going to have birthday parties here, and then, hey, guess what they? But that theme of just take the step, just do it just go for it. Chris: No one's ever going to believe it as much as you do, so you got to have that passion and belief and eventually you will find someone to get behind you, and then it's on you to deliver. Right, that's right, that's right, that's exactly right. So I do want to get to the story on the opening, but I have to ask you mentioned it earlier, so how did the Shark Tank thing come about? How did you, how'd you wind up on Shark Tank? Let's talk a little bit about that experience and what that was like. Jacob: Yeah, an amazing experience, you know, it just was fantastic all around. An exhausting experience nonetheless, but it was a fantastic experience. You know, we were very blessed. One day I was sitting at my computer and we got an email to our info account and said hey, would you consider being on season 16 of Shark Tank? And clearly we thought it was a joke, right, and clearly thought something was going to be hacked if I responded to it. Chris: Don't click the attachment right, that's right, that's right. Jacob: All of a sudden our bank account gets hacked. But it was actually one of the producers. She had seen us on Instagram and said, hey, listen, would you be interested? Let's learn more about your business, see if it checks a lot of these boxes. And then that started the whole process. And the process is rigorous and it's long, and your fate hangs in the hands of people that you never get to see or talk to. And you know it goes from one lawyer to another lawyer. None of those lawyers have talked to each other, and so the whole process is very interesting. And then you know the show is true. It's true to form. The only thing scripted about the show is the very beginning pitch that you give, and other than that, it's a free for all. The Sharks don't know about your business, they don't have a flyer on your business, they haven't been given any information. It's truly a live pitch pitching again when I'm like, hey, no, hold on, we got the park open, I don't need to pitch anybody again. Plenty of people have told me no, I don't need, you know, five people on national television to blast me and tell me no. But so when we got there, we did the pitch and we were very blessed it went well. We secured a deal from Robert Herjavec, the tech entrepreneur on the show. He's one of the staple sharks and it's just been a great experience and once there's one of those things that you look up and you really have to sit in the fact that it's one of those once in a lifetime crazy things. And even yesterday I was driving to the grocery store and I sat there and I was like man, this really happened. That's crazy and just trying to enjoy those moments. Chris: Well, and it has to be. I mean, it's great that it worked out and you got, you know, some additional investment from a very seasoned person, but just the notoriety of being on right Open, you know, a lot of eyes to you and had to, you know, you know, increase traction and interest in what you were doing. Jacob: Totally. I think, from even, just you know, foot traffic to the park here in Katy. That that's been tremendous. But then even, obviously, you know we went on the show to sell franchises. That that's our next big hurdle is selling franchises across the country and we have been flooded with requests of franchises to bring people, you know, bring a park to their location, their city. Talking to potential franchisees, it really just just totally gasoline on the fire. Chris: Yeah. So let's go back to the opening. You said March 2022. One of the things I like to talk to people about is let's talk about a failure that you've encountered and most people will tell you can do a whole show on them, right. Literally, I was going to say you don't have enough time on this, but you know you shared that. I guess the opening didn't go so well or something around that. So let's talk about what were some of the failures around that. What did you learn that made you better going forward? Jacob: That's right. You know, I tell people one day when I'm, when I give it, when I give a speech one day at a theme park conference, I'm going to be able to tell people I'm one of the very few theme park operators in the world that has opened a theme park and closed it the same day because it went so poorly. And so you know, I do have that badge of honor with me. So we opened the park too soon and that was a hundred percent my fault, right you too soon, and that was 100% my fault, right? You're trying to you build in these parameters in your head. We got to open this date. We got to do this. You know people are waiting and I really wanted it to be open that Thursday of spring break back in 2022. Could I have waited 48 hours more and would that have fixed our problems? Yes, did I? No, and I think a lot of it was. You know, we had been at this for four years. At this point, we were exhausted and here was the finish line. The finish line was on Thursday and we could do this and everybody's gonna love it. Tickets were sold out there. There was plenty of buzz. You know we were being interviewed from broadcaster. You know I was on NPR and we're doing this interview in this country and all over the US, and there was so much media attention. We had helicopters circling over the park doing filming, getting ready for the opening, and when we opened, man, it was an epic disaster, and the reason it was is I pushed the grand opening. All of our machines were not ready. We had not put on our technology of all the machines, not that we were letting people operate those machines, but we did not have enough time built in to put a computer on this machine, and then this machine, and then this machine. And so what happened is we opened the park to hundreds and hundreds of people and we didn't have that many machines going, and so those hundreds and hundreds of people waited in line for hours and it was just disastrous. And people were angry at me, rightfully so. People wanted to tell me what they thought about me, and rightfully so. The amount of refunds that we issued that day were it was probably dollar for dollar, we probably made $0 that day or just lost money, and so we had to shut the park down. So so I go on, and we, you know we were open. We were going to be open that Thursday, friday, saturday, sunday, and I just canceled everything and said hey, I'm so sorry, we're not going to be open, we'll refund you your tickets or you can come back whenever you want. And, man, people were so mad at us. They were so mad at us. The news was doing coverage about how Dig World closed in less than 24 hours and it was a disaster, an epic failure. And so you know you go home that night and something you had been working for four years, there was no, nothing good about it. There wasn't even. There was no silver lining, like you could be, like well, but no, it was terrible and kids left crying. I mean, just like I said, just terrible. And my wife will tell you that, looking back on that night, she goes hey, I thought I lost you mentally that night, like I thought you were so down in the dumps that night that I didn't know where we were going to go from here. And yeah, I remember the next day waking up, I was trying to, I was going to take my son on a walk and I remember getting halfway out of the neighborhood and having to turn around, got to go back into the office. We've got to go on the offensive here and really try to say hey, listen, we're sorry, let's own the mistake right. Hey, we opened too soon, please come back. And so I think you look at it right and it just was one of those epic failures, and we've had many more along the way, right? Advert Hello friends, this is Chris Hanslick, your Building Texas business host. Did you know that Boyer Miller, the producer of this podcast, is a business law firm that works with entrepreneurs, corporations and business leaders? Our team of attorneys serve as strategic partners to businesses by providing legal guidance to organizations of all sizes. Get to know the firm at boyermillercom, and thanks for listening to the show. Jacob: I was thinking of just trying to figure out how to run a theme park, and we've never run a theme park, but that was one. That's an easy recall when somebody asked me to talk about failure. Chris: Right, like you almost were there right Reliving it that day. Jacob: Oh man yes. Chris: Well, the lesson, though, in that you found the positive and I think it's true in so many different circumstances. We're all going to make mistakes, right, we've made them in the past. One thing certain we're going to make them again in the future, it's owning it right, be this, taking ownership of it, and then kind of committing to do better. I think when you do that, you know what, more times than not, what comes from that is grace. You know people grace to you, and I think that's what it seems like what you've experienced. Right, you owned it, so we're going to do better. The community gave you grace, and when you open back up, they came. Jacob: I think don't pass the blame, Even honestly, even if it's not really your blame, right? People want somebody to stand up and say, hey, it's on me, and I think we don't see that a lot of times in leadership throughout you know, whatever. But people willing to say, hey, that was on me, I'm gonna raise my hand, that was on me. And then the key is forgetting quickly and moving on right and not dwelling which, whatever you do, operate out of imagination, not memory. Right, Don't go back there, sit in those failures operate out of imagination, not memory. Chris: That's a good one. I haven't heard that one before I'm writing it down. Jacob: I would like to take credit for it, but somebody much smarter than me said it, so yeah, right. Chris: So I want to talk a little bit about technology and innovation because, I mean, I know these are, you know, big machinery used out in the construction. There's nothing really innovative about them, but it seems to me that using them in your theme park has to have some innovation and technology to make them safe, as you've described them. So you know, tell us about that. How did you come up with it or did you, or where did you find it? Jacob: it? Yeah, great question. So, yes, yes, all of the above. I know I did not come up with it, I'm not smart enough to write code, but we partnered with an engineer and we said hey, listen, this is what we want to do. We believe this can happen. And what we did, in simplistic terms, we built our own computer to put onto the back of the machine. That goes into its wiring to override a lot of the functionality of it. And so when we call it dig world mode, when the computer's in dig world mode, it is safe. The excavators are stationary, they can't go forward and backwards, they only go certain degrees to the right and left and up and down. Our skid steers are heavily governed, the hydraulics and a lot of functionalities are disengaged. We have kill switches and then we can flip the computer back to normal mode and it's a normal functioning machine. And so really, coming alongside a bright engineering team and building this technology that's our technology and putting it on these machines is really outside the box kind of stuff. And finding somebody that wanted to dream alongside with us was the key to success there. And he's still dreaming alongside with us. I mean he had made a technology upgrade this past week. That's one of those things you look at and you go why didn't we do that three years ago? That makes things a lot, you know not safer, they were very safe it makes it simpler for our team to utilize, and so we're always improving. I think that's the other thing. You know you hear it all the time as an entrepreneur, but as a business owner, one of the things that's very easy to do is get stuck in a rut and go well, we've always done it that way, right? I had a call with my business partner this morning and he's newer to the team and he said well, why are we doing that? And I was like well, honestly, I don't know if we've ever asked that question. I think we've just done it and let's try something new here. And knowing that you don't always have the right answers, and your teammate you may have a high school kid that works for you, like I do that comes to you and goes hey, why, why aren't we doing it like this? Could we do it like this? And you go it's a genius idea, let's do it that way. Yeah, and being okay and putting your pride aside and saying let's change and adapt. Chris: Right. So you're clearly kind of in the entertainment business. Let's talk about building a team right, because I think I mean clearly you've got an internal team there, I guess in the office that's got to run the company, some creativity around it, but then you have another team, that's, you know, customer facing. How have you gone about building kind of each of those teams to try to maximize the company's success? Jacob: Yeah, it's a great question, Thank you. I would say, yeah, our two teams I'd almost kind of say like our corporate team. Right, our corporate team is the X's and O's business focus. How do we grow the franchises? How do we optimize the P&L? And really the key to success there is not to overstate cliches, but like go hire somebody smarter than you and go hire somebody that is great at your weaknesses and then give them the reins to run it. I don't go in your lane, you know how to run it. I trust you explicitly. I've given you the keys of the kingdom because if not, if I'm just going to micromanage you, then why would I even have you on my team? That's demeaning to you. I'm going to end up doing the work anyways because I'm a control freak. So I'm going to go hire somebody that really knows what they're doing and say go, do it right. Or my business partner he oversees a lot of different things, but one of them is the marketing, and today he said hey, listen, do we want to spend here? Do you want to spend here? I think the answer is here. Yep, let's go there right, if you think that's interview going. Hey, this is what we sleep and breathe here. We love the customer, we love that people are here. We're going to love on them and we're going to make memories. Can you do that? And that's what I'm going to hire and fire against. If I see you out there and you're not loving on customers and you're not creating memories that last a lifetime, we're going to ask you to leave. But that's what you know from the beginning. We're going to hire and fire against. Do we love people and are we serving them well? And if we do those things, we're going to build a culture that people start to talk about. And every team meeting that we have, I kick off of hey, today we're going to love people and today we're going to think outside the box, and I know you had, you know, a long week at school. I'm asking you from nine to five today to dig deep and love on people because and when you really frame it up, we get to be a part of something so special and so unique. We get to really be a part of this kid or this family's memory bank, and hopefully in a good way. Right, there are going to be hundreds and hundreds of kids for the rest of their lives that are able to say man, when I was five I had my birthday party at this place called Dig World and I got to drive a real excavator. They're gonna tell that story for their whole life. We get to be a part of that. How humbling is that. And so when you really can set the picture for these kids, what we're doing here is not just a job. We're not here today to collect tickets and put you on a machine and say thank you for coming. We are ingraining ourselves into your memory bank, and when we can take that on in the privilege of that, then, man, we can really sky's the limit. Chris: Yeah, well, I could see if you get that light bulb to go off and kind of in any employee, right, it changes the whole dynamic, the mindset and luckily those high school kids I got to believe they're learning great life skills to have to deal with people on the fly. And that's what we do every day. Right, we're dealing with people as we as they come to us, and so that's exactly right. Jacob: And get to teaching that, hey, the customer's not always right Sometimes. You know we can stand our ground every now and then too, and so really, yeah, how do we handle conflict with each other? How do we handle conflict with a customer? You know those are skills that are in an online day and age are becoming less and less, so how do we actually stand in front of another human being and say, hey, listen, I know you're frustrated, let's figure out how we can work through this kind of deal. So hopefully we're teaching them things that can go far beyond Dig World. Chris: Yes, for sure. So we're here in Texas. You started this business here. Tell me some of the things that you found, or have found, to be advantageous about being a Texas-based business. Jacob: Oh man, so many, one. Obviously. Just the people right, the people buy in and they love it. They love supporting the business, they love supporting what we're trying to do here. And so, culturally, it's amazing to be here in Texas. We were fortunate when we started we had a partnership with Texas A&M, my alma mater and so I'm a little biased there but really getting their buy-in, and a university that saw what we were trying to do and said, hey, listen, let's go capture the next generation of construction workers and teach them about Texas A&M. Yes, but let's also teach them about this great industry of construction. And then really, just the flexibility of Texas. You know there's not many states you can just go out and, for the first and foremost, be like, hey, listen, we're going to start a theme park and it's going to let kids operate construction equipment, right, the flexibility and you know we went through the whole rigmarole and everything with insurance and the filings, but really the adaptability of the state and going, yeah, that sounds great, let's do that. And then everybody behind it. It's just, it's been amazing. Chris: That's great. So I'd like to talk about leadership, and you know you're clearly, as a founder and CEO, leader, but how do you think those leadership qualities have developed over time and how would you describe your leadership style? Jacob: Yeah, I tell people a lot of times I think there's two versions of Jacob as the leader. There is pre-Pierce getting sick and then there's post-Pierce getting sick. Not that the goals have changed. The goals are still. Listen, you're running a business. You got to make money and you got to keep the doors open right At the end of the day. That's the name of the game. But mindset around those have changed. The intensity around that has changed and the bigger picture around that has changed. So, for example, pre Pierce getting sick and our cleaning business, we lose a contract. I'm pretty frustrated. I'm probably a little panicky. We're getting a little desperate on how do we replace that contract. I'm driving the team harder. What are we selling? I'm micromanaging more because I'm feeling nervous and anxious. Right, post Pierce getting sick, the intensity is not gone, but the priorities are going hey, we lost the contract, okay, let's go home, let's reset. Tomorrow, we'll find another one. There's another one out there, let's go find another one. Right, and motivating the team that way, instead of fear-based whether it be my fear or the fear I'm instilling rather than going hey, we'll be fine, we're gonna keep doing what we're doing. We're gonna keep doing the X's and O's of the business and it will be there. And so I think, when failure of a grand opening and a grand closing comes, you go. Okay, listen, today was not a good day, today was a terrible day. However, I'm still here, my family's still here, and tomorrow we're going to figure out how we survive this and we're going to pick up and we're going to go to work tomorrow and we're going to figure it out, and then I think, at the end of the day, I'm a servant leader. I hope our high school kids see me doing things that I asked them to do. I hope they see me cleaning the bathrooms. I hope they see me doing this, not to manipulate them to saying, hey, you know, oh, jacob's doing it, I should go do it. No, I want you to see that we're all in this together, right, and I believe in it this much that I'm going to get in here with you and I'm not going do at that point is they go? Yeah, I'll go clean the bathrooms, right, and hey, jacob asked me to do it, I'll go do it because I know he would do it right, rather than the dictator style leadership or the authoritarian style leadership. So I think for me it's coming alongside them, servant leadership, getting in the trenches, dealing with the disgruntled customers and not just making them deal with it, all of those kinds of things, I think. Build in the goodwill with the team and they see somebody that wants to link arms with you, and then what it allows me to do is come alongside them on those times where I either have to discipline or I have to recorrect or reposition, and they go. Ok, I know. But I know at the end of the day, he loves me. I know at the end of the day, it's the best, even if he's firing me. You know at the end that you, moving on, I'm still going to be in your corner, and so I think I view my leadership in those two ways. Chris: I like that. I can identify with it as well, feel the same way. To me the servant leadership is so valuable, right? Your employees have to believe not only they've seen you do it, not that you will do it, they've seen you do it right, and that when you ask them to do it it's important and so that's great. You know, just thinking about the obviously a lot of stuff going on in our world and in any kind of different ways. But you know economically, you know legislatively, what are some of the headwinds, given all that that you kind of see facing dig world as you're kind of looking out over the next 30, 60, 90, 120 days, year, kind of yeah, yeah. Jacob: It's a great question. I would answer it two ways. One you know, as we look at the economics of our park and people coming to our park, you know what we feel like is we sit in that middle or probably lower to middle ground of your discretionary spending as a family, meaning. Meaning, as I compare it to a Disney right, and when the economy goes down a little bit or people are a little worried or nervous, the Disney vacation may go on the back burner. Right, because that's a significant financial investment into that. It's a great experience, but it's significant. Where we fall is on the lower end of that category, hopefully delivering the same memories and experiences and fun and joy, but the price point is significantly cheaper than that. So we feel in good times and in rougher times we hope to be a resource that allows those families to still create memories in that regard. Externally, as we look to grow franchises, the ups and downs of the economy can sway different investors. They can sway how they want to hold their money, what they want to do with their money, what they don't want to do with their money. Now my sales pitch to those individuals are hey, you could take your money and put it over here, or you could take your money and put it over here and you could kind of be in control of it, but you also can create something that's bigger than you for your community, for your family, things like that. So it it will be interesting to see what the next probably call it 120 days have in store for us as far as how we're received on the investment side. But right now, our focus on this phase one is how do we get five franchises across the finish line, and right now, praise the Lord, we're very close to hitting that number. And then we got to get them open and we have to produce right. Chris: At the end of the day, you have to produce and I understand you have two open now or the second one's about to open. Dallas will be open by the end of this year. That's correct. Okay, that's great. So I gotta ask. I mean, you're talking about disney, made me think. Do you have some kind of mascot or anybody like in a big suit when you show up at dig world? You know? Jacob: so. But he said I literally got off a phone call earlier we are, we've honed it into kind of two mascots that we want, and so that will be released soon once the debate can be decided within our team of which way we're going. Chris: Okay very good. So let's just kind of turn to a little more casual side. Yeah, you said you and Katie went to A&M. I'm taking those two data points and making an assumption you're a born and raised Texan, it's a great question. Jacob: It's a great assumption, but no, I am a son of a healthcare executive, and so I was born in Alabama, raised all over Texas, graduated high school in South Carolina, then came to A&M, met my wife, who is a Houstonian, who's a Katie girl and much smarter than I am, and so she had a real job after college, and so I followed her here and I've been here ever since. Chris: Okay, Great story. So just talking about Texas, you know you all have a favorite spot. You like to go within the state to get away, maybe vacation time. Jacob: Yeah, you know it's funny whenever, within the state, melissa and I we love to head over to San Antonio. We love the Hill Country side. We like a couple of the resorts there. That's our, our getaway. And then I think you know when we're getting away. Now we've got young kids. Grandparents and cousins and nephews live in waco and so we head over to waco. We spend a lot of time there. But if melissa and I are just getting away and staying in the state, we're gonna head probably over to san antonio very good. Chris: That leads me to the next question then do you prefer tex-mex or barbecue? Jacob: oh man, that's. Oh man, see that one. That's a tricky question because we'd have to be like specific in the subcategory right. Like'd have, we'd have to like pit two against each other. Chris: I hear you. Everyone says that that's the hardest question saved for last. Jacob: Oh, my goodness, I'm going to have to go barbecue. I'm going to have to go barbecue. Chris: All right, all right. I love how you're going to break it down, though, cause I'm the same way. You know. It's like. Well, I don't know, it depends, I mean it depends it just. Jacob: You know, on Friday night this weekend I had Tex-Mex. On Saturday I had barbecue. So you know like it literally is, but I'd have to go barbecue. Chris: All right, very good. Well, jacob, thank you again for taking time to come on the podcast. I mean your story, obviously from the start of it with Pierce, was amazing, but just such a creative, unique thing that you've created. And you know, just wish you the best of success, thank you. Thank you, honored to be here today. Thank you for taking time Special Guest: Jacob Robinson.
What if a dream could spark a movement?
Robotics is a cool field, no doubt about that. But what's cooler than using it to change people's lives?When he was seven years old, Aadeel Akhtar met a girl in Pakistan with a missing leg. This kickstarted a fascination with helping people regain control over lost limbs and a decision that pivoted his planned career in medicine to robotics and prosthetics. Today, he's the CEO and Founder of PSYONIC, the company behind the world's first touch-sensing bionic hand. He's on a mission to make this tech as accessible as possible, and we hear about the challenges of balancing philanthropic ventures with running and scaling a business. Host Chris Luecke gets to try out the hand remotely in this episode and talks about the different use cases of bionic tech, from helping humans to helping robots. We talk about crowdfunding, getting investment, how the hand works, and what PSYONIC is working on right now to make the Ability Hand even better.Plus, Aadeel is our very first Shark Tank alumni, so we get to hear about the nerve-wracking behind-the-scenes story of demonstrating the Ability Hand in front of the Sharks. In this episode, find out:What PSYONIC does to help people regain mobility and control with bionic limbs The moment that kickstarted Aadeel's passion for helping people with lost limbs and pivoted his planned career from medicine to robotics The challenges of funding R&D in bionics and making the tech accessible to as many people as possibleWhat the early days of making prototypes and testing them out on the first patients What made Aadeel realize he needed to go into business and production rather than just researching bionics Why San Diego is PSYONIC's chosen HQ and how it's partnering with medical and biotech companies What PSYONIC is working on now to make bionic hands feel more natural for users Chris gets to remotely control the Ability Hand from across the country How Aadeel is working on making the tech accessible through Medicare and the Ability FundDifferent ways Aadeel and PSYONIC have approached getting funding, from crowdfunding to venture capital to government grants The challenge of keeping up with demand and prioritizing accessibility while running a successful business that's focused on the mission How PSYONIC helps both humans and robots with its tech, including NASAThe biggest tech advances that have made this possible today, including micro controllers and AI What it's really like being a contestant on Shark Tank and how Aadeel prepared for his pitch and eventual negotiations Why Aadeel is optimistic that bionics is becoming a bigger industry Enjoying the show? Please leave us a review here. Even one sentence helps. It's feedback from Manufacturing All-Stars like you that keeps us going!Tweetable Quotes:“We're bridging both the neurotech side with the robotic side, with AI being the connecting piece between the two.”“We would be attaching the hand directly to your bones, muscles and nerves that are in your forearm to give them the most optimal control possible.”“Seeing the amount of interest at the intersection of neurotech and robotics and having big investors behind it shows this is an exciting field that's up and coming.”Links & mentions:PSYONIC, supercharging humans and robots with advanced capabilities, including the world's first touch-sensing bionic hand
It's very rare that a new tool for cutting hair enters the professional market. And those that do usually tend to fade away. But occasionally something piques the imagination of both the creatives and the business side of the industry as being creatively different and commercially beneficial. My guest today is Frank Brormann, a German hairdresser, salon owner and inventor of Calligraphy Cut, a new tool and a new way of working with hair. In today's podcast, we will discuss: What exactly is the calligraphy cut? How it could potentially be a new cutting service to offer your clients The experience of being on Germany's ‘Lions Den' (Shark Tank), where he secured a million-euro investment. And lots more!IN THIS EPISODE: [01:20] Welcome to Frank Brormann [01:26] What exactly is Calligraphy Cut - a tool or a specific haircut? [02:21] The origin story - how flower stems inspired the Calligraphy Cut [05:08] The science behind the 21-degree angle and what makes it special [06:46] What hair problems does the Calligraphy Cut solve? [08:46] Using the Calligraphy Cut on different hair types and textures [10:42] Why the Calligraphy Cut is best used on wet hair [11:55] The client experience and financial impact on salons [14:43] The business model: subscription vs. purchase options [17:04] Frank's background and adoption rate in his own salon [19:23] How stylists initially react to the Calligraphy Cut [21:08] The experience of pitching on Germany's "Lion's Den" (Shark Tank) [25:09] How the TV appearance and investors transformed the business [29:27] Digital transformation of the Calligraphy Cut business [33:35] Final thoughts from Frank on embracing innovation Want MORE to help you GROW?
Dave Rubin of “The Rubin Report” talks about Donald Trump leaving a reporter speechless by showing that he will not be swayed on his tariff plan by a stock market crash; CNN's Laura Coates being surprised when her question about Trump's tariffs for “Shark Tank's” Kevin O'Leary backfires; Trump Economic advisor Kevin Hassett explaining to Tucker Carlson why focusing on the stock market distracts from what is needed to help the working class; the shocking stabbing death of Austin Metcalf by Karmelo Anthony at a high school football game and the attempts to make Anthony the victim; Eric Weinstein explaining to “Modern Wisdom's Chris Williamson the real reason that more teen boys are shifting to the right in their politics; Douglas Murray explaining to “Triggernometry's” Konstantin Kisin and Francis Foster why liberal societies must deport Hamas supporters and abandon their tolerance of intolerance; and much more. WATCH the MEMBER-EXCLUSIVE segment of the show here: https://rubinreport.locals.com/ Check out the NEW RUBIN REPORT MERCH here: https://daverubin.store/ ---------- Today's Sponsors: Lean - A powerful weight loss supplement with remarkable results to help lower blood sugar, burn fat by converting it into energy, and curb your appetite. Rubin Report viewers get 20% off plus free rush shipping off their first order! Go to: https://TakeLean.com and enter promo code DAVE20 for your discount Rumble Premium - Corporate America is fighting to remove speech, Rumble is fighting to keep it. If you really believe in this fight Rumble is offering $10 off with the promo code RUBIN when you purchase an annual subscription, Go to: https://Rumble.com/premium/RUBIN and use promo code RUBIN Home Title Lock - Ensure that your home title is safe from thieves. Sign up today and you'll get a FREE Title History Report plus a FREE 14-day trial of their Million Dollar TripleLock Protection—that's 24/7 monitoring of your title, urgent alerts to any changes, and if fraud should happen they'll spend up to ONE MILLION dollars to fix it. Go to: http://hometitlelock.com/rubinreport and USE promo code RUBIN Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to Loan Officer Freedom, the #1 podcast in the country for loan officers, hosted by Carl White. In this episode, your host, Carl White interviews Brian Stevens from Mortgage Shots, diving into the fascinating world of the mortgage industry. They discuss the dynamics of Shark Tank investments, the importance of building rhythms in business, and the impact of AI on the mortgage landscape. Brian shares insights on the current state of the industry, the challenges faced by loan officers, and the necessity of adapting to change. With a mix of humor and valuable information, this episode is a must-listen for anyone in the mortgage business or interested in the evolving landscape of real estate. Check out Brian's daily videos at MortgageShots.com for your daily dose of mortgage insights! Schedule a one-on-one free coaching call, click here or visit LoanOfficerStrategyCall.com.
Mareko is back, lots of great audio questions and Craig 'invents' a way of heat treating.Thanks again to Evenheat, Damasteel, Brodbeck Ironworks, Texas Farrier Supply, Indasa, Tormek, and Maritime Knife Supply and Tormek for the support.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/knife-talk7733/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
What you're scaling is duplicating what you do," says entrepreneur and Komposite co-founder Noam Krasniansky in our exclusive interview. From the critical factors needed to scale a business to how Komposite uses blockchain technology for brand protection, this interview is packed with fresh insights for aspiring investors and entrepreneurs alike.Tune in as Noam Krasniansky shares expert advice on product development, navigating tough negotiations, and more.Stay updated on Komposite's latest project developments by visiting their website: https://komposite.org/Watch the full YouTube interview here: https://youtu.be/WDhClwWslScAnd follow us to stay updated: https://www.youtube.com/@GlobalOneMedia?sub_confirmation=1
Better Business Better Life! Helping you live your Ideal Entrepreneurial Life through EOS & Experts
In this episode of Better Business, Better Life, host Debra Chantry-Taylor chats with guest, Susan Toft, founder and CEO of The Laundry Lady, about her incredible journey from doing laundry as a side hustle to building a $9 million national business with over 300 contractors. Susan shares her journey from starting with a $5,000 grant to leading a tech-enabled service business with over 300 contractors. She talks about the realities of bootstrapping, the impact of appearing on Shark Tank, and how staying true to her values, like flexibility and persistence helped her scale sustainably. From MVPs to market expansion, this episode is packed with practical insights and inspiration for entrepreneurs at any stage. Tune in to an inspiring story of grit, growth, and getting the job done. CONNECT WITH DEBRA: ___________________________________________ ►Debra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner ►Connect with Debra: debra@businessaction.co.nz ►See how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/ ____________________________________________ GUEST'S DETAIL: ► The Laundry Lady AU and The Laundry Lady NZ ► Susan Toft Website ► Susan Toft - LinkedIn Chapters: 00:21 - Introduction 02:25 - Susan Toft's Journey to Success 04:11 - Building and Scaling the Business 07:21 - Challenges and Solutions in Business Growth 14:23 - Branding and Market Expansion 22:29 - Shark Tank Experience and Lessons Learned 34:15 - Personal and Professional Growth 34:41 - Advice for Entrepreneurs 41:27 - Future Plans and Contact Information
It helps to be so hungry that you have no other choice but to succeed. Daymond John is the best-selling author of “The Power of Broke”, a successful entrepreneur and judge on the hit tv show, Shark Tank. He has so much wisdom to share about starting a business, what you need to succeed, and why being broke could be your greatest secret weapon as an entrepreneur. Thanks for listening! New episodes drop every Tuesday. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified.
Wellness + Wisdom | Episode 728 Is the real reason you've never felt ‘good enough' hiding in the conversations you're terrified to have with yourself? Vasavi Kumar, Therapist + Visibility Coach, joins Josh Trent on the Wellness + Wisdom Podcast, episode 728, to reveal why speaking your truth out loud is the key to claiming self-worth and real freedom, and how daily mirror work, honest self-talk, and embracing your authentic voice can shift the trajectory of your life, relationships, and mental health. "Many people struggle with having a cluttered mind. You need to say it out loud. Get it out of your head. Get it out into the ether. Don't keep it inside. Allow yourself to say the thing that is taking up space in your mind so that you can have a mind that actually is thriving and peaceful within." - Vasavi Kumar
On every Shark Tank episode, one of the most intense moments is when the founder and the investors start talking valuation—how much the company's worth and how much equity the founder's willing to give up. Figuring out how much equity you should give up in a seed round is a huge decision, and with it comes some serious consequences. No wonder it's nerve-wracking, especially if you're facing it for the first time. On one hand, you want to snag that funding and land a solid investor, but on the other, you don't want to give away too much control too soon. You want to prove your business has value, but not so much that it scares off a great investor. Plus, you need just the right amount of investment to get the ball rolling, but still leave room for future funding rounds. It's gets tricky! AND… there are ways to avoid setting a valuation all together which is the best option when you're able to do so. If you do have to set a valuation, what's the right balance? How much equity should you give up in a seed round? Can you dodge the whole valuation talk until later? In this episode, I'm diving into how much equity you should give up in a seed round, how to settle on a valuation, and when to defer that valuation discussion till later. -- Join the wait list for my spring 2025 Get Ready to Pitch workshop where you'll get the coaching, tactics, and materials to be ready to pitch any investor! https://www.seedmoneypodcast.com/waitlist2025 -- About Your Host Jayla Siciliano, Shark Tank entrepreneur turned real estate investor, excels in building brands, teams, and products. CEO of a bi-coastal luxury short-term rental company, she also hosts the Seed Money Podcast where she's on a mission to help early-stage entrepreneurs turn their ideas into reality! Connect: Website: https://seedmoneypodcast.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaylasiciliano/ Subscribe and watch on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@seedmoneypodcast/
Tara is joined by billionaire entrepreneur and ‘Shark Tank' co-host Mark Cuban to talk about all the hot political topics currently burning up the Hill. During their wide-ranging conversation, they cover the possible negative effects of Donald Trump's ambitious tariffs, Elon Musk's role in the White House, Signalgate, AI, and much more. For more of Tara's independent journalism subscribe to her newsletter ‘The Red Letter' here on Substack! Host: Tara Palmeri Guest: Mark Cuban Producer: Chris Sutton Production Supervision: Conor Nevins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Get ready to dive into the life and mind of the original Shark from "Shark Tank," the man who's sold over 500 products and raked in billions, Kevin Harrington. We're unpacking his journey from the roots of entrepreneurship to the creation of infomercials, alongside strategies to build killer dream teams and sell products that make you say, "I need that in my life.” Meet the legend himself, Kevin Harrington—an American entrepreneur and business executive. He has been a successful entrepreneur for over the last 40 years, with his influence extending globally, inspiring aspiring business minds through impactful books like 'Mentor to Millions.' From the groundbreaking creation of the first-ever 30-minute infomercial to his pivotal role on "Shark Tank," his journey is nothing short of epic. So, get your notepad out, because Kevin's sharing knowledge gems that'll level up your game in the world of business. Tune in, take notes, and let's ride this wave of entrepreneurial wisdom together! In This Episode: Kevin's Early Entrepreneurship and Father's Mentorship - (02:48) Kevin's Discovery of Opportunity - (05:00) Kevin's Expansion into Global Markets - (06:28) From Screen to Success: Kevin's Journey with Iconic Infomercials - (07:32) Kevin's Smooth Transition to "Shark Tank" - (08:04) Taking Action Without a Perfect Plan - (12:00) Pitching Strategies: Tease, Please, Seize - (13:45) Importance of Magical Transformations in Products - (17:18) Identifying Profitable Products - (18:17) Building a Dream Team - (20:00) Where to Learn from Kevin - (21:39) Notable quotes: “Test before you invest” (13:45) - Kevin “Tease them, please them, and then seize them." (14:10) - Kevin “Surround yourself with experts" (20:54) - Kevin Resources and Links Kevin Harrington LinkedIn Twitter Instagram Websites: https://starshop.com/ http://www.kevinharrington.tv/ http://globalleadersorg.com/ Books: Mentor to Millions Act Now Key Person of Influence Put a Shark in Your Tank The 100 Best Spare-Time Business Opportunities Today Podcast: SharkPreneur Insight Out Insight Out Show – Website Insight Out Show - Linkedin Insight Out Show – Patreon This is an encore episode and was originally published on November 25, 2023 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Jason Tartick LOVES his dog and he LOVES his Ziploc! Sean Astin is NOT Skylar Astin (although you didn't ask), Aaron Goodwin's (ex) wife tried to kill him :( :( Oh! Elsa Hosk is *not* "COMPLETELY" nude (but she is selling shoes), Ellie Kemper is Kohls Mom, Robert from Shark Tank is ripped, Madonna's twins' lugholes went down the plughole and Bobby invents a new '25 Things' game! Plus, Pete Davidson dates a "non-celeb" (sure), Pierce Brosnan comments on Instagram, Christine Quinn's dating an Oil Man, Julien Baker is dating bandmate (Lucy Dacus), Venus Williams is dating an Italian film 'star', Quinta's getting a divorce and we're on ENGAGEMENT WATCH for TJ & Amy #newsegmentalert As always, call in at 619.WHO.THEM to leave questions, comments & concerns for a future episode of Who's There?. Want more? Get a ton of bonus content over on Patreon.com/WhoWeekly To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Dave Rubin of “The Rubin Report” talks about “Shark Tank's” Kevin O'Leary getting CNN's Abby Phillip to realize people who cheer on the arson attacks on Elon Musk's Tesla dealerships like Tim Walz are forgetting one essential thing; Rep. Jasmine Crockett cheering on the attacks on Tesla dealerships to help take down Elon Musk for his handling of the DOGE; “The Daily Show's” Jordan Klepper being caught off guard by his audience's support for domestic terrorist attacks against Tesla dealerships to punish Elon Musk; Conor McGregor's meeting with Donald Trump at the White House and his fiery response to his critics in the Irish government; a NYC pro-Palestine protester who gets exposed on camera for not knowing the most basic facts of the Israel-Palestine conflict; JD Vance exposing how elites got the effects of globalization completely wrong; and much more. Dave also does a special “ask me anything” question-and-answer session on a wide-ranging host of topics, answering questions from the Rubin Report Locals community. WATCH the MEMBER-EXCLUSIVE segment of the show here: https://rubinreport.locals.com/ Check out the NEW RUBIN REPORT MERCH here: https://daverubin.store/ ---------- Today's Sponsors: PDS Debt- If you're making payments every month on your debt and your balances aren't going down, this program is for you. PDS Debt has customized options for anyone struggling with credit cards, personal loans, or medical bills. Get started with your free debt analysis in just 30 seconds and there is no minimum credit score required. Go to: https://PDSDebt.com/RUBIN Gravity Defyer - Sick of knee pain? Get Gravity Defyer shoes. Minimize the shock waves that normal shoes absorb through your feet, knees and hips with every step. Use the promo code "RUBIN30" at checkout, to get an extra 30% off orders over $120 or more. Just text RUBIN30 to 91888 or go to: http://gdefy.com and Use the promo code "RUBIN30" Rumble Premium - Corporate America is fighting to remove speech, Rumble is fighting to keep it. If you really believe in this fight Rumble is offering $20 off with the promo code RUMBLELIVE when you purchase an annual subscription. Go to: https://Rumble.com/premium/RUBIN and use promo code RUMBLELIVE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Get tickets for Tom's Come Together Tour at https://tomsegura.com/tour Interested in learning more about Mark Cuban's company? Visit http://CostPlusDrugs.com to find out more! SPONSORS: Check out the full lineup and get 15 percent off your first order at https://TRUEWERK.com/ymh. Go to https://shopify.com/momshouse to upgrade your selling today. Secure your online data TODAY by visiting https://ExpressVPN.com/ymh Don't miss out on all the action this week at DraftKings! Download the DraftKings app today! Sign-up using https://dkng.co/mom or through my promo code MOM. This week on Your Mom's House, Robert Smith and Christina P are joined by billionaire entrepreneur and Shark Tank legend Mark Cuban. Tom and Christina are STILL hyped after YMH Live X and recap more of the insanity from that legendary night. Tom next opens the show with an unhinged clip of an old man who hasn't been laid in 30 years, before he brings up his tradition of texting Joe Rogan horrifying death videos. Other highlights include a Hulk Hogan steamer situation, a bizarre Kanye tattoo on an Asian guy, and a deep dive into Charles Manson documentaries. The one and only Mark Cuban joins the pod, and things get real. Mark opens up about selling the Mavericks, what it's like to trade a generational talent like Luka Dončić, and why checking his bank account makes everything better. He spills secret rich guy knowledge (like how money makes ugly people attractive), explains why he's not a yacht guy, and hilariously pitches Tom on buying a private jet. Mark also talks about being a public dad, his love for working, and why he's obsessed with the future. He breaks down Shark Tank—from the dumbest pitches ever to surprising success stories like Dude Wipes—and how he's wrong half the time when investing. The conversation gets even wilder as Mark shares thoughts on hunting Somali pirates, his late-night Twitter beefs, AI, NBA rule changes, and why he's all-in on healthcare reform with http://CostPlusDrugs.com. Don't miss it, Jeans! Your Mom's House Ep. 802 https://tomsegura.com/tour https://christinap.com/ https://store.ymhstudios.com https://www.reddit.com/r/yourmomshousepodcast GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER, (800) 327-5050 or visit http://gamblinghelplinema.org (MA). Call 877-8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY). Please Gamble Responsibly. 888-789-7777/visit http://ccpg.org (CT) or visit http://www.mdgamblinghelp.org (MD). 21+ and present in most states. (18+ DC/KY/NH/WY). Void in ONT/OR/NH. Eligibility restrictions apply. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). 1 per new customer. $5+ first-time bet req. Max. $200 issued as non-withdrawable Bonus Bets that expire in 7 days (168 hours). Stake removed from payout. Terms: http://dkng.co/dk-offer-terms. Ends 3/30/25 at 11:59 PM ET. Pick6 not available everywhere, including, but not limited to NY and CA-ONT (for up-to-date list of jurisdictions please visit pick6.draftkings.com/where-is-pick6-available). Sponsored by DK. Chapters 00:00:00 - Intro 00:03:29 - YMH Live X Still Got Us Hyped 00:10:19 - Opening Clip: Hard Time Getting Hard 00:17:15 - Heavy Reactions 00:21:07 - Deep Diving The Opening Clip 00:24:52 - Clip: A Hulk Hogan Steamer 00:28:33 - Christina P Trashes Meghan M 00:42:48 - Clip: Decent Footjob Review 00:44:49 - Clip: Cool Kanye Tattoo 00:45:39 - Charles Manson 00:53:56 - Mark Cuban Talks Mavs & Luka Doncic 01:00:42 - Secret Rich Guy Stuff 01:08:31 - How To Win At The Sport Of Business 01:14:51 - Dumb Shark Tank Pitches 01:22:33 - Putting Your Kids On The Right Path 01:28:22 - Personal Stuff & Somali Pirates 01:34:31 - AI & The Future Of Podcasts 01:43:01 - Changing The Game 01:47:45 - Mark Cuban's Favorite Things 01:55:47 - Closing Song - "Pussy Glassin" by Lady Money Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices