From Musician to Million-Dollar Side Hustle - with Greg Kerr - EP 362

When Greg Kerr traded guitar riffs for the gleam of custom belt buckles, little did he know it would pave the road to a multimillion-dollar side hustle. In this episode, Greg shares his extraordinary transition from musician to entrepreneur, as he explains how tapping into a niche market, and using his creativity, lead to building his brand, Alchemy Merch.

Greg and Tony reflect on the complexities of manufacturing, the revelation of hiring to streamline workflow, and the 'learn and burn' approach to continuous education. This episode is not just about the mechanics of business growth, but also the personal evolution that's instrumental in sculpting a mindset for success.

Greg opens up about the profound impact of his mindfulness practices, especially in times of personal loss, and the continuous pursuit of self-awareness that has been enhanced by fatherhood. From stoic philosophies to the importance of open communication, this episode is an important reminder of the internal development that's as crucial as external success.

Key highlights:

  • From Musician to Million-Dollar Side Hustle
  • Entrepreneurship and Product Market Fit
  • Importance of Personal Development in Business
  • Exploring Old and New Business Books
  • Core Values in Business and Personal Growth
  • Streamlining Production Processes

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by Alexi Cortopassi

Boss or Leader? - with Dave Ferguson - EP 361

Dave Ferguson is an internationally respected executive coach, speaker, facilitator, and author, in the areas of leadership and personal development. In this episode, Dave peels back the layers of what truly makes a a great leader. He’s not just talking about the corner-office execs; this conversation goes into the heart and soul of leadership, pulling from the wisdom of generations and the humility required to really serve and empower others.

Dave and Tony swap stories that reveal the core of leadership development—stories that reflect the shift from being a learner to a teacher, and then merging the two as a staple of good leadership. Dave covers the importance of self-education, the vitality of fostering a leadership culture within organizations, and the empowering strategy of 'leading up.'

Dave emphasizes the critical role of feedback in honing one's leadership skills, the art of building confidence through genuine connections, and the ever-present need for authenticity—especially in the age of social media. This episode is packed with the kind of truths that serve as the guide for anyone looking to lead with integrity and a relentless drive for personal growth. Tune in for these powerful insights that will leave you contemplating not just how to lead, but how to live.

Key highlights:

  • Lessons in Leadership and Learning
  • Leadership Development
  • Developing Leaders Through Critical Feedback
  • Building Confidence Through Authentic Leadership

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by Alexi Cortopassi

Influencer Marketing Strategy - with Dan Coughlin - EP 360

 

Dan Coughlin is the co-founder of Get Hyped Media, and in this episode, he unravels the intricate world of influencer marketing. Dan tackles the industry's surprising lack of structure, despite its multi-billion dollar stature, and debunks the myth that bigger influencers are always better. Dan shares his unique transition from electrical engineering to leading an influencer marketing agency and provides valuable insights for businesses on how to navigate this space with limited budgets.

This conversation goes beyond just influencer size, shedding light on the importance of authenticity and strategic A/B testing with micro and mid-tier influencers. Dan also delves into the recent FTC guidelines, stressing the significance of transparency in sponsored content and the potential pitfalls of reposting without proper permissions. As Dan explains the intricacies of legal agreements and the impact of content choices on brand safety, he offers a personal perspective on the power of repurposing content for your marketing needs.

Dan and Tony also discuss the importance of aligning influencer personalities with brand values and the role of foundational digital marketing strategies in the success of influencer campaigns. From discussing bot followers to advocating for a data-driven approach in content promotion, this episode leaves no stone unturned. If you're keen on maximizing business potential through collaboration and influencer marketing, or looking to build your personal brand, this episode with Dan Coughlin is a valuable resource.

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by Alexi Cortopassi

Create Content That Stands Out - with Heather Parady - EP 359

Heather Parady is the host of the podcast “Unconventional Leaders”, which has over a million downloads, and in this episode, she candidly shares her journey. Heather veers from the traditional entrepreneur archetype and leans into her passion of being a creative. She brings a unique perspective on tenacity, the art of character development, and the importance of following your passion. This conversation brings hope for anyone struggling to align their career with their true calling and showcases the strength in embracing one's creative instincts over conventional success metrics.

This episode is a testament to how embracing humor and playfulness can turbocharge the creative process. Heather opens up about her early struggles to find a balance between making ends meet and nurturing innovation and creativity. With Heather's insights into crafting content that catches attention, this episode covers the laugh-out-loud side of creativity that can turn even the driest topics into learning and entertainment.

If you enjoy this episode, you can see Heather speak in person at the upcoming 365 Driven Advance in Costa Rica June 8-13. Details here: 365driven.com/advance7

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by Alexi Cortopassi

Pursue an Endgame of Freedom - with Jason Sisneros - EP 358

Jason Sisneros is a titan of entrepreneurship who has successfully navigated the high-stakes world of scaling, selling, and exiting businesses. Jason's journey is nothing short of inspirational, as he takes you through the rollercoaster ride from his initial setbacks to becoming a master of turnarounds and private equity. But it's what he does with his hard-earned freedom that truly captivates, as he delves into his philanthropic endeavors, his fight against domestic violence, and his passionate mission to eradicate child trafficking. His story is a powerful testament to the remarkable difference one individual can make in the world after achieving financial independence.

Jason and Tony reflect on the deeper meaning behind entrepreneurship and the vital role it plays in shaping a purpose-driven life. They shed light on the intersection of business and personal values, discussing how true fulfillment often stems from helping others and standing up against societal control.

In a powerful call to action, Jason spotlights the necessity of civic engagement, particularly in the global fight against human trafficking. He provides an inside look at the commendable success of CERT Ministries in rescuing individuals from exploitation, underscoring the critical role of public awareness and intervention. This episode concludes with an empowering message of personal responsibility, urging listeners to remain vigilant and proactive in protecting our communities. This is an invitation to consider the expansive impact of financial freedom – an opportunity to create positive change and leave your mark on the world.

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by Alexi Cortopassi

Gratitude Drives Positive Impact - with Hunter Ballew - EP 357

 

Hunter Ballew returns to the 365 Driven podcast, bringing with him a story of triumph, faith, and entrepreneurial spirit that's sure to capture your attention. From acquiring Cornerstone Construction to the exploding success of RoofCon, Hunter's journey is a testament to what's possible when vision meets purpose. This conversation takes you behind the scenes of these monumental changes, showcasing the hard-earned lessons and strategies that have shaped his path from the outset of the pandemic to the present day.

Hunter emphasizes the significance of having a clear vision and surrounding yourself with influential thinkers, a philosophy that has deeply impacted the roofing industry. Hunter explains how the introduction of personal development into professional spaces has cultivated a new breed of leadership, transforming the way the industry approaches growth and success. The presence of motivational speakers at industry events, a strategic move by Hunter, has sparked a cultural shift towards self-improvement and leadership.

The core of Hunter's mission is to lead a revolt against mediocrity in all facets of life. Whether it's health, wealth, faith, growth, relationships, or legacy, this episode is an invitation to join a movement of community leadership that prioritizes purpose over profit.

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by Alexi Cortopassi

Reinvention - with Tony Whatley - EP 355

This special episode features Tony’s recent speech at the Movement Maker Live 2024 event in Nashville, TN hosted by Mike Fabber. In this speech, Tony talks about how he conquered the ever-looming shadow of self-doubt. He once grappled with the fear of stepping into the light, hesitant to share his thoughts and ideas with the world. Tony recounts how he turned an online forum into a multi-million dollar success, and unpacks the essence of personal reinvention. As he draws from the 'Choose Your Own Adventure' books of his youth, Tony delves into a world where mere survival is not the goal—heroism is. He recalls a pivotal moment, a close call with mortality on the race track, that set his life on a course of audacious change, reminding us of the risks that lace the path to our dreams.

Tony peels back the layers of his own transformation, from a hidden figure behind corporate giants to a voice that resonates with humor and vulnerability. He shares proven strategies for overcoming the terror of the spotlight, highlighting the triumphs of maintaining a victory log, and the potency of the ABCs of achievement: Action, Belief, and Consistency. This isn’t just a story; Tony is extending an invitation—to seize the pen, to make life not just an adventure, but your adventure. So, as we chart these untraveled roads, let's author a tale of purpose, potential, and the power of being the hero in your own story.

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by Alexi Cortopassi

Business Succession Planning - with Laurie Barkman - EP 354

Laurie Barkman is known as the “Business Transition Sherpa”, and in this episode, she dives into the terrain of building, valuing, and selling your business. Laurie brings her expertise to the table, sharing strategies from her book "The Business Transition Handbook" to help entrepreneurs mitigate risks and enhance their company's worth. Her experiences as a CEO provide a practical backdrop, stressing the importance of maintaining focus during major transitions and preparing for the rigor of due diligence and integration. Laurie also peels back the emotional layers owners face when parting with their business, emphasizing the need for a thoughtful exit plan for all parties involved.

Listen in as Laurie and Tony unpack the nuances of creating enterprise value, especially through strategic marketing. Reflecting on the evolution of retail in the digital age, this episode emphasizes the critical role of metrics such as Customer Acquisition Cost and Lifetime Value, retention, and churn rates. These indicators are not just buzzwords; they're vital to a company's financial narrative and can dramatically influence its market value. Whether you're a tech startup guru or a small business owner, this discussion offers actionable insights on harnessing data to build a more resilient and valuable business.

In this comprehensive discussion, Laurie and Tony also tackle the personal and pragmatic aspects of selling a business, from the initial readiness to the emotional aftermath. Laurie's tales of entrepreneurs post-sale highlight the transformational nature of these transactions. Don't miss out on these vital conversations that could shape the future of your business legacy.

Key highlights:

  • Creating Enterprise Value Through Strategic Marketing

  • Building Valuable and Sustainable Businesses

  • Understanding Business Valuation Multiples

  • Navigating the Business Sale Process

  • Private Equity Buyouts and Acquisitions

  • Legacy and Entrepreneurship Transition Strategy

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by Alexi Cortopassi

Sowing Seeds of Success - with Chris Lee - EP 353

 

Chris Lee is the entrepreneurial force behind Solgen Power, and his journey from a staggering bankruptcy to CEO of a multimillion-dollar company is nothing short of remarkable. Chris candidly shares the lessons learned from his early business failures, the emotional and financial toll of filing for bankruptcy, and the resilience it took to rebuild from a sub-400 credit score. His inspiring story is a testament to the mental fortitude required to overcome adversity and achieve success, offering valuable insights into the entrepreneurial spirit.

Chris and Tony explore the intricate relationship between entrepreneurship, passion, and expertise. Chris takes you through the rebirth of his entrepreneurial journey with Solgen Power, emphasizing the strategic approach to business growth that includes both learning from past mistakes and seizing new opportunities.

Chris delves into the mechanics of building a robust business model, the significance of pricing and marketing strategies, and the factors that influence a company's growth and valuation. He offers sage advice on avoiding "new money behavior," the allure of entrepreneurship, and the pitfalls of not understanding the true value of a company. This episode is not just a narrative of triumph over adversity but a masterclass in entrepreneurial wisdom, highlighting the importance of reinvesting in your business, understanding the sales process, and navigating acquisitions.

Key highlights:

  • Lessons From Nature and Entrepreneurship
  • Building Enterprise Value for Successful Entrepreneurship
  • Importance of Pricing and Marketing Strategy
  • Maximizing Business Growth and Profit
  • Growth Trajectory, and Acquisitions

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by Alexi Cortopassi

Elevating Your Online Presence - With Pat Hilton - EP 352

Pat Hilton is back on the 365 Driven podcast, but this time Pat is interviewing Tony for his podcast, Iconic Messengers.  Starting an entrepreneurial journey can often feel like navigating a sea of hashtags and highlight reels, but this conversation with Pat pulls back the facade to reveal the core of authenticity in our digital personas. Pat and Tony reflect on their experiences, from humble beginnings to the peaks of business success, confronting the ethical dilemmas that test our integrity along the way. Tony's insights into the balance of personal touch and professional promotion on social media offer guidance for anyone looking to cultivate a genuine online brand that resonates with their audience.

Tony and Pat discuss the critical elements of value-driven success and building confidence. This conversation is all about the art of building genuine connections and offering value in online communities, a strategy that has helped Tony grow multiple seven-figure businesses. Tony also tackles the dangers of ego, the scarcity mindset, and the importance of supporting others, understanding that true success extends beyond financial gains. He highlights the power of authenticity, expertise, and patience in creating a trusted authority, urging listeners to focus on competence and confidence in their professional pursuits.

The importance of sticking to a professional path and mastering a skill is emphasized, challenging the 'fake it till you make it' mentality. And if you're looking for inspiration, Tony's story is a testament to the influence of a great mentor, reminding us of the profound impact we can have on others and the entrepreneurial community at large. So, tune in and be inspired to take your brand and business to new heights with authenticity and intention.

Key highlights:

  • True Intention in Social Media Branding
  • Value-Driven Success and Building Confidence
  • Importance of Mindset for Success
  • Success Beyond Revenue and Ego
  • The Reality of Entrepreneurship and Success
  • Importance of Focus and Skill Mastery

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by Alexi Cortopassi