From Basement to Buyout: Aaron White's Remarkable Dual Exit

Made It with Connor Tomkies

Player FM - Internet Radio Done Right

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Nội dung được cung cấp bởi Connor Tomkies. Tất cả nội dung podcast bao gồm các tập, đồ họa và mô tả podcast đều được Connor Tomkies hoặc đối tác nền tảng podcast của họ tải lên và cung cấp trực tiếp. Nếu bạn cho rằng ai đó đang sử dụng tác phẩm có bản quyền của bạn mà không có sự cho phép của bạn, bạn có thể làm theo quy trình được nêu ở đây https://vi.player.fm/legal.

<div class="span index">1</div> <span><a class="" data-remote="true" data-type="html" href="/series/action-academy-replace-the-job-you-hate-with-a-life-you-love">Action Academy | Replace The Job You Hate With A Life You Love</a></span>

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Action Academy | Replace The Job You Hate With A Life You Love

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cách đây 1 day trướccách đây 1d ago

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Ready to replace your 6-figure salary with real freedom? This is the podcast for high earners who feel stuck in jobs they’ve outgrown. If you’re asking, “How do I actually replace $10K–$20K/month so I can quit and never look back?” — welcome home. At Action Academy, we teach you how to buy small businesses and commercial real estate to create cash flow that actually replaces your job. Monday through Friday, you’ll learn from 7–9 figure entrepreneurs, real estate moguls, and acquisition pros who’ve done it — and show you how to do it too. Hosted by Brian Luebben (@brianluebben), who quit his 6-figure sales role in 2022 to build a global business while traveling the world. If you're a high-income earner ready to become a high-impact entrepreneur, this show is your playbook. Subscribe now and start your path to freedom — or keep pretending your job will get better someday....

cách đây khoảng một năm trước 40:08

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LISTENER NOTE: My Second Million asa title was always intended as a cheeky joke around the fantastic pod "My First Million" but now on April Fools we've decided to pivot as so many founder do, to the "Made It with Connor Tomkies" podcast. We can't wait for the guests we have coming up and we're excited to share more episodes. Stay tuned for more episodes of "Made It with Connor Tomkies"

Dive into an enlightening conversation with Aaron White, a tech visionary who recently sold two companies, ProfitWell and Blissfully, in a remarkable dual exit. In this episode, Aaron opens up about the rollercoaster journey of entrepreneurship, from confronting massive industry pushback to experiencing the life-changing moments of selling his ventures. Tune in to uncover the real challenges and triumphs behind building and selling a startup, and what life holds on the other side of success.

Aaron's Stuff

Aaron's Blog: https://www.singularity.vc/
X: https://x.com/aaronwhite?s=20
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronmwhite/

My Stuff

Podcast: www.mysecondmillionpodcast.com

Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/

X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/

30 tập

#Careers #Entrepreneur #Business #Connor Tomkies #Entrepreneurship #Strategy

From Basement to Buyout: Aaron White's Remarkable Dual Exit

Made It with Connor Tomkies

published cách đây khoảng một năm trước

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Aaron's Stuff

Aaron's Blog: https://www.singularity.vc/
X: https://x.com/aaronwhite?s=20
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronmwhite/

My Stuff

Podcast: www.mysecondmillionpodcast.com

Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/

X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/

30 tập

#Careers #Entrepreneur #Business #Connor Tomkies #Entrepreneurship #Strategy

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Made It with Connor Tomkies

1
He Built 52 Hotels and Advised AirBnb with Chip Conley 50:24

cách đây 12 ngày trước50:24

50:24

https://www.pvig.com/madeit https://byldd.com/ In this episode Connor sits down with hospitality legend and Modern Elder Academy founder, Chip Conley. From building Joie de Vivre into one of the largest boutique hotel brands in the U.S., to mentoring the Airbnb founders through their explosive growth, Chip shares the behind-the-scenes stories that shaped his career and personal transformation. He opens up about near-death experiences, midlife awakenings, and the powerful wisdom that comes from reinvention. Whether you're a post-exit founder or just contemplating your next chapter, this conversation is packed with insight, honesty, and heart. Check Out Our Sponsors Pine View Insurance Group Byldd Chapters: [00:00:00] Who is Chip Conley? [00:01:45] Building Boutique Hotel Empire [00:03:29] Near-Death Experience Changes Everything [00:06:31] Struggles After Selling the Business [00:08:19] Joining Airbnb as Modern Elder [00:10:56] Wisdom Beats Knowledge Today [00:11:51] Founding Modern Elder Academy [00:13:32] Creating Space for Serendipity [00:15:02] Simplifying Airbnb’s Strategy [00:16:57] Regulation as Competitive Advantage [00:18:28] Thinking in Decades, Not Months [00:19:54] Rebuilding Identity After Exit [00:21:11] Exercising Curiosity at Work [00:23:37] Managing Visionary Co-Leaders [00:24:55] Buying First Hotel at 26 [00:28:00] Attracting Rock Bands with Massages [00:30:43] Why Peripheral Players Matter [00:31:45] Leading with Emotional Intelligence [00:33:00] Learning to Love Midlife [00:34:30] Men and Loneliness in Midlife [00:36:54] Building Real Wisdom Practices [00:39:00] Team-Wide Wisdom Reflections [00:40:30] Aging as a Growth Opportunity [00:43:00] What is MEA Really Like? [00:44:45] MEA’s Growing Global Community [00:46:29] Reframing Aging and Transition [00:47:45] Becoming a Dad at 64 [00:48:38] Where to Find Chip Online Chip's Stuff: Chip's Website: https://chipconley.com/ MEA: https://www.meawisdom.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chipconleysf/ My Stuff: Podcast: https://www.madeitpod.com/ Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/ X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/…

Made It with Connor Tomkies

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From Dot-Com to Giant Exits with Author and Entrepreneur Lewis Schiff 38:35

cách đây 26 ngày trước38:35

38:35

https://www.pvig.com/madeit https://byldd.com/ In this episode guest Lewis Schiff—a seasoned entrepreneur, author, and former dot-com founder—shares his journey from early entrepreneurial days to successful exits and strategic angel investing. Lewis dives into his experiences in the dot-com era, explains how technology is transforming traditional industries, and reveals insights on building wealth through founder-friendly capital and innovative business models. He also discusses his Birthing Giants Fellowship and highlights unique opportunities like Aegis Response, offering practical advice and inspiration for entrepreneurs at every stage. Check Out Our Sponsors Pine View Insurance Group Byldd Chapters [00:00:00] Intro: Lewis Schiff Background [00:01:00] Entrepreneurial Origin Story [00:02:00] Dot Com Wealth Creation [00:03:00] Early Exit and Real Estate [00:05:00] Angel Investing & Scale Strategy [00:07:00] Tech Drives Business Change [00:09:00] Writing for Wealth Creation [00:14:00] Dry Powder & Capital Trends [00:20:00] Founder Friendly Capital Terms [00:26:00] Birthing Giants Fellowship Insights [00:31:00] Aegis Response Origin Story [00:37:00] Wrap Up & Connect Lewis' Stuff: Birthing of Giants: https://birthingofgiants.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lewisschiff/ My Stuff: Podcast: https://www.madeitpod.com/ Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/ X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/…

Made It with Connor Tomkies

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Failing Fast, Winning Big, and Giant Fire Blankets with Mike Lloyd 48:11

cách đây 6 weeks trước48:11

48:11

https://www.pvig.com/madeit https://byldd.com/ We sit down with Mike Lloyd, a seasoned entrepreneur who built and exited Corvus, a cyber insurance company, for nine figures. Mike shares his journey from Virginia Military Institute to MIT and Harvard, diving into the lessons learned from his first failed startup and how he pivoted to massive success. He also discusses his latest ventures, including a high-net-worth insurance agency and an innovative wildfire protection company. If you're interested in startups, insurance, or what it takes to scale and sell a company, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Check Out Our Sponsors Pine View Insurance Group Byldd Chapters: [00:00:00] Welcome to Made It with Connor [00:00:15] Mike Lloyd’s entrepreneurial journey begins [00:01:30] From MIT to startups and HBS [00:02:45] What business school really teaches [00:05:00] Learning entrepreneurship on the job [00:06:45] The art of networking and relationships [00:09:00] First startup failure and key lessons [00:12:30] The challenge of selling insurance [00:15:00] Founding Corvus: A better approach [00:18:30] Why cyber insurance was the right bet [00:22:00] How AI is changing the insurance game [00:25:00] Scaling Corvus and early traction [00:29:00] The business of insurance underwriting [00:31:00] Selling Corvus to Travelers [00:34:00] What comes after a big exit? [00:36:00] Why smart people get insurance wrong [00:39:00] High-touch insurance for high-net-worth clients [00:42:00] Buying a wildfire protection company [00:45:00] The future of insurance and innovation [00:46:45] Building a network through business [00:47:00] Wrap-up and where to connect Mike's Stuff: Pine View Insurance: https://www.pvig.com/madeit LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikelloyddotme/ My Stuff: Podcast: https://www.madeitpod.com/ Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/ X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/…

Made It with Connor Tomkies

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From College Dorm to Wall Street IPO with Purpose Built's Miles Lasater 31:49

cách đây 8 weeks trước31:49

31:49

https://www.pvig.com/madeit https://byldd.com/ Episode Description: Connor sits down with Miles Lasater, founder of Purpose Built and co-founder of multiple successful companies, including HireOne, which went public in 2010. Miles shares insights on scaling a business from college startup to IPO, hiring a CEO as a young founder, and the challenges of breaking into difficult markets like higher education and government. He also discusses his venture studio, Purpose Built, and the innovative startups he's helping to launch. Check Out Our Sponsors Pine View Insurance Group Byldd Chapters: [00:00:00] Welcome Miles Lasater [00:00:30] Founding Higher One in College [00:01:15] The Advantage of Naivete [00:02:00] Painting Through Uncertainty [00:02:30] Scaling to 1,000 Campuses [00:03:00] Hiring a CEO as Founders [00:04:00] Picking the Right Leader [00:05:00] Role Evolution and Growth [00:06:30] IPO and Scaling Challenges [00:07:15] Revenue Model and Growth [00:08:30] Navigating Financial Regulations [00:09:45] Learning Banking from Scratch [00:10:30] Thinking Beyond Industry Norms [00:12:00] Founder-Friendly Stock Options [00:12:45] Transitioning Out of HireOne [00:14:15] The Itch to Start Again [00:15:00] Seeclickfix and Civic Tech [00:16:30] Selling to Universities and Cities [00:18:30] Building Trust in Government [00:19:15] Launching Purpose Built [00:20:30] Coral Care and Healthcare Startups [00:22:00] Twill: Referral-Based Hiring [00:24:15] Dunbar and Relationship Mapping [00:25:45] AI’s Impact on Networking [00:26:45] Banning Cell Phones in Schools [00:28:30] Supply-Side Liberalism Explained [00:30:00] What Excites Miles in 2025 [00:30:30] Where to Find Miles Miles' Stuff: Purpose Built: https://www.purposebuilt.vc/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mileslasater/ My Stuff: Podcast: https://www.madeitpod.com/ Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/ X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/…

Made It with Connor Tomkies

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The Warren Buffett of Lifestyle Investing with Justin Donald 35:56

cách đây 10 weeks trước35:56

35:56

In this episode of Made It with Connor Tomkies, Justin Donald, the "Warren Buffett of Lifestyle Investing," shares insights into his journey as a post-exit entrepreneur, investor, and community builder. He discusses his early business exits, the power of strategic investing, and the philosophy behind The Lifestyle Investor . Connor and Justin dive into identifying emerging trends, the importance of tax strategies, and the evolution of investment opportunities—from private credit to blockchain and AI-enabled tech. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, an investor, or someone planning a business exit, this conversation is packed with valuable takeaways. LifestyleInvestor.com/consultation Episode Chapters: [00:00:00] Welcome to Made It [00:00:30] Moving to a new entrepreneur hub [00:01:15] Doing business with people you like [00:01:45] First taste of an exit [00:02:15] Investing in a dog training business [00:03:30] Scaling and selling the company [00:04:15] Building The Lifestyle Investor [00:05:00] Exclusive mastermind community [00:06:15] Investing principles for young entrepreneurs [00:07:15] Buying businesses vs. investing [00:08:30] Private credit and deal flow [00:09:15] Preparing for a successful business exit [00:10:00] Trends shaping 2025 investing [00:11:30] Spotting opportunities before they go mainstream [00:13:00] Industrial, port cities, and reshoring [00:14:45] AI-enabled tech and Web3 gaming [00:16:00] Investing in pro sports teams [00:17:45] GP stakes and distressed assets [00:19:00] Robotics, SaaS, and AI growth [00:21:00] Operating in an AI-driven world [00:22:30] The philosophy behind The Lifestyle Investor [00:24:00] How the mastermind community started [00:26:30] Pricing a high-value community [00:28:15] The true value of tax strategies [00:30:15] Advice for post-exit founders [00:32:00] Why most entrepreneurs aren't great investors [00:33:30] IRS incentives and tax planning [00:34:45] Where to find Justin Donald Justin's Stuff: The Lifestyle Investor: https://lifestyleinvestor.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinwdonald/ X: https://x.com/jwdonald1 My Stuff: Podcast: https://www.madeitpod.com/ Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/ X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/…

Made It with Connor Tomkies

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Owning a Soccer Team, Building Community, and Mission Companies with Intello's Barak Kaufman 38:15

cách đây 27 weeks trước38:15

38:15

In this episode of Made It with Connor Tomkies, Connor sits down with Barak Kaufman, founder of Post Exit Founders, to discuss life after exiting a company and the next steps for founders. They explore the three types of post-exit founders, dive into Barak's investment in a soccer team rivaling Ryan Reynolds' Wrexham, and talk about the challenges and rewards of building "missionary" companies. Barak also shares insights on navigating the "idea maze" and the importance of aligning passion with business after a big exit. Join Our Community! Chapters: [00:00:00] Introduction and Barak's Background [00:01:00] Founding and Selling Intello [00:02:00] Building the Post Exit Founders Community [00:03:00] Post Exit Founders and New Ventures [00:04:00] Understanding Missionary Companies [00:05:45] Challenges After a Major Exit [00:07:15] The Idea Maze Concept [00:09:00] Examples of Missionary Companies [00:11:00] Frameworks for Ideation [00:13:00] Post Exit Founder Categories [00:16:30] The Messy Middle and New Directions [00:19:00] Sabbaticals and Self-Reflection [00:22:00] Scaling the Post Exit Community [00:25:00] The Importance of Offline Connections [00:27:00] Chapter Structure and Subgroups [00:29:00] Investing in Crawley Town FC [00:34:00] A Missionary Company Success Story [00:36:45] Facilitating More Post-Exit Founders [00:38:45] Closing Thoughts and How to Connect with Barak Barak's Stuff: Bono: https://www.bono.so/ GiveButter: https://givebutter.com/ Wagmi: https://wagmiunited.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barakk/ X: https://x.com/barak_kaufman My Stuff: Podcast: https://www.madeitpod.com/ Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/ X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/…

Made It with Connor Tomkies

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Career Risk, Baseball, and Pooling with Pando's Charlie Olson 31:04

cách đây 29 weeks trước31:04

31:04

In this episode of Made It with Connor Tomkies, we dive into a groundbreaking concept with Charlie Olson, CEO of Pando. Charlie explains how his company helps individuals in high-risk careers like professional athletes and entrepreneurs pool their incomes, creating a supportive and incentivized community that shares both successes and setbacks. Learn how Pando has transformed the landscape of career risk management and what the future holds for this innovative business model. Join Our Community! Chapter Titles: [00:00:00] Introducing Charlie Olson from Pando [00:00:45] The Origin of Pando’s Name [00:01:30] Income Pooling for Risky Careers [00:02:45] Incentives and Career Risk Management [00:03:30] Entrepreneurship in a Winner-Take-All Economy [00:04:45] Pando's Start in Professional Baseball [00:06:00] Entrepreneurs Pooling and Collaborating [00:07:00] Contributions and Success Rates at Pando [00:08:00] Entrepreneurial Pooling in Series B Stage [00:09:00] Recruiting High-Caliber Entrepreneurs [00:10:30] Community, Incentives, and Success [00:11:30] Pando’s Potential for Industry Disruption [00:12:45] Reimagining the Financial Institution [00:14:00] Pooling as Upside Insurance [00:16:30] Network Benefits and Negotiations [00:19:00] Crowdsourcing Knowledge and Warm Intros [00:21:30] Charlie’s Entrepreneurial Journey [00:23:00] The Unique Vertical of Income Pooling [00:24:00] Pando's Supportive Entrepreneurial Ecosystem [00:27:00] Physical Therapy and Incentives [00:29:00] Exciting Pando Companies in AI Revolution [00:29:45] Long-Term Vision for Pando Charlie's Stuff: Pando: https://www.pandopooling.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlie-olson/ My Stuff: Podcast: https://www.madeitpod.com/ Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/ X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/…

Made It with Connor Tomkies

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Bringing the Fun Back to Start-Ups with DesignMyNight's Nick Telson-Sillett 36:36

cách đây 30 weeks trước36:36

36:36

In this episode of "Made It with Connor Tomkies," Nick Telson-Sillett shares his journey from founding "Design My Night" to exiting for over £35 million. Nick talks about the challenges of scaling a company in a competitive market, the importance of financial freedom, and how to navigate earn-outs. He also discusses his ventures in angel investing through Horseplay Ventures and his efforts to support the LGBTQ+ founder community. Tune in for insights on business growth, exit strategies, and the evolving startup landscape. Join Our Community Chapters: [00:00:00] Introduction and Competitors Wise Up [00:00:14] Naming Companies: Trumpet and Design My Night [00:01:21] Nick’s Post-Exit Life and Identity [00:02:06] Transitioning After a Big Exit [00:02:52] Growing Design My Night to £35M [00:04:10] Creating the Market for Bar Reservations [00:05:26] Selling the Vision: Bar to Bar [00:06:34] Selling to The Access Group [00:08:00] Why It Was Time to Sell [00:09:33] Navigating the Earn-Out Period [00:12:19] Structuring the Earn-Out Deal [00:14:24] Managing Post-Acquisition Relationships [00:18:39] Horseplay Ventures: Angel Investing [00:21:14] Supporting LGBTQ+ Founders with Proud Ventures [00:25:36] Launching the Pitch Deck Podcast [00:28:31] VC vs. Bootstrapping Startups [00:31:39] Honest Mobile: Revolutionizing Mobile Contracts [00:33:54] Fanbase: iOS for Sports Teams Nick's Stuff: Proud Ventures: https://www.proud-ventures.com/ Trumpet: https://www.sendtrumpet.com/?ref=nicklinkedin Horseplay Ventures: https://horseplay.ventures/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicktelson/ My Stuff: Podcast: https://www.madeitpod.com/ Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/ X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/…

Made It with Connor Tomkies

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The Hidden Levers of a 9-Figure Exit with Praveen Ghanta 33:04

cách đây 31 weeks trước33:04

33:04

In this episode of Made It with Connor Tomkies, entrepreneur Praveen Ghanta shares the unconventional story behind his bootstrapped exit, including a nine-figure success with Hidden Levers. Praveen dives into his philosophy on bootstrapping versus raising capital, the power of fractional work, and what he’s focusing on now with his new ventures. Tune in for an insightful conversation on growing a company with limited resources and timing your exit for maximum gain. Join Our Community: https://incendium.circle.so/join?invitation_token=8f30b22424ad79e1af33a9258ee335ba7af292ba-a92ebcf2-2d4e-404d-a5a3-42d48dde11ef Chapters: [00:00:00] Bootstrapping and Billion-Dollar Exits [00:00:45] Microsoft: The World’s Largest Bootstrap [00:02:00] Cashflow and Growth Capital Choices [00:03:30] Raising Growth Equity and Use of Proceeds [00:06:00] Hidden Levers: ARR Growth Challenges [00:09:00] Scaling with Enterprise Sales Teams [00:10:45] 16x Revenue and Selling the Business [00:12:45] Successful Exit with a Strong Multiple [00:14:30] Angel Investing: Betting on Founders [00:17:00] Building with Fractional Work [00:21:00] Focusing on U.S. Talent for Tacit Knowledge [00:23:00] Startups Using Fractional Work [00:24:30] Schools Over: Empowering Non-College Pathways [00:27:00] Future of Work: Flexibility and Fractional Roles [00:31:00] Praveen’s Success with Fractional Talent Praveen's Stuff: Fraction Website: https://www.hirefraction.com/ School's Over: https://schoolsover.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pghanta/ X: https://x.com/truecost My Stuff: Podcast: https://www.madeitpod.com/ Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/ X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/…

Made It with Connor Tomkies

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Scaling Billion Dollar Dreams and Redefining Success with Gil Eyal 26:38

cách đây 33 weeks trước26:38

26:38

In this episode of Made It with Connor Tomkies , Gil Eyal returns to discuss the unpredictable nature of success in the world of social media and business investment. They dive deep into the challenges of investing in consumer products, the importance of identifying businesses with billion-dollar potential, and the pitfalls of the dating app industry. With a mix of humor and insight, Gil and Connor explore the highs and lows of entrepreneurial ventures, leaving listeners with valuable lessons and plenty of inspiration. Check Out Our Sponsors: Join Our Community! https://wealthwithrush.com/ Chapters Apologies for the confusion. Here are the updated timecode-based chapter titles: [00:00:00] Introduction: Gil Eyal Returns [00:00:29] The Power of Social Media and Influence [00:02:00] Lessons Learned as an Investor [00:03:45] Consumer Goods vs. SaaS Investments [00:06:08] Focusing on Consumer Goods and Tech [00:08:34] The Challenges of Raising a Fund [00:09:40] Dream Product: A Hair Growth Solution [00:11:00] Rethinking the Dating App Model [00:17:15] Considering a Venture Studio [00:19:14] The Problem with “Fake it Till You Make It” [00:22:00] Excitement Around GLP-1 Drugs and the Future [00:23:40] Civilization as a Business Game [00:25:45] Wrapping Up: Where to Find Gil Eyal Gil's Stuff: Website: https://stardustventures.us/ Email: gil@stardustventures.us LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gileyal/ X: https://x.com/gileyal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gileyal My Stuff: Podcast: https://www.madeitpod.com/ Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/ X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/…

Made It with Connor Tomkies

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Matchmaking for Dogs: The Story of All Paws, Snap Interactive and more with Darrell Lerner 27:55

cách đây 35 weeks trước27:55

27:55

Join Connor Tomkies in this exciting episode of the Made It Podcast as he chats with Darrell Lerner, the man behind All Paws and Snap Interactive. Discover how Darrell transitioned from revolutionizing online dating to creating a successful platform connecting dogs with their forever homes. Listen as Darrell shares the unconventional journey of founding Snap Interactive, leveraging Facebook's app platform, and the unexpected challenges of taking a company public. Learn how his passion for pets led to the inception of All Paws and his unique approach to matchmaking for dogs. Darrell also delves into the thrilling rollercoaster of scaling a startup, raising millions, and the intense due diligence of selling a company. This episode is packed with insights on entrepreneurship, the pet industry, and the evolving world of social media influencers. Don't miss out on Darrell's fascinating stories and valuable lessons! Check Out Our Sponsors: Join Our Community! Chapters: [00:00:00] Welcome and Introduction [00:00:27] Focus on Dogs [00:00:45] Connecting with Dog Genetics [00:01:05] Starting All Paws [00:01:34] Creating a Pet Matchmaking Service [00:02:22] From Snap Interactive to All Paws [00:03:00] The Concept of Tinder for Pets [00:04:02] Leaning into Online Dating Experience [00:04:45] Filtering for the Perfect Pet [00:05:24] Early Success of Snap Interactive [00:06:00] The Premise of Snap Interactive [00:07:55] Viral Growth on Facebook [00:09:15] Unexpected Publicity Boost [00:10:55] Stock Market Surge [00:12:30] Raising Capital and Scaling [00:13:57] Challenges of Being Public [00:15:00] Insider Trading Restrictions [00:16:00] Navigating Public Perception [00:17:00] Leaving Snap Interactive [00:18:17] Due Diligence Challenges [00:20:33] Transitioning After the Sale [00:22:11] Taking Time Off [00:25:15] Adjusting to Life Post-Sale [00:26:15] Exploring the Influencer Economy [00:28:15] Monetizing Influence [00:30:15] Building Brands with Influencers [00:31:45] Lessons Learned and Next Steps [00:34:45] Where to Find Darrell Lerner Darrell's Stuff: Website: https://www.darrelllerner.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrelllerner/ X: https://x.com/DarrellLerner/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dlerner2112/ My Stuff: Podcast: https://www.madeitpod.com/ Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/ X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/…

Made It with Connor Tomkies

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Hot Takes and Padel Breaks: Benji Markoff’s Return 45:53

cách đây 37 weeks trước45:53

45:53

Join us for a captivating conversation with Benji Markoff, a returning guest who initially appeared in Episode 3. In this episode, Benji opens up about his latest venture, Padel United Sports Club. He discusses the intricacies of launching a high-end social wellness club focused on the fast-growing sport of Padel. Discover how Benji is building a vibrant community, the strategic decisions behind membership offerings, and his vision for combining sports with wellness modalities like cryotherapy, sauna, and more. Connor and Benji also explore the creator economy, the importance of genuine human interaction in business, and the value of documenting the entrepreneurial journey authentically. Check Out Our Sponsors: https://wealthwithrush.com/ Join Our Community! Chapters: [00:00:00] Intro and Banter [00:00:09] Reflecting on Last Episode [00:00:34] Podcast Schvitz Idea [00:00:55] Sauna Experiences [00:01:21] Live vs. Business Content [00:02:07] Unscripted Conversations [00:02:30] Learning from Discussions [00:02:55] Sauna’s Unique Environment [00:02:45] Paddle vs. Padel [00:03:29] Social Media Influence [00:04:47] Padel United Vision [00:05:15] Creating a Wellness Club [00:05:30] Russian Sauna Traditions [00:06:00] Multipurpose Sauna Hats [00:06:45] Business Content Overload [00:07:00] Entrepreneurial Motivation [00:08:01] Beyond Startup Stories [00:08:30] Late-night Entrepreneur Thoughts [00:09:00] Family and Business Balance [00:09:15] Entrepreneurship as a Career Cycle [00:09:30] Building Multiple Companies [00:09:45] Passion vs. Profit [00:10:00] Business Challenges [00:10:26] Personal Business Journey [00:11:00] Real-life Business Insights [00:12:00] High-level Business Decisions [00:12:30] Value of Spontaneous Ideas [00:13:38] Entrepreneurial Resilience [00:13:45] Padel Community Building [00:14:47] Early Membership Offers [00:15:30] Personalized Sales Pitch [00:16:47] Immediate Feedback [00:16:57] Membership Commitment [00:18:47] Friend’s Support [00:19:00] Sales Strategy [00:19:45] Direct Communication [00:20:26] Immediate Action [00:21:00] Engaging Network [00:21:30] Marketing Authenticity [00:22:47] Personal Branding [00:23:30] Real-life Networking Benji's Stuff: Padel United Sports Club: https://www.padelunitedsportsclub.com/ Padel Mecca on Substack: https://substack.com/@padelmecca Instagram: @PadelUnitedSC My Stuff: Podcast: https://www.madeitpod.com/ Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/ X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/ Tune in to "Made It" with Connor Tomkies and be inspired by stories of entrepreneurial success and innovation. Subscribe now and never miss an episode!…

Made It with Connor Tomkies

1
The Metrics Maestro: Alex White on Rocking the Music & Tax Industries 58:00

cách đây 39 weeks trước58:00

58:00

In this episode we sit down with Alexander White, the co-founder of Next Big Sound. Alexander shares his journey from launching a music data business during his senior year at Northwestern to its acquisition by Pandora for a remarkable 10x revenue multiple. Discover how Alexander's passion for data led him to his next venture, focusing on uncovering and optimizing tax incentives and credits for businesses. Tune in for insights on entrepreneurship, the music industry's data revolution, and the untapped potential of government incentives. Check Out Our Sponsors: https://wealthwithrush.com/ Join Our Community! Chapters [00:00:00] Introduction [00:00:16] Starting Next Big Sound in College [00:00:59] Early Investments [00:01:44] Initial Business Model [00:02:16] Understanding Trends and Early Adopters [00:02:30] Tour Managing a Band [00:04:00] Gathering Data and Selling to Music Industry [00:04:53] Scaling the Business [00:06:00] Series A Funding and Music Industry Dynamics [00:06:56] Pandora Acquisition [00:09:00] Integrating with Pandora [00:12:16] Post Exit Identity Crisis [00:14:13] Team Dynamics at Pandora [00:16:00] Leveraging Youth [00:17:30] Post Exit Life [00:18:30] Professor Role at NYU [00:23:15] Investor & Author Roles [00:27:30] Working at Pandora [00:32:00] Taking a Break [00:36:56] Tax Credits and Incentives Implementation [00:39:30] Working with CPA Networks [00:46:00] Engaging with Large Tax Firms [00:50:00] Leveraging Tax Credits [00:56:00] Conclusion Alexander's Stuff: Website: https://alexanderswhite.com/ X: https://x.com/mralexwhite LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexanderswhite/ My Stuff: Podcast: https://www.madeitpod.com/ Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/ X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/…

Made It with Connor Tomkies

1
Breaking the Rules: Vadim Rogovskiy's Global Tech Journey and Rebel Capital Dreams 39:40

cách đây 41 weeks trước39:40

39:40

In this episode of "Made It with Connor Tomkies," Connor sits down with Vadim Rogovskiy, a successful entrepreneur who sold his first company in 2014 and has since been involved in various ventures, including the innovative AR company 3DLOOK. Vadim shares his journey from early entrepreneurial efforts in Ukraine, dealing with the challenges of in-game advertising, to his pivot into augmented reality and computer vision technology. Learn about his insights into the startup ecosystem, the importance of agility and perseverance, and his vision for the future. Check Out Our Sponsors: wealthwithrush.com Chapters: 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:01:15 - Social Media Advertising in Eastern Europe 00:03:45 - Bootstrapping an Ad Network 00:10:00 - Challenges in the Eastern European Ad Market 00:15:00 - Selling the Company and Moving On 00:17:27 - Investing in Startups 00:24:15 - Pivot to Augmented Reality 00:30:00 - Building 3DLook 00:34:45 - Looking to the Future 00:37:30 - Closing Thoughts Vadim's Stuff Website: https://geek.vc/ Vadim's X: https://x.com/vadim_rogovskiy Vadim's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vadim-rogovskiy/ My Stuff Podcast: www.mysecondmillionpodcast.com Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/ X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/…

Made It with Connor Tomkies

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Making Unsexy... Sexy with Atlas Authority Founder Boris Berenberg 37:06

cách đây 43 weeks trước37:06

37:06

Boris shares his journey from working at Atlassian to founding his own company Atlas Authority, navigating the challenges of being a solo founder, and eventually exiting the business. Dive into their discussion about unsexy business ideas, the importance of shared context in startups, and Boris's candid insights on his entrepreneurial experiences. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, this episode is packed with valuable lessons and unique perspectives. Chapters [00:00:00] Introduction [00:00:30] The Unsexy Business [00:00:45] From Atlassian to Solo Founder [00:02:15] Starting the Company [00:03:28] Business Model and Services [00:04:30] Platform Risk and Emotional Fatigue [00:04:51] Remote Work and Team Structure [00:05:44] In-Person vs. Remote Work [00:06:15] The Importance of Communication [00:08:45] Accountability as a Solo Founder [00:09:00] Birthday Sale Ritual [00:10:04] Learning from the Sale Process [00:11:03] Valuation and Exit [00:12:15] Post-Exit Reflections [00:13:15] Unsexy Business Ideas [00:15:30] Spam Scoring for Outbound Emails [00:18:45] Sexy Goat Bath Product [00:21:00] Meatbags: A Unique Snack Idea [00:23:15] Property Tax Appeal Service [00:25:45] Weird Sports Network [00:28:30] RC Plane Venues [00:31:15] Public Library Publisher [00:36:00] Advocating for Libraries [00:36:38] Closing Thoughts [00:37:00] Outro Boris' Stuff Website: https://www.nothingeasyaboutthis.com Boris' X: https://x.com/borisberenberg Boris' LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/borisberenberg/ My Stuff Podcast: www.mysecondmillionpodcast.com Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/ X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/…

Made It with Connor Tomkies

1
Solving for Joy, The Power of Hustle, and More with Hustle Fund's Eric Bahn 47:25

cách đây 44 weeks trước47:25

47:25

Eric Bahn, co-founder of Hustle Fund, discusses his journey as an entrepreneur and investor. He shares insights on building genuine communities, identifying true "hustlers", and redefining wealth and success. Eric opens up about his family's story, working with his wife and sister, and the importance of vulnerability in leadership. He also discusses Hustle Fund's unique investment approach and their flagship event Camp Hustle which aims to build meaningful connections. This candid conversation touches on finding joy after an exit, building inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystems, and growing together in the long-term. Chapters: 00:00 - Intro 01:35 - Building Genuine Communities 03:13 - Eric's Vulnerable Journey 04:44 - Eric's Family's Sacrifices 08:15 - Pivotal Life Moments 10:43 - Minivan Enthusiasm & Branding 13:13 - Beat the GMAT 16:00 - 3 Pillars of an Excellent Community 19:32 - Choosing the Right Acquirer 21:58 - Post-Exit World Travel 24:43 - Working with Your Sister 26:47 - Genesis of Hustle Fund 29:25 - Hustle Fund's Secret Weapon 30:29 - Hustle Fund's Investment Approach 32:30 - Hustle Fund's Inclusive Mission 34:44 - The Loneliness of Success 37:07 - Navigating Life After an Exit 39:56 - Camp Hustle 42:05 - Power of Shared Experiences 44:17 - Hustle Fund Community 45:46 - Eric's Ideal Collaborators Eric's Stuff Hustle Fund: https://www.hustlefund.vc/ Eric's X: https://x.com/ericbahn Eric's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericbahn/ My Stuff Podcast: www.mysecondmillionpodcast.com Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/ X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/…

Made It with Connor Tomkies

1
The Return of a Legend: Andrew Warner on Podcasts, Communities, and Post-Exit 42:04

cách đây 45 weeks trước42:04

42:04

Andrew Warner, founder of Mixergy, returns to the pod to share his insights on the post-exit journey of entrepreneurs. The two discuss the importance of finding meaning and purpose after selling a business, the value of shadowing successful entrepreneurs, and the potential of building a community for post-exit founders. With a focus on personal growth and the unique challenges faced by entrepreneurs after an exit, this podcast offers valuable lessons for anyone looking to navigate the next chapter of their entrepreneurial journey. Discover the key to staying motivated, connected, and inspired in this thought-provoking conversation. Chapters: 00:00:00 - Intro 00:03:11 - Finding the Right Podcast Format 00:06:48 - The Impact of the "My Second Million" Podcast Launch 00:10:57 - Andrew's Outdoor "Anti-Office" Setup 00:14:07 - The Potential of Video-First Podcast Content 00:19:13 - Engaging Post-Exit Founders 00:22:20 - The Anticlimactic Moment of Selling a Business 00:24:28 - Building a Community for Post-Exit Entrepreneurs 00:27:15 - Finding Motivation Beyond Fear After an Exit 00:29:34 - Andrew's Search for Clarity 00:32:17 - The Lost Art of Apprenticeship 00:37:30 - Experience as an EOS Implementer 00:39:39 - Building Relationships 00:41:46 - Conclusion Andrew's Stuff Andrew's Site: https://mixergy.com/ Andrew's X: https://x.com/AndrewWarner?s=20 Andrew's Book: https://www.amazon.com/Stop-Asking-Questions-High-Impact-Interviews/dp/1737676540 My Stuff Podcast: www.mysecondmillionpodcast.com Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/ X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/…

Made It with Connor Tomkies

1
Bouncy Balls, Building Companies, and Big Exits... Dan Reich's Entrepreneurial Journey 44:14

cách đây 46 weeks trước44:14

44:14

In this episode, serial entrepreneur Dan Reich shares his remarkable journey of building and exiting multiple companies across various industries. From his early ventures in high school to co-founding Spinback, which was acquired by Buddy Media and later Salesforce, Dan's experiences highlight valuable lessons in entrepreneurship, partnerships, and the importance of pursuing passion projects. He also discusses his current approach to building companies and investing through his informal venture studio, offering insights into the challenges and rewards of the entrepreneurial lifestyle. Chapters: [00:00:00] Introduction [00:01:10] The Spinback Story [00:04:22] Early Entrepreneurial Ventures [00:09:46] Lessons from a Failed Partnership [00:11:05] Pursuing New Opportunities [00:16:31] The Birth of Tula Skincare [00:18:38] Dan's Involvement in Various Companies [00:22:21] Criteria for Pushing a Project Live [00:25:03] Thoughts on the Current SaaS Market [00:31:12] Simplicity in Building Companies [00:32:07] Balancing the Roles of Operator and Investor [00:35:18] Entrepreneurship as a Video Game [00:38:01] The Importance of Employee Equity [00:41:20] Dan's Immature Business Ideas [00:43:25] Conclusion and Where to Find Dan Reich Dan's Stuff: Website: https://danreich.com/ X: https://x.com/DanReich LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danreich/ My Stuff Podcast: MadeItPod.com Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/ X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/…

Made It with Connor Tomkies

1
Find Your Purpose, and Co-Founder Cuddling with Noah Abelson-Gertler 38:18

cách đây 47 weeks trước38:18

38:18

In this candid interview, Noah Abelson, founder of ShareRoot, shares his entrepreneurial journey from starting up in a garage to taking his company public. He discusses the challenges of pivoting, fundraising, and navigating co-founder relationships, as well as the emotional toll of life after a successful exit. Noah also shares his passion for making a positive impact and his personal mission to help others heal strained family relationships. Filled with valuable insights and lessons learned, this episode is a must-watch for aspiring entrepreneurs and anyone seeking to find purpose and drive change in their post-startup life. 00:00:00 - Intro 00:01:21 - Noah's Founder Journey and Impact 00:04:30 - Pivoting and Tough Team Conversations 00:07:55 - Leadership During Challenging Times 00:11:39 - Navigating a Co-Founder Partnership Split 00:14:53 - Identifying a Niche in Privacy 00:19:47 - Fundraising: Taking on Another Job 00:22:30 - Life After Exit: Challenges Faced 00:25:48 - Helping Post-Exit Founders Find Purpose 00:29:29 - Noah's Personal Mission: Family Relationships 00:35:38 - Importance of Community 00:37:47 - Wrap-up Noah's Stuff: Website: https://foundersjourney.io/ X: https://x.com/NoahAbelson LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/noahabelson/ My Stuff Podcast: MadeItPod.com Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/ X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/…

Made It with Connor Tomkies

1
Morning Brew, Creator Economy, and Plungers with Alex Lieberman 46:01

cách đây 48 weeks trước46:01

46:01

Alex Lieberman, co-founder of Morning Brew and host of the Founders Journal podcast, takes us on a whirlwind journey through his post-exit adventures. From getting a full-body MRI to launching a quirky backyard game, Alex candidly shares the highs and lows of life after a successful startup. He delves into Morning Brew's evolving content strategy, the future of marketing, and the challenges of finding product-market fit with his new venture, StoryArb. Filled with relatable stories and valuable insights, this conversation is a must-listen for entrepreneurs at any stage looking to stay innovative and adaptable in an ever-changing business landscape. 00:00:00 - Intro 00:09:13 - Alex's Failed Plunger Game 00:11:58 - Humanizing Brands 00:14:52 - Expectations on public-facing CEOs 00:17:06 - Hiring young, agile marketing talent 00:21:12 - Zero to one: Alex's creative drive 00:24:28 - StoryArb 00:26:39 - Lessons learned from StoryArb 00:30:18 - Morning Brew's evolving content strategy 00:32:00 - Creator Economy 00:40:10 - Challenges in the content market 00:42:40 - Early-stage startups as challenging customers 00:43:20 - Four points of value for CEOs 00:44:00 - Outsourcing: From odd to essential 00:45:22 - Wrap-up Alex's Stuff Website: https://foundersjournalpod.morningbrew.com/ X: https://x.com/businessbarista LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-lieberman/ My Stuff Podcast: MadeItPod.com Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/ X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/…

Made It with Connor Tomkies

1
Protect Yourself During M&A with Thunder's Jason Kirby 48:08

cách đây 49 weeks trước48:08

48:08

Jason Kirby shares hard-earned wisdom with Connor, from exiting his company to Walmart, after a failed acquisition by Samsung. Jason explains key lessons for founders in the acquisition process, like getting your own legal counsel and maintaining multiple options. He also details his new venture Thunder, an investment bank aiming to provide founders with the M&A and fundraising guidance he wished he had. The two discuss the rise of eSports in schools, navigating the stresses of being an acquisition target while running a company, and the importance of surrounding yourself with the right advisors. Subscribe for more behind-the-scenes insights on entrepreneurship and life after an exit. Check out the links to connect with Jason and access Thunder's free investor matching tool for founders. Chapters: 00:00:00 - Introducing Jason Kirby 00:02:30 - What Thunder Offers to Founders 00:04:55 - The Challenges of Raising Capital 00:07:56 - Building Thunder 00:13:13 - Bringing eSports to Schools 00:22:49 - The Rollercoaster of Selling Liquid Sky 00:29:12 - Picking Up the Pieces 00:32:07 - Maintaining Optionality 00:34:53 - Hard Lessons Learned from M&A 00:41:57 - The Rise of Solo GP 00:45:32 - Wrapping Up Jason Kirby's Stuff Website: https://web.thunder.vc/ X: https://x.com/JasonKirby LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonrkirby/ My Stuff Podcast: MadeItPod.com Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/ X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/…

Made It with Connor Tomkies

1
Revamping the Health Industry, Redox's Luke Bonney 40:05

cách đây 50 weeks trước40:05

40:05

In this episode, we sit down with Luke Bonney, co-founder of Redox, a healthcare tech company that raised $95 million. Join us as Luke shares his journey from med school dropout to successful entrepreneur, discussing the challenges of building a startup, the importance of strong co-founder relationships, and the future of healthcare technology. Tune in for valuable insights and lessons learned from a founder who's been in the trenches. 00:00:00 - Intro 00:05:07 - The Power of a Big, Bold Purpose 00:07:08 - Building a Distributed Company at Redox 00:10:04 - Challenges of Handling Healthcare Data 00:11:16 - Stepping Down as CEO 00:15:07 - Adapting to Different Phases of Life 00:18:12 - Maintaining Strong Co-Founder Relationships 00:22:13 - Post-Exit Lifestyle 00:24:22 - Leadership Principles 00:29:17 - Working On the Company 00:34:43 - AI in Healthcare 00:36:01 - Start-Ups Changing Landscape 00:37:12 - Better Support Systems Luke's Stuff: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/luke-bonney-he-him-965a135/ My Stuff Podcast: MadeItPod.com Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/ X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/…

Made It with Connor Tomkies

1
Lil Wayne, Leo DiCaprio, and Influencer Marketing with Gil Eyal 47:45

cách đây 51 weeks trước47:45

47:45

From celebrity crashes to influencer insights, lessons from a marketing pioneer. Join Connor Tomkies as he sits down with Gil Eyal, a serial entrepreneur who's seen it all in the world of influencer marketing. Discover the ups and downs of Gil's journey, from working with A-listers like Lil Wayne and Leonardo DiCaprio to navigating the ever-changing landscape of social media. Packed with valuable insights on leveraging celebrity partnerships, adapting to data restrictions, and the future of influencer marketing, this episode is a must-watch for anyone looking to make their mark in the digital world. [00:00:00] - Gil Eyal's Celebrity Crash Course [00:04:19] - Pivoting from Mobli to Hypr [00:06:55] - The Social Network Data Goldmine [00:09:05] - Cambridge Analytica: The Turning Point [00:11:13] - The Acquisition Roller Coaster [00:13:40] - Structuring Celebrity Equity Deals [00:18:25] - The Power of the Number Two Position [00:22:13] - The Jake Paul Effect: Influencer Boxing [00:24:29] - The Micro-Influencer Debate [00:28:48] - Soho House: Exclusivity vs. Scalability [00:32:31] - The Rise of Community-Focused Real Estate [00:37:17] - Finding Opportunities in Underutilized Assets [00:43:47] - The Game-Changing Potential of Medical Weight Loss [00:47:46] - Wrap-up and Contact Info Gil's Stuff: https://stardustventures.us/ gil@stardustventures.us My Stuff Podcast : MadeItPod.com Website : https://www.connortomkies.com/ X : https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/…

Made It with Connor Tomkies

1
From Nightclubs to Buying Santa Monica Pier: Shane Neman & EZ Texting 29:57

cách đây 52 weeks trước29:57

29:57

Entrepreneur Shane Neman shares his incredible journey from founding Junebug, a nightclub software and events company, to building EZ Texting, a pioneering mass texting platform. Discover how Shane spotted opportunities, pivoted when necessary, and bootstrapped his way to success. He also shares insights into his current ventures, including an investment in humanoid robotics and the acquisition of the iconic Santa Monica Pier. 00:00:00 - Intro 00:01:00 - Junebug's Origins 00:04:05 - Launching Junebug 00:07:20 - Hosting Events 00:10:30 - Junebug's Success 00:12:51 - The Texting Opportunity 00:16:07 - Transitioning to EZ Texting 00:19:50 - EZ Texting's Acquisition 00:23:05 - Starting Neman Ventures 00:25:10 - Investing in AI Robotics 00:27:40 - Acquiring the Santa Monica Pier 00:29:15 - Conclusion Shane Neman Stuff: Website: https://www.shaneneman.com/ X: https://twitter.com/shaneneman LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaneneman Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shaneneman/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@shaneneman Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NemanVentures/ My Stuff Podcast: MadeItPod.com Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/ X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/…

Made It with Connor Tomkies

1
The Best Businesses are Not Sexy with Adam Spector of Levy 45:51

cách đây 1 year trước45:51

45:51

Serial entrepreneur Adam Spector shares his journey of building and exiting multiple startups, including his current venture, Levy, which revolutionizes back-office support. In this engaging episode, Adam discusses the lessons he's learned from navigating the entrepreneurial rollercoaster, the importance of solving real problems, and his outlook on the future of work in an era of AI and globalization. He also shares insights on running a VC-backed vs. bootstrapped company, the challenges of attribution in personalization, and the increasing accessibility of entrepreneurship. Tune in for a candid conversation filled with valuable advice for entrepreneurs at any stage of their journey. 00:00:34 - Adam's Background 00:01:17 - Starting Levy 00:02:36 - Solving Real Problems 00:07:10 - Running a Startup 00:09:10 - Growing the Business 00:10:37 - Spinning Out Levy 00:13:37 - Adam's Four Startups 00:19:16 - Missed Acquisition 00:23:35 - Building & Selling Lift Igniter 00:28:32 - VC vs. Bootstrapped 00:32:26 - Future of Work Outlook 00:40:06 - AI in Outsourcing 00:41:16 - Accessible Entrepreneurship 00:42:46 - Reflections on Success Adam Spector's Stuff Adam's Business: https://www.levy.company/ X: https://x.com/aspec00?s=20 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamspector2 My Stuff Podcast: MadeItPod.com Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/ X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/…

Made It with Connor Tomkies

1
Beyond the Backpack: Classtag's Vlada Lotkina on Disrupting EdTech 38:15

cách đây 1 year trước38:15

38:15

Join along as I sit down with the incredibly inspiring Vlada Lotkina, the brain behind ClassTag, for a journey filled with dreams, determination, and the drive to make a difference in the world of education. From her early days in Ukraine to creating waves in the U.S. tech scene, Vlada's story isn't just about building a successful platform; it's about bridging gaps, overcoming the naysayers, and transforming challenges into triumphs. We're not just sharing her success story; we're diving into the essence of what it means to pursue your passions, stand up after setbacks, and forge your path in the world. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or someone who loves a good story of hope and hard work, you won't want to miss this. [00:00:00] Introduction [00:01:03] Founding ClassTag [00:03:04] Vlada's Entrepreneur Background [00:06:04] Navigating business during the war in Ukraine [00:09:56] Selling ClassTag [00:12:47] Reflecting on the Exit [00:15:39] After the Exit [00:17:28] Supporting Immigrant Founders [00:23:33] Scaling ClassTag to 5 million users [00:27:44] Impact of COVID on ClassTag's Growth [00:31:21] Parenting and Entrepreneurship [00:37:22] Wrap-up Vlada Lotkina's Stuff Website: https://www.elev8orlab.com/ X: https://twitter.com/vlotkina LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vlada-lotkina My Stuff Podcast: MadeItPod.com Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/ X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/…

Made It with Connor Tomkies

1
Sweat Equity to Sauna Sessions: Disrupting Insurance and Beyond with Benji Markoff 55:40

cách đây 1 year trước55:40

55:40

We dive into the journey of Benji Markoff, a visionary entrepreneur who transformed the insurance industry with his startup, Founder Shield. Benji shares his rollercoaster experience from the early days of grueling work and personal challenges to achieving a monumental exit. Listeners will gain insights into the importance of resilience, innovation, and the unexpected paths of entrepreneurship, as well as a peek into his next venture, revolutionizing wellness and beyond. [00:00:00] Opening [00:01:01] Intro [00:06:09] Founding Founder Shield [00:13:29] The Acquisition Gauntlet [00:20:28] Keys to Startup Success [00:27:59] Life After Exit [00:33:51] Establishing a Family Office [00:40:31] Investing in Tangible Businesses [00:44:03] Discovering Padel Sport [00:51:32] Creating a Social Wellness Club [00:56:09] Outro Benji's Stuff: Website: https://www.sja58.com/ Padel United Sports Club: https://www.padelunitedsportsclub.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjimarkoff/ My Stuff: Podcast: MadeItPod.com Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/ X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/…

Made It with Connor Tomkies

1
From Basement to Buyout: Aaron White's Remarkable Dual Exit 40:08

cách đây 1 year trước40:08

40:08

LISTENER NOTE: My Second Million asa title was always intended as a cheeky joke around the fantastic pod "My First Million" but now on April Fools we've decided to pivot as so many founder do, to the "Made It with Connor Tomkies" podcast. We can't wait for the guests we have coming up and we're excited to share more episodes. Stay tuned for more episodes of "Made It with Connor Tomkies" Dive into an enlightening conversation with Aaron White, a tech visionary who recently sold two companies, ProfitWell and Blissfully, in a remarkable dual exit. In this episode, Aaron opens up about the rollercoaster journey of entrepreneurship, from confronting massive industry pushback to experiencing the life-changing moments of selling his ventures. Tune in to uncover the real challenges and triumphs behind building and selling a startup, and what life holds on the other side of success. Aaron's Stuff Aaron's Blog: https://www.singularity.vc/ X: https://x.com/aaronwhite?s=20 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronmwhite/ My Stuff Podcast: www.mysecondmillionpodcast.com Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/ X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/…

Made It with Connor Tomkies

1
From Swag to Riches: How Jeremy Parker Disrupted the Promo Industry and Beyond 42:55

cách đây 1 year trước42:55

42:55

Connor dives deep with Jeremy Parker, the innovative mind behind Swag.com. They explore Jeremy's dynamic journey from aspiring filmmaker to successful entrepreneur. Jeremy shares the highs and lows of his entrepreneurial path, revealing how he navigated through failures and pivots to build and sell swag.com, transforming the promotional products industry along the way. This episode offers a unique look into the strategies, mindset, and resilience required to turn visionary ideas into profitable ventures. 00:00:00 Chapter 1: The Entrepreneurial Journey 00:03:18 Chapter 2: Innovating in Promotional Products 00:08:23 Chapter 3: Acquisition Insights 00:13:51 Chapter 4: The Birth of Swag.com 00:19:53 Chapter 5: Strategies for B2B Success 00:25:34 Chapter 6: Launching SwagSpace 00:31:17 Chapter 7: Post-Exit Reflections Jeremy's Stuff Website: https://swag.com/ X: https://x.com/yocanikickit?s=20 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremyianparker/ My Stuff Podcast: www.mysecondmillionpodcast.com Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/ X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/…

Made It with Connor Tomkies

1
The Evolution of Influence: Mixergy's Andrew Warner on Earning His 2nd Million and Future Trends 33:09

cách đây 1 year trước33:09

33:09

In this episode host Connor Tomkies sits down with the seasoned entrepreneur, podcaster, and founder of Mixergy, Andrew Warner, to explore the intricacies of entrepreneurship in the digital age. They delve into the critical role of becoming a micro-influencer as an entrepreneur, share personal journeys of business successes and lessons learned from failures, and discuss the strategic advantages of outsourcing and harnessing international talent. The conversation also touches on future trends, including the potential of service-based business models and the significance of content creation and influencer marketing in scaling businesses. [00:00:00] Chapter 1: Introduction to Entrepreneurial Influence [00:03:17] Chapter 2: The First Million: Strategies and Paranoia [00:08:11] Chapter 3: Evolution of Email Marketing and Co-Reg [00:10:47] Chapter 4: From Failed Ventures to Dog Genetics Success [00:13:32] Chapter 5: Building and Scaling Support Ninja [00:17:08] Chapter 6: Future Ideas and International Hiring [00:20:07] Chapter 7: The Ongoing Journey of Mixergy [00:23:38] Chapter 8: Service-Based Business Success Stories [00:26:21] Chapter 9: Assembling Your Marketing Department [00:29:12] Chapter 10: The Importance of Being a Public Founder [00:31:24] Chapter 11: Entrepreneurial Investments and Founder.org [00:32:51] Chapter 12: Closing Remarks and Future Plans Andrew's Stuff PodCast Site: https://podflow.com/ Andrew's Site: https://mixergy.com/ Andrew's X: https://x.com/AndrewWarner?s=20 Andrew's Book: https://www.amazon.com/Stop-Asking-Questions-High-Impact-Interviews/dp/1737676540 My Stuff Podcast: www.mysecondmillionpodcast.com Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/ X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/…

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Action Academy | Replace The Job You Hate With A Life You Love

Made It with Connor Tomkies « »
From Basement to Buyout: Aaron White's Remarkable Dual Exit

From Basement to Buyout: Aaron White's Remarkable Dual Exit

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Made It with Connor Tomkies « » From Basement to Buyout: Aaron White's Remarkable Dual Exit

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Made It with Connor Tomkies « »
From Basement to Buyout: Aaron White's Remarkable Dual Exit