Made It with Connor Tomkies

Why Health Is a Founder’s Secret Weapon with Anthony Ng Monica (Daily Body Coach)

Connor Tomkies — Mon, 16 Feb 2026 01:00:00 -0800

This episode is sponsored by Daily Body Coach

Anthony Ng Monica started his first business at age 12, exited a global e-commerce SaaS company after more than a decade, and now helps post-exit founders use health as a competitive advantage. In this episode, Anthony breaks down what it really takes to build, pivot, sell, and start again—this time with health, longevity, and energy at the center.

Connor and Anthony discuss the realities of long founder journeys, navigating painful co-founder breakups, selling during COVID, and why motivation is a terrible strategy for both business and fitness. Anthony also shares how Daily Body Coach grew to seven figures, why accountability beats willpower, and how founders can design systems that make health effortless rather than exhausting.

This conversation is a candid look at entrepreneurship across decades—and why your body might be the most important asset you own.

Chapter Titles

[00:00] Exiting SaaS & Using Health as Leverage
[00:26] Starting Businesses at 12 and Early Sales Lessons
[03:23] The SaaS Company Anthony Built and Sold
[04:15] Early Product Failure and Monetization Reality
[08:21] Selling Before Building and Landing Tesco
[10:25] Daily Body Coach Sponsor Segment
[12:01] Iteration, Pivots, and Long Founder Journeys
[13:45] COVID Growth, Asymmetric Insight, and Timing the Exit
[16:00] Co-Founder Breakups, Equity, and Going Solo
[18:20] The Health Wake-Up Call That Changed Everything
[21:00] Systems Beat Motivation in Fitness and Life
[24:30] Launching and Scaling Daily Body Coach
[27:00] Hiring for Urgency, Culture, and Ownership
[37:30] The Hardest 24 Hours of Anthony’s Career
[43:15] Longevity, Lifestyle Design, and What Comes Next

Anthony's Stuff:

Website: https://www.dailybodycoach.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonyngmonica/

My Stuff:

Podcast: https://www.madeitpod.com/
Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/
X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/

Building the Investment Bank for the 99% with Flippa's Blake Hutchinson

Connor Tomkies — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 01:00:00 -0800

This episode is sponsored by Daily Body Coach

Blake Hutchinson, CEO of Flippa, joins Connor Tomkies to unpack how Flippa became a global marketplace for buying and selling digital businesses, from SaaS and e-commerce to YouTube channels and newsletters. Blake shares his path from founder and growth operator to leading Flippa through seven consecutive years of growth, and explains why “small” online business M&A remains a massive, underappreciated asset class. They dig into how buyers actually behave, why “passive income” is mostly a myth, what it takes to run a small business post-acquisition, and why zero-money-down deals are extremely rare. Blake also details Flippa’s product “plumbing” for safer transactions, the rise of off-market deal sourcing, and Flippa’s AI roadmap, including its matching engine, and what’s coming next in negotiation and due diligence.

Chapters:

[00:00:00] Welcome to Made It
[00:00:02] Introducing Blake and Flippa
[00:00:35] How Flippa works
[00:01:45] The investment bank for 99%
[00:04:25] Why this market is nascent
[00:07:05] Blake’s background and path
[00:09:45] Flippa’s origin story
[00:10:49] Founder-to-CEO transition
[00:12:22] Turning around a neglected business
[00:14:42] Flippa's AI overview
[00:16:00] Off-market deal sourcing
[00:19:47] Negotiation agent teaser
[00:21:41] AI due diligence opportunity
[00:23:33] Who buys businesses today
[00:28:39] Turnarounds and distressed deals
[00:30:53] Marketplace safety plumbing
[00:33:40] Not everyone should buy
[00:35:32] Zero money down reality
[00:37:12] Skills and passion fit
[00:38:31] Passive income myth
[00:39:04] Favorite Flippa case studies
[00:41:53] Flippa’s top acquisition channels
[00:42:54] Acquisitions and category expansion
[00:43:45] Where to find Blake
[00:44:02] Closing thoughts and farewell

Blake's Stuff:

Website: https://flippa.com/
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/blakehutchison

My Stuff:

Podcast: https://www.madeitpod.com/
Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/
X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/

How Arjun Mahadevan Is Helping One Billion Entrepreneurs

Connor Tomkies — Mon, 19 Jan 2026 01:00:00 -0800

Episode Description:
In this episode of Made It, Connor Tomkies sits down with Arjun Mahadevan, founder and CEO of Doola, to unpack the journey from idea to company formation—and everything in between. Arjun shares how Doola has helped over 10,000 founders get started, the mindset shift required to go from -1 to 0, and why the first sale matters more than forming an LLC. They dive deep into AI adoption, building a content flywheel, the future of global entrepreneurship, and why media may be the most scalable moat of all. This is a crash course in thinking big, starting lean, and scaling smart.

Chapters:
[00:00:00] Starting Line Is Negative One
[00:01:30] Confidence Through Incorporation
[00:02:15] First Sale Over Perfection
[00:03:30] How Doola Got Its First Customer
[00:04:30] Talk First, Build Later
[00:05:30] Rise in Business Formation
[00:06:00] A Billion Founders Vision
[00:07:00] Global Reach Through Content
[00:08:15] Entrepreneurial Mindsets in Youth
[00:09:30] Education Is Trajectory-Changing
[00:10:30] Rise of Vibe Coding
[00:11:45] Embedding AI in Workflows
[00:13:00] IRL Beats Cold Outreach
[00:14:15] Software as the New Lead Magnet
[00:15:30] Future of Freemium Services
[00:16:30] Roadmap: Business in a Box
[00:17:30] High-Touch Services at Scale
[00:18:00] Long-Term Vision for Doola
[00:19:00] International Payroll Opportunity
[00:20:15] Scaling Through Partnerships
[00:21:30] Becoming Valuable to Partners
[00:22:30] Winning With Asymmetric Channels
[00:23:15] When Your Content Sells for You
[00:24:45] Moment Doola Was Born
[00:26:00] First Real Pain Point
[00:27:00] One Experiment Away
[00:28:30] Biggest Miss: Website Builder
[00:29:45] Opportunity Cost Is the Killer
[00:30:15] If Arjun Built Something Else
[00:31:30] Media Is the Scalable Moat
[00:32:15] Business Influencers to Follow
[00:33:45] Document, Don’t Influence
[00:35:00] Building Across Platforms
[00:36:00] Structuring Content Days
[00:37:30] Feedback in the Creative Process
[00:38:30] Wish I Filmed From Day One
[00:39:45] Marketing Tech Moves Fast
[00:40:15] Where to Find Arjun

Arjun's Stuff:

Website: https://www.doola.com/
X: https://x.com/ArjunMahadevan
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mahadevanarjun/

My Stuff:

Podcast: https://www.madeitpod.com/
Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/
X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/

American-Made Watchmaker takes on Billion-Dollar Goliath with RT Custer & Vortic Watches

Connor Tomkies — Mon, 26 May 2025 01:00:00 -0700

https://www.pvig.com/madeit
https://byldd.com/

RT Custer turned a passion for nostalgia into two thriving American watch brands: Vortic Watch Co., which transforms antique pocket watches into wristwatches, and the ambitious Colorado Watch Co., aiming to bring American watchmaking back at scale. In this episode, RT shares how he went from a $40K Kickstarter to a federal courtroom battle with the Swatch Group, what it took to buy out his co-founder after 10 years, and why scaling American manufacturing might just be the next moonshot. A deep, candid look at craft, conflict, and creating legacy through time.

Check Out Our Sponsors
Pine View Insurance Group - https://www.pvig.com/madeit
Byldd - https://byldd.com/

Chapters
[00:00:00] Starting in the Memory Business
[00:01:00] Why Vortic Turns Pocket Watches
[00:02:00] Kickstarter Launch and Early Proof
[00:03:30] The Watch-a-Day Marketing Model
[00:04:30] Pivoting During the Pandemic
[00:06:00] The Story in Every Watch
[00:06:45] Buying Out His Co-Founder
[00:09:00] Running the Company Solo
[00:11:00] Where the Business Stands Now
[00:12:45] Colorado Watch Co. Vision
[00:14:30] Growth vs Lifestyle Business
[00:15:30] Manufacturing Challenges at Scale
[00:17:00] Distribution Strategy and Retail Plans
[00:18:00] Raising Capital for Expansion
[00:19:00] Sued by Swatch Group
[00:21:00] Fighting a Trademark Lawsuit
[00:23:45] Nearly Going Bankrupt
[00:25:00] Winning in Federal Court
[00:27:00] Legal Precedent and Impact
[00:29:00] Making Watches 85% American
[00:30:30] The Real Challenge: Skilled Labor
[00:32:45] Is 100% Made in USA Possible?
[00:34:00] Lessons from Watchmaking History
[00:35:45] The Opportunity in Trades
[00:37:00] The Moat Around Watchmaking
[00:38:15] Watches as Heirlooms and Art
[00:39:15] The Future of American Watchmaking
[00:40:00] Where to Find RT and His Brands

RT's Stuff:

Website: https://vorticwatches.com/
Colorado Watch Co: https://coloradowatchcompany.com/
X: https://x.com/RT_Custer

My Stuff:

Podcast: https://www.madeitpod.com/
Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/
X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/

How “Boring” Businesses Make Big Money with Nick Huber (& Alex Lieberman)

Connor Tomkies — Mon, 12 May 2025 00:01:00 -0700

Entrepreneur and investor Nick Huber joins Connor Tomkies and Alex Lieberman to break down how he built a $100M+ empire starting with sweaty, unsexy businesses like student storage. They discuss his new book The Sweaty Startup, the trap of chasing big ideas too early, and why momentum, urgency, and simplicity often beat innovation. From self-storage to buying a $50M company, Nick shares tactical advice, brutal honesty, and hilarious truths about what it really takes to make it. Plus: how Alex is building his own HoldCo, and why AI isn’t eating their businesses just yet.

Check Out Our Sponsors
Pine View Insurance Group - https://www.pvig.com/madeit
Byldd - https://byldd.com/

Nick's Book!

Chapter Markers:

[00:00:00] Introducing Nick Huber & Alex Lieberman
[00:01:00] The Sweaty Startup Philosophy
[00:02:30] Building Skills Before Innovation
[00:03:30] Sales as a Foundational Skill
[00:05:00] Knowing When to Quit
[00:06:30] Urgency and Speed in Business
[00:08:00] The Power of Momentum
[00:09:00] Redefining Success and Leverage
[00:10:30] Life After $20K a Month
[00:12:00] Embracing the Hedonic Treadmill
[00:13:00] Huber's Business Timeline
[00:15:00] Raising Capital and Scaling Up
[00:16:30] Lessons From Starting Ten Companies
[00:17:30] Avoiding Bottlenecks as a Founder
[00:18:30] Holding Companies vs. Private Equity
[00:20:00] Ownership Philosophy and Exit Strategy
[00:21:00] Optimizing for Joy or Growth
[00:22:30] Buying Businesses and Taking Swings
[00:24:00] Challenges and Wins With Somewhere.com
[00:25:30] Offshoring Strategy and Market Dynamics
[00:27:00] Global Hiring Trends and Niches
[00:29:00] AI, Automation, and Agency Moats
[00:31:00] The Value of Cold Emails
[00:32:00] Leveraging AI for Lead Gen
[00:34:00] Building Distro as a Product Funnel
[00:35:30] Why AI Tools Are Just Getting Started
[00:37:00] Hunting for Business Ideas
[00:39:00] Filtering Good vs. Bad Ideas
[00:41:00] Dangerous and Unsustainable Businesses
[00:42:00] Nick’s Next Chapter in Entrepreneurship
[00:43:30] Final Thoughts From the Group

Nick's Stuff:

Website: https://sweatystartup.com/
X: https://x.com/sweatystartup
Podcasts: https://sweatystartup.com/podcast/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBYwRdRw6x9bH4PsyCLnmOw

Alex's Stuff:

Website: https://foundersjournalpod.morningbrew.com/
X: https://x.com/businessbarista
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-lieberman/

My Stuff:

Podcast: https://www.madeitpod.com/
Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/
X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/

Scaling Startups to Zebras, Unicorns & Decacorns with Barry Stamos

Connor Tomkies — Mon, 28 Apr 2025 01:00:00 -0700

https://www.pvig.com/madeit
https://byldd.com/

We sit down with Barry Stamos, a post-exit founder and investor focused on bold, world-changing companies. Barry shares his journey from corporate consultant to tech founder, detailing his early struggles, successful exits, and how he now supports other entrepreneurs through Supernova, a collective of exited founders backing groundbreaking startups. We explore his investments in companies like Colossal Biosciences, Apollo Neuro, and Brain Ritual, discuss the role of purpose-driven businesses, and dive into the unexpected impact of Ayahuasca on his personal and professional life. Plus, a surprise moment during the interview makes this episode one for the books.

Check Out Our Sponsors
Pine View Insurance Group
Byldd

Chapters:

[00:00:00] Welcome Barry Stamos
[00:00:30] Leaving Corporate to Build Startups
[00:02:00] The Matrix and a Life Pivot
[00:04:00] Early Startup Struggles
[00:05:30] Building a Billion-Dollar Exit
[00:06:45] Burnout and the Founder Mindset
[00:08:30] Investing Instead of Operating
[00:10:15] Supernova’s Founder-Led Investments
[00:12:45] What Makes Startups Thrive?
[00:14:15] Founders Helping Founders
[00:15:45] Tuff & Needle vs. Casper
[00:17:30] Colossal’s Mission to End Extinction
[00:19:15] The Power of Moonshot Ideas
[00:22:00] The Future of Biotechnology
[00:24:00] Apollo Neuro and the Science of Vibration
[00:27:00] Using Tech to Solve Human Problems
[00:28:45] Brain Ritual: Tackling Migraines
[00:30:00] Balancing Freedom and Purpose
[00:32:30] The Infinite Search for Fulfillment
[00:35:00] First Ayahuasca Experience
[00:37:00] A Life-Changing Surprise Announcement
[00:39:45] The Power of Collaboration
[00:41:00] Where to Find Barry Stamos

Barry's Stuff:

Barry's Speaker Website: https://barrystamos.com/
Supernova: https://1supernova.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bstamos/

My Stuff:

Podcast: https://www.madeitpod.com/
Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/
X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/

He Built 52 Hotels and Advised AirBnb with Chip Conley

Connor Tomkies — Mon, 14 Apr 2025 01:00:00 -0700

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/

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

Connor Tomkies — Mon, 31 Mar 2025 00:01:00 -0700

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/

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

Connor Tomkies — Mon, 17 Mar 2025 01:00:00 -0700

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/

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

Connor Tomkies — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 00:02:00 -0800

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/

The Warren Buffett of Lifestyle Investing with Justin Donald

Connor Tomkies — Mon, 17 Feb 2025 00:01:00 -0800

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/

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

Connor Tomkies — Mon, 21 Oct 2024 01:00:00 -0700

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.

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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/

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

Connor Tomkies — Mon, 07 Oct 2024 01:00:00 -0700

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/

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

Connor Tomkies — Mon, 30 Sep 2024 01:00:00 -0700

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/

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

Connor Tomkies — Mon, 23 Sep 2024 01:00:00 -0700

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/

Scaling Billion Dollar Dreams and Redefining Success with Gil Eyal

Connor Tomkies — Mon, 09 Sep 2024 00:01:00 -0700

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/

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

Connor Tomkies — Mon, 26 Aug 2024 01:00:00 -0700

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/

Hot Takes and Padel Breaks: Benji Markoff’s Return

Connor Tomkies — Mon, 12 Aug 2024 00:05:00 -0700

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!

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

Connor Tomkies — Mon, 29 Jul 2024 01:00:00 -0700

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/

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

Connor Tomkies — Mon, 15 Jul 2024 01:00:00 -0700

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/

Making Unsexy... Sexy with Atlas Authority Founder Boris Berenberg

Connor Tomkies — Mon, 01 Jul 2024 01:00:00 -0700

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/

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

Connor Tomkies — Mon, 24 Jun 2024 01:00:00 -0700

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/

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

Connor Tomkies — Mon, 17 Jun 2024 01:00:00 -0700

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/

Bouncy Balls, Building Companies, and Big Exits... Dan Reich's Entrepreneurial Journey

Connor Tomkies — Mon, 10 Jun 2024 01:00:00 -0700

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/

Find Your Purpose, and Co-Founder Cuddling with Noah Abelson-Gertler

Connor Tomkies — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 01:00:00 -0700

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/

Morning Brew, Creator Economy, and Plungers with Alex Lieberman

Connor Tomkies — Mon, 27 May 2024 02:00:00 -0700

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/

Protect Yourself During M&A with Thunder's Jason Kirby

Connor Tomkies — Mon, 20 May 2024 02:00:00 -0700

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/

Revamping the Health Industry, Redox's Luke Bonney

Connor Tomkies — Mon, 13 May 2024 02:00:00 -0700

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/

Lil Wayne, Leo DiCaprio, and Influencer Marketing with Gil Eyal

Connor Tomkies — Mon, 06 May 2024 03:00:00 -0700

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/

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

Connor Tomkies — Mon, 29 Apr 2024 04:00:00 -0700

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/

The Best Businesses are Not Sexy with Adam Spector of Levy

Connor Tomkies — Mon, 22 Apr 2024 04:00:00 -0700

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/

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

Connor Tomkies — Mon, 15 Apr 2024 04:00:00 -0700

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/

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

Connor Tomkies — Mon, 08 Apr 2024 04:00:00 -0700

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/

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

Connor Tomkies — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 06:02:00 -0700

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/

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

Connor Tomkies — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 06:01:00 -0700

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/

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

Connor Tomkies — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 06:00:00 -0700

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/

Made It with Connor Tomkies

Why Health Is a Founder’s Secret Weapon with Anthony Ng Monica (Daily Body Coach)

Building the Investment Bank for the 99% with Flippa's Blake Hutchinson

How Arjun Mahadevan Is Helping One Billion Entrepreneurs

American-Made Watchmaker takes on Billion-Dollar Goliath with RT Custer & Vortic Watches

How “Boring” Businesses Make Big Money with Nick Huber (& Alex Lieberman)

Scaling Startups to Zebras, Unicorns & Decacorns with Barry Stamos

He Built 52 Hotels and Advised AirBnb with Chip Conley

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

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

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

The Warren Buffett of Lifestyle Investing with Justin Donald

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

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

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

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

Scaling Billion Dollar Dreams and Redefining Success with Gil Eyal

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

Hot Takes and Padel Breaks: Benji Markoff’s Return

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

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

Making Unsexy... Sexy with Atlas Authority Founder Boris Berenberg

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

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

Bouncy Balls, Building Companies, and Big Exits... Dan Reich's Entrepreneurial Journey

Find Your Purpose, and Co-Founder Cuddling with Noah Abelson-Gertler

Morning Brew, Creator Economy, and Plungers with Alex Lieberman

Protect Yourself During M&A with Thunder's Jason Kirby

Revamping the Health Industry, Redox's Luke Bonney

Lil Wayne, Leo DiCaprio, and Influencer Marketing with Gil Eyal

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

The Best Businesses are *Not* Sexy with Adam Spector of Levy

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

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

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

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

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

The Best Businesses are Not Sexy with Adam Spector of Levy