The Khanversation with Imran Khan David Steinberg on Zeta Global and Entrepreneurial Growth
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Aug 7, 2025 
David Steinberg, the Founder and CEO of Zeta Global and a serial entrepreneur, shares his fascinating journey from selling insurance to leading a billion-dollar marketing tech powerhouse. He discusses the birth of Zeta Global and the critical role of first-party data in the modern marketing landscape. David dives into AI's influence on targeted advertising and provides keen insights on navigating entrepreneurial challenges. His strategies for optimizing business models and the importance of strong relationships in success make for a compelling listen.
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Started In Sales By Accident
- David Steinberg started selling accidental disability insurance after college and learned to handle rejection.
- That early sales job taught him he was good at selling and launched his entrepreneurial path.
Turning Phones Into Productivity Tools
- Steinberg built Sterling Cellular by selling wireless phones to businesses as productivity tools.
- He leveraged outside sales tactics and carrier partnerships to grow quickly as a young founder.
Kept Fulfillment, Bet On The Internet
- After selling his telemarketing business, Steinberg negotiated to keep fulfillment assets and an exclusive internet distribution deal.
- That move led to Infonic and a multibillion-dollar exit tied to virtual distribution.