In this episode, Curtis Matsko, the CEO and Founder of Portland Leather Goods, shares how he built a $125 million business in just years. Starting on a bet to impress his girlfriend, Curtis leveraged his expertise in Internet marketing to sell leather journals at art festivals, eventually becoming the top seller on Etsy, getting 185,000 Five Star reviews and establishing the largest leather production factory in North America. The key to Portland Leather Goods' success are unique marketing strategies, exceptional product quality, and the power of referrals. Curtis emphasizes the importance of being fearless, creative, and different in marketing, as well as cultivating talent within the company. He offers advice to aspiring entrepreneurs on the long-term commitment needed to achieve remarkable success as he shares 10 years of learnings in just 20 minutes on the podcast.

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00:10 The Unconventional Journey of an Entrepreneur
00:45 From a Bet to a $125 Million Business
02:17 The Secret Sauce to Success: Quality and Marketing
03:50 Innovative Marketing Strategies and Being Different
11:01 Scaling Up and the Importance of Creativity and Fearlessness
16:50 Building Talent from Within and Empowering Employees
19:36 Final Words of Advice for Entrepreneurs and Marketers

Join us for a conversation that is as much about the inner workings of a thriving enterprise as it is about the tenacity and spirit needed to chart your own path to the top.

Founder Starts in Garage, Builds Company to $120 million in 6 Years, Gets 185,000 Five Star Reviews and Becomes Biggest Marketer on Etsy