

21st Century Entrepreneurship
Martin Piskoric
The 21st Century Entrepreneurship Podcast is a 4 x Gold-Award weekly show that features interviews with cutting-edge leaders and successful entrepreneurs. We talk about the fundamentals of starting and growing a business, achieving and maintaining success, as well as the difficulties of entrepreneurship and its future. Subscribe to the 21st Century Entrepreneurship Podcast and never miss an episode, so you can stay on top of the curve and gain the knowledge you need to succeed in today's competitive landscape.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jun 21, 2023 • 13min
Yoav Vilner: Pioneering Product-Led Growth and Revolutionizing B2B Sales with Walnut
In this illuminating episode, we dive deep with Yoav Vilner, the innovator behind Walnut, a leading no-code platform that's reshaping the face of B2B sales. Yoav shares his entrepreneurial journey, which saw him create a category in tech and secure a staggering $60 million in his first deal. With a strong emphasis on brand-first strategy and a team of intelligent, dedicated individuals, Yoav’s story is a testament to the power of innovative thinking and purposeful execution.Throughout our discussion, Yoav provides insights into his leadership style, emphasizing the importance of connecting with his team and customers on an emotional level. He shares his thoughts on the future of sales, predicting a shift towards product-led growth and automation. His success hasn't come without challenges, though, as he opens up about the stress of founding a company and how he manages it with various strategies, like mindfulness and focusing on morning routines.Some of the key takeaways from this episode include:The importance of letting your product sell itself through Product-Led Growth (PLG)The value of building a brand that resonates emotionally with your audience.Why the initial team in a startup is crucial to its success.The significance of filtering out advice and staying true to your vision.How Walnut has distinguished itself in the tech market, securing trust from clients ranging from Fortune 500 companies to smaller tech startups.Tune in to learn about Yoav Vilner's journey, the founding of Walnut, and how they're spearheading a new wave of modern selling. For those interested in the future of sales, entrepreneurship, or simply inspired by innovative success stories, this episode is packed with insights and practical advice. Let's build the future of B2B sales together!

Jun 19, 2023 • 23min
Jill Kushner Bishop: Revolutionizing Translation with AI & Multilingual Expertise
Join us in this riveting episode as Jill Kushner Bishop, founder and CEO of Multilingual Connections, takes us on a journey of her entrepreneurial adventure. Discover how she shifted from running four different businesses to specializing in translation services, all while raising a child and maintaining her sanity. Explore how she adopted artificial intelligence and machine translation tools while maintaining the human touch, and how she expanded her business to bridge cultural and language gaps in market research. This episode is filled with stories of leaps of faith, embracing change, and building a globally recognized business.Jill provides invaluable insights on scaling a business, managing a team, and harnessing the power of AI in the language industry. If you're an entrepreneur, a linguist, or anyone interested in the interplay of AI and human expertise, this is one episode you don't want to miss.Tap into Jill's wisdom, adaptability, and innovation, and learn how to navigate the exciting world of language and technology. Hit the play button and immerse yourself in this captivating entrepreneurial journey.Key takeaways from this episode include:Embracing Change in Business: Learn how Jill came to embrace the efficiency and potential of AI and machine translation, highlighting the importance of adaptability in business.Scaling and Specializing: Hear about Jill's transition to focusing on corporate business services, enabling her company to scale efficiently and effectively.Bridging the Gap in Market Research: Discover how Jill's company expanded their service portfolio to fill a market gap by offering bilingual research services.

Jun 13, 2023 • 22min
Jared Goetz: From eCommerce Millionaire to Champion of Inner Empires - A Shift Towards Mindful Entrepreneurship
In this podcast episode, Jared Goetz, a successful entrepreneur and eCommerce millionaire before his 30s, discusses his transformative journey from a laser-focused eCommerce tycoon to a proponent of self-awareness and inner growth. Famous for founding Zendrop, a platform connecting suppliers with online merchants and boasting millions in sales since 2019, Goetz shares his pivotal shift towards nurturing the 'inner empire.'With his new-found belief in maintaining a balance between work, personal reflection, and 'mindless activities,' Jared unveils his revised pie chart of life, promoting a significant increase in reflection and personal time. His message for the world's entrepreneurs is powerful and practical: to envision from a state of abundance and high energy, and establish disciplined habits, illustrated by his own adoption of the '75 Hard' program.Jared also emphasizes the magnetic power of self-confidence and the vital role of networking in achieving one's goals. Despite being a former grind-hard businessman, he cautions aspiring entrepreneurs against spending time with people who may unintentionally undermine their success due to their own fears and insecurities.This episode offers insightful and transformative advice for entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of personal growth, discipline, and positive networking for success in life and business. Tune in to understand how Jared Goetz shifted from eCommerce dominance to cultivating the prosperity of inner empires.

Jun 8, 2023 • 28min
Stefan Debois: Empowering Professional Services to Digitize Their Core Advisory Processes with Pointerpro
In an engaging interview, Debois delved into the motivations behind Pointerpro, how it assists professional service providers, his entrepreneurial experience, and the company's commitment to social responsibility.Key Takeaways:Networking and Collaboration in Content Marketing: Debois emphasized the importance of collaboration in content marketing, illustrated by the B Two B Blogger Boost Group, a community where content marketers share and mention each other’s content to boost visibility and relevance. This approach cultivates relationships, boosts authority, and enriches content.Pointerpro’s Role in Automating Advisory Processes: Pointerpro helps professional services companies digitize their advisory processes by creating custom online assessments that generate personalized reports. This process significantly reduces manual work, decreases the time-to-business impact, and enhances the ability to scale without extra headcount.Strategic Steps to Digitization: Debois advises businesses to specialize, switch from time and material billing to fixed pricing, and model their expertise into a maturity framework before digitizing their processes. This structured approach ensures the successful implementation of automation.Debois' Entrepreneurial Mindset: Rather than identifying as a serial entrepreneur, Debois expresses satisfaction in growing and scaling a single business, deriving joy from overcoming challenges and witnessing the progress of Pointerpro.A Balance Between Professional and Personal Life: Debois underscores the importance of sports, like kitesurfing and biking, and family as essential elements of maintaining balance and coping with the pressures of entrepreneurship.Social Responsibility Commitment: Despite being a small company, Pointerpro sponsors Habercuts, a Belgian organization that supports children from disadvantaged backgrounds. This initiative aligns with Debois' belief in the value of social responsibility.Learn more about Stefan Debois and how Pointerpro can help you digitize your professional services to optimize your advisory process, reduce time to business impact, and increase scalability. It’s time to turn the tides in your favour, just as Debois does when mastering the waves in his favourite pastime, kitesurfing.

Jun 5, 2023 • 40min
Steven Weigler: Merging Hard & Soft Skills, Human Empathy, and Legal Acumen to Revolutionize the Practice of Law
In this compelling episode, we delve into the mind of Steven Weigler, a distinguished attorney and former prosecutor, who has crafted a unique blend of hard and soft skills to deliver holistic legal services. Steven provides an in-depth look into his journey from prosecuting serious crime in Miami to representing entrepreneurs in distress, bringing empathy and a robust knowledge of the law.Listen as Steven expounds on his methodology, seamlessly integrating human empathy, the study of law, zealous advocacy, and a commitment to his clients. He emphasizes the importance of listening, understanding, and adapting to the diverse needs of his clients, always putting himself in their shoes to gain a profound understanding of their circumstances.One of the key takeaways from this conversation is Steven's belief in a holistic approach to his work. His dedication to staying abreast of the evolving landscape of the law and his insistence on zealous advocacy demonstrate his commitment to delivering comprehensive and well-rounded representation.Steven also gives us a glimpse into his personal life, revealing how his interests and passions outside of work shape his professional life. From his love for travel and music to his enthusiasm for competitive sports, Steven's diverse interests infuse a unique perspective into his legal practice.Furthermore, Steven shares his personal strategies for maintaining a work-life balance, which include maintaining a regular routine and practising journaling. His attention to his social-emotional well-being inspires entrepreneurs and professionals alike, emphasizing the importance of self-care in pursuing professional success.This episode is a must-listen for entrepreneurs seeking to understand the intricate blend of soft and hard skills required in law practice and empathy's role in client relations. Steven's insights into law and life will leave listeners inspired and enlightened.

May 31, 2023 • 20min
Sam Kwak: Accelerating Financial Freedom through Real Estate and Beyond
In this riveting episode, we hear from Sam Kwak, a real estate entrepreneur, YouTube sensation, and creator of a multimillion-dollar consulting business. With a wealth of experience behind him, Sam provides us with a treasure trove of actionable insights:Test your market: Learn how Sam used social media platforms to gauge his audience's needs, leading him to a successful pivot that drove his career forward.Embrace change: Discover why Sam believes that adaptability and readiness to pivot based on market needs are key attributes of successful entrepreneurship.Customer-focused mindset: Sam stresses the importance of falling in love with your customers, understanding their needs, and delivering value, affirming that this is the key to sustainable business growth.The value of content creation: Explore how Sam's approach to documenting and sharing his journey on YouTube not only amassed a large following but also opened new business opportunities.Who, not how: Embrace Sam's philosophy of focusing on "who" can help you reach your goals rather than the "how", demonstrating the power of relationships and collaborations in business.Investing in learning: Sam details the process of gradually diving into a new subject, from basic YouTube videos and books to courses, coaching, and mentorship, promoting a consistent growth mindset.Did Sam Kwak's entrepreneurial journey inspire you? Do you wish to unlock your financial freedom and explore the world of real estate? Then dive into his journey and learn more about accelerated banking and other strategies he shares on his YouTube channel, The Kwak Brothers. Remember, as Sam says, "Stop trying to figure out the how. Find the right people, attract people." Start your journey by subscribing to our podcast for more insightful interviews with successful entrepreneurs. Together, we can accelerate your path to financial freedom!

May 29, 2023 • 28min
Jonathan Michael Dapra: The Architect of Small Business Success
In this illuminating episode, we sit down with Jonathan Michael Dapra, a business maven who has spent his lifetime honing his skills in the small business sector. Jonathan's extensive experience spans over two decades, wearing multiple hats as an executive, entrepreneur, trainer, and coach. His rich background, combined with his doctoral expertise in Business Administration, brings a fresh and engaging perspective to our discussion.Throughout the episode, Jonathan shares his research findings on the unique Success Factors© and Derailers© in small businesses. He unveils the secrets of segmenting small companies and tailoring their needs to drive growth and sustainability.Key Takeaways:Understanding the distinct Success Factors© and Derailers© in small businesses: Unpack Jonathan's pioneering research and learn how it can revolutionize your business strategy.Segmentation and its critical role in small business success: Discover the art of segmenting your small business and catering to specific needs to increase competitiveness and relevance.Lessons from Jonathan's entrepreneurial journey: Draw inspiration from Jonathan's diverse experiences in tech, gaming, and education sectors, and glean practical tips for your business journey.The significance of leadership in small businesses: Explore Jonathan's unique insights into the importance of strong and effective leadership in driving small business success.Entrepreneurs, it's time to pause, reflect, and learn from Jonathan Michael Dapra's unique insights. His experience could provide the subtle shifts or gentle nudges needed to evolve your business approach. It may not be about a complete transformation overnight, but about taking small, consistent steps towards growth. We'd love to hear your thoughts and your own experiences after listening to the episode. Join us on our social media channels and share your journey with us - let's keep the learning process engaging and interactive. Remember, progress is a process. So take a moment, tune in, and let's grow together.

May 25, 2023 • 16min
Joel Rickman: Unleashing the Power of Alternative Data in Lending Strategies
In this episode, we're joined by Joel Pruis, Senior Vice President at Equifax, a seasoned executive with a knack for building teams that accelerate growth and expand markets. Joel shares fascinating insights into the evolving lending landscape and the increasing importance of alternative data sources.Joel's team at Equifax takes pride in assisting clients to better understand their lending processes, risks, and potential return on investment (ROI). They work collaboratively to integrate new data sources, specifically income and employment information, helping clients not just to minimize risks but also to seize new opportunities. The highlight of Joel's role is seeing these strategies exceed ROI expectations, symbolizing effective collaboration and understanding between Equifax and its clients.On a personal note, Joel's involvement in financial education extends to his family and community. He recounts a memorable experience speaking to his daughter's high school class about the importance of credit responsibility and income transparency, highlighting the critical role of personal finance education from a young age.Equifax's data has been transformative, contributing to over 63% of all U.S. mortgages and enabling millions to secure auto financing, personal loans, credit line increases, and more. Their data also expedites employment background checks and the awarding of government benefits. As Equifax expands globally, its mission remains to empower individuals and businesses with data-driven solutions.Listeners are encouraged to take away the idea of experimenting with diverse decision-making processes. Joel reminds us of the uniqueness of each borrower's life experiences, urging lenders to broaden their data sources and thereby expand their customer base, helping unearth "diamonds in the rough."Stay ahead in the game by tuning into this enlightening conversation with Joel Pruis. You'll discover the transformative power of alternative data in shaping lending strategies, and learn how to unearth potential 'diamonds in the rough'. Make sure you listen to this episode to see how Equifax's data-driven solutions can drive your business growth and open up new avenues of opportunity. Embark on your journey towards expanded opportunities today by hitting play.

May 23, 2023 • 27min
Václav Tomanec: Overcoming Fear, Harnessing Mindset, and Chasing Impact for Extraordinary Business Success
In this riveting episode, we hear the inspiring story of Václav "Vash" Tomanec, a successful entrepreneur who rose from delivering Uber Eats to running multiple businesses. Vash emphasizes the pivotal role of mindset in business success and reveals his unique approach to dealing with fears, demonstrating that courage doesn't exist without fear. As he shares his journey, he presents effective strategies for managing time, striking a healthy work-life balance, and enhancing productivity.A master of entrepreneurship, Vash turns perceived problems into profitable ventures. But he doesn't stop at business growth - Vash's deep sense of purpose drives him to give back to the community, revealing the power of having a meaningful 'why' behind your goals. From supporting charity projects to helping other entrepreneurs break their own barriers, Vash exemplifies the spirit of impactful entrepreneurship.Václav Tomanec's journey resonates deeply with individuals such as Alessandro Minneci, Marcus Gilhooley, and Xabiso Mdluli. Each of them has experienced significant personal and professional growth under Vash's mentorship. Alessandro speaks highly of the value Vash places on personal development as a prerequisite to success. Marcus, too, found his life and business transformed by adopting the mindset strategies championed by Vash, even leading him to the accomplishment of building a successful 7-figure business while maintaining a healthy and happy life. Meanwhile, Xabiso credits the Mindtrepreneur community, under the guidance of Vash, with not just enhancing his entrepreneurial skills, but also helping him become a person he takes pride in and loves. These testimonials illustrate the transformative impact of Vash's teachings on mindset, personal growth, and entrepreneurship.Takeaways:Mindset is pivotal for business success: Business owners' attitudes and mental states can greatly affect the growth and success of their businesses. Understanding this is key to overcoming obstacles and achieving business goals.Courage and fear are two sides of the same coin: Fear isn't necessarily a barrier to progress; it's a signal for caution and an opportunity for courage. Tackling fear head-on can lead to breakthroughs in personal and professional growth.Effective prioritization leads to improved productivity: By prioritizing important tasks, eliminating distractions, and focusing solely on one task at a time, one can dramatically improve productivity and achieve a healthy work-life balance.Entrepreneurship is about problem-solving: Successful businesses are built on solving real problems. It's essential to validate your solution with a beta version before investing significant time and resources into product development.Having a meaningful 'why' drives success: Goals rooted in a deep sense of purpose can provide a higher level of motivation and fulfillment. Vash's story of providing clean water to an Ethiopian village is a powerful example of purpose-driven entrepreneurship.This episode is a goldmine of insights for anyone interested in entrepreneurship, productivity, mindset, and purpose-driven business. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a current business owner, or someone intrigued by the psychology of success, this enlightening conversation with Vash Tomanec is a must-listen!

May 22, 2023 • 17min
Ben Reinberg: Mastering Success in Commercial Real Estate
Join us as we unpack the remarkable journey of Ben Reinberg, an icon in the commercial real estate industry which has significantly impacted the medical office building sector. Ben Reinberg has significantly shaped the medical office building sector through his dynamic strategy and unwavering commitment, offering invaluable insights for emerging entrepreneurs and established business figures. Ben dives into his unique investment strategies, discussing how his willingness to adapt and pivot led to establishing a prosperous medical office real estate enterprise.He also elaborates on the crucial role of technology and the importance of maintaining flexibility to ensure stability in a rapidly evolving market landscape. In a candid discussion, Ben explains his multi-cycle investment model, underlining the significance of resilience in facing economic fluctuations.As a testament to his expertise, Ben outlines the business model of Alliance Consolidated Group of Companies, emphasizing the company's data-driven and resource-rich approach in managing funds and assets. The discussion then shifts to the organization's culture, which values transparency, integrity, consistency, and expertise, and strives to foster a community rather than just a workplace.An advocate of personal growth, Ben shares his routine for maintaining emotional balance and creating a healthy environment. He also discusses the benefits of investing in the Alliance Medical Property Fund, highlighting its potential for diversification, cost efficiency, scalability, and purchasing power.Finally, he introduces his own podcast, the 'Ben Reinberg: I Own It' show, where he shares insights from notable celebrities and high-net-worth individuals to inspire listeners to become the best version of themselves. This podcast episode promises to be a treasure trove of knowledge for anyone eager to dive deep into the world of commercial real estate and personal development.