My First Million

Ben Levy, a mobile app developer turned entrepreneur, shares his rollercoaster journey from creating a Wordle copycat that soared to app store glory to losing it all. He discusses the ethical dilemmas of app cloning and the challenges of public perception in tech. Levy also dives into his new venture, Milk Road, a crypto-focused newsletter, highlighting the excitement of choosing projects that align with personal passions and learning from past missteps. The conversation explores the emotional highs and lows of entrepreneurship.

This week dives into the intriguing world of startup battles, featuring Ryan Breslow's bold criticisms of Stripe. Nathan Barry shares his secrets to becoming a billion-dollar creator, emphasizing audience ownership over sponsorship. Ryan Holiday discusses the vital role traditional publishing plays in maintaining a bestselling career. The nuances of the publishing landscape are explored, revealing the trade-offs between traditional and self-publishing. Plus, reflections on the impact of Stoicism and effective financial tech weave a tapestry of entrepreneurial insight.

Ryan Holiday, an author and media entrepreneur known for his works on Stoicism, discusses his unique approach to book writing and business. He reveals the surprising decision to sell Memento Mori coins instead of typical merchandise, emphasizing their profitability. Ryan also shares insights about the publishing industry, including why traditional publishing can be beneficial. Additionally, he reflects on his split with Tucker Max, his daily routines, and the creative ways he navigates the media landscape.

Nathan Barry, founder of ConvertKit, shares his journey building a successful email marketing platform valued over $200M. He discusses the evolving creator economy and strategies to monetize effectively, touching on the importance of transparency in business. Nathan humorously declines a discount request from Shaan, while exploring wealth-building strategies and real estate investments. He also reflects on learning from failures and the nuances of branding, especially after a controversial name change that sparked community backlash.

Ryan Breslow, founder of Bolt and a bold advocate against Silicon Valley norms, dives into his controversial Twitter thread aimed at dismantling what he labels the tech mafia. He discusses his journey in creating a billion-dollar payment company and shares insights on navigating competition in the tech landscape. The chat also touches on the balance of accountability and personal freedom in leadership, plus the challenges of being seen as a 'loose cannon' in a structured industry. Breslow's perspective sparks intriguing thoughts on innovation and the future of tech.

Ben Wilson, the host of "How to Take Over the World" and a producer for the show, dives into the fascinating life of Walt Disney. They explore Disney's childhood and the emotional complexities of his family life, especially his relationship with his father. The discussion also touches on resilience, the importance of taking risks for success, and the creative influences from his early experiences. Plus, they tackle some intriguing myths, including the truth about Disney's cryogenic preservation.

Dive into the impressive journey of a young entrepreneur who racked up $72 million in five years, primarily in the gym business. Discover how he transformed his struggles into success by innovating marketing and launching Gym Launch. The conversation highlights his unique strategies and the impact of technology on user engagement. From ventures in supplements to invaluable business insights, this discussion is packed with entertaining anecdotes and tips for aspiring entrepreneurs.

This week, the discussion dives into what truly defines billionaires, blending luck and skill with engaging anecdotes. A guest shares innovative business tactics that prioritize curiosity and market disruption. The hosts explore how high-priced consultations can lead to major financial gains, reflecting on the pressures behind delivering real value. Additionally, they examine the complex relationship between consumerism and market value, highlighting that effort doesn't always correlate with financial success. It's a blend of insightful analysis and entertaining banter!

The hosts explore the intriguing world of celebrity business ventures, especially The Rock's tequila empire and its billion-dollar potential. They introduce a quirky placebo water called Felix Felicis, discussing its market appeal. An update on the short-term rental group showcases innovative monetization strategies. Plus, they dive into the humorous concept of Gallimony, combining dating and cryptocurrency. Lastly, discussions on tracking jets reveal the intersection of social media and privacy in today's digital landscape.

Val Katayev, a serial entrepreneur excelling in ringtones and jewelry, shares his fascinating journey from youthful viral fame to making millions. Hear how he launched his ringtone business and now dives into the jewelry industry. Val opens up about the trials of balancing college and entrepreneurship, the importance of adaptability in digital marketing, and the fierce resourcefulness that fuels his success. He offers insights on the evolving landscape of business and the need for innovation at every turn.