Wantrepreneur to Entrepreneur | Start and Grow Your Own Business

In this honest and reflective Solo Sunday, Brian opens up about one of the most frustrating realizations every entrepreneur faces: being great at what you do isn't enough. Inspired by his early days building a web design business, Brian shares how a local competitor dominated the market—not because of better skills, but because of stronger perception. This episode is a wake-up call to stop just being good and start intentionally shaping how others see you. If you’ve ever felt unseen, undervalued, or overlooked, this conversation will change the way you think about marketing, sales, and impact forever.🧠 What You’ll Learn:Why being good at what you do isn’t enough to win in businessHow to shift from frustration to action when you feel unseenWhat “perception is reality” really means—and why it mattersHow confirmation bias shapes your audience’s beliefs about youThe secret to playing (and winning) the perception gamePractical ways to shape the narrative around your brand🧩 Featured Concepts: 🧠 Perception Is Reality: It's not about being the best—it's about being perceived as the best. 🔍 Confirmation Bias: People look for evidence that fits the story they already believe about you. 🚪 Reputation Precedes Results: Your market decides your value before you even show up. 🎯 Intentional Identity: Craft the perception you want people to hold about you.💭 Favorite Quotes:"It doesn't matter how good you are. It matters how good people think you are." – Brian Lofrumento"Perception is reality—and the market moves based on perception, not skill." – Brian Lofrumento"Stop waiting to be discovered. Start being intentional about how you're perceived." – Brian Lofrumento✅ Take Action:Reflect on your current brand presence: What do people assume about you?Start actively shaping your public perception through testimonials, PR, and storytelling.Remember: It’s not just about being good—it’s about looking good while being great.🎧 Listen & Subscribe: This is exactly why we’re here seven days a week. Hit that Subscribe button and never face this journey alone.

What if influencer marketing could disrupt traditional advertising just like Uber did with transportation? Join us as we explore this fascinating industry with the trailblazing Sandeep Asdhir, founder of Influenergy. Sandeep's journey from Toronto's financial arena to the bustling entrepreneurial landscape of Silicon Valley is nothing short of inspiring. His insights reveal how he transitioned from handling venture debt to unlocking the immense potential of influencer marketing and user-generated content. We unpack the unique dynamics of connecting brands with micro-creators and the powerful shift from conventional marketing to authentic engagement on platforms like TikTok and Facebook.As influencer marketing becomes a force to reckon with, we delve into the nuances of the field, likening influencers to film stars and user-generated content creators to the indispensable crew behind the scenes. Through Sandeep's personal experiences, we explore the democratization of content creation, where passion-driven individuals can rise as influential voices, regardless of their backgrounds. This conversation reveals the entrepreneurial challenge of expanding an influencer network and connecting it with brands, echoing the Uber model of matching drivers with passengers. Sandeep shares his initial strategy focused on niche markets, which laid the groundwork for Influenergy's success.But the conversation doesn't stop there. We also unravel the transformative impact of AI in branding and marketing. AI tools such as ChatGPT are highlighted for their ability to enhance efficiency and foster genuine connections between creators and brands. From overcoming the pitfalls of vanity metrics to emphasizing data-driven strategies for positive ROI, this discussion offers a fresh perspective on maintaining authenticity in social media marketing. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a marketer, or just someone interested in the future of digital influence, this episode provides valuable insights into the evolving landscape of influencer marketing.ABOUT SANDEEPSandeep Asdhir was born and raised in Toronto, Canada before moving to California five years ago. Most of his time has been spent in Silicon Valley, where he's come to appreciate the beauty of the American dream. It was a profound experience for him to use his Apple iPhone while eating an Apple, knowing both were produced within a few hours' drive. This proximity of innovative technology and agriculture inspired him to create something himself and give back.His career has mainly been in Finance and Venture capital, focusing on portfolio management and credit. On the side, he's tried various ventures like real estate, creating YouTube content, and starting clothing brands, driven by his desire to produce something for his new country.Over time, he's realized his passion lies in connecting with people, leading to his new goal: helping people worldwide create and share content, facilitating global connections and showcasing diverse cultural perspectives.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit Influenergy’s WebsiteFollow Influenergy on InstagramConnect with Sandeep on LinkedIn

What if finding your professional purpose wasn't a straight path, but a winding journey full of learning opportunities? Ryan George, Vice President of Part C, a national healthcare insurance brokerage, shares his remarkable story of resilience and discovery. Despite initial setbacks in financial advising and a commercial insurance venture, Ryan's passion for meaningful work led him to the Medicare industry, where he discovered his true calling. His journey underscores the power of perseverance and adaptability, offering insights into how even the most unconventional paths can lead to success.Ryan's experience reveals the critical role of networking and genuine relationship-building in career growth. By fostering connections across various sectors, Ryan has successfully expanded his reach within the Medicare space, collaborating with financial firms, insurance brokerages, and pharmacies. He emphasizes the importance of educating clients to navigate the complexity of Medicare, reflecting his dedication to transparency and client service. Our conversation celebrates the art of teaching and simplifying complex information, underscoring Ryan's commitment to making a meaningful impact in the lives of his clients.Throughout the episode, we also explore the significance of self-awareness and delegation in maintaining balance in a service-oriented career. Ryan candidly discusses the challenges of managing responsibilities while acknowledging personal weaknesses. There's a focus on personal growth and the role of supportive partners, highlighting the importance of honesty and authenticity in business. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned professional, Ryan's story is a testament to the rewarding nature of helping others and the continuous pursuit of growth and learning.ABOUT RYANRyan George has always been interested in business, which sparked his habit of daily reading. For 14 years, he worked in the insurance/finance industry, beginning with estate planning on the finance/insurance side. Though he found considerable success, he was unfulfilled by the work. During this period, he purchased a commercial insurance company, which proved to be an unsuccessful venture, leading him to sell it back to the firm. Just as he was preparing to exit the insurance industry to invest in veterinary clinics, his potential partner sold their clinics and became bound by a non-compete agreement. This circumstance led to his introduction to the Medicare space, where he currently operates.LINKS & RESOURCESConnect with Ryan on LinkedIn

What happens when traditional education fails to ignite passion and creativity? Dave Martelli, a visionary in STEM, shares his groundbreaking journey from struggling in conventional schools to becoming a leader in educational innovation. Learn how embracing failure and defying the standard mold can lead to revolutionary teaching methods like micro-credentialing and skill-based learning. These approaches offer fresh pathways for neurodivergent individuals and those from diverse socio-economic backgrounds, proving that standard education is not the only road to success.Discover the transformative power of Guild Hall Learning, an innovative platform reshaping personalized education. By tapping into the power of AI with the Guided Universal Intelligent Learning Device (GUILD), Guild Hall Learning creates tailored educational experiences that resonate with each student’s unique needs and interests. The challenges and triumphs of rolling out this initiative during a global pandemic highlight the importance of flexibility and creativity in education. Explore the integration of the arts into STEM, evolving it into STEAM, and how this fusion not only makes learning more engaging but also expands its reach globally.Join us in celebrating the vital role of collaboration and the nurturing of entrepreneurial spirit in education. Hear about the significant support Dave receives from his wife in balancing ambitious dreams with reality, and the crucial role of collaboration in achieving groundbreaking results. As we explore the evolving role of AI in education, we consider its potential to enhance practical learning while cautioning against its use where personal reflection is key. This episode is a tribute to the power of entrepreneurship in education and a call to embrace change for a brighter future.ABOUT DAVIDDavid Martelli is a pioneering force in STEM education with over 20 years of experience in developing innovative learning environments and programs. As Founder of Guild Hall Learning and president ofGlobal Educational Advancement, he works to revolutionize education by empowering institutions with forward-thinking tools and strategies. His expertise lies in anticipating technological advancement's impact on education and designing experiential learning methodologies that integrate multiple disciplines. Martelli's crowning achievement is creating and operating a state-of-the-art makerspace serving hundreds of students, featuring computer-centric design, game development, virtual reality, and robotics facilities.As former Head of Computer Science and Engineering at a leading Massachusetts private school, Martelli spearheaded technology integration initiatives. His background includes technical program management with the Department of Defense and Northrop Grumman. A respected thought leader, he frequently speaks about the future of education, STEM integration, and creating inclusive learning environments, driven by his commitment to nurturing the next generation of innovators.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit Guild Hall Learning’s WebsiteFollow Guild Hall Learning on InstagramFind David on FacebookFollow Guild Hall Learning on FacebookConnect with David on LinkedIn

What if you could turn even the most mundane industry into a riveting story? Meet Leslie Youngblood, a marketing maven with 19 years of experience, who believes in the power of storytelling to transform any business. Together, we explore the art of captivating writing in marketing, especially in our AI-driven world. Leslie's journey from a childhood filled with creativity to establishing Youngblood MMC is a testament to the magic that authentic, emotion-driven writing can weave. Tune in to discover how to harness the profound influence of well-crafted words on business growth and customer connections.The episode takes a closer look at the creative dance of marketing, where deeply understanding a business is the first step toward success. Leslie shares her unique perspective on finding excitement and uncovering hidden stories in any sector, even those that might seem dull at first glance. Inspired by Henry Ford’s philosophy on innovation, we discuss becoming a passionate advocate for a business, breaking down goals into manageable steps, and the significance of conveying a distinct excitement that resonates with customers. From wastewater treatment to hospitality, every industry's story holds the potential for engagement with the right approach.Navigating the world of marketing platforms can be tricky, but Leslie shares insights on consistency and learning from failures, drawing parallels to sports icons like Tom Brady and Serena Williams. With real-world examples, such as a live music venue, we highlight the importance of understanding your audience and iterating strategies based on performance data. As we venture into the realm of AI, Leslie enlightens us on its role in optimizing marketing strategies, particularly in the hospitality industry. Her call to action? Embrace risks and prioritize courage over clarity in decision-making. Join us to gain a wealth of insights from Leslie Youngblood and leave inspired to transform your approach to marketing.ABOUT LESLIEWith over 19 years of experience in advertising and marketing, content creation, and business development, Leslie Youngblood has helped transform companies from local startups to nationwide impact makers utilizing innovative marketing efforts while driving optimal business outcomes.She's a proud boy mom and wife, as well as a non-stop thinker, and can do-doer who also actively supports the American Cancer Society, ACLU, and National PTA Association.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit Youngblood MMC’s WebsiteFollow Youngblood MMC on LinkedInConnect with Leslie on LinkedIn

What if you could transform customer experiences into your biggest asset for overcoming sales challenges? Join us with Andy Stauffer, the visionary founder of Proofmap, as we unpack his journey from a startup sales rep to the VP of sales and marketing at CloudCoach. Andy sheds light on the pivotal role of social proof in fostering business credibility and success, revealing powerful tactics to harness customer stories for elevating your SaaS enterprise. Learn how his career evolution inspired Proofmap's mission to maximize the impact of social proof across the B2B space.Facing content marketing hurdles with limited resources? We explore strategic solutions for SaaS companies to rejuvenate their marketing efforts by turning a single customer interview into a robust, multi-use marketing asset. By embracing a mindset that values customer goodwill and enthusiasm, businesses can achieve remarkable outcomes. Andy discusses the seamless integration of AI in crafting compelling case studies while ensuring that every customer interaction remains respectful and valuable. This episode highlights the fine balance between technology-driven efficiency and maintaining a genuine customer-focused approach.Peek into the future of productized services and how they can serve as a launchpad for aspiring SaaS entrepreneurs. Andy shares his insights on achieving software-like margins and scalability without the need for complex infrastructure. Uncover the art of "sell then build," leveraging rapid AI advancements to test market ideas and grow your concept swiftly. We emphasize the essence of go-to-market strategies and social proof in carving out a competitive edge, offering you actionable strategies to differentiate your business and accelerate growth in today's dynamic SaaS landscape.ABOUT ANDYAndy Stauffer is the former VP of Sales & Marketing at Cloud Coach, an Enterprise Saas company recently acquired by Main Capital. Today Andy is the Founder of Proofmap, leveraging his experience as a start-up Sales rep and a GTM executive to address a distinct challenge for growing SaaS companies without full marketing teams: Maximizing the impacts of social proof.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit Proofmap’s WebsiteConnect with Andy on LinkedIn

Zach Sabin, the mastermind behind Ignite Agency Training, joins us to share his extraordinary transformation from top sales agent to a leader in sales excellence. Discover how Zach’s journey, fueled by the competitive spirit of his college athlete days and his passion for teaching, led him to redefine sales as an act of service. His story is a testament to the power of betting on oneself and taking bold leaps of faith, as he now channels his insights into a virtual training system designed to empower insurance agents worldwide.Unlock the secrets to effective sales with Zach as we explore the art of questioning to facilitate customer self-discovery. Through the innovative technique of "emotional insight questioning," Zach reveals how empathetic listening and strategic questions can uncover the emotional drivers of decision-making. By prioritizing the customer's needs and fostering a trust-based relationship, sales professionals can guide clients toward informed choices, ensuring their best interests are always at heart.Immerse yourself in the core strategies for successful sales training, as Zach emphasizes the significance of practice, accountability, and a genuine interest in people. He dismantles the myth that only extroverts excel in sales, highlighting that dedication and a coachable attitude are key. Drawing parallels between podcasting and sales training, Zach shares invaluable advice on the commitment required to truly thrive in any endeavor.ABOUT ZACHZach Sabin is a master trainer and leader with over 15 years in the insurance and financial services industry. Known for transforming agents into top producers, he’s trained thousands to achieve breakthrough results. Starting as a sales agent, Zach built one of Michigan’s top-ranked agencies before moving into leadership, where he led his territory to #1 in the market and a national top-30 ranking. With CLU®, ChFC®, and RCIP® designations, Zach specializes in building scalable businesses, high-performing teams, and a culture of excellence.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit Ignite Agency Training’s WebsiteFollow Zach on InstagramFind Zach on FacebookSubscribe to Ignite Agency Training’s YouTube ChannelConnect with Zach on LinkedIn

Joshua Fein’s story starts with designing packaging for his college friends’ side hustles and ends with redefining how creative services drive ROI in billion-dollar industries. From Disney to Domino’s to dominating the cannabis sector, Josh has seen firsthand how bold branding and performance-based marketing can scale companies fast. In this episode, he shares how he’s flipping the agency model on its head with his ventures Metafor and Highperbolic—and how YOU can bring more value to your business by focusing on outcomes, not just aesthetics.Josh drops powerful insights on AI, strategic execution, brand positioning, and the future of creativity—and he does it all with transparency, wit, and a vision for what’s next.💡 What You'll Take Away For YOUR Business🚀 Why value-based pricing can unlock smarter growth (and bigger client wins)🧠 How to use AI as your personal creative council—not a replacement, but an edge💥 Why branding is about solving problems, not just “looking good”🔥 How Highperbolic’s “pay if you win” model makes marketing a profit center🎯 Why your target market should shape every creative decision you make📦 Why packaging, perception, and positioning matter more than the product💡 The exact mindset shift Josh used to bounce back after losing major clients📝 About Joshua Fein Joshua Fein has been selling weed since college—kind of. Before cannabis went mainstream, he was designing packaging for his friends’ ‘entrepreneurial ventures,’ unknowingly kickstarting a career in branding that took him from underground operations to shaping some of the biggest cannabis brands in the world. Over the past decade, he’s worked with Disney, Starbucks, and Domino’s, helping brands evolve, stand out, and sell a whole lot more.Now, he’s putting his money where his mouth is with Highperbolic—a new venture built on the principle that to the victor go the spoils. With past campaigns driving 30% month-over-month sales growth, adding $600K in monthly revenue, and securing $10M+ in investor funding, Highperbolic flips marketing from an expense into a profit center. In a world where AI, Fiverr, and cheap international labor have commoditized creativity, real value comes from bold, strategic execution that moves the needle—with low upfront costs and profit-sharing incentives to ensure brands only pay for results.🎯 Josh’s BEST Piece of Advice for Wantrepreneurs and Entrepreneurs “Just ask.” Don’t overthink your pitch or try to appear perfect. Instead, lead with honesty and humility. Whether it’s reaching out to a potential mentor or landing your first client, most people are open to helping—you just have to ask.📢 Memorable Quotes“It doesn’t matter how good you are—what matters is how much value you bring back.” – Josh Fein “AI isn’t about replacing creativity—it’s about engineering an advantage.” – Josh Fein “If your brand doesn’t resonate with your customer, it doesn’t matter how cool it looks.” – Josh Fein🔗 Links & ResourcesVisit Metafor Design’s WebsiteVisit Hyprbolic’s WebsiteConnect with Josh on LinkedInFollow Josh on Instagram

Could your entrepreneurial journey benefit from a system overhaul? Natalie Gregorian joins us to unpack her experiences in transforming chaotic operations into streamlined successes. She candidly shares her path from managing operations for a mastermind community to consulting for businesses raking in six to eight figures. Listen as she uncovers the often-overlooked importance of robust back-end systems in supporting dazzling sales and marketing efforts, providing a blueprint for entrepreneurs to maintain control and freedom while their businesses grow. Feel overwhelmed by sticky notes and disjointed systems? Discover the power of project management tools like ClickUp, and how they can revolutionize the way you run your business. We explore the benefits of a centralized operations approach, which not only boosts team productivity but also enhances decision-making. By collaborating with operational experts, visionary entrepreneurs can focus on their strengths without getting tangled in the technical weeds, achieving sustainable growth tailored to each unique venture.Templatizing processes, optimizing tech stacks, and strategic hires are just a few of the practical strategies we dive into to help you regain control of your time and resources. We also highlight Natalie's Scalability Accelerator program, which offers a fractional COO experience to help you manage business operations effectively. Don't miss our comparison of project management tools, as we emphasize ClickUp's budget-friendly yet powerful capabilities alongside other essential tech tools. This episode is packed with actionable insights and practical solutions for entrepreneurs ready to reclaim their freedom and propel their businesses forward.ABOUT NATALIENatalie Gregorian helps entrepreneurs make their biggest impact... without getting trapped as prisoners within their own businesses. She's a fractional COO and ClickUp expert who's helped over 75 entrepreneurs remove themselves as the main bottleneck of their business, scale to multi 6 and 7 figures, and win back the freedom they started their business for in the first place.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit Tip Top Ops’ WebsiteConnect with Natalie on LinkedIn

What happens when a tech industry veteran with 30 years of experience lets curiosity and passion lead his journey? Join us for an engaging conversation with Shardul Mehta as he shares his adventurous career path. From his earliest days tinkering with a PC in the 1980s to co-founding startups and exploring improv comedy, Shardul's story is one of embracing diverse interests and continuous growth. We explore how his entrepreneurial spirit was sparked by a healthcare startup during the dot-com era and how this pivotal moment solidified his love for building and innovation. Shardul walks us through his mission to foster a thriving product management community, starting with Product Camp DC. Discover how he transitioned from a successful blog to a newsletter that continues to guide product managers today. Shardul connects the dots between product management and entrepreneurship, offering insights into intrapreneurship and strategic decision-making. He also shares the importance of open-minded learning, highlighting skills like storytelling and salesmanship that enhance communication and product narratives. The transformative power of improv takes center stage as Shardul discusses how the principles of "Yes, and" and "Got Your Back" have strengthened his communication and collaboration skills. Through personal anecdotes, he reveals how stepping onto the improv stage has unlocked new facets of his personality, proving to be a valuable tool for both personal and professional growth. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or an established professional, Shardul's experiences offer insights and inspiration on navigating the ever-evolving landscape of technology and entrepreneurship.ABOUT SHARDULShardul Mehta is a 30-year veteran of the tech industry, having co-founded multiple startups and small businesses, and served in executive leadership roles at several growth-focused companies. He's launched 0:1 products, scaled products 1:N, and grown complex enterprise-grade platforms and multi-faceted portfolios to hundreds of millions in revenue, and led digital transformations at non-tech organizations. His career spans VC and PE-backed growth companies, mergers & acquisitions, family-owned businesses, Fortune 100 global enterprises, and even a stint in the US Federal government. He's built and scaled product management teams and operations, and many of his product managers have grown into leadership positions themselves. 5.5 years ago, he began a lifelong love affair with improv. He's taught improv to over 100 students, organized numerous improv shows, and performed on stage and on podcasts. As an introvert, he enjoys spending time with his family, writing, and watching way more YouTube videos than is probably healthy.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit Street Smart Product Manager’s Website and Sign Up to Shardul’s NewsletterConnect with Shardul on LinkedInCheck Out Shardul’s Course ‘One Week Product Roadmap: Create an Actionable Product Roadmap in Just 7 Days’