Wantrepreneur to Entrepreneur | Start and Grow Your Own Business

What if memes could be your secret weapon in skyrocketing your brand's engagement? Join us as we sit down with marketing maestro Jennie Wu, who transitioned from generating millions in daily revenues as a product manager in China to founding the innovative HashMatrix agency in the US. Jennie's journey is an inspiring tale of blending product design and marketing prowess to empower AI startups and break into the American market. She candidly discusses the critical role of go-to-market strategies and her unique approach, making this a must-listen for entrepreneurs looking to elevate their marketing game.But that's not all. Jenny and your host, Brian Lofrumento, explore the rapidly evolving landscape of memes and influencer marketing, diving into how these tools can create relatable, viral content that resonates with diverse audiences. Discover HashMatrix's game-changing 3xMatrix service and how AI is revolutionizing marketing and business across various industries. Jenny also shares invaluable tech tool recommendations and entrepreneurship insights, including the impactful advice from Columbia University that fueled her success. Tune in to gain a wealth of knowledge and actionable strategies from an expert who knows how to turn challenges into triumphs.ABOUT JENNIEGraduated from Columbia University, Jennie Wu was previously a product manager in China, where she developed a smart payment product that achieved daily revenues of $1.2 million, starting from scratch. This product reached users from developed cities to impoverished mountainous regions in China. This inclusive and highly accessible user mindset has deeply influenced her business approach. Applying the logic of user experience to company operations, her current company, after just one year, has been recognized as one of the fastest-growing marketing companies.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit HashMatrix’s WebsiteConnect with Jennie on LinkedIn

What if revisiting a single book every year could fundamentally transform your entrepreneurial journey? Join our host Brian Lofrumento as he explores the enduring power of "The Magic of Thinking Big" by David J. Schwartz, a book that has been a cornerstone of his growth for years. You'll discover how this timeless wisdom recharges Brian's mindset, offers fresh insights each year, and helps him overcome challenges with renewed perspective. This episode is a testament to the value of revisiting foundational wisdom and its profound impact on long-term success.Negativity is a pervasive force in entrepreneurship, but it doesn't have to be a roadblock. Reflecting on experiences with dismissive comments and skepticism, Brian shares how "The Magic of Thinking Big" has been instrumental in building his resilience against negativity. Hear about Brian's early ventures and how despite discouraging words, he pushed through to celebrate nearly 1000 episodes and the eighth anniversary of this podcast. This episode underscores the importance of surrounding yourself with supportive, like-minded individuals who encourage you to think expansively.

Ready to transform your dreams into reality? Today's guest, Katie Zimmerman, shares her incredible journey from a leading career in fashion to the world of interior design, where she’s now helping countless others achieve their goals. Katie’s remarkable pivot from working with brands like Abercrombie & Fitch to opening her very own storefront is nothing short of inspiring. She'll uncover her secret formula for success, focusing on the power of visualization, the magic of a vision board, and the importance of a detailed action plan.Katie dives deep into her process, offering you actionable tips to turn your aspirations into tangible outcomes. She explains how immersing yourself in every detail of your goal can propel you forward at lightning speed. Whether you’re looking to launch a business or elevate your personal projects, Katie’s experiences and insights will leave you motivated and ready to take action. Tune in to learn how to see, feel, and achieve your dreams with precision and passion.ABOUT KATIEKatie Zimmerman spent nearly 20 years in the fashion industry, working for some of the most iconic brands in the world, including Abercrombie & Fitch, Hollister, Fossil, Fruit of the Loom, and Russell Athletic. With a degree in Fashion Design and Product Development, Katie held leadership roles in design, merchandising, global licensing, and visual merchandising. Recognizing her strengths in process, client experiences, and project management, she transitioned to interior design, where she now leverages her expertise in global sourcing and fashion to create stunning, personalized spaces for her clients.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit Zimmerman Interior’s WebsiteFollow Zimmerman Interiors on InstagramConnect with Katie on LinkedIn 

What happens when a passion for fashion evolves into a love for interior design? Join us as Katie Zimmerman, a seasoned entrepreneur, shares her inspiring journey from working with iconic brands like Abercrombie & Fitch and Fruit of the Loom to launching her own interior design business, Zimmerman Interiors, in 2023. Katie reveals how childhood dreams and career-shaping experiences in the fashion industry have equipped her with the skills and insights to excel in her business venture. Katie opens up about the identity shifts and battles with imposter syndrome that accompanied her career pivot. Discover how her focus on client obsession, developed during her time at Abercrombie, laid the foundation for creating spaces that resonate deeply with her clients' true desires. Katie's journey reminds us that embracing one's new professional identity and visualizing success are crucial steps in overcoming self-doubt and thriving in a new industry.Balancing creativity with business acumen is no easy feat, but Katie shares practical advice on managing people-pleasing tendencies while keeping an eye on return on investment. Learn about the evolution of her design showroom, the importance of a clear end vision, and the value of a supportive team and outside perspectives. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for anyone looking to pivot their career and turn their passion into a thriving business.ABOUT KATIEKatie Zimmerman spent nearly 20 years in the fashion industry, working for some of the most iconic brands in the world, including Abercrombie & Fitch, Hollister, Fossil, Fruit of the Loom, and Russell Athletic. With a degree in Fashion Design and Product Development, Katie held leadership roles in design, merchandising, global licensing, and visual merchandising. Recognizing her strengths in process, client experiences, and project management, she transitioned to interior design, where she now leverages her expertise in global sourcing and fashion to create stunning, personalized spaces for her clients.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit Zimmerman Interior’s WebsiteFollow Zimmerman Interiors on InstagramConnect with Katie on LinkedIn

Ever wondered if you should be actively trading or just letting your investments sit? Find out as we welcome Rod Casilli, the brains behind tradersdevGROUP. Rod's journey from traditional finance roles to becoming a leading trader is packed with lessons on the risks and rewards of both active and passive investing. Whether you're deeply engrossed in your startup or looking for effortless ways to grow your wealth, Rod's advice on leveraging defined benefit plans and solo 401ks for tax benefits is a game-changer for high-income entrepreneurs.Think the fear of missing out (FOMO) is pushing you to make rash investment decisions? Discover why "time in the market beats timing the market" and how dollar-cost averaging can be your best friend. We'll explore how to handle the initial costs of investing without derailing your business plans, and why understanding your risk profile is crucial before diving into trending investments. Balance your entrepreneurial aspirations with smart financial strategies, and learn how to make investments that work for you, not against you.From powdered kombucha innovation to empowering global traders, Rod Casilli's story is full of entrepreneurial insights. Learn how gut health led to the creation of a unique, shelf-stable kombucha and how tradersdevGROUP is democratizing trading by allowing participants to trade without risking their own money. Celebrate the diversity within the trading community and get inspired by real success stories, all while understanding the importance of setting realistic expectations and mindfulness practices for sustainable entrepreneurial growth. Join us for a journey through investing wisdom and business innovation that promises to enrich both your financial and personal life.ABOUT RODERICKRoderick Casilli is the founder and lead trader at the tradersdevGROUP (TDG among friends). He has been an active futures trader and automated strategy designer for over 20 years. Rod began his career at Merrill Lynch during the tech speculation craze, spent time trading millions of shares of stock as a SOES bandit, and then transitioned to the futures markets in the fall of 1997, corresponding with the release of the S&P E-mini contract. Most recently, he has moved beyond the screens into private equity investing with a portfolio of over 10 companies, mostly consumer brands. He barely made into though UCLA but did manage to earn a BA in English.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit tradersdevGROUP Website and get their free courseConnect with Rod on LinkedIn

Unlock the power of data analytics for your business with insights from Darren Tapp, a PhD in mathematics from Purdue University, who has successfully navigated the transition from academia to industry. Discover how Darren's expertise in data analytics and mathematical modeling transformed his stint at a debt collections agency, boosting revenue through enhanced predictive metrics. This episode promises to enrich your understanding of how a strong foundation in mathematics can drive business growth, making it a must-listen for entrepreneurs looking to leverage data for strategic advantage.Ever wondered why correlation doesn't imply causation? With real-life examples like the curious link between ice cream sales and drownings, Darren demystifies this often misunderstood concept. Learn how to apply this knowledge practically in a business setting to improve employee performance in a supportive, non-punitive manner. Key strategies such as regular, constructive check-ins and fostering a collaborative environment are discussed, ensuring that data-driven decisions benefit both management and staff. Darren’s insights are crucial for anyone keen on making more informed, effective decisions in their business operations.Time is of the essence in business planning and analytics, and Darren shares his thoughts on how unexpected events, like the COVID-19 pandemic, can upend long-term plans. He emphasizes the importance of accurate forecasting models and the entrepreneurial wisdom of knowing your financial metrics, such as burn rate and runway, for sustainable success. Join us for an episode filled with practical advice and inspiring stories that can drive growth and innovation in your business endeavors.ABOUT DARRENDarren Tapp earned a Ph.D. in Mathematics from Purdue University. His career has been in and out of academia. Currently, he's focusing on industry and is interested in solving problems that face your small or medium-sized business.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit TAPPMATH’s WebsiteVisit Darren’s WebsiteConnect with Darren on LinkedIn

What if the secrets to entrepreneurial success could be learned from a game of chess? Join our slightly-under-the-weather host Brian Lofrumento as he reveals how the powerful principle of simplification in chess has transformed his approach to life and business. We discuss how strategically managing your assets and reducing chaos can secure long-term success. Tune in to learn how this chess-inspired strategy can help you achieve your entrepreneurial goals and maintain your winning position.

How has Canva revolutionized the way entrepreneurs handle their visual content? Discover the answer with our host Brian Lofrumento in this action-packed episode of the Wantrepreneur to Entrepreneur Podcast. This week, we spotlight Canva, the game-changing tool that has become a cornerstone in the tech stacks of countless successful entrepreneurs. From creating eye-catching podcast graphics and YouTube thumbnails to crafting polished marketing materials and sales follow-ups, Canva is the unsung hero behind many thriving businesses. Listen in as Brian shares how both he and our podcast guests leverage Canva’s extensive template library to streamline design processes and maintain impeccable brand consistency.Unleash the full potential of Canva and transform your business’s visual identity. Brian walks you through setting up a brand kit on Canva, ensuring that even the least design-savvy among us can produce professional-quality visuals. By uploading your logo, selecting your color palette, and choosing your fonts, you can create cohesive branding across all your marketing materials effortlessly. This episode is your reminder to explore all that Canva has to offer and take actionable steps to enhance your business. Visit thewantrepreneurshow.com to read more about our incredible guests and their entrepreneurial journeys!

Ever wondered how one man's journey from addiction could lead to a multi-faceted empire spanning real estate, finance, and reputation management? In this episode, we sit down with Andrew Spira, an inspiring entrepreneur and coach who transformed his life after a wake-up call at 17. You'll hear how Andrew overcame personal trauma and addiction to launch his first business by 18, finding immense success during the COVID-19 pandemic. His story is not just about business acumen but about resilience, faith, and the relentless quest for personal growth.Andrew's journey wasn't smooth sailing; he faced significant challenges and even relapsed at 23. However, this only fueled his determination to succeed, emphasizing that true entrepreneurial success lies in simple business fundamentals and personal integrity. He discusses crucial insights into overcoming labels, the importance of faith in his journey, and how basic principles often pave the way to wealth. We also explore his adventurous lifestyle, spontaneous travel escapades, and the strict routines he maintains to manage his global ventures effectively.Beyond business, Andrew is committed to giving back. He shares the heartfelt mission behind his nonprofit, AndrewSpira.me, which supports individuals battling addiction and those lacking basic life skills. From securing jobs and housing for recovering addicts to offering personal guidance, Andrew's philanthropic efforts are as commendable as his business achievements. Tune in to discover how persistence and a positive mindset can lead to life-changing opportunities, and get inspired by Andrew's unwavering commitment to making a difference.ABOUT ANDREWAndrew Spira is a successful entrepreneur and motivational speaker with a powerful story of transformation and resilience. His journey from overcoming personal challenges to building a multi-million dollar real estate portfolio and successful businesses makes him an ideal guest for podcasts focused on personal growth, entrepreneurship, and overcoming adversity.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit Andrew’s WebsiteVisit Skyecap’s WebsiteConnect with Andrew on LinkedIn

Unlock the secrets of marketing brilliance with Brian Carroll, a marketing leader who transitioned from the finance world to become an expert in understanding customer behavior and psychology. Inspired by Carl Jung's concepts of personas and archetypes, Brian reveals how he pairs outstanding marketing with exceptional products, using fintech giants as prime examples. Discover why understanding your market and ideal customer is not just important, but essential for both startups and established companies.Brian shares invaluable insights into voice of customer research, emphasizing how to overcome internal biases and effectively structure data. Learn how to align key performance indicators (KPIs) with business goals, whether you're looking to acquire new customers or upsell to existing ones. Brian's data-driven approach to marketing, combined with the transformative power of artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT and Otter, will revolutionize how you analyze customer feedback and build accurate buyer personas.Finally, hear Brian's compelling story of how his passion for meaningful work led him to start his own consulting business, specializing in niche markets like hedge funds and family offices. He stresses the importance of empathy in marketing and focusing on one's strengths to truly understand and address client needs. Brian's advice for aspiring entrepreneurs is to harness their passions and strengths to elevate their business from good to great. Don't miss out on these expert insights that promise to enhance your entrepreneurial journey.ABOUT BRIANBrian Carroll is a seasoned marketing leader with two decades of experience spanning investment management, wealthtech, and B2B SaaS. From launching new products at growth-stage companies to building and leading a global marketing team at Nasdaq, Brian's diverse expertise has driven success at every level. These experiences inspired him to establish Gray Carroll Consulting, where he helps businesses overcome complex challenges and unlock their full potential. Brian lives in Atlanta with his wife, Carla, and daughter, London. He is a devoted family man, a golf enthusiast, and values the endless pursuit of learning.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit Gray Carroll Consulting’s WebsiteConnect with Brian on LinkedInFollow Gray Carroll Consulting on LinkedIn