Wantrepreneur to Entrepreneur | Start and Grow Your Own Business

What if a small-town entrepreneur could become a significant player in the creative and business world? Join us on this episode of the Wantrepreneur to Entrepreneur Podcast as we welcome Garrett Dailey, whose journey from North Carolina to roles at the Tesla factory and renowned design agencies offers invaluable insights. Garrett shares how his early career in sales evolved into a passion for writing and branding, leading to the formation of Aion Media and a pivotal position at Paradigm in Raleigh. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance, creativity, and the willingness to embrace change.We also break down the profound impact of business philosophy on company performance. Using the pizza industry as a fascinating case study, we compare the clear, compelling philosophies of top companies like Domino's and Mellow Mushroom. Discover how effective communication can transcend dense jargon and lead to better outcomes, especially for B2B businesses and growth-focused startups. This segment underscores the importance of a well-articulated business philosophy in boosting customer satisfaction and overall company success.Next, Garrett dives into the essential components of messaging and positioning in marketing, offering a three-layered approach: attraction, interaction, and traction. By addressing the specific problems of your ideal customer profile (ICP), he reveals how to create content that genuinely resonates. Learn how structured methods and collaboration can break through creative blocks and lead to powerful branding. Garrett also shares tips on leveraging the unique essence of a founder to create an authentic brand identity. This episode is packed with actionable advice and real-world examples to help you grow your business with clarity and purpose.ABOUT GARRETT Garrett Dailey has spent the last decade working with, in, or on startups. He's been the Director of Operations for the boutique design firm that did the brand for Morning Brew, Chief of Staff for Ideamarket, a DeFi protocol, and founder of Aion Enterprises, a design agency. Currently, he's the cofounder of Lucid, a consultancy that helps you grow your business with clarity.LINKS & RESOURCES:Visit Lucid’s WebsiteConnect with Garrett on LinkedIn

In today's episode we're diving into the wisdom of Ecclesiastes, revealing why taking risks is essential. Learn from our host Brian Lofrumento's personal experiences, including the launch of his soccer blog in 2008, and discover how to overcome the mind games and doubts that plague every entrepreneur. This episode promises to inspire you with motivational quotes and actionable strategies to stop overanalyzing and start moving forward with consistency, discipline, and momentum.

What if you had a secret weapon to boost your entrepreneurial confidence whenever you needed it? Today, I’m sharing a strategy that could change the game for you: the hype file. As an entrepreneur, you can't rely on the built-in validation of established brands. Instead, you need to create your own sources of motivation. That's where the hype file comes in—a collection of glowing testimonials, positive feedback, and thank-you notes from clients and colleagues that remind you of your value and impact.Tune in as I break down why every entrepreneur needs a hype file and how to build one that will keep you motivated and confident. From leveraging testimonials for social proof on your website to simply having a reservoir of positive affirmations to turn to during challenging times, this actionable advice is something I wish I had discovered earlier in my journey. Don't miss out on learning how to keep yourself hyped up and ready to tackle your business goals with renewed energy!

Ever wondered how the power of video can transform your marketing strategy? Join us as we unlock the secrets of video storytelling with Tim Bradley, the mastermind behind Pennant Video. From humble beginnings with a VHS camcorder to becoming a video marketing expert, Tim shares his incredible journey and the pivotal role of video storytelling in the middle of the marketing funnel. Learn how to differentiate your brand, demonstrate your offerings, and validate your value proposition through compelling videos that empower potential customers to make informed decisions.Dive into the heart of crafting impactful video marketing stories with our exploration of the "video marketing trifecta." Tim and your host, Brian Lofrumento, break down the essential types of videos—anthem, explainer, and endorsement—that each serve a unique purpose in conveying your brand's mission, clarifying your business operations, and leveraging authentic customer testimonials. We discuss the fine balance between authenticity and structured messaging, providing practical strategies to engage leads and nurture relationships for higher conversion rates.Tim's transition from agency life to founding Pennant Video offers invaluable insights into building a successful business from the ground up. Reflect on his experiences from the early days of YouTube to leveraging platforms like LinkedIn for networking and growth. Tim's story is a testament to the importance of maintaining momentum, building trust, and the iterative process of creating a cohesive brand. Whether you're an established business or just starting out, this episode is packed with actionable advice to elevate your video marketing game and drive your business forward.ABOUT TIMTim Bradley has been passionate about video storytelling since his childhood, when he first started using his dad's VHS camcorder. His career has taken him from action sports webisodes to live broadcasts, documentaries, and TV programs, providing him with a wealth of diverse experiences.After a rewarding 12-year stint at a PR and marketing agency, where he built and led a 25-member video team, Tim launched his own video marketing agency, Pennant Video. Pennant specializes in helping B2B marketing and sales teams boost conversions and drive revenue by focusing on the middle of the funnel in a customer's journey. They combine the strengths of a strategic agency, motion design studio, and video production house to help businesses stand out and showcase their solutions effectively.When he's not working, Tim enjoys quality time with his family and explores mountain peaks through snowboarding or hiking. Connect with Tim to see how the power of video can elevate your business.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit Pennant Video’s WebsiteConnect with Tim on LinkedInFind Pennant Video on LinkedInFollow Pennant Video on Instagram

Ever felt disconnected in an increasingly connected world? Eubin Kim, founder and CEO of Aidoo, joins us to share his remarkable journey from a first-generation Korean immigrant to a tech entrepreneur. Eubin's story is one of overcoming personal and professional challenges, as he introduces his groundbreaking anti-loneliness app, Aidoo. Designed to foster real-world connections using AI, Aidoo is more than just another social app; it’s a lifeline for those feeling isolated, particularly in a post-pandemic world. Hear how his varied experiences in tech sales, consulting, and even living in a van have uniquely positioned him to tackle modern loneliness. Technology has changed the way we interact, but not always for the better. We tackle the issue of social media addiction and how platforms like Facebook have evolved into divisive spaces rather than unifying ones. Eubin introduces us to the potential of AI to mend these divides by bringing people closer together. Inspired by his own journey from San Francisco to Texas, he discusses his new app that simplifies planning meetups and emphasizes healthier, more memorable interactions, a concept born during the lockdowns. Eubin's vision is one in which technology doesn't replace jobs but enriches human connections.Building a community in a remote world is no small feat, but Eubin is up to the challenge. We explore how Aidoo is leveraging their user base as ambassadors to foster engagement and bridge the social gaps created by remote work and the pandemic. The entrepreneurial path is fraught with loneliness and hurdles, but Eubin’s clear mission and iterative process of developing features and validating ideas shine through. From the significance of learning new skills to the joy of turning ideas into tangible products, this episode is a testament to the power of a clear vision in creating meaningful relationships through technology.ABOUT EUBIN Eubin Kim is a Korean immigrant who moved to the United States at the age of six. Growing up as an introvert and an immigrant, he cherished the question "when can Youbben come play outside?" as it led to countless adventures and deepened friendships. However, with the rise of technology and smartphone addiction, he noticed a shift in the way people interacted. This sparked his interest in addressing the growing problem of technology addiction and finding ways to encourage meaningful connections and outdoor play. Eubin's experiences as an immigrant and his passion for promoting real-world interactions have shaped his journey and mission to combat the negative effects of technology on society.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit Aidoo’s Website and Sign Up for the WaitlistFollow Aidoo on InstagramConnect with Eubin on LinkedInFind Aidoo on LinkedIn

Can you imagine leading a successful business while raising three young children? Our guest, Jackie Nimer, co-CEO of People Conduit, does just that and shares her incredible journey with us. We discuss the complexities of balancing professional ambitions with personal responsibilities, and how she manages to infuse authenticity and psychological safety into the workplace. Jackie opens up about the mission of People Conduit to rehumanize corporate environments, encouraging employees to bring their true selves to work, ultimately enhancing both professional success and well-being.Shifting gears, we dive into discovering purpose beyond entrepreneurship. Jackie talks about how her purpose has evolved from career independence to helping others reconnect with their true selves. She discusses her unique coaching approach that emphasizes personal growth through questions about identity and relationships rather than just career goals. We touch on the importance of embracing hard work and difficult conversations, and how these transformative experiences contribute to breaking free from monotonous routines and finding deeper fulfillment in life.Lastly, we explore the theme of vulnerability in executive coaching and the importance of long-term efforts in a society obsessed with instant gratification. Jackie shares her approach to fostering personal and professional growth through revealing and often uncomfortable questions. We also discuss the significance of deprogramming societal expectations, the value of mental health days, and learning from failures. Jackie’s insights highlight the power of being unapologetically oneself, leading to a more fulfilling and balanced entrepreneurial journey. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that celebrates authenticity and the human side of high performance.ABOUT JACKIEJackie Nimer is an Executive Coach, Leader, Entrepreneur and Co-CEO of People Conduit. Jackie's mission is to help leaders, individual contributors, and organizations achieve their highest potential with investing into their people!Equally as important, she is a Mom of three small children that are harder on her than CxOs she works with and challenge her in the best way. Above all, she loves to laugh and fully believe that you can be taken seriously without always being serious.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit People Conduit’s WebsiteFollow People Conduit on InstagramFind People Conduit on LinkedInConnect with Jackie on LinkedIn

Ever wondered how to keep your entrepreneurial spirit alive even when external validation seems elusive? Join our host Brian Lofrumento as we uncover the hidden truth about confidence in entrepreneurship, inspired by a thought-provoking Reddit post from Sina Meraji. Learn how confidence is often borrowed from past affiliations and how recognizing this can help you sustain motivation. Sina's valuable insights, coupled with his work at Learning Loop, offer practical strategies to maintain belief in your endeavors amidst uncertainty. This episode will arm you with the tools to navigate your entrepreneurial journey with renewed vigor.Embark on a journey with our host Brian as he recounts his own story of building entrepreneurial confidence from scratch, starting as a 19-year-old with a simple soccer blog. You'll hear how taking small, tangible steps, like securing an EIN or opening a business account, can make a world of difference. We also touch on the profound importance of self-awareness and proactive measures inspired by Sina's transparent post.LINKS & RESOURCESA huge thank you to Sina Meraji for sharing so much entrepreneurial goodness! Find his personal LinkedIn here.Check out Learning Loop here.Read the full Reddit post that inspired today's episode here.

Can an instant email make or break your customer’s first impression? In this Action Saturday episode of the Wantrepreneur to Entrepreneur Podcast, we're zeroing in on the often neglected onboarding sequence. Our host, Brian Lofrumento, outlines why the first interaction post-purchase is a critical touchpoint and how you can harness that initial burst of excitement to foster a positive customer experience. Whether you sell physical products or services, the guidance here is universal and actionable, challenging you to rethink how you communicate immediately after a sale.You'll learn essential elements to include in your instant email to ensure it resonates with your brand’s voice and sets clear expectations for your new customers. Brian shares practical tips for crafting emails that answer common questions, set the right tone, and make customers feel valued from the very beginning. Whether you're using automated systems or personalizing each email, this episode is packed with advice to help you elevate your onboarding process and enhance your overall customer experience. Tune in and take the first step towards making every new customer journey memorable!

Curious about how to transform your workplace into an inclusive haven for all employees? Join us as we sit down with Rebecca Prejean, the passionate CEO and founder of E.B. Graphics and Consulting. Rebecca’s journey from dedicated motherhood to influential entrepreneurship showcases the critical need for accessible and inclusive learning experiences in the corporate world. Her personal story of raising a neurodivergent child opened her eyes to the gaps in support systems for neurodivergent employees, leading her to make profound changes in corporate culture and learning environments, even within Fortune 500 companies.Rebecca shares invaluable insights into the importance of inclusive onboarding practices, emphasizing that thoughtful and proactive approaches can build a stronger bond between new hires and employers. Whether you manage a large corporation or a small business, her strategies for accommodating every employee from day one are game-changers. Rebecca's candid discussion highlights that while mistakes are part of the journey, commitment to continuous improvement and genuine support for all team members is key.Finally, we explore the innovative tools and evolving practices that are shaping a more inclusive corporate culture. From performance management to one-on-one feedback sessions, Rebecca shows how to create an environment where everyone feels valued. Practical tools like Otter AI for communication and WhoCanUse.com for color contrast are discussed, providing actionable insights for enhancing inclusivity. Tune in to discover how Rebecca's pioneering work is revolutionizing workplace inclusivity, benefiting employees, clients, and customers alike.ABOUT REBECCA Rebecca Prejean is the CEO and founder of E.B. Graphics and Consulting, specializing in instructional design, multimedia production, and accessibility-focused learning experiences. With a decade of expertise, Rebecca has become a leading advocate for inclusivity and accessibility in corporate environments, particularly focusing on creating supportive spaces for neurodivergent employees with Autism, ADHD, and Dyslexia. Her passion for driving positive change in the learning and development industry has led her to work with Fortune 500 companies, where she applies her skills to craft immersive and inclusive learning experiences for diverse audiences. As a thought leader in accessibility-focused learning, Rebecca is dedicated to empowering individuals through innovative and inclusive educational practicesLINKS & RESOURCESVisit E.B. Graphics and Consulting’s WebsiteConnect with Rebecca on LinkedInFollow E.B. Graphics and Consulting on LinkedIn

Discover how marketing entrepreneur Mary Casey transformed a canceled journalism class into a thriving business in the world of marketing! In this episode, the founder of Maxima Marketing Strategies takes us through her inspiring journey, from high school ambitions to corporate dreams, and finally to launching her own successful business. Mary’s story is a treasure trove of wisdom for anyone interested in the long-term growth and meaningful customer engagement that marketing can offer.Mary demystifies the common pitfalls and misconceptions surrounding marketing, stressing the importance of consistent and sustained efforts. Imagine marketing as your regular gym workouts—only with dedication and the right strategies can you truly see results. We dive into the power of email marketing and social media, debunking myths and showcasing real-life case studies that prove their effectiveness. Mary emphasizes a customer-centric approach, using Donald Miller's "Brand Story" to highlight the shift from pushy sales tactics to authentic communication.Get ready to rethink your marketing strategies by learning to address customer pain points and differentiate your services in a crowded market. From understanding why clients choose your business to developing grounded marketing tactics, Mary offers actionable insights that ensure sustainable growth. Tune in to gain practical tips, hear engaging stories, and discover how you can bring a more authentic and effective approach to your marketing efforts.ABOUT MARY Mary Casey started Maxima Marketing Strategies to help businesses maximize their brands and reach their business goals. A passion that started all the way back in high school, Mary has taken her love of all things marketing and turned it into a full-time business. Life is all about finding balance and doing what you love! Outside of marketing Mary is an avid runner--having just finished her third half marathon with a PR!--an amateur baker, health and wellness enthusiast, and proud dog mom! Mary enjoys meeting and connecting with fellow entrepreneurs and business owners and is always looking for something new to learn!LINKS & RESOURCESVisit Maxima Marketing Strategies’ WebsiteFollow Maxima Marketing Strategies on InstagramConnect with Mary on LinkedIn