Discover the transformative journey of Fred Gleeck, an entrepreneur who turned his setbacks into stepping stones after being fired by five Fortune 500 companies. Experience his unique blend of theater and business acumen as Fred shares how these diverse skills led him to a successful career as a professional speaker and information product creator. He stresses the importance of embracing entrepreneurship early to avoid the golden handcuffs of corporate life, while candidly discussing the hurdles and triumphs that come with this bold switch.

Gain valuable insights into the art and strategy of forming equity partnerships that thrive on mutual trust and complementary skills. Fred reveals how to transition from traditional compensation models to innovative, performance-based arrangements that benefit all stakeholders. With engaging examples and role-play scenarios, he highlights the crucial steps in building resilient partnerships, from crafting simplified equity agreements to managing financial responsibilities and exit plans akin to a business prenup.

Elevate your understanding of equity-based compensation through Fred’s 90 Day Accelerator program, designed to help clients secure meaningful equity deals. Tune in as we discuss his microbook, "Don't Scale," which advocates for achieving more with fewer clients and less stress. Fred also shares reflections on his entrepreneurial path and newfound passion for poker, offering practical advice and personal insights for listeners eager to 'fire the man' and redefine their career paths.

How to connect with fred?
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Dynamic-Equity-Integration-Coaches-Consultants-ebook/dp/B0CQ489WRL
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fredgleeck/ Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/fred.gleeck
Website: https://www.fredgleeck.com/

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Discover the secret to leveling the playing field for small businesses as we engage with Corey Clark, the visionary CEO and founder of Clark Co. Corey joins us to share his inspiring journey from the bustling world of global nonprofits and large corporations to establishing a marketing agency focused on empowering small businesses with customized marketing solutions. Learn how Corey’s innovative, data-driven strategies are giving small enterprises the tools they need to overcome budget limitations and keep pace with ever-evolving digital trends.

Personalized marketing is the key to standing out, and Corey’s agency is at the forefront of this approach. We explore how Clark Co's thorough client intake process uncovers unique challenges and opportunities, opening doors to tailored solutions that maximize ROI. Hear the success story of a physical therapy clinic that reshaped its marketing strategy, leading to significant expansion. Corey emphasizes the critical role of data in real-time strategy adjustments, ensuring businesses remain agile and competitive in a fast-paced market.

Corey also sheds light on the entrepreneurial mindset, highlighting the integration of quality data into marketing strategies to boost customer engagement and drive growth. Delve into the latest AI tools that help forge meaningful customer relationships and the importance of a positive entrepreneurial mindset. Corey shares efficient ways to connect, preferring LinkedIn and his company's ".co" domain, reinforcing the importance of strategic, cost-effective choices for small businesses. Join us for a conversation brimming with insights for anyone aspiring to elevate their business through strategic marketing.

How to connect with Clark?
Website: https://www.coreyclark.co/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TeamClarkAndCo/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/clark-co/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TeamClarkAndCo

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Join us for an enlightening conversation with Matthew Stafford, the Shopify optimization guru from Build Grow Scale, as he shares his inspiring journey from running a concrete business to making waves in the e-commerce world. Discover how Matthew transitioned to online entrepreneurship, using innovative marketing strategies like personalized ads to drive significant revenue on platforms like Shopify. His story highlights the growing importance of having a direct-to-consumer presence, especially with the challenges third-party sellers face on platforms like Amazon.

Unpack the secrets of boosting e-commerce conversions as we explore the transformative power of customer reviews and the critical role of search functionality. With over 200 reviews, a product can see dramatic improvement in conversion rates due to increased trust. Matthew and our hosts delve into how search-driven traffic converts at double the rate, emphasizing the necessity of a user-friendly interface and trust-building design elements. Learn from real-life examples like Cubcoats, where search insights led to the creation of a successful product.

Dive into the nuances of data-driven revenue optimization strategies and the power of specialization. Matthew shares how data-driven decisions can lead to improved customer interactions and increased profitability without sacrificing user experience. Discover the impact of psychological triggers in boosting sales and how engaging with customer feedback, even from negative reviews, can be pivotal in enhancing conversion rates. Matthew also shares entrepreneurial engagement opportunities and personal growth tips, rounding out a comprehensive episode packed with actionable insights for both aspiring and seasoned entrepreneurs.

How to connect with Matthew?
Website: https://buildgrowscale.com/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/build-grow-scale/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bgs_ecom_education
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BuildGrowScaleEcommEducation
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/windowsuccess

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Unlock the secrets of success on Walmart Marketplace with David Milstein, co-founder of Cellcord, as our special guest. Discover why Walmart's platform is a hidden gem in the realm of e-commerce and how it stacks up against giants like Amazon. David takes us through his fascinating entrepreneurial journey, from his time at Lebro Industries during the pandemic to establishing Cellcord, the leading agency for Walmart Marketplace success. Gain insights into the unique advantages of Walmart's less saturated space and learn about the tailored strategies that can give your brand a significant edge.

Elevate your e-commerce strategy with our deep dive into optimizing product listings. We'll guide you on how to use rich media to attract consumers and boost algorithm appeal across platforms like Walmart and Amazon. Learn the impact of compelling infographics, enhanced brand content, and the power of videos in improving conversion rates. We also break down the pricing structure for these features, giving you the tools to make informed decisions and keep your listings competitive in a crowded marketplace. 

Maximize your advertising campaigns on Walmart with data-driven insights and strategic bidding techniques. David shares expert advice on utilizing Walmart's extensive reports to optimize your keyword strategies and ad performance. Understand the transition from Amazon to Walmart, including the benefits of using Walmart Fulfillment Services, and how to anticipate and achieve strategic sales growth. We also explore pricing strategies and the opportunity for growth through Walmart's New Seller Savings program. Connect with Cellcord to explore collaboration possibilities and tap into the untapped potential of Walmart Marketplace.

How to connect with David?
Website: https://www.sellcord.co/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sellcord/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SellCord/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sellcord/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SellCord

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What inspired two Amazon entrepreneurs to take a leap of faith into podcasting, and how did a chance encounter at a St. Louis E-commerce Club set the stage for five years of captivating conversations? Tune in to discover the origins of "Firing the Man," as we reflect on our 250th episode and bid a heartfelt farewell to my co-host, Ken Wilson. Our journey started with dreams of escaping traditional jobs and transformed into a thriving platform where we shared stories of resilience, partnership, and the unpredictable adventures of entrepreneurship.

From the hilarious chaos of early mishaps—like finding sobriety more podcast-friendly than scotch—to the profound episodes that marked our growth, this milestone episode offers a nostalgic look back. Celebrate with us as we toast to Yamato whiskey, recounting pivotal moments such as episode 30's deep dive into quitting corporate jobs for entrepreneurial independence. We also spotlight the remarkable guests who've enriched our show, including industry giants like Carlos Alvarez and PPC expert Pat Lum, whose insights challenged and inspired our audience and ourselves alike.

As we embrace new beginnings, we unpack the strategies that have fueled our podcast's success: the power of consistency, the value of systems, and the irreplaceable role of accountability partners. Ken reflects on the balance between family life and entrepreneurial dreams, sharing personal growth stories and the liberating joy of owning one's time. Join us in celebrating the spirit of entrepreneurship, as we explore the key traits that define successful e-commerce entrepreneurs and look forward to continuing our journey with you in future episodes.

How to connect with ken?
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kennith-wilson/

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Kathleen Celmins, the dynamic force behind Glow Social, joins us again to share her insights gained from bridging the gap between high-ticket coaching and app development. Discover how her journey led to the creation of Glow Social, a tool designed to support solopreneurs and small businesses in maintaining a consistent social media presence. Learn why Kathleen believes that building authority through shared industry trends and personal insights is more impactful than mere company updates, and how Glow Social empowers businesses to stay engaging even on challenging days.

Uncover strategies for maximizing social media engagement, especially for niche markets like pet-related businesses. Kathleen offers practical advice on diversifying content topics and maintaining a regular posting schedule to enhance brand loyalty. Listen as we explore the pitfalls of sporadic posting and how energy management plays a crucial role in choosing the right platforms. Discover the hidden potential of Google My Business for boosting local visibility and how aligning social media efforts with personal strengths can make a significant difference.

As Kathleen takes us through the development of Glow Social, she shares the hurdles and triumphs of transitioning from digital marketing to app creation. Get a look at the app's innovative features, designed to alleviate the daily stress of content management by offering automated posting and daily content ideas. We discuss the potential impact Glow Social could have on social media managers, allowing them to serve more clients effectively. Plus, glean insights into the entrepreneurial spirit that drives e-commerce success and the disciplined actions that separate thriving businesses from those that remain stagnant.

How to connect with Kathleen?
Website: https://glowsocial.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathleencelmins/

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Episode Summary:
What if you could revolutionize your e-commerce journey and create a brand that stands out in a crowded marketplace? This episode, featuring the incredible Norm Farrar—better known as the Beard Guy—promises to inspire seasoned entrepreneurs and newcomers alike. With decades of experience under his belt, Norm shares his remarkable path from running a promotional goods company to becoming a trailblazer in the e-commerce industry during the internet's early days. His insights reveal how saying "yes" to challenges and leveraging technology allowed him to pioneer print-on-demand services and navigate outsourcing to China and India with finesse.

Listeners will learn the crucial tactics for launching a successful product on Amazon, as Norm breaks down the importance of starting small and learning from failures. He emphasizes the power of professional product presentation, from high-quality photography to optimizing listings, and the necessity of maintaining a strong brand identity. Norm's advice highlights the value of cohesive branding in building trust and credibility, aiming to guide aspiring sellers through common pitfalls with strategic foresight and attention to detail.

The episode doesn't stop there—it also explores strategies for scaling an e-commerce brand. Norm discusses the role of community building, leveraging micro-influencers, and the potential of TikTok and other platforms to strengthen a brand's presence. Through compelling case studies, he demonstrates how strategic branding and packaging can transform a product's market position. Finally, Norm shares his insights on entrepreneurial resilience, underscoring the freedom and creativity that come with being your own boss and the perseverance needed to succeed in the dynamic e-commerce landscape. Join us for a conversation that promises to enlighten and energize your e-commerce ventures.

Connect with Norm:

• Website: @LunchWithNorm | @MarketingMisfits
• Sourcing Company: https://honuworldwide.com/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/normanfarrar/?originalSubdomain=ca
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjipr2jQk45rt9ZOwGo10yg

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Join us for an inspiring conversation with Trevor Lubiens, a dynamic creative who transitioned from the basketball courts of college coaching to the pulsating heart of Nashville's music scene, before founding his own innovative agency, Conflux Creative. Trevor's journey is a masterclass in adaptability and creativity, highlighting how his diverse experiences in music, graphic design, and leadership roles have shaped his unique approach to storytelling and marketing. Discover how Trevor navigated the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic while serving as the Director of Worship, Arts, and Communication at a large church in Idaho, and learn about his passion for storytelling through impactful projects like the documentary "I'll Push You."

We unlock the secrets to successful marketing with Trevor's insights on the art of storytelling and problem-solving, especially when it comes to marketing physical products. He shares invaluable advice on effective communication with video editors to craft compelling content and discusses the founding of Conflux Creative alongside his collaborator Abigail. Their collaboration underscores the importance of complementary skills, blending social media expertise with client relationship management to drive the agency's success. This conversation is a treasure trove of practical strategies for anyone looking to elevate their marketing efforts through creativity and entrepreneurship.

Explore the dynamic world of professional content creation as Trevor outlines the differences between DIY projects and engaging a professional agency like Conflux Creative. From the agency's three-phase process of discovery, design, and delivery, to strategies for capturing shrinking attention spans, Trevor provides actionable insights for creating engaging content. With a versatile range of services in video, photography, branding, and graphic design, Conflux Creative is poised to help clients advance along their buyer's journey. Don't miss our exploration of how professional storytelling can transform your brand and captivate audiences in a competitive market.

Resources Mentioned:

• Conflux Creative – Video and Photography Agency
• Trevor’s Instagram: @confluxcreative
• Book: Red Rising Trilogy by Pierce Brown
• Tools: Video editing software, iPhone for DIY filming

Connect with Trevor:

• Website: conflux-creative.com
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/conflux-creative/about/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/conflux.creative/

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Episode Summary:
Discover the secrets of e-commerce mastery with Parag Mamnani, founder and CEO of WebGility, as he shares his journey from a computer science graduate during the dot-com bust to a leading figure in e-commerce automation. Parag opens up about the critical challenges e-commerce businesses face today, such as financial reconciliation across multiple platforms and cash flow management, and how WebGility is revolutionizing the way businesses operate. Learn how to harness the power of data-driven decision-making and customer feedback, strategies Parag honed during his time at Amazon, to improve operational excellence and achieve sustainable business growth.

Explore the nuances of selling on platforms like Amazon, understanding deductions and fees, and how these elements can impact your revenue. We unpack the intricacies of expanding to new markets, including the challenges of currency fluctuations and the importance of mastering one sales channel before venturing into others. Whether you're looking to leverage marketplaces or build an independent brand, automation emerges as the key to efficiently managing multiple sales channels and uncovering hidden growth opportunities. Through insightful discussions, we highlight how e-commerce entrepreneurs can streamline operations and enhance profitability.

The episode also delves into the transformative potential of AI in e-commerce, exploring how emerging technologies are set to change the landscape. From AI-driven interactions to the challenges faced by small businesses in maintaining financial clarity amidst evolving fee structures, we cover it all. Parag's story is a testament to resilience and innovation in entrepreneurship, offering listeners invaluable lessons on the attributes that distinguish successful entrepreneurs. This episode promises to equip you with the tools and insights to optimize your e-commerce operations and pave the way to success in the digital marketplace.

Resources Mentioned:

• Webgility – E-commerce automation platform
• Book: The Art of Living by Epictetus

Connect with Parag Mamnani:

• Website: https://www.webgility.com/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/webgility/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/webgilityinc/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0hLo8JM9BAOeLGK_aVWqFA
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@webgility
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/webgility

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Episode Summary:
 
Join us as military veteran turned entrepreneur Amy Wees takes us on a journey from her Air Force days to becoming a powerhouse in the world of e-commerce. Discover how a simple need to tackle her pets' litter box odor led Amy down a path of innovation, resulting in a successful product that changed the game for her and many others. With a focus on creativity and resilience, Amy reveals the pivotal moments that shaped her entrepreneurial spirit and empowered her to assist other budding business owners through her consultancy, Amazing at Home.

Amy doesn't just share her story; she offers valuable lessons on product development and profitability. From the art of validating ideas with real market feedback to the nuances of building a working prototype, Amy provides a roadmap for turning concepts into viable products. Learn how to navigate the complex landscape of supplier negotiations, likened to the stages of dating, and the critical steps in forming lasting partnerships with manufacturers. Her expertise is a treasure trove for anyone looking to make their mark in the industry.

Beyond the technicalities of business, Amy delves into the mindset needed to thrive in e-commerce. She discusses effective marketing strategies and the importance of community building, emphasizing the psychological elements that drive consumer decisions. Amy's personal interests, like bodybuilding and Krav Maga, offer a glimpse into the grit and determination that fuel her success. Tune in for an enriching conversation packed with insights, and be inspired by Amy's passion for helping others succeed.

Resources Mentioned:

• Amazing at Home Website
• Books:
  • The Inner Work (Personal growth book that changed Amy's life)
• Platforms:
  • Amazing at Home YouTube
  • Amazing at Home Facebook Group

Conect with Amy Wees

• Website: https://www.amazingathome.com/about/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amazingathome/
• X, Formerly known as Twitter: https://x.com/amazingathome
• Insta: https://www.instagram.com/amazingathome
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/amazingathome/

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