What do you do when the world shuts down 10 days after you launch your dream business?
In today’s episode of the Leaders Across America podcast, Steve Acorn catches up with Simon Fraser, a standout leader in the Young Entrepreneurs Across America program back in 2013-2015, and now the founder of Headlamp Studios, a Utah-based video production company. Simon first joined YEAA as a student at Ohio State, running a $60K branch his rookie year and scaling to over $750K in sales as a GM. But this conversation is about what came next—and how he built a business (and a life) from the ground up.
Simon opens up about leaving his job at a video company in Charleston, moving across the country, and launching Headlamp just before the pandemic hit. He shares what it was like to go from freelance survival to leading a team of 15+ contractors, working with brands like Microsoft and Aspen Valley Hospital, and producing documentaries that light him up creatively. He also reflects on how the YEAA program gave him more than skills—it gave him the mindset to keep going when things got hard.
From sharing a Jeep Wrangler with his brother to building a values-first creative agency, Simon’s story is packed with practical insight, honesty, and inspiration for anyone trying to create something meaningful on their own terms.
If you've enjoyed this episode of the Leaders Across America podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today!
Enjoy!
In This Episode You'll Learn:
-
How Simon started over in a new city—and new industry—during COVID
-
Why being scrappy early on taught him to lead with creativity, not ego
-
How he scaled Headlamp Studios while staying true to his values
-
Why entrepreneurship isn’t about speed, but about staying in the game
-
The surprising ways the YEAA program still shows up in Simon’s business
-
Why self-awareness might be the most important skill you gain in this program
-
Why Simon chose flexibility and fulfillment over fast growth
-
And much more…
Guest Bio:
Simon Fraser is the founder and CEO of Headlamp Studios, a creative video production company based in Utah. A graduate of the Young Entrepreneurs Across America program, Simon scaled his student painting business to over $240K before joining the YEAA team full-time. After a few years in commercial video, he launched Headlamp Studios in 2020, where he leads a team of contractors and creatives producing ads, brand films, and documentaries for clients like Microsoft, Firestone, and Aspen Valley Hospital. Simon’s work has been featured in multiple film festivals, and his company is known for its grassroots, story-first approach.
Resources:
YEAA Website
Leaders Across America
100 | CEO Steve Acorn Tells His Story
Connect with Simon on LinkedIn
Headlamp-Studios.com
Disclaimer:
The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Leaders Across America podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Listeners should consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to their situation. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that any reliance on the content is at your own risk.
