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Rethinking Corporate Gifting with AI (MessengerCo CEO & Co-Founder, Heaster Andrea Hilary)
Navigating the Corporate Gifting Landscape: Insights from Hester, CEO of Messenger Co
In this episode of Paranoid Founders, Michelle speaks with Heaster, co-founder and CEO of Messenger Co., a company revolutionizing the corporate gifting industry. Hester shares her journey, starting with a personal project that went viral, leading to the launch of Messenger Co. with just RM1,000.
Despite initial challenges and operating as a side hustle, the business saw rapid growth, reaching seven figures in revenue within 13 months. Hester discusses the company's evolution, from personalized gifts to an AI-driven procurement platform, addressing supply chain issues and offering transparent pricing.
The conversation highlights key challenges such as scaling, managing growing pains, and hiring, along with Hester's insights on leveraging AI, building a sustainable business, and fostering a resilient mindset. Additionally, they explore leadership styles, managing people, and overcoming burnout while staying true to core values and long-term goals.
00:00 Introduction to Paranoid Founders
00:46 Hester's Personal Journey and the Birth of Messenger Co.
02:09 Scaling Challenges and Corporate Gifting Market
04:28 Innovative Solutions and AI Integration
06:42 Global Expansion and Supplier Collaboration
11:13 The Role of AI in Business Transformation
14:49 Practical AI Tools for Small Businesses
22:59 User Experience and Platform Development
23:37 AI Integration and Customer Interaction
24:10 Leveraging Multiple Platforms
24:34 The Importance of Innovation
25:30 Team Structure and Roles
26:19 Leadership and Management Insights
28:44 Personal Growth and Leadership Challenges
32:54 Burnout and Work-Life Balance
36:42 Paranoia and Cashflow Concerns
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By ContingentNavigating the Corporate Gifting Landscape: Insights from Hester, CEO of Messenger Co
In this episode of Paranoid Founders, Michelle speaks with Heaster, co-founder and CEO of Messenger Co., a company revolutionizing the corporate gifting industry. Hester shares her journey, starting with a personal project that went viral, leading to the launch of Messenger Co. with just RM1,000.
Despite initial challenges and operating as a side hustle, the business saw rapid growth, reaching seven figures in revenue within 13 months. Hester discusses the company's evolution, from personalized gifts to an AI-driven procurement platform, addressing supply chain issues and offering transparent pricing.
The conversation highlights key challenges such as scaling, managing growing pains, and hiring, along with Hester's insights on leveraging AI, building a sustainable business, and fostering a resilient mindset. Additionally, they explore leadership styles, managing people, and overcoming burnout while staying true to core values and long-term goals.
00:00 Introduction to Paranoid Founders
00:46 Hester's Personal Journey and the Birth of Messenger Co.
02:09 Scaling Challenges and Corporate Gifting Market
04:28 Innovative Solutions and AI Integration
06:42 Global Expansion and Supplier Collaboration
11:13 The Role of AI in Business Transformation
14:49 Practical AI Tools for Small Businesses
22:59 User Experience and Platform Development
23:37 AI Integration and Customer Interaction
24:10 Leveraging Multiple Platforms
24:34 The Importance of Innovation
25:30 Team Structure and Roles
26:19 Leadership and Management Insights
28:44 Personal Growth and Leadership Challenges
32:54 Burnout and Work-Life Balance
36:42 Paranoia and Cashflow Concerns