Jeff's big fail... and how he recovered to launch a multimillion dollar business.

The Massive Failure that Launched My Business - The Launch Life With Jeff Walker Episode #7

I’m Jeff Walker, creator of Product Launch Formula® – THE formula that has generated over $1 billion in online sales.

I started my first online business in 1996 while I was a stay-at-home dad, and I’ve been teaching online marketing since 2003. Tens of thousands of students around the world – in hundreds of niches – have used my step-by-step methods to start and grow thriving online businesses.

In Dare to Launch, Chris Saunders and I will be having in-depth conversations about what’s working – and what’s not working – in online business. Listen in and learn from amazing entrepreneurs who are in the trenches building incredible businesses – while living the #launchlife.

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Join your hosts Chris Saunders and Jeff Walker in welcoming Michael Maidens to the podcast this week! Michael is an entrepreneur, educator, and lifestyle creator. He also happens to be an incredibly skilled tennis instructor, and you’ll see why that’s worth mentioning shortly! Over the years, Michael has shepherded over 90 successful launches, helping all kinds of businesses, projects, and products get off the ground. In today’s episode, Chris and Jeff dig into Michael’s specialty: authenticity online. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the boom of the online knowledge-based economy, flocks of coaches, specialists, and creators have turned to developing coaching platforms. And in this increasingly crowded space, the key to standing out is all about showing the world exactly who you are through authentic marketing. As Michael sees it, there’s a bit of bravery required. Being your true authentic self online can be intimidating, but at the end of the day, all you really have to distinguish yourself from the pack is...you! Sure, there might be 50 other folks offering coaching for your expertise, but none of them are exactly like you. Leaning into your authentic self, and infusing that individuality into your marketing copy and your offer, is the key. There will be some roadblocks and risks along the way. And with this self-revelation often comes a fear of rejection. “What if people don’t like my true self?” That’s where bravery comes in. You have to keep trying. If you don’t succeed right out of the gate, the timing could be off! Or perhaps your copy just isn’t fully aligned with your personality. The more time you spend refining your offer and your copy to reveal your authentic self, the closer you’ll get to where you need to be. Above all, Michael preaches the importance of focusing on outcomes in your offer. We can’t just tell people how many videos or workbooks they’ll get with our services. People need a promise of what they will become at the end of the process. And if you can make that promise so exciting that people genuinely want to share it, you’re on the right track. For the Bonus Discussion with Michael: Text: BONUS2 to 1(888)-530-0282 Key topics discussed:    Michael’s’ Story: How he went from a tennis pro to a visionary entrepreneur and how the lessons he learned from tennis apply to his work today.   The Current Online Landscape: How our online arena has become ultra-competitive and what we can do to stand out.    The Product Launch Formula Effect: Jeff and Michael discuss how they met, how their relationship has grown, and how our live events and masterminds have impacted Michael’s journey.    Michael’s First Huge Success: Michael explains how a hugely successful documentary launch taught him a million lessons about marketing and set him on the right path. Plus, Jeff and Chris remind him that he accidentally invented the standard for documentary marketing.    Jeff’s Experience with Authenticity Online: Jeff walks us through the humble beginnings of his online newsletter in 1996 and how he learned the true value of authenticity.    Key takeaways:    Authenticity makes up for credentials. When you’re getting started, you might not have the necessary credentials to compete with other players. But what you do have is your personality and your individual perspective. Lean into that.    Authenticity is the most sustainable mode of communication in marketing. When you’re not forcing anything, your marketing will feel natural. You’re not ending your livestream or your webinar feeling like a fraud or a trickster. You just continue being yourself!    We don’t need to sell to everyone. No matter what your specific makeup might be as a person, there is an audience of people who want to hear from you.    Imposter syndrome is healthy. It’s a sign that you have heart, empathy, and you’re not blinded by arrogance. Reframe it as a gift.   Visualize the outcomes you want your customers to get, and then pull from your knowledge only the most essential bits of information. Don’t cram everything you’ve ever learned into your offer; curate a specialized experience.   Where to find Michael Maidens: Learn all about Michael and his courses here: www.michaelmaidens.com Resources Referenced in the episode:  PLF Platinum Plus Mastermind PLF Live JeffWalker.com Product Launch Formula - jeffwalker.com/programs/product-launch-formula Jeff’s book Launch - jeffwalker.com/programs/book-launch Got a question for us?  Go to DaretoLaunchShow.com to submit a voicemail with your question, and you might hear the answer on one of our next episodes! THANKS FOR TUNING IN! If you enjoyed this week’s show, don’t forget to hit the “follow” button. Not only is it totally free, it guarantees you never miss out on future episodes. Think you know someone who would enjoy this episode? Do them a favor and share it with them. Also, please consider leaving us a quick review. It only takes a few seconds, but your review makes all the difference in helping us get the show out to more business owners. And who knows… we might even read your review on the show!

Marketing Your Authentic Self with Michael Maidens

Episode Overview: In this episode of "Dare to Launch," hosts Chris Saunders and Jeff Walker are joined by Mike Michalowicz. Mike is an entrepreneur, keynote speaker, and author known for his innovative approaches to profitable business practices. His latest book, "All In," focuses on creating and leading high-performing teams. We’re big fans of Mike’s work and this new book is no exception. In today’s episode, Chris and Jeff pick Mike’s brain on his secret to employee training and development in 2024. Mike’s success has everything to do with the way he’s treated his employees over the years, and while his methodology might seem straightforward, it’s actually pretty revolutionary in solving employee retention issues. And it works! When Mike walks into the office, his employees don’t suddenly go dead quiet. And that’s because he builds a safe, comfortable dynamic with his team. He’s realized over time that when we force employees to comply, they will seek to defy. We need to redefine our relationships with our employees and understand how supporting their individual goals and happiness is beneficial for everyone involved. If we trust and support them, they’ll do the same for us. Mike has implemented key strategies to help his employees grow through his companies, often to the point where they end up evolving out of their current roles and moving onto new opportunities. And this is actually a net positive for any company as Mike sees it! The best way to get your team to buy into your goals is to support their goals on an individual level. Company growth and employee growth should operate in tandem, and Mike has tons of fun stories to show how and why that’s the case.  For the Bonus Discussion with Mike on “Hiring based on potential” TEXT: Bonus1 to 1(888) 530-0282  Get other bonuses & goodies in the Dare to Launch Bonus Vault at DaretoLaunchShow.com/taco  Key Topics Discussed:   Mike Michalowicz's Background: Introduction of Mike as the force behind several multi-million dollar companies and the author of influential books like "Profit First" and "All In."   The Genesis of "All In": How the challenges of the pandemic led Mike to prioritize writing "All In," focusing on overcoming difficulties in team dynamics, such as recruiting issues and the shift from desired to demanded workplace flexibility.   Leadership and Learning: Mike discusses his journey from struggling leader to a more competent one, emphasizing that the best leaders often teach what they need to learn themselves.   Employee Dreams and Aspirations: The importance of understanding and nurturing employees' individual dreams to inspire and retain top talent. Mike shares practical steps and examples of how to implement this in any business.   Cultural and Tactical Adjustments for Remote Teams: Strategies for maintaining a strong team culture and high engagement, even with remote team members.   Real-Life Examples from Mike's Experience: Mike shares anecdotes, including a memorable moment involving unconventional underwear choices during a critical business operation.   Key Takeaways    Many people in the workforce have forgotten how to dream. We need to relearn the capacity to dream. Understand your employees’ dreams and figure out how to attach them to the work that they’re doing.    The typical mindset is “Do what you need to do at work. Your life is your life.” We’ve transcended that in 2024. What you do at work should help you progress your life goals.    Helping your employees get to the next level means that they might leave you. But that’s a good thing! Great leaders help people in their growth towards what they really want to do. It’s a fluid experience through the company.    If you treat employees well, they’ll put the word out for you when they leave.    We need to hire employees based on their potential. You don’t need to be looking for people who are rockstars now, you want to find the people who will be rockstars very soon.    Where to Find Mike Michalowicz: Learn more about Mike and access free resources at MikeMotorbike.com Resources Referenced in the episode   Jeff refers to Glass Ceiling but it was actually GlassDoor.com    All In: How Great Leaders Build Unstoppable Teams by Mike Michalowicz   The Dream Manager by Matthew Kelly    Got a question for us?  Go to DaretoLaunchShow.com to submit a voicemail with your question, and you might hear the answer on one of our next episodes! Learn how to build an email list and launch your own business online with Launch Quickstart – our free training at https://jeffwalker.com/  THANKS FOR TUNING IN! Think you know someone who would enjoy this episode? Do them a favor and share it with them.  If you enjoyed this week’s show, don’t forget to hit the “follow” button. Not only is it totally free, it guarantees you never miss out on future episodes. Also, please consider leaving us a quick review. It only takes a few seconds, but your review makes all the difference in helping our Launch Family and get bigger and better guests! And who knows… we might even read your review on the show!

Building Unstoppable Teams with Mike Michalowicz

Join us for this enlightening episode of "Dare to Launch," where your hosts Chris Saunders and Jeff Walker dive deep into the recent buzz around the potential TikTok ban in the U.S. Congress. Amidst uncertainties and concerns, this episode sheds light on what the potential ban means for entrepreneurs, influencers, and the digital landscape at large. In this episode, Chris and Jeff discuss:   The background of the TikTok ban and its implications for data privacy and national security, comparing U.S. and Chinese regulations on business data sharing   The potential impacts on businesses, influencers, and users who rely heavily on TikTok for marketing, engagement, and community building   Strategies for entrepreneurs and TikTok influencers to navigate the potential ban – including diversifying platforms and building more resilient business models   The importance of building an audience you own, focusing on email lists and direct communication channels as more stable assets in your business toolkit   Jeff shares insights from his extensive experience in digital marketing – emphasizing adaptability, resilience, and the power of building strong relationships within the industry   Chris and Jeff explore the broader implications of social media platforms' lifecycle, the inevitability of change, and how to prepare for and adapt to these shifts   Key takeaways:   The "TikTok ban": Understanding the potential ban, its current status, and what it could mean for users and businesses alike   Diversification and adaptability: The critical importance of not relying solely on one platform for your business or personal brand   Building your asset: Why your email list is your most valuable asset and how to grow it effectively   Navigating change: How to remain resilient and adaptable in the face of platform changes and bans.   Resources Mentioned:    TikTok user statistics    Learn how to build an email list and launch your own business online with Launch Quickstart – our free training at https://jeffwalker.com/    Share this Episode - DaretoLaunchShow.com/60 Got a question for us?  Go to DaretoLaunchShow.com to submit a voicemail with your question, and you might hear the answer on one of our next episodes! THANKS FOR TUNING IN! If you enjoyed this week’s show, don’t forget to hit the “follow” button. Not only is it totally free, it guarantees you never miss out on future episodes. Think you know someone who would enjoy this episode? Do them a favor and share it with them. Also, please consider leaving us a quick review. It only takes a few seconds, but your review makes all the difference in helping us get the show out to more business owners. And who knows… we might even read your review on the show!  

The TikTok Ban: Strategies to thrive in uncertain times

What happens when you put 30 brilliant business people in the same room? Or make that 100+ amazing business owners at an event? You get seriously inspired – and pick up some of the latest launch strategies and tactics  – that’s what! Co-hosts Jeff Walker and Chris Saunders are joined by Dan Walker to talk about their biggest  takeaways from Jeff’s most recent events: Platinum Plus Mastermind, Launch Club Mastermind, and LCx. You’ll learn about mindset, AI, “good marketing,” and a harsh truth about being a leader. They’ll share the most common mistakes business owners tend to make in their launches, courses, and sales pages. You’ll also hear:  What happens at high-end mastermind meetings (Jeff walks you through how he structures his meetings, including why he NEVER has any content in the first session) How creating a little “friendly competition” amongst your customers can deliver you a ton of social proof How one member of Jeff’s mastermind DOUBLED her launch… by delivering LESS content Why none of the folks in Jeff’s masterminds are worried about AI killing their businesses The most common problems Dan spotted during a copywriting workshop… and how to fix them How eliminating friction points and creating “level 10” experiences can help you build an audience of raving fans What feeling nervous and anxious before you step on stage really means… and how to take action regardless of how you feel How Jeff closed his big event on a “high note” (this was easily the most terrifying thing he’s ever done live on stage)  … and more.     Mentioned in this episode: Jeff Walker Product Launch Formula Jeff’s book, Launch Jeff’s YouTube channel SageHub.com Previous episode - From Selling to Serving: Bari Baumgardner on Live Events and Creating High-Ticket Offers Previous episode - Cracking the Copywriting Code – Words That Create Action Susan Garrett  ChatGPT Justin Livingston  Jason Friedman   Share this Episode - DaretoLaunchShow.com/59     THANKS FOR TUNING IN! If you enjoyed this week’s show, don’t forget to hit the “follow” button. Not only is it totally free, it guarantees you never miss out on future episodes. Think you know someone who would enjoy this episode? Do them a favor and share it with them. Also, please consider leaving us a quick review. It only takes a few seconds but your review makes all the difference in helping us get the show out to more business owners. And who knows… we might even read your review on the show!

Inside the Experience: Lessons and Takeaways From Jeff Walker’s Latest Live Events

Join us for this exciting new podcast episode featuring Bari Baumgardner, a trailblazing live event management expert, as she unveils her incredible journey from starting a "just until" business with a handful of business cards to building a seven-figure event empire.  Bari takes us through the genesis of Sage Event Management, the transition to digital events, and the democratization of event hosting in the past three years.  Discover the future of live events, the psychology behind creating high-ticket offers, and Bari's three-day live event structure that guides customers on the perfect customer journey. You’ll also learn how to shift from selling to serving, master objection handling, and the importance of a supportive community in your entrepreneurial journey.  Also, on this week’s show:  Bari walks you through her “A.C.E.R.I.M.” process for putting together high-ticket – and high-converting – offers (this is the same process Bari showed me when I invited her to my Secret Headquarters to help me create Launch Club) The inspiring story of how Bari turned a “just until…” side hustle into a 7-figure business Bari reveals why you don’t need a crystal clear vision before you start How a live event helps you serve more people and sell more high-ticket offers (especially if you’re not a natural salesperson) The FIVE universal buying objections every entrepreneur faces when asking for the sale… and how to handle them in a way that serves your audience How to know when you’re ready to host a live event Bari discusses how to know if you’re ready to do a live event of your own and one of the biggest misconceptions people have about running an event, while also revealing the three-step buyer psychology process that she uses to structure her events and high-ticket offers The three-word phrase you should use when dealing with a logical buyer Why well-meaning, loving, and supportive friends and family members can keep you stuck (and why every entrepreneur needs a cheerleader) Chris reveals his first-ever Launchpad conversation and how his first sales appointment on Jeff’s team went The “3x3 PAG” – the live event formula Bari and her team use for the world’s biggest entrepreneurs to maximize impact and sales   … and much more.     Claim your bonus content from this episode, go to DaretoLaunchShow.com/taco   Mentioned in this episode: Jeff Walker Product Launch Formula Jeff’s book, Launch Jeff’s YouTube channel SageHub.com   Share this Episode - DaretoLaunchShow.com/58     THANKS FOR TUNING IN! If you enjoyed this week’s show, don’t forget to hit the “follow” button. Not only is it totally free, it guarantees you never miss out on future episodes. Think you know someone who would enjoy this episode? Do them a favor and share it with them. Also, please consider leaving us a quick review. It only takes a few seconds but your review makes all the difference in helping us get the show out to more business owners. And who knows… we might even read your review on the show!

The Massive Failure that Launched My Business - The Launch Life With Jeff Walker Episode #7

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