I sat down with Stacy Huston, the Executive Director of SixDegrees.org, and it was one of those talks that completely re-shapes how you think about business, purpose, and impact. Stacy and the Six Degrees team have already found it, and they’re showing everyone how to make it happen.

A New Model for Corporate Social Responsibility

Stacy talked about how the non-profit world is moving beyond the traditional "check-in-the-box" approach to corporate social responsibility (CSR) and into something much more powerful: a model of "hyper-local philanthropy." It’s not just about donating a lump sum to a national charity. It's about empowering businesses to make a real, tangible impact in their own communities. The ‘pie’ of money is not getting bigger year over year — more non-profits are being launched while the donation dollars stay stagnant or declining.

How can you break through the noise?

Think of it like this:

* Beyond the "Big Brand" Mentality: Instead of a company like Starbucks simply donating to a large, global foundation, Stacy and her team work with brands to create tailored, local initiatives. Imagine a Starbucks store in a specific neighborhood partnering directly with a local youth center, not just financially, but by having employees volunteer, host events, and become part of the community fabric.

* The Power of Storytelling: A key part of SixDegrees.org's strategy is helping non-profits tell their stories. This isn't just fluffy marketing; it's about making the impact visible and emotional and breaking through the media algorithms. Businesses like Bell Bank have partnered with Six Degrees to create content that highlights the good their CSR efforts are doing on the ground. This not only inspires other businesses, but it also creates a strong, authentic brand story that resonates with customers far more than a generic ad campaign.

* Advertising Week and the Power of Purpose: Stacey highlighted the work SixDegrees.org is doing with Advertising Week on a new initiative called "Purpose, Produced." It’s a groundbreaking program where they've paired a group of deserving non-profits with some of the world's top advertising agencies to create full-scale, pro-bono marketing campaigns. The goal is to give these small organizations the kind of high-level brand exposure that's typically reserved for major corporations.

* Amplifying Grassroots Causes: Sixdegrees.org focuses its efforts on small, community-based non-profits, specifically those with less than $3 million in revenue. Their mission is to empower these organizations that are often overlooked by larger funders and to help them scale their impact by giving them a powerful platform. Their focus is on four key areas: youth empowerment, justice and equality, sustainable environments, and emergent issues.

* Purpose as a Product: Stacy mentioned how businesses are starting to realize that their core product or service can be a tool for good. This is similar to what we're seeing from companies like Patagonia, where environmental leadership is built into the business model itself, or TOMS, which birthed the "buy one, give one" model. SixDegrees.org helps companies find that unique way their business can be a force for positive change. Again, doing good WHILE doing well :).

The Six Degrees Origin Story

If you're wondering where the name comes from, it's all thanks to Hollywood icon Kevin Bacon. He founded SixDegrees.org in 2007 on the principle that everyone is in need of human connection and that we can all be "celebrities for our own causes." The idea, of course, plays on the popular "Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon" game. Kevin reframed the game and turned it into a powerful, global movement for good. He's still actively involved as the organization's chair, using his unique platform and celebrity to champion the work of grassroots non-profits.

This episode was a total wake-up call. It's not about being a giant corporation to make an impact; it's about being strategic, authentic, and connected to your local community. I left the episode feeling so motivated to think differently about how my own work can contribute. You should definitely check it out and see what you think.

To learn more about their mission and programs, visit SixDegrees.org

School is back! And if you love being a student then you’ll love this episode!

For any entrepreneur or investor, the story of O2 Hydration is a masterclass in building a brand with both purpose and a powerful market strategy.

In a recent interview I had with co-founder Dave Colina, he shared the unfiltered journey from a side project born of personal necessity to a thriving CPG (Consumer Packaged Goods) brand. His story is a powerful reminder that a strong "why" and a deep connection with your community can be one of the most valuable assets a company can have.

Key Takeaways for Entrepreneurs and Investors

* The Power of a "Why": O2 Hydration was founded on a personal need for a healthier alternative to sugary sports drinks. This authentic origin story created a mission-driven brand from day one, which resonated deeply with a specific audience—the CrossFit community. The lesson here is that a business built on a genuine need or passion is often more resilient and relatable than one built on a trend.

* Community is Your Moat: While many brands focus on product differentiation, O2 Hydration found its true competitive advantage in its community. By adopting a "channel-first" marketing strategy, the brand's early growth was fueled by partnerships with local gyms. This allowed them to build a loyal customer base and drive online sales through a powerful word-of-mouth network, proving that a dedicated community can be a more effective barrier to entry than any single product feature.

* Values Are Your North Star: Dave shared that O2 Hydration's core principles—honesty, humility, and hustle—are more than just buzzwords; they are printed on every can and guide major business decisions. This commitment to values was most apparent during the COVID-19 pandemic when they launched the "Stay for May" campaign, offering gift cards to gym members who kept their memberships active. This act of "doing good" not only helped their community but also led to a significant boost in online sales, demonstrating that a commitment to positive social impact can be a powerful business driver.

* The Path to Retail is a Marathon, Not a Sprint: A common mistake for early-stage CPG brands is entering the retail market too soon. Dave advises that a brand should aim for strong brand awareness and at least $10 million in revenue before making this leap. His experience highlights the importance of mastering product marketing, positioning, and packaging before scaling to a wider audience, ensuring that your brand is ready to compete on a larger stage.

* Positioning is the Real Differentiator: While O2 Hydration’s initial product was differentiated by its oxygen-infusion technology, the company found more success by leaning into its clean, low-sugar, and great-tasting qualities. Dave emphasizes that a brand's moat is often created through marketing and positioning, not just the product itself. The ability to tell a compelling story and position your product correctly is what truly sets you apart in a crowded market. We live in a fragmented world — how will you break through?

* Learn and Adapt Quickly: The entrepreneurial journey is full of unknowns. Dave's advice to new entrepreneurs is to learn as fast as possible, seek out mentors, and surround yourself with a peer network. He co-founded CPG FastTrack, an online community that helps early-stage entrepreneurs get qualified advice and build their networks. This reinforces the idea that an agile mindset and a willingness to learn are crucial for navigating the challenges of building a successful business. It also reinforces the ethos of ‘doing good while doing well.’

The full episode is available on your favorite podcast listening platform.

Let me know what insight, tip, or advice Dave shared resonated with you.

Are you a founder navigating the choppy waters of startup growth or a senior executive at the helm of a well-established company?

In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, the ability to lead with courage and clarity is more critical than ever. WeGotThis.org’s Founder (show friend and supporter) Elissa Kalver and I recently sat down with Ryan Berman (part of my ‘Worthy for Thirty is in LA’ series), founder of Courageous, a consultancy that helps Fortune 500 companies unlock their "courageous quotient," to extract vital lessons for leaders like you.

Check out and pre-order Ryan’s upcoming book, Headamentals.

This episode is a must-listen primer for anyone looking to build resilient teams, foster genuine connections, and drive meaningful impact.

Found below, I’m breaking out what I believe are salient takeaways from our conversation, complete with contemporary examples and concrete action steps to help you lead more courageously:

1. Cultivate a Shared Purpose Beyond Profit

In an era where employees, especially the younger generation, seek more than just a paycheck, a clear, shared organizational purpose is your North Star. As Ryan emphasizes, this purpose unites your team and fuels their passion.

* Contemporary Example: Patagonia's unwavering commitment to environmental activism isn't just a marketing ploy; it pervades its business model and resonates profoundly with its customer base and employees, making it a purpose-driven powerhouse.

* Action Step: Beyond your mission statement, clearly articulate the "why" behind your organization's existence. In your next all-hands meeting or ELT meeting, dedicate time to discuss how each team's work contributes to this larger purpose, making it tangible and personal for everyone.

2. Build Transparent Teams that Embrace "Tough Love"

Courageous leadership demands clear and honest communication, even when it's uncomfortable. Creating an environment where constructive feedback is not only accepted but encouraged is vital for growth and problem-solving.

* Contemporary Example: Netflix's culture of "radical candor" is a well-known example. While sometimes intense, this direct feedback loop is designed to accelerate individual and organizational learning, ensuring issues are addressed swiftly and effectively.

* Action Step: Implement a "feedback Friday" or a dedicated "courageous conversations" slot in your weekly leadership meetings. Encourage leaders to share one piece of constructive feedback they've received and one they've given, modeling the behavior for their teams. And make sure the feedback is shared throughout the company.

3. Strategically Invest Your "Courage Currency"

You can't be courageous all the time, nor should you try. Ryan advises identifying a few critical moments where leaning into discomfort and making a bold decision will yield the most significant impact.

* Contemporary Example: When Satya Nadella took the helm at Microsoft, he made the courageous decision to pivot away from a "Windows-first" mentality to a "cloud-first, mobile-first" strategy, alienating some traditionalists but ultimately revitalizing the company's growth. This was a strategic investment of courage in a key moment.

* Action Step: Identify one major strategic decision or challenge your organization faces this quarter. As a leadership team, pinpoint where a courageous, unconventional approach might break through stagnation, then allocate your focus and resources to that specific "courageous moment."

4. Lead with Authenticity to Avoid Transactional Relationships

In a world increasingly fatigued by corporate speak, genuine leadership stands out. If employees don't trust their leaders, the relationship quickly reduces to a purely transactional exchange, stifling innovation and loyalty.

* Contemporary Example: Many admired tech leaders, like HubSpot's co-founders, are known for their transparent communication, often sharing personal struggles and learnings, which fosters a deep sense of trust and loyalty among their employees.

* Action Step: Share a personal learning or challenge you've recently overcome in a team communication or leadership meeting. Demonstrate vulnerability and authenticity, inviting others to connect with you on a human level rather than just a professional one. EQ > IQ!

5. Embrace Continuous Adaptability and Evolution

The only constant in business is change. Leaders must act as "detectives," constantly examining and re-examining strategies, remaining flexible, and adapting swiftly to new information and market shifts.

* Contemporary Example: Companies like Amazon exemplify continuous adaptation, constantly experimenting with new services and technologies (from e-commerce to cloud computing, and now AI) and quickly pivoting away from what doesn't work, maintaining their market leadership.

* Action Step: Dedicate 15 minutes weekly to scan industry trends or disruptors outside your immediate niche. Challenge your team to identify one potential future shift that could impact your business and brainstorm proactive steps, fostering a mindset of continuous vigilance and adaptation. Set up Google Alerts, or use Perplexity.Ai for deep research

This is just a glimpse into the profound insights Ryan Berman shares in the full episode. To truly grasp the nuances of courageous leadership and equip yourself with the tools to inspire and innovate, I highly recommend listening to the complete conversation wherever you enjoy podcasts.

Listen to the full episode here

In a highly thought-provoking and insightful episode, Gloria Hwang, founder and CEO of Thousand, a company revolutionizing urban mobility with stylish helmets, lights, and bags, shares her inspiring journey from non-profit work to building a successful for-profit venture with a powerful mission. For entrepreneurs, founders, investors, and C-suite professionals, her story offers salient takeaways on purpose-driven business, community building, and strategic growth.

It was great to record in person with show guest and supporter, Elissa Kalver, Founder, WeGotThis.org. The first non-profit gift registry for cancer patients, thrivers, and their loved ones. (Check out their new revamped website)

Thank you, Boardy.Ai for the connection to Gloria!

🔑 Takeaways with Action Steps:

* Anchor Your Business in a Deeply Personal Mission: Gloria’s motivation for founding Thousand stemmed from a tragic personal loss, driving her to create a product that encourages safety through style. This deeply personal connection to her mission – to save a thousand lives – resonates with customers and fuels the brand's authenticity.

* Action Step: Reflect on the core problem your business solves. Is there a personal story or a profound impact you aspire to make that can serve as the bedrock of your brand's purpose? Consider how companies like Patagonia (environmental activism woven into their outdoor gear) or Warby Parker (providing affordable, stylish eyewear while addressing vision care globally) have successfully integrated a strong mission into their business model.

* Validate Your Product and Build Community Through Crowdfunding: Gloria successfully launched Thousand through a Kickstarter campaign, raising nearly a quarter-million dollars. This not only provided crucial early funding but also validated the market need and fostered a passionate community around the brand before mass production.

* Action Step: For new ventures or product launches, explore crowdfunding platforms to gauge market interest, secure initial capital, and cultivate a loyal customer base. This approach can potentially de-risk your idea and provide invaluable early feedback, similar to how many innovative tech gadgets and indie games gain traction and funding on platforms like Kickstarter or Indiegogo.

* Prioritize Customer Connection and Understanding: She emphasizes the importance of staying connected with customers to understand their evolving needs. Thousand’s focus on the "everyday rider" rather than just hardcore cyclists demonstrates a clear understanding of their target audience and their desire for practical yet stylish solutions.

* Action Step: Implement mechanisms for continuous customer feedback, whether through surveys, social media engagement, or direct outreach. Regularly analyze customer data to refine your product offerings and marketing strategies. Brands like Netflix (constantly analyzing viewing habits to recommend content) and Spotify (personalizing music experiences) excel at leveraging customer data to enhance their offerings.

* Even Lyft’s CEO is a Lyft driver every 6 weeks to understand the experience and to stay connected to both drivers and riders!

* Embrace Your Strengths and Delegate Effectively: As a founder, Gloria highlights the necessity of recognizing one's core competencies and strategically delegating tasks that fall outside of those strengths. Make your A’s, A+ and delegate the B’s to someone who can make them A+’s. This allows for focused effort on high-impact areas and empowers team members.

* Action Step: Conduct a personal skills audit to identify your strengths and weaknesses. Build a team that complements your abilities and trust them with decision-making power in their areas of expertise. Think about how Apple's success is often attributed to Steve Jobs' vision, but also to his ability to delegate engineering and design to highly skilled teams.

* Cultivate a Lean, Empowered, and Growth-Oriented Team: Her approach to team building focuses on efficiency, talent retention, and providing opportunities for growth and decision-making. This fosters a strong, motivated, and agile workforce.

* Action Step: Design a company culture that prioritizes autonomy, professional development, and clear pathways for advancement. Empower your team members to take ownership of their work and contribute to strategic decisions. Companies like Google and Zappos are renowned for their employee-centric cultures that encourage innovation and growth.

Gloria Hwang’s journey with Thousand is a powerful testament to the impact of combining a heartfelt mission with strategic business acumen. By leading with intentionality, this begets authenticity, leveraging community, and building strong teams. Founders can not only create successful companies but also drive meaningful change.

In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to get caught up in the pursuit of profit alone.

But what if your business could also change lives for the better? My next conversation features a compelling conversation with Derek Ting, CEO and founder of TextNow, a company that embodies the true spirit of mission-driven entrepreneurship.

Derek's journey began with a simple frustration: the high cost of phone services while in college. From that personal pain point, he built TextNow with an audacious mission: to democratize communication, making essential phone services like texting and calling accessible and free for everyone. This isn't just about convenience; it's about profound social impact. Imagine the difference free phone service makes for someone seeking a job, connecting with family, or navigating life's challenges without the burden of monthly bills. TextNow's innovative, ad-supported model proves that a powerful social mission and a viable business can go hand-in-hand.

This type of impact has created millions of customers from the US and Canada.

For founders, aspiring entrepreneurs, and mission-driven business leaders, this episode is a masterclass in building with purpose. Derek shares invaluable insights on:

* The Power of a Clear Mission: How TextNow's unwavering commitment to democratizing communication has guided their growth and innovation.

* Lean Startup in Action: Learn how TextNow prioritizes user feedback and iterative development to solve real problems for millions.

* Cultivating Autonomy: Discover TextNow's unique company culture, built on trust and empowering employees to make impactful decisions.

* Resilience in the Face of Adversity: Derek openly discusses the significant challenges and near-failures TextNow faced, including a cash crunch and even an accidental customer database wipe [21:39], offering crucial lessons on resilience and perseverance.

* The Future of Free: TextNow's ambitious vision to provide completely free data plans, making phone service as ubiquitous and free as email [08:57].

This conversation is more than just a business story; it's a testament to how passion, purpose, and persistence can create a powerful, profitable enterprise that genuinely impacts the world.

Don't miss the full episode to dive deeper into Derek's journey, learn from his triumphs and challenges, and gain actionable insights for building your own mission-driven brand.

This episode can be found and listened from your preferred podcast listening platform.

Hello Everyone -

I’m releasing an episode with an incredible founder as we head into the long July 4th weekend. This is an episode that is intended to get our inspirational and strategic juices flowing as we celebrate the country’s independence whether by ourselves or with friends.

Meet FX Rouxel, the visionary CEO and founder of Gardyn. If you've ever dreamt of fresh, nutrient-packed veggies grown right in your living room, or if you're a founder looking for a serious dose of inspiration, you're in the right place.

This episode felt like sitting down with two old friends, chatting about everything from personal frustrations to building a tech company that's genuinely changing lives.

🔑 Takeaways with Application ⬇️

1. Solve a Real Problem (Even if it's Your Own!)

You know how a minor annoyance can spark a massive idea? (Reminds me of my conversation with Dan Reich). That's exactly how Gardyn started. FX, an athlete, was frustrated by the dwindling nutritional value of store-bought produce. He realized that the long journey from farm to plate was costing us vital nutrients. This personal pain point led him to wonder: "Could AI bring fresh, super-nutritious food right to our homes?"

🔑 Takeaway, Founders: Don't chase trends. Look for genuine frustrations – in your own life, your friends' lives, or society at large. The most impactful startups often spring from deeply personal, relatable problems. If you're solving something you truly care about, that passion will fuel your journey. Travis at Uber was frustrated with hailing yellow cabs, Steve at Apple was frustrated with PC computing, Jason at Seamless hated calling restaurants to place food orders. The list goes on and on….

2. Innovation Doesn't Mean Reinventing the Wheel, But Making it Smarter

Gardyn isn't just about growing plants; it's about growing them smarter. They've harnessed AI, smart lights, and a closed-loop water system to make indoor gardening incredibly easy and sustainable. Over 120 varieties, 95% less water, zero pesticides, and food that's 50% more nutritious than store-bought? That's not just cool tech; it's a game-changer.

🔑 Takeaway, Founders & Investors: Look for businesses that take existing concepts (like gardening) and inject them with intelligent, efficient technology. It's not always about creating something entirely new, but about making something much, much better. Investors, pay attention to how companies are leveraging tech and Ai to drive efficiency and deliver tangible, superior results.

3. The Power of a Clear Roadmap & Continuous Evolution

FX walked us through Gardyn's thoughtful four-part product roadmap: devices (from Home to the new compact Studio), accessories, constantly expanding plant varieties, and a robust AI/digital strategy. What's inspiring is their commitment to releasing new plant varieties almost monthly and constantly optimizing their AI. This isn't a "build it and forget it" company; it's a living, breathing ecosystem of innovation.

🔑 Takeaway, Founders: A clear product roadmap isn't just a fancy slide for investors; it's your North Star. It helps you prioritize, stay focused, and communicate your vision. And remember, the journey is about continuous improvement. Listen to your users, iterate, and never stop refining.

4. Impact Beyond Profit: Community & Well-being

While Gardyn is clearly a successful B2C venture, it was incredibly heartwarming to hear about their forays into commercial applications. They're developing a K-12 curriculum for schools, and even seeing their system integrated into mental health and PTSD clinics. Imagine the impact of fresh, homegrown food on a child's learning or someone's recovery journey.

🔑 Takeaway, Founders & Investors: Impact-driven businesses are not just a trend; they're the future. Think about how your product or service can extend beyond direct consumers to create broader community value. Investors, look for companies that have a strong "why" beyond just the bottom line – these often build more resilient and loyal customer bases.

5. The Entrepreneurial Grind: Boldness, Reality, and Early Feedback

FX’s personal journey was incredibly candid. He shared a pivotal moment where his wife challenged him to prove the concept, leading to the first 20 prototypes. He also emphasized the critical importance of early market feedback. He openly admitted that Gardyn's first generation wasn't perfect, but those early adopters were invaluable in shaping the robust Gen 4 system.

🔑 Takeaway, Founders: Be bold in your vision, but stay grounded in reality. Test your assumptions early and often. Don't be afraid to put out an imperfect product (an MVP!) to gather real-world feedback. That feedback, as FX highlighted, is pure gold. It's the difference between a good idea and a truly great, market-validated product. And always, always have a supportive team and family around you – they're your bedrock through the inevitable ups and downs.

This episode with FX was a true masterclass in entrepreneurial spirit, innovation, and building a business with purpose. Whether you're just starting your founder journey, scaling your venture, or looking for the next big thing to invest in, Gardyn's story offers a wealth of inspiration.

Go check out Gardyn and start growing your own fresh produce! And if you haven't already, watch the full episode of "Worthy for Thirty" here – it's definitely worth your time or find it on all podcast listening platforms!

What were your biggest takeaways from this episode?

Hello Everyone!

Super excited for this episode drop.

I highly suggest listening and digging in to discover actionable strategies for anxiety relief and powerful insights on transforming personal challenges into community support. You'll learn how to harness your own experiences for positive impact and find genuine connection in the process.

—

Guests:

Elissa Kalver was invited back to share significant updates on We Got This, including a revamped website, vital resources, and her new book, offering a unique perspective on thriving with cancer.

I wanted to invite Marina Khidekel so she could introduce the community to Hugimals World, an innovative company providing weighted plushies that offer tangible anxiety and stress relief for all ages, normalizing comfort in a powerful and impactful way!

The Power of a Hug, Literally (and Metaphorically!)

* 🔑 takeaway: Marina shared how her company, Hugimals World, creates weighted plushies that literally "hug you back," releasing feel-good hormones like oxytocin. She was even surprised by the wide range of people seeking comfort – from anxious kids to college students and seniors. Hello, kidult trend.

* Implication: We often underestimate the physical and emotional need for comfort and connection, especially in a world that can feel increasingly isolated. Especially coming out of the COVID-19 pandemic where we feel more isolated and alone. Simple, concrete tools can have a profound impact on our well-being.

* Application for You: Ever feel overwhelmed or just... off? Instead of just pushing through, try incorporating intentional comfort into your day. Maybe it’s snuggling with a pet, a weighted blanket, or even just taking a moment to give yourself a big, comforting hug. Consider what simple acts of comfort you can offer to others too – a warm cup of tea, a cozy blanket, or just a listening ear. Sometimes, the simplest things are the most profound.

Turning Personal Challenges into Powerful Support Systems

* 🔑 takeaway: Elissa, founder of WeGotThis.org, shared how her own journey with cancer led her to create a robust resource directory, "thriver lists," and a new book – all designed to help others navigate their cancer journeys with more comfort and dignity. She emphasized prioritizing living and finding joy, even amidst challenges.

* Implication: Our greatest struggles can often become our greatest strengths, propelling us to help others in profound ways. There's immense power in shared experience and a community that understands.

* Application for You: Think about a challenge you've faced – big or small. How did you get through it? What did you learn? Could your experience or your insights be helpful to someone else going through something similar? Maybe it's not starting a non-profit, but perhaps it's sharing your story with a friend, offering advice, or even just creating a simple list of resources that helped you. Your past experiences hold valuable wisdom that others can benefit from.

Normalizing Our Needs: It's Okay to Seek Comfort

* 🔑 takeaway: Marina initially thought Hugimals would primarily be for kids, but quickly realized that over half her customers were adults seeking comfort for their own anxiety. She spoke about people thanking her for "normalizing" weighted plushies as tools for adult comfort.

* Implication: There's still a stigma around admitting we need comfort or support, especially as adults. But acknowledging our needs and seeking out what helps us is a sign of strength, not weakness.

* Application for You: Be honest with yourself about what truly brings you comfort and peace, without judgment. If a cozy blanket, a favorite stuffed animal from childhood, or even just a quiet moment with a cup of tea helps you de-stress, lean into it! Don't let peer pressure or perceived norms dictate what "adult" self-care looks like. Your well-being matters, and whatever helps you feel grounded and calm is valid.

Your Past Paves the Way for Your Future (Even if You Don't See it Yet!)

* 🔑 takeaway: Both Elissa and Marina reflected on their diverse career paths – Elissa from financial services, Marina from journalism – and how seemingly unrelated past experiences unexpectedly became instrumental in building their current, passion-driven businesses. Connecting the dots

* Implication: Every step you take, every job you hold, every skill you learn, is building your unique toolkit. Even when you can't see the direct connection, those experiences are shaping you for what's next.

* Application for You: Feeling stuck or unsure of your next move? Instead of focusing on what you don't have, take a moment to list all the skills, experiences, and connections you do have, even from seemingly disparate parts of your life. You might be surprised at how your "unrelated" past experiences can be exactly what you need to unlock your future potential. Don't discard any part of your journey – it's all part of your masterpiece in progress!

Collaboration Over Competition: A Rising Tide Lifts All Boats

* 🔑 takeaway: I wanted to bring Elissa and Marina together on the show to demonstrate the power of collaboration, encouraging both women to continue their important work and highlighting how their efforts can amplify and be complementary.

* Implication: In a world that often teaches us to compete, remembering that true strength often lies in supporting one another can lead to greater collective success and impact.

* Application for You: Look around your own life, whether it's in your workplace, your community, or among your friends. Where can you offer support or collaborate instead of seeing someone as a competitor? A simple offer to help, a word of encouragement, or connecting two people who could benefit from knowing each other can create ripple effects of positive change. Let's lift each other up!

In the world of startups and philanthropy, few stories resonate as powerfully as that of entreprenuers, investors and philanthropists, Kass and Mike Lazerow. Their journey, marked by both the intense highs of building successful companies, Golf.com and Buddy Media and their profound commitment to a cause like Cycle for Survival, offers invaluable insights into resilience, mission-driven work, and the realities of the entrepreneurial path.

Relationships are vital to success. I worked with them 15 years ago at Buddy Media and have remained in touch. What was amazing was seeing and meeting other folks in their orbit at their book launch party this past Monday. Some of those people they’ve known for the majority of their lives! In this episode, I invited past show guest Bradley Tusk as my co-host. Bradley is the founder and CEO of Tusk Ventures where he works with startups that have regulatory challenges like Lemonade, FanDuel, Uber, Ro among others. Bradley is the host of ‘Firewall’ a weekly podcast where he discusses the intersection of business, politics and regulation.

Takeaways & Their Impact 🚀

The Lazerows' experiences highlight several critical lessons for anyone navigating the professional landscape:

* Mission Drives Impact: Cycle for Survival's remarkable growth from a grassroots effort into a national movement, raising over $400 million for rare cancer research, underscores the immense power of a strong, personal mission. This demonstrates that aligning your work with a meaningful cause can unlock unparalleled dedication and results [01:05], [01:43]. The implication is clear: when individuals and organizations are deeply invested in a purpose, they can achieve extraordinary things.

* Culture is King: Buddy Media's enduring success, even post-acquisition, was rooted in its emphasis on transparency and celebrating achievements. This fostered deep employee loyalty [11:26], [11:37], [11:41], [12:18]. The application for readers is to prioritize intentional culture building within their own teams, fostering environments where people feel valued and connected.

* Navigating Bureaucracy: The Lazerows candidly discuss the challenges of working within large, often bureaucratic institutions like Memorial Sloan Kettering. This highlights the need for agility and innovative strategies, even in established settings [04:33], [07:43]. For those in large organizations, this means finding ways to champion change and maintain momentum despite institutional inertia.

* Entrepreneurship is a Marathon, Not a Sprint: Their anecdotes about fundraising hurdles, near-death experiences, and the constant "shoveling $h!t" perfectly encapsulate the arduous yet ultimately purposeful nature of entrepreneurship [18:18], [21:27]. This offers a realistic perspective for aspiring founders: it's tough, but the rewards of building something meaningful are immense.

* Co-founder Alignment is Crucial: The Lazerows, as a married co-founding team, emphasize the vital importance of shared work ethics, a clear mission, and complementary skills among co-founders [23:52], [24:04]. This is a key application for anyone considering a partnership: ensure your foundational values and working styles are in sync to avoid pitfalls like micromanagement.

* Resilience is Cultivated: Kass's story of overcoming a significant career setback and bouncing back with fierce determination demonstrates that resilience isn't just innate; it's developed through a competitive spirit and an unwavering refusal to quit [17:36], [17:49], [18:05]. This takeaway offers hope and actionable strategies for readers to cultivate their own resilience in the face of adversity.

* Focus is Paramount for Startups: Mike stresses the critical need for startups, with their limited resources, to maintain sharp focus and avoid being sidetracked by too many initiatives [29:57], [30:06]. The application here is clear: prioritize ruthlessly to maximize impact with the resources you have.

* Perspective Shifts Everything: Mike's personal experience with a life-threatening situation dramatically altered his perspective on life and business, diminishing the significance of previous worries [33:03], [33:18]. This profound takeaway reminds us to maintain perspective, especially when facing challenges, and to recognize what truly matters.

Why You Should Read "Shoveling $h!t: A Love Story" 📖

The Lazerows' book, "Shoveling $h!t," promises an authentic and inspiring account of their journey. Here’s why it should be on your reading list:

* Real and Raw Entrepreneurial Insights: Expect an unfiltered look at the realities of building a business—the struggles, the triumphs, and the messy bits that are often left out of polished success stories.

"And really what the book is about is there's no worse way to spend your day than being an entrepreneur. You show up, s**t hits the fan. You never know what's going to go wrong." - Mike Lazerow

* Actionable Advice on Grit and Resilience: Drawing from their personal battles, the book likely offers practical strategies for developing the mental fortitude essential for entrepreneurial success.

* Lessons on Partnership and Co-founding: Their unique dynamic as a married co-founding team provides invaluable insights into navigating the complexities and rewards of mixing business with a life partnership.

* Inspiration to Do Good While Doing Well: Their involvement with Cycle for Survival showcases a powerful model for creating a successful business that also makes a tangible positive impact on the world.

* Humorous and Engaging Storytelling: Given their candid and conversational style, the book is sure to be an entertaining and relatable read, filled with humor and compelling anecdotes.

In a recent episode of the Worthy for Thirty podcast, I sat down with Sir Darren Jacklin, a multi-millionaire entrepreneur, investor corporate trainer, and philanthropist - take a look at Darren and his team’s bold initative to build schools around the world through the LYNK Foundation. What unfolded was a powerful conversation about overcoming adversity, the paramount importance of integrity, and how to truly build meaningful relationships and successful ventures.

Thank you Boardy.Ai for the connection! Let me know if you want to be connected to Boardy.

Sir Darren's story is a testament to resilience and the transformative power of self-awareness. From childhood trauma and misdiagnosed learning disabilities to homelessness and financial bankruptcy, his journey is far from typical. Yet, these experiences forged in him a unique mental toughness and a profound understanding of what it takes to succeed and serve others.

"I commit to my commitments even when it's hard even when I don't feel like it even when I'm tired even when I'm jet-legged whatever it is I commit to my commitments and the key thing is is it's about honoring my word so that my word today has power." - Sir Darren Jacklin

Takeaways and Considerations for Founders and Operators

1. Adversity as a Catalyst for Growth: Sir Darren openly shares his challenging past, including failing grade one, being labeled "the dumbest kid in school," and experiencing homelessness [03:53]. He emphasizes that he's "grateful for [his] childhood trauma because [he] wouldn't be at where [he's] at today" [03:58]. This highlights that our greatest struggles can become our greatest strengths, teaching us invaluable lessons that formal education often cannot.

* Implication: Do not shy away from challenges. View them as opportunities for learning and personal development.

* Application: Reflect on past adversities and identify the "street smarts" or unique skills you gained from them. How can you leverage these experiences in your current endeavors?

2. The Power of Your Word: A pivotal turning point for Sir Darren at age 38 was recognizing that his "words had no power" [07:58] due to a lack of integrity, lying, and exaggeration. He made a conscious decision to commit to his commitments, even when difficult [10:09], and now lives by the principle that his "word today has power" [10:27].

* Implication: Your integrity is your most valuable asset. Consistency in action builds trust and credibility.

* Application: Implement "micro commitments" [23:16] in your interactions. If you make a promise, no matter how small, follow through. Schedule commitments in your calendar and proactively communicate if a delay occurs.

3. Vulnerability as Strength: Sir Darren now practices transparency and vulnerability, even when it's uncomfortable [14:12]. He shared an instance where he admitted to not knowing how to complete a task in front of a team [14:37], demonstrating that it's okay to ask for help and it showcases a genuine desire to learn.

* Implication: True strength isn't about knowing everything, but about the courage to admit what you don't know and seek support.

* Application: In professional settings, replace "I know" with "I don't know" or "I don't understand" when appropriate [16:07]. This fosters a learning environment and builds stronger relationships.

4. Strategic Relationship Building Through "Hiking Tests": Forget coffee meetings. Sir Darren's preferred method for vetting potential partners, investments and clients is taking them hiking [21:26]. This unconventional approach allows him to observe "behavior never lies" [40:54], revealing how people handle discomfort, prepare, and follow through on micro commitments [27:27]. This "integrity test" [41:26] has led to millions of dollars in deals [23:34].

* Implication: Observe how people show up in challenging situations. Their actions speak louder than words.

* Application: When considering significant collaborations, create low-stakes "tests" that reveal character, reliability, and commitment. This could be a small task with a clear deadline or an activity that pushes them slightly outside their comfort zone.

5. The Accessibility of Success: Sir Darren notes a common trait among highly successful individuals: "the more successful you are, the more accessible you are" [39:04]. This is because they work on their businesses, not in them, delegating daily operations to integrators [39:21]. This allows them to respond quickly and focus on high-level strategy.

* Implication: True success often comes with increased responsiveness and a focus on strategic oversight, rather than getting bogged down in minutiae.

* Application: Evaluate where you spend your time. Are you working in your business (day-to-day tasks) or on your business (strategy, vision, growth)? Look for opportunities to delegate and focus on high-impact activities.

From Moving Mishaps to Marketplace Magic: The AirTasker Story

Ever been stuck trying to move a couch, assemble furniture, or tackle a random task and wished you had a superhero on speed dial? That's exactly how, Co-Founder & CEO, Tim Fung felt back in 2011, and it sparked an idea that would become AirTasker – a platform connecting people who need help with those ready to roll up their sleeves and get things done tasks.

In this episode, I chat with Tim about the journey of building AirTasker, and it's packed with insights for anyone dreaming of creating their own marketplace, betting on themselves, brand building or just fascinated by the gig economy.

Key Takeaways for the Hustlers and Dreamers:

* Patience is a Virtue (Especially in Marketplaces): Building a platform that connects supply and demand takes time. You need enough "taskers" and enough "customers" to create a thriving ecosystem. [03:20], [03:31]

* Be Uniquely You: AirTasker isn't trying to be the "Uber" of everything. They're all about community, letting anyone be a customer or a tasker. [06:43], [07:32], [07:44] They're also "infinitely horizontal," meaning you can find help for almost anything legal.

* Humans > Robots (Sometimes): While AI has its place (more on that later), AirTasker emphasizes the value of human skills and craftsmanship. [14:30], [14:40] People want to connect with people.

* AI as Your Co-Pilot: AirTasker uses AI to help people describe their tasks better, leading to clearer instructions for taskers. [21:43], [21:49] Think of it as AI helping humans communicate more effectively. Clarifying the need and the task :).

* Brand Love is Real: Building a strong brand creates lasting relationships. It's not just about getting clicks; it's about being top-of-mind when someone needs a hand. AirTasker is synonymous with getting things done. [30:28], [31:02], [32:12]

* Loyalty Pays (Literally): AirTasker realized that rewarding repeat business with lower fees keeps users coming back. [26:34], [26:51] It's like a "thank you" for sticking around.

So, What's in it for You?

Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a side-hustler, or just someone who occasionally needs a helping hand, AirTasker's story offers some compelling takeaways:

* For the Entrepreneur: Don't be afraid to think outside the box and build a platform that reflects your values. What makes you different?

* For the Side-Hustler: Your skills are valuable! AirTasker shows that people are willing to pay for quality and reliability, not just the lowest price. Monetize your downtime. [16:48], [17:27]

* For Everyone: There's a certain magic in connecting with someone who can solve a problem for you. It's about community, convenience, and getting things done.

Want the Full Story?

This is just a taste of the conversation between me and Tim. To dive deeper into the world of AirTasker, hear more about their F1 partnership, and discover the surprising tasks people are requesting around the world (negative juju removal, anyone?), tune into the full episode on your favorite podcast platform!