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Uncovering the Success Strategies and Mindset of the Top 1% so You can Amplify and Transform Your Life and Business.
Episodes
7 days ago
7 days ago
Welcome back to Making Bank! Today’s episode we have Andre Swanston, a dynamic tech innovator and media magnet, recently made history with the fifth largest exit of any Black CEO. A regular contributor to Bloomberg, Rolling Stone, and Fast Company, Andre's insights have made waves across the industry. Born in the Bronx, New York, he honed his exceptional sales skills at Ameriprise and J.P. Morgan Chase before earning a B.A. in Economics from the University of Connecticut. Today, Andre is here to share some exciting insights and experiences from his remarkable journey.
(2:03) Background Story
From a young age, Andre Swanston embraced a mindset that set him apart. Conforming never interested him; instead, he sought different approaches to everything, from tying his shoelaces to solving math problems in unique ways. This natural inclination to think differently laid the foundation for his entrepreneurial journey.
(8:17) First Steps In A Business
The first crucial step in any business venture is recognizing your strengths and weaknesses. Once you have that clarity, the key is to surround yourself with people who excel in areas where you may not.
(12:24) Stepping Stones
Three key moments shaped the company's journey: raising initial capital in 2014 to hire the first team, securing major enterprise deals in 2017 as connected TV gained traction, and anticipating competition from industry giants, which guided our successful execution strategy.
(16:27) The Future Of Digital Ads
In the future of digital ads, impartiality and trust are key. As data privacy and regulations tighten, partnering with a neutral third party ensures transparent and compliant data analysis, avoiding conflicts of interest from media or device companies. This approach helps navigate industry challenges and build a reliable foundation for the evolving ad landscape.
(19:12) Selling A Company
When preparing to sell a company, focus on securing multi-year contracts. These contracts significantly increase your company's valuation, often yielding a higher revenue multiple compared to one-time deals. Understanding this can strategically position your business for a more lucrative sale.
(21:31) Growing A Business
When growing a business, maximize what you can do without external capital. This gives you control and flexibility to pivot and adapt early on, allowing for smoother growth before bringing in outside investors. It also demonstrates commitment and resilience to potential investors.
(26:19) Motivation
The most important advice for entrepreneurs is to trust your instincts and understand your motivations. Your unique life experiences shape your perspective, and leveraging these insights is crucial. Remember, entrepreneurship is tough and success often comes from sheer ambition and perseverance, not from any inherent superiority.
Tags:
Instagram: Andre Swanston @dreswan06
7 days ago
7 days ago
Welcome back to Making Bank! Today’s episode we have Andre Swanston, a dynamic tech innovator and media magnet, recently made history with the fifth largest exit of any Black CEO. A regular contributor to Bloomberg, Rolling Stone, and Fast Company, Andre's insights have made waves across the industry. Born in the Bronx, New York, he honed his exceptional sales skills at Ameriprise and J.P. Morgan Chase before earning a B.A. in Economics from the University of Connecticut. Today, Andre is here to share some exciting insights and experiences from his remarkable journey.
(2:03) Background Story
From a young age, Andre Swanston embraced a mindset that set him apart. Conforming never interested him; instead, he sought different approaches to everything, from tying his shoelaces to solving math problems in unique ways. This natural inclination to think differently laid the foundation for his entrepreneurial journey.
(8:17) First Steps In A Business
The first crucial step in any business venture is recognizing your strengths and weaknesses. Once you have that clarity, the key is to surround yourself with people who excel in areas where you may not.
(12:24) Stepping Stones
Three key moments shaped the company's journey: raising initial capital in 2014 to hire the first team, securing major enterprise deals in 2017 as connected TV gained traction, and anticipating competition from industry giants, which guided our successful execution strategy.
(16:27) The Future Of Digital Ads
In the future of digital ads, impartiality and trust are key. As data privacy and regulations tighten, partnering with a neutral third party ensures transparent and compliant data analysis, avoiding conflicts of interest from media or device companies. This approach helps navigate industry challenges and build a reliable foundation for the evolving ad landscape.
(19:12) Selling A Company
When preparing to sell a company, focus on securing multi-year contracts. These contracts significantly increase your company's valuation, often yielding a higher revenue multiple compared to one-time deals. Understanding this can strategically position your business for a more lucrative sale.
(21:31) Growing A Business
When growing a business, maximize what you can do without external capital. This gives you control and flexibility to pivot and adapt early on, allowing for smoother growth before bringing in outside investors. It also demonstrates commitment and resilience to potential investors.
(26:19) Motivation
The most important advice for entrepreneurs is to trust your instincts and understand your motivations. Your unique life experiences shape your perspective, and leveraging these insights is crucial. Remember, entrepreneurship is tough and success often comes from sheer ambition and perseverance, not from any inherent superiority.
Tags:
Instagram: Andre Swanston @dreswan06
Sunday Sep 01, 2024
Sunday Sep 01, 2024
Welcome back to Making Bank! Today’s episode we have Naveen Jain, who is a visionary entrepreneur and philanthropist, dedicated to addressing the world's most pressing challenges through innovation. He has founded several successful companies, including Moon Express, BlueDot, Viome, TalentWise, and InfoSpace, each reflecting his commitment to transformative solutions.
(3:40) Being An Entrepreneur
Many people believe that being an entrepreneur means starting a company. However, true entrepreneurs are problem solvers. There are three types of people: those who identify problems, those who complain about them, and those who are smart enough to find solutions.
(6:05) Selling Your Vision
When you begin with a clear belief or vision, focus on your audacious goal—the big problem you're trying to solve. If people believe in you and your vision, they'll be eager to support and invest in everything you offer.
(13:10) Achieving Big Goals
When you set a big, audacious goal, break it down into the smallest actionable steps. Each step you take should move you closer to that goal. You can't achieve the big picture all at once, so focus on executing one slice at a time. By the time you're finished, you'll have completed the entire journey.
(17:42) Microbiome
Your gut microbiome produces essential nutrients your body needs, like short-chain fatty acids. To maintain this balance, you must feed your microbiome the right foods. Personalized nutrition is key, as our unique microbiomes require specific diets for optimal health.
(30:47) Raising Kids
Make sure your kids know your love is unconditional, but your approval must be earned. Teach them that true self-worth comes from creating, not just owning. Wealth doesn't define value—contribution does.
(39:52) Mindset
As an entrepreneur, focus on addressing root causes and creating abundance. While sustainability often gets equated with conservation—using less to save more—the real path to success is about generating more, not just cutting back. To achieve true sustainability, focus on creating more of everything, rather than merely conserving.
(48:56) Intellectual Curiosity
Intellectual curiosity is crucial; if you’re not learning every day, you risk becoming obsolete. Stopping your pursuit of knowledge equates to stagnation. To stay vibrant and relevant, continually seek new learning opportunities.
Tags:
Instagram: Naveen Jain @naveenjainceo
Sunday Aug 25, 2024
Sunday Aug 25, 2024
Welcome back to Making Bank! Today’s episode we have Todd Brown, who is the go-to funnel expert for top-tier marketers seeking to optimize their own sales funnels. His impressive client list reads like a who's who of A-list marketers. Todd's agency is behind some of the most successful campaigns for the biggest direct response marketing companies online.
(2:08) Background Story
Todd Brown is a renowned expert in funnel marketing, trusted by top A-list marketers for his expertise. He leads an agency that crafts successful campaigns for leading direct response companies. Todd is a key figure in the world of digital marketing strategy.
(6:30) Starting A Business
Even if you can't fully utilize your new marketing skills at your current job, stay focused and start building your business on the side. Begin with a modest investment, ensuring you cover the essentials like forming a corporation and setting up a merchant account. Bootstrap your way forward, reinvesting profits to grow without relying on additional personal funds.
(9:50) Biggest Challenges
One of the biggest challenges in a web-based business is keeping a steady flow of traffic to your site and funnels—without it, your business can grind to a halt, just like a retail store with no customers. To avoid this, diversify your traffic sources and continuously optimize your marketing strategies.
(14:38) Generating Traffic
For generating traffic, Facebook is often the go-to platform—not from a social perspective, but for its advertising capabilities. Facebook ads are easy to set up, offer full budget control, and provide some of the most advanced targeting options available. You can precisely reach your ideal audience, making it a powerful tool for driving traffic to your business.
(27:11) Know Your Numbers
Understanding your numbers is key, especially the average visitor value, which shows the dollar value of each visitor to your funnel. Break this down by traffic source, like Facebook and YouTube, to optimize your marketing spend effectively. Regularly monitor and analyze these metrics to make data-driven decisions.
(32:04) Funnel Strategies
For effective funnel strategies, create compelling and unique ideas that capture attention and spark curiosity. Avoid settling for mediocre concepts—aim for originality to stand out and engage your audience.
(42:05) Differentiation
Differentiation is crucial in marketing, which is why we invest time in crafting a standout hook and developing a superior offer. The goal is to create something unique that sets you apart from the competition and grabs attention. Effective differentiation can make all the difference in capturing and retaining your audience.
Tags:
Instagram: Todd Brown @toddbrown
Sunday Aug 25, 2024
Sunday Aug 25, 2024
Welcome back to Making Bank! Today’s episode we have Todd Brown, who is the go-to funnel expert for top-tier marketers seeking to optimize their own sales funnels. His impressive client list reads like a who's who of A-list marketers. Todd's agency is behind some of the most successful campaigns for the biggest direct response marketing companies online.
(2:08) Background Story
Todd Brown is a renowned expert in funnel marketing, trusted by top A-list marketers for his expertise. He leads an agency that crafts successful campaigns for leading direct response companies. Todd is a key figure in the world of digital marketing strategy.
(6:30) Starting A Business
Even if you can't fully utilize your new marketing skills at your current job, stay focused and start building your business on the side. Begin with a modest investment, ensuring you cover the essentials like forming a corporation and setting up a merchant account. Bootstrap your way forward, reinvesting profits to grow without relying on additional personal funds.
(9:50) Biggest Challenges
One of the biggest challenges in a web-based business is keeping a steady flow of traffic to your site and funnels—without it, your business can grind to a halt, just like a retail store with no customers. To avoid this, diversify your traffic sources and continuously optimize your marketing strategies.
(14:38) Generating Traffic
For generating traffic, Facebook is often the go-to platform—not from a social perspective, but for its advertising capabilities. Facebook ads are easy to set up, offer full budget control, and provide some of the most advanced targeting options available. You can precisely reach your ideal audience, making it a powerful tool for driving traffic to your business.
(27:11) Know Your Numbers
Understanding your numbers is key, especially the average visitor value, which shows the dollar value of each visitor to your funnel. Break this down by traffic source, like Facebook and YouTube, to optimize your marketing spend effectively. Regularly monitor and analyze these metrics to make data-driven decisions.
(32:04) Funnel Strategies
For effective funnel strategies, create compelling and unique ideas that capture attention and spark curiosity. Avoid settling for mediocre concepts—aim for originality to stand out and engage your audience.
(42:05) Differentiation
Differentiation is crucial in marketing, which is why we invest time in crafting a standout hook and developing a superior offer. The goal is to create something unique that sets you apart from the competition and grabs attention. Effective differentiation can make all the difference in capturing and retaining your audience.
Tags:
Instagram:Todd Brown @toddbrown
Sunday Aug 18, 2024
Sunday Aug 18, 2024
Welcome back to Making Bank! Today’s episode we have, Jay Abraham, who is a renowned marketing strategist and business consultant known for his innovative approaches to business growth and revenue generation. With decades of experience, he has helped numerous companies achieve remarkable success through strategic insights, creative marketing solutions, and effective business strategies. His expertise in maximizing profits and enhancing business performance has made him a highly sought-after advisor and speaker in the world of entrepreneurship.
(1:40) Background
By 18, Jay Abraham had two kids and, by 20, faced responsibilities typically for someone much older. With no formal education, he only found clerical jobs and decided to pursue an entrepreneurial path. He worked on commission-based opportunities, holding three full-time jobs for several years.
(6:59) Business Growth
The "Strategy of Preeminence" is relevant to business growth because it focuses on establishing a business as the most trusted advisor in its market. By doing so, it helps companies differentiate themselves from competitors, build stronger customer loyalty, and enhance profitability. This approach leads to sustainable growth by positioning the business as the preferred choice for clients.
(18:47) High Performance
The key to accelerating success and achieving higher prosperity is forming strategic alliances. Identify partners who already possess trust, credibility, and access to your target market. This approach goes beyond superficial affiliate programs, fostering strong, impactful relationships that enhance performance and growth.
(24:03) Generating More Sales
Optimization means maximizing the use of your time, resources, and market access. Many businesses fail to do this effectively because they follow industry norms, which are often suboptimal. To generate more sales, focus on innovative strategies and broader possibilities rather than conventional approaches.
(29:42) Offering Value
If you're not creating goodwill, it means you're not providing enough value. Many businesses rely on referrals for significant revenue but still spend heavily on advertising and trade shows. Instead, focus on formalizing your referral process, which costs nothing if executed well, and prioritize delivering exceptional value to generate more referrals.
(32:13) Increasing Referrals
Without referrals, you'll need to invest significantly in research, support, and advertising, which is more costly and less effective. Focusing on enhancing the customer experience can boost referrals and reduce the need for expensive alternatives.
(37:29) Proacting
Clearly defining your ideal connections, such as a reliable, professional individual aged 40-50, helps you focus your efforts and achieve results. Proactively framing what you seek and taking strategic action often reveals untapped potential and performance improvements in every area of your work.
Tags:
Instagram:@realjayabraham
Sunday Aug 18, 2024
Sunday Aug 18, 2024
Welcome back to Making Bank! Today’s episode we have, Jay Abraham, who is a renowned marketing strategist and business consultant known for his innovative approaches to business growth and revenue generation. With decades of experience, he has helped numerous companies achieve remarkable success through strategic insights, creative marketing solutions, and effective business strategies. His expertise in maximizing profits and enhancing business performance has made him a highly sought-after advisor and speaker in the world of entrepreneurship.
(1:40) Background
By 18, Jay Abraham had two kids and, by 20, faced responsibilities typically for someone much older. With no formal education, he only found clerical jobs and decided to pursue an entrepreneurial path. He worked on commission-based opportunities, holding three full-time jobs for several years.
(6:59) Business Growth
The "Strategy of Preeminence" is relevant to business growth because it focuses on establishing a business as the most trusted advisor in its market. By doing so, it helps companies differentiate themselves from competitors, build stronger customer loyalty, and enhance profitability. This approach leads to sustainable growth by positioning the business as the preferred choice for clients.
(18:47) High Performance
The key to accelerating success and achieving higher prosperity is forming strategic alliances. Identify partners who already possess trust, credibility, and access to your target market. This approach goes beyond superficial affiliate programs, fostering strong, impactful relationships that enhance performance and growth.
(24:03) Generating More Sales
Optimization means maximizing the use of your time, resources, and market access. Many businesses fail to do this effectively because they follow industry norms, which are often suboptimal. To generate more sales, focus on innovative strategies and broader possibilities rather than conventional approaches.
(29:42) Offering Value
If you're not creating goodwill, it means you're not providing enough value. Many businesses rely on referrals for significant revenue but still spend heavily on advertising and trade shows. Instead, focus on formalizing your referral process, which costs nothing if executed well, and prioritize delivering exceptional value to generate more referrals.
(32:13) Increasing Referrals
Without referrals, you'll need to invest significantly in research, support, and advertising, which is more costly and less effective. Focusing on enhancing the customer experience can boost referrals and reduce the need for expensive alternatives.
(37:29) Proacting
Clearly defining your ideal connections, such as a reliable, professional individual aged 40-50, helps you focus your efforts and achieve results. Proactively framing what you seek and taking strategic action often reveals untapped potential and performance improvements in every area of your work.
Tags:
Instagram:@realjayabraham
Sunday Aug 11, 2024
Sunday Aug 11, 2024
Welcome back to Making Bank!
This special tribute video honors the incredible legacy of John Ruhlin, a pioneer in the art of giftology. John’s revolutionary approach to personalized gifting has left an indelible mark on the business world, making companies more memorable and referable. Join us as we celebrate his achievements, learn from his invaluable insights, and remember the warmth and generosity that defined his work. Discover how his innovative strategies continue to drive referrals and strengthen client relationships.
🔔 Watch now to be inspired by John's enduring legacy!
(2:15) Introduction
John Ruhlin introduces himself and his background in direct sales, highlighting his record-breaking achievements. Embrace authenticity in your approach to business and relationships. Being genuine builds trust and sets a strong foundation for lasting connections.
(6:30) The Power of Giftology
Personalization is key. Tailor gifts to the individual’s preferences and interests to make a lasting impression and show genuine care.
(10:45) Standing Out in a Crowded Market
Create emotional connections through thoughtful gifts. These connections make your business more memorable and distinguish you from competitors.
(14:30) Driving Referrals and Enhancing Retention
Consistent and strategic gifting can significantly boost customer loyalty and generate organic referrals, leading to sustainable business growth.
(18:00) Actionable Tips and Strategies
Avoid generic gifts. Instead, invest in high-quality, unique items that reflect your brand's values and the recipient's tastes
(20:00) Closing Thoughts
Start small but be consistent. Implementing even modest gifting strategies can have a profound impact on your business relationships over time.
Tags:
Facebook: @johnruhlinjr
Twitter: @ruhlin
Instagram:@johnruhlin
Sunday Aug 11, 2024
Sunday Aug 11, 2024
Welcome back to Making Bank!
This special tribute video honors the incredible legacy of John Ruhlin, a pioneer in the art of giftology. John’s revolutionary approach to personalized gifting has left an indelible mark on the business world, making companies more memorable and referable. Join us as we celebrate his achievements, learn from his invaluable insights, and remember the warmth and generosity that defined his work. Discover how his innovative strategies continue to drive referrals and strengthen client relationships.
🔔 Watch now to be inspired by John's enduring legacy!
(2:15) Introduction
John Ruhlin introduces himself and his background in direct sales, highlighting his record-breaking achievements. Embrace authenticity in your approach to business and relationships. Being genuine builds trust and sets a strong foundation for lasting connections.
(6:30) The Power of Giftology
Personalization is key. Tailor gifts to the individual’s preferences and interests to make a lasting impression and show genuine care.
(10:45) Standing Out in a Crowded Market
Create emotional connections through thoughtful gifts. These connections make your business more memorable and distinguish you from competitors.
(14:30) Driving Referrals and Enhancing Retention
Consistent and strategic gifting can significantly boost customer loyalty and generate organic referrals, leading to sustainable business growth.
(18:00) Actionable Tips and Strategies
Avoid generic gifts. Instead, invest in high-quality, unique items that reflect your brand's values and the recipient's tastes
(20:00) Closing Thoughts
Start small but be consistent. Implementing even modest gifting strategies can have a profound impact on your business relationships over time.
Tags:
Facebook: @johnruhlinjr
Twitter: @ruhlin
Instagram:
Sunday Aug 04, 2024
Sunday Aug 04, 2024
Welcome back to Making Bank. In today’s episode, we have Mastin Kipp, who is an American entrepreneur, bestselling author, and renowned public speaker. Creator of Functional Life Coaching, he has toured with Oprah's Life Class and appeared on her Emmy award-winning show, Super Soul Sunday, as a leader in the next generation of spiritual thinkers. His bestselling book, "Daily Love," and his forthcoming book, "Claim Your Power," have been featured in outlets like Well+Good, Huffington Post, and on networks such as Fox News, ABC, and CBS News.
(2:30) Background Story
Mastin Kipp, known for questioning rules from an early age, became a senior VP at Geffen Records by his early twenties. Following setbacks involving drugs and a breakup, he found himself strung out on cocaine. At his lowest, he decided to seek the same sense of well-being without drugs, leading to his successful journey as a transformational leader and coach.
(8:07) Self-Focus Vs Serving
The main impediment to entrepreneurial growth is self-focus. Obsessing over metrics like followers or email opens distracts from serving others. Challenges are inevitable, but expecting to avoid them is unrealistic. Finding purpose brings meaning to pain, shifting focus from self to service.
(14:39) Purpose And Healing
There's a superstition that discussing negative things can harm a business, but it's false. Everyone has internal blocks, often from trauma. Entrepreneurs may seek to escape trauma through success, but unresolved issues persist. True growth comes from addressing these blocks, leading to purpose and healing.
(18:55) Limiting Blocks
To overcome limiting blocks, first identify the core belief driving your emotions, which is often tied to feelings of inadequacy. Examine what you believe something means, as this can reveal underlying trauma. Understanding these beliefs helps address and overcome your blocks.
(22:22) Claim Your Power
To overcome trauma and claim your power, consider using a well-developed framework that has been refined through high-end retreats and seminars. This approach helps identify and address the blocks holding you back, enabling you to heal and grow.
(24:20) Daily Habits
While the morning is crucial, a powerful start actually begins with protecting your bedtime and establishing a consistent nighttime routine. Ensure you get quality sleep by winding down with calming activities, avoiding screens, and setting a regular sleep schedule. A well-rested night sets the stage for a productive and focused morning.
(27:46) Final Advice
When you connect with something larger than yourself and offer your gift in service, you embark on a transformative journey. Past trauma may be holding you back, but understanding it without self-judgment can help you move forward. Embrace the process and recognize that true greatness involves facing and overcoming these challenges.
Tags:
@mastinkipp