Episodios

  • Owning a Soccer Team, Building Community, and Mission Companies with Intello's Barak Kaufman

    Owning a Soccer Team, Building Community, and Mission Companies with Intello's Barak Kaufman

    · Made It with Connor Tomkies

    In this episode of Made It with Connor Tomkies, Connor sits down with Barak Kaufman, founder of Post Exit Founders, to discuss life after exiting a company and the next steps for founders. They explore the three types of post-exit founders, dive into Barak's investment in a soccer team rivaling Ryan Reynolds' Wrexham, and talk about the challenges and rewards of building "missionary" companies. Barak also shares insights on navigating the "idea maze" and the importance of aligning passion with business after a big exit.

    Join Our Community!

    Chapters:

    [00:00:00] Introduction and Barak's Background
    [00:01:00] Founding and Selling Intello
    [00:02:00] Building the Post Exit Founders Community
    [00:03:00] Post Exit Founders and New Ventures
    [00:04:00] Understanding Missionary Companies
    [00:05:45] Challenges After a Major Exit
    [00:07:15] The Idea Maze Concept
    [00:09:00] Examples of Missionary Companies
    [00:11:00] Frameworks for Ideation
    [00:13:00] Post Exit Founder Categories
    [00:16:30] The Messy Middle and New Directions
    [00:19:00] Sabbaticals and Self-Reflection
    [00:22:00] Scaling the Post Exit Community
    [00:25:00] The Importance of Offline Connections
    [00:27:00] Chapter Structure and Subgroups
    [00:29:00] Investing in Crawley Town FC
    [00:34:00] A Missionary Company Success Story
    [00:36:45] Facilitating More Post-Exit Founders
    [00:38:45] Closing Thoughts and How to Connect with Barak

    Barak's Stuff:

    Bono: https://www.bono.so/
    GiveButter: https://givebutter.com/
    Wagmi: https://wagmiunited.com/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barakk/
    X: https://x.com/barak_kaufman

    My Stuff:

    Podcast: https://www.madeitpod.com/
    Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/
    X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/

  • Career Risk, Baseball, and Pooling with Pando's Charlie Olson

    Career Risk, Baseball, and Pooling with Pando's Charlie Olson

    · Made It with Connor Tomkies

    In this episode of Made It with Connor Tomkies, we dive into a groundbreaking concept with Charlie Olson, CEO of Pando. Charlie explains how his company helps individuals in high-risk careers like professional athletes and entrepreneurs pool their incomes, creating a supportive and incentivized community that shares both successes and setbacks. Learn how Pando has transformed the landscape of career risk management and what the future holds for this innovative business model.

    Join Our Community!

    Chapter Titles:

    [00:00:00] Introducing Charlie Olson from Pando
    [00:00:45] The Origin of Pando’s Name
    [00:01:30] Income Pooling for Risky Careers
    [00:02:45] Incentives and Career Risk Management
    [00:03:30] Entrepreneurship in a Winner-Take-All Economy
    [00:04:45] Pando's Start in Professional Baseball
    [00:06:00] Entrepreneurs Pooling and Collaborating
    [00:07:00] Contributions and Success Rates at Pando
    [00:08:00] Entrepreneurial Pooling in Series B Stage
    [00:09:00] Recruiting High-Caliber Entrepreneurs
    [00:10:30] Community, Incentives, and Success
    [00:11:30] Pando’s Potential for Industry Disruption
    [00:12:45] Reimagining the Financial Institution
    [00:14:00] Pooling as Upside Insurance
    [00:16:30] Network Benefits and Negotiations
    [00:19:00] Crowdsourcing Knowledge and Warm Intros
    [00:21:30] Charlie’s Entrepreneurial Journey
    [00:23:00] The Unique Vertical of Income Pooling
    [00:24:00] Pando's Supportive Entrepreneurial Ecosystem
    [00:27:00] Physical Therapy and Incentives
    [00:29:00] Exciting Pando Companies in AI Revolution
    [00:29:45] Long-Term Vision for Pando

    Charlie's Stuff:

    Pando: https://www.pandopooling.com/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlie-olson/

    My Stuff:

    Podcast: https://www.madeitpod.com/
    Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/
    X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/

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  • Bringing the Fun Back to Start-Ups with DesignMyNight's Nick Telson-Sillett

    Bringing the Fun Back to Start-Ups with DesignMyNight's Nick Telson-Sillett

    · Made It with Connor Tomkies

    In this episode of "Made It with Connor Tomkies," Nick Telson-Sillett shares his journey from founding "Design My Night" to exiting for over £35 million. Nick talks about the challenges of scaling a company in a competitive market, the importance of financial freedom, and how to navigate earn-outs. He also discusses his ventures in angel investing through Horseplay Ventures and his efforts to support the LGBTQ+ founder community. Tune in for insights on business growth, exit strategies, and the evolving startup landscape.

    Join Our Community

    Chapters:

    [00:00:00] Introduction and Competitors Wise Up
    [00:00:14] Naming Companies: Trumpet and Design My Night
    [00:01:21] Nick’s Post-Exit Life and Identity
    [00:02:06] Transitioning After a Big Exit
    [00:02:52] Growing Design My Night to £35M
    [00:04:10] Creating the Market for Bar Reservations
    [00:05:26] Selling the Vision: Bar to Bar
    [00:06:34] Selling to The Access Group
    [00:08:00] Why It Was Time to Sell
    [00:09:33] Navigating the Earn-Out Period
    [00:12:19] Structuring the Earn-Out Deal
    [00:14:24] Managing Post-Acquisition Relationships
    [00:18:39] Horseplay Ventures: Angel Investing
    [00:21:14] Supporting LGBTQ+ Founders with Proud Ventures
    [00:25:36] Launching the Pitch Deck Podcast
    [00:28:31] VC vs. Bootstrapping Startups
    [00:31:39] Honest Mobile: Revolutionizing Mobile Contracts
    [00:33:54] Fanbase: iOS for Sports Teams

    Nick's Stuff:

    Proud Ventures: https://www.proud-ventures.com/
    Trumpet: https://www.sendtrumpet.com/?ref=nicklinkedin
    Horseplay Ventures: https://horseplay.ventures/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicktelson/

    My Stuff:

    Podcast: https://www.madeitpod.com/
    Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/
    X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/

  • The Hidden Levers of a 9-Figure Exit with Praveen Ghanta

    The Hidden Levers of a 9-Figure Exit with Praveen Ghanta

    · Made It with Connor Tomkies

    In this episode of Made It with Connor Tomkies, entrepreneur Praveen Ghanta shares the unconventional story behind his bootstrapped exit, including a nine-figure success with Hidden Levers. Praveen dives into his philosophy on bootstrapping versus raising capital, the power of fractional work, and what he’s focusing on now with his new ventures. Tune in for an insightful conversation on growing a company with limited resources and timing your exit for maximum gain.

    Join Our Community: https://incendium.circle.so/join?invitation_token=8f30b22424ad79e1af33a9258ee335ba7af292ba-a92ebcf2-2d4e-404d-a5a3-42d48dde11ef

    Chapters:

    [00:00:00] Bootstrapping and Billion-Dollar Exits
    [00:00:45] Microsoft: The World’s Largest Bootstrap
    [00:02:00] Cashflow and Growth Capital Choices
    [00:03:30] Raising Growth Equity and Use of Proceeds
    [00:06:00] Hidden Levers: ARR Growth Challenges
    [00:09:00] Scaling with Enterprise Sales Teams
    [00:10:45] 16x Revenue and Selling the Business
    [00:12:45] Successful Exit with a Strong Multiple
    [00:14:30] Angel Investing: Betting on Founders
    [00:17:00] Building with Fractional Work
    [00:21:00] Focusing on U.S. Talent for Tacit Knowledge
    [00:23:00] Startups Using Fractional Work
    [00:24:30] Schools Over: Empowering Non-College Pathways
    [00:27:00] Future of Work: Flexibility and Fractional Roles
    [00:31:00] Praveen’s Success with Fractional Talent

    Praveen's Stuff:

    Fraction Website: https://www.hirefraction.com/
    School's Over: https://schoolsover.org/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pghanta/
    X: https://x.com/truecost

    My Stuff:

    Podcast: https://www.madeitpod.com/
    Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/
    X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/

  • Scaling Billion Dollar Dreams and Redefining Success with Gil Eyal

    Scaling Billion Dollar Dreams and Redefining Success with Gil Eyal

    · Made It with Connor Tomkies

    In this episode of Made It with Connor Tomkies, Gil Eyal returns to discuss the unpredictable nature of success in the world of social media and business investment. They dive deep into the challenges of investing in consumer products, the importance of identifying businesses with billion-dollar potential, and the pitfalls of the dating app industry. With a mix of humor and insight, Gil and Connor explore the highs and lows of entrepreneurial ventures, leaving listeners with valuable lessons and plenty of inspiration.

    Check Out Our Sponsors:

    Join Our Community!
    https://wealthwithrush.com/


    Chapters

    Apologies for the confusion. Here are the updated timecode-based chapter titles:

    [00:00:00] Introduction: Gil Eyal Returns
    [00:00:29] The Power of Social Media and Influence
    [00:02:00] Lessons Learned as an Investor
    [00:03:45] Consumer Goods vs. SaaS Investments
    [00:06:08] Focusing on Consumer Goods and Tech
    [00:08:34] The Challenges of Raising a Fund
    [00:09:40] Dream Product: A Hair Growth Solution
    [00:11:00] Rethinking the Dating App Model
    [00:17:15] Considering a Venture Studio
    [00:19:14] The Problem with “Fake it Till You Make It”
    [00:22:00] Excitement Around GLP-1 Drugs and the Future
    [00:23:40] Civilization as a Business Game
    [00:25:45] Wrapping Up: Where to Find Gil Eyal

    Gil's Stuff:

    Website: https://stardustventures.us/
    Email: [email protected]
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gileyal/
    X: https://x.com/gileyal
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gileyal

    My Stuff:

    Podcast: https://www.madeitpod.com/
    Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/
    X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/

  • Matchmaking for Dogs: The Story of All Paws, Snap Interactive and more with Darrell Lerner

    Matchmaking for Dogs: The Story of All Paws, Snap Interactive and more with Darrell Lerner

    · Made It with Connor Tomkies

    Join Connor Tomkies in this exciting episode of the Made It Podcast as he chats with Darrell Lerner, the man behind All Paws and Snap Interactive. Discover how Darrell transitioned from revolutionizing online dating to creating a successful platform connecting dogs with their forever homes. Listen as Darrell shares the unconventional journey of founding Snap Interactive, leveraging Facebook's app platform, and the unexpected challenges of taking a company public. Learn how his passion for pets led to the inception of All Paws and his unique approach to matchmaking for dogs. Darrell also delves into the thrilling rollercoaster of scaling a startup, raising millions, and the intense due diligence of selling a company. This episode is packed with insights on entrepreneurship, the pet industry, and the evolving world of social media influencers. Don't miss out on Darrell's fascinating stories and valuable lessons!

    Check Out Our Sponsors:

    Join Our Community!

    Chapters:

    [00:00:00] Welcome and Introduction
    [00:00:27] Focus on Dogs
    [00:00:45] Connecting with Dog Genetics
    [00:01:05] Starting All Paws
    [00:01:34] Creating a Pet Matchmaking Service
    [00:02:22] From Snap Interactive to All Paws
    [00:03:00] The Concept of Tinder for Pets
    [00:04:02] Leaning into Online Dating Experience
    [00:04:45] Filtering for the Perfect Pet
    [00:05:24] Early Success of Snap Interactive
    [00:06:00] The Premise of Snap Interactive
    [00:07:55] Viral Growth on Facebook
    [00:09:15] Unexpected Publicity Boost
    [00:10:55] Stock Market Surge
    [00:12:30] Raising Capital and Scaling
    [00:13:57] Challenges of Being Public
    [00:15:00] Insider Trading Restrictions
    [00:16:00] Navigating Public Perception
    [00:17:00] Leaving Snap Interactive
    [00:18:17] Due Diligence Challenges
    [00:20:33] Transitioning After the Sale
    [00:22:11] Taking Time Off
    [00:25:15] Adjusting to Life Post-Sale
    [00:26:15] Exploring the Influencer Economy
    [00:28:15] Monetizing Influence
    [00:30:15] Building Brands with Influencers
    [00:31:45] Lessons Learned and Next Steps
    [00:34:45] Where to Find Darrell Lerner


    Darrell's Stuff:
    Website: https://www.darrelllerner.com/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrelllerner/
    X: https://x.com/DarrellLerner/
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dlerner2112/

    My Stuff:

    Podcast: https://www.madeitpod.com/
    Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/
    X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/

  • Hot Takes and Padel Breaks: Benji Markoff’s Return

    Hot Takes and Padel Breaks: Benji Markoff’s Return

    · Made It with Connor Tomkies

    Join us for a captivating conversation with Benji Markoff, a returning guest who initially appeared in Episode 3. In this episode, Benji opens up about his latest venture, Padel United Sports Club. He discusses the intricacies of launching a high-end social wellness club focused on the fast-growing sport of Padel. Discover how Benji is building a vibrant community, the strategic decisions behind membership offerings, and his vision for combining sports with wellness modalities like cryotherapy, sauna, and more.

    Connor and Benji also explore the creator economy, the importance of genuine human interaction in business, and the value of documenting the entrepreneurial journey authentically.

    Check Out Our Sponsors:

    https://wealthwithrush.com/

    Join Our Community!

    Chapters:

    [00:00:00] Intro and Banter

    [00:00:09] Reflecting on Last Episode

    [00:00:34] Podcast Schvitz Idea

    [00:00:55] Sauna Experiences

    [00:01:21] Live vs. Business Content

    [00:02:07] Unscripted Conversations

    [00:02:30] Learning from Discussions

    [00:02:55] Sauna’s Unique Environment

    [00:02:45] Paddle vs. Padel

    [00:03:29] Social Media Influence

    [00:04:47] Padel United Vision

    [00:05:15] Creating a Wellness Club

    [00:05:30] Russian Sauna Traditions

    [00:06:00] Multipurpose Sauna Hats

    [00:06:45] Business Content Overload

    [00:07:00] Entrepreneurial Motivation

    [00:08:01] Beyond Startup Stories

    [00:08:30] Late-night Entrepreneur Thoughts

    [00:09:00] Family and Business Balance

    [00:09:15] Entrepreneurship as a Career Cycle

    [00:09:30] Building Multiple Companies

    [00:09:45] Passion vs. Profit

    [00:10:00] Business Challenges

    [00:10:26] Personal Business Journey

    [00:11:00] Real-life Business Insights

    [00:12:00] High-level Business Decisions

    [00:12:30] Value of Spontaneous Ideas

    [00:13:38] Entrepreneurial Resilience

    [00:13:45] Padel Community Building

    [00:14:47] Early Membership Offers

    [00:15:30] Personalized Sales Pitch

    [00:16:47] Immediate Feedback

    [00:16:57] Membership Commitment

    [00:18:47] Friend’s Support

    [00:19:00] Sales Strategy

    [00:19:45] Direct Communication

    [00:20:26] Immediate Action

    [00:21:00] Engaging Network

    [00:21:30] Marketing Authenticity

    [00:22:47] Personal Branding

    [00:23:30] Real-life Networking

    Benji's Stuff:
    Padel United Sports Club: https://www.padelunitedsportsclub.com/
    Padel Mecca on Substack: https://substack.com/@padelmecca
    Instagram: @PadelUnitedSC

    My Stuff:

    Podcast: https://www.madeitpod.com/
    Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/
    X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/

    Tune in to "Made It" with Connor Tomkies and be inspired by stories of entrepreneurial success and innovation. Subscribe now and never miss an episode!

  • The Metrics Maestro: Alex White on Rocking the Music & Tax Industries

    The Metrics Maestro: Alex White on Rocking the Music & Tax Industries

    · Made It with Connor Tomkies

    In this episode we sit down with Alexander White, the co-founder of Next Big Sound. Alexander shares his journey from launching a music data business during his senior year at Northwestern to its acquisition by Pandora for a remarkable 10x revenue multiple. Discover how Alexander's passion for data led him to his next venture, focusing on uncovering and optimizing tax incentives and credits for businesses. Tune in for insights on entrepreneurship, the music industry's data revolution, and the untapped potential of government incentives.

    Check Out Our Sponsors: https://wealthwithrush.com/

    Join Our Community!

    Chapters

    [00:00:00] Introduction
    [00:00:16] Starting Next Big Sound in College
    [00:00:59] Early Investments
    [00:01:44] Initial Business Model
    [00:02:16] Understanding Trends and Early Adopters
    [00:02:30] Tour Managing a Band
    [00:04:00] Gathering Data and Selling to Music Industry
    [00:04:53] Scaling the Business
    [00:06:00] Series A Funding and Music Industry Dynamics
    [00:06:56] Pandora Acquisition
    [00:09:00] Integrating with Pandora
    [00:12:16] Post Exit Identity Crisis
    [00:14:13] Team Dynamics at Pandora
    [00:16:00] Leveraging Youth
    [00:17:30] Post Exit Life
    [00:18:30] Professor Role at NYU
    [00:23:15] Investor & Author Roles
    [00:27:30] Working at Pandora
    [00:32:00] Taking a Break
    [00:36:56] Tax Credits and Incentives Implementation
    [00:39:30] Working with CPA Networks
    [00:46:00] Engaging with Large Tax Firms
    [00:50:00] Leveraging Tax Credits
    [00:56:00] Conclusion


    Alexander's Stuff:

    Website: https://alexanderswhite.com/
    X: https://x.com/mralexwhite
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexanderswhite/

    My Stuff:

    Podcast: https://www.madeitpod.com/
    Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/
    X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/

  • Breaking the Rules: Vadim Rogovskiy's Global Tech Journey and Rebel Capital Dreams

    Breaking the Rules: Vadim Rogovskiy's Global Tech Journey and Rebel Capital Dreams

    · Made It with Connor Tomkies

    In this episode of "Made It with Connor Tomkies," Connor sits down with Vadim Rogovskiy, a successful entrepreneur who sold his first company in 2014 and has since been involved in various ventures, including the innovative AR company 3DLOOK. Vadim shares his journey from early entrepreneurial efforts in Ukraine, dealing with the challenges of in-game advertising, to his pivot into augmented reality and computer vision technology. Learn about his insights into the startup ecosystem, the importance of agility and perseverance, and his vision for the future.

    Check Out Our Sponsors: wealthwithrush.com

    Chapters:

    00:00:00 - Introduction

    00:01:15 - Social Media Advertising in Eastern Europe

    00:03:45 - Bootstrapping an Ad Network

    00:10:00 - Challenges in the Eastern European Ad Market

    00:15:00 - Selling the Company and Moving On

    00:17:27 - Investing in Startups

    00:24:15 - Pivot to Augmented Reality

    00:30:00 - Building 3DLook

    00:34:45 - Looking to the Future

    00:37:30 - Closing Thoughts

    Vadim's Stuff

    Website: https://geek.vc/
    Vadim's X: https://x.com/vadim_rogovskiy
    Vadim's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vadim-rogovskiy/

    My Stuff

    Podcast: www.mysecondmillionpodcast.com
    Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/
    X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/

  • Making Unsexy... Sexy with Atlas Authority Founder Boris Berenberg

    Making Unsexy... Sexy with Atlas Authority Founder Boris Berenberg

    · Made It with Connor Tomkies

    Boris shares his journey from working at Atlassian to founding his own company Atlas Authority, navigating the challenges of being a solo founder, and eventually exiting the business. Dive into their discussion about unsexy business ideas, the importance of shared context in startups, and Boris's candid insights on his entrepreneurial experiences. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, this episode is packed with valuable lessons and unique perspectives.

    Chapters

    [00:00:00] Introduction
    [00:00:30] The Unsexy Business
    [00:00:45] From Atlassian to Solo Founder
    [00:02:15] Starting the Company
    [00:03:28] Business Model and Services
    [00:04:30] Platform Risk and Emotional Fatigue
    [00:04:51] Remote Work and Team Structure
    [00:05:44] In-Person vs. Remote Work
    [00:06:15] The Importance of Communication
    [00:08:45] Accountability as a Solo Founder
    [00:09:00] Birthday Sale Ritual
    [00:10:04] Learning from the Sale Process
    [00:11:03] Valuation and Exit
    [00:12:15] Post-Exit Reflections
    [00:13:15] Unsexy Business Ideas
    [00:15:30] Spam Scoring for Outbound Emails
    [00:18:45] Sexy Goat Bath Product
    [00:21:00] Meatbags: A Unique Snack Idea
    [00:23:15] Property Tax Appeal Service
    [00:25:45] Weird Sports Network
    [00:28:30] RC Plane Venues
    [00:31:15] Public Library Publisher
    [00:36:00] Advocating for Libraries
    [00:36:38] Closing Thoughts
    [00:37:00] Outro

    Boris' Stuff

    Website: https://www.nothingeasyaboutthis.com
    Boris' X: https://x.com/borisberenberg
    Boris' LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/borisberenberg/

    My Stuff

    Podcast: www.mysecondmillionpodcast.com
    Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/
    X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/

  • Solving for Joy, The Power of Hustle, and More with Hustle Fund's Eric Bahn

    Solving for Joy, The Power of Hustle, and More with Hustle Fund's Eric Bahn

    · Made It with Connor Tomkies

    Eric Bahn, co-founder of Hustle Fund, discusses his journey as an entrepreneur and investor. He shares insights on building genuine communities, identifying true "hustlers", and redefining wealth and success. Eric opens up about his family's story, working with his wife and sister, and the importance of vulnerability in leadership. He also discusses Hustle Fund's unique investment approach and their flagship event Camp Hustle which aims to build meaningful connections. This candid conversation touches on finding joy after an exit, building inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystems, and growing together in the long-term.

    Chapters:

    00:00 - Intro
    01:35 - Building Genuine Communities
    03:13 - Eric's Vulnerable Journey
    04:44 - Eric's Family's Sacrifices
    08:15 - Pivotal Life Moments
    10:43 - Minivan Enthusiasm & Branding
    13:13 - Beat the GMAT
    16:00 - 3 Pillars of an Excellent Community
    19:32 - Choosing the Right Acquirer
    21:58 - Post-Exit World Travel
    24:43 - Working with Your Sister
    26:47 - Genesis of Hustle Fund
    29:25 - Hustle Fund's Secret Weapon
    30:29 - Hustle Fund's Investment Approach
    32:30 - Hustle Fund's Inclusive Mission
    34:44 - The Loneliness of Success
    37:07 - Navigating Life After an Exit
    39:56 - Camp Hustle
    42:05 - Power of Shared Experiences
    44:17 - Hustle Fund Community
    45:46 - Eric's Ideal Collaborators


    Eric's Stuff

    Hustle Fund: https://www.hustlefund.vc/
    Eric's X: https://x.com/ericbahn
    Eric's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericbahn/

    My Stuff

    Podcast: www.mysecondmillionpodcast.com
    Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/
    X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/

  • The Return of a Legend: Andrew Warner on Podcasts, Communities, and Post-Exit

    The Return of a Legend: Andrew Warner on Podcasts, Communities, and Post-Exit

    · Made It with Connor Tomkies

    Andrew Warner, founder of Mixergy, returns to the pod to share his insights on the post-exit journey of entrepreneurs. The two discuss the importance of finding meaning and purpose after selling a business, the value of shadowing successful entrepreneurs, and the potential of building a community for post-exit founders. With a focus on personal growth and the unique challenges faced by entrepreneurs after an exit, this podcast offers valuable lessons for anyone looking to navigate the next chapter of their entrepreneurial journey. Discover the key to staying motivated, connected, and inspired in this thought-provoking conversation.

    Chapters:

    00:00:00 - Intro
    00:03:11 - Finding the Right Podcast Format
    00:06:48 - The Impact of the "My Second Million" Podcast Launch
    00:10:57 - Andrew's Outdoor "Anti-Office" Setup
    00:14:07 - The Potential of Video-First Podcast Content
    00:19:13 - Engaging Post-Exit Founders
    00:22:20 - The Anticlimactic Moment of Selling a Business
    00:24:28 - Building a Community for Post-Exit Entrepreneurs
    00:27:15 - Finding Motivation Beyond Fear After an Exit
    00:29:34 - Andrew's Search for Clarity
    00:32:17 - The Lost Art of Apprenticeship
    00:37:30 - Experience as an EOS Implementer
    00:39:39 - Building Relationships
    00:41:46 - Conclusion

    Andrew's Stuff

    Andrew's Site: https://mixergy.com/
    Andrew's X: https://x.com/AndrewWarner?s=20
    Andrew's Book: https://www.amazon.com/Stop-Asking-Questions-High-Impact-Interviews/dp/1737676540

    My Stuff

    Podcast: www.mysecondmillionpodcast.com
    Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/
    X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/

  • Bouncy Balls, Building Companies, and Big Exits... Dan Reich's Entrepreneurial Journey

    Bouncy Balls, Building Companies, and Big Exits... Dan Reich's Entrepreneurial Journey

    · Made It with Connor Tomkies

    In this episode, serial entrepreneur Dan Reich shares his remarkable journey of building and exiting multiple companies across various industries. From his early ventures in high school to co-founding Spinback, which was acquired by Buddy Media and later Salesforce, Dan's experiences highlight valuable lessons in entrepreneurship, partnerships, and the importance of pursuing passion projects. He also discusses his current approach to building companies and investing through his informal venture studio, offering insights into the challenges and rewards of the entrepreneurial lifestyle.

    Chapters:

    [00:00:00] Introduction
    [00:01:10] The Spinback Story
    [00:04:22] Early Entrepreneurial Ventures
    [00:09:46] Lessons from a Failed Partnership
    [00:11:05] Pursuing New Opportunities
    [00:16:31] The Birth of Tula Skincare
    [00:18:38] Dan's Involvement in Various Companies
    [00:22:21] Criteria for Pushing a Project Live
    [00:25:03] Thoughts on the Current SaaS Market
    [00:31:12] Simplicity in Building Companies
    [00:32:07] Balancing the Roles of Operator and Investor
    [00:35:18] Entrepreneurship as a Video Game
    [00:38:01] The Importance of Employee Equity
    [00:41:20] Dan's Immature Business Ideas
    [00:43:25] Conclusion and Where to Find Dan Reich

    Dan's Stuff:
    Website: https://danreich.com/
    X: https://x.com/DanReich
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danreich/

    My Stuff

    Podcast: MadeItPod.com
    Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/
    X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/

  • Find Your Purpose, and Co-Founder Cuddling with Noah Abelson-Gertler

    Find Your Purpose, and Co-Founder Cuddling with Noah Abelson-Gertler

    · Made It with Connor Tomkies

    In this candid interview, Noah Abelson, founder of ShareRoot, shares his entrepreneurial journey from starting up in a garage to taking his company public. He discusses the challenges of pivoting, fundraising, and navigating co-founder relationships, as well as the emotional toll of life after a successful exit. Noah also shares his passion for making a positive impact and his personal mission to help others heal strained family relationships. Filled with valuable insights and lessons learned, this episode is a must-watch for aspiring entrepreneurs and anyone seeking to find purpose and drive change in their post-startup life.

    00:00:00 - Intro
    00:01:21 - Noah's Founder Journey and Impact
    00:04:30 - Pivoting and Tough Team Conversations
    00:07:55 - Leadership During Challenging Times
    00:11:39 - Navigating a Co-Founder Partnership Split
    00:14:53 - Identifying a Niche in Privacy
    00:19:47 - Fundraising: Taking on Another Job
    00:22:30 - Life After Exit: Challenges Faced
    00:25:48 - Helping Post-Exit Founders Find Purpose
    00:29:29 - Noah's Personal Mission: Family Relationships
    00:35:38 - Importance of Community
    00:37:47 - Wrap-up

    Noah's Stuff:
    Website: https://foundersjourney.io/
    X: https://x.com/NoahAbelson
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/noahabelson/

    My Stuff

    Podcast: MadeItPod.com
    Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/
    X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/

  • Morning Brew, Creator Economy, and Plungers with Alex Lieberman

    Morning Brew, Creator Economy, and Plungers with Alex Lieberman

    · Made It with Connor Tomkies

    Alex Lieberman, co-founder of Morning Brew and host of the Founders Journal podcast, takes us on a whirlwind journey through his post-exit adventures. From getting a full-body MRI to launching a quirky backyard game, Alex candidly shares the highs and lows of life after a successful startup. He delves into Morning Brew's evolving content strategy, the future of marketing, and the challenges of finding product-market fit with his new venture, StoryArb. Filled with relatable stories and valuable insights, this conversation is a must-listen for entrepreneurs at any stage looking to stay innovative and adaptable in an ever-changing business landscape.

    00:00:00 - Intro
    00:09:13 - Alex's Failed Plunger Game
    00:11:58 - Humanizing Brands
    00:14:52 - Expectations on public-facing CEOs
    00:17:06 - Hiring young, agile marketing talent
    00:21:12 - Zero to one: Alex's creative drive
    00:24:28 - StoryArb
    00:26:39 - Lessons learned from StoryArb
    00:30:18 - Morning Brew's evolving content strategy
    00:32:00 - Creator Economy
    00:40:10 - Challenges in the content market
    00:42:40 - Early-stage startups as challenging customers
    00:43:20 - Four points of value for CEOs
    00:44:00 - Outsourcing: From odd to essential
    00:45:22 - Wrap-up

    Alex's Stuff

    Website: https://foundersjournalpod.morningbrew.com/

    X: https://x.com/businessbarista

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-lieberman/

    My Stuff

    Podcast: MadeItPod.com

    Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/

    X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/

  • Protect Yourself During M&A with Thunder's Jason Kirby

    Protect Yourself During M&A with Thunder's Jason Kirby

    · Made It with Connor Tomkies

    Jason Kirby shares hard-earned wisdom with Connor, from exiting his company to Walmart, after a failed acquisition by Samsung. Jason explains key lessons for founders in the acquisition process, like getting your own legal counsel and maintaining multiple options. He also details his new venture Thunder, an investment bank aiming to provide founders with the M&A and fundraising guidance he wished he had.


    The two discuss the rise of eSports in schools, navigating the stresses of being an acquisition target while running a company, and the importance of surrounding yourself with the right advisors.


    Subscribe for more behind-the-scenes insights on entrepreneurship and life after an exit. Check out the links to connect with Jason and access Thunder's free investor matching tool for founders.

    Chapters:

    00:00:00 - Introducing Jason Kirby
    00:02:30 - What Thunder Offers to Founders
    00:04:55 - The Challenges of Raising Capital
    00:07:56 - Building Thunder
    00:13:13 - Bringing eSports to Schools
    00:22:49 - The Rollercoaster of Selling Liquid Sky
    00:29:12 - Picking Up the Pieces
    00:32:07 - Maintaining Optionality
    00:34:53 - Hard Lessons Learned from M&A
    00:41:57 - The Rise of Solo GP
    00:45:32 - Wrapping Up

    Jason Kirby's Stuff

    Website: https://web.thunder.vc/

    X: https://x.com/JasonKirby

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonrkirby/

    My Stuff

    Podcast: MadeItPod.com

    Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/

    X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/

  • Revamping the Health Industry, Redox's Luke Bonney

    Revamping the Health Industry, Redox's Luke Bonney

    · Made It with Connor Tomkies

    In this episode, we sit down with Luke Bonney, co-founder of Redox, a healthcare tech company that raised $95 million. Join us as Luke shares his journey from med school dropout to successful entrepreneur, discussing the challenges of building a startup, the importance of strong co-founder relationships, and the future of healthcare technology. Tune in for valuable insights and lessons learned from a founder who's been in the trenches.

    00:00:00 - Intro
    00:05:07 - The Power of a Big, Bold Purpose
    00:07:08 - Building a Distributed Company at Redox
    00:10:04 - Challenges of Handling Healthcare Data
    00:11:16 - Stepping Down as CEO
    00:15:07 - Adapting to Different Phases of Life
    00:18:12 - Maintaining Strong Co-Founder Relationships
    00:22:13 - Post-Exit Lifestyle
    00:24:22 - Leadership Principles
    00:29:17 - Working On the Company
    00:34:43 - AI in Healthcare
    00:36:01 - Start-Ups Changing Landscape
    00:37:12 - Better Support Systems

    Luke's Stuff:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/luke-bonney-he-him-965a135/


    My Stuff

    Podcast: MadeItPod.com

    Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/

    X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/

  • Lil Wayne, Leo DiCaprio, and Influencer Marketing with Gil Eyal

    Lil Wayne, Leo DiCaprio, and Influencer Marketing with Gil Eyal

    · Made It with Connor Tomkies

    From celebrity crashes to influencer insights, lessons from a marketing pioneer. Join Connor Tomkies as he sits down with Gil Eyal, a serial entrepreneur who's seen it all in the world of influencer marketing. Discover the ups and downs of Gil's journey, from working with A-listers like Lil Wayne and Leonardo DiCaprio to navigating the ever-changing landscape of social media.

    Packed with valuable insights on leveraging celebrity partnerships, adapting to data restrictions, and the future of influencer marketing, this episode is a must-watch for anyone looking to make their mark in the digital world.

    [00:00:00] - Gil Eyal's Celebrity Crash Course
    [00:04:19] - Pivoting from Mobli to Hypr
    [00:06:55] - The Social Network Data Goldmine
    [00:09:05] - Cambridge Analytica: The Turning Point
    [00:11:13] - The Acquisition Roller Coaster
    [00:13:40] - Structuring Celebrity Equity Deals
    [00:18:25] - The Power of the Number Two Position
    [00:22:13] - The Jake Paul Effect: Influencer Boxing
    [00:24:29] - The Micro-Influencer Debate
    [00:28:48] - Soho House: Exclusivity vs. Scalability
    [00:32:31] - The Rise of Community-Focused Real Estate
    [00:37:17] - Finding Opportunities in Underutilized Assets
    [00:43:47] - The Game-Changing Potential of Medical Weight Loss
    [00:47:46] - Wrap-up and Contact Info


    Gil's Stuff:

    https://stardustventures.us/
    [email protected]

    My Stuff

    Podcast: MadeItPod.com
    Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/
    X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/

  • From Nightclubs to Buying Santa Monica Pier: Shane Neman & EZ Texting

    From Nightclubs to Buying Santa Monica Pier: Shane Neman & EZ Texting

    · Made It with Connor Tomkies

    Entrepreneur Shane Neman shares his incredible journey from founding Junebug, a nightclub software and events company, to building EZ Texting, a pioneering mass texting platform. Discover how Shane spotted opportunities, pivoted when necessary, and bootstrapped his way to success. He also shares insights into his current ventures, including an investment in humanoid robotics and the acquisition of the iconic Santa Monica Pier.

    00:00:00 - Intro
    00:01:00 - Junebug's Origins
    00:04:05 - Launching Junebug
    00:07:20 - Hosting Events
    00:10:30 - Junebug's Success
    00:12:51 - The Texting Opportunity
    00:16:07 - Transitioning to EZ Texting
    00:19:50 - EZ Texting's Acquisition
    00:23:05 - Starting Neman Ventures
    00:25:10 - Investing in AI Robotics
    00:27:40 - Acquiring the Santa Monica Pier
    00:29:15 - Conclusion


    Shane Neman Stuff:

    Website: https://www.shaneneman.com/
    X: https://twitter.com/shaneneman
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaneneman
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shaneneman/
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@shaneneman
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NemanVentures/

    My Stuff

    Podcast: MadeItPod.com
    Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/
    X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/

  • The Best Businesses are *Not* Sexy with Adam Spector of Levy

    The Best Businesses are *Not* Sexy with Adam Spector of Levy

    · Made It with Connor Tomkies

    Serial entrepreneur Adam Spector shares his journey of building and exiting multiple startups, including his current venture, Levy, which revolutionizes back-office support. In this engaging episode, Adam discusses the lessons he's learned from navigating the entrepreneurial rollercoaster, the importance of solving real problems, and his outlook on the future of work in an era of AI and globalization. He also shares insights on running a VC-backed vs. bootstrapped company, the challenges of attribution in personalization, and the increasing accessibility of entrepreneurship. Tune in for a candid conversation filled with valuable advice for entrepreneurs at any stage of their journey.

    00:00:34 - Adam's Background
    00:01:17 - Starting Levy
    00:02:36 - Solving Real Problems
    00:07:10 - Running a Startup
    00:09:10 - Growing the Business
    00:10:37 - Spinning Out Levy
    00:13:37 - Adam's Four Startups
    00:19:16 - Missed Acquisition
    00:23:35 - Building & Selling Lift Igniter
    00:28:32 - VC vs. Bootstrapped
    00:32:26 - Future of Work Outlook
    00:40:06 - AI in Outsourcing
    00:41:16 - Accessible Entrepreneurship
    00:42:46 - Reflections on Success


    Adam Spector's Stuff

    Adam's Business: https://www.levy.company/

    X: https://x.com/aspec00?s=20

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamspector2

    My Stuff

    Podcast: MadeItPod.com

    Website: https://www.connortomkies.com/

    X: https://twitter.com/ConnorTomkies

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortomkies/

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