$TREET $MART$
Bootstrapping vs Outside Capital…from Someone Who’s Done Both Really Really Well.

The Pain to Profits Breakdown For Busy Business Folk.

In this clip, Andrew Wilkinson, co-founder of Tiny, shares his evolving views on bootstrapping versus raising capital, offering practical advice for entrepreneurs considering the choice.
(credit:My First Million)

Key Takeaways

• Adapt your funding strategy based on business needs.

Pros of Bootstrapping

• Total Control: “You can move insanely fast, there’s no board, there’s no committee, you don’t owe anyone anything.”

• Fast Decision-Making: Decisions can be made quickly without needing approval from investors or a board.

• Integrity in Dealings: “When Chris and I buy a business, we can look people in the eye and be like, we’re cutting a check; this is us.”

• No Obligations to Investors: You’re not pressured to meet investor expectations or forced into an IPO or sale.

Cons of Bootstrapping

• Isolation: “You’re on an island; you don’t have anyone who’s aligned and cares and can tell you you’re being an idiot.”

• Limited Growth Potential: Many entrepreneurs miss out on 10x growth opportunities because they’re “addicted to their dividends or they’re conservative.”

• Risk of Poor Decisions: Without external advice, you can “drive your business off the rails.”

Raising Capital

• Seizing Growth Opportunities: “If you have an opportunity to grow your business... it’s crazy not to raise money or go get debt.”

• Preventing Missed Potential: “If you own a bakery and there’s a line out the door... you need to buy two more ovens. It’s crazy not to raise money.”

• Oversight and Accountability: Raising capital brings in valuable external input and aligns interests with investors who care about the business’s success.

• Flexibility in Strategy: Wilkinson shares his experience, “I raised money for our podcasting software company, Supercast, and I’m going to raise money for our news business.”

PUL$E
How to Do $2.5 Trillion Dollar Work

The Pain to Profits Breakdown For Busy Business Folk.

Ever wanted to talk to of a 12-figure CEO? Here’s your chance…kinda.

Jensen Huang, CEO of NVIDIA, in a conversation with the team at Sana shares his strategies for staying current with technology, running a company without traditional management structures, and empowering employees as a $2.5T dollar company.

How do you stay on top of industry trends while running a large company?

• Surround Yourself with Amazing People: "I’m surrounded by amazing people... you have to make the effort to learn."

• Dedicate Yourself to Learning: Being a good student is essential in a tech-driven industry.

• Understand the Technology: Having an intuition for technology allows better extrapolation and adaptation to industry changes.

What are the benefits of not having one-on-ones or a traditional management structure?

• First Principles Approach: "Start from first principles. What is this machine we’re trying to create?"

• Empowerment and Agility: A flat structure with empowered employees allows for fast information flow and agile responses.

• Avoiding Bureaucracy: "We don’t have business units... everybody works as one."

How do you ensure continuous planning and execution?

• Strategy as Action: "Strategy is not words, strategy is action."

• Continuous Planning: There’s no fixed planning cycle; planning is an ongoing process.

• Bottom-Up Input: Encouraging input from all levels ensures that strategies align with daily actions.

How do you empower employees to do their best work?

• Avoid Commodity Work: "We never talk about market share... we tend not to go fight people for market share."

• Focus on Innovation: Choose work that hasn’t been done before and walk away from commoditized businesses.

• Transparency and Information Sharing: Encouraging a transparent culture empowers employees with the knowledge they need to succeed.

How has your leadership style evolved over time?

• Direct Communication: Being direct and open about decisions and reasoning processes empowers employees.

• Adapting and Learning: Adapting leadership based on continuous learning and feedback is crucial.

Brand Damage
To win or not to win…is that really the question?

In the quest to build a big brand, big brands are often not the ones to models from your current seat.

Occasionally they get it right for the smaller guys and ship out work that is worth paying attention to and analyzing further.

Nike accomplished this, again, in releasing an ad leading into the Olympics that has gone bonkers online for asking a question…

“Am I A Bad Person?”

At this point, the collective views are approaching at least 50 million in the span of a week.

And the collective comments have to be in the 100k+ range now by now.

The lesson for brand builders like you is…

Take a stance.

Take a risk.

Shoot you shot…creatively.

Otherwise, people won’t pay attention.

And they certain won’t talk about your company.

In the silence, you have brand.

If you haven’t seen it, it’s your turn to view the ad.

But be sure to scroll the comments and take notes.

Xcelerated Performance
A ‘refreshing’ word from Jeff Bezos

One of the most influential entrepreneurs in the world, Jeff Bezos, has a simple tip for becoming a better decision-maker tomorrow: get a good night’s sleep tonight. 

Here are 4 thoughts he holds on why sleep is crucial for effective leadership:

• Critical for Quality Decisions: Bezos emphasizes, “I need eight hours of sleep. I think better, I have more energy, my mood is better.” For senior executives, the quality of decisions is more important than quantity.

• Fewer, Better Decisions: “As a senior executive, you get paid to make a small number of high-quality decisions.” It's not about making hundreds of decisions daily, but making the right ones.

• Impact of Sleep Deprivation: Less sleep might mean more hours, but “if the quality of those decisions might be lower because you’re tired or grouchy,” the trade-off isn’t worth it.

• Focus on the Future: At Amazon’s scale, executives “work in the future, they live in the future,” focusing on long-term planning rather than immediate concerns. This strategic thinking requires clarity and well-being.

Chew on Jeff’s thoughts this Tuesday morning.

Better yet…maybe just sleep on them.(wink)

In Case You Missed It
News For Your Consideration

• Olympic Organizers forced to issue soft apology for opening ceremony debacle after international outcry.

• President Biden put pieces in play to reform the Supreme Court in latest unconstitutional move from his administration.

$TREET $MART$
The lost art of accomplishment without burnout

The Pain to Profits Breakdown For Busy Business Folk.

Feeling Burned Out? Here’s Why

• Constant Work Pressure: If you feel exhausted by your job, it’s likely because modern work expectations demand constant availability and visible busyness.

• Have Your Heard of Cal Newport?: He’s a computer scientist and author who shares practical advice on avoiding burnout in his book "Slow Productivity: The Lost Art of Accomplishment Without Burnout."

Why Your Current Productivity Methods Aren’t Working

• Outdated Approaches: The productivity methods designed for manufacturing don’t work well for today’s knowledge-based jobs.

• False Productivity: Being busy doesn’t always mean being productive. You might be caught in the trap of looking busy without getting meaningful work done.

Embrace Slow Productivity: A Better Way to Work

1. Focus on Fewer Tasks:

   • Less is More: Concentrate on fewer tasks at a time to improve both the quality and speed of your work.

   • Avoid Multitasking: Switching tasks leaves mental residue, making you less effective and more stressed.

   • Achieve More: By focusing on fewer things, you’ll finish them faster and at a higher quality.

2. Work at a Natural Pace:

   • Follow Natural Rhythms: Just like farming has planting and harvest seasons, your work can have busy and slow periods.

   • Avoid Constant Overwork: It’s okay to have varied work intensity. You don’t need to work at full speed all the time.

3. Prioritize Quality:

   • Focus on What Matters: Identify the tasks that create the most value in your work and focus on improving them.

   • Invest in Good Tools: Use quality tools to enhance your work and show yourself that it’s important.

   • Example: Cal Newport used an expensive lab notebook to take his research more seriously, which improved his focus and results.

The Benefits of Slow Productivity

• Finish Important Tasks Faster: By focusing on fewer things, you’ll get them done more quickly.

• Produce Higher Quality Work: Concentrating your efforts leads to better outcomes.

• Enjoy Better Well-being: Reducing pressure and avoiding burnout leads to a more sustainable and enjoyable work life.

Start Today: Make Your Work Life Better

• Adopt Slow Productivity: Focus on doing fewer things, work at a natural pace, and aim for high quality. You’ll achieve more without burning out.

PUL$E
"Self Selection Underway" - Fourth Turning's Neil Howe WARNS of Impending Civil War Signs

The Pain to Profits Breakdown For Busy Business Folk.

Feeling Disconnected? Here’s Why

• Divided America: The country is experiencing a significant split, both politically and socially. You may feel like you're living in a completely different country just by moving a few hours away.

• Changing Values: Different regions have contrasting lifestyles and priorities. For example, in some areas, people have more time and community spirit, while in others, wealth is more common, but personal connections are lacking.

Why Polarization is Increasing

• Red vs. Blue Zones: Political and social beliefs are becoming more entrenched, with people choosing to live among those who share their views.

• Self-Segregation: This separation leads to a lack of understanding and increased suspicion between different political groups.

How This Affects You

1. Living Among Like-Minded People:

   • Self-Selection: People are moving to areas that align with their beliefs, whether it's for more social welfare or personal independence.

   • Tribal Living: This trend is making it easier for individuals to surround themselves with like-minded neighbors, further deepening the divide.

2. The Stolen Election Phenomenon:

   • Echo Chambers: As people live in more politically homogeneous areas, they are less likely to encounter opposing viewpoints. This can make election results seem fraudulent to those who don’t see diverse opinions around them.

The Consequences of a Divided Nation

• Potential for Conflict: The deep divisions can lead to increased tensions and the possibility of conflict, as seen in historical examples.

• Historical Lessons: Looking back, similar divisions have led to violence or forced agreements. Understanding history can help in navigating current issues.

Why Common Sense Values are Under Threat

• Questioning Principles: Fundamental values are being challenged, causing confusion, especially among the younger generation.

• Impact on Families: Conservative values have been shown to raise less anxious children, yet societal pressures often push against these principles.

What You Can Do

• Acknowledge the Divide: Recognize the significant differences in values and lifestyles across the country.

• Seek Understanding: Try to understand the perspectives of those with different beliefs to bridge the gap.

• Engage in Dialogue: Open conversations about fundamental values can help in finding common ground.

Start Today: Make a Difference in Your Community

• Promote Common Sense Values: Encourage principles that support community and personal well-being.

• Wear Your Beliefs: Show your support for positive change by wearing gear that represents your values and initiates conversations.

By understanding the growing divide and taking steps to bridge it, you can contribute to a more united and understanding America.

Brand Damage
Scrambling to build a great Brand.

David sat back in his chair, the weight of the company’s future pressing on him. "We’ve been looking at this all wrong," he said, almost to himself. "It’s not just about cutting costs or ramping up marketing. We need to rethink our entire approach."

His team stared at him, waiting for him to continue. "We need to start with the customer. What do they really want? What problems are we solving for them? If we can’t answer that, then all the strategy sessions and financial planning won’t save us."

As the team reviewed their latest product proposal, David suddenly stood up, eyes wide with a newfound clarity. "Wait a minute," he interrupted. "We’re missing the bigger picture here. It’s not just about what we’re selling. It’s about why we’re selling it."

He took a deep breath and continued, "Our brand needs to stand for something meaningful, something that resonates deeply with our customers. If we don’t have a compelling purpose, then we’re just another company with a product. We need to inspire our customers, not just satisfy them."

Passages from "Scramble: How Agile Strategy Can Build Epic Brands in Record Time" by Marty Neumeier.

These excerpts from Marty Neumeier’s classic business fable highlight crucial moments of realization for David Stone, the fictional CEO navigating a turnaround for his company. These moments emphasize the importance of a customer-centric approach and the need for a brand to have a compelling purpose.

For those who haven't read "Scramble," these principles are critical for building a successful brand in today's fast-paced business environment. Here are seven key insights from the book that can guide you in building an epic brand in 2024:

1. Agile Strategy and Flexibility

   • Companies must adopt agile strategies, which involve quick, iterative decision-making and adjustments to navigate rapidly changing market conditions.

2. Emphasis on Design Thinking

   • Design thinking is not just about aesthetics but about making things work better by integrating the needs of people, the possibilities of technology, and business requirements.

3. Customer-Centric Approach

   • Your brand is defined by your customers. The power has shifted from companies to customers, and the brands that win are those that align their strategies with customer needs and expectations.

4. The Role of Leadership in Brand Building

   • Leaders should foster a culture of curiosity, creativity, and collaboration, empowering teams to come up with ideas, test them, and iterate based on what works.

5. Building a Cohesive Brand

   • A strong brand is consistent across all touchpoints and tells a compelling story that resonates with customers, employees, and stakeholders alike.

6. Importance of Speed and Adaptability

   • Speed is a competitive advantage. The ability to move quickly and adapt to changing circumstances can mean the difference between success and failure.

7. The Value of Simplicity

   • Simplicity is key. A clear, simple brand message is more likely to cut through the noise and connect with your audience.

In a pivotal moment of the book, David figures out the big lesson:

David felt a sense of calm as he addressed his team for the final strategy meeting. "It’s clear now," he began. "We’ve been so focused on what we’re doing that we forgot why we’re doing it. Our real job is to create value, not just for our shareholders, but for our customers, employees, and the community. If we get that right, everything else will follow."

He paused, letting the significance of his words sink in. "We need to be agile, yes, but we also need to be purposeful. Our brand should stand for something that matters. That's how we’ll inspire loyalty, drive innovation, and build a truly epic brand."

These passages from "Scramble" encapsulate the core lessons of agile strategy and purposeful branding. By focusing on these principles, you can navigate the complexities of today's market and build something that resonate deeply with your audience.

Xcelerated Performance
ENTREPRENEUR MINDSET

The Pain to Profits Breakdown For Busy Business Folk.

Struggling to Find Success? Here’s Why

• Starting from Rock Bottom: Success stories often highlight people rising to the top, but it's important to acknowledge those who start in the middle and face repeated failures.

• Self-Destruction: Positive self-talk alone isn't enough if you continue destructive habits the rest of the time. True change requires consistent positive actions.

Understanding the Mindset of Wealth

• Rich vs. Poor Perceptions: Wealthy individuals don’t view money the same way as those who grew up poor. They see money as a tool to be used, not hoarded.

• Breaking the Myth: It doesn’t take money to make money. Many successful people started with very little and focused on reinvesting their resources.

In Case You Missed It
News For Your Consideration

• Nearly a third of home sellers are cutting prices as the housing supply balloons in these areas.

• Kamala Harris newly presidential campaign efforts raise a new-record of $81 Millions in just 24 hours.

$TREET $MART$
Ara Mahdessian: ServiceTitan Would Not Be a Success if We Raised VC Earlier

This podcast was so damn encouraging to me, and I hope it does the same for you.

Background and Inspiration: Ara Mahdessian, from the San Fernando Valley of Los Angeles, observed inefficiencies in his father's contracting business. With a Computer Science degree from USC, he co-founded ServiceTitan in 2012 with Vahe Kuzoyan to address these challenges.

Founding and Growth: ServiceTitan was created to streamline operations for home service companies, covering scheduling, dispatching, invoicing, and customer management. It quickly grew to serve over 11,800 businesses, driven by its significant impact on efficiency and customer service.

Funding and Expansion: The company raised over $1.4 billion from top venture capital firms like Bessemer, Battery Ventures, Index Ventures, and ICONIQ Capital, enabling rapid scaling and product development.

Leadership and Vision: As CEO, Ara focuses on empowering tradespeople through technology and fostering a strong company culture. He aims to elevate the trades industry, providing tools for greater success and recognition.

Achievements and Impact: ServiceTitan has received numerous accolades, including spots on the Forbes Cloud 100 and Inc. 5000 lists. Ara emphasizes customer success, integrity, and continuous improvement, driving the company's mission to support the growth and success of tradespeople worldwide.

PUL$E
What You Need to Master (And Avoid) to Get Rich, Stay Rich, and Build Wealth

If there is one thing I have learned, it is that most entrepreneurs put all their eggs in one basket—their Business. This long but thoughtful podcast does a great job of addressing the habits of wealthy people over time. These are important for us to understand.

Brand Damage
Are You Even in The Game?

In light of Saturday's assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump, we thought it timely to revisit the words of another former President who also survived an assassination attempt.

Theodore Roosevelt's stirring speech, delivered in 1910, resonates powerfully today. His words, of which these are but a snippet remind us of the courage and resilience needed to face the coming challenges in life and business, and they are especially poignant for us all this Tuesday morning.

The Man in the Arena

The poorest way to face life is to face it with a sneer.

There are many men who feel a kind of twisted pride in cynicism; there are many who confine themselves to criticism of the way others do what they themselves dare not even attempt.

There is no more unhealthy being, no man less worthy of respect, than he who either really holds, or feigns to hold, an attitude of sneering disbelief toward all that is great and lofty, whether in achievement or in that noble effort which, even if it fails, comes to second achievement.

A cynical habit of thought and speech, a readiness to criticize work which the critic himself never tries to perform, an intellectual aloofness which will not accept contact with life's realities—all these are marks, not as the possessor would fain to think, of superiority but of weakness.

It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.

For those more inclined to audio, you can soak the words in here.

Xcelerated Performance
Your Focus determines your Feelings!

In Case You Missed It
News For Your Consideration

• Trump makes first assassination attempt appearance at the RNC, selects Ohio Senator JD Vance as running mate.(Video)

• Musk pledges a whopping $45,000,000 a month for pro-Trump super PAC.

$TREET $MART$
How to Create a Successful Merger or Acquisition

Tom Ellsworth aka The Biz Doc of Valuetainment has one of the most underrated business channel on YouTube. Known for his data-first yet non academic approach to business education, today’s video on Mergers & Acquisitions is a must watch or at least, a must add to your “watch later” playlist.

$TREET $MART$

Gerald Ratner - "Business Acquisition is the ONLY way to grow"

The interview with Gerald Ratner, a renowned businessman in the jewelry industry, provides valuable insights into the strategies and principles that drove his success. Ratner's story is a testament to the power of ambition, strategic acquisitions, and using innovative marketing to build a business empire.

In the video he lays out 12 simple principles/lessons for those considering acquisition entrepreneurship:

Key Takeaways and Lessons for Acquisition Entrepreneurs:

• Ambition and Ruthlessness: Aim high and be prepared to make tough decisions to achieve your goals.

• Start Early: Gaining experience from a young age can provide valuable insights and a strong foundation.

• Leverage Key Personnel: Identify and retain talented individuals who can drive the business forward.

• Focus on Acquisitions: Acquiring existing businesses can be more effective than organic growth.

• Innovative Marketing: Don't be afraid to break industry norms with aggressive and continuous promotions.

• Strategic Financial Maneuvers: Use strategic deals and financial tools to facilitate acquisitions without heavy personal financial investment.

• Competitive Edge: Acquiring competitors can reduce competition and provide immediate market share and resources.

• International Expansion: Adapting successful domestic strategies to international markets can drive global growth.

• Importance of Control: Ensuring control over acquisitions is crucial for implementing your vision and strategies.

• Embrace Risk: Sometimes, taking calculated risks can yield significant rewards.

• Learn from Failure: Even unsuccessful ventures provide valuable lessons for future endeavors.

• Strong Legal Support: Having a great lawyer is essential for navigating the complexities of acquisitions.

For the person considering ETA Gerald Ratner is a prime example of where ambition and patience can take you in the game of business.

PUL$E
Turning $1M Into $1B+: A Masterclass From The Indian Warren Buffett

Mohnish Pabrai is an Indian-American investor, philanthropist, and author known for his value investing philosophy. He is the managing partner of Pabrai Investment Funds, which he founded in 1999. Pabrai is heavily influenced by Warren Buffett and Charlie Munger, and he often adopts their investment principles.

Key Aspects of Mohnish Pabrai’s Investing Philosophy:

1. Value Investing: Pabrai follows the principles of value investing, seeking to buy undervalued stocks with a significant margin of safety.

2. Clone and Improve: He believes in cloning successful investment strategies and improving upon them where possible.

3. Dhandho Investor: Pabrai authored "The Dhandho Investor," where he outlines his low-risk, high-return investment approach, emphasizing the concept of "heads I win, tails I don't lose much."

4. Focus Investing: Pabrai advocates for a concentrated portfolio with a small number of high-conviction investments.

5. Long-Term Perspective: He maintains a long-term investment horizon, focusing on businesses with sustainable competitive advantages.

Brand Damage
The 10 “Must-Reads” Business Books of The Last 25 Years

The business world has no shortage in the supply of books on marketing, business, and personal development. It’s estimated 3 million new titles will enter the global market this year alone.

However, we enlisted the help of Artificial Intelligence to find the most reviewed and personally recommended books by major business leaders over the last 25 years.

Here were the results:

1. "Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion" by Robert Cialdini

Why It's Recommended: This classic explores the psychology behind why people say "yes" and how to apply these principles in marketing.

Notable Endorsements:

• Seth Godin: Calls it a must-read.

• Guy Kawasaki: Praises its insights on persuasion.

• Adam Robinson: Recommended on "The Tim Ferriss Show".

• David Heinemeier Hansson: Foundational for his marketing strategies.

• Reviews: Over 156,000 ratings on Goodreads with a 4.2 average; highly praised across multiple platforms​.

2. "Made to Stick: Why Some Ideas Survive and Others Die" by Chip Heath and Dan Heath

Why It's Recommended: This book delves into why some ideas are more effective and memorable than others, offering practical tips for making your messages stick.

Notable Endorsements:

• Dan Pink: Transformative for idea communication.

• Malcolm Gladwell: Essential reading for communicators.

• Reviews: Over 58,000 ratings on Goodreads with a 4.1 average; frequently cited by marketing professionals​​.

3. "Building a StoryBrand: Clarify Your Message So Customers Will Listen" by Donald Miller

Why It's Recommended: Miller provides a framework for crafting compelling brand stories that capture customer attention and drive engagement.

Notable Endorsements:

• Michael Hyatt: Essential for message clarity.

• Dave Ramsey: Powerful tool for business growth.

• Reviews: Over 23,000 ratings on Goodreads with a 4.5 average; recommended in many marketing circles​​.

4. "Purple Cow: Transform Your Business by Being Remarkable" by Seth Godin

Why It's Recommended: Godin emphasizes the importance of being remarkable and standing out in a crowded marketplace.

Notable Endorsements:

• Tom Peters: Elevates marketing to a new level.

• Jacqueline Novogratz: A must-read for marketers.

• Reviews: Over 49,000 ratings on Goodreads with a 4.1 average; widely endorsed by marketing experts​​.

5. "Contagious: How to Build Word of Mouth in the Digital Age" by Jonah Berger

Why It's Recommended: Berger explores the science behind why things go viral and how to create content that gets shared.

Notable Endorsements:

• Arianna Huffington: Insightful guide to creating viral content.

• Daniel Pink: Comprehensive on word-of-mouth marketing.

• Reviews: Over 30,000 ratings on Goodreads with a 4.1 average; frequently cited in digital marketing strategies​.

6. "The Lean Startup: How Today's Entrepreneurs Use Continuous Innovation to Create Radically Successful Businesses" by Eric Ries

Why It's Recommended: Ries introduces the Lean Startup methodology, which focuses on building products that customers want through continuous innovation.

Notable Endorsements:

• Marc Andreessen: Fundamental for startups.

• Fred Wilson: Essential reading for entrepreneurs.

• Reviews: Over 104,000 ratings on Goodreads with a 4.1 average; widely adopted in startup ecosystems​​.

7. "Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action" by Simon Sinek

Why It's Recommended: Sinek explains the importance of starting with "why" to inspire others and achieve success.

Notable Endorsements:

• Tony Hsieh: Inspirational for leadership.

• Ken Blanchard: Key to understanding motivation.

• Reviews: Over 80,000 ratings on Goodreads with a 4.1 average; influential in leadership and marketing​​.

8. "The Tipping Point: How Little Things Can Make a Big Difference" by Malcolm Gladwell

Why It's Recommended: Gladwell explores how small actions can lead to significant changes, focusing on the factors that cause ideas to spread.

Notable Endorsements:

• Seth Godin: Influential on idea spread.

• Daniel Pink: Breaks down the mechanics of tipping points.

• Reviews: Over 770,000 ratings on Goodreads with a 4.0 average; a staple in understanding market dynamics​​.

9. "This Is Marketing: You Can't Be Seen Until You Learn to See" by Seth Godin

Why It's Recommended: Godin provides insights into modern marketing techniques and the importance of empathy in reaching customers.

Notable Endorsements:

• Pat Flynn: Comprehensive on modern marketing.

• Marie Forleo: Essential for understanding marketing today.

• Reviews: Over 20,000 ratings on Goodreads with a 4.1 average; respected by marketing professionals​​.

10. "Crush It!: Why Now Is the Time to Cash in on Your Passion" by Gary Vaynerchuk

Why It's Recommended: Vaynerchuk emphasizes the importance of building a personal brand and leveraging social media to turn passions into careers.

Notable Endorsements:

• Tim Ferriss: Inspiring for entrepreneurs.

• Tony Robbins: Powerful on personal branding.

• Reviews: Over 22,000 ratings on Goodreads with a 4.0 average; influential for social media and branding​.

If there was an honorable mention to this list it would be $100M Offers by Alex Hormozi. 

It has over 22k reviews and singlehandedly reintroduced millennials and gen-z to direct response marketing in a fresh way by building on the work of pioneers like the Dan Kennedy and Michael Masterson.

Xcelerated Performance
NEUROSCIENTIST - You Will NEVER Lose Motivation AGAIN!

In Case You Missed It
News For Your Consideration

• Trump Wagers Harris Will Replace Biden if He’s Pushed Out.

• OpenAI Infused iPhone Could Push Apple’s Market Cap to $4,000,000,000,000.

• US Consumer Borrowing Rises Most in Three Months on Credit Cards.

$TREET $MART$
Why “Work Smart, Not Hard” Is Wrong (with Mike Rowe)

Here are some key points that Mike Rowe often makes about hard work versus working smarter:

1. Value of Hard Work: Hard work builds character and provides a sense of accomplishment and purpose. People have lost sight of the value of manual labor and the satisfaction that comes from doing a job well.

2. Skill and Effort: Working hard and working smart are not mutually exclusive. Skills and intelligence are important, but a strong work ethic should complement them.

3. Realistic Perspective: The notion that success can be achieved solely through working smarter without putting in the effort-hard work is often a necessary component of achieving goals and success.

4. Dignity in Work: The idea that all jobs, no matter how dirty or labor-intensive, have dignity and are essential to society.

5. Misleading Messages: "Work smarter, Not harder" can sometimes mislead people into thinking that hard work is unnecessary or that there is an easy path to success.
   

PUL$E
The Best Investment During a Recession is MARKETING - 7 Reasons WHY

Marketing during economic downturns can be one of the most significant investments for several reasons, primarily because many competitors tend to cut back on their marketing efforts, providing a unique opportunity to capture market share and strengthen brand presence. That said, staying creative is also vitally important. Stop Trying to Copy, and start being unique.

Here are some key points explaining why marketing during economic downturns can be highly beneficial:

1. Reduced Competition:

• Less Noise: As competitors reduce their marketing budgets, there is less noise in the market, making it easier for your brand's message to stand out.

• Market Share: With fewer competitors actively marketing, it's easier to capture a larger market share and attract customers who are still spending.

2. Increased Brand Visibility:

• Top-of-Mind Awareness: Consistent marketing efforts ensure that your brand remains top-of-mind for consumers. When the economy recovers, these consumers are more likely to turn to brands they remember.

• Long-Term Loyalty: Brands that maintain their presence during tough times can build long-term loyalty, as customers appreciate businesses that continue to engage with them despite economic challenges.

3. Better Advertising Rates:

• Lower Costs: Advertising rates often drop during economic downturns due to decreased demand. This means you can get more value for your marketing budget.

• More Exposure: With reduced costs, you can afford to reach a larger audience or invest in higher-quality advertising channels that were previously out of reach.

4. Opportunity for Innovation:

• Creative Marketing: Economic downturns can drive innovation as businesses look for cost-effective and creative ways to engage with customers.

• Differentiation: This period can be an opportunity to differentiate your brand through unique campaigns, community engagement, and value-added services.

5. Building Trust and Credibility:

• Consumer Confidence: By continuing to market and communicate transparently, you can build trust and credibility with your audience. This is crucial during uncertain times when consumers are looking for reliable brands.

• Empathy and Support: Demonstrating empathy and support through your marketing efforts can create a strong emotional connection with your customers, fostering loyalty.

6. Strategic Investments:

• Market Research: Economic downturns are a good time to invest in market research to understand changing consumer behaviors and preferences.

• Positioning for Recovery: Brands that continue to invest in marketing are better positioned to capitalize on the recovery phase, having maintained their presence and customer relationships.

7. Strengthened Brand Equity:

• Consistent Presence: Maintaining a consistent presence helps reinforce brand equity, making your brand stronger and more resilient in the long run.

• Reputation Management: Active marketing during tough times allows you to manage your brand's reputation proactively, addressing any potential concerns and showcasing your commitment to your customers.

Case Studies and Examples:

• Procter & Gamble: During the Great Depression, P&G increased its advertising budget and launched innovative radio programs, which helped it gain market share and emerge stronger.

• Amazon: During the 2008 recession, Amazon continued to invest in new product lines and services, which contributed to its long-term growth and dominance in the market.

Brand Damage
The Craft vs Artlessness

Joe Glover, host of the Marketing Meetup recently sat down with renowned marketer and entrepreneur Seth Godin for a conversation on Marketing, Ethics, and AI.

There is a 3 minute and 41 second portion of the conversation where the two discuss craft vs artlessness in our work and it just might be the tap on the shoulder we all need this morning.

Xcelerated Performance
How To Turn Your Annual Income Into Your Monthly Income

Wealthiest People From Top to Bottom: 1.) Creators 2.) Communicators 3.) Managers 4.) Skilled workers. “Income Follows Assets”

In Case You Missed It
News For Your Consideration

• The Trump Immunity ruling explained..from one of the Supreme Court Justices.

• Chinese Gen-Zers start “revenge saving” trend that is going viral on social media.

$TREET $MART$
Your Logo is Not Your Brand

Many people still believe their logo represents their entire brand. While a logo acts like a label or signpost, helping people recognize something, it’s merely the tip of the iceberg. I'm often surprised by how many entrepreneurs place excessive importance on their logo, trying to encapsulate everything within that small image as if it’s the sole method to convey their brand’s meaning. However, think about all the ways your brand interacts with your audience. This comprehensive approach is known as a brand identity system, where every element works in harmony to build a strong and consistent brand presence.

PUL$E
Peter Zeihan: "New Chinese Demographic Data = Population Collapse"

China’s population decline, referencing Peter Zeihan's insights on demographics and global trends. They highlight the economic strain of an aging population, reduced innovation, and military strength. This shift forces policy changes, like reinstating the draft, to address these demographic challenges.

Brand Damage
Embracing The Un-Change…

Jeff Bezos, the founder of Amazon, delivers a profoundly simple principle that has guided Amazon's enduring success.

And he does it under 50 seconds…

Bezos’s Core Principle: Focus on Unchanging Customer Needs

As entrepreneurs we must start with an often overlooked question:

"What's not going to change over the next 10 years?” 

Whatever the answer is, it allows us build their strategies around enduring truths.

Bezos notes that at Amazon, they know customers will always want three things:

Low Prices: Customers consistently seek value for their money. No customer will ever wish prices were higher.

Fast Delivery: Speed and efficiency in delivery will always be a priority. Customers will never desire slower shipping.

Wide Selection: Having a broad range of products is crucial. Customers appreciate variety and the ability to choose from a large selection.

By concentrating on these unchanging aspects, Amazon ensures that their efforts continue to yield benefits over time. This focus allows them to allocate resources effectively and maintain a competitive edge.

So What Are The Takeaways For You And I?

Lesson 1: Identify Your Business's Unchanging Truths

Every business can benefit from asking, "What will our customers always want?" For example, if you run a local gym, consider the following constants:

Access to Quality Equipment: Members will always appreciate well-maintained, modern equipment.

Convenient Hours: Providing flexible hours, such as 24/7 access, caters to all schedules.

Supportive Environment: A welcoming, community-focused atmosphere will always be a draw.

Lesson 2: Invest in Areas with Lasting Impact

Once you identify the constants, channel your energy and resources into these areas. Here’s how you would handle the previous constants:

Enhancing Service Quality: Continuously train your staff to provide exceptional service.

Upgrading Infrastructure: Regularly update your facilities and technology to meet customer expectations.

Expanding Offerings: Introduce new products or services that align with the core needs of your customers.

Lesson 3: Build a Sustainable Growth Strategy

A sustainable growth strategy is built on understanding and meeting these enduring customer demands. In this basic example it would play out in following ways:

Long-Term Planning: Develop plans that focus on maintaining and improving these core areas.

Consistent Innovation: Innovate within the framework of these unchanging needs. For example, find new ways to deliver faster or offer better prices.

Customer Feedback: Regularly seek and incorporate customer feedback to ensure you're meeting their expectations.

By pulling a page from Bezos and Amazon and prioritizing the unchanging fundamentals in our business we may find a more effective way to find clear direction in our strategic planning and resource allocation in our business.

Xcelerated Performance
But are You Obsessed?

Halfway through the year. Reset, recalibrate, refocus. Entrepreneurship is hard but rewarding. This video is for the unemployable. Enjoy!

In Case You Missed It
News For Your Consideration

• Manhattan is Rapidly Becoming The Latest Great Victim of Bad Leadership.

• Everything You Need To Know About Thursday’s ‘First of Its Kind’ Presidential Debate.

$TREET $MART$
If you want Respect, Do These Things

1. Make everyone feel important and that they matter

2. Be a team player

3. Create lieutenants: encouragement

4. Solicit and accept feedback

5. Empathy

6. Celebrate other people’s wins

7. Create belief

8. Don’t deny reality

Xcelerated Performance
21 Mind Traps : The Ultimate Guide to your most common Thinking errors

These mind traps can be beneficial as an entrepreneur, or they can be part of the reason why you stumble.

Pain Points Podcast (feature clip)
He Accurately Predicted the 2008 Crash & Has Some Thoughts on 2025!

PUL$E
Saudi Arabia Says Goodbye to the Petro-Dollar

• Petrodollars are U.S. dollars paid to an oil-exporting country.

• Petrodollars are the primary source of revenue for many OPEC members and other oil exporters.

• Oil exporters settle sales in U.S. dollars because the dollar is the most widely used currency, making it easier for them to invest in export proceeds.

• Some crude exporters implicated in human rights violations have suggested they may accept payment in other currencies.

BRAND DAMAGE
The Internet is STILL Undefeated

Senator Chuck Schumer found out Sunday that in even in an election year the internet is still undefeated at capturing our best and our worst and archiving it never to be forgotten.

What does this have to do with our businesses?

Simply put, a brand positioned in being genuine doesn’t have to worry about the same things as one that is simply projecting to be be accepted or seem relevant.

Schumer attempted in his Father’s Day post to jockey for relatability but quickly found out that people can’t relate to someone putting cheese on an uncooked burger.

And no this was not an edited post or done intentionally.

Twitter tweet

Little details like that matter with your brand, and in the Senator’s case will lead people to clowning you online when your brand is built on being intelligent, mistake-free, and arguing publicly on issues of right and wrong, with you generally positioning as the former.

The Senator deleted the post after the razzing and ratio reached astronomical heights.

Here are just a few of the replies from people on X…

Twitter tweet

And another user posted this…

Twitter tweet

Schumer would have benefited from not deleting the post.

Whether you are a politician, a plumber, or product marketer, etc.

There is room for mistakes.

There is room for crappy posts and bad attempts at marketing.

Simply put, there is room for being a human. Even as a brand.

Just don’t pick and choose when you want to be one.

Stay consistent and your brand will be stronger in the end.

Xcelerated Performance
Habits of the Ultra Successful

You are your thoughts, and you can alter your thoughts with the correct conscious behaviors. In other words, the mind gets what the mind focuses on.

In Case You Missed It
News For Your Consideration

• WH says viral President Biden is a “cheap fake” despite the evidence.

• Secret Service Agent robbed at gunpoint in California.

Pain Points Podcast (full episode)
Trump Verdict Fallout, Biden Sneaks in 400k Migrants, Caitlin Clark Suffering From Success 

Episode Timestamps:

02:07 - Funny clips
08:35 - Why the Trump Trial Should Concern All Americans
16:18 - Stalin’s Fake Trials
23:39 - Biden Secretly Gives Nearly 400,000 Permanent Access to USA
29:21 - $517 billion losses threaten 63 banks
34:45 - Amazon deploys 750,000 robots
40:21 - Decoding Human Thoughts + Deep Fakes
46:40 - Washington Post Editor Forced To Leave
53:46 - WNBA vs Caitlin Clark
1:04:52 - “Heterosexual Awesomeness Month”

PUL$E
A Fed Decision Looms

Last Wednesday (June 5th), the Federal Reserve (Fed) announced its latest policy update to sit tight and hold interest rates. That said, this week’s inflation numbers will be telling. Data on the Consumer Price Index, a key inflation gauge, might not be out this week, but it's worth watching for future updates. A high inflation number could signal continued rising costs for businesses and consumers.

That said, based on the price action in the Bonds, it would suggest that bonds think we will get a rate cut.

In my view, we are more likely to experience rate cuts rather than rate hikes this year. Considering it's an election year, the likelihood of rate cuts becomes even greater.

BRAND DAMAGE
The Power of ONE

I came across a decade old video from Mark Ford.

You likely know him as Michael Masterson, the copywriting entrepreneur, author, and consultant.

In this talk Ford talk discusses his fundamental copywriting principle, the Power of One.

The principle has been instrumental in helping Agora Publishing reach annual revenue numbers beyond $1,000,000,000 in this “digital age.”

Rather than ask you to watch the hour long video above (you now have the link), we’ve distilled the talk into 8 points that can be grasped without jumping over to YouTube.

The Power of One: Michael Masterson’s Key Principles

1. Focus on a Single Good Idea

   • Masterson’s Insight: “When you write about just one thing, it’s difficult. You have to come up with a good idea.”

   • Action: Center your copy around one strong, compelling idea. Ensure this idea is clear and easily understood by your audience to maintain their attention and interest.

2. Finding Your One Idea

   • Masterson’s Insight: “I noticed that the top ten [essays] all were essays where I focused on a single idea. The top ten had headlines like ‘The one marketing secret you should never forget.’”

   • Action: Identify a single, powerful idea by asking these key questions:

     • What is the core message I want to convey?

     • What is the most important benefit or insight my audience needs?

     • Is this idea compelling enough to grab and hold attention?

     • Can this idea be summarized in one clear, concise sentence?

     • Consider the audience's needs and desires, and focus on an idea that directly addresses them.

3. Simplify and Clarify Your Message

   • Masterson’s Insight: “If you’re going to stop somebody and say, ‘I’ve got something to tell you, it’s very important, sit down,’ and then you have nothing important to tell them, that’s very awkward.”

   • Action: Keep your copy straightforward and focused. Avoid unnecessary complexity and distractions, ensuring your message is easily grasped and retained.

4. Create a Rule for Consistency

   • Masterson’s Insight: “I made it a rule for myself... to make sure that I write my essays on just one topic.”

   • Action: Implement a rule to always center your copy around one main idea. This helps maintain consistency and effectiveness in your writing.

5. Evaluate and Refine Your Copy

   • Masterson’s Insight: “I went back and I had them all organized from top to bottom and then I re-read all the essays... I realized that the top ten all were essays where I focused on a single idea.”

   • Action: Regularly review your copy to ensure it adheres to the Power of One principle. Refine and improve your writing based on feedback and performance metrics.

6. Apply Across Different Mediums

   • Masterson’s Insight: “We started making it a rule at Early to Rise that you would... follow the rule of one.”

   • Action: Use the Power of One principle across various formats, such as essays, promotions, and marketing materials. Ensure consistency in your messaging across different platforms.

7. Learn from Successful Examples

   • Masterson’s Insight: “I started looking at promotions... The secret of making people like you, it was one secret.”

   • Action: Study successful books, promotions, and campaigns that effectively use the Power of One. Apply the lessons learned to your own copywriting.

8. Measure and Adjust

   • Masterson’s Insight: “We got a much bigger response and it wasn’t because it was me. It was because I had figured out how to write better.”

   • Action: Track the performance of your copy to see how well it resonates with your audience. Use metrics and feedback to adjust your approach and continually improve your copy.

By embracing and implementing the Power of One, you may end up transforming your copywriting from ordinary to elite. The singular focus may seem full of constraint but Masterson wagers it will enhance your clarity and impact, revenue, and action from from the person you are trying to reach.

Shoot us an email and let us know how it works out for you.

Xcelerated Performance
Good Leadership Looks Boring

While we tend to celebrate those with a proclivity for action and brash words, great leaders are often precisely those who don't need to generate excessive noise or activity.

How significantly has modern media influenced your view of what you look like as a great leader?

In Case You Missed It
News For Your Consideration

• Top Pollster says it’s time for Biden to drop out of 2024 race.

• Elon Musk Warns: “I’ll Ban Apples phone over OpenAI tie-up.”

$TREET $MART$
$134M Series B for Oishii 

Oishii exemplifies how technology can revolutionize traditional industries. By integrating advanced vertical farming techniques with a relentless focus on quality, Oishii has transformed strawberry farming into a high-tech, sustainable, and highly profitable venture. The success of the Omakase Berry™ highlights the potential of technology-enabled agriculture to not only improve product quality but also to build strong brands capable of attracting significant investment. As Oishii continues to innovate and expand, it serves as a model for how the convergence of tradition and technology can lead to unprecedented success in the agricultural industry.

Instagram post

The Intersection of Tradition and Technology

Traditionally, strawberry farming is heavily reliant on seasonality, weather conditions, and extensive land use. Oishii has disrupted this model by employing vertical farming, a method that involves growing crops in vertically stacked layers within controlled indoor environments. This technique allows for year-round production and shields the crops from external weather fluctuations, ensuring consistent quality and supply.

Omakase Berries™: The Pinnacle of Quality

At the heart of Oishii's success is the Omakase Berry™, a strawberry that epitomizes excellence. Known for its unparalleled sweetness, rich flavor, and consistent quality, the Omakase Berry™ draws inspiration from the highly prized strawberries of Japan. This premium product has quickly gained a reputation among consumers and chefs alike, elevating the standard for strawberries in the market.

Building a Brand Through Innovation

Oishii's success is not just about superior strawberries; it's also about strategic brand building. By consistently delivering a product that exceeds expectations, Oishii has cultivated a strong brand identity centered on luxury and quality. This branding effort has positioned the Omakase Berry™ as a premium product, allowing Oishii to command higher prices and attract a discerning customer base.

Attracting Investment Through Brand Power

Oishii’s innovative approach and strong brand identity have also made it an attractive target for investors. The company’s ability to consistently produce high-quality strawberries, regardless of season or external conditions, represents a significant value proposition. This reliability, combined with the premium positioning of the Omakase Berry™, has enabled Oishii to raise substantial funding to further expand its operations.

Investors are drawn to Oishii not only because of its technological advancements but also because of its proven ability to build and maintain a powerful brand. The premium pricing and strong market demand for Omakase Berries™ translate into robust financial performance, making Oishii a compelling investment opportunity.

Pain Points Podcast (full episode)
AI Will Make Crypto Popular, US Bails Japan Out, Codie Sanchez on Taxing Billionaires 

Chapters: 00:00 - Start 01:44 - Funny Clips 03:42 - AI will drive the adoption and use of crypto 09:34 - Peter Thiel: AI bad for people with math skills, great for people with verbal skills 13:51 - The Future is "Hear" 14:15 - China Surveillance Tech 18:22 - United started bailing out Japan and no one is talking about it 30:18 - Codie Sanchez For table conversation at work and at home. Helping socialists understand the numbers 38:17 - NYU Students With Crazy Degrees 43:16 - NYC Protect The Kids 49:53 - Outro

PUL$E
Amazon deploys 750,000 Robots

Amazon's integration of 750,000 robots transforms the landscape for low-skill trades, particularly in warehousing and logistics. It reminds us of the rapid change that AI will bring to every industry.

Instagram post

NVIDIA Launches NEW AI Chips & Breaks Moore's Law (COMPUTEX 2024 Supercut)

Moore's Law is a prediction that the number of transistors on a computer chip will roughly double every two years, while the cost increases minimally. Gordon Moore, the co-founder of Intel, first described the law in 1965 in an article about the semiconductor industry's future. The law has been a guiding principle for the electronics industry for over 65 years, leading to the development of faster, smaller, and more affordable transistors. Moore's Law has also been a driving force behind the modern digital revolution and has given startups the confidence to invest in electronics. This is under the principle that humans are building the new technology. We have recently stepped into new territory. Now, AI is the one building the new computing power.

BRAND DAMAGE
The Numerical Case for Social Media

Despite it being 2024 and we’re are accustomed to the presence of social media use in our lives, the number are quite small on people who use social media to further their business growth, career prospect, and grow their brand vs simply being consumers of content.

As a reader of this newsletter you likely know the importance of social media to help you in these areas but what we’ve seen in numerous consulting calls and conversation is a prevailing uncertainty about creating and sharing your knowledge, skills, products, processes, and systems to help in personal and professional aspirations.

What follows is a numerical (and visual) breakdown of social media usage in 2024.

It’s our hope that the information would compel you to dive further into building a community on social media of people interested and! invested in what you can do..for them.

• 5.07 billion social media users around the world in April 2024.

• 62.6% of the world's population is on Social Media.

• 9 in 10 Internet users now use social media each month.

• The global average gender split of social media users is 53.6% men and 46.4% women.

• An average person spends 2 hours and 20 minutes per day using social media.

• The world spends close to 12 billion hours using social platforms each day.

9 in 10 of potential people you can help and that in turn can help you in business pursuits as a customer, partner, etc are using social media for at least 2 hours a day.

Just think about that.

And you’re potentially uncertain about creating content.

Just think about that.

For the complete rundown of each major platform you can view the statusbrew breakdown here.

Xcelerated Performance
How to be a creative thinker | Carnegie Mellon University Po-Shen Loh

In Case You Missed It
News For Your Consideration

• Biden secretly using loopholes to give 300k illegals permanent status in our country.

• Wake Up Call: WaPo CEO sounds off on staff, “People are not reading your stuff.”

$TREET $MART$
A Level Playing Field for Non-Technical Owners 

Twitter tweet

Here are five ways Non-technical business owners can leverage AI to enhance their business today.

Enhancing Business Operations: AI tools automate routine tasks, optimize supply chains, and improve customer service, allowing non-technical business owners to focus on strategic decisions and creative aspects without needing deep technical expertise. 

Improving Decision-Making: AI provides actionable insights from large datasets, helping business owners forecast trends, identify opportunities, and make informed decisions without interpreting complex data themselves.

Enhancing Customer Experience: AI-powered tools like chatbots and recommendation systems improve customer service, increasing customer satisfaction and loyalty. These technologies offer personalized service, which is crucial for business growth.

Streamlining Marketing Efforts: AI optimizes marketing by analyzing consumer behavior to craft targeted campaigns, helping non-technical owners reach their audience more effectively. AI-driven content creation and social media management simplify maintaining a solid online presence.

Accessibility and User-Friendliness: Modern AI tools are designed to be user-friendly, requiring minimal technical knowledge. Intuitive interfaces and comprehensive support make it easier for non-technical business owners to integrate AI into their operations.​

Pain Points Podcast (full episode)
Codie Sanchez's Trades Wave, Elon vs Tesla & Fever Rev Heats Up From Caitlin Clark 

Chapters: 00:00 Intro 02:12 Funniest clips of the week 06:08 Argentina drops to single-digit inflation 14:25 US Small-Business Optimism Increases for First Time This Year 18:57 The blue-collar wave: Codie Sanchez 25:03 Biden sends a message to China with 100% tariffs on EVs 27:58 Open AI "Stole" Scarlet Johansons Voice for new GPT-4o voice model 31:30 Chamath on the future of AI 35:19 Elon Musk confirms his threat: give me 25% of Tesla or you don't get AI and robotics 39:09 Fever Revenue is Heating Up From Caitlin Clark 41:42 Ungrateful migrants

PUL$E
Argentina Reports First Single-Digit Inflation in 6 Months & Considering BTC as Reserve

Argentina and El Salvador's recent Bitcoin discussions are critical in addressing inflation and excessive money printing. With its fixed supply of 21 million coins, El Salvador's adoption of Bitcoin offers a hedge against inflation and currency devaluation. This move presents a stable monetary system alternative amid reckless fiat currency printing.

Bitcoin as a Hedge Against Inflation: Bitcoin's scarcity makes it resistant to inflation, protecting citizens' purchasing power from currency devaluation. This is particularly appealing for countries facing hyperinflation due to reckless monetary policies. El Salvador's experience shows that Bitcoin can offer a more stable and predictable monetary system.

Lessons for the United States: The U.S. should note El Salvador's use of Bitcoin, especially given the extensive money printing and quantitative easing measures in recent years. Embracing Bitcoin could help mitigate inflation risks and provide a stable store of value, offering a safeguard against the dollar's devaluation.

Global Interest: El Salvador's move has garnered interest globally, particularly in developing countries looking to enhance financial inclusion and reduce remittance costs. Bitcoin enables quick, cheap cross-border transactions without traditional banking intermediaries, benefiting economies heavily reliant on remittances.

Twitter tweet

BRAND DAMAGE
When Two Billion Dollar CMO’s Speak

No catchy hook today. Just straight into it.

If you want improve the marketing in your organization, take some cues from the companies in the position you want to find yourself in.

The CMO’s of HubSpot and Zapier know a thing or two about marketing success.

Here are 7 “first principles of marketing” in 2024 distilled from a podcast so you don’t have to listen to it, and can simply work on applying what you need to to your business today.

Don't Make Something If You Don't Know How to Distribute It

Lesson: Before creating any content or product, have a clear distribution strategy. Knowing how to reach your target audience is crucial to avoid wasting resources on projects that won't get seen.

Be 10x More Valuable Than the Competition

Lesson: Strive to offer significantly more value than your competitors. This could involve providing high-value content for free, offering superior products, or delivering exceptional customer experiences.

Relevance is Greater Than Perfection

Lesson: Prioritize being timely and relevant over being perfect. In the fast-paced world of marketing, it's more important to stay on trend and engage with current events than to wait for perfect execution.

Simplify, Repeat, Simplify, Repeat

Lesson: Simplify your messages and repeat them consistently. Clear, simple communication ensures that your audience understands your value proposition and reinforces your brand message.

Don't Be Average. Win the Internet

Lesson: Aim to stand out and be the topic of conversation in your industry. Think big, differentiate yourself, and create impactful content that grabs attention.

Apathy is the Worst Outcome of Marketing

Lesson: Indifference from your audience is worse than dislike. Ensure your marketing efforts evoke strong feelings by being clear about who you serve and not trying to appeal to everyone.

Give Customers What They Want and What They Don't Yet Know They Want

Lesson: Provide both the expected and the unexpected. Meet current needs while also introducing innovative solutions that customers haven't yet realized they want.

The Direct Application Repeated for Marketing People…

Strategize Distribution: Plan how to distribute your content and products effectively before creation. Identify channels and tailor your content for those platforms.

Maximize Value: Continuously seek ways to deliver extraordinary value. This can differentiate your brand and attract a loyal audience.

Stay Relevant: Be agile and responsive to current trends. Don't wait for perfection; iterate quickly and improve over time.

Communicate Clearly: Simplify your messages to their core essence and ensure consistent repetition across all touchpoints.

Differentiate Boldly: Avoid the middle ground. Create bold, unique content that stands out in the crowded digital landscape.

Engage Passionately: Ensure your marketing efforts resonate emotionally with your audience. Be clear about your target market and focus on engaging them deeply.

Innovate Continually: Balance meeting current customer needs with introducing innovative products and services. Be a leader in your industry by anticipating future desires.

The beauty of social media is that the people with actual skills and experience are realizing they can show up to the party. Use the principles and perhaps we’ll be featuring your company in this section of the newsletter.

Xcelerated Performance
Entrepreneurship is a Mindset - Jocko Podcast With Tim Ferriss

Pain Points Podcast
Your Favorite Entrepreneurs Can Change America Before It's Too Late 

To whom much is given, much will be required (Luke 12:48)

For the last 40 years, we believe entrepreneurs have become far too complacent in societal roles beyond making money and providing jobs. The significant influence and responsibility entrepreneurs hold was inspired by the Declaration of Independence’s Creators -primarily business-minded individuals. Beyond personal success, we must preserve and enhance the system that gave us so much.

PUL$E
The Creature From Jekyll Island

Instagram post

The Federal Reserve, commonly known as the Fed, is an institution shrouded in both mystery and controversy. Its dual nature, straddling both public and private domains, fuels debates about its role and influence over the U.S. economy. The Fed's creation, as chronicled in G. Edward Griffin's "The Creature from Jekyll Island," suggests a narrative rife with secrecy and conspiracy, hinting at a system designed to serve elite interests. This historical backdrop provides a compelling context for understanding why former President Donald Trump might desire to exert control over the Federal Reserve.

Griffin's book posits that the Federal Reserve was born out of a clandestine meeting on Jekyll Island in 1910, involving powerful bankers and politicians who crafted a central banking system that would cater to their interests. According to this perspective, the Fed enables a small group of private bankers to wield considerable control over the U.S. monetary system, manipulating money supply and interest rates to their advantage. This control ostensibly results in economic cycles of booms and busts, inflation, and a debt-based economy, all orchestrated for the benefit of those in the know. The Fed's capacity to create money out of thin air, as Griffin argues, devalues currency and disproportionately impacts the general populace, making the institution a focal point of financial and political power.

Despite its controversial origins and functions, the Federal Reserve is not a government agency in the conventional sense. Established by the Federal Reserve Act of 1913, the Fed is an independent entity within the government, designed to be free from direct political influence. Its structure includes the Board of Governors, a federal government agency with members appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate, and 12 regional Federal Reserve Banks, which operate independently and are structured like private corporations. This unique setup allows the Fed to manage the nation's monetary policy with a degree of autonomy, shielded from the political pressures that typically influence other government agencies.

However, this independence is precisely what makes the Fed a target for political figures like Donald Trump. During his presidency, Trump frequently criticized the Fed, particularly over its interest rate policies, which he believed hindered economic growth and his administration's objectives. His desire to exert control over the Fed likely stemmed from a broader strategy to align monetary policy with his economic agenda, particularly his goals of stimulating economic growth and maintaining low interest rates.

Control over the Federal Reserve would grant any president significant influence over the economy, enabling the implementation of policies that could drive economic expansion and boost political capital. For Trump, whose presidency was heavily focused on economic performance, gaining leverage over the Fed would mean the ability to directly impact interest rates, inflation, and overall economic stability. This control could facilitate a more favorable economic environment for his administration, potentially boosting market confidence and voter support.

BRAND DAMAGE
GenZ wants to get dirty?

While AI is getting a lot of the attention, Gen Z is undergoing a radical but not surprising shift toward the trades.

Why?

Put simply. The high cost of college education, job security, and competitive salaries of the trades are driving the trend.

Here is a more thorough but brief breakdown of what they’re considering:

Financial Considerations

College Costs: Public college tuition averages $27,020 annually; private colleges are $42,162.

Student Debt: Student loan debt in standing at ranges $30K-$50K for 4-year university graduates.

Declining Enrollment: College enrollment fell by 14.7% from Fall 2020 to Spring 2022, and 9.8% since 2010.

Long-Term Appeal

Increased Enrollment: Trade program enrollment rose by 16% in 2023, with a 23% increase in construction trades.

Salaries: Skilled tradespeople earn an average salary of $73,117.

Entrepreneurial Opportunities: 50% of Gen Z aims to own businesses; one in six skilled tradespeople become entrepreneurs.

Job Security

AI Impact: Jobs requiring vocational degrees are 38% exposed to AI automation, compared to 75% for jobs needing four-year degrees.

So how can your business leverage this change in recruiting?

Here are three things to be aware of…

Gen Z Attention Getters: They value career growth, societal impact, and strong employer branding.

Social Media Audiences: Gen Z spends over four hours daily on social media. Companies should leverage this by showcasing their company’s mission, people, and culture through authentic, original, and engaging content.

Staffing Partnerships: Partnering with staffing agencies can streamline recruiting Gen Z workers through established talent pipelines.

This trends is positive one for fans of American capitalism and those who understand the significance of SMB’s within our economy.

Let the rise of humble entrepreneurship commence!

For more details, you can read the full article from Labor Finders that inspired this feature here.

Xcelerated Performance
Break Your Negative Thinking

PUL$E - Pain Points Podcast
This Week: China Market to Crash, Candace Owens Gag Order, Hims & Hers CEO Repents! 

In our latest podcast episode, we lead off with the funniest clips of the week.

Then we dig into the following topics that relate to you and business:

• Hims & Hers controversy, where the CEO's comments led to financial losses and public backlash.

• Red Lobster's decline due to strategic missteps and outdated business models.

• China's stock market crash and its potential global economic impacts.

• What small business owners want from presidential candidates..

• The skyrocketing demand for AI expertise as businesses seek to integrate AI marketing and offshore talent.

• The gag order controversy involving Candace Owens and The Daily Wire.

• And a few more things you should know about…

$TREET $MART$ - How To Find Market Fit
Where Are All of Your Customers?

Our team at Clearly Acquired recently attended an event that put us right in front of our desired end user to gain insight, showcase what we’ve built, and find out the actual solutions they need to make them the heroes in their own journeys.

To say this was an invaluable experience would be an understatement.

If you are not shipping your product to your desired customer now, in its current state, you’re doing something wrong.

If you are not getting in position to hear what they as a market are actually clamoring for, again, you’re doing something wrong.

You don’t have to take it from us though. Here are the words of some of the folks who have shape business in this 21st century:

There are more tech solutions for customers popping up by the day. With AI the numbers will soon 5x on monthly basis. What is going to set your company apart? Building something they want and will ultimately rave about. So get a move on going to them and learning.

BRAND DAMAGE
Netflix…From Subscriber Loss to Finding Gold

This video from The Biz Doc dives into Netflix who was once the undisputed king of streaming.

The company has been forced to pivot by way of changing market dynamics. In the process they made some headlines and struck revenue gold along way.

In our opinion, this channel is one of the more underrated business channels on YouTube right now.

So consider it we’re letting you in on a secret that will help you level in running your business that world will soon know about.

Xcelerated Performance
A Meeting-less or Meeting Less Future? You Choose.

In today's fast-paced business environment, meetings have become a ubiquitous part of corporate culture. While they can be essential for communication and coordination, too many meetings can drain productivity, stifle creativity, and divert focus from the most important tasks. Leaders who prioritize fewer, more effective meetings create an environment where their teams concentrate more on the essential work that drives business growth.

The Historical Lesson of Benjamin Franklin

Benjamin Franklin, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States, was renowned for his productivity and numerous accomplishments. Beyond his political achievements, Franklin was an inventor, writer, and scientist. His ability to manage his time effectively was key to his success.

Franklin was a strong advocate for efficiency and often reflected on how he spent his time. He famously followed a daily schedule that balanced his professional duties with personal activities and leisure. Franklin believed in the importance of focused work and minimized distractions, including unnecessary meetings.

One story from Franklin's life exemplifies his commitment to productivity. While serving as the Postmaster General, he implemented numerous reforms to improve the efficiency of the postal service. Franklin introduced new delivery routes and streamlined operations, which significantly reduced the time and cost of mail delivery. Instead of spending hours in meetings discussing changes, Franklin focused on actionable plans and empowered his team to execute them efficiently. His approach allowed him to achieve remarkable improvements in a relatively short period.

Modern Insights from Successful Entrepreneurs

Many successful modern entrepreneurs echo Franklin's philosophy on productivity. Jeff Bezos, the founder of Amazon, emphasizes the importance of prioritizing critical tasks over meetings. Bezos follows the "two-pizza rule" for meetings, ensuring that no meeting should be so large that two pizzas can't feed the entire group. This rule helps keep meetings small and focused.

Bezos once said, "If you’re good at course correcting, being wrong may be less costly than you think, whereas being slow is going to be expensive for sure." This quote underscores the importance of making quick decisions and taking action rather than getting bogged down in endless meetings.

The Case for Fewer Meetings

Enhanced Productivity: Reducing the number of meetings frees up valuable time for employees to focus on high-priority tasks. When employees have uninterrupted blocks of time, they can dive deeper into their work, leading to higher quality and more innovative outcomes.

Improved Focus: Fewer meetings mean fewer interruptions. This allows employees to maintain their flow and concentration on essential projects. Leaders can set clear goals and expectations, ensuring that time is spent on activities that directly contribute to business growth.

Better Decision-Making: When meetings are necessary, keeping them short and focused leads to more efficient decision-making. By preparing agendas and sticking to the topics, leaders can ensure that meetings are productive and actionable outcomes are achieved.

Empowerment: Limiting meetings demonstrates trust in employees' abilities to manage their time and responsibilities effectively. This empowerment boosts morale and fosters a culture of accountability and autonomy.

Practical Steps for Us As Leaders

Assess Necessity: Before scheduling a meeting, ask whether it is truly necessary. Can the information be communicated through an email or a quick call? Reserve meetings for discussions that require real-time collaboration and decision-making.

Set & Keep Clear Agendas: Every meeting should have a clear agenda outlining the objectives and topics to be covered. Share the agenda in advance to ensure participants come prepared and stay on track.

Limit Attendees: Invite only those who are directly involved in the topics being discussed. Smaller meetings are more efficient and allow for more meaningful participation.

Time Management: Set strict time limits for meetings and stick to them. Start and end on time to respect everyone's schedule.

Encourage Deep Work: Promote a culture that values deep, focused work. Encourage employees to block out time on their calendars for uninterrupted work on critical tasks.

Who knows if we’ll see a meeting-less world but a world where we are meeting less and working more on critical things together is one that will maximize the powerful technology we have at our finger tips for the largest positive impact in our businesses and from our businesses.

PAIN POINT$
Cuban's Ai School, Small Biz Buying Bitcoin, Clark's 'Racist" Nike Deal  

00:52 - Lead Off: Funniest Clips of The Week 04:03 - 44% capital gain a tax 16:14 - How to know when a currency is collapsing 23:48 - Should businesses be putting Bitcoin on the Balance Sheet? 26:51 - De-Dollarization 32:22 - Fertility rates fail to record low and Turning Cycle 38:58 - Most CPAs are retirement age 43:33 - "New Ai "" Safety Board"" announced but two people are missing." 52:03 - More GenZ choosing trade school as an alternative to college 59:05 - Jewish Students Barred on Campus/University Takeovers 01:07:23 - Caitlin Clark Deal

PUL$E
Why America Is Entering A Horrific Financial Crisis... 

The United States is currently grappling with the possibility of a "reverse" market crash, a unique economic scenario where instead of asset prices plummeting, they might unexpectedly surge to unsustainable levels. This phenomenon could be driven by excessive liquidity from prolonged low-interest rates and aggressive fiscal policies stimulating the economy. Such a market condition could lead to severe inflationary pressures and distort investment decisions, creating bubbles in various asset classes. As these bubbles expand, the risk of them bursting becomes greater, potentially leading to economic instability and significant challenges for policymakers in managing the aftermath.

$TREET $MART$ - Employees
30 million Non-Competes Are CANCELLED

Here’s a breakdown of the key points regarding the FTC’s proposed rule on non-competes:

1. Promoting Competition: The FTC argues that non-compete clauses curb labor market mobility and prevent employees from negotiating better pay or switching jobs freely. By banning these clauses, the FTC believes it will enhance competition for labor, potentially increasing wages and job opportunities.

2. Economic Impact: According to the FTC, eliminating non-compete agreements could boost wages by nearly $300 billion a year and expand career opportunities for about 30 million Americans.

3. Exceptions and Current State: Some states already have strong regulations against non-competes, especially for lower-wage workers, while others enforce these agreements more broadly. The FTC’s rule aims to create a uniform federal standard. It's important to note that the rule targets non-compete clauses specifically; other forms of employment restrictions, like non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) and non-solicitation agreements, are not covered under this proposed rule.

4. Legal and Business Opposition: The proposal has faced opposition from various business groups and legal experts who argue that non-compete clauses are necessary for protecting trade secrets and investments in employee training. Critics of the ban argue that it might lead businesses to tighten other forms of employee agreements or increase litigation over trade secrets.

FTC Getting Sued by Business Groups Over Non-compete Ruling

BRAND DAMAGE
Printing for Borrowed Time

Twitter tweet

This clip is going around the internet. And as you’ll see it’s for good reason.

Economic opinions aside, we have to understand that this type of performance is why the America brand is in major trouble.

It’s also why capitalism is under attack in this nation.

It’s the reason liberty and the pursuit of happiness are becoming relics before our very eyes.

And it’s why actual entrepreneurs are going to need to step into to the gap of much needed leadership.

This is the Chair of the CEA.

Don’t know what the CEA is tasked with doing? Check it out.

Keep this in mind as you click the link to watch on X.

Xcelerated Performance
TLDR: How to Become A Storyteller by June 1st

It is more evident by the day that entrepreneurs need to own becoming great communicators online. We can no longer outsource the work or delegate in the name of having to focus on ‘growing’ the business.

Brand rules everything around us.

Therefore to help you level up your communication skills effectively over the remaining days of May, we’ve created a tailored plan based on Matthew Dicks' "Storyworthy," that will equip you with the framework of solid storytelling over the next 24 days, beginning today:

May 7-13: Develop a Storytelling Habit

Homework for Life

- Action: Each day, allocate five minutes to reflect on the most memorable moment of your day. Record this in a sentence or two.

- Purpose: This builds a habit of identifying potential stories in your daily life, enriching your arsenal of narratives.

May 14-20: Learn to Structure Stories

Crafting the Arc

- Action: Select one memorable event from your "Homework for Life" entries from the previous week. This should be an event that you think has a clear beginning, middle, and end. Here are the steps to expand this event into a structured story:

Beginning (Setup): Establish the context and introduce the main characters, including yourself. Set the scene and present the initial situation or problem. This part should grab the audience's attention and set up the stakes.

Middle (Confrontation): Develop the plot by introducing obstacles, challenges, or conflicts. This is where the tension builds. Show how you or the main characters respond to these challenges, which should lead to a climax.

End (Resolution): Conclude the story by resolving the conflict and reflecting on the outcomes or lessons learned. This should provide closure and leave the audience with a clear understanding of how the events changed the situation or characters.

- Purpose: Understanding story structure ensures your narratives are engaging, with a strong opening, a tension-filled middle, and a conclusive end.

May 21-27: Enhance Your Stories

Employing the Five Permissible Lies

- Action: Revisit the story you've been developing. During this week, apply each of the following techniques to refine your narrative:

1. Simplifying Details: Remove any non-essential details that don’t contribute directly to the story’s impact or understanding.

2. Compressing Time: Shorten the timeline of events to make the story more concise and dynamic. This can involve skipping non-critical moments that don’t add to the emotional or narrative arc.

3. Merging Characters: Combine two or more minor characters into a single character to simplify the story and focus on the main interactions that drive the narrative forward.

4. Emphasizing Key Elements: Highlight the most critical aspects or turning points of the story to create stronger emotional effects or emphasize the stakes.

5. Creating Dialogue: Develop or refine dialogues to enhance realism and emotional depth. This involves crafting conversations that might not be recalled verbatim but reflect the essence of real exchanges and support the story’s themes.

- Purpose: These adjustments help streamline your story, making it more engaging and easier for your audience to follow. The aim is to focus on the essence and emotional impact of the story without significantly altering the truth of your experiences.

May 28-31: Share Your Story

Practice and Feedback

- Action: Rehearse your story multiple times, starting alone and gradually moving to social media video or written post. You can even physically present among your officemates. Focus on delivery, clarity, and engagement with the reader/listener.

- Purpose: Practicing and sharing begins the real work of polishing your storytelling ability, and may also prove to be the vulnerability and momentum you need to keep creating online consistently

If you’re up for change and a challenge we’d love to see what you cook up by the month’s end.

Tag us @paintoprofits across social!

PUL$E
Trump vs Colorado Lawyer Shares Perspective on Ballot Case, Caitlin Clark Signed to WNBA 

Last week, as Donald Trump's latest criminal case unfolded, we had the opportunity to sit down with one of the lawyers who successfully defended him in the battle concerning his eligibility to appear on the ballot in Colorado and other states. The Supreme Court ruled unanimously in favor of Trump, which was a pivotal moment in the case. We also delve into topics such as Bitcoin versus gold, the current state of capitalism, and the ongoing culture wars shaping public and private discourse across the United States.

$TREET $MART$ - Health
Optimize your Vitamins & Hormones

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I highly recommend following his content if you don’t already follow Dan Go.

Dan Go specializes in helping entrepreneurs and high-achieving professionals optimize their health and fitness to enhance their overall performance. I have found his content to be a great reminder that only a few things regarding health matter. Although my training and nutrition have changed a lot over the years, there are a few things that always remain the same:

1. Consistency Over Perfection: Like business, consistency in your routines is more beneficial than striving for perfection.

2. Nutrition for Energy and Performance: A balanced diet that fuels the body, brain, and energy levels is more important than the next fad. If you can’t do it for the rest of your life, it’s too extreme.

3. Stress Management: With the high-stress nature of entrepreneurial life, we must prioritize mindfulness through journaling, adequate sleep, and recovery strategies like sufficient protein intake, water, and even ice baths and saunas to ensure that mental and physical health are preserved.

4. Prioritize muscle building: More muscle = faster metabolism, better aging, decreased risk for disease.

5. Efficiency in Workouts: When time is hard to find, prioritize Short, high-intensity workouts that can fit into a busy schedule. No matter what, never skip workouts. They can get shorter or more efficient, but your day should always revolve around exercise.

6. Get Your Vitamins & Hormones Optimized: My Number one recommendation for busy entrepreneurs is to work with an integrated medicine doctor to take control of hormones, vitamins, and minerals and optimize their diet. Today I supplement my already health diet, with a gamete of supplements to optimize my biology. Beyond eating around 3,0000 calories per day and at least 225-250 grams of protein, here is a snapshot of my vitamin regime, guided by my doctor:

   

The big takeaway is that all of my supplementation is designed to either optimize my hormone balance, keep inflammation control, enhance my insulin sensitivity, or improve my liver function. Don’t take this as medical advice. But most definitely, take it as a call to action to get your blood work done. And whatever you do, DO NOT go to your primary care doctor. They are likely ill-educated on the topic. You will want to find an integrated doctor who specializes in hormones.

Best,

Samson

BRAND DAMAGE
Advertising is DEAD.

30 years ago these words were penned by Ronald T. Rust and Richard W. Oliver.

We share them today because advertising as most marketers think of it…is dead. The gentlemen claimed back then that we were in a “new era producer-consumer interaction” and that by the time 2024 rolled we would be approaching the back-end to the maturing of such change.

They were right.

But what did they see?

They saw that the speed of technological innovation would strip away the effective nature of noisy marketing that dominated the 90’s and early 2000’s and would leave the producer and their potential consumers in a one-way street named the information that matters most.

Because most of marketing’s supposed movers and shakers over the last 30 years have been products of universities that are always lagging behind the market, we have been to slow to realize in a tech heavy world, human intention is destined to become more rare socially and in marketing, the most potent tool in reaching consumer and keeping them in a fragmented world.

Innovation is not slowing down. It can’t.

The noise is not going anywhere for consumers. It won’t.

The fragmentation won’t stop. It’s built into the existence of the internet.

It all goes hand in hand.

If any aspect of your marketing, content, or social media anything leads with an outcome instead of the person you want to reach, the actions you must take to be a person that interests them, and who you are as people, not the business, you are as dead as advertising is in 2024.

The outcome is a given today. The attention is what’s not guaranteed.

We have in fact seen the death of advertising.

We are now seeing the maturation of attention-economies.

We leave you with this question…

Why should/would anyone pay attention to you?

Xcelerated Performance
Its never too late: Keep Going

Cam Booser’s story is like something out of a movie. He started his pro baseball career with the Minnesota Twins in 2013, but after a series of tough breaks, including Tommy John surgery and a serious bike accident that broke his back, he quit baseball in 2017. He switched gears and worked as a carpenter back home in Seattle, thinking his baseball days were behind him. But by 2021, Booser felt a pull back to the sport. He started throwing again, and to his surprise, his pitches were fast and pain-free.

This sparked a remarkable comeback that led him all the way to the majors with the Boston Red Sox in 2024 at age 31. He made his debut by striking out a five-time All-Star, a moment that was both surreal and a testament to his hard work and determination. Booser's journey shows that it's never too late to chase your dreams, and sometimes, a break from what you love can reignite your passion in ways you'd never expect.

In Case You Missed It
News For Your Consideration

• East coast Ivy League universities are seeing antisemitism that is teetering on WWII levels.

• Blair Enns lays out the actual keys to standing out in business in 2024.