In this episode of the Creator Method Podcast, Gary sits down with Rebecca Fischer, Miami based luxury realtor, creator, and entrepreneur who’s redefining what it means to build a $20 million brand through authenticity and connection. At just 29, Rebecca has closed over $20 million in real estate deals while growing a thriving online presence that blends Miami lifestyle, fashion, and business. Known for her energy, charisma, and genuine curiosity about people, she’s built a personal brand that attracts clients through storytelling, not sales tactics, with nearly all of her business coming directly from Instagram. Rebecca opens up about her journey from psychology student to top performing realtor, how she turned social media into her most powerful business tool, and why being consistent beats going viral. She shares the strategies behind her networking mindset, the lessons she’s learned from building community online, and how she uses content to turn followers into clients. This conversation dives deep into what it really takes to stand out as a modern creator today, how to balance personal branding with professionalism, the role authenticity plays in business growth, and why your energy is your biggest marketing asset. Apply for Creator Method: https://creatormethod.com/ Follow Creator Method on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/creator.method/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4Bjs61g10V8MEBjg2pfJFi?si=1a8b57227c8b41d7 Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction & Rebecca’s Story 02:30 From Psychology to Real Estate 05:10 Building a $20M Brand on Instagram 10:00 Authentic Networking & Emotional Intelligence 15:20 How to Turn Followers Into Clients 20:10 Why Consistency Matters More Than Virality 27:00 Crafting a Personal Brand That Converts 33:00 Balancing Lifestyle, Faith & Business 40:00 The Future of Real Estate Creators Follow Rebecca FischerInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rebeccabexfischer?igsh=MWUzazBucDVqaWQ5eg== Follow Gary on Social MediaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/garylipovetskyTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@garylipovetsky

In this episode of the Creator Method Podcast, Rachel sits down with Kiara Basa, creator, speaker, and storyteller who has built a powerful online presence by turning vulnerability into confidence and community. From sharing her honest skincare journey to landing campaigns with global brands like Fenty Beauty and Saie, Kiara’s story is proof that authenticity still wins online. Kiara opens up about her evolution from a shy, insecure teenager to a confident creator, the burnout she faced along the way, and how she learned to pivot her niche without losing herself. She shares what it really means to build a personal brand rooted in purpose, faith, and connection, and why confidence is a daily practice, not a destination. This conversation dives deep into the creator mindset: how to evolve without fear, why losing followers can actually be a good thing, and the power of betting on yourself when the metrics don’t make sense. Kiara also reflects on her journey of self-belief, learning to embrace her purpose, and building a brand that uplifts others to do the same. Apply for Creator Method: https://creatormethod.com/Follow Creator Method on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/creator.method/Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4Bjs61g10V8MEBjg2pfJFi?si=1a8b57227c8b41d7 00:00 Introduction and Kiara’s Journey 03:30 Growing Up Shy and Insecure 07:15 From Acne Struggles to Empowerment 11:20 Pivoting Her Niche and Losing Followers 16:00 The Truth About Creator Burnout 21:45 Faith, Purpose and Building Confidence 28:00 Landing Brand Deals with Fenty and Saie 34:15 The Power of Community and Collaboration 40:00 Building Her Own Team and Next Chapter Follow Kiara BasaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/kiarabasa/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kiarabasa?_t=ZS-90zaReBLdyc&_r=1 Follow Rachel on Social MediaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachostro?igsh=cXpwZjltdnZtYmds

In this episode of the Creator Method Podcast, Gary sits down with Tetiana Iordan, international image expert, etiquette coach, and creator who’s redefining modern elegance for millions of women around the world. In just seven months, Tetiana went from 230 followers to over 1.5 million, building a global platform centered on confidence, presence, and timeless femininity. Tetiana opens up about how she found her niche, the mindset shifts that fueled her explosive growth, and why elegance and self-presentation are more relevant than ever in the creator economy. She shares how mastering the smallest details like posture, body language, and etiquette can completely transform how others perceive you both online and in real life. This conversation goes deep on what it really takes to stand out online today: why confidence is more powerful than beauty, how to build authority without losing authenticity, and the strategy behind turning a unique skill into a viral brand. Tetiana also reflects on her personal journey from being a shy stay-at-home mom to becoming a global creator and business owner. Apply for Creator Method: https://creatormethod.com/ Follow Creator Method on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/creator.method/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4Bjs61g10V8MEBjg2pfJFi?si=1a8b57227c8b41d7 Timestamps 00:00 Introduction & Tetiana’s Story 03:15 From 230 Followers to 1 Million 08:40 Why Elegance Is a Growth Strategy 13:00 How Confidence Changes Everything 19:20 The Psychology of Presence & Attraction 25:45 Navigating Hate, Going Viral & Staying Grounded 31:00 Monetization & Personal Branding 37:00 Balancing Motherhood and Content Creation 43:15 Growth Plans & Next Chapter for Tetiana Follow Tetiana Iordan Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tetiana_iordan/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tetiana_iordan Follow Gary on Social Media Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/garylipovetsky TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@garylipovetsky

In this episode of the Creator Method Podcast, Gary sits down with Julia Dobkine, founder of Agile Styling, celebrity color analyst, and one of the first creators to bring color analysis to social media. What started as a passion project during her corporate career turned into a thriving global styling brand trusted by celebrities, brands, and hundreds of thousands of followers. Julia opens up about the bold decision to leave her corporate job at 42 to pursue content creation and entrepreneurship full time. She shares how consistent storytelling helped her build authority online, land clients like Zooey Deschanel, and scale a brand that reaches millions across Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. This conversation goes deep on the creator mindset: how to own your niche, why personal branding matters, and the real challenges of pivoting careers later in life. Julia also shares why understanding your personal color palette isn’t just about style, it’s a branding superpower for any creator who shows up on camera. Apply for Creator Method: https://creatormethod.com/Follow Creator Method on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/creator.method/Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4Bjs61g10V8MEBjg2pfJFi?si=1a8b57227c8b41d7 Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction & Julia’s Background 04:30 What Is Color Analysis and Why It Matters 10:20 From Closet Chaos to Confidence: The Power of Color 15:00 The Business of Styling in the Creator Economy 20:30 Pivoting from Corporate to Creator at 42 26:00 How Consistency Built a Global Audience 31:00 Landing Celebrity Clients Through Instagram 35:00 Growing on TikTok vs. Instagram 41:00 Balancing Personal Brand and Business 46:00 Julia’s Advice for Creators Finding Their Voice Follow Julia Dobkine: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/agile_styling/?hl=en TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@agile_styling?lang=en Website: https://www.agilestyling.com/ Follow Gary: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/garylipovetsky TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@garylipovetsky

In this episode of the Creator Method Podcast, Gary sits down with Aaron Spivak, serial entrepreneur, storyteller, and co-founder of Hush Blankets, which he sold for $48 million by the age of 25. Today, Aaron is the founder of Founders Club, a rapidly growing community redefining what it means to be a modern entrepreneur. Aaron’s journey started with just $140 in his bank account and a big idea to build a product that helps people sleep better. What began with a handmade prototype on Queen Street in Toronto became one of the most recognized sleep brands in the country, powered by authentic storytelling and community. He opens up about the early hustle behind launching Hush Blankets, the viral Kickstarter campaign that changed everything, and how one LinkedIn post led to selling his company to a publicly traded brand. Aaron shares why he believes content is the single most powerful tool founders have today, why being the face of your company is leverage, not a liability, and how community compounds over time. This conversation is an unfiltered look at how modern founders can use content to build trust, scale their businesses, and create movements, not just companies. Apply for Creator Method: https://creatormethod.com/ Follow Creator Method on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/creator.method/?hl=en Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4Bjs61g10V8MEBjg2pfJFi?si=1a8b57227c8b41d7 Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction & Aaron’s Entrepreneurial Start 04:00 $140 in the Bank & the Birth of Hush 09:00 The Viral Kickstarter Campaign 14:00 Selling the Company Through a LinkedIn Post 19:00 Content as a Founder’s Superpower 23:00 Community vs. Marketing 27:00 Why Attention Is the Real Moat 32:00 Balancing Building and Creating Content 37:00 How to Build Trust Through Storytelling 41:00 Scaling Founders Club and the Future of Entrepreneurship 46:00 The Power of Compounding Relationships Follow Aaron Spivak: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spivak/ Founders Club: https://www.instagram.com/thefoundersclub/ Follow Gary on Social Media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/garylipovetsky/?hl=en TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@garylipovetsky

In this episode of the Creator Method Podcast, Gary sits down with Val Goldberg, a registered dietitian, founder, and CEO who has transformed her expertise into a nationally recognized healthcare brand. Val is the founder of No Diet Dietitian, a clinic with over 50 registered dieticians serving thousands of clients across the U.S. through tele-health and in-person counseling. Built on the powerful message of no guilt, no shame, no diets, her practice is changing how people approach nutrition through sustainable, science-backed strategies that actually work. Val opens up about her personal journey from struggling with weight and disordered eating to finding her calling in nutrition, working in hospitals, and eventually launching her own practice. She shares the pivotal “squirrel story” moment that shifted how she approached patients, the leap from clinician to entrepreneur, and the mindset that allowed her to lead a fast-growing organization. She also reveals why she decided to embrace content creation as a CEO, the impact it’s already having on her business, and why she believes every founder needs to build a personal brand. From reaction content to evidence-based education, Val is redefining how health professionals use content to educate, inspire, and scale their impact. This conversation is a masterclass in combining professional expertise with modern media to build trust, scale a mission, and become a voice of reason in a noisy online space. Apply for Creator Method: https://creatormethod.com/ Follow Creator Method on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/creator.method/?hl=en Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4Bjs61g10V8MEBjg2pfJFi?si=1a8b57227c8b41d7 Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction & Val’s Journey Into Nutrition 04:00 Struggling With Weight & Finding Her Calling 09:00 The “Squirrel Story” That Changed Everything 14:00 From Hospitals to Building Her Own Practice 19:00 Taking the Leap Into Entrepreneurship 23:00 Why Every Founder Should Become a Creator 27:00 Fear-Mongering vs. Evidence-Based Nutrition Online 32:00 Val’s First Content Wins & Lessons Learned 37:00 Balancing CEO Life and Content Creation 41:00 Building Authority Through Content 46:00 Overcoming Perfectionism and Getting Reps In 50:00 How Content Is Fueling Her Business & Impact Follow Val Goldberg: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nodiet.dietitian/ Website: https://www.nodietdietitian.com Follow Gary on Social Media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/garylipovetsky/?hl=en TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@garylipovetsky

In this episode of the Creator Method Podcast, Gary sits down with Julia Hunt, a wellness and lifestyle creator who has built a fast-growing community through practical home tips, non-toxic swaps, and an authentic perspective on motherhood. Originally from Russia and now based in Atlanta, Julia shares how she went from vlogging in Russian as a young mom to building a thriving English-speaking platform with over 128,000 followers. She opens up about leaving her secure job as a YouTube producer, balancing motherhood with content creation, and the mindset shift that allowed her to finally go all in as a full-time creator. Julia also reveals the strategies behind her viral home hack videos, why consistency became her turning point, and how she learned to see her accent as an asset instead of a limitation. Her story is a powerful reminder that creators don’t need perfect circumstances—just the courage to commit, experiment, and stay consistent. Apply for Creator Method: https://creatormethod.com/ Follow Creator Method on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/creator.method/?hl=en Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4Bjs61g10V8MEBjg2pfJFi?si=1a8b57227c8b41d7 Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction & Julia’s Early Story in Russia 04:00 Moving to America at 19 & Starting a Family Young 08:00 From Russian Vlogs to Creating in English 12:00 Overcoming Insecurities About Her Accent 16:00 Balancing Motherhood and Content Creation 20:00 Landing a Job as a YouTube Producer 26:00 The Leap from Part-Time Creator to Full-Time 32:00 How Julia Found Her Viral Format in Home Hacks 38:00 Why Consistency is the Key to Growth 44:00 Handling the Mental Highs and Lows of Data 48:00 Building Community and Nourishing Your Audience 52:00 Julia’s Advice on Knowing When to Quit Your Job Follow Julia Hunt: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julialhunt?igsh=Y2IwZWtva3Jybmhr YouTube: https://youtube.com/@julialhunt?si=e9PPHC8wVn_YnLdxFollow Gary on Social Media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/garylipovetsky/?hl=en TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@garylipovetsky

In this episode of the Creator Method Podcast, Gary sits down with Mia Pineda, the astrologer, author, and digital entrepreneur who has built a global community of millions across Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok. Originally from Venezuela and now based in Miami, Mia shares how she turned her passion for astrology into a thriving business, growing from blog posts and free horoscopes to launching memberships, leading a 40-person team, and becoming one of the most recognized voices in astrology and self-growth. Mia opens up about overcoming her fear of visibility, why authenticity became her greatest asset, and how she continues to evolve by creating in new formats and languages. She also reveals why creators should protect their energy, embrace mistakes, and focus less on follower counts and more on real engagement. Apply for Creator Method: https://creatormethod.com/ Follow Creator Method on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/creator.method/?hl=en Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4Bjs61g10V8MEBjg2pfJFi?si=1a8b57227c8b41d7 Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction & Early Life in Venezuela 04:00 Discovering Astrology as a Teenager 08:00 From Law School to Miami 12:00 First Steps in Content Creation 20:00 Turning Astrology into a Business 26:00 Overcoming Fear of Being on Camera 30:00 Running a 40-Person Team 34:00 Why Content Formats Must Evolve 39:00 Finding Community in Creator Method 44:00 The Power of Mistakes & Authenticity 47:00 Creating in English & Expanding Globally 52:00 Advice for Creators Afraid to Go All In Follow Mia Pineda (Mia Astral): Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mia_astral YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mia_astral Follow Gary on Social Media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/garylipovetsky/?hl=en TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@garylipovetsky

In this episode of the Creator Method Podcast, Gary sits down with Natalie Gee, the co-founder of Gee Beauty, a multi-generational, female-founded lifestyle and beauty brand that has grown from a single Toronto studio into a global name with flagship locations in Miami and retail distribution across Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, and beyond. In this conversation, Natalie opens up about growing up in an entrepreneurial household, watching her parents build businesses from nothing, and how that early exposure shaped her work ethic and creativity. She shares the story of launching Gee Beauty with her mother and sisters, their bold leap into Miami’s ultra-competitive luxury market, and the challenges and lessons learned while expanding from family business to international brand. But Natalie’s journey is also deeply personal. She reveals how she overcame her initial fear of being on camera, why she calls social media a “guaranteed lottery ticket,” and how consistency transformed her from hesitant beginner to confident content creator. She speaks candidly about balancing entrepreneurship with motherhood, her partnership with her wife Rachel, and why authenticity and storytelling remain at the core of her brand and personal platform. Discover how Natalie leverages family, community, and content to scale a beauty empire, why she believes content creation is the new language of human communication, and how embracing imperfection can be the secret to growth. From entrepreneurship and content strategy to personal resilience and reinvention, Natalie’s story is both inspiring and practical for creators at every stage. Apply for Creator Method: https://creatormethod.com/ Follow Creator Method on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/creator.method/?hl=en Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4Bjs61g10V8MEBjg2pfJFi?si=1a8b57227c8b41d7 Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction & Natalie’s Early Story 02:00 Growing Up in an Entrepreneurial Family 06:00 Launching Gee Beauty with Her Mother & Sisters 10:00 The Leap from Toronto to Miami’s Luxury Market 14:00 Overcoming Fear of Content Creation 18:00 Why Social Media Is a “Guaranteed Lottery Ticket” 22:00 Building a Multigenerational Brand Online & Offline 28:00 The Power of Consistency in Growth 34:00 Balancing Entrepreneurship, Content & Motherhood 40:00 Love, Partnership & Family Support in Business 46:00 Scaling Gee Beauty Beyond Studios into Retail & Wholesale 52:00 Authenticity, Storytelling & What’s Next for Natalie Gee Follow Natalie Gee on Socials: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/natgeebeauty/ Gee Beauty: https://www.instagram.com/geebeauty/ Follow Gary on Social Media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/garylipovetsky/?hl=en TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@garylipovetsky

In this episode of the Creator Method Podcast, Gary sits down with Vita Sidorkina, a former Victoria’s Secret model who reinvented herself as a lifestyle and wellness content creator. In this conversation, Vita opens up about her extraordinary path from leaving Russia at 17 to pursue modeling in New York, to walking the runway for luxury brands like Hermès, Montcler, and ultimately, the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show. She shares the often unseen realities of modeling apartments, the pressure of being “too short” for high fashion, and the sacrifices she made to build her career in a fiercely competitive industry. But Vita’s story didn’t end with the runway. After marriage and motherhood, she faced the abrupt slowdown of her modeling opportunities and the emotional toll of letting go of her original dream. For years, she wrestled with fear and self-doubt before finally uploading her first YouTube video, five years after creating her channel. Today, Vita reaches over 1.3 million people across Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok, connecting through authenticity, humor, and a fresh approach to wellness and lifestyle content. Discover how Vita overcame perfectionism, embraced vulnerability, and found confidence on camera. She reveals the mindset shifts that helped her break free from the fashion industry’s limits, why consistency and experimentation became the keys to growth, and how she’s now building her next chapter with a wellness platform designed to inspire balance and resilience. More than just a story of modeling or content creation, Vita’s journey is about courage, reinvention, and the power of trusting yourself when the old playbook no longer works. Whether you’re an aspiring creator or a seasoned entrepreneur, her insights will remind you that it’s never too late to rewrite your path. Apply for Creator Method: https://creatormethod.com/Follow Creator Method on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/creator.method/?hl=enSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4Bjs61g10V8MEBjg2pfJFi?si=1a8b57227c8b41d7 Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction & Vita’s Early Story 02:00 Leaving Russia at 17 to Model in New York 06:00 The Reality of Modeling Apartments & Early Struggles 10:00 Breaking Into Fashion Despite Being “Too Short” 14:00 Walking the Victoria’s Secret Runway 18:00 Marriage, Motherhood & the Unexpected End of Modeling 22:00 The Fear That Delayed Her First YouTube Video for 5 Years 28:00 Finding Her Voice Through Content Creation 34:00 Growing an Audience of 1.3M with Authenticity & Humor 38:00 Overcoming Perfectionism and Self-Doubt 42:00 Building Confidence on Camera and At Home 46:00 Vita’s Wellness Platform: A New Chapter Ahead Follow Vita Sidorkina on Socials: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vitasidorkina/?hl=en YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VitaSidorkinachannel Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@vitasidorkina Follow Gary on Social Media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/garylipovetsky/?hl=en TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@garylipovetsky

Join host Gary Lipovetsky in the debut episode of the Creator Method Podcast as he sits down with Tracy Campoli, a dynamic fitness and wellness mentor, and entrepreneur who built a thriving digital career by turning setbacks into opportunities. In this episode, Tracy opens up about her journey from a professional dancer and Pilates instructor in New York City to becoming a full-time content creator with a global audience. She shares the early struggles of working in the service industry, the leap to opening her own studio, and the pivotal moment that pushed her online. From filming DVDs in clients’ apartments to posting her first YouTube videos on a $20 flip camera, Tracy’s scrappy start laid the foundation for what would become a multi-platform business with millions of views and repeat brand partnerships. Discover how a single viral video, the now-famous “Batwings Workout” catapulted her channel into the spotlight, and why she almost walked away from YouTube years later. Tracy reveals the turning point that reignited her passion, how she diversified income streams across AdSense, memberships, and sponsorships, and the mindset shifts that allowed her to grow even through plateaus. More than just fitness, Tracy’s story is about resilience, reinvention, and the courage to keep creating when motivation runs low. Whether you’re an aspiring creator or a seasoned entrepreneur, her lessons on consistency, adaptability, and building long-term vision will leave you energized to push forward in your own journey.Apply for Creator Method:: https://creatormethod.com/ Follow Creator Method on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/creator.method/?hl=enSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4Bjs61g10V8MEBjg2pfJFi?si=1a8b57227c8b41d7 Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction & Tracy’s Early Story 02:30 From Dancer to Pilates Instructor 06:45 Opening a Studio in New York City 09:10 First Steps Into Online Business 12:00 Creating DVDs and Discovering YouTube 15:00 The Batwings Video That Went Viral 18:40 Why Tracy Almost Quit YouTube 20:15 Reframing Content as a Real Business 22:00 Building Income Streams: AdSense, Sponsorships & Affiliates 25:00 Lessons From Years of Flat Growth 28:30 The Power of Community & Collaboration 32:00 Reinvention: From Workouts to Lifestyle Content 39:00 Balancing Motherhood and Entrepreneurship 42:00 The Importance of Reinvestment & Long-Term Thinking 47:00 Tracy’s Vision for the Next Chapter Follow Tracy Campoli on Socials:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tracycampoli/?hl=enYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TracyCampoli Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tracycampoliFollow Gary on Social Media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/garylipovetsky/?hl=enTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@garylipovetsky

Join host Gary Lipovetsky, the renowned serial entrepreneur, business partner, and husband to social media celebrity Valeria Lipovetsky, in this captivating podcast "RISE, Life Stories of Accomplished Individuals". Gary not only delves deep into the lives of notable figures to extract their fascinating origin stories and the hurdles they faced, but he also meticulously draws out the specific knowledge and expertise they hold in their respective fields. Through in-depth interviews, Gary unravels the secrets to their achievements and highlights the value of their unique experiences and insights. Tune in to gain invaluable wisdom from these remarkable individuals and be inspired to reach new heights of success.In this episode of RISE, Gary Lipovetsky sits down with entrepreneur and podcast host Scott Clary to discuss his incredible journey from door-to-door sales to building a successful podcast and brand. They explore Scott’s early career in Canadian politics, his entrepreneurial ventures, and the key differences between employment and entrepreneurship. Scott shares insights on financial planning, navigating career changes, and balancing risk throughout life’s different seasons. They dive into podcasting strategies, including how to build an audience, monetize content, and maintain quality while scaling efficiently. Scott also opens up about the challenges of content creation, the importance of inbound versus outbound strategies, and how social media plays a vital role in brand growth. Packed with valuable lessons, this conversation is a must-watch for aspiring entrepreneurs, podcasters, and anyone looking to build a personal brand.00:00 Getting Started as a Creator00:55 Introduction to the Podcast01:52 Meet Scott Clary02:37 Discussing Canadian Politics04:40 Scott's Background and Career07:04 Entrepreneurship vs. Employment10:23 Financial Planning and Retirement16:34 Navigating Career Paths27:38 The Value of Entrepreneurship31:21 The Value of Employment32:57 Seasons of Life and Risk Tolerance34:14 Entrepreneurship vs. Employment Debate41:47 Starting a Podcast Journey46:09 Building an Audience and Brand47:47 Early Podcast Episodes and Strategies55:08 Lessons from the Journey01:00:59 Entrepreneurial Beginnings01:01:22 Door-to-Door Sales Success01:02:06 Monetizing the Podcast01:03:33 The Importance of Content Quality01:05:22 Inbound vs. Outbound Strategies01:07:39 Challenges of Content Creation01:13:49 Podcasting Efficiency01:21:37 Social Media and Brand Building01:28:58 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsGary Lipovetsky: https://www.instagram.com/garylipovetskyScott Clary: https://www.instagram.com/scottdclary

O.D. Kobo is an accomplished alternative asset manager and global investment strategist with nearly three decades of experience in the finance and technology sectors. Kobo specializes in partnering with state-owned enterprises (SOEs) and state-owned investment funds (SOIFs), including sovereign wealth funds (SWFs), to manage and structure large-scale capital initiatives. He has developed a significant network of relationships through collaborations with financial institutions, family offices, and capital market participants across Asia, Europe, Africa, Russia, and the Gulf. Kobo has helped facilitate joint ventures with governments and public-private entities, focusing on mergers and acquisitions and capital raising for high-value projects with an aggregate value exceeding $10 billion dollars. Recognized for his expertise in capital structuring, debt financing, equity formation, and cross-border deal management, he maintains close associations with institutions such as Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA), Alibaba, Asia Pacific Royalties LP Fund (APAC), Bank of China, Belt & Road EPC LPF (BRF), Chelsfield Partners, China Investment Corporation (CIC), China Mobile, CITIC Group, Focus Media, Haitong Securities, Olayan Group, Public Investment Fund (PIF), and Qatar Investment Authority (QIA). He has also partnered directly with prominent figures, including HH Al Thani (former Prime Minister of Qatar, Chairman of the QIA), Roman Abramovich (Millhouse Capital), Richard Caring (Caprice Holding), Ding Lei (Netease), Teddy Sagi (Labtech, Playtech), among others. In 2018, he led strategic investments in BTC and Ethereum, positioning PIR Equities as one of the UK’s early institutional investors in digital assets. Earlier in his career, Kobo built and sold companies to firms including QIA, MetLife, Lenovo, American Movil, Tencent, Yahoo, and NetEase.Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to O.D Kobo00:38 The Stress of High-Stakes Dealmaking01:28 Meeting Odi Kobo: A Personal Story05:48 O.Ds Early Life in Hong Kong06:42 Navigating Cultural Identity10:45 Educational Journey: From Hong Kong to London26:02 First Business Ventures: Lottery.com32:02 Domain Squatting Success40:33 Living the High Life in London46:21 Building an Investment Network48:27 Young Millionaire in Late 90s London49:22 Moving to Hong Kong and Starting Sinoshin50:44 Structuring Deals and Investor Relations53:27 Life in Hong Kong and Early Investments01:00:15 Massive Returns and Managing Investor Expectations01:16:31 Transition to Beijing and Starting 36001:32:11 The Quest for a Hundred Million01:32:42 Meeting Rahman Abdul Alassir01:35:18 The Deal Makers01:37:16 Structuring the Big Deal01:40:38 Scaling the Internet Company01:41:50 The Geneva Meetings01:47:13 The Doha Presentation01:58:14 A New Chapter in London01:58:56 Taking a Year Off02:13:08 Back to Business in Hong Kong02:17:17 The Challenges of High-Stakes Real Estate Deals02:17:52 Building Relationships in China02:18:22 Living in Beijing: The Good and the Bad02:18:43 Understanding the Belt and Road Initiative02:19:42 China's Role in Global Infrastructure02:26:00 The Future of Data Centers02:34:05 The Stress of Moving Large Sums of Money02:37:06 Reflections on Career and Life Choices02:43:55 The Impact of Global Events on Personal Life02:48:24 Concluding Thoughts and Future OutlookGary Lipovetsky: https://www.instagram.com/garylipovetskyO.D Kobo: https://www.instagram.com/odkobo

In this powerful episode of RISE, Gary Lipovetsky and guest co-host Chris Adamo interview Chris Wilson, who shares the life-changing incident that set him on a transformative path. Chris opens up about his difficult upbringing, family struggles, and the dangerous conditions he grew up in. He reflects on the family trauma that shaped his early years and the events that ultimately led to his imprisonment. From launching a business while incarcerated to creating "The Master Plan," Chris' story is one of resilience, redemption, and hope. He discusses the importance of addressing trauma and mental health, the impact of his foundation's work in rehabilitation, and his experiences with the White House. Chris offers insightful advice and final thoughts on overcoming adversity and making a lasting impact on the world. Don't miss this inspiring episode of Rise.Join host Gary Lipovetsky, the renowned serial entrepreneur, business partner, and husband to social media celebrity Valeria Lipovetsky, in this captivating podcast "RISE, Life Stories of Accomplished Individuals". Gary not only delves deep into the lives of notable figures to extract their fascinating origin stories and the hurdles they faced, but he also meticulously draws out the specific knowledge and expertise they hold in their respective fields. Through in-depth interviews, Gary unravels the secrets to their achievements and highlights the value of their unique experiences and insights. Tune in to gain invaluable wisdom from these remarkable individuals and be inspired to reach new heights of success.Timestamps: 00:00 The Incident That Changed Everything00:16 Chris Wilson's Early Life and Family Struggles00:54 Introduction to Chris Wilson's Story03:26 Chris's Journey to Success07:02 Growing Up in Dangerous Conditions09:22 The Impact of Family Trauma28:23 The Incident Leading to Prison42:19 Discussing Success and Challenges43:12 Life in Prison: Harsh Realities43:49 Starting a Business in Prison46:05 The Master Plan: A Path to Redemption48:01 Unpacking Trauma and Mental Health49:03 Foundation Work and Rehabilitation53:08 Funding and Impact of the Foundation01:07:13 Experiences with the White House01:18:52 Final Thoughts and AdviceGary Lipovetsky: https://www.instagram.com/garylipovetskyChris Wilson: https://www.instagram.com/chriswilsonslifeChris Adamo: https://www.instagram.com/chrisadamo

Join host Gary Lipovetsky, the renowned serial entrepreneur, business partner, and husband to social media celebrity Valeria Lipovetsky, in this captivating podcast "RISE, Life Stories of Accomplished Individuals". Gary not only delves deep into the lives of notable figures to extract their fascinating origin stories and the hurdles they faced, but he also meticulously draws out the specific knowledge and expertise they hold in their respective fields. Through in-depth interviews, Gary unravels the secrets to their achievements and highlights the value of their unique experiences and insights. Tune in to gain invaluable wisdom from these remarkable individuals and be inspired to reach new heights of success.In this episode of RISE, host Gary Lipovetsky sits down with Anne Mahlum for a deep dive into her journey of resilience, entrepreneurship, and leadership. Anne shares her early life experiences, how she overcame adversity, and the lessons she learned during her college years and early career. They discuss her success in starting and scaling SolidCore, the challenges of nonprofit leadership, and her personal motivations and inspirations. Anne also reflects on navigating the COVID-19 crisis, building community, and transitioning from a founder-centric to a founder-influenced leadership style. From selling her company to embracing public speaking, Anne's story is a testament to perseverance and empowerment. The episode wraps up with her insights on women asking for more, finding love, and gaining a fresh perspective on life in Miami. Don't miss this inspiring conversation!Gary Lipovetsky: https://www.instagram.com/garylipovetskyAnne Mahlum: https://www.instagram.com/annemahlum

Join host Gary Lipovetsky, the renowned serial entrepreneur, business partner, and husband to social media celebrity Valeria Lipovetsky, in this captivating podcast "RISE, Life Stories of Accomplished Individuals". Gary not only delves deep into the lives of notable figures to extract their fascinating origin stories and the hurdles they faced, but he also meticulously draws out the specific knowledge and expertise they hold in their respective fields. Through in-depth interviews, Gary unravels the secrets to their achievements and highlights the value of their unique experiences and insights. Tune in to gain invaluable wisdom from these remarkable individuals and be inspired to reach new heights of success.On this episode of RISE Gary Lipovetsky sits down with David Centner for an enlightening conversation.  Dive into David's impressive accomplishments and ventures, and hear the heartwarming story of his flash mob proposal. Learn about the significance of community and education, and get insights into David's early life and struggles. Discover how meeting Layla transformed his business, and explore the journey of his first internet company, including taking the company public and his early ventures in online advertising. Uncover the story behind his third company, reverse auctions, and the creation and exit of Highway Toll Administration. David shares his diverse business ventures and experiences in construction, school policies, the technology ban and children's content. All that and more on this Episode of RISEGary Lipovetsky: https://www.instagram.com/garylipovetskyDavid Centner: https://www.instagram.com/david_centner

Join host Gary Lipovetsky, the renowned serial entrepreneur, business partner, and husband to social media celebrity Valeria Lipovetsky, in this captivating podcast "RISE, Life Stories of Accomplished Individuals". Gary not only delves deep into the lives of notable figures to extract their fascinating origin stories and the hurdles they faced, but he also meticulously draws out the specific knowledge and expertise they hold in their respective fields. Through in-depth interviews, Gary unravels the secrets to their achievements and highlights the value of their unique experiences and insights. Tune in to gain invaluable wisdom from these remarkable individuals and be inspired to reach new heights of success. Embark on an enlightening journey through entrepreneurship with Nancy Twine and host Gary Lipovetsky on RISE podcast! From the transformative power of kindness to strategic insights on launching a podcast, this episode delves deep into the entrepreneurial realm. Join us as we explore Nancy's journey from Goldman Sachs to beauty entrepreneurship, navigating early career challenges, and unlocking growth with influencer partnerships. Discover how to redefine success, embrace selectivity, and stay grounded amidst success. With discussions on the importance of authentic connections, community, and networking, this episode offers invaluable wisdom for aspiring and seasoned entrepreneurs alike. All that and more on this episode of RISE with Nancy Twine and Gary Lipovetsky! Timecodes:  00:00 The Power of Kindness and Authentic Connections 01:09 Redefining Success in Podcasting 01:50 Embracing Selectivity and Saying No 03:08 The Journey from Goldman Sachs to Beauty Entrepreneurship 05:26 The Impact of AI and Future Predictions 08:14 Launching a Podcast to Share Entrepreneurial Insights 09:46 Staying Grounded Amidst Success 13:21 Navigating Early Career Challenges in Finance 25:21 The Transition from Finance to Entrepreneurship 32:53 Unlocking Growth with Influencer Partnerships 35:27 The Power of Authentic Connections in Business 36:10 Navigating the Balance Between Passion and Business Feasibility 38:18 The Evolution of Influencer Marketing in Brand Strategy 43:51 The Importance of Community and Networking for Entrepreneurs 50:06 The Journey to Selling a Company: Insights and Strategy 58:44 Building a Legacy Through Entrepreneurial Support and Grants Gary Lipovetsky: https://www.instagram.com/garylipovetsky/ Nancy Twine: https://www.instagram.com/nancytwine/

Join host Gary Lipovetsky, the renowned serial entrepreneur, business partner, and husband to social media celebrity Valeria Lipovetsky, in this captivating podcast "RISE, Life Stories of Accomplished Individuals". Gary not only delves deep into the lives of notable figures to extract their fascinating origin stories and the hurdles they faced, but he also meticulously draws out the specific knowledge and expertise they hold in their respective fields. Through in-depth interviews, Gary unravels the secrets to their achievements and highlights the value of their unique experiences and insights. Tune in to gain invaluable wisdom from these remarkable individuals and be inspired to reach new heights of success.Welcome to episode 42 of The RISE Podcast, where we explore resilience, innovation, and empowerment. In this episode, we sit down with Steve Schwartz, The Tea Blender, tracing his journey from humble beginnings to entrepreneurial triumph. We delve into tea's global impact, its cultural significance, and health benefits. Discover the genesis of Art of Tea and its evolution into a thriving business. Explore the therapeutic aspects of tea blending and its role in promoting mindfulness. Learn about the challenges faced and strategic moves made, including expansion to Miami and navigating COVID-19 through e-commerce. Join us as we uncover the art of tea blending, entrepreneurship, and the power of building a brand. Timestamps:00:50 Introducing Steve Schwartz: The Tea Blender02:30 The Global Impact of Tea: From the White House to Google03:29 The Journey of a Tea Blender: Learning and Growing05:17 The Cultural Significance and Health Benefits of Tea21:32 From Family Struggles to Entrepreneurial Success28:59 The Genesis of Art of Tea: A Blend of Passion and Purpose32:09 From Living Room to Expanding Business: The Growth of a Tea Empire33:06 Tea as Therapy: Blending for Health and Wellness35:03 The Ritual of Tea: A Mindful Practice for Well-being36:31 Exploring the Science and Varieties of Tea38:10 Tea and Presence: The Power of Being in the Now40:33 Integrating Tea into Daily Rituals and Education49:55 The Business of Tea: Custom Blends and Corporate Clients01:04:43 The Move to Miami: Expanding Operations and Embracing Community01:14:41 The Pivot to E-Commerce: Navigating Business During COVID-1901:16:43 The Power of Influencer Partnerships and Brand Evolution01:27:04 Becoming a Media Company: The Future of Branding and E-Commerce01:33:29 Personal Connections and Future Plans: Wrapping UpGary Lipovetsky: https://www.instagram.com/garylipovetskySteve Schwartz: https://www.instagram.com/artofteala/?hl=en

Join host Gary Lipovetsky, the renowned serial entrepreneur, business partner, and husband to social media celebrity Valeria Lipovetsky, in this captivating podcast "RISE, Life Stories of Accomplished Individuals". Gary not only delves deep into the lives of notable figures to extract their fascinating origin stories and the hurdles they faced, but he also meticulously draws out the specific knowledge and expertise they hold in their respective fields. Through in-depth interviews, Gary unravels the secrets to their achievements and highlights the value of their unique experiences and insights. Tune in to gain invaluable wisdom from these remarkable individuals and be inspired to reach new heights of success.Embark on a journey from corporate life to influencer with Cristina Cataman in this episode of the RISE Podcast. From navigating the unpredictable landscape of content creation to embracing cultural differences and finding humor in heritage, Cristina shares her bold transition, financial challenges, and insights into the influencer industry amidst the backdrop of COVID. Delve into discussions on handling criticism, overcoming language barriers, and unraveling geopolitical complexities like the Ukraine-Russia conflict and Moldova's identity. With laughter, resilience, and a vision for the future, Cristina unveils her plans for expanding creative horizons and collaborative endeavors, offering a candid and inspiring glimpse into the world of content creation. Don't miss this captivating conversation filled with wit, wisdom, and laughter, as Cristina Cataman shares her unique journey and perspectives.Timestamps:00:00 Navigating the Unpredictable World of Content Creation01:01 Welcome to RISE Podcast: A Candid Chat with Cristina Cataman01:46 From Corporate Auditor to Comedy Influencer: Cristina's Journey03:45 Embracing a New Life: Cristina's Bold Move to Canada08:33 The Creative Spark: Transitioning to Influencer Life During COVID15:01 The Cultural Comedy of Cristina Cataman: Finding Humor in Heritage23:13 Navigating Financial Instability in the Influencer Industry25:00 The Launch of a New Podcast and Future Content Strategies25:39 Dealing with Criticism and Hate in the Public Eye29:17 Exploring Cultural Differences: Eastern European vs. North American Perspectives38:34 A Unique Encounter: Valeria's Story39:21 Cultural Differences and Communication Styles41:06 Navigating Language Barriers and Misinterpretations42:04 Discussing the Complexities of the Ukraine-Russia Conflict42:27 Exploring Moldova's Political Landscape and Cultural Identity45:20 Personal Histories and the Impact of War55:00 The Challenges and Joys of Being an Influencer01:00:24 Future Plans and Expanding Creative Horizons01:11:21 A Comedic Collaboration Idea and Wrapping UpGary Lipovetsky: https://www.instagram.com/garylipovetsky/Cristina Cataman: https://www.instagram.com/cristinacataman/

Join host Gary Lipovetsky, the renowned serial entrepreneur, business partner, and husband to social media celebrity Valeria Lipovetsky, in this captivating podcast "RISE, Life Stories of Accomplished Individuals". Gary not only delves deep into the lives of notable figures to extract their fascinating origin stories and the hurdles they faced, but he also meticulously draws out the specific knowledge and expertise they hold in their respective fields. Through in-depth interviews, Gary unravels the secrets to their achievements and highlights the value of their unique experiences and insights. Tune in to gain invaluable wisdom from these remarkable individuals and be inspired to reach new heights of success.Join us for an insightful journey in this episode of the RISE podcast, where we redefine consistency and explore the art of making better choices. Follow Greg Scheiman’s personal journey from facing challenges to achieving triumphs as we delve into crafting a fulfilling life through effective strategies and realizations. Discover the power of scheduling and prioritizing to maximize your life, along with practical advice on fitness in middle age and fostering confidence. Explore the interconnection of fitness, health, and personal growth, and address controversial topics such as age gap relationships and the realities of divorce in midlife. From embracing technology and navigating parenting challenges to prioritizing self-care and setting examples, we cover it all. Plus, gain insights into career success, the pursuit of happiness, and the role of hobbies in enhancing life quality. Subscribe now for more empowering conversations on the RISE podcast!Timestamps:00:00 Redefining Consistency and Making Better Choices02:44 Greg's Personal Journey: From Challenges to Triumphs09:43 Crafting a Fulfilling Life: Strategies and Realizations16:51 The Power of Scheduling and Prioritizing in Maximizing Life30:01 Fitness in Middle Age: Realistic Goals and Sustainable Practices42:28 Navigating Sexuality and Confidence in Middle Age45:20 The Impact of Physical Fitness on Perception and Sexuality47:12 The Interconnection of Fitness, Health, and Personal Growth55:18 Addressing the Controversy of Age Gap Relationships57:26 The Challenges and Realities of Divorce in Midlife01:02:05 Embracing Technology and Parenting Challenges01:02:39 The Significance of Self-Care and Setting an Example01:06:20 Exploring Career Success and the Pursuit of Happiness01:19:36 The Role of Hobbies in Enhancing Life QualityGary Lipovetsky: https://www.instagram.com/garylipovetskyGreg Scheinman: https://www.instagram.com/gregscheinman