Welcome to another thought-provoking episode of Fail With Fire! This week, host Phoenix Ha, CEO and co-founder of AdBeacon, is joined by the incredible Nathan Chan, founder and CEO of Foundr. In this raw and honest conversation, Nathan shares his entrepreneurial journey, the struggles that shaped him, and the lessons he’s learned while building a globally recognized brand. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, an e-commerce founder, or simply someone interested in navigating the ups and downs of leadership, this episode has something for you. Subjects Covered in This Episode: The Birth of Foundr and the Lawsuit That Changed Everything Nathan opens up about how an unexpected lawsuit in the early days of his business forced him to pivot. Learn how what seemed like a catastrophic failure turned into a rebranding success story, giving rise to the powerful and globally recognized "Foundr" brand. Embracing Failure as a Catalyst for Growth Phoenix and Nathan dive into the often-overlooked topic of failure in entrepreneurship. From financial setbacks to moments of doubt, Nathan explains why these experiences are essential for personal and professional growth. The Power of Teamwork and Leadership Nathan discusses the importance of building a strong team and leading through people. Discover how he navigates the challenges of scaling a business while maintaining a culture of kindness, collaboration, and creativity. Overcoming Burnout and Prioritizing Mental Health Nathan shares his personal battle with burnout and how it affected his passion for his work. He offers actionable advice on practicing self-care, setting boundaries, and balancing the demands of entrepreneurship with mental well-being. Advice for Solopreneurs and Startups For those just starting out, Nathan provides practical tips on how to focus your energy, avoid common pitfalls, and build a sustainable business. Learn why mastering one skill or channel can make all the difference in the early days. The Obsession That Drives Success Nathan reflects on the obsessive nature of entrepreneurship and why it’s crucial to temper that drive with discipline and self-awareness. Phoenix adds her perspective on balancing ambition with self-compassion and grace. What You’ll Learn: How to turn unexpected setbacks into opportunities for growth. Why a strong network and mentorship are invaluable for success. Strategies for avoiding burnout and maintaining balance. The role of emotional maturity in leadership and scaling a business. Why knowing your strengths and weaknesses is key to building a thriving team. Nathan and Phoenix’s candid, heartfelt conversation is a must-listen for anyone navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship. Packed with actionable insights, this episode is your guide to turning failures into stepping stones for success, staying motivated through tough times, and leading with purpose. About Nathan Chan Nathan Chan, CEO of Foundr, is a visionary entrepreneur driven by a passion for empowering others. Starting from a bootstrapped idea, he has built Foundr into a globally recognized media and education company, serving millions of entrepreneurs each month. Through magazines, books, and online courses, Foundr has become a cornerstone in the entrepreneurial world. The magazine has featured influential figures such as Richard Branson, Arianna Huffington, Mark Cuban, and Jack Dorsey, cementing its place as a leading resource for aspiring business leaders. Connect With Nathan and Foundr: Instagram: @foundr Instagram: @nathanchan Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/foundr/ Learn more about AdBeacon! www.AdBeacon.com
In this episode of Fail with Fire, Phoenix sits down with Shahbaz Khokhar, the CEO of Venture Beyond, an e-commerce growth agency that has transformed countless brands into multi-million-dollar success stories. Shahbaz shares how he scaled his agency from a modest three-person team to an innovative powerhouse of 40, producing over 1,000 creatives per month for brands. Under his leadership, businesses have seen explosive growth, like a beauty brand skyrocketing from $900K to $65M in annual revenue. Shahbaz also opens up about the challenges and failures that shaped his journey. From losing over $500K in a failed gym venture to struggling with over-leveraging multiple businesses, he shares the pivotal lessons that taught him the value of focus and simplicity. With a candid discussion on leadership, scaling teams, and overcoming ego, Shahbaz provides actionable insights for entrepreneurs at any stage of their journey. This episode also delves into Shahbaz’s personal life, including how becoming a father reshaped his priorities, and offers a refreshing perspective on why wealth and success don’t always look like what social media portrays. If you’ve ever wrestled with balancing ambition, failure, and personal growth, this conversation is for you. Highlights from this episode... From Accounting to Entrepreneurship: Shahbaz shares his career shift and the founding of Venture Beyond. Building an Agency Powerhouse: How Shahbaz scaled his team and developed a creative production engine producing over 1,000 creatives per month. Failures That Defined the Path: Candid stories of losing over $500K on a gym business and learning the importance of focus. Lessons in Leadership and Mentorship: Shahbaz discusses his leadership style, team-building strategies, and the role of mentorship in scaling a business. Personal Growth and the Role of Family: How becoming a father reshaped Shahbaz’s perspective on life and business priorities. Rethinking Success and Social Media Perception: A hot take on why social media’s portrayal of success is misleading and the importance of authenticity. More About Shahbaz Khokhar: Shahbaz is the CEO of Venture Beyond, an ecommerce growth agency that scales ecommerce brands through paid social, creative production and CRO. Since 2020, Shahbaz has transformed a modest team of three into a powerhouse of 40 ecommerce super-wizards headquartered in the UK. Under his leadership, a beauty brand soared from $900k to $65M in annual revenue, a major luggage retailer successfully transitioned to ecommerce, a cold start Kickstarter brand pivoted to 8-figures in revenue, and several brands have been propelled to achieve 7 and 8-figure revenues. Underpinning the successes of Venture Beyond is a creative production machine that produces 1,000+ creatives per month for brands, scaling them through semi-automated media buying and continuous CRO testing. Stay Connected With AdBeacon! Visit www.AdBeacon.com to learn more about our next-level ad optimization technology and book your free 1-on-1 demo while you’re there!
In this episode of Fail With Fire, Phoenix Ha sits down with Taylor Frame, co-owner and CRO of Best Practice Media, to unpack the failures that ignite transformative growth. From scaling 60 franchises in four months to losing them all in 45 days, Taylor shares how setbacks shaped his principles, leadership, and resilience. This candid conversation explores five key areas of discussion: The importance of self-worth and principle-based living in personal and professional growth. Lessons learned from scaling too quickly and the challenges of managing client relationships. How to approach leadership with calmness and deliberate action using the “no fast hands in the cockpit” principle. The power of trust in partnerships and why micromanagement can be detrimental. Insights into Taylor’s approach to acquisition-focused marketing and his passion for empowering entrepreneurs. Learn how to embrace failure, cultivate self-worth, and lead with intention in business and life. Taylor’s journey offers actionable insights, inspiring stories, and a fresh perspective on turning failures into catalysts for growth. Tune in now for an episode filled with valuable takeaways for leaders, entrepreneurs, and anyone navigating the ups and downs of business! Learn More About Taylor! Taylor Frame is the co-owner and Chief Revenue Officer of Best Practice Media, a digital growth shop. With a passion for helping entrepreneurs hit their goals, Taylor has consulted and worked with over 400+ eCommerce companies ranging from start-ups to enterprise level accounts. Under his leadership, the agency has launched and scaled over 100 brands to consistent 6-figure months, finding creative solutions in the shifting eCommerce world. Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-frame IG: https://www.instagram.com/bestpracticemedia/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bestpracticemedia/ Learn more about AdBeacon! Visit www.AdBeacon.com to learn more about our first-data powered ad optimization technology and book your one-on-one demo to see AdBeacon in action for yourself!
In this compelling episode of the Fail with Fire Podcast, host Phoenix Ha sits down with Mike Beckham, Co-Founder and CEO of Simple Modern, a nine-figure global leader in premium drink ware and lifestyle products. Mike dives deep into his personal journey, from a decade in ministry to founding and scaling several successful e-commerce ventures. Together, they explore profound topics on failure, leadership, and what it means to build something meaningful in both business and life. Here is some of what you will hear in this episode! The Role of Failure in Success: Mike shares his perspective that failure isn’t just a hurdle—it’s an essential part of growth. Learn why he believes you can’t achieve sustainable success without embracing failure as a necessary ingredient. Reframing Failure as Tuition: Discover how Mike learned to view mistakes as valuable lessons rather than setbacks and how this mindset has shaped his career. Key Lessons from a Million-Unit Defect: Mike reveals how he and his team navigated a major manufacturing crisis when a defective valve affected over a million water bottles. Learn how they rallied as a team and turned a disaster into an opportunity for growth. Leadership in Crisis: Whether it’s managing a company during COVID or addressing internal challenges, Mike discusses how leaders must balance urgency with calm and transparency to inspire their teams. The Importance of Feedback: Hear how a major turning point in Mike’s 20s was learning to embrace constructive criticism and become a more coachable leader. Knowing When to Quit: Mike challenges the notion that persistence is always a virtue, sharing how strategic quitting is just as important for success as perseverance. Raising Resilient Kids and Teams: Mike explains why modeling resilience and transparency in the face of challenges is crucial for raising strong children and building empowered teams. The Need to Build in America: Drawing on his observations during a recent trip to China, Mike reflects on the need for the U.S. to return to its roots as a country of builders. Navigating the Disruptions of AI and Innovation: Mike and Phoenix touch on the rapid advancements in AI and the importance of balancing tradition with innovation in a fast-changing world. 🎧 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with friends who need a dose of inspiration! More about Mike! Mike Beckham is co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of Simple Modern, a global producer of premium drinkware and lifestyle products. Founded in 2015 and based in Oklahoma, Simple Modern currently generates a nine-figure annual revenue and is committed to generosity, donating at least 10% of annual profits to nonprofit organizations. Under Mike’s leadership, the company has grown into a category leader for Amazon, Target, Walmart, and Sam’s Club, serving more than 20 million customers worldwide. Mike is a teacher, leader, and entrepreneur at heart. Before founding Simple Modern, Mike began his career working for the worldwide Christian ministry CRU. Equipped with a deep understanding of the nonprofit sector, Mike transitioned into the business world and helped found and operate several e-commerce businesses, which cumulatively generated more than $1 billion in revenue. Mike graduated with a degree from the University of Oklahoma Price College of Business, where he currently serves as the senior entrepreneur-in-residence. Learn more about AdBeacon Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/ad_beacon Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OfficialAdBeacon/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adbeacon/ www.AdBeacon.com Check out AdBeacon and book your demo where you are there!
Join us for an inspiring and insightful conversation with Sarah Levinger, a Forbes-featured consumer behavior analyst, creative strategist, and performance creative consultant. Sarah delves into her unique approach to psychology-based advertising, sharing how it helps brands like Fabletics, Hexclad, and True Classic achieve remarkable ROI. This episode isn’t just about marketing—it’s about balancing personal growth, professional ambition, and the relationships that shape us. Here’s a taste of where we go in this episode of Fail With Fire... Psychology in Advertising: Learn how understanding consumer behavior can transform your marketing strategy and help you create emotionally resonant campaigns. Work-Life Balance for Entrepreneurs: Sarah shares her journey of setting boundaries, managing burnout, and balancing a thriving career with motherhood and marriage. Failures as Catalysts for Success: Discover how Sarah turned challenges and setbacks into opportunities for personal and professional growth. The Power of Saying No: Understand the importance of selective opportunities and why saying “no” can often lead to more impactful results. Navigating Relationships in Entrepreneurship: Explore the dynamics of personal relationships and how they influence career trajectories, decision-making, and overall happiness. Connect with Sarah Levinger: Twitter: https://x.com/SarahLevinger LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahlevinger/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SarahLevinger TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sarahlevinger Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarah.levinger/ Stay Connected with AdBeacon https://twitter.com/ad_beacon https://www.instagram.com/AdBeacon https://www.linkedin.com/company/adbeacon https://www.facebook.com/OfficialAdBeacon/
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In this heartfelt episode of Fail with Fire, host Phoenix welcomes Jarrod Sousa, CFO and founder of DTC Wealth, for an inspiring conversation that covers pivotal moments, resilience, and data-driven growth. Jared shares his near-death experience and the transformative power it had on his life, faith, and purpose. Here are five key areas of focus the episode covers: Life’s Wake-Up Calls and How They Shape Us: Jarrod dives into how his near-death experience impacted his life, faith, and outlook on business. These moments can transform our perspectives, revealing what truly matters. The Role of Faith in Business and Personal Life: Jarrod shares his faith journey and discusses how it guides his approach to family, business, and helping others, making faith a core part of his resilience. Real Financial Insights for DTC Brands: As a CFO for eCommerce brands, Jarrod provides valuable insights on the importance of understanding financials, contribution margins, and how these impact sustainable growth for DTC companies. The Power of Adoption and Family: Jarrod opens up about his family’s adoption journey, offering a moving perspective on family, love, and purpose beyond business goals. Finding Purpose in Resilience and Service: Phoenix and Jarrod explore how tragedy and setbacks can reveal our calling to help others, bringing authenticity and meaning into both personal and professional lives. If you're passionate about building both a successful career and a fulfilling life, tune in for a conversation that goes beyond business, offering practical advice and profound life lessons. 00:00 - Introduction 01:47 - Why Jarrod Was Chosen as a Guest 03:52 - “How Would Your Wife Describe You?” 04:58 - A Lifelong Partnership: Jared’s Marriage Story 07:00 - Phoenix’s Reflection on Tragedy, Fires, and Resilience 08:40 - The Catalyst of Failure: Jared’s Pivotal Life Experiences 11:08 - The Rope Swing Incident: 12 Inches From Death 14:20 - Surviving Close Calls: Comparing 12 Inches and Two Hours 17:26 - Surviving Trauma: Finding Focus in Crisis 19:55 - How Faith and Gratitude Shape Jarrod's Life 23:07 - Marriage, Faith, and True Success Beyond Business 26:37 - Money, Access, and Opportunity: Using Wealth to Serve 28:51 - Jarrod's Adoption Journey: Expanding a Family 34:31 - Letting Go with Faith and Finding Gratitude 36:14 - “What’s Meant for You Will Find You” 39:38 - Phoenix’s Puppy Story: Holding Out for What’s Meant to Be 40:47 - Jarrod's Advice on Adoption and Family 42:09 - Business Hot Take: Knowing Your Numbers to Succeed 43:49 - Accurate Financials and Sharing Data with Your Team 47:25 - Unpacking True Costs and Financial Clarity 48:53 - Where to Find Jarrod Online for Business and Personal Advice
In this episode of the Fail with Fire Podcast, Phoenix, CEO and co-founder of AdBeacon, sits down with Sanjay Jenkins, an e-commerce expert who’s helped Shopify store owners and agencies scale to new heights. Sanjay shares his inspiring journey, from launching a pet toy subscription box to scaling e-commerce for Buff City Soap from $280K to $3M in just 10 months. He talks about the challenges he faced, the lessons learned, and how his failures became the catalysts for his success. Tune in to hear about his relentless drive, the importance of giving and receiving grace, and why obsessing over your craft can lead to greatness. 🔑 Key Takeaways: Navigating Personal and Professional Failures: Sanjay opens up about his biggest personal and professional failures, including the pressures of family expectations and how he dealt with not following the traditional path of becoming a doctor. He explains how these failures became catalysts for change and helped him build the resilience needed to succeed in the e-commerce industry. Building and Scaling Brands Through Organic Strategies: The conversation shifts to Sanjay’s expertise in growing brands organically. He shares valuable insights on how to leverage landing pages, CRO (Conversion Rate Optimization), and strategic digital marketing to scale brands from six to nine figures. Sanjay emphasizes the importance of working smart, iterating quickly, and staying ahead of the competition. The Importance of Relationships and Community: Phoenix and Sanjay discuss how the e-commerce and marketing world is driven by relationships and collaboration. They talk about the importance of building authentic connections and how their mutual network of friends and colleagues has influenced their careers. Sanjay also shares humorous anecdotes about realizing unexpected family connections through his professional network. Work-Life Balance and Setting Boundaries: Sanjay reflects on the personal challenges of maintaining work-life balance as a driven entrepreneur. He talks about setting boundaries, avoiding burnout, and finding ways to recharge. Phoenix and Sanjay discuss the challenges of staying “on” for clients and friends while maintaining personal well-being and mental health. Failures as Catalysts for Personal Growth: The episode wraps up with a deep dive into the power of failure and how it shapes personal and professional growth. Sanjay explains how his hardest moments led to his biggest successes, and why embracing failure is essential for long-term success. Phoenix and Sanjay both agree on the importance of perseverance, grit, and staying true to one’s values in the face of adversity. Connect With Sanjay: https://x.com/SanjayAtPlayhttps://www.tiktok.com/@sanjayatplayhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/sanjayjenkins/https://www.instagram.com/corndogbillionaire/ Connect With AdBeacon! www.AdBeacon.comhttps://www.instagram.com/adbeacon/https://www.facebook.com/OfficialAdBeacon/https://twitter.com/ad_beaconhttps://www.tiktok.com/@adbeacon
In this insightful episode of Fail with Fire, Jessie Healy, founder of the UK-based eCommerce growth agency Webtopia, shares her remarkable entrepreneurial journey. Jessie’s experience spans spending $50 million on digital advertising for major brands like Etsy, Farfetch, and Candy Kittens, leading to the creation of her agency. Throughout the episode, Jessie discusses the challenges of running a fully remote agency, her decision to sell Webtopia, and the lessons learned from overcoming obstacles, such as navigating iOS 14’s impact on digital advertising. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to scale a business, balance personal and professional life, or understand the realities behind successful entrepreneurship.
In this insightful episode of Fail with Fire, Jessie Healy, founder of the UK-based eCommerce growth agency Webtopia, shares her remarkable entrepreneurial journey. Jessie’s experience spans spending $50 million on digital advertising for major brands like Etsy, Farfetch, and Candy Kittens, leading to the creation of her agency. Throughout the episode, Jessie discusses the challenges of running a fully remote agency, her decision to sell Webtopia, and the lessons learned from overcoming obstacles, such as navigating iOS 14’s impact on digital advertising. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to scale a business, balance personal and professional life, or understand the realities behind successful entrepreneurship. 00:00 Introduction 01:57 Connecting with Women in DTC 03:37 How Family Views Jessie’s Work 05:48 Introduction to Failures and Growth 06:24 Moving to New Zealand While Running a UK Agency 10:01 Remote Leadership Challenges 12:05 The Impact of iOS 14 14:09 Isolation and the Weight of Leadership 15:15 Balancing Agency Life and Motherhood 16:19 Realizing the Need for Change 17:58 Selling Webtopia 19:39 Hurdles in Selling an Agency 20:43 Post-Sale Life and Business Shift 21:14 Realities of Running an Agency 23:32 iOS 14 and Shifting Consumer Behavior 25:01 Reflections on Agency Growth 28:07 Advice for Aspiring Media Buyers 30:08 The Role of a Modern Media Buyer 33:48 The Balance of Creative, Data, and Client Management Overview of this episode of Fail With Fire Introduction to Jessie Healy Jessie’s background in digital advertising and experience working with major brands, leading to the creation of her agency Webtopia. Building Webtopia How Jessie founded Webtopia in 2018, scaling it to seven figures, and the unique value proposition of offering creative-focused strategies in a competitive eCommerce space. Challenges of Running a Remote Agency The challenges Jessie faced when managing a remote team from New Zealand while her agency was based in the UK, including time zone difficulties and balancing work and personal life. Navigating iOS 14 & Client Challenges Jessie shares how the iOS 14 privacy update and changes in consumer behavior during the pandemic made it harder to maintain clients and deliver results, pushing her to rethink her business model. Decision to Sell the Agency Jessie’s realization that she wasn’t happy running the agency, and the process she went through to sell Webtopia in 2023, along with insights on the challenges and lessons of selling a business. Life After Selling the Agency How Jessie has transitioned into consulting and running an accelerator for eCommerce brands, plus the personal and professional transformations she experienced. Hot Takes: Media Buying Today Jessie shares her thoughts on brand PMAX traffic and incremental growth, questioning whether Google’s brand traffic is truly driving new customer acquisition. Connect With AdBeacon! www.AdBeacon.com https://www.instagram.com/adbeacon/ https://www.facebook.com/OfficialAdBeacon/ https://twitter.com/ad_beacon https://www.tiktok.com/@adbeacon
In this episode of "Fail with Fire," host Phoenix sits down with Ryan McKenzie, Co-Founder and CEO of True Earth, a company dedicated to reducing plastic waste through innovative laundry products. Ryan shares his incredible journey, detailing his rise from early career struggles to building a multi-million dollar, eco-conscious brand. The conversation begins with Ryan’s introduction, where he and Phoenix delve into their instant connection over humor and shared values, setting the stage for an honest, open conversation. Ryan talks about the challenges of creating True Earth, a brand that has already helped eliminate over 186 million plastic containers from landfills and donated millions of loads of detergent to those in need. He also shares a lighthearted moment, showcasing True Earth's laundry strips on camera. The discussion then shifts to Ryan’s past failures and hard-won lessons. He opens up about his early days in affiliate marketing, recounting the collapse of a ringtone subscription business that once earned him six figures monthly. This unexpected downturn taught him invaluable skills in resilience, SEO, and sales, which later shaped his success with True Earth. Phoenix and Ryan then explore the pressures of entrepreneurship, the challenges of sustaining motivation, and the importance of finding peace, even at the height of success. They dive into meaningful topics, like the reality of setbacks, the role of perseverance, and Ryan's belief that every venture has a life cycle. Through his experiences, he emphasizes the value of learning from every stage of a business journey.00:00 Intro00:47 The Humor Connection and First Impressions01:53 Introducing Ryan McKenzie’s Success with True Earth03:01 The Blue Ribbon Event: Meeting the “Crew”04:35 Instant Friendship: The Power Rangers Reference05:38 How Would Ryan’s Wife Describe Him?06:46 The Value of Authentic Connections Over Achievements08:19 Humorous Product Failures10:29 Transition to Talking About Failures12:21 Early SEO Success and Losses in Affiliate Marketing14:07 Personal Challenges and Financial Collapse16:54 Humbling Lessons and Learning Sales18:52 The Survival Mentality: Moving Past Failure19:28 Everything Has a Life Cycle: Business and Life22:33 The Cost of Success and Taking Time to Reflect26:20 Deep Reflections on Success and Peace29:25 What Truly Makes Us Happy34:19 Hot Take: Purpose of Direct-to-Consumer (DTC)36:11 Diversifying Revenue Streams41:32 The Fallacy of Conversion Rate as a Metric About Ryan! Ryan McKenzie is the Co-founder of Tru Earth, a brand that has generated hundreds of millions in sales, helped eliminate more than 186 million plastic containers from ending up in landfills, and has donated more than 50 million loads of laundry detergent to those in need. He now spends his time helping DTC first consumer goods brands grow to 8-figures in revenue and beyond. Social Handles: Twitter: www.twitter.com/ryemckenzie Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCr_WZIhS3_mpVbc03Tq-Esw Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryemckenzie/ Check out Tru-Earth: https://tru.earth/ Learn More about AdBeacon! www.AdBeacon.com https://www.instagram.com/adbeacon/ https://www.facebook.com/OfficialAdBeacon/ https://twitter.com/ad_beacon https://www.tiktok.com/@adbeacon
In this episode of "Fail with Fire," Phoenix Ha sits down with Mitch Barham, the CEO of Barham Marketing and a veteran digital marketer who’s navigated multiple businesses through success and setbacks. Mitch shares his journey from skeptical beginnings to becoming a leader in digital marketing, with his unique “Four A” strategy: audit, analyze, assess, and adjust. Phoenix and Mitch dive deep into the themes of resilience, passion, and the transformative power of failure in business. Here’s what to expect: The Power of Relationships in Business Phoenix and Mitch emphasize the value of authenticity in business relationships. Mitch shares insights on navigating networking events and the importance of genuine connections over transactional interactions. Overcoming Major Setbacks in Digital Marketing Mitch discusses the tough lessons learned from losing millions of dollars in his early business ventures and explains how these experiences taught him to evolve and adapt with shifting digital landscapes. Managing Failures While Supporting a Family Mitch opens up about the personal side of entrepreneurship, from periods without a paycheck to the sacrifices made to keep his family and business afloat. He shares how his wife’s support has been instrumental in his success. Perseverance and Self-Improvement The hosts discuss perseverance, grit, and the relentless drive required to succeed in the digital marketing industry. Mitch reflects on the self-imposed pressure to continuously improve and be a dependable leader for his team and clients. Tackling Slow Seasons and Low Tides in Agency Work Mitch provides practical advice on managing the natural ebb and flow of the digital marketing industry. He shares his proactive approach to preparing clients for low seasons, underscoring the importance of transparency and relationship-building. Authenticity on TikTok and Growing a Brand Organically Mitch explains how he embraced TikTok and amassed a loyal following by offering honest, practical marketing advice. He attributes his success to creating free, high-value content and the genuine connections he’s built with his audience. The Highs and Lows of Running an Agency Phoenix and Mitch discuss the challenges of agency life, from managing high client expectations to finding a balance between work and family life. Mitch reflects on how he’s built a sustainable business by focusing on consistency and reliability. The Role of Passion and Persistence in Leadership Mitch highlights the essential traits he believes define successful entrepreneurs: passion, perseverance, and an obsessive drive to excel. Phoenix shares her perspective on how these traits play a key role in building a resilient business. About Mitch! Mitch Barham is the CEO and founder of Barham Marketing, a results-driven marketing agency focused on creating tangible outcomes for businesses. With a background as a serial entrepreneur, Mitch has successfully built and sold multiple businesses, bringing deep industry knowledge and a hands-on approach to marketing. His agency emphasizes the importance of delivering real results for clients through a unique '4A Strategy' — Audit, Analyze, Assess, and Adjust — ensuring that every marketing initiative is customized for maximum impact. Long story short, he focuses on giving practical, real-world advice, helping startups and established companies alike optimize their operations, scale effectively, and achieve sustained success. Connect With Mitch! https://www.instagram.com/beardpreneur https://www.tiktok.com/@beardpreneur https://www.youtube.com/@beardpreneur Connect With AdBeacon! www.AdBeacon.com https://www.instagram.com/adbeacon/ https://www.facebook.com/OfficialAdBeacon/ https://twitter.com/ad_beacon https://www.tiktok.com/@adbeacon
In this episode of "Fail with Fire," Phoenix Ha hosts Rishabh Jain, the CEO and co-founder of Fermat, a customer journey optimization platform loved by leading direct-to-consumer brands. Rishabh dives deep into the challenges and failures that shaped his unique leadership style, revealing the powerful self-discipline and reinvention that fueled his journey from Penn to MIT and beyond. With insights into extreme self-motivation, staying competitive in SaaS, and balancing personal standards with a rapidly evolving market, Rishabh offers invaluable takeaways for aspiring leaders and founders. The Breakdown of Today’s Episode When Family Describes What We Do Phoenix and Rishabh discuss the often humorous ways family describes their careers, revealing Rishabh’s work-focused personality and how family and friends playfully introduce him as the “reliable workaholic.” The Importance of Self-Discipline Rishabh shares the transformative college experience that forced him to redefine discipline, rigorously changing his study habits, workload, and lifestyle to redefine his academic and professional trajectory. The Moment of Failure as a Catalyst Phoenix invites Rishabh to dive into the significant failure that shaped his path and sparked his strict regimen of self-improvement, a practice that would serve him throughout his career. Extremes and Boundaries in Leadership They discuss the value of taking extreme steps in self-improvement, why setting clear boundaries can help achieve results, and how Rishabh’s experience as a workaholic has impacted his personal and professional life. Balancing Competition and Self-Improvement In an insightful discussion on competition, Rishabh reveals his philosophy of self-competition and the importance of staying focused on his goals rather than getting distracted by competitors. Lessons from Big Failures in Business Reflecting on early lessons at Fermat, Rishabh and Phoenix share strategies for recovering from early missteps, like focusing on customer retention and the pitfalls of offering free trials. Leadership in a Volatile Market Rishabh shares his approach to managing Fermat in a high-stakes, competitive SaaS market. They explore how effective leaders navigate high-pressure situations while staying focused on their vision. Hot Takes on Attribution and Ads in an Election Year In the "hot takes" segment, Rishabh shares his views on attribution and Phoenix counters with her take on the unique advertising challenges in an election year, setting the stage for broader industry impacts. Advice for Young Entrepreneurs and Graduates Concluding the episode, Rishabh shares his wisdom for early-career professionals, encouraging them to aim for exceptionalism and stay open to change as they carve out their unique paths. This episode is packed with valuable insights on resilience, personal growth, and staying true to your vision. Tune in for an unfiltered look into the failures and philosophies that have driven Rishabh Jain’s success! About our Guest Rishabh Jain Rishabh Jain is the CEO and Co-Founder of FERMÀT, the customer journey optimization platform loved by rapidly growing DTC brands like ARMRA, MindBodyGreen, and True Classic. Prior to building FERMÀT, Rishabh spent over 5 years at LiveRamp, where he most recently held the role of VP of Innovation and New Business Initiatives. During his tenure, he spearheaded the development of several successful ventures, including scaling a healthcare business from zero to multi-million-dollar revenue in under 2 years. Connect with Rishabh and AdBeacon! https://x.com/rishabhmjain https://www.linkedin.com/in/rishabhmjain/ www.AdBeacon.com Follow us on X: @Ad_Beacon Instagram & TikTok: @AdBeacon
In this episode of "Fail with Fire," Phoenix Ha welcomes Sean Frank, CEO of Ridge, known for their innovative wallets, rings, and luggage. Sean shares his candid journey from living in a bunk-bed-packed flop house to running an eight-figure business. This episode dives deep into the importance of authenticity, taking risks, and how business failures often lead to greater successes. Sean and Phoenix explore themes like growth strategies, the value of endurance, and the delicate balance between profitability and building a strong brand. Listen in for actionable insights on e-commerce, scaling, and maintaining momentum, no matter the industry. Each section of the conversation reveals a key aspect of Sean’s entrepreneurial mindset. What’s in this episode of Fail With Fire? 1 Sean Frank & Ridge’s Success Sean Frank discusses his journey with Ridge, starting from selling wallets to becoming a household name in accessories and luggage. Sean’s career trajectory is framed as a testament to how failures can become a catalyst for success. 2. Solving Real Problems with Products Sean dives into the product expansion at Ridge, explaining how the brand’s focus on solving problems — like the gifting dilemma for men — helped them scale. He also covers why making “no-brainer” offers like the Ridge Ring’s guarantee is crucial in a competitive market. 3. The Importance of Endurance in Business Sean and Phoenix discuss why endurance is the number one trait for business survival. Sean explains that in a world where bankruptcy is the default state, it’s the ability to keep going that separates successful entrepreneurs from the rest. 4. The Reality of Business Failures Sean reflects on his early failures, including his time at ShopChain and his days living in a flop house with 20 roommates. He talks about the importance of learning from these experiences and how they shaped his leadership style at Ridge. 5. Brand vs. Profitability: What Comes First? Phoenix and Sean debate the ongoing discussion about building a brand versus focusing on profitability. Sean shares Ridge's strategy and argues that brand should come later, after you've established sustainable growth. 6. Breaking into New Markets: Wallets, Rings, and Luggage Sean shares the thinking behind Ridge’s product expansion into rings and luggage. He explains how the company has strategically leveraged trust built through wallets to break into new categories while still solving consumer problems. 7. Taking Risks and Pushing Through Uncertainty Phoenix asks Sean about the biggest risks he's taken, and Sean emphasizes the importance of taking as many shots as possible. They talk about why successful entrepreneurs push forward, even when they don’t have all the answers. 8. Leadership Style: Calm in the Chaos Sean opens up about his leadership style, admitting that while he may be frantic day-to-day, he’s calm during true crises. He describes how facing problems head-on, rather than avoiding them, has helped him navigate Ridge through complex challenges. 9. Hot Takes: Attribution in Advertising Sean and Phoenix dive into a more technical discussion about attribution in advertising. Sean shares his hot take on why attribution platforms like Northbeam, Triple Whale, and others should be used in conjunction rather than competing against one another. 10. Looking Forward: What’s Next for Ridge As they wrap up, Sean reflects on the next steps for Ridge, emphasizing that the business is still in its early stages. He encourages entrepreneurs to stop looking back and to focus on the long game, noting that there's plenty of time left to achieve massive success. www.AdBeacon.com www.Ridge.com
Hey guys, long time no see! Welcome back to the Fail With Fire Podcast. I'm your host Phoenix, CEO of Ad Beacon, your favorite first-party data and attribution platform. Today, I'm excited to be joined by one of my favorites, Arjun Shukla. We've connected through Twitter, events, and even the Dad Gang, despite me being an honorary member. In this episode, we're diving deep into Q1 insights and Arjun's unique perspective on the DTC space. Arjun, CEO and founder of GrowSpotlight.com, specializes in scaling six-figure brands to seven, eight, and nine figures profitably. With over 200 brands under his belt and $100 million in paid spend, he's grown GrowSpotlight from zero to a million in annual revenue. Join us as we discuss our industry experiences, laugh about the quirks of DTC, and share genuine friendship moments from events. Arjun's passion for authentic connections and founder-centric approach shines through, making this episode a must-listen. We'll also touch on some thought-provoking topics, including the importance of integrity in business, the impact of social media on our lives, and the challenges of maintaining ethical standards in a competitive market. Don't miss Arjun's insights on navigating failures and his commitment to doing right by his clients and team. Whether you're on the treadmill or avoiding it, this episode is packed with valuable lessons and heartwarming stories. Connect with Arjun on X @growwitharjun for more engaging conversations. Thanks for tuning in to the Fail With Fire Podcast! Stay tuned for more episodes and make sure to subscribe! Want to learn more about optimizing your Meta ads like a true rockstar? Check out AdBeacon and book your live 1-on-1 demo today! www.AdBeacon.com
In this captivating episode of "Fail with Fire," we are thrilled to welcome Jess Cervellon, the Vice President of Customer Experience at Feastables. Our host Phoenix leads a deep dive into Jess's intriguing career path, from her beginnings in art school to her current status as a distinguished consultant in both B2B and B2C customer experience domains. Jess opens up about her personal and professional highs and lows, offering a candid look at the pivotal experiences that have shaped her journey. Throughout the conversation, Jess shares her profound insights on the art of relationship building, the challenges and rewards of navigating the startup ecosystem, and the critical role of customer experience in the ever-evolving e-commerce industry. Her stories are not just about career development; they embody lessons in resilience, adaptability, and the transformative power of embracing failure. This episode is more than an interview; it's a source of inspiration and guidance for anyone passionate about entrepreneurial growth, empathic leadership, and making a meaningful impact in the business world. Whether you're an emerging entrepreneur, a seasoned CX professional, or simply in search of motivational life lessons, Jess's journey offers valuable perspectives on overcoming obstacles, fostering lasting customer relationships, and the importance of staying true to one's values in the dynamic landscape of modern business. Join us for this enlightening conversation with Jess Cervellon, where every anecdote is a learning opportunity and every challenge a stepping stone to success. Connect with Jess! www.linkedin.com/in/jess-cervellon https://twitter.com/justjessssss jesscervellon.com
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Learn More About AdBeacon!
www.AdBeacon.com
Twitter: @Ad_Beacon
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Facebook: @OfficialAdBeacon
Join us in this episode of "Fail with Fire" as we sit down with Bart Szynewski, co-founder of Dad Gang, an apparel brand revolutionizing dad fashion. In a candid conversation, Bart shares his journey from working in various marketing roles to launching Dad Gang. We delve into the challenges and triumphs of building a brand from the ground up, discussing the importance of community, brand authenticity, and the balance between business growth and personal happiness. Bart also offers invaluable insights into the DTC space, highlighting his experiences and lessons learned. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur, a marketing enthusiast, or just curious about the story behind Dad Gang, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical advice. More about Bart... Bart Szaniewski. Working in the DTC/Marketing space for over 12 years leading the growth and strategy of over 50 different brands. Previous roles include VP of Marketing for Strideline Socks, Head of Growth at Mint Performance Marketing, and Head of Marketing at Haldi Skin. Currently working on DadGang as a co-founder. Dad Gang is an apparel brand founded by three dads making high quality hats and other goods for dads. Check them out at https://www.dadgang.co Connect With Bart: Twitter: @theszef IG: @dadgang.co Subscribe & Connect w/ Fail With Fire Twitter: @FailWithFire Instagram: @FailWithFire Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/fail-with-fire Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fail-with-fire/id1697581301 Learn More About AdBeacon! www.AdBeacon.com Twitter: @Ad_Beacon Instagram: @AdBeacon Facebook: @OfficialAdBeacon
Welcome to season 2 episode 5 of Fail With Fire! Brought to you (of course) by AdBeacon
Join us in this fascinating episode of "Fail With Fire," where host Phoenix Ha engages in an enlightening conversation with Jason Akatiff, a renowned figure in affiliate marketing and a seasoned entrepreneur. This episode takes us through Jason's entrepreneurial path, emphasizing the pivotal role of failures in achieving success. Phoenix and Jason discuss the significance of building genuine relationships, the essence of trust, and the resilience required to rebuild from scratch.
Listen as Jason imparts valuable insights on leadership, effective hiring, and the importance of following one's authentic path in business.
This episode isn't just about successes; it's a deep dive into the invaluable lessons from the challenges and setbacks that mold successful entrepreneurs.
Key Highlights of the Episode
The Chance Meeting: Discover how Phoenix and Jason's paths crossed in a serendipitous encounter in Dubai, leading to a lasting friendship and professional camaraderie.
Overcoming Challenges: Jason opens up about his journey, discussing the pivotal role that overcoming numerous challenges has played in shaping his successful career.
Leadership and Trust: The conversation dives deep into the essence of effective leadership and the importance of trust within professional relationships.The Resilience of Rebuilding: Jason shares his experiences of rebuilding from the ground up, providing valuable insights into resilience and determination.
Navigating Business Failures: This episode isn't just about celebrating successes; it's an honest exploration of the lessons learned from failures, setbacks, and how they serve as catalysts for growth and improvement.
Entrepreneurial Insights: Gain from Jason's profound understanding of the business world, including his strategies for hiring and nurturing leaders, and embracing authentic paths in business and life.
Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned business owner, a marketing enthusiast, or just someone who enjoys rich, insightful conversations, this episode is for you. Join Phoenix and Jason on this journey of exploring the multifaceted world of business, understanding that sometimes, the most significant growth comes from the flames of failure.
Tune in to "Fail With Fire" and ignite your passion for success through the lessons of failure and resilience.
More About Jason!
Jason Akatiff is extremely passionate about being an Angel Investor, Entrepreneur & Advisor in businesses involving online marketing, lead generation, advertising, e-commerce, and education. With 25+ years of experience at the heads of companies, he's mastered building, inspiring, and leading teams of top performers.
He believes A-level people create A-level companies and A-level cultures of growth and acceleration.Most important to Jason is that the products and services he creates truly build value in the user's minds and turn them into HUGE fans of the brand after using the product.
Connect With Jason:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/smaxor
https://twitter.com/smaxor
https://www.instagram.com/jasonakatiff/
Subscribe & Connect w/ Fail With Fire
Twitter: @FailWithFire
Instagram: @FailWithFire
Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/fail-with-fire Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fail-with-fire/id1697581301
Learn More About AdBeacon!
www.AdBeacon.com
Twitter: @Ad_Beacon
Instagram: @AdBeacon
Facebook: @OfficialAdBeacon
In this insightful episode of the "Fail With Fire Podcast," host Phoenix Ha engages with Jimmy Kim, CEO of SendLane, in a deep conversation about the realities of entrepreneurship. They explore the significance of embracing failure and learning from it, with Jimmy sharing personal anecdotes from his journey. From the challenges of finding product-market fit to the intricacies of managing startup finances, this episode is a treasure trove of practical wisdom for budding entrepreneurs and business enthusiasts. Jimmy's candid revelations about the mistakes he's made and how he used them as stepping stones to success make this episode a must-listen for anyone looking to navigate the often-turbulent waters of the business world. More About Jimmy Kim Jimmy is a former eCommerce retailer and email marketer turned SaaS founder. Located in sunny San Diego, CA, Jimmy is the CEO & Founder of Sendlane, an email, SMS, and reviews marketing automation company that helps over 1,700+ companies save time, generate more revenue, and increase customer retention with email & SMS. He leverages his expertise and market knowledge to build a product designed for the data-driven digital retailer, enabling them to make better decisions in their marketing. Jimmy brings a unique voice as a former retailer, an email marketing lover, and an email deliverability expert. Connect With Jimmy! X: @yojimmykim LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jkimsendlane/ Subscribe & Connect w/ Fail With Fire Twitter: @FailWithFire Instagram: @FailWithFire Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/fail-with-fire Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fail-with-fire/id1697581301 Learn More About AdBeacon! www.AdBeacon.com Twitter: @Ad_Beacon Instagram: @AdBeacon Facebook: @OfficialAdBeacon
Welcome back to "Fail With Fire," where we turn up the heat on innovation and embrace the flames of failure! 🚀 In this sizzling episode, our fiery host, Phoenix, who's also the CEO of AdBeacon, is joined by the one and only Aaron J. Nosbisch, the mastermind behind Lucyd, the world's biggest cannabis social advertising agency, and the genius behind Bree, a groundbreaking cannabis and mushroom-infused social tonic. 🌿🍄 Buckle up as we dive headfirst into Aaron's rollercoaster of an entrepreneurial journey! 🎢 He's sharing his epic tales of failure, the kind that would make you want to jump into the ring and take another swing. 💪 But guess what? Aaron's secret sauce is persistence and resilience, and he's here to spill the beans on how he transformed those failures into colossal successes. 🌟 Hold on to your hats because this chat isn't just about business—it's a wild ride through the future of the alcohol industry 🍻, the ever-evolving world of digital advertising 📱, and the power of mentorship and meaningful connections. 🤝 If you're itching for inspiration, innovation, and a whole lot of fun, then this episode is your jam! Hit that like button, share it with your crew, and smash that subscribe button for more mind-blowing content on "Fail With Fire." 🔥🔥 Join the conversation in the comments below, and let us know your thoughts! Are you ready to turn your failures into fire? 🔥🚀 More about Aaron! Aaron J. Nosbisch, Founder of Lucyd, the largest cannabis social advertising agency in the world and BRĒZ a next-gen cannabis & mushroom infused social tonic is an entrepreneur, investor, and adventurer who has co-founded numerous endeavors while driving hundreds of millions in revenue for his projects and clients, all the while traveling the world. Connect with Aaron @AaronJNosbisch DrinkBREZ.com WeAreLucyd.com Subscribe & Connect w/ Fail With Fire Twitter: @FailWithFire Instagram: @FailWithFire Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/fail-with-fire Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fail-with-fire/id1697581301 Learn More About AdBeacon! www.AdBeacon.com Twitter: @Ad_Beacon Instagram: @AdBeacon Facebook: @OfficialAdBeacon
Join us for an inspiring conversation with Rabah Rahil, a dynamic entrepreneur and community builder, in this engaging episode of the "Fail With Fire" podcast. Hosted by Phoenix Ha, CEO of AdBeacon, this discussion delves into the incredible power of vibes, the journey of entrepreneurship, and the vital role of community in today's world. Rabah shares his superpower of having an incredibly attuned "vibe check" and how it played a pivotal role in his friendship with Phoenix. Discover how they forged a meaningful connection and the impact of aligning with the right people. Learn about Rabah's diverse background, from his experiences in experiential marketing to his collaboration with an Instagram influencer that led to unexpected success. He candidly discusses the challenges he faced along the way and the importance of perseverance. Explore the concept of self-belief and control over one's destiny, as Rabah shares valuable insights into his personal journey and the mindset required to overcome obstacles. Finally, don't miss Rabah's hot take on merging organic social and paid media teams for enhanced collaboration and success in the digital landscape. This episode of the "Fail With Fire" podcast is not just a conversation—it's a source of inspiration and wisdom for anyone looking to build meaningful connections, embark on entrepreneurial journeys, and create a thriving community. More About Rabah! With 18 years of industry expertise in DTC and Marketing, Rabah is a force to be reckoned with in the world of advertising. Spending millions on captivating ad campaigns and having the honor to work alongside the inspiring Oprah, Rabah has crafted a career forged in the School of Hard Knocks of Advertising. As the former CMO at Triple Whale, a cutting-edge attribution solution, innovative strategies brought unprecedented growth during a whirlwind 18-month tenure. Now, as the Chief Evangelist at the TW, Rabah continues to lead, inspire, and push the boundaries of creativity. Rabah's unparalleled experience also includes directing the paid media for the recruitment vertical at Whole Foods, where a blend of intuition and analytical prowess made a significant impact. This eclectic background, coupled with a relentless pursuit of excellence, makes Rabah a fun and fascinating guest to chat all things marketing. Connect With Rabah: Twitter | @rabahrahil Subscribe & Connect w/ Fail With Fire Twitter: @FailWithFire Instagram: @FailWithFire Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/fail-with-fire Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fail-with-fire/id1697581301 Learn More About AdBeacon! www.AdBeacon.com Twitter: @Ad_Beacon Instagram: @AdBeacon Facebook: @OfficialAdBeacon
Welcome to the Season 2 premiere of "Fail With Fire"! In this episode, your host Phoenix Ha, also the CEO of AdBeacon, sits down with special guest Jordan Menard, the founder and CEO of Motif Digital. Join them for a candid conversation about the journey from failure to success in the world of entrepreneurship, the importance of staying authentic, and insights into media buying strategies. Jordan Menard shares his personal experiences and the pivotal moments that shaped his entrepreneurial path. From early failures to discovering the world of online marketing, Jordan's story is both relatable and inspiring. They dive into topics like taking calculated risks, the power of narrative advertising, and the importance of personal growth in the ever-evolving business landscape. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting your journey, this episode offers valuable insights and advice. The Fail With Fire Podcast is presented by AdBeacon - the leading name in profitable ad optimization. More About Jordan Mernard! Jordan Menard is the Founder of Motif Digital, a boutique omnichannel growth & retention agency out of San Diego. Jordan and his team create offers, make creative, buy media, design funnels, and enhance LTV with email & SMS. Jordan has worked with brands like Everyday Dose, Glade Optics, Physician's Choice, Diff Eyewear, and more and specializes in helping brands grow to 9 figures and beyond. Connect With Jordan Menard Linkedin @jordanmenard1 Twitter @jordanhaswings Instagram @jordanhaswings Subscribe & Connect w/ Fail With Fire Twitter: @FailWithFire Instagram: @FailWithFire Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/fail-with-fire Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fail-with-fire/id1697581301 Learn More About AdBeacon! www.AdBeacon.com Twitter: @Ad_Beacon Instagram: @AdBeacon Facebook: @OfficialAdBeacon
