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422 Comments to “New Video: How To Get Complete Personal & Financial Freedom From Your Business”
Thanks for covering this material Rich – it’s the logical next step once a successful biz has been built but not covered elsewhere.
Entrepreneurs often have a hard time letting go of control of their “babies” – the businesses they have put their heart and soul into. But they can then find, like you said, the feeling of being “trapped” by their business and build resentment towards it.
Looking at one’s biz as the means to an end to that freedom most of us became entrepreneurs for in the first place is the key. With that, one has the opportunity to work on the projects that most interest them, as you’ve done with the products you personally continue to contribute to.
Look forward to more on this topic!
Excellent discussion and your information showed sincerety and logic …. thanks so much.
Ed
P S As of now, I am still the “Chief Cook” (and bottle washer ) of my business …. but thanks to you I now have knowlege and motivation to improve on that situation
Totally agree with you Michelle; it’s so difficult to take emotion out of it and let others work on your baby, but it is essential for growth.
I am in the process of building my business, and am building it with the founder mentality from day 1.
I have taken it step-by-step and started by defining my business’ vision statement and mission statement.
Looking forward to the next video!
Tony.
Rich and Todd,
You are talking to me. Lol.
I am an entrepreneur and realy need to become a founder – soon.
Getting to seven figures in turnover (with your help thanks) has unfortunately chained me more. Ok – it is long chain, but I need to cut this damn chain now …
So what is next ?
I maybe trying to be founder for my boss (ie trying to make him to be a founder) – what is the path to becoming a founder? without trying to be his chief bottle washer?
Hi Rich and Todd,
Thanks for a riveting video.
I would say the reasons for not building a business as a founder are threefold.
The first and perhaps most crucial is the lack of a clear vision right at the start.
Like many people I started my business as a way to make money and not be a slave to a boss. But as you rightly point out the business soon becomes the boss… so I still am a slave, albeit to a different but more demanding boss!
The other reasons are trust and control.
You either feel that the employees cannot do the job properly or in the way that you would do it.
or
You have a fear that one would build up a good team and have everything running smoothly but one or more members decide they want to be a founder rather than an employee so leave or try to oust you.
Both of these are somewhat related in that one tends not to trust the ‘workers’ – so the tendency is to micro manage…
But then you end up doing just as much work so why pay for employees?
Also, in both cases, you have staff issues you feel you have to control: “just to keep things running smoothly”.
The question is how to put systems in place that prevent one from managing staff and dealing with the daily hassles of being an employer?
I once had a landscaping business that ended up eating me.
I spent more time chasing round doing PR work because I wasn’t on site all the time and things weren’t running smoothly. And I was often chasing/collecting money to pay salaries for workers who didn’t appreciate their positions.
Both took me more time than actually designing gardens and marketing.
I realise they were problems of my own making so the promise of a business where I didn’t have any staff to worry about was one of the main reasons I entered the online world.
However I soon learnt: “It’s impossible to do it all on your own” even online.
I look forward to the rest f the series and feel sure the insights you give will address these issues.
Take care,
Stuart.
i don’t think i am on the track to be a founder yet though…
I think ego is getting in the way… or simply lack of education to systemize and delegate…
But I am confident that learning from Strategic Profits will be my ticket to bringing my family to Disney World without needing to queue, allowed go backstage to mingle and not needing to rush back to the office to check up on my business the moment I get back!
I am getting better and better at attracting the right people that does the business activities better than me… so that is a start.
Oh yeah. And not needing to check my email to firefight, ever, while I am on vacation. 8-)
Perry
Great content! Keep shining that light for us “newbies”. (Where does that term “newbie” come from anyway?) ?)
Great info. & hate to complain but you repeat the same ideas over & over- your point could have been made in 10 mins. instead of dragging it out an hour.
I am trying to set up a company that takes care of the poor and underpriviledged. The money has been provided and it’s time to set up our program. I personally like the idea of having freedom and still have our program run continually. How do I start so I can have this freedom?
Hi Mary Ann. I would welcome the opportunity to learn more about what you are working on in order to assist the poor and underpriviledged people. I might know some people or resources that would be beneficial to getting you on track towards your goals for this project.
Dawn
prodawn@gmail.com
I am very interested in helping you help the poor.
Fritz
Mary Ann, I have a lot of experience in doing work for the poor and underprivileged. I have worked (all volunteer) for already established agencies as well as founding new ones. My advice to you is to create the programs in such a way to involve the ones you serve in the process so that they also can serve. By including them in the service–the purpose of the program–they will learn and grow. Everyone needs to feel he is contributing, and in this way, the poor and underprivileged can also contribute.
We are in the process of changing our business and creating a web presence. With this new presence, we are planning to use our past experience to give back to the community. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. d.gleason@sbcglobal.net
Don’t have to worry about your business at all. While making tons of money!
I hate you dude. I mean that in the best possible way. No, man I hate you. Ahhhh!
Ok, if anything happens to Rich in the near future I did not mean the above. I was just expressing my frustration at his freedom and my slavery.
I’m still at the making money stage and I’m happily trading my freedom for more money, or at least I was until this video.
Founder, I feel more like a loster.
I don’t hate him (like some of those third-world countries seem to hate this country). I feel great joy that he has attained the founder level and now is showing others how to do it also. Since I haven’t had a paid job in more than 50 years, I may have been a founder all these years. During this time, I have not only worked to make life better for others (providing services, means to get jobs, encouragement, training, etc.)but also helped to free them to contribute to the betterment of others.
Hi Rich and Todd,
Answer#1 – No, I’m not yet. Why is that?
You mentioned it (and others would be better to pay close attention) when you said that most people jumps from one sales letter into another and never start doing what’s really the best.
(Cont.)
I’m promoting others while my own two websites are still under construction.
Answer#2 – The end of computers would prevent me from being a founder. Until designing things to work offline…
Even my friends are being taught, today, to start thinking that they must allow me to work now, in order to have spare time for them later in total relax.
You know the rest.
Best wish to both of you,
PT
PS: Sorry for the “Cont.” thing! Wrong key.
Awsome Video Rich,
My question to you is ” What If my so called developed Team which was developed in a right motive to take my hands off my business down the line, acts SMART and completely Sets me free and gets me out of my business by making wrong decisions with an evil motive. No offense to anybody as i have seen this happen a lot of times in an offline business. I would love to hear your response on this.Thanks!
Hi Rich and all those at strategic profits who may be working on this project. Thanks for the key distinctions made in this video. Rich I love the way you drill down and uncover core principles. That said, for a newbie like myself, looking to choose a kick start strategy that’s actionable, i’m still finding it difficult to see the forest for the trees. Whilst a simple automated system seems logical, eg a microcontinuity program or series of adsense sites, there’s still the challenge of listbuilding and seo and social media and jv which is quite a learning curve in the basics for those on a low budget.I’ve got some tech and graphic skills but look like being a one man band for a while.
I’m in the process of learning from different sources in the hope of finding further distinctions and learning core processes firstly to be able to synthesize great content and from there to create new applications. My immediate drive though is to take action, to do something, anything. I’ve been learning through videos and am ready to take it from there.
Looking at being a founder from the start challenges me to think larger which is great because i’m intrinsically interested in the way components are integrated and particularly interested in lifestyle and the freedom to create and champion new ventures. At what point does one enter the maze and get out and begin to amaze!
Finally this project is very welcome, and in this first video the sage advice well articulated though I found overall the presentation was a bit labored in parts, with all the recapitulation.I guess the more time people are looking, the better for business, linkwise, however I do appreciate your goals and generosity in sharing. To be honest I would rather a shorter denser video, or with the keypoints accessable at the beginning of the video or you speaking uninterrupted for a stint with a brief recapitulation of keypoints by the joint presenter at the end of each session. Something to watch over again not just for the content but as a short masterclass with full ATTENTION! Just a suggestion
Or keep the relaxed conversational style and experiment with that. The new google wonderwheel comes to mind as an amusing model for topic integration. I feel the points I’ve made above still apply. Just a suggestion, and I my effort to respond is helpful.
For me its happening on a few fronts at the moment, tremendously exciting as it unfolds, your advice as always profound. My challenge as usual to implement. My insight here is perhaps what’s been stopping me is lack of a convincing founding purpose. In the meanwhile more superficially choosing a relevant niche and strategies for that niche as a starting point .
Thanks again,
Joseph
You always provide excellent content, so I am excited about this series. It looks great! I am an entrepreneur, who is still chief cook and bottle washer. I have a brick and mortar business in management and technical consulting, and now I am adding an Internet component to support that business and enable me to do more of what I want to do. I have worked with several people who are starting their own business or who are trying to move to the next level. In my own business and with others, there is frequently a period of trying to translate the vision into reality and then issues related to transitions as the business becomes established and grows. Control issues frequently keep them from letting go. Other times it is financial issues. I would like to hear more on how you made the transitions at Strategic Profits that allowed you to attain Founder status.
Insightful & thought provoking are my initial reactions to the video. As a Newbie trying to put together a group of people who have a craft such as copywriting or marketing in which they want to excel at in that particular skillset as well as buy into a “bigger purpose” way of thinking is the main thing that I see as an obstacle in pursuing “Founder” status.
What is holding me back with my own marketing company is in my lack of ability to find recruit, and manage qualified people and their duties for my company.
I’m still a slave to my business…no letting up at this time. The main constraint is attracting qualified people to take over.
Great info. Nobody ever talks about getting your business to run itself so you can do other things. If you can’t do that, you will always have a full time “job” instead of an asset that can be sold or run by others for you.
You can outsource some of the day to day work but being able to walk away and still keep your business growing would be great. It would open up other avenues.
Time is always the thing that is limited for everyone.
The main issue for most established entrepreneurs, is the lack of trust or even belief that it is possible to find people who can do a better job than the founder. A very common bit of advice, from some very successful business people has been to always keep your eye on things. “After spending years building up your good name and reputation it is imperative that nothing goes out the door without your approval.” I suppose in order to become a true “Founder” this very common attitude has to change.
I think what keeps people from being a founder is the entrepreneurial spirit. Those who have run from a job in the business world to run their own business generally don’t want to have to deal with all of the delegation, training and people issues that they left behind in their previous work world. I understand the meaning of slave to your business. My husband is a fully self-employed as a production farmer. There is some freedom, but he is a slave to his work. and the money’s not so great either.
Hi guys,
Great video! A real intro into the “founder” philosophy. I have been playing with online business/SEO/PPC/etc for a number of years now, but really only as a hobby/passion.
I have very recently made the decision to create a business in this field, specifically to help local business with their search marketing efforts. I am happy to finally be a business builder rather than an opportunity seeker!
Starting out my business will be VERY dependant on my day to day input, which is fine for now. However I can see that it won’t take long before I am the constraint on it’s growth.
So the thing that would stop me transitioning to a founder is not having a clear path for growth that allows this to happen. How long should I go it alone? Do I outsource or look for employees? How do I “let go” of the details and not worry about them?
Cheers,
Ben.
I think I’m different than others. I think the big ideas and dream the big dreams of a founder. I’m willing to step aside and let others shine… just one problem. I’m not there yet. I mean I skipped a few steps. I’m Not a strategic entrepreneur, Not even an accomplished opportunity seeker. It’s amazing to have done so much work and have nothing to show for it!
My biggest problem is wanting everything to be perfect. If I can’t get the best I will hesitate to start, or I will start and not finish. I must overcome this.
This has been going on for years. But I’ve been learning quite a bit now.
Thanks for the great content You always deliver.
Great stuff guys, at least what I could see. My computer is being stupid so it only loaded the first half. I love the content that comes from Strategic Profits, you guys are amazing.
Hopefully tomorrow the entire video will load for me.
Shawn
I Started several times and my wife sabotaged it. She believes in 9-5 jobs only and I was lazy in her opinion. May be it’s only excuse and I’m not good enough, but I believe in my ideas. I’m Looking for my own business. I have to separate for at least one year and do my plan. Other way, I’ll be at the same place for the rest of my life.
You guys are spot on and I would recommend this video to anyone from any caliber and watch it twice. I am a struggling founder going on a year and need JV partnering advise.
Fritz Herrmann
As a former business owner, I can see how the bigger purpose was missing in that business. I can also see how important it will be in forming a new company and becoming a Founder. I will certainly make that a key factor in the creation of my company.
From my past experiences, it seems the obstacles at least initially, will be generating enough cash flow (and profit) to cover the expense of building a quality team. As the business grows and that quality team is put together, it seems the issue transitions to keeping the quality team together and having others who could step in key roles if a team member leaves.
I would like to know more in upcoming videos about how and when you start transitioning responsibilities? Would you suggest having a key person(s) from day one, building around them from the start, or would you suggest a path where you are initially the know-all be-all and after a certain growth goal then being transitioning control to the team as you back away? Also, what are your compensation strategies for building a valuable team?
Thank you!
To answer your question, do I have a business that can give me total freedom? In the past with all that was taking place in my life I only started an online business just to make extra money to stay a float, I guess I never really looked at being in business for myself and making it blossom bigger then what I could even dream! From what I have seen by other risk takers are build a business so that I can (work from home) have freedom of the 9-5 J.O.B. (just over broke), this really is not the case of being free because I must constantly update my sites and tweak them so that they run smoothly, this is still work for me. I now have just adopted outsourcing so that I can be just like you!
Hi Rich-
Great video. I met you in L.A. a couple weeks ago at the Infusionsoft meeting. Am enjoying learning more about your teachings.
Boy could I relate to this video. I am a huge visionary and pretty savvy, but definitely bogged down the the “logistics” of business. Love the idea of getting a team to do it all so I can do what I love – “create” and “teach”
Loved your comment about “creating your greatness.” How awesome is that?!?!?
Of course, your eager viewers want to know, “How do we get complete freedom from our business?”
Best wishes!
Kim
P.S. I love a good cigar on occasion too! I’m pretty good at it “for a girl” :-)
Hi Rich & Todd;
Am I building a business for freedom or am I building a demanding business that is requiring all my time and energy?
Well I haven’t built anything yet I am new at all of this internet marketing. I really would like to build a business and be a Founder of that business. So Rich would your wife have a problem if I came to live with your family till I get my Founder Business up and running. I really need a great deal of help but I promise to work hard and fast. Tell her I will even help out with the cooking, cleaning and shopping but I don’t do windows (sorry).
I don’t even have a website so I believe that is something that is going to stop me dead in my tracks from being a Founder. I have not the slightest idea how to build a site, or what to do with it when I do build it. I have no produces and no idea how to create a product or promote one. Help!!
Thank you both for doing this video, I really like the Founder idea of running a business.
Donna Flenz
flannod@aim.com
founderflannod (so what do think of that name for a website name)?
Donna,
First. Don’t expose your email address publicly on a forum like this (unless you’ve already thought about that and this email address is a “disposable” address). As far as websites go, you can check out Site Build It! which I recommend for beginners (I’ve built 2 of these), or a WordPress Blog site like my blog website.
In terms of what to produce, do an inventory of your Skills, Hobbies, Experience, Learning and Loves ( I call this a S.H.E.L.L. inventory), look for forums online on those topics and see what information people in those niches are hungry for, and then begin to feed them content, product, or service in that niche.
I hope that helps a bit.
Gogo
Hi Rich,
Am so glad to have watched this video & I must say that it was a timely reminder to me for what I should be doing as opposed to what I am currently doing.
It’s been hardly 3 months of me being online & this video literally opened my eyes to the fact that I was purely being an opportunity seeker as opposed to a founder.
Thnx a million for an awesome video. Keep it coming. I have been completely floored by the quality of info you bring to the IM community & I closely follow every blog post here at Strategic Profits.
I simply loved the T.R.E.A.T video you guys came up with n it was a real treat to watch the same.
Here is what I would love to hear from you guys in the videos to come….
1. How to recruit people who have not only the skills which are needed to do what they are doing but also the attitude to not try and be or try and act bigger than the business they are working for. (Most times, if someone in an orgn realises that he/she is indispensable to the company, they tend to act too big)
2. How to have a compensation policy for the people that are working for you so that the founder can strike a balance between salary & bonuses. This will ensure that real talent is not only recognised but also rewarded. (This can ensure that there is very little employee turnover)
Thnx again for all these amazing videos & keep them coming.
- Amit Desai
http://www.thesecretgiftoflife.com
I will be successful. I Am Successful.
I will stay on track. I Am on Track.
My focus is on target and I strongly believe in myself to reach my goals, a day at a time – step by step.
I am grateful for all the insight and real value you always provide us with.
Thank You!
It seems that your definition of Founder requires someone to do the same things that make a business more salable. Of course, one of the biggest things that makes a business salable is if it can run without the Founder at the helm.
So in my opinion, an easy way to tell if you’re heading in the right direction is to consider whether the decisions you make in your business will make your business more salable.
But here’s my question for you, Rich… you talked about having marketing, product creation, video and operations completely handled by others in your business. What about finance?
Do you completely delegate signing authority for checks and other big financial decisions to others? Or do you have some sort of control mechanism in place?
Do you have checks and balances in your business to prevent embezzlement?
I’m not trying to cast aspersions at anyone in your business, but the financial function is what gets many delegators in trouble. I know how I recommend that business owners (even Founders) handle this issue, but I’m interested to hear what you have to say about it.
Thanks for an interesting video.
WOW! I mean WOW! That so hit home!
I Founded the website noted above and failed to give it away and let it grow… We had over 20 people working together when we started to make our site prominent…. Now sadly we are down to 8 people…. I am a founder with the entrepreneur attitude. That video you did rocks!
Rich, we have not spoken in a while. I miss Wednesdays at 3p with you. but acting as an entrepreneur I have my own video show I do at the same time.
Looking forward to being what I really am again…. A Founder…Us Founders should chat and grow properly together. Thank you for that fantastic video… You and Todd deserve an award for that interview!!!!
I have spent the last 10 years (in a very profitable business), but it is all dependent on me.
I actually took yesterday afternoon off to take my son to the movies, the thing is I should be able to take weeks off, not just an afternoon – looking forward to your new product.
So I’m currently a chief bottle washer for another opportunity chasing entrepreneur and am working on an idea for a new venture, so I fall the newbie category (but have owned my own businesses in the past and learned a lifetime of lessons from their eventual failures).
There are two things that I currently see as hindrances to me achieving the status of ‘founder’ as you defined it here:
1. The new venture idea is a service based business and relies on a comprehensive strategy that I would be setting for our small number of clients. Trying to not come across arrogant or full of myself, I’ve worked with a lot of bright, experienced people the past few years, but they all ended up coming to me for strategic input and answers to the problems in their businesses or clients businesses. So building a team that can set this strategy or developing a robust methodology that can transfer my skill in this area is a big bottleneck in my opinion. The only analogy is to answer how would Jay Abraham take himself out of the idea/breakthrough generating piece of working with his clients (and by no means do I think I’m a peer of Jay’s, but it gets the point across).
2. Many of the components of what we would be delivering for our clients require specialized skills in areas that are in very high demand. I’m not concerned about training key staff these skills, but am concerned about them becoming proficient and then going out on their own after my investment in them. I see this happen in every industry and have some theories of how to reduce this, but would love your input as you’ve obviously figured this out (or so it seems).
Great job on taking a topic Michael Gerber and Dan Sullivan have presented on and making it more relevant/current/applicable to your community!
Looking forward to more!!
Hi Rich,
Great video this is what most people never
think about the total freedom to walk away
from their business when setting a business
stratagy and if they did when would the app-
ropriate time be to start looking for others
to take over certain duties and how do you
find quality and qualified canidates.
Ron Verduzco
Rich & Tod,
What a great video. I own a car audio website that has taken up all my time for many many years, sacrificing my Family and hobbie time.
In the last year I have automated the business but the support and situations are still holding me back. I want to be a founder of my business but security is the issue.
However,
Over the years – I have learned a lot about marketing to keep myself afloat but after being Mentored by Alex Jeffrey’s and looking outside the box I realized my passion is not to build a car audio business but to help teach New Entrepreneurs how to be successful online.
I have your GPS 2.0 and Mentor program, sweet thing is the Koby Index 7-2-6-5 said that I could be great doing what I love to do. “teach”. I will see you guys in a few days, complements of Mike Filsaime’s Bonus, looking forward to meeting both of you.
Vince
Rich and Todd-
So, I have definitely been one of those “opportunity seekers” you spoke about. But recently I realized that if I am going to multi-preneur, than I need to do so intelligently… by enabling others to build these business for themselves and for me.
So, I am at the stage where I have 3 start-up projects (websites) and three separate individuals or teams with a central and principal role in that individual project. I have learned that I must become an enabler, yes, but at this early stage my attention and presence is primary.
I am going to take this “founder” mentality and make it central to my strategic planning. Eventually, I see replacing myself entirely with skilled people that can do my job(s) better than I can.
Thanks for the great advice and I love the attitude that your two exude.
In time, I’m sure we’ll sit at that table together.
Best regards,
Tony Camero
PS: Todd – so, do we 86 the Steamy Wonder, or is there hope IYO? (just kidding – let’s take another run at it soon. I’ll call ya.)
Hi
Wonderful presentaion.
As a Newbie. I am looking for a Business model to follow which will give me success
Thanks
Skipper
Hi Guys,
Great content… important paradigm shift most entrepenuers should make. Made me think more about where my priorities are and should be.
Thanks a lot,
Eric
Wanna be Founder ;-)
The Netherlands
PS: Have you ever listened your own recordings to the end? Its difficult to keep listening to someone who’s excited from beginning to end. I would say: breathe different and relax a bit more ;-)
Hi Rich & Todd;
I am new to the world of IM but have been in business for twenty years, but due to the rescission I have been hit like most with a fall in income from one part of my company. As I don’t have to be there to run it, I have the time to start a new company. So that’s why I am starting a new venture in the world of IM. To earn enough to be financial free from stress, so I can spend more time with my daughters and have the opportunity to travel more.
As I had no knowledge of web building or how to market a web site, or how to make money online to start with, the first few months I spent buying products about how to make money online,(very frustrating) Until I sat back and looked at what I needed to learn to get where I wanted to go. Which unknown to you, with help from your reports, I focused on learning. I am now with a company learning to build a web site after which I hope to work with Strategic Profits to move me to the next level.
Look forward to the next videos.
Julian. England.
I am one who wants to but has not started a business yet. I think what has kept me from moving forward has been the fear of failure, lack of confidence, pessimistic mindset, lack of direction and purpose, among other things.
I know I want to be the founder of a great company. But getting past the first step when your mind is filled with negativity and doubt seem to bind me to stagnation.
I want to be free to release all the potential that is within me and not be constrained by all the dwells in my head.
Show us the way of the Founder.
Thanks,
Bill
Hi Rich,
Am so glad to have watched this video & I must say that it was a timely reminder to me for what I should be doing as opposed to what I am currently doing.
It’s been hardly 3 months of me being online & this video literally opened my eyes to the fact that I was purely being an opportunity seeker as opposed to a founder.
Thnx a million for an awesome video. Keep it coming. I have been completely floored by the quality of info you bring to the IM community & I closely follow every blog post here at Strategic Profits.
I simply loved the T.R.E.A.T video you guys came up with n it was a real treat to watch the same.
Here is what I would love to hear from you guys in the videos to come….
1. How to recruit people who have not only the skills which are needed to do what they are doing but also the attitude to not try and be or try and act bigger than the business they are working for. (Most times, if someone in an orgn realises that he/she is indispensable to the company, they tend to act too big)
2. How to have a compensation policy for the people that are working for you so that the founder can strike a balance between salary & bonuses. This will ensure that real talent is not only recognised but also rewarded. (This can ensure that there is very little employee attrition)
Thnx again for all these amazing videos & keep them coming.
- Amit Desai
First off – I haven’t started (launched). I have spend a great deal of time developing a system to get me to founder.
The system at present requires me to do the work in the beginning, then slowly let go at various business markers I have set in place, until finally – freedom.
Secondly – no system is full proof (my years of experience and common – I understand this) so I do have a few areas that may cause me to slip up down the road.
I have identified where I will be spending my time in the beginning (10% that gets the most results and will be working on average only 2-3 hours a day, 4 days a week, 9 months a year. This time is working on my business(expanding the product offering/growing the user base).
The problem is how much the other 90% is going to eat my time(servicing the existing client base) – a 1000 customers is easy – but 10,000+ will kill me. How does a person outsource the other 90% and not wake up in the middle of the night wondering if they did a good job?
How do I remove my personality / name from a business like you said in the video. Strategic Profits isn’t YOU.
Jonathan
Dear Rich and Todd,
Thank you for clearly articulating a mindset I have been nebulously playing around for some time. The distinction between Founder and Entrepreneur is of the essence. I have attempted to free myself by systematizing my business. It helped me free from some of the technical work, but got me chained to the managerial and entrepreneurial ones. The purpose has always been there, but the strategies to moves toward it have been less than optimal.
One of your comments struck me. Most entrepreneur never let go because of their ego, that they cannot accept that someone could do the job better than they do. This is so true.
As a health care service provider who developed his own unique approach, I have been in the illusion that no one could replace me. I have had the feeling for a long time that I was building my own golden cage. I realize now how attached I have been to my identity as a health care provider.
Thanks to you my perception shifted. On first thought, I would say that my next “challenge” is to increase cash flow so as to be able to bring dedicated A players onboard.
Yannick
Hi Rich and Todd,
I have never really been able to get going on an internet business. I feel I have some entrepreneurial spirit as years ago I broke away from a 9-8 job where I was making someone else rich. I have been making the same money as I was working for a worldwide recruiting company and have more flexability but still work many hours. I am a Real Estate Broker primarilly working with companies doing Broker Price opionns on Real estate. This keeps the bills paid but I never feel the freedom to relax. I have tried many different programs and never could really make any money on them so I would give up and go back to what I feel comfortable with. I have recieved your emails many times and nothing ever moved me enough to respond. This video did make me feel I need to take a more proactive course and not continue the day to day work. I am just not sure what I can do with my present skill sets and how I can make this job I created for myself a business with me the founder. I look forward to more of your videos.
Best wishes
Barbara
Thanks Rich for reminding me of our initial goals in starting our business. Our initial objective was for my partner and I to replace ourselves in the business as oon as we could (our roles that is). The problem is getting the consistency we need from our outsourcing teams and maintaining enough profitability in each client to build the team.
We have a great track record in building value for our clients online marketing programs, PPC, SEO and conversions. It’s scalability of the business model and attracting the right people with the necessary skills that is the main challenge at this time. Over time, staff retention becomes a problem as everyone who is exposed to your “founder” principle will want to follow suit.
I’m 60 and feel like it’s too late. I don’t have a product. I’m in the spiritual/metaphysical/coaching field and writing. I’m on so many Internet marketers’ E-mail lists, have watched videos, read reports, and am on overwhelm. I feel like I can’t play with the big guys. Actually, I don’t want to be enmeshed in all the details. I just want to create.
Timing for me could not have been more on point.
I have been a “brick & Mortar” cabinet company owner from the age of 17 until now – (I’m 51) Looking back I see that as I took our business to my “Goal” of surpassing the 1 mil. Mark -and we passed that “goal” we floundered. Then we recently headed down the river with the rest of the economy. As a side note we were in business for 9 years and every year was an UP year prior to hitting my “goal”. Our sales-volume never reacted to economic conditions.
As I write this I realize – the EXACT problem was my “goal” it was ONLY focused on a Dollar Amount….Now I see how narrow and self defeating that can be.
I now realize that my goal as the owner was exact ally what brought our company to its decline – also, I now remember those times that I became more “goal driven-for a larger purpose” and attempted to build a “theme” that our employees would buy into – a percentage of them became invigorated. Problem was – I never dug deep enough to make these goals and dreams from my heart – they were just around organizing our employees towards an end goal that THEY could buy into. So, I never stuck with the “theme”.
I have spent the past 7 months IMMERSED in IM training and building some sites, using ad words etc. all the new skills need to go online.
After having an ecom. Company stolen from me by my web designer my faith in others to be driven by anything but their own integrity and morals was really on the edge.
Through the journey there have been only a handful of IM marketers that I have followed and found to be trustworthy.
I have just found Rich Scheferen through the recent webcast with Russell Brunson. Rich I thank you for the HUGE “nugget” that this content has imparted to me. It’s always the small details that make the biggest difference – thanks for bringing me back on track at a VITAL time in my new online life (and business).
If I didn’t answer the question – what could I use – or what could be holding me back?
Easy…A way to focus in on the Dream – to give the dream clarity and a life of its own – to keep the dream in front of me every day in a REAL way.
FrankM
I am going to be on that table of founders. I am a newbie.
The video should have been shorter cos the same ideas were being dragged out.
I know I can be a founder because even though I use “tactic-gathering” skills that scream opportunistic entrepeneur, some of those tactics – like the 4-HOUR WORK WEEK book (actually i have it on my mp3 player) – point me in the right direction i.e. to free my time, set a purpose on realising that the business/what you do for a living isn’t the end-game. It’s the resources one can enjoy from that business to e.g. explore the world, be creative etc, is what I’m after.
I can see myself just chilling in the youth center, exactly the same way Rich chills in his cigar lounge without being restless.
Many thanks for the video. I’m looking forward to more from you guys :-)
Dapo
Hi Rich and Todd,
Thanks for reminding me why I went into my own business, to have freedom.
I am looking forward to your other training material, because I want to be on the path to become a founder.
I want to learn how to leverage my time. I take to much time doing the little things, but am unsure what or how to source out.
Keep the great content coming!
Warm Regards,
Diana Vento
Hey Rich and Todd,
Terrific video and great points about becoming a founder – the content is awesome.
Thankfully, I do have a profitable online business now because of your coaching and guidance through the GPS course, but I know that I still have more to do to grow the business to where I want it to be.
I am outsourcing a lot of activities right now, but I still know that I am doing too much myself. I am looking at hiring 1 or 2 team members full time to help me out, and so I am working on getting more business and revenue so that I can make those new hires (there’s no problem that more revenue can’t fix, right?) and take my business to the next level where I am working less in my business and more on my business – on the path to being a founder.
I feel like I have a clear direction of where I need to go and what I need to do – at this point I feel like it is a matter of me being able to get more revenue so that I can bring on full time team members to help me out.
Great jewels of wisdom as always Rich – I’ve learned so much from you and really appreciate your insight and example.
Adam
What prevents me is the profits to hire, outsource, and delegate all the duties.
Also, how to outsource and delegate it.
Steve
Great vid, nice wake-up call for entrepreneurs and kickstart for newbies.
Myself being a 21 year old, complete newbie, freedom and complete responsability over my future is why I want to get my own business up and running.
The biggest problem, I think is psychological, the urge to be responsable for everything in your business even when you might actually know you’re not the best at it.
Maybe is the lack of faith in others.
Plus building a succesfull business alone would give you all the glamour and girls éh.
The problems is that this way of thinking will more likely hold you back tho…
Anyways, looking forwards to the next vids and blogposts.
Cheers,
Erwin
Thanks for sharing this awesome information, Rich and Todd.
Right now I am pretty much consumed by my business and I really look forward to getting rid the short chain, and move into the lifestyle of a “Founder”.
My biggest question is what’s the best way to position myself as an expert in my industry and start thinking like a strategic entrepreneur and founder.
Best wishes,
Frank
I’m just starting I think the thing that would stop me from becoming a founder is my need for perfection. I have this mentality (which I know isn’t right) that I am the only one that can do all things that need to be done correctly.
I am trying to fight the opportunity seeker in me and turn it more into an entrepreneur and founder. I know I have to build a business to achieve the lifestyle I want but there a so many different business models that I would like my overall empire (if you will) to encompass. Like CPA arbitrage, product creation, affiliate marketing, licensing etc.
I have spent more time learning how to do these things then actually doing them because I always feel like I am missing something and I don’t want to launch it until its perfect.
I guess I need to shake that constraint, throw caution to the wind, get some money coming in hire some people to replace me and tweak and perfect as I go.
Thanks guys for all your amazing content, I hope to be able to have a business that operates without me very soon, because I am starting to see I am probably my biggest constraint.
Great video and content. Thanks again for the insights.
I have been involved in many businesses over the last 20 years in many capacities, such as salesman, sales manager, general manager, CFO, CEO, President, and as Entrepreneur. Some were small and some were larger national companies.
I have overloaded with information for the past 2 years in everything from direct mail marketing, online marketing, ppc, seo, linking, web design, teleseminars, webinars, etc., all with the intent of creating the freedom with a new company I founded that I would like to take national to every major city. What’s happened in the process is exactly as you described and what you say in The Entrepreneurial Emergency and I’ve just gotten busier trying to keep up with the constant changes before ever realizing profits of any significance.
My question specifically I think would be similar to many, which is “How do you get things started on the track of a Founder when the business is new, your cash flow is small, and there is little to no room currently to hire the talent required to make that transition from Entrepreneur to Founder?”
I realize the business itself needs to be something people are wanting and needing, something that is able to produce a profit, and that I most likely will need to continue doing many things myself at first until the revenues start increasing and allowing more of the people and resources to added as profits allow.
I think a blueprint of sorts to show the steps necessary or some advice on getting talent hired and trained on some performance, incentivized, or percent of minimal ownership or stock in the company basis would be helpful that any business could follow as a guide that is basically foolproof if they did certain steps and reached certain benchmarks to progress the business and gradually allow the Founder to make the transition without experiencinbg burnout or going bankrupt, as well as pitfalls to avoid.
Thanks again,
Robert
Hi Rich and Todd,
Thanks for a great intro video – heres my 60 seconds!!!!!
I need more staff to take my work load to remove the chain.
Before that I need full, fast and effective training in place (THAT IS SUPPER EASY TO ADAPT) with the new changes that will continually take place and to communicate those changes effectively so that all in the business understand and adhear.
Before that i need time and expert assistance to put this highly adaptable training and communication system in place.
Before that i need to make 300x more cash, with out killing me work load wise, to afford the RIGHT people and get the systems needed to make my dream and business grow and to take my work load off my shoulders.
hhmmm and maybe visit disneyland.
Hope that helps :)
Back to the grind,
James
Thank you so much for a very insightful and eye-opening post.
As one who is desperately trying to make the transition from opportunity seeker to strategic entrepreneur, it is simply too big a step to be thinking of founder at this time. However, the concept is something I need to understand so when the day comes that I am successful as an entrepreneur, and I say to myself, “now what?”, I’ll have an answer.
I’m newbie that would like to be a founder. It seems to me that to get to your level Rich it takes following the same path and coming to the same realizations.
1. Bootstrapping enterprenuer doing everything.
2. Building income to a level where you hire others and create systems for them to follow.
3. Seperate yourself from the business to be a founder so you create and be great.
Without the resources to sustain you while you’re being a founder it would seem for newbie that you’d be stuck in dream mode.
I sure miss FL.
Thanks again for the fantastic and thought-provoking presentation Rich (and Todd).
I’ve been consumed by managing many aspects of my two businesses and domestic violence foundation.
Your words struck a nerve and I’ve already started hack-sawing the chains, and re-programing my mindest and lifestyle to “Founder”.
Prior to today I was 20%-80% founder focused.
After today, I choose to be minimum of 80-20.
After my comfort zone expands, I intend to be 100% founder focused.
You are a fantastic coach!
Best,
Tom Z.
Thanks Rich for this and all previous great insights.
I’m running my own company for about 10 years now and I’m chained with my hands and feet to it. I can hardly even leave for a weekend.
I am fully aware of this and been working exactly this problem since a couple of weeks now.
One thing I read some time ago, not sure if it was from you or not, brings me back on focus whenever I get distracted: “Being busy doesn’t pay the bills”
Cheers, and looking forward to your next video’s!
Am I on the trajectory to freedom?
I would hope so. We went through a slump due to the slowed down economy and then somebody essential left the company – we were facing going out of business and for the first time it was clear that something needed to change.
We implemented new marketing channels, created a recruiting process and hired new people. We improved our marketing and got our infrastructure, systems and processes together. The business is starting to feel like a real business and I think we’re on the right path. Our new people are great and they work without us having to spoon-feed them the next steps. We give them a goal and a deadline and the work gets done.
And I have to thank you guys for that, because this is all thanks to your Uncertainty Syndrome, your Manifestos. Reading and implementing Michael Masterson’s Ready, Fire, Aim also helped a lot.
hey rich i see now how important this business is signed on a long time ago but all ways ignore these emails but recently getting in internet business just started a few days ago, thanks for introducing this to me
Back in the 90’s I had the idea to create an owner absent business. One that didn’t require my input, ever. I tried a couple of things and they didn’t work out. I think what has held me back was trust. I couldn’t trust (or I thought I couldn’t trust) the people I brought on board. So, it seems I have unresolved issues about trusting other people to do the things that I know needs to be done.
Great insights as always, and while it was a bit long, it gave me time to think about the “why” and “why not yet”. Still working in a salary job, planning for my own independent future. Guilty of many “opportunity seeking” ventures, and as you mentioned, none really panned out. I think mainly due to what you describe here as the lack of the “founder” mindset..and that idea of seeking something (pershaps) that would contribute for the greater good. Ultimately, i do believe that is the glue that binds it together long-term. Seems to me, it’s what is making things work for Strategic Profits anyway. Keep it up – you’re helping me get my head straight.
I am fairly new to internet marketing but to get involved with it, I am the “chief cook and bottle washer” because if I don’t get it going, it won’t happen in my house. I have no help and I am told I won’t make money. Fortunately, I don’t believe that. I WILL and I don’t want to always be doing all the work. I want to be a Founder and have the financial freedom and respect to have other people making money too and coming along for the journal.
Wow, this video was a looong haul to get across a couple of basic concepts. I understand the distinction between “Founder” and the typical entrepreneur, yet even Founders are ultimately responsible for their business, aren’t they? I also thought that one of the key purposes for a business was to give value to customers and to be an expression for the creator of that business. For me, one of the joys of being an entrepreneur is playing. I would never start a business if I didn’t love what I was doing. Is that ego? Perhaps, but I just can’t imagine doing what it takes to growing a business without enjoying the process.
I must be honest, the way you present being a Founder sounds rather cold and calculated, regardless of how altruistic your ultimate intentions. The means to an end reasoning for growing a business does not sound very appealing to me personally.
I appreciate your information, yet I can’t imagine following your recommendations, at least as regards to becoming a Founder.
When I hear Rich speak, I feel like he’s personally coaching me. Alot of things you say resonsate with me. That’s likely why I joined Strategic Profits. I was desperately looking for it…and you appeared. Thanks!
I would classify myself as the Entrepreneur, with Opportunity Seeker tendancies…never satisfied, always knowing there was something better and yet I’ve always recognized the “founder” lerking within me too. My kolbe test was almost identical to yours Rich.
I have an niche brick and mortar business for 13 yrs. I’m very passionate in what I do and certainly positively impact people’s lives. I realize that I can impact more people by transitioning my business into an Information Marketing business. I just began that journey within the past few months. Still trying to figure all that out! So much to learn.
The journey of becoming a “Business Founder” finally gives me clarity and a name to give what I’ve always dreamt of…Thank you, Will
As a newbie, my biggest concern at this point is to take the knowledge I have and make money with affiliate products. I would like to know what you have to say for someone just starting. I like how you think, and would like to know more. I to want the freedom you talk about. I look forward in hearing more.
Thanks.
What a concept!!
Yes, it truly makes sense to be a ‘Founder’ rather than
Chief Cook And Bottlewasher’, as you so aptly put it, Rich. And proof is how much time YOU have to devote to coming up with new fields to work with entrepreneurs in…
Implementing these concepts means freedom…
We are in the start-up mode, and I’m doing the work of 5 or 6 people in 5 or 6 diffferent areas, and I’d like to concentrate on the creative and new product development aspects of our business…
I would like to know more about :
1) scaling– how to start small small, yet have the systems in place to grow bigger with out having to rip everything apart as success is achieved
2) How to find, retain and incentivize associates, preferably JVs or people who aren’t ‘W-2 employees’, so we don’t have to be managers, and scrambling to meet payrolls.
Many Thanks!
Sue Miller (BuilderBLOX)
I’m currently trying to decide what type of business I want to start, selling products or affiliate marketing, or both. However, once I get rolling I see getting people on board with the same vision and passion as me as an issue. If they are highly motivated then they will probably start their own business. Should I out source in the beginning? I guess the question is how to go from myself to 2 or more employees?
I’m a noobie. Was an opportunity seeker and with your, Rich, help I think now a lot more strategicly. I want to be the founder of a kind of healthy business you are talking about.
Every content, you and your company deliver, hits me with insane insights.
I think that if I can get clarity with the whole picture then I will know what to do to get the business started. As I see it now, clarity means almost everything to an overhelmed enterpreneur.
Once again Thank You for the greatness of your content.
Comment from Louise Mraz sismraz@aol.com, I do not have a business yet. I am lookiing for your guidence. I have been familar with Rich and I know he has done great in his business. What is my next step to becoming a founder?
Thank you for this video and I am looking forward to many more.
I do need a step by step guide.
Louise Mraz
sismraz@aol.com
To have the luxury of creative thought without the constraints of financial pressures and other typical demands on life, is in itself a worthy goal.
To found a business with an exit strategy in mind from the outset is intrinsic to any entrepreneurial undertaking … unless of course the idea of being chief cook and bottle-washer is the objective.
I love the clarity you bring to the process!
Great video gentleman! Thanks for sharing this with everyone!
More great work Rich. It is evident that you have successfully synthesized understanding of many precepts of quality management theory. It is refreshing to see their re-emergence and practical conveyance with a high degree of competence. Well done Rich.
I’m not exactly a newbie. I don’t have my next business up and running because I do have a big vision and purpose, yet I don’t have the budget to outsource, so I’ve been learning the crucial things like directresponse marketing, copywriting, branding, product/content creation, traffic generation, creating websites etc….
There’s only one thing that could stop me from being a founder and that’s me (your info on constraints has already helped some), but what is slowing me down is having to launch my business being a “one man show”. Any advice on dealing with the information overload of doing everything until I am generating enough income to create a quality team would be appreciated. I promise I’m not a control freak, and I do look forward to the time when I can take things off my plate, but money is tight yet I am compelled to build a business that leaves my mark on the world.
P.S. I 100% agree with your “like God statement”
Rich and Todd,
I’m not a newbie, but I am stuck near the beginning of my online business. I’m doing a bunch of somethings wrong because it’s taken me 18 months to consistently make just $100-$200 per month. I’m not in the right niches or I’m not doing the right things with my niches.
I am doing this part-time and have been because it doesn’t bring in enough for me to work on it more and work in my offline business less. Offline, I’m a high school math/science tutor and it’s easy to get plenty of clients, but if I don’t work I don’t get paid. I don’t want to give up tutoring totally, but I don’t want to do it all week and charge so much that public school kids are priced out of my market. Right now, I have to make a living so I have to charge the going rates other companies charge.
I get the strategic part of what you were discussing in the video, and maybe I could do a better job online if I had a vision statement or statement of purpose that underlies everything I do.
I know where I am now and where I want to be. What I’m lost at is how to get from here to there without turning this into a job where I’m the boss.
Great insights to really clarify and make that distinction between the strategic entrepreneur and founder. I can now see how this could work but it still will take time before I could have that freedom. I’d like to learn what priorities, in terms of people and resources, are needed to establish myself to be a founder as soon as possible from the current position as the entrepreneur. For example, Rich has Brian and Todd in place to be in charge of the operations and marketing. What other key people and infrastructure is needed to accelerate the process of becoming a founder? How should I prioritize looking for people to fulfill these particular roles?
First of all, thank you for yet another great video! It is much appreciated.
I’m a newbie, but I believe I’m on track to becoming a Founder and creating the type of business you talk about in your video, one that comes with total freedom, eventually.
I don’t mean to sound arrogant in saying that, because the truth is that one of the main reasons that I’m on track is because I’ve been a student of yours for the last year and, through the education that Strategic Profits has provided me with, I started out by setting up the right foundation.
Other than God, I don’t foresee anyone or anything stopping me. Specially when having the right mentors around me. But I will say that the thing that has slowed me down a bit is the lack of resources, having to do everything myself & my perfectionism. And those are two issues Rich has touched on before, so I’m over it and I hope to launch my business within the next two weeks.
Again, thank you for all you do for us newbies.
Wishing you continued success,
Salvador Posada
Rich & Todd,
Thanks and great perspective on the future of entrepreneurship!
These comments served to calm my frustrations, quiet a sense of overwhelm and validate my current path. I have long been a proponent of first find your purpose, the rest will follow. I teach that to my clients and students and see such movement in their lives, their careers that it is gratifying.
Your reports and other teachings have aided me in my decision-making and study to systematize my business appropriately. I’ve added star team players to work with and I am still moving to delegate in new areas. Over the last two years I’ve made strategic moves that have allowed me to concentrate on creating great new products and I’m moving more and more in that direction and having a blast fulfilling my purpose. Once you align your purpose, the work, the audience and the money will follow.
More to be done until totally free, but I’m loving what I do now more than ever thanks to letting go of some constraints and being more open to delegating. It’s feeling great to be so creative.
Jeri
Thanks guys! You’ve put into words what I’ve been trying to do here.
I got side-tracked with the wrong advice for years (from family), and it was Bob Negen who introduced me to Strategic Profits. It changed my thinking.
I can say I am on that path but it is very slow. Besides investing in a magic wand, I’m trying to figure out how to back off, and still move forward to give the people (my client list) what they want. I’ve gone and re-started a trend here, and I enjoy being a leader in it, but to do so is to stay ahead of everyone else. But, I need to back up and “fix it!” And my cat won’t help…
I’m in a bit of a pickle as to what to do first as everything needs to change and be improved. I need that team – looking forward to learning about where and how to start. I want to move on to my other ideas!
Many thanks again, you guys rock.
Hi Rich, Todd,
Oh boy … so much of what you discussed was pertinent to what I am doing right now as a total newbie.
Thankfully some of what you discussed for example, purpose / vision, I have already been working on and as such I feel this will serve as my compass and guide for making future decisions and also helps others identify with my organisation and assist in attracting customers as well as employees who have similar values, when hiring.
I also saw myself as one of those that keeps on collecting more and more tactics (which made me cringe), however, I just recently have made the decision to start working with my existing resources. Having conducted a brief inventory on all of my resources I have more than enough to get started. The grass is not always greener on the other side!
I also think that the ‘lone ranger’ syndrome is a problem as the ego tightly clings to the mindset of ‘I have to do this on my own’ or ‘no one else can do this as well as I can’ so entrepreneurs, including myself, feel they have to maintain a level of control.
When you referred to constraints and the limitations placed on the business by the entrepreneur, the penny dropped.
To use a relationship analogy, ‘if you love someone enough then let them go’. A large part of a business’ success relies heavily on the entrepreneurs ability to let go and let the business prosper without his/her involvement.
It was interesting to hear you refer to Strategic Profits during your conversation with Todd and I could sense that your whole identity was not tied up in Strategic Profits. It sounded as if you had been able to detach yourself from the company and refer to it as an entity rather than an extension of yourself. Would that be accurate?
Have a great day !
Malcolm.
Good info-looking forward to the time I can implement it.
Hi Rich,
“Don’t have to worry about your business at all. While making tons of money!”
Having several “automated money making sites”, I can’t proclaim myself as a newbie anymore.
The question is: why my automated sites aren’t making me any money? I’ve been – and still am – working on those babies of mine 16 – 20 hours a day for 2 – 3 years, now.
Thank you for your insights in the video!
Looking eagerly to see more.
my Best to all of you,
- kimmo
Hey Rich and Todd
Rich you always deliver never really thought about
this before, I guess it’s because I’m a complete
newbie but I just sign up with Alex Jeffreys program
so right now I will be an entreprenuer and with the right
guidance I will be able to move into the Founder path
but I’m hear for the long so look out.
Thank you Rich, needed to hear this .
Alexis
Hi Rich and Todd,
Thanks for another very useful video.
I’m currently trying to build a business but am not yet making enough money to make a full time income.
My question would be how best to become a founder at this stage? How do I get people to work for me or help me when I have little to offer them?
It seems like I need to work my nuts off for several months or even a few years, which I’m willing to do, in order to get a full time income. Only then it seems I’ll be able to look more at employing people and building an all star team. Am I missing something?
Thanks again,
James
I’m a one-man-shop, brick & motar. The chain is so long, forget. Great content.
Rich,
Thank you for your inside from entrepreneurship to founder
who has the freedom…
Understand how a the founder or the creator of the business
starts to think ahead and established his goals…
Delegating your trustworthy people to there gifts so your not overloading yourself to the business…
Glad to here that your priorities is from above who give you the ability to be creative and help anybody that has a desire
and determination to also be creative as well…
Am just a person who just getting his feet wet and still wet behind the ears…So my mind is like a sponge receiving all this great information and weeing out bad and trimming the good so it can develop it fruit and a bigger and productive way..
Once again Thank You for all your time and energy and gift
to us who have benefited from your labor of Love…
God Bless
Edward Zamudio
I am starting a new online business. I have owned other off-line businesses and have always been that chief bottle washer and cook type that you were speaking of. So, I believe my biggest hindrance to becoming a founder will be breaking my tendency to be a do-it-yourself entrepreneur.
This interview is just what the doctor ordered. As an entrepreneur, musician and founder of my own record label, I have cd products that need a strategic marketing plan as well as a pressing need to achieve the freedom from my business to have more time to create and produce more music and media products. I look forward to learning more about the founders program and would like to make my music available for a JV Venture with you and/or others to use in your videos. To listen to a sample, go to: http://tinyurl.com/levnny or http://3mimusic.net
While we are intentionally building a business that provides us with the lifestyle freedom we desire, we have three primary obstacles to overcome:
#1 – Since we are relatively small at this point we don’t have the financial resources needed to attract the caliber of individuals we would like and will ultimately require;
#2 – I suffer from being overly-controlling…wanting everything to get done my way. While I’m working on this on a daily basis, it is clearly one of our biggest obstacles;
#3 – We are in the process of systematizing our business so that is more manageable. This is a difficult and sometimes time-consuming process but is already paying dividends by reducing training time, providing accountability and forcing us to examine and improve processes that fall short.
Excellent content, dead-on insights.
Coincides very well with what we’ve done in our biz. I think one of the keys to being a founder vs. a biz owner is to begin with your philosophy – first, your philosophy of life since your business is an expression of that philosophy – so that is basically your philosophy of the present. And then your philosophy of business- which, as you talk about in the video, is your vision for something bigger than yourself- the impact you want to have on the world – so that’s your philosophy of the future.
Combining the two allows us to “retire” the day we become clear about both – ie, we never work for money, but rather, as Rich discusses in this video, work for greatness – and give ourselves permission to create the time/space for our own greatness to be brought forth.
Rich, the thing I love about your information is that it always gets me thinking differently – and gives me a new perspective. Thank you.
My intention is to be the founder in my business, but staying focused on that goal, especially in the early stages of my business development is the hard part. Its very easy to get completely bogged down in the day to day stuff.
I know I want to consciously create a business that is not reliant on me. A Business Founder ‘blueprint’ would be a great way to help me make the right choices each step of the way.
Ouch! A lot of truth to your message between an entrepreneur searching for opportunities versus a founder with a vision. I guess it’s time to make a paradigm shift. I get tired trying to do more with so much less.
-Mariano
I may be too old to start a business but I sorely need the income. I appreciate all the help I can get.
I’m totally an opportunity seeker. I’m always looking for the home run…
I think my biggest problem to becoming a founder of a “real” business, is my lack of passion in the “opportunities”. I get bored, and end up actually HATING doing what I’ve started after about 4 months.
The thing I’m passionate about, I could never see myself actually CHARGING MONEY for. If I could find the thing I’m passionate about being great at, that helped other people, I think I could focus my efforts better and stick with something for longer.
I just like swinging for the fences I guess. lol
What is holding me back? My wife. She thinks internet marketing is all hype and there is no real money to be made by the common marketer.
You have rather neatly defined what I have been working toward for the last few years. And, I am making progress, one step at a time. All this in a real estate market-related support business that is changing very rapidly.
I know that I am succeeding because very qualified people have been coming to me for help in achieving their objectives, allowing me to incorporate them in my activities. And, this is working (but has taken time to assemble.)
This from a serial entrepreneur who can’t seem to quit…too damn much fun! By the way, you were perhaps looking for the title “Chief Cook and Bottle Washer” …a phrase my father used to describe the CMFICC…
Keep up the good work. You are contributing a lot to the art.
Great Video Gentlemen,
I am definately not at the “Founder” level but want to get there. I think that I still have some systemitizing to do and some gaps in my knowledgebase however you are helping to fill some of it in and I really appreciate that.
With Admiration,
Mark Edward Brown
The Marketing Professional
I think the biggest problem for newbies is that they are pursuing money and not creating value through purpose. Like you said, if the dream is big enough, it will attract people who can run the business without you. If your purpose is only to make money, you will not have long term success and no long term freedom.
This is basically the concept of “precession” that Fuller talks about. You can’t pursue money. You have to pursue a noble purpose, and the money will follow.
The challenge for people getting started is what “purpose” do I follow. How do I discover my “big dream”? I’d love if the next videos could offer some tips on how to discover a profitable purpose that you can believe in.
Hi Rich,
We have four employees, and we are doing all the consulting work. If we bring people on to help, there will be no income left to pay our bills. How do we build, acquire the ability to step away from the business when we need to keep the income for ourselves?
Thanks,
John
I am just starting out and I have the mindset of wanting to be a founder instead of a CEO or COO of my company. My biggest concern with this is how do you attract people that will want to grow your company without you constantly having to be there to motivate them. Would you give them a share of the company or some form of profit sharing, or do you try to provide a good work environment and higher than average salaries? What motivation do you use to make sure your company will grow without your constant involvement?
My biggest challenge is simply having enough time to think strategically. With working a full-time job and trying to start a business that will give me the income to leave the job, I’m putting in 14 – 16 hours/day.
My focus right now is getting the business to the point where I don’t have to be concerned with income. Once I get to that point, I can begin transitioning to a business that doesn’t require me to be involved on a daily basis. But how do I plan it now so I don’t have to go back and change a bunch of stuff later?
Thanks Rich and Todd,
I am looking forward to this information. I could relate and liked the comment above where Michelle wrote the following:
“Entrepreneurs often have a hard time letting go of control of their “babies” – the businesses they have put their heart and soul into. But they can then find, like you said, the feeling of being “trapped” by their business and build resentment towards it.”
I am a long way from becoming a Founder, because I wear all the hat in my business. I understand when you were talking about burnout.
Great stuff, looking forward to more…..
Thanks,
Bruce Hackler
Hello Rich,
Very interesting and helpful video.
My question as a newbie would be, if I do want to plan to become a founder but will I not need a lot of money to hire people to give me the freedom.
Time is my biggest constraint and yes it will help if I can outsource, but money is another constraint. Also if I knew that by investing $500 per month through outsourcing will result in $1000 of revenue then I will definitely go for it.
The problem is I dont know where to start.
Thanks again for your wonderful information.
Kind regards
I’m relating this idea of growing your business to become a founder–freeing the person from the entrepreneurship stage to something bigger–to a movement of like-minded members of an organization that benefits more than the members, more than the community, more than the country. I’m working on a big training program for members who can see such a picture and who want to grow the movement to that horizon.
Awesome video and information and very thought-provoking. I already have a business, mainly affiliate marketing. I started out as an opportunity-seeker because I just needed to make some money.
I have started to develop this as a business, but as you said, I don’t think I started or continued with the mindset of a founder. If I look at what I’m doing, I see myself in a position where I still need to “in the business” for it to function. Not good.
Though I am making money (good money) I think it would falter if I didn’t continue. Looking forward to more of what you have to say.
Dear Rich & Todd,
I am on the path to total freedom…… I am excited to hear the upcoming videos. I believe that with the continued process of building the business so I am a Founder the goal will be realized.
You guys really did a wonderful job on the video. Please keep the platform and delivery the same! I learned a ton from your video because you each went into great depth! Kudos!
William
Hello Rich, You are very fortunate to have a group of people you can trust with your business. I am sure there are other people out there like your group, but I would be very hesitant to depend so completely on them. You have a wonderful situation, and I would probably find it very relaxing myself if I could trust it. I appreciate you sharing your information with me. I am not making money yet. I have a lot of information, many ebooks, but haven’t found the ’secret’ to putting the information together to produce cash. A lot of these information products don’t include the ‘How’. I purchased a Web Cam and tried to make a video this afternoon with Kiosk.ws Easy Video Producer, but ended up with a black screen. Back to the drawing board. Thank you very much. Erica
Hi Rich and Todd,
Your video hit the target as a 50,000 ft high level overview! The ultimate goal is to find that ONE passion, build your passion into a business and ultimately be able to walk away as needed without having to worry about the business falling apart without you.
I can’t wait to see the rest of the video series. You guys always tear into these humogous topics and seem to break them down into manageable pieces!
For me I’m finally starting to get the point driven home… is that you can’t “skim the surface” doing 5 things at once and still expect to get anything really accomplished. I need to go “deep and complete” to start moving my business forward!
After watching your video I’m going to follow the 3 F’s:
FOUNDER – acting and thinking strategically like a founder
FOCUS – concentrate on the 20% that really matters
FUN – celebrate the rewards along the way to prevent burnout
Eric
Dear Rich & Todd,
Thank you for this video.
I’m new to Rich email list, but I’m always looking for the great content.
I don’t have a business running on intrenet now, but I’m looking for some ideeas to implement.
Although your content is far beyond the beginner level I’m at this moment, I’m very interested in what you explain about the best ways of doing business.
I must say that I agree with the ideea that a sport player has to play only several times a year when the games take place, but to do that at the higest level of his possibilities in that moment he has to work very hard in all the rest of the days in order to achieve those results.
So, to be able to obtain this level of doing things when you can think at your business in a relaxed way, you have to get out the “mouse trap” first and make your business run without you. And that requires a lot of hard work.
Although you said you work in a relaxed way, I think you continue to work hard, but in another way. You are now at another level of doing business and at this level the hard work is not mainly fizical or intelectual, but with “your hart and soul” as you said.
So, in fact you continue to work hard, but because is in another way and at another level for us seems to be “in a relaxing mood”.
…
And as someone from another comment said, please do not repeat the same ideeas so many times over the video; I know that “repetitio mater studiorum est” and in this way we learn the things better, but I think theese things can be fixed in postproduction or with a more focused list of things to be discussed each time. And they can be expressed in 10-20 minutes of concentrated interview; 53 minutes I think was too much this time both for you and for us.
Thank you.
One of the things I have finally managed to achieve (at least to a certain level) is to become a “founder of my household”.
It is quite a strange situation… my wife has taken over most of the running of her family business, giving her father as “founder” a lot more free time.
So now he manages all the “big rock” projects around our house, finishing the pool, tennis court, landscaping etc.
One of my major constraints overcome in the last 8 months was to have those blocks of time needed to achieve something excellent rather than just treading water… or going backwards.
I think the answer to the question at this point for me would be where to start? The move toward a founder mentality is difficult since I seem to spend all day working and not enough time delegating.
I think the two things that would hold me back would be time and money. I work a full time job to provide for me and my family, but even if I do find someone else who can do whatever that certain thing is better than me and to take that responsibility I am sure they will expect to be rewarded for their time and energy (as would I).
As a creative professional who now designs websites, I have learned many ways to use the internet to help my clients increase their business and sell their products. Now I feel I am ready to use some of my knowledge to build my own internet business. My big question involves coming up with that actual product to build my business around. Is there a certain type of product (i.e. informational, physical, niche-specific, etc.) that is best suited for this? Any general guidance would be appreciated.
PS: Great video…
Hi Rich and Todd,
I have been looking into starting an online business for sometime now. I want something for the long haul not a summer business. I value your information, teaching ability, and work ethic greatly. If you have a chapter for The Newbie Founder; I am interested.
Thanks again, Dave B.
One constraint I am having is understanding all the different positions in a business you will need to systemize and people.
Understanding a flow chart of people and basic job requirements that you would use to build a powerful information business.
Also, what way do you create procedures and train these people. I have been having a hard time finding people that I could rely on in terms of having the entrepreneurial spirit.
Everyone right now just reacts to what I develop as work orders rather than building something on their own.
You are talking about building a business system from a founder perspective. I am in a corporate world. I work 50-60 hours a week and don’t have a lot of time. I’m starting from scratch and want to make a change. I don’t have a lot of cash (e.g. for investing in outsourcing), but have a good understanding of internet marketing. I want to build a business, not a hobby, not just a couple of internet sites.
How does a busy person without a bunch of cash build a business from a founder perspective with somewhat limited time and cash … that how would we get cash flow to make the first step (to walk away from the salaried job) and do this in a manner consistent with building a true business that runs itself through systems and the right kind of staffing and outsourcing?
Thanks (look forward to more great content)
Preston
Rich,
I think the thing that will keep people from actually realizing the dream of becoming a founder is not acting on the well-published advice to implement systems/processes in the business and then find the “right” people to run those processes. I just completed the Kolbe index assessment and watched the video that followed and I think there are some real keys to overcoming these two obstacles that are covered in that Kolbe discussion.
If you are not someone who acts by establishing systems, then you have to find someone who can. If you are someone who is a “doer” and not a “thinker”, then you have to find someone to help with that. You have to build the “team” that was discussed in that video.
And you can’t just expect to find those people the first time you look. You will probably have to go through several potential partners, employees, or outsourced consultants to find the one(s) you can work with. And the process will involve finding the right people in all the aspects mentioned in the Kolbe video – cognitive, affective, and conative.
And all of that takes time and energy. I’m sure you see these things in Strategic Profits. If you did not have the systems in place and have the “right” people running them, you would not be able to live the lifestyle of a founder. And I put “right” people in quotes because the “right” person for you is probably not the “right” person for me. So “right” is a relative term.
Anyway, I hope this gives some fodder for future video sessions. As a relative newbie, meaning I have been learning for quite a while but am just now getting to the point of “actionable knowledge”, I have a vision and a plan for being a founder. I need the encouragement and resources to execute the strategies in my plan. And access to someone with the experience to confirm my plan or provide recommendations for adjustment. I hope to get those things through your coaching program sufficiently in the first month, that I can afford to continue past that.
Best Regards,
Keith
Rich,
You are truly amazing in every approach you make.
It is obvious that you really want to make a difference.
You are fresh air. I tire of the many marketers who are out to take
you on a ride for the umteenth time just to suck you dry at the
bank. Many of these give you the same tired old thing that just takes up time that we could be putting into our businesses.
Yes, I am still trying to get started; I do have an ebook that I will be introducing soon. I also plan to do affiliate marketing for
other peoples products.
As for now, I need to get the lifeblood cash comming in and must solve that first.
I can see myself as a Founder and know how to get there. After I make a success out of myself, then, I will work toward being a Founder.
Thank you guys for pointing us in the right direction.
Loyd
LH Global Solutions, Inc
Thanks guys,
You know I started out in my online endeavors thinking of creating a sustaining business that I could walk away from for long periods of time, and still have it grow or continue to earn income. I wanted to make a difference helping people living with diabetes, and showing them that there is a way to prevent, control, or reverse their type 2 diabetic condition.
Truth of the matter is, it is taking me so long to produce my product (myself) and learn all the methods and strategies to be successful, that I forgot about my founder-like goal, and had to think about just trying to earn a buck!
The next shiny object syndrome has also been a problem. (is there a re-hab center for that affliction?) Which brings me to a focus issue.
Watching your video brought back the possibility thinking and the dream bigger hit home. Thanks for some renewal.
I enjoyed the video, My dream has always been to be a founder and I like to see others like you that get it.
Hello Rich and Todd,
Talk about timing! As circumstances had it, my previous site became “disabled” and so I am just beginning (as I am a newbie) to create another.
Rich, to put it plain and simple, “You and your team rock!”
This video was the kick in the ass I needed to get me going on the right track. It is easy to visualize an outcome goal (such as how an entreprenuer desires the end result). But what keeps one motivated along that journey are the results along the way, momentum that continues to build, where obstacles are overcome.
Rich, you and your team at Strategic Profits know how to shorten the learning curve. Bottom line…you information and resources help produce results.
Thank you
very interesting. I can learn a lot from this video.
Thanks for sharing.
You always get me thinking man , that’s great! Thank You.
Currently my business relies on me for everything :( But it is something I am working on.
Problems are: Hiring others like myself or better and feeling secure enough to do that if I’m honest.
Love your holistic approach Rich. Two questions:
1. Where’d you get that cool T-shirt?
2. Where’s that cigar bar?
:c)
How can I download this? It doesn’t stream all that well on my computer.
I look forward to more videos. Rich is cool.
Strange as it may sound, I did the same thing as an Army officer, I called it franchising. I always got it to the point that I had nothing to do. That allowed me to do what I wanted to do.
I’m not new to the web, however, I have never started a web business. Don’t have a website, don’t do web 2.0. Matter of fact I major in old fart.
I have never been a dreamer. Not even as a kid. I was always a doer. Not long on creativity. But, if it needed doing, I could take care of it.
So, I totally agree with you. Now I need to figure out how to translate that agreement into something meaningful.
Thanks, I enjoy the videos.
God bless
Hi, I guess I am more than a newbie, but far from proficient. My struggle, after spending a fair amount of money buying into various systems and from some the bigger names in internet marketing, is that I still feel like I am missing some key information.
The website I posted above http://www.caregiverrelief.com was made before I started studying internet marketing, I would do it much different now, and I am trying to build other sites. But I need some one to pull back the rest of the curtain. I am not afraid to work hard at it, I am willing to spend more money. But I am little cautious about that now.
Are you going to be the one to reveal the god’s honest truth, without hold back key pieces. Then are you going to be there to help when I write and say this or that is eluding me, I don’t get it, etc.?
I am NOT on my way to being a founder in my company. More like the “flounder” of my company. Can’t seem to ever get it off of ground zero. I sometimes think I might sabotage myself, and those around me. I’m much more aware of that now, and plan on handling new employees differently. Speaking of employees, I have only one, just recently brought on. She is a veritable superstar, and am handling her as such.
My question is the proverbial “chicken or the egg”… I can’t afford to hire anyone until I attain a modicum of sales. And I can’t ever seem to be able to do everything that needs to be done in order to get some consistent sales going so I “can” hire great people to help me.
Thanks for any feedback you can provide
I’ve worked with other businesses that have taken off quite nicely -
one from the ground up, selling only online at first, but I wasn’t the boss/owner
one as a partner with another guy, together we were the entire Internet marketing department for a company already doing well with direct mail and cold calling, needless to say I wasn’t the boss/owner
third business, watched it grow from nothing to quite big, fast, I handled Internet marketing and the rest of the company got big, fast, and quickly outpaced me
The projects I’ve done where I’m the boss/owner never got big enough, perhaps due to lack of vision, or lack of the dominant aggressor personality, or lack of ability to manage, to do much for me financially, not compared to the other 3 partnerships.
Anyhoo, look forward to the freebie, and thanks.
Rich and Todd,
Thank you for this initial video, it has caused me to stop dead in my tracks and reconsider the future, the big picture, if you will, to reevaluate where I actually project myself and my entrepreneurial effort to be 3, 5, 8 and 15 years ahead.
I began my disjointed pursuit of a commercially viable internet presence more than two years ago, and like so many, my learning curves and expieriences was not unlike being in a “wave tank”, being slapped up one side then the other. My efforts were interrupted by Open Heart Surgery, and now I am back,
building a website, the first of a number; but your video tonight, has given me pause, and motivated me to think deeper, and see farther. What I need is greater insight into this whole business about becoming a “Founder”. Thank you.
Thanks for the great video and I look forward to the rest of the videos in the series.
What I would be interested in hearing about is the typical process and checkpoints a “founder” needs to go through from the business idea generation stage to a thriving company like you described.
For example, when a business is started it usually involves one or two business owners actively involved with in product idea creation, unique value proposition generation, and execution. Then the next step is outsourcing of non-core compentencies. Then …
I’m not interested in market specific material, but the business building process, check points or metrics, and important questions to ask yourself and business partners.
I’m still a newbie and find that the biggest struggle for those of us just starting out is how to properly structure our businesses so that we can end up as founders instead of burnt out. There is so much information about how to start a business online–most of it tactics–that it can be really hard to figure out where to begin. If I want to be a founder, how do I build my business, from the beginning, so that I end up in that place of total freedom?
Hoping for some help.
Rich and Todd,
First of all, thank you so much for this eye-opening concept of becoming a founder, I can honestly say I have not heard this idea before.
I think the idea of being clear about your and your business’ purpose is crucial and I had not considered that they might not be the same. I am VERY clear that my personal purpose is freedom, financial and personal. I am also fairly clear about the purpose of my business.
I am as you guys called it a “newbie” without question. I am in the infancy stage of putting together an internet life and wellness coaching program for (mainly women) in the anti-aging market, women ages 30-60 focusing on prevention, lifestyle choices, nutrition, fitness, stress management and spirituality.
I would love to create this business with a “founders” mind. What would stop me from doing so is clearly not having the “blueprint” if you will, the formula, the step by step process to do so. I also do not believe I have the financial capability at this time. My goal is to bust my A** for the next year and put a business in place that will allow me to give amazing value to people and to reap amazing rewards for me.
Would love some guidance to this end.
Gratefully,
Dianne DelReyes, LAc & “The Anti-Aging Artist” :-)
Well Rich, you certainly get me thinking of a whole new approach to the business at hand. Right now I am the do everything guy, I am just getting started in internet marketing, I have a lot to learn, and you just gave me the insight for a new chapter of learning. Thanks, Ken
Rich,
When I first discovered internet marketing 8 months ago, you were (fortunately) one of the first people I stumbled upon and have since realized how lucky I was to have discovered you at the get-go. I’ve been through so many hundreds of programs, courses and lessons, and have only really found 3 or 4 people who are worth their salt…. and you are definitely one of them.
I’ve been at a standstill recently, and didn’t know why until I heard something you just said in the video that made me realize what it was. You said “If you want to be great, you need to have the time and space for greatness.” I think that’s been my blockage.
I don’t believe I’ve given myself enough time and space to allow all that I could potentially be in this business. Now that the proverbial light bulb has gone off, I am totally rethinking my goals and business plan starting right now. I can’t treat this [internet marketing] as a sideline career knowing damn well it’s my intention to have it be my “one true love.” I honestly haven’t given it the time and space it needs to grow and give back to me what I’ve been intending it to become for me and my ultimate business.
You’re amazing and I feel so grateful that I’ve been able to learn so much from you. Here’s your next multimillion dollar entrepreneur! Thanks so much!
Hi Rich,
All of your advice was excellent but there was one particular comment which struck a note with me: “If you want to be great you need to have time and space for greatness”. Somehow, somewhere I got lost from this idea. But it is so true and something I had already been working on for the past few weeks. My biggest mission lately has been trying to reorganise my time – so that I have time for “greatness” as you call it.
The biggest question that keeps ticking over in my head is just what is the first step you would recommend taking to transform an everyday business with huge potential into greatness, when you are time and money poor? Do you get financial backing; do you hire people to help you (again where does the funding come from?); do you look for a venture partner? This is where I’m stuck right now. And have been for some time. I can see the golden future but it just doesn’t seem to be getting any closer.
Thanks,
Paula.
As a newbie working on getting an internet business started, I think the thing that would stop me from building that type of business is lack of experience.
I would always have being a “founder” as the ultimate goal, but it seems like a person would have to be an enterprenuer first and build the business to even have a clue as to what team members would be needed to make the business self-sustaining.
It would be interesting to hear your story in upcoming videos.
Did you build with the team from the very beginning, or did you build first and then assemble a team?
drop you a line to say thanks for such awesome and obviously authentic information.as rich mentioned if you are not playing a big game you will screw up the game you are playing &wasting your time, this is an massive insight and most people completely miss that including me.nobody has ever made a clear distinction between founder and entrepreneur.my biggest constrain is my comfort zone &constantly worries about the financial success during this lousy economic situation.working endless hours just like a slave and hardly any free time for family or any freedom. if you can show me the pathway and take control of the business.
Have a big dream but im stuck doing consulting till i have time and money to build the ultimate business that will leave a legacy and give me freedom
Still do all the selling, marketing, project management, account management my self
Currently dont have enough resources in my consultancy business to outsource
I have just started a marketing company. From what I originally thought it was supposed to make me more money, and have more time. The opposite has occured. Every day Im stunned with more techniques, procedures, duties etc. I know what the goal was, but I see it slipping through my fingers into a demanding, time limiting path. I dont really know which question to answer from the video. Im 23 yrs young and have great ambitions, but I just do not want to end up like so many of the older business people I know… So please help me with the mindset, thats all I really need/want. I need to know how Rich thinks, what are the things that he tells himself, because ultimatly it will all take place in my mind first….
Thanks so much for the video, Im sooooo looking forward to more mindset training for building my business: sloan ecommerce solutions
Cheers….!!!
How much percentage profits should I pay my main leaders and team builders? Besides having a larger vision I’ve found this helps. Thanks.
Big A
Hi Rich and Todd
Great Video that just arrived at the right moment for me, as I am going through a process of merger with an organisation, which I can now recognise will be a merger of two workaholics for whom freedom is a lost concept.
I am thinking now about how to build another company/organisation and in your video I discovered the concept (Founder) which I was looking for.
Answering Todd’s second question, may be my ego and the need for control will be the greatest obstacle. But that’s nothing I can’t work on.
Looking forward for the next videos.
Thanks for the video. I just read the Internet Marketers Manifesto about a month ago. i got unstuck in the process and was able to push forward through a contraint that I have had for my entire life but more particularly in starting a successful IM business.
I acttook actions that I had never done before in the past month and have progress on the Internet and in my entire attitude and outlook for the future as a result.
I do not claim that I have reached anylevel of success. But, I do think that I am operating on an entire new footing for the future.
As I sought help from others to move forward Imy mindset was framed toward the bigger picture. I was looking for task accomplshers and also sizing up the candidates to see if a longer=term association within my business might work out with them. So, without the specific vocabularly included the “Founder,” difference. I believe that in the past month I have gained, insight, knowledge about my constraint, tactical advice and steps and executed some action to move forward at least with an implied founders point of view.
My action plan for the next month has aleeady benefitted by watching this 1st Founders Intro Video. I have more clarity on options to move foward thinking more from a founders point of view. That is, how to setup actions as a system which cn be handed over to others and let me be free of it in the future.
I’m on the path because I believe I will find the circle that leads me back around.
I have been an opportunity seeker for ten years.
Early on I had some massive failures that caused me to think perfection was the answer.
I recently watched a video selling a product that taught me a skill to sell to someone else.
I realized I know about half of what they were selling in the training.
But the half that I know is about ten times what the end user knows.
My dream is big enough.
My knowledge is big enough.
I must empower people to take my place so I can step away.
Thanks for the lesson I needed.
Rich, I agree with what you say and I’d love to be there some time, but for now my first thought afterward was that I spent one hour of my life not building my business. I remember you mentioned one time that focus is very important.
Hey Rich/Todd,
I’ve been well aware of my tendency to be the “doer of many things,” and it has been a constant challenge to delegate.
More recently have begun to systematize and outsource to a high degree, however those systems are more operations oriented and not the higher level functions, like project management and marketing for instance.
I think my big constraint here is personal productivity, and having a bigger vision for my business.
Thanks,
Howard
Hi Rich and Todd
Thanks for the great video. I am relatively new to the business world, as this is the first BUSINESS that I have attempted to start on my own. In the past I have managed a few very successful small businesses, but have never taken one from ground zero and built it up.
I have attempted to start in this arena, but seem to be overwhelmed with so many NEW and AMAZING techniques every single day that I have now lost focus and can’t seem to hone in on just one GOOD business model that I can build on for the long haul.
I have simply had to go back to the basics and begin with list building through affiliate marketing, but am still somewhat at a loss for a true BLUEPRINT that I need to follow.
Also, I guess being in the same “boat” that so many start out in with minimal finances, I find myself frustrated having to try to DO IT ALL myself, and when I hit a stumblingblock, it seems I go back to square one and start again.
A blueprint would be great. A mentor would be even more wonderful. How to overcome these obstacles would be “priceless”.
My family deserves better than I am giving them.
Thanks for your help.
Robert
Strongly support Robert’s idea. Yes, it’s very important to help people overcome blocks in building their businesses and eventually enable them to be free from day-to-day ops to create, but most people starting stumble upon that initial path from zero to something, before anything of that comes to the picture.
Hi Rich,
Thanks for another informative video. I’m trying to get freedom from my business. The problem is that the more successful my marketing is the more of a workload I get outputting my products and services. I’m still the chief cook and bottle washer! This slows me down. If I could just spend as much time as I need to create products and market them and leave the rest to someone else then I’d be in a much better position. At the moment I’m doing everything.
The other potential problem is this. Your course is to do with the creation of info products? My business creates physical products. How can I outsource the work but brand that as my own product. I know it’s possible but how is it done? Are you going to cover that?
Thanks again,
Carl
Getting out of he way of myself is the biggest challenged I’ve faced.
Being so entrenched in the company operations, it can seem impossible to remove myself without paying for high level staff I can’t afford.
If I were to start again, I’d try to grow the business more as a delegator… consulting on the work being done without doing it myself.
Yet, that’s not where I am at the moment. I’m immersed in my company well above a level I can sustain and still hope for a life ouside of it.
So what to do?
I’ve been trying to get me lead staff to start taking over major projects and getting huge portions of them done without my input but its a challenge.
The next step I’m aiming for now is to have a meeting with staff, to decide on the shape of a new product idea I have and then let them loose to build it together and I act as a consultant for their questions.
Not there yet but working on it.
Actually, it really matters to define one’s goal having the desire to get an impact onto the world in a good sense.
There’s a clear destinction between being an executive and a founder. As you progress in the course of running a business, soon you’ll get the recognition whether you are a pro in your field, you need to organize and build up your team.
And there should be the person to whom you can pass over the duties and everyday matters to deal with if you want to operate as a founder.
This video gives a good point of view on this. Looking forward to the next one.
Thank you for bringing out a video talk that did not need to stop…reload…stop….reload. As a founder, I appreciate your insights and think that your future talks might be to the two separate groups. Count me in and by the way what made your video so smooth?
Clare Fanning
Owner
Voices Corp.
http://www.voicescorps.com (under construction….)
Hi guys, good informative video.
We enjoyed it, as we did the Beach video, well done boys.
Were newbies.
Our intention is to create a monthly or weekly subscription site guaranteeing a 10:1 ROI for our customers, we can stock-pick FTSE 350 and Forex and want to provide the numbers allowing our clients to spread bet using our picks. We want the clients/subscribers to visit our site daily, collect the numbers and bet.
The reason we can play the Founder game is our site will about run automatically, the numbers will be sourced buy an out-side contractor and fed into the appropriate page on the site ready for the visiting subscribers.
The reason we could fail, our competition could copy our site, so we need some SEX to hold our subscribers OR build a wall so high the competition don’t look too closely.
The reason we will win is tightly linked to your advice about getting customers and giving serious tangible value every week-day for our customers.
We are not sure about creating front or back-end sales, could do with your help there please.
Looking forward to Monday with You Todd & MF at Delray beach.
Cheers
Chris and Bob
Hey Rich .. Hey Todd !!
Awesome video guys, just set me straight with my mindset !
I know what needs to be done, thanks guys !
Dean
Thank you Rich and Todd for bringing this great video.
I’m a total newbie to business, but I’v been thinking about to have my own business one day.
That thought have been in my head for quite some time.
But, how do I start from scratch? I mean, I don’t have any business background….
So, I would love to know how can a newbie to found his own business and also, without both knowledge about setting up one and any knowledge about the market he / she ’s interesting in?
Hi Rich
Thanks for this amazing video. Now you are covering the fundamental reason people create a business online. I have had 2 traditional businesses before I went online and finally got a business with no employees that calls in sick every monday. The question I would like to address is: Shall I hire virtual assistants that only get paid for time spent, or do I have to “fight” with traditional employees. There is also the problems with the profit margin. In a online info product business you have profit margins on 60-80% while in the second you hire people to work for you on a time basis your margin often go down to 10-30% – and I am not even counting these economic times where a lot of businesses with employees are in red digits. Let me hear your answer to this, because these problems had to be addressed right from the get go.
Yours
Peder Andersen
pederandersen.com
My case Is STRANGE, but thanks!
I’m actually in between both scenarios. Not a newbie and don’t have a business yet. I’ve been doing affiliate marketing for over 3 years I was doing well until I went on vacation for a few months. When I came back, my business was dead!
It kinda sucks putting in effort and work, without seeing long lasting incremental results. So from a newbie point of view I would say, the main thing that would stop me would be; not knowing how to properly conduct a team of qualified individuals who can operate a business without me being around them.
On the other hand the drop in earnings after the vacation (which was great while it lasted :-) ) turned into something good. I understood that I have what it takes to create a product and decided to make a change and take the dive. I decided that I’ll succeed and never give up until I do.
I’m creating a product and I’m before launch. I do have a certain fear. I know that I can gather a team but I can’t really see it running smoothly without me.
I’m missing pieces of the puzzle, which are; where to find the right people? How do I trust them? Can I operate the business online, or will they need to be physically close by? What would be the best way to pay them? Percentage or fix pay? How do I get them to develop products? Do I need a manager to manage them?
All this seems quite a lot of work to get together, seemingly without having enough capital and in the process still growing a business. What’s the process?
I don’t think that those questions will stop me because I’ll get it right eventually, but at this point all of that is blank.
I outsource a few mundane tasks even though I have the knowledge to do them, but, I can’t say that I’m not overwhelmed with work.
Once again thanks for the video, Very inspiring! I don’t usually post on blogs :-)
I need to transition to your founder mindset, rather than just trying to build something around myself. It does appear to be an ego issue, when building something that thrives on it’s on would be even better for one’s ego.
I want to learn how to build a business that gives freedom, rather than just transfers “bosses”. Thank you for giving from your wisdom, and your heart.
I’m a newbie in all aspects of the word-
from the technical aspects of creating a blog and getting it hosted etc to creating good content
I guess what I need to know is…at what point can I begin to remove myself from the equation? What do I have to do before I can get people involved who can help grow this business? Not just in terms of recruitment but in terms of being able to guide them towards a common goal?
How can you get people not just to work with you, but for you at the same time? And is this something I can incorporate into my strategy?
I’m sorry if these questions seem really obvious.
Hi guys, great video
It touched me as you talked about the tendency in our time to do different things at the same time to save time to do more stressful things… Not being focused in the moment, what could lead into burn out.
It makes complete sense to me to have a deeper vision behind everything we do and grow from that.
As I understand, a founder is someone who comes from the standpoint of “having and sharing” rather than from “getting”
As a newbie I would like to learn how to become a founder :-)
Great video!
Actually I have been thinking about this for sometime – the part where you ask “if your business is 5 times as big, would I be a lot busier”… and sadly my answer now is yes.
That is why I have chosen not to expand my business in that direction.
Looking forward to the next videos!
Rick, Todd
thanx indeed for a this fundamental business education.
Let me do it short and first said, when it comes to me, the gift you talk about at end of this intro video is the intro video itself, no need to over-over deliver,but go ahead if you can´t help:-)
Don´t wnat to replicate above great comments, but one thing I got form the intro vid is INSPIRATION. The nearly 200 comments are triggered by inspirational content, just like Obama inspires millions of poeple around the globe´cos what he or you got is say is fundamental, universal & even eternal.Freedom is a human basic human need in biz, personal life.Bonding it with helping others grow and fullfil their dreams is truly a noble cause hard to resist.
I am a newbie and I been wondering if the gurus are all saneor money blind?
You are the first, i listen not to discover new ppc,info products,traffic etc tactics to make more money,but to find reason why I want to be an internet entrepreneur,sorry founder:-)
Look forward to the conversation & wish u the best to the
benefit of us all
Joni B.
I am new to the business of internet sites .. have one and am working on a second. I feel that right now I am just blasted by so many “opportunities to improve/grow your business” that I am totally distracted from focusing on my business. I do not want to mis-out on what may be a true opportunity, so I read ans listen to all …meanwhile, my business is dormant more or less. How to know who is out there just for my money or who is out there to truly assist others to grow their businesses? I have generally good instincts, but in this world.. I just do not have a feel! Whatever guidance you can give will be greatly appreciated and that fact that you are will to do these videos for “free”, helps.
I am in the beginning stages of building an online business. I am developing strategies and systems to streamline my business efforts and will be looking at outsourcing some of the work soon. My question is how do I manage to stay on top of all this while the business is growing and yet still have time to keep track of new developments online that could positively impact my business? There never seems to be enough time for both.
The decision to watch your video today meant not having time to attend to other important tasks for almost an hour. And yet I am glad I did. I do understand the difference between making choices about what is relevant to my business and what is not. I also have a clear picture in my mind (vision) of what I would like the company to become, who I hope to serve, and why. However, there still never seems to be enough time!
Thanks!
Rich and Todd,
This was a really insightful video especially for me. I have been very frustrated over the years because I have basically been an opportunity seeker. The great thing is I am now dedicating myself to build a business in such a way that I can be a founder.I want to build an organization that will make an impact on the lives of people. This was a really great video!!!!!!!!!! Looking forward to more.
Will Lane
Future Business Founder :)
What would be the best way to approach getting started the right way?
I’ve recently transitioned from the opportunity seeker to a more strategic focus to develop my business. All of my planning has been based on finding a way for my business to replace my current “job” income to give me the freedom to take the next development step to greater personal income. I haven’t given any thought to achieving anything greater that financial freedom. This provocative video has my mind racing with the thought of not building another time prison (like the job) but truly achieving the incredible benefits of the Founder. I need to build the big dream.
Rich,
As always, amazing content and insight into the IM business world. Ive been on a path to becoming a founder for a year or so now, its been an exciting and stressful journey thus far. I totally believe with all my heart and soul that i will become a Huge founder in the internet and offline world which will enable me to live the life i want, have the freedom i want and truly help those people in my life and those that i meet. I am excited to see what you have in store for us with this series and i from this day i am making a vow to myself and you, and everyone reading this to take my journey to becoming a true Founder to the next level.
Great video Rich! The one aspect that I do have is the big dream but what I’m lacking is the system along with the cash flow to build a team that doesn’t need me.
I’m delighted that you are pulling all the threads together to becoming a founder, which is what I call myself. I’ve been putting my plan together for some time now. But it’s taken me longer than I’d hoped because I got caught up in others hype of selling a single opportunity to do something rather than help me in a wholistic way to create my dreams by creating a map on which to build a foundation. I’ve believed for so many years that my purpose in any organization I was part of was to make myself redundant, but that requires a lot of humility. This might seem counter intuitive to being an entrepreneur but I no longer believe that. Within the last 6 months, I have become unstoppable and I really appreciate the support you are giving WITHOUT any strings… even asking $1 to get my email address annoys me. You are really giving me the security that I’m on the right track.
My question is “how to find people and get them run my business without me?”
I’m a newbie but certainly this is the question that pops up into my head first.
Kind of funny, my wife started an e-commerce business so she could stay home with our daughter and have something to do and wouldn’t go completely crazy. The business has been kept small and 100% run by her for this reason. So we started it with a business model quite the opposite of the “Founder Method” that you talk about in the video.
However, now that our daughter is older she wants to grow it, go all out. But do it in a way that will not take her away too much from our daughter or become a slave to the business. We have a basic strategy set up on how we are going to accomplish this. In fact she has “hired” me to take over some of the responsibilities. However, we are kind of lacking on the execution part and hesitant to start.
So my questions are, “What is the #1 thing the linchpin of becoming a Founder, what do all Founders have in common? What should a business owner concentrate on when beginning down this path to personal freedom?”
Very Interesting And Valuable Advices.
What most people do not realize, is that becoming a business founder does not require a solid entrepreneurial skills.The only ingredients in my opinion are :
Big vision + belief, work become fun when we believe.
“Think Big” as Rich Schefren mentioned on the video .
I will add: “think big even before you come up with your business idea”
Follow the vision of people who have already succeeded :
Jeff Bezos: Billionaire Amazon.com founder and Internet Entrepreneur.
Sir Richard Branson : Famous British Entrepreneur and founder of the Virgin brand.
Sergey Brin: Google search engine co-founder and billionaire Internet entrepreneur.
Rich Schefren the Man on the video LoL.
Great Advices for Entrepreneurs who want to save their most valuable resource: time , also Years of Trial and Error.
Videos Training
Thank for the awesome video! I am a newbie and I am pumped up! I think this is the best time ever to build a huge, dynamic company, and founding an empire. I am a new hatchling, barely out of the egg with a learning curve I am going through. But, I enjoy challenges!
Thanks for selling the dream! To answer your question about what would stop me from functioning like a founder? The answer for me would be in not finding the right yellow brick road to follow. There is an overwhelming amount of information out there. Lot’s of different paths to take. Which one works for me, not to just build quick money, although money is a consideration for doing any kind of work, but what will move me towards being the founder of my dream life.
They say, “when the student is ready the teacher will appear”. I am glad I stumbled upon you guys! I will keep watching my email for more videos.
Thanks for the video. I am a newbie still in the womb! Don’t have an idea for a product line yet and trying to keep from being overwhelmed at what I am learning is necessary to function on-line. You touched on it about continual content to send to subscribers, new products, etc. and one person doing it all. How can I think now like a “founder” when I deperately need cash flow and really am just a “flounder”? Yes, I see that I have been a opp. seeker as you described in the Manifesto. Where is there a balance between the two? I know it is foolish to believe the millionaire in 30 days crap but what can you do to produce income reasonably quickly and gravitate into the world of the founder? Thanks for your help and look forward to the next videos.
Russell
I started my business as a way to make money and replace the pension I have lost in the past year. But as you rightly point out the business soon becomes the boss… so I am back working again, and a slave,to a different but more demanding boss! My sponsor.Time to build a self perpetuating business of my own!
I am a newbie and I want to become a founder in my business. I am currently thinking about a way to make a difference in the internet marketing community. My question is how to get people to join my team what incentive do I give them and how to find the right people? I also want to thank you on taking the time to share such valuable information I have been reading books on becoming a true entrepreneur and this is quality information.
Such a great topic at such a pivotal moment in my life as an entrepreneur. I am personally at the cross roads where i could easily become the founder of a great successful business or slip once again into that endless stack of unfinished tasks. Its funny how entrepreneurs will often build something great but end up not trusting any one to help grow it. I have started picking experts to help us build our business but have found that it can get quite expensive or at least that’s what i tell my self to justify trying to take it back over and doing it myself. I liked the comment about being chained to the business and have often felt like i had one foot nailed to the floor. Endless circular motion never really going anywhere but putting on an enormous amount miles.
I personally cant wait to hear your advice about how we follow a process of picking our team of experts. But more than that, how we stay out of their way and allow them to stay part of the team so we can grow our businesses.
Thank You
James
I appreciate the thoughts and ideas you share Rich, they’re inspiring business strategies and when you talk about identifying and removing constraints, it sounds a lot like Yoga.
I’ve been exploring home business for about a year but I didn’t discover information products and people like Eben Pagan and Mike Filsame and Anik Singal and Russell Brunson until just a few months ago.
In the past several months I’ve had more than a few big “Aha!” moments, in no small part helped by great teachers like Rich and his protegees who are giving continual value whether pitching products or not.
To your question, I speak as a newbie who is quietly putting together my first information product using Russell Brunson’s MicroContinuity model. I fully expect this business to succeed but I do have some concerns that go to your question:
Let’s say I’m not the only person in this situation… huge bank and credit card debt post divorce… downsized once and then as an independent contractor, lost business in the last wave of mass layoffs… forced to seek a solution and avoid bankruptcy… and incredibly inspired by this industry.
So I think I speak for many, who are trying to create something out of nothing, literally, and to crawl back from deep debt and get back in the black asap, turning a profit and being able to reinvest in products from our gurus who have helped us get to that point.
Here’s the question: When does a newbie start to think about hiring employees? How much money should your business be generating before it makes sense to take on added responsibilities of payroll and taxes and insurance etc., all the stuff that seems like it will make us less free for a long time before it actually creates the freedom. How do you find people you can trust when you’ve had to do it all on your own? And how do you pay people when you’re still building a new business and are still in the debt hole? All pretty basic stuff I admit, but thinking about large empires seems there’s a lot more obligation created than freedom, and I’m wondering how different this business ultimately is from traditional business? That’s my answer, 20 questions :)
Thanks guys.
Thanks for your presentation
I am a newbie in this world and I have my own motives for wanting to become involved in the world of internet marketing.
As to your question.
What I think is the greatest threat to my success in this business is my lack of the specific knolege to make it work.
This is something that I have worked on and if you can help me in this I would be very grateful.
Sincerely
James Freudenberg
P.S.
I am also a cigar smoker and having spent a great deal of time in the Philippines,I have a humidor full of Tabaclera’s
Great video, I’ve read all your ebooks several times and am currently reviewing my business processes so that I can be a ‘founder’ to allow me to work on creating better projects without worrying about sales or marketing, answering emails etc… I was already doing this before i’d received this video, so great to know i am on the right track.
Looking forward to the next videos and in particular the ones about finding and keeping great team members that run the various postitions in the business.
Keep up the great work guys!
I aspire to be a founder. I intellectually understand the key components of what it takes to create the business that gives you freedom, BUT I can’t move in that direction…fear, not knowing how to go about executing in that direction, etc.
I’m sincerely interested to see what you share in the next videos. Thanks for taking the time to make them. I hope they’re effective and valuable.
53 minutes ago I wasn’t no a way to personal and financial freedom. Now I think that I am a little bit more to that.
Thank you Rich and Todd
I think that recruiting and building All Star team is one of the biggest problems for enterpreneurs.
Listening to this particular content was very provocative and thoughtful. It helped me start to clarify what my real goal should be. I’ve been making a lot of false starts and getting frustrated, If I spend another dime on an opportunity my husband will “kill” me. (lol)
I knew I was through being an opportunity seeker some time ago. After a few years of missteps figuring out how best to start and own a successful thriving businesss by purchasing business opportunities, all I’ve come away with is expensive experience.that is going nowhere..
I am a retired teacher. I’m not sure where I can best make a contribution in the market place as I have many interests. So, how do I focus on one of them and create a business? How do I take the things I’ve learned and package that into products?
I know the current economy has many people combing the internet in search of legitimate ways to generate income. This is a new day because high technology has created this transition period. This period of upheaval is just the right time for the development of new businesses using the model you described in the video.
I want to be one of the pioneers who leave a legacy for my grandchildren and have them follow me into cyber communications. They will never ever have to worry about what the economy is doing if I learn and master this model so that I can teach it to them.
So, now I know I have a mission thanks to you. My consraint was always being too afraid to start. Part of that fear was not having a clear idea of where I wanted to end up. Aiming at this well defined target gives me a clear vision of WHY I want to be in business. It’s to be free to do what I want when I want and not worry as to where my next dime is coming from. This is freeing me up to move ahead. ,
Help me and others formulate a basic game plan for those of us who have little or no money to start, no website or list.. Show us how to leverage our time and talents effectively and efficiently over the next few weeks. I want the opportunity to be able to afford whatever you do next.
I feel comfortable working with small businesses locally.
There has never been a better resource to do interactive direct marketing than the internet. I have the bits and pieces and chunks of concepts that need to be put in to a cohesive whole. I need to steamline the relevant ideas so that they connstitute a duplicatable process others will find easy to follow.
I hope I’ve given enough information so that you get a general idea of what is common to the majority of us who cared to give you their comments.
Warmly
Marge Ferguson
The Plan B Optimist
Thanks for another great video. I believe the greatest obstacle to me achieving founder status with my business is my mindset – not starting with a clear purpose/goal from the beginning. A lack of clarity that clouds my judgment which in turn makes it too easy to become distracted. I am also a big time information gatherer, but I have recently been able to reign that in and am now focused on building my business correctly, from the ground up.
Contrary to some previous posters, I do not believe that you were being overly repetitious; you did an excellent job of reinforcing your points by approaching them from different perspectives. This really helps to lock in the concepts when I can see that they apply in a multitude of situations.
Thanks again,
Alan Howard
First off…Thanks Rich & Todd
Things that would block me from being a founder at this very point would be; Not having the capital to move forward, and not knowing exactly how to properly accomplish that goal.
Look forward to more videos and information from you. You are a tremendous help with all you do.
I am just starting my business. I am not a newbie to the business world as I was once a “high-powered” business consultant (like Rich), but I am a newbie to the entrepreneurial side of things.
Here is my main challenge to success. And until I get this solved, I will not know if I am on the right path.
Essentially, being what Rich calls a “founder” is all about your ability to do one thing. And that one thing is called SCALE.
Finding a good product or service and optimizing your business model to achieve profitability is hard enough. But that is just the beginning!
Scaling is a totally different animal to tame. It is my opinion that the latter is geometrically harder than the former.
If you want a business that runs without you, then you must know how to scale. But, you cannot scale if you cannot recruit star employees.
But here is the problem… How do you get the right employees, specifically???
And by right employees, I mean employees that are 1.) awesome at their job and 2.) not going to try either take over your business from the inside or start a competing firm on the outside once they learn your “secret sauce”.
Star employees do not include non-vital virtual assistants or other outsourced or expendable employees.
The biggest problem I will have in scaling is finding people who are smarter than me at certain tasks, but who are willing to be “submissive” and take orders even though I am perceived by them to be less “smart” in certain ways.
The only time I have seen this work – when a bona fide “star” is willing to play “second violin” – is when the “founder” is a cash millionaire (or close to becoming a cash millionaire).
My experience has been that your bank account balance is the single best proof to future employees of how “good” you are at business. This seems to be an immutable law of selling yourself to other ambitiously-minded people.
Seriously… Think about that for a second. Find me a Harvard MBA or a Google-level programmer (that is not a friend or family member) that is willing to work for someone else who is not already a millionaire—I’ve never seen that happen besides those who are interested working for non-profits.
Any thoughts on how to approach this challenge of finding star employees (before the founder is a liquid cash millionaire) is much appreciated.
Should “founder” type entrepreneurs just forget about hiring star employees – and just focus on creating products and making money – until they can become uber-wealthy on their own first?
I know getting a potential employee “jazzed up” about your “vision” for the future is part of being persuasive. And I realize that the intangible and emotional rewards that you and your business can offer are by far more satisfying than monetary compensation, but… I think without the cash proof, it makes the emotional sell quite challenging.
Thanks for any feedback on the recruit-stars-before-7-figure-cash-proof dilemma.
P.S. Rich – Part of becoming a “founder” is the ability to go from producer to publisher. For example, Bill Gates started with “producing” an operating system, then he went on to “publishing” other software packages like Microsoft Office, Internet Explorer, etc. (where he was not a direct producer or programmer). The marketing guru, EP, went from producer of DYD to publisher of CH&KH. And you have explained that you have made a similar transition from sole producer of content to more of a publisher model of content creation and distribution.
My point here is that, as an aspiring “publisher”, I would value some detailed tutelage if possible on how to orchestrate a seamless transition from “producer” to “publisher”.
You briefly mentioned on the last UStream show how top marketers (i.e. top publishers) can partner with top content producers under an 80% – 20% profit sharing arrangement. (For those that didn’t hear the conversation, the oversized compensation goes to the marketer/publisher because good marketing skills are more scarce than good product creation skills.)
Any more specifics on your experiences with the publisher business model would be much appreciated.
Thanks for all of the killer content. Keep up the good work.
Your time, efforts and insights are much appreciated.
Hi Rich and Todd,
Thanks for this video – as the primary reason why most people go into business is to create more freedom for themselves, but few achieve this.
I’m in many ways still a beginner on my entrepreneural journey, and think the key elements that hold people back from becoming a founder are:
1. Their Ego: I find this to be particularly true with Newbies who for some reason think the business is all about them, and somehow by getting help will loose their identity. They tend to be too strong about having control, instead of realising that what they really need are systems that run the business.
2. Not wanting to share: This comes from scarcity thinking. Even though there’s never a limited amount of opportunity to expand in any business, most entrepreneurs think that by bring other people in as partners, they will not have enough for themselves. But if only they were to realise that by having a the right type of people in the business, they business will expand to create more wealth for everyone. Also, I believe Ego plays a part here too.
3. Knowing how to select, hire and incentivice the right team/partners. I personally struggle with this, as making mistakes can be very expensive. I’ll like some help here.
4. Systemizing the businesses and building the business as a “self growing” system from day one!
I hope this helps, and I look forward to going forward with you on this journey and learning from you.
Thanks again.
Yanney Ewusie
Budding UK Fouder!
I find this to be particularly true with newbies who
Hi Rich,
Paul here from the UK. We met last year when I participated in the Maven Intensive Program with yourself and Jay
I appreciate the knowledge you share with us and the unique perspective you have.
Since we met, I have bought out the business for whom i worked and am fortunate to be in a niche market which is continuing to thrive, despite the current economic downturn and I’m earning the best I have done so for 20 years..
Part of our success is that niche, the other is because I have slimmed the whole operation down to extremely low overheads, such that I am doing most of the key tasks… mainly because they are what I am good at and, as someone said previously, because I didn’t want a bunch of ‘employees’.
I have been systemising several of the key tasks, such as an online lead management system and software which costs work as it is being designed. However, the downside is, I am still working 16+ hours a day, 7 days a week, sacrificing time with my wife and family. Justifying doing so, by not wishing to increase overheads and because I’m the best at what needs to be done. However, I realise I can’t continue to develop the business this way and find myself in true dilemma.
I’m one of those people who have done all the courses, read all the books, even taught others to do successfully what I am unable to do for myself. So I shall be following what you have to say about this with a real interest in making changes!
Keep doing what you are doing and as a result you will assist many people changing what they are doing for the better.
Looking forward to hearing more from you.
Paul
Plain and simple – I’ve been a member of an affiliate program for the last 8 years and still haven’t had the first check in my hands. But – persistance is king.
What basically keeps me away from all what you talked about is in the first place – lack of money to be “invested” in something more productive than just (what I mostly use) )free online classifieds, and in 2nd place all the possible and immaginable life – distractions (that, besides, all of us have). These combined have created the above described situation I am still in. So, to move forward and wake up for only 1 hour job in the morning – that’s it from me.
Yes,… I’ve got a business website.
No,… I’m not a “founder”… I’m the Chief Bottle Washer and Cook, and I’m everything else.
Why am I not a Founder?… I think I need Automation of all the various tasks that make a business run… Contact management and follow-up, Prospecting, Email management, simple Accounting functions like Invoicing and Order processing, but most of all… Getting Customers.
Actually, I believe that all of those steps Should be easily manageable if I could hire an Employee, but I haven’t made a mortgage payment in several months. Any solution that you have to offer had better be Real Cheap… FREE is what I can afford, but I know that a buyer usually gets what he pays for… Your Free advice may be worth exactly that.
There… I spent a minute answering your questions.
Next?
p.s. Please overlook my cynical attitude… I’m frustrated.
Not becoming a founder for me is because I want to keep my business and run it.
Thanks for this video it was really good and made me reflect a lot on this topic and possibilitys.
Hey Guys,
great video. Thanks so much and I’m looking forward to more.
I think I am beginning to create a business that could thrive without me actually doing the work. I would prefer to be the idea person. However, I am not interested in having employees or a regular office, so I will be looking to contract with people. Do you think I can do it that way? Or as a founder are you locked into building a brick and mortar business?
However, I’m not anywhere near that at the moment. I need to see profit so I can pay the bills and reinvest in my business. Right now I do feel chained to my office in the house and my computer. I don’t want that to continue forever.
Thanks again.
Rich & Todd:
Thanks for the wonderful insight provided in the video!
As a newbie, I perceive under-capitalization would be my biggest hurdle to reaching “Founder” status.
In theory, it’s a great notion that I can be the visionary and orchestrator of an enterprise, but the reality of the cost involved with putting the right systems in place, then identifying and hiring the right people to run the systems, can be prohibitive. Especially because I am admittingly, a recovering “opportunity seeker” who now lacks substantial financial resources.
After all, just purchasing the needed subject matter expertise from a “guru” to ‘pull it all together’ can cost a small fortune. Does this mean the marketplace has no room for ‘financially challenged’ founders-in-training?
I would hope your answer will be a resounding “NO,” along with the details to overcome what I believe to be a common obstacle for many.
Many thanks again,
William
Like so many above, I think my biggest obstacle is trying to ensure everything is perfect before I begin. As well as being distracted by every business opportunity that comes on the market.
I just need to buckle down, and get to work. No more procrastination.
Thanks for the videos and reports, by the way.
Hi Rich and Todd,
Thank you for your very inspiring video. It has given me a lot to think about.
I have been working “at” starting a business online now for about six months and haven’t progressed much further than when I started with the exception of having learned a lot from all the “opportunities” that I have invested in. So much so that I have reached the point of saturation and information overload.
The first thing that will stop me from becoming a founder is the fact that I have yet to decide what niche I want to develop, and the strategies to make it a successful venture. My income is very limited, so at this point in time I am trying to work with Affiliate Marketing to bring in a cash flow that will allow me to start outsourcing as much as possible since I am very slow in the mechanics.
As someone mentioned previously, being a perfectionist is a huge problem in moving forward and it certainly is for me. This is probably why I am so slow at everything as well as thinking I need to know everything there is to know before I get started.
I am looking forward to the coming videos and hope I will find the answers I need to break the barriers I face.
thanks Todd and Rich for exposing to me and rescuing me from my current modus operandi of just being an opportunity seeker!
So great thought provoking content and providing an incentive to take action to change. Much appreciated.
Future content that would be helpful to me would be more of you guys exposing classic problems and hinderances that stop people making solid progress on the road to Foundership of businesses.
Sharing of your experiences is much sort after.
Thanks again.
Dear Rich,
Excellent material as usual, however this one really struck a cord on me. I have been trying to get my online business started for quite some time without success, however I now realize (thanks to you) that I have been holding myself back and that I was mistaken on the approach I had when I first started.
Following your posts and your videos have brought a shiny light on my road to success.
I strongly believe that “when the student is ready, the teacher appears”. The clarity of your ideas bring a sense of relief and a bunch of “aha” moments.
You now, how many times we have the answer right in front of us but, because we are so “busy” we don’t listen, until someone comes along and BINGO tell you what you already knew.
Thanks a bunch for enlightening me on the difference between an entrepreneur and a founder.
Dream big is what I am doing now, since it takes the same amount of energy than dreaming small.
Thanks and I look forward to the next videos.
Namaste,
A
A
My biggest challenges is coming from the fact I love to make too many things or to launch too many things at the same time not knowing what would be the best one to start with then the second one and so on and so forth.
Identifying the most cricital priority is what is holding me back right now.
And then knowing where I can find the right All stars to execute the plan.
Thank you for the great content.
I already have a business, but the more my business grows I feel like I have less freedom, less time, and more hard work.
I really liked the video, and please send me the gift.
Larbi.
Hi,
this is great stuff – I think many business owners don’t see the end result when they start out – many will lose the direction.
Videos like this help to refocus many people and give them renewed motovation and clear direction.
Great to see you guys working on the higher level things that often are lost when we are working at the coal face of our mines.
Thanks.
Gwyn
Thank you for the great discussion and challenge to “think big”.
Could it be that founders have simply established and adhered to priorities about what is truly important?
Just like in financial investing, “pay yourself first” can apply to your time as well as your dollars.
I believe I am on the path to getting full freedom but there is
one giant road block:
>> Finding the right people who have integrity and ARE cost
effective.
>> I believe I don’t need complex systems, just traffic
generation, maintainance and customer support (via emails)
>> I’ve had many experience with really lousy people from
other countries and they suck my time…
I would like to know how do I select people to join my team
from overseas?
Rich,
As a seasoned business development specialist, I’m intrigued with your insights.
Quick background and answer to your question:
For the last 20 years, I’ve been helping some of the largest companies in the nation to launch new products, drive new sales, and light a fire under their corporate marketing. I’ve spoken at conferences all over the world on this subject, and earned a good living. But have never aquired wealth. Because I’m selling my expertise to the man. And I have a VERY short chain, to quote you. Working far too hard and not enjoying my life and time with my family like I need to.
Now I’m several months into launching a new business of my own to escape from the yoke of success.
And I agree with all your points. Both in this video and your Manifesto. Had a big impact on my thinking.
But therein lies my question:
If you’re just “starting out”, how do you afford the assistance of others to help you, when you don’t yet have the revenue to support them? There appears to be a hidden “catch 22″ here.
Looking forward to your answer with great anticipation.
Best wishes,
Dan
Hi Rich,
I am fortunate enough to already be well into foundership. my business has been running for 6 years at present and i am pleased to report that i learned early on that i was not good enough to do everything myself and called on others who skills were better suited to tasks than mine will ever be.
i have for the last three years, been developing and training a core management base of young-bloods for the eventual task of reliquishing all resposability to them and have 90% of the business systems in place to do just that.
you are 100% correct that you cannot work IN the business and work ON the business. our goals as business founders should be to set these things in motion and then allow our own creative ideas to flow from a distance where we can make informed decsions with the whole picture in mind.
if i had a question, it would be how long you think this process can take. i figure that because i have opted to train managers for our business rather than get ‘off the shelf’ ones the process for me will continue for another 2 years. keep up the good work, it is well appriciated.
best regards
Carl
Am I on the path to financial and time freedom?
No. Not by a long shot.
I am definitely the “Chief Cook and Bottle Washer” in my business. But it’s completely my fault.
When I became a freelance copywriter, my dream was very small, limited. The copywriting course I took said I could make the same salary as a Doctor. I was happy with that.
Plus, I don’t know any copywriter who has built their business in such a way, they can walk away from it and know it thrives without them — not ONE copywriter.
Everyone, as far as I can tell, is strapped to their laptop — even if the location is a lovely one.
So, as you can appreciate, never in my mind did it occur to me, I could break out from that mold and start thinking like a Founder instead of as-long-as-I-make-the-same-as-a-Dr-I’m okay syndrome.
In fact, believing my business totally relies on me for its future existence is a constraint — I feel. But, no more!
Thanks. This are great insights! And I might add great “Fly Catcher” too.
I’m a green newbie still, after a year and a half, and not making consistent income to offset my fulltime income.
I knew that outsource could be my answer. However, given that I lack the time to devote to this new business and the money, I would tend to stay away. I guess I would be the “Chef Cook”, the doer of all things, until I do have some income on the side.
This probably is what’s holding me back as well as the lack of a clear vision and goal!
Thanks,
-Jeff
How can still position yourself as an expert is you dont keep in touch daily with your industry ?
What you dotn use you loose, so isn’t there a risk to loose your skills if you’re away from the business for a long period of time ?
Also, what is the strategy used by strategic profits to make sure that nobody takes advantange of your absence to hide critical information / new developments from you ?
Thx
Thanks guys. I’m starting out, developing a following, and I can’t really see a way to bring others in when I am not yet making a profit. Since there’s no money coming in yet, it only makes sense that everything relies on me until enough comes in to be able to grow and expand. I know it goes against the whole “outsourcing” model, but I have no money to pay for outsourcing.
Hi Rich,
Great video as always. Yes I’m already on track to being a founder and not an employee of my own business. I’ve systematized most of it already and just finished creating paid products from the already successful free downloads on family, student and patient safety that I’ve been giving away for years. I created a very simple system, of blogs and articles to promote the sites/blogs and products, so friends and eventually employees can take it from there when I want to go off and relax. The only impediment will be to find eventual employees to make site updates…
Laura http://www.nokep.org http://www.collegestuf.com
Hey Todd and Rich,
Excellent and inspiring video. I am a wanna be newbee into the online internet business. I have been in management my entire career so surrounding myself with the right people and delegating is not problem, it is determining what internet business I should focus on. Hopefully I will learn more from your website.
Best Regards,
Tom
I’m still looking for a good, systematic, detailed set of guides to get going. There is so much BS out there and most talk more in generalities then specifics. It is one thing to say “do X” but most of the time I’m left with the question “How?”
Great content, cant wait for the next videos !
I am a chiroprator, the main actor in my offline bussiness. I am looking to educate people online, build a online bussiness will leverage my impact on the world.
I think my main constrain is knowledge right now, about the web possibilities, so i am training myself with the kind of really good stuff that you share, thanks.
Joel
thanks when i read your that you want to train people on the online business,waoooooooooooooooooooooooooo!this what i’m looking for
god help helps again thank you.
want hear from you
My hope is that someone is reading all of these posts. Because, I’ll generously assume from the video that you’ve delegated that to a person other than yourself, whom I hope is carefully taking in each entry posted. :)
With this hope, here’s my heart’s pouring.
(pretend this is in italic font -
the following was inserted after concluding my post:
I took 5 pages of notes from the video, and I’ve spent over an hour thoughtfully posting this response vs. some quick or glib sentences so I can get a bonus. Total time spent with this = over 2 hours – end italics)
I’m a relative IM newbie. Although in the work-a-day world, have been in health care administration and upper management.
So I totally get the “Founder” concept. Lots of good people working for the good of the ultimate entity.
And of course the Founder goes way beyond being a manager or administrator.
Like so many others… what seems will stop me from being a Founder:
1. I don’t see how to pay people when one is still building a new business and doesn’t have any “spare capital” laying around to finance payroll, outsourcing or virtual assistants or worse yet, can’t even get that kind of money as a loan. Also currently unemployed.
2. How do you find people you can trust that really know what they say they know? Obviously when starting out, one cannot afford to bring on the “folks who have proven their worth in the market place because of their performance.” These people aren’t going to work for peanuts or a percentage… or will they? (excluding lance sites) I’m talking about building a full on team.
3. Legalese, and setting up all the entities, asset protection i.e. charging orders etc., haven’t a clue how all this is done. Not to mention contractual agreements with the folks one brings on. And again, there’s no money in the coffers to bring on the experts that do know this stuff. I’ve yet to meet an attorney or financial expert who will work on a “I’ll gladly pay you Tuesday for a hamburger today” mindset agreement.
It seems like this concept is a great idea, and I love the thought-form of building something that is larger than me that ultimately changes peoples lives… I’ve been on board with this kind of thinking for a long time. And yet, the “players” one would assemble who have the talent and skill-sets all seem to want a high 4, 5 or even 6 figure salary in return.
It seems that the greed consciousness that we’ve seen grow out of control in this country in both business and government has infected the consciousness of the masses and everyone thinks that they should be able to write a 6 figure invoice and hand it to someone in the name of capitalism.
Just like you said Rich, seeing the money before seeing the vision.
But wait… there’s more — (LOL, God rest Billy Mays)
I have a dream that is very big. One that would totally change the fabric of civilization and society as we know it. I’ve been carrying this dream for over 3 decades.
And people weren’t ready for it until now.
It will take a massive, massive marketing campaign and bringing on numerous experts, which my ego has absolutely NO problem doing. It’s just the nuts and bolts of having the capital to get it all rolling.
And I know that at the end of the day, after all your great free info, you’re going to make an offer.
And when one has been incubating a dream for 30 years, is dealing with a physical disability since being a teen, has been almost totally broken by the circumstances of our current economy and frustration is mounting (also a constraint) what is the solution?
My hope is that you’ll release some great tips of guidance, that even if one doesn’t buy your course, one will know how to proceed or at least get started in getting the foundation of being a Founder going and be generating some return for the changes they are facilitating for massive numbers of people.
Then one can actually buy your program for greater details and insights beyond the initial bare-bones skeletal understandings.
This would be the greatest gift of all from you Rich.
In my heart I know there a many people who have a great gift to bring and deliver in the changing face of the times in which we find ourselves as a society, a people, a civilization and a planet.
Since you mention God, so will I. If we think of GOD as the Geometry of Divinity, I believe there is a geometric equation that holds the solution to the problems of the world we all currently face.
I believe there are many people who hold a piece of that geometry. And I believe what you’re talking about in being a Founder is a piece of this geometry. So that makes you a piece of the geometric equation.
It seems the people with the solutions-ideas are generally not the ones with the skills to implement them.
It’s gut-wrenching to be exploding with answers and gifts that can help the collective whole, and not have the ways or means in which to implement the release of that in a massive way.
I’m stepping off the little soap box now. :)
This concept of cranking out fast reports or spinning articles or re-working PLR or public domain material does not honor my gift or intuitive creativity. It’s just busy work traded for money.
This is basically what every marketer I’ve ever studied teaches. Crank it out, get lots of oil wells going, keep moving to the next campaign, spin those articles, grab PLR stuff and spin that for give-aways to build your list or to bring people into your continuity program etc.
You’re the first person who has ever made any sense to me.
Like you, I write 40-60 page reports that I give away.
Once that generous report is written, which is chock full of golden nuggets that is freely given away, it needs a marketing genius, a technical uber-geek, customer support and a systems manager to take it to the next level.
I understand the marketing, traffic, support, systems, product creation etc. concepts and can actually do most of the stuff… and it takes me days or weeks to do (a constraint) what the experts can do in hours or days.
I’ve always been a catalyst-innovative-creative type. When my son was just 6, he told his grandmother, “my mom is way ahead of her time.”
I’m not an implementor. It’s not how I’m wired. Keeping track of all the pieces is very confusing-frustrating and I’m usually dealing with the next level of thought-awareness-creativity (which is not to be confused with the attention span of a gnat) before fully implementing the previous one for lack of passion in that regard.
And I’m not talking about changing gears or niches or tactics, I’m talking about the next level of understanding which builds on the previous releases.
If you could see the mind-map that encompasses all of this information in my heart and Spirit, you (and anyone) would clearly see that there’s no way one person can even begin to think about doing it all.
And so here I sit, with world changing ideas that have become over-ripe, and don’t know where or how to find the collective whole – the resources to create, roll out and market the solutions so desperately needed. Nor do I have the up-front capital to bring them on.
This, when put together, can be one of the most mind-blowing, comprehensive, life enhancing continuity programs ever. And in order for it to stick, numerous components of the mind map must be implemented and in place before launch. So it’s not like I can piece-meal this together as dimes and dollars will allow.
This is what stops me from implementing being the Founder that in Spirit I already am.
There must be something that I’m missing. What is it?
Thank you so much for enduring this long post, and thanks Rich for reaching out, once again.
Hi, Kara Marie,
I remember in one of the gpselite classes Rich talked about how he found his key people. He said he (this was a few years ago) went to “events”, workshops, etc. and would look at the other attendees with the intent of exploring IN HIS OWN MIND, whether anyone seemed like a possible match for an opening he planned to fill.
He would NEVER mention anything about a job to the other person. He would simply talk to them and be friendly. If by the end of the event he was still interested, he would make sure he had their contact info and he would keep in touch and within the context of conversations he would explore his new “friend’s” thought processes, i.e. ask for advice regarding a personnel issues, etc.
Eventually, if he was still interested he would talk to this person about coming to Florida and of course by this time he would be talking about a possible position. Then, if everything was copacetic he would bring this person into the company on a trial basis in order to ascertain if this hire would be mutually advantageous for all parties concerned.
Rich also said this: HIRE SLOW and FIRE FAST. Rich said that when we drag our feet in the firing process we don’t save anyone’s feelings in the long run AND we demoralize the entire infrastructure of the company.
I am out of time but I hope this helps you with this question.
Happy Saturday,
Arieljoy
Hey Rich
Killer video training once again, I gotta come meet you in PERSON.
In my opinion – building an online business you can walk away from is “simple but not easy”.
It’s simple because you have to train others with step by step manuals/videos (that are truly idiot proof and completely step by step) after disecting all the processes your business needs to function and grow.
It’s not easy and time is a factor as well as bearing true pressure on the core skill of ALL successful businesspeople. You gotta WANT IT BAD ENOUGH to take the time to DO all this stuff… but if you do it, you can be successful.
I’d just love the level of success you are hitting Rich.
Legendary stuff… when you in the UK – or don’t you bother?
Regards
Ray Johnson
Hey there guys, GREAT video. Brought me back to the fundamentals of WHY!
Not directly related to your questions but would love to hear more on best way to structure partnership deals e.g. when you’re the ‘founder’ getting involved with strategic partners, joint venture capital etc. any thoughts would be greatly appreciated.
Love your work. Keep up the goodness.
Shane
Hey guys. Great video.
My name is Rune. I started looking into the business 9 months ago.
I am one of the collectors of information. You get a lot of e-mails everyday and you loose focus from time to time.
After my vacation I looked at my projects in a different light so to speak.
What is stopping me has been money. Why not make a software to do it.
Really guys?) I have a vision of a website which I am currently building.
This site will eventually have some sort of affiliate program which will give me freedom as I want.
Meanwhile I am learning everything from scratch when it comes to web page developing and seo etc.
The one thing I need the most is the money. And as fast as possible. What is the no.1 fastest way? Record a newbie in front of a computer and give him instructions on what to do. It must be a killer thing to do.
THE FASTEST WAY?
Yes I believe that I am successfull already. But I know I need the money to supercharge my brain with knowledge in some cases.
In time, we dreamers wake up to see the dream we were dreaming of beeing brought to life right in front of our bare eyes. Maybe we have blurry vision sometimes in the morning… But when we see what actually has happened, we understand the profound brain we have. Which is so rich.
Cheesy ending there:)
Awesome content! I’m now a “FOUNDER” Thanks for sharing!
http://www.uncleflag.com
To answer your first question:
Not even close. I’ve been an opportunity seeker in search of being an entrepreneur.
That brings me to the second question, and I’ll answer it as if I were a newbie (which, technically I am).
What’s going to keep me from becoming a Founder is the same thing that’s kept me from being a successful entrepreneur: a clear vision and purpose.
That is, I don’t know what to do or what direction to go. What business do I build? What is its purpose? What does the business produce and for whom?
That’s why I go in spurts this way and that, looking for ways to make money online. Now, I lack the funds to hire a team… and buying any of your training or coaching is completely out of the question.
Rich , thanks a lot for this video.It’s really enlightening.
I already have a business and a few websites but they are not generating anything close to what I want just yet.
However I am working towards improving their performance by learning strategies from gurus like you everyday.
I look forward to other videos and training material from you.
Thanks again.
Im a newbe .looking for the proper way to get started as a founder.I am looking for, step by step coaching,with one on one guidence,to be sure I’m not wasting my time.could your team help me? If so please reply back to me ASAP. I am a e-map member.I know what your saying is a fact.I need your team to help me become a founder, Implementation of the correct action is key.
There for my first action is asking for your help to make my dreams come true.
please help me become a founder.
This would break the struggle for my whole family,there for Im asking for your HELP.
Hi …great info as usual…I have the drive, setup the sites…as simple as possible(landing page)….planning it all out and lack marketing reserves….Hate to say I am not “Founder” YET!!!
Hi!
I am only on Wireless Broadband, so I am never able to listen to any Video or even Audio on line. It starts fpr 4 -5 seconds them stop then starts again. If I am able to download to my PC I would be able to listen to everything that is send to me. So sorry but can’t comment on what Rich is saying on this video.
Cheers
Eleanor
Hi Elanor
I am the same. What I found was i open up the page. Play for 2 seconds the leave for 20 minutes and the video loads and lets you play without interuption. No need for downloading.
I’m one of the newbies you talked about.
I recognize the need to build a business that is systems dependent, not people dependent.
What I struggle with is how I can get a team together to buy into my vision by taking compensation that doesn’t include immediate payment.
My question to you would be: How have you successfully built (and helped others) build their businesses to include a team of All Stars to help found a mission-driven business?
Thank you sincerely for your diligent efforts and the passion you put into your materials!
- Andrew
Rich and Todd,
Thanks for the awesome “intro” video. I’ve been asking for guidance internally to a way out of the prison my one-man-band executive search practice in the wine industry (a service business) has become as I’ve been feeling burned out and on a short ball-and-chain leash for about the past year…and VIOLA…your video showed up today! So I am thrilled to be embarking on this exciting journey with you guys! BRAVO and THANK YOU!
My wife and I know there is an Internet business inside of me that allows me to unleash my excellence, to leverage technology and other people’s time/ideas/money/etc and that I haven’t yet had the time and personal freedom to dream up, but I have a hunch I know the general direction. So, my answers to the question you posed to newbies, “What would stop me from functioning as a real Founder and having the business that provides me with the personal and financial freedom I want?” are…
• I’ve had some unconscious limiting beliefs operating that stopped me from believing that I could have personal and financial freedom…but that still drove me to stay super busy and super focused on trying to get more money…rather than on discovering a BIG purpose and focusing on that as a means to achieving the freedom I am now so hungry to experience.
• Since I don’t have any past reference experiences for how to really be a Founder and since I haven’t had a road map to successfully becoming a Founder, I’m right in the thick of the stress and pressure and frustration you described that most entrepreneurs find themselves in…but I’m looking the ugly beast right between the eyes and I’m willing to go in completely new directions to be free!!!! Not having a road map would have stopped me.
Best regards,
David
Once again Rich & Tod you rock!!!
I think thanks to this you are going to make me review all my goals and put my priorities in order.
I am a newbie in this, but with people like you it’s easy to get back in track again and tried to by “the boss” of my internet biz.!!!
Hi Rich,
I am a newbie at this Intermarketing business. My son and I started our business in 3/09 doing affiliate marketing. What money we made went back into the business and where I sit now is Google has spanked us hard. My son wants to do his own thing. I want to get more into doing continuity business. After watching your video I realize that I am NOT a founder and married to the business. I want to change that! I want “personal” as well as “financial” freedom in what I do! I only dream of being able to spend the winter in Belize, and now can visualize it without a laptop or Iphone. Thank you for the information you have shared. I have a new energy that I am going in the right direction! Thanks so much, Rich!
Michael Love
Rich and Todd,
I am not sure which “guru” led me to Strategic Profits, but I have been knocking around internet marketing and building a business for several months now. I still consider myself a newbie, however, and I am constantly overwhelmed by the amount of information available. I am looking forward to the journey from “opportunity seeker”, to “strategic entrepreneur”, to “founder”.
To more specifically address Todd’s questions, I know I am not on the path today and it is because of the feeling of being overwhelmed. But I think this “journey” will solve those issues.
Thank you…
I want to be a founder of a business with a great team, as you were teaching. My purpose is for financial freedom , I can leave the overseeing of my business to the great qualified team I will build who can continue to grow the business without me. I can than be free to ask questions and they can seek advice from. I will not be tied down to a job, but free to live and enjoy life.
Thank’s Todd & Rich,
That was the best video I have seen in a long time. The reason is it really got me thinking. Not too many video’s get me thinking like yours did.
Your right. I am an opportunity chaser. I’m not as successful as I should be because of exactly what you discussed. I am always seeking out the quick way and the quick buck. I think most people do though. Always look for the quickest and easiest way to do something.
The problem with that is most of the time I don’t think things out completely and get a good plan of attack before I dive in. I take action too quickly. I end up taking one giant step forward then two steps back after I fail.
The reason I do this is because my time is valuable. I guess by doing things the way I do waists more than what I believe I’m saving. If I would do like Rich says and take the time to create something I’m proud of and that others would love, use and would help, then I would be so much farther ahead by now.
To answer you question on if I believe I’m on the right track to create a business that will give me the time and freedom I deserve, now I am. I will focus on this series of video’s and work towards that.
The only thing that will hold me back is I have to buy food and pay bills. That takes money, and money is what holds me back from accomplishing many things in life. I think that is another reason I multi-task and try to do things quickly. I want to make money so I can make more money.
I’ll figure it out someday.
Thank’s again for the great video.
Mike
I never knew learning can get this exciting! keep up the good work!I can’t wait for your next video on this subject,
thank you in advance
Artur
This is what is stopping me from being a Founder,
Pyradom The Planet—A True Story—-St. George , Utah . Sunday Dawn Discovery of something already there . It was a beautiful Sunday morning , warm , clear and sunny and all the birds of this area were singing as if they were speaking . I decided to go for a walk towards Silver Reef, Utah . As I walked , I was in deep thought . I stopped to take in the beauty of the morning .
I set my refill cup on the ground , next to a large rock , that I decided to sit upon. I lit a smoke , and picked my cup back up. . As I did , I looked @ the impression it left in the dirt .
Now pay attention , because this is how I found , Pyradom . My cup left a circle with an (x) in the middle of the circle . I’m a thinker a very curious man . I thought to myself , why did that just happen right here . Was someone or something trying to tell me to dig right there . I thought , heck all my children are sleeping , my wife is sleeping . Today is my day off . I’m on my own property , I’m gonna dig a hole right there where my cup left that x .
So I walked back to the house and grabbed my shovel , and commenced to digging . I dug a hole there three feet deep . Suddenly I hit something hard as a rock . It was a rock , that rock was three feet across in all directions . It was almost a complete round circle . Looked like a giant ball , it must have weighed as much as a car . So I proceeded to dig down deeper , all around this huge rock . I finally got to the bottom of this rock . I couldn’t budge it , not even an inch .
I started sweeping the dirt away from the base of this rock and I found a little white stone . The little stone was about the size of a fifty cent piece , and about the same thickness . I thought all this digging and all I find is a little white stone . What a waste of time , I get a little exercise for the morning , @ least . So I put the little stone in my pocket and put my shovel down . As I was putting down the shovel next to the hole I just dug , I saw another rock , it was 2 feet from my face . You see I was still standing in this hole I dug and the rock I saw was right in front of my face now .
This other rock was a peculiar shape . It was shaped like a big arrow head , it had 3 equal sides .( 7 x7 x7). The strange thing is , that it was pointing to a pile of rocks , that was 5 feet away from where I was digging .
I climbed out of the hole I was in and walked over to that little pile of rocks . This little pile of rocks was put there by someone a long , long time ago . How did I come to this assumption your thinking . Well it had green speckles of moss on the north sides of all the rocks that were stacked in that little pile . Now I’m thinking gees , maybe this is where I am suppose to dig .
I started to remove these rocks in this little pile and right below the pile was a flat rock . It was approximately one square foot and an inch thick . Right on the top of that flat rock was an x.. Now I’m thinking I found something , all I have to do is dig right there where I found this spot
So I proceeded to dig where I found this new spot . Wouldn’t you know it I hit another huge rock , this time the rock I found was bigger than the first rock I found . I proceeded to do the same thing I did to the first hole I dug . I dug down deeper and all around this rock and guess what . I found another little stone the same size as the white one I found . This one was black though . By now its 3:00 in the afternoon and all I have to show for all the digging I did was two little stones and two huge holes with big rocks in them , that I couldn’t even budge . Tired , frustrated and hungry , I walked back to my house . I took these two stones out of my pocket and looked @ them for a few minutes . Then I put them both in my briefcase .
I ate some and then went back over to the spots that I was digging @ all day long . I decided to stop digging for the rest of the day . I then started walking towards hidden valley . I climbed to the ridge of a small hill right next to where I lived in hidden valley and stopped @ the top . I turned around and looked back @ the valley below me . What I saw next , I couldn’t believe my vision .
As I looked over the valley I saw what looked to me like homes . these homes weren’t like any other homes I have ever seen in my life time . They were made of 3 to 6 inch thick glass . You could see through these new homes from the inside only . They were different clear see through colors . Some were red some were blue some were green some were purple and some were other clear see through colors .
You couldn’t see in them from the outside of them though . They had some sort of flat whitish coating on them . This coating took on the color that was under it , only in a different way . When the sun or the moon hit this new dwelling it glowed as if it were all the colors of a very beautiful rainbow . From a distance , they looked like a flame of fire . they were the most beautiful homes that I had ever seen . They had different foundations also , some of them looked as if they were placed into brass holders , that were off the ground a few feet . These holders or new foundations had lions paws @ all four corners of them . Some of them looked as if they were floating above a foundation , like if you walked over to this dwelling and touched it with a little force , it would either spin in a direction or just move smoothly and gently over this foundation . Kinda like it was earth quake proof also .
Then I started to think , these homes are 3 to 6 inch thick bullet proof glass , which means they wont burn , bugs cant eat them and they never wear out .
They last for thousands of years.They can be melted and reshaped in a different design and color though . Then I thought , we don’t need wood to build dwellings . I also thought now we don’t have to cut our trees down any more to build homes or businesses or warehouses etc. .We have plenty of sand on this planet and that is what glass is made from . As a matter a fact 70 % or more of planet earth is sand , and its all around us , under the oceans , around the oceans and in our deserts .
So I’m thinking , we can start regrowing all of our plants and trees , so we can close up the cancer we caused in our o-zone . With us putting back the plants our oxygen will get better and better for us all , and we will be curing our planet @ the same time . I thought wouldn’t it be great if we could put back what we had when Adam and Eve were here . The oxygen from all the trees and plants must have been great , and I bet there wasn’t any diseases either .
Then I saw another new design , it was a vehicle . This vehicle had no wheels , and looked as if it were floating 10 feet above the ground . This vehicle was almost silent , but you could here the sound of air being moved from its path as it moved smoothly , accurately and quietly through the space it was designated . There was no concrete or asphalt hwy. either .
So I looked harder and saw something buried below this vehicles path . It was a track with E.R.C.M. in it . This track couldn’t be seen it was 1 foot under ground , you couldn’t even tell it was there . The vehicles could detect it although , with there E.R.C.M. I have all the details on these new vehicles also . This place I saw also had a new way of transporting products and or material objects . I also have the information on these new transporters . Neither of these transporters used fossil fuels to operate them . They used (E.R.C.M). . So now vehicles do not pollute , which also helps close the o-zone cancer. I also noticed they weren’t made of steel . I also have all the information on these new vehicles .
Sunday, 23 February, 1988 . I saw many new things that day and for many more days after that . I have just begun to put what I have known for 10 years now , to my own personal record keeping program . I’m not sure if this planet is ready for this change , but I am going to let the right people know about this starting today .
From what I have now , this changes the way all earthlings live @ the present time . This will create various new employment and our economy will be great . There is so much to do with the reestablishment of our planet , it may take 50 years to cure all the problems we as humans have created .
But not to worry , I have all the cures . We just need to implement these new ways of life to establish what should have been from the beginning . From that day till now , I have received over 100 more new ways of putting this planet to Pyradom settings .
This is the beginning of Pyradom The Planet . I did notice something else while I was seeing all of this. There was still a sort of order or compliance . Which certain people had charge of . I saw a little hand held flat screen piece of equipment , that one person held , this person I assumed was a peace-person .
The person in front of him had his hand on this handheld screen . I assume it was for I.D. purposes . The weapon this peace-person had , was not for killing , but for sedation purposes only .I then realized that peacekeepers have changed from killers to just transporters , from point a to point b . They had rights only to transport , nothing else . Trouble makers , if any , were sedated ,transported and cured of there personal problems .
I noticed this community was surrounded by plants . There were plants every where . There were also 3 lakes of water located in 3 different locations of this community . In one of these lakes, they were raising lobsters . In the second lake, they were raising crabs . In the third lake, they were raising fish . I also noticed fruit trees were every where , they were in great abundance . All around this community were fields of vegetables . You have to remember E.R.C.M. ,it was there , but you couldn’t see it . I saw a receiving center for tangible products . Which were distributed throughout this community .
There were new forms of employment created . Now everyone had something to do . As a bigger picture , all communities were linked to there counties then to there territories then to there state . The states were then linked to there country . Their country was linked to the United Order . The United Order was ran by the entire planet , with community, territory, state and country representatives . Kinda like what we have now in a way , but better . You ask why better ?
Everyone , everyone is linked to this new system . Everyone must report to there community daily . By computer , why you ask . Just so not only your community knows where you are or where you will be . ,The entire planet will know where any one person is @ any given time . All must comply to this for the safety of our entire planet . There will not be any more Saddam’s or Ladens . No more Hitlers or any type like any I just named .
All humans will be fed and have medical care . Everyone or every family will have a two week paid vacation . No one will be poor , and no one will be homeless . Every one will still earn a living, there wont be any lazy people . We still wont be equal , but I guess we can live with that . There has always been smarter people than others , and they expect to be treated better or @ least differently than others . Why, because they are what makes and keeps this planet in order and running smoothly and improving it always . So they should have it a little easier for the jobs they are doing are of greater thought or brain power .Until all eventually become equal, which may be never , we will still have leaders . This is what will make our world a better place to live in and a happier life for all whom have to be here .
See My Problem,Very Big Task,
Sincerely , Gary A. Parenti / Pyradom
PS. I am a newbie trying to build a Blog…
PPS. I will be following you and a few others…
Thank you for your vision and your material. It has been very helpful.
I am a Founder and giving birth to a vision as a membership Internet site to reach globally. Just now finishing the tail end touches on the business plan and looking for start-up capital as well as team building. As a Founder, I am very much looking forward to manifesting the vision successfully and expanding. After over 18 years of research in women’s studies where I had the opportunity for vast amounts of time and space to bring in the vision, I am excited about its birth.
Since my background is not in business as such, I am not sure of even the questions I need to ask…so a structure for and the steps toward the business development side would be very useful: where to create LLC, deal making, potential sources for funding, things to be aware of, etc. including how to have a massive huge launch. Hmmm, to start thinking about it now, can you recommend any tropical island beaches?
Thank you,
Stephany Lane Yarbrough
I have my first e-book, sales letter, auto-responder series, and (1) so far marketing articles. What I don’t have is sales. I think I have done better than average to get this far but I am still not where I need to be.
There always seems to be something that stops me that needs some expert help to get around/resolve as I move forward with this project.
I think a mentorship would be terrific but everything I have looked at so far has been very expensive with no guarantee what they provide will work.
What I would really like to see is a mentor program that let you pay as you go. In other words the mentor would get paid something up front and a % or fee from all the profits they claim they will help you receive (agreed upon before any mentor work begins). Now this would really be putting the money where the mouth is.
And by the way…the only option for me is founder.
Rick,
I am an internet business newbie, & the one thing that could stop me from becoming a founder is the financial costs up front.
Understanding & implementing the steps will be difficult but not insurmountable.
I’m certainly not a founder, not even a strong entrepreneur at the moment. Too many distractions, not enough cash flow to branch out – feel pretty stymied. I don’t mind working hard, I want to leave a legacy – will do what it takes. I just can’t get over the hump.
Thanks.
NEWBEE I KEEP AVOIDING INVOLVING MY SELF BECAUSE OF TIME RESPONSIBILITY I DON’T WANT THE AT THE HELM RESPONSIBLITY TO CONSUME ME. FINDING THE TEAM PLAYERS IS MOST IMPORTANT TO ME. FOLLOW THRU IS ANOTHER FLAW WHICH I THINK COMES FROM THE DISTRACTIONS THAT COME INTO CONFLICK WITH GOAL SETTING. I LOVE BEING SELF IMPLOYED BUT I HAVE SOME SET IDEARS OF WHICH JOBS I CAN CARRY OUT EFFECTIVELY, WHICH I THINK KEEPS ME FROM TAKING ACTION STEPS TO PRODUCE RESULTS. I LIKE THE FOUNDER CONCEPT IT WOULD FIT MY DESCRIPTION OF MY INTENT TO BUILD SOMETHING BEYOND ME. IT WOULD
ALSO GIVE ME A SENSE OF PURPOSE.
WOW! More pivotal principles that lead to incredible leverage and freedom for entrepreneurs! Thanks!
Rich, you describe me to a tee! I am the chief cook and bottle washer. We have a small network of technology sites, the main one of which will produce just over $3 million this year in sales for our merchant partner, earning us well over 6 figures in just the second year.
We are up 42% on last year, but it gets header very day. I am the main ‘content writer’ and cannot let go. It is that role and the constraints it puts on the business that stops us scaling everything and repeating what we are doing by, 3, 4, 5 and more sites. We have the technical ability but not the creative output.
I need to replace me with a writer that can do all the every day reviews and technical posts, so I can spend my time creating ‘greatness’, and writing the once a week traffic and link pulling stuff that I love and moving on to create more properties.
Teach us how to find and train really great writers Rich. People that can write reviews like our . If I can do that, without all the fear that is holding me back, then our busines really can grow to amazing levels.
I love how you put into words the vision I’ve always had for a business. I’m a newbie just starting out, but I’ve always envisioned building something that could sustain and grow on it’s own if I build it right. Thank you for the encouragement.
Thanks for the video…a great introduction.
I run an off-line business and have a number of prospective online products to develop. I’m investigating affiliate marketing and learning so that I can implement the product development down the track.
I have bought some training courses and products (so I have started out as an Opportunity Seeker) but primarily to learn…I have already started unsubscribing from irrelevant sites. Hopefully I was always on the right track…I certainly feel that your video has helped clarify a direction.
For the answer to your question, I am still torn between the need to produce revenue and create time, so I am not anywhere near your Founder description yet, but would like to focus on that as a target. I still have to “let go”. Have been thinking about building some revenue from affiliate marketing to then re-invest in the new product online business…but that doesn’t create the time to actually do it. Bit of a vicious circle I guess…got to move forward.
Hi Rich, sometimes when we say things and latter go back and listen to what we’ve just said the light comes on. I’ve coached young people for 42 years and that has happened to me many times. It comes down to motivation and the level of discipline that motivation gives you. What is the motivation for the young man sitting next to you, the cameraman, the editor and so on. Do you believe they’re motivated by you going on vacation and having the time of your life. So why do they do what they do while you hangout at the cigar bar. You have to be an inspirational person and/or the business has to provide the inspiration to have loyal hard working employees. You are right the vision is the key but inspiration and consistent discipline is the engine that runs the train.
This video is totally bad-ass guys. Many truths revealed on so many different levels. I agree with Michelle M. on top. Two key words…. “freedom” and “flexibility.” The business should run on autopilot if you have a true founder mentality and strategic system in place.
Definitely looking forward to the next video. Chuck Norris wears Schef pijamas ….
Rich and Todd, thanks for the info. I’d like to share my position in my dream business. As a massage therapist of 15 years I’ve recently (3.5 years ago) gone on my own to develop massage therapy clinics with my Name and my technique. What I’d like to do is teach my technique to many other therapists and have them grow into great entrepreneurs. You know that a successful service based business is reliant on new client activation and repeat business. One of my struggles is teaching this to the team members. I must say that I’ve just listened to and watched Todd’s latest posts and I’ve very interested. I think the automation of followup is a very successful addition to allow me to step out of the “I have to do everything” mentality. I also retail a few nutritional products and pain relief cream as well as orthotics. Your advice is appreciated and welcomed. I will be watching all your video’s.
Thanks in advance. I love the location of your set. Building my dream to have what you have.
Gord in Canada
I’ve always aspired to the founder role, but always had to take a job (and usually one that I hate) to attempt to make ends meet and always spend an inordinate amount of time renegotiating past due obligations, leaving me without resources, time, and energy to do much of anything that I want to do. Incidentically, I don’t find anything particularly hard to do, just not interesting: I’d rather just organize and systemize some activity (any decent activity will do) and leave it to its own devices. And then go do the same thing again.
Hi Rich & Todd,
My biggest block to become a founder on my business is I just started and the business is not stable yet. I need to change the mind set from entrepreneur to founder now and need some guide.
David
To answer the newbie question, what would stop me would be a lack of knowledge(how to) and lack of support (guidance).
I like the founder concept and this video certainly stimulates much thought. Thanks
Conrad
Rich,
Very inspiring talk. Its amazing how simple common sense knowledge is missed with caught up in the the day to day running of a business.
Thanks for the content. Keep up the good work.
Kind regards,
Nilesh H Gohil
http://www.PublicAngel.com
Hey guys!
That was a totally enlightening video!
I had a few paradigm shifts from what Rich said..
1) I’m not on the path because I’m stuck at product creation. I don’t want to put others’ products out because I believe I can give much better quality content to my followers and that’s what matters more to me – that I create high-quality content that amplifies my credibility.
2) I think what’s stopping me is having the money to hire people to move the wheels in my system.
I get the impression that for me to be able to free myself from the business and do what I love to do, I need to have others manage the day-to-day activities.
Always say ICAN!
SaiF
The World’s First Teen
Personal Development Video Blogger
Hello, Thanks for the video Todd and Rich, very logical and empowering and a joy in itself to see others with a mind set such as yours.
I myself am working in a business that is very near to giving me a founder lifestyle and believe it is so because of the fundamental ideas we had from the beginning, being very similar to the IKEA philosophy.
The right ideas and the right people are key and as you say, one must let go of the ego and let the job get done at its best, whoever that may be. True teamwork!
After this success, I would like to start again on a new project, which is not decided yet what it will be, but will enjoy every moment of its creation, work is done best when you work, aka, stress-free and without deadlines, I agree completely.
Thank you again.
Looking forward to your next videos!
I would like a business coach, a mastermind group, or just a mentor that takes me step-by-step and shows me the path.
I feel sometimes overwhelmed with my business – can you help on that?
Cheers,
Torsten
We have a family business that has been doing ok for several years now. My father has his old school ways of doing things and has had some success, but never any time or freedom. A lot of the online marketing strategies have opened his eyes to drawing in leads, but I am still having trouble trying to systematize the business to get back some of the freedom you and other speak of such as M. Gerber. Bring on the knowledge and tools!
Hello Rich
My biggest constraint is trying to find the appropriate systems and business managers to support my vision. I have been driving my business forward for about 18 months now and with each success I am fielding a break down in the systems that hinder my growth because the team is falling short of providing the appropriate technical support to fulfil the vision…
I have been frustrated and ill at ease because I am generating profits to re-invest however I am spending money on cleaning up other peoples mistakes too. I am a “creator” according to my Roger Hamilton profile and so I have less time to do what I do best because I am “spinning my wheels” dealing with systems stuff. I have decided to tackle this head on by outsourcing to the best systems company I can find, offer a JV on one product (which has seen profits but did not fulfil potential due to “system”) and have another go. I will never give up because I am learning all the time. My motto if you can “see” it and “believe it” you can achieve it. Thanks for the video it reinforces my ambition and choice to succeed no mattter what. Lee
Rich,
This video was crap .. I dire you to walk away and let people like Todd run the business or have anyone else but you set and control the day to day direction.
Anyone that was honest here Rich, would tell you the same thing .. sure you can travel and spend time with family .. but you had better check a daily report of the choices made in the business and make sure the direction is still good .. else you will have nothing in a year or so.
This video is a perfect example .. you Rich had to get this video focused .. Todd failed .. and you jumped in to get the product done.
Just being honest … you need to drop the God play and remember the basics .. which of course can include travel and fun with friends and family.
You may hate or not care at all about this post .. but maybe someday when you wake up and wonder what happened you’ll remember this post in the back of your mind ..
A True Friend !
Rich & Todd,
Thank you for opening my eyes to my new goal… not to make money but to help (REALLY HELP) people in my industry. Me and my partner started our business to make money and of course to help business owners but the real reason was to make money. You both have given me an idea that it’s ok to partner with others in my industry to make my new goal happen.
Todd also I wanted to thank you personally for being such a great help and friend.
Thanks again and God bless,
Duane Brumitt
First of all, thx – I am definitely allowing the “add more to too much” mentality constrain me! I have allowed overwhelm to creep in and have believed that I need someone that knows html, basic blogging stuff, what platforms, where to start, etc… Here is a quick snap shot: We serve a market place of small to medium size businesses with a software solution that runs their back office, however what they really need is strategy, vision, focus, encouragement, etc… We have, or have access to a wealth of information that they need – that would help them! I ache for them and know that we can help them much more than we are currently doing, but my partner and I are too busy treading water/surviving. I see an opportunity to transform our business into an ultimate resource and valued partner vs. just a seller of software! The challenge is that we are massively top heavy ($$$) so we are trapped in the cycle of working in the business vs. on it. Expending all available energy on basics (traditional sales and client service stuff) vs. setting up strategies that transform us!!! Here is the kicker, I was very close to enrolling in one of your coaching programs, but at the time did not know enough about you to find the money to make it happen. After listening to the video, I have begun devouring a 12 month marketing blueprint that I had from you (but did not read – duh?!?). Thanks for any direction that you can provide.
On the path – because I learn from all the gurus, about what NOT to do.
Your video was and beautiful and inviting musical note in a world full of noise! One key constraint is that I serve a mass amount of small to medium size businesses in an industry that is behind the curve in adopting internet activity. Many of them do not have business emails and they are trapped working in their business (as slaves vs. strategic entrepreneurs). I am sure there is more than I am seeing concerning ways to reach our world, and I can use my traditional marketing channels to grow my list to at least a specialized few thousand as a foundation… but where to start?!?!?! I believe we can truly change their quality of life in business and revolutionize our industry, but… but… but… MY BUT IS IN THE WAY! Thanks for any help!!!
I am entrepreneur, but I’m the main actor in my bussiness and have to do all the work. I am looking to educate myself and find the right path to freeing up my time as the founder.
Thanks.
Rob
Hi Rich, I wanted to tell that the video was great for a newbie like myself. Just starting out in the internet game and wanted to get a good start. The video does put you in a different mind set as for just starting out but I would love to get your feed back on how to start if your new to the internet game?
Thanks
Kye Chumley
It was an eye opening experience for me.
I have been in business of my own for many years.
I had a number of employees and a business partner also.
But I have been always the most valuable asset my company had.
That means the company can not survive without me.
Foolishly, however, I had a kind of pride in it.
I realize now I have to change my mindset to think and act like a founder. Thanks.
Thank you for a succinct discussion on the different meanings of business types for e-biz.
I have been looking at starting on the ‘net’ for several years and because I don’t know the technical aspects of building a website and the tricks of search engines, etc., it has held me back from starting.
I now have a responsibility to be on line as the representative inviting businesses to Europe. In addition I would love to try my hand at marketing on line and becoming one of those “Founders”.
I have a business and engineering background so I need to turn myself loose and now is the time. You have helped kick start my potential with greater realization. I am very appreciative of this knowledge.
Wade Hurst
To answer the question, I am extremely far from becoming a “founder”.
Like many others, I started online with no business plan or strategy. I was simply looking for a way to make some money, and am feeling more disjointed and confused about my “business” today then I was when I began 2 years ago.
I am chained to a chair and a desk 7 days a week. My attempts at outsourcing have provided little success…
My guidance for my outsourcers has been extremely poor because I have not taken the time to develop systems and put them in writing. Sometimes it just seems easier to do it all myself, even though I realize that is not the result that I am attempting to achieve.
Yep..I need to learn how to organize this business of mine much better so that I can leave it for a week or two without worrying that it’ll all fall apart while I’m gone.
Thanks for another great lesson and all the food for thought.
Jane
Great video guys, looking forward to hearing more. You’ve touched on a concept that I am very familiar with. I have been printing “Founder” on business cards for a long time. The downside has been getting comitted people to carry on the business. I look forward to more videos!
Thanks for the insight, great video. I fall under the opportunity seekers until now.
I can sick to one business with the mindset of delegating soon after and have my freedom.
Rich and Todd,
Thank you for your “Founders” presentation. It was both strategic and excellent. I am a newbie w/a 40-hr/week job that aspires to be an Internet Marketing, business building Founder. Right now my biggest hurdles all seem to be technical. But when I make becoming a Founder my goal, my biggest hurdles involve moving up stages toward that goal. Since I still have some Opportunistic tendencies, I need to know some steps from moving away from that to true entrepreurship. Then I need to know the steps of moving from entrepreneurship to being a founder: especially in regards to outsourcing and building a team of “All Stars.”
Thanks for this video series and keep up the good work.
Curt Siemers
Inspirational video. I like the idea of being a founder, rather than more time being required as the business grows. From what I have learned about entrepreneurship so far, is that it seems to be necessary to have some sort of a product to sell. The product should create ongoing sales, but also spin-off products and/or more business opportunities.
I have ideas for products — in a very focused niche, but if they were to get done, I think they could do very well in the market. I am in the learning/info gathering stage and am having a hard time breaking out of that mode and getting to the doing. Focusing on tasks and deciding what is important is the biggest challenge at the moment.
Looking forward to the next video.
This is great information, Thanks. It is hard to keep being persistent when at the beginning of this journey. sales are needed to make money, which is needed to outsource, to make money to pay others to do the business.
Great video I like the idea of been a founder.This is my dream at the moment I’m the founder of my product with intention to promote it when complete,and make money.
Interesting concept. I am in the beginning stages of the journey to build a successful business. I have follwed Mr. Abraham for many years and I think this is a great spin-off what I already have aquired and learned. I am looking forward to what is next in the pipeline, and are willing to push my limits and think outside the box.
Thanks Again
Fredrik
I had to postpone my business for health reasons. I started it to learn about net-work marketing. My purpose was to supplement my retirement income and possiibly help an organization we volunteer for. After I learn how to work on the internet, Founder would be a worthy goal, but I fear it’s a good ways off. Thank you for what you are doing, and I hope it spreads like wildfire!
Rich you have hit it right on with your insight. I am signed up for your Sticking Points Solutions and thanks for having Jay provide this for us.
Constraints: getting the freedom away from the chain is a very good metaphor. It goes along with working on the business instead of in the business .
You know one thing I don’t hear from most internet marketing people explain is the importance of setting up a proper foundation, i.e. LLC, S Corp., ect.?
more detial
I am not a newbie but have yet to get my business off the ground. Have too many newsletters and emails although have unsubscribed to a good number in recent weeks !!
Information overload, vague information and help which does little to move me forward are dividing my Focus.
Outsourcing. I have some information about this and it is suggested that Philippino workers are both good at what they do at a sensible cost but like many people cannot afford to employ local (UK) people who would cost too much.
It would be good to outsource many things as you suggest Rich but how and where. No one seems to explain this but instead say outsource your work !!
Thanks for your help.
John Davies
My current bis was primarily offline since interception. I was the founder.
I am now bringing it online, and things are slow moving. The path has been rocky over the last year. Seems things offline are not always true online.
We are rebuilding, tweaking and redefining what are bis goals, mission statement, and the overall path to take online.
How to outsource some tasks, and take advantage of new hires in specialized areas.
Rich, thanks for the great info.
Well I have started my blog and would love to see it run on auto-pilot and me do the promo work only in the long run rather than stuck at the keyboard writing lists everyday. It is all fun but I’d rather be known as the founder in the long run rather than the person picking up the phone and doing the Emails everyday.
I am in the apparel business, just starting (first with e-commerce). Because of a very limited budget, I have to do most of the work, thus must be very smart with the money.
I am starting very small and building strategically. Being more of a creative person, I already know, as things get better I will have to relinquish managerial duties and stick to creative direction. I would love to learn whatever that will get me to sail my boat smoothly.
Thanks
Victor
Great video! My challenge is to sift through all the ideas and interests I have and pick one to implement. I love the founder concept!!!
Thanks for your insight as it specifically identifies my career interests and lifestyle moving forward. My goal is to build systems and income that survive me and will provide ongoing financial security for my family.
My challenges as a beginner are to filter the “noise” from all the gurus who have the latest and greatest wealth generating systems. Who do you trust? I think I’m on track with you guys.
My other challenge – taking care of short term cash needs to cover living expense and having enough left over to reinvest in growing a viable business. In other words, gathering momentum and leverage to expand exponentially.
Thanks again for your terrific programs.
Best Regards,
Jay
My Oh My what a dream – to be a founder. I have just began a new website and am on my way to run my online business. I believe I am on the path to some financial and personal freedom, but there certainly are a few bumps and detours along the way.
I have gone from information overload to ‘put the ideas into action’ – one step at a time, put my website up four day ago, and it is #8 on the first page of Google, so here’s to success.
Good video guys.
Peace & Blessings,
Clint
Rich and Todd,
Looking forward to more of your business insights like this one. I became an entreprenuer and business owner for two very simple reasons. One- I was out of a job and needed something to do and didn’t want to work for anyone that didn’t share my work ethic and two- I had idea’s about what a marketing business should look like and wanted to share my expertise. Becoming a “Founder” in my businesses is the next logical step. In the past 8 months you have inspired me to become a better business entreprenuer and your insight has made me a believer in your systems of achieving my goals.
Looking forward to more of your ideas.
Thanks,
Hal
Excellent information. Much to think about and good destination between founder and entrepreneur. The move to an entrepreneur is really one to leave my “day” job and have more time with family and doing those things that I have passion for. Looking forward to the next video.
I just found strategic profits a month ago and I bought GPS 2.0 and read some of the free reports. I have never become such a big fan of any brand, person or company as I did with Strategic Profits and Rich Schefren. Absolutely LOVE everything you guys do. Thank you!
I’m starting to grow my business (of course I am I bought GPS) and I’m setting up systems to work for me, but I don’t think I can become the founder that I want to..sitting on a café chillin’ and knowing my business is growing, due to the fact that my backend product is a coaching program I offer over the phone. I don’t do most of the coaching myself. I bring in people to some sort of affiliate program, which I have (I choose too) do for my business to make the most profit. So I have a lot of potentiel free time (spending the time studying Strategic Profit stuff) but right now I still have to work “in” my business.
Truly looking forward to the next videos to see if I can come up with some ideas on how to free myself completely and still make money.
Thank you so much Rich & Todd! You’ve made another great video for everyone! …and talk about the Big Picture, man, you guys were all over it and I can’t wait for your next video!
I’m in the post newbie, early entrepreneur stage. I’m building a list, blogging, creating a product and promoting a handful of affiliate products. I’m tied to my office day and night and have been for 20 odd months. It’s nice to know that you’ve found a way to break out of that role and it gives me more hope than I had previously. Steve D.
What is holding me back?
I am stuck in analysis paralysis…should I do affiliate marketing? sell a product? what to sell? and it goes on and on…and I am trying to do it all myself (at least at the beginning to keep costs low).
Thanks for the great first video!
Thank you for the great video! What a great concept! A business that grows without being dependent on you.
I have to admit that I do not have a business that does not run by itself. I think what prevents me right now is the lack of resources and team members to coordinate the work properly. Money to hire is specifically an issue. I am really just getting started, so there is great potential here.
I appreciate your willingness to make this video and willingness to help other people succeed.
I am a newbie, sort of. I have spent 2.5 years researching oppurtunities. I have a 2.5 year swipe file of quality marketing emails. I have a Dan Kennedy newsletter subscription, a Yanik Silver Maverick Business Insiders subscription, and a Mike Filsaime newsletter subscription. The only thing missing was being able to leave the comfort zone of mediocrity (disguised as a decent paying job). After listening to a cd with Bill Glazer, Dan Kennedy, and Robert Ringer it inspired me to take action. Comfort zone WAS my biggest obstacle, but I am past that. I have found much value in this video and I like how the Founder mentality is described. The Founder model sounds familiar, almost like a Company instead of “Bob’s Affiliate Link Google Paying PPC Rewards Reaping Man I Hope I Get Some Sleep Because I Can’t Stop Thinking I Need To Check My Keywords Again Internet Marketing Business”.
Thanks for the Great Video.
Clifton
The one sticking point I have about my business and moving it forward is actually finding those people who will be a great addition to the business as opposed to being a parasite.
Thanks,
Thank you for this enlightening introduction. My wife, Marlena, and I have already started a business that contains many of the elements you have discussed. Designer Scarves by Marlena is a company that reproduces fine art and photography by contemporary artists worldwide on pure silk. Currently we have 48 artists of note participating in our on-line catalog. Our purposes are to first of all help empower the artists by providing them with a new venue for displaying their work outside of the typical gallery. By producing their work on silk and selling it through our website as high end fashion apparel they gain recognition and acceptance that they would not otherwise receive. Also the artists are not shackled by paying half or more of their sales price to the agent or galleries. The articles we produce are of the highest quality in limited editions so that the perceived value is kept high. Our aim is to encourage the artists themselves to develop their entrepreneurial skills so that they are the most effective sales people for their work. We are enjoying growing success in this, but there is one major constraint which is to make the leap from the essential multitasking that a fledgling business requires to the more successful model that you have discussed. I am an artist whose business acumen is limited, but my dream has always been to found a company that will sustain itself and grow far beyond my lifetime.
I anticipate learning much more from you along these lines and hope that you will find it convenient to view the website. You will then see exactly where we are in this and probably see immediately what our next steps should be.
My best regards,
R. (Robbie) Burger
Very enlightening as usual. I lost my job 4 years ago and your writings were the first I started to follow. At that stage I had some sort of powerless mentality but then my mother died and I realized that life is too short to linger on the past.
I always had this dream since I was 5 years of age, to help people especially the orphans and the aged in Africa. That is now my purpose in life to start an organization (not a charity) to make that dream come true.
Except for the fact that I am starting this business on a shoestring and cannot afford coaching, the one thing that I have to overcome in answer to your question, is the lack of knowledge on how to do this.
You will most probably not be able to teach me all I need because I know your organization cannot attend to every Tom, Dick and Harry’s needs but I’m looking forward to anything that can guide me.
I have the purpose, vision and will make it so keep those videos rolling.
Thanks for all the helpful “stuff” so far.
Best Regards
Jac
I am just starting out, but I’m hopefully on the right track. I am being mentored by Alex Jeffreys, who I understand is also one of your students, so hopefully some of that valuable information has made its way into his coaching sessions. I’m trying to incorporate planning into my business along with outsourcing nonessential tasks, which I believe is part of what you are saying. However, the goal seems to be that all tasks, whether essential or nonessential, need to be done by “staff” to free me from any day-to-day responsibility. I like the sound of that.
JR
Wow! I really need to hear this. I am fairly new and I am the “chief cook and bottle washer” in my business. I have about 6 people who are helping me but it all funnels through me. I am still working a full time job and I do want the freedom to create as well as help others become free.
I say “bring it on”. This couldn’t come at a better time. I am ready.
Cynthia Goranson
Hello -
What I gleaned from the video was that freedom is the goal for a (successful) entrepreneur. At my stage of startup, freedom is farthest from my mind. I need a slingshot to launch before I can think about freedom and automation. If my business idea is not working, I need to reset my business plan and start over. As an example, none of the affiliate programs I tried worked out in a meaningful way after a year and I gave up.
Now as a newbie I am looking to launch an eBook business online. I have dabbled in affiliate programs, with little success.
My goal is to start my own brand eBook business on various topics. Please advise on the best course a newbie can take.
My knowledge is limited but I am a fast learner.
I’ve got 2 sites up now and neither brings me in any business. I’m REALLY frustrated as I’ve been struggling for 9 months and am only poorer for my efforts.
What is stopping me? I believe its a lack of internet knowledge. I don’t know whether I should use FTP, C-Panel, or WISIWIG technology to access my sites. It takes me 5 hours to figure out how to set something up through FTP and I still don’t get it done(I’ve given up on FTP actually.) Should I hire someone to help me out? I’m feeling I don’t have the cashflow or revenues as I’m running on a bootstrap budget here. I have the brains—I just don’t have the specific knowledge and I feel like I’ve run out of time.
Traffic. 27-50 per month. Totally inadequate.
Not doing opt-in anymore because no one was signing up and the cost of the software became an issue.
I’ve been trying several well known tactics without any success and I’m skeptical.
This video was awesome. You hit the nail on the head on bcoming founder.
Rich,,
I listened to the 2nd video first without any catches but this the first video was all scratchey. I couldn’t listen to it. So I am downloading it in real player.
I will try to listen to it later. BUT why does this happen. I am using a satellite connection. Sometimes there is a definite drop in broadband but not today.
Is there such a thing as providing videos for slower connections – one that can be watched regardless (without problems or not)?
So in answer to a comment about the video I don’t know what to say since I am unable to watch it yet.
I think that in some ways I’m on the path to being able to take my self out of the business I own, however not enough so.
My biggest challenge is HOW best to grow the company successfully without cash resources. Really I’d like the nuts and bolts about how to go from X people to XX people and be successful. This is tricky! Can I do this entirely with a virtual team?
I have been tinkering around the edges of Internet Marketing for some 2 years. Based on the video interview, I still regard myself as a newbie. Circumstances now force me to develop my business online full time. My constraint is that I have a very limited or virtually no budget. The most important point this video brought home to me is the urgent need to make the paradigm shift from being an opportunity seeker to that of a founder – thank you! At this point I am forced to do everthing that I am able to but as soon as I can I will start to outsource more and more so that I am not the constraint to grow.
A great interview.
To answer your question,
I am slooooly on the way to becoming a foundress.What is holding me back is
1. Time & focus. I often spend so much time working IN my business I don’t have the time to work ON my business.
2. Naysayers. I have several people in my life who don’t have an entrepreneural mindset, let alone a founders mindset. They think I am crazy. And, although I have absolute confidence in my skills & abilities, I get weary of be brought down.
It would be great if you could discuss in one of your videos how you dealt with naysayers – if you had to deal with them.
Thank you
Why is it important to identify potential barriers, that will keep you from achieving the level of founder of an organization.
newbie here, Think I am starting on right track just by listening , learning , Setting goals ,Believing, and the ability to help make this world better.I believe “many hands make for a lighter load.”is what it really takes .
Thanks for your efforts. I am on track, but could get more on the fast track with more hard hitting internet guerilla (little money and lots of bang) marketing ideas that can be implemented simply and right now. Basically living the champagne life on a beer budget. I look forward to more specificity from you all in the internet guerilla marketing arena.
Thanks,
L Pruitt
Hey Rich,
Derrick Ali here again… Saying Thanks and Kudos on delivering to us the “FOUNDER” concept Mind-set needed to Make our Success Plans MEANINGFUL ACTIONABLE and ACCOUNTABLE… “ala” Man-in -The-Mirror.
My take away has shown that I am still the Chief and Bottle washer of My biz. No Excuses just habit of self-defeating behavior which most- entrepreneurs suffer… even those whom know better… seldom fail to ACT BETTER.
Which is Why I here-to-fore resolve to ACT on the Business Process Systems I was able to draft thanks to your Manifesto and Leak Chapter… And Seek out an Accountability Partner whom I respect and know Will Hold me to My Awesome Business Success Model!
Thanks for Everything You’ve Done and All that You Continue to Do for Us Rich!
~Cheers~
Derrick Ali
http://www.YourTwitterProfits.com
Jane, you are not alone. But keep up and you will be ok.
Rich and Todd,
Thank you for sharing so much insite. My husband and I have been real estate investors for many years, but have never had a web presence. As I commented to Mary above, we are transforming our business to give back to the community. There are so many service personnel, as well as other homeowners, who are losing their homes that we have decided to do something about helping with the situation. Rich the big AH-HA moment was when you addressed the business aspect as a founder. Since we will be drawing on our past experiences, but just changing the format of our business, this gives us the perfect opportunity to look through different eyes. What a breakthrough!! I have followed you for some time and needed the right perspective. Also, thank you for sharing Tom McCarthy’s inspirational videos. He also made it quite clear–what do you want? Thanks again, and I look forward to the future videos.
Great Stuff! I am still the “chief cook and bottle washer” in my business as well. I have 5 people that work for me but they are mainly just worker bees. All of the main decisions and behind the scenes work is done by me. I still work a full time job on top of it all and with a wife and 4 kids I look forward to learning how to become a founder!
Thanks for the insight!
Newbie moving onto entrepreneur and now excited about becoming a founder. In the past year I have abandoned a business that was costing me money and brought me no joy. I have joined a new business opportunity that has plenty of room for growth but I was unable to tap into that potential because of being chained down by my job.
What is good about it, is that this provides multiple opportunities to develop passive income and some of that is already showing up on my commission statement. Just been rereading Timothy’s book and am now thinking of outsourcing some of the work that I do, both for advertising and growing my current business and for research and developing new income streams. It is not that I could not do these things, I might even enjoy doing them, there just is not enough time for one person to do them all.
My competitors have just ceased to exist because they are stuck at Entrepreneur thinking stage. Thank you, Rich!
Cashflow being limited, time to take small steps. From now on I will be spending 60% of my time on developing multiple income streams with the help of outsourcing partners so I can be completely job free within the next 2 years or sooner. The other 40% will be dedicated to founding the business that can grow and thrive and help people with or without me.
God bless you,
Caroline van der Hout
I really appreciate your ability to think of “what’s next” … what’s next in the evolution. Not many of us are trained to think that way (though I believe it can be developed), so being exposed to someone who is saying something we’ve never thought about before is mind-expanding. I haven’t achieved what you described with any of my solopreneur business ventures because of puritanical work ethic (being raised in a blue collar family), being a perfectionist (not willing to release control), limiting beliefs about financial success, discomfort with the thought of too much leisure time (that’s a recent revelation … surprised me) & simply “thinking in the box” never having stretched my mind to that limit yet. But I believe in what you’re saying, and I think most of us can get there if we’re willing to open our minds to it. Thanks so much for showing me the way .. I’m looking forward to the next video.
my restrictions that i am looking to circumvent is energy and focussed time chunks around my hectic unpredictable job scedule…i am gaining clarity and i think this video was a tremendous resource for me..very insightful..thanks
Good one Guys,
I made the mistake in 2001 of buying a bricks and mortar business which I grew on my own. I became the marketing sales production packaging artwork van driver fork lift operator and product developer. The only thing I outsourced was my accountant. Then one day 3 years ago via word of mouth my company doubled its turnover. I ended up working flat out every day inc Sunday to keep up. I never saw friends and family and it was killing me. Due to soaring gas prices all the raw materials were increasing 5 to 6% ever couple of months, and as I was driving 55 thousand miles a year the increase in fuel prices was also a big problem. I couldn’t employ anyone because there was just not enough to pay them. I sold off the company and got out. I vowed to never get into this hole again.
In the last year I have studied IM and now I very clearly realise my next business is going to be the complete antithesis of the last one. In the last year I have learnt loads of stuff as I have had the luxury of working on IM every day. But am I an expert in everything now…no. Do I want to be … no. My old mindset is now dead. I never want to fall into the trap again of working in my business, that’s just a stressful job.
My plan is to set the stage and motivate the best team I can find to take over the responsibility of achieving my plan. This will give me the freedom to stand back to see how the bigger picture is developing. I want to have the time to learn and be on the creative forefront and also want to travel again and get my life back.
I have just sold my house this week, a, to get out of debt, and b, to de- stress myself. I then will have the finances to bring the plan into action. The first thing will be looking to do is get a mentor as I can’t succeed living in isolation every day. I need to greatly increase my exposure and interaction with people. I’ve done over $25K in courses and software this year so I think that’s enough of learning the nuts and bolts.
Yes, I know what differentiates me from my competitors and know why my prospects and customers want to do business with me. I understand the founders concept. That is exactly why I have chosen to do what I am doing. However, moving from chief cook and bottle washer to be able to afford hiring the people to do the things you mention has been a viscious circle, especially with what has happened in the business during this economic downturn.
Greetings to Rich, Todd and the Strategic Profits Team,
I’ve been impressed. Still have lots of questions and have been veraciously seeking and studying everything I can to promote my business. I feel I have a gold mine and extremely valuable information to put out there. Yet I am still working alone because of not having the money currently to hire others. I have some who volunteers some help but they are not the professionals whom I need to get this business up and running as I know it needs to be with the exception of a very intelligent son who has helped me develop our website. To gather funds to the level we need from investors would require a business plan and that is also not my expertise though I am still working on doing this anyway–text book on such in one hand while I attempt to write my plan with the other. But for the most part I am still very overwhelmed by wearing all the hats. I understand about developing to be a founder but how do I get from step one–not enough help (with all the necessities of different business areas) so I can focus on what I do best. I did have some employees (low end pay)but it took much of my time to train them and I was also needing to developing what I wanted them to do and a system for my company. That in itself was a distraction from what I want to spend my time with (developing my ideas that are the core of my business). I seem to have been stuck at this stage for several years. If I could start with a team of professions in all the necessary areas who had the same vision and passion for our purpose I feel this business could soar. Right now I am still circling on the ground, wearing many hats and learning all the time about different aspects of business. I am so grateful for your ideas and look forward to more. Thank you so much for doing this.
Loray
Thanks Rich for this powerful information. I trying to start up an online business that would not need my day to day input to keep growing. I want to become a founder because at present I would fall under the bracket of opportunity seekers. I look forward to getting out of this frame of mind and start to think as a founder as I watch the rest of your coming videos. Thanks Rich and Todd.
This is great information. I always knew that I needed to change my thought process. This goes along with Robert Kiyosaki’s teachings, with the topic of hiring people that are smarter then you to run the business. We all need to understand that we can’t do everything and to delegate projects and jobs. And that is where I fear I might fall prey. I’m new to internet marketing, but I’m the kind of person that like to do things, all things, and I’m going to have to break that to have success coupled with peace and freedom. Good work guys! I really appreciate it!!
While my wife and I have started an off line gift basket business that we also want to expand to online. We are very much involved with everything. We have not looked at ways to hire employees, outsource and/or create an organization that can exist independent of ourselves. We will be looking at a strategy to grow the business with talent that can lead in our absence.
Keith
Hey guys,
Great ‘big’ thinking. Just starting out, with trying to learn as much as possible with our business, and keeping an eye to outsourcing. Hate to think about “employees”, but “partners” is a good working model for me. Keeps everyone on target. Looking forward to seeing your approach to this. Thanks for the videos!
I would love to be a founder and have a few ideas on what I want to do, they will take me part of the way but that’s about it.
I’ve learnt from writing for people, and having them make massive changes to the content in the early days, that having an ego or being overly ‘precious’ about things I create wasn’t going to get me anywhere. I decided to ditch the ego and the ‘it’s my baby’ attitude and focus on what I was ultimately getting out of it.
The thing that would worry me is being able to get and hold on to the people who could run the business and move it forward. Most things seem to come back to money and I’m just worried that I wouldn’t have enough in the early stages to be able to get and pay for the people who would let me step out of the picture.
Alan
Wow!
Thank you Rich and Todd. Rich, I think at this point I really do have to cop to being a fan because its 2:30 AM and I am so tired I’m queazy…but am I asleep? Naw, I’m watching youse in a cigah bah.
I love the idea of becoming a founder. And that is pretty much what I have in mind long term. Right now, we are needing to generate some decent income so I have created a multi-pronged approach.
To begin with, I am a baby boomer and my husband is 10 years my senior. So we don’t have a lot of time to be slaves to a business. Our home WAS our primary nest egg and you know how that strategy has turned out for so many boomers. So, here is my strategy and a lot of it has been influenced by you.
First, I am doing the strategic entrepreneur/opportunity thing to create passive income.
Second I am establishing a brand. The Spirit Maven has a couple of purposes. My current site is “The Spirit Maven Recommends” and I am blogging about and representing all of Judith and Jim’s Soft Sell Marketing and Spiritually oriented programs.
In addition, I will affiliate and represent other products of this genre The Spirit Maven Recommends will be completed this weekend. I am marketing Judith and Jim’s Bridging Heart and Marketing III conference set for October 9 -11.
I do not have a list yet so I have created some JV’s with Judith and Jim and some other folks where we make podcasts for them and we do some seo with the podcasts and in exchange, they send their list members to my site where the visitor has to opt-in to get the Mp3 (we are using this format because WE THINK it is more direct to pick up than a feed is).
So my partners get free publicity/marketing and I get their list which is highly targeted to my spiritual niche as I am only making podcasts in my niche, at the moment. We will see where this goes. We are having a lot of fun with it.
I write the scripts and “play Barbara Walters” and Steve, my husband, is the recording engineer. We will be branching into video production (using the Mp3 files) in the next few days thanks to YouTube and Traffic Geyser. We are really excited!
Judith Sherven thinks the podcast/Mp3 interviews will become a major part of our marketing business.
At the moment I am “Chief Cook and Bottle Washer” in that I will be writing all the blog posts and all of the articles and creating all the SEO necessary to get folks to notice this site. But this site can roll along with my photo and ghost writers EVENTUALLY.
So all of these elements (the affiliate sites, The Spirit Maven Recommends, the podcast interviews and videos) will eventually be separate divisions headed by individual managers under one rubric. And of course we will have our very own “Brian Johnson” overseeing the operations.
The Spirit Maven will also have a teaching blog and that is going up next. This blog site will be the platform for my writings and products, etc. This will go live very soon. It will be the home base for my product creation activities. And I will be the manager.
Meanwhile, we are seriously considering moving offshore, probably to Ecuador, so that we can live comfortably on my husband’s Social Security. The pressure of struggling to survive in this country with little money is counter productive to giving ourselves enough psychological space to carry the mindset of a founder. Survival pressures keep us at the level of opportunists.
My question is simply–WHERE DO YOU SEE THE HOLES IN MY THINKING?
Well now its 4:40 AM. I definitely think you got a good ROI on this video. I’m turning in because I have a site to launch this weekend.
Thank you so much for everything you do. I hope I have helped you and Todd to design a great course.
In Love and Light,
Arieljoy
So long video. I didn’t watch all. Why Todd is yelling? Rich care more about your health. ;-)
This video made it clear that I have more work to do to not be the “Chief Bottleneck” in my business
I’m currently a newbie for the fourth or fifth time. (False starts.) It will be very difficult for me to be a founder because I act like a founder before I have the right people and resources in place. In other words, my failure as an entrepreneur in stage one forestall my chances of ever becoming a founder in latter stages.
Hey Rich and Todd and EVERYONE making comments,
As I read through a lot of these thought provoking comments 2 thoughts in particular come to the fore:
First, perhaps some people are not supposed to be founders. Second, it appears to me that Rich separates his personal contribution (teaching), from the rest of the business.
FIRST:
There are certainly some types of businesses and services that cannot be completely delegated. And I am sure that there are many people who would not be happy in a business setup where they could not take a “hands-on” approach with all of it. A car mechanic might not be happy delegating anything under the hood because he or she truly loves to tinker with everything. When I have time, I paint and I could not possibly delegate any part of a painting to someone else because THE ACT of painting is such a personal experience. The final product is far removed from what actually brings me joy when I create. By the same token, a person’s business might be his or her canvas.
SECOND:
In the video Rich makes it clear that he loves to create content and programs. He is also clear that he doesn’t like to do the rest of the “chores” of business. Now, I am sure that if all of us disagreed about everything else in the world, the ONE thing we would agree on is that RICH SCHEFREN IS A TEACHER. It is his gift and he is wise enough to know this himself.
In addition, Rich has lots of experience as a businessman, period. Online and
offline, Rich understands how to take a bunch of components, put them into a “business systemization oven”, set the temp and the timer, the timer goes off, he opens the oven door and Voila! A business is born. He then defines the part he likes, does that part, and delegates most of the rest. He does not appear to me t