Leveling Up with Eric Siu

Jasmine Star sits down with Eric Siu to talk all about the real side of running a marketing agency. They chat about influencer myths, creative standards, pricing strategies, and what the future of agencies could look like with more tech and performance-based models. Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/LRzWisnsdyk TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES: (00:00) The State of Marketing: Trends and Misconceptions (02:49) The Reality of Business Operations and Leadership (06:06) Focus and the Importance of Singular Vision (08:56) The Journey of Building an Agency (12:11) Navigating Challenges in Agency Management (14:59) The Growth and Evolution of an Agency (17:46) Hiring and Talent Management in Agencies (21:04) The Value of Agency Ownership (23:49) Building a Sustainable Agency Business (27:03) Starting an Agency: Practical Steps and Advice (30:17) The Demand for Ad Creatives (33:11) Scaling Your Business: Pricing and Delegation (36:32) Setting Standards of Excellence in Creative Work (41:41) The Importance of Focus and Avoiding Premature Scaling (43:39) Learning from Mistakes: Abdication vs. Delegation (49:12) The Future of Agencies: Tech and Performance-Based Models (55:06) Advice for Aspiring Agency Owners Don’t forget to help us grow by subscribing and liking on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3owDdLk7HL1dyQnkoBuRew — What should I talk about next? Who should I interview? Please let me know on X. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review here Subscribe to Leveling Up on iTunes Connect with Eric Siu: Growth Everywhere Newsletter Single Grain - Eric's Marketing Agency Eric Siu on X Eric Siu on Instagram

In this episode, Eric Siu chats with Seth Godin about what truly makes great marketing—creating meaningful stories and focusing on long-term success. Seth shares why understanding your audience is key and talks about his love for writing and how books can make a real impact. This conversation will inspire you to think bigger and aim higher. Watch the full interview here. Get a copy of Seth Godin's newest book: "This is Strategy." TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES: (00:00) Understanding Modern Marketing Misconceptions (02:52) The Philosophy of Strategy (05:47) The Importance of Focus in Marketing (09:04) Games and Infinite Play in Business (11:57) Empathy and Its Role in Strategy (14:47) Navigating Systems in Business (18:05) The Power of Time in Strategy (21:00) Generosity and Authenticity in Business (23:50) The Strategy Behind Book Publishing (29:10) The Journey of Writing and Its Impact (31:35) The Birth of Email Marketing (35:48) The Importance of Focus in Business (39:55) Understanding Long-Term Games (43:45) The Transformative Power of AI (48:34) Education and the Need for Change Agents (49:58) Mastering the Art of Storytelling (53:50) The Balance Between Hustle and Patience Don’t forget to help us grow by subscribing and liking on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3owDdLk7HL1dyQnkoBuRew — What should I talk about next? Who should I interview? Please let me know on X. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review here Subscribe to Leveling Up on iTunes Connect with Eric Siu: Growth Everywhere Newsletter Single Grain - Eric's Marketing Agency Eric Siu on X Eric Siu on Instagram

In this video, Eric Siu shares his journey from gaming to entrepreneurship, reflecting on the sacrifices, loneliness, and ambition that fueled his success. He opens up about the challenges of choosing growth over comfort and the importance of building strong connections along the way. Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/-Z21mInSxuw TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES: (00:00) The Genesis of Ambition (02:52) The Loneliness of Sacrifice (06:04) Navigating Relationships and Isolation (09:47) The Cost of Success (13:01) Reflections on Worth and Regret Don’t forget to help us grow by subscribing and liking on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3owDdLk7HL1dyQnkoBuRew — What should I talk about next? Who should I interview? Please let me know on X or in the comments below. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review here Subscribe to Leveling Up on iTunes Get the non-iTunes RSS Feed Connect with Eric Siu: Growth Everywhere Newsletter Single Grain - Eric's Marketing Agency Eric Siu on X Eric Siu on Instagram

This is Eric's presentation around AI in marketing from Limitless Expo 2024 which just wrapped last month. There are accompanying slides, so we recommend you watch it on YouTube at the link here, https://youtu.be/Jowh3Oqm9jg. Eric discusses how you can 10x your business through AI in marketing, specifically diving into marketing strategy, SEO, CRO, and agentic workflows. ⏰Timecodes ⏰ 00:00 Intro to Eric's Presentation / Harnessing AI for Business Growth 10:56 SEO Strategies and Programmatic SEO 18:08 Leveraging AI for Conversion Rate Optimization 25:44 The Future of AI Agents in Business 29:04 Q&A: Insights and Applications of AI What should I talk about next? Who should I interview? Please let me know on X Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review here Connect with Eric Siu: Growth Everywhere Newsletter Single Grain - Eric's Marketing Agency Eric Siu on X Eric Siu on Instagram

Eric Siu reveals the dramatic turnaround story of Single Grain, the marketing agency he saved from the brink of bankruptcy in 2015. From early mistakes like poor hires and lack of focus to leveraging SEO and building a powerhouse team, Eric uncovers the secrets to his success. He shares hard-earned lessons on leadership, hiring, and maintaining top talent—insights every business owner needs to hear about thriving in the face of challenges. Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/iA0vF282Drk TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES: (00:00) The Fall of Single Grain (07:27) Turning the Ship Around (12:41) Lessons from Hiring: The CEO Dilemma (18:46) Navigating Acquisitions: The Importance of Due Diligence (26:05) The Current State and Future of Single Grain Don’t forget to help us grow by subscribing and liking on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3owDdLk7HL1dyQnkoBuRew — What should I talk about next? Who should I interview? Please let me know on X or in the comments below. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review here Subscribe to Leveling Up on iTunes Get the non-iTunes RSS Feed Connect with Eric Siu: Growth Everywhere Single Grain Leveling Up Eric Siu on X Eric Siu on Instagram

Join Eric Siu as he interviews the legendary Robert Kiyosaki, author of Rich Dad Poor Dad, on mastering debt, building unstoppable wealth, and why financial education is the key to thriving in any economy. Discover Kiyosaki's bold take on leadership, branding, and how surrounding yourself with the right people can skyrocket your success! Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/oP2kSCDemVs TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES: 00:00 Understanding Debt: Good vs. Bad 04:38 The Importance of Financial Education 11:53 The Role of Branding in Business 15:21 Preparing for Economic Changes 20:51 The Impact of Leadership on Economy 27:33 Political Activism and Personal Beliefs Don’t forget to help us grow by subscribing and liking on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3owDdLk7HL1dyQnkoBuRew — What should I talk about next? Who should I interview? Please let me know on X or in the comments below. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review here Subscribe to Leveling Up on iTunes Get the non-iTunes RSS Feed Connect with Eric Siu: Growth Everywhere Single Grain Leveling Up Eric Siu on X Eric Siu on Instagram

In this interview, Eric Siu and real estate mogul Ken McElroy reveal the strategies behind successful property deals, smart cash flow management, and the art of leveraging debt. Ken shares how politics impact real estate, the power of YouTube for attracting investors, and why building wealth is about more than just money. Get ready for some powerful insights! Watch the full interview here: TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES: (0:00) Opening and Introductions (02:30) Debt Coverage and Managing Expenses (07:17) Recent Real Estate Deals and Cash Flow (12:05) Fixed Rate Debt and Value-Add Properties (19:23) Market Migration and Political Environment (21:41) Break-Even Points in Real Estate (25:59) The Purpose of a Business is to Buy Real Estate (32:33) Family Business and Raising Children (43:44) YouTube Channel and Investor Flow Don’t forget to help us grow by subscribing and liking on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3owDdLk7HL1dyQnkoBuRew — What should I talk about next? Who should I interview? Please let me know on X or in the comments below. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review here Subscribe to Leveling Up on iTunes Get the non-iTunes RSS Feed Connect with Eric Siu: Growth Everywhere Single Grain Leveling Up Eric Siu on X Eric Siu on Instagram

In this episode, Eric Siu interviews Dr. Orion Taraban as they dive deep into the realities of modern relationships—how to keep attraction alive, the business side of marriage, and why sex work is on the rise. They also explore hot topics like OnlyFans, the girl boss movement, social media's impact on dating, and what it means to be "monogamish." Plus, learn why overpaying is the price of winning in love and how to balance control, commitment, and personal growth. You don’t want to miss this! Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/vfj33zvFoJo TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES: (00:00) The Phases of Relationships and the Importance of Attraction (19:27) Marriage as a Business Deal (27:43) The Rise of Sex Work and its Normalization (29:13) Compartmentalizing Sex: Differences Between Men and Women (34:52) Authentic Attraction and its Role in Relationships and Transactions (35:20) The Rise of OnlyFans and Financial Independence (36:16) The Girl Boss Movement: Empowerment or Waning Trend? (37:46) Difficulties in the Sexual Marketplace for Successful Women (39:09) The Increasing Importance of Attractiveness in Modern Relationships (41:27) The Impact of Social Media on Relationships (48:13) Exploring the Concept of Monogamish (50:31) The Decline of Religion and the Search for Structure (57:10) The Dynamics of Adorer and Adored in Relationships (01:09:18) The Pitfalls of Over-Investing in Relationships (01:12:26) Maintaining a Poker Face in Relationships (01:13:23) Exploring the Concept of Being 'Monogamish' (01:14:19) Understanding the Economics of Dating (01:18:02) The Cost of Overpaying in Relationships (01:19:30) Surrendering Control in Love (01:23:48) The Value of Traditional Roles in Relationships (01:33:49) Balancing Personal Growth and Traditional Roles (01:49:17) Finding Work-Life Balance for Relationship Satisfaction Don’t forget to help us grow by subscribing and liking on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3owDdLk7HL1dyQnkoBuRew — What should I talk about next? Who should I interview? Please let me know on X or in the comments below. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review here Subscribe to Leveling Up on iTunes Get the non-iTunes RSS Feed Connect with Eric Siu: Growth Everywhere Single Grain Leveling Up Eric Siu on X Eric Siu on Instagram

Kevin Espiritu, founder of Epic Gardening, shares how he transformed a humble gardening blog into a booming business. From mastering YouTube and SEO to making savvy acquisitions, Kevin breaks down the pivotal moments that fueled his explosive growth. If you're ready to learn the secrets behind scaling a successful brand, this episode is packed with golden insights you won't want to miss! Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/5izuD7CdfBg TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES: (00:00) The Journey from Gardening Blog to Successful Business (02:48) The Power of Wearing a Hat in Winning a Deal (08:01) The Meditative Nature of Gardening (13:58) The Role of Different Channels in Business Growth (15:49) The Impact of YouTube and SEO on Revenue (17:39) The Strategy of Acquiring Blogs for Growth (22:25) The Importance of Hiring a President for Scaling (27:02) Private Equity Support for Content-to-Commerce Models (30:48) Learning from Others and Acquiring High-Level Skills (31:47) The Parallels Between Poker and Business (34:37) Gardening as a Fulfilling Hobby and Homesteading (38:42) The Value of Long-Form Content and Building Relationships (52:07) Optimizing Health for Entrepreneurial Success Don’t forget to help us grow by subscribing and liking on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3owDdLk7HL1dyQnkoBuRew — What should I talk about next? Who should I interview? Please let me know on X or in the comments below. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review here Subscribe to Leveling Up on iTunes Get the non-iTunes RSS Feed Connect with Eric Siu: Growth Everywhere Single Grain Leveling Up Eric Siu on X Eric Siu on Instagram

Eric Siu's take on 'How to Be Rich' by J. Paul Getty challenges conventional wisdom. He paints business as an art, not just a money machine, and argues that true leaders must get their hands dirty—no room for passive CEOs here. He dives into the darker side of success, questioning whether wealth truly enriches life or just complicates it. Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/x3Cm3EHHD3U TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES: (00:00) Viewing Business as an Art (01:13) The Importance of Being a 'Working Businessman' (04:31) Leading by Example and Accepting Responsibility (08:47) Avoiding Bureaucracy and Staying Frugal (18:12) Cultivating an Appreciation for Culture and the Arts (34:05) The Challenges of Wealth and Success Don’t forget to help us grow by subscribing and liking on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3owDdLk7HL1dyQnkoBuRew — What should I talk about next? Who should I interview? Please let me know on X or in the comments below. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review here Subscribe to Leveling Up on iTunes Get the non-iTunes RSS Feed Connect with Eric Siu: Growth Everywhere Single Grain Leveling Up Eric Siu on X Eric Siu on Instagram

In this special episode, JLD, the founder & host of Entrepreneurs On Fire, interviews Eric about his personal strategies for mastering SEO and marketing. He talks about how programmatic SEO and AI-driven content have transformed his approach, and why he believes that embracing AI and building strong communities are essential for future success. Check out their podcast: https://www.eofire.com/podcast/ericsiu/ TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES: (00:00) Building Something Generational (01:18) Programmatic SEO (03:10) AI-Assisted Content (04:34) Diversifying Marketing Efforts (05:53) Building Communities (07:49) Leveraging AI for Customer Acquisition (11:01) Thriving in the Future Don’t forget to help us grow by subscribing and liking on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3owDdLk7HL1dyQnkoBuRew — What should I talk about next? Who should I interview? Please let me know on X or in the comments below. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review here Subscribe to Leveling Up on iTunes Get the non-iTunes RSS Feed Connect with Eric Siu: Growth Everywhere Single Grain Leveling Up Eric Siu on X Eric Siu on Instagram

Eric Siu opens up about his 15 years of SEO experience in a straightforward, no-fluff conversation, filled with actionable tips. He covers everything from savvy strategies to the impact of AI on SEO, why technical SEO remains crucial, and what the future of the industry might look like. Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/qouNN3l3RA4 TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES: (00:00) Introduction (02:14) Buying Websites vs. Building (05:59) Creating Linkable Assets for SEO Success (09:22) User-Focused Content (12:38) The Importance of Technical SEO (15:30) Measurement and ROI (17:50) AI-Assisted Content (22:30) The Uncertain Future of SEO: Staying Adaptable Don’t forget to help us grow by subscribing and liking on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3owDdLk7HL1dyQnkoBuRew — What should I talk about next? Who should I interview? Please let me know on X or in the comments below. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review here Subscribe to Leveling Up on iTunes Get the non-iTunes RSS Feed Connect with Eric Siu: Growth Everywhere Single Grain Leveling Up Eric Siu on X Eric Siu on Instagram

In this episode, we're diving into a book that flips the script on everything you thought you knew about money and legacy. Eric Siu breaks down the bold ideas from 'Die with Zero' by Bill Perkins—a book that dares you to rethink your financial goals. Should you really be saving up to leave an inheritance, or is there a better way to live? Stay tuned to find out! Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/C5Bd7-U_cmc TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES: (00:00) Rethinking Inheritance and Spending Money While Alive (02:04) Wealth, Entrepreneurship, and Adversity (05:19) Investing in Health and Relationships (06:18) Prioritizing Experiences Over Wealth Don’t forget to help us grow by subscribing and liking on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3owDdLk7HL1dyQnkoBuRew — What should I talk about next? Who should I interview? Please let me know on X or in the comments below. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review here Subscribe to Leveling Up on iTunes Get the non-iTunes RSS Feed Connect with Eric Siu: Growth Everywhere Single Grain Leveling Up Eric Siu on X Eric Siu on Instagram

Ready to level up your business? Join Eric Siu as he shares 16 years of game-changing insights, from the power of focus to essential hiring hacks. Learn how to build a profitable, attractive company with tips that every entrepreneur needs. Don’t miss this out! Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/yl07zLk0ul4 TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES: (00:00) Introduction and Background (01:51) The Power of Like-Minded Friends and Entrepreneurial Groups (07:31) The Dangers of Being Unfocused (12:41) The Importance of Due Diligence in Hiring and Acquisitions (18:13) Prioritizing Profitability and Cash Flow for Business Success (25:19) Building an Attractive Company (27:11) Over-Communicating and Writing Memos (29:48) Hiring and Firing Quickly (33:01) The Importance of A Players (35:14) Having a Partner (37:32) Hiring Competent People (40:25) The Best Returns from Your Own Business (44:21) Optimizing Your Machine (46:18) Viewing Business as a Game Don’t forget to help us grow by subscribing and liking on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3owDdLk7HL1dyQnkoBuRew — What should I talk about next? Who should I interview? Please let me know on X or in the comments below. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review here Subscribe to Leveling Up on iTunes Get the non-iTunes RSS Feed Connect with Eric Siu: Growth Everywhere Single Grain Leveling Up Eric Siu on X Eric Siu on Instagram

Legendary leaders like Elon Musk, Steve Jobs, and Jeff Bezos have shown that hands-on involvement is key to building exceptional teams. In this session, Eric Siu shares his insights on recruiting A-players — those rare talents who can deliver ten times the value and drive the company's vision forward. Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/BC-Laq0nRUw TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES: (00:00) Introduction (01:27) Hiring Based on Core Values and Cultural Fit (07:07) Trust Your Gut Feeling and Continuously Verify Fit (09:51) Hiring Coaches and Seeking Talent with Tenure and Promotions Don’t forget to help us grow by subscribing and liking on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3owDdLk7HL1dyQnkoBuRew — What should I talk about next? Who should I interview? Please let me know on X or in the comments below. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review here Subscribe to Leveling Up on iTunes Get the non-iTunes RSS Feed Connect with Eric Siu: Growth Everywhere Single Grain Leveling Up Eric Siu on X Eric Siu on Instagram

Join Eric Siu as he shares 10+ years of podcasting wisdom – discover how to build a loyal audience, innovate your content, and stand out from the crowd. Learn the secrets to boosting views on social media and the importance of quality and creativity. Get ready for practical tips and strategies that will help you elevate your podcasting game! Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/hK5yUTTaNCA TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES: (00:00) Building an Audience: The Magic Number is Three Years (01:43) Evolving Content Formats to Avoid Listener Churn (03:36) Zigging Where Others Are Zagging: Standing Out in a Sea of Sameness (07:47) The Importance of Quality and Putting in the Extra Work (08:42) Increasing Views on Social Media: Captivating Hooks and Thumbnails (10:05) Testing and Experimenting: Finding What Works Best Don’t forget to help us grow by subscribing and liking on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3owDdLk7HL1dyQnkoBuRew — What should I talk about next? Who should I interview? Please let me know on X or in the comments below. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review here Subscribe to Leveling Up on iTunes Get the non-iTunes RSS Feed Connect with Eric Siu: Growth Everywhere Single Grain Leveling Up Eric Siu on X Eric Siu on Instagram

In this episode, Eric Siu reacts to viral TikToks on entrepreneurship, content creation hacks, and skyrocketing business success. Discover the hidden potential of faceless channels, why brands beat ad revenue, the power of entrepreneur communities, and the harsh realities of running an agency. Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/sErzOilxIgs TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES: (00:00) The Importance of Content Packaging and Hooks (01:07) The Potential of Faceless Channels on Snapchat (02:34) Building a Brand or Selling a Product/Service for Long-Term Success (03:01) The Power of Community and Peer Groups for Entrepreneurs (05:25) Partnering with Creators to Monetize Their Audience (09:11) The Loneliness of Entrepreneurship and the Need for Community (13:24) Challenges and Trade-Offs of Running an Agency Don’t forget to help us grow by subscribing and liking on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3owDdLk7HL1dyQnkoBuRew — What should I talk about next? Who should I interview? Please let me know on X or in the comments below. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review here Subscribe to Leveling Up on iTunes Get the non-iTunes RSS Feed Connect with Eric Siu: Growth Everywhere Single Grain Leveling Up Eric Siu on X Eric Siu on Instagram

In this episode, Eric Siu reveals the secret to nurturing the 60% of leads not ready to buy immediately. Discover how to stay top of mind and engage with your audience until they're ready to purchase. Learn about personalized emails, irresistible deals, strategic collaborations, and more. Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/WJ9G9TI9Qng TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES: (00:00) Introduction: Getting Infinite Leads and the Missing 60% (01:24) Nurturing the 60% of Leads (04:45) Strategies for Nurturing Leads (09:53) Building Trust and Providing Value (18:26) Constantly Shipping New Products and Services Don’t forget to help us grow by subscribing and liking on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3owDdLk7HL1dyQnkoBuRew — What should I talk about next? Who should I interview? Please let me know on X or in the comments below. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review here Subscribe to Leveling Up on iTunes Get the non-iTunes RSS Feed Connect with Eric Siu: Growth Everywhere Single Grain Leveling Up Eric Siu on X Eric Siu on Instagram

In this first episode of Eric’s agency journey to a $100M in revenue, Eric explores the strategies used by multi-billion dollar agency holding companies, such as mergers and acquisitions, integration of acquired companies, investment in technology and data analytics, and offering integrated services. Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/NepkrLQDjkc TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES: (00:00) Introduction: Scaling an Agency to Nine Figures in Revenue (02:32) Mergers and Acquisitions: Expanding Capabilities and Market Presence (08:41) Investing in Technology and Data Analytics for a Competitive Edge (11:00) Building Integrated Services and Cross-Disciplinary Teams (15:44) Global Reach, Financial Resources, and Economies of Scale (23:13) The Crawl, Walk, Run Approach to Building a Successful Agency Don’t forget to help us grow by subscribing and liking on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3owDdLk7HL1dyQnkoBuRew — What should I talk about next? Who should I interview? Please let me know on X or in the comments below. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review here Subscribe to Leveling Up on iTunes Get the non-iTunes RSS Feed Connect with Eric Siu: Growth Everywhere Single Grain Leveling Up Eric Siu on X Eric Siu on Instagram

In this episode, Eric Siu reviews the book 'How to Make a Few Billion Dollars' by Brad Jacobs, a seven-time entrepreneur who founded multiple billion-dollar businesses. Eric highlights key takeaways from the book, including the importance of industry consolidation and technology integration, the value of monthly and quarterly business reviews, the significance of hiring the right talent, and many more. Watch the full interview here:https://youtu.be/IVw_67qN9H8 TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES: (00:00) Unlocking Business Growth through Industry Consolidation and Technology Integration (02:11) The Art of Successful Acquisitions: Due Diligence and Integration (03:28) Aligning the Organization for Growth: The Power of Business Reviews (04:53) Building a Winning Team: Hiring the Right Talent (06:16) Trust and Communication: The Foundation of a Successful Organization (13:55) Continuous Improvement: Driving Long-Term Success Don’t forget to help us grow by subscribing and liking on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3owDdLk7HL1dyQnkoBuRew — What should I talk about next? Who should I interview? Please let me know on X or in the comments below. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review here Subscribe to Leveling Up on iTunes Get the non-iTunes RSS Feed Connect with Eric Siu: Growth Everywhere Single Grain Leveling Up Eric Siu on X Eric Siu on Instagram

Need marketing help? Visit: https://www.singlegrain.com/ Want to scale your agency? Join our AOA: https://marketingschool.io/agency Ready to boost your marketing with weekly tips? Join 15,100+ subscribers: https://levelingup.beehiiv.com/subscribe – Ali Abdaal, a former doctor turned YouTuber, interviews Eric in this episode. Eric Siu shares his journey of building a successful marketing agency and provides insights on starting and scaling a marketing agency. Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/BkO8DHQS9lI TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES: (00:00) Building a Successful Marketing Agency (06:36) Starting a Marketing Agency: Process and Skills (13:50) Scaling a Marketing Agency: From Solo Business to Team (16:01) The Importance of Doing Good Work for Lead Generation (23:03) Finding What Feels Right (26:49) The Power of Focus (30:26) Mentorship and Teaching (39:45) Networking and Making Connections (43:33) Hosting Events and Retreats (45:30) Prioritizing Health Don’t forget to help us grow by subscribing and liking on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3owDdLk7HL1dyQnkoBuRew — What should I talk about next? Who should I interview? Please let me know on X or in the comments below. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review here Subscribe to Leveling Up on iTunes Get the non-iTunes RSS Feed Connect with Eric Siu: Growth Everywhere Single Grain Leveling Up Eric Siu on X Eric Siu on Instagram

For this week’s episode, Bryan Johnson, the “world’s most measured man”, shares his health experiments, gene therapy, and the power laws of health. He also discusses his insights on measuring health metrics, prioritizing interventions, the importance of evidence-based health practices, the concept of 'don't die' and the pursuit of longevity through scientific methods and measurements. Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/5wJJLPobQeQ TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES: (00:00) The Pursuit of Longevity: Gene Therapy and Stem Cells (02:02) Power Laws of Health: Prioritizing Evidence-Based Interventions (03:11) Measuring Health Metrics: Biomarkers and Protocols (05:35) Scientific Pursuit of Longevity: Challenging Conventional Norms (16:11) Biological Age Markers: Nighttime Boners (41:49) Understanding Vitamin D and Diet (48:01) Challenges of the Food Supply Chain (54:35) Building a Religion and the Future of Intelligent Existence (56:08) Content Marketing and the Long-Term Game Don’t forget to help us grow by subscribing and liking on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3owDdLk7HL1dyQnkoBuRew — What should I talk about next? Who should I interview? Please let me know on X or in the comments below. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review here Subscribe to Leveling Up on iTunes Get the non-iTunes RSS Feed Connect with Eric Siu: Growth Everywhere Single Grain Leveling Up Eric Siu on X Eric Siu on Instagram

In this episode, Eric Siu discusses AI's impact on advertising M&A. He shares his M&A thesis, emphasizes strategic thinking and top talent, and highlights due diligence, founder roles, and multiple arbitrage potential. He also covers AI's effect on agency models and the crawl-walk-run approach to AI implementation. Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/FBc-IPvQ8Sk TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES: (00:00) Introduction and Context (03:27) Strategic Thinking and Top Talent in the Age of Automation (05:14) The Importance of Due Diligence in M&A Deals (08:07) Trust but Verify: Avoiding Subpar Hiring Decisions (11:33) The Changing Agency Business Model with AI Don’t forget to help us grow by subscribing and liking on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3owDdLk7HL1dyQnkoBuRew — What should I talk about next? Who should I interview? Please let me know on X or in the comments below. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review here Subscribe to Leveling Up on iTunes Get the non-iTunes RSS Feed Connect with Eric Siu: Growth Everywhere Single Grain Leveling Up Eric Siu on X Eric Siu on Instagram

For this week’s episode, Gary Vee (aka Gary Vaynerchuk) discusses his ambitious plan to buy the New York Jets, including the deal structure and his vision for turning his business into a private equity powerhouse. Eric Siu and Gary Vee also discuss VFriends, their philosophies on life and business, and much more. Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/Eqo-V_vMuKA TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES: (00:00) Gary Vee's Vision for Buying the New York Jets (08:56) The Importance of the Journey in Life and Business (27:33) Marketing Tactics for Businesses in Crowded Markets (35:21) The TikTokification of Social Media (36:45) The Value of Organic Social Media Expertise (37:15) The Value of Building a Personal Brand (39:07) The Art and Math of Marketing (41:22) The Importance of Hard Work and Self-Awareness (50:20) The Power of Content Creation (53:26) The Potential of Live Streaming and NFTs (01:02:02) Patience and Risk-Taking in Entrepreneurship (01:06:30) The Future of Marketing: Intuition and Technology Don’t forget to help us grow by subscribing and liking on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3owDdLk7HL1dyQnkoBuRew — What should I talk about next? Who should I interview? Please let me know on X or in the comments below. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review here Subscribe to Leveling Up on iTunes Get the non-iTunes RSS Feed Connect with Eric Siu: Growth Everywhere Single Grain Leveling Up Eric Siu on X Eric Siu on Instagram

For this week’s episode, Eric Siu had Mateo Franceschetti on the pod, the CEO of Eight Sleep, a company revolutionizing sleep technology. Mateo shares how they achieved a billion-dollar valuation using AI to enhance sleep quality, and reveals their innovative marketing strategies. Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/Eqo-V_vMuKA TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES: (00:00) Unconventional Ways to Improve Sleep and Health (06:17) Temperature Management and Relaxation Techniques (11:09) The Future of Sleep and Health: Data and AI (13:27) Effective Marketing Strategies: Podcast Advertising and Influencer Partnerships (25:02) The Power of Word of Mouth and Building Trust (30:02) The Future of Sleep Technology: Advanced Features and Personalization (39:09) Living and Working Together (41:17) Setting Boundaries for Work-Life Balance (45:20) Inflection Points in Building a Hardware Business (51:56) Creating a Written Culture and Data-Driven Decision-Making (55:31) The Value of Board Meetings (58:37) Breaking the Rigidity of Fixed Meetings (01:03:01) Hiring for Greatness (01:08:00) The Intensity of Startup Life (01:12:14) A/B Testing Work Environments (01:17:12) Religion as a Marketing Strategy Don’t forget to help us grow by subscribing and liking on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3owDdLk7HL1dyQnkoBuRew — What should I talk about next? Who should I interview? Please let me know on X or in the comments below. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review here Subscribe to Leveling Up on iTunes Get the non-iTunes RSS Feed Connect with Eric Siu: Growth Everywhere Single Grain Leveling Up Eric Siu on X Eric Siu on Instagram

Check out this episode where Eric Siu revisits his conversation with Mark Moss, packed with insights on YouTube retention, lead gen, business growth, and Mark's forecasted inflationary crash. Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/Eqo-V_vMuKA TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES: (00:00) The Future of Marketing: Earning and Buying Attention (03:29) The Rise of Personal Brands and Personal Interactions (06:20) The Power of Long-Form Content for Building Trust (26:02) The Value of High-Quality Views and Engagement (28:13) Short-Form vs. Long-Form Content: Depth and Context (57:29) The Consequences of Excessive Money Printing and Inflation (57:59) The Role of the Federal Reserve and Government Spending (58:56) Bond Auctions and the Downgrading of US Credit (59:49) Preparing for an Inflationary Crash (01:02:11) Learning Strategies for Continuous Growth (01:03:35) Investing in Scarce Assets to Protect Against Inflation (01:19:23) Understanding the Total Addressable Market for Bitcoin Don’t forget to help us grow by subscribing and liking on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3owDdLk7HL1dyQnkoBuRew — What should I talk about next? Who should I interview? Please let me know on X or in the comments below. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review here Subscribe to Leveling Up on iTunes Get the non-iTunes RSS Feed Connect with Eric Siu: Growth Everywhere Single Grain Leveling Up Eric Siu on X Eric Siu on Instagram

For this week’s episode, Eric Siu had Jason Cohen on the pod, the mind behind WP Engine which hosts 2.5% of the world's top domains. He reveals how he bootstrapped his company to billions and outsmarted tech giants like Google Cloud. Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/Eqo-V_vMuKA TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES: (00:00) Introduction and Background (10:09) Embracing Optionality in Business Strategies (31:18) Operating Like a Public Company (45:16) Continuous Customer Development (55:02) Creating a Company Culture for Personal Growth (01:03:34) Hiring and Accountability in Management (01:14:50) Finding a Niche in the AI Landscape Don’t forget to help us grow by subscribing and liking on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3owDdLk7HL1dyQnkoBuRew — What should I talk about next? Who should I interview? Please let me know on X or in the comments below. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review here Subscribe to Leveling Up on iTunes Get the non-iTunes RSS Feed Connect with Eric Siu: Growth Everywhere Single Grain Leveling Up Eric Siu on X Eric Siu on Instagram

Eric Siu interviews Marie Forleo – a celebrated life coach, #1 New York Times Bestselling Author, and host of YT channel MarieTV with over 930K subscribers. Marie shares her perspective on why focusing on one thing may not be the right fit for everyone, the importance of trusting your gut, and having a strong work ethic. Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/Eqo-V_vMuKA TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES: (00:00) Introduction and Dave's Background (08:48) Trusting Your Gut and Following Your Intuition (31:22) The Power of a Strong Work Ethic (38:47) Building a Coaching Business and Engaging with the Audience (55:18) The Challenges of Writing a Book Don’t forget to help us grow by subscribing and liking on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3owDdLk7HL1dyQnkoBuRew — What should I talk about next? Who should I interview? Please let me know on X or in the comments below. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review here Subscribe to Leveling Up on iTunes Get the non-iTunes RSS Feed Connect with Eric Siu: Growth Everywhere Single Grain Leveling Up Eric Siu on X Eric Siu on Instagram

Eric Siu interviews David Perell, a writing teacher, Founder of “Write of Passage” school, and the host of ”How I Write” podcast. They discuss his passion for teaching writing and helping people clarify their thinking and structure their ideas. David shares the concept of American Idolatry, his own path to faith, how he came to believe in Jesus as the most influential figure in Western civilization, and the importance of reading and writing in personal growth and communication. Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/Eqo-V_vMuKA TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES: (00:00) Introduction and Dave's Background (09:38) Building an Audience through Unique Ideas and Intellectual Assets (31:16) The Influence of Faith on Philosophy and Work (44:02) The Pitfalls of American Idolatry (53:18) The Importance of Asking Big Questions (01:00:56) The Impact of Jesus on Western Civilization (01:08:06) The Power of Writing and Communication (01:19:18) The Importance of Reading and Writing Don’t forget to help us grow by subscribing and liking on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3owDdLk7HL1dyQnkoBuRew — What should I talk about next? Who should I interview? Please let me know on X or in the comments below. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review here Subscribe to Leveling Up on iTunes Get the non-iTunes RSS Feed Connect with Eric Siu: Growth Everywhere Single Grain Leveling Up Eric Siu on X Eric Siu on Instagram

In this episode featuring Dr. Orion Taraban, Eric Siu delves into the complexities of dating and relationships. They tackle the dating challenges for successful people, how women's success affects dating dynamics, and the economics of finding love online. They also discuss monogamy and alternative relationship models, offering fresh insights and solutions for today's dating challenges. Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/jEjPD_m0ecQ TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES: (00:00) Introduction to Dr. Orion Taraban (01:23) Dr. Taraban's Background and PsychHacks (03:44) Relationships for Successful Individuals (05:11) The Impact of Women's Success on Relationships (06:37) The Concept of Men as Jobs (09:29) The Economics of Online Dating (11:19) The Ken and Barbie Doll Analogy (13:02) The All-or-Nothing Approach to Relationships (15:51) The Future of Relationships (23:34) The Adored vs. the Adorer (31:03) The Discount in Relationships (35:48) Common Relationship Problems and Patterns (37:15) Understanding the Different Desires of Men and Women (38:59) Defining the Red Pill and its Practical Strategies (39:56) Why Successful Women Date Mediocre Men (41:23) The Influence of Economic Realities on Hypergamy (48:14) The Difficulty of Negotiating Expectations in Relationships (49:04) The Ineffectiveness of Explicit Negotiations in Relationships (50:59) Understanding Relationships through Behavioral Economics (53:48) The Infinite Game of Relationships (55:44) Men's Greatest Enemy: Cowardice (56:45) The Importance of Men Taking a Leadership Role (57:43) The Fear of Women and the Need for Leadership (59:29) Women's Greatest Enemy: Pride (01:06:38) The Backlash of Ideological Feminism (01:12:15) The Transaction of Value in Relationships (01:12:44) The Problem and Solution of Relationships (01:13:44) The Importance of Having Things Others Want (01:14:14) Earning Optionality through Value (01:15:15) The Transactional Nature of Relationships (01:15:42) Different Levels of Transactionality (01:16:37) The Danger of Making Someone the Center of Your Universe (01:17:28) Using Instagram as a Dating App (01:19:54) Why Men Date Strippers and Prostitutes (01:20:24) The Business Model of Orion Taraban (01:24:40) Future Plans for the Business (01:31:00) The Vision for Helping People (01:38:48) The Definition of Love

In this special episode, Logan Lyles converses with Eric Siu in a discussion about scaling a digital agency. The conversation delves into strategic hiring, the importance of process optimization, and the art of pricing in agency success. Agency owners seeking to elevate their businesses will find this episode essential listening for actionable strategies and transformative perspectives. TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES: (00:00) Special Episode | Hiring Secrets from an 8-Figure CEO with Eric Siu | From Teamwork’s Agency Life Podcast (04:38) Eric emphasizes the need for agency owners to maintain responsibility in the hiring process (06:23) Balancing full-time employees and contractors in agency scaling (08:12) Lessons in hiring strategic roles and researching accomplishments (11:24) Creating role scorecards for clear hiring criteria (13:27) Using role scorecards and personality tests in hiring (15:21) Sourcing talent on social media and engaging with potential hires (18:23) Comparing EOS and Scaling Up for process improvement (19:10) Establishing a weekly cadence and accountability with EOS (20:23) Setting goals and using traffic lights to track progress (22:22) The benefits of focusing on one service and niche before expanding (26:06) Importance of pricing and advantages of value-based pricing (29:09) Delivering an offer that people can't refuse in pricing (31:31) Understanding weaknesses and building around them (38:41) Eric Siu's journey into SaaS with Clickflow and involvement in business Don’t forget to help us grow by subscribing and liking on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3owDdLk7HL1dyQnkoBuRew — What should I talk about next? Who should I interview? Please let me know on X or in the comments below. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review here Subscribe to Leveling Up on iTunes Get the non-iTunes RSS Feed Connect with Eric Siu: Growth Everywhere Single Grain Leveling Up Eric Siu on X Eric Siu on Instagram

In this episode, I had Ryan Hashemi, known for building the successful media company Jubilee that has 10 million subscribers and 5 billion views on YouTube. We discussed the concept of creator-operators and the importance of long-form content. Ryan shares his insights on creating compelling thumbnails and titles, as well as the need for a strong storytelling approach. We also touch on the trend of creators building businesses outside of content creation. Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/nGDHAhnbuc4 TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES: (00:00) Introduction and Background (02:23) Mission-Oriented Approach and Content Formats (07:39) Creating Compelling Content and Holding Audience Attention (09:09) Experimentation and Learning from Failure (11:30) Collaborating with Influencers and Partnerships (14:41) Hiring and Developing Talent (29:00) Dealing with Copycats and Protecting Originality (37:44) Investing in Up-and-Coming Creators (39:11) Unlocking Value and Participation (41:06) Balancing Work and Family (47:19) Building an Agency for Freedom (52:12) The Power of Audience and Distribution (58:02) The Importance of Compelling Packaging (01:06:29) Asking Hard-Hitting Questions (01:09:48) Leveraging Pre-Existing YouTube Audiences (01:14:28) The Shift to Long-Form Content (01:15:52) The Rise of Creator-Operators Don’t forget to help us grow by subscribing and liking on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3owDdLk7HL1dyQnkoBuRew — What should I talk about next? Who should I interview? Please let me know on X or in the comments below. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review here Subscribe to Leveling Up on iTunes Get the non-iTunes RSS Feed Connect with Eric Siu: Growth Everywhere Single Grain Leveling Up Eric Siu on X Eric Siu on Instagram

Pat Flynn and Eric Siu share key insights for entrepreneurial success, emphasizing storytelling, overcoming comparison, and building community. They highlight the evolution of income reports and the importance of delegation in scaling businesses. Their wisdom extends to parenting as entrepreneurs, emphasizing patience and continuous learning. Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/Fcq5V2D-euI TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES: (00:00) Introduction and deep pocket monster (02:22) Card party events (03:49) The fallacy of view chasing (06:28) Creating a community experience (09:31) Growing the event and world records (13:04) The cost and value of events (21:35) The power of long-form content (25:56) Gamifying the content experience (33:59) Building a story bank (38:38) The dangers of comparison and self-reflection (41:24) Overcoming scarcity mindset and taking risks (45:16) The success of the SwitchPod (51:56) The power of mastermind groups (56:02) Balancing time and priorities (58:25) Transitioning to community-powered courses (1:04:00) The benefits of community and recurring revenue (1:13:46) Driving webinar attendance through YouTube (1:17:57) The evolution of sharing income reports (1:19:21) Transitioning from income reports to case studies (1:20:12) The shift to a case study-based approach (1:21:38) Generating revenue from books and courses (1:24:58) The acquisition of Winning Edits (1:26:53) Creating partnerships and building a community (1:27:21) Equity and partnerships in business (1:29:12) The concept of Commander's Intent (1:30:09) Finding the balance between micromanaging and trust (1:31:06) Considering a rebrand for Smart Passive Income (1:34:53) The power of affiliate marketing (1:35:42) The importance of aligning affiliate products with audience goals (1:37:37) The value of advisors and partnerships (1:38:36) The importance of selectivity in speaking engagements (1:39:37) Parenting as an entrepreneur (1:51:52) Staying patient and focusing on the long game Don’t forget to help us grow by subscribing and liking on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3owDdLk7HL1dyQnkoBuRew — What should I talk about next? Who should I interview? Please let me know on Twitter or in the comments below. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review here Subscribe to Leveling Up on iTunes Get the non-iTunes RSS Feed Connect with Eric Siu: Growth Everywhere Single Grain Leveling Up Eric Siu on Twitter Eric Siu on Instagram

Kevin Espiritu, founder of Epic Gardening, shares his journey from starting a gardening blog to building a multi-million dollar business. He discusses the growth of his YouTube channel, the importance of SEO and content strategy, and the acquisition of other gardening blogs to expand his reach. Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/dticDXdRuh8 TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES: (00:00) Wearing the hat: winning the biggest deal (01:01) Building epic gardening (03:47) The botanical interests deal (05:14) How wearing the hat made a difference (06:06) The angle of the botanical interests deal (09:28) Getting into gardening (10:54) Finding a hobby outside of business (12:44) Going all-in on epic gardening (20:33) Acquiring blogs for growth (25:48) The future of SEO (27:09) The importance of email marketing (28:49) Testing offers and opt-in rates (30:12) The role of a president in scaling (31:35) Finding the right operations guru (32:04) Recruiting and hiring 10X talent (33:00) The role of private equity in business growth (33:26) The benefits of executive recruiting and acquisitions (34:15) The value of learning from others in business (34:41) The parallels between poker and business (35:37) Why entrepreneurs should consider playing poker (36:07) Lessons learned from playing poker (37:27) Exploring mold toxicity and health (37:56) Getting into gardening and wood carving (40:12) The journey of epic homesteading (41:30) The beginner's approach to gardening (42:27) The benefits of growing citrus trees (43:30) The connection between gardening and business (43:59) The analogy of asparagus and long-term thinking (48:10) The importance of mental models in entrepreneurship (49:47) The need for action and real-world testing (52:23) The shift from reading to doing (53:46) The revolt against short-form content (54:45) The purpose of the personal YouTube channel (57:00) The importance of health and wellness for entrepreneurs (58:21) The value of long-form content and building relationships Don’t forget to help us grow by subscribing and liking on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3owDdLk7HL1dyQnkoBuRew — What should I talk about next? Who should I interview? Please let me know on Twitter or in the comments below. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review here Subscribe to Leveling Up on iTunes Get the non-iTunes RSS Feed Connect with Eric Siu: Growth Everywhere Single Grain Leveling Up Eric Siu on Twitter Eric Siu on Instagram

Watch the Video Version on Greg Isenberg's Channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yVqjPqPx3e8&t=171s Eric Siu and Greg Isenberg discuss various business ideas, including the concept of pay-for-performance agencies and the potential for AI agents in customer service. They explore opportunities in different industries, such as finance and hospitality, where pay-for-performance models can thrive. Additionally, they delve into the role of smart contracts in marketing and the potential for gamification in various aspects of life. The conversation highlights the importance of focus and the potential for agency businesses to generate significant profits. TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES: (00:01) Pay for performance agency business model (02:04) Potential industries for pay for performance (03:41) AI agents for customer service (06:09) Using AI agents to close deals and capture more value (08:03) Pay per performance conversion rate optimization agency (09:01) The role of smart contracts in marketing (10:04) Speculation and trust in smart contracts (12:07) Gamifying tasks and rewards (13:09) Gamifying household chores and incentives (13:42) The potential for building gamification platforms (14:13) Early adoption of spatial computing (15:31) The importance of taste in product design (16:01) Challenges with longevity practitioners and supplements (16:55) The growing interest in sleep and health (17:41) Accessibility of health experts and AI assistance (18:08) Greg Isenberg shares his idea for a less annoying nightguard that also whitens teeth. (19:06) Discussion about using mouth tape to force breathing through the nose while wearing a nightguard. (20:05) Conversation about creating anti-sweat slippers using bamboo materials. (21:30) Idea for creating community-focused organizations similar to EO and YPO. (22:35) Discussion on the potential of agency businesses and building generational wealth. (24:18) Greg Isenberg and Eric Siu discuss the benefits of focusing on agency businesses. (25:32) Opportunities in AI transformation agencies, programmatic SEO, and creative agencies. Don’t forget to help us grow by subscribing and liking on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3owDdLk7HL1dyQnkoBuRew — What should I talk about next? Who should I interview? Please let me know on Twitter or in the comments below. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review here Subscribe to Leveling Up on iTunes Get the non-iTunes RSS Feed Connect with Eric Siu: Growth Everywhere Single Grain Leveling Up Eric Siu on Twitter Eric Siu on Instagram

Eric Siu interviews Greg Isenberg, the CEO of Late Checkout, delving into the nuances of community building. Greg, a master in this domain, shares insights on fostering online communities for substantial growth. They explore the future of programming, the importance of design skills, and the power of social media. Greg also discusses the role of AI in entrepreneurship and the challenges of diversity and inclusion. Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/kdnX63OEP5I TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES: (00:00) Greg Isenberg has built communities of various sizes, from dozens to millions of people. (06:24) Greg Isenberg shares a story of paying for an expensive dinner as a teenager. (08:41) Greg Isenberg recounts attending a party at a co-founder of PayPal's house. (10:02) Greg Isenberg talks about his experience with StumbleUpon and how it led to the sale of his company. (12:19) Greg Isenberg discusses his interest in AI and how it relates to his innovation agency, LCA. (14:44) Greg Isenberg explains his approach to starting businesses as Twitter accounts or Discord communities. (18:25) Greg Isenberg explains why solopreneurship may not work for everyone and the benefits of having a team. (20:28) Eric Siu and Greg Isenberg discuss the challenges and potential success of hiring CEOs and GMs for businesses. (22:23) Eric Siu and Greg Isenberg discuss the importance of experience and expertise in giving advice. (25:46) Eric and Greg discuss their approach to coaching and supporting the businesses they invest in. (27:26) Greg shares his perspective on the future of venture capital, emphasizing the value of adding more than just financing to startups. (33:53) Greg Isenberg explains why most digital communities fail. (35:04) Greg Isenberg compares building a community to building a religion and explains the need for a strong mission. (36:16) Greg Isenberg highlights the opportunity to build a product or service for the 50% of Gen Z who feel disconnected. (42:30) Greg Isenberg emphasizes the importance of paying community managers well and recognizing their value. (48:16) The power of DMs and reaching out to people you admire. (49:04) Meeting one of his heroes, Rivers Cuomo from Weezer, through Twitter. (1:01:37) Benefits of using School as a community platform (1:04:38) Greg Isenberg has met Sam Ovens. (1:09:26) Eric Siu and Greg Isenberg discuss the importance of brand and design in standing out. (1:13:10) Greg Isenberg advises against reading design books and instead encourages hands-on practice (1:17:42) Greg Isenberg shares his Twitter content creation process and the importance of genuine ideas (1:20:48) Greg Isenberg spends a few thousand dollars on content (1:32:19) Eric Siu asks Greg Isenberg about other ideas he's excited about (1:36:19) Greg Isenberg shares his website and social media handles Don’t forget to help us grow by subscribing and liking on YouTube! — What should I talk about next? Who should I interview? Please let me know on Twitter or in the comments below. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review here Subscribe to Leveling Up on iTunes Get the non-iTunes RSS Feed Connect with Eric Siu: Growth Everywhere Single Grain Leveling Up Eric Siu on Twitter Eric Siu on Instagram

Patrick Campbell shares his entrepreneur's perspective on relationships and the parallels between business management and marital success. This episode packs in revelations about the value of alignment in relationships, the importance of a partner's shared vision, and practical approaches to nurture a deeply bonded partnership. Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/ew91lnFKYyI Don’t forget to help us grow by subscribing and liking on YouTube! TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES: (00:00) Patrick Campbell's background and introduction to his expertise in relationships (03:12) Importance of weekly one-on-one meetings with your partner (04:08) Setting boundaries and shared vision in a relationship (07:00) Conducting off-site retreats to discuss goals and aspirations (10:01) Conclusion and benefits of implementing relationship frameworks (11:24) Importance of alignment and shared values (12:05) Finding peace and contentment in life (14:40) Money does not solve emotional problems (15:45) Cutting out toxic loved ones (18:18) Existential crisis after selling a company (19:37) Learning to navigate wealth and deploy capital (20:24) Anxiety around money even with significant wealth (23:09) The value of frugality for entrepreneurs (24:52) The importance of challenging hard and fast rules (27:05) Unconventional marketing strategies for awareness (30:06) Examples of marketing experiments that worked (31:50) Patrick Campbell shares the strategy behind their personalized email campaign. (33:14) Offering $250 Amazon gift cards as an incentive for a call. (33:45) Using creative tactics like offering a Peloton if the trial doesn't work. (34:10) Sending a box with earplugs and an AirPods box to grab attention. (34:39) Achieving a 25% count-to-call rate with the campaign. (35:21) The importance of focusing on the middle 60% of leads. (36:13) The danger of automating too early in the sales process. (37:07) Taking marketing budget out and focusing on demand generation. (39:42) Incentivizing BDRs by having them report to marketing. (42:05) Ran email sequences like a code base with controlled tests (45:01) Targeting the full spectrum of demand (46:59) Compensation structure for BDRs (49:35) Importance of early pitching for AEs (50:08) Philosophy on executives' first 90 days (51:36) Executives' process and framework for learning (52:27) Evaluating an executive's learning process during hiring (52:27) Referrals and challenges in the interview process (53:30) Importance of testing for specific skills in candidates (54:36) Using engineering challenges for hiring (56:04) The impact of chat as a channel (57:29) Patrick's plans for starting a new company in healthcare (58:55) Patrick's mindset and commitment to his new venture (59:00) Find more about Patrick Campbell online — What should I talk about next? Who should I interview? Please let me know on Twitter or in the comments below. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review here Subscribe to Leveling Up on iTunes Get the non-iTunes RSS Feed Connect with Eric Siu: Growth Everywhere Single Grain Leveling Up Eric Siu on Twitter Eric Siu on Instagram

Humphrey Yang discusses the financial challenges faced by younger generations and offers insights on building wealth. He highlights the significance of saving and investing, recommending a focus on index funds. He explains the compounding effect of wealth and the benefits of reaching $100K net worth. Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/V4iPHetTgaI Don’t forget to help us grow by subscribing and liking on YouTube! TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES: (00:00) Introduction to Humphrey Yang (03:04) Opportunities for making more money (04:56) The benefits of job hopping (06:47) Personal experiences with job changes (09:36) Building wealth through saving and investing (13:16) How to become rich (19:19) Strategies to reach $100K net worth (21:13) The importance of owning assets (23:40) Asset allocation and real estate (25:30) Diversification and portfolio concentration (28:18) The role of financial advisors (30:37) The number one wealth killer: new cars (31:59) Money-saving hacks (34:21) The influence of mindset on money (35:44) Taking risks and privilege (37:39) The benefits of living at home (38:38) The power of saving and investing (39:35) Evaluating the macro economy (41:25) The challenges of the middle class (43:12) The influence of gaming on life and business (45:32) The role of YouTube in financial education (49:45) The breakout of the YouTube channel (57:27) The challenges of YouTube and momentum (1:00:07) The business expansion and diversification (1:04:06) Growing a newsletter (1:05:01) Monetizing YouTube (1:05:57) Crypto experiences (1:08:15) Blind spots and risks (1:10:24) Personal finance YouTube community (1:11:47) Starting a business with minimal risk (1:13:10) Podcasting and content distribution (1:16:40) Charging for brand deals (1:17:37) Controversial takes on personal finance — What should I talk about next? Who should I interview? Please let me know on Twitter or in the comments below. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review here Subscribe to Leveling Up on iTunes Get the non-iTunes RSS Feed Connect with Eric Siu: Growth Everywhere Single Grain Leveling Up Eric Siu on Twitter Eric Siu on Instagram

Syed Balkhi and Eric Siu discuss the power of compounding and the importance of maintaining friendships with other high performers. Syed shares his philosophy of giving unconditionally and compounding goodwill, emphasizing the need to avoid the frustration coefficient that can hinder progress. He also shares insights on the power of compounding, the challenges of passing on generational wealth, and the value of learning from historical patterns. This conversation provides valuable lessons and perspectives for both aspiring and experienced investors. Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/O5VhhH0Aky8 Don’t forget to help us grow by subscribing and liking on YouTube! TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES: (00:00) Syed Balkhi defines himself as a blogger who helps people build better websites using WordPress. (01:18) Syed Balkhi discusses the concept of running a profitable business every year to achieve a continuous exit. (04:41) Syed Balkhi explains the value of masterminds and peer groups for personal and professional growth. (04:58) Syed Balkhi advises teenagers and young adults to start building a network by following people they admire. (06:03) Syed Balkhi discusses the different benefits he gains from various mastermind groups and forums. (08:49) Syed Balkhi introduces the concept of the frustration coefficient and warns about its negative impact on decision-making and relationships. (09:59) Syed Balkhi advises practicing radical candor and addressing frustrations directly to interrupt negative compounding. (13:29) The power of compounding goodwill and giving unconditionally. (14:43) Going deep instead of wide in networking and learning. (19:56) The driving forces of incentives and insecurities in human behavior. (20:47) Two driving forces shaping human behavior: insecurities and incentives. (24:59) The importance of empathy and aligning goals with team members. (26:07) Viewing acquisitions as a more lucrative alternative to paid media. (30:46) Being known enough to have influence while maintaining anonymity. (31:05) The story of Syed Balkhi's father working at a gas station. (33:22) Syed bought gas stations as a backup source of income. (36:40) Syed's negotiation philosophy: no emotional attachment. (38:17) Syed emphasizes the importance of staying frugal. (39:46) Syed Balkhi shares his strategy for offsetting new expenses with investments. (45:15) Syed Balkhi shares examples of investments he made to solve problems in his own businesses. (46:31) Eric Siu and Syed Balkhi discuss the potential rise of pay per task pricing models. (47:28) Syed Balkhi and Eric Siu talk about the adoption window for new technologies. (48:40) Syed Balkhi advises against overestimating one's ability to turn around businesses. (52:11) Favorite Mungerisms and Buffettisms. (58:41) Recommended books: "Psychology of Money," "Atomic Habits," "Same as It Ever Was," "Clear Thinking," and the Thompson trilogy. (1:00:02) Lessons from the Vanderbilt and Rockefeller families on passing down generational wealth. (1:02:35) Find more about Syed Balkhi online. — What should I talk about next? Who should I interview? Please let me know on Twitter or in the comments below. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review here Subscribe to Leveling Up on iTunes Get the non-iTunes RSS Feed Connect with Eric Siu: Growth Everywhere Single Grain Leveling Up Eric Siu on Twitter Eric Siu on Instagram

Nathan Barry, founder of ConvertKit, shares his journey from software designer to content creator to software founder. With ConvertKit now sending 2.5 billion emails per month and generating $40 million in revenue, Nathan discusses the power of building an audience and leveraging it to create long-term enterprise value. He also delves into his passion for flying and the parallels between flying and entrepreneurship. Nathan emphasizes the importance of having goals outside of work and optimizing for the journey rather than just the destination. Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/vuwfio0Uw4Y Don’t forget to help us grow by subscribing and liking on YouTube! TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES: (00:00) Nathan Barry introduces himself and his journey from software designer to software founder (02:57) Nathan Barry discusses his passion for flying and the process of getting a pilot's license (06:43) Nathan Barry expresses his goal of using flying for both personal and work-related purposes (08:14) Nathan Barry discusses the limitations and considerations of owning a larger plane (09:49) Eric asks Nathan about the payment structure for the pilot. (12:30) Nathan talks about his podcast and the journey of building an audience. (14:02) Nathan shares the story of Mark Sisson and the value of redirecting audience attention to a product. (15:08) Nathan explains the power of an audience in promoting and selling products. (16:03) Nathan discusses the success of Mark Sisson's Primal Kitchen and the value of an audience. (18:19) Nathan talks about the three rules for building an audience and creating enterprise value. (19:46) Nathan shares his experience building ConvertKit and its long-term enterprise value. (20:05) Nathan Barry and Eric Siu discuss the potential of agencies as successful businesses. (21:25) Nathan Barry shares his perspective on monetization options for creators. (25:52) Nathan Barry talks about the current growth and future potential of newsletters. (29:46) Nathan Barry shares a story about how having an audience can shortcut career paths. (31:24) Transitioning from personal brand to building a business (32:22) Using personal brand to drive attention to other businesses (34:21) Debate on the success of creator-led agencies (39:15) Strategies for growing Twitter following (42:09) Repackaging and reposting content for maximum reach (45:47) Nathan Barry is transparent about his financials to inspire others. (52:59) Nathan Barry discusses the flywheel strategy for growing a newsletter. (55:30) Advertising as a loop closer drives new subscribers for sponsorships. (57:54) Growing the newsletter audience leads to book sales and more opportunities. (59:59) Building network effects between creators through the Creator Network. (1:01:36) Convertkit's Creator Network and Spark Loop acquisition. (1:06:09) Nathan suggests using partnerships with other blogs to promote the subscription service and increase email sign-ups. (1:07:38) Eric asks Nathan about his quote "making money is a skill" and Nathan explains that building a successful business requires developing a range of skills. (1:11:37) Nathan shares where people can find him online, including his podcast and newsletter. — What should I talk about next? Who should I interview? Please let me know on Twitter or in the comments below. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review here Subscribe to Leveling Up on iTunes Get the non-iTunes RSS Feed Connect with Eric Siu: Growth Everywhere Single Grain Leveling Up Eric Siu on Twitter Eric Siu on Instagram

Eric Siu interviews Noah Kagan, the founder of AppSumo, to explore essential entrepreneurial insights. They discuss the significance of having a clear vision, maintaining high standards, and finding joy in the entrepreneurial journey. Noah shares practical strategies for achieving business success, emphasizing the importance of focus, goal setting, and overcoming challenges. Noah's wealth of experiences and practical advice offers valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs. Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/Dqccee-F0QA Don’t forget to help us grow by subscribing and liking on YouTube! TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES: (00:00) Introduction to Noah Kagan (02:06) Importance of internal satisfaction rather than external achievements (06:00) Noah Kagan's approach to hiring elite advisors (07:20) Example of Mark Zuckerberg having a business coach (08:12) Noah Kagan's coaching framework and the coaches he has (14:26) Noah Kagan's approach to reaching out to prefluencers and the importance of engagement (16:06) Introduction to Noah Kagan's business, Appsumo (19:06) Noah Kagan's goal for Appsumo's growth (22:14) Balancing running a business, YouTube channel, and book writing (37:59) The interest rate environment in 2020 and 2021 has led to founders stepping back into their businesses. (38:29) Hiring CEOs may be overrated as founders are better at driving the vision. (40:00) AppSumo's team has been reduced to improve efficiency and profitability. (46:15) Many businesses fail because they quit too soon before seeing success. (53:52) Eric Siu and Noah Kagan discuss the inspiration behind their book, "Million Dollar Weekend." (56:30) Eric asks Noah to explain the 1-minute business model and its impact on AppSumo. (57:09) Noah emphasizes the importance of targeting a million-dollar market and optimizing the business model. (01:00:40) Eric Siu mentions sales as a pain point in his business. (01:04:00) Noah shares his thoughts on lifetime deals and subscriptions. (01:05:10) Eric asks Noah about finding contentment and fulfillment in life. (01:09:00) Noah Kagan explains how he approached dating like a business, focusing on who he wanted and where to find them. (01:15:40) Noah Kagan emphasizes the need to grow a business through social media and monetize the audience. (01:19:30) Noah Kagan explains different business models for newsletters and how Appsumo monetizes its newsletter. (01:21:10) Noah Kagan shares his five-part strategy for promoting his book, including building a launch team. (01:24:00) Noah Kagan discusses the success of hand-to-hand marketing and using surveys to engage customers. (01:26:15) Noah Kagan explains his goal of selling 25,000 books and his research-based approach to podcast interviews. (01:27:00) Noah Kagan shares his list of top ten shows to promote his book. (01:32:14) Noah Kagan emphasizes the importance of making an impact rather than just making a list. (01:41:52) Jeremy's impact on the YouTube channel's growth (01:47:15) Investing in the YouTube channel as an audience-building strategy (01:56:50) Noah Kagan shares the story of Larry Janeski, who built a successful business by never quitting. (01:58:30) Noah Kagan discusses the structure and budget of his content team (02:06:00) Balancing sustainability and enjoyment in content creation (02:09:09) Noah Kagan's website for more information — What should I talk about next? Who should I interview? Please let me know on Twitter or in the comments below. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review here Subscribe to Leveling Up on iTunes Get the non-iTunes RSS Feed Connect with Eric Siu: Growth Everywhere Single Grain Leveling Up Eric Siu on Twitter Eric Siu on Instagram

Jimmy Zhang opens up about his journey of overcoming anxiety and addiction to become a successful content creator with 1.5 million subscribers. He discusses how his immigrant upbringing and struggles with school shaped his path, and how personal growth and self-discovery transformed his life. Jimmy also delves into his unique approach to dating and relationships, sharing unconventional perspectives on finding love and the importance of personal development before committing to a partner. He also talks about his business ventures, including his clothing line and potential future products. Additionally, he discusses the importance of innovation and iteration in content creation. Join Eric Siu as he dives deep into Jimmy's story and explores the lessons he's learned along the way. Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/0feTLHaRNSU Don’t forget to help us grow by subscribing and liking on YouTube! TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES: (00:00) Introduction to the interview with YouTuber Jimmy Zhang (00:40) Discussing anxiety and coping mechanisms (04:03) Open discussion about porn addiction (06:11) Jimmy Zhang's immigrant upbringing in New York (10:16) Jimmy Zhang's talent in editing and the importance of recognizing children's strengths (11:24) Jimmy Zhang discusses the importance of finding a specialized skill and being genuinely passionate about it. (13:45) Jimmy Zhang recalls watching a Gary Vee video at 21 that inspired him to take advantage of his window of opportunity. (20:47) Jimmy Zhang shares that moving to LA has been a net positive for him, citing a better lifestyle and more like-minded individuals. (21:53) Eric Siu asks Jimmy Zhang about his current circle of friends, mentioning Sneako and other podcasters. (22:33) Eric Siu and Jimmy Zhang discuss the value of cross-pollinating ideas from different industries. (23:03) Eric Siu asks Jimmy Zhang about the personal growth content he consumes, including Iman Gadzhi and Alex Hormozi. (25:32) Jimmy Zhang explains how gaming helped him understand addiction and channel his energy into building a business. (27:13) The impact of anime on his success as a content creator and entrepreneur. (28:33) Jimmy Zhang describes his current niche on YouTube, which combines traveling and dating content. (31:00) Jimmy Zhang explains his creative process, drawing inspiration from old movies and TV shows to spark ideas. (33:39) Eric Siu reflects on the unpredictability of content creation and how unexpected elements can lead to success. (34:00) Jimmy Zhang explains the concept of an e date and how he met Chloe. (36:58) Eric Siu asks about Jimmy Zhang's unconventional takes on dating. (41:04) Jimmy's income sources include Adsense, merch, real estate, and brand deals. (42:24) Monthly reach ranges from 3-30 million views on YouTube and TikTok. (43:20) Jimmy wants to scale his clothing line and launch a condom brand. (44:30) Many YouTubers are complacent with sponsorship deals and ads. (46:00) Pursuing a business depends on individual goals and lifestyle. (48:18) Jimmy spends 80% of his time on creating and 20% on the business. (51:06) Gabe's commitment and shared sense of humor make him a great partner. (54:41) Importance of iterating and diversifying platforms (59:04) Considering partnering with an operator or investor (01:02:44) Tech stack: YouTube analytics and simple thumbnails (01:04:58) Eric asks Jimmy about his definition of generational wealth. (01:08:26) Check out Jimmy Zhang’s YouTube Channel. — What should I talk about next? Who should I interview? Please let me know on Twitter or in the comments below. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review here Subscribe to Leveling Up on iTunes Get the non-iTunes RSS Feed Connect with Eric Siu: Growth Everywhere Single Grain Leveling Up Eric Siu on Twitter Eric Siu on Instagram

Chris Do and Eric Siu discuss the power of personal branding and the effectiveness of masterminds as a business model. Chris emphasizes authenticity and vulnerability in building a strong personal brand, while also sharing insights on scaling his mastermind. The conversation touches on overcoming the fear of judgment through self-love and highlights the value of storytelling and finding the right mentor for personal growth. Tune in for quick and valuable advice on meaningful connections. Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/oDJ2VOHgThk Don’t forget to help us grow by subscribing and liking on YouTube! TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES: (00:00) Introduction to personal branding and the significance of authenticity (01:00) Personal branding's demand for vulnerability and genuine audience connection (03:05) Sam Evans inspires Chris Do to launch a mastermind (06:26) Different approaches to structuring a mastermind (07:37) Details about Chris Do's mastermind and its pricing (07:58) Marketing and recruitment strategies for the mastermind (10:35) Eric Siu asks about the revenue range that is a good fit for the mastermind (12:20) Eric Siu praises Chris Do's approach to masterminds and suggests the possibility of coaching for equity in the future (14:13) Chris Do discusses the tailored approach to coaching, providing curated content recommendations based on individual needs and goals (17:28) Chris Do discusses his ambition for the mastermind component (20:26) Chris Do shares the reach and engagement on social media platforms (23:57) Chris Do explains his approach to LinkedIn posts and engagement (27:52) Writing from a place of emotion to engage readers (28:14) No engagement groups or artificial methods used on LinkedIn (29:57) Using the work detox to rest and gain clarity on problems (32:05) Writing about topics that inspire or frustrate (34:14) Elon Musk's impact on Twitter and his companies (35:06) Chris Do discusses his approach to finding good problems to solve (36:01) Chris Do shares the structure of his creative team (36:58) Chris Do's monthly spending on content (38:14) Chris Do shares his thoughts on the success and popularity of creators (39:53) Chris Do on Gary Vaynerchuk's content (41:31) Creating good content that resonates with the audience (42:30) Learning to care less about what others think (43:24) The significance of self-love and personal development in relationships (45:51) Story of "The Missing Piece" and the importance of self-acceptance (48:09) The power of storytelling in understanding oneself (49:54) The self-concept and its impact on branding and identity politics (51:50) Self-acceptance and personal branding (52:18) Formation of self-identity in childhood (56:17) Importance of finding the right coach or mentor (59:43) The value of coaching advice ($312,000 saved) (01:00:48) Coaches should be chosen based on substance, not accolades or reputation. (01:04:27) Chris Do's book "Pocket Full of Dough" contains lessons from his business coach. (01:04:46) How to find Chris Do online What should I talk about next? Who should I interview? Please let me know on Twitter or in the comments below. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review here Subscribe to Leveling Up on iTunes Get the non-iTunes RSS Feed Connect with Eric Siu: Growth Everywhere Single Grain Leveling Up Eric Siu on Twitter Eric Siu on Instagram

Eric Wei, co-founder of Karat, discusses the challenges that creators face in the financial ecosystem and how Karat aims to provide financial services tailored to their needs. Eric Wei also talks about the evolving landscape of the creator economy, the need for creators to experiment with new formats, and the importance of building deeper engagement with their audience. Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/xGZg8IiDNSg Don’t forget to help us grow by subscribing and liking on YouTube! TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES: (00:00) Introducing Eric Wei, Co-founder of Karat – a financial platform for creators. (01:10) Many creators struggle to get business credit cards. (04:19) Karat focuses on organic marketing and trust-building. (09:17) ZHC, a top creator, became one of Karat's first clients. (09:59) Karat built credibility through multiple avenues to reach creators. (10:21) Karat is building a central ecosystem for creators' financial needs. (12:31) Trustworthy creators have direct connections to their community (14:35) Creators are creating newsletters for deeper engagement (19:00) Emma Chamberlain's evolution and monetization (20:16) Monetization strategies for different types of creators (22:23) Blurring the lines between creators and businesses (24:38) Behaviors that separate successful creators from low-performing ones (26:29) Importance of finding content market fit (28:06) Alexandra Botez as an example of a successful creator (30:21) The world of creator houses and agencies (30:55) Importance of cross-sphere collaboration and specialization (35:11) Challenges in creating a consistent podcast format (37:31) Business model and lead generation through podcasting (39:07) Differentiating the ad agency and the importance of focus (40:11) Recurring revenue and sticky clients make agencies attractive to private equity. (41:42) Focus on what you're good at rather than diversifying. (46:26) Setting goals and allowing the team to figure out how to achieve them. (47:16) The concept of barrels and ammunition in organizations. (49:57) The impact of achieving external validators of success (53:51) There are other paths to success (57:44) Eric Wei discusses the meaning of life and personal values (59:05) Eric Wei and Eric Siu discuss the benefits of strict parenting (1:03:08) Eric Wei explains his hesitation to have children (1:04:10) Eric Siu shares a perspective on parenting (1:06:00) Eric Wei talks about optimizing for freedom and responsibility (1:07:44) Balancing mission and mental health as a founder (1:09:44) Eric Wei’s Learning Stack (1:11:23) Exploring the concept of freedom and interference (1:14:11) The importance of freedom over equality (1:14:53) The challenges and stereotypes faced by Asian founders (1:17:06) The need for more support and collaboration among Asian founders (1:21:50) How to find Eric Wei online What should I talk about next? Who should I interview? Please let me know on Twitter or in the comments below. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review here Subscribe to Leveling Up on iTunes Get the non-iTunes RSS Feed Connect with Eric Siu: Growth Everywhere Single Grain Leveling Up Eric Siu on Twitter Eric Siu on Instagram

Vivian Tu, also known as "your rich BFF," shares her insights on personal finance and wealth-building. She emphasizes the importance of focusing on increasing your earning power rather than just saving money. Vivian discusses her journey from working on Wall Street to becoming a successful salesperson in tech and media. She also shares tips on legally avoiding taxes, the value of investing in index-tracking ETFs, and the power of creators in today's digital landscape. Vivian's goal is to help people achieve financial independence and create a better future for themselves and their families. Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/xGZg8IiDNSg Don’t forget to help us grow by subscribing and liking on YouTube! TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES: (00:00) Vivian Tu shares her goal of being rich and desired wealth. (06:00) Focus on increasing earning power rather than saving. (07:16) Importance of learning and being selfish in job choices. (09:50) Vivian's mom's reaction to her leaving JPMorgan. (11:53) Tax-saving strategies: retirement accounts, mortgage interest, tax credits. (14:28) Why do rich people buy high-end fake bags? (16:04) Women providing for themselves and investing. (20:16) Being flexible in partnership roles. (21:10) Vivian's portfolio consists of index-tracking ETFs and target-date retirement funds. (21:51) Slow and steady investing is recommended for most people. (22:13) Chinese culture associates investing with luck and gambling. (23:41) Vivian wrote a book to provide a comprehensive guide to personal finance. (25:09) Vivian's business made $3.2 million. (27:20) Vivian feels more fulfilled making $300k from her business. (30:26) Instagram is a powerful platform for Vivian's content. (33:01) Vivian Tu mentions the shift in attention spans and content delivery. (34:00) Vivian Tu shares her content creation process and time allocation. (37:31) Vivian Tu breaks down her revenue streams, with brand partnerships being the largest. (41:40) Pricing yourself as a creator. (42:30) Vivian Tu plans to expand into different mediums in the next five years. (43:49) Vivian Tu talks about the structure of her core team. (50:47) Vivian Tu talks about her best friend David Suh and how they empower each other in their businesses. (53:01) Vivian values her friends who understand her experience. (54:43) Vivian believes friendships should be a cost-benefit analysis. (58:09) Some biases hinder certain minorities' success. (1:00:35) Vivian empowers diverse talent in her hiring decisions. (01:01:30) Vivian Tu talks about her family and work ethic. (01:04:17) Vivian Tu shares her experience as an Asian American business creator. (01:06:51) Vivian Tu shares where to find her book and online. What should I talk about next? Who should I interview? Please let me know on Twitter or in the comments below. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review here Subscribe to Leveling Up on iTunes Get the non-iTunes RSS Feed Connect with Eric Siu: Growth Everywhere Single Grain Leveling Up Eric Siu on Twitter Eric Siu on Instagram

Mark Moss discusses his journey as a content creator and the success he has achieved on YouTube. He shares his strategies for creating engaging content, including using storytelling and copywriting techniques. Mark emphasizes the value of attention and the power of personal branding in marketing. Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/xDnO-OtGjvc Don’t forget to help us grow by subscribing and liking on YouTube! TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES: [00:00] Mark Moss shares his success on YouTube despite advertising bans. [03:19] Mark Moss explains the value of long-form content for building trust. [05:23] Short-form content as a top-of-funnel strategy. [07:25] Mark Moss breaks down his strategy for creating engaging hooks. [10:15] Transitioning to evergreen content and remote work. [13:27] Changing content workflow and focusing on YouTube. [16:20] Mark Moss wants to focus on building equity. [18:30] The future of marketing is a combination of earning and buying an audience. [21:00] Why personal branding and personal stories will be important. [22:54] Utilizing different platforms for different touch points. [24:24] Mark Moss highlights the power of an organic testing audience. [25:25] The importance of embracing both direct response marketing and tech. [25:50] Mark Moss shares his experience of losing everything in 2008. [29:22] Mark Moss discusses how a random message led to a deal with iHeart Media. [30:21] Mark Moss shares a story about meeting Hal Elrod and realizing the impact of his content. [33:10] Mark Moss discusses his business empire and equity positions. [39:11] Mark Moss shares revenue figures for his content business. [42:10] Mark Moss discusses his frustration with coaching and his shift towards taking equity in businesses. [46:34] Mark Moss admits his weakness in hiring and delegation. [51:06] The attack vectors and the fear of a housing crash. [52:26] The possibility of an inflationary crash instead of a deflationary crash. [53:50] The role of the Federal Reserve in creating booms and busts. [56:49] The dysfunction in the bond market and the US government's increasing debt. [01:01:30] How to protect yourself from inflation. [01:04:21] Will there be a recession in 2024? [01:07:45] Take the market as it is. [01:10:22] Mark Moss talks about the 3 levels for people to learn how to learn. [01:15:39] Mark Moss talks about how he is invested right now. [01:20:18] Mark Moss shares his insights on Cathie Wood’s Bitcoin valuation model. What should I talk about next? Who should I interview? Please let me know on Twitter or in the comments below. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review here Subscribe to Leveling Up on iTunes Get the non-iTunes RSS Feed Connect with Eric Siu: Growth Everywhere Single Grain Leveling Up Eric Siu on Twitter Eric Siu on Instagram

Sahil Bloom shares his journey of becoming a successful creator and the importance of authenticity and real-life experiences in content creation. He discusses how he built relationships with influential figures like Tim Cook and Warren Buffett through chance encounters and genuine connections. Sahil emphasizes the need for long-term commitment and consistency in content creation, rather than focusing on short-term hacks or trends. He also discusses the challenges and potential pitfalls of the creator economy. Don’t forget to help us grow by subscribing and liking on YouTube! TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES: (00:00) - Sahil Bloom's expansion from Twitter to newsletter and book (02:50) - No growth hacks, just countless hours of writing (05:40) - Importance of creating content based on real experiences (08:31) - Adapting to algorithm changes and finding what works (09:25) - Sahil Bloom's growth on Twitter in the first year (11:33) - Sahil Bloom's morning routine for creating content (13:50) - Sahil Bloom's perspective on the creator economy and long-term viability (16:35) - Sahil Bloom's thoughts on the future of creator-led agencies (20:29) - The role of Holdco in building and launching businesses (23:06) - The difficulty of scaling without a business background (25:51) - The risks and challenges of income share agreements (27:28) - Finding a good operator through networking (29:28) - Sahil Bloom’s content team structure and monthly spending (32:37) - Sahil Bloom's encounter with Tim Cook at the gym (35:52) - Importance of engineering luck and expanding luck surface area (39:00) - Sahil shares his experience attending the Berkshire Hathaway Conference and meeting Warren Buffett (44:09) - Meeting Bill Ackman after he retweeted a post (47:00) - Sahil Bloom's childhood baseball story and the importance of identity diversification (52:45) - Connecting purpose to work gives more energy (53:45) - Sahil Bloom's purpose changed after having children (54:51) - Sahil Bloom started angel investing in 2017 (58:09) - Sahil Bloom's superpower is building relationships (01:02:36) - Eric asks Sahil about his criteria for investing (01:05:20) -The benefits of imposter syndrome (01:06:25) - Four types of luck: blind luck, luck from motion, luck from awareness, luck from uniqueness (01:08:20) - Friction creates growth and meaningful experiences (01:11:27) - Complementarity vs compatibility in long-term relationships (01:12:51) - Sahil Bloom's health and fitness stack (01:15:30) - Wealth goes beyond money (01:18:38) - How to find Sahil online and learn about his book What should I talk about next? Who should I interview? Please let me know on Twitter or in the comments below. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review here Subscribe to Leveling Up on iTunes Get the non-iTunes RSS Feed Connect with Eric Siu: Growth Everywhere Single Grain Leveling Up Eric Siu on Twitter Eric Siu on Instagram

Ali Abdaal discusses his journey from a struggling YouTuber to a successful entrepreneur. He shares how he discovered the world of Internet marketing and the impact it had on his business. Ali emphasizes the importance of finding ways to make work enjoyable, as this can lead to increased productivity and overall success. Watch the full interview on YouTube: Leveling Up with Eric Siu TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES: (00:00) - Ali Abdaal’s Journey from $2 to $5 Million (01:42) - Ali's business model: 99% free content, 1% paid courses. (03:19) - Ali's advice for finding your style and niche on YouTube. (06:33) - You shouldn’t rely solely on YouTube's organic reach. (08:39) - Creating organic content sources and delivery vehicles that don't rely on Ali. (12:09) - How to grow your email list organically (15:43) - Unexpected success and revenue from the live cohort courses (20:39) - Ali explains the structure and benefits of their $5,000/year program. (21:28) - Ali shares his concerns about charging for a mastermind. (26:02) - Ali talks about his early ventures into making money online (28:13) - Ali defines what a “feel good” business is (30:17) - Ali plans to create a productivity course and explore equity partnerships (31:50) - Ali Abdaal decides to film whatever he wants for his YouTube channel. (32:30) - Ali Abdaal talks about his book "Feel Good Productivity". (39:38) - Ali Abdaal discusses his weekly vlog experiment (42:45) - Simplifying productivity with GPS (goal, plan, system) (46:21) - Ali Abdaal talks about his “Why” in life (47:26) - Find Ali Abdaal online What should I talk about next? Who should I interview? Please let me know on Twitter or in the comments below. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review here Subscribe to Leveling Up on iTunes Get the non-iTunes RSS Feed Connect with Eric Siu: Growth Everywhere Single Grain Leveling Up Eric Siu on Twitter Eric Siu on Instagram

Blake Rocha unveils the secrets to creating viral content. He also talks about the success of his educational program, how he generated $10M through his TikTok and Instagram funnel, the benefits of YouTube as a platform, his personal health journey, and what's on the horizon for his future endeavors. TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES: (00:00) - Blake Rocha breaks down how to create viral content. (03:19) - How did Blake Rocha become so good at creating content? (05:40) - Blake Rocha shares his successful journey in creating content and businesses (08:18) - Blake Rocha shares his educational program that generated $1.7 million in just one month. (10:25) - Blake Rocha’s TikTok to Instagram funnel that generated over $10M. (15:30) - Here’s why you should stop copying other people’s content. (16:30) - Blake Rocha shares his creative process in creating content. (21:43) - Blake Rocha's shift in mindset from his early days in content and business. (24:08) - Blake Rocha explains the significance of maintaining a grounded perspective. (28:07) - The Creator Economy is here to stay, but it’s changing. (34:00) - Focus is the way to build something generational. (37:00) - Blake Rocha shares his interest in recreating a company like Reed Duchscher’s Night Media. (38:18) - Blake and Eric talk about possible educational business models. (40:56) - Why Blake Rocha fell in love with the real estate business. (44:44) - How to find the right mentor? (48:33) - Give away your best content for free. (52:00) - Do this if you're trying to scale in the education space. (55:45) - Blake Rocha thinks YouTube is the best platform right now. (58:32) - Blake Rocha’s long-term goal in life. (59:40) - Blake Rocha is planning to go hard on YouTube. (01:08:21) - Blake Rocha on modern dating. (01:11:37) - Blake Rocha talks about his health journey. (01:15:15) - Blake Rocha talks about how he’s improving his gut health and why diet is everything. (01:19:52) - Blake Rocha on the OnlyFans Creator Economy. (01:23:12) - Blake Rocha talks about his principles in spending money. (01:30:45) - Subscribe to Blake Rocha’s YouTube Channel (Mr. FourToEight). What should I talk about next? Who should I interview? Please let me know on Twitter or in the comments below. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review here Subscribe to Leveling Up on iTunes Get the non-iTunes RSS Feed Connect with Eric Siu: Growth Everywhere Single Grain Leveling Up Eric Siu on Twitter Eric Siu on Instagram

Mark Manson, the author of 'The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck,' sat down with Eric Siu for a one-on-one interview to talk about his journey to 1 million subscribers on YouTube, personal growth, the books he has written, his perspective on the self-help industry, and more. TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES: (00:00) - Mark Manson on the self-help industry (03:00) - Mark Manson's YouTube channel growth (03:39) - YouTube is the most important platform today (06:00) - Mark Manson talks about his experience in traditional media (09:30) - Mark Manson talks about how his content evolved over time (10:52) - The concept of "Content Moat" (14:29) - Mark Manson talks about how he's developing his content production (15:40) - How Mark Manson hit 1 million subscribers on YouTube (18:11) - The most impressive creators on YouTube right now for Mark Manson (21:00) - Nate O'Brien is done with YouTube (21:41) - Creator burnout is normal and part of the process (23:50) - "Debulshtize the self-help industry" - Mark Manson (26:47) - Why Mark Manson thinks Alex Hormozi is brilliant (30:55) - Mark Manson's perfect level of fame (36:40) - Mark Manson on building an audience (37:41) - The Will Smith book deal (40:50) - Is it really worth it to write a book? (42:14) - Mark Manson talks about his content team structure, spending, and online reach (45:14) - How many books Mark Manson has sold so far (45:26) - Mark Manson talks about 'The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fck' (48:19) - Mark Manson talks about his blogs and SEO (50:50) - Mark Manson talks about his mid-life crisis (58:48) - How can people stop caring about what other people think about them? (01:06:57) - Happiness comes from solving problems (01:08:19) - Trying to avoid rejection is a sense of entitlement (01:10:00) - Mark Manson on therapies (01:16:16) - Mark's journey from being a self-help junkie to a professional in the industry (01:17:00) - Mark Manson on building a community (01:21:04) - Mark Manson talks about his most famous quote on the fundamentals of life. (01:23:09) - What does a healthy relationship look like for Mark Manson? (01:24:30) - Mark Manson on marriage (01:31:10) - Modern-day dating advice (01:40:20) - Check out Mark Manson's YouTube channel What should I talk about next? Who should I interview? Please let me know on Twitter or in the comments below. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review here Subscribe to Leveling Up on iTunes Get the non-iTunes RSS Feed Connect with Eric Siu: Growth Everywhere Single Grain Leveling Up Eric Siu on Twitter Eric Siu on Instagram