881: MASTERING the art of international (and regional) business growth w/ Gilles Vanpoucke

What happens when a passion for fashion evolves into a love for interior design? Join us as Katie Zimmerman, a seasoned entrepreneur, shares her inspiring journey from working with iconic brands like Abercrombie & Fitch and Fruit of the Loom to launching her own interior design business, Zimmerman Interiors, in 2023. Katie reveals how childhood dreams and career-shaping experiences in the fashion industry have equipped her with the skills and insights to excel in her business venture. Katie opens up about the identity shifts and battles with imposter syndrome that accompanied her career pivot. Discover how her focus on client obsession, developed during her time at Abercrombie, laid the foundation for creating spaces that resonate deeply with her clients' true desires. Katie's journey reminds us that embracing one's new professional identity and visualizing success are crucial steps in overcoming self-doubt and thriving in a new industry.Balancing creativity with business acumen is no easy feat, but Katie shares practical advice on managing people-pleasing tendencies while keeping an eye on return on investment. Learn about the evolution of her design showroom, the importance of a clear end vision, and the value of a supportive team and outside perspectives. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for anyone looking to pivot their career and turn their passion into a thriving business.ABOUT KATIEKatie Zimmerman spent nearly 20 years in the fashion industry, working for some of the most iconic brands in the world, including Abercrombie & Fitch, Hollister, Fossil, Fruit of the Loom, and Russell Athletic. With a degree in Fashion Design and Product Development, Katie held leadership roles in design, merchandising, global licensing, and visual merchandising. Recognizing her strengths in process, client experiences, and project management, she transitioned to interior design, where she now leverages her expertise in global sourcing and fashion to create stunning, personalized spaces for her clients.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit Zimmerman Interior’s WebsiteFollow Zimmerman Interiors on InstagramConnect with Katie on LinkedIn

Ever wondered if you should be actively trading or just letting your investments sit? Find out as we welcome Rod Casilli, the brains behind tradersdevGROUP. Rod's journey from traditional finance roles to becoming a leading trader is packed with lessons on the risks and rewards of both active and passive investing. Whether you're deeply engrossed in your startup or looking for effortless ways to grow your wealth, Rod's advice on leveraging defined benefit plans and solo 401ks for tax benefits is a game-changer for high-income entrepreneurs.Think the fear of missing out (FOMO) is pushing you to make rash investment decisions? Discover why "time in the market beats timing the market" and how dollar-cost averaging can be your best friend. We'll explore how to handle the initial costs of investing without derailing your business plans, and why understanding your risk profile is crucial before diving into trending investments. Balance your entrepreneurial aspirations with smart financial strategies, and learn how to make investments that work for you, not against you.From powdered kombucha innovation to empowering global traders, Rod Casilli's story is full of entrepreneurial insights. Learn how gut health led to the creation of a unique, shelf-stable kombucha and how tradersdevGROUP is democratizing trading by allowing participants to trade without risking their own money. Celebrate the diversity within the trading community and get inspired by real success stories, all while understanding the importance of setting realistic expectations and mindfulness practices for sustainable entrepreneurial growth. Join us for a journey through investing wisdom and business innovation that promises to enrich both your financial and personal life.ABOUT RODERICKRoderick Casilli is the founder and lead trader at the tradersdevGROUP (TDG among friends). He has been an active futures trader and automated strategy designer for over 20 years. Rod began his career at Merrill Lynch during the tech speculation craze, spent time trading millions of shares of stock as a SOES bandit, and then transitioned to the futures markets in the fall of 1997, corresponding with the release of the S&P E-mini contract. Most recently, he has moved beyond the screens into private equity investing with a portfolio of over 10 companies, mostly consumer brands. He barely made into though UCLA but did manage to earn a BA in English.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit tradersdevGROUP Website and get their free courseConnect with Rod on LinkedIn

Unlock the power of data analytics for your business with insights from Darren Tapp, a PhD in mathematics from Purdue University, who has successfully navigated the transition from academia to industry. Discover how Darren's expertise in data analytics and mathematical modeling transformed his stint at a debt collections agency, boosting revenue through enhanced predictive metrics. This episode promises to enrich your understanding of how a strong foundation in mathematics can drive business growth, making it a must-listen for entrepreneurs looking to leverage data for strategic advantage.Ever wondered why correlation doesn't imply causation? With real-life examples like the curious link between ice cream sales and drownings, Darren demystifies this often misunderstood concept. Learn how to apply this knowledge practically in a business setting to improve employee performance in a supportive, non-punitive manner. Key strategies such as regular, constructive check-ins and fostering a collaborative environment are discussed, ensuring that data-driven decisions benefit both management and staff. Darren’s insights are crucial for anyone keen on making more informed, effective decisions in their business operations.Time is of the essence in business planning and analytics, and Darren shares his thoughts on how unexpected events, like the COVID-19 pandemic, can upend long-term plans. He emphasizes the importance of accurate forecasting models and the entrepreneurial wisdom of knowing your financial metrics, such as burn rate and runway, for sustainable success. Join us for an episode filled with practical advice and inspiring stories that can drive growth and innovation in your business endeavors.ABOUT DARRENDarren Tapp earned a Ph.D. in Mathematics from Purdue University. His career has been in and out of academia. Currently, he's focusing on industry and is interested in solving problems that face your small or medium-sized business.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit TAPPMATH’s WebsiteVisit Darren’s WebsiteConnect with Darren on LinkedIn

What if the secrets to entrepreneurial success could be learned from a game of chess? Join our slightly-under-the-weather host Brian Lofrumento as he reveals how the powerful principle of simplification in chess has transformed his approach to life and business. We discuss how strategically managing your assets and reducing chaos can secure long-term success. Tune in to learn how this chess-inspired strategy can help you achieve your entrepreneurial goals and maintain your winning position.

How has Canva revolutionized the way entrepreneurs handle their visual content? Discover the answer with our host Brian Lofrumento in this action-packed episode of the Wantrepreneur to Entrepreneur Podcast. This week, we spotlight Canva, the game-changing tool that has become a cornerstone in the tech stacks of countless successful entrepreneurs. From creating eye-catching podcast graphics and YouTube thumbnails to crafting polished marketing materials and sales follow-ups, Canva is the unsung hero behind many thriving businesses. Listen in as Brian shares how both he and our podcast guests leverage Canva’s extensive template library to streamline design processes and maintain impeccable brand consistency.Unleash the full potential of Canva and transform your business’s visual identity. Brian walks you through setting up a brand kit on Canva, ensuring that even the least design-savvy among us can produce professional-quality visuals. By uploading your logo, selecting your color palette, and choosing your fonts, you can create cohesive branding across all your marketing materials effortlessly. This episode is your reminder to explore all that Canva has to offer and take actionable steps to enhance your business. Visit thewantrepreneurshow.com to read more about our incredible guests and their entrepreneurial journeys!

Ever wondered how one man's journey from addiction could lead to a multi-faceted empire spanning real estate, finance, and reputation management? In this episode, we sit down with Andrew Spira, an inspiring entrepreneur and coach who transformed his life after a wake-up call at 17. You'll hear how Andrew overcame personal trauma and addiction to launch his first business by 18, finding immense success during the COVID-19 pandemic. His story is not just about business acumen but about resilience, faith, and the relentless quest for personal growth.Andrew's journey wasn't smooth sailing; he faced significant challenges and even relapsed at 23. However, this only fueled his determination to succeed, emphasizing that true entrepreneurial success lies in simple business fundamentals and personal integrity. He discusses crucial insights into overcoming labels, the importance of faith in his journey, and how basic principles often pave the way to wealth. We also explore his adventurous lifestyle, spontaneous travel escapades, and the strict routines he maintains to manage his global ventures effectively.Beyond business, Andrew is committed to giving back. He shares the heartfelt mission behind his nonprofit, AndrewSpira.me, which supports individuals battling addiction and those lacking basic life skills. From securing jobs and housing for recovering addicts to offering personal guidance, Andrew's philanthropic efforts are as commendable as his business achievements. Tune in to discover how persistence and a positive mindset can lead to life-changing opportunities, and get inspired by Andrew's unwavering commitment to making a difference.ABOUT ANDREWAndrew Spira is a successful entrepreneur and motivational speaker with a powerful story of transformation and resilience. His journey from overcoming personal challenges to building a multi-million dollar real estate portfolio and successful businesses makes him an ideal guest for podcasts focused on personal growth, entrepreneurship, and overcoming adversity.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit Andrew’s WebsiteVisit Skyecap’s WebsiteConnect with Andrew on LinkedIn

Unlock the secrets of marketing brilliance with Brian Carroll, a marketing leader who transitioned from the finance world to become an expert in understanding customer behavior and psychology. Inspired by Carl Jung's concepts of personas and archetypes, Brian reveals how he pairs outstanding marketing with exceptional products, using fintech giants as prime examples. Discover why understanding your market and ideal customer is not just important, but essential for both startups and established companies.Brian shares invaluable insights into voice of customer research, emphasizing how to overcome internal biases and effectively structure data. Learn how to align key performance indicators (KPIs) with business goals, whether you're looking to acquire new customers or upsell to existing ones. Brian's data-driven approach to marketing, combined with the transformative power of artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT and Otter, will revolutionize how you analyze customer feedback and build accurate buyer personas.Finally, hear Brian's compelling story of how his passion for meaningful work led him to start his own consulting business, specializing in niche markets like hedge funds and family offices. He stresses the importance of empathy in marketing and focusing on one's strengths to truly understand and address client needs. Brian's advice for aspiring entrepreneurs is to harness their passions and strengths to elevate their business from good to great. Don't miss out on these expert insights that promise to enhance your entrepreneurial journey.ABOUT BRIANBrian Carroll is a seasoned marketing leader with two decades of experience spanning investment management, wealthtech, and B2B SaaS. From launching new products at growth-stage companies to building and leading a global marketing team at Nasdaq, Brian's diverse expertise has driven success at every level. These experiences inspired him to establish Gray Carroll Consulting, where he helps businesses overcome complex challenges and unlock their full potential. Brian lives in Atlanta with his wife, Carla, and daughter, London. He is a devoted family man, a golf enthusiast, and values the endless pursuit of learning.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit Gray Carroll Consulting’s WebsiteConnect with Brian on LinkedInFollow Gray Carroll Consulting on LinkedIn

Ever wondered how you can turn your life experiences into valuable leadership skills? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Lisa Weinberger, the powerhouse behind Peak Learning Group. Discover how Lisa's diverse journey from being a ski instructor to holding leadership roles in HR and talent development has shaped her unique approach to executive coaching. Her story is not just inspiring but packed with practical insights on resilience, passion, and continuous personal growth.Unlock the secrets to becoming an effective entrepreneur with Lisa as we highlight the crucial leadership skills you need. From identifying and leveraging your existing strengths to acquiring new ones, Lisa emphasizes the role of experiential learning and the importance of practicing in safe environments. Drawing from her time as a ski coach, she shares how guiding others through their journeys can translate into transformative leadership. Whether it’s handling sales conversations or client projects, this episode is brimming with actionable advice for aspiring leaders.What role does trust play in building high-performing teams? Lisa dives deep into the critical elements of fostering trust, accountability, and commitment within teams. Explore how understanding personality styles through tools like the DISC assessment can enhance coaching effectiveness and create more meaningful interactions. As we wrap up, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for how setting the right culture and understanding team dynamics can lead to outstanding results. Don’t miss this chance to glean invaluable lessons from Lisa Weinberger, whose extensive experience and adventurous spirit make her a standout voice in leadership and team development.ABOUT LISAWith over 30 years in Leadership, HR, and Talent Development across various industries, Lisa Weinberger launched an executive coaching business in 2022. She helps clients become exceptional leaders, accelerate their careers, and build high-performing teams. Lisa focuses on mutual respect and trust, enabling clients to harness their strengths and achieve their desired impact. She also facilitates leadership development workshops and enhances HR programs.Lisa holds a Bachelor of Chemistry, Bachelor of Biochemistry, and a Master of Education in Human Resource Development, along with a Ph.D. in Human Resource Development from the University of Minnesota. She resides in St. Paul, MN, and enjoys skiing, mountain biking, and hiking.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit Peak Learning Group’s WebsiteConnect with Lisa on LinkedIn

What if the key to entrepreneurial success lies in balancing artistic talent with strategic business acumen? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Rudy Mage, the mastermind behind Inked Pro, as he reveals his remarkable journey from studying computer animation to establishing a thriving printing company. Discover how Rudy's creative background has been a cornerstone of his entrepreneurial endeavors, and how focusing on one major project at a time has enabled him to juggle multiple ventures, including his clothing line, Chimu, with impressive growth.Rudy sheds light on the art of building a brand with intent and the delicate balance between structured strategies and spontaneous creativity. Hear firsthand how he leverages simple tools like an iPhone for marketing and the invaluable role of focus groups in tailoring market-ready products. Rudy’s grassroots initiatives, including selling from his car trunk, underscore the significance of small, persistent efforts in achieving long-term success. Learn about the importance of gradual growth, trade shows, and establishing a robust infrastructure for scalability.Lastly, delve into the world of networking as Rudy stresses the power of face-to-face interactions over mere social media connections. He shares how genuine relationships and personal interactions have led to substantial business opportunities, particularly during challenging times like the pandemic. Rudy talks about the importance of intuition in fostering meaningful professional relationships and how collaboration and gratitude towards others have been pivotal in his entrepreneurial journey. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone looking to navigate the entrepreneurial landscape with both creativity and strategic savvy.

Have you ever wondered how setting aside just a small percentage of your income could revolutionize your business? Brace yourself for an Action Saturday episode that could change the way you think about business growth forever. Our host Brian Lofrumento shares the life-changing advice he wishes he had received a decade ago: create a growth fund. Learn how committing even 1% of your income to a separate account dedicated to future investments can transform your entrepreneurial journey.Brian passionately discusses his own experience with this simple yet powerful strategy, which has enabled him to invest in branding, strategic hires, and essential tools without touching personal or operational funds. Inspired by the principles of "Profit First" by Mike Michalowicz, this episode is a call to action for entrepreneurs at any stage to start building their future today. Tune in to understand the significance of a growth fund and how it can propel your business to new heights, ensuring you are always prepared to seize growth opportunities as they arise.