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After the First Million

This is your destination for feeling empowered in building your business. These are the real, raw stories of entrepreneurs and business owners who have built their businesses through the messy middle of $1-20 Million, hosted by serial entrepreneur Matt Tait. Matt knows what it’s like to scale past the first million, and on this show he’ll be bringing on other serial entrepreneurs and business owners who have been there, done that (or, are currently in it) to share what’s worked, what hasn’t, and what’s next.

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Last Episode Date: 11 December 2024

Total Episodes: 19

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11 December 2024
From 21 to 500 Employees: Lessons on Scaling with Chad Peterman

Writing down your vision sets the course, but communicating it is what gets everyone on board.Chad Peterman knows this well. As President and CEO of Peterman Brothers, he focused on building a strong company culture. This helped scale the family business from 21 employees to over 500 across four states—Peterman Brothers is now one of the fastest-growing family-owned businesses in the country. Along the way, they also launched initiatives like the Peterman Top Tech Academy to address the talent gaps in the industry.Chad opens up about the strategic moves that helped their home services business thrive, including hiring specialists to support growth, ensuring a strong culture fit for both employees and clients, and carefully managing change within a rapidly expanding organization.In this episode, you’ll learn:Communicating goals is key: Clearly defining and communicating your company’s long-term goals with your entire team creates alignment. When everyone knows where the business is heading, they’re ready to contribute.Culture fit drives success: Finding people that align with your company’s culture is essential for success. Employees and clients who share the same values as the company’s end up feeling more satisfied.Managing change is critical: Carefully managing transitions and effectively communicating the reasons behind change helps prevent disruption—it’s what keeps everyone on the same page as the business evolves.Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Meet Chad Peterman(03:54) Scaling to 520 employees(06:14) The power of a vivid vision(11:11) Communicating goals and changes in a large organization(16:21) Launch of Peterman Top Tech Academy(19:09) Prioritizing culture fit for employees and clients(26:02) “Go slow to go fast”(29:57) Personal growth as a leader(33:38) Hire specialists early(35:34) Matt’s takeaways

39 min
27 November 2024
The lawyer who created a billion-dollar industry with Brian Powers

Scaling is simple: it’s about doing what works, over and over again. In this episode, Brian Powers shares how he applied this strategy to scale his company, PactSafe (now Ironclad), a tech startup that became a $15 billion market leader. He talks about the challenge of transitioning from a structured legal career to the unpredictable world of tech entrepreneurship. Thankfully, he wasn’t alone and found other team members with complementary experiences and skill sets that would help PactSafe grow. Brian also talks about the Ironclad acquisition, and what it was like navigating his new role as general manager of the brand. In this episode, you’ll learn:Find Your Repeatable Wins: Scaling your business is about doing the right things over and over. Focusing on what works and cutting out what doesn’t is the key to sustainable growth.Embrace the Uncertainty of Entrepreneurship: Unlike the structured world of law, building a business requires adapting to constant change and making decisions with limited information.Build a Smarter Team: Success isn’t a solo act. Hire people who are smarter and more experienced than you in key areas, ensuring your business can grow beyond your own expertise.Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Meet Brian(06:24) Starting a solo law practice(08:59) How PactSafe was conceived(12:43) Creating a new software category(17:20) Repeatability is how companies scale(21:23) Hire people smarter than you(27:56) Different people for different phases of growth(30:12) Ironclad’s acquisition of PactSafe(38:34) Brian’s exit from Ironclad

44 min
13 November 2024
Key characteristics of successful founders with Rich Hagberg

“If you’re not growing, you’re dying.” To succeed, founders need to keep on learning and evolving.Drawing from over four decades of coaching experience, Rich Hagberg breaks down the key traits that differentiate successful founders from unsuccessful ones. Rich also shares his journey from academia to entrepreneurship, and how he founded the Hagberg Consulting Group.Tune in for valuable insights on adaptability, emotional intelligence, and the value of building effective teams. In this episode, you’ll learn:Unleash Your Unique Strengths: Understanding what you excel at and continuously honing an additional skill set can set you apart. Even legends like Steve Jobs weren't just tech geeks; they were visionaries with a rich blend of diverse skills.Embrace Feedback and Adapt: The path to success isn't a straight line—it involves falls, stumbles, and course corrections. Founders who thrive are those who are painfully honest about their weaknesses and willing to change.Leadership is a Balancing Act: Ideally, founders blend visionary insight, robust relationships, and flawless execution. But let's face it—no one is perfect. Self-awareness and humility can help you identify your gaps and complement your leadership style.Jump  into the conversation:(00:00) Meet Rich(05:19) Three styles of leadership(10:58) Recognizing your weaknesses(17:06) Keep learning and adapting(21:12) Scale your team and processes(24:17) Personal grounding and integrity(30:28) Founders need emotional intelligence(33:34) Founders Keepers

40 min
30 October 2024
Leading as your authentic self with Adam Weber

Authentic leadership involves balancing composure with vulnerability.Like all founders, Adam Weber started out as a “clunky” leader, unsure of what strategies to use to rally his team. From his experience co-founding Bluebridge and Emplify (which was acquired by 15Five), Adam shares his growth as an executive, the challenges of building a transparent culture, and how coaching has profoundly impacted both his personal and professional life.Tune in to hear how Adam's journey led him to discover a passion for executive coaching and his secrets to staying resilient through the ups and downs of business.In this episode, you’ll learn:Lead Authentically for Real Impact: Authenticity in leadership isn’t just a buzzword; it’s transformative. When you lead as your authentic self, it drives genuine team performance and a thriving culture. Remember, your realness is your greatest asset—use it!Culture Building in Remote Teams: Growing a company remotely comes with its own set of complexities, especially when it comes to establishing a strong culture. Transparency and intentionality are your secret weapons. Clearly communicate your vision and values so your team feels united even while dispersed.Scalable Success Without Losing Vision: Growth can feel like navigating a minefield, but maintaining scalable processes while keeping sight of your original vision is pivotal. Prioritize structures that grow with you; let’s turn your dreams into sustainable realities.Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Meet Adam(04:44) The birth of Bluebridge(11:55) Transition to Emplify(16:05) Building a culture company(24:20) The importance of authentic leadership(29:07) The role of peer groups and coaches(36:44) Making and socializing decisions(39:46) Balancing work and family life

42 min
16 October 2024
The art of evolution and calculated risk with Sharon Rechter

Entrepreneurs never back down from challenges. We embrace it. In this episode, Sharon Rechter shares her challenging journey of starting her own cable network, First Media, while being dyslexic. Throughout our conversation, you’ll notice the prevalent theme of evolving as a company and adapting to change. Sharon shares lessons learned, like embracing failure to foster creativity and the critical concept of "calculated crazy."Stay tuned as we uncover the resilience, humility, and tactical planning that have driven Sharon's remarkable success.In this episode, you’ll learn:Adapt and Thrive with AI: Sharon highlights how AI is revolutionizing creative industries. By evolving your skills and learning to collaborate with AI, you can stay ahead of the curve and drive innovation in your field.Calculated Crazy Equals Winning Strategy: Want to succeed without going off the deep end? Embrace Sharon’s notion of "calculated crazy" — chasing ambitious, scalable, and profitable ideas without getting lost in the fun and excitement.Resilience Fuels Creativity: Struggling with setbacks? Mourn your losses for 24 hours, then bounce back stronger. Sharon’s story shows that overcoming failure sparks unparalleled creativity and innovation.Jump into the conversation:00:00 Meet Sharon02:14 Creative problem-solving with dyslexia 05:43 Launching a new cable network12:26 Embracing change and humility18:59 The role of failure in success22:03 Follow the money34:10 Evolving with the market43:10 Harnessing your unique power in business

27 min
2 October 2024
Building up a community while growing a company with Sims Foster

Success in entrepreneurship often stems from having a strong 'why’. For Sims Foster, his deep connection with his hometown drove him forward. In this episode, Sims opens up about his entrepreneurial journey, from selling door-to-door as a kid to managing Foster Supply Hospitality with his wife. He shares insights on balancing a day job while growing a business and how they survived the global pandemic as a hospitality organization.Learn how Sims's unwavering commitment to his community has guided his business ventures and how he is giving back through his nonprofit, A Single Bite.In this episode, you’ll learn:Passion Fuels Success: Staying connected to your ‘why’ makes it easier to navigate challenges with purpose and enthusiasm. When you care about your business’s mission and impact, that strong sense of purpose helps you overcome obstacles and keep you motivated during tough times.Security in Dual Paths: Contrary to popular belief, you don't always have to quit your day job to start a successful business. Maintaining financial stability can alleviate the pressure and make the entrepreneurial journey more enjoyable and less daunting.Community Comes First: Building a successful business isn't just about profits; it's about giving back. Engaging with and revitalizing your community, as well as addressing local issues can drive your business forward and create a lasting positive impact.Jump into the conversation:00:00 Meet Sims 04:16 Building a career in hospitality08:18 Balancing day jobs and side hustles16:43 Creating business and community value22:47 Educating kids through A Single Bite24:06 Navigating the pandemic as a hospitality business30:59 Future projects and continued growth

35 min
18 September 2024
Finding your leadership groove with Lindsay Roselle

How hard can a business, and a baby, be?Lindsay Roselle, a seasoned entrepreneur and passionate advocate for high-achieving mothers, talks about her transformative journey through motherhood, where she faced the challenges of preserving her individuality and ambition, often intertwined with grief and self-abandonment. We'll also explore the disruption and shifting dynamics in relationships that many new mothers encounter, stemming from pre-existing issues.In this episode, you’ll learn how Lindsay’s roles as an entrepreneur and a mom impact her leadership style as BossBabe’s COO. In this episode, you’ll learn:The "Motherhood Metamorphosis" Effect: Transitioning into parenthood, especially for mothers, can feel like losing a part of yourself. This change often results in a powerful journey of self-rediscovery and reinvention, which is vital in shaping resilient leaders.The Many Hats of Decision-Making: Effective leadership demands wearing multiple hats — considering business needs, team welfare, and personal values simultaneously. Mastering this balancing act enhances your decision-making prowess and aligns your leadership with your true self.Storytelling as a Superpower: Your narrative isn't just a tale; it's a tool. By embracing storytelling, you can influence, inspire, and manage better, turning complex lessons into relatable, actionable wisdom for your team and audience.Jump into the conversation:00:00 Meet Lindsay05:10 Curiosity drives entrepreneurs despite perceived risks10:55 Transitioning from local to online business challenges16:14 Easier to retain clients than find new ones20:30 Juggling work and a new baby30:34 Realizing the impact of childhood on the psyche36:16 Love, presence, and meaning over material success39:38 How remote work offers unique work-life integration42:09 Connect through storytelling to create understanding and empathy45:15 Challenges of motherhood and shifting relationships

49 min
4 September 2024
From burnout to breakthroughs with Kevin Bailey

Much like athletes, business leaders need coaches to help them perform at their best. In this episode, Kevin Bailey talks about the exhilaration of early success and the immense pressure that can lead to burnout and imposter syndrome. Kevin shares his story of founding and scaling companies, dealing with burnout, and eventually transitioning to a focus on mindset and performance coaching for leaders. Listen to learn more about the importance of mental health, resilience, and how Kevin is helping leaders navigate the pressures and challenges of entrepreneurship through his company, Dreamfuel. In this episode, you’ll learn:Perseverance Brings Purpose: Building a business isn't for the faint of heart, but overcoming hardships adds a richness to your journey that's worth every challenge. Embracing resilience isn't just about survival—it's about thriving and finding deeper meaning in what you do.Seek Coaching, Not Just Capital: Scaling a business isn’t only about securing investment; it's also about investing in your mental agility and leadership skills. Just as athletes rely on coaches, having a trusted mentor or coach can provide the clarity and support essential for navigating the high-stakes world of entrepreneurship.Mindset Mastery is Your Secret Weapon: Success in business isn't just a game of strategy—it's a battle fought and won in the mind. Tackling psychological hurdles, managing burnout, and maintaining a positive outlook can transform your professional life. Empowering yourself and your team with mental performance tools will set you apart in the competitive tech landscape.Jump into the conversation:00:00 Introduction to After the First Million with host Matt Tait, and special guest, Kevin Bailey 05:54 Fascinated by finance, switched to intellectual property.08:36 High school knowledge led to unique skills.12:38 Felt imposter syndrome, but managed business acquisition.16:27 Advice needed but not taken seriously.18:22 Supporting nonverbal autistic children transformed my life.19:59 Business owners face perpetual struggle with burnout.25:21 Technology leaders leading us through singularity.27:05 Athletes have specialized performance and mental coaches.30:21 Paid coach provides uncomfortable yet necessary feedback.33:47 Deep empathy for founders in internal battles.36:40 Reflecting on tough times and self-coaching.

37 min
21 August 2024
Business success and boldly being yourself Lindsay Tjepkema

Understanding yourself is at the core of successful entrepreneurship.In this episode, Lindsay Tjepkema, former CEO and founder of Casted, shares her mantra of “being boldly yourself” through all the trials and triumphs of leading an organization. She recounts her experience leading a rapidly growing company through economic challenges and shares the delicate balance of maintaining company culture through intense growth.Join us as we uncover the resilience, authenticity, and passion that drove Lindsay  to start her next company, Human Brands Win.In this episode, you’ll learn:Authenticity is Your Superpower: Being true to yourself isn't just a personal mantra—it's a business strategy. Lindsay shares how embracing her unique qualities and leading with transparency has shaped her company's culture and facilitated its growth.Resilience Amidst Uncertainty: Navigating economic downturns and unexpected shifts demands resilience. Learn how to steer your ship through the storm and come out stronger on the other side.Balancing Business and Life: Entrepreneurship is a rollercoaster, especially when coupled with personal challenges. Lindsay's experience as a mother and a CEO provides a masterclass in balancing business demands with family responsibilities.Jump into the conversation:(00:00) Meet Lindsay(04:17) Balancing parenthood and entrepreneurship(12:10) Casted and the future of B2B marketing(18:11) Boldly be yourself(23:54) Scaling the team and culture(27:45) Leading a venture-backed SaaS company through the pandemic(35:21) Lindsay’s Exit as CEO

41 min
7 August 2024
Being consistent and solving big problems with Dagan Xavier

Sometimes great ideas turn into companies simply because it’s the right idea at the right time in history. I’m joined by Dagan Xavier, the visionary founder of Label Insight, a pioneer in the food data industry, that was eventually acquired by Nielsen IQ. In this episode, Dagan shares his personal story of how he transformed a simple idea to help his father understand nutrition labels into a groundbreaking company that reshaped how data in the food industry is handled today.Join us as we explore the journey of Label Insight, the intricacies of venture capital funding, and the influence of Midwest values in Dagan's unwavering commitment to building both his company and the people within it.Key Takeaways:Embrace the Hard Things: Entrepreneurship isn't all sunshine and rainbows. It's in tackling the toughest challenges where real growth happens. Dagan emphasizes the profound fulfillment that comes from embracing challenges and the deep satisfaction of overcoming them. This mindset fosters long-term success and resilience in any entrepreneur.Cultivate an Adaptable Mindset: In the world of business, the only constant is change. From acquisition to scaling, being flexible and adjusting your expectations is vital.Build and Believe: Success lies in self-belief and creating a robust support system. Overcoming the fear of failure is easier when you have a safety net and a team that believes in your vision.Timestamps: 00:00 Questioning entrepreneur realisms04:58 Viewing problems from all perspectives10:29 Building a business and not just a product13:49 FDA finding trans fat in "trans fat free" products15:48 A Kiwi in Hong Kong19:26 Empowering retailers and driving brands24:34 Transition from FDA to venture funding29:27 Working smarter or working harder33:13 Decimal and Midwest values39:54 Believing in yourself

41 min
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