DissedMedia: A Startup Story is a podcast that chronicles the start of DissedMedia and takes listeners along for the journey starting from the first week the company was founded. This podcast is about what a founder goes through trying to start a business and is meant to be a learning tool for anyone interested in starting a business of their own. Listen as founder Ben Olmos and his co-founding board work to take DissedMedia from concept to reality.
Listen to episodes
20 recent
November 3, 2024Episode 2020 min
Episode 20 Resilience and Realizations
In Episode 20 of DissedMedia: A Startup Story, host Ben reflects on a challenging period for his media company, DissedMedia. He openly shares his journey through personal hardships, such as the loss of his father, which affected his momentum and motivation. Despite these setbacks, Ben continues to explore ways to grow his business and connect with his niche audience. In this episode, he emphasizes the value of persistence, the importance of building a reliable content strategy, and his renewed vision for making The Daily Pitch and DissedMedia a valuable platform for both managers and thought leaders.
March 28, 2024Episode 1951 min
Episode 19: Scaling Up with Herb Cogliano
Welcome to another episode of DissedMedia's Startup Story, where we dive deep into the journeys of entrepreneurs and the businesses they’ve built and scaled. In this episode, we’re thrilled to have Herb Cogliano, an International Executive Business Coach and seasoned entrepreneur, who shares his insights on the Scaling Up methodology and its transformative impact on businesses.
Show Notes:
[00:00:00] Introduction to the episode and guests, Ben Olmos and Alan Landry.
[00:01:00] Welcoming Herb Cogliano to the show.
[00:02:00] Herb’s journey from knowing he was born to be an entrepreneur to leading his family business to success.
[00:03:00] The pivotal moment Sullivan and Cogliano embraced the Scaling Up methodology to overcome growth stagnation.
[00:05:00] Achieving double bottom line - profit with purpose, and the decision to exit the family business.
[00:06:00] Founding Aspire Growth Advisors and the motivation behind it.
[00:07:00] The challenges of scaling from startup to mid-market and how the Scaling Up framework addresses these issues.
[00:10:00] The importance of a clear vision and aligning the team with core values for effective scaling.
[00:15:00] Common pitfalls in the journey of growth and how to navigate them.
[00:20:00] Transitioning from working in the business to working on the business - increasing operational bandwidth.
[00:25:00] The significance of peer networks and mastermind groups in business growth.
[00:30:00] Herb’s role as a professor for the Scaling Up Master's Business Course and the concept of masterminding.
[00:40:00] Discussion on leadership and the importance of developing a strong team around you.
[00:45:00] Aspire Growth Advisors’ approach to helping businesses scale and the tools they use.
[00:50:00] Closing thoughts and where listeners can connect with Herb and learn more about Aspire Growth Advisors.
Resources Mentioned:
Mastering the Rockefeller Habits - Scaling Up by Verne Harnish
Aspire Growth Advisors
Connect with Herb Cogliano:
You can also connect Herb and Aspire Growth Advisors through their social media links on Facebook, LinkedIn and X (formally known as Twitter).
For more insights and actionable advice from successful entrepreneurs, stay tuned to DissedMedia's Startup Story.
February 15, 2024Episode 334 min
Episode 18: Are We Going Broke?
Ben and Alan discuss their journey with DisedMedia, including recent guest contributions, the focus on daily content publication, and efforts to optimize the website for search engines. They highlight the use of social media tools for content distribution, the importance of SEO, and their goal to reach operational break-even. They also touch on feedback from the community, the potential of content to make a positive impact, and future plans to grow the audience without relying solely on ad revenue. The episode emphasizes continuous improvement, the value of organic growth, and the challenges of reaching break-even along with increasing website traffic and audience engagement.
January 27, 2024Episode 21 hr 23 min
Episode 17: Ken Arrington - Awake to Dream
Ken Arrington discusses his journey from a successful corporate sales job to living a life of mission and faith. Ken shares his experiences with the commercialization of churches, emphasizing the importance of separating the profit motive from the purpose motive, especially in nonprofit organizations. He talks about his disillusionment with the business model many churches adopt and his efforts to serve communities genuinely without expecting anything in return. Ken also recounts his family's decision to give everything away and move first to Wales and then to Puerto Rico to continue their mission work, focusing on creating sustainable, community-focused projects. His story highlights the challenges and rewards of living a faith-driven life, prioritizing community and service over profit.
Check out the story about Ken at The Daily Pitch
January 15, 2024Episode 1538 min
Episode 16: Danyelle Jinks - Board Member Profile
Episode 16 of "DissedMedia A Startup Story" features Ben Olmos and his co-host Alan Landry who are joined by board members Keith Watts and special guest Danyelle Jinks. This episode focuses on Danyelle's professional journey and her expertise in change management and coaching. Key themes include the challenges and strategies of managing change in organizations, Danyelle's career path, the unique challenges faced by women and people of color in leadership roles, and insights into effective coaching and mentoring techniques. There is also discussion about the vision and content strategy of DissedMedia, highlighting the importance of authentic and pragmatic content in business.
December 6, 2023Episode 151 hr 5 min
Episode 15: John Pabon The Great Greenwashing
Episode Summary:
In this episode, Ben Olmos, along with co-host Alan Landry and board member Keith Watts, delve into the complex world of sustainability and greenwashing with expert John Pabon. Author of The Great Greenwashing: How Brands, Governments, and Influencers Are Lying to You, John talks about his global journey in sustainability as we uncover critical aspects of green business practices and the multifaceted nature of sustainability.
Featured Guest:
John Pabon, has two decades of experience in environmental conservation, including a role at the United Nations and global research. John now spreads awareness through books, business consulting, and keynote speeches. Author of "Sustainability for the Rest of Us," and "The Great Greenwashing," John helps consumers to make informed choices, aiming to transform sustainability from theory to impactful, practical strategies.
Key Topics Covered:
John's Background and TikTok Influence:
John's unique journey from a TikTok video to becoming an influential voice in sustainability.
His global experiences and how they shaped his understanding of sustainability.
Sustainability in Corporate World:
The role of the United Nations in John's career.
The transition from politics to sustainability consulting.
Understanding sustainability as an umbrella term encompassing environmental, social, and corporate governance aspects.
Challenges and Strategies in Sustainability:
The need for a shared definition of sustainability and conscious consumerism.
The dangers of “doomism” and the importance of proactive engagement.
Corporate Greenwashing:
How companies often mislead about their environmental efforts.
The necessity of truthful corporate communication in sustainability.
Activism and Business Engagement:
John's views on the role and tactics of activists.
The power of businesses in driving sustainability, exemplified by Walmart’s supply chain initiatives.
John's Books and Approach to Writing:
His books aim to make sustainability relatable and accessible.
Writing style focused on demystifying sustainability and encouraging practical, strategic approaches.
Vision for a Sustainable Future:
Insights on corporate change, R&D, and the impact of major industries on sustainability.
John's hopes for pragmatic approaches to a sustainable future.
Episode Conclusion:
The episode wraps up with a discussion on the complexities of corporate change, the importance of research and development, and the role of major industries in sustainability.
Participants:
Ben Olmos: Host
Alan Landry: Co-host
Stefan De La Guardia: Guest
Keith Watts: DissedMedia Board Member
Colin Chase: Guest
Experiences of Job Searching:
Stefan shares his journey of job hunting post-graduation, highlighting the challenges and persistence required in the modern job market.
Colin, an industrial engineer with a political science degree, discusses the paradox of job qualifications versus actual skills and experience.
The Role of Education and Degrees:
The panel debates the importance of degrees in various industries, like pharmaceuticals, where a degree is often non-negotiable.
Hiring Practices and Challenges:
Insights into how hiring has evolved, focusing on how over-qualification can sometimes hinder finding the right candidate for a job.
The discussion touches on the art and science of hiring, the value of mentors, and the need for practical leadership skills.
Transition from Tactical to Strategic Roles:
A key topic is the shift from tactical, hands-on roles to strategic, leadership-focused positions. This transition is crucial for career advancement but often challenging.
Leveraging Social Media and Networking:
Strategies for utilizing platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram, and Meetup for networking and job searching are discussed.
The importance of making genuine connections and leveraging technology to access opportunities is emphasized.
Advice for Young Professionals:
The panel offers advice on perseverance, the importance of networking, and the value of aligning with individuals who share similar values and goals.
Key Takeaways
Persistence in Job Search: The process is challenging but staying the course is crucial.
Degree vs. Skills: In some fields, degrees are mandatory, while in others, skills and experience can outweigh formal education.
Strategic Networking: Utilizing social media and personal networks effectively can open doors to opportunities.
Leadership and Growth: Transitioning from doing tasks to leading strategically is vital for career progression.
Mentorship and Advocacy: Having mentors and advocates in your network can significantly impact career advancement.
Check out the recap on The Daily Pitch
November 16, 2023Episode 1349 min
Episode 13: Focus in the Face Of Chaos
This episode of DissedMedia: A Startup Story, Ben and Alan delve into some of the challenges that have been facing them lately and the strategies of running a media startup and being focused in the face of chaos. It covers personal anecdotes, strategic planning for 2024, and reflections on leadership and team dynamics in the context of a growing business.
Reflecting on Leadership and Business Growth:
Media Startup Strategies:
Team Dynamics and Challenges:
Future Planning and Reflection:
The episode concludes with a look ahead to 2024, emphasizing the need for strategic focus and the balance between maintaining momentum during personal challenges and business growth. The conversation reiterates the importance of remaining focused in the face of chaos, team selection, realistic goal setting, and the vision to create enduring, valuable content in the competitive media landscape.
November 9, 2023Episode 1254 min
Episode 12: Getting Help from Gen Z (feat. Stefan De La Guardia)
In this episode, Ben, the CEO of DissedMedia, engages in a candid conversation with Alan and a new addition to the team, Stefan. The discussion revolves around the importance of networking, leveraging personal connections, and the value of building a team that shares a mutual vision for the company's growth.
Ben emphasizes the significance of helping others achieve their goals, reflecting on his own experiences of seeking assistance and the power of collective effort. He shares his vision for DissedMedia, focusing on collaboration and the potential of tapping into each team member's network to find opportunities and foster growth.
Stefan, the newcomer, expresses his excitement and readiness to contribute fresh ideas and perspectives. He discusses the potential for creating impactful social media content and the motivational aspect of being offered equity in the company. Stefan's enthusiasm is palpable as he contemplates the possibilities and people he can bring into the fold.
Alan, with his military background, draws parallels between his experiences and the business world. He stresses the importance of performing well in all roles, regardless of their desirability, and the long-term benefits of building a strong professional network.
The episode concludes with Alan summarizing key takeaways, highlighting the need for motivational intelligence, the pursuit of passion over monetary gain, and the openness to change and new ideas. Ben and Alan both express their eagerness to see Stefan's impact on the company and encourage him to create content that resonates with the audience rather than to impress the leadership.
Overall, Episode 12 is a blend of leadership wisdom, strategic business planning, and the excitement of bringing new talent into the company to drive innovation and reach new demographics.
October 16, 2023Episode 1154 min
Episode 11: The Wisdom of the Board: A Candid Conversation with Keith Watts
📌 Why You Can't Miss This Episode:
Ever wondered what it's like to be in the boardroom of a startup? This episode pulls back the curtain on the highs, lows, and everything in-between. Join hosts Ben Olmos and Alan Landry as they sit down with Keith Watts, a board member of DissedMedia, to discuss the nitty-gritty of startup life, leadership, and the value of shared wisdom.
🔑 Key Takeaways:
1️⃣ The Power of Storytelling: Keith shares captivating tales from his career in healthcare, revealing how personal experiences can shape professional journeys.
2️⃣ Leadership Lessons: Ben and Alan dive into the importance of asking for feedback, being adaptable, and why leadership is the linchpin of any successful venture.
3️⃣ The Board's Role: Keith offers a unique perspective on what board members should be thinking about, from content and audience acquisition strategies to KPIs.
4️⃣ Collaboration is King: The episode highlights how DissedMedia has become a platform for mutual growth, with Alan and Keith sharing how they've become editorial allies.
5️⃣ The Future of DissedMedia: The trio discuss the strategic focus of the startup, emphasizing the importance of creating enduring content and growing the right kind of audience.
🎯 Who Should Listen:
Startup enthusiasts
Aspiring entrepreneurs
Business leaders
Anyone interested in the dynamics of boardrooms and leadership
🎉 Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation filled with humor, insights, and a whole lot of wisdom. Tune in now!
Is this your show?
Claim this listing to keep it up to date, reach guests who want to pitch you, and manage bookings with Guestify.
