Lynn Hazan, founder of ChicpeaJC, left a corporate job to pursue her creative passions, turning a blog into a successful social media agency. Her journey from the corporate world to entrepreneurship reveals the power of self-belief, adaptability, and purpose. Here, Lynn shares her experiences, challenges, and advice for other moms who want to build something meaningful.

1. Lynn, what inspired you to leave corporate life and start ChicpeaJC?

I had been working in corporate for about seven years, but it never felt like “me.” Both of my parents are entrepreneurs, so I grew up with that spirit, but here I was, working a job that didn’t allow me to tap into my creativity. I was also a new mom, so I couldn’t just quit my job, but I knew I wanted more. That’s when I decided to start a blog. I spent six months creating content and building the website, and when it launched, it took off! Two months in, I figured out how to monetize it, and eventually, I was able to leave my job. A few years later, I saw a growing need for social media content among local businesses, so I started managing social media for a coffee shop as a test. Now, 10 years later, I manage social media for over 15 businesses.

2. What challenges have you faced in growing your business?

There have been a lot! I’ve dealt with issues like employee challenges, losing my office due to high rents, and of course, the impact of COVID. I lost most of my clients during the pandemic and had to rebuild from scratch. Balancing work with motherhood, especially without maternity leave, was tough, too. But having a supportive partner, believing in myself, and taking it one day at a time helped me push through. Each obstacle strengthened my resilience and faith in my journey.

3. What keeps you motivated, even in difficult times?

Knowing that this business supports my family motivates me. I don’t have the luxury of giving up! I also believe in the universe and that everything happens for a reason. Whenever things feel overwhelming, I remind myself that setbacks often bring valuable lessons. What doesn’t kill you truly makes you stronger.

4. What advice would you give to someone thinking about starting their own business?

Start now! There’s never a “perfect” time, and yes, there will always be someone who seems to be doing it better. But there’s only one you, and that’s your superpower. Success is about persistence—every time I faced a setback, I just got back up. Success isn’t defined by avoiding failures; it’s defined by how often you get back up. And remember to enjoy the process, not just the destination.

5. What has been a defining moment in your entrepreneurial journey?

For me, it’s been creating something from scratch that combines my passions and supports my family. Building a business around what I love and seeing it grow into something that can make a real difference in people’s lives is incredibly fulfilling. It’s a reminder that we all have the power to create something meaningful.

6. What’s your vision for the future?

I joke with my husband that I’d love to be a stay-at-home Pilates wife someday! But honestly, I know I’ll always want to keep evolving. I’m really passionate about finding ways to give back to the Jewish community and making a positive impact in new ways. I want my work to continue to align with my values.

7. What message would you like to share with other moms?

I want to encourage moms to pursue what they truly want—whether it’s a career, staying home with their kids, or doing both. You don’t have to compromise on your dreams. I hope my journey shows that it’s possible to create a life you love while staying true to yourself. There’s no one right way to be a mom or an entrepreneur, and it’s okay to carve out your own path.

Final Thoughts

Lynn Hazan’s story shows that entrepreneurship doesn’t require a perfect plan; it requires passion, resilience, and self-belief. She proves that you can build a meaningful business while honoring your values and supporting your family.

To learn more about Lynn and her work, visit chicpeajc.com.

The post Lynn Hazan on Transforming a Simple Blog into a Thriving Business: Inspiring Moms to Chase Their Dreams appeared first on BusinessViewed.

Colden Blades, founder of Blades Marketing, started his entrepreneurial journey during his freshman year at SUNY Plattsburgh. What began as a campus t-shirt business evolved into a full-scale digital marketing agency, now in operation for over five years. In this interview, Colden shares insights into the lessons learned, the importance of purpose over happiness, and his vision of living a life rooted in principles.

1. Colden, what sparked your journey into entrepreneurship, and how did your first business come about?

It all started when I joined clubs, organizations, and fraternity life on campus at SUNY Plattsburgh. I noticed that every semester, these groups were buying promotional clothing items, which gave me the idea to start a t-shirt company. I pitched the idea to my good friend Frank Tricamo during finals week, and he was on board immediately. After Christmas Break, we jumped in and started the business. That first experience taught me so much about running a business, which translated directly into launching my digital marketing company two years later. I’m forever grateful for that partnership and the lesson that surrounding yourself with ambitious people is essential.

2. What has been one of the biggest challenges in your entrepreneurial journey, and how did you navigate it?

The greatest challenge was realizing that, in the beginning, the goal shouldn’t be to build a successful business but to build yourself into someone capable of building a successful business. I learned this lesson the hard way by trying to scale before I was ready—like building a tower on a cracked foundation. It’s only a matter of time before everything comes crashing down if you don’t have the personal growth to support it. That realization made me focus more on developing myself before scaling the business.

3. You mentioned a mental shift that helped you during hard times. Can you tell us more about that?

Absolutely. For a long time, I treated happiness as my North Star. But happiness, like motivation, ebbs and flows. The shift came when I replaced happiness with purpose. I realized that, often, the things that help us grow involve hardship, suffering, or discomfort. When purpose became my guiding force, it didn’t matter if a task made me happy or if I felt motivated. If I believed it would bring me closer to my purpose, I got it done. This shift enabled me to stay focused and push through the difficult moments.

4. What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs about building a successful business?

Surround yourself with people who challenge you to grow. You become the average of those you spend the most time with. Also, focus on becoming the person capable of building and sustaining success rather than just the business itself. And lastly, have a guiding purpose. It will sustain you through times when motivation and happiness might be lacking.

5. What has been your proudest moment so far in your entrepreneurial journey?

My proudest moment has been going from barely being able to keep my own head above water to being able to take care of the people I love. It’s incredibly rewarding to be in a position where I can give back to the people who supported me along the way.

6. What’s your vision for the future of Blades Marketing?

My vision is simple: to remain true to my morals, values, and principles in everything I do. I want to live a life of purpose and die with my boots on, as they say. I hope to show others that you can lead an ambitious life of purpose without compromising your values along the way.

7. What impact do you hope to make through your work and example?

I genuinely hope to set an example for other men that you can pursue a life of purpose and ambition without sacrificing your morals, values, or principles. In a world where it’s easy to compromise, I want to demonstrate that success and integrity can go hand in hand.

Final Thoughts

Colden Blades’ journey from college entrepreneur to digital marketing agency owner highlights the importance of building oneself alongside one’s business. His commitment to purpose and integrity offers valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs.

To learn more about Colden and his work, visit bladesmarketing.com.

The post From Campus T-Shirts to Digital Marketing: Colden Blades on Building a Purpose-Driven Business appeared first on BusinessViewed.

1. Phil, you started in the HVAC industry. What inspired you to transition from hands-on work to digital marketing?

I started my career in HVAC, which was comfortable for me since I enjoyed the technical challenges. But after becoming an HVAC business owner, I quickly realized that delivering quality service was only part of the equation. Success also depended on consistently finding clients and generating leads, and that’s where the challenge lay. Marketing was a world I knew little about, but I dove into it because I knew it was essential for my business to thrive. Over time, learning SEO, web development, and lead generation became my new focus.

2. What were some of the biggest challenges you faced when learning digital marketing?

The learning curve was intense. I spent countless hours studying, watching tutorials, and experimenting with digital tools. There were times when technical issues or complex concepts like SEO algorithms left me feeling overwhelmed. One night, I was watching a webinar about domain registrars, hosting, and DNS settings, and by the end, I felt completely lost. It was my wife’s support that kept me going. Her unwavering belief in me reminded me that I’d overcome challenges before, and I could do it again. Enrolling in a top marketing and SEO training course was also a turning point, as it gave me real-world insights and confidence.

3. You’ve mentioned that your wife’s support was crucial during tough times. How did her encouragement impact your journey?

My wife was—and still is—my rock. During moments of self-doubt, her calm reassurance reminded me of my capabilities and determination. There were days when I questioned if I could truly master everything needed to run a successful marketing business, but her belief in me never wavered. Her support was what helped me persevere through the frustrations and push through moments when giving up felt easier.

4. What advice would you give to someone transitioning into a new field or starting a business from scratch?

Embrace the uncertainty and be prepared to fail. I had to navigate a steep learning curve, especially moving from HVAC work to marketing. The learning curve was filled with doubt, confusion, and self-doubt, but I wish someone had told me that those feelings are normal. Also, having a strong support system is essential—people who believe in your vision will lift you up when you’re down. Lastly, keep learning and adapting. You don’t need to know everything right away, but your willingness to grow and learn will set you apart.

5. What was a proud moment for you in building Skill Trade Marketing?

One of my proudest moments was signing my first client. It was a validation of all the hard work and learning I had invested in the agency. But the real pride came when I was able to rank them on page 1 of Google for the top keywords in their niche. Seeing them achieve their growth goals was incredibly rewarding, as I knew my efforts directly contributed to their success. That first win gave me the confidence to keep pushing forward.

6. What’s your vision for the future of Skill Trade Marketing?

I want to continue scaling my agency to help more businesses, especially in trades like plumbing, HVAC, electrical, landscaping, and commercial cleaning, reach their full potential. Our current niche website is Skill Trade Marketing, and I’m focused on refining our strategies to keep our clients ahead in their industries. Beyond that, I aim to become a trusted resource for business owners—not only in delivering results but also in educating them on sustainable growth. My goal is to create lasting partnerships where we grow together year after year.

7. What impact do you hope to make in the lives of your clients?

I want to empower business owners, especially in niche industries, with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed. My hope is to transform how small businesses approach their online presence, showing them that with the right strategy, they can compete and thrive. My clients’ success is my success, and I’m committed to helping them achieve long-term growth and sustainability.

Final Thoughts

Phil Furlong’s journey shows that even the steepest learning curves can be overcome with perseverance, support, and a commitment to growth. From the HVAC industry to SEO, Phil has turned his experience and insights into a thriving agency dedicated to helping niche businesses grow online.

To learn more about Phil’s work, visit furlongseomarketing.com.

The post From HVAC Employee to SEO Expert: How Phil Furlong Built a Thriving Marketing Agency appeared first on BusinessViewed.

In the ever-evolving world of entrepreneurship, adaptability isn’t just a skill—it’s a necessity. Today, we speak with Lauren Stanko, founder of Mojo Media Solutions, a brand development agency that’s turning visions into reality. From navigating the uncertainties of starting a business without a roadmap to launching her passion project, OOMA Mushrooms, Lauren shares her journey of resilience, growth, and the importance of soft skills in moving the needle.

1. Lauren, you’re entering your second year as a full-time business owner. Can you tell us about your journey and what inspired you to start Mojo Media Solutions?

I own a brand development agency that helps take entire visions and bring them to life. When I started, there was no framework to follow—just my soft skills guiding the way. Our most recent project, OOMA Mushrooms, has recently launched, and it’s been incredible to see how the business has taken shape in wonderful ways that weren’t on the original draft. I was inspired to create systems that bring value into the world and offer people alternative solutions to modern mental health problems.

2. What were some of the biggest challenges you faced when starting your business, and how did you overcome them?

One of the hardest parts was never knowing what to do next. Without a framework, I had to build a plan, test it, and quickly adapt if things weren’t going in the right direction. Losing my first client was a significant hurdle. It was a mutual parting—they needed skills that weren’t my strengths. Rather than trying to mold myself into areas outside my expertise, I communicated that a better fit was out there for them. It was hard on my ego, but ultimately, it allowed me to get clear on my strengths and move in a better direction for success.

3. How did that experience shape your approach to business moving forward?

It taught me the importance of adaptability. You can teach yourself almost any hard skill—coding, marketing, business management—but mastering adaptability, resilience, and motivation is much harder. Those are the real skills that move the needle and encourage staying power. The experience helped me focus on my strengths and be more intentional about the clients I work with.

4. What keeps you motivated during tough times or when facing uncertainty?

I remind myself of the remarkable moments, like when we got our first order in the first brand I created. That was an incredible feeling, especially knowing that only about 10% of people who attempt to sell online make sales. Seeing tangible results from hard work fuels my motivation. Also, the vision of OOMA Mushrooms making it into the lives of hundreds of thousands of people struggling with their mental health keeps me pushing forward.

5. What advice would you give to new entrepreneurs just starting out?

You have to develop adaptability. While hard skills are important, adaptability, resiliency, and motivation are the real drivers of success. They encourage staying power. Don’t be afraid to test your plans and quickly adapt if things aren’t going in the right direction. Also, be honest about your strengths and don’t try to be everything to everyone.

6. What’s your vision for the future of Mojo Media Solutions and OOMA Mushrooms?

OOMA is a true passion project. I envision it reaching hundreds of thousands of people who are struggling with their mental health or simply looking to improve their lives. For Mojo Media Solutions, I want to continue creating systems that bring value into the world, helping to turn more visions into reality.

7. What impact do you hope to make through your work?

I aim to offer people alternative solutions to modern mental health problems. By bringing projects like OOMA Mushrooms to life, I hope to make a positive impact on people’s well-being. Through my agency, I want to help others realize their visions, creating a ripple effect of positive change.

Final Thoughts

Lauren Stanko’s journey underscores the power of adaptability and the importance of focusing on one’s strengths. Her commitment to offering alternative solutions for mental health and helping others bring their visions to life is a testament to what can be achieved when resilience meets passion.

To learn more about Lauren’s work, visit mojomediasolutions.io.

The post You Have to Develop Adaptability: How Losing Her First Client Led Lauren Stanko to Success appeared first on BusinessViewed.

1. Vince, what led you to start selling digital products, and how was the transition from software development?

I started about a year ago. Coming from a software development and web agency background, I didn’t know much about digital products or digital marketing. The transition wasn’t easy because I was stepping into a completely different space with a lot of noise. There were tons of so-called “experts,” especially on Instagram, but I had no idea how the average person could actually start making money with digital products. It was overwhelming to figure out who to follow and where to begin.

2. What were some of the biggest challenges you faced in the early stages?

The toughest part was the self-doubt and inconsistency, especially when I wasn’t making any money. There were times when I really questioned if this path was for me, and those doubts would creep in often. During those low points, I just had to push through, stay consistent, and keep going. It was all about moving past that plateau and trusting the process.

3. What kept you motivated to continue, even during those tough times?

One of the biggest motivators was seeing small wins along the way and knowing that progress was possible. Selling my first product for over $1,000 was a huge accomplishment for me. It took time to get there, but that sale helped me believe in myself and showed me that I was on the right path. Staying consistent and building on those small victories kept me going.

4. What advice would you give to someone just starting out in the digital products space?

Find someone you can follow and trust. There’s so much information out there, and it’s easy to get lost. Confidence is key—it’s not just about mindset; it’s about believing in yourself and building that confidence over time. And it’s important not to lose that confidence when things get tough, which happens to all of us. Consistency and confidence go hand-in-hand in building a successful business.

5. What’s been your proudest moment so far in this journey?

Selling my first high-ticket product for over $1,000 was definitely a proud moment. It represented a lot of work and overcoming self-doubt. That sale felt like a milestone, and it reassured me that I was moving in the right direction.

6. What’s your vision for MRR Products Vault and your future in digital products?

My vision is to provide accessible digital products for people just starting their journey. I want to help others jump-start their path to making money online, especially those who want to work for themselves and gain financial independence. There’s something incredibly rewarding about helping others realize that they, too, can achieve success in this space.

Final Thoughts

Vince Edwards’ journey highlights the importance of consistency, confidence, and finding trusted guidance in the digital product space. His story is a testament to overcoming self-doubt and staying focused on small wins that add up over time.

To learn more about Vince and MRR Products Vault, visit mrrproductsvault.com.

The post From Web Developer to Digital Product Entrepreneur: Vince Edwards on Finding Confidence and Consistency appeared first on BusinessViewed.

Today, we’re diving into the entrepreneurial journey of Tyler Cook, founder of HyperMedia Marketing. Starting in 2019, Tyler left his previous agency role to offer a full suite of marketing services. However, it didn’t take long for him to realize that trying to do everything was holding him back. In this interview, Tyler shares hard-won lessons on niching down, building a sustainable business, and the power of consistency.

1. Tyler, what made you decide to leave your previous role and start HyperMedia Marketing?

In 2019, I was working at a small agency that primarily focused on marketing automation. I quickly realized that clients needed more—a holistic approach that included everything from copywriting and paid ads to conversion rate optimization. I felt like I was handcuffed by the limited services we offered, so I decided to go out on my own and launch HyperMedia Marketing, where I could expand on those services.

2. What were some of the biggest challenges you faced in the early days?

One of the toughest challenges was getting clients, which is still a challenge sometimes. The agency space is saturated, and finding a consistent growth channel took time. Another big hurdle was the services-versus-pricing dilemma. When I first started, I was a full-funnel agency, offering everything from ads to website optimization and social media management. I was doing it all, but I wasn’t charging enough to afford any help, which led to burnout pretty quickly. I eventually realized that I loved email marketing, list management, and sales pipeline automation, so I decided to niche down and focus on those areas. This shift helped me attract clients willing to invest in premium services and allowed me to hire help, freeing up my time for growth.

3. You mentioned that niching down was a turning point. How did that decision impact your business?

Niching down was a game-changer. When I scaled back to just email marketing, list management, and sales pipeline automation, I felt a huge weight lift off my shoulders. It allowed me to refine my services, build systems, and create processes that made everything easier. I could also focus on finding clients who understood the value of specialized services. It was a relief to narrow down who I worked with and become world-class in a specific area. That focus made it easier to communicate my expertise and build a sustainable business.

4. What keeps you motivated, especially during the tough times?

When things get difficult, I remind myself of the good months and how small, consistent actions lead to long-term success. If I ever notice a dip in clients or my pipeline, it usually comes down to not doing the small daily tasks that build momentum. Remembering that progress is gradual and rooted in consistency has been crucial for me.

5. What advice would you give to entrepreneurs who are just starting out?

I’d say to anyone starting out: be prepared for the challenges. Running an agency can be harder, more stressful, and lonelier than you might expect, but it’s worth it. You’ll learn valuable lessons and experience incredible wins along the way. Another piece of advice is to focus on personal growth as much as business growth. If you’re not learning and adapting, the business can quickly consume you. And, of course, find your niche. Going deep into a specific area you love will allow you to attract clients who value your work and are willing to invest in what you offer.

6. What’s your vision for the future of HyperMedia Marketing?

My vision is to continue offering niche services at an exceptionally high level, helping businesses succeed through email marketing and relationship building with their subscribers. I want to create thriving relationships between businesses and their clients, which ultimately leads to long-term success for everyone involved.

Final Thoughts

Tyler Cook’s journey highlights the importance of finding your niche, building consistency, and focusing on quality over quantity. His story is a reminder that sometimes, scaling back and specializing can be the key to sustainable growth.

To learn more about Tyler and HyperMedia Marketing, visit hypermediamarketing.net.

The post 3 Lessons I Learned the Hard Way About Running a Small Digital Agency: An Interview with Tyler Cook appeared first on BusinessViewed.

We’re excited to speak with Annette C. Sage, founder of Sage Design Group, a business consultancy dedicated to helping entrepreneurs and leaders unlock their potential. Annette shares her journey, the challenges she’s overcome, and her mission to empower businesses with a blend of strategic thinking, creativity, and leadership development.

1. Annette, could you share a bit about what inspired you to start Sage Design Group?

My entrepreneurial journey started with a deep passion for helping others grow, both personally and professionally. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working in business consulting, leadership development, and creative services, always with a focus on empowering individuals—especially women—to reach their full potential. I quickly realized that to make a real impact, I needed to combine strategic thinking with creativity. This led me to offer a range of services, from brand strategy to innovative marketing campaigns, to help businesses not only grow but stand out.

2. What challenges did you face in the early days, and how did you overcome them?

In the beginning, one of my biggest challenges was trying to balance everything. I often felt overwhelmed managing client expectations, building a brand, and handling the financial side. I also struggled with self-doubt. A turning point came when I realized I needed to delegate and surround myself with a team that shared my vision. Learning to ask for help was essential, and it allowed me to focus on high-impact areas of my business. Additionally, shifting my mindset from “selling” to “solving problems” helped me build authentic, lasting client relationships, which fueled sustainable growth.

3. How do you stay motivated, especially when things feel uncertain?

Whenever I face tough times, I go back to my “why”—the reason I started my business. My goal is to make an impact by helping people and creating lasting change. There was a specific moment during the early stages when a partnership didn’t work out, leading to delays and doubt. But I reassessed, focused on what I could control, and found new partners and solutions. That experience taught me resilience and adaptability. I learned that setbacks are opportunities for growth and to stay focused on the bigger picture.

4. What advice would you give to new entrepreneurs?

Don’t rush the process. Building a business takes time, and it’s important to lay a solid foundation. Embrace every experience, even setbacks—they’re often the best teachers. Also, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Surround yourself with mentors, peers, and a support system who can guide you through the tough times. Lastly, define your “why.” Knowing your deeper reason for starting your business will keep you grounded and focused, especially when challenges arise.

5. What’s been a particularly proud moment in your journey?

One of my proudest moments was helping a client’s business, which had an amazing product but struggled with growth. After working together on refining their strategy, streamlining operations, and focusing their marketing, they not only hit their growth targets but eventually sold the company for more than they’d ever expected. Seeing them achieve that success was incredibly rewarding—it was a reminder of the power of strategy and partnership in making dreams a reality.

6. What’s your vision for the future of Sage Design Group?

My vision is to continue helping businesses and the people behind them thrive in an ever-changing world. I want to expand my reach to entrepreneurs who might not have access to the resources they need to succeed. I’m also focusing on leadership development to help emerging leaders build skills with empathy, integrity, and vision. Creativity will always be a cornerstone of my work; I believe it’s essential for long-term success. Ultimately, I aim to leave a legacy of empowerment, where entrepreneurs feel equipped to face challenges, innovate confidently, and make a lasting impact.

7. What impact do you hope to make through your work?

My goal is to create a world where businesses are forces for good, not just financially but culturally and socially. I want to support leaders in creating environments where people feel valued, inspired, and able to do their best work. I hope to encourage businesses to think long-term, embracing innovative, values-driven strategies that positively impact their communities and the world. Success shouldn’t be defined by profit alone—it should include the difference businesses make in people’s lives.

Final Thoughts

Annette’s journey is a powerful example of resilience, creativity, and a commitment to empowering others. Her approach to business goes beyond profit, focusing on impact, growth, and authenticity.

To learn more about Annette and Sage Design Group, visit sagedesigngroup.biz.

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Ross Albinelli’s journey into entrepreneurship began long before his first business venture. Born in New York, raised in Sicily, and later moving to Australia at age 12, Ross faced early challenges that tested his resilience, from adapting to a new culture to learning English. When he graduated high school, the lack of Australian citizenship meant university loans weren’t an option, pushing him to explore alternate paths. His journey into business started in 2018 when he discovered dropshipping and online advertising. Although his first attempts failed, Ross found himself inspired by the idea of building something on his own terms.

In 2022, Ross founded Satellite Digital, a growth-focused marketing agency helping NDIS providers generate new participants through targeted lead generation. Today, Satellite Digital stands as a testament to Ross’s vision of creating lasting impact through client acquisition strategies and scalable marketing solutions.

Overcoming Challenges and Investing in a Team

Ross faced some significant challenges as he built his business. One of the biggest was learning to let go of day-to-day tasks. “Being a business owner means understanding that you can’t do everything yourself. You need to hire and train talent that can do the job even better than you could,” he shares. This realization required Ross to take risks and focus on scalability, trusting that investing in a team would pay off.

Another challenge was learning to track metrics effectively. “Understanding your numbers is essential,” he emphasizes. By closely monitoring business metrics, Ross gained clarity on what needed improvement. “It might feel overwhelming at first, but tracking those numbers will help you in the long run.”

Staying Motivated Through Difficult Times

For Ross, maintaining a clear vision has been the key to pushing through hard times. He recalls a particularly challenging period when he was jobless with limited savings. “I kept going because I knew that everything I wanted was on the other side of that struggle.” Ross’s belief in his goals and vision has been his anchor, reminding him that persistence is essential in the face of adversity.

Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Ross’s advice for new entrepreneurs centers on building a strong team. “There will come a time when you realize that to reach your goals, you’ll need a team,” he advises. He acknowledges that hiring can be intimidating but sees it as a necessary step. “Think of your team not as an expense, but as an asset to help you achieve your vision.”

Celebrating Milestones and Looking to the Future

Ross’s proudest moment came when he secured his first client. After weeks of preparing and taking sales calls, he finally received an email from a client ready to work with him. “I remember being on the phone with my dad, talking about possibly returning to a 9-to-5 job. Then, that email came through—it was a sign of hope, and I never looked back.”

Looking ahead, Ross is focused on expanding his skills in sales and client acquisition, with a vision to buy and grow more businesses. He’s passionate about teaching his team what he’s learned and dreams of creating an “empire” built on shared knowledge and continuous growth.

Inspiring Growth and Perseverance

Through Satellite Digital, Ross aims to inspire clients and show them that business growth is achievable and sustainable. Beyond that, he hopes to encourage others to pursue their goals, no matter their circumstances. “I may not be particularly gifted, but I’ve always had a vision and the drive to see it through,” he reflects. For Ross, the journey isn’t over—he’s committed to the path and knows that this mentality will carry him forward.

For more information about Rosario “Ross” Albinelli and Satellite Digital, visit satellitedigital.co.

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Today, we speak with Tony Nguyen, founder of Cota Media, a digital agency dedicated to empowering businesses with web design, digital marketing, and AI solutions. Tony’s story is one of incredible resilience, from humble beginnings and early entrepreneurial setbacks to building a thriving agency. He shares insights on overcoming challenges, the importance of authenticity, and his vision for Cota Media’s future.

1. Tony, you have an incredible journey. Could you tell us about the early days and what led you to start Cota Media?

I grew up in a challenging environment, sharing a twin bed with three siblings in a roach-infested home, enduring winters without heat and summers without AC. These experiences fueled my drive to change my circumstances. Before Cota Media, I was a CT Technologist in the medical field and later transitioned into medical marketing and sales. But after a series of layoffs, I faced a turning point with a condo, a daughter, and another child on the way.

My wife, who always believed in me, encouraged me to start a business. I invested almost all I had into importing electronics to sell on eBay, but I was scammed. I hit rock bottom, but my wife’s support kept me going. Eventually, I taught myself web design and assembled a team of talented individuals. That’s how Cota Media was born.

2. What were some of the challenges you faced in the early days of Cota Media, and how did you overcome them?

In the beginning, most clients came from Craigslist, which brought challenges with scammers and chargebacks. Juggling over 40 website designs a month took a toll on my family life, and I often missed precious moments with my son. But my wife’s unwavering support and my deepening faith helped me push through. I learned to adapt quickly, improve my communication skills, and balance work with family. The steep learning curve taught me resilience, which became a foundation for my journey.

3. What keeps you motivated, especially when things get tough?

My faith and my family are my greatest motivators. During those first six years, I constantly battled imposter syndrome, especially with bigger projects. I remember signing my first $15,000 client and feeling overwhelmed with doubt. But pushing through that experience—and the recognition we eventually received for our work—helped me realize I wasn’t faking it. Knowing I have my wife and Jesus Christ behind me keeps me focused and driven.

4. What advice would you give to new entrepreneurs?

Enjoy the journey, because it’s a rollercoaster. Personal growth is just as important as business growth, so work on yourself throughout. Early on, I focused too much on numbers and revenue, which sometimes felt hollow. Now, I set goals around the impact I want to make and the values I want to uphold. Also, be authentic and run your business your way. When I started, I wasn’t looking at competitors—I was just following my instincts and staying true to my style, which has been key to my success.

5. Could you share a proud moment that stands out in your journey?

One moment that stands out is when my wife and I were putting up flyers door-to-door. After hours of walking, it started raining, and my wife got in the car to follow me. I remember running through the rain with a heavy backpack, talking to potential clients on my earpiece, and seeing her patiently trailing behind. That moment captured our shared determination and reminded me of how far we’ve come together.

6. What’s your vision for Cota Media moving forward?

My vision is to expand Cota Media globally, especially in Asia and Europe. With rapid advancements in AI and digital marketing, the sky’s the limit. We’re focusing heavily on AI integrations to help businesses thrive in an increasingly digital world. I’m excited about the possibilities and am committed to helping companies build strong online presences and achieve their potential.

7. What impact do you hope to make through your work?

My hope is to support entrepreneurs, whether they’re just starting or looking to grow. Our logo features Philippians 4:19, which says, “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” That verse reflects our mission: we want every company and individual we work with to feel blessed. Helping people achieve their entrepreneurial dreams is more than just a job—it’s a mission to foster a community of independence and creativity.

Final Thoughts

Tony’s journey is a powerful example of resilience, faith, and a commitment to authenticity. His story shows that success often follows hardship and that with the right support and determination, anything is possible.

To learn more about Tony and Cota Media, visit cota-media.com.

The post Interview with Tony Nguyen: Resilience, Faith, and Building a Digital Legacy appeared first on BusinessViewed.

Swish Goswami’s entrepreneurial journey began as a college student with an idea to help address malnutrition among students. His first venture, FoodShare, aimed to connect students to affordable food options by repurposing leftover and donated food on campus. Although FoodShare didn’t succeed, it taught Swish valuable lessons in product development, fundraising, and team building. This experience sparked his passion for entrepreneurship, and he hasn’t looked back since.

Swish went on to co-found Dunk, a media company with his friend Elliot, building an online community of over 11 million basketball fans across Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat. Dunk worked with major brands, including Gatorade, Warner Music, and Sony Music, marking Swish’s early success in digital media. His next venture, Surf (formerly TruFan), allowed users to be compensated for sharing anonymized data with companies. After five years, Surf was acquired by Datacy, marking another milestone in Swish’s journey.

Now, Swish is the head of growth and marketing at Parallel Studios, a gaming company with a bold vision to create a science fiction franchise that spans games, movies, TV shows, and more. Parallel’s flagship digital trading card game is currently available on PC, and Swish is excited to bring it to mobile soon.

Navigating Challenges and Remote Team Management

Swish encountered significant challenges, especially during the pandemic, which required adapting his team’s structure and workflow. “Moving to remote management was tough at first. I learned to over-communicate and encourage the team to do the same. It’s important to replicate those spontaneous, in-person conversations online, and regular check-ins make a big difference when everyone’s remote,” he shares.

Staying Motivated and Overcoming Setbacks

Motivation has never been an issue for Swish. “I’m driven by the problems I’m solving, the people I work with, and my mission—to make a positive impact for myself and my family.” He faced a challenging moment when a potential acquisition of Surf fell through. “That was tough. But within three weeks, we secured another deal by staying positive and focused,” he recalls. Swish’s resilience and commitment to his mission helped him navigate setbacks with a sense of purpose.

Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Swish encourages new entrepreneurs to embrace imposter syndrome and prioritize learning. “You don’t need everything figured out to start a business. Building is a constant learning process, so keep adapting and don’t worry if you feel like you don’t know it all.” He also emphasizes the importance of networking. “Early on, my network helped me find team members, investors, and customers. Maintaining relationships, even when people don’t need anything from you, opens doors you can’t predict.”

Celebrating Milestones and Looking Ahead

Swish’s proudest moments include selling Surf after navigating challenges like the pandemic and a market recession, as well as launching Surf’s browser extension, which grew to 200,000 users within its first year. “Seeing that scale so quickly was incredibly gratifying,” he shares.

Currently, Swish is focused on growing Parallel Studios and building a science fiction universe that captures the imagination of fans. He’s also interested in tackling climate issues, particularly in emission reduction and carbon removal. Additionally, Swish is excited by advancements in AI and their potential to enhance productivity, though he’s also concerned about AI’s potential to accelerate job displacement and spread misinformation.

For Swish, the goal is to spotlight important issues and drive meaningful impact across industries.

For more information about Swish Goswami, visit Parallel Studios’ website.

The post A Conversation with Swish Goswami: Innovating Across Platforms and Building for the Future appeared first on BusinessViewed.