The Necessary Entrepreneur

Why do smart, capable people still feel stuck, despite working hard and doing "all the right things"? In this episode of The Necessary Entrepreneur, host Mark Perkins sits down with John Mitchell, founder of TheMissingSecret.org, to explore the unseen forces that shape success, fulfillment, and decision-making for entrepreneurs and business leaders. John challenges the idea that success is simply about effort, strategy, or motivation. Instead, he introduces the concept of the "missing secret", the internal patterns, beliefs, and mental frameworks that quietly determine how people show up in business and life. Through practical examples and deep insight, John explains why most people repeat the same cycles, even when they know better, and how real change begins at the identity level. In this conversation, Mark and John discuss: Why logic and willpower alone don't create lasting change The hidden mental patterns that keep entrepreneurs stuck How subconscious beliefs shape performance and outcomes Why awareness is the first step to personal and professional breakthroughs The difference between surface-level improvement and real transformation How leaders can operate with greater clarity, confidence, and alignment John also shares how entrepreneurs can recognize when they're operating on autopilot, and what it takes to break free from internal limits that no longer serve them. This episode is a powerful listen for founders, executives, and business owners who want clarity, self-mastery, and sustainable success, not hustle culture or empty motivation. 🎙️ The Necessary Entrepreneur, hosted by Mark Perkins, features real conversations with founders and leaders who've built businesses worth studying. 📌 Connect With Us:Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenecessaryentrepreneur/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNecessaryEntrepreneurPod X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6xhGUE1yzy2N0AemUOlJPx?si=d1c5c316af404f15 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/no/podcast/the-necessary-entrepreneur/id1547181167 📌 Find Out More About John Mitchell:https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-mitchell-76483654/ https://themissingsecret.org/ https://thinkitbeit.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@Think.It.Be.It. https://www.instagram.com/thinkit.beit/

In this episode of The Necessary Entrepreneur, host Mark Perkins sits down with Ben Lytle, serial entrepreneur, futurist, former CEO of Anthem, and author of The Potentialist, to explore how business leaders can thrive in the fastest period of change in human history. Ben explains why fear-based leadership leads to bad decisions, why resilience alone is no longer enough, and why the future belongs to those who focus on preparedness, constant learning, and wisdom. Drawing from decades of experience building companies and studying human potential, Ben shares how AI and intelligent automation will reshape work, and why human creativity, judgment, and moral reasoning matter more than ever. This conversation covers: Leadership in times of massive technological and economic change How entrepreneurs can integrate AI without losing their humanity Why belief in yourself is the ultimate competitive advantage How to identify unmet needs and build meaningful businesses Redefining success beyond money, status, and titles If you're an entrepreneur, executive, or business leader navigating uncertainty, this episode delivers long-term perspective, clarity, and practical insight for the future ahead. 🎙️ The Necessary Entrepreneur, hosted by Mark Perkins, features real conversations with founders and leaders who've built businesses worth studying. 📌 Connect With Us:Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenecessaryentrepreneur/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNecessaryEntrepreneurPod X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6xhGUE1yzy2N0AemUOlJPx?si=d1c5c316af404f15 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/no/podcast/the-necessary-entrepreneur/id1547181167 📌 Find Out More About Ben Lytle:https://potentialistfuture.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-lytle-a6a0b914/ https://www.facebook.com/PotentialistFuture https://www.youtube.com/@ben.lytle.potentialist 📘 Order The Potentialist Series Books HERE https://www.amazon.com/stores/Ben-Lytle/author/B09YKFDDZD?ref=ap_rdr&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=5ac758c7-1e67-4622-8859-2ddee6818980

On this episode of The Necessary Entrepreneur, host Mark Perkins sits down with James Orsini, President of Startup Operations at VaynerX, longtime partner to Gary Vaynerchuk, former public company CEO, and one of the most respected operators in modern marketing, leadership, and business growth. With over 40 years in corporate America and more than a decade inside the high-speed entrepreneurial engine of Vayner, James shares hard-earned insights most founders never hear. From helping scale VaynerX from 400 to 2,000+ employees to launching vYve, a transformational program for Fortune 500 executives and entrepreneurs, James breaks down what it truly takes to build profitable, enduring companies today. In this deep, wide-ranging conversation, Mark and James unpack: Why "perfection is the death of creativity" and how it cripples entrepreneurs The difference between an entrepreneur and an intrapreneur How Vayner scales rapidly while staying grounded in fundamentals The real state of AI in business and why growth planning is being ignored Why so many companies stall at $5M–$10M and how to break through What leaders misunderstand about brand, marketing, and company culture The unexpected power of humor, animation, and mascots in modern advertising How to attract top-tier executive talent, even as a small business The mindset shift founders need to avoid burnout and lead sustainably Why AI-driven workforce disruption will create more entrepreneurs What James means when he says: "Right is right. Doing the right thing is always the right thing." James also offers rare behind-the-scenes insight into the Vayner ecosystem, today's fast-changing business landscape, and how leaders can innovate without abandoning core fundamentals. Whether you're a solo founder, a growing CEO, or navigating the crossroads between corporate and entrepreneurial life, this episode is packed with real-world wisdom you can use immediately. 🎙️ The Necessary Entrepreneur, hosted by Mark Perkins, features real conversations with founders and leaders who've built businesses worth studying. 📌 Connect With Us:Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenecessaryentrepreneur/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNecessaryEntrepreneurPod X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6xhGUE1yzy2N0AemUOlJPx?si=d1c5c316af404f15 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/no/podcast/the-necessary-entrepreneur/id1547181167 📌 More About James Orsini, VaynerX & vYve:https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-orsini-4b1aaa7/ https://www.instagram.com/jamesorsini/ https://www.tiktok.com/@jimmythepencil https://x.com/JimmyThePencil https://www.threads.com/@jamesorsini https://vaynerx.com/ https://vyve.vaynerx.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/vyvebyvayner/

What separates companies that plateau from those that scale with clarity and momentum? In this episode of The Necessary Entrepreneur, Mark Perkins sits down with Amy Gregory Weber, founder of VETTA Sales Consulting, former sales leader at Microsoft, Twilio, and Cisco, and a seasoned advisor who helps entrepreneurs create high-performing, people-aligned sales organizations. After three decades leading global sales teams, Amy discovered a powerful truth: you can't scale a business if the wrong people are in the wrong roles. Today, she helps growth-stage companies build the systems, data-driven processes, and people alignment required to scale without chaos. Amy and Mark unpack how founders can eliminate misalignment, develop accountable teams, and create sustainable revenue systems. From psychometric analysis to rebuilding team structure, to cultivating real relationships with clients, Amy shares the exact frameworks that transform sales organizations from scattered to strategic. She also dives into the personal side of her journey: grit, reinvention, leadership shadowing, and why climbing mountains mirrors the entrepreneurial path more than anything else. In This Episode, You'll Learn: • Why people—not strategy—determine whether a business scales • How founders can build teams that actually want the roles they're in • The psychometric tools Amy uses to align talent with business goals • How to replace chaotic sales activity with systems and accountability • Why listening (not pitching) is the real competitive advantage • How relationship-driven selling built one client from $0 to 95% Cisco adoption • Why your growth journey will never be a straight uphill climb • How physical challenge and mountain-climbing shape Amy's leadership philosophy • The habits of elite sales leaders who create long-term client loyalty Whether you're a founder building your first sales process or a seasoned entrepreneur leading a growing team, Amy's perspective will challenge how you think about people, performance, and growth. 🎙️ The Necessary Entrepreneur, hosted by Mark Perkins, features real conversations with founders and leaders who've built businesses worth studying. 📌 Connect With Us:Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenecessaryentrepreneur/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNecessaryEntrepreneurPod X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6xhGUE1yzy2N0AemUOlJPx?si=d1c5c316af404f15 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/no/podcast/the-necessary-entrepreneur/id1547181167 📌 Find Out More About Amy & Vetta Sales Consultingwww.vettasalesconsulting.com www.linkedin.com/in/amygregoryweber

Unlocking Financial Clarity: How Natalia Zacharin Built a Multimillion-Dollar Firm by Mastering Numbers, Strategy & Courage In this high-impact episode of The Necessary Entrepreneur, Mark Perkins sits down with Natalia Zacharin, CEO of Zacharin Consulting and one of the most respected financial strategists advising today's business owners. Despite beginning with zero accounting experience, Natalia transformed a small side gig into a multimillion-dollar firm, earning a spot on the Inc. 5000, by helping entrepreneurs turn confusing financial data into confident, strategic decision-making. Natalia opens up about hitting rock bottom in her late 40s as a struggling single mom, and the bold decision to quit her job, bet on herself, and rebuild her life by helping founders understand the numbers that truly drive growth. Today, she's a go-to advisor on cash flow, profitability, hiring strategy, margins, and building a financially healthy, scalable company. In this episode, you'll learn: ✔️ The most common financial mistakes entrepreneurs make ✔️ How to interpret your books like a CEO, not a bookkeeper ✔️ Revenue metrics that actually matter in any business ✔️ Why different industries require different financial strategies ✔️ How to build a sellable business (even if you never plan to sell) ✔️ When to hire, who to hire, and the power of "hiring for today" ✔️ The mindset shift that helped Natalia triple her client base in 90 days ✔️ Why 95% of new clients have messy books, and how to fix yours fast ✔️ How to stop struggling and finally build a profitable, thriving business If you want a clearer, smarter, more confident relationship with your finances, this episode gives you the tools and perspective to finally take control. 🎙️ The Necessary Entrepreneur, hosted by Mark Perkins, features real conversations with founders and leaders who've built businesses worth studying. 📌 Connect With Us:Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenecessaryentrepreneur/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNecessaryEntrepreneurPod X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6xhGUE1yzy2N0AemUOlJPx?si=d1c5c316af404f15 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/no/podcast/the-necessary-entrepreneur/id1547181167 📌 Find Out More About Natalia & Zacharin Consulting:https://www.linkedin.com/in/growyourbottomline/ https://www.facebook.com/zacharinconsulting/ https://www.instagram.com/growyourbottomline/ https://zacharinconsulting.com

What if getting dressed could be effortless, stylish, and sustainable? In this episode of The Necessary Entrepreneur, host Mark Perkins sits down with Anya Cheng, founder and CEO of Taelor, a Silicon Valley startup transforming men's fashion through AI-powered styling, subscription rentals, and expert human guidance. Anya shares her journey from leading product and marketing teams at Meta, eBay, and Target to founding Taelor, a company designed to help busy men look their best without the hassle of shopping, laundry, or outfit planning. Learn how she combines technology, machine learning, and human styling insights to create personalized fashion experiences that boost confidence, career success, and sustainability. In this episode, you'll discover: How Taelor AI is revolutionizing men's fashion with subscription rentals and data-driven styling Lessons from Anya's career journey and founding a startup from zero to one Using AI to combine human intuition with machine learning for perfectly matched outfits The intersection of sustainability, fashion, and business innovation Insights on fundraising, investor selection, and scaling a high-impact startup If you're an entrepreneur, tech enthusiast, or curious about the future of fashion tech and personal styling, this conversation is packed with actionable strategies, inspiration, and behind-the-scenes insights. 🎙️ The Necessary Entrepreneur, hosted by Mark Perkins, features authentic conversations with founders and leaders who've built businesses worth studying. 📌 Connect With Us:Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenecessaryentrepreneur/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNecessaryEntrepreneurPod X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6xhGUE1yzy2N0AemUOlJPx?si=d1c5c316af404f15 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/no/podcast/the-necessary-entrepreneur/id1547181167 📌 Find Out More About TaelorTaelor: https://taelor.style Taelor Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/69612960 Taelor IG: @taelor.style Taelor Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Taelor.Style Taelor X (Twitter): @TaelorStyle Anya Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anyacheng/ Anya X (Twitter): @Anyacheng Anya Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AnyaChengSiliconValley/ Anya IG: @anyacheng_siliconvalley Experience effortless style with rental and personal styling services: Taelor: Get 25% OFF your first month of men's clothing subscription. Use code: PODCAST25 Sign up at: https://taelor.style/pages/membership Armoire: Get 50% OFF your first month of women's clothing subscription. Use code: ArmoirexTaelor Sign up at: https://www.armoire.style/refer/ArmoirexTaelor Give the gift of time, convenience, and effortless style: Taelor Gift Cards: Get 10% OFF Use code: PODCASTGIFT Purchase at: https://taelor.style/products/menswear-rental-gift-card

Want to turn your expertise into a business that earns while you sleep? Former ER nurse Justin Allan Montgomery left a capped-income career to build an eight-figure online education empire, and now he's helping professionals transform their knowledge into profitable continuing-education businesses. In this episode of The Necessary Entrepreneur, host Mark Perkins sits down with Justin to explore how he escaped the traditional career trap, replaced his income within 12 months, and built multiple multi-million-dollar businesses from tiny market shares. Justin shares why fear stops so many smart professionals from taking action, how to identify saturated versus high-opportunity markets, and the exact steps to create scalable online education revenue. If you're a nurse, doctor, attorney, engineer, therapist, or any credentialed professional ready to stop trading time for money, this episode is your roadmap. Topics covered: • Escaping capped-income careers • Overcoming fear and analysis paralysis • Building an eight-figure online education business • Turning professional expertise into continuing-education revenue • Identifying saturated and overlooked markets • Creating passive, scalable income • The psychology of people who actually follow through • Building a business from launch → scale → exit • Why only 2% of professionals take action • Finding passion beyond financial success Perfect for listeners interested in entrepreneurship, online education, business building, productivity, and creating financial freedom. 🎙️ The Necessary Entrepreneur, hosted by Mark Perkins, features authentic conversations with founders and leaders who've built businesses worth studying. 📌 Connect With Us:Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenecessaryentrepreneur/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNecessaryEntrepreneurPod X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6xhGUE1yzy2N0AemUOlJPx?si=d1c5c316af404f15 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/no/podcast/the-necessary-entrepreneur/id1547181167 🚀 Learn More About ProCourseStart Turn your knowledge into a scalable online course business: https://procoursestart.com/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Pro-Course-Start/61574146510784/ https://www.instagram.com/procoursestart25/ https://www.tiktok.com/@procoursestart https://www.youtube.com/@ProCourseStart

What does it take to turn real-world leadership training into a scalable, high-performance system used by executives, entrepreneurs, and fast-growth companies around the world? In this episode of The Necessary Entrepreneur, host Mark Perkins sits down with performance strategist Evan Unger for a deep conversation on building leaders, eliminating operational drag, and unlocking elite execution inside any organization. Evan shares the pivotal moments that shaped his career, from his early days learning under mentors trained in the Jack Welch GE era, to reinventing his entire business model virtually during the pandemic, to building frameworks that help leaders multiply output without burnout. He breaks down the mindset, systems, and habits that separate average operators from exceptional ones, including: The #1 leadership mistake that slows companies down How to streamline decision-making and remove structural "drag" Why most teams fail to communicate effectively, and how to fix it Evan's process for training leaders to think clearer, act faster, and execute better The shift from in-person to fully virtual consulting (and why it improved results) The real reason strategy dies inside organizations How to build a culture where people own problems instead of escalate them Whether you're an emerging entrepreneur, scaling founder, or established executive, this conversation delivers practical, usable tools for strengthening leadership muscles, simplifying complexity, and driving growth with consistency. If you want to build a high-performance organization, one that moves faster, communicates cleaner, and operates with clarity, this episode is a must-listen. 🎙️ The Necessary Entrepreneur, hosted by Mark Perkins, features authentic conversations with founders and leaders who've built businesses worth studying. 📌 Connect With Us:Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenecessaryentrepreneur/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNecessaryEntrepreneurPod X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6xhGUE1yzy2N0AemUOlJPx?si=d1c5c316af404f15 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/no/podcast/the-necessary-entrepreneur/id1547181167 📌 Find Out More About Evan Unger & Schwartz & Associateshttps://www.terischwartzassociates.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/evan-unger-6553597/

From Lotteries to Luxury Experiences: How Derek Gwaltney Built Atlas Experiences into a Top-Tier Brand Experience Company 🎯 In this episode of The Necessary Entrepreneur, host Mark Perkins sits down with Derek Gwaltney, founder and CEO of Atlas Experiences, to explore the art of creating unforgettable brand moments that spark emotion, connection, and loyalty. Derek shares his remarkable journey from the lottery and gaming industry to leading one of the fastest-growing experiential marketing companies in America, earning a spot on the Inc. 5000 list (#33 overall). Today, Atlas Experiences is known for producing world-class destination events, incentive trips, and brand activations that blend entertainment with purpose. In this powerful conversation, Derek and Mark dive into: 🔥 How to design once-in-a-lifetime experiences that elevate brands 💡 Lessons from the lottery world that shaped Atlas' creative strategy 🚀 Building a resilient business through major industry disruption (COVID & beyond) 🎯 Why human emotion is the most valuable currency in marketing 💼 What it takes to scale a service-based company with authenticity and vision Derek also opens up about leadership, creative risk-taking, and what it means to "be first" in an industry that's constantly evolving. Whether you're a founder, marketer, or brand strategist, this episode will challenge how you think about connection, creativity, and the power of unforgettable brand experiences. 🎙️ The Necessary Entrepreneur, hosted by Mark Perkins, features authentic conversations with founders and leaders who've built businesses worth studying. 📌 Connect With Us:Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenecessaryentrepreneur/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNecessaryEntrepreneurPod X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6xhGUE1yzy2N0AemUOlJPx?si=d1c5c316af404f15 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/no/podcast/the-necessary-entrepreneur/id1547181167 📌 Find Out More About Derek & Atlas Experiences https://www.linkedin.com/in/derekgwaltney/ https://www.atlasexperiences.com https://www.linkedin.com/company/atlasexperiences-llc/ https://www.youtube.com/@atlasexperiences/featured https://www.instagram.com/atlasexperiences/ https://www.facebook.com/atlasexperiences/

Feeling stressed, stuck, or burned out as a high-achieving leader or entrepreneur? 💡 In this episode of The Necessary Entrepreneur, host Mark Perkins sits down with Mandy Morris, LPC, co-founder of Sofree, to explore how high performers can reclaim mental clarity, confidence, and emotional balance. Mandy shares her journey from athletic trainer to licensed therapist and entrepreneur, blending psychology, neuroscience, and practical tools to make mental wellness accessible, actionable, and part of everyday life, not just something you turn to in crisis. She dives into how stress, high expectations, and subconscious patterns impact leaders and business owners, and how to regain your "internal edge." In this conversation, you'll discover: 🔥 What the "internal edge" is and why it matters for high achievers 💡 How subconscious patterns and stress affect decision-making, focus, and performance 🚀 Techniques to regulate your nervous system quickly, even under pressure 🧠 How EMDR and neuroscience-based strategies break old mental patterns ⚙️ Tools, exercises, and the Sofree app to reset, refocus, and thrive Whether you're an entrepreneur, executive, or high-achieving professional, Mandy's insights provide actionable strategies to manage stress, improve emotional resilience, and lead with clarity and confidence. 🎙️ The Necessary Entrepreneur, hosted by Mark Perkins, features authentic conversations with founders and leaders who've built businesses worth studying. 📌 Connect With Us:Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenecessaryentrepreneur/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNecessaryEntrepreneurPod X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6xhGUE1yzy2N0AemUOlJPx?si=d1c5c316af404f15 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/no/podcast/the-necessary-entrepreneur/id1547181167 📌 Find Out More About Mandy Morris & SoFreehttps://mandyemorris.com/ https://www.getsofree.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/mandymorris/ https://www.instagram.com/therapist_Mandy  

What makes a successful founder dive back in after a major exit? 💡 In this episode of The Necessary Entrepreneur, host Mark Perkins sits down with Jesse Lipson, founder and CEO of Levitate, a fast-growing SaaS platform helping service businesses build authentic client relationships at scale. Before Levitate, Jesse founded and sold ShareFile to Citrix, where he later served as a public-company executive before leaving to start all over again. Mark and Jesse dive deep into the psychology of entrepreneurship, the pressure of building a second company after a big win, and how to keep relationships real in a digital world. Jesse shares powerful lessons on: Scaling relationship-based businesses with software Finding product-market fit and applying first-principles thinking Why entrepreneurship never gets easier, no matter how many times you do it The rise of AI tools and what it means for small-business growth Building and leading teams through constant change Whether you're a first-time founder or a seasoned entrepreneur exploring your next move, this episode will inspire you to rethink creativity, risk, and leadership. 🎙️ The Necessary Entrepreneur, hosted by Mark Perkins, features authentic conversations with founders and leaders who've built businesses worth studying. 📌 Connect With Us:Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenecessaryentrepreneur/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNecessaryEntrepreneurPod X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6xhGUE1yzy2N0AemUOlJPx?si=d1c5c316af404f15 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/no/podcast/the-necessary-entrepreneur/id1547181167 📌 Find Out More About Jesse Lipson & Levitate:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jesse-lipson-625195/ https://x.com/jesselipson https://www.levitate.ai https://www.linkedin.com/company/real-magic/

What separates great leaders from good ones? 💡 In this episode of The Necessary Entrepreneur, host Mark Perkins sits down with Mary Elizabeth Sadd, leadership advisor, executive search expert, and author of Living a Generous Life: Learning, Earning, and Returning. With over two decades of experience advising Fortune 500 companies, private equity firms, and fast-growth organizations, Mary has spent her career helping CEOs and boards build world-class leadership teams, and uncover the human side of scaling a business. Mary shares timeless lessons on leadership, legacy, and generosity, including how the best leaders "see around corners," prepare for what's next, and stay optimistic in the face of uncertainty. She explains why mentorship alone isn't enough, how true sponsors open doors behind closed rooms, and why the most impactful executives are authentic, empathetic, and unafraid to lead with heart. Drawing from her book and her personal story, from founding her own firm to advising top leaders at Korn Ferry and Modern Executive Solutions, Mary also shares her philosophy of learning well, earning well, and returning well: using your success to create opportunity for others. 🎙️ Topics Covered: The difference between mentorship and sponsorship in leadership What makes world-class executives stand out How to manage your time and energy for maximum impact The importance of generosity in business and life Lessons from generations of leadership at the University of Georgia How great leaders see around corners and lead through uncertainty If you're interested in leadership development, executive mindset, and building a life and business with purpose, this episode will leave you inspired to lead and live more generously. 🎙️ The Necessary Entrepreneur, hosted by Mark Perkins, features authentic conversations with founders and leaders who've built businesses worth studying. 📌 Connect With Us:Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenecessaryentrepreneur/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNecessaryEntrepreneurPod X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6xhGUE1yzy2N0AemUOlJPx?si=d1c5c316af404f15 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/no/podcast/the-necessary-entrepreneur/id1547181167 📌 Learn More About Mary Elizabeth Sadd: www.maryelizabethsadd.com www.linkedin.com/in/maryelizabethsadd https://www.instagram.com/maryelizabethsadd/ https://www.facebook.com/MESadd/ https://www.youtube.com/@MaryElizabethSadd https://www.modernexecutivesolutions.com/ 📘 Order Living a Generous Life Here

What if capitalism could work for people instead of against them? 💡 In this episode of The Necessary Entrepreneur, host Mark Perkins sits down with Morgan Styler, veteran entrepreneur and co-founder of Circular Wealth, to explore a bold new model he calls "capitalism with compassion." After decades in direct sales and network marketing, including co-founding companies with over $2 billion in revenue, Morgan became determined to build a system where everyone shares in the success they help create. Morgan explains how Circular Wealth uses regenerative economics to reward human connection over clicks, giving affiliates real ownership, profit sharing, and equity. He also reveals how his team is flipping the traditional sales pyramid on its head, creating a transparent, collaborative business model where money flows like energy through an ecosystem rather than pooling at the top. From lessons learned running billion-dollar organizations to his vision for a fairer, more sustainable economy, this conversation challenges what we think we know about wealth, equity, and entrepreneurship. 🎙️ Topics Covered: The flaws in traditional network marketing and sales models How to design capitalism with compassion Turning $5 trillion in customer acquisition costs into community wealth Why transparency, incentives, and shared equity matter Building trust and collaboration through profit sharing If you've ever wondered what a regenerative economy could look like, or how entrepreneurs can help fix what's broken in today's systems, this episode will expand your thinking. 🎙️ The Necessary Entrepreneur, hosted by Mark Perkins, features authentic conversations with founders and leaders who've built businesses worth studying. 📌 Connect With Us:Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenecessaryentrepreneur/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNecessaryEntrepreneurPod X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6xhGUE1yzy2N0AemUOlJPx?si=d1c5c316af404f15 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/no/podcast/the-necessary-entrepreneur/id1547181167 📌 Find Out More About Morgan Styler & Circular Wealth:  https://circularwealth.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/morgan-styler-5602095/ https://www.facebook.com/morganstyler

What does it take to build and sustain one of Ohio's most respected craft breweries? In this episode of The Necessary Entrepreneur, host Mark Perkins sits down with Eric Bean, co-owner and brewmaster of Columbus Brewing Company, to explore how craftsmanship, culture, and community come together to shape a lasting brand. Eric shares how he and his wife, Beth, have helped transform Columbus Brewing Company into a cornerstone of Ohio's beer scene, staying true to their roots while pushing innovation and quality forward. From learning under a German brewmaster to growing a modern legacy brand, Eric reflects on leadership, scaling, and what it really means to build a business around passion. In this episode, you'll learn: How to balance creativity and consistency in a craft industry The lessons Eric carried from traditional brewing into modern entrepreneurship How Columbus Brewing Company has scaled without losing its soul Why community and connection matter as much as the product itself Whether you're a craft beer lover, a founder navigating growth, or someone inspired by the process of building something that lasts, this conversation offers timeless entrepreneurial takeaways. 🎙️ The Necessary Entrepreneur, hosted by Mark Perkins, features authentic conversations with founders and leaders who've built businesses worth studying. 📌 Connect With Us:Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenecessaryentrepreneur/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNecessaryEntrepreneurPod X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6xhGUE1yzy2N0AemUOlJPx?si=d1c5c316af404f15 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/no/podcast/the-necessary-entrepreneur/id1547181167 📌 Find Out More About Columbus Brewing Companyhttps://columbusbrewing.com/ https://www.instagram.com/columbusbrewingcompany/ https://www.facebook.com/columbusbrewing/

In this episode of The Necessary Entrepreneur, host Mark Perkins sits down with Darrel Grumman, CEO and franchiser of Bubbles Tea & Juice Company. Since acquiring the brand in 2024, Darrel has transformed Bubbles from a small local favorite into a rapidly growing franchise with new locations, mobile units, and an updated, innovative menu. Darrel opens up about the realities of scaling a business, the grind of entrepreneurship, and the lessons learned while balancing risk, leadership, and vision. From overcoming setbacks to building culture through authenticity, this episode dives into what it takes to lead a brand from the ground up, one bubble tea at a time. Key Takeaways: What it really takes to franchise and scale a retail brand How to lead through long hours, pressure, and growth pains Lessons in brand innovation and community building The mindset behind sustainable entrepreneurship 📌 Connect With Us:Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenecessaryentrepreneur/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNecessaryEntrepreneurPod X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6xhGUE1yzy2N0AemUOlJPx?si=d1c5c316af404f15 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/no/podcast/the-necessary-entrepreneur/id1547181167 📌 Find Out More About Darrel Grumman and Bubbles Tea Company:https://bubblesteacompany.com/ https://www.instagram.com/bubblesteacompany/ https://www.facebook.com/BubblesTeaCompany/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrel-grumman-110a832/    

In this episode of The Necessary Entrepreneur with Mark Perkins, we sit down with powerhouse couple Kass and Mike Lazerow, entrepreneurs, investors, and authors of "Shoveling $h!t: A Love Story." Together, they share honest insights on building businesses, navigating marriage, and leading with empathy through life's inevitable messes. From founding multiple startups to investing through Salesforce Ventures, Mike and Kass reveal how vulnerability, partnership, and resilience have shaped both their personal and professional success. They discuss the importance of mindset, communication, and staying grounded while creating meaningful impact and long-term wealth. This inspiring conversation blends humor, candor, and hard-earned wisdom on what it really takes to build, together. Key Takeaways: How to build strong partnerships in business and marriage Lessons in leadership, empathy, and emotional intelligence Turning challenges into growth and opportunity The mindset behind lasting success and fulfillment Creating balance between ambition and authenticity 📌 Connect With Us:Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenecessaryentrepreneur/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNecessaryEntrepreneurPod X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6xhGUE1yzy2N0AemUOlJPx?si=d1c5c316af404f15 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/no/podcast/the-necessary-entrepreneur/id1547181167 📌 Find Out More About Kass and Mike:https://kassandmike.com/ https://www.instagram.com/kassandmike/ https://www.facebook.com/kassandmike https://www.tiktok.com/@kassandmikeofficial www.youtube.com/@KassandMike 📘 Order Shoveling $h!t: A Love Story Here

On this episode of The Necessary Entrepreneur with Mark Perkins, we welcome a dynamic group of creatives and entrepreneurs: actor and filmmaker Denzel Whitaker, musician and actor Maestro Harrell, and writer Jesse Janari discussing their new feature film Brand New; Jack Cook, founder of Illusion Islands Studio; and Jacob Gibbs (DJ Smooth), Cincinnati realtor and on-air personality for WIZF The WIZ, the city's #1 Hip Hop and R&B station. Together, they dive into entrepreneurship, creativity, personal growth, and the path to building wealth and legacy. From filmmaking and music to real estate and broadcasting, this inspiring conversation explores how vision, accountability, and community support fuel success across industries. Key Takeaways: Identity, validation, and self-awareness drive personal and professional growth. Community and environment play critical roles in shaping success. Healthy relationships and accountability accelerate progress. Resilience and mindset are essential in navigating challenges. Financial literacy and curiosity open doors to opportunity. Building a legacy requires vision, planning, and responsibility. True fulfillment comes from the journey, not just the outcome. 📌 Connect With Us:Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenecessaryentrepreneur/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNecessaryEntrepreneurPod X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6xhGUE1yzy2N0AemUOlJPx?si=d1c5c316af404f15 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/no/podcast/the-necessary-entrepreneur/id1547181167 📌 Find Out More:https://www.imdb.com/title/tt27659758/ https://www.instagram.com/brandnew_film/ https://www.instagram.com/denzelwhitaker/ https://www.instagram.com/maestro/ https://www.instagram.com/jessejanari/ https://www.instagram.com/jackandrewcook/ https://www.instagram.com/djsmooth513/

In this episode of The Necessary Entrepreneur, host Mark Perkins sits down with Geoffrey A. Moore, renowned author of Crossing the Chasm and a leading authority on technology adoption and market innovation. Geoffrey shares his insights on how entrepreneurs can identify the right problems to solve, scale disruptive innovations, and strategically navigate the "chasm" between early adopters and mainstream customers. Throughout the conversation, Geoffrey emphasizes the importance of problem-focused entrepreneurship, understanding customer needs, and leveraging talent to create real impact. He also discusses the role of innovation in addressing the world's most pressing challenges and shares actionable advice for founders and business leaders looking to grow sustainably in competitive markets. If you're an entrepreneur, innovator, or business leader seeking guidance on scaling your business, this episode is packed with wisdom, strategies, and real-world examples from one of the most influential minds in technology marketing and entrepreneurship. Takeaways:The world is full of problems needing entrepreneurial solutions. Career pivots can lead to unexpected opportunities. Understanding market dynamics is crucial for success. A service mindset can drive meaningful change. Silicon Valley's ecosystem fosters unique growth. Leadership has shifted from competition to collaboration. AI presents both challenges and opportunities. Education must adapt to the age of AI. Finding purpose enhances personal impact. Effective management requires balancing innovation and performance. 📌 Find Out More About Geoffrey A. Moore:www.geoffreyamoore.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/geoffreyamoore/ https://www.youtube.com/@geoffreyamoore https://x.com/geoffreyamoore https://www.facebook.com/GeoffreyAMooreAuthor/ Purchase Geoffrey's Books Here 📌 Connect With Us:Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenecessaryentrepreneur/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNecessaryEntrepreneurPod X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6xhGUE1yzy2N0AemUOlJPx?si=d1c5c316af404f15 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/no/podcast/the-necessary-entrepreneur/id1547181167

What does it take to lead digital transformation at a billion-dollar scale, and how can entrepreneurs apply those same principles to grow their own businesses? In this episode of The Necessary Entrepreneur, host Mark Perkins sits down with Tony Saldanha, former VP of IT and Global Business Services at Procter & Gamble, co-founder of Transformant, and bestselling author of Why Digital Transformations Fail and Revolutionizing Business Operations. Recognized as one of the world's top digital transformation leaders, Tony shares hard-earned lessons from leading massive global change initiatives and helping Fortune 500 companies thrive in the age of disruption. From why 70% of digital transformations fail, to how small and mid-sized companies can future-proof with AI and automation, Tony reveals the playbook for building businesses that last. He also dives into leadership lessons, why being "necessary" and "distinctive" are critical for long-term success, and what entrepreneurs must do to scale without losing agility. If you want to understand how to combine strategy, technology, and culture to create a business that thrives in any environment, this conversation is packed with actionable wisdom. 🔑 Takeaways from this Episode Work-life balance doesn't exist, it's all life. To be necessary in business, you must stay distinctive. Commoditization is the risk of not adapting. Digital transformation requires clear goals. Transformation success comes from a portfolio of projects. The 70-20-10 model is essential for innovation. Transformant was born from a need for disruptive change. Reimagining processes can unlock efficiency gains. Global business services drive operational efficiency. The future of work is defined by technology + agility. Lifelong learning fuels personal and professional growth. Risk-taking thrives in supportive environments. True balance is about prioritization, not just time. Staying in one lane can limit creativity and growth. Introspection leads to better decision-making. AI ethics will shape the future of business. Leadership must guide tech's impact on society. Problem-solving is an entrepreneur's greatest skill. Diverse conversations drive innovation. Knowledge-sharing creates lasting impact. 📌 Find Out More About Tony Saldanha: www.transformant.io https://www.linkedin.com/in/tony-saldanha-200591123/ https://x.com/tony_saldanha Purchase Tony's Books Here 📌 Connect With Us:Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenecessaryentrepreneur/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNecessaryEntrepreneurPod X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6xhGUE1yzy2N0AemUOlJPx?si=d1c5c316af404f15 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/no/podcast/the-necessary-entrepreneur/id1547181167

What does it take to rebuild your life and business after losing everything? On this episode of The Necessary Entrepreneur, host Mark Perkins sits down with David Meltzer, renowned motivational speaker, bestselling author, business coach, entrepreneur, and former CEO of Leigh Steinberg Sports & Entertainment. David shares his journey of resilience, the lessons he learned from his late mother, and how gratitude became the foundation of his life. He also talks about his mission to empower over a billion people to make money, help others, and have fun, and offers insights from his upcoming book Don't Do Business with Dicks, which provides practical ways leaders can eliminate toxic influences and focus on growth with purpose and intentionality. From losing over $100 million to rebuilding his life and career, David's story proves that failure can be the greatest teacher, and gratitude the most powerful tool for success. If you're an entrepreneur looking to build lasting success without losing yourself along the way, this conversation will give you the mindset shift you've been waiting for. Key Takeaways: My mantra is happy, I am healthy, I am wealthy, I am worthy. The more you give, the more you're given. Gratitude is a requirement for a fulfilling life. Parenting involves showing unconditional love and support. Gratitude evolves through different life stages. Gratitude helps find light, love, and lessons in adversity. Understanding ego is crucial for personal growth. Intentionality in business is essential for success. Surround yourself with positive influences. Empowering others is a key part of my mission. Pre-order "Don't Do Business with Dicks" from your favorite retailer and visit DavidMeltzer.com to claim a free bonus book. 📌 Find Out More About David Meltzer: https://dmeltzer.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidmeltzer2/ https://www.instagram.com/davidmeltzer/ https://www.facebook.com/davidmeltzer11/ https://x.com/davidmeltzer https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCflt1OopRWIApMOjVgZyJ6Q 📌 Connect With Us:Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenecessaryentrepreneur/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNecessaryEntrepreneurPod X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6xhGUE1yzy2N0AemUOlJPx?si=d1c5c316af404f15 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/no/podcast/the-necessary-entrepreneur/id1547181167