00:00

So I have a friend who's part of it and he's an he runs an agency and I'm pretty sure it's sixty thousand a year. So quite expensive.

So I have a friend who's part of it and he's an he runs an agency and I'm pretty sure it's sixty thousand a year. So quite expensive.

00:07

I think it's only two events a year that they do. So it's almost it's basically an events business

I think it's only two events a year that they do. So it's almost it's basically an events business

00:12

and they sold for hundreds of millions of dollars recently to

and they sold for hundreds of millions of dollars recently to

00:17

PE, just like, I think a PE company. And then another one is, Aventa. You heard of Aventa?

PE, just like, I think a PE company. And then another one is, Aventa. You heard of Aventa?

00:22

I haven't heard of Aventa.

I haven't heard of Aventa.

00:23

Okay. So it's e v a n t a. Aventa was sold to Gartner for like two hundred and fifty million dollars, and it was almost like the same thing.

Okay. So it's e v a n t a. Aventa was sold to Gartner for like two hundred and fifty million dollars, and it was almost like the same thing.

00:34

But it was worse because it was advertising driven.

But it was worse because it was advertising driven.

00:44

The reason why we asked you to come on is because chief is awesome. And we love community based businesses

The reason why we asked you to come on is because chief is awesome. And we love community based businesses

00:51

and most community based businesses

and most community based businesses

00:54

have horrible business models

have horrible business models

00:56

and from the outside, it appears as though you have from the press and whatever I can just read about the internet. It seems like you've got a really good business model and that's what I wanted to talk to you about today was that business model because we've talked a lot about Tiger twenty one

and from the outside, it appears as though you have from the press and whatever I can just read about the internet. It seems like you've got a really good business model and that's what I wanted to talk to you about today was that business model because we've talked a lot about Tiger twenty one

01:10

and,

and,

01:11

y p o is kind of interesting,

y p o is kind of interesting,

01:13

but,

but,

01:14

you guys are, like, the next

you guys are, like, the next

01:16

kinda person

kinda person

01:18

attempting this and it seems like it's working really well. And that's what I wanted to ask about.

attempting this and it seems like it's working really well. And that's what I wanted to ask about.

01:22

Yeah. Awesome. Well,

Yeah. Awesome. Well,

01:24

congratulations

congratulations

01:25

on on the podcast and

on on the podcast and

01:28

and was excited to come on and chat because there's been a lot happening for us at the beginning of this year. So Yeah. And before this, where were you Casper?

and was excited to come on and chat because there's been a lot happening for us at the beginning of this year. So Yeah. And before this, where were you Casper?

01:38

Now that was my co founder. So,

Now that was my co founder. So,

01:40

we both have been in kind of the New York City ecosystem

we both have been in kind of the New York City ecosystem

01:43

for a while.

for a while.

01:45

I actually I started the startup scene at -- A handy. -- I launched

I actually I started the startup scene at -- A handy. -- I launched

01:50

I launched in man's soap dot com.

I launched in man's soap dot com.

01:52

Under Mark Law, Quincy

Under Mark Law, Quincy

01:54

got acquired by Amazon,

got acquired by Amazon,

01:56

then went over to South Korea and worked on Coupang, which is the Amazon of South Korea,

then went over to South Korea and worked on Coupang, which is the Amazon of South Korea,

02:01

And then

And then

02:02

most recently right before chief, I was at Handy Running Operations for them.

most recently right before chief, I was at Handy Running Operations for them.

02:07

And my co founder

And my co founder

02:08

was at Casper.

was at Casper.

02:10

So, yeah. And when did you decide when did you go all in full time on chief?

So, yeah. And when did you decide when did you go all in full time on chief?

02:16

I probably went full in two thousand eight eighteen

I probably went full in two thousand eight eighteen

02:20

is when,

is when,

02:22

officially

officially

02:23

left

left

02:24

other

other

02:26

positions and dedicated myself full time to this.

positions and dedicated myself full time to this.

02:29

And, it was one of those things that I felt like I had to

And, it was one of those things that I felt like I had to

02:33

do the full commit and actually like put

do the full commit and actually like put

02:37

everything behind it or else it would just, like, keep that slow crawl of kind of an idea,

everything behind it or else it would just, like, keep that slow crawl of kind of an idea,

02:44

because,

because,

02:45

without pulling putting everything in it. It just, you know, wasn't making the same progress that it really needed to make.

without pulling putting everything in it. It just, you know, wasn't making the same progress that it really needed to make.

02:51

I do the same thing, and I that's what I tell people what what's I think the phrase is, I used to say it was burning your bridges, but it's not it's burning the ship. So, like, there is this, like,

I do the same thing, and I that's what I tell people what what's I think the phrase is, I used to say it was burning your bridges, but it's not it's burning the ship. So, like, there is this, like,

03:01

kind of quisadore. I forget who his name was, but like, where he, like, landed in America or somewhere like that and they're like, look, we have to succeed now because I just burned the boat. So, like, we're in we ain't going home. And, I guess that's the story. I don't know if that's real or not, but that I I totally believe that that's the, that's the the the way to go about this. And

kind of quisadore. I forget who his name was, but like, where he, like, landed in America or somewhere like that and they're like, look, we have to succeed now because I just burned the boat. So, like, we're in we ain't going home. And, I guess that's the story. I don't know if that's real or not, but that I I totally believe that that's the, that's the the the way to go about this. And

03:20

what chief what what what how would you describe chief as it is now?

what chief what what what how would you describe chief as it is now?

03:25

Yeah. So chief is really focused on senior executive women.

Yeah. So chief is really focused on senior executive women.

03:29

It's, you know, under the

It's, you know, under the

03:32

phrase that we hear so often, and it gets very lonely at the top,

phrase that we hear so often, and it gets very lonely at the top,

03:36

but it gets lonely at the top for women a lot more.

but it gets lonely at the top for women a lot more.

03:39

And our mission is really to drive more women into positions of leadership and keep them there. And and by focusing on that kinda senior executive woman.

And our mission is really to drive more women into positions of leadership and keep them there. And and by focusing on that kinda senior executive woman.

03:49

You know, our belief is just getting more of them in true positions of influence, the ripple effect that that could have across all different companies and organizations

You know, our belief is just getting more of them in true positions of influence, the ripple effect that that could have across all different companies and organizations

03:58

is is really where we wanted to go and kind of tackle this first.

is is really where we wanted to go and kind of tackle this first.

04:02

And I kinda call it like, a YPO above her VPs, which is basically, like and this is all from the outside. Obviously, I'm not a member, but this is you basically it looks like what you get you pay, like, some sum of like five to eight thousand dollars a year ish and you get and the company pays for it and you get to meet up with like a core group of like five or ten different women or it's the same women

And I kinda call it like, a YPO above her VPs, which is basically, like and this is all from the outside. Obviously, I'm not a member, but this is you basically it looks like what you get you pay, like, some sum of like five to eight thousand dollars a year ish and you get and the company pays for it and you get to meet up with like a core group of like five or ten different women or it's the same women

04:22

and then you have like a coach and then you have the ability to, like, chat with the entire group whenever you want online. And then I imagine you may have some type of, like, programming throughout the month that you can join as well. Right? Is that bay is that basically the model?

and then you have like a coach and then you have the ability to, like, chat with the entire group whenever you want online. And then I imagine you may have some type of, like, programming throughout the month that you can join as well. Right? Is that bay is that basically the model?

04:35

It's it's very, very close.

It's it's very, very close.

04:38

So

So

04:39

I would,

I would,

04:40

YPA definitely was a inspiration for us for sure,

YPA definitely was a inspiration for us for sure,

04:44

where they only focus on CEOs and presidents.

where they only focus on CEOs and presidents.

04:48

That is their entire focus.

That is their entire focus.

04:50

And as a result, not surprisingly,

And as a result, not surprisingly,

04:53

it's largely men that are a part of YPO since that is what the makeup of a CEO and president When I think of YPO, I think, like, old white dudes.

it's largely men that are a part of YPO since that is what the makeup of a CEO and president When I think of YPO, I think, like, old white dudes.

05:04

It's it's not far off.

It's it's not far off.

05:06

And it was just an inspiration for us to say it wouldn't be great to have an organization like this focused on women. So we're VP level and above. We we also have a lot of CEOs and presidents who are women that are a part of the organization, but we focus on VP and above.

And it was just an inspiration for us to say it wouldn't be great to have an organization like this focused on women. So we're VP level and above. We we also have a lot of CEOs and presidents who are women that are a part of the organization, but we focus on VP and above.

05:20

And as you mentioned,

And as you mentioned,

05:22

probably the heart of what we do is what we call our core groups. It is this group of ten individuals, we go through a very curated process of finding the right group of ten to come together.

probably the heart of what we do is what we call our core groups. It is this group of ten individuals, we go through a very curated process of finding the right group of ten to come together.

05:34

They meet every month. There's an executive coach in the room, and that's called core for a reason.

They meet every month. There's an executive coach in the room, and that's called core for a reason.

05:40

It is the heart of of the service that we provide.

It is the heart of of the service that we provide.

05:43

But around that, we have all sorts of different,

But around that, we have all sorts of different,

05:47

services and and and resources that you can tap into. So we have our own programming,

services and and and resources that you can tap into. So we have our own programming,

05:52

that you can attend as much or as little as you would want to. You can tap into the whole network through our community product.

that you can attend as much or as little as you would want to. You can tap into the whole network through our community product.

05:59

We even have club houses in three cities across the US that you can,

We even have club houses in three cities across the US that you can,

06:04

that you can use. So lots of things that are kind of around

that you can use. So lots of things that are kind of around

06:08

the

the

06:09

around the core. It experience, but that truly is the heart of what we do. What was the original idea? How was it different than how it evolved into into what it is today? What was the original premise?

around the core. It experience, but that truly is the heart of what we do. What was the original idea? How was it different than how it evolved into into what it is today? What was the original premise?

06:21

I, as we did this last fundraiser, it was funny we pulled out our seed deck of, you know, what we were showing when we were raising and

I, as we did this last fundraiser, it was funny we pulled out our seed deck of, you know, what we were showing when we were raising and

06:29

It didn't change that much, which is kind of phenomenal. You always hear so many stories of,

It didn't change that much, which is kind of phenomenal. You always hear so many stories of,

06:35

you know, we tried this. We need to pivot because this wasn't working or that wasn't working.

you know, we tried this. We need to pivot because this wasn't working or that wasn't working.

06:40

And the heart of what we wanted to do was always very much

And the heart of what we wanted to do was always very much

06:45

what it is today. I think the biggest change that we've undergone is

what it is today. I think the biggest change that we've undergone is

06:50

most of our services were all happening in person when we launched. That's the reason why we had kind of these physical spaces. We had the club houses. We were doing core in person.

most of our services were all happening in person when we launched. That's the reason why we had kind of these physical spaces. We had the club houses. We were doing core in person.

07:01

But with the pandemic,

But with the pandemic,

07:03

everything moved over to virtual,

everything moved over to virtual,

07:06

which has, you know, in some ways, been,

which has, you know, in some ways, been,

07:09

a small silver lining for us in that we've been able to you know, extend to more cities faster because we don't have to do big build outs. And it's actually

a small silver lining for us in that we've been able to you know, extend to more cities faster because we don't have to do big build outs. And it's actually

07:17

even more powerful and engaging for our members because This truly is like the movie trope of the busy woman, and now instead of having to, you know, trek across

even more powerful and engaging for our members because This truly is like the movie trope of the busy woman, and now instead of having to, you know, trek across

07:27

a city to get to a clubhouse, to get the benefit of chief,

a city to get to a clubhouse, to get the benefit of chief,

07:31

it's now in your pocket wherever you go.

it's now in your pocket wherever you go.

07:35

And at this point, did I see fifteen thousand members? Is that right?

And at this point, did I see fifteen thousand members? Is that right?

07:41

It's

It's

07:42

close to fifteen thousand members. Yes. Wow. Or maybe it's a third I forget what the pre the you you guys you whatever you what I it's at thirteen or twelve, whatever it said recently

close to fifteen thousand members. Yes. Wow. Or maybe it's a third I forget what the pre the you you guys you whatever you what I it's at thirteen or twelve, whatever it said recently

07:51

because you raised a hundred million in funding at a one point one billion dollar valuation. So it's like It's a pretty huge business and you only launched, what, three years ago, like, launched,

because you raised a hundred million in funding at a one point one billion dollar valuation. So it's like It's a pretty huge business and you only launched, what, three years ago, like, launched,

08:02

live, publicly three years ago.

live, publicly three years ago.

08:05

Three years ago. Yes. That's crazy. Right?

Three years ago. Yes. That's crazy. Right?

08:08

It is. It is. I can remember back when we were launching and we're like, we're gonna have just a hundred great members as we launch, and we're really excited. And,

It is. It is. I can remember back when we were launching and we're like, we're gonna have just a hundred great members as we launch, and we're really excited. And,

08:19

even from the very

even from the very

08:21

beginning and the launch that we had,

beginning and the launch that we had,

08:24

we had thousands of people sign up for a wait list for chief.

we had thousands of people sign up for a wait list for chief.

08:29

And now Yes. We're close to fifteen thousand members.

And now Yes. We're close to fifteen thousand members.

08:33

But we have a weight loss of close to sixty thousand,

But we have a weight loss of close to sixty thousand,

08:36

which is kind of incredible.

which is kind of incredible.

08:38

And I think it just really shows

And I think it just really shows

08:41

how much a community like this is truly needed.

how much a community like this is truly needed.

08:45

And

And

08:46

the value that it's that it's really creating for our members. So let's say you're at fifteen thousand. Let's just say the average price is six thousand. That's ninety million in revenue. I imagine the truth is, like, give or take twenty percent maybe, and I don't know if you say that or not what it is. But regardless,

the value that it's that it's really creating for our members. So let's say you're at fifteen thousand. Let's just say the average price is six thousand. That's ninety million in revenue. I imagine the truth is, like, give or take twenty percent maybe, and I don't know if you say that or not what it is. But regardless,

09:01

if it's in that ballpark. It's a pretty substantial business in a in such a that's,

if it's in that ballpark. It's a pretty substantial business in a in such a that's,

09:07

let's say, sixty to a hundred million in recurring revenue

let's say, sixty to a hundred million in recurring revenue

09:11

in three years.

in three years.

09:13

That's wild. Right?

That's wild. Right?

09:16

It is. It is. And I think what's really

It is. It is. And I think what's really

09:19

When I feel so much privilege of, in any given day, when people hear about chief because it's such a mission oriented

When I feel so much privilege of, in any given day, when people hear about chief because it's such a mission oriented

09:26

business,

business,

09:28

that's what they think of. They're like, oh, it seems like such a

that's what they think of. They're like, oh, it seems like such a

09:31

a good business.

a good business.

09:33

But great mission.

But great mission.

09:35

And I don't think that people realize that it's both, like, a great mission and a great business. And I think, you know, we live in a capitalist society and being able to both of those things come together? What idiot would say that? You just you just do the math. Like, it it makes sense. Like, this, like,

And I don't think that people realize that it's both, like, a great mission and a great business. And I think, you know, we live in a capitalist society and being able to both of those things come together? What idiot would say that? You just you just do the math. Like, it it makes sense. Like, this, like,

09:50

if you scale to, like, fifty million in recurring revenue in three years, that's a great company. You're probably a lot higher than that. I mean, what

if you scale to, like, fifty million in recurring revenue in three years, that's a great company. You're probably a lot higher than that. I mean, what

10:00

that Do they not do math? Do they can they use a calculator?

that Do they not do math? Do they can they use a calculator?

10:04

I don't know. I've I've talked to a lot of VCs, so there still needed to be a lot of convincing.

I don't know. I've I've talked to a lot of VCs, so there still needed to be a lot of convincing.

10:09

So when I started the hustle,

So when I started the hustle,

10:11

so the hustle was my company. We sold it to HubSpot. When I started the hustle, it was just a it was basically just a daily email.

so the hustle was my company. We sold it to HubSpot. When I started the hustle, it was just a it was basically just a daily email.

10:17

And it it was relatively easy compared to what you have started because

And it it was relatively easy compared to what you have started because

10:23

the person receiving the email had no idea if there was a million people or one people getting it. Like, it didn't impact their experience. And then we started trends, which is like our subscription business, and that had a paid community. And that sucked because I had to make it cool before I thought it was gonna be cool. So, like, I had to, like, commit my friends to, like, join and post in it and, like, make seem like a, you know, it's like a restaurant that already has customers before you actually know, like, if it's any good.

the person receiving the email had no idea if there was a million people or one people getting it. Like, it didn't impact their experience. And then we started trends, which is like our subscription business, and that had a paid community. And that sucked because I had to make it cool before I thought it was gonna be cool. So, like, I had to, like, commit my friends to, like, join and post in it and, like, make seem like a, you know, it's like a restaurant that already has customers before you actually know, like, if it's any good.

10:50

When you so I know these businesses can be tough for that reason. How were you able to get your first, let's say ten or even a hundred people? Because it's like you're selling them something that isn't real, but it only becomes real when they're sold and bought in and, like, commit to it.

When you so I know these businesses can be tough for that reason. How were you able to get your first, let's say ten or even a hundred people? Because it's like you're selling them something that isn't real, but it only becomes real when they're sold and bought in and, like, commit to it.

11:07

Yeah. I mean, I think that there

Yeah. I mean, I think that there

11:10

was a lot of

was a lot of

11:12

small tactics that all bubbled up to, you know, a a meaningful

small tactics that all bubbled up to, you know, a a meaningful

11:18

investment in the brand that allowed for people to understand what we were trying to build and who we were trying to build it for.

investment in the brand that allowed for people to understand what we were trying to build and who we were trying to build it for.

11:25

And

And

11:26

I think we were really fortunate in having just some really amazing early members that kind of kept that ball rolling. But it was everything from,

I think we were really fortunate in having just some really amazing early members that kind of kept that ball rolling. But it was everything from,

11:36

you know, one of the things that we did was have a physical space at the onset. And the physical space in some ways was, like, marketing for us to kind of show a brand that we were trying to develop and,

you know, one of the things that we did was have a physical space at the onset. And the physical space in some ways was, like, marketing for us to kind of show a brand that we were trying to develop and,

11:50

and and really bring that to life.

and and really bring that to life.

11:53

We,

We,

11:54

that was a conscious decision and investment into the brand.

that was a conscious decision and investment into the brand.

11:58

Things like we didn't

Things like we didn't

11:59

have a social media presence

have a social media presence

12:01

at all,

at all,

12:02

because,

because,

12:04

we felt like

we felt like

12:05

What were we gonna say? How would it be meaningful and it actually helped to create, like, this really interesting tightness of people that were in the community versus trying to, you know,

What were we gonna say? How would it be meaningful and it actually helped to create, like, this really interesting tightness of people that were in the community versus trying to, you know,

12:16

shout it out into all of the different social media areas. So there were a lot of things that I think we did And ultimately, like,

shout it out into all of the different social media areas. So there were a lot of things that I think we did And ultimately, like,

12:25

word-of-mouth was by far

word-of-mouth was by far

12:27

our entire acquisition

our entire acquisition

12:31

strategy,

strategy,

12:32

which was pretty amazing.

which was pretty amazing.

12:34

You just, like became the mouth play. You just emailed, like, your ten or twenty closest friends, and they probably told a handful of people, and you just said, like, hey, we're launching this in, like, sixty days. Apply. And we'll let you know if if this is a good fit.

You just, like became the mouth play. You just emailed, like, your ten or twenty closest friends, and they probably told a handful of people, and you just said, like, hey, we're launching this in, like, sixty days. Apply. And we'll let you know if if this is a good fit.

12:48

Yeah. I mean, it was not just our closest friends. We definitely sent some cold emails out people that we had never met before. And I remember even some early

Yeah. I mean, it was not just our closest friends. We definitely sent some cold emails out people that we had never met before. And I remember even some early

12:57

VC conversations

VC conversations

12:58

where we were showing, you know, here's our first members

where we were showing, you know, here's our first members

13:01

And they were like, oh, so are these just all your friends and Lindsey's friends? My co founder were like, actually, no.

And they were like, oh, so are these just all your friends and Lindsey's friends? My co founder were like, actually, no.

13:09

That's not the case.

That's not the case.

13:10

It was it was amazing, a cold email to c suite executives at Fortune five hundred companies, and people were excited to join. I think being able to also reference the YPO model, which a lot of people understood,

It was it was amazing, a cold email to c suite executives at Fortune five hundred companies, and people were excited to join. I think being able to also reference the YPO model, which a lot of people understood,

13:25

helped to create some of that traction

helped to create some of that traction

13:29

and even the companies themselves, so our model is one where

and even the companies themselves, so our model is one where

13:33

we,

we,

13:33

you know, sell directly to her. She then goes and gets it sponsored within within her company.

you know, sell directly to her. She then goes and gets it sponsored within within her company.

13:39

And we didn't know how well or how easily that sponsorship would go, and company signed up really quickly. I think for them, they look at one on one executive coaching can be thirty thousand dollars for a six month engagement.

And we didn't know how well or how easily that sponsorship would go, and company signed up really quickly. I think for them, they look at one on one executive coaching can be thirty thousand dollars for a six month engagement.

13:52

So,

So,

13:53

relative to that, this was a great way for them to invest and some of their top talent.

relative to that, this was a great way for them to invest and some of their top talent.

13:58

And you got to, like,

And you got to, like,

13:59

I was, like, reading. I think so you launched I'm looking at my notes. You launched, like, around

I was, like, reading. I think so you launched I'm looking at my notes. You launched, like, around

14:05

December two thousand eighteen within, like, a month or two, your you pass seven figures in recurring or, like, a run rate. Right? But you have that cash in And then by the end of the year, you're nearing ten million in revenue.

December two thousand eighteen within, like, a month or two, your you pass seven figures in recurring or, like, a run rate. Right? But you have that cash in And then by the end of the year, you're nearing ten million in revenue.

14:18

I mean, that's pretty wild.

I mean, that's pretty wild.

14:21

Yeah.

Yeah.

14:22

We started to sell at the end of two thousand eighteen. We didn't officially launch services until two thousand nineteen in February of two thousand nineteen.

We started to sell at the end of two thousand eighteen. We didn't officially launch services until two thousand nineteen in February of two thousand nineteen.

14:32

And we were just in New York City. So we were continuing to add members in New York City until

And we were just in New York City. So we were continuing to add members in New York City until

14:39

around, you know, mid two thousand nineteen, we went and raised our series a largely to expand into new cities,

around, you know, mid two thousand nineteen, we went and raised our series a largely to expand into new cities,

14:47

which At the time, was a a more capital intensive way of of expanding because we were in person. We had to make investments into club houses,

which At the time, was a a more capital intensive way of of expanding because we were in person. We had to make investments into club houses,

14:57

And so we were in the midst of those build outs when the pandemic happened.

And so we were in the midst of those build outs when the pandemic happened.

15:03

And,

And,

15:03

that's when we made the full pivot over to virtual. And as we did that, engagement actually went up across every every one of our services. Definitely. It was time or something like chief was needed more than ever, and it allowed us to expand in a much different way.

that's when we made the full pivot over to virtual. And as we did that, engagement actually went up across every every one of our services. Definitely. It was time or something like chief was needed more than ever, and it allowed us to expand in a much different way.

15:18

How did you know what to tell the coaches? Like, what what to tell them

How did you know what to tell the coaches? Like, what what to tell them

15:23

how to run their group

how to run their group

15:25

or y p o, they've got facilitators.

or y p o, they've got facilitators.

15:28

I don't know what you call your,

I don't know what you call your,

15:30

folks. But basically like it's

folks. But basically like it's

15:33

I've I've done a couple of these things and they're pretty amazing. It's basically like and some people get insulted when I say this, but it's basically group therapy and it's awesome and it's incredibly necessary.

I've I've done a couple of these things and they're pretty amazing. It's basically like and some people get insulted when I say this, but it's basically group therapy and it's awesome and it's incredibly necessary.

15:43

But a good

But a good

15:45

facilitator therapist, like, makes or break it a little bit.

facilitator therapist, like, makes or break it a little bit.

15:50

They do. They do. And I and we do a lot of vetting to make sure that we have the right coaches that are coming on that act as we call them guides on our platform.

They do. They do. And I and we do a lot of vetting to make sure that we have the right coaches that are coming on that act as we call them guides on our platform.

16:01

And they're just fabulous. We have close to four hundred,

And they're just fabulous. We have close to four hundred,

16:04

executive coaches that act as guides for us now.

executive coaches that act as guides for us now.

16:08

And for us, I think there's, you know, a little bit of a

And for us, I think there's, you know, a little bit of a

16:12

beginning introduction into core that is very similar for all core groups. In the first few sessions, there's, you know, a very prescribed way of bringing the group together, making sure that everybody creates,

beginning introduction into core that is very similar for all core groups. In the first few sessions, there's, you know, a very prescribed way of bringing the group together, making sure that everybody creates,

16:25

a a deep sense of of community even within that group.

a a deep sense of of community even within that group.

16:29

And then from there, a lot of it really is for the coach to decide the right path for that group, because every group is different of what they need and what they're looking for So we have created a lot of content, but it's to the coach and the group to really decide which direction they want to take a lot of those conversations. And you know, a a vast majority of those conversations are real time

And then from there, a lot of it really is for the coach to decide the right path for that group, because every group is different of what they need and what they're looking for So we have created a lot of content, but it's to the coach and the group to really decide which direction they want to take a lot of those conversations. And you know, a a vast majority of those conversations are real time

16:52

dependent on what's happening with the people in the room of, you know, somebody's about to go through a massive,

dependent on what's happening with the people in the room of, you know, somebody's about to go through a massive,

16:59

you know, restructuring within their company,

you know, restructuring within their company,

17:02

they're gonna wanna have a little bit more airtime in that session of people helping them work through some of those things. So

they're gonna wanna have a little bit more airtime in that session of people helping them work through some of those things. So

17:09

it's,

it's,

17:10

it's heavily structured and guided,

it's heavily structured and guided,

17:12

but with a lot of flexibility, depending on what is needed for group?

but with a lot of flexibility, depending on what is needed for group?

17:18

So I wanna kinda nerd out a little bit on this on these models, on this business, this community business model. I think it's awesome. And I actually think that, like,

So I wanna kinda nerd out a little bit on this on these models, on this business, this community business model. I think it's awesome. And I actually think that, like,

17:26

It's with the remote or whatever we are in now. I think it's you're gonna see a lot more of these pop up, and I think you're the first of this, like, new age ones I wanna talk about some old school ones. I wanna tell you about my research and you tell me if you've heard about any of these. Have you heard of world fifty?

It's with the remote or whatever we are in now. I think it's you're gonna see a lot more of these pop up, and I think you're the first of this, like, new age ones I wanna talk about some old school ones. I wanna tell you about my research and you tell me if you've heard about any of these. Have you heard of world fifty?

17:41

I have. Yes. What do you know about world fifty? So I I you're gonna know of all the ones that I know plus more, and you're the only person that is able to nerd out with me on this stuff. So that's why I like you.

I have. Yes. What do you know about world fifty? So I I you're gonna know of all the ones that I know plus more, and you're the only person that is able to nerd out with me on this stuff. So that's why I like you.

17:53

Yeah. I mean, they're all what I have what I have generally found is that

Yeah. I mean, they're all what I have what I have generally found is that

17:57

most of the

most of the

17:59

communities that existed

communities that existed

18:01

before now. We're all very focused on the the most senior people for CEOs, like the, you know,

before now. We're all very focused on the the most senior people for CEOs, like the, you know,

18:09

and a lot of what I'm guessing you're about to list are all that. They're all that. And I think yeah.

and a lot of what I'm guessing you're about to list are all that. They're all that. And I think yeah.

18:16

No. I'm gonna know. One isn't. I have one that isn't.

No. I'm gonna know. One isn't. I have one that isn't.

18:19

Okay. What's the one that isn't? On deck. A lot of people know what on deck is. I don't even think on deck knows what on deck is. I think still trying to figure it out, like, their existence or, like, you know, their identity,

Okay. What's the one that isn't? On deck. A lot of people know what on deck is. I don't even think on deck knows what on deck is. I think still trying to figure it out, like, their existence or, like, you know, their identity,

18:29

but they are attempting to do something. It seems as though they've I have no inside information. This is all just looking at their website. It seems like they're they're they're pivoting

but they are attempting to do something. It seems as though they've I have no inside information. This is all just looking at their website. It seems like they're they're they're pivoting

18:38

into kind of what you're doing.

into kind of what you're doing.

18:41

Yeah. I mean, I think, I have deep respect for them as a company. I think a lot of times what you often find is there's this,

Yeah. I mean, I think, I have deep respect for them as a company. I think a lot of times what you often find is there's this,

18:49

what what leads does, like, community lead or does, like, curriculum and professional development lead?

what what leads does, like, community lead or does, like, curriculum and professional development lead?

18:58

And

And

18:58

I think for that, man. When it's education, I think.

I think for that, man. When it's education, I think.

19:02

I think it's hard. It's hard. It is it is,

I think it's hard. It's hard. It is it is,

19:06

and for us, community has always led.

and for us, community has always led.

19:09

And even, you know, you could extend that to many other paradigms of, like, does community lead or does space lead? Like, what is the actual service that you are providing?

And even, you know, you could extend that to many other paradigms of, like, does community lead or does space lead? Like, what is the actual service that you are providing?

19:20

And for us, we knew that community had to be the thing that always led.

And for us, we knew that community had to be the thing that always led.

19:26

And even if you think about some of the, you know,

And even if you think about some of the, you know,

19:28

kind of analogies that you could make, like, business school as a as an analogy. Like,

kind of analogies that you could make, like, business school as a as an analogy. Like,

19:34

yes. A lot of people think you're going back for curriculum. I don't think you do. I think you go back for the network and the people

yes. A lot of people think you're going back for curriculum. I don't think you do. I think you go back for the network and the people

19:41

and so,

and so,

19:43

for us, that has always been the the major,

for us, that has always been the the major,

19:47

thing that we knew we had to focus in on And I think, you know, for on deck, I'm not sure that they lead with community as much as they do kind of the programming,

thing that we knew we had to focus in on And I think, you know, for on deck, I'm not sure that they lead with community as much as they do kind of the programming,

19:57

And,

And,

19:58

that I think is kind of the the difference that I would see there.

that I think is kind of the the difference that I would see there.

20:02

So here's a few of businesses in this space that might, like, surprise the the listener. So We talked about world fifty. So as I know it world fifty,

So here's a few of businesses in this space that might, like, surprise the the listener. So We talked about world fifty. So as I know it world fifty,

20:10

it's basically,

it's basically,

20:13

for CMOs, I think, just CMOs. Right?

for CMOs, I think, just CMOs. Right?

20:16

I thought it was broader than CMOs. I thought it was actually more of, like, CEO,

I thought it was broader than CMOs. I thought it was actually more of, like, CEO,

20:23

individuals.

individuals.

20:24

It started as CMOs.

It started as CMOs.

20:27

But, yeah, I think it's expanded beyond that. But basically, I think they were sold. So in the the CMO or whoever it is, and there's, like, agency owners. So I have a friend who's part of it, and he's in he runs an agency. And I'm pretty sure it's sixty thousand a year. So quite expensive.

But, yeah, I think it's expanded beyond that. But basically, I think they were sold. So in the the CMO or whoever it is, and there's, like, agency owners. So I have a friend who's part of it, and he's in he runs an agency. And I'm pretty sure it's sixty thousand a year. So quite expensive.

20:42

I think it's only two events a year that they do. So it's almost it's basically an events business, and they sold for hundreds of millions of dollars recently. To,

I think it's only two events a year that they do. So it's almost it's basically an events business, and they sold for hundreds of millions of dollars recently. To,

20:52

P, just like, I think a PE company. And then another one is, Aventa. Have you heard of Aventa?

P, just like, I think a PE company. And then another one is, Aventa. Have you heard of Aventa?

20:56

I haven't heard of Aventa.

I haven't heard of Aventa.

20:58

Okay. So it's e v a n t a. Aventa was sold to Gartner for like two hundred and fifty million dollars. And it was almost like the same thing, but it was worse because it was advertising

Okay. So it's e v a n t a. Aventa was sold to Gartner for like two hundred and fifty million dollars. And it was almost like the same thing, but it was worse because it was advertising

21:12

driven. So the attendees would like log on. Like, it would be like the chief information officer, which frankly I don't even

driven. So the attendees would like log on. Like, it would be like the chief information officer, which frankly I don't even

21:19

companies that are I've never worked at a really big company. Like, in order to have a chief information officer, you're gonna be a pretty huge I don't even entirely know what a chief information officer is, but they would host these, like, webinars pretty much where, like, a chief information officer, a bunch of would come and, like, you know, do, like, the group therapy thing and explain pros and cons and, like, you know, how are we supposed to work from remote and do all this, whatever. They just plane and improve with one another and all that type of thing. And they would charge, like, Bank of America or some big sponsor money to be there. And they sold the company to Gardner for, like, three hundred million dollars. It's pretty wild.

companies that are I've never worked at a really big company. Like, in order to have a chief information officer, you're gonna be a pretty huge I don't even entirely know what a chief information officer is, but they would host these, like, webinars pretty much where, like, a chief information officer, a bunch of would come and, like, you know, do, like, the group therapy thing and explain pros and cons and, like, you know, how are we supposed to work from remote and do all this, whatever. They just plane and improve with one another and all that type of thing. And they would charge, like, Bank of America or some big sponsor money to be there. And they sold the company to Gardner for, like, three hundred million dollars. It's pretty wild.

21:55

No. Yeah.

No. Yeah.

21:57

Yeah. I mean,

Yeah. I mean,

21:58

Event businesses in general, is a type of business model that I didn't really have much familiarity with until chief, and I would never consider ourselves an event company.

Event businesses in general, is a type of business model that I didn't really have much familiarity with until chief, and I would never consider ourselves an event company.

22:09

But,

But,

22:10

it's been pretty interesting to see the

it's been pretty interesting to see the

22:13

opportunities that exist for for people in that space, for sure.

opportunities that exist for for people in that space, for sure.

22:17

What are the I I used to own an event business, and we, like, did, like, seven figures in a year on it, and it was a pain in the ass.

What are the I I used to own an event business, and we, like, did, like, seven figures in a year on it, and it was a pain in the ass.

22:26

It was so hard. It's so stressful. It just, like because, like, there's not many businesses where, like, if it rains, you're screwed. Like, if it rains one day out of three hundred sixty five days, like, you're you're you're poor.

It was so hard. It's so stressful. It just, like because, like, there's not many businesses where, like, if it rains, you're screwed. Like, if it rains one day out of three hundred sixty five days, like, you're you're you're poor.

22:38

What, what, what, what, what opportunities do you see with events?

What, what, what, what, what opportunities do you see with events?

22:43

Well, I mean, I think that there's all sorts of different,

Well, I mean, I think that there's all sorts of different,

22:47

angles that people have created in in that worlds. And, you know, I think a lot of the content businesses have even started to, you know, try to extend into that a little bit more. But, you know, like, summit series, I think, was just like a really interesting model of of what they were trying to create, had a lot of community within it. But, you know, again, it was more events led than I think community led.

angles that people have created in in that worlds. And, you know, I think a lot of the content businesses have even started to, you know, try to extend into that a little bit more. But, you know, like, summit series, I think, was just like a really interesting model of of what they were trying to create, had a lot of community within it. But, you know, again, it was more events led than I think community led.

23:11

So it's been an an area that,

So it's been an an area that,

23:15

we definitely pay attention to,

we definitely pay attention to,

23:18

because it feels

because it feels

23:20

related, but,

related, but,

23:21

not in our exact wheelhouse, for sure.

not in our exact wheelhouse, for sure.

23:24

Have you heard of,

Have you heard of,

23:26

Vistage? Vistage is an interesting one too. Right?

Vistage? Vistage is an interesting one too. Right?

23:29

Yeah. Yeah. Vistage is basically

Yeah. Yeah. Vistage is basically

23:32

like YPO.

like YPO.

23:34

They focus specifically

They focus specifically

23:36

again on that CEO and president profile.

again on that CEO and president profile.

23:40

I think they're close to, like, a two hundred million dollar business.

I think they're close to, like, a two hundred million dollar business.

23:44

I heard that they're doing a hundred million in profit a year. That's what I heard from a relatively trusted source, but I I don't have proof of that. Would that would that surprise you?

I heard that they're doing a hundred million in profit a year. That's what I heard from a relatively trusted source, but I I don't have proof of that. Would that would that surprise you?

23:57

I think that

I think that

24:00

if if you look at some of those business models, so let's take visage or you take YPO,

if if you look at some of those business models, so let's take visage or you take YPO,

24:07

you know, YPO

you know, YPO

24:09

is a nonprofit.

is a nonprofit.

24:11

And

And

24:12

yet,

yet,

24:14

might one of the most profitable non profits I would imagine,

might one of the most profitable non profits I would imagine,

24:18

because

because

24:19

what we have is our biggest expenses. You know, we have these spaces. We invest heavily into our coaches. We do a lot of that stuff.

what we have is our biggest expenses. You know, we have these spaces. We invest heavily into our coaches. We do a lot of that stuff.

24:28

For YPO, they actually don't have

For YPO, they actually don't have

24:31

pay facilitators,

pay facilitators,

24:33

they train members to be the facilitators of a lot of those groups.

they train members to be the facilitators of a lot of those groups.

24:37

So It's an interesting

So It's an interesting

24:39

model to to think about,

model to to think about,

24:42

and -- What a racket?

and -- What a racket?

24:44

-- that is a as a part of that, they they do pretty well. But I've never seen their financial so I cannot speak with authority

-- that is a as a part of that, they they do pretty well. But I've never seen their financial so I cannot speak with authority

24:53

on either of those businesses and Wait. YPO, you've never seen?

on either of those businesses and Wait. YPO, you've never seen?

24:57

No. No. I've never seen. It's public. Isn't it? Can't you just log in and because it's a nonprofit?

No. No. I've never seen. It's public. Isn't it? Can't you just log in and because it's a nonprofit?

25:03

Yeah. They bucket things in ways that I think makes it pretty difficult to really discern what's underneath each thing.

Yeah. They bucket things in ways that I think makes it pretty difficult to really discern what's underneath each thing.

25:10

So,

So,

25:11

not fully able to break that down.

not fully able to break that down.

25:15

Are you guys,

Are you guys,

25:16

as chief,

as chief,

25:17

were you able to run it mostly breakeven or were you lose it a lot in order to get big fast? Because

were you able to run it mostly breakeven or were you lose it a lot in order to get big fast? Because

25:24

It seems like it worked.

It seems like it worked.

25:27

I would reframe the the the latter statement

I would reframe the the the latter statement

25:32

to say.

to say.

25:34

We,

We,

25:35

were spending to make the experience as as strong as possible. I wouldn't say that we were spending to grow

were spending to make the experience as as strong as possible. I wouldn't say that we were spending to grow

25:41

faster. Like I said, most of what we and how we have grown has been through word-of-mouth. So we haven't had to, you know, continue to just pour money into a marketing cycle.

faster. Like I said, most of what we and how we have grown has been through word-of-mouth. So we haven't had to, you know, continue to just pour money into a marketing cycle.

25:52

But for us, particularly over the pandemic and everything else, we wanted to make sure that we were

But for us, particularly over the pandemic and everything else, we wanted to make sure that we were

25:57

really investing in the member experience and and continuing to do that, and we're continuing to do that. And that's why we wanted to raise more capital to continue to do that.

really investing in the member experience and and continuing to do that, and we're continuing to do that. And that's why we wanted to raise more capital to continue to do that.

26:07

And, you know, I I think about

And, you know, I I think about

26:11

when brands are are made and, you know, and and it's in those tough times. And for us being able to be there our members through the pandemic, when a lot of them at the very beginning of the pandemic, there were furloughs, there were all of those things, like how do we invest in that experience over that period of time was really important. To us.

when brands are are made and, you know, and and it's in those tough times. And for us being able to be there our members through the pandemic, when a lot of them at the very beginning of the pandemic, there were furloughs, there were all of those things, like how do we invest in that experience over that period of time was really important. To us.

26:29

If an employee

If an employee

26:31

if one of your members

if one of your members

26:32

quits or leaves their job,

quits or leaves their job,

26:36

do you just have a team that will just, like, holler at their new employer and be like, hey, you know, Ashley was a member of chief. Her, you know, IBM no longer pays for it.

do you just have a team that will just, like, holler at their new employer and be like, hey, you know, Ashley was a member of chief. Her, you know, IBM no longer pays for it.

26:46

And then do you, like, you know, somehow, like, get in with that company a little bit?

And then do you, like, you know, somehow, like, get in with that company a little bit?

26:51

Yeah. I mean, I think that is actually one of the re other reasons that we wanted to go and and raise this money is that right now, it is a E to C to be business. Right? Like, we develop the relationship with her. She then goes and gets it sponsored.

Yeah. I mean, I think that is actually one of the re other reasons that we wanted to go and and raise this money is that right now, it is a E to C to be business. Right? Like, we develop the relationship with her. She then goes and gets it sponsored.

27:04

And

And

27:05

What we have found is that when she asks, the sponsorship has actually been pretty easy to get. Yeah. It's a no brainer.

What we have found is that when she asks, the sponsorship has actually been pretty easy to get. Yeah. It's a no brainer.

27:13

But the barrier is her asking.

But the barrier is her asking.

27:16

And so

And so

27:17

us going and actually building more of those relationships directly with the company

us going and actually building more of those relationships directly with the company

27:22

it seems like a no brainer for them to proactively do more of this instead of reactively approved.

it seems like a no brainer for them to proactively do more of this instead of reactively approved.

27:28

And so I think that's a an opportunity for us to floor to really take that burden off of her to to have to go and get that sponsorship.

And so I think that's a an opportunity for us to floor to really take that burden off of her to to have to go and get that sponsorship.

27:37

But,

But,

27:38

you know, we we definitely

you know, we we definitely

27:40

you know, twenty percent of the workforce changes jobs in any given year. So there's definitely a lot of new relationships for us to help

you know, twenty percent of the workforce changes jobs in any given year. So there's definitely a lot of new relationships for us to help

27:48

both the companies and the members navigate.

both the companies and the members navigate.

27:52

We're talking about Tiger twenty one, and it's cool. So Tiger twenty one is basically,

We're talking about Tiger twenty one, and it's cool. So Tiger twenty one is basically,

27:57

you know, a community for people who have, I think above ten million dollar liquid debt worth.

you know, a community for people who have, I think above ten million dollar liquid debt worth.

28:02

And that's cool. That's pretty sexy. You're just hanging around rich folks all the time. That's great. But it's actually kind of a tough sell I would imagine because it's the person paying for it. And when I heard about chief,

And that's cool. That's pretty sexy. You're just hanging around rich folks all the time. That's great. But it's actually kind of a tough sell I would imagine because it's the person paying for it. And when I heard about chief,

28:14

I was like, oh my gosh, this is like you know, when I, well, our company, when I sold, we are only forty employees. And so we were probably just crossing that threshold where we could afford to send only a couple employees to like things like this. And I was thinking about like my leadership team. I'm like, man, if one of them come came to me and asking for this, like this would just be like, the easiest of like, yeah. Yeah. Totally. I I would probably make them sign like a a deal. It says like, alright. But if you quit within a year, like, you owe us like some re you have to reimburse us But, I was like, yeah, this is this is just an easy sell for chief. I understand why this company is gonna get so big.

I was like, oh my gosh, this is like you know, when I, well, our company, when I sold, we are only forty employees. And so we were probably just crossing that threshold where we could afford to send only a couple employees to like things like this. And I was thinking about like my leadership team. I'm like, man, if one of them come came to me and asking for this, like this would just be like, the easiest of like, yeah. Yeah. Totally. I I would probably make them sign like a a deal. It says like, alright. But if you quit within a year, like, you owe us like some re you have to reimburse us But, I was like, yeah, this is this is just an easy sell for chief. I understand why this company is gonna get so big.

28:48

Yeah. Yeah. I mean, I think we've definitely heard stories where when there has been, like,

Yeah. Yeah. I mean, I think we've definitely heard stories where when there has been, like,

28:55

the the

the the

28:57

There's some companies who I think are like, well, you're gonna go in and you're gonna meet new people and that could actually open up new opportunities for you that you may not otherwise have. And it's actually the exact opposite.

There's some companies who I think are like, well, you're gonna go in and you're gonna meet new people and that could actually open up new opportunities for you that you may not otherwise have. And it's actually the exact opposite.

29:08

What we have found is when a company says no on the on the sponsorship,

What we have found is when a company says no on the on the sponsorship,

29:13

It is a really clear signal to a lot of these people that, okay, you're not investing in me. You're you're you're you're don't value me. And so that is actually the trigger of somebody thinking about going and leaving and and finding other opportunities. And so they will self sponsor and go and find something versus be sponsored, be happy in the job that they are and continue to grow as a leader for that company.

It is a really clear signal to a lot of these people that, okay, you're not investing in me. You're you're you're you're don't value me. And so that is actually the trigger of somebody thinking about going and leaving and and finding other opportunities. And so they will self sponsor and go and find something versus be sponsored, be happy in the job that they are and continue to grow as a leader for that company.

29:36

What other,

What other,

29:38

you know, you're focused on your thing, but a lot of times what we do here is talk about ideas. So things that we may or may not do, but it's interesting based off the intel that I know. What other,

you know, you're focused on your thing, but a lot of times what we do here is talk about ideas. So things that we may or may not do, but it's interesting based off the intel that I know. What other,

29:48

niches or opportunities

niches or opportunities

29:50

do you like this business model for?

do you like this business model for?

29:55

Yeah. I mean, I think that,

Yeah. I mean, I think that,

29:59

this business model in particular

this business model in particular

30:02

is one that I think will

is one that I think will

30:05

have a really interesting next few years as,

have a really interesting next few years as,

30:11

People are still working from home and still in this hybrid world but wanting that community in those connections. And so I think in those in any area where

People are still working from home and still in this hybrid world but wanting that community in those connections. And so I think in those in any area where

30:22

that feeling of loneliness is is still really present coming out of the pandemic. I think there's some really interesting opportunities.

that feeling of loneliness is is still really present coming out of the pandemic. I think there's some really interesting opportunities.

30:30

I think the hard part is the the nice the really nice aspect of chief is that ultimately it's the company that can sponsor it. And so how do you find those areas and those demographics and those people who need that community, who will crave that community, but have somebody like the company that's willing to make that ment in those people. And that's the one two punch that I think makes chief really

I think the hard part is the the nice the really nice aspect of chief is that ultimately it's the company that can sponsor it. And so how do you find those areas and those demographics and those people who need that community, who will crave that community, but have somebody like the company that's willing to make that ment in those people. And that's the one two punch that I think makes chief really

30:55

interesting.

interesting.

30:56

And

And

30:58

harder to find outside of, like, the professional sphere.

harder to find outside of, like, the professional sphere.

31:04

Are software is the worst. Have you heard of HubSpot?

Are software is the worst. Have you heard of HubSpot?

31:08

See, most CRMs are a cobbled together mess, but HubSpot is easy to adopt and actually looks gorgeous. I think I of our new CRM. Our software is the best. Hubspot.

See, most CRMs are a cobbled together mess, but HubSpot is easy to adopt and actually looks gorgeous. I think I of our new CRM. Our software is the best. Hubspot.

31:18

Girl better.

Girl better.

31:20

Yeah. Well, I was thinking about this model. And I was like, it makes perfect sense for,

Yeah. Well, I was thinking about this model. And I was like, it makes perfect sense for,

31:25

this group because I was like, you know, we have a problem with, women not there there's the, you know, it's not equal in terms of, like, the representation. So, like, of course, I would invest in this in order to,

this group because I was like, you know, we have a problem with, women not there there's the, you know, it's not equal in terms of, like, the representation. So, like, of course, I would invest in this in order to,

31:36

help my folks And in doing so, like, whenever you have a group that feels like they're, like,

help my folks And in doing so, like, whenever you have a group that feels like they're, like,

31:42

disrespected or, like, there is don't like how they're being treated. They bond together in a great way. It's like us versus the world. Like, you know, that, like, mobilizes them. And that type of every great community is based on that. And I was thinking about it, like, well, if you just did this for, like,

disrespected or, like, there is don't like how they're being treated. They bond together in a great way. It's like us versus the world. Like, you know, that, like, mobilizes them. And that type of every great community is based on that. And I was thinking about it, like, well, if you just did this for, like,

31:58

just anyone, like, let's say, like, I think there's a company called Venwise

just anyone, like, let's say, like, I think there's a company called Venwise

32:02

have you heard of Venwise?

have you heard of Venwise?

32:04

Yeah. Yeah. And I I think it's basically just what you're doing but for everyone. And I'm like, well, that's

Yeah. Yeah. And I I think it's basically just what you're doing but for everyone. And I'm like, well, that's

32:10

Why is that succeeding and why is chief succeeding and not Venwise than those or they are probably succeeding, but they're probably no no nowhere as big and impactful as you guys.

Why is that succeeding and why is chief succeeding and not Venwise than those or they are probably succeeding, but they're probably no no nowhere as big and impactful as you guys.

32:19

It's because that, like, this idea of, like, it's us versus the world. That type of you need that in any type of community, I think, to in order to mobilize one another and to feel

It's because that, like, this idea of, like, it's us versus the world. That type of you need that in any type of community, I think, to in order to mobilize one another and to feel

32:29

bonded.

bonded.

32:31

Yeah. I Venwise, I think focuses in on,

Yeah. I Venwise, I think focuses in on,

32:35

senior executives, probably like c suite executives and high growth startups. That's, like, their their focus. So,

senior executives, probably like c suite executives and high growth startups. That's, like, their their focus. So,

32:43

and,

and,

32:44

I think a lot of what they do

I think a lot of what they do

32:47

really focuses in on that peer group model solely and doesn't have a lot of the community,

really focuses in on that peer group model solely and doesn't have a lot of the community,

32:52

the broader community around it. It doesn't have that shared

the broader community around it. It doesn't have that shared

32:56

mission.

mission.

32:57

And I I would potentially

And I I would potentially

32:59

reframe what you said, just a tad to say, like, I don't know that it's as us versus them as much as, like, a galvanizing

reframe what you said, just a tad to say, like, I don't know that it's as us versus them as much as, like, a galvanizing

33:08

mission that brings you together that just makes you feel really bonded.

mission that brings you together that just makes you feel really bonded.

33:12

And it doesn't have to be at somebody else's expense,

And it doesn't have to be at somebody else's expense,

33:15

but it is a a feeling of togetherness that is created

but it is a a feeling of togetherness that is created

33:19

And I think that is what,

And I think that is what,

33:22

you know, the the mission of chief really does allow for is that that broader

you know, the the mission of chief really does allow for is that that broader

33:25

connect

connect

33:27

connectedness

connectedness

33:28

within the community. Yeah. That's what I I didn't mean, like,

within the community. Yeah. That's what I I didn't mean, like,

33:31

I said us versus the world, but it was it's definitely it's not like, we're trying to kick anyone's ass. It's like,

I said us versus the world, but it was it's definitely it's not like, we're trying to kick anyone's ass. It's like,

33:37

you know, not everyone can identify with how we feel. Finally, I'm I'm amongst my tribe, and others don't exactly understand.

you know, not everyone can identify with how we feel. Finally, I'm I'm amongst my tribe, and others don't exactly understand.

33:45

You know, Vistage could be cool. I think Vistage is I think I Vistage, I think their whole, like, shtick is,

You know, Vistage could be cool. I think Vistage is I think I Vistage, I think their whole, like, shtick is,

33:52

it's it's kinda like blue collar y. So, like, someone who owns, like, a moving or plumbing company that does, like, ten or twenty million in revenue and And that person to themselves probably says, like, I feel alone, like, you know, I don't I don't hang out with people like me. I I need to find, like, my people,

it's it's kinda like blue collar y. So, like, someone who owns, like, a moving or plumbing company that does, like, ten or twenty million in revenue and And that person to themselves probably says, like, I feel alone, like, you know, I don't I don't hang out with people like me. I I need to find, like, my people,

34:07

And so, like, there it's like that,

And so, like, there it's like that,

34:10

finding your your tribe maybe is a little bit better than us versus the world.

finding your your tribe maybe is a little bit better than us versus the world.

34:15

Yes. Exactly.

Yes. Exactly.

34:17

It it is that feeling of,

It it is that feeling of,

34:20

you know, I don't have a group of people that understand my contact easily,

you know, I don't have a group of people that understand my contact easily,

34:26

and finding that, being able to be able to tap into that,

and finding that, being able to be able to tap into that,

34:31

and able to have the confidentiality that goes with some of that too, because a lot of what happens in these peer groups

and able to have the confidentiality that goes with some of that too, because a lot of what happens in these peer groups

34:38

is,

is,

34:39

you know, pretty raw honest authentic conversations that is is hard to have with just anyone.

you know, pretty raw honest authentic conversations that is is hard to have with just anyone.

34:45

How are you as a founder able to get Intel and insight into your customers and your product because I bet you're you don't go to some of these group. I mean, you you don't go that would that wouldn't be great to have you,

How are you as a founder able to get Intel and insight into your customers and your product because I bet you're you don't go to some of these group. I mean, you you don't go that would that wouldn't be great to have you,

34:57

you know, like the big boss and and a bunch of these groups. So, like, how are you able to learn quickly and figure out what's working and what's not?

you know, like the big boss and and a bunch of these groups. So, like, how are you able to learn quickly and figure out what's working and what's not?

35:04

Yeah. I mean, I we do not. It's a it's a confidential

Yeah. I mean, I we do not. It's a it's a confidential

35:08

space for them to have their conversation. So we're not able to, you know, watch what is happening in each of these sessions.

space for them to have their conversation. So we're not able to, you know, watch what is happening in each of these sessions.

35:15

But I think, you know, even going back to what we were just talking about of

But I think, you know, even going back to what we were just talking about of

35:20

there being a

there being a

35:22

galvanizing

galvanizing

35:23

feeling around this mission, our members are just so passionate about this mission that they are not shy. To give us feedback on anything and everything.

feeling around this mission, our members are just so passionate about this mission that they are not shy. To give us feedback on anything and everything.

35:34

So,

So,

35:35

we it has truly been kind of a an amazing experience to be able to

we it has truly been kind of a an amazing experience to be able to

35:41

get all of that feedback and be able to create some of this in partnership.

get all of that feedback and be able to create some of this in partnership.

35:46

And we have some amazing members who have stepped forward. And,

And we have some amazing members who have stepped forward. And,

35:50

you know, we have one member who's like, I'm gonna just run a sub board services community group within chief and bringing speakers and help each other find opportunities.

you know, we have one member who's like, I'm gonna just run a sub board services community group within chief and bringing speakers and help each other find opportunities.

36:00

And so you've just seen such a

And so you've just seen such a

36:03

uprising of both feedback,

uprising of both feedback,

36:06

but also really big,

but also really big,

36:09

interest in in stepping forward and helping to create stuff together.

interest in in stepping forward and helping to create stuff together.

36:13

So for one of our communities, we have, like, fifteen thousand ish paying members sort of like you have, but, like, not even close to the the the amount of revenue, but a a lot of people. But we,

So for one of our communities, we have, like, fifteen thousand ish paying members sort of like you have, but, like, not even close to the the the amount of revenue, but a a lot of people. But we,

36:25

and, like, the hardest part in terms of, like, tactics for starting a community

and, like, the hardest part in terms of, like, tactics for starting a community

36:30

is that I found is getting people to participate online.

is that I found is getting people to participate online.

36:34

And it's like literally like just the friction. And so a lot of the things that I've done, I've built stuff like so many things, so many. I've built a bunch of different communities

And it's like literally like just the friction. And so a lot of the things that I've done, I've built stuff like so many things, so many. I've built a bunch of different communities

36:43

on Facebook groups because

on Facebook groups because

36:45

I have never seen a platform get or a community platform, get as much engagement in terms of,

I have never seen a platform get or a community platform, get as much engagement in terms of,

36:52

people it people in the group,

people it people in the group,

36:55

the ratio of people in the group to the ratio of people in the group to people who participate in the group. But then a lot of people I've seen, like, I've got a couple of friends that have huge blogs and they just go, you know, let's just say, like, one of of these blogs is financial samurai financial samurai dot com personal finance blog. It's awesome. Was like, oh, I'm just gonna create a forum on my website financial samurai dot com slash form. And even though he's got this huge audience, the forum is crickets.

the ratio of people in the group to the ratio of people in the group to people who participate in the group. But then a lot of people I've seen, like, I've got a couple of friends that have huge blogs and they just go, you know, let's just say, like, one of of these blogs is financial samurai financial samurai dot com personal finance blog. It's awesome. Was like, oh, I'm just gonna create a forum on my website financial samurai dot com slash form. And even though he's got this huge audience, the forum is crickets.

37:19

And it's because, like, literally going to that website and posting on a forum is in, like, it's like a point zero one percent.

And it's because, like, literally going to that website and posting on a forum is in, like, it's like a point zero one percent.

37:27

Like, ratio of people in the community and readers

Like, ratio of people in the community and readers

37:31

to

to

37:32

participating whereas Facebook, I've found it to be, like, if you have a hundred people in the group, like ten or twenty people will actually participate, which is pretty astounding.

participating whereas Facebook, I've found it to be, like, if you have a hundred people in the group, like ten or twenty people will actually participate, which is pretty astounding.

37:40

Have you been able to crack that code with getting people to log in and go to your website

Have you been able to crack that code with getting people to log in and go to your website

37:45

and making it all happen

and making it all happen

37:47

and participating? Yeah.

and participating? Yeah.

37:49

Yeah. Absolutely.

Yeah. Absolutely.

37:50

So,

So,

37:52

We we started early days in a pretty similar tactic,

We we started early days in a pretty similar tactic,

37:57

candidly of

candidly of

37:59

where are they already and how do we, you know, not create that additional friction of needing to go to our proprietary,

where are they already and how do we, you know, not create that additional friction of needing to go to our proprietary,

38:07

you know, app website, etcetera.

you know, app website, etcetera.

38:10

And so we actually started early days on Slack.

And so we actually started early days on Slack.

38:14

And it was

And it was

38:16

amazing to see the amount of interaction that was happening there and, and how much, people were,

amazing to see the amount of interaction that was happening there and, and how much, people were,

38:23

you know, stepping forward to help each other to connect to all do all sorts of different things.

you know, stepping forward to help each other to connect to all do all sorts of different things.

38:28

The problem is that, like, Slack is definitely not built for a community of No, man. Slack sucks. I hate it.

The problem is that, like, Slack is definitely not built for a community of No, man. Slack sucks. I hate it.

38:36

Like, you can't you don't even know who you're talking to unless they properly filled out their pro like, it's just not the the the forum. And so we switched over to ours

Like, you can't you don't even know who you're talking to unless they properly filled out their pro like, it's just not the the the forum. And so we switched over to ours

38:45

our own in in twenty twenty.

our own in in twenty twenty.

38:49

And it has sustained.

And it has sustained.

38:51

And I think for us, a lot of it is around, you know, there's, like, these

And I think for us, a lot of it is around, you know, there's, like, these

38:56

known touch points that are going to come up, you're going to on every month, you're going to have a core meeting that's going to pull you into the product in order for you go and and get what you need to get to go and have that conversation.

known touch points that are going to come up, you're going to on every month, you're going to have a core meeting that's going to pull you into the product in order for you go and and get what you need to get to go and have that conversation.

39:09

And there's many of those types of things that, you know, there's there's many utilities

And there's many of those types of things that, you know, there's there's many utilities

39:13

that exist within the platform that pull you in. And then once you're in, draw you into a lot of the community aspects,

that exist within the platform that pull you in. And then once you're in, draw you into a lot of the community aspects,

39:22

So it's been really great to see,

So it's been really great to see,

39:25

and

and

39:26

it's everything from, you know, I

it's everything from, you know, I

39:29

it

it

39:30

I'm looking to hire somebody to, I need an employment lawyer. Like, there's just so much need. And for you to have a vetted

I'm looking to hire somebody to, I need an employment lawyer. Like, there's just so much need. And for you to have a vetted

39:37

network to be able to tap in to do that. You can't really do that on a LinkedIn,

network to be able to tap in to do that. You can't really do that on a LinkedIn,

39:41

at this point, because if your LinkedIn is like mine,

at this point, because if your LinkedIn is like mine,

39:45

I think you know, like, And they're like twenty percent of the people that I'm connected to at this point.

I think you know, like, And they're like twenty percent of the people that I'm connected to at this point.

39:51

And so it's a really valuable

And so it's a really valuable

39:53

utility and resource that we've been

utility and resource that we've been

39:56

really excited about how much people have engaged in it. And it's not just to go on and doom scroll and, you know, look at our content. It's actual utility for them.

really excited about how much people have engaged in it. And it's not just to go on and doom scroll and, you know, look at our content. It's actual utility for them.

40:06

What I'm about to say kinda sounds like a backhanded compliment, but it's not. It's it's very much a compliment. But basically, you guys have created this brand

What I'm about to say kinda sounds like a backhanded compliment, but it's not. It's it's very much a compliment. But basically, you guys have created this brand

40:14

The reason it sounds bad is because I was gonna use the word like elitist, but that's not fair. I don't mean like elitist in the bad way. Maybe elite like, just like bad asses. You know, like, it's it's like Harvard or something where it's like, it's hard to get into.

The reason it sounds bad is because I was gonna use the word like elitist, but that's not fair. I don't mean like elitist in the bad way. Maybe elite like, just like bad asses. You know, like, it's it's like Harvard or something where it's like, it's hard to get into.

40:27

There's not much on the internet about it. You guys, because I don't think you have a Twitter or a Facebook or an Instagram. You only have LinkedIn. And so, like, there's this thing where it's like, I don't know if you like to admit it, but it's Fomo where it's like, oh, man. Like, the cool p the people who I wanna be are part of this thing.

There's not much on the internet about it. You guys, because I don't think you have a Twitter or a Facebook or an Instagram. You only have LinkedIn. And so, like, there's this thing where it's like, I don't know if you like to admit it, but it's Fomo where it's like, oh, man. Like, the cool p the people who I wanna be are part of this thing.

40:43

I wanna be part of it. But I can't. You know, I gotta get accepted.

I wanna be part of it. But I can't. You know, I gotta get accepted.

40:47

How do you how do you go about creating a brand like that on purpose? Is this just something that came natural to you? Like, how do you make this words like,

How do you how do you go about creating a brand like that on purpose? Is this just something that came natural to you? Like, how do you make this words like,

40:55

so

so

40:56

I mean, you just executed that strategy well.

I mean, you just executed that strategy well.

40:59

Yeah. Yeah. I mean, we,

Yeah. Yeah. I mean, we,

41:02

we like to think of ourselves as vetted. We are a vetted community. We're not an exclusive community. We're not an elite community, but we are vetted. Because,

we like to think of ourselves as vetted. We are a vetted community. We're not an exclusive community. We're not an elite community, but we are vetted. Because,

41:12

so many of the people that are members,

so many of the people that are members,

41:14

de facto fall into the mentor position

de facto fall into the mentor position

41:18

or, you know, the manager. And so

or, you know, the manager. And so

41:21

really for it to be a beneficial community for her, it has to be vetted for people that are more for peers.

really for it to be a beneficial community for her, it has to be vetted for people that are more for peers.

41:29

And

And

41:30

You know, I think that there is a

You know, I think that there is a

41:33

level of

level of

41:35

aspirational branding that we wanted to to create with chief because

aspirational branding that we wanted to to create with chief because

41:40

candidly, if you think about

candidly, if you think about

41:42

even, like, three years ago as we were building this, if you heard the term a women's professional network,

even, like, three years ago as we were building this, if you heard the term a women's professional network,

41:49

You would not think of something

You would not think of something

41:51

aspirational.

aspirational.

41:52

It would be like

It would be like

41:54

warm white wine, name tags, and pantsuit Like, that is what would be, like, in your mind of what a women's professional network

warm white wine, name tags, and pantsuit Like, that is what would be, like, in your mind of what a women's professional network

42:02

was. And so it was really important for us to create something that

was. And so it was really important for us to create something that

42:06

felt,

felt,

42:08

like, we were celebrating our members instead of what so often a women's professional network gets created into.

like, we were celebrating our members instead of what so often a women's professional network gets created into.

42:15

And

And

42:16

That was why, you know, we talked about that at the beginning of this. That was why we wanted to have a

That was why, you know, we talked about that at the beginning of this. That was why we wanted to have a

42:21

space that felt

space that felt

42:23

that that brought that brand to life, that helped to showcase what we meant by that. And,

that that brought that brand to life, that helped to showcase what we meant by that. And,

42:29

and the space really allowed that brand to come through. It's why we didn't want to be on a lot of those social networks. So I think my my co founder and I were talking about, like, a social media strategy. We're like, are we gonna do? Just put inspirational

and the space really allowed that brand to come through. It's why we didn't want to be on a lot of those social networks. So I think my my co founder and I were talking about, like, a social media strategy. We're like, are we gonna do? Just put inspirational

42:40

quotes out there, like, every week?

quotes out there, like, every week?

42:43

Like, we've seen that. Like, how do we make this feel different

Like, we've seen that. Like, how do we make this feel different

42:48

and so it was very important for us to really

and so it was very important for us to really

42:52

create a brand that we thought our members deserved.

create a brand that we thought our members deserved.

42:55

How do you think this story is gonna earn end in terms of, like,

How do you think this story is gonna earn end in terms of, like,

43:00

you gonna is someone gonna buy you? Do you think that, like, a LinkedIn would buy you? Do you think you wanna go public What do you what's gonna happen five or ten years down the line, you think?

you gonna is someone gonna buy you? Do you think that, like, a LinkedIn would buy you? Do you think you wanna go public What do you what's gonna happen five or ten years down the line, you think?

43:10

I think

I think

43:11

that We are excited to keep any and all option open.

that We are excited to keep any and all option open.

43:16

But at the end of the day,

But at the end of the day,

43:19

the entire value

the entire value

43:20

of this organization

of this organization

43:22

is our members.

is our members.

43:24

And so and it's

And so and it's

43:26

Our members are here because they are

Our members are here because they are

43:30

they need the value that we create, but they also care deeply about our mission. And so anything that we do, any partner that we, you know, want to,

they need the value that we create, but they also care deeply about our mission. And so anything that we do, any partner that we, you know, want to,

43:39

talk to. Any strategy that we go in and enact has to be very much in line with that mission.

talk to. Any strategy that we go in and enact has to be very much in line with that mission.

43:45

And I've been very fortunate

And I've been very fortunate

43:48

in going a VC route that we've been able to find the right partners who can come on as those VCs that understand

in going a VC route that we've been able to find the right partners who can come on as those VCs that understand

43:55

that that leads everything and anything for us. Would you wanna be CEO of a public company?

that that leads everything and anything for us. Would you wanna be CEO of a public company?

44:04

It has never been on my bucket list of things that I, like,

It has never been on my bucket list of things that I, like,

44:09

craving to do.

craving to do.

44:12

But I want chief to be,

But I want chief to be,

44:15

as successful as it ever could possibly be.

as successful as it ever could possibly be.

44:18

And,

And,

44:19

I want there to be

I want there to be

44:21

a great outcome for our members, our team, etcetera.

a great outcome for our members, our team, etcetera.

44:26

And that leads more than anything.

And that leads more than anything.

44:28

Well, this is awesome.

Well, this is awesome.

44:31

This is this is really intriguing. You've you haven't done a ton of podcasts, I think. Right?

This is this is really intriguing. You've you haven't done a ton of podcasts, I think. Right?

44:37

Now we have we have our own, the new rules of business by chief, but, I've not been,

Now we have we have our own, the new rules of business by chief, but, I've not been,

44:43

on many podcasts as a as a guest. Do you think,

on many podcasts as a as a guest. Do you think,

44:47

good? And I I noticed that. And that's why I wanted to talk to you. Do you think that

good? And I I noticed that. And that's why I wanted to talk to you. Do you think that

44:53

You're just so under the radar for I think how the the the

You're just so under the radar for I think how the the the

44:58

there are so many other businesses

there are so many other businesses

45:00

in the in our little circle jerk startup world, it's kind of full of stupid hype and there's so many of them that are

in the in our little circle jerk startup world, it's kind of full of stupid hype and there's so many of them that are

45:07

we talk about so much but they're like kinda bullshit, like, not good companies and they're gonna go nowhere. But then you folks are the exact opposite where you're like, seem like you actually have a pretty substantial business. I think it's gonna be actually incredibly big.

we talk about so much but they're like kinda bullshit, like, not good companies and they're gonna go nowhere. But then you folks are the exact opposite where you're like, seem like you actually have a pretty substantial business. I think it's gonna be actually incredibly big.

45:22

Very few people are talking about you.

Very few people are talking about you.

45:25

You know what I mean? And I I find that I I kinda think that's actually cool. And I wanted to know how do you how does that make you feel?

You know what I mean? And I I find that I I kinda think that's actually cool. And I wanted to know how do you how does that make you feel?

45:33

I'm right where I wanna be.

I'm right where I wanna be.

45:36

I I I think that there is actually something

I I I think that there is actually something

45:40

really amazing about,

really amazing about,

45:43

being under,

being under,

45:46

you know,

you know,

45:48

hyped.

hyped.

45:49

I I really like kind of making sure that we are focused on the most important thing, which is, like, building a great business and not, like, and even for Lindsey and I, you know, as co founders

I I really like kind of making sure that we are focused on the most important thing, which is, like, building a great business and not, like, and even for Lindsey and I, you know, as co founders

46:02

part of the reason why we don't do a lot of, you know, publicity and other things is because we

part of the reason why we don't do a lot of, you know, publicity and other things is because we

46:08

are actually trying to showcase our members more than our selves. Like, they're actually a hell of a lot more oppressive than either of us are.

are actually trying to showcase our members more than our selves. Like, they're actually a hell of a lot more oppressive than either of us are.

46:16

And so it feels it feels right for what we are creating,

And so it feels it feels right for what we are creating,

46:20

to be heads down and focus on building a great business versus,

to be heads down and focus on building a great business versus,

46:24

you know,

you know,

46:25

Building hype.

Building hype.

46:27

Yeah. Well, it's awesome. Where where are you from?

Yeah. Well, it's awesome. Where where are you from?

46:30

Where were you raised? I,

Where were you raised? I,

46:32

grew up in Ithaca, New York.

grew up in Ithaca, New York.

46:34

Area. Yeah. Okay. So you so and and where's your co founder from?

Area. Yeah. Okay. So you so and and where's your co founder from?

46:38

Also upstate, New York. But, like, New York City, upstate, New York, like, an hour not my true upstate New York.

Also upstate, New York. But, like, New York City, upstate, New York, like, an hour not my true upstate New York.

46:46

Well, that's badass. I'm,

Well, that's badass. I'm,

46:48

I'm I'm happy we got to talk. I think it's amazing what you guys have accomplished. You're you're under the radar, I think. And the reason I wanted to talk to you was I noticed not a lot of people had talked to you. And

I'm I'm happy we got to talk. I think it's amazing what you guys have accomplished. You're you're under the radar, I think. And the reason I wanted to talk to you was I noticed not a lot of people had talked to you. And

46:59

It I don't know. I feel like maybe, I could, like, I take a little bit of pride and, like, we spotted this winter, not quite early on. You already raised money at a billion dollar valuation, but, like,

It I don't know. I feel like maybe, I could, like, I take a little bit of pride and, like, we spotted this winter, not quite early on. You already raised money at a billion dollar valuation, but, like,

47:11

maybe maybe maybe a billion will be considered quite early for how the story ends, though. So,

maybe maybe maybe a billion will be considered quite early for how the story ends, though. So,

47:18

I'm really appreciative that you guys, that you decided to come on and give me a give me a shot.

I'm really appreciative that you guys, that you decided to come on and give me a give me a shot.

47:23

No. I was excited to come on and and have the conversation. And,

No. I was excited to come on and and have the conversation. And,

47:28

like I said, I think a lot of people

like I said, I think a lot of people

47:31

I I remember very early days of even just trying to get a lawyer to, like, help us establish the company and, like,

I I remember very early days of even just trying to get a lawyer to, like, help us establish the company and, like,

47:38

was talking about wanting to be VC funded, and I literally could not get a lawyer

was talking about wanting to be VC funded, and I literally could not get a lawyer

47:43

to work with me They were like, this should not be a VC funded business. This is a very nice, you know, lifestyle business. They're like, I can't even get a lawyer. That's stupid. Hey, do this. So it's it is nice to be able to, you know, celebrate some of these wins, and,

to work with me They were like, this should not be a VC funded business. This is a very nice, you know, lifestyle business. They're like, I can't even get a lawyer. That's stupid. Hey, do this. So it's it is nice to be able to, you know, celebrate some of these wins, and,

47:59

and for people to know that we have a deep mission, but it is, a great business too. Yeah. The lawyers wouldn't talk to you and and you're happy that you're able to, like, celebrate this win.

and for people to know that we have a deep mission, but it is, a great business too. Yeah. The lawyers wouldn't talk to you and and you're happy that you're able to, like, celebrate this win.

48:09

Yeah. So, yeah, we I couldn't even pay lawyers to to represent us.

Yeah. So, yeah, we I couldn't even pay lawyers to to represent us.

48:15

So it's nice to have these wins and be able to, you know, not only show that we're, really mission oriented business, but we're a great business too. And I think that's first of all, I hate when people say it. Let's say, oh, this is a knife light. This is a nice lifestyle business. I hate that for

So it's nice to have these wins and be able to, you know, not only show that we're, really mission oriented business, but we're a great business too. And I think that's first of all, I hate when people say it. Let's say, oh, this is a knife light. This is a nice lifestyle business. I hate that for

48:30

a.

a.

48:31

They're they're trying to insult ins be insulting a little bit. And b, they're wrong because

They're they're trying to insult ins be insulting a little bit. And b, they're wrong because

48:38

lifestyle businesses are, like,

lifestyle businesses are, like,

48:40

what

what

48:41

what does that mean? It's a lifestyle business? Oh, like, it's just a company that can make, twenty or thirty million dollars a year in profit and I could just own it all. Yeah. Then it is the life like, yeah. Like, lifestyle, what does that mean? Like, like, like,

what does that mean? It's a lifestyle business? Oh, like, it's just a company that can make, twenty or thirty million dollars a year in profit and I could just own it all. Yeah. Then it is the life like, yeah. Like, lifestyle, what does that mean? Like, like, like,

48:54

I don't I don't know like Mars candy, like a family owned business. That's like the largest company in the world. They have sick lifestyle.

I don't I don't know like Mars candy, like a family owned business. That's like the largest company in the world. They have sick lifestyle.

48:59

So I I I cannot stand when they say that. I think that's really stupid. But with your with your business, I do think I'm like, man, I would wanna be greedy and own the whole thing. I wouldn't wanna raise money And so is there any do you think do you think you'll have regret about raising money or at least about raising as much money as you have? Because

So I I I cannot stand when they say that. I think that's really stupid. But with your with your business, I do think I'm like, man, I would wanna be greedy and own the whole thing. I wouldn't wanna raise money And so is there any do you think do you think you'll have regret about raising money or at least about raising as much money as you have? Because

49:19

the business model is

the business model is

49:21

Pretty freaking perfect. Like, it's like a pretty efficient, amazing model. I think.

Pretty freaking perfect. Like, it's like a pretty efficient, amazing model. I think.

49:27

Yeah. I mean, I think that there is a

Yeah. I mean, I think that there is a

49:30

a definite strategy that businesses like ours could have of going

a definite strategy that businesses like ours could have of going

49:35

very slowly and using proceeds from the

very slowly and using proceeds from the

49:39

the business to

the business to

49:41

feedback into

feedback into

49:42

the services that you want to create. That's definitely one way that the strategy could go

the services that you want to create. That's definitely one way that the strategy could go

49:48

I think

I think

49:50

I

I

49:51

I do not think that I would have any regret with the the way in which we are going.

I do not think that I would have any regret with the the way in which we are going.

49:56

Because

Because

49:57

I think we're impatient of trying to build a really meaningful, powerful network for badass women that that that need this, and you know, at the heart of the mission is, like, to drive more women into positions of leadership and keep them there. It's over two hundred years before we get to gender parity in senior executive positions.

I think we're impatient of trying to build a really meaningful, powerful network for badass women that that that need this, and you know, at the heart of the mission is, like, to drive more women into positions of leadership and keep them there. It's over two hundred years before we get to gender parity in senior executive positions.

50:18

And if a little bit of dilution means that we can go and execute on that mission faster,

And if a little bit of dilution means that we can go and execute on that mission faster,

50:23

game.

game.

50:26

I understand why people invested. You're very good at your pitch. You've have it honed in. You you seem like a a force to be reckoned with. Congratulations on everything.

I understand why people invested. You're very good at your pitch. You've have it honed in. You you seem like a a force to be reckoned with. Congratulations on everything.

50:34

I'm I got to speak with you. Thank you, for coming on. Do you do you use social? Do you get is there any is there any, thing that you wanna plug, like, your your your I don't even think I saw you using social today.

I'm I got to speak with you. Thank you, for coming on. Do you do you use social? Do you get is there any is there any, thing that you wanna plug, like, your your your I don't even think I saw you using social today.

50:45

Yeah. I'm not I'm not as much of a social media person as my co founder.

Yeah. I'm not I'm not as much of a social media person as my co founder.

50:51

I'm on LinkedIn, but,

I'm on LinkedIn, but,

50:53

yeah, I think the thing I would plug is, is our podcast as well, the new rules of business by chief which we just launched last year. And so people wanna check that out, they they can see us there.

yeah, I think the thing I would plug is, is our podcast as well, the new rules of business by chief which we just launched last year. And so people wanna check that out, they they can see us there.

51:05

How's it going? Podcasts are a pain in the ass to grow, aren't they?

How's it going? Podcasts are a pain in the ass to grow, aren't they?

51:09

It's fun, though. I actually, like, I every single,

It's fun, though. I actually, like, I every single,

51:13

podcast episode. I'm kind of like, this is like a nice little

podcast episode. I'm kind of like, this is like a nice little

51:16

learning experience for me too. You're just talking with, like, experts in their fields and,

learning experience for me too. You're just talking with, like, experts in their fields and,

51:22

learning a ton through it that I'm really enjoying it.

learning a ton through it that I'm really enjoying it.

51:26

I think it's fun to do. So at the hustle, when we so we we are required by HubSpot, so we don't have advertising anymore. But before we are advertising, Berta make money, And when that was the case, it was

I think it's fun to do. So at the hustle, when we so we we are required by HubSpot, so we don't have advertising anymore. But before we are advertising, Berta make money, And when that was the case, it was

51:38

very tough. It was very hard. And because it was like, alright, how do we get downloads up? How do we get downloads up? For you folks, like, maybe because you're not making money directly from it. It's still important to get big or whatever, but it's not like, you know, you're not gonna go hungry.

very tough. It was very hard. And because it was like, alright, how do we get downloads up? How do we get downloads up? For you folks, like, maybe because you're not making money directly from it. It's still important to get big or whatever, but it's not like, you know, you're not gonna go hungry.

51:53

And so, yeah, if I was in your position, I would think it's awesome as well.

And so, yeah, if I was in your position, I would think it's awesome as well.

51:58

Yeah. That is true. That we are not a advertising led cast business. I appreciate it. Thank you. Yeah. Thank you. This was fun.

Yeah. That is true. That we are not a advertising led cast business. I appreciate it. Thank you. Yeah. Thank you. This was fun.

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