people | Exit Plan

By Alexa Tanen

Simon Sinek

8 months ago · 3 minute read

  • Author – Motivational Speaker

Website

Industry

  • Self-Improvement

Social Media

Education

Simon Sinek is a person who always looks on the bright side. He believes we can create a fantastic future if we work together. Known as a “visionary thinker with a rare intellect,” Simon has dedicated his career to imagining a world where most people wake up feeling inspired, safe, and fulfilled by their work every day.

Simon is a leadership expert. His Golden Circle concept, with “Start With Why,” has profoundly influenced many people’s approaches to leadership. Sinek’s TED Talk on “How Great Leaders Inspire Action” sparked a paradigm shift in the general understanding of leadership dynamics. His emphasis on purpose-driven leadership, centered on the “why,” resonates with the core of what motivates individuals and organizations.

Simon shares his ideas and inspiration through his bestselling books, like “Start with WHY,” “Leaders Eat Last,” and “The Infinite Game.” He also hosts a podcast called “A Bit of Optimism.” Simon founded The Optimism Company, which focuses on leadership learning and development. Moreover, he helps publish other inspiring thinkers through Optimism Press, a partnership with Penguin Random House.

Through his books, Sinek provides practical insights on creating cultures of trust, collaboration, and long-term success. I appreciate how he weaves neuroscience and psychology into discussions, making leadership principles relatable and actionable. Sinek’s belief that leaders eat last, prioritizing the well-being of their teams, does a lot of good in organizations. 

His impact extends beyond the corporate world; Sinek’s teachings have applications in personal growth, creating a sense of purpose. Born in 1973, Sinek’s diverse background reflects his journey from London and Hong Kong to the heart of American business. Yet, it is not just his travels that define him; it’s his unwavering belief in the power of purpose. Simon is also the founder of The Curve, which was created with the vision to help all people feel justice is administered with dignity, equity and fairness.

Growing up in a multicultural family, Sinek developed a keen understanding of human behavior. His curiosity led him to study anthropology and law, giving him a unique perspective on people and systems. With his natural charisma, he entered the business world, advising organizations on leadership and marketing.

Sinek’s breakthrough came in 2009 with his book “Start with Why,” changing how we view leadership. He argued that successful organizations, like Apple or Martin Luther King Jr., inspire not just with what or how but with why they do what they do. This core belief, the “why,” attracts loyal followers and fosters a culture of innovation and engagement. Simon frequently collaborates with different branches of the US Armed Forces and government agencies. He is also an adjunct staff member at the RAND Corporation, one of the world’s most respected think tanks.

Sinek’s passion and clear message resonated with millions. His TED Talk on “Start with Why” has over 60 million views, making him one of the most-watched speakers globally. Simon Sinek remains a dynamic force, continually evolving his thinking and pushing leadership boundaries.

Famous Publications

Projects

Achievements

  • His “Start with Why” TED Talk from 2009 has been watched over 60 million times.
  • “Start with Why,” “Leaders Eat Last,” and “The Infinite Game” have all become worldwide bestsellers.
  • Addressed groups such as the UN Global Compact Leaders Summit, Fortune 500 companies, and schools.
  • Worked with big companies like Ernst & Young to create leadership training programs.
  • Founded The Optimism Company, an online school with courses and tools on leadership and purpose.

By Alexa Tanen

Ryan Mulvany

8 months ago · 3 minute read

Entrepreneur – Investor – Founder 

Website

Social Media

Education

  • Bachelor of Applied Science (Construction Engineering) from California State University, Long Beach  (2003-2008)
  • Bachelor of Arts (Cinematography and Film Production) from California State University, Long Beach (2003-2008). 

Ryan Mulvany is a visionary entrepreneur and the founder of Quiverr, a renowned product house and Amazon agency. Under his leadership, Quiverr thrived, and in 2017, Ryan successfully sold the company to Advantage Solutions, a leading firm in the consumer packaged goods industry. Today, Ryan is globally recognized for his expertise in e-commerce and leadership. He often shares his knowledge at various prestigious events. He is also an active investor in private equity funds and innovative companies and continues to shape the future of business.

Ryan’s entrepreneurial journey began unexpectedly. His fiancé handed him a sociology textbook, which instead of reading, he sold on Amazon. This simple act sparked a passion that would lead him to incredible success. From those humble beginnings, Ryan led teams to generate over $1 billion in online sales, creating a legacy of excellence and innovation.

The foundation of Ryan’s leadership style is deeply rooted in empathy and understanding. His first employees were his wife and cousin which shows the true spirit of teamwork and support. This familial approach extended to all his employees to create an environment that emphasized personal growth, development, and entrepreneurship. Ryan takes immense pride in the fact that eight of his former employees went on to start successful businesses that generate jobs and substantial revenue.

Ryan’s entrepreneurial acumen extends beyond his speaking engagements. He is the creator of over 10 best-selling Amazon products, one of which garnered over 20,000 reviews and significant media attention from CNN, Food Network, and Huffington Post.  Ryan Mulvany has collaborated with well-known brands like Unilever, Anastasia of Beverly Hills, Pepsi, Philips, Energizer, Quest Nutrition, and others. This energetic and charismatic entrepreneur is an expert on the Amazon platform. Through Quiverr, he facilitated over $1 billion in Amazon sales, earning the distinction of being one of Amazon’s top Platinum Sellers and one of the fastest-growing companies in the nation.

In 2017, Ryan sold both his brands and agency to Advantage Sales and Marketing, the nation’s largest consumer packaged goods broker. This milestone marked a significant achievement in his career.

In 2020, Ryan launched an Amazon-based TikTok channel called Mr. Deals. This venture quickly gained popularity, amassing over 500,000 followers at its peak. Ryan is also a prominent figure on LinkedIn, where he shares his insights with over 30,000 followers. His expertise has taken him around the world, sharing stages with CEOs of some of the world’s largest companies and brands.

Since 2020, he has been an active member of the Young Presidents Organization (YPO), where he serves as a mentor and speaker. He is also involved in the 100 Million Dollar Mastermind experience, which is a group focused on creating exceptional experiences and creating value for emerging entrepreneurs.

Ryan’s investment interests primarily lie in the beauty, health, and wellness sectors. As a co-founder and investor in the award-winning non-alcoholic spirit Drink Monday, he continues to make a significant impact in this industry.

Despite his professional achievements, Ryan remains grounded and approachable. He describes himself as an “Amazonoholic” and takes pride in his journey from selling used books to leading an eight-figure business that grew into San Diego’s 3rd fastest growing company. Ryan’s story is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and the importance of staying true to oneself.

As Ryan continues to work on his upcoming book, “Entrepreneurial Levity: A Playbook Etched in Blood, Sweat, and Cheers,” he remains committed to sharing his lighthearted leadership style with the world. His journey is far from over, and his impact on the entrepreneurial landscape will undoubtedly continue to grow.

Projects

Books

  • “Entrepreneurial Levity: A Playbook Etched in Blood, Sweat, and Cheers, 

Achievements 

  1. Ryan founded Quiverr, a successful Amazon agency, and sold it to Advantage Solutions in 2017.
  2. He led teams to generate over $1 billion in online sales and created over 10 best-selling Amazon products.
  3. Mulvany launched an Amazon-based TikTok channel, Mr. Deals, which gained over 500,000 followers.
  4. He actively mentors and speaks in the Young Presidents Organization (YPO) and the 100 Million Dollar Mastermind experience.
  5. He also co-founded and invested in the award-winning non-alcoholic spirit Drink Monday.

By Alexa Tanen

Adam Grant

8 months ago · 2 minute read

  • Psychologist – Best Selling Author

Website

Social Media

Education

Adam Grant is renowned for his groundbreaking research and thought-provoking ideas. As an organizational psychologist and professor at Wharton, he explores the science behind motivation, creativity, and human interactions, challenging conventional wisdom.

Born in 1981 in Detroit, Michigan, Grant’s academic journey led him from dreaming of basketball stardom to earning his bachelor’s degree in psychology at Harvard. He quickly completed his master’s and Ph.D. in organizational psychology at the University of Michigan, finishing his doctorate in three years.

At the Wharton School, Grant has been the top-rated professor for seven consecutive years, showcasing his engaging teaching style and deep connection with students. His pioneering research spans motivation, originality, generosity, and prosocial behavior, with numerous articles in academic journals and bestselling books like “Give and Take,” “Originals,” and “Think Again.”

In 2017, Grant started Give and Take, Inc., with University of Michigan professor Wayne Baker and entrepreneur Cheryl Baker. This company created Givitas software, a web-based platform designed to help organizations apply the ideas from his book Give and Take. Grant is also a board member at Lean In Foundation and leads the Creative Advisory Board of EXILE Content.

Grant’s books, translated into over 45 languages, revolutionize our understanding of success, giving, and rethinking outdated beliefs. Beyond writing, he delivers impactful TED Talks, reaching millions and inspiring critical thinking. His podcast, “WorkLife with Adam Grant,” explores the science of work with renowned guests.

More than an academic, Adam Grant is a thought leader actively shaping our understanding of the world. His work encourages generosity, originality, and openness to new ideas, challenging us to think critically in a world that often favors conformity. Grant stands as a beacon of intellectual curiosity, urging us to embrace the power of change.

He has been featured by many famous publications, including Forbes, for his exceptional teachings.

Famous Publications

Projects

Achievements

  • Wharton’s top-rated professor for seven consecutive years
  • #1 New York Times bestselling author of six books
  • Thinkers50 #2 most influential management thinker
  • Fortune’s 40 Under 40
  • World Economic Forum Young Global Leader
  • Class of 1984 Teaching Award (multiple times)
  • He is mentioned in multiple extensive publications like Forbes for his exceptional teachings.

By Alexa Tanen

Bill Mueller 

8 months ago · 2 minute read

  • Copywriter – Entrepreneur

Website

Social Media

Bill Mueller is a man with a special talent that every business, big or small, needs—copywriting. Unlike many, Bill hasn’t worked a traditional job in over 15 years. Instead, he enjoys the flexibility of working from home and taking leisurely walks with his dog. He consistently makes money by selling information products and providing consulting services as a copywriter. But his journey into this world wasn’t a quick one.

He started as a journalist but ended up in the world of internet marketing by helping a friend write a book. According to Bill, words are the secret sauce for making decisions when we buy stuff – whether it’s from ads, product descriptions, social media posts, or online reviews. This truth has been important for the past 50 years and still holds today.

Bill has been using his words for the last twenty years to make millions in product sales. His process begins with a blinking cursor on an empty screen. Even though he’s successful, Bill is down-to-earth and super intelligent, happily sharing what he knows about writing and marketing. 

In the Opt Out podcast, Bill discusses his early success in creating a book and product about ADHD with a friend. They turned it into a full-time business, selling info products to people in 43 countries from a small apartment in La Jolla Shores.

Bill discussed his interest in writing and shared insights from authors like Stephen King and Anne Lamott. He highlighted the value of consuming news from print media versus online sources due to bias and opinionated content prevalent in digital formats.

He also shared a strategy for decision-making when faced with roadblocks: writing down the worst-case and best-case scenarios to develop a game plan. This approach helped him navigate challenges with a clearer perspective on potential outcomes.

Bill wants people to know that online marketing isn’t magic. It’s simple – find a market, figure out what people want, make a good product, learn how to write a convincing sales pitch, and get people to check it out.

He also discusses the power of words in every buying decision. The words matter whether it’s a review on Amazon or a script for a sales video. Even in videos, a carefully crafted script has as much structure as a written sales letter. Bill’s journey shows how important well-chosen words are in business and marketing.

Projects

By Alexa Tanen

Brett Papa

8 months ago · 2 minute read

  • Guitarist and Guitar Teacher

Website

Social Media

Meet Brett Papa, a guitar virtuoso who has taken the online music world by storm. With a staggering 44 million views across a thousand videos, Brett has become the second most popular guitar teacher on the internet, earning the affectionate nickname “Papastache” from his devoted students.

Brett’s journey began while juggling a day job building and delivering guitar amps. Despite humble beginnings, he started his YouTube career, recording videos with a simple camera in the back of a friend’s chiropractic office. Fast forward to today, and Brett has become a YouTube sensation, sharing his passion for music and teaching with a global audience.

Brett believes anyone can be a great guitarist with the right mix of inspiration, persistence, and fun. His infectious enthusiasm has gained him over 235,000 subscribers from nearly 100 countries.. His teaching style, coupled with humor, provides a welcoming entry into the diverse musical realms of rock, country, and blues.

In addition to being a prominent YouTube guitar teacher, Brett is an accomplished musician, performer, and music teacher with over a decade of experience. His expertise extends to writing musical scores for TV shows and performing live with renowned artists like Maroon 5, Paul McCartney, Tom Petty, and many more. 

Notably, Brett played a pivotal role as the right-hand man to Fred Taccone, the founder of Divided by 13 custom guitar amplifier shop, contributing his craftsmanship to stages around the world.

Currently residing in Newport Beach, CA, with his wife Sherrie and three children, Brett continues to expand his musical influence. His latest venture involves producing guitar learning content with the legendary session guitarist Tim Pierce. Tim is known for his work with Michael Jackson and Jason Mraz, among others.

Brett Papa has shared his inspiring journey on Opt Out Life podcast and you can check it out. 

Achievements

  • Achieved 44 million views and over 235,000 subscribers on YouTube as the second most popular online guitar teacher.
  • Performed live with renowned artists, including Maroon 5, Paul McCartney, and Tom Petty.
  • Contributed to Divided by 13 custom guitar amplifiers, collaborating closely with founder Fred Taccone.
  • Currently producing guitar learning content with renowned session guitarist Tim Pierce.

By Alexa Tanen

Cory Verner

8 months ago · 2 minute read

  • Audiobooks Expert – Seasonal Entrepreneur

Website 

Industry 

  • Audiobooks

Social Media

Education

When I interviewed him four years ago, Cory talked about how working at a traditional job wasn’t for him. Sure, the money and job security were great, but he hated the work to the point where he couldn’t physically get himself to open the door to his office one day. That’s when he knew he needed a change. 

Cory is a good friend and sometimes business partner who has been in the audiobook industry for over a decade. In the interview, he explained that audiobooks were on cassette tapes when he started. He’s a great producer and knows the industry like the back of his hand. He’s working on a big, exciting project: Zoundy, a brand-new audiobook platform. 

He is the co-founder and publisher of Christian Audio, which provides high-quality, faith-based audiobooks. Their catalog includes over 7,500 fantastic Christian titles, perfect for meeting all your spiritual needs. 

Cory has also been a Board member of the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association for over 14 years. His tenure has been characterized by a commitment to fostering collaboration, innovation, and ethical standards within the evangelical Christian publishing community.

Cory’s story is an incredible adventure with audiobooks. Think about a time when audiobooks were on cassette tapes—Cory was right there, helping make significant changes in how we enjoy stories. 

Now, he’s in charge of Zoundy, and it’s not just going along with the changes; it’s making them happen. Zoundy will be the most remarkable thing in audiobooks, a super fun platform where stories become more exciting than ever. His entrepreneurial journey is pretty common and makes for a great story, whether you’re just starting out or already on your way.

Projects

Achievements 

  • Co-founder and publisher of Christian Audio, offering over 7,500 faith-based audiobooks.
  • Board member of the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association for over 14 years.
  • Played a crucial role in transforming the audiobook industry from cassette tapes to modern digital formats.
  • Leading the development of Zoundy, an innovative new audiobook platform

By Alexa Tanen

Dan Martell

8 months ago · 2 minute read

  • Entrepreneur – Investor – Author – SaaS Coach

Website

Social Media

Education

  • Dan is a Microsoft Certified Professional and had his early education from MCSD. 

Dan Martell is a Canadian serial entrepreneur, husband, and athlete who has evolved into an award-winning figure. As a coach, investor, and best-selling author, he has guided over 1,000 SaaS founders, including notable clients like ClickFunnels, Proposify, and Carrot. Dan is the founder of five successful ventures and had a successful exit from three of them. 

Martell’s journey had its share of challenges. At just 15, he was involved in a high-speed chase with the police. His early attempts at building tech and hosting companies faced setbacks, and three years in consulting left him dissatisfied.

The turning point of Dan’s life was when at 24, Martell successfully launched Spheric Technologies. Despite initial struggles, he grew the company substantially. However, he faced a roadblock and needed help identifying sales growth opportunities.

The breakthrough came when he overcame stress, long work hours, and sleep deprivation. Questions about customer outreach, hiring strategies, sales processes, CTO expectations, and team leadership plagued him, leading to the realization that many SaaS founders face similar challenges.

Martell’s dedication to helping others is evident in the creation of SaaS Academy. Having achieved success with Spheric Technologies, he sold the company, took a year off, and built two more successful ventures, Flowtown and Clarity.fm. Now, he aims to guide others through their journeys, providing valuable insights on his website and YouTube channel. Martell seeks to assist entrepreneurs in efficiently growing their SaaS businesses.

Projects

Famous Publication

Achievements

  • Mentored more than 1000 SaaS founders with clients such as ClickFunnels, Proposify, and Carrot.
  • Top-class Social Media Presence
  • Best Selling Author
  • Founder of 5 successful ventures, and 3 of them have been acquired. 

By Alexa Tanen

Bio: Devin Kostrzewski

8 months ago · 2 minute read

  • Founder at The Agency Engine

Website

Social Media

Education

Devin Kostrzewski is originally from Buffalo, New York, and became a digital expert after starting his journey with an internship at Saint Louis University. Since 2012, he’s been actively contributing to the SEO world in San Diego, bringing his passion and know-how to each project.

Away from the computer screen, Devin enjoys cruising around town in his cherished Studebaker, playing soccer, and tending to his garden when he’s not working on SEO strategies. Devin has been a critical player in the SEO field since 2011, helping top agencies nationwide enhance their link-building efforts and achieve impressive results for their clients. Devin’s commitment to a performance-based approach makes him unique, ensuring he delivers measurable outcomes.

With a wealth of relationships with editors, bloggers, and media outlets, Devin has mastered the art of making connections in the digital landscape. His impact goes beyond SEO, leaving a lasting impression on the industry.

As a passionate supporter of the Buffalo Bills, Devin Kostrzewski excels in SEO and brings the same level of dedication to every aspect of his life. He is the founder and CEO of The Agency Engine. For big marketing agencies seeking assistance, they offer tailored solutions to address various needs like SEO analysis, Amazon Optimization, Content Creation, Backlinks, Social Media, etc.

Experience and Projects

By Alexa Tanen

Dr Squatch/Jack Haldrup 

8 months ago · 2 minute read

  • Founder and CEO of Dr Squatch Soap

Website 

  • www.drsquatch.com

Industry

  • Men’s Hygiene

Social Media

Education

Can you believe that even the famous Dr. Squatch has faced his fair share of entrepreneurial problems? Now running a company that clears millions of dollars in revenue yearly, Jack Haldrup hasn’t had it easy. Even the name, Dr. Squatch, came from a grave mistake that could have cost him the company.

When he initially named it Sasquatch Soap, Haldrup received a cease and desist letter from a third party in trademarking that name. Despite needing to rebrand his soap delivery company, Haldrup persevered, and now, tons of guys rely on Dr. Squatch’s soap. So the big question: how has he been so successful?

The secret is targeting a new niche. Hygiene and beauty companies have been targeting feminine demographics for decades, but the hypermasculine market needs soap, too, and Dr. Squatch filled that market well. 

Jack Haldrup, the founder of Dr. Squatch Soap Co., is dedicated to providing top-notch natural, handmade products for men leading busy lives. 

Their products have been showcased in popular outlets like Urban Outfitters, Birchbox, Men’s Journal, The Bespoke Post, Grooming Lounge, and more. 

Projects and Experience 

By Alexa Tanen

Eric Blank

8 months ago · 2 minute read

  • CEO at Eric Blank Injury Attorneys

Website

Social Media

Education

Eric Blank has dedicated his career to advocating for individuals in personal injury and workers’ compensation cases through his firm, Eric Blank Injury Attorneys.  He delved into insurance defense, defending insurance companies against plaintiffs’ claims. This experience gave him valuable insights into how insurance companies assess different claims and the strategies they employ for defense. 

Adding to his repertoire, Eric also served as general counsel for local NBC and Fox affiliates, gaining substantial business expertise. However, driven by a desire for a more meaningful career, Mr. Blank redirected his focus to exclusively representing individual plaintiffs against insurance giants and corporations.

Since making this shift, he has secured millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts for his clients. Notably, Eric finds a deep sense of fulfillment in aiding others, a satisfaction that eluded him in his previous roles defending insurance companies.

Beyond the legal arena, Eric Blank actively contributes to the community. He earned the title of “Man of the Year” from the Southern Nevada Chapter of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, highlighting his commitment to philanthropy. Additionally, he volunteers at the Jewish Federation of Las Vegas, further cementing his dedication to community service.

To reach a broader audience and provide legal guidance, Mr. Blank hosted a radio show where listeners could call in with basic legal questions. This commitment to public service aligns with his genuine passion for helping clients secure the compensation they deserve.

Eric Blank’s engagement extends to the literary realm as well. He authored the inspirational illustrated book, “The Success of Robert Fitzgibbons,” encouraging readers to follow their hearts, work diligently, and pursue their dreams. These guiding principles transcend his writing and form the foundation of his legal practice, where he assists individuals navigating challenging times in their lives.

Experience and Projects 

Opt Out Gig Out The King's Flyswatter

Get On Dana's Email List

Grab Your Free Copies of Dana's Books

Hear the stories of entrepreneurs from startup to sale and hear from the professionals who helped them achieve their exit.




100% Safe. You'll only receive emails from us.