News
Entertainment
Science & Technology
Life
Culture & Art
Hobbies
News
Entertainment
Science & Technology
Culture & Art
Hobbies
Under30CEO - Young Entrepreneurs & Young Professionals - Startups
9 | Follower
Conservation Must Start With People, Not Just Animals
Flying over the tiny Gombe National Park was a turning point in my understanding of conservation. Below me stretched a landscape that told a complex story – one where the fate of chimpanzees and humans were deeply intertwined. For years, I had focused on studying chimpanzees, documenting their behaviors and raising awareness about their declining populations. I learned extensively about habitat loss and its devastating effects on chimp communities. But what became increasingly clear was that I had been seeing only half the picture. The communities surrounding chimp habitats face overwhelming challenges: Crippling poverty that forces impossible choices Lack of access to adequate healthcare Limited educational opportunities Degraded farmland that yields less each year These challenges create a situation where local people have no choice but to cut down trees to grow food or earn income through charcoal production and timber harvesting. It’s not destruction for destruction’s sake – it’s survival. Conservation Through Community This realization fundamentally changed my approach to conservation. We cannot save chimpanzees without addressing human needs first. The two are not separate issues but deeply connected parts of the same problem. This insight led to the creation of the Jane Goodall Institute’s TACARE program. Rather than […]
Building Trust Before Advertising: Why Brand Comes First
In today’s world, starting a company has never been easier. With a few clicks, anyone can find a product and launch it online. But this accessibility creates a significant challenge: standing out in what has truly become an attention economy. As a marketing entrepreneur who’s helped hundreds of businesses grow, I’ve seen firsthand how many founders rush to advertise before establishing their brand foundation. This approach almost always leads to wasted marketing dollars and disappointing results. If you haven’t established a differentiated brand with an authentic story behind it, you simply won’t capture attention in today’s crowded marketplace. Without that attention, success becomes nearly impossible. Why Brand Must Come Before Advertising When I work with new clients, many are eager to jump straight into advertising campaigns, email marketing sequences, and other tactical revenue drivers. I understand the urgency—these activities directly generate sales. However, I always caution against this approach. Here’s why: without a compelling brand story as your foundation, marketing tactics become exponentially more expensive and less effective. Think about your own purchasing behavior. When you encounter a new product or service, what makes you trust it enough to buy? What convinces you to return for repeat purchases? What inspires […]
Why Branding Matters in a World of Endless Options
As a brand owner, I understand the struggle of juggling multiple marketing initiatives with limited resources. The question often arises: with so many priorities competing for attention, why should branding take center stage? The answer is simple yet profound: In today’s marketplace, people don’t just buy products—they buy stories and emotional connections. This reality has transformed how we must approach business building. Standing Out in the Noise Walk into any Target or browse Amazon for a few minutes. What do you see? An overwhelming sea of options. For nearly any product category, consumers face dozens if not hundreds of choices. Creating another product and placing it on these shelves might generate some sales, especially if you’ve developed an interesting formulation or design. But that’s not enough anymore. To truly stand out—to make your product’s power reach your intended audience—you need more than just a good product. You need a brand that resonates. What separates successful brands from forgettable products? I’ve found it comes down to these key elements: A clear understanding of why you’re doing what you’re doing A story that connects with your target audience Visual and verbal identity that reflects your values Consistency across all touchpoints An emotional […]
Why Finding Your Tribe Is Essential for Personal Growth
At twenty-one, I faced a devastating medical prognosis. The doctor entered my hospital room, looked me in the eye, and delivered the crushing news: “You’ll probably never walk without a stick. And climbing? Be realistic—you’ll never climb again.” Those words shattered me. Not just because I loved climbing, but because of something much deeper that I only understood years later. My entire social world—my tribe—revolved around climbing. In my young mind, losing climbing meant losing my community, my sense of belonging, and my identity. The Power of Community in Our Lives This experience taught me something fundamental about human nature. We are social creatures who thrive on connection. When faced with losing my climbing community, I wasn’t just mourning a hobby—I was facing isolation from the people who understood me best. That fear became my greatest motivator. It wasn’t simply about proving the doctors wrong or returning to the physical act of scaling mountains. It was about maintaining my place in a community that gave my life meaning and purpose. Looking back, I recognize this as a universal human need. We all seek our tribe—people who share our passions, understand our struggles, and celebrate our victories. This tribal connection is […]
Why The National Anthem Still Matters Today
Recently, I found myself reflecting on the opening lines of our national anthem. “Oh, say can you see by the dawn’s early light, what so proudly we hailed at the twilight’s last gleaming.” These words, written over 200 years ago, still resonate with me in profound ways. As an entrepreneur who has built and sold multiple businesses, I’ve come to appreciate the symbolism of perseverance and hope embedded in these lyrics. The anthem describes a moment when, after a night of battle, the American flag was still flying—a powerful metaphor for resilience that applies to both our nation and our personal journeys. The Entrepreneurial Connection The national anthem speaks to me as an entrepreneur. That flag, still standing after a night of bombardment, mirrors what many of us face in business. We weather storms, face setbacks, and sometimes wonder if we’ll make it through the night. Yet, like that flag, we’re still there when morning comes. I’ve experienced this firsthand. Before launching Hawke Media, I grew and sold other ventures. Each had moments when success seemed uncertain—my own “perilous fights.” But persistence paid off, just as it did for our young nation. View this post on Instagram More Than Just […]
Overcoming Fear of Failure: The Path to Unlocking Opportunity
Fear of failure cripples too many potential leaders. I’ve noticed this pattern repeatedly throughout my entrepreneurial journey – people hesitate to take action because they’re afraid of what might go wrong. But here’s the truth: failure is inevitable and completely okay. When people look at successful entrepreneurs, they often see only the wins. They see Hawke Media’s growth or my previous successful exits, but they don’t see the stumbles along the way. For every success story I share, there are plenty of things that didn’t go well – and that’s a natural part of the process. The Power of Taking Action Progress happens one day at a time, one foot in front of the other. This simple approach has guided me through building multiple companies. The fundamental truth is straightforward: If you don’t ask, you don’t get If you don’t try, you don’t make it happen If you don’t take risks, you limit your opportunities I try to instill this mindset in my teams. Taking action despite uncertainty creates momentum that theoretical planning never will. View this post on Instagram Embracing Uncertainty Even […]
Why I Don't Promise Marketing Miracles (And Neither Should You)
Let me be straight with you. If I claimed I could look at your business and guarantee a 10x return without breaking a sweat, you should be skeptical. Very skeptical. Think about it logically: if generating massive returns were that simple and predictable, why wouldn’t I just buy your business and implement these magical strategies myself? The hard truth about marketing is that there are no crystal balls. Anyone promising guaranteed results is likely selling you a fantasy. After years in this industry, I’ve watched countless businesses waste money on agencies that overpromise and underdeliver, leaving clients frustrated and disillusioned. The Reality of Marketing Results What we can offer is expertise, not miracles. At my company, we’ve built our reputation on a foundation of transparency and realistic expectations. We know best practices. We’re skilled at execution. We have access to extensive data that informs our strategies. But we don’t pretend to be fortune tellers. This approach puts us at odds with many agencies that will say anything to keep you as a client. They’ll promise the moon, deliver a rock, and then blame external factors when results don’t materialize. I believe this practice isn’t just dishonest—it’s damaging to our entire […]
Why Authentic Relationships Matter More Than Ever
In a world where we’re constantly bombarded with filtered images and carefully curated social media posts, authenticity has become a rare commodity. I’ve spent years building businesses and brands, and one thing has become increasingly clear to me: genuine connections are irreplaceable. When I observe interactions between couples like the brief exchange I witnessed recently, I’m reminded of how powerful authentic relationships truly are. The simple, unfiltered moment between partners – the knowing glances, inside jokes, and comfortable silences – these are the foundations of meaningful connections. The Power of Being Present Too often in business and personal relationships, we’re physically present but mentally elsewhere. Our attention is divided between screens, notifications, and endless to-do lists. The most valuable gift we can give another person is our undivided attention. I’ve found that the most productive business partnerships and the most fulfilling personal relationships share this common thread: presence. When someone feels truly seen and heard, trust develops naturally. This applies equally to: Customer relationships Team dynamics Personal connections Family bonds Each of these relationships thrives when we bring our authentic selves to the table. Authenticity creates a foundation of trust that no marketing budget can buy. View this post on […]
Embracing the Ugly Truth Will Set You Free
Curiosity leads us to truth, but that truth isn’t always pretty. In fact, it’s often a nightmare—raw, ugly, and exposing. When we face our deepest truths, we confront parts of ourselves we’ve tried to hide, even from our own awareness. I’ve learned through my entrepreneurial journey that avoiding truth is the surest path to stagnation. The most significant growth happens when we stop running from what makes us uncomfortable and instead turn to face it head-on. Truth has a way of dragging out our rot—those festering beliefs, habits, and wounds we’ve buried. It pulls us into deep water where we can’t touch bottom. This feeling of being untethered is terrifying, but necessary for transformation. The Power of Confronting Your Truth When we avoid truth, we create distance between ourselves and reality. This gap becomes filled with anxiety, doubt, and fear. By contrast, when we embrace truth—however painful—we close this gap and find solid ground. The process isn’t comfortable. Truth-seeking requires: Courage to look at what you’d rather ignore Willingness to feel uncomfortable emotions Honesty about your role in your circumstances Vulnerability with yourself and others This work is challenging but essential. In building multiple businesses, I’ve had to confront hard […]
D2C Brands Must Master Meta and Google to Succeed
When new direct-to-consumer brands ask me about paid advertising strategies, I often see them searching for some secret channel or hidden opportunity that will magically drive their growth. The reality is much simpler—and perhaps less exciting. Despite all the hype around emerging platforms, the two most effective digital advertising channels remain the same as they’ve been for over a decade: Meta (Facebook and Instagram) and Google. This isn’t just my opinion; it’s what the data consistently shows across the thousands of brands we’ve worked with at Hawke Media. The digital landscape has certainly evolved, but these two giants continue to dominate for good reason. They have the most sophisticated targeting capabilities, the largest user bases, and the most refined advertising systems. For D2C brands looking to establish themselves, these platforms should form the foundation of your paid strategy. Beyond the Big Two: Complementary Channels That said, there are other platforms worth exploring as complementary channels: TikTok and TikTok Shop have created interesting opportunities, especially for brands targeting younger demographics Pinterest works exceptionally well for visually-driven products in categories like home decor, fashion, and DIY Reddit can be powerful for very specific niches where communities gather around particular interests These platforms […]
Artificial Intelligence + Real Wisdom: Avoiding the Pitfalls
The strong push for AI integration into modern businesses isn’t without reason – the capabilities of artificial intelligence are considerable. And it’s probably true that the businesses that fail to adopt it will end up being left behind. Used well, it compresses the time and effort required for tasks. Used badly, though, it can result in outcomes that are worse than those found by businesses that never integrate it to begin with. We’ve talked about how AI tools can accelerate what you do, but just as important is knowing how not to misuse them; let’s address that now. Augmentation, not abdication The biggest mistake a founder can make is outsourcing judgment to an LLM or AI. Judgment is the reason that AI will never make humans obsolete. You can understand context, ethics, and trade-offs in a way that can never satisfactorily be left to a machine. AI is like a power drill: it can make a DIY task much faster and cleaner; it can also cause a disastrous flood. The difference is how it is handled, and that’s the human side of the equation. To look at it practically, ask yourself which part of a task is generative, which is […]
HelloFresh vs Grocery Store: 30-Day Test
In this article, we will explore the differences between HelloFresh meal kits and grocery store shopping over a 30-day period. We’ll look at various factors such as cost, convenience, meal variety, and more to help you decide if HelloFresh can save you money compared to traditional grocery shopping. Key Takeaways HelloFresh offers meal kits that can save time on shopping and cooking. Grocery stores provide more flexibility and variety in ingredient choices. Cost analysis shows that HelloFresh can be affordable, but it depends on your meal choices. Convenience is a major factor; HelloFresh delivers directly to your door. Taste and quality may vary, so consider personal preferences when choosing. 1. HelloFresh When I first tried HelloFresh, I was excited about the idea of having fresh ingredients delivered right to my door. The convenience of meal kits is hard to beat! With HelloFresh, I found that they offer a wide variety of meals each week, which kept things interesting. I could choose from over 50 recipes, making it easy to find something that fit my taste. One of the things I loved was how easy the recipes were to follow. Even if you’re not a great cook, you can whip up […]
12 Consequences of Skipping HOA Fees
Skipping HOA fees might seem like a small issue, but it can lead to serious problems for homeowners. When you ignore these payments, you may face a range of consequences that can affect your finances and your community. Understanding these consequences is crucial for anyone living in a homeowners association. Let’s explore what happens if you don’t pay your HOA fees and how it can impact you. Key Takeaways Missing HOA fees can lead to late charges and interest, making it harder to catch up. Legal action may be taken against you, including liens on your property. You could lose access to community amenities like pools and gyms. Your credit score might suffer, making future loans difficult to get. Not paying dues can create tension between you and your neighbors. 1. Late Fees and Interest Charges When I first moved into my neighborhood, I didn’t think much about the HOA fees. I figured they were just another bill to pay. But when I missed a payment, I quickly learned about the late fees and interest charges that can pile up. It felt like a snowball effect. Here’s what I found out: Late fees can be a flat rate or a […]
8 TurboTax Premium Features Worth Paying For
TurboTax Premium is a powerful tool for those who want to make the most of their tax returns. With features designed for freelancers, investors, and homeowners, it helps users navigate complex tax situations and maximize their deductions. Here are eight key features that make TurboTax Premium worth considering. Key Takeaways Year-Round Tax Estimator helps you plan your taxes throughout the year. Easily snap and autofill your 1099-K and 1099-NEC forms with your phone. Get detailed investment reporting for stocks, crypto, and more. Support for employee stock plans simplifies your tax reporting. Find every credit and deduction to ensure you get the maximum refund. 1. Year-Round Tax Estimator When I first discovered the Year-Round Tax Estimator feature in TurboTax Premium, I felt a wave of relief wash over me. This tool is a game changer for anyone who wants to keep track of their taxes throughout the year. Instead of waiting until tax season, I can see how my financial decisions impact my taxes in real-time. How It Works The Year-Round Tax Estimator allows me to input my income and expenses at any time. Here’s how I use it: Input my income: I enter my earnings from various sources, like my […]
Frontier Discount Den: How to Waive Enrollment Fee
The Frontier Discount Den program is a great way to save money on flights with Frontier Airlines. By understanding how the program works and knowing how to waive the enrollment fee, travelers can enjoy significant discounts on their airfares. This article will explore the ins and outs of the Discount Den, helping you maximize your savings and make the most out of your membership. Key Takeaways Joining the Discount Den can save you between $10 to $30 per flight, making it beneficial for frequent travelers. The initial cost includes a $40 enrollment fee, bringing the first-year total to $99.99, but promotional offers may waive this fee. Families can benefit greatly, as one membership covers discounts for up to nine passengers on the same reservation. Elite status members can get Discount Den for free or at a reduced rate, making it worthwhile for frequent flyers. Be cautious of automatic renewals; remember to cancel before the renewal date to avoid unwanted charges. Understanding the Frontier Discount Den Program What is the Discount Den? The Discount Den is a membership program offered by Frontier Airlines that provides members with access to lower fares and special deals. As a Discount Den member, you’ll get […]
How Much Are Harry Potter Books Worth?
If you own Harry Potter books, you might be wondering about their value. The worth of these books can vary greatly based on several factors, including their edition, condition, and whether they are signed. In this article, we will explore what makes certain Harry Potter books more valuable than others, and how you can find out how much your collection is worth. Key Takeaways First editions of Harry Potter books, especially the original Philosopher’s Stone, can be worth a lot of money. Book condition is very important; the better the condition, the higher the price. Signed copies, especially by J.K. Rowling, can greatly increase a book’s value. Not all Harry Potter books are equally valuable; some later editions are worth less than the first three. Knowing the key features of first editions can help you identify valuable copies in your collection. Understanding the Value of Your Harry Potter Books When I think about my Harry Potter books, I often wonder just how much they might be worth. The value of these magical books can vary greatly depending on several factors. Let’s dive into what makes them special! Factors That Influence Book Worth There are a few key things that can […]
Average New Car Price in 2024
As we step into 2024, understanding the average price of new cars is crucial for potential buyers. With various factors affecting prices, from supply chain issues to consumer demand, this article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current car market. We’ll explore how different types of vehicles compare in price, the role of incentives, and what buyers can expect in the coming months. Key Takeaways The average new car price in the U.S. is about $48,401 as of July 2024. Prices have slightly decreased from the peak of $49,929 in December 2022. Luxury cars and full-size SUVs are the most expensive, often exceeding $100,000. Incentives for buyers have increased, offering up to 7% off average prices. Compact cars remain the most affordable, with averages around $25,000. Understanding the Current Average Car Price in 2024 As of July 2024, the average price for a new car in the U.S. is $48,401. This is a slight drop from the previous month, which was $48,424. It’s interesting to see how prices have changed over time. Just a couple of years ago, in December 2022, the average price peaked at $49,929. Factors Influencing Car Prices Several things affect car prices today: Supply […]
Lottery Winners Who Lost Everything
Winning the lottery can seem like a dream come true, but for some lucky individuals, it turned into a nightmare. Many lottery winners who lost it all found themselves in situations that led to financial ruin and personal tragedies. This article explores the stories of those who went from riches to rags, highlighting the challenges they faced after their big wins. Key Takeaways Winning the lottery can lead to unexpected problems and stress. Many winners struggle with overspending and giving too much to others. Personal tragedies often follow big wins, impacting relationships and mental health. Lottery winners can become targets for scams and financial exploitation. The dream of wealth can quickly turn into a nightmare if not managed wisely. The Downfall of Jack Whittaker Generosity Gone Wrong Winning the lottery can feel like a dream come true, but for Jack Whittaker, it turned into a nightmare. In 2002, he won a staggering $315 million Powerball jackpot, which was the largest single-ticket win in U.S. history at that time. With all that money, Jack felt like he could help everyone. He gave away cash to churches, waitresses, and even strangers. But this generosity quickly spiraled out of control. Instead of bringing […]