Zero To 5000

ZeroTo5000
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Zero To 5000

We interview the founders of America’s fastest growing companies and share habits, rituals, mindsets, lessons, and tactics that help them be the best, and lead some of the best organizations in America.

  1. 2 DAYS AGO

    Cracking Google’s Algorithm with Search Atlas Founder Manick Bhan

    Welcome back to the 0 to 5000 Podcast! In this episode, hosts Drew McClure sits down with Manick Bhan, Founder and CTO of Search Atlas and a leading voice in SEO innovation. From building eight-figure SEO companies to launching the groundbreaking AutoSEO tool, Manick shares his journey from entrepreneurial struggles to exponential success. Broadcasting from Medellín, Colombia, he dives deep into the secrets of SEO, leadership lessons, and finding purpose in both life and business. 🔑 Key Takeaways The Journey to SEO Mastery Manick’s first tech company taught him the importance of mastering Google’s algorithm, leading to his obsession with SEO. Early struggles with visibility sparked his curiosity to reverse-engineer Google’s search formula, paving the way for Search Atlas. Building Authority Online Backlinks function like "votes of trust" from high-authority sites (e.g., Forbes). Developing scalable systems for backlink building was critical to Search Atlas's rapid growth. Experimentation with real websites and correlation studies helped uncover actionable SEO insights. Entrepreneurial Lessons Growth often requires letting go of distractions: Manick reflected on how early investments in real estate diverted focus from scaling his business. Success is iterative—embrace failure as a teacher, and leverage it to refine strategies. Overcoming Limiting Beliefs Mentorship and community are critical for pushing past self-doubt. Manick credited his coach and mastermind groups for unlocking growth and inspiration. The power of themed workdays: Context-switching can be exhausting; dedicating specific days to focused tasks keeps energy high and output consistent. Finding Purpose Beyond Profit Rediscovering meaning in service transformed both Manick and his company culture. Initiatives like team-selected philanthropy fostered deeper connections within his organization. 📢 Notable Quotes "You have to bet on yourself. If you don’t, no one else will." "The sites that link to you are like votes. The better the site, the more those votes count." "Success isn’t about avoiding failure; it’s about having the courage to keep going when things fall apart." "Themed days saved my energy—one focus, no multitasking. It was a game changer for my productivity." "Purpose comes from service. When I connected my work to helping others, everything clicked."

    52 min

  2. NOV 12

    Accounting and KPIs for Entrepreneurs from Universal Accounting’s Roger Knecht

    In this episode of the 0 to 5000 Podcast, host Drew McClure sits down with Roger Knecht, president and CEO of Universal Accounting Center, to dive into the often-overlooked world of accounting as it pertains to business growth and profitability. Roger shares his journey from communications and sales to becoming a leading figure in accounting education, offering vital insights for business owners on the importance of KPIs, interpreting financial statements, and evolving one’s business model to stay profitable. Roger breaks down common misconceptions business owners have about accounting services, explaining the distinctions between bookkeeping, tax preparation, and CFO-level strategy. He emphasizes the importance of tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) and leading indicators to foster proactive decision-making that drives growth. Roger also discusses the concept of "necessary endings," shedding light on the challenges and opportunities that arise when business owners let go of legacy products or services to align with current profitability goals. This episode provides actionable advice for entrepreneurs who want to leverage their accounting knowledge to build a robust, sustainable business. Key Takeaways: KPIs and Leading Indicators: Roger highlights the significance of leading indicators and how tracking them allows business owners to take early action, creating a direct impact on lagging indicators like revenue and profit. Distinguishing Accounting Services: Many business owners misunderstand the services they receive from accountants. Roger explains the differences between bookkeeping, tax preparation, and CFO services, urging owners to know exactly what they are paying for and to seek guidance on strategy rather than mere compliance. The Value of Accounting in Decision-Making: By interpreting balance sheets and income statements effectively, business owners gain insights into trends, seasonality, and opportunities for growth. Roger emphasizes that accounting is the "language of business," essential for sound decision-making. Creating a Culture of Engagement: For those managing teams, Roger shares strategies to inspire employees beyond the 9-to-5 mentality, motivating them to invest creatively in the company’s success. Learning from Failures and Necessary Endings: Roger discusses the hard choices business owners face, like closing divisions that are no longer profitable. This "necessary ending" approach allows companies to refocus resources on high-impact areas. Notable Quotes: "Whatever you measure improves; whatever you measure and report will accelerate the improvement." – Roger Knecht "The language of business is accounting. Think of it like a foreign language—if you’re not fluent, you need a translator to understand what your business is telling you." "How do you get more people to buy more from you, more often? That's the ultimate question for growth." "There’s a difference between being a great accountant and being a great accounting entrepreneur. Running a business takes a different skill set."

    46 min

  3. NOV 5

    Surviving the Startup Roller Coaster: Lauryn Sargent’s Guide to Growth and Pivots | Stories Inc.

    In this engaging episode of Zero to 5000, Drew McClure sits down with Lauryn Sargent, co-founder of Stories Inc., an innovative agency helping companies communicate their culture through employee stories. Lauryn shares her entrepreneurial journey—from winning a business plan competition to growing Stories Inc. into an industry leader in employer branding and recruitment marketing. Lauryn and Drew discuss the pivotal moments, co-founder dynamics, and resilience required to turn vision into reality, with Lauryn emphasizing patience, adaptability, and the importance of trusting your instincts. Listen in as Lauryn offers valuable insights for founders on the importance of meaningful connections, staying true to your mission, and the ever-evolving nature of building a successful business. Key Takeaways: The Power of Partnership: Lauryn explains how finding the right co-founder, Scott Thompson, provided complementary skills and a shared vision that helped Stories Inc. grow and succeed. Pivots and Patience: Lauryn shares how early pivots, including shifting from a family storytelling concept to a business-oriented approach, enabled Stories Inc. to find its niche. Customer-Centric Development: The importance of customer feedback has been integral to Stories Inc.’s development, helping the team continuously improve their processes and products. Entrepreneurial Resilience: Lauryn discusses near-death experiences in business, from market pivots to the challenges brought by COVID-19, and the mindset needed to weather tough times. Expanding the Impact: As Stories Inc. grows, Lauryn shares her insights on scalability, future goals, and the possibility of reaching new audiences while remaining true to their core values. Notable Quotes: “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” “The weird part is, you don’t really get the clarity you’re looking for until you move.” “Our business was built on the belief that if you make your people profitable, your business will be profitable.” “Some pivots are necessary; others, you just have to be patient and stay the course.” “The perfect time is now. Trust yourself and give it everything you have." Themes: Entrepreneurship Business Growth Employee Stories Startups Partnerships Company Culture Recruitment Marketing Co-founders Resilience in Business Startup Strategy

    1h 4m

  4. OCT 29

    Navigating Business Challenges & Personal Balance with Jim Paolino

    In this episode of the Zero to 5000 podcast, hosts Drew McClure and Jim Paolino dive into the entrepreneurial journey of Jim Paolino, CEO and co-founder of LodeStar Software Solutions. Since its founding in 2013, LodeStar has twice made the Inc. 5000 list, providing essential closing cost data solutions for mortgage lenders across the U.S. Jim shares the keys to LodeStar’s sustained growth and what it took to create Settlewise, LodeStar’s new national title agency. He reflects on early business challenges, revealing his mindset for overcoming obstacles and the advice that kept him focused when success seemed elusive. Jim highlights the role of peer coaching in his business growth, particularly how his involvement in groups like Vistage provided critical feedback that improved his decision-making and company culture. He also discusses personal balance, offering practical insights on balancing the demands of entrepreneurship with family life. As LodeStar enters its next growth phase, Jim reveals his approach to scaling sustainably and fostering a team environment that values feedback, growth, and resilience. Key Takeaways Small Wins Fuel Long-Term Success: In the early years of a startup, the focus should be on survival rather than immediate success. Jim’s advice to “keep the lights on one more day” builds the foundation for sustainable growth. Embracing Peer Coaching: Jim emphasizes the value of coaching and mentorship, highlighting how peer feedback accelerates problem-solving and fosters growth. This practice enabled him to navigate the real challenges of business ownership without burnout. Scaling Sustainably: Balancing growth with operational stability is crucial. Jim advises against scaling too quickly and highlights the benefits of hiring generalists in early stages before bringing in specialists. Work-Life Balance Matters: Entrepreneurs need to protect personal boundaries for mental and emotional health. Jim speaks about managing work pressures alongside family responsibilities, drawing from a key ritual to transition out of work mode to family mode. Intentional Feedback: Both praise and constructive criticism should be routine, making feedback a natural and consistent aspect of team communication, which helps create a more trusting and less defensive work culture. Notable Quotes "The goal in the early stages is just to keep the lights on one more day and give yourself the chance for success." "When we can normalize feedback—both positive and corrective—it becomes less daunting and more productive." "I only question your inputs if your outputs are struggling. Focus on results, not micromanagement." "When you commit to recognizing team achievements as much as problems, it shifts the culture toward trust and growth."

    47 min

  5. OCT 15

    Bootstrapping in Brooklyn: How Remy Raisner Built a Real Estate Empire

    In this episode of the 0 to 5000 podcast, hosts Drew McClure and Jordan Mitchell speak with Remy Raisner, a dynamic entrepreneur, real estate investor, and founder of The Raisner Group. Remy shares his story of overcoming adversity, starting his real estate career in the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis, and bootstrapping his way to success in Brooklyn's competitive market. From initially buying non-performing debt at auction to now managing over 60 properties, Remy offers unique insights into urban renewal, building relationships in local communities, and navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship. He also emphasizes the importance of aligning investor relationships with long-term goals, leveraging sports lessons for business resilience, and how Brooklyn remains an exciting opportunity for real estate growth. Key Takeaways: Adapting to Adversity: Remy’s entrepreneurial journey started out of necessity, during a time of financial crisis, which shaped his resilient mindset. Real Estate Strategy: Initially purchasing non-performing debt during a banking crisis, Remy transitioned to multifamily and commercial properties in Brooklyn, a market he saw as ripe for transformation. Long-Term Vision: Remy stresses the importance of patience and long-term planning in real estate, often taking years before seeing profits. Community Focus: By understanding his tenants' needs and investing in local businesses, Remy ensures his properties remain desirable and part of Brooklyn's urban growth. Investor Relationships: Successful partnerships require clear communication, managing expectations, and aligning investor goals with the company’s long-term vision.

    44 min

  6. OCT 8

    Innovation, Business Growth, and Teamwork with Robin Alex, CEO of High Level

    In this episode of the zero to 5000 podcast, hosts Drew McClure sits down with Robin Alex, co-founder of GoHighLevel, a software company revolutionizing business automation. From its inception, Alex’s journey is one of relentless problem-solving, adaptability, and collaboration. He shares how GoHighLevel grew from a simple concept on a whiteboard to serving over 70,000 businesses globally. Robin’s insights cover everything from overcoming scaling challenges to fostering a strong co-founder relationship, where roles overlap to tackle problems effectively. His philosophy centers on giving value first, building strong client relationships, and maintaining a “bias to action” to achieve results swiftly. With stories of serendipitous meetings and his unorthodox path to co-founder, Robin offers invaluable lessons on innovation, teamwork, and navigating growth in today’s fast-paced business world. Key Takeaways: Bias to Action: Speed and responsiveness helped GoHighLevel grow quickly, with a focus on delivering value fast and fixing inefficiencies later. Customer-Centric Growth: Alex prioritized hands-on customer support and built success through word of mouth, personal connections, and direct client feedback. Serendipitous Partnerships: A chance interaction led to the creation of GoHighLevel’s first software, demonstrating the power of openness and collaboration in business. Documenting the Journey: Robin emphasizes the importance of capturing both personal and business milestones, ensuring growth is remembered and celebrated. Leadership Without Silos: The co-founders of GoHighLevel operate without rigid roles, sharing responsibility and stepping in where needed for the business's benefit. Notable Quotes: "The most expensive thing for any entrepreneur is their time." – Robin Alex "I’ve always believed in giving so much value that people feel obligated to pay me—not because I asked them, but because I did such a good job." – Robin Alex "You can't be the visionary nonstop. There are times when you want to roll up your sleeves and execute." – Robin Alex "If you’re getting the outcome, you will win. The efficiency can come later." – Robin Alex

    41 min

  7. OCT 1

    Building Dreams with Steve Griggs: The Power of Persistence in Landscape Design

    In this episode of the 0 to 5000 podcast, Drew McClure sits down with Steve Griggs, an award-winning landscape architect who has transformed the industry with his creative approach and decades of experience. Steve shares his inspiring journey from a humble start with just a wheelbarrow to becoming a two-time Inc 5000 honoree. He discusses his early struggles, the importance of resilience, and the mindset that has helped him endure the ups and downs of a 40-year career. Steve opens up about the challenges of entrepreneurship, managing high-end clients, and how personal growth has been a key to his success. He also emphasizes the importance of taking ownership, especially when things go wrong, and how his father’s work ethic in New York’s construction industry helped shape his mindset. Steve's candid and motivational insights are perfect for anyone looking to learn the ins and outs of running a successful business, no matter the field. Key Takeaways: Persistence Pays Off: Steve’s journey from humble beginnings to working on high-end projects highlights the importance of persistence and long-term effort. The Value of Personal Growth: Continuous learning and investing in personal development have been critical for Steve’s business success. Extreme Ownership: Steve emphasizes taking responsibility for everything in your business, a mindset that has kept him going during tough times. Surviving Economic Downturns: Steve shares how he navigated the 2008 recession and COVID-19, highlighting the importance of adaptability and relationships. Business is a Hunt: Steve thrives on the "hunt" of entrepreneurship, explaining that his love for the challenge keeps him motivated even after 40 years. Notable Quotes: "Some days you're the hammer, and some days you're the nail." "If it was easy, everyone would do it." "The fish rots at the head—you're responsible for everything as a business owner." "Momentum is the most precious energy in the universe." "You don’t need a massive budget to create your personal sanctuary. Start where you are."

    43 min

  8. SEP 24

    The Power of Integrated PR: Insights from Anna Crowe - Crowe PR’s Founder

    In this episode of the 0 to 5000 Podcast, host Drew McClure sit down with Anna Crowe, the founder and CEO of Crowe PR, to discuss her journey from a CPA at Deloitte to running an award-winning public relations agency. Anna shares her strategic approach to scaling her business over the past decade, the pivotal moments that shaped her career, and how her financial background became a competitive advantage in the marketing world. Anna’s agency specializes in public relations for mid- to large-size consumer goods, healthcare, technology, and hospitality brands. Her emphasis on leadership development, a creative yet data-driven approach, and the importance of understanding customer needs has helped Crowe PR achieve national recognition. The conversation delves into entrepreneurship, the challenge of building scalable processes, the importance of core values in hiring, and leveraging an integrated PR strategy to drive business growth. Anna also touches on the evolving role of PR, the importance of media relations, and how to build lasting relationships with clients and customers. With insights into hiring for cultural fit, creating effective business systems, and managing the ever-changing landscape of PR, this episode is packed with valuable lessons for both aspiring and seasoned entrepreneurs. Key Takeaways: The Power of a Financial Background in PR: Anna’s knowledge of numbers and strategy provided her with a unique edge in growing Crowe PR by applying data-driven insights to creative marketing. Building a Successful Business: The importance of starting with a solid foundation, building core values, and creating processes that can evolve as the business grows. The Shift from Earned Media to Influencers: Over the years, PR has shifted from being solely focused on earned media to integrating influencer marketing and social media. Leadership and Culture: Hiring based on alignment with core values is essential for creating a high-performing team and fostering a positive work culture. Scaling Challenges: Anna highlights the need to constantly adapt processes, systems, and strategies to match the growth of the company. Notable Quotes: Anna Crowe on pivoting to PR: "I loved numbers because they make sense, but I also love creativity. I found my passion in public relations, where I could blend both." On the importance of core values: "Core values aren’t just words on a wall. We live them every day in our hiring and decision-making." On business growth: "You have to be nimble, love the dynamics of the industry, and always think a few steps ahead."

    38 min
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4.9
out of 5
64 Ratings

About

We interview the founders of America’s fastest growing companies and share habits, rituals, mindsets, lessons, and tactics that help them be the best, and lead some of the best organizations in America.

Information

  • Creator
    ZeroTo5000
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2024
  • Episodes
    253
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2020 All rights reserved. Mitchell McClure
  • Show Website
    Zero To 5000

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