This season, it’s our huge pleasure to introduce the newest masterminds to our Maverick1000 collective… 11 powerhouse individuals from across the globe (including our Chilean Maverick!)
Here’s a peek at who you’ll be meeting, masterminding and adventuring with soon (ie: at the M3 Summit this December?). Who knows? The “missing link” you’ve been looking for might be right here…
WELCOME New Maverick1000 Members…
#130 Chad Doty
#131 Sam Carpenter
#132 Adam Summers
#133 Steve Little
#134 Octavio Urzua
#135 David Gass
#136 Gene Ku
#137 Aaron Lilly
#138 Chris Haddad
#139 Jason Katzenback
#140 Joe Marinucci
#141 Matt Clark
Chad Doty, M1000 Member #130
“Money is just a vehicle for time and choice…”
Tell us about your businesses…
I’m a big believer in focus. Right now I am the CEO and Co-founder of a Commercial Multifamily Real Estate Investment Company, 37th Parallel Properties. We provide stable tax-free passive income streams for our investors by acquiring and optimizing 100 to 300 unit apartment buildings in stable markets throughout the US. It’s a boring is sexy business. With $92 Million in Assets Under Management we have never missed a distribution and never lost a project primarily because we take very little risk in our process. Best Asset Class + Best Markets for that Asset Class + Excellent Operations = Principal Safety and Growth plus Income.
Our clients are high net-worth individuals ($2Million to $10Million) who are tired of the fragmented and inconsistent returns of the market and want a dependable investment vehicle for their cash or retirement assets.
I came out of the management consulting space and had always focused on business operations and project performance enhancement. Real Estate was just another — and very profitable — business line.
Check out www.37parallel.com for more on us and how we can help you get better returns on your investment.
—– end commercial —– 🙂
Why did you become a member of Maverick1000 and why are you a good fit for the group?
Money is just a vehicle for time and choice; and Maverick is such a great organization for optimizing both in meaningful, fun, and sometimes extreme ways.
What top things would you like to gain / learn / do with other Mavericks, and what unique value do you bring to the group?
I’m an operator by nature. Basically, money follows management and performance. In that sense, I can provide insights in terms of investment and company operations performance. On the other hand, we’re not the best marketers. Our business grows almost exclusively by networking and referrals — and we are always looking to add new channels that make sense to grow our capital under management.
What interests, activities or hobbies do you enjoy?
My family, Judo, Sailing, Kite-Boarding, Soccer… and my business is my interest and my hobby 🙂
What are the Top adventures/things on your Big Life List now?
How about two?
- Kite boarding with Sir Richard Branson at Necker
- Transatlantic cruise on 40+ catamaran
What’s the most “Maverick” thing you’ve ever done?
Starting a real estate investment company in 2007-2008 as the wheels were literally falling off the wagon.
What’s the most significant / important contribution you’ve made to a community or nonprofit organization?
Started a foundation for my brother after he passed away in a helicopter accident. I also volunteered over 100 nights at homeless shelters in the past 15 years. That said, I really want to focus on domestic kids causes and Junior Achievement.
Which books, authors or programs have been a powerful influence in your business and life?
There are literally hundreds of books I’ve poured through and all have something to add! Here are three:
- Success Principles by Jack Canfield
- Ready Fire Aim by Michael Masterson
- Psycho-Cybernetics by Maxwell Maltz (anyone who doesn’t get that they are what they think about has to read this book)…
What’s the weirdest skill, quirk or stupid human trick you’re known for? (C’mon, we’re gonna find out anyway.)
Smartass? Philosophy and Computer Science major who is addicted to learning and also loves anything that scares the shit out of him (dopamine plus adrenalin!)
Adam Summers, M1000 Member #132
“It was never easy for me. I was born a poor black child. I remember the days, sittin’ on the porch with my family, singin’ and dancin’ down in Mississippi.”
In 1979, when I was just twelve years old, my parents took me to see “The Jerk.” I’ve always felt that Steve Martin’s first words (above) made one of the best opening lines to any movie. Much like Martin’s
character in the movie, I had often wondered what my “special purpose” was in life. Interestingly, 1979 was also the year I received my first personal computer. I quickly taught myself BASIC and assembly language.
Within a year, I was writing programs and giving computer lessons. My early success with computers, combined with an entrepreneurial spirit, led me to incorporate my first company when I was just 13 years old. Over the next several years, I worked for a number of companies (including the St. Louis Post Dispatch, Bissinger’s Candy, and 1928 Jewelry Company) creating accounts receivable and accounts payable programs, inventory programs, order entry programs, estimating programs and games. But my most important client was my father, who trusted me to write a program that he used to run his printing business for the next 15 years.
So, I think it came as a surprise to everyone when I decided to go to medical school. What few people realized is that I had become proficient in relational database design and that I was continuing to develop applications during my college pre-med days. Applications included a brain tumor statistical analysis program for Childrens’ Hospital, a clinical charting system for Barnes Hospital OB/GYN department, and an intra-operative patient record and inventory tracking application for Childrens’ Hospital.
During medical school, I continued to write applications. Using Swivel 3D and Macromedia Director, I created a three dimensional model of a moving finger that was paired with a dissection of an actual finger. This won a first place award in 1992 at the American Society of Plastic Surgery. During my surgical residency, I used a Media 100 system and interactive CD technology to create “The Multimedia Introduction to Knot Tying and Suturing.” This program is still used by surgical training programs to teach basic surgical skills. I was honored when the program was placed in the National Library of Medicine in 1994 as one of the first examples to demonstrate the use of multimedia technology in medical education.
What’s the most significant / important contribution you’ve made to a community or nonprofit organization?
Following my general surgery residency, I completed a plastic surgery fellowship, followed by additional training in microvascular surgery and then cosmetic surgery. I became a professor of plastic surgery at the Medical College of Wisconsin and was involved in a number of research projects, published a number of papers on new surgical techniques, and won several awards from various surgical societies. In 2000, I started my own cosmetic surgery private practice and developed a number of new surgical procedures, including the “One Hour Facelift” procedure (go ahead, Google it) and my own skincare line (PureRx®). If you are interested, my resume detailing this is online at http://mdCosmetic.com. Through my practice, we have donated over $100,000 to local area charities over the past several years.
What businesses do you currently operate?
In 1999, prior to starting my cosmetic surgery practice, I took 6 months off and worked with a high school friend to create a new company, MediGroup Physician Services. As of 2010, MPS has become one of the nation’s leading group purchasing organizations for medical practices. In fact, HIDA (an independent third party) reported that the gross purchases by our members in 2009 was $12 billion (yes, “billion”).
2011 has been a huge year for me… I’ve started three new companies, all in the healthcare space. One is a system that provides health care providers with the opportunity to improve the relationship between patients and their health care providers using Internet-based SaaS and patent-pending technology which I developed. The first generation of this system is live at http://PatientApproved.com (doctor portal) and http://iCheckup.com (patient portal). Additional modules and marketing partnerships are currently under development.
So, I live a split life… obtaining immense personal satisfaction from changing people’s lives, one by one, as I perform plastic surgery procedures; simultaneously I’ve been fulfilling my “special purpose” by creating and marketing new technology on a daily basis.
Why did you become a member of Maverick1000 and why are you a good fit for the group?
I joined Maverick1000 because it meshes well with my personal desire to have a great time with like-minded adults who “get it”, while creating immense value and opportunities for other individuals. As many of you know, being a Maverick also appears to have helped me unleash (regain) some of my more “playful” attitude towards life… it’s been quite gratifying to combine my passion for solving challenges in unique ways with the fun social events.
What interests, activities or hobbies are you into?
My social life is mostly made up of kid-related activities, as I spend as much time as possible with my 12 year old daughter and 9 year old son.
What’s the weirdest skill, quirk or stupid human trick you’re known for? (C’mon, we’re gonna find out anyway.)
Many people have asked how I manage to get so much done. I suppose it comes from an innate drive, coupled with my “stupid human trick” of being able to function well on only 4-5 hours or sleep.. I’ve always been this way and recognize that I’m “lucky” to have this capability. Also, keeping an even mindset and remembering to always focus on understanding other peoples needs/wants/desires and perspectives has served me well.
What’s the most “Maverick” thing you’ve ever done?
In the past, I’ve been known to be quite a dare-devil — climbing glaciers, downhill racing, tree skiing, barefoot waterskiing, SCUBA diving and rapelling. My “Big Life List” includes visiting the Great Barrier Reef to SCUBA dive, visiting the Alps, Asia, the Mediterranean, and the International Space Station (do I need a passport for that?).
http://mdCosmetic.com
MediGroup Physician Services
http://iCheckup.com
http://PatientApproved.com
One Hour Facelift
PureRx®
Steve Little, M1000 Member #133
“Throughout the past three years, I’ve learned a lot from a new class of independent entrepreneurs and frequently found that the most balanced, generous and successful of them shared a common trait: They were Mavericks.”
What businesses do you currently operate?
Zero Limits LLC, which operates several DBAs & brands:
For the wanna-be and upstart entrepreneurs:
- ThePerfectBizFinder provides a home study program which guides people, step by step, through a proven process for finding, building and growing a successful business that truly delivers the personal fulfillment, the lifestyle, and the finaicial returns they want.
- ThePerfectBizBuilder is a one-on-one coaching program, which extends this same basic methodology, and augments it with the dedicated support of a top caliber, experienced business and personal development expert. This program is equally effective for more experienced business owners as well.
For veteran business owners and corporate leadership teams, using these, as well as a collection of more advanced methodologies I developed through four decades of success experience and learning, I provide direct high-level coaching & consulting to help my clients develop exceptional leadership skills, which advances them and equips them with the skills and capacity to claim a commanding advantage and WIN BIG in highly competitice markets. I also recently launched the first of three planned online publications (on (Sept 12) — HowToBeginABusiness.com
Why did you become a member of Maverick1000 and why are you a good fit for the group?
Networking. One of the single most important lessons I’ve learned throughout those 40 years is this: If you want to be successful at something (anything), the most expedient, surefire way to guarantee your success is to find the most successful person already doing it, and ask them how they did it. I’ve learned a lot from many extraordinary people throughout the years. I have crafted personal relationships with many “industry icons & giants.” Throughout the past three years, I’ve learned a lot from a new class of independent entrepreneurs and frequently found that the most balanced, generous and successful of them shared a common trait: They were Mavericks. I also believe that the methods, techniques and skills I’ve mastered, as well as the relationships I’ve forged through the venture community, will be of great value to many of the Mavericks.
What top things would you like to gain / learn / do with other Mavericks, and what unique value do you bring to the group?
I wrote an article some time ago called “Beware the 5.” The lesson is this: The quantity and quality of your success will be measured as the average of the successes of the 5 people closest to you. Your financial success will be the average of the financial success of the 5 people closest to you. Your success in business or employment will be the average of that of the 5 people closest to you. Your success in recreation, health & fitness, relationships and community will all be that of the 5 people closest to you. If the 5 people closest to you are as or more successful than you are in any or all of these areas, then you can count on growing your success in each area accordingly. If the 5 people closest to you are less successful than you, in any or all of these areas, then you can expect your success to contract to meet the average of theirs. What better reason to hang out with Mavericks? And what better way for me to use the gifts and blessings I’ve been given to do for them what they can do for me.
What interests, activities or hobbies are you into?
I am a dedicated husband to a fabulously fine and talented lady, Kimberly. I am the father of two amazing daughters — Emily, a recent Florida State graduate who is already on her way in a stellar career; and Madeline, a seriously accomplished ballet dancer (age 13). I am a (former) champion body builder (who will compete again in September of 2012). I ride horses, and until recently I rodeo’ed throughout the local circuit (calf roping and an occassional bulldog / steer wrestle). I raced off-shore powerboats for some years. At one time, I held a world record for the world’s fastest kilo run (Key West to the Bahamas) in a 22 foot shallow V Velocity, averaging 117 MPH in open seas. I love music. I’ve played the drums for many years (beginning at age 9) and at one time had a band, which won a regional ‘Battle of the Bands’ in Washington DC area. I enjoy hiking the 35,000 acres of moutains adjacent to our Northern California mountaintop ranch. My absolute favorite pastime is time spending time with my wife and daughters (often over a game of cards) while listening to great music (and sipping great wines from the wineries which surround our ranch).
What’s #1 on your Big Life List now?
A 60 day “no work” global adventure with my family.
What’s the most “Maverick” thing you’ve ever done?
Probably off-shore racing. Certainly the most dangerous (aside from hunting with a bunch a druken fools).
What’s the most significant / important contribution you’ve made to a community or nonprofit organization?
My oldest daughter and I have spent quite a bit of time in Arusha Africa (Tanzania) supporting a group of 600 AIDS orphans. We recruited a crew of 20+ others to join us and built two concrete buildings (where there were nothing more than grass huts before), which provide a place for education and care of these really beautiful children. When the trials ended, the area turned violent and extremely dangerous again and we could no longer travel there. We’ve continued to support them from the States as best we can. I even sent the an old D-3 bulldozer to help them continue the project we had started.
Can you recommend some books, authors or developmental programs, which you’ve found influential in your business and/or personal life?
Yes but it is a terribly extensive list. I read 1 to 3 books a month!
What’s a personal quirk you’re known for? (C’mon, we’re gonna find out anyway.)
Hmmm, its very dark and mysterious. A man my age and with my reputation cannot afford for this to get out. If you can find out, then good on you. But I doubt you ever will. =0))
[Editor’s Note to Self: Okee dokee, Steve. I’m taking this on as a personal challenge for 2012… and failure is not an option. Watch out.]
ThePerfectBizFinderThePerfectBizBuilder
Beware the 5
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Octavio Urzua, M1000 Member #134
“Life is a gift. The entrepreneurial spirit is a gift too.”
What businesses do you currently operate?
I started my entrepreneurship in 2005, importing only one product (USB flash drives with custom logos) to companies in my country Chile. After building a good bond with customers, they demanded more products
for their merchandising campaigns; and we added more creative solutions beyond the fast service and low prices. Today we have in stock over 800 items. Due to our fast growth, I was awarded as Entrepreneur of the Year in the category of global business in 2009. However, the real awarde was the business model of direct response marketing, responsible for our results. Our main site is www.GrupoAdm.cl
Why did you become a member of Maverick1000 and why are you a good fit for the Maverick group?
The best thing we can invest in is our education, and one effective way is through mastermind groups and seminars. The succesfull entrepreneurs in Chile are members of Endeavor.org, which is a worldwide networking organization. They have a good reputation. I met several of them but didn’t like their start-ups, ones where you give up stock options in exchange of funding to big corporations. So instead I’ve been learning in marketing seminars in USA from Jay Abraham, John Carlton, Dan Kennedy, etc. Then, I knew about the Maverick vision to mix entrepreneurs in learning, having fun, and contributing to positive causes all in one place. I instantly liked the idea and wanted to be part of it.
What top things would you like to gain / learn / grow with from other members, and what unique value do you bring to the group?
One value I add to the group is the new opportunities in Latino American emerging countries. I’ve met several gringos who want to grow their companies in Chile — and several years later they found they were growing faster in this market and also protecting their wealth by the appreciation of the pesos over the dollar. I´d like to gain more perspectives from other members around how to continue growing my current business and launch other ones.
What interests, activities or hobbies do you enjoy?
I enjoy learning new skills, like cooking a new recipe with my wife, trekking in the mountains, swimming, etc. Or better is combining all the above.
What’s the #1 item on your Big Life List now?
To automate and delegate my business in a way that allows me to travel around the globe while working at the same time.
What’s the most “Maverick” thing you’ve ever done?
Drinking a wine from a vineyard that produces only one acre a year to celebrate. The reason for celebrating is a whole another story… We climbed a volcano at 5,000 meters after sleeping three hours, chewing coca leaves to support the height… and went under water at 5 degrees below zero. All that in one day. Later, I learned how to renew and energize in less time and with less hassles, but still would do it and recommend to others anyway.
What’s the most significant / important contribution you’ve made to a community or nonprofit organization?
Life is a gift. The entrepreneurial spirit is a gift too. I am currently contributing to two non-profit organizations for handicapped people to become more sustainable in their work and aspirations.
Which books, authors or programs have been a powerful influence in your business and life?
There are two people I credit for most of what I have learned: Gordon Bizar, who taught me how to build an aggregated business (http://globalaggregationcorporation.com/), and Perry Marshall, with integration online and offline direct response marketing.
What’s a personal quirk you’re known for? (C’mon, we’re gonna find out anyway.)
You found it even before this interview, so go ahead and say it loud now…
[Editor’s Note: Andrew introduced me to Octavio as a “Self-Proclaimed Serious Man.” I can now vouch for this in his business affairs… but I also know Octavio “appreciates good sense of humor as well.” 😉]
http://www.GrupoAdm.cl
http://www.AdmPromos.com.ar
http://www.AdmPromos.co.uk
http://www.PromoGiftStore.com
http://www.OctavioUrzua.cl
David Gass, M1000 Member #135
“Maverick: A person pursuing rebellious, even potentially disruptive, policies or ideas.” (Dictionary.com)
What businesses do you currently operate?
I currently have several websites, as my business is about buying and selling websites. The main site I can share to make some sense is BuyingAndSellingWebsites.com. (Click the link and check out the video to see what David’s talking about!)
Why did you become a member of Maverick1000 and why are you a good fit for the Maverick group?
I became a member in order to surround myself with likeminded people. I love to learn from others who are successful and hopefully be able to give back when possible. I’m open to helping others in any way I can; and of course because I live in Las Vegas there will always be a good business excuse for people to visit.
What top things would you like to gain / learn / grow with from other members, and what unique value do you bring to the group?
I love online marketing and diving in to learn what’s working and what’s not for people. I know there are a lot of people in the group who are experts in this area, and I hope to learn as much from them as possible. My experience the last 10 years was in running a business I sold a couple years ago, which helped small business owners incorporate (ie: develop the proper structure), find financing and build corporate credit. Our company held seminars across the country in which I spoke about these things. I can help others who need assistance in those areas, by pointing them in the right direction.
What interests, activities or hobbies do you enjoy?
I just started playing squash (great workout). I also enjoy golf (although not very good at it). Most of my free time is spent with my wife and three girls (1, 4, 11). We love to travel and visit new places.
What’s the #1 item on your Big Life List now?
Go to the Galapagos Islands!
What’s the most “Maverick” thing you’ve ever done in your life?
So I had to look up the definition of Maverick just so I answer this correctly. (I know a bit nerdy.) The first definition at Dictionary.com was: “Southwestern U.S.; an unbranded calf, cow, or steer, especially an unbranded calf that is separated from its mother.” I’m guessing that’s not the right definition, so I’ll go with the second which is: “a person pursuing rebellious, even potentially disruptive, policies or ideas.” 🙂 I’d have to say the most rebellious thing I did was start my business in 2000. Yes, it doesn’t sound that rebellious, but when you take into account that I told my wife I was going to quit a job where I was earning mid six figures — one month after buying a brand new home and two days after our first daughter was born — I’d say… I was lucky I didn’t get a black eye. Thankfully it all worked out, and my daughter who was then two days old is now 11 and has started a couple businesses of her own already.
What’s the most significant contribution you’ve made to a community or nonprofit organization?
I’ve donated a significant amount of money and time to the DECA organization, which is a student run H.S. / College program teaching students marketing, management and entrepreneurship. I’ve served as the State Chair for the Board of Trustees, and was awarded an Honorary Lifetime Membership (their highest honor).
Which books, authors or programs have been a powerful influence in your business and life?
One of my favorite books is Endurance: Shackleton’s Incredible Voyage, by Alfred Lansing. Great book about leadership. I meet Yanik for the first time at a program called Money and You. It was a good event that I’d recommend entrepreneurs attend. Of course the classic books such as: Rich Dad Poor Dad, Think and Grow Rich and Good to Great are some of my favorites as well.
What’s a personal quirk you’re known for? (C’mon, we’re gonna find out anyway.)
My last name is Gass — what more do you want? That was hard enough growing up. If I had anything else, I may not be here today.
Gene Ku, M1000 Member #136
“… If I can’t help in any department, I can at least teach people how to count cards at a blackjack table☺”
What businesses do you currently operate; and what top things would you like to gain / learn / grow with from other members?
I can kiss my own elbows! I’ve been a beneficiary of some great bull-markets as a dot-commer and real estate investor. As a current business owner, I’m sure I can draw on my decade experience in e-Commerce and digital marketing to share with and advise fellow members. If I can’t help in any department, I can at least teach people how to count cards at a blackjack table☺ Here’s one of my websites: http://www.WirelessEmporium.com/
A general summary includes…
- eCommerce
- Mobile
- Pay-per-click (PPC) advertising management
- Search engine optimization (SEO)
- Social media
- Commercial property management
- Residential real estate investment
Why did you become a member of Maverick1000 and why are you a good fit for the Maverick group?
To surround myself with cool, intelligent like-minded people… so I can become more like them.
What interests, activities or hobbies do you enjoy?
I’m a total gym rat — I do some form of workout 6 times a week. Love to drive fast cars, hit the shooting range, do nights on the town in OC/LA, and enjoy quick trips to Vegas and other local Cali getaways. My softer side loves to read and play the piano (or at least try).
What’s the #1 item on your Big Life List now?
Appease my parents and get married. (Hobbies also include consulting with unicorns on my dating situation.)
What’s the most “Maverick” thing you’ve ever done in your life?
Easy: Getting banned from every major casino Las Vegas.
What’s the most significant contribution you’ve made to a community or nonprofit organization?
I gave frequent speeches and mentored kids at my buddy’s high school in South Central LA, as it pertains to entrepreneurship and investing. My most significant stuff is yet to come…
Which books, authors or programs have been a powerful influence in your business and life?
- Rich Dad Poor Dad
- E-Myth Revisited
- Drive
- The 4-Hour Workweek
What’s a personal quirk you’re known for? (C’mon, we’re gonna find out anyway.)
I LOVE desserts and used to be a fat kid.
http://www.WirelessEmporium.com/
[Editor’s Note: Gene is truly a humble man — he sent me a pre- and post-surgury headshot to select from for his bio. As you can see, he’s come a long way. Lookin’ good, Gene.]
Aaron Lilly, M1ooo Member #137
“I try to give back as much as possible and feel this is a big part of my success: coming from abundance and not fear.”
What businesses do you currently operate?
In 2003, I created an all-natural mole, wart & skin tag remover. I’ve been selling it strictly online using search engines, both natural and PPC, through www.dermatend.com and many other websites. Like Dermatend, I will be focusing on creating effective products that not only aid one’s health but also help create a better self-image in the customer.
Why did you become a member of Maverick1000 and why are you a good fit for the Maverick group?
Since I started my business, I have been a lone wolf. I didn’t know anybody who was as “successful” as me; and really, “success” is a relative term. It took me just a short time to realize I can’t be everyone in my business; and once I learned to outsource and hire the right people, I had all the time in the world and more than enough money coming in. But none of my friends could go on any of my adventures, and I had to do it all alone. I saw how they were struggling with their own careers or jobs, so I started moving friends into my house to teach them what I know and give them ideas to run with to start making money. Unfortunately it didn’t work; my passion was not their passion and something was clearly missing. Maverick1000 includes the adventure with the camaraderie, but also it feels like I am now the naïve friend moving into the house. I’m sure I will be able to contribute insights but damn… Do you see who is in this group? Lastly, I try to give back as much as possible and feel this is a big part of my success: coming from abundance and not fear. It’s rare to meet people in this same mind set, but it seems like the Maverick1000 group is founded on this and has attracted these like-minded people.
What top things would you like to gain / learn / grow with from other members, and what unique value do you bring to the group?
I truly have no expectations — it’s inevitable that the impact of the group and relationships formed will result in unimaginable growth, for both me as a person and my business — and that in itself is exciting. As far as what I bring, that is tough; I feel like the small fish, or the third string on the all-star team. If I can help just one person, whether in the group or some young entrepreneur I meet because of it, I will be happy.
What interests, activities or hobbies do you enjoy?
I love to travel but with a purpose. I enjoy martial arts and various forms of dance. I also like any physical activity that involves fun, whether it’s basketball or surfing. So usually when I travel, I will go to Thailand to do Muay Thai and relax on the beautiful beach, Brazil to surf and do Capoeira and Jui Jitsu, or the Dominican Republic to learn Spanish along with Bachata and Merengue. I also just started paragliding; and that opens up a whole new world. Outside of fun, I am a health fanatic and am always researching and experimenting on myself.
What’s the #1 item on your Big Life List now?
I don’t know at the moment —so many things stimulate me, I could never have a #1!
What’s the most “Maverick” thing you’ve ever done in your life?
Taking a paragliding class in Slovakia — which they taught it in Slovak — and then running toward this cliff hoping I fully understood what to do.
What’s the most significant contribution you’ve made to a community or nonprofit organization?
Can’t really say which the most significant contribution is. I give to four different organizations and they all are very important to me.
Which books, authors or programs have been a powerful influence in your business and life?
- Live Like A Fruit Fly, Gabe Berman
- Siddhartha, Herman Hesse
- The Art of Happiness, the Dalai Lama
What’s a personal quirk you’re known for? (C’mon, we’re gonna find out anyway.)
I can be shy and get nervous easily sometimes.
Chris Haddad, M1000 Member #138
“How could I say no to a Vodka swilling Russian, a half-Japanese fire dancer and a Irishman with a firm ‘hand hug?’“
What businesses do you currently operate?
My business is currently split into two wondrous and frightening halves:
- Half 1: Chris “Mr. Moneyfingers” Haddad
Badass copywriter, master of the videos sales letter, frenetic speaker on copy and marketing psychology and ADHD addled consultant.Honestly, I tried quitting this side of my business a while ago, but I keep getting dragged back in since good copywriters seem hard to find and my reps keep getting better and better. I’ve been doing the “copy thing” for about 6 or 7 years now, including writing campaigns for guys like Jeff Walker, Jeff Johnson, Jeff Paul (I specialize in Jeffs), Pimsleur Approach, Michael Cage, and a bunch of others. More recently I’ve been the “Secret weapon” behind some of those big hypey Clickbank launches — including one sales video that got banned after 14 hours… but was pulling over 4 bucks a click — and another that is the current Clickbank number 1, gravity wise. (http://www.mobilemoneymachines.com).I have a rep for raising conversions on most sites by 50% – 100%, depending on the state of the current copy. I’ve also got a course on Video Sales Letters, which I did with Lou Dalo. We sold a few hundred of those early in the year (and got great testimonials) but put it to the side when my partner’s mom got sick. Hoping to get that rolling again soon. Currently I do one or maybe two client jobs a month (takes about two days to write a vid script) and also do a bit of consulting with places like Boardroom, Inc.
Sites:
http://www.moneyfingersinc.com (My ghost town of a blog)
http://www.haddadink.com (My old copywriting site) - Half 2: “Michael Fiore – Relationship Expert”
My pseudonym is more famous than I am.Back in 2010, I had a small nervous breakdown around working too much and never really feeling like I was getting where I wanted, business wise. I was doing fine, making 6 figs a year, but it was all 100% based on my own “desk time.” I thought about doing IM products but, honestly, my heart wasn’t in it. Instead I ended up creating my very first “sex and relationship” info product “Text Your Wife Into Bed.” (This was also the very first video sales letter I ever did.) That site went from zero to 6 figures in sales in about two months; 100% off affiliate traffic.That fall, I was speaking at Jeff Walker’s PLF event when I got approached by a PR lady who’s worked with Mark Victor Hansen, Bob Allen and guys like that. She seemed to like what she saw on stage and asked if she could do something with me. “Text Your Wife” was too dirty for mainstream PR, so we ended up creating a site to “Text The Romance Back“…
PR for that became a wild ride, with “Michael Fiore” getting interviewed by Time Magazine, The Atlanta Journal Constitution, a ton of blogs and radio stations; and ultimately ending up on the Rachael Ray Show on Valentine’s day. Funnily enough, we didn’t even have the product ready when I went on the show. =-)
Since then, TRB has become my “lead” product in my “Relationship” empire. New products coming out:
“Text Your Ex Back” and “Secret Survey: What Men Really Think But Will Never Tell You.”
Big goal with that business is to grow it to at least $1 mil post-affiliate moolah in 2012. Personal challenges with that right now involve growing the right kind of organization, getting traffic etc. I can convert, but the rest of it is alien to me.
Why did you become a member of Maverick1000 and why are you a good fit for the Maverick group?
I just want to see Tim Houston in a speedo. OK, not really. Honestly, I’ve been eyeing Mavericks for a few years now. Got to know a bunch of Mavericks over the years and they all rave about the organization. Andrew Way and I hooked up in San DIego at the IM party a few months ago, and he put the screws to me. Then Aydika gave me that silver card in NYC and I destroyed Yanik at Roshambo. How could I say no to a Vodka swilling
Russian, a half Japanese fire dancer and a Irishman with a firm “hand hug?”
What top things would you like to gain / learn / grow with from other members, and what unique value do you bring to the group?
Unique Value: I’m a damn good copy and “idea” guy. I “copy talk” better than almost anybody out there (it’s my stupid human trick on stage at events. Just give me your niche and product name and I’ll spew out a bunch of copy for you.) Very good at figuring out “Sellable” product ideas (versus absolute dogs.) I come up with way more ideas than I can use. Able to craft sales videos that get damned good conversions.
What I’d like to gain:
1. Folks who understand the wider IM world better than I do (traffic etc.)
2. Folks who are crushing it, who I can emulate as I grow my business, especially when it comes to building the right team.
3. I love hanging out with folks who are doing earth-shockingly cool stuff. Feel like I’m in a great place to blow my stuff up with the right guidance and connections.
What interests, activities or hobbies do you enjoy?
Loves me the CrossFit. Do that at least four days a week when I’m home. Also into hand drumming (Djembe, Cajon, Handsonic, Zendrum, Hapi drum, etc.), read a LOT, boardgames, philosophical discussions, dancing. Not much into “stuff” (I don’t even own a car) but I dig doing interesting stuff.
What’s the #1 item on your Big Life List now?
Good question. Honestly, I’m at a crossroads. At the point right now where I’m making good money, working 4 or 5 hours most days and trying to figure out that Next Big Step.
What’s the most “Maverick” thing you’ve ever done in your life?
It’s either appearing on national television or getting railroaded by police at Burning Man and arrested =-) (I gotta tell that story on stage someday.)
What’s the most significant / important contribution you’ve made to a community or nonprofit organization?
Haven’t done nearly enough with charity. Something I need to refocus on.
Can you recommend some books, authors or developmental programs, which you’ve found influential in your business and/or personal life?
Oh, yeah. Big reader here.
My favorite books of the last couple months:
- Born To Run by Chris McDougal — Great read and redefines my own views on running and exercise.
- Death Clutch by Brock Lesnar — Worth it just for his reasoning about why Lesnar has an “ego” about being one of the best fighters in the world
- Delivered From Distraction by John Ratey — Book literally changed my life. Once I read this book and got a “handle” on my ADHD, I tripled my income, got in shape and got an amazing woman in my life.
- Incognito by Dave Eagleman — Great read on neuroscience and the nature of who “we” are. (Explanation of the arguing “tribes” of the brain is awesome.)
- The Power Of Less by Leo Babuta — Resonate with this approach towards “stuff.”
- Sex At Dawn — Best book on evolutionary biology and the nature of human sexuality I’ve met (base a lot of my content off this stuff.)
Also a huge fan of Dan Sullivan‘s stuff.
What’s a personal quirk you’re known for? (C’mon, we’re gonna find out anyway.)
Dick jokes. Accidentally hitting on attractive women. Talking at 600 miles an hour without noticing. Forgetting that most people can’t work as fast I can. Dancing with no music and for no reason.
http://www.textyourwifeintobed.com
http://www.howtogethead.com
http://www.texttheromanceback.com/
Jason Katzenback, M1000 Member #139
“Life is not about playing it safe; it is about following your dreams and taking risks.”
What businesses do you currently operate?
My business is primarily divided into three parts:
- Affiliate Marketing: This is how my business started, and is the basis for the software development and training I provide others.
- Web Traffic Consulting: My primary expertise is the ability to help businesses gain 10 times more organic traffic to their websites than they’re currently able to achieve
- Software Development & Training: Since 2005, I have been involved in numerous product launches in the IM industry. I have been the primary software designer and trainer for all my products, and base them on strategies I currently use to generate considerable revenue online. These products include:
PortalFeeder.com
TrafficKahuna.com
PPCKahuna.com
SyndicateKahuna.com
BlogBlueprint.com
AutoLinkJuicer.com
TrafficKaboom.com
Latest up and coming: Auto Traffic Buddy and Affiliate Traffic Expert
Why did you become a member of Maverick1000 and why are you a good fit for the Maverick group?
I was originally referred to Maverick through Buck Rizvi, who spoke very highly of the group. In May of 2010, I saw a presentation by some Mavericks at a conference in Vancouver. What intrigued me the most about the group was the need to surround myself with not only like-minded individuals, but also successful individuals. I love the concept of working, learning and sharing with others who already succeeding in various aspects of not only business, but also life.
What top things would you like to gain / learn / grow with from other members, and what unique value do you bring to the group?
What I hope to gain / learn / grow with from other members:
- Friendships with a variety of different people in different businesses. I think it’s dangerous to only surround yourself with people in your own niche; this can limit the ideas that can be generated.
- Do’s and Don’ts — I look forward to learning what has and has not worked from others, so I can save a lot of pain and agony.
- Business Partners. I look forward to any and all opportunities to work with others on projects and business ideas.
The unique value I bring to the group is:
- I have worked in production, management and as my own boss — of my own successful company — so I understand both sides of the coin.
- I have been divorced (learned a lot about myself) and then got happily remarried to my childhood crush, and I understand the importance of family and communication.
- I love to help others and share what has and has not worked for me.
- I love teaching others, because not only does it reinforce my own strategies and beliefs, I also love seeing the development and growth of others.
What interests, activities or hobbies do you enjoy?
- Travel, but not the resort way. I love exploring the real side of other countries and cities.
- Anything outdoors: skiing, 4 wheeling, camping, swimming, small game hunting and more.
- Debating. I love to discuss different thoughts and principals with an open mind.
- MMA. Love watching the stuff… I just do ☺
- Marketing. Sadly this is also a hobby of mine along with a profession… but I love the science behind it and how little things can make such a drastic difference. I love setting up little tests in my spare time to see how things will pan out.
What are the top items on your Big Life List now?
- Achieving the “Jason’s Lifestyle,” which is the ability to dedicate 30 days of my time to volunteering activities around the world
- Take 60 days off each year for NO WORK – Just FAMILY, FRIENDS, FUN & TRAVEL… and know my business is taken care of.
- Live the summer in Canada but live abroad from November to April
What’s the most “Maverick” thing you’ve ever done?
Quit my job to focus on a business I believed in, but was not 100% proven yet. I had to choose between what appeared logical and what was the right thing for me to do. Life is not about playing it safe; it is about following your dreams and taking risks.
What’s the most significant contribution you’ve made to a community or nonprofit organization?
For me this would have been the five years I spent as the youth leader of my church. Along with my business, family and everything else, I took on the responsibility of leading teenagers. This meant that I had to make myself available, whenever needed, to 100+ teenagers — and it quickly became a full time job. My goal as the youth leader was not to force any beliefs on anyone, but rather to be an example, to provide a safe place, and to be someone who actually cared and listened. I stepped down from this position in 2008 when my marriage started crumbling.
Can you recommend some books, authors or developmental programs, which you’ve found influential in your business and/or personal life?
- The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch
- Seven Habits of Highly Influential People by Stephen Covey
- Wikinomics by Don Tapscott; and more recently WikiBrands by Sean Moffit and Mike Dover
- Persuasion by Arlene Dickinson
- Acres of Diamonds by Russell Conwell
- (Person): Charlie “Tremendous” Jones
- Jesus Christ (Yup, the one from the Bible)
What’s a personal quirk you’re known for? (C’mon, we’re gonna find out anyway.)
My ability to predict time needed for a task. I often think things will be faster than they are, and I have to be diligent on my time management because of this. Take this questionnaire — I thought it would take 10 minutes…. Here I am 90 minutes later. 😉
PortalFeeder.com
TrafficKahuna.com
PPCKahuna.com
SyndicateKahuna.com
BlogBlueprint.com
AutoLinkJuicer.com
TrafficKaboom.com
Joe Marinucci, M1000 Member #140
“… I have never backed down from a challenge, I am extremely outgoing, and love doing crazy things with people who are as nuts as I am.”
What businesses do you currently operate?
I’m am the President of Interactive Marketing Solutions (www.intmktgsolutions.com). I am also involved in a new start-up venture with MobilXchange (www.mobilxchange.com).
Why did you become a member of Maverick1000 and why are you a good fit for the Maverick group?
I became a member to network with other creative entrepreneurs who are as dynamic and energetic as I am. I am a good fit for the group because I have never backed down from a challenge, I am extremely outgoing, and I love doing crazy things with people who are as nuts as I am.
What top things would you like to gain / learn / grow with from other members, and what unique value do you bring to the group?
I view myself as the leader of my company; the guy everyone looks to for guidance. Because of this, I feel it is my responsibility to stay connected and searching for new angles and creative ideas on how to be better in this role. I have found one of the best ways to do this is to interact with others in similar situations and learn from them. Accordingly, I am hoping to be able to learn from others in the group who are in similar roles, and to also increase my personal network that I derive business ideas from.
What interests, activities or hobbies do you enjoy?
More like: what don’t I enjoy? Here is the short list:
- Mountaineering
- Skiing – I mean big mountain, epic, steep and deep skiing
- Snowmobiling
- Triathlon – I have completed four Ironman distance events, including the World Championships in Hawaii; and have raced for the United States as a member of Team USA at the 2009 ITU World Championships.
- Shooting – I am a part-time police officer in my hometown in Moultonborough, NH
- Yard work – I am pretty good with a tractor and a chain saw.
What’s the #1 item on your Big Life List now?
Making my company more dynamic, efficient and less dependent on me, so I can spend more time with my newborn son and family.
What’s the most “Maverick” thing you’ve ever done?
Quite a few come to mind…
- Going to Africa in 2001 — alone, because no one else would go — and climbing Mt. Killimanjaro
- Going to the police academy earlier this year with people who were mostly almost half my age, while traveling twice a week and managing two companies.
- Gutting out the 2008 Ironmanand getting to the line with less than two minutes to spare, when I was totally dehydrated and could barely
"Less than two minutes before midnight Joe Marinucci made it to the line as the race’s final finisher." walk
- Betting it all (and then some) on my business in 2005 and making it happen in a big way.
What’s the most significant contribution you’ve made to a community or nonprofit organization?
I work in my hometown community as a part-time police officer, which is a paid position but I have chosen to not take pay for my hours at the PD. I have also been very active as a fundraiser for various charities, including Wounded Warrior, Fox Foundation, and Challenged Athletes. In 2008 I donated $45,000 to the Challenged Athletes Foundation to help people compete in triathlons, marathons, and various other sporting events they otherwise would not be able to partake in without specialized equipment.
Can you recommend some books, authors or developmental programs, which you’ve found influential in your business and/or personal life?
I love sports books — they motivate the heck out of me. Here are a few of my favorites:
- No Shortcuts to the Top — Fiction, but very motivating and hard to put down
- Seven Summits and No Shortcuts to the Top — Stories of human perservearance against all odds in some of the most impossible situations
What’s a personal quirk you’re known for? (C’mon, we’re gonna find out anyway.)
Stubborn, stubborn, stubborn.
www.intmktgsolutions.com
www.mobilxchange.com
Matt Clark, M1000 Member #141
“I truly believe that the fastest and ‘funnest’ pathway to succeed is getting around great, like-minded people.”
What businesses do you currently operate?
I own an e-Commerce business, Internal Insight, which sells professional-grade health supplements to consumers. Our primary website is http://www.vitasouth.com, through which we sell about 20,000 different high-quality supplements that address health issues such as sleep trouble, anxiety, weight loss, and detoxification. These products are typically sold in medical clinics and are not available in your local grocery stores or vitamin stores.
After graduating from the University of Houston, I went to work for Citigroup in Energy Trading, with the plan to work there for 3-5 years and start a hedge fund. But, I quickly discovered that working for someone else drains my motivation and left after 7 months to do the closest thing to running a business I could come up with: Help my Dad grow his bioidentical hormones and medical weight loss business headquartered in Austin, TX. I started learning about ecommerce and internet marketing while helping out his business, and founded Internal Insight after about 3 months. Working by myself, the first month’s revenue was about $768. Internal Insight is now in its second year of operations, has two employees locally and a handful overseas, and is on path to do $2.5M in revenue for 2011.
Why did you become a member of Maverick1000 and why are you a good fit for the Maverick group?
I joined Maverick1000 because, like most entrepreneurs, I have a tough time finding ambitious and fun people running their own businesses to collaborate with and bounce ideas off of; yet there is so much potential in building these type of relationships. I truly believe that the fastest and “funnest” pathway to succeed is getting around great, like-minded people.
What top things would you like to gain / learn / do with other Mavericks, and what unique value do you bring to the group?
I’d like to build relationships with high-achieving friends who help each other succeed. I’d like to have fun doing crazy things while learning from great people at the same time. I know e-Commerce, I love business, and I really want to help other people out as much as I can.
Interests, activities and hobbies you’re a fan of?
Aside from business, I love fitness and health. Most recently, I’ve done Krav Maga (Israeli military martial art) for three years. I ran my first marathon last July in San Francisco (hills = Bad Choice for first…).
What are the Top 3 adventures/things on your Big Life List?
- Own an island
- Own a castle (castle on an island is the goal)
- Compete in the Hawaii Ironman [Hm… looks like you and Joe Marinucci might be good buddies here soon…]
What’s the most “Maverick” thing you’ve ever done?
Agreed to do a 150 mile bicycle ride with only two months of training. On top of the non-stop exhaustion, it was pouring rain and cold the whole time. A shower never felt so good. Good times though.
What’s the most significant contribution you’ve made to a community or nonprofit organization?
Last year I told everyone who normally buys me Christmas presents to just give me toys, or money to buy toys, to give away in the Blue Santa Toy Drive in Austin. Amazingly, a huge portion of the people (friends & family) agreed to do the same — including my fiancee.
Can you recommend some books, authors or developmental programs, which you’ve found influential in your business and/or personal life?
- Long Walk to Freedom: The Autobiography of Nelson Mandela — You think your committed to your vision? Compare yourself to his dedication.
- Just about anything by Tony Robbins… Business Mastery event is highly recommended.
- Snowball, about Warren Buffet. Great perspective on how to effectively own and influence billions of dollars worth of successful companies without running them yourself.
What’s the weirdest skill, quirk or stupid human trick you’re known for? (C’mon, we’re gonna find out anyway.)
[Editor’s Note: Matt had a tough time with this one. Knowing he’d soon rock the Baja 2011 trip, I warned him Yanik would soon come up with an answer in Baja if Matt didn’t offer it up first. And that he did. Mavericks, meet “Matt Clark: Cactus Magnet.” The secret of “why” is safe with Yanik… unless you ask him about it. I hear he trades secrets for good Russian vodka.]
http://www.internalinsight.com/
http://www.vitasouth.com
