E285: 🎓MENTORING MOMENTS #55 W/GUEST MENTOR BEN LEONARD | FROM ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEER TO SUCCESSFUL ENTREPRENEUR & AUTHOR - HOW ECOMMERCE CAN CHANGE YOUR LIFE!
Mentoring Moments in eCommerce: Insights from Ben Leonard
Welcome to an inside look into the world of eCommerce, where we dive deep into the journey and expertise of guest mentor Ben Leonard. Ben is the co-founder of Ecom Brokers and a seasoned entrepreneur with a track record of success in online retail. His unique approach to building and selling digital assets has shaped his career and influenced many others in the industry.
From Environmental Engineer to eCommerce Expert
Ben's path to eCommerce stardom is unconventional. His early career as an environmental engineer, driven by a love for nature, took an unexpected turn when a heart condition forced him to pause his career and hobbies. This led to the birth of Beast Gear, a fitness brand he started as a side project during his recovery. The brand soared, hitting a million dollars in yearly sales. This success story culminates with Ben selling Beast Gear for a secure future for his growing family.
The Recipe for eCommerce Success
Ben's approach to eCommerce is grounded in realism and passion. He stresses the importance of starting a business around something that excites you, as this drive is what will fuel the long hours and hard work required to succeed. Moreover, he highlights the necessity of quality in your product. According to Ben, the key to winning in eCommerce is not just marketing a great product but creating something that truly stands out in quality and value.
Building a Brand and Audience
Ben believes in the power of community and recommends budding entrepreneurs to embed themselves within online communities related to their passions. By becoming an active member and sharing valuable insights, one can create goodwill and establish authority in their niche. This strategy not only helps in building a brand but also paves the way for a successful product launch down the line.
The Importance of Timing in Selling Your Business
Ben's experience in the eCommerce space has taught him the critical role timing plays in selling a business. He shares his observations on the market trends, noting how some entrepreneurs struck gold by selling at the right time while others held on for too long, missing their prime opportunity. With Ecom Brokers, Ben now helps others plan their exits, ensuring they get the best possible return on their investment.
Embracing the Entrepreneurial Spirit
Throughout his journey, Ben has embraced the essence of entrepreneurship — from taking calculated risks to learning from mistakes. His passion for the industry is evident as he now dedicates his time to mentoring others, sharing his knowledge, and helping them avoid the pitfalls that he encountered.
Ready to Launch Your eCommerce Venture?
For those poised to take the plunge into eCommerce, Ben advises starting with a realistic budget and choosing a niche that genuinely interests you. It's about laying a strong foundation with a great product and building a brand that resonates with people. And when the time is right, knowing when to sell can make all the difference in capitalizing on your hard work.
Conclusion
Ben Leonard's story is a testament to the dynamism of the eCommerce industry and the entrepreneurial spirit. His transition from environmental engineering to becoming an eCommerce guru shows that with the right mindset, knowledge, and passion, anyone can make their mark in the digital marketplace. Whether you're looking to start your own eCommerce business or planning an exit, Ben's insights offer invaluable guidance on the path to success.
To learn more, check out the related THE ECOMMERCE EDGE Podcast episode below: