Leaping Into Entrepreneurship: Lessons From Adam Rothenberg - The Interview King
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Have you ever wondered what it takes to transform a passion project into a thriving business? In this captivating episode of Sisters in Service podcast, I sit down with Adam Rothenberg, founder of Call Me Adam, who turned his love for celebrity interviews into an entertainment empire featuring over 2,200 interviews and attracting more than 2 million visitors.
Adam candidly shares the pivotal moment when, inspired by Pink's song "Courage," he left his secure corporate job in November 2019 to pursue entrepreneurship full-time—only to face the pandemic's devastating impact on the entertainment industry just months later. His story of resilience, strategic pivoting, and finding creative solutions offers invaluable insights for anyone navigating business uncertainties.
What sets this conversation apart is Adam's practical approach to entrepreneurship. Unlike those who advocate for risky all-or-nothing leaps, he reveals how he created financial safety nets before transitioning and found strength through entrepreneurial communities. Military members considering business ownership will particularly appreciate his advice to start building ventures 5-7 years before leaving service, allowing businesses to gain traction while maintaining financial stability.
The discussion delves into the power of community in entrepreneurship, with Adam explaining how finding the right mentor group transformed his business trajectory after years of struggling to monetize his platform. He also shares behind-the-scenes stories from his new book "Behind the Curtain," offering glimpses into his experiences interviewing entertainment icons from Nancy McKean to his dream interview subject, Dolly Parton.
Whether you're just starting your entrepreneurial journey or looking to take your existing business to new heights, this episode delivers actionable wisdom on preparing financially, finding supportive communities, and persisting through challenges. As Adam wisely notes, "Take the leap, but find the way to do it that makes you comfortable.
Chapters
1. Welcome to Sisters in Service (00:00:00)
2. Meet Adam Rothenberg (00:01:16)
3. The Entrepreneurial Leap (00:05:20)
4. Weathering the Pandemic Pivot (00:11:15)
5. Finding the Right Business Community (00:15:15)
6. Behind the Curtain: Adam's Book (00:24:24)
7. Taking the Leap: Final Advice (00:33:15)
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