In this gripping episode of The Proven Entrepreneur Show, host Don Williams welcomes back a familiar voice—Vladimir Gendelman, founder of CompanyFolders.com. But this isn’t just a business chat. It’s a journey that begins in the gray, uniform streets of the Soviet Union and unfolds into the vibrant, unpredictable world of American entrepreneurship. Vladimir’s story isn’t just about building a company—it’s about rediscovering identity, embracing freedom, and learning how to stand out in a world that once demanded conformity.

As Vladimir recounts his early days in Ukraine, listeners are transported to a time when choices were few and individuality was suppressed. His move to the U.S. as a teenager brought culture shock wrapped in abundance—aisles of cheese, colorful clothing, and the freedom to express. But it wasn’t just the variety that changed him—it was the realization that in America, you could build something entirely your own. That realization sparked the birth of CompanyFolders.com, a business born from a single customer request and a gap in the market no one else saw.

The conversation takes a dramatic turn as Vladimir opens up about a near-fatal mistake—an SEO strategy that once catapulted his site to the top of Google, only to be penalized and buried when algorithms evolved. The fallout was brutal: traffic plummeted, bankruptcy loomed, and even weekend sushi outings with his daughter became luxuries. But what followed was a masterclass in resilience. With grit, humility, and a loyal team, Vladimir rebuilt his company from the ground up—this time, with integrity and a foundation that could weather any storm.

Beyond business, this episode explores the human side of entrepreneurship. Vladimir shares his philosophy on authenticity, the power of making others feel seen, and the importance of listening with intent. His advice isn’t just for entrepreneurs—it’s for anyone who wants to lead with heart and leave a legacy that lasts. From co-authoring a book on gratitude with his wife Janet to mentoring future generations, Vladimir’s story is a testament to the impact of kindness, courage, and connection.

If you’re looking for more than just business tips—if you crave a story that stirs your soul and sharpens your mind—this episode is for you. Tune in to discover how one man’s journey from Soviet silence to entrepreneurial voice can inspire your own path to purpose. But be warned: once you start listening, you won’t want to stop.

Topics Discussed:

• Life in the Soviet Union vs. the U.S.
• The birth of CompanyFolders.com
• SEO mistakes and recovery strategies
• Entrepreneurial resilience and authenticity
• The power of gratitude and human connection
• Advice for future generations of entrepreneurs

Entities Mentioned:

• Vladimir Gendelman (Guest)
• Don Williams (Host)
• CompanyFolders.com
• Google (SEO algorithm updates)
• Janet Gendelman (Co-author in Gratitude Stories)
• Jeri Walla (Mutual friend from the UK)
• Book: Gratitude Stories from Our Hearts

Whether you're a startup founder, digital marketer, or someone seeking inspiration from real-world entrepreneurial grit, this episode delivers valuable lessons wrapped in a heartfelt narrative.

🎧 Tune in now to discover how one man’s journey from gray Soviet streets to vibrant American business success can inspire your own path forward.