Welcome to another great episode of Entrepreneur's Enigma!

In today's journey, Seth Goldstein, our indomitable host, brings to the table a conversation steeped in valor, vision, and the trials of entrepreneurship.

We meet Sam Alaimo, a former US Navy SEAL turned co-founder of Zero Eyes—an AI gun detection startup determined to take a stand against the mass shooting crisis in America.

From the tough transition from military life to the academic rigor of an MBA at Columbia, Sam breaks down the skills that help SEALs become unstoppable entrepreneurs.

With vivid tales of training for the SEALs as a teen, his tours to Afghanistan, and the tense energy shift to entrepreneurship, Sam offers a powerful narrative of resilience and strategic thinking.

This episode peels back the tough exterior of military discipline to analyze the unrelenting pressure and constant innovation required in the business sphere.

So buckle up, as we dive into the world of a hero who faces an entirely new kind of mission—arming organizations against threats, one algorithm at a time.



Key Moments

[06:05] Navy paid for bachelor's and MBA degrees.

[07:22] Co-CEO of 0 Eyes with Michael A. Fries

[10:44] Focusing on gun detection, not facial recognition.

[15:10] Former military and law enforcement staff verify guns.

[17:47] Seals experience pressure and calm, civilian world.

[20:49] Focus on what you can control, accept.



Find Sam Online

https://zeroeyes.com/



If you’re enjoying Entrepreneur’s Enigma [https://entrepreneursenigma.com/], please give us a review on the podcast directory of your choice. We’re on all of them and these reviews really help others find the show.

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Sam Alaimo From US Navy SEAL To Startup Co-Founder On A Mission

Orly Zeewy is an author, speaker, educator, and facilitator of lightbulb moments. Her superpower? She makes fuzzy clear. She helps startup founders and business leaders clarify and communicate their zone of genius so they can attract more of their ideal customers and scale fast.



In addition to her consulting work, Orly is a popular speaker and has been a guest on more than thirty podcasts. Most recently, she was interviewed on Product for Product, Life School Master Class and One Knight In Product. She has lectured at Wharton and taught in The Close School of Entrepreneurship at Drexel University, Jefferson University, and the University of Pennsylvania.



Orly has been featured in Medium and her articles have been published in national publications such as The Marketing Journal, Smart Hustle and Lioness Magazine. Her book: Ready, Launch, Brand: The Lean Marketing Guide for Startups was published by Routledge in May 2021 and was the #1 new business book release on Amazon in April 2021.



Key Moments

[04:10] Passionate journey of female entrepreneur creating brand.

[09:10] Considering traditional publisher for credibility was mistake.

[11:22] Struggling to start writing book about entrepreneurs.

[14:46] Joined networks to combat loneliness, exchange ideas.

[15:55] Immigrated at 11, dad invented steel technology.

[20:39] Mentor proud of students' success on LinkedIn.

[25:01] Platform security issue leads to temporary suspension.



Orly Online

https://zeewybrands.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/orlyzeewy/



If you’re enjoying Entrepreneur’s Enigma [https://entrepreneursenigma.com/], please give us a review on the podcast directory of your choice. We’re on all of them and these reviews really help others find the show.

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Also, if you’re getting value from the show and want to buy me a coffee, go to the show notes to get the link to get me a coffee to keep me awake, while I work on bringing you more great episodes to your ears. →  https://gmwd.us/buy-me-a-coffee

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Orly Zeewy On Helping Entrepreneurs And Startups Define Their Message And Find Success

John Lester is on a mission to transform limiting mindsets that hold back salespeople and small business owners. Having built his career helping companies big and small drive revenue through coaching and training, John knows that tech stacks, skills and product knowledge are ineffective without the right sales psychology. His goal is to help sellers and solopreneurs reframe sales as mutually beneficial versus oppositional through personal insights and practical coaching.



Key Moments

[05:21] Desire for simple, happy lifestyle in America.

[07:44] An influential article shaped my perspective on businesses.

[12:35] Questioning integrity in sales, relationship dynamics critical.

[13:36] Concern about re-entering corporate America after layoffs.

[19:13] Helping others sell, sharing expertise through video.

[22:51] Teacher contacts for innovative aquarium project collaboration.

[24:53] Self-assessment and clarity before seeking advice.

[28:16] Reflect on actions and values, especially with children.



Find John Online

https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnlester973/

https://attitudeselling.com



﻿If you’re enjoying Entrepreneur’s Enigma [https://entrepreneursenigma.com/], please give us a review on the podcast directory of your choice. We’re on all of them and these reviews really help others find the show.

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Also, if you’re getting value from the show and want to buy me a coffee, go to the show notes to get the link to get me a coffee to keep me awake, while I work on bringing you more great episodes to your ears. →  https://gmwd.us/buy-me-a-coffee

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Seth Goldstein | LinkedIn: LinkedIn.com/in/sethmgoldstein [https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethmgoldstein/]

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John Lester Helping Business Owners Enjoy Sales And Grow Their Businesses

Welcome back to Entrepreneur's Enigma, the podcast where we dive into the heart of entrepreneurship—the trials, triumphs, and the lessons learned from adversity. I'm your host, Seth, and in today's episode, we have the incredible journey of Zach Carlin. Once a small-town kid from rural Canada, Zach found his passion and discipline in the world of boxing, despite its taboo status in his community. This path of discipline led him to the bright lights of Las Vegas, the mecca for Ultimate Fighting Championship aspirants, where he trained among legends and learned some hard truths.

But Zach's story doesn't end with the highs and lows of an MMA career cut short by injury and bureaucracy. He reinvented himself in the world of entrepreneurship, coaching, and fitness—eventually co-founding Summit Chasers Network. Zach brings to the table critical insights into the path from fitness facility owner to recognized business coach, helping giants like HP and Salesforce address underlying issues in sales and company growth.

Stay with us as we unravel how a failed business due to COVID, a venture into online coaching, and an emphasis on hiring, SOPs, and consistent leadership have shaped Zach's approach to scaling businesses and impacting lives.

Zach's story is one of perseverance, adaptation, and the relentless pursuit of success—themes that any aspiring entrepreneur can relate to and learn from. So, buckle up for an inspirational ride from the rural rings of Canada to the entrepreneurial battlegrounds where the real fight happens. And remember—you can always reach out and connect with Zach through LinkedIn and soon through his revamped website. All links, as always, will be in the show notes. Let's get started.



Key Moments

[04:48] Struggled with homelessness, found motivation in MMA.

[07:16] Accepting responsibility for failures accelerates personal growth.

[10:23] Learned Muay Thai, traveled, got addicted, skilled.

[14:07] CrossFit as a profitable fitness competition.

[18:37] Expanded performance center, grew sales to 20M.

[22:04] Starting a new business venture through partnership.

[23:17] Started with hiring, expanded to online coaching.

[27:58] Entrepreneurship allows solving important, passionate problems.



Find Zach Online

https://www.summitchasersnetwork.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/zach-carlin-799955228/



If you’re enjoying Entrepreneur’s Enigma [https://entrepreneursenigma.com/], please give us a review on the podcast directory of your choice. We’re on all of them and these reviews really help others find the show.

GoodPods: https://gmwd.us/goodpods

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Also, if you’re getting value from the show and want to buy me a coffee, go to the show notes to get the link to get me a coffee to keep me awake, while I work on bringing you more great episodes to your ears. →  https://gmwd.us/buy-me-a-coffee

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Seth | Digital Marketer (@s3th.me) • Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/s3th.me/]: Instagram.com/s3th.me [https://www.instagram.com/s3th.me/]

Seth Goldstein | LinkedIn: LinkedIn.com/in/sethmgoldstein [https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethmgoldstein/]

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Zach Carlin From Rural Canada To MMA In Las Vegas To Successful Entrepreneur And Coach

Joshua Lamothe is a digital strategist with a knack for reviving the digital presence of various projects. His philosophy hinges on the power of first impressions, focusing on giving websites much-needed facelifts to enhance user engagement and conversion rates.

Throughout his career, Joshua has witnessed numerous times where the simple act of redesigning a site led to a substantial increase in traffic and credibility.

His attention to detail and user experience has also proven critical in fixing underperforming elements, such as dysfunctional contact forms.

With his interventions, Joshua has turned countless unattractive and ineffective websites into lead-generating platforms, almost overnight, by making them appear more professional and trustworthy to visitors.



Key Moments

[05:36] Improving website appearance leads to increased conversions.

[08:02] Started as customer, shifted to web design.

[12:28] Unparalleled freedom and accountability in work.

[16:07] Integrity is measurable and real, unlike spirituality.



Find Joshua Online

https://grassrootsconsult.com

https://www.alignable.com/lake-worth-fl/grassroots-web-design-branding

https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-lamothe/



If you’re enjoying Entrepreneur’s Enigma [https://entrepreneursenigma.com/], please give us a review on the podcast directory of your choice. We’re on all of them and these reviews really help others find the show.

GoodPods: https://gmwd.us/goodpods

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Also, if you’re getting value from the show and want to buy me a coffee, go to the show notes to get the link to get me a coffee to keep me awake, while I work on bringing you more great episodes to your ears. →  https://gmwd.us/buy-me-a-coffee

Follow Seth Online:

Seth | Digital Marketer (@s3th.me) • Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/s3th.me/]: Instagram.com/s3th.me [https://www.instagram.com/s3th.me/]

Seth Goldstein | LinkedIn: LinkedIn.com/in/sethmgoldstein [https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethmgoldstein/]

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Seth's Marketing Junto Newsletter: https://MarketingJunto.com



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Joshua Lamothe On Building A Web Design Business And How He Uses A Consortium Of Web Pros To Give Back

In this episode of Entrepreneur's Enigma, we sit down Don Samoil, who is a prominent figure in the Philly startup ecosystem.

Don shares his journey from selling newsletters in 2nd grade to his current involvement in advising and organizing for the Founder Institute Incubator.

They discuss his early foray into real estate, then pivoting back to technology and his work with startups.

Don also reflects on the challenges and rewards of being an entrepreneur, emphasizing the importance of values and execution.

As an influential mentor, he sheds light on the impact and evolution of the startup landscape, leaving listeners with valuable insights and advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.



Key Moments

[06:15] Cofounding is like marriage: communication and honesty.

[08:38] Passion for chasing dreams and adding value.

[10:44] Entrepreneurship is tough, filled with doubts.



Find Don Online

https://founderkeystone.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/don-samoil-ts/



If you’re enjoying Entrepreneur’s Enigma [https://entrepreneursenigma.com/], please give us a review on the podcast directory of your choice. We’re on all of them and these reviews really help others find the show.

GoodPods: https://gmwd.us/goodpods

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Also, if you’re getting value from the show and want to buy me a coffee, go to the show notes to get the link to get me a coffee to keep me awake, while I work on bringing you more great episodes to your ears. →  https://gmwd.us/buy-me-a-coffee

Follow Seth Online:

Seth | Digital Marketer (@s3th.me) • Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/s3th.me/]: Instagram.com/s3th.me [https://www.instagram.com/s3th.me/]

Seth Goldstein | LinkedIn: LinkedIn.com/in/sethmgoldstein [https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethmgoldstein/]

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Don Samoil On Being An Entrepreneur, Advisor, Mentor, And Philly Startup Ecosystem Mover & Shaker

Elise is the CEO of EK Editorial & Coaching and EKPR, two communication companies that offer a range of dynamic business and creative writing services, including book coaching, ghostwriting, and non-fiction writing. On the public relations side, she specializes in crafting compelling narratives to elevate businesses, covering executive bios, content creation, and crisis communications. With over 35 years of international entrepreneurial experience across various B2C industries and non-profits, her expertise in storytelling effectively resonates with diverse audiences, enhancing messaging and customer response.



Her mission centers on empowering and transforming business leaders with a moral and social conscience, encouraging them to share their stories for lasting impact and legacy. As a book coach, ghostwriter, and editor, she leverages her emotional intelligence and domain knowledge to offer enthusiastic editorial guidance and tools for building personal and corporate brands. She is passionate about collaborating with individuals who have disruptive ideas, assisting them in crafting authentic and memorable narratives.



Elise is also a bestselling author, known for her memoir "Under My Skin - Drama, Trauma, & Rock n Roll," the first in a trilogy series. She has ghostwritten numerous books and maintains an active presence as a blogger, reporter, and editorial expert.



Key Moments

[03:44] Established publishing agency promoting UK and US music.

[08:07] Developed into developmental editor, created courses.

[12:02] Carry determination, love of laughter, and humor.



Find Elise Online

https://elisekrentzel.com

https://ekpublicrelations.com

https://elisekrentzel.com/under-my-skin

https://youtube.com/@elisekrentzel-rebelwriter

https://facebook.com/OfficiallyElise

https://instagram.com/elisekrentzel



If you’re enjoying Entrepreneur’s Enigma [https://entrepreneursenigma.com/], please give us a review on the podcast directory of your choice. We’re on all of them and these reviews really help others find the show.

GoodPods: https://gmwd.us/goodpods

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Also, if you’re getting value from the show and want to buy me a coffee, go to the show notes to get the link to get me a coffee to keep me awake, while I work on bringing you more great episodes to your ears. →  https://gmwd.us/buy-me-a-coffee

Follow Seth Online:

Seth | Digital Marketer (@s3th.me) • Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/s3th.me/]: Instagram.com/s3th.me [https://www.instagram.com/s3th.me/]

Seth Goldstein | LinkedIn: LinkedIn.com/in/sethmgoldstein [https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethmgoldstein/]

Seth On Mastodon: [https://s3th.me/pch] https://s3th.me/@pch

Seth's Marketing Junto Newsletter: https://MarketingJunto.com



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Elise Krentzel From Rock'n Roll Reporting In Japan To Author And Book Coach

In this episode of Entrepreneur's Enigma, host Seth Goldstein delves into the captivating journey of Paige Arnof-Fenn, the Founder and CEO of Mavens and Moguls. Paige shares her transition from a traditional corporate career to becoming a successful entrepreneur. She provides valuable insights and experiences from her marketing career, including her ventures with startups and her evolution into a renowned keynote speaker. Paige also offers wisdom on the benefits of a positive attitude, networking on LinkedIn, and the joys and challenges of entrepreneurship. Join Seth and Paige as they unravel the ups and downs of entrepreneurship and the invaluable lessons learned along the way.



Key Moments

[05:37] Storytelling, connecting through podcasts, virtual conferences popularity.

[06:50] Owning a company brings freedom and excitement.

[11:27] LinkedIn fan, not active on other platforms.



Find Paige Online

https://www.mavensandmoguls.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/paigearnoffenn/



If you’re enjoying Entrepreneur’s Enigma [https://entrepreneursenigma.com/], please give us a review on the podcast directory of your choice. We’re on all of them and these reviews really help others find the show.

GoodPods: https://gmwd.us/goodpods

iTunes: https://gmwd.us/itunes Podchaser: https://gmwd.us/podchaser

Also, if you’re getting value from the show and want to buy me a coffee, go to the show notes to get the link to get me a coffee to keep me awake, while I work on bringing you more great episodes to your ears. →  https://gmwd.us/buy-me-a-coffee

Follow Seth Online:

Seth | Digital Marketer (@s3th.me) • Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/s3th.me/]: Instagram.com/s3th.me [https://www.instagram.com/s3th.me/]

Seth Goldstein | LinkedIn: LinkedIn.com/in/sethmgoldstein [https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethmgoldstein/]

Seth On Mastodon: [https://s3th.me/pch] https://s3th.me/@pch

Seth's Marketing Junto Newsletter: https://MarketingJunto.com



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Paige Arnof-Fenn On Her Journey From Harvard Yard To Entrepreneurship

Welcome to the latest episode of Entrepreneur's Enigma! In this conversation, Seth sits down with returning guest Brendan Hufford, a former teacher turned entrepreneur with a wealth of experience in the world of marketing and entrepreneurship. They discuss Brendan's journey from teaching to working in the SaaS world, and his current projects, including a newsletter aimed at marketing executives, a community for in-house software marketers, and helping SaaS companies scale their revenue. Brendan shares his insights on marketing, the importance of transparent content, and the value of reducing suffering through service. This episode is packed with wisdom, laughter, and valuable takeaways for all entrepreneurs. Tune in to hear the full conversation!



Key Moments

[03:22] Struggle to find marketing help, communities lacking.

[08:07] Need ample time to decompress before work.

[10:58] Influential solopreneur markets through strategic networking.

[12:38] LinkedIn lacks authentic storytelling and success is gradual.

[16:29] Advising on hiring, organization, creativity, accountability, marketing.



Find Brendan Online

https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendanhufford/

https://growthsprints.co/

https://allinhouse.co/



If you’re enjoying Entrepreneur’s Enigma [https://entrepreneursenigma.com/], please give us a review on the podcast directory of your choice. We’re on all of them and these reviews really help others find the show.

GoodPods: https://gmwd.us/goodpods

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Also, if you’re getting value from the show and want to buy me a coffee, go to the show notes to get the link to get me a coffee to keep me awake, while I work on bringing you more great episodes to your ears. →  https://gmwd.us/buy-me-a-coffee

Follow Seth Online:

Seth | Digital Marketer (@s3th.me) • Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/s3th.me/]: Instagram.com/s3th.me [https://www.instagram.com/s3th.me/]

Seth Goldstein | LinkedIn: LinkedIn.com/in/sethmgoldstein [https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethmgoldstein/]

Seth On Mastodon: [https://s3th.me/pch] https://s3th.me/@pch

Seth's Marketing Junto Newsletter: https://MarketingJunto.com



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A Revisit With Brendan Hufford And Where His Entrepreneurial Journey Is Taking Him

In this episode of Entrepreneur's Enigma, host Seth Goldstein sits down for a lively and candid conversation with his longtime friend and powerhouse entrepreneur, Gloria Bell. With over 30 years of business operations, event management, and entrepreneurial experience, Gloria has made the transition from a successful corporate career to becoming the founder of the Women in Tech Summit and the Inspiring Tech Foundation. Join them as they discuss Gloria's journey through the ups and downs of entrepreneurship, her pivot from corporate to tech, and the importance of maintaining a sense of wonder. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned business professional, you don't want to miss this insightful and inspiring conversation with Gloria Bell on Entrepreneur's Enigma.



Key Moments

[03:58] Transitioned from construction to technology project management.

[06:27] Red Stapler Consulting, Tech start-ups process help. Success or failure.

[10:54] Isabelle lured me back to Philly Startup Leaders.

[15:21] Gloria's current online hangout - very important.

[16:38] Different social media platforms have unique communities.



Find Gloria Online

https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloriabell/

https://womenintechsummit.net/



If you’re enjoying Entrepreneur’s Enigma [https://entrepreneursenigma.com/], please give us a review on the podcast directory of your choice. We’re on all of them and these reviews really help others find the show.

GoodPods: https://gmwd.us/goodpods

iTunes: https://gmwd.us/itunes Podchaser: https://gmwd.us/podchaser

Also, if you’re getting value from the show and want to buy me a coffee, go to the show notes to get the link to get me a coffee to keep me awake, while I work on bringing you more great episodes to your ears. →  https://gmwd.us/buy-me-a-coffee

Follow Seth Online:

Seth | Digital Marketer (@s3th.me) • Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/s3th.me/]: Instagram.com/s3th.me [https://www.instagram.com/s3th.me/]

Seth Goldstein | LinkedIn: LinkedIn.com/in/sethmgoldstein [https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethmgoldstein/]

Seth On Mastodon: [https://s3th.me/pch] https://s3th.me/@pch

Seth's Marketing Junto Newsletter: https://MarketingJunto.com



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Gloria Bell On Her Journey From Construction and Corporate Cleaning To Entrepreneurship and Women's Empowerment In Tech

Entrepreneur’s Enigma is a podcast about the ups and downs of being an entrepreneur. Being an entrepreneur is tough. It’s a rollercoaster. Every week, we talk to different entrepreneurs about their journey and their successes and their failures. Entrepreneurship can be a lonely game, but it doesn’t have to be. Come along for the ride. Shows are released weekly on Tuesdays at 8 am Eastern.