When Is Now the Right Time to Start? – Lessons from Matt Bacak

Ever wondered how a small-town paper route could spark the path to entrepreneurial success?

In this episode, Kevin sits down with veteran direct-response marketer, Matt Bacak. Known as one of the "OGs" of internet marketing, Matt shares his journey from modest beginnings to creating multiple multimillion-dollar businesses. He reflects on his grandfather's influence, a steelworker who fueled his entrepreneurial spirit and drive to forge a different path. Matt opens up about his early ventures, learning the value of hard work, and turning failures into valuable lessons. This conversation highlights the enduring power of mentorship and the pivotal relationships that have shaped Matt's life and career.

[00:01 - 06:37] From Humble Beginnings to Marketing Prodigy

• Matt reflects on his journey, starting businesses as a teenager
• How a direct mail background translated into early internet success
• Lessons learned from studying marketing legends

[06:38 - 12:39] The Power of Lead Generation

• Matt discusses why generating leads became his central focus
• Challenges with cold leads and why lead quality matters
• His transition from internet marketing to various profitable niches

[12:40 - 18:23] Inspired by Grandpa: Lessons in Hard Work

• Matt shares memories of his grandfather’s influence and dreams
• Building his first businesses from a paper route to landscaping
• Why he chose a different path than his family's steel-mill legacy

[18:24 - 24:52] Early Entrepreneurial Ventures

• Matt’s first taste of entrepreneurship: paper routes and lawn care
• Key lessons from handling money and investing from a young age
• Why embracing trends and staying ahead mattered to his success

[24:53 - 31:31] Mentoring the Next Generation

• Matt’s impactful mentorship of a young entrepreneur
• Lessons in starting early and overcoming age-related biases
• How this young mentee’s journey mirrors Matt’s own early struggles

Key Quotes:

“You’re never too young to start; just because society tells you to wait doesn’t mean you have to.” - Matt Bacak

“My grandfather’s dreams became my dreams. He couldn’t fulfill them, so he encouraged me to.” - Matt Bacak

Connect with Matt:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattbacak   

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/matt.bacak.private  

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/listbuildingclub  

Honoring: His Grandfather

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