First Class Founders

First Class Founders

The next generation of successful entrepreneurs will leverage their own audience to launch, build, and scale multiple companies into millions based on their own personal hobbies & passions.

This is the 'Personal Holding Company' philosophy. It's a 'Lifestyle Business' on steroids: no venture capital investors, work whenever & wherever you want, tax benefits, turning your hobbies into businesses.

First Class Founders explores this PHC philosophy with tactical tips & strategies from today's top content creators and world-class company operators who are pioneers in this new wave of entrepreneurship.

The future of entrepreneurship is here. Listen & Follow!

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Recent Episodes

75
March 13, 2024

How to Build Your HoldCo with Michael Girdley

E75: Michael Girdley ( @girdley ) needs no introduction. He's a HoldCo legend. Today, host Yong-Soo ( @YongSooChung ) sits down with Michael to discuss how he has built a successful HoldCo. We talk about Michael's "Right People, Right Structure, Right Mission" framework, which he uses to build all of his businesses. Michael shares how to find the best people, set up your business the right way, and get everyone excited about the same goal. On today’s episode, you’ll learn: - PHC Organization Str
74
March 6, 2024

Breaking Down the Personal HoldCo of Tim Stoddart of Copyblogger

E74: Have you ever wondered how a person can flip their life's script from constant struggles to having a multi-million dollar business? Today, host Yong-Soo ( @YongSooChung ) has a rich conversation with successful entrepreneur Tim Stoddart ( @TimStodz ), the proud owner of Copyblogger Media. He discusses his incredible transition from a troubled youth in Philadelphia to a sober entrepreneur with a multi-million dollar Personal HoldCo portfolio. On today’s episode, you’ll learn: - How to Find
73
Feb. 28, 2024

8 Unconventional Truths I Learned in 8 Years of Entrepreneurship

E73: Not many know it, but a lot of aspiring business owners run the risk of making expensive mistakes that could put their goals on hold before they ever take off. So, today, host Yong-Soo Chung ( @YongSooChung ) shares eight important things he learned over eight years of building three businesses from the ground up. He shares how to have an exponential growth mindset, hire carefully, know when to switch between growth and preservation modes and build a strong environment for your company. On
72
Feb. 21, 2024

How to Build and Sell a Startup with Andrew Gazdecki, Founder and CEO of Acquire.com

E72: When is the right time to exit a business? Sounds like a simple question, but the answer... isn't as simple. Today, host Yong-Soo ( @YongSooChung ) sits down with accomplished entrepreneur Andrew Gazdecki ( @agazdecki ), the Founder and CEO of Acquire.com. Andrew discusses the strategies behind successful exits and how to position your company to be sold for the highest valuation. He also discussed how startups can be bought in as few as 30 days. On today’s episode, you’ll learn: - How to
71
Feb. 14, 2024

Don't Make These Design Mistakes: How to Build Your Brand Identity with Nate Kadlac

E71: How do you design a personal brand that truly reflects you, stands out, and captivates your audience? Do you find yourself lost in the sea of design choices? Not sure how to align your website elements with your personal brand values? Today, host Yong-Soo ( @YongSooChung ) is joined by talented designer, Nate Kadlac ( @kadlac ). Nate will guide us through the crucial elements of your personal brand identity: Logo, Font, Color, Elements & Motifs, and Visual Layout. Nate will also tell us how
70
Feb. 7, 2024

How to Get A Free PR for Your Business with Christina Nicholson

E70: Who doesn't like free or cheap stuff? Imagine getting more customers without spending money. Today, host Yong-Soo ( @YongSooChung ) is joined by an expert in PR and earned media, Christina Nicholson ( @ChristinaAllDay ), an award-winning journalist. Christina will discuss why small businesses should start with local media and why earned media's credibility is its most powerful asset. She also discusses how to obtain free (or affordable) PR and how to pitch the media to get coverage. On tod

Reviews

Concise & Great Info

"Love how the info is delivered in a concise and digestible way! These topics are what we need to hear & it’s especially valuable coming from a successful entrepreneur. Thank you for starting this pod…"

BanannaBoat | Nov. 10, 2022

Game changer!

"The First Class Founder podcast is adding valuable tools to my toolkit! Yong-Soo offers real first-hand experience and valuable perspective about the founder journey. Several of his podcasts have tak…"

Debs gals | Nov. 11, 2022

Inspiration for the underdogs! 💪

"Very cool to get to learn from an 8-figure business owner that started from scratch in a small 1-bedroom apartment. Truly inspiring. Excited to check out more episodes!"

angiegriffith | Nov. 11, 2022

"I love the content of this podcast - the analysis and opinions are always super interesting - the sound effects mid-explanation really help provide a relatable experience.The content is always real…"

Pedro Carvalho | Nov. 25, 2022

Ton of Great Content

"Really appreciate Yong-Soo's new podcast and the actionable, bite sized advice he's offering. Already read one of the Jim Collin's books he recommends and implementing the strategies described there…"

Dan McK. | Jan. 3, 2023

A great podcast for creators!

"First Class Founders is one of my new favorite podcasts. As a creator, Yong-Soo is a wealth of information with a great voice for the pod! Add this one to your list!"

bluecollard | April 5, 2023

Dripping in wisdom

"If you wanna succeed as an entrepreneur, what more could you ask for? Solid advice and eye-opening tips from a legitimate source. Listen and watch as you start printing money!"

kodytd | April 10, 2023

So much free value

"No matter where you are in your entrepreneurial journey, you’ll gain so much from this podcast. Check out his newsletter and Twitter, as well!"

Dave Abiera | April 10, 2023

Must Have For The Rotation

"Such a good show. Quality interviews and top notch production. Added this to my regular rotation."

tomharari | April 10, 2023

The Ultimate Podcast for Entrepreneurs and Content Creators

"Yong-Soo's story is inspiring. He has the best processes in place. If there is someone you should learn about systems and processes, it is him!This podcast offers the most detailed breakdowns, tips…"

ScarletPercy | July 13, 2023