Welcome to an inspiring exploration of personal growth, entrepreneurship, and the philosophy of radical responsibility. Today, we delve into the life and insights of Anthony Mink, co-founder and CEO of Live Bearded, a thriving e-commerce brand generating over $50 million in sales. With a commitment to accountability and a passion for helping others, Anthony shares his journey from humble beginnings to becoming a successful entrepreneur.
Setting Intentions for the New Year
As the year unfolds, many of us reflect on our goals and aspirations. Anthony emphasizes the importance of being intentional with each day, viewing the year as a blank book with 365 pages to fill. He engages in a three-step planning process at the end of each year: assessing where he stands personally, professionally, emotionally, and spiritually; envisioning where he wants to go; and identifying who he needs to become to achieve that vision.
For Anthony, the focus is on growth. He sets ambitious goals for Live Bearded, aiming for a 50% increase in both revenue and profit. Additionally, he’s working on a mentorship program to support aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly those who are just starting their journey. His love for travel remains a priority, with plans to spend summers in Europe and Christmas in Australia.
The Birth of Live Bearded
To understand Live Bearded’s inception, we travel back to Anthony’s early ambitions as an entrepreneur. In 2008, he was a broke, scared kid eager to create a life on his own terms. His initial foray into digital marketing laid the foundation for understanding revenue generation, but it wasn’t until he partnered with a friend during No Shave November in 2015 that the idea for Live Bearded was born.
Driven by a desire to build a community of men, Anthony and his co-founder sought to create a brand that uplifted and supported its customers. They launched with a simple sales funnel and quickly sold out of their initial 500 products in just two days. This success fueled their ambition to develop a thriving e-commerce business centered on brotherhood and community.
Growing the Brand
The growth of Live Bearded is a testament to Anthony’s commitment to consistent effort and incremental improvements. Over the years, they progressed from $1.5 million in the first year to over $50 million, focusing on understanding customer needs and fostering a culture of loyalty. A significant portion of their revenue comes from repeat customers and subscriptions, showcasing the brand's strong relationship with its community.
Anthony emphasizes that the key to business success lies in the fundamentals: effective communication, customer retention, and strategic marketing. He believes that every business is a conversation around a shared experience, and for Live Bearded, that experience revolves around masculinity, brotherhood, and personal growth.
Cultivating Company Culture
At Live Bearded, the company culture is paramount. Anthony and his co-founder, Spencer, have built a brand that prioritizes community and connection. They aim to treat every customer like a brother, offering generous return policies and encouraging customers to gift unwanted products to friends rather than returning them.
This culture of generosity and support has fostered deep loyalty among customers. Stories of community engagement, such as customers sending gifts back to the company, illustrate the impact of their values. Anthony believes that creating a culture where customers feel valued and supported is essential for long-term success.
The Role of a CEO
As the CEO of Live Bearded, Anthony embraces the multifaceted nature of his role. He identifies four key responsibilities: launching innovative campaigns, developing leadership within the organization, driving business development, and building systems and processes. The allocation of resources—time, money, and talent—is a critical aspect of his role, as it directly influences the company’s growth trajectory.
Anthony recognizes the importance of having a strong team and infrastructure to allow for personal freedom. By empowering his team and focusing on leadership development, he can pursue his passion for travel while ensuring the business continues to thrive.
Living with Intention
Anthony’s journey is not just about business success; it’s also about living intentionally. He reflects on the importance of clarity in one’s life goals, emphasizing that understanding what you don’t want can be just as revealing as knowing what you do want. This approach allows for a more focused and fulfilling life journey.
He articulates a profound lesson: the results we achieve in life are directly related to who we become in the process. By optimizing for skill acquisition rather than material wealth, Anthony finds fulfillment in the journey itself, prioritizing experiences over possessions.
Entitled to Nothing: A Philosophy for Life
The title of Anthony’s podcast, “Entitled to Nothing,” encapsulates his philosophy of radical responsibility. Growing up with an abusive father taught him the dangers of blame and victimhood. Instead, he advocates for taking ownership of one’s life and choices. This mindset became particularly poignant during challenging times when he faced bankruptcy and loss.
In his own words, Anthony states, “My life is my fault, and I am entitled to nothing.” This mantra serves as a guiding principle for his personal and professional life, encouraging others to embrace accountability and take control of their destinies.
Anthony Mink’s journey is a powerful reminder of the importance of radical accountability, community, and intentional living. His success with Live Bearded demonstrates that when we focus on building genuine relationships and fostering a supportive culture, we can create lasting impact and fulfillment.
For those looking to connect with Anthony or learn more about his work, visit anthonymink.com or follow him on Instagram. As we navigate our own paths, let’s remember to embrace the philosophy of being entitled to nothing and take charge of our lives.
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