006. Keep What You Love, Delegate the Rest with Ben Sweat
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As business owners, it's so easy to chase after the next great idea or settle into a strategy that doesn't really represent what we're passionate about. Getting caught up in trends or making business decisions based on what's fresh or new can feel right at the time — but when we're not building from the heart, we burn out from a lack of passion or boundaries.
Today's guest has mastered the balance of pursuing great ideas while prioritizing his "why." Serial entrepreneur, Ben Sweat, is the owner of multiple small businesses, a few of which we've had the joy of branding with Copperheart Creative. As a full-time employee, business owner, husband and father of five, he's found a way to stay balanced in his many ventures by defining success as family first, business second.
It's so clear throughout our chat that he gains the most fulfillment and inspiration from his family, which I love. Interestingly, Ben's latest product development projects have all been exclusive for women. And with a wife and four girls at home, it's easy to see where he gets his ideas and passion for each brand!
On today's episode, Ben shares his story of entrepreneurship and how he's learned to hold each business lightly. We chat about failure and how his girls remind him that it's important to start businesses that connect with your heart. Ben also goes into the pros and cons of building an e-commerce business vs. a brick and mortar, and why it's ok (even an asset!) to have lots of a different interests as an entrepreneur.
I left this conversation feeling inspired to check in with my own business and make sure my heart was really connecting with our team and clients! Because Ben holds each business opportunity so lightly, his attitude is infectious and makes open doors feel more exciting than scary! I can't wait to hear what YOU get out of this episode!
“There’s an intrinsic beauty to everybody and inherent worth to everyone. ”
The heart behind his business.
When it comes to business, Ben’s mentality is really inspiring and unique. His first priority is family, which seems to be a common theme in every business he chooses to pursue. His four girls are a big inspiration, and whether it’s developing a product or working on an e-commerce venture, he tends to pick businesses that reflect his heart for positive, female messaging. It’s a strategy that’s worked for him over and over, as his target demographic literally lives in his house!
While Ben certainly has a strong gut instinct about the businesses he partners with, his heart really shines through when he discusses the obstacles. Failure is more of an invitation to Ben, and he believes in holding each business lightly. As he says in our chat, “It may not work out but it's a lot of fun!” I love this mentality, and it was such a good reminder to stay curious and not get too bogged down in the what if’s or big failures.
It’s all about trust.
As you’ll hear throughout the interview, Ben is big on trust. From trusting your team to trusting yourself, making this a regular check in or practice is key to success. Because Ben understands his personal “zone of genius,” he hires contractors (aka: entrepreneurs) to handle different aspects of each business he takes on. From branding to product development, he’s learned to trust every hire and build relational foundations that flourish.
When it comes to stepping out and taking the big risk, Ben believes in trusting your gut. Look around and take in all the information, then leap through those cracked doors. Success really comes down to believing in yourself, what you’re offering, and the team that supports you!
Do all the things.
“I can’t be just one thing,” says Ben. His approach to business is just as varied as his interests. From exercise equipment to skin care, Ben has his hand in a bit of this and that. This mentality is such a release for many of us, because it offers us permission to inch away from the “know your niche” strategy. If you have multiple interests or giftings, don’t be afraid to chase after that curiosity! You never know how they may connect in the end, and if you’re following your passion you’ll be less likely to burn out. Plus, it’s just more fun to diversify, isn’t it?!
Best Advice to your younger self.
When asked his advice to new business owners, Ben says: “Never be shy about asking for help, even if you're not paying somebody. People are typically generous with their time.” I love this take! Whether it’s seeking out mentors or getting some advice from other experts in your industry, asking for help is so key to success. It takes humility and awareness, but it’s the BEST seed to sow into your future business!
“Failure is painful, but there really is no substitute for experience. ”
Connect with Ben.
So how does Ben juggle all his business ventures with family and personal time? How did he learn to trust his gut and take big risks? I know this interview will inspire so much in your this week! Press play to listen to the full interview and hear more brilliant business strategies from Ben Sweat!
Connect with Ben and check out the links mentioned in the episode below!
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