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Tag: Celebrity Entrepreneurs

  • 5 Things Every Entrepreneur Should Do This Holiday Season

    5 Things Every Entrepreneur Should Do This Holiday Season

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    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    With the holiday season upon us and the end of another year quickly approaching, it can cause frenetic feelings about wrapping up final projects. On the other hand, it may offer a chance to reflect on how far we’ve come since January.

    Most of us fall somewhere in between, and it can be easy to lose focus as December 31 approaches. However, this holiday season, carve out time to tackle a few to-dos that will set you up nicely for the year ahead, give you space to think about what you’ve already achieved and prepare you for 2023.

    Related: 5 Things Entrepreneurs Should Focus on During the Holidays

    1. Write three goals you want to accomplish

    Whether you have ongoing monthly or quarterly goals, it’s wise to set three larger goals you want to accomplish in the new year. Consider if you want to switch direction come January or build upon what you’ve already created. Start big. Then, create a strategy with individual milestones to get you where you want to be.

    In business, most goals are attached to revenue but consider alternative perspectives as you plan for the future. What kind of client or service growth do you want to achieve? Do you want to attract a different type of audience? Do you want to add a new skill or certification to your repertoire? Perhaps a goal is to speak at an event or become an influencer in your industry. Whatever you want to achieve, attach your motivating “why” to each goal and map out tangible steps to make it easier to envision.

    Related: This Simple Brain Hack Will Help You Achieve All Your Goals

    2. Declutter your schedule

    Adding new goals and plans to 2023 means you must make room by decluttering your current schedule. The end of the year is an excellent time to review your ongoing meetings and commitments and evaluate where they can be trimmed or deleted altogether. Every entrepreneur knows time is a precious commodity, so to avoid getting burned out, make sure your calendar is full of things that help your growth.

    Simple changes may be to change a weekly meeting to twice a month or shorten regularly scheduled hour meetings to half the time. Take a look at all the organizations — both online and in-person — which may be taking up time with little to no return on investment. Also, consider areas that limit your productivity. Social media is always a common distraction. Although, for many, it’s necessary to maintain a presence online. To keep it a helpful tool (rather than a place for mindless scrolling), schedule specific times when you’ll post and check your channels. Then, step away from social media for the rest of the day.

    Related: 10 Ways to Declutter Without Going Minimalist

    3. Review your budget

    As with decluttering your schedule, take a look at your budget and consider areas that can be eliminated. Are there programs or tools you’re no longer using? Have you put off canceling the free trial on apps or subscriptions that can be better invested elsewhere or budgeted in another way?

    Additionally, auto-pay makes it easy to forget where we spend our money. Take stock of all business auto-payments and see if any can be deactivated. Also, consider other business expenses like online courses, educational or networking events and client meetings. Where do you receive the most value? Weigh each individually to determine if all the resources you’re currently using are still as helpful as they once were. If not, get rid of them and know they’ll always be there should you need them again.

    Related: 5 Ways to Build a Business Budget for Maximum Success

    4. Make a list of all the things you’re thankful for

    Gratitude is the free, quiet booster to success. Plus, it’s easy to obtain. While waiting for your morning coffee to brew or before you dive into answering emails, jot down three things you’re thankful for. Take extra time to reflect and expand your list during the holiday season. Creating a daily gratitude habit isn’t just something to make you feel warm and fuzzy; it can help you focus, increase efficiency and create an abundance mindset.

    Numerous studies illustrate the positive effects of gratitude on the brain. It changes the brain’s makeup and can help us feel more engaged and appreciative, leading to greater productivity, optimism and overall better mental health. Consider the benefits of what starting your day with gratitude could do for your outlook, especially compared to the frenzy we often find ourselves in first thing in the morning.

    Related: Cultivating Gratitude and Happiness Will Boost Your Business

    5. Take time for yourself

    There’s been a cultural shift over the past years from the hustle mentality to a state of self-care. However, for entrepreneurs, sometimes it’s not so easy to slow down. Many times there is no one to delegate work to, which means there’s a difficult balance to sustain a steady workload. Nevertheless, it’s always necessary to take time for yourself. It can seem overwhelming for some, so you’ll have to be intentional in how you want to use the time. Put it on the calendar. Make it a priority.

    Good physical and mental health are two things that are easy to take for granted until they start to fail us. When taking time for yourself, these areas should be at the top of the list. Plan it out, whether it’s a workout at the gym, a walk around the block or a few minutes for stretching and meditation.

    Putting it last on the list means it’s not likely to happen, and burnout could be around the corner. Add time for play and enjoyment into your weekly schedule as well. Essentially, time for yourself, planning or relaxing, must be part of your daily list of to-dos, and what better time to start than the holidays?

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    Kelly Hyman

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  • The NFL’s JJ Watt Sacks Chipotle On Twitter

    The NFL’s JJ Watt Sacks Chipotle On Twitter

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    JJ Watt has one question for Chipotle: Where’s the beef?

    In a frustrated tweet today, the gigantic defensive end for the NFL’s Arizona Cardinals told the Mexican food chain: “Burritos have been getting smaller. It’s high time we open dialogue about it. We want big burritos back.”

    Watt included a photo of a Chipotle burrito dwarfed by his huge hands—hardly a satisfying meal for a man that measures 6’8 and 288 pounds.

    In response to Watt, one miffed tweeter even pulled out a ruler to prove the point.

    Return of #burritogate

    The Pro Bowl player’s complaint was nothing new. Business Insider broke the story last year that customers around the country were expressing their displeasure across social media that Chipotle has been skimping on their burritos.

    At the time, Chipotle blamed the problem on custom orders, not the serving size.

    “Guests of Chipotle have the opportunity to completely customize their meal in restaurants by vocalizing their desired portions, or digitally selecting extra, light, normal or on the side when choosing from the list of real ingredients,” Chief Corporate Affairs Officer Laurie Schalow said in a statement. “We are not experiencing any supply-chain shortages, and Chipotle receives an abundance of praise for the incredible value its entrees offer with responsibly sourced ingredients chopped or grilled fresh daily.”

    But this argument hasn’t stopped customers from beefing with Chipotle for what they perceive as their shrinking tortilla treat.

    At press time, Watt’s tweet had over 58,000 likes, with many sending photos of their burrito’s diminutive stature.

    Many hope that a big-name star like JJ Watt joining the cause will bring back the plus-size burrito. But Chipotle has yet to respond.

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    Jonathan Small

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  • Hawaiian Tropic Founders’ Beachfront Florida Mansion For Sale

    Hawaiian Tropic Founders’ Beachfront Florida Mansion For Sale

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    • The beachfront estate of late Hawaiian Tropic founder Ron Rice is on the market for $5.99 million.
    • The mansion was built to entertain, with three pools, two bars, and unblocked ocean views.
    • Among the items Rice kept on display in the house was the trash can in which he first mixed his suntan lotion formula.

    This story was originally published on Business Insider.

    Ron Rice, the late founder of Hawaiian Tropic, built an empire on suntan lotions. The Florida mansion where he hosted celebrity parties is now on the market for $5.99 million.

    Ron Rice and models attend Westin Kauai Celebrity Sports Invitational on October 8, 1988, at the Westin Kauai Resort in Kauai, Hawaii. Ron Galella/Ron Galella Collection via Getty Images via BI

    Rice bought the 1-acre property in May 1983 for $360,000, property records show.

    He lived in the house for almost 40 years until his death in May, listing agent Bill Navarra from Realty Pros Assured told Insider. Rice was 81 when he died, per his New York Times obituary.

    “There’s a northern structure that was built in the sixties and he bought both lots,” Navarra said of the property. “And then in 1985, he built the additional main living quarters.”

    The estate was completed in 1987, per the listing. This is the first time the house has been on the market.

    The exterior of the house. HomeFx via BI

    Houses in Ormond Beach have a median listing home price of $440,000, per data from real-estate platform Realtor.com. There are currently 448 single-family homes for sale, with prices ranging from $107,000 to $5.99 million — making Rice’s estate the most expensive listing in the area.

    Rice’s estate did not immediately respond to Insider’s request for an interview, sent through the listing agent.

    Rice grew up in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, far from the sea and the sandy beaches associated with his brand.

    The main living area. Rice put all his favorite possessions on display so he could enjoy them every day. HomeFx via BI

    After graduating from college, Rice became a high school chemistry teacher, coached football, and worked as a lifeguard on the side, per the New York Times.

    It was during one of his lifeguarding shifts that he had the epiphany to create a product that could rival suntan lotion giant Coppertone, per The Washington Post. In a trash can in his garage, Rice mixed up a combination of oils until he nailed the formula that would eventually become Hawaiian Tropic suntan lotion.

    By 2006, Hawaiian Tropic became the second-largest sun-care product company in the world with $110 million in sales, per the New York Times. A year later, Rice sold his company for $83 million.

    Rice filled his home with life-sized animal sculptures, framed pictures of pageant competitors, and eclectic furniture.

    Among the things that Rice kept was the garbage can in which he first created the Hawaiian Tropic suntan lotion formula (bottom right). HomeFx via BI

    “He’s traveled all over the world and got a lot of gifts from different people he’s met through his life,” Navarra said. “He wanted to enjoy them every day.”

    Among the items Rice kept in his living room was the garbage can that started it all, per the New York Times. Only now, he had it plated in silver.

    These items are not included in the sale of the house, Navarra said.

    While the interiors of the 12,414-square-foot mansion are primarily made out of wood, the stones on the outside of the house were imported from North Carolina, Navarra said.

    The kitchen area. HomeFx via BI

    “Rice did the same thing with the Hawaiian Tropic office in Ormand Beach,” Navarra added.

    Part of Hawaiian Tropic’s success can be attributed to Rice’s guerilla marketing tactics, which included running beauty pageants, sponsoring race-car drivers, and securing product placements in Hollywood films.

    A bar area for entertaining guests. Rice kept framed photos of some of his pageant models around the house. HomeFx via BI

    Rice ran the annual Miss Hawaiian Tropic contests from 1983 to 2010, with celebrity judges that included former US president Donald Trump — who met his second wife Marla Maples when she was a contestant, per the New York Times.

    Recounting his first pageant, Rice told Knoxville News Sentinel that “it was magic.”

    “I had unlimited girls … beautiful girls … wanting to be one of our Hawaiian Tropic models,” Rice said. “I had to choose, and they were just throwing themselves at my feet to be one of our models.”

    Rice’s other marketing stunts included plastering the brand on a Porsche 935 that Paul Newman drove at the 1979 Le Mans and on a No. 1 Hawaiian Tropic Oldsmobile that racing driver Donnie Allison famously wrecked at the 1979 Daytona 500.

    “We were making money hand over fist,” Rice told Knoxville News Sentinel in 2020. “We didn’t know what to do with it.”

    Rice’s mansion was designed for entertaining, and the founder put it to work.

    The indoor pool is flanked by two angel statues. It is connected to one of the two outdoor pools. HomeFx via BI

    The indoor pool is flanked by two angel statues, and it’s connected to an outdoor pool so guests can swim in and out, Navarra said.

    Names on Rice’s party guest list included celebrities and professional athletes of the day, such as O.J. Simpson, Joe Pesci, and Jerry Lee Lewis, per The Daytona Beach News-Journal.

    There are four bedrooms in the house. The primary suite has 180-degree views of the ocean.

    The master suite has unblocked views of the open sea. HomeFx via BI

    “I became friends with him over the years of selling real estate with him,” Navarra said of Rice. “He had such unique styles of doing business.”

    There was one occasion when the business mogul had problems getting a local surf shop to carry his products, Navarra said, recounting a story Rice once told him.

    “He sent several of his models there, and they all went in and asked for the same product,” Navarra said.

    Rice ended up striking a deal with the store owner, Navarra added: “And Ron said, from that point forward, that became one of his top-selling surf shops in Daytona Beach.”

    Navarra says this is the first time he’s seen so much buzz about a property.

    The primary suite bathroom is covered in mirrored walls and comes with a sauna and a jacuzzi.
    HomeFx via BI

    “I’ve been doing this for 25 years,” Navarra said. “Newspapers, media — I’ve never seen so much excitement about a house ever before.”

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    Amanda Goh

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  • This Ex-Navy Drone Operator Is Now Working with Lizzo

    This Ex-Navy Drone Operator Is Now Working with Lizzo

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    Back in 2018, Taylor Character, aka HoneyLuv, was operating drones for the Navy at a base in Malibu, California.

    “Being in the military made me a lot more organized,” the Cleveland native told Billboard. “I would also say being more diligent, not allowing myself to slack, and to be on top of everything — a self-starter and motivator.”

    She used her newfound discipline to teach herself how to DJ, a skill that would pay off big time. In just two short years, HoneyLuv has toured at EDM festivals around the country and produced remixes for such artists as Diplo and Lizzo.

    “Don’t let anyone tell you it isn’t possible. Anything in this world is attainable,” HoneyLuv said.

    Related: DJ Khaled Just Rented Out His Sneaker Closet on Airbnb for $11

    From drones to dancefloors

    After leaving the military, HoneyLuv made her first debut by spinning Hip Hop and R&B music on Dash Radio as a Guest DJ for celebrity trainer Corey Calliet’s “Issa Lifestyle” radio show. She also began regularly spinning at Flamingo Deck, a club in San Diego.

    Her sets caught the ear of a former talent agent who booked her at The Day Trip Festival in Los Angeles. Her career began to take off from there.

    HoneyLuv hired a business manager, which she said is one of the wisest moves she’s ever made.

    “To have someone there to help guide you business-wise makes it so much easier,” she told Billboard.

    Her manager booked HoneyLuv huge tours, such as Desert Hearts and the Electric Daisy Carnival in Las Vegas, where she was the only Black artist in the entire lineup.

    In July, HoneyLuv dropped an impossibly-titled tech house single called “Thr33 6ix 5ive.” The song has been streamed on Spotify more than 5 million times.

    This month, HoneyLuv will release a remix of Lizzo’s song, “Everybody’s Gay.”

    “I’m a huge Lizzo fan. Just what she stands for,” HoneyLuv said in a profile in The New York Times.

    She hopes her success will inspire more Black female DJs to join the party.

    “It’s up to us to continue the legacy in hopes we can inspire more and more people to join this community and enjoy the music.”

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    Jonathan Small

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  • Sammy Hagar and Guy Fieri Reveal The Two Key Ingredients of Entrepreneurial Success

    Sammy Hagar and Guy Fieri Reveal The Two Key Ingredients of Entrepreneurial Success

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    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    There was John and Paul and then John and Oko. Chris Tucker and Jackie Chan. Will Smith and Tommy Lee Jones. Sure, we’ve had great pairings on the screen, in the recording studio, and on stage, but mixing sectors is taking on a whole new life and energy.

    Rocker Sammy Hagar never plays second-fiddle to anyone unless you’re a bleach-blonde, larger-than-life flavor junkie who hunts down good times like it’s a profession. We’re, of course, talking about Guy Fieri.

    Hagar and Fieri, both from small towns in California, share a love of entertainment and experience and are continuing to bring that to consumers with more offerings from the company Santo Spirits.

    Entrepreneur spent time with the duo to dig deeper into the roots of their partnership and, more importantly, friendship.

    Known affectionately as the “Godfather of Tequila,” Hagar has been on the spirits scene long before Ryan Reynolds, George Clooney, Conor McGregor, Bryan Cranston, or Charles Barkley cashed in on the distillery run that has made billions worldwide.

    Hagar attributes much of his success in the spirit industry to the gritty and comforting roots of his rearing in the lettuce fields of Salinas, California. “We grew up poor, but we always had a garden. My grandma and my mom canned everything. We ate good tomatoes all year round,” he says. Hagar remembers the smell wafting yards away from his artisanal chef and grandfather’s trailer-turned Italian-bistro. “He made his own cheese, pasta and olive oil. He even made his own wine! I would walk towards his trailer, and it was like a deli — it smelled so damn good!”

    Related: ‘No One Believed’ This Black Founder Was the Owner of a Liquor Brand in 2012. He Launched to Great Acclaim — Then Lost It All. Here’s How He Made a Multi-Million-Dollar Comeback.

    The romanticism of his relationship with food and family emanates in his description and experience of flavors today. He didn’t plan on a spirits biz, but good taste pulled him in like many things in his life. Hagar leans into the quality of the food and spirit industry, maybe because he only first experienced a restaurant at the ripe age of 24.

    Wine was Hagar’s first love, and through a few unexpected and global turns, he found himself in Jalisco, Mexico sipping tequila. What started with Cabo Wabo eventually expanded into new ventures. “Good tequila tastes like the earth with salt and citrus. Overtones, fruity, herbaceous, time and limit are all involved. Santo Tequila Blanco, you can drink it by itself. There are so many notes in it.”

    “Fieri grows peaches all around the distillery, and you can taste and smell the peaches in there. It’s such a wonderful agave spirit. Out of a Blanco tequila, I can name 15 different things that I smell in ours because there’s nothing else in it. Others might smell like sugar or honey because they try to bring it up with agave syrups. A lot of tequila is not as pure as it should be anymore.”

    Before tequila, Fieri was drinking the Kool-Aid

    Years before Fieri was smashing flavor profiles on our screens, he was selling Kool-Aid in his neighborhood. Known for rolling his sleeves up, Fieri literally dipped his youthful arm into pitchers of the iconic 80’s beverage until his father noticed. “My dad kicked me out of the Kool-Aid business after he caught me with a purple arm. I’d lost my stirring stick, my dog took it, and my dad busted me. He said, ‘That’s it, you’re out.’”

    The budding beverage king learned a valuable lesson as an up-and-coming entrepreneur. “I always had a couple of businesses going as a kid. I was a budding entrepreneur growing up in the angelic town of Ferndale, California. I always had businesses, and tourists were always coming through. I’d buy penny candy from the candy store and sell it for a nickel across the street with my own little booth made out of cardboard. People couldn’t believe this little kid was making money.” While his entrepreneurial Kool-Aid days are behind him, it wasn’t the only time Fieri would go on to make a profit selling beverages (albeit of the alcoholic variety).

    Enter the dream team

    When Hagar sold Cabo Wabo, Fieri was crushed — his restaurant self-reported selling more Cabo Wabo than any restaurant in the country.

    They talked. Hagar was ready to chill and enjoy the well-earned sips that had solidified his place as an entrepreneur. Fieri wanted to partner up to build a spirits company with Hagar, who was reticent. Call me in a decade, and maybe I’ll be ready, Hagar replied.

    Fieri was ready even if the decade bloated a couple of years before circling back with Hagar. This time it was Hagar doing the calling, and Santo Spirits was born.

    Bandmates

    For decades Hagar has approached life and business, aiming to be the best. “Quite honestly, when I joined Van Halen, I thought if I couldn’t sing better than the previous guy [David Lee Roth], I wouldn’t have joined the band.” By all accounts, Hagar has found a bandmate in Fieri that embodies a key element of success for entrepreneurs — complementary skills and a matched passion for winning.

    Fieri provides advice for entrepreneurs in something he adlibs the 25/8 rule. “If you don’t have spark, you don’t have sh-t. But it takes hard work. It’s one of the things this country was founded on and the sacrifices our veterans made. Get the 40-hour workweek out of your mind. You’ve got to work 24/7, and in my book, it’s more like 25/8. But it’s important to remember that you also live 25/8. Don’t make work and life separate, make it the same thing, and put it all together.”

    Hagar realized corporate success through gates of established fame and beliefs that allowed him to bring passion over profits to his pursuits outside of music. “I came through music and had more success, fame, and fortune than anyone could ever want in their lives. When I started doing business deals, it was strictly out of passion and creativity, with a strong connection to music.” It’s become personal for Hagar, who finds peace and reward in his Hagar Family Foundation, providing services for kids and families in need. Hagar remembers being poor and sees his job as assisting communities and giving back.

    Hagar’s mother, if not for an unexpected supporter, was given typing classes that resulted in an office job and away from day-labor work in the fields. Hagar repeatedly shares, “What if? What if she wasn’t so lucky?”

    Don’t make the mistake of thinking a little tequila can knock these two back. Hagar and Fieri have discovered the entrepreneurial recipe that celebrates friendship, revenue and a splash of legacy to personalize the business of experience.

    Most entrepreneur “how to” books scoff at friends going into business together. I guess spirits and rock-n-roll are just a tad bit more exciting than widgets. Hagar and Fieri will be rocking the sipping industry while most of us are rocking our email and spreadsheets. Salud!

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    Dr. Rod Berger

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  • ‘I Lied’: The $100-Million Liver King Admits to Taking Steroids

    ‘I Lied’: The $100-Million Liver King Admits to Taking Steroids

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    The Liver King built a $100 Million a year kingdom hyping a diet of raw meat and rigorous exercise to achieve “strength, health, and happiness.”

    In his viral videos on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, the organ-devouring Liver King loudly evangelized for an “ancestral” caveman-like lifestyle, eating such delicacies as raw liver, bone marrow, and bull testicles.

    He subsequently made a fortune selling protein supplements and dried animal organs through his Heart & Soil and Ancestral brands.

    But now the Liver King’s reign as a premier fitness influencer is in jeopardy after he confessed to lying about taking steroids to enhance his jacked body.

    Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC

    “I lied, and I misled a lot of people,” said Liver King, whose real name is Brian Johnson, in a somber YouTube video. “Yes, I’ve done steroids, and yes, I am on steroids.”

    Related: Want To Carve Your Fitness Niche? Tips From This Expert Will Help

    The Liver King’s steroid use

    Many skeptics, most notably Joe Rogan, were skeptical that the 45-year-old Johnson wasn’t taking performance-enhancing drugs. But Johnson repeatedly denied steroid use.

    “I don’t touch the stuff. I’ve never done the stuff. I’m not going to do the stuff,” he said on Mark Bell’s Power Project podcast.

    Instead, he pushed a narrative that his family (his wife is The Liver Queen) lived according to “nine ancestral tenants:” to eat, sleep, move, shine, connect, cold, sun, fight, and bond.

    But last week, the Liver King’s all-natural facade was exposed by another fitness YouTuber More Plates More Dates, who showed leaked emails from Johnson admitting to taking multiple steroids and asking a dealer to sell him even more. The video also included Johnson’s blood test, which proved steroid use.

    Why the Liver King lied

    Sitting shirtless on a leather throne, the normally braggadocious Johnson humbly confessed to lying about his steroid use in an apology video. “I am as sorry as a man can be,” he said.

    He admitted to taking 120 mg of testosterone per week but denied other rumors, such as getting ab implants or plastic surgery.

    Johnson blamed his steroid use on his insecurity.

    “When I talk about the 85 percent of the population that suffers from self-esteem issues, that’s me. I’m part of that statistic. This is why I f–ng work myself to death in the gym. This is why I do 12 to 15 blood-burning workouts a week, just to feel like I’m okay,” he said. “And hormone replacement has helped in a profound and significant way.”

    Will The Liver King be dethroned? The fate of his empire is unclear, and Johnson isn’t saying much about his future moves.

    “All I can do is take extreme ownership right now, be better, and lead myself to a better life as a better human,” he told his millions of followers.

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    Jonathan Small

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  • DJ Khaled Just Rented Out His Sneaker Closet on Airbnb for $11

    DJ Khaled Just Rented Out His Sneaker Closet on Airbnb for $11

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    DJ Khaled wants to be “The Best” Airbnb host.

    On Tuesday, the Grammy-winning artist listed two one-night stays inside his Miami sneaker closet in December.

    “Sleep in my legendary sneaker collection and experience the 305 through the eyes (and shoes) of yours truly,” Khaled wrote in the ad.

    The Airbnb sold out in minutes, according to BET.

    The “Sneaker Kingdom,” as Khaled calls it, is not his actual sneaker closet but a replica. Nevertheless, guests will be given a “major key” to the space that houses DJ Khaled’s collection of more than 10,000 sneakers, including his personal Jordan 3 “Grateful” and Jordan 8 “Oregon PEs.

    But that’s not all. Upon arrival, guests will receive a handwritten welcome note from Khaled and a pair of his newly designed shoes We The Best Air Jordan 5s.

    Khaled’s Airbnb does not have a TV or a kitchen, but it does have access to an outdoor lounge where Khaled says you can “kick back and soak in the Miami vibes after a dip in the pool.”

    Khaled is also offering a catered dinner from his restaurant The Licking – Miami Gardens, and a private shopping session at Miami sneaker store, 305 Kicks.

    Related: 7 Things You Didn’t Know About DJ Khaled

    Why is DJ Khaled renting his closet?

    The move was part of a promotional effort to tout DJ Khaled’s new album “God Did” and reveal his newest Jordan Brand collaboration.

    DJ Khaled is a self-proclaimed “sneakerhead from birth,” he said in a statement. “Sneakers are an essential part of hip hop culture, and collecting them is an art – just like creating music.”

    But the 46-year-old Palestinian-American music mogul hasn’t always been awash in expensive sneakers. He spent his early years working as a busboy in New Orleans and spinning at clubs for $100 a week in Orlando. Eventually, he got a radio show at 99 Jamz in Miami and started to produce his own music.

    His fame skyrocketed when he joined Snapchat in 2015, giving his fans insights into his personal life and offering lessons about success.

    He would go on to record seven top-10 hits and collaborate with such artists as Jay Z, Beyonce, Drake, Lil Wayne, and Rihanna, to name just a few.

    His advice to aspiring entrepreneurs? “Watch your back. But more importantly, when you get out of the shower, dry your back. It’s a cold world out there.”

    Unless you’re kicking it in his Sneaker Kingdom.

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    Jonathan Small

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  • Reality Stars Are Sentenced To Prison for a ’15-Year Fraud Spree’

    Reality Stars Are Sentenced To Prison for a ’15-Year Fraud Spree’

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    It turns out the Chrisleys should have known better.

    Todd and Julie Chrisley, stars of the reality TV show, “Chrisley Knows Best,” were sentenced in an Atlanta court today to multiple years in prison for defrauding banks out of $30 million and committing tax fraud.

    The sentence marks the final chapter in the spectacular fall of the reality star couple who once headlined USA Network’s top-rated original series.

    Their show, which revolves around the lives of a Georgia real estate tycoon and his wealthy family, was so popular that USA was planning a spinoff series, and E! was also set to launch a series with them.

    But the only series the Chrisleys will be participating in now is consecutive years in prison. A federal judge sentenced Todd Chrisley to 12 years plus 16 months probation. His wife, Julie, received seven years in prison plus 16 months probation.

    Related: What Happened to Theranos CEO Elizabeth Holmes? Everything from Her Net Worth to Where She Is Now

    ‘Career swindlers’

    Last June, a jury found the couple guilty of criminal bank fraud and tax evasion. Prosecutors said the Chrisleys falsified documents to obtain $30 million in bank loans that they used to fund their lavish lifestyle. When he couldn’t pay back the loans, Todd Chrisley declared bankruptcy.

    During this bankruptcy, the couple started their reality show in 2014 and “flaunted their wealth and lifestyle to the American public,” prosecutors said. They also used a film production company to hide millions of dollars from the IRS they earned from the show.

    Calling their actions a “15-year fraud spree,” prosecutors wrote after the trial: “The Chrisleys have built an empire based on the lie that their wealth came from dedication and hard work. The jury’s unanimous verdict sets the record straight: Todd and Julie Chrisley are career swindlers who have made a living by jumping from one fraud scheme to another, lying to banks, stiffing vendors, and evading taxes at every corner.”

    To this day, the Chrisleys say they did nothing wrong as someone else had control of their finances.

    Todd Chrisley’s lawyers asked the judge to give their client a reduced prison sentence, noting that he had no serious criminal history and has medical conditions that “would make imprisonment disproportionately harsh.”

    They also submitted letters from friends and business associates that show “a history of good deeds and striving to help others.”

    Julie Chrisley’s lawyers argued that she had a minimal role in the scheme and that she is the primary caregiver to her ailing mother-in-law. Her lawyers submitted letters from family and friends saying she is “hard-working, unfailingly selfless, devoted to her family and friend, highly respected by all who know her, and strong of character.”

    But the judge was unmoved, sentencing them within the guideline range.

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    Jonathan Small

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  • Jason Oppenheim Reveals His Secret to Staying Focused and Productive

    Jason Oppenheim Reveals His Secret to Staying Focused and Productive

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    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    Being an entrepreneur is not an easy task at all. When you choose a path of fending for yourself in business, the only person who can be blamed for failures is yourself. The entrepreneurial lifestyle requires a large amount of patience, perseverance and most of all, focus. Sometimes this leaves little to no energy to prioritize the most important parts of life like our physical and mental wellbeing.


    Benjo Arwas

    Science shows that when we prioritize our physical wellbeing, it correlates with being able to focus better on our work while also increasing our mental capabilities and wellbeing. This is why it is so important to focus on staying fit no matter how busy work may get.

    One entrepreneur who reaps the benefits of staying physically healthy is Jason Oppenheim. Oppenheim juggles the responsibilities of owning real estate conglomerate The Oppenheim Group while being active in the recording and production of the highly-popular Netflix series, “Selling Sunset.” Despite his busy schedule of back-to-back meetings, calls and time on set, Oppenheim prioritizes his physical wellbeing above all.

    I got the opportunity to speak with Jason Oppenheim as he offered insight on how he stays focused on work during his busy schedule while being mindful of his physical health.

    Related: No Time to Exercise? 3 Reasons Short Workouts Are Better Than Longer Ones

    Exercise at least 30 minutes a day

    Making time to be active daily benefits your brain in so many different ways. Exercising regularly is one of the easiest and most effective ways to reduce the symptoms of ADHD and improve concentration, motivation, memory and mood.

    Studies show that every time you move your body, a number of beneficial neurotransmitters, including dopamine, norepinephrine, serotonin and acetylcholine, get released into your brain. An organized review published in the journal, Translational Sports Medicine, found that it takes only two minutes of exercise to temporarily boost memory and overall brain functions.

    For Jason Oppenheim, 30 minutes in the gym, four to five times a week, is all he needs to stay focused and fit. “I do quick workouts, maybe 10 to 12 sets, and I’m out of the gym pretty quickly,” explained Oppenheim. Consistency is key to staying fit. “You have to keep your mind and body focused. Almost every time I get into a mood it’s generally because I’m not working out,” said Oppenheim. Being close in proximity has also been a game changer for Oppenheim, who walks 100 feet to a building next to his office to work out.

    Related: The Entrepreneur’s Diet for Success and Brain-Boosting Performance

    It’s about when you eat, not what you eat

    For Jason, his secret for staying lean isn’t attributed to his diet, but limiting how many times he eats: twice on a typical day. “I pretty much eat whatever I want. I don’t think anyone would call my eating habits impressive or healthy. I eat twice a day and that’s what keeps me lean,” explained Oppenheim.

    While Jason’s diet might not be what you’d expect a fit person’s diet to look like, his discipline of eating only twice a day allows him to fast incrementally, keeping a calorie deficit daily. In this case, it’s about when you eat, not what you eat. Jason eats lunch and dinner, holding out from a morning breakfast.

    Intermittent fasting is a popular method for burning fat. If you don’t eat for 10–16 hours, your body will go to its fat stores for energy, burning fat at a faster rate. And while this method works for Jason, it may not be everyone. Mayo Clinic says, “intermittent fasting is safe for many people, but it’s not for everyone. Skipping meals may not be the best way to manage your weight if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.”

    Being strict about when you are eating and allowing your body time to go through periods without eating may seem difficult at first, but doing so will help you stay lean.

    Related: Elon Musk Says He’s Lost 20 Pounds After Trying Intermittent Fasting and Now Feels Healthier

    Don’t overwhelm yourself

    Another important part of Jason Oppenheim’s consistency is staying away from overwhelming himself while making an effort to work out. “I go to the gym quickly. I don’t make it an overwhelming experience for myself. For me, I just want to check the box. I make the most of it,” Oppenheim pointed out.

    There is nothing wrong with keeping your workout brief. Doing so allows Oppenheim more time to get work done while still taking care of his body. “Leave the office and come back within 35 minutes,” Oppenheim explains.

    Final thoughts

    Concentrating on keeping both your mind and body healthy is vital to becoming successful as an entrepreneur. If you aren’t physically or mentally healthy, the stresses of life and business can begin to cave in.

    In Jason Oppenheim’s case, he doesn’t go over the top — he does just enough to see results. For example, while he isn’t at the gym for a super long period, he makes sure that he’s there enough to reap the benefits of staying active. You don’t need to spend hours at the gym, just an hour or so a day of being active can make all the difference. Oppenheim admitted his diet isn’t amazing, but his choice to fast and limit when he eats makes up for it all.

    There is only so much time in a day, and a busy schedule can make it challenging to prioritize our own wellbeing. Entrepreneurship calls for long hours, late nights, early mornings and an enormous amount of time and energy. But it’s the small, daily sacrifices to take care of your body that will go a long way in increasing productivity, and overall mood, all while sharpening focus. It’s scientifically proven.

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    Christian Anderson (Trust'N)

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  • These Comic Creators Got a $500,000 Shark Tank Investment

    These Comic Creators Got a $500,000 Shark Tank Investment

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    “I wanted to tell a story about African history before slavery,” Manuel Godoy, co-founder of Black Sands Entertainment with his wife Geiszel, says. “[So I wrote] a story about Ancient Egypt and the surrounding areas. And it was amazing — people gravitated toward it because they finally felt included in historical contexts.”


    Courtesy of Black Sands Entertainment

    The Godoys began Black Sands Entertainment in 2016 to draw attention to the characters and stories that so often go unwritten in mainstream media. Now, the comic publisher and media venture boasts dozens of titles that represent the entire diaspora, and young adults are devouring them — just like the Godoys would have, if they’d had the opportunity at their age.

    Black Sands stands apart for its dedication to Black history and its commitment to the Black community, but something else has also contributed to its striking success: The Godoys’ status as United States Army veterans.

    Ahead of Veterans Day, Entrepreneur sat down with the Godoys to learn how they’ve grown Black Sands from crowdfunding to almost IPO with investments from Kevin Hart and Mark Cuban — and how their Army backgrounds have informed their entrepreneurial journey along the way.

    Related: 6 Ways Small-Business Owners Can Celebrate Veterans Day

    “Momentum is the biggest factor when it comes to raising capital.”

    From the start, the Godoys spread the word about their content on social media and set their sights on raising capital. Between 2017 and 2020, Black Sands ran four Kickstarter campaigns and raised $80,000 in total. Then, in 2020, they decided to launch another campaign on WeFunder.

    “We basically judged the intent of our biggest followers,” Manuel says of their approach to the 2020 campaign. “We asked them, ‘How much were you planning on investing?’ [Then we said], ‘If you were to invest this much money, we would spend at least 15 minutes talking to you about any questions you have about our company, our financials, etc.’”

    The Godoys asked, and their readers answered: They raised $40,000 in those first 24 hours. Ultimately, that campaign brought in $500,000.

    “No one wants to be the first investor,” Manuel adds. “But if you already got 300, 400 investors in the first day, everybody’s like, ‘Hey, I’m joining too.’ Momentum is the biggest factor when it comes to raising capital if you’re going through customers.”

    And the Godoys have kept up Black Sands’ momentum since those early days, climbing to the top 1% of the Patreon community, raising $2 million in capital and earning more than $2 million in revenue to date.

    Related: Why Creators Are Recession-Proof

    “We got on stage, pitched our information, and everybody fell in love.”

    Earlier this year, the Godoys appeared on Shark Tank to pitch their company.

    Shark Tank features Mark Cuban, Barbara Corcoran, Lori Greiner, Robert Herjavec, Daymond John and Kevin O’Leary as permanent judges, with Kevin Hart, Emma Grede, Peter Jones, Daniel Lubetzky and Nirva Tolia as recurring guest judges.

    The Godoys knew that Hart was going to be one of their judges ahead of time.

    “We knew we had to make him fall in love with our content,” Geiszel says. “So we got on stage, pitched our information, and everybody fell in love.”

    Initially, the Godoys offered the Sharks a 5% stake in Black Sands for $500,000, with the funds earmarked for animation development and additional titles. But Hart and Cuban countered with a 30% stake for the same investment, citing the media resources that Hart’s production company, HartBeat, could provide as Black Sands expands.

    The fact that Black Sands’ Shark Tank deal went through is a testament to its strong business model and the Godoys’ entrepreneurial savvy. Forbes spoke to 74% of the people who were offered deals on the show in seasons one through seven and found that roughly 43% of those agreements didn’t go through — because the Sharks pulled out or changed the terms.

    Now, Black Sands is focusing on that animation development — and on taking the company public.

    Not only are the Godoys dreaming of an eventual $1 billion IPO, but they’re also envisioning a future where Black Sands’ fans-turned-investors are at the forefront, continuing to hold stock as “their slice of the pie.”

    Related: The Basics of Raising Capital for a Startup

    Image credit: Courtesy of Black Sands Entertainment

    “Being in the Army taught me how to be an entrepreneur.”

    The Godoys’ experiences in the Army have helped lay the foundation for Black Sands’ success.

    “Being in the Army taught me how to be an entrepreneur,” Geiszel explains. “In the Army, I was leading a group of 30 soldiers. So it taught me about how to manage a team and run a company, because [it gives] you that discipline and structure you need.”

    Manuel agrees, noting that the Army imparts significant leadership experience, even for those lower on the chain of command — because you have to learn how to get things done on time.

    Another skill the Army teaches that every founder should have on lock? Inventory.

    “You have to know where everything is and how much you have,” Manuel says. “Otherwise, one day you run out, and it takes three months to get the next part. And you’re out of business for three months.”

    The Army has given the Godoys essential skills for running a business — and it’s also inspired some of Black Sands’ narratives.

    “I’m a war nut,” Manuel says. “I love war, so anything that has to do with strategy, military tactics, logistics, that’s stuff that I put into my writing. I make sure it logistically makes sense that [a particular] battle is happening, and that’s probably why people like the accuracy of the storylines.”

    Related: 7 Qualities the Army Instilled in Me That Helped Me Launch a Business

    “Veterans always want to choose five different businesses at once. I’m like, ‘No, stick to your favorite.’”

    There are many reasons why veterans make excellent entrepreneurs. Manuel notes the benefits they have at their disposal, which can help accelerate their business’s growth.

    Still, the Godoys stress it’s important to keep several key things in mind.

    First up? Stick to one business idea — and see it through.

    “Veterans always want to choose like five different businesses at once,” Geiszel says. “Stick to your favorite, take those military skills, apply them to your everyday business life, and you will succeed. Don’t give up. If you fail, keep going.”

    Additionally, you should know exactly who’s buying what you’re selling.

    “Find out who your core customer is,” Manuel says. “Don’t worry about what you’re going to make and how you’re going to do all that stuff. Find out who you want to sell to — because once you figure that out, then you can make a product that’s tailored to them.”

    Once you have your idea and customer in mind, you have to surround yourself with people who will help you level up.

    “Hiring the right team is very important for a business to thrive,” Geiszel says. “And you want to make sure your team is going to be loyal to your company.”

    One sure way to cultivate company loyalty? Pay people fairly, raising benefits as the company succeeds — it will make employees feel valued and willing to continue their contribution. Manuel says that Black Sands has people who have been on the team for five or six years.

    Related: The 4 Rules of Treating Employees Equitably

    “We have to champion things that the Black community wants us to champion.”

    Above all else, Black Sands is a company that refuses to sacrifice its principles.

    Originally, the co-founders wrote and designed all of Black Sands’ comic books by themselves, but they’ve begun allowing other Black creators to write for them as they build their own brands.

    Black Sands has also harnessed the power of Kickstarter as part of its larger effort to lift up Black creators and their work. The Godoys recently launched a campaign for Everett Montgomery’s Flame comic series.

    Image credit: Courtesy of Black Sands Entertainment

    “We are a company that’s dedicated to Black history,” Manuel says. “And that means that we have to champion things that the Black community wants us to champion. We can’t just go out there and be like, ‘Oh, we make comic books, and that’s all we do.’ We have to be involved in social issues and other things that are related. We have to be able to say that we actually are doing something about it.”

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    Amanda Breen

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  • Don’t Overlook The Warning Signs of a Controversial Brand Partner Like Kanye West

    Don’t Overlook The Warning Signs of a Controversial Brand Partner Like Kanye West

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    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    Ye, also known as Kanye West, has been a problematic public figure for years. From the time he wore a White Lives Matter shirt to the time he said slavery was a “choice” in a TMZ newsroom, Ye has always hidden behind the guise of “free thinking” to spread discrimination, alternative histories and controversy that pose a threat to diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) as we know it.

    Ye isn’t the only public figure leveraging media as a way to enable harmful “free speech.” After months of Elon Musk performing political theater around purchasing Twitter to reclaim “free speech” on the platform, Ye threw in his hat and offered to purchase Parler, a social media alternative to Facebook and Instagram.

    Public figures like Ye and Elon are opening the floodgates for hateful speech and violence to arise. Given the red flags, why do brands continue to ignore the dangers of partnering with public figures with controversial pasts with DEI? My theory is they looked past harmful rhetoric and move forward with business contracts for one main reason: profit.

    Brands put profit over ethics all the time and the consequences are often a tarnished public image and a growing distrust amongst consumers. Brands that have looked the other way are now in a situation where they have to publicly cut ties to protect their image.

    Could brands have seen the red flags and denied a partnership with Ye from the beginning? Yes. Did they probably know the risks? Yes. Did they make the right choice to stick it out until it backfired? Only time will tell.

    No matter what, it should not have taken years of hateful comments for brands to step away from Ye. His most recent anti-semitic comments unearthed a disturbing rise in hate crimes directed towards Jewish people in recent years.

    Related: Kanye West Was Just Escorted Out of Skechers’ LA Office: “We Condemn His Recent Divisive Remarks”

    The recent rise of anti-Semitism shouldn’t be ignored

    Before Ye’s inflammatory comments about Jewish people, hate crimes against those in the Jewish community were at an all-time high. An estimated 1 in 4 American Jews say they experienced anti-semitism in the last year. In 2021 alone, there were a reported 2,717 anti-semitic incidents in the US. With such an obvious rise in hate crimes, why aren’t more DEI practitioners and businesses focusing on it?

    My theory is that folks of Jewish descent have often been associated with “white people” and are grouped that way in national census data. Therefore, other minority groups may not know that Jews experience an elevated level of hate crimes. Other minority groups may be so focused on their own mistreatment and trauma that it’s hard for them to imagine why someone who is categorized as a “white person” would experience what they do.

    The truth is that some Jewish people may have very different lived experiences depending on where they live, how deep their Orthodox traditions are, and how their lifestyles contrast with the surrounding culture.

    Above all, we know Jewish folks have been persecuted for centuries with anti-semitism coming to a head in WWII with the forced relocation and violence against Jews from Germany and other parts of Eastern Europe.

    Since then, Jewish folks have come a long way in owning high-yield businesses in banking, finance and the entertainment industry. No matter their economic status or position in the business world, they’re human beings and should be treated with respect without having to sacrifice their safety in the process.

    With the rise of hate crimes against Jewish folks and the continual threats faced by women, racial minorities and other groups, there’s never been a better time for businesses to put a magnifying glass on the DEI practices of public figures and influencers who they wish to partner with.

    Don’t turn a blind eye to DEI red flags for profit

    Brands that partnered with Ye already knew he was controversial, but they were blinded by dollar signs and wilfully ignored his controversial history for profit. As a DEI consultant, I work with big and small businesses that are often straddling the line between profit and ethics. If your leadership team has to rethink working with a public figure because of their checkered past, take a pause and look at why that is.

    It’s one thing to work with a public figure who had a controversial past, owned up, apologized and is ready to make amends. However, looking away and working with figures who continue to commit harmful actions and speech toward minority groups is the fault of brands that have chosen to ignore those red flags and assume the risk.

    If the idea of working with a public figure triggers a gut check with members of your team because of the person’s past comments and actions, reconsider whether you want your brand to be connected to that person. The more we look the other way and fund figures whose comments create, perpetuate and prolong violence against another group, the more the brands that partner with them put their reputations at risk.

    DEI red flags to look out for when considering partnerships with public figures include:

    • Hate speech towards certain groups and a lack of remorse for or continuation of that speech.
    • Ongoing lawsuits against that figure with multiple witnesses and trials.
    • No public statements or apologies condemning their past behavior or speech.
    • No visible action to make amends like volunteering, donating, partnering or reconciling with those they’ve harmed.
    • Continued association with others who perpetuate harmful behavior and speech against groups without publicly condemning their actions or disassociating with them.

    These red flags are obvious signs that the public figure your brand is about to work with has a problematic past that may harm your brand’s reputation and longevity in the future. So, beware.

    Consider risks of partnering with public figures who have checkered pasts with DEI

    Who your brand associates with can speak volumes. Let’s say your brand chooses to partner with Ye, Harvey Weinstein or others who have perpetrated harm against others and chose to show little to no remorse or desire to make amends. Your brand will face the consequences.

    Loyal followers and customers may cancel your brand just for association with figures like Ye. It may seem unfair but it’s actually right on the money. Consumers today have a renewed interest in the ethics and honesty of brands and can see right through businesses that claim to be ethical or on the “right side” of justice but choose to associate with controversial public figures who do the opposite.

    Of course, there is a difference between brands and their partners, but we know consumers are observing brands like Adidas, Balenciaga and Vogue very closely. Associations with public figures who have used racist, sexist, anti-semitic, transphobic and ableist language will be held accountable in the court of public opinion, and the consequences will be financial.

    The best way to avoid the downfall of brands, their reputations and their profits is to be very choosy about who they partner with and be aware of the consequences that may result. Brands that have seen Ye’s controversial approach to DEI and made conscious decisions to ignore it now see their reputations tarnished with the memory of his anti-semitic comments and distasteful behavior.

    Related: ‘Had to Cut Ties’: Kanye West Breaks Silence on Adidas, Ye-Related Brands Fallout as Rapper Loses Billionaire Status

    Holding people accountable for harmful actions is key to changing behavior in DEI

    No public figure is immune to cancel culture. In fact, cancel culture is how consumers, followers and others find justice when public figures misbehave or practice harmful speech. It’s the broader population who seems to hold public figures accountable for their actions.

    On social media, the response to Ye’s recent anti-semitic comments has been resounding. People from all walks of life and areas of influence condemn his comments and the result is, finally, the businesses, projects and partnerships he’s built are crumbling. As painful as it is to see folks fall, sometimes hitting rock bottom and letting the rug be pulled out from underneath someone is the only way for them to learn the gravity of their actions.

    I’m not naive. I don’t expect Ye to change his hateful speech and rhetoric overnight. But I do hope he really feels the financial and social repercussions and that he chooses to move forward more mindfully with his platform. He, perhaps more than many other celebrities and public figures, should know that no matter how rich, famous or influential a person is, there is no escaping the consequences of hate speech and the price to be paid will likely be bigger than they could have imagined.

    It’s up to individuals, brands and businesses to have a stance and express boundaries around hate speech — to not only condemn it but to commit to withholding support from those who practice it. An overt stance on DEI will signal to public figures that if they want to make music, art, do business or work in political spaces, there is a code of conduct they must adhere to with DEI and respect at the root. They should know that businesses and individuals will not work with them if their hateful rhetoric continues, no matter how much profit is on the line. Only through consequences will we see a change in how long public figures like Ye thrive in the business world. Public figures should only be able to thrive if their comments are rooted in respect for diversity, equity and inclusion. Not the opposite.

    Related: How Brands Can Go From Performative Allyship to Actual Allies

    Final thoughts

    I’m not here to criticize Balenciaga, Vogue and Adidas for initially making a financial decision to partner with Ye in the first place. However, I find it surprising they failed to calculate and anticipate the social price they would inevitably pay for doing business with a figure who offends so many. Whether you’re a big or small business, keeping DEI at the forefront of your work will not only protect you from situations like the one we see with Ye but will also help you thrive in the long run. Don’t be a business blinded by the red flags of public figures because your mind is focused on the money.

    Be discerning about the long-term consequences of partnering with problematic figures. Brands should think about how even one bad partnership with a very high-profit outlook can have devastating impacts on their reputation for years to come. Consumers, followers and others will begin to see brands as co-conspirators of hate speech and rhetoric as a consequence of their partnerships with controversial public figures.

    Now is the time to put DEI first and make business decisions that are truly on the right side of justice. Use DEI as a tool to be discerning about who you work with and why. Only then can brands that wish to last a lifetime and remain influential stand the test of time in a world increasingly focused on ethics, justice and equity.

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    Nika White

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  • Cake Boss Pizza ATM Slammed on TikTok for ‘Dry’ $10 Slices

    Cake Boss Pizza ATM Slammed on TikTok for ‘Dry’ $10 Slices

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    Buddy Valastro may be the Cake Boss, but people aren’t convinced he’s much of a pizza entrepreneur.

    The baker, who garnered fame from his hit TLC show about his family-owned Carlo’s Bakery in Hoboken, New Jersey, has expanded beyond his home roots with several ventures including his Pizza Cake restaurant in Las Vegas, and most recently his new pizza vending machines in Sin City’s Linq Hotel.

    However, one Las Vegas blogger wasn’t impressed with the quality of the machine’s slice in a now-viral TikTok review of the product, which has since been viewed 450,600 times.

    @lasvegasblogger

    Big mistake in Las Vegas save your money! There are better pizzas in Las Vegas for way cheaper

    ♬ Technomancer – Jonathan Paulsen

    After showing viewers how to use the touchscreen machine, the blogger showed how the cheese pizza was “dry and thick.” She then proceeded to throw the pizza away after saying she was disappointed with the Cake Boss’s product.

    People echoed her sentiments in the comments, one writing, “I can buy a whole pizza for $6 at Little Ceasers and it looks better than that,” while another added confection humor, “It’s lacking in rice treat and fondant with modeling chocolate and pvc pipe so idk if you can call it a cake boss pizza.”

    The vending machines launched in October, according to Vital Vegas, offering customers 24/7 access to slices of cheese, pepperoni, and Italiano pizza for $9.95 – $10.95 for one and $19.95 for two.

    Each slice is kept refrigerated in the vending machine, which uses pizza heating technology called “TurboChef” to heat the slices in 2 to 3 minutes.

    Still, despite the poor TikTok review — and despite being “made” in an ATM — the pizza isn’t overly processed, according to Vital. The mozzarella is made by hand on-site at the nearby Boss Cafe by Valastro’s father-in-law Mauro Belgiovine before it’s then refrigerated and distributed from the machine.

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    Sam Silverman

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  • Video: Jessica Alba at the Star-Studded 8th Annual MAKERS Conference

    Video: Jessica Alba at the Star-Studded 8th Annual MAKERS Conference

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    At the 8th annual MAKERS Conference in California, more than 300 women came together to celebrate the MAKERS community, a group of women business leaders and allies of diverse backgrounds who are dedicated to accelerating equity in the workplace and beyond.

    This year’s speakers included founder and Chief Creative Officer of The Honest Company, Jessica Alba; actor, author and producer, Constance Wu; CEO of the Dallas Mavericks, Cynt Marshall; activist Gloria Steinem, and more.

    Aptly themed “Making the Future,” this year’s conference focused representation, racial justice, reproductive rights, workplace equity, what’s next for women in Hollywood, and new models for equality in sports.

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    Jessica Abo

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  • 10 Horror Movie Characters That Teach Entrepreneurship Skills

    10 Horror Movie Characters That Teach Entrepreneurship Skills

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    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    The name of my business is Hollywood Sensation Jewelry, which means I don’t just love glamour, I love movies too! Now it’s Halloween season, putting many of us in the mood for a spine-chilling movie starring a hero we can cheer for or a villain to hate as they demonstrate valuable skills in entrepreneurship! Yes, there are many lessons we can learn from some of our favorite horror movie characters. So, kick back with your favorite movie-time snack (make mine chocolate-covered raisins, please), and grab a pillow to hide behind. Prepare yourself to be scared successful!

    Here’s how these famous movie icons get the job done:

    Sticking to it and making it work

    Jason Vorhees (Friday the 13th Part 2, 1981, etc.) and Michael Meyers (Halloween, 1979, etc.).

    Mr. Vorhees and Mr. Meyers have two important traits to teach us: persistence and flexibility. These two goal-oriented, do-it-yourselfers won’t be stopped from achieving their aims, regardless of what obstacles are put in their path. If anything, they seem to enjoy challenges, preferring to see them as learning experiences. When they start a project, they don’t stop until the work is done, no matter how often they are delayed. And their flexibility is unparalleled! Both self-employed gents work effectively in any environment (small towns, campgrounds, outer space, the underworld) because they know their craft so well that they can switch mediums easily while still producing reliable results.

    Related: 5 Ways to Master the Persistence That Makes a Great Entrepreneur

    Carving out a new niche

    Freddy Krueger (A Nightmare on Elm Street, 1985, etc.)

    Back in the 1980s, in a full industry that didn’t seem to have room for yet another artiste of his flavor, Freddy carved a new niche by dealing with his clientele in their sleep. This move made meetings easier for him and set him apart as the “one guy” who could take care of business during the wee hours. That’s a real time-saver, and people noticed. By taking this step, Mr. Krueger broke new ground and ensured he had repeat business for decades.

    Related: Your Halloween Candy Will Be Smaller This Year (And Not Just Because of Inflation)

    Being the best at what you do

    Father Merrin (The Exorcist, 1973).

    Father Merrin sets the standard by being an established expert in his field. A position he has attained by becoming a vetted, certified thought leader whose opinion and skills are highly sought by people — including celebrity clientele. When a devilish problem requires only the most qualified professional, he’s the one to contact. Nobody is better at handling demanding clients. He even makes house calls.

    Making a career switch when the time is right

    Hannibal Lecter (The Silence of the Lambs, 1991).

    After his lucrative career as a medical professional, Dr. Lecter becomes a part-time consultant for the FBI from a small, underground office. He is a prime example of a midlife career change, moving from a rewarding but stressful and time-consuming career in medical psychiatry to a freelancing job where he can relax and pursue his interests. Now he takes only the cases he chooses to work on while enjoying hobbies like cooking and travel.

    Balancing life when working from home

    Jack Torrance (The Shining, 1980).

    Jack agrees to spend the winter as the caretaker for an isolated hotel, a job he takes pretty seriously. However, when working from home, it’s essential for your health and happiness to have downtime. Without the traditional job “markers” of a commute, or an office, at-home workers can feel they never get a break. Jack knows that when your home is also your office, it is important to spend time with the family, enjoy the outdoors, and make new friends. Remember Jack’s motto, “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.”

    Pivoting business when times get tough

    Norman Bates (Psycho, 1960).

    Norman runs his family’s motel, but business hasn’t been so great since the highway moved. How does Norman deal with being “off the beaten path?” By introducing specialized services that guests can find nowhere else, ensuring that clients are well looked after. Norman makes his motel so unusual that soon, people are actively seeking him out and can’t stop asking questions!

    Breaking away from the pack

    Victor Frankenstein (Frankenstein, 1931).

    There’s much to admire in an inventor who chooses their own path, saying, “maybe we can do better than the way it’s ‘always been done before.’” When Dr. Frankenstein’s colleagues refuse to think outside the box, misunderstanding his project, they discourage him from venturing into promising new territory. Never mind; this brave doctor takes matters into his own hands. He opens a private laboratory, does his own research and development, and gets results that have crowds raving.

    Making your customer experience unforgettable

    Annie Wilkes (Misery, 1990).

    The name of the game for Ms. Wilkes is customer service. As one of the first to discover the passive income boom of the Airbnb industry, she has only one guest at a time in her spare bedroom. Still, she devotes all of her attention to him, ensuring that his stay will be long and memorable. In an era where customer reviews and word-of-mouth mean everything, her name and reputation precede her.

    Working with the environment in mind

    Leatherface (and family) (the Texas Chainsaw Massacre, 1974).

    Let’s hear it for farm-to-table, family-run businesses! The entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well in this crafting family, with several generations working together on their sustainable homesteading project. They were downsizing before it was cool and barely leaving a carbon footprint, except for a little bit of chainsaw gasoline.

    Now take a page from their scripts

    As you move forward with your entrepreneurial plans, remember that many of your favorite movie characters can inspire you through even the tough times. There are plenty more great entrepreneurial examples in horror cinema: the alien (Alien, 1979) who learns to grow, adapt, and take charge in a foreign setting; Chucky (Child’s Play, 1988), who didn’t let his small start-up size discourage him; or Jigsaw (Saw, 2004), who has an incredible grasp on branding. Follow the example of these go-getters, and I’m sure you’ll be ready to take on the most difficult challenges!

    Related: Jeffrey Dahmer-Inspired Halloween Costumes Banned at eBay Amid Netflix Series Backlash

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    Mary Hood

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