Shows
The Happy Accidents PodcastHe Had No Plan. Then Built Two Agencies and Sold Them Both.He didn’t go to university. He had no formal training. He didn’t even know what a copywriter was. But Andy Strote ended up founding two successful creative agencies in Toronto, landing massive clients like Ontario Hydro, Manulife, and CIBC — and eventually selling both companies in separate acquisitions. In this episode of Happy Accidents, Andy shares his incredible journey from warehouse worker to creative entrepreneur, and how serendipity played a surprising role at every turning point. 🚪 From fake portfolios and mailroom connections... 🧾 To penny stocks that paid off big... 🤝 To c...2025-07-221h 12
Try Life On116: The Power of Serendipity & Saying Yes with Dennis GeleenWhat if your greatest breakthrough started with a layoff?In this episode of Try Life On, Maurice Philogene sits down with Dennis Geleen—author of The Accidental Solopreneur—to unpack how a sudden career disruption became the catalyst for a completely reimagined life. Dennis shares how embracing serendipity, expanding his "luck surface area," and leaning into discomfort led him to build a successful solo consulting practice, write multiple books, and coach others to do the same.Key Takeaways:• Why safety and comfort might be your biggest trap•...2025-06-2740 minThe Happy Accidents PodcastWhat the Marshmallow Test Reveals About Serendipity (and Success)Is success about willpower… or something more unpredictable? In this unscripted and unedited episode of Happy Accidents, Dennis flips the script and explores the surprising connection between the famous Marshmallow Test and the role of serendipity in success. You’ll hear why delayed gratification does matter... but also why it’s not the full story. Through real-world examples (like James Dyson’s journey), his TED Talk insights, and a candid take on free will, faith, and timing, Dennis breaks down the two possible paths we follow when chasing success and how unexpected opportunities often hold the key...2025-06-0515 minThe Happy Accidents PodcastHe Flipped a 450lb Tire, Got Injured… Then Accidentally Built a Fitness BrandWhat do a 450-pound tire, a back injury, and 60-second squats have in common? For Michael Cassidy — everything. In this episode of Happy Accidents, Michael shares how a devastating back injury, a pandemic career pivot, and a total lack of time to work out led to the unexpected birth of his fitness brand: the 60 Second Workouts App. We explore: The accident that kickstarted his health journey Why “not having time to exercise” became his biggest business idea How he used LinkedIn to build an audience in tech + wellness The science behind micro workou...2025-05-2244 minThe Happy Accidents PodcastThe Sweetest Revenge - How Kathleen King Lost Everything and Baked a Billion Dollar ComebackLink to the article mentioned in the episode: https://dennisgeelen.me/the-solopreneurs-guide-to-recurring-revenue-how-to-build-a-subscription-based-business What happens when you're pushed out of the business you built from scratch? In this episode of Happy Accidents, I share the jaw-dropping true story of Kathleen King—the woman behind Tate’s Bake Shop. Before it became a $500 million cookie empire, Kathleen was betrayed by her business partners, fired from the company that bore her name, and left to rebuild from ground zero. But instead of quitting, she started over—with a new name, the same recipe, and a fierce determi...2025-05-0807 minThe Happy Accidents PodcastThe Accidental Invention That Turned Fashion Purple ForeverDid you know that your favorite colorful outfits owe everything to a teenager’s failed experiment? In 1856, William Henry Perkin was just 18 years old when he accidentally created mauveine—the world’s first synthetic dye—while trying to cure malaria. This vibrant purple shade, once reserved for royalty, took over the fashion world in a craze known as the “mauve measles.” But Perkin’s discovery didn’t just change fashion. It revolutionized the textile industry, sparked the birth of synthetic dyes, and even led to advancements in medicine! And here’s the crazy part, Perkin was able to retire...2025-04-0309 minThe Happy Accidents PodcastIs College Still Worth It? A Serial Entrepreneur’s TakeHow Going Against the Grain Leads to Success – JG Francoeur on The Happy Accidents Podcast In this episode, I sit down with serial entrepreneur JG Francoeur to talk about what it really takes to succeed in business. We dive into: ✅ Why going against the grain often leads to the biggest breakthroughs ✅ How being open to new opportunities can change your career trajectory ✅ The importance of constantly learning and adapting in entrepreneurship JG shares his journey, lessons learned, and the mindset shifts that helped him build multiple successful businesses. If you're an entrepre...2025-03-2041 minThe Happy Accidents PodcastHow One Email Sparked a Chain of SerendipityCan you create your own luck? In this episode, I share a real-life example of how a single email led to an unexpected chain of events—proving that serendipity is often just bold action in disguise. Inspired by Sahil Bloom’s Curiosity Chronicle, we dive into the power of taking shots, building connections, and embracing uncertainty to unlock new opportunities. You'll learn: ✅ How a simple DM changed Sahil Bloom’s book sales ✅ And I did exactly the same thing in return! Two great stories (intertwined) that you're not going t...2025-02-2712 minThe Happy Accidents PodcastHow One Trip Reshaped Coffee CultureDiscover how Howard Schultz turned Starbucks into a global coffee empire after a life-changing trip to Milan. This episode explores the serendipitous events and entrepreneurial journey that reshaped coffee culture in America and beyond. Learn how Schultz's vision of bringing the Italian café experience to America faced skepticism but ultimately triumphed. We'll dive into the power of serendipity in business and share tips for aspiring entrepreneurs on recognizing unexpected opportunities. Don't miss out on this inspiring story of determination, innovation, and how one trip changed the way millions enjoy their daily br...2025-02-2110 min
SLAAcastJ.M.A. Biesheuvelprijs 2025: Steff Geelen draagt voor uit 'De splitsingen'De shortlist van de J.M.A. Biesheuvelprijs 2025 is bekend en wij vieren het korte verhaal! In deze speciale SLAAcast-reeks dragen de genomineerden een verhaal voor uit hun genomineerde bundel.
In deze aflevering: Steff Geelen leest ‘No Real Toni’ voor uit 'De splitsingen' (Wintertuin). De soundscape is gemaakt door Dennis Gaens.
Athenaeum Boekhandel plaatst in aanloop naar de uitreiking een kort interview met de genomineerden. Lees hier ‘4 vragen aan… Steff Geelen’: https://www.athenaeum.nl/nieuws/2025/4-vragen-aan-steff-geelen-genomineerd-voor-de-jma-biesheuvelprijs-voor-de-splitsingen2025-02-1724 minThe Happy Accidents PodcastA Backyard Accident - The Insane Origin Story of Dude PerfectHow Dude Perfect Became YouTube Legends | Happy Accidents Podcast Discover the incredible journey of Dude Perfect, the viral sensation that started with a backyard basketball bet and became one of the biggest names on YouTube! From their days as college roommates at Texas A&M to building a global empire with billions of views, Tyler Toney, Garrett Hilbert, Cody Jones, and twins Coby and Cory Cotton turned their love for trick shots into a record-breaking phenomenon. In this episode, we dive into: ✅ How their first video, "Backyard Edition," went viral ✅...2025-01-0607 minThe Happy Accidents PodcastThe Crazy Accidental Invention of GlassOver 5,000 years ago, ancient Phoenician merchants accidentally discovered glass during a simple cooking mishap on a sandy beach. In this episode of Happy Accidents, we uncover the fascinating history of glass, from its serendipitous beginnings to its evolution through ancient Egypt, the Roman Empire, and beyond. Learn how this accidental invention shaped art, architecture, and innovation across centuries. Plus, I share some mind-blowing facts about modern glass production and its role in our everyday lives. This is a story of serendipity and ingenuity you won’t want to miss!2024-11-2106 minThe Happy Accidents PodcastYou Have to Shoot Your Shot - Finn McKenty’s Unexpected JourneyIn this episode of the Happy Accidents Podcast, host Dennis Geelen interviews Finn McKenty to uncover how unexpected moments, chance encounters, and “happy accidents” shaped his unique career path. Finn shares how embracing serendipity and the power of unexpected opportunities led him to creative breakthroughs and entrepreneurial success. Learn how to leverage life’s surprises to fuel your own journey, whether you're a solopreneur, creative professional, or aspiring entrepreneur. If you’re looking for motivation, career inspiration, or insights into how successful entrepreneurs navigate unexpected challenges, this episode is for you. Tune in to hear how Finn...2024-11-0742 min
Social Dream MachineThe Solopreneur's Journey: A 2024 GuideHave you dreamed of starting a podcast? I've helped countless solopreneurs launch their shows in just an hour a week. Subscribe to my newsletter for weekly podcast production tips and tricks. 👇
https://networkednarratives.carrd.co/
In this episode of "Social Dream Machine," Dennis Geelen shares his experience of launching a failed course and the subsequent realization of the importance of market research.
He also discusses his journey of launching books and building a solopreneur community, and offers valuable lessons to help you avoid common pitfalls and accelerate your success.
2024-10-2623 minThe Happy Accidents PodcastLuck vs. Hard Work: What 4 Experts Say About SuccessIs success driven by pure hard work, or does luck play a bigger role than we think? In this episode of the Happy Accidents podcast, we dive deep into the views of four top entrepreneurs and authors—John Knotts, Jay Clouse, Adam Tank, and Matt Watkinson—as they share their unique perspectives on luck and its role in achieving success. Can luck be created, or is it something that happens by chance? Discover how these experts leverage serendipity, take proactive steps to increase their "luck surface area," and embrace uncertainty to find success in li...2024-10-1718 minThe Happy Accidents PodcastSerendipity Strikes Twice: How a Facebook Post and Suitcases Connected the DotsIn this episode, I share two incredible serendipitous moments that happened recently through our involvement with Friends of Honduran Children (FOHC). From supporting three children at an orphanage in Honduras to starting a small business with two talented girls, the connections we’ve made are nothing short of miraculous. The first serendipity struck when a Facebook post about handcrafted greeting cards connected us with someone who had supported these exact same two girls years ago. The second came when a group member's search for used suitcases on Facebook Marketplace led to an unexpected ac...2024-10-1017 minThe Happy Accidents PodcastHow Putting Down Your Phone Led to a 6 Million Dollar Scholarship StartupIn this episode of The Happy Accidents Podcast, I sit down with Craig Fernandes, the brilliant founder of SecureMyScholarship and Lock&Stock, to discuss how serendipity and one simple idea led to a $6 million-dollar scholarship startup. Craig shares his inspiring journey, starting with the development of Lock&Stock, a mobile app that incentivized students to stay off their phones during class. Little did he know, this app would pave the way for SecureMyScholarship, a platform that's changing lives by connecting students with scholarship opportunities around the world. We dive deep into the power...2024-10-0345 minThe Happy Accidents PodcastThe Accidental Breaks That Made Charlize Theron & Vin Diesel FamousEver wonder how Hollywood superstars like Charlize Theron and Vin Diesel got their big break? It wasn’t just talent—it was pure serendipity! In this episode of the Happy Accidents podcast, I dive into the incredible stories of how Charlize Theron’s acting career took off after a chance encounter at a bank and how Vin Diesel’s indie short film Multi-Facial caught the eye of Steven Spielberg, leading to his role in Saving Private Ryan. These celebrity success stories show how luck and being in the right place at the right time can...2024-09-2619 minThe Happy Accidents PodcastNew Coke: A Marketing Flop or a Happy Accident?In 1985, Coca-Cola made one of the boldest moves in marketing history by introducing New Coke – a sweeter version of the iconic drink that no one asked for. What was meant to challenge Pepsi turned into a massive backlash that shocked the company and sparked nationwide protests. But just 79 days later, Coca-Cola made a comeback that would forever strengthen customer loyalty. In this podcast episode, I break down the story of how Coca-Cola's biggest marketing blunder turned into an unexpected success. Learn how this failure became a masterclass in brand loyalty and co...2024-09-1907 minThe Happy Accidents PodcastHow Fate and Chance Led to an Unforgettable Love Story | Dennis LeytonSometimes it feels almost impossible. Like all the stars are aligning perfectly in order for two people to meet and fall in love. That's exactly what happened for Dennis Leyton and his eventual wife, Inna. Listen as Dennis tells the incredible story of how fate brought them (and kept them) together. Connect with Dennis here on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dennisleyton/ 👉 Don’t forget to subscribe for more incredible Happy Accident stories of all shapes and sizes! Want to see what else I'm up to?2024-09-1225 minThe Happy Accidents PodcastTrue Crime Happy Accidents - 4 Incredible StoriesYou won't believe how they got caught! Sometimes, it’s not the detective work, the high-tech forensics, or the years of investigation that catch the criminal. Sometimes, it’s just plain luck. In this episode of the Happy Accidents podcast, I’m dive into four true crime stories where a simple twist of fate led to the downfall of some of the most notorious criminals in history. You have to love some true crime happy accident stories! Timestamps 00:00 - Intro 02:00 - The Arrest of Ted Bundy 06:2...2024-09-0518 minThe Happy Accidents PodcastA Shocking Midnight Confession Leads to an Incredible Journey | Megan BrokerImagine being woken up in the middle of the night by your spouse, only to hear the words, 'I'm gay, and I want a divorce.' In this emotional and raw interview, Megan Broker shares her incredible journey of discovering her husband's truth and the life-altering moment that changed everything. She opens up about the shock, the heartbreak, and how she found the strength to move forward. But the most incredible part of her story? How she handled it. The mindset she adapted and the approach she has taken is awe...2024-08-2944 minThe Happy Accidents PodcastMeet the Engineer who Loves a Good Story | Mohammad KhanIn this special podcast episode, I sit down with Mohammad Khan, a mechanical engineer who has a surprising passion: writing and storytelling. Balancing the worlds of technical precision and creative expression, my guest shares his three favorite 'Happy Accident' stories from the history of science—unexpected discoveries that have shaped our understanding of the world. From serendipitous lab results to unplanned breakthroughs, these stories highlight the fascinating intersection of curiosity, experimentation, and a little bit of luck. Be sure to connect with Mohammad and check out his writing here: • LinkedIn: https://www...2024-08-2238 minThe Happy Accidents PodcastInside Secrets: Life as a US Secret Service Agent Protecting 3 PresidentsImagine being a US Secret Service Agent who is assigned to protect the President. You train diligently in order to perform your duties in the event that there’s an attempt on the President's life. But how often does that actually happen? Only 4 American Presidents have ever been assassinated. 3 have been shot, but survived. 3 have been unharmed, but others were killed or injured in the attempt (much like former President Donald Trump in July of 2024) And there have been 4 attempts where nobody was harmed (other than the culprit) So, how do you react wh...2024-08-1544 minThe Happy Accidents PodcastStop Overthinking Your Business Strategy! | Mastering Uncertainty with Matt WatkinsonYou're overplanning is driving your business into the ground! Too many business leaders believe they need the perfect strategy, the most detailed plans, and endless data in order for their business to succeed. In reality, the key to entrepreneurial success lies in embracing and mastering the uncertainty that comes with the journey. True success isn't about having all the answers. It's about: - being adaptable - staying resilient - and making sure you're ready to pivot when needed In today's episode of the Happy Accidents podcast...2024-08-081h 07The Happy Accidents PodcastFrom Military to Marketing? | Yuval AckermanImagine being forced into the military at a young age and spending years going down a certain path only to find out.....you hate it! But then Years later you stumble across something that you think you might actually be good at....and love! In this episode of the Happy Accidents podcast you get to meet Yuval Ackerman, the ethical email strategist, and her amazing Happy Accident story. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a creative mind, or simply someone who enjoys a good narrative, this podcast is your go-to source for inspiring...2024-08-0148 minThe Happy Accidents PodcastPart Harry Potter / Part Bear Grylls (Paul Watkins)Meet the man who describes himself as part Harry Potter and part Bear Grylls. Paul Watkins is both a self processed nerd as well as an extreme adventurer. His journey is riddled with random moments, chance, and serendipity. And you get to tune in and see what advice he has for you (you're going to love it!). Dive into this episode and explore the pivotal moments that have shaped his life, from the lows to the highs, and everything in between. Connect with Paul through the links b...2024-07-2549 minThe Happy Accidents PodcastBehind the Camera - 5 Iconic Unscripted Scenes from HollywoodWelcome to another captivating episode of The Happy Accidents podcast. In this edition, I take you on a journey into the hidden gems and untold stories behind five of the most iconic moments in film history. Come with me as we explore the fascinating world of improvised and unplanned scenes that left an indelible mark on cinema. Unplanned moments in films can sometimes create the most memorable and impactful scenes. Whether it's an actor's spur-of-the-moment decision, a prop that wasn't supposed to be there, or a line delivered in the heat...2024-07-1809 minThe Happy Accidents PodcastMeet the incredible 60 year old who keeps reinventing himself (Michael Pedersen)Most people spend their lives working 1 or 2 careers. Michael Pedersen has reinvented himself several times over, and continues to do so. His journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, grit.....and serendipity. Tune in to this episode and explore the pivotal moments that have shaped his, from high performance athlete, the multiple time entrepreneur, and all the happy accidents in between. Connect with Michael through the links below: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikepedersen https://www.twitter.com/mikepedersen https://www.instagram.com/m...2024-07-111h 00
Knack 4 BusinessWe Control Nothing, but Influence EverythingSend us a textWelcome to the Knack 4 Business podcast.Today's guest is Dennis Geelen from Zero InDennis shares his journey from experiencing a layoff at 43 to becoming a successful solopreneur, emphasizing the importance of adaptability, embracing randomness, and increasing one's 'luck surface area'. He talks about his online courses, books like 'The Zero In Formula' and 'The Accidental Solopreneur', and his robust LinkedIn strategy that helped pivot his career. The discussion also covers business innovation techniques, the impact of customer-centric thinking, and the crucial shift from a...2024-07-1047 min
The Daily Author#67: Dennis Geelen — The Accidental SolopreneurIn this episode of “The Daily Author”, our guest Dennis Geelen is a resilient entrepreneur and author who transitioned from being a comfortable corporate professional to running a successful management consulting company.
We discussed that his journey, marked by unexpected layoffs and supportive encouragement from his wife, led him to embrace uncertainty and pivot towards entrepreneurship.
We discuss his book, The Accidental Solopreneur and his latest project, the Happy Accidents podcast, where he shares inspiring stories of accidental success.
He outlines how he approached marketing his book as a self-published author; without investing tons...2024-07-0825 minThe Happy Accidents PodcastA Journey of Resilience, Discovery, and Hope (Nick Kyriazopoulos)In this episode of The Happy Accidents Podcast, I sit down with Nick Kyriazopoulos. Nick's story is one you won't want to miss. From his early years in Greece, to his troublesome youth in New York, to now finding his stride at 29, and all the Happy Accidents along the way. Nick has taken his experiences and now helps young adults with ADHD to harness their hidden powers and turn them into top performers. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that showcases the role of serendipity in our lives. 2024-07-041h 00The Happy Accidents PodcastTiming is Everything - Two Emotional Tales of Incredible Timing They say timing is everything. In this episode of the Happy Accidents Podcast, I explore the incredible power of timing through two true stories that highlight how serendipity can shape our lives in unexpected ways. The first story is about a life saving gift - Discover how a seemingly ordinary gift given at the perfect moment ends up saving a life. This heartwarming tale shows the profound impact that thoughtful timing can have on the course of events. Story #2 is about a remarkable misprint - Hear about how an accidental misprint in...2024-06-2715 minThe Happy Accidents PodcastCrucial Advice for Solopreneurs (Interview with Kayla McGuire)In this episode of The Happy Accidents Podcast, I sit down with Kayla McGuire, the founder of Kayla McGuire Consulting and a leading voice for freelance project managers. Kayla's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, grit.....and serendipity. As a successful freelance PM Kayla has had to redefine herself and her path many times over the pas several years. Join us as we explore the pivotal moments that have shaped her career, from her early days in the finance industry, to her initial entrepreneurial adventure (that led to burn out...2024-06-2039 minThe Happy Accidents PodcastOut of the Box Ideas and Fortuitous Timing Lead to Unexpected Success - Lucas BeanIn this episode of The Happy Accidents Podcast, I'm thrilled to welcome Lucas Bean, the visionary CEO of Social Proof. Lucas leads an AI-powered creator marketing technology company that seamlessly connects brands with creators and influencers, crafting compelling stories, marketing campaigns, and content that deliver real results. With a wealth of entrepreneurial experience, Lucas is a seasoned tech executive who ranks among the top three globally in user acquisition and retention. Join me as we dive into the Happy Accidents that have shaped Lucas's remarkable journey. From his serendipitous entry into...2024-06-1349 minThe Happy Accidents PodcastThe 4 Types of LuckIn this episode of The Happy Accidents Podcast I take a deep dive into the 4 types of luck as outlined in Dr. James Austin's book 'Chase, Chance, and Creativity: The Lucky Art of Novelty'. Dr. James Austin is a distinguished neurologist and professor known for his insightful work on the intersection of neuroscience and creativity. In his 1978 book, he outlines 4 types of luck. Type 1 - Blind Luck Type 2 - Skilled Luck Type 3 - Systemic Luck Type 4 - Psychic Luck In...2024-06-0613 minThe Happy Accidents PodcastA Life of Unexpected Opportunities. Interview with John Knotts.Does it ever seem like some people are just luckier than others? If you were to be on the outside looking in on the life of John Knotts, that's exactly what you might think. How did he get so lucky all the time? But was it really random? Was it dumb luck? Or has he found a recipe for manufacturing great opportunities? In this episode, I chat with John about his view on luck and how you can design your own good luck to...2024-05-3049 minThe Happy Accidents PodcastSerendipity and Success: Jay Clouse's Journey to Becoming a Top CreatorIn this episode of The Happy Accidents Podcast, we sit down with Jay Clouse, the founder of Creator Science and a leading voice in the creator economy. Jay's journey is a testament to the power of serendipity and the impact of seemingly random events on achieving success. As a successful content creator with a thriving newsletter, podcast, YouTube channel, and membership community, Jay teaches others how to navigate and excel in the world of content creation. Join us as we explore the pivotal moments that have shaped Jay's career, from his early days...2024-05-2339 minThe Happy Accidents PodcastWhen Life Gives You Lemons - 3 Captivating Stories of Resilience and IngenuityWelcome to another episode of The Happy Accidents Podcast. In today's installment, we uncover three captivating stories of resilience and ingenuity. Episode Highlights: Our first tale traces back to a fateful evening when an embarrassing dining mishap sparked the creation of a revolutionary concept, forever changing how we approach transactions. Then, we journey into the realm of household innovation, where a spilled glass of red wine on a kitchen floor became the catalyst for the invention of a household essential, much to the surprise of its creator. And finally, we explore the wo...2024-05-1621 minThe Happy Accidents PodcastCan you create your own luck? Interview with Adam TankIt's time to interview someone else and get their take on luck. That person is Adam Tank, author of the new book 'Luck by Design'. In this episode, I chat with Adam about his view on luck and how you can design your own good luck to create more opportunities for yourself. Adam shares some personal stories from his book and talks about how we can take note of and then capitalize on events that he calls 'catalysts'. Check out Adam and his book...2024-05-0948 minThe Happy Accidents Podcast3 Super Successful (And Accidental) Tech GiantsWelcome to another episode of The Happy Accidents Podcast. In this show, I dive into the fascinating tales of three tech platforms that defied the odds and rose to greatness through unexpected twists of fate. From failed projects to global giants, these platforms started as something entirely different before stumbling upon their true purpose. But here's the catch – I'm keeping the names under wraps for now. You'll have to tune in to discover which tech titans I'm talking about. Episode Highlights: 2...2024-05-0218 minThe Happy Accidents PodcastMusic Edition - Part 2 - Accidental HitsWelcome back to The Happy Accidents Podcast. In the Music Edition we've been unravelling the stories behind the songs that have become the soundtrack to our lives. In this second installment of our music series, join me (Dennis Geelen) as I explore the fascinating tales behind two iconic tunes that were born from serendipitous moments. From chance encounters to spontaneous bursts of inspiration, these stories prove that sometimes, the best songs are the ones that come to life when we least expect it. So whether you're a music aficionado or just...2024-04-2512 minThe Happy Accidents PodcastMusic Edition - Part 1 - Accidental DuosWelcome to the Happy Accidents Podcast, where we uncover the fascinating stories behind accidental triumphs. In this special two-part series, we're shining a spotlight on the music industry and the serendipitous events that shaped its landscape. In this first episode, join me (Dennis Geelen) as I explore the unexpected beginnings of two legendary musical duos. From chance encounters to instant connections, these stories prove that sometimes, the best partnerships are formed when you least expect it. So whether you're a music aficionado or just love a good tale of fate, tune in as...2024-04-1813 minThe Happy Accidents PodcastSara Blakely and The Insane Story of SpanxGather round and get ready for the story of how one woman's quest for the perfect pair of white pants led to the creation of a revolutionary new product. In this episode of the podcast, we shine the spotlight on Sara Blakely, the woman who went from selling fax machines door-to-door to revolutionizing the world of shapewear and creating a multi-million-dollar empire with her company, Spanx. We also explore the contrasting schools of thought of Convergence vs Contingency and look at how this plays out in Blakely's story. What if? What...2024-04-1117 minThe Happy Accidents PodcastHow Nature Inspires Innovation - The Accidental Origin of VelcroInspiration is all around us. We just have to open our eyes, ears, and be in tune with what we observe. Then? Be ready to take that inspiration and capitalize on it. That's exactly what happened with Swiss engineer George de Mestral leading to the invention of Velcro. And it makes for a great Happy Accident story. Tune in to this episode as we explore this fun tale and the lessons we can learn from it. Enjoy! P.S. If you'd like to sign up for the...2024-04-0407 min
Live the Width of Your LifeThe Accidental Solopreneur with Dennis GeelenJoin me this week for an inspiring new episode featuring Dennis Geelen, as we delve into his remarkable journey from corporate employee to thriving solopreneur. Dennis candidly shares his insights on confronting fear, seizing opportunities, and the importance of continuous learning and personal growth.Listen in as Dennis recounts his experiences, offering valuable anecdotes on establishing his consulting firm, authoring books, and navigating challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic. With practical advice on audience building, authorship, and pursuing your passions, this conversation is a must-listen for aspiring entrepreneurs.Tune in to this episode for a dose...2024-04-0240 minThe Happy Accidents PodcastA Disagreement Leads to a Beloved New Invention - The Crazy Origin Story of Potato ChipsWhether the facts behind the origin of the accidental invention of potato chips are completely accurate or not...it makes for one heck of a great story. In this episode, we dive into the comical tale of how a disagreement between a particular customer and a stubborn chef about how fried potatos should be prepared, led to the unlikely invention of one of the most beloved snacks world wide. Enjoy! P.S. If you'd like to sign up for the Happy Accidents newsletter or see what other fun...2024-03-2809 minThe Happy Accidents PodcastPlay Doh - A Product of Extraordinary HappenstanceThe story of Play Doh and how is became the wildly popular childrens toy it is today....well let's just say it an interesting tale. In this episode of the Happy Accidents Podcast we dive into the accidental success story of Play Doh and how it actually had a 20 year career as a completely different product before pivoting to become the household name we know it as today. What's the story? And what are the lessons we can learn from it? Tune in and find out. P.S. If...2024-03-2111 minThe Happy Accidents PodcastPodcast Intro - Accidental BeginningsWelcome to the first ever episode of the Happy Accidents podcast. Normally, each podcast episode will be sharing a true story of success (by a person, product, or business) that can be traced back to a Happy Accident in some way shape or form. Whether it's an unintended discovery, an accidental invention, a chance encounter, fluke timing, or whatever. Post-It Notes, The Slinky, PlayDoh, The Microwave and many other products have Happy Accidents origin story Spanx, Virgin Airlines, and the Diners Club card were all invented out of frustration after bad experiences Elton John...2024-03-1316 min
Win the Day with Nico LoPresti12. From Corporate World to a Thriving Solorpreneur Business with Dennis GeelenIn this Win The Day podcast episode, I am joined by Dennis Geelen, who is a solopreneur, keynote speaker, business consultant, and author! Dennis talks about his amazing story of making the leap from his corporate job to starting his own solopreneur business. Dennis's story put everything into perspective for me, so trust me it is worth the listen. We had a great discussion about starting a side hustle alongside your job, focusing on personal development, and taking that first step of action. If you are interested in being more knowledgeable about starting a side hustle or solopreneur business...2024-02-1433 min
Wake Up and LeadThe 3 Steps To Betting On Yourself & Starting Your Own Thing w/ Dennis Geelen // Friday GuestDennis Geelen is a solopreneur, author, speaker, and consultant. It wasn't until getting laid off after 20 years in corporate, that he decided to bet on himself.
In this episode, he unpacks the three steps to betting on yourself and starting your own thing.
On Wake Up & Lead, we focus on Faith, Family, Fitness, Future, & Fellowship. Each of my guests will choose to focus on 3 of these topics.
Listen to see where Dennis is thriving.2024-02-0933 min
The Corporate EscapeeThe Accidental Solopreneur: A 6 Step Playbook w/Author Dennis Geelen
In this conversation, Dennis Geelen shares his journey from corporate to solopreneurship and provides valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs. He discusses the challenges of leaving corporate, the importance of building credibility, and the process of refining your offer. Dennis also emphasizes the need to learn how to sell and the importance of building an audience. Finally, he highlights the benefits of creating additional revenue streams to complement your high-ticket offerings. In this conversation, Brett Trainor and Dennis Geelen discuss the importance of exploring different revenue streams and staying close to your core expertise when transitioning from corporate to entrepreneurship...2023-12-1442 min
Preach Where You Reach®E33: Dennis GeelenSend us a textDennis Geelen, author of the Happy Accidents newsletter; Co-Founder of the Solo Creator Summit, shares his story of the power of youth group friends; the weight of pride; the influence of Tim Keller; writing two “good books”; being humbled by God; and the inspiration of “happy accidents”. https://happy-accidents.beehiiv.com/subscribehttps://www.solocreatorsummit.com/Support the show2023-10-3152 min
The Delighted Customers Podcast with Mark SlatinThe Art and Science of Business Storytelling: Crafting Engaging Stories That Inspire Change with Author, Dennis GeelenIn many ways, the Customer Experience leader has the most difficult job in the organization. Typically serving with a thin staff, a constrained budget, and limited positional authority, they need to get things done through influencing others. But how? Numbers along aren't enough. There's one powerful tool that CX leaders can and should become masters in, that's storytelling. On this episode of the Delighted Customers Podcast, Dennis Geelen, author of The Zero In Formula and The Accidental Solopreneur, joins me to talk about why storytelling wins over stakeholders and he shares a framework on how to tell stories that i...2023-09-1436 min
Breaking WorkHow To Capitalize On Career Accidents With Dennis Geelen, The “Accidental Solopreneur”#484: I talk a lot about risk and uncertainty, but one of the most counterintuitive lessons I learned from my time in finance, entrepreneurship, and design is that there is an upside to uncertainty. Sometimes chance encounters we never would have expected break our path and launch us in a better direction. These are our happy accidents. Dennis Geelen is an accidental solopreneur. After being laid off from his corporate job in 2018, he decided to bet on himself and launched a business consulting company, Zero In. Through Zero In, Dennis helped companies ‘solve indifference’ by i...2023-09-051h 09
Standout Business Show — Video Marketing & Content Marketing Strategy for Your Expert Business118. Find Your Unexpected Path to Success: Embracing Happy Accidents with Dennis GeelenEver wondered how big brands like Blendtec, Post-It, or Slack turned their perceived failures into multi-million dollar successes? They're proof that you don't have to be the smartest, the most gifted, or special person to find success.After all, most wildly successful businesses can trace back their success to a fluke, happenstance, or fortunate coincidence (a.k.a. A Happy Accident)Their secret is how they leveraged it!This weeks guest on The Standout Business show is Dennis Geelen and he believes that you just need to be ready to recognize a...2023-08-3030 min
Doing Customer Experience Right with Stacy Sherman90. The Zero-In Formula - Building A Customer-Centric Brand That People Crave with Dennis GeelenHow do top customer-centric brands gain and sustain a loyal following? What are they doing differently that you can replicate at your company? If you want answers to these questions, don't miss this episode of the "Doing CX Right" podcast. Host Stacy Sherman interviews author and solopreneur Dennis Geelen about his "Zero In" formula to grow a customer-centric brand that people love and crave. They discuss practical steps for improving customer experiences in innovative ways based on research and case studies that will help you take your business to the next level. Learn more at Access our FREE Customer Experience Audi...2023-06-1230 min
Clients from ContentPretty Sure I Just Helped Build An Awesome Brand - Do You Agree?Today my guest on the I Want To Know podcast is Dennis Geelen. Dennis Dennis is an “accidental solopreneur.” He's literally written the book on that. After more than 20 years in the corporate world, Dennis accidentally fell into being a solopreneur when he found himself laid off for the first time at the age of 43. He decided to bet on himself and is now at the age of 48, five years into his solopreneur journey. He's written four books, created three online courses, consulted for dozens of companies, spoken at numerous events, launched a newsletter, and is having a lot of f...2023-05-2446 min
Why I LeftGetting Real About Solopreneurship - Dennis GeelenSend us a Text Message.On this episode of Why I Left, host Brian Aquart interviews Dennis Geelen, the founder of Zero In and author of The Accidental Solopreneur, a parable about the journey from burnout in the corporate world to success as a solopreneur.Dennis offers insights and advice for anyone looking to make a career change. He also shares his experiences starting his own business and becoming an author, including the surprising things he discovered along the way.Listeners will hear about Dennis' latest book, The Accidental Solopreneur, which offers a...2023-04-2539 min
The SuccessGrid PodcastWhat Happens When You Bet On Yourself with Dennis Geelen - SG147Dennis Geelen, is the Founder and Chief Difference Maker at his solo consulting company, Zero In, that he founded in 2018. Through Zero In, Dennis helps companies ‘solve indifference’ by implementing strategies to build a brand customers love and culture where people are passionate to work. Author of the best-selling book The Zero In Formula, Mr. Geelen has worked with companies in several industries, spoken at countless events, conferences, workshops, webinars, with dozens of guest appearances on international podcasts. And now? Dennis also helps other solopreneurs get started. With his latest book, ‘The Accidental Solopreneur’, providing a playbook for success and told...2023-04-1529 min
The SuccessGrid PodcastWhat Happens When You Bet On Yourself with Dennis Geelen - SG147Dennis Geelen, is the Founder and Chief Difference Maker at his solo consulting company, Zero In, that he founded in 2018. Through Zero In, Dennis helps companies ‘solve indifference’ by implementing strategies to build a brand customers love and culture where people are passionate to work. Author of the best-selling book The Zero In Formula, Mr. Geelen has worked with companies in several industries, spoken at countless events, conferences, workshops, webinars, with dozens of guest appearances on international podcasts. And now? Dennis also helps other solopreneurs get started. With his latest book, ‘The Accidental Solopreneur’, providing a playbook for success and told...2023-04-1529 min
The SuccessGrid PodcastWhat Happens When You Bet On Yourself with Dennis Geelen - SG147Dennis Geelen, is the Founder and Chief Difference Maker at his solo consulting company, Zero In, that he founded in 2018. Through Zero In, Dennis helps companies ‘solve indifference’ by implementing strategies to build a brand customers love and culture where people are passionate to work. Author of the best-selling book The Zero In Formula, Mr. Geelen has worked with companies in several industries, spoken at countless events, conferences, workshops, webinars, with dozens of guest appearances on international podcasts. And now? Dennis also helps other solopreneurs get started. With his latest book, ‘The Accidental Solopreneur’, providing a playbook for success and told thr...2023-04-1529 min
Spicy Chai - A Podcast for Content CreatorsAuthor's Corner: Insider Tips for Writing and Publishing Your Book with Dennis GeelenSend us a textIn this Rapid fire episode, Dennis shares his writing process, from getting the first draft done to hiring a professional editor. With two best-selling books under his belt, Dennis shares his trials and tribulations on the path to success and offers up some fantastic advice to help aspiring writers avoid common pitfalls and reach their own goals. FEATURED ON THE SHOW: Watch my free training video:to learn the 4 simple steps you can use to start your podcast today. LINK: https://bit.ly/3UFUxgZ 2023-04-0402 min
Entrepreneur's EnigmaDennis Geelan On Becoming An Accidental Entrepreneur (Solopreneur)Dennis Geelen, is the Founder and Chief Difference Maker at his solo consulting company, Zero In, that he founded in 2018. Through Zero In, Dennis helps companies ‘solve indifference’ by implementing strategies to build a brand customers love and culture where people are passionate to work.Author of the best-selling book ‘The Zero In Formula’, Mr. Geelen has worked with companies in several industries, spoken at countless events, conferences, workshops, webinars, with dozens of guest appearances on international podcasts.And now? Dennis also helps other solopreneurs get started. With his latest b...2023-03-0722 min
In LinkyLandEp. 20 - How To Land That Next Role via LinkedIn w/ Brianna Doe and Julie RaederThis week's conversation dives into a topic that's often painful—job hunting. How to think differently about landing that next role (and get better results with less aggravation) is a topic Brianna Doe and Julie Raeder know a bit about. Brianna is a marketing pro and entrepreneur who founded The Career Lab and Soul Food Studio. Through The Career Lab, Brianna is supporting early- to mid-career professionals to build the career they want through a job board, resources, and coaching. Julie is a Customer Success Coach with Dooly, one of the strongest brands on LinkedIn, and she joined the co...2023-02-0850 min
Solopreneur Success Path | Have A Profitable Online BusinessEp. 112: Interview with John Nemo, LinkedIn ExpertIn this episode, I was able to interview a long time LinkedIn favorite of mine, John Nemo.I first came across John three years ago and was a regular for his 'Noon with Nemo' webinar sessions.After buying a couple of his books on taking LinkedIn to another level and how to improve my marketing tactics, I started to see real results with my LinkedIn experience and productivity.When people reach out to me and hire me because of LinkedIn, I know that I'm doing something right, and I owe that to John...2023-02-0533 min
Solopreneur Success Path | Have A Profitable Online BusinessEp. 111: Interview With Danielle Jefferson- Small Business ConsultantIn this episode, we're going to hear from Danielle Jefferson, from Jefferson James Consulting about her transition out of her Corporate job and into having her own business.Listen in on her journey through the ups and downs of the transition and how she worked out a plan for success that works for her but can also work for you as well.8:15 The next step was to take sales training through a course10:45 Why she changed her business model11:50 The mindset stuggles from leaving her job to having her own business2023-01-2225 min
Solopreneur Success Path | Have A Profitable Online BusinessEp. 110: Interview with Dennis Geelen-Author of, 'The Accidental Solopreneur'In this episode, I talk to Dennis Geelen about his journey from working in the Corporate realm to finding himself without a job and creating a new path for his life through starting his own business.3:00 The start of his entrepreneurial journey when he was laid off from his job6:00 The new mindset of ‘What if this works?’9:45 How he was able to get his first clients with his new business12:10 The need to switch the niche until he found something that was a better fit14:30 The transition to becom...2023-01-1631 min
Authority in the Wild#2 - From being laid off at 43 to becoming a Solopreneur by accident /w Dennis GeelenWelcome to the second episode of The Nomad Solopreneur Show!
If you're a 9-to-5er, freelancer, or aspiring solopreneur, take a pen and paper because, in today's episode, I have the pleasure to host Dennis Geelen, the Founder and Chief Difference Maker, at his solo consulting company, Zero In, which he founded in 2018. Through Zero In, Dennis helps companies ‘solve indifference’ by implementing strategies to build a brand customers love and culture where people are passionate to work.
Author of the best-selling book ‘The Zero In Formula’, Mr. Geelen has worked with companies in several industries, spoken at countless events, conferen...2023-01-1253 min
The PEAK Potential SUCCESS Show - Today is the day to unlock your PEAK Potential!THE ACCIDENTAL SOLOPRENEUR - DENNIS GEELEN - Entrepreneur and AuthorDENNIS GEELEN - Entrepreneur and Author shares w/Fong- PPSS #136 - THE ACCIDENTAL SOLOPRENEUR
LINK IN COMMENTS https://youtu.be/SXd0rojiZzw
Interviewing Entrepreneur and Author - Dennis Geelen. We discuss the innovation mindset, how there is no competition, and WHAT IS SUCCESS LIKE...? Get ready to unlock your PEAK Potential! PLEASE LIKE FOLLOW SUBSCRIBE COMMENT SHARE AND ENJOY!
Follow the show on Spotify Subscribe at yourareatv: Or Subscribe to MillionaireFlix TODAY! #makemorewithcoaching #unlockyourpotential2022-12-0147 min
High Velocity RadioDennis Geelen with Zero InDennis Geelen, is the Founder and Chief Difference Maker at his solo consulting company, Zero In, that he founded in 2018. Through Zero In, Dennis helps companies 'solve indifference' by implementing strategies to build a brand customers love and culture where people are passionate to work. Author of the best-selling book The Zero In Formula, […]
The post Dennis Geelen with Zero In appeared first on Business RadioX ®.2022-10-2500 min
The Interesting People You MeetThe Interesting People You Meet: Episode 17 Featuring Dennis GeelenDennis Geelen, is the Founder and Chief Difference Maker at his solo consulting company, Zero In, that he founded in 2018. Through Zero In, Dennis helps companies ‘solve indifference’ by implementing strategies to build a brand customers love and culture where people are passionate to work. Author of the best-selling book The Zero In Formula, Mr. Geelen has worked with companies in several industries, spoken at countless events, conferences, workshops, webinars, with dozens of guest appearances on international podcasts. And now? Dennis also helps other solopreneurs get started. With his latest book, ‘The Accidental Solopreneur’, providing a playboo...2022-10-0739 min
Uncage Yourself54: Dennis Geelen - The Accidental SolopreneurYou have gifts. But chances are, they're locked up inside of you. A 9-5 job only lets you unleash a fraction of those gifts. Dennis Geelen joins us to tell the story of The Accidental Solopreneur (his recent book). It's a fascinating look at unleashing your gifts and maximizing your potential.
Access the newsletter: Uncaged Secrets
Cohort course: Uncaged Academy
Show website: UncageYourself.FM
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TIMESTAMPS
03:12 What Dennis misses about corporate
06:28 Re-thinking the scripted life
10:50 Investing in your highest-leverage asset
13:31 Dennis's entrepreneurial...2022-09-2037 min
The IntrapreneurEp. 15 - How Intrapreneurs can also be Solopreneurs w/ Dennis GeelenDennis Geelen, started his own consulting business called zero in but at first it was a rough start. After 4 years he has found success multiple times as a Solopreneur and now teaches others how to become a solopreneur. 2022-09-1329 min
The Kawartha Small Business Podcast106: Dennis Geelen The Accidental SolopreneurDownload Matt and Brian’s Marketing ChecklistEpisode sponsored by Starting Point Digital MarketingFind Matt at: Matty G Digital Book a tour to check out Thrive Coworking Community where you can work, rent an office, or even record your own podcast from the Podcast studio.Find Brian at: Profit Coach Check out more episodes at: Kawartha Small Business PodcastWant to talk more? Be on the show? Have an idea for the show? Want to work with us? We can help your business start, grow, or re...2022-09-0644 min
SIMPLE brand With Matt LylesDennis Geelen: The Zero In Formula - Sustainable Growth Through Customer-Centric InnovationIn this week’s episode of the SIMPLE brand podcast, I talk with Dennis Geelen, creator of The Zero In Formula!Rarely do we hear anyone talking about an equal and integrated focus on being both customer-centric and innovative. But when you look at some of the most successful brands today, that’s their focus.Beyond just saying you’re going to focus on being customer-centric or innovative, you must be intentional, and it takes planning down through every layer of every team in your organization.Dennis’s Zero In Formula is the p...2022-08-1652 min
GROW B2B FASTEREp 61 - Bill Staikos - Building Successful Communities & Leveraging Thought Leadership for B2B GrowthHow can you build active communities as a B2B company?Bill Staikos, Senior VP at Medallia, talks to Sammy about his experience in community building, what leverages Medallia's community, and how his personal brand on LinkedIn plays into it.What's in it for you:1. Why and how Medallia invests in their client led community & community events to drive growth2. How B2B companies can start building active communities3. Who to hire to be successful with community building4. How Bill sets his focus for content topics for thought leadership5. Bills...2022-07-281h 19
American RealEpisode #208 | Dennis Geelen | Zeroing In on Industry DisruptionAs a perseverant guide for companies to disrupt their industry through customer-centric innovation, Dennis Geelen serves as the Founder and Principal Consultant of Zero In, as a well as the bestselling author of The Zero In Formula and creator of the Zero In innovation board game. Dennis is a recent graduate of David Brier‘s brand intervention Masterclass.
Dennis also gives back to the community by volunteering his time in several capacities. From coaching youth sports, to volunteering at the afterschool program in the local Boys and Girls Club, to his current role as Past-President of the Kaw...2022-06-2045 min
The Authority Builder PodcastDennis Geelen | Build a Brand Customers CraveWhat do businesses that win raving fans do that others don’t?Why go to the trouble of creating raving fans anyway?I cover that and more in today’s interview with the bestselling author of The Zero-In Formula: The Definitive Guide to Building a Disruptive and Sustainable Business through Customer-Centric Innovation—Dennis Geelan.Plus we cover how Dennis has built a unique “hybrid” business model for his consulting practice that gives him the team experience of working inside a company, and the freedom of building his own practice.2022-05-0532 min
The Limitless Possibilities PodcastEpisode 49 Ft Dennis Geelen- Motivational speaker, consultant, entrepreneur and best selling authorDennis Geelen is an entrepreneur, consultant, motivational speaker and best-selling author. He shares some amazing insights and wisdom into taking the leap of chasing your dreams instead of going with the flow of what we are told to do. His insights into time, self-worth and money can be applied to anyone, in any situation we currently find ourselves in, along these journies in this life.
You can connect with Dennis on:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dennis-geelen-5a95703/
Website: https://www.zero-in.ca/
Email: dennisgeelen@live.com
Check...2022-04-2852 min
Bloc ThinkingCan a business be disruption proof? - Dennis GeelenAre you interested in building a more sustainable business? Join us this week for a discussion with Dennis Geelen, author of the 'The Zero In Formula' and Customer Experience & Innovation Consultant. We discussed what it takes to build a more effective and sustainable business, along with some practical principles from Dennis to guide the discussion. You will leave this session with a better understanding of how you can apply the Zero In Formula in your own business and create an experience that is truly disruptive!
You can find me, Werner Puchert, on LinkedIn and Twitter. Catch my desi...2021-12-1440 min
Unusually Well InformedSandra Wendel | Author "Cover to Cover: What First-Time Authors Need to Know about Editing"Sandra Wendel is a book editor, feature writer, and publishing consultant. She has been the author’s editor for many award-winning, well-respected nonfiction books. Among her many happy clients is Dennis Geelen, author of "The Zero In Formula" and former guest on this podcast. Sandra is the author of "Cover to Cover: What First-Time Authors Need to Know about Editing". Sandra and I discuss how the first-time author can get their manuscript polished and published.
Guest: Sandra Wendel
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandra-wendel-7509956/
Website: sandrawendel.com
"Cover to Cover: What First-Time Authors Need to...2021-11-1155 min
The Empathy EdgeDennis Geelen: Are you Truly Customer-Centric? You May Not BeWhat does it really mean to be customer centric? It’s more than just polite customer service or occasionally asking customers what they think of you. It’s an ongoing mindset that is backed up by processes, structures, and tools to continue staying in lockstep with your customers - and engaging their input and needs to drive business decisions. My guest today, Dennis Geelen, shares his formula for customer centric success. We also discuss why some businesses have thrived during the pandemic while others have failed, why data and customer centricity are not the same thing, and tips to help...2021-08-0327 min
Learning From OthersDennis Geelen: Customer Service is More Than Smiling Today's guest is here to tell you that being customer centric is more smiling and a polite voice. Those are great and all, but turning customers into raving fans and team members into creative idea machines goes beyond basic customer service. Please welcome Dennis Geelen. Contact Info: https://www.zero-in.ca/ https://twitter.com/dennis_geelen https://www.linkedin.com/in/dennis-geelen-5a95703/ 2021-07-0528 min
human innovation - The Jens Heitland ShowEP 78: Conquer Indifference - Dennis Geelen on innovation business foundations, Customer centricity, innovation and moreConquer Indifference - Dennis Geelen on innovation business foundations, Customer centricity, innovation and moreWelcome to the Jens Heitland Show where I meet with experts of different fields to connect the dots of innovation and entrepreneurship.In this episode I connect the dots of innovation and entrepreneurship together with Dennis Geelen Founder of Zero In a boutique consulting firm based in Lindsay, Ontario, Canada. Together we explore how important indifference is how a solid business foundation build based on customer centricity and innovation and m...2021-06-2446 min