• Turning Simple Ideas Into Billion Dollar Industries - Simon Leslie

  • Jan 23 2025
  • Length: 1 hr and 4 mins
  • Podcast

Turning Simple Ideas Into Billion Dollar Industries - Simon Leslie

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  • Summary

  • Join Coach Dan Gordon as he interviews Simon Leslie, a media mogul whose innovations have transformed air travel marketing. From creating inflight magazines to establishing the largest airport TV network, Simon's journey is a testament to resilience and creativity. Discover how he turned simple ideas into billion-dollar industries, survived economic downturns, and navigated the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Gain insights into his strategies for success, the importance of celebrating teams, and his unique approach to customer care. This episode contains valuable lessons for entrepreneurs looking to overcome obstacles and achieve greatness.

    Five Badass Q&As
    Q1: How did Simon Leslie develop the idea for inflight magazines?
    A1: Simon was on a flight in the early 1990s and thought, If I gave millions of air travelers a free magazine, they'd probably read it, and advertisers would pay to reach those readers. This led to the creation of his Company, Inc., in 1994.
    Q2: What was the central turning point for Inc. in the inflight magazine market?
    A2: In 2005, after a board meeting, Simon decided to dominate the inflight magazine space. They went from having a few clients to winning about 70 airlines, taking advantage of a rapidly growing airline industry.
    Q3: How did Simon Leslie manage to grow Reach TV?
    A3: Simon joined an existing team, added his expertise and passion, and focused on providing engaging content for airport terminals. Reach TV grew to have over 2,500 screens across North America, partnering with major brands like Netflix, Sony, and Hilton.
    Q4: What strategy did Simon Leslie use to navigate the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic?
    A4: Simon contacted industry experts and motivational speakers to inspire and inform his team. This support helped them stay resilient and find new ways to innovate during the crisis.
    Q5: Why does Simon Leslie believe in celebrating his team?
    A5: Simon emphasizes that celebrating his team, regardless of their sales figures, is crucial for maintaining a positive and productive work culture. He believes feeling appreciated and part of the company’s success motivates employees to perform better.

    Five Badass Quotes
    1. Opportunities are gifts wrapped in problems.
    2. If my energy is low, my results are low.
    3. Success is not about never failing; it's about returning stronger.
    4. Advertising isn't linear; it's about planting seeds for the future.
    5. Creating magical moments leaves people better than you found them.

    Five Badass Takeaways
    1. Resilience Matters: Overcoming multiple industry crises, including 9/11 and COVID-19, showcases the importance of resilience.
    2. Celebrate Your Team: Recognizing and celebrating your team's efforts, regardless of sales, fosters a positive work environment.
    3. Innovate Constantly: Success comes from continuously innovating and improving upon existing ideas.
    4. Customer Experience: Going above and beyond for clients ensures lasting business relationships.
    5. Belief in Your Vision: Confidence and belief in your vision are crucial for overcoming obstacles and achieving success.

    Contact Info
    Simon Leslie: LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simonleslie21
    Dan Gordon: Text GAP to 213-409-8366 for a free copy of Jumping the Gap
    Chapters

    0:00 Introduction
    4:44 Simon Leslie’s Background
    10:34 The Creation of InFlight Magazines
    16:35 Importance of Celebrating the Team
    20:16 The Art of Customer Experience
    24:17 Growth of Inc. and Reach TV
    30:09 Navigating the Pandemic
    38:44 Facing and Overcoming Devastation
    42:11 Insights from Industry Experts
    50:03 The Power of Positive Energy
    58:23 Final Thoughts and Takeaways
    For more badass episodes, check us out at For Badass Entrepreneurs ONLY!
    https://dangordonenterprise.com/badass
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