#30 - Jason Harward - High School Dropout Becomes Internet Marketing Genius

Summary

In this episode of the Jimmy Rex Show, host Jimmy Rex interviews Jason Harward, a high school dropout turned multi-million dollar entrepreneur. Harward shares his journey from selling stolen items on eBay to building a successful online business selling stickers. He discusses the pivotal moment that changed his life—a transformative training that led to a complete turnaround in his attitude and approach. The conversation delves into Harward's strategies for navigating setbacks, his insights on the evolving landscape of internet marketing, and his philosophy on the importance of problem-solving in business. The episode offers a candid look at the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship.

Takeaways

• 🏢 Jason Harward, a high school dropout, built multiple million-dollar businesses, highlighting the possibility of success without traditional education.
• 🚗 His initial impression on others was made with a Lamborghini and a 'dropout' license plate, symbolizing a non-traditional path to wealth.
• 🔝 Harward's early business endeavors involved selling stolen items and dollar store products on eBay, showcasing entrepreneurial spirit from a young age.
• 👨‍👦 Harward's life took a turn when his father intervened, leading to a period of reflection and change, emphasizing the role of family support in personal development.
• 📈 After a transformative training experience, Harward shifted his approach to life and business, illustrating the power of personal growth and introspection.
• 🛑 Harward's business faced significant challenges, including an Amazon account shutdown, teaching the importance of adaptability in entrepreneurship.
• 💡 He diversified his business strategies, moving beyond Amazon to other platforms, demonstrating the necessity of evolving with market changes.
• 🚀 Harward's success with ClickFunnels, achieving membership in the 'Two Comma Club', underlines the potential of digital marketing in modern business.
• 🤔 Despite his achievements, Harward remains driven by the thrill of building successful business models, rather than just the financial rewards.
• 🌟 He encourages others to identify their strengths and pursue their passions, whether or not they align with traditional educational paths.
• 🛑 Harward's story serves as a reminder that setbacks are part of the journey and can lead to significant growth and learning opportunities.

Q & A

What was the reason for Jason Harward's initial success with selling items online?

Jason Harward's initial success with selling items online came from buying items from the dollar store and selling them on eBay for a higher price during his high school years.

How did Jason's parents react to his early entrepreneurial activities?

Jason's parents were disappointed in his early entrepreneurial activities, which included stealing items from garages to sell online. His mother eventually kicked him out of the house, and he moved in with his father.

What event in Jason's life marked a significant turning point for him?

A significant turning point in Jason's life was attending a training program called the BU training, which helped him realize the impact of his choices and motivated him to change his life.

How did Jason transition from selling car parts to starting a multi-million dollar business?

After running an automotive shop for five or six years and experiencing its hardships, Jason transitioned to selling stickers online, which eventually grew into a multi-million dollar business.

What was the initial monthly sales target Jason set for his sticker business?

Jason initially set a sales target of 400 stickers a month to cover his bills when he started his sticker business.

How did Jason's business grow in its first year?

In its first year, Jason's sticker business grew from selling just over 400 stickers in February to selling 32,000 stickers in December.

What challenges did Jason face after his Amazon account was shut down?

After his Amazon account was shut down, Jason faced financial difficulties as his funds were held for 90 days, leaving him unable to pay his employees or himself.

How did Jason adapt to the challenges posed by Amazon's policies?

Jason adapted by setting up new business entities in different states with different IP addresses to avoid Amazon's restrictions on having multiple accounts.

What advice does Jason give to people considering starting an Amazon business?

Jason advises against starting a business solely on Amazon unless it's a well-established brand with proprietary products, as the competition and risks are high.

What is Jason's perspective on the importance of problem-solving in business?

Jason believes that the ability to solve problems is crucial in business, and those who cannot solve problems will struggle to succeed.

How does Jason describe his current work-life balance?

Jason describes his current work-life balance as having the freedom to do what he wants, working an average of 10-20 hours a week, and enjoying the flexibility to pursue hobbies and adventures.