My journey is one of hard work, continuous learning, and the pursuit of building something great. I view the journey as an opportunity to get better and help others. Today, I lead a thriving marketing agency called Local Leap Marketing that empowers business owners to achieve their dreams. My story is a testament to the people who guided me and the unwavering belief that everyone has the potential to make a difference.
I grew up surrounded by incredible mentors. My grandpa could fix anything, my Mom was a side-hustle queen, and the people in my circle were always brimming with creative ideas. They taught me valuable lessons not just through their words, but through their actions.
By the time I was a teenager, I was out there hustling alongside them. Mowing lawns and working hard for every dollar – every odd job was a chance to learn. It wasn’t just about the money; it was about gaining practical skills, understanding the value of hard work, and most importantly, embracing every experience as a learning opportunity.
One summer, I tackled a beat-up camper as my first renovation project. With a shoestring budget and some help from my family, we transformed that camper into a gleaming gem. But the project wasn’t just about the renovation; it was my first taste of turning a profit. I negotiated the sale myself, and the feeling of accomplishment from selling that camper for more than I paid for it was a huge win for me personally. It planted a seed of what was possible when you combined resourcefulness with a little bit of hustle.
Mapping the Future
My thirst for knowledge led me to the world of Geographic Information Systems. GIS was a fascinating field, but the opportunity to chase that dream required a big leap of faith. I packed my bags and moved to Illinois to help launch a GIS department with my friend Shane. That experience helped me step outside my comfort zone and see how everyone could benefit from accurate maps. It was a turning point in my life that highlighted the importance of teamwork and leadership.
Later, I moved back to Texas to manage a new GIS department on my own. I ended up establishing one of the best mapping teams in the state, converting paper maps for over 80 counties. Each project was laying the foundation for the future of digital maps. It felt like we were a part of something much bigger than ourselves, building the infrastructure for a more digital world. Companies like Google Maps and Zillow saw the vision early on and still use this data today.
Throughout my career, I never stopped learning. Web design, sales, and project management – I embraced every opportunity to expand my skillset. And the knowledge I gained wasn’t limited to books and courses. I actively sought out mentors and always looked for ways to help friends and family with their businesses. Every interaction, every challenge, became a chance to learn and grow.
Building a Business from a Side Hustle
In 2013, I took a bigger leap of faith and decided to turn my marketing side hustle into a full-time business. With a newborn son and my wife bravely taking on the role of stay-at-home Mom, we faced a lot of challenges. Our new business was the only source of income, and the pressure was immense. I couldn’t have done it without the unwavering support of my wife. Her belief in me and her willingness to sacrifice alongside me fueled my determination to make this venture a success.
Today, Local Leap is thriving, with a fantastic team of 11 employees. We’ve helped over 800 clients achieve their goals. But what truly fuels the fire in me is the impact we create. By helping businesses grow, we’re empowering them to create jobs, support their families, and build the local economy. It’s a ripple effect of success that goes far beyond just numbers.
Embrace Your Journey
My story is far from over. I’m passionate about using my knowledge and experience to help others who share the dream of owning a successful business. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to scale, I’m here to offer guidance, support, and encouragement. Remember, taking that leap of faith can be scary, but the rewards are immeasurable. So, if you have a dream that keeps you up at night, don’t hesitate to go for it! The world of entrepreneurship is full of opportunity, and I’m committed to helping you navigate the journey and achieve your goals. Ready to get started?