Full Episode Page (show notes, links, transcript): #41: Eric Y. Chen – Learning Sales & Marketing, Launching Sabobatage, and Growing Businesses from A to Z
Introduction
In episode #41 of the One Thousand Gurus podcast, host J.R. welcomes the multifaceted entrepreneur Eric Chen. From navigating the corporate world to building a name for himself as a successful creator, Eric shares his inspiring journey filled with insightful experiences and valuable lessons.
The Dream of Becoming Number One
Eric Chen shares an amusing personal goal of rising to the top as the most recognized “Eric Chen” on Google. With an abundance of individuals sharing his name, climbing up the search rankings has proven to be a unique challenge in itself. Despite currently residing on the second page, the ambition remains a testament to his persistence and aspiration for distinction.
Navigating Business Pathways
Eric’s path into the world of business wasn’t traditional. Initially drawn to the idea of business from a young age, Eric pursued international relations and communication, which led him into a successful sales career. His time at ADP honed his skills, revealing the importance of listening over merely talking, a pivotal lesson that served as a foundation for his future endeavors.
Entrepreneurial Realizations and Timing
It was a near-fatal car accident that catalyzed Eric’s shift from corporate to entrepreneurship. During his recovery, he reflected deeply on his career path, deciding to explore the world of product creation and launch. Though the initial venture into Amazon FBA did not yield significant financial success, it provided invaluable experience that paved the way for future entrepreneurial projects.
The Birth of Sabotage: Fulfilling a Niche
In pursuit of a simple yet meaningful creation, Eric developed the card game “Sabotage,” uniquely themed around Boba tea. Perfectly timed with the lockdown surge in board game popularity, this project exceeded initial expectations, highlighting the importance of understanding market trends and consumer needs.
Retail Realities and Lessons Learned
While getting Sabotage into retailers like Barnes & Noble and Target marked significant milestones, the journey wasn’t all smooth sailing. Eric openly discusses the peaks and pitfalls of retail distribution, including managing inventory and cash flow challenges. His story underscores the complexities of sustaining retail relationships beyond the initial excitement of product placement on major shelves.
Full Circle: Lessons in Logistics
Interestingly, Eric’s journey has come full circle, leading him to embrace logistics by establishing MoCo Shipping. This venture capitalizes on his extensive e-commerce expertise, offering competitive pricing in the board game industry and showcasing his ability to adapt and innovate continuously.
Conclusion: Embracing Challenges and Opportunities
Eric’s story is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the importance of continuous learning. His openness about failures and successes paints a holistic picture of what it means to forge your entrepreneurial path. Aspiring entrepreneurs can draw inspiration from Eric’s journey, where embracing challenges and celebrating small successes lead to meaningful growth and significant achievements.
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