Episode 126 - Mitch Levinson - From Boardroom to Purpose: Mitch Levinson’s Journey of Entrepreneurship, Adversity, and Advocacy for Special Needs Families.

This episode:  From Boardroom to Purpose: Mitch Levinson’s Journey of Entrepreneurship, Adversity, and Advocacy for Special Needs Families.

 

Here’s what you’ll learn about:

Introduction and Purpose of the Podcast (0:15)

• Host Drew Deraney thanks Adam Citron for introducing Mitch Levinson and discusses the concept of a linear life path.
• Drew explains three types of men on a circuitous life path: those with blind spots, those who blame external factors, and those who see adversities as opportunities.
• Drew introduces Guest Mitch Levinson as the third type of man who sees adversities as opportunities for growth and change.
• Drew asks Mitch to share a defining moment that changed his life and moved him from one path to another.

Mitch's Early Career and Adversities (3:15)

• Mitch shares his experience of being laid off during the internet bubble burst and the decision to call clients for referrals.
• He explains how three Fortune 1000 companies offered him consulting work, leading him to start his first business.
• Mitch emphasizes the importance of character and integrity in building a successful business.
• He discusses the decision to grow his business and bring on more people, leading to the establishment of a full-service digital marketing agency.

Growing the Business and Making Difficult Decisions (7:25)

• Mitch talks about the challenges of balancing multiple clients and the decision to hire more people.
• He describes the growth of his business over 25 years and the eventual sale to a different company.
• Mitch explains the easy decision to sell his business when the new company offered to absorb his employees and services.
• He shares the subsequent challenges of his business unit being put on the block and the decision to start a nonprofit for special needs.

Starting Joey's Journeys Nonprofit (11:05)

• Mitch discusses the inspiration behind starting Joey's Journeys, an organization to raise awareness and create lasting memories for the special needs community.
• He shares the challenges of getting people to participate and donate to the nonprofit.
• Mitch highlights the importance of trust and transparency in building the nonprofit.
• He shares Joey's achievements, including being voted the most inspirational athlete in Texas by the Special Olympics.

Impact of Travel on Special Needs Families (15:53)

• Mitch explains how travel can benefit special needs fam