The Unscheduled CEO

Getting clients: Easy Mode vs Hard Mode

5 snips
Feb 3, 2026
A founder’s origin story about pitching, landing that first client, and turning a project into a company. How location, coworking and events created referral snowballs. A clear contrast between ‘easy mode’ local networking and ‘hard mode’ online outbound. Why founders must promote, teach, and run events to surface customers. Honest talk about anxiety, energy, and planning in-person retreats.
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ANECDOTE

Hustle And Location Grew Early Clients

  • Jonathan recounts winning early clients through hunger, speed, and working long hours with cofounders.
  • The physical proximity in a startup incubator led to more client referrals and growth.
INSIGHT

Lead Singer Principle

  • Successful CEOs are visible leaders who promote publicly, even imperfectly.
  • Being the public face helps attract customers and shape the company's identity.
ANECDOTE

Summer Camp Revealed His Role

  • Jonathan describes running a sold-out Summer Camp and realizing his core role as promoter.
  • Losing his promotional energy directly impacted AJ&Smart's revenue and momentum.
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