Origin to Ambition: The Entrepreneur Journey
On Origin to Ambition, successful entrepreneurs and business owners share the untold stories and practical strategies that fueled their growth from a simple idea to a thriving enterprise. Founders, start-up leaders, and bootstrapped innovators join honest conversations about their journey with host Sean Dunne (Founder of Dominium Capital). From securing their first customers and navigating cash flow to the challenges of scaling a team and planning a profitable exit, Origin to Ambition provides the real-world lessons and actionable advice to help you master your own entrepreneurial journey.
Origin to Ambition: The Entrepreneur Journey
7. Find Calm In The Chaos: The Entrepreneur's Journey with Maggie McPherson
Imagine launching your dream business, pouring your heart and soul into it, only to be hit by a "full-blown tsunami" just four months later. That was the reality for Maggie McPherson, a 4'11" powerhouse in the martial arts world, when the COVID-19 pandemic shut her brand-new dojo down.
In this deeply inspiring conversation, Sean Dunne sits down with Maggie to explore a journey that began not with a business plan, but by simply tagging along with her brother to a martial arts class to stop him from being bullied. She fell in love with the art, was mentored by one of the industry's legends, and eventually took the courageous leap to build a school that reflected her own values and vision.
This episode is a masterclass in resilience, adaptability, and the power of a strong team. Maggie shares how she pivoted her in-person school to an online model overnight, the importance of building a future leadership "bench," and why her ultimate measure of success is the confidence she sees blossoming in her students.
What we discussed:
1. The Worst-Case Scenario Happened...
Her dream business was hit by a "full-blown tsunami" just four months after opening. What was the rapid pivot she made overnight that allowed her to survive when so many established businesses failed?
2. The 4'11" Founder's Secret Weapon...
In an industry that often values size and strength, how did Maggie turn her biggest perceived weakness into her most powerful and unexpected advantage as a leader?
3. The "Lotto Test" Every Founder Must Pass…
Maggie has built a business so fulfilling that a lottery win wouldn't make her quit. What is the one question she answers "yes" to that reveals if your passion is powerful enough to fuel a business through the toughest times?
4. The Procrastinator's Paradox...
Her number one piece of advice is that waiting until you're "ready" is the biggest mistake you can make. Why does she believe that today, with all its chaos and uncertainty, is always easier than tomorrow?
5. The Hidden Time-Vampire in Your Business…
Maggie reveals the one "money-saving" task that most new founders do themselves, but she argues it’s the single biggest waste of their most valuable asset. What is it, and are you doing it right now?
SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE
Connect with Sean Dunne: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn |
Connect with Maggie McPherson: Website
