The Power of Optimism to Build a World-Renowned Brand with Bert Jacobs

It seems like people are labeled as either a pessimist or an optimist.

But I think the truth is we all have moments of both ends of the spectrum throughout life.

When things are looking good, it’s easy to be optimistic.

When things are looking bad, it’s easy to be “realistic” which can easily become pessimistic.

But is there value is always assuming the viewpoint of an optimist?

Today’s guest on The School of Greatness says yes.

Bert Jacobs is the co-founder (along with his brother John) of the internationally recognized lifestyle brand Life Is Good.

If you’ve walked through a major airport anytime in the past few years you’ve probably seen their Tshirts with a smiling stick figure man on them.

It turns out that this brand started out very humbly, barely making any profit for 5 years.

But then the right blend of idea and authenticity struck the brothers and what started out as Tshirts has become a million dollar business and symbol of hope for good things.

It was joy for me to interview Bert in my studio and get a solid dose of optimism, along with his 20+ years of business experience.

Whether you consider yourself an optimist or pessimist, you can’t finish listening to this interview without feeling better in Episode 230 with Bert Jacobs.

Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher Radio or TuneIn

The School of Greatness Podcast

“One of the superpowers that everyone has access to is humor.”

Some questions I ask:

• What kept you going for 5 years in business without making hardly any profit?
• What’s your advice to someone starting a Tshirt line?

In This Episode, You Will Learn:

• Bert and his brother had $78 after 5 years in business
• Why Bert believes that optimism is a choice
• What they learned from their customers that affected their brand
• The 10 superpowers that are accessible to anyone
• They have never spent a penny on traditional advertising in 21 years of business (and how their customer base advertised for them)
• What Bert & John became inspired to do from 9/11

“Happiness comes from your disposition.”

• Why Bert recommends finding a philanthropic cause to give to at the beginning of your business
• How the recession helped build the brand and company in the direction it needed to go
• The power of laughter to break down walls
• Plus much more…

Continue Seeking Greatness:

• Life is Good: The Book
• FOLLOW BERT

Website | Twitter | Facebook

• TEXT “GREATNESS” TO 33444 TO GET ADDED TO THE EARLY BIRD BOOK PREVIEW LIST! (OR VISIT HTTP://GREATNESSBOOK.COM)

• Music Credit: Loosing Ma Mind by Won Der Cyp

You may also like these episodes:

• Arianna Huffington on Building an Empire and Her Key to Success
• James Altucher: Be Happy, Make Millions, Live the Dream
• The Power You Have to Make a Huge Difference with Jacob Lief

Did you enjoy the podcast?

I consider myself an optimist, but after talking to Bert, I really believe in the power of positivity. What would look different in your life if you looked at it through an optimistic viewpoint?

“Optimism is actually very practical.”

The post The Power of Optimism to Build a World-Renowned Brand with Bert Jacobs appeared first on Lewis Howes.