Podcast
CEO
Hosted by Martin Vika · EN
Welcome to CEO—a podcast for entrepreneurs and those intrigued by the dynamic world of business ownership. Hosted by Martin Vika, this show dives into the authentic and often chaotic side of entrepreneurship, supporting you whether you’re launching your first venture or scaling an existing one.
Each episode is a blend of strategy, mindset, and the messy moments no one discusses. Have you ever launched a business during a pandemic or stayed up at night worrying about your brilliant idea leading to bankruptcy? You’re not alone. We explore the highs, lows, challenges, and triumphs of entrepreneurship—because I’ve been there too.
Our episodes serve as a roadmap through the entrepreneurial journey, filled with detours and unexpected turns. One week, we might tackle growth strategies; the next, we’ll focus on maintaining sanity when chaos reigns. Entrepreneurship is a marathon, and pacing is crucial—even Elon Musk has his chaotic moments!
I recall launching my third business—though the details blur, cash flow was a nightmare, and my marketing efforts left much to be desired. That’s the reality: no one has it all figured out, and CEO is here to unpack that messy truth.
We go beyond surface-level discussions, addressing gritty topics like sleepless nights over payroll and the pressure of product launches that flop. These real moments matter, and we also feature guests sharing their stories of triumphs and failures, revealing the resilience required to keep going.
We’ll discuss essential yet boring topics like taxes and cash flow management while addressing how entrepreneurship affects mental health. These conversations are vital, and CEO provides a platform for them. It’s not always pretty, but it’s always worth it.
Marketing is another focus. While many seem to have it all figured out, the truth is, no one does. We’ll dive into struggles and rare wins that make the entrepreneurial journey worthwhile. This podcast isn’t about glorifying success; it’s about embracing the unpredictable world of business and celebrating the small victories that remind us why we pursue this path.
Whether you're starting, scaling, or contemplating your exit strategy, CEO is your guide through the realities of building a business. We strip away polished narratives to explore the raw, unfiltered moments that make entrepreneurship both daunting and thrilling.
Subscribe now and join me, Martin Vika, as we explore entrepreneurship—one honest, sometimes painful, but always real episode at a time. Welcome to CEO—your guide to the unpredictable and inspiring journey of business ownership. Let’s dive in!
Legal Disclaimer: The information in the "CEO" podcasts is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional, legal, or financial advice. Listeners are encouraged to consult qualified professionals before making business decisions. All episodes are generated using the...
22episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Tariffs, Tech & Turbulence—Or Whatever’s Driving the S&P’s 4-Day Spree (Hint: It’s a Mixed Bag!)
Apr 26, 202500:14:38Tap to summarizeOkay, so picture this: I’m sipping a too-strong espresso (blame the barista) on April 25, 2025, and my eyes almost pop out watching the S&P 500 notch win number four in a row—whoa. One moment you feel invincible, the next you’re scratching your head because... tariffs? Again? President Trump’s latest steel-and-aluminum rhetoric makes you wonder if we’re in a drama series (spoiler: we are).Anyway—here’s the skinny (or is it gravy?):Market Mojo & Mood Swings: Four straight up days, strongest weekly gain since—uh, well, ages. Tech stocks pumping adrenaline into the system like a defibrillator, but also, wait… isn’t that a sign we’re overdue for a wobble?Mega-Cap Mayhem: The big names led the charge—think AI chip makers, cloud overlords, and that one social network everyone loves to hate. Why it matters? Because when they sneeze, the rest catch a cold—or catch fire.Tariff Tango: One minute it’s “no more tariffs,” next it’s “hold my tweet”—and boom, volatility spikes. Traders are flipping like pancakes at brunch, uncertain if they should flip back or stick with syrup.Earnings Rollercoaster: Q1 reports rolled in—some companies blew past estimates (thank you, unexpected revenue), others slashed guidance so hard it echoes in your head (“we’re cautiously optimistic,” cough). It’s like an all-you-can-eat buffet where half the dishes are lukewarm.Sentiment & Savvy Flows: Foreign investors are sneaking back in—kind of like that friend who always shows up uninvited but brings decent wine. Sentiment’s on a seesaw: exuberance one second, existential dread the next.I know, I know—too many mixed metaphors, but that’s life (and markets) for you. Strap in for a whirlwind of abrupt turns, occasional “wait—what?”, and maybe even a personal rant about how my cat jumped on the keyboard and almost tweeted my hot takes. We’ll sort through the noise, deliver some half-useful takeaways (no guarantees), and hey—at least you’ll be entertained. Hit play, and let’s dive headfirst into this tariff-tinged, earnings-obsessed thrill ride.
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Millionaire Blueprint Review
Dec 9, 202400:21:07Tap to summarizeEver felt stuck? Like you’re trudging through quicksand in a job that drains the soul? Yeah, same. That’s where this story begins—a tale of monotony, spreadsheets, and endless coffee breaks (not the good kind). But then came Millionaire Blueprint, an online course that didn’t just change one person’s career—it rewired their entire mindset.Picture this: a once-bored office worker, now running an online empire. The niche? Millennial financial planning. And no, this isn’t some fluffy feel-good nonsense. This course walks you through the nitty-gritty of finding your niche (even if you have no clue where to start). It’s not like throwing darts at a map—it's precision, almost like learning to cook but for businesses.Speaking of cooking, it’s like how a recipe comes together. SEO, email funnels, social media—it’s all ingredients. They show you how to mix it into something delicious (or, well, profitable). And don’t get me started on automation. Imagine your business running on autopilot while you sip lattes somewhere warm. Sounds dreamy, right?Oh, and there’s this sense of community—kind of like group therapy, but instead of oversharing, you’re sharing wins. It’s electric, watching people go from "meh" to "wow."But honestly, the real kicker? The confidence. Something about this course makes you believe you’re capable of more—more money, more freedom, just... more.👉 Feeling that spark yet? Enroll in Millionaire Blueprint here, before the procrastination kicks in. Your future self will thank you—or maybe even write their own success story.
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Viral Income System Review
Dec 9, 202400:25:03Tap to summarizeAffiliate marketing can feel like chasing rainbows—lots of hype, little reward. But the Viral Income System, sold through Digistore24, offers something different: a simple, referral-based model that actually delivers. Instead of complex schemes, it uses a viral approach where one person’s success sparks growth for others. No, it’s not magic or an instant jackpot, but it’s refreshingly straightforward and designed for real people.What really sets this system apart is the supportive community. Unlike many programs where you’re left to fend for yourself, here you’ll find encouragement and shared strategies. Sure, it’s no walk in the park—you’ll need patience and effort—but the potential for steady, sustainable income makes it worth a closer look.If you’re done with empty promises and ready for a system that works, this might just be your answer. Click here to start now and find out if it’s the right fit for your goals. Don’t forget to subscribe for more insights and practical advice!
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EZBay Payday Review
Dec 6, 202400:15:41Tap to summarizeOkay, so—have you ever thought about making money on eBay but felt like, "Ugh, where do I even start?" This episode? It's raw, it's real, and maybe even a little chaotic (in the best way). You’ll hear one person’s unpredictable adventure with the EZBay Payday program—it’s not just another "I got rich quick" story, though. No, this is about the messy beginnings: botched listings, weird algorithmic mysteries (seriously, eBay's search system feels like cracking a safe sometimes), and that first sale that feels like striking gold, even if it's just a $10 collectible.They talk about scaling up—like, turning eBay from side hustle into serious business. Oh, and dropshipping gets a shoutout. (Because who doesn’t want someone else to do all the shipping for them?) But this isn’t just a list of steps or strategies—it’s about how they felt. Frustration, elation, even the occasional "I’m gonna quit," followed by a total 180 because, hey, success is messy.Honestly, it’s less like listening to a seminar and more like hearing a friend vent over coffee. They gush over how EZBay Payday made things click—like finding the right cheat code in a game—but they also emphasize the grind: communication skills, trial and error, and the "just keep going" mantra. It's less about perfection and more about sticking with it when everything screams, "Give up already."And while we’re talking success stories, did you know eBay sales spiked during last year’s Black Friday frenzy? Yeah, there's still huge money to be made. Imagine if this could be your story—just imagine it.Feeling inspired (or at least curious)? Stop wondering what if—click here now to get started and discover how EZBay Payday might be the spark you didn’t know you needed!
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7 Game-Changing Tactics to Skyrocket Your Small Food Business
Dec 3, 202400:19:36Tap to summarizeIn this episode, we dive into a seven-step guide that could actually make or break your small food business. It's not about just surviving—it’s about thriving, growing, and standing out in a crowded market. So, we start with building a brand that’s not just "unique"—but something that feels like it’s made for your customers, like it’s speaking directly to their hearts. And social media? Yeah, it’s not just for scrolling—if you’re using it right, it can transform your entire marketing game.But that’s just the beginning. We’ll talk about the secret weapon: reviews. When customers talk, they’re not just leaving feedback—they’re telling your future customers why they should care. Oh, and partnerships—trust me, they can be the missing ingredient you didn’t even know you needed. You might be thinking, “I’m just a small business, who’d want to partner with me?” Well, this episode might just change that mindset. It’s about getting your foot in the door—and maybe even elbowing your way in with a little charm and strategy.And paid advertising? Don’t get me started. It’s that tricky thing—sometimes it works wonders, sometimes it feels like throwing money into a black hole. But, when used correctly, it’s like the turbo boost your business has been begging for. So yeah, I’ll break it down—what to do, what not to do, and how to avoid the common pitfalls.But here’s the kicker: measurement. Yes, I know, it’s not the fun part. But it’s vital. If you’re not checking how things are going, you’re just... guessing. And that doesn’t win races, right? You gotta adapt, tweak, and keep refining what’s working, or what’s not. Growth doesn’t just happen—you make it happen.Tune in, give it a listen, and—seriously—don’t forget to subscribe, because we’ve got a lot more nuggets coming your way. This one’s a game-changer if you’re ready to step up your food business game!
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Monetize Your Dreams: The 6-Step Blueprint for Real Success
Dec 3, 202400:22:04Tap to summarizeIn this episode, we’re diving into a strategy that sounds simple but is actually incredibly powerful—a six-step roadmap for turning your personal dreams into a real business. And no, I’m not talking about “quick fixes” or hoping for some magical viral moment. This is about real, sustainable growth built around sharing your journey. Authenticity? Yes. Community? Absolutely. But forget the pressure to go viral overnight. This is about the long haul, building trust, and creating something that actually matters.We’ll start with defining a goal that’s doable—not some grandiose dream of becoming a millionaire tomorrow (though, hey, that'd be nice). And then there’s vulnerability—trust me, this is harder than it sounds, but it works like a charm. After that? We talk about picking the right platforms where your voice can actually get heard, because, well, there are a million places to share stuff, but you don’t need to be everywhere.I’ll also walk you through how to build a following that actually cares—because, let’s face it, followers don’t mean much unless they’re loyal and ready to support you. And here’s where it gets fun—revenue. We’ll explore ways to build diverse income streams that feel right—ebooks, sponsorships, online courses—whatever fits with your vibe. No “get rich quick” schemes, just solid, trustworthy business.And honestly, staying flexible? That's the part I struggle with the most. Platforms change. Audiences change. You’ll need to keep adapting (sometimes it feels like I’m learning a new language every few months). But, hey, that’s part of the deal.At the heart of it all? A mindset shift. It’s not about perfection—trust me, I’m still learning as I go—it’s about progress. Every little step. Every tiny win. That’s where the magic happens.So, if you're tired of waiting for that "perfect moment" or trying to figure out if your idea is worthy enough, well, this is your sign. Start now. Tune in, and let’s get this dream of yours out there into the world. And—oh!—if you found this helpful, share it with someone who’s still stuck in the “dreaming” phase. Let’s make it happen, together.
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The 3-Step Strategy That Made Me Six Figures Online
Dec 3, 202400:11:05Tap to summarizeAlright, let’s get real—making money online feels like chasing a mirage sometimes, doesn’t it? But Adeife Adeoye (ever heard of her? She’s phenomenal) might just have cracked the code. In her YouTube video, "I think I've figured out HOW TO MAKE MONEY online | I made six figures doing this - it works!", she spills the tea on a strategy that’s equal parts simple and genius—like, why didn’t we all think of this sooner?Here’s the gist: It’s all about balancing your income streams. You’ve got done-for-you services (think: the heavy lifting for clients), done-with-you coaching (like holding their hand but not in a weird way), and digital products (ah, the sweet smell of passive income). The kicker? By diversifying this way, you’re not just another cog in the oversaturated VA or freelancing machine. You’re more like… an orchestra conductor pulling all the strings. Does that make sense? (I mean, it’s brilliant when you picture it.)But here’s where it gets juicy—she doesn’t stop there. Adeife swears by consistent content creation. Sounds boring, right? Like, ugh, who has time to post constantly? But think of it this way: every post, every video, every whatever is like a breadcrumb trail leading people straight to your business. Eventually, they just show up at your metaphorical door, wallets ready. (Well, maybe not literally, but you get the point.)Let’s be honest, though—this strategy isn’t magic. It takes work, patience, and sometimes dealing with that awkward phase where you’re shouting into the void online. But Adeife says it works. And judging by her six-figure bragging rights? Yeah, I’m inclined to believe her.✨ Oh, and if you’re curious about the details—or just want to soak up her energy—check out her full video on YouTube here. Seriously, her vibe alone might motivate you to start today.PS: Is it just me, or does this feel like one of those things you’ll kick yourself for not trying sooner? Go ahead, press play, and let’s figure this out together.
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The Shocking Truth About The #1 Secret to Earning $10,000 a Month Online (Nobody Talks About This): What They Don’t Want You to Know!
Dec 2, 202400:14:12Tap to summarizeLet’s face it—most of the “expert” advice on making money online feels like a broken record. Work harder. Post more. Engage consistently. Sound familiar? Well, in this episode, we’re flipping the script. We dig into the uncomfortable truth behind why so many people are spinning their wheels online—hint: it’s not laziness. It’s following strategies that are as outdated as floppy disks (remember those?).This isn’t another lecture on hustling harder; it’s about tools that actually work. Like ClickFunnels—the Swiss Army knife for sales funnels—or SEMrush, which is basically a mind reader for SEO. Oh, and don’t forget ActiveCampaign—the quiet MVP of email marketing. But here’s the kicker: tools alone aren’t enough. You’ve got to pair them with tactics that matter—like carving out a micro-niche so specific it feels like you’re speaking directly to one person (because, weirdly, that’s the secret to scaling).And, yeah—automation. Let’s talk about that sweet, magical process that keeps the money flowing while you’re sipping overpriced lattes or, I don’t know, walking your dog. Automation isn’t just convenient; it’s the closest thing to cloning yourself (minus the ethical dilemmas).But why doesn’t everyone know this stuff? That’s the juicy part. The elite earners? They don’t want you to. Keeping these methods under wraps protects their advantage—it’s like gatekeeping, but with higher stakes.So, here’s your invitation to break into the inner circle. Seriously, stop wasting time on advice that sounds like it was copy-pasted from a 2014 blog post.Dive in, take notes, and—most importantly—do something with what you learn. If this hits home (and it will), subscribe for more, drop us a review, and share this episode with that one friend who’s always “thinking” about starting something online but never actually does. Let’s make your future self proud.
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The Shocking Truth About Credit Cards: What They Don’t Want You to Know!
Dec 1, 202400:19:12Tap to summarizeIn this wild ride of an episode, we’re peeling back the curtain on the truth about credit cards. You think you’ve got it all under control, right? Swipe, pay, swipe, pay. But, oh man, are you in for a shock. Behind all that smooth marketing and flashy rewards, credit card companies are raking in cash—off your debt. It’s a cycle. A trap. And those “convenient” minimum payments? Yeah, they’ll keep you stuck for years, paying way more than you ever imagined. And don’t even get me started on those rewards programs. They promise you the moon, but what they really offer is just the illusion of value—while you keep sinking deeper into debt.But hey, it’s not all doom and gloom! There’s light at the end of this credit card tunnel, if you know how to play the game—responsibly, of course. It’s about understanding the mechanics behind the cards. Like, seriously, paying off your balance in full (yes, I said FULL) each month can make all the difference. And avoiding those sneaky fees—don’t get me started on those surprise charges! Oh, and your credit score? Yeah, it’s not just a number, it’s a reflection of your financial health. Don’t ignore it.We’re not just here to complain about the system. Nope. We’re offering real solutions—practical, actionable strategies that can help you stop living paycheck to paycheck while managing credit cards like a pro. Budgeting? Yup, we’ll talk about how to set that up without pulling your hair out. Tracking spending? It’s easier than you think. And those rewards? We’ll show you how to maximize them without falling into the trap of overspending.Here’s the kicker—credit cards, when used strategically, can be tools that actually help you grow your wealth. Yes, I said wealth. But only if you stop treating them like magic wands for instant gratification. They’re not. They’re tools. Tools to be used with purpose.So what are you waiting for? Hit that subscribe button, because you don’t want to miss this one. Let’s flip the script on how you manage your credit cards and start building that financial future, instead of watching it slip away. It’s time to make credit work for you, not the other way around.NOTICE OF RISK: As always, this content is for educational purposes only. Before making any financial decisions, consult with a professional. Financial strategies vary from person to person, and you should always make informed decisions based on your individual needs.
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Resume Deception: Secrets Recruiters Don't Want You to Know
Dec 1, 202400:16:06Tap to summarizeIn this mind-blowing episode, we’re peeling back the curtain on the shocking realities of resume writing—things you wish you knew, but no one dared to say. Picture this: you’ve spent hours (days? weeks?) perfecting your resume—meticulously choosing fonts, obsessing over wording—and then… the recruiter spends a whole six seconds scanning it. Yes, you heard me right. Six. Seconds. So much for all that painstaking detail.We’ll dive into the real truth—resumes aren’t read, they’re glanced at, maybe for a second, maybe less. The visual appeal? Oh, it’s everything. It’s like when you’re deciding whether to watch a movie based on its poster—good design, bold choices, minimal clutter, that’s what pulls you in. But it’s more than just a pretty face—your resume needs to speak volumes in the shortest amount of time possible. We’re talking results, results, results. If it doesn’t shout "I’m valuable!" from the first sentence, it’s not going to make it.Then there’s the dreaded ATS—the invisible monster that sits between you and that golden interview invite. Most people don’t even know it’s there, lurking, reading your resume like a robot. Fun. But listen, you can’t just write your resume like you’re trying to impress your mom or that friend who thinks Canva is the secret to all things design. ATS? It doesn’t care about your creativity—it only cares about the right keywords. And guess what? If your resume isn’t using the exact words they’re searching for, it’s probably getting tossed straight into the digital trash.Now, let’s talk about the real secret sauce: quantifiable achievements. No more vague “responsible for overseeing the team” nonsense. You’re talking about numbers—percentages, dollars, hours saved. And leadership? You don’t have to be the CEO of anything to show leadership. If you helped someone, organized a project, or stepped up in a pinch—boom—you’re a leader. No title needed.But here’s the kicker—stop obsessing over perfection. Seriously. It’s not about making it look like you’ve been flawlessly executing some high-level game plan your whole career. It’s about making an impact, showing what you’ve done, and how it’s changed something. Don’t get lost in the weeds—focus on what really matters.And one more thing—don’t fall for the hype. Certifications? Sure, they can help, but they’re not the golden ticket you’ve been told they are. It's all about strategic selection and—most importantly—what you’ve actually done with those certifications. You’ve got to show real-world skills, not just some paper.So, what are you waiting for? If you’ve been wasting your time crafting the "perfect" resume, or worse—following all the outdated advice from the past decade—this episode is your wake-up call. Don’t miss out. Tune in, because you deserve to know what’s really going to make your resume stand out. Subscribe now, and let’s get your job search on the fast track!
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