Dirt Talk Podcast by BuildWitt
Episode: Aaron's 2024 Lessons Learned – DT 315
Release Date: February 24, 2025
Introduction
In episode DT 315 of Dirt Talk by BuildWitt, host Aaron Delves into his seven pivotal lessons learned throughout 2024. This reflective episode offers insights drawn from both his personal experiences and business endeavors, providing valuable takeaways for listeners navigating similar paths. Aaron emphasizes the importance of foundational principles, personal growth, effective leadership, and consistent effort in achieving success.
1. Focusing on Fundamentals: Dropping the "Playing Business" Act
Aaron begins by discussing his transition from previous business practices he now terms "playing business." In 2024, he shed superficial activities that didn't contribute to the company's core mission, leading to substantial financial improvements.
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Key Points:
- Eliminated non-essential expenditures such as leasing office space and purchasing unnecessary equipment.
- Prioritized activities that delivered real value to customers and employees.
- Recognized the abundance of superficial elements in business operations and removed the "bullshit."
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Notable Quote:
"Appearances don't matter. Fundamentals are the only game."
[Timestamp: 05:30]
2. Cherishing Time with Family: Deepening Bonds with His Mother
Aaron shares a heartfelt reflection on the increased time spent with his mother in 2024, emphasizing the importance of family amidst life's challenges.
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Key Points:
- Enhanced presence and mindfulness during limited visits due to geographical distance.
- Overcame past familial challenges to build a stronger relationship.
- Appreciated every moment, especially during his mother's hospital stay following an accident.
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Notable Quote:
"I have to take full advantage of the time I have because I know I won't always have it."
[Timestamp: 12:45]
3. Embracing Public Speaking: Shifting Focus to the Audience
Aaron discusses his evolution as a public speaker, moving from self-centered presentations to audience-focused engagements, which significantly improved his effectiveness and enjoyment.
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Key Points:
- Transitioned from trying to prove himself to delivering value to the audience.
- Acknowledged the initial struggles and frustration with public speaking.
- Recognized that prioritizing the audience's needs over his own concerns enhanced his presentations.
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Notable Quote:
"Once I stopped worrying about myself and focused on the audience, everything became so much more enjoyable."
[Timestamp: 18:20]
4. Building a Strong Leadership Team: Clear Roles Reduce Stress
Highlighting the importance of a competent leadership team, Aaron explains how defining roles and responsibilities led to smoother operations and reduced stress when he was away from the business.
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Key Points:
- Clarified roles using the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) with the help of an implementer.
- Fostered mutual trust among leadership team members.
- Enabled effective delegation, allowing Aaron to focus on his dual roles as CEO and influencer.
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Notable Quote:
"Once we had our clear lanes, everything moved so much faster."
[Timestamp: 24:10]
5. Focusing on Effort Over Outcomes: Letting Go of Control
Aaron reflects on the significance of concentrating on daily efforts rather than trying to control end results, which proved essential in achieving major milestones.
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Key Points:
- Applied this mindset to successfully conclude a delayed fundraising round and host a large-scale summit.
- Emphasized consistent daily actions, such as making calls and writing emails, to drive results.
- Adopted a growth mindset, celebrating daily victories and maintaining focus on long-term goals.
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Notable Quote:
"I don't control when things happen, but if I do my best every day, things will take care of themselves."
[Timestamp: 31:55]
6. Eliminating Alcohol: Enhancing Health and Confidence
Aaron shares his decision to abstain from alcohol in 2024, detailing the positive impacts on his health, sleep, and self-confidence.
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Key Points:
- Cited negative experiences with alcohol in his upbringing as a motivator.
- Noted significant improvements in physical well-being and mental clarity.
- Emphasized that abstaining aligned with his personal and professional aspirations.
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Notable Quote:
"Not drinking allowed me to be healthier, sleep better, and build a greater sense of confidence."
[Timestamp: 38:30]
7. Achieving Social Media Milestones: The Power of Consistency and Humility
Concluding with his accomplishments in social media, Aaron highlights the importance of consistent effort and a humble approach in achieving significant engagement metrics.
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Key Points:
- Achieved over half a billion views and 1.7 million hours of YouTube watch time.
- Emphasized the necessity of becoming a student of platforms like YouTube to optimize content.
- Acknowledged the team's role in refining content strategies and execution.
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Notable Quote:
"Consistency plus humility is a winning formula."
[Timestamp: 45:15]
Conclusion
Aaron wraps up the episode by emphasizing a shift from showcasing achievements to sharing lessons learned, aiming to provide actionable insights for his listeners. He expresses gratitude for his audience's support and hints at exciting developments planned for 2025. Aaron invites listeners to contribute ideas, fostering a collaborative community focused on continuous improvement and shared success.
- Final Quote:
"If it's helpful for you, fantastic. But that's it."
[Timestamp: 50:50]
Takeaways
Aaron's reflections in this episode underscore the significance of foundational business practices, personal growth, effective leadership, and consistent effort. His experiences offer a roadmap for entrepreneurs and professionals seeking to refine their approach to business and life, emphasizing authenticity, intentionality, and resilience.
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