Side Hustle Spotlight: Ross Friedman and Slacker Media Group

In the bustling city of Boston, Massachusetts, 26-year-old Ross Friedman has carved out a niche in the live events industry with his venture, Slacker Media Group. This company curates unique experiences at the intersection of music, lifestyle, and entertainment. What began as a side hustle in high school has blossomed into a thriving full-time business. In this article, we delve into Friedman’s journey, exploring the challenges, triumphs, and lessons learned along the way.

The Genesis of a Side Hustle

Friedman’s entrepreneurial journey began at the tender age of 16. A passionate DJ since he was 11, he sought a platform to share his love for music with peers. Noticing a gap in the Boston area for "Teen Nights," he decided to take matters into his own hands. After extensive research, he secured a venue—the Middle East Downstairs in Cambridge—despite the challenges of being a minor in the nightlife industry.

Initial Investment and Early Success

Launching Slacker Media Group required an investment of approximately $3,000, which Friedman had saved from DJ-ing Bar Mitzvahs and proms. His first event attracted over 400 attendees, generating a profit of around $3,000. This initial success validated his idea and set the stage for future growth.

Learning and Growth

Friedman attributes much of his business acumen to resources like YouTube and Google, which he considers invaluable for aspiring entrepreneurs. However, he also emphasizes the importance of formal education. A pivotal moment came when a college professor introduced him to Michael E. Gerber’s book, The E-Myth. This book reshaped his understanding of business operations, highlighting the necessity of creating repeatable systems rather than getting bogged down in day-to-day tasks.

The Power of Delegation

Reflecting on his journey, Friedman wishes he had embraced hiring sooner. For many years, he managed all aspects of the business alone, which limited its growth. Learning to delegate tasks has not only transformed his business but also improved his quality of life.

Navigating Challenges

The live events industry is fraught with challenges, and Friedman faced one of the most significant hurdles during the COVID-19 pandemic. With in-person events halted, he pivoted to focus on social media and brand-building. This strategic shift led to the creation of the Slacker University network, a series of Instagram pages tailored to specific schools. This initiative not only kept his audience engaged but also laid the groundwork for a successful return to live events.

Resilience in the Face of Adversity

When events resumed, Friedman was ready. His social media efforts culminated in a sold-out national tour, showcasing his ability to adapt and thrive in uncertain times. By fall 2021, he reported earnings of over $100,000 in just two and a half months, marking a significant turning point for his business.

Current Success and Future Aspirations

Today, Slacker Media Group is on track to generate nearly $2.5 million in revenue from over 150 events this year, with lifetime sales exceeding $4 million. Friedman has successfully attracted more than 250,000 attendees to his events, a testament to his hard work and innovative approach.

A Balanced Work Life

As his business has grown, so has his team. Friedman recently hired his first full-time employees, allowing him to transition from a solo entrepreneur to a more structured operation. This shift has enabled him to maintain a healthier work-life balance, averaging a 40-hour work week while still being flexible enough to tackle busy periods.

The Joy of Making Others Happy

What drives Friedman is not just the financial success of his business but the joy it brings to others. He finds immense satisfaction in creating memorable experiences for attendees, stating, “Nothing makes me happier than being on site at a successful event and seeing people smiling and having a great time.”

Actionable Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

For those looking to embark on their entrepreneurial journey, Friedman offers a simple yet effective piece of advice: start a to-do list. Writing down tasks not only helps organize thoughts but also motivates action and provides a sense of accomplishment when tasks are completed.

Conclusion

Ross Friedman’s journey from a high school DJ to the founder of Slacker Media Group is a compelling example of how passion, resilience, and strategic thinking can lead to success. His story serves as an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs, illustrating that with the right mindset and resources, it’s possible to turn a side hustle into a thriving business.

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