Small Business Success Q&A #15: Vivid Edge Media Group

David Pakman

David Pakman’s voice is well known throughout the Pioneer Valley and far beyond, thanks to “Midweek Politics,” his syndicated talk show, which is heard locally on WXOJ-LP  (Valley Free Radio) in Northampton and nationwide on over 100 radio and TV stations, on YouTube and via podcasts. When he’s not producing his own show, which tackles the week’s hottest political topics along with interviews with people from all parts of the political spectrum, David provides business development, video production and e-mail marketing for clients through his firm Vivid Edge Media Group.

I agree with his best business book advice below…Dale Carnegie’s advice may be decades old at this point, but it still can’t be beat!

Name: David Pakman

Company: Vivid Edge Media Group

Location: Northampton, MA           

Founded: 2005

No. of employees: 3

Website: http://www.midweekpolitics.com

Twitter: @midweekpolitics

Blog: http://www.midweekpolitics.com/blog-2/

Business description: Vivid Edge Media Group produces the internationally syndicated talk radio and television program Midweek Politics with David Pakman, and also works with a variety of clients, including The Thom Hartmann Program, on business development, video production, and email marketing.

Keys to your business success: The recent downturn in the economy coincided with an increase in the variety and range of services offered, which allowed us to increase business at a time when many businesses were shrinking.

Best business advice you’ve ever been given: To be honest, I’ve been given mostly bad advice, and have turned it into good advice by doing the exact opposite.

Worst business advice you’ve ever been given: “There’s no future in progressive news/talk; nobody will pay attention to your show.”

What was the toughest thing you’ve ever had to do as a business owner: I’ve had to “fire” a client after the relationship became too much hassle and “maintenance” relative to what it was worth. It was a difficult conversation to have, but was absolutely the right decision.

What advice would you give to someone just starting a business? Know you’ll be working many hours, odd hours, and irregular hours, and therefore be sure that you love the business you’re getting into.

Favorite all-time business book: How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie, considered a business must-read by many, but really a great read about how to interact with people.

Favorite online source(s) for business information/advice: Talkers Magazine, NTS Media Online

1 comment

  1. Knowing both David and Jeanne, I'm not surprised to be inspired.

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