What does it really take to leave the corporate world behind and build a thriving business from scratch? In this episode of Wickedly Smart Women, host Anjel B. Hartwell welcomes Bashak Ilhan, who has founded five startups, achieved two successful exits, and now leads a global consultancy. From selling childhood toys to landing a $3 million investment over coffee, this episode reveals the mindset, strategies, and resilience needed to bring bold visions to life. Listeners will discover why sales are at the heart of any business, how to immerse themselves fully in their dreams, and why knowing when to delegate is essential for both success and wellbeing. This is a must-listen for women ready to step into entrepreneurship with confidence, clarity, and courage.   What You Will Learn: Why early entrepreneurial experiences often shape lifelong business instincts. How transitioning from corporate life to entrepreneurship requires courage and vision. The importance of selling skills and vision casting in building a business. Why doing deep research and immersion before launching a venture can create a strong foundation. The value of building for the audience rather than personal taste. How to navigate challenges that arise in scaling and sustaining a startup. Why timing matters in choosing to exit a business. The role of branding, positioning, and strategy in securing investment and growth. How to innovate during crises and adapt to market needs. Why receiving too much funding early on can be more dangerous than not having enough. How financial constraints can fuel creativity and build stronger foundations. The importance of self-awareness and knowing when to seek a co-founder or partner. Why delegating effectively is critical to long-term success and personal well-being. How to redefine success away from busyness and toward balance and impact.   Connect with Bashak Ilhan <a href="https://www.roadbranding.com/">Road Branding</a> Connect with Anjel B. Hartwell <a href="https://www.wickedlysmartwomen.com/" target= "_blank" rel="noopener">Wickedly Smart Women</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/WSW_Podcast" target= "_blank" rel="noopener">Wickedly Smart Women on X</a> <a href= "https://www.instagram.com/wickedlysmartwomenpodcast/" target= "_blank" rel="noopener">Wickedly Smart Women on Instagram</a> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/WickedlySmartWomen" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Wickedly Smart Women Facebook Community</a> <a href= "https://www.teepublic.com/user/wickedly-smart-women" target= "_blank" rel="noopener">Wickedly Smart Women Store on TeePublic</a> <a href="https://www.actiontakerspublishing.com/smart" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Wickedly Smart Women: Trusting Intuition, Taking Action, Transforming Worlds</a> <a href="https://www.actiontakerspublishing.com/smart">by Anjel B. Hartwell</a> Listener Line (540) 402-0043 Ext. 4343  Email <a href= "mailto:listeners@wickedlysmartwomen.com">listeners@wickedlysmartwomen.com</a>

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Building Brands with Vision and Courage with Bashak Ilhan - Ep.337

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