WARNING: The rules changed while you weren't looking.

Your college professors lied. HR departments are stuck in 2010. While you polished your resume, others built audiences—and now they're getting the opportunities you deserve.

Here's the brutal truth: In 2025, your follower count opens more doors than your degree. Ilias put it bluntly: "If you're not a nepo baby, your only door in is a following."

This isn't theory. This is survival.

Most people will read this and do nothing. They'll keep playing by old rules while the smart ones build leverage through personal brands. Don't be them.

FREE RESOURCE (Normally $47): The exact step-by-step system successful founders use to build unforgettable personal brands. No fluff. No theory. Just what works.

Free resource link here

In this episode, Ilias breaks down why "anybody can vibe-code an app, but not everybody can build trust." He's helped startup founders at SeedLegals stand out in a crowded market—and he's offering to help you for free (or you can get his book here)

His promise: "I will not charge you a single dollar. DM me on Instagram (link here), LinkedIn (link here), anywhere. I would love to help you out."

If you've ever thought "posting feels stupid," this conversation will flip that mindset. What's actually stupid is staying invisible while others claim your spot.

The choice is yours: Keep playing small, or start building the leverage that matters in 2025.

Grab the free resource. Take the steps. Stop losing to people with less talent but better personal brands

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Ilias Anwar's Journey

01:01 The Reality of Entrepreneurship

06:52 Building a Personal Brand in the Digital Age

13:41 The Importance of Networking and Community

16:57 Lessons from TCC Entertainment

21:58 Navigating Social Media and Content Creation

24:53 The Importance of Consistency in Content Creation

28:58 Building a Community and Networking Effectively

31:28 The Value of Helping Others Without Expectation

34:38 Strategic Event Planning for Success

36:20 Avoiding Desperation in Seeking Investors

39:12 Finding Your Passion in Building

41:17 The Shift from Music to Tech Entrepreneurship

44:19 Speed to Action: Implementing Ideas Quickly

47:29 Embracing Failure as a Learning Opportunity

50:13 Navigating the AI Revolution and Ethical Considerations