It has been a hot minute! But I am back in action after 2 weeks of not recording any eps for the first time in 18 months and holy frikken moly. But I’m so proud to be bringing you this episode.
It’s with a friend of mine, who you probably have seen on the likes of Instagram doing her super cool things. Lil is Australia’s favourite woman. Truly.
It’s a big call, I know, but she’s definitely one of mine and I know a lotta folks who agree with me. My bet is she’s about to be one of yours.
She’s a dj, podcasters, best selling author, diy guru, hilarious instagrammed as well as entrepreneur. And a damn good one, at that. So in this episode let us take you behind the scenes into her story, but first - and if you haven’t been blessed with her content on Instagram - just pop on over. Have a quick peek. Have a lol. Do some critical thinking and then come on back to listen to how she’s built her colourful world and business, Flex Factory
The Power of Authentic Conversations
From the get-go, Lil emphasizes the importance of objective thinking in her business. She dives into what it means to commodify oneself—how to market personal authenticity without losing sight of what’s real. It’s a big topic that’s super relevant, especially for entrepreneurs navigating the digital landscape.
One of the key takeaways? When starting a new product, it’s vital to evaluate its viability. In Flex Factory’s first year, Lil didn’t rely on digital marketing; instead, she focused on genuine conversations and connections. People are drawn to the idea of observing without needing to participate, which has become a core part of her brand.
Managing the Rollercoaster of Business
Lil’s journey hasn’t always been smooth sailing. She candidly shares that much of Flex Factory was initially run in an ad hoc way. When the time came to manage people and set standards, it felt overwhelming. But as she began working intentionally on her business, things started to click. “I really do have the sauce,” she says. “I have the capacity to run a really great business that’s intentional and fit for purpose. I just need to put my head down.”
Now in her third year, Lil has crafted Flex Factory into a well-oiled machine. Decisions are no longer made on a whim; they’re backed by financial data and clear marketing strategies that prioritize customer feedback over personal whims. It’s all about staying aligned with the numbers—“Are the numbers reflecting our efforts? If not, we’re not doing it properly.”
Initially, she found the focus on numbers restrictive, but over time, she’s come to appreciate the structure they provide. Within those boundaries, Lil can unleash her creativity with confidence, knowing exactly what resources she has at her disposal.
Growth Through Authenticity
Let’s talk growth—specifically, the organic kind. Lil’s journey with marketing has been a rollercoaster of trial and error. She admits it pains her to say that despite spending so much money on a Facebook ads specialist, they quickly realized that 80% of their sales came from organic marketing. TikTok, Instagram, and gifting influencers have been the real game changers for Flex Factory. They’ve only recently dipped their toes into paid influencer marketing, but that’s not where the magic happens.
Email and SMS marketing have emerged as pivotal strategies for building direct relationships with customers. Lil is all about nurturing those internal lists, allowing her to communicate her messages clearly and consistently—no more waiting for algorithmic luck to shine on her posts.
Intentionality is Key
One of Lil’s golden nuggets of wisdom? Start out being as intentional as possible. Many people underestimate how much it costs someone to be part of their audience. Flex Factory isn’t just about selling products; it’s about creating meaningful connections and conversations. That intention drives everything they do.
So, if you’re looking for inspiration on how to build a vibrant, authentic brand that resonates with people, look no further than Lil Ahenkan and Flex Factory. Dive into her content, soak up her insights, and remember: in the world of business, authenticity and intention go a long way.
