Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Bennie Brimage. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Bennie, thanks for joining us today. Risk taking is something we’re really interested in and we’d love to hear the story of a risk you’ve taken.
Taking a risk and stepping into the unknown can lead to remarkable outcomes. Here’s the story of my journey with Rivalry Edition: Twenty years ago, I hypothesized an idea that lingered in the back of my mind. It was a vision for a project that had the potential to redefine how I felt sports news can be delivered and consumed. At the time, I shared this idea with an advisor who saw its promise and believed in its potential.
Fast forward to the present, that advisor remained a constant presence in my life, periodically reminding me of the concept I had shared with him two decades ago. His unwavering belief in the idea became a spark for change in my life. Fueled by his encouragement, I decided to take a leap of faith and bring the vision to life.
The first step involved meticulous planning. I gathered insights, refined the concept, and strategized the execution. The support from my advisor opened doors to unexpected connections and opportunities. These were individuals I never thought I would have the chance to collaborate with.
The primary stage of Rivalry Edition materialized in the form of a television pilot. It was an exciting and challenging experience, navigating the complexities of production and storytelling which only was able to be accomplished by the great help of professionals in the production, tv casting and project managing fields. Despite the uncertainties, the pilot was completed, marking a significant milestone in the project’s journey.
With the momentum from the TV pilot, the next logical step was to create a platform that could reach a broader audience. Thus, the vision expanded to include a website dedicated to delivering sports news uniquely and engagingly. This transition required adaptability and a keen understanding of the digital landscape which I blessed to receive from hired freelancers and my advisors. So, I take no credit as I do not possess any of this professional background.
As the website for Rivalry Edition took shape, it became evident that the risk I had taken was still unknown. The project was gradually materializing into a tangible reality. Although it’s still in its’ early stages, witnessing the potential of the finished results supported my thoughts that I made the right decision to give it a try.
The journey with Rivalry Edition is a testament to at least taking risks and believing in oneself. The long road from a concept shared two decades ago to an early-stage platform for sports rivalries/news is a testament to the impact of daring to pursue a vision, even when the path is uncer
tain.
Bennie, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I’m Bennie Brimage, a passionate entrepreneur still learning the ways of venturing into the dynamic world of sports media and entertainment. While I may be relatively new to this industry, my drive, ambition, and unwavering passion fuel my commitment to turn my ideas into a competitive reality. At the heart of my ventures is Rivalry Edition, a sports website and media broadcasting company with a unique twist. We specialize in hosting sports discussion panels featuring bitter rivals. Our content caters to sports rivalries across various levels, from high schools to collegiate and professional leagues. It’s not just about reporting scores and news; it’s about capturing the intense dynamics and narratives that make sports rivalries so compelling.
One distinctive aspect of Rivalry Edition is our focus on fostering engaging conversations and debates among rivals. It’s not just about the game; it’s about the stories, the history, and the passion that fuel these rivalries. We aim to provide a platform where fans can immerse themselves in the spirit of competition and share their perspectives on the most heated matchups.
In addition to Rivalry Edition, I also spearheaded another venture called “Reference Hive.” This project, in the works for years, reflects my commitment to exploring diverse opportunities. As an entrepreneur, I thrive on taking calculated risks when I see a promising future.
What sets me apart is my willingness to embrace the unknown, my entrepreneurial spirit, and my dedication to creating meaningful content and experiences for sports enthusiasts. I take pride in providing unique conversations and narratives within the sports media landscape.
For potential clients, followers, and fans, I want them to know that my work is driven by authenticity, passion, and a genuine love for sports. Rivalry Edition is not only a sports media company; it’s a community where rivalries come alive, and fans can connect on a deeper level.
As I continue to navigate and contribute to the sports media and entertainment industry, I invite you to join me on this exciting journey. Together, let’s celebrate the spirit of competition and the stories that make sports truly unforgettable.
Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?
One significant lesson I’ve had to unlearn is the expectation that when embarking on a new idea, there will always be unwavering support from colleagues. In the early stages of bringing Rivalry Edition to life, I was fortunate to receive a considerable amount of encouragement and backing from those around me. It was an energizing boost that fueled my initial steps into the sports media and entertainment industry. However, as the journey continued to unfold, I soon realized that the path of entrepreneurship isn’t always lined with continuous support, both financial and emotional. Challenges emerged, and there were times when the enthusiasm from my colleagues waned. It was a sobering realization that not everyone may share the same level of passion or belief in the vision.
The unlearning process began as I navigated moments of uncertainty, facing the reality that, in entrepreneurship, the road can be lonely at times. I recall the saying, “It’s lonely at the top,” but I soon discovered that it’s even lonelier at the bottom, especially when met with skepticism or a lack of support.
Still, while still in these challenging periods, a crucial lesson emerged: the responsibility to finish the story is entirely mine. Regardless of the external support, or lack thereof, it ultimately falls on my shoulders to push through obstacles, stay committed to the vision, and see the journey through to completion.
This new understanding became a catalyst for personal growth. It’s teaching me resilience, self-reliance, and the importance of staying married to the vision, even when faced with adversity. The realization that road success is often a solitary pursuit at its core emphasized the need to cultivate an unwavering belief in oneself and the goals set forth.
As I continue this path, I am constantly learning and evolving. Each challenge becomes an opportunity to strengthen my resolve and refine my approach. The lesson unlearned has become a valuable reminder that, in the face of solitude or doubt, the power to finish the story lies within, waiting to be harnessed with determination and unwavering commitment no matter the outcome.
Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?
One resource that has significantly impacted my management and entrepreneurial thinking is the book “The E-Myth Revisited” by Michael E. Gerber. This insightful book offers a profound perspective on entrepreneurship and business management. One key lesson I took away from “The E-Myth Revisited” is the realization that, especially in the early stages of entrepreneurship, the entrepreneur often wears many hats. It’s a common misconception to assume that one can delegate tasks from the outset and have a fully formed team. Instead, the book emphasizes the importance of being prepared to handle various roles and responsibilities in the initial phases of building a business.
The notion that the entrepreneur plays multiple roles—from visionary to technician to manager—resonated deeply with me. It served as a valuable reminder that the journey begins with personal commitment and a willingness to be hands-on in all aspects of the business. As the brand grows, and success follows, the entrepreneur can gradually delegate tasks to a team, allowing for expansion and specialization.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.rivalryedition.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rivalryedition/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/rivalryedition
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5Q_N8_jye1qZ8XdksXGMlg
- Other: contact@rivalryedition.com
Image Credits
Bennie Brimage