We recently connected with Johann Vazquez and have shared our conversation below.

Johann, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Coming up with the idea is so exciting, but then comes the hard part – executing. Too often the media ignores the execution part and goes from idea to success, skipping over the nitty, gritty details of executing in the early days. We think that’s a disservice both to the entrepreneurs who built something amazing as well as the public who isn’t getting a realistic picture of what it takes to succeed. So, we’d really appreciate if you could open up about your execution story – how did you go from idea to execution?

When I first had the idea for VSL Studios, it was one of those moments where inspiration hits you, but then the reality of execution sinks in. I knew I wanted to create a design agency that wasn’t just about building websites but about crafting experiences that help businesses stand out and actually drive results. But having that vision was just the beginning. I had to figure out how to make it real.

I remember sitting down and mapping out what my agency would look like. Who would we serve? What kind of projects would we take on? And how could I stand out in a space that’s already packed with agencies? I started with the basics: a list of services I knew I could excel at—web design, development, and branding. From there, I thought about who I wanted to work with, and startups and CRE companies felt like the perfect niche because they’re dynamic and growth-focused + Plus CRE companies would lead me to more internal projects.

The first month was all about research. I dove into competitors, analyzed what they were doing, and figured out what I could do differently—what my edge would be. At the same time, I started setting up the fundamentals. I needed a brand name, a website, and some initial portfolio pieces to show what I could do. That’s when I reached out to my network and pitched free or discounted projects. Those first few clients helped me build a foundation.

There were so many little things to figure out—registering the business, getting hosting set up, creating processes for how we’d handle projects. Honestly, it felt overwhelming at times. But I just kept breaking it down step by step. What needs to happen today? What can wait until next week? And what’s just noise right now?

The first year was a hustle. I worked nonstop to build momentum—pitching clients, refining my offerings, and constantly learning. I made mistakes, of course, but each one taught me something valuable. Over time, I started to see traction, and the vision I had at the start wasn’t just an idea anymore. It was a business.

Looking back, the process wasn’t glamorous—it was a lot of trial and error, late nights, and figuring things out as I went. But that’s how you build something real. You take the idea, and you just start. Then you keep moving, learning, and improving every day. That’s how VSL Studios came to life.

Johann, 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 was born in Mexico, and when I was 12 years old, my family migrated to the United States. That journey shaped a lot of who I am—resilient, adaptable, and always striving to push forward. I later attended the University of Florida, initially pursuing a degree in biomedical engineering. At the time, I thought that would be my future. But after an internship in my sophomore year, I realized it wasn’t the path for me. It was a pivotal moment because it forced me to rethink everything.

That’s when I discovered digital arts and sciences. I was introduced to UX/UI design and the incredible potential of creating experiences that people interact with every day. That moment of discovery was like a spark—I realized I could merge creativity and logic to build something impactful. And that’s what led me to the digital world and, eventually, the website business.

Today, I run VSL Studios, where we specialize in crafting strategic web and branding experiences that don’t just look great but also work. We focus on creating websites and brands that captivate, communicate, and convert. Whether it’s a startup looking to stand out or a commercial real estate developer aiming to build trust, we’re here to help businesses differentiate themselves, earn credibility, and grow.

What sets us apart is our ability to balance artistry with strategy. We’re not just about making things pretty—we’re about making them effective. Every design decision is grounded in your business goals, ensuring the end product isn’t just visually stunning but also delivers results. We focus on the intersection of feeling and function, where design meets purpose.

I’m most proud of the trust we’ve built with our clients and the results we’ve been able to deliver. When a client tells me their website helped them land a big deal or grow their business, that’s what makes all the hard work worth it. It’s not just about building websites—it’s about building tools that empower others to succeed.

For anyone considering working with us or following our journey, I want them to know that we’re passionate about what we do. We approach every project with creativity, precision, and a deep commitment to quality. VSL Studios is here to help businesses tell their stories, connect with their audiences, and make their mark in the digital world. That’s what drives us every day.

Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?

Absolutely, a few key resources have deeply influenced how I think about management, entrepreneurship, and building a business with purpose. Each one has shaped my approach to running VSL Studios and navigating the challenges of being an entrepreneur.

“Building a StoryBrand” by Donald Miller
This book fundamentally changed how I think about messaging and storytelling. It emphasizes clarity—focusing on how to communicate your value in a way that truly resonates with your audience. It taught me to put the customer at the center of the story and design experiences that guide them to take action. I’ve applied these principles not only to our work at VSL Studios but also in how we present ourselves as a brand.

“The Lean Startup” by Eric Ries
This book introduced me to the idea of building quickly, learning fast, and iterating based on feedback. It’s a philosophy I’ve embraced in both my own entrepreneurial journey and in client projects. By focusing on what’s essential and testing assumptions early, I’ve been able to reduce risk and maximize impact.

Alex Hormozi’s Content (Books, YouTube, etc.)
Hormozi’s work, particularly on sales and scaling, has been a huge source of inspiration. His no-nonsense approach to simplifying processes and focusing on value resonates deeply. He’s helped me reframe how I think about pricing, pitching, and creating systems that are scalable and client-centric.

“Atomic Habits” by James Clear
Although not strictly about entrepreneurship, this book taught me the power of small, consistent changes. Running a business can be overwhelming, but Clear’s emphasis on building systems and habits has helped me stay disciplined and focused on long-term goals.

Creativity, Inc. by Ed Catmull
As someone in the creative field, this book gave me incredible insight into managing creative teams and fostering innovation. It taught me how to embrace risk, nurture collaboration, and create an environment where creativity thrives without losing sight of strategy.

Simon Sinek’s TED Talk: “Start With Why”
Sinek’s idea of leading with purpose—knowing your “why”—has been instrumental in how I’ve built VSL Studios. It’s a constant reminder that everything we do should connect back to the deeper mission of helping businesses stand out and grow.

These resources have been guideposts for me, helping shape not only the way I manage and think about growth but also how I create a culture of purpose and excellence. For anyone on their own entrepreneurial journey, I can’t recommend these enough.

Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?

Below are some points that have significantly made an impact in our business:

Referrals and Exceptional Work
Delivering outstanding results and building strong client relationships have turned clients into advocates. Happy clients naturally refer others, creating a steady stream of high-quality leads through word-of-mouth. At the end of the day, word of mouth is the best type of marketing and trust.

Focusing on a Niche
Specializing in startups and CRE companies has allowed me to position VSL Studios as an expert in these industries. This targeted approach helps attract clients who value specialized knowledge and tailored solutions. You don’t want to spread yourself too thin at the beginning – constantly hammer one nail until you can move to the next.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://vslstudios.co
• Instagram: @vslstudios.co
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johann-vazquez-a8b024138