In the latest episode of the Cliff's Notes Podcast, host Brandon Clifford sits down with Sebastien Boyer, a passionate entrepreneur, personal finance educator, and founder of The Approved Guy. With an extensive background in business finance, Sebastien shares his unique journey into the world of finance, his deep-rooted purpose in helping others succeed financially, and his mission to empower aspiring entrepreneurs. Here's a breakdown of the key takeaways from this episode:
A Leap of Faith: From Comfort to Entrepreneurship
Sebastien's story begins with a leap of faith, leaving behind a stable, well-paying job in a software marketing company to pursue something far more uncertain: entrepreneurship. At the time, Sebastien was faced with a dilemma. He had a steady job that provided a good salary, health benefits, and strong bonuses—but he was unhappy. A feeling of anxiety and discontent with his purpose in life led him to a crossroads. When his younger brother launched Orange Fi—a financial consulting, coaching, and brokering company—Sebastien was intrigued.
While initially unsure of his next move, Sebastien found himself stepping into a new world of business finance, a realm he had not originally intended to enter. With a client needing a loan and a surprise commission check from his brother, Sebastien saw firsthand the simplicity and freedom that came with the business finance industry. A few months later, his personal life was also undergoing a significant change, with his wife pregnant with their first child. The combination of uncertainty and opportunity ultimately led him to take a risk that would forever change the trajectory of his career.
The Power of Purpose
A key theme in Sebastien's journey is purpose. Although he was initially unaware of his entrepreneurial calling, Sebastien’s sense of dissatisfaction with his corporate job ultimately led him to the realization that he wasn't living out his true purpose. This shift in mindset is what truly drove him to leave the comfort of a steady paycheck for the volatile but rewarding world of business finance.
Sebastien believes that everyone has a purpose that goes beyond merely accumulating wealth. His deeper belief is that we are all on earth to create legacies—not just for our own gain, but for our families, communities, and future generations. "We can't take wealth with us," he shares, stressing the importance of building something that lasts beyond a lifetime. This philosophy is the foundation of The Approved Guy, where Sebastien works to help others manage their personal credit, business finances, and ultimately protect their legacies.
Navigating Business Finance: Common Misconceptions and Funding Options
As Sebastien now helps businesses navigate the complex world of financing, he sheds light on several misconceptions that often hold aspiring entrepreneurs back. One of the biggest myths he addresses is the idea that good credit alone is enough to secure business funding. In reality, both strong credit and revenue are necessary to qualify for most types of funding.
Another crucial point Sebastien makes is about the variety of financing options available, which goes beyond the traditional route of loans from banks. The SBA 7A loan and the ROBS (Rollover Business Startup) program are two popular avenues, each with its own nuances. Sebastien emphasizes that entrepreneurs shouldn’t rely on just one option but should consider a holistic approach to business financing. Each option—whether it’s an SBA loan, self-directed 401k, or other funding strategies—has its advantages depending on an individual's specific circumstances.
Helping Others Find Their Path
Throughout the episode, it's clear that Sebastien’s driving force isn’t just about financial success; it’s about helping others realize their entrepreneurial dreams. Through Orange Fi, Sebastien coaches individuals on understanding their finances, whether they are just getting started or looking to scale their businesses. He believes that many people give up too soon when faced with obstacles or rejections in the business world, particularly when they don’t understand the full range of funding options available to them.
Sebastien’s mission is to guide individuals through this often challenging process, helping them achieve financial freedom while building businesses that align with their purpose. His ultimate goal is to help people step out of the “rat race” and create meaningful, purpose-driven businesses.
Finding Fulfillment Beyond Financial Success
Sebastien’s journey is a powerful reminder that financial success isn’t an end in itself—it’s a tool that can help you live with more freedom and purpose. When asked about his biggest motivator, Sebastien expressed a deep passion for not just financial education, but for helping others align their careers with their passions. His advice for entrepreneurs is clear: “Don’t just follow the money. Follow your purpose, and the rest will follow.”
The podcast offers valuable lessons for anyone feeling stuck in a job or a situation that doesn’t align with their personal purpose. Sometimes, taking a risk and trusting your gut can lead to the most rewarding outcomes, as it did for Sebastien. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or someone looking to better manage your finances, Sebastien’s insights and expertise can help you move closer to your goals.
Final Thoughts: Legacy, Purpose, and Business Finance
As we wrap up the conversation, it’s evident that Sebastien's journey is about far more than just business and finance. It’s about the legacy we leave behind, and the fulfillment that comes from aligning our careers with a deeper sense of purpose. The world of business finance may seem intimidating, but Sebastien’s approach makes it accessible—helping others understand their options, improve their financial health, and achieve their dreams.
If you’re looking for financial guidance, business advice, or simply a reminder that it’s never too late to find your purpose, check out Sebastien’s content on The Approved Guy YouTube channel and Orange Fi.
Related Resources:
- Visit The Approved Guy YouTube channel for financial tips and educational videos.
- Learn more about business financing options, including SBA loans and the ROBS program, at Orange Fi.
- Reflect on your own purpose and take that first step toward your entrepreneurial journey. Your legacy starts today.
Listen to Cliff's Notes on Apple and Spotify:
Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/show/21l0JHY6nR4TMQqm1wRqGB?si=478fcec77dac426d
Apple:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cliffs-notes/id1800010301
