E31 | Meet The Social Media Genius Behind Gymshark’s Community & Why He Left | Elfried Samba

Elfried is widely acknowledged as the driving force behind Gymshark's triumph on social media, playing a pivotal role in propelling the brand's fitness community from 1.5 million to 20 million in just seven years. As the current CEO and Co-Founder of the Butterfly 3ffect, Elfried is dedicated to leveraging his expertise to support emerging brands in achieving success.

Growing up in DR Congo and South Africa, Elfried's family relocated to the UK. Despite the challenges of adapting to a new life and culture, Elfried maintained a deep-seated belief in his ability to succeed, undeterred by others' perceptions.

A transformative moment occurred for Elfried after watching a keynote speech by Steve Jobs, where the concept of 'A thousand songs in your pocket' resonated with him and altered his perspective on marketing. With newfound clarity, he identified his career path.

Following a mysterious email from a recruiter, Elfried secured an interview with an "up-and-coming gym-wear brand," later revealed to be Gymshark. Despite his excitement and nerves, Elfried confidently assumed control of the interview, leading to a swift job offer.

This week's episode delves into the significance of authenticity, the key to resilience, and the quest to discover one's purpose.

We discuss:

-Journeying from Congo to South Africa and eventually the UK

-Embracing self-teaching at the age of 14

-Drawing inspiration from Steve Jobs' wisdom

-Embracing the philosophy that one should never conform to others' expectations

-Developing a passion for social media

-Discovering guidance through mentorship and building self-assurance

-Applying the "Jab, Jab, Jab, Right Hook" approach

-Spotting a dream job on LinkedIn but hesitating to apply

-Receiving a job offer for an "up-and-coming fitness brand in Birmingham"

-Successfully securing the dream job

-Overhauling and revitalising an entire brand

-Transforming Gymshark Women into its current state

-Getting a shoutout from Mark Zuckerberg

-Recognising the importance of authenticity

Chapters:

00:00:00-Following Your Passion and Finding Success

00:04:37-Growing the Gymshark Social Accounts

00:09:27-The Disappointment in my Dad's Face

00:13:55-A New Beginning in South Africa

00:18:38-Finding My Passion in Marketing and Technology

00:23:00-Discovering the Power of Marketing

00:27:42-Shyness and the Beginning of Social Media Marketing

00:31:47-Building Confidence and Pursuing Passion

00:36:10-The Importance of Human-to-Human Interaction

00:40:25-The Phone Call from Gymshark Recruiter

00:44:57-Making an Impact at Gymshark

00:49:24-The Importance of Consistency and Community Engagement

00:53:50-Revolutionising Gymshark Women

00:58:36-Selling Out in Seconds

01:03:09-The Pressure of Posting on LinkedIn

01:07:57-Memories of the Exciting Times at Gymshark

01:12:39-The Growth of Gymshark

01:17:18-Making the Decision to Start My Own Business

01:21:37-The Saddest Moment and Moving On

01:25:47-Emotional Support from Colleagues

01:30:22-Moving On from Gymshark

01:34:48-Learning from Mentors in the Industry

01:39:26-Passion, Abilities, Paid Work, and World Needs

01:43:50-Making Decisions and Planning Ahead

01:48:12-The Importance of Immigrants in Business Success

01:52:46-The Journey from the Bottom to Success

01:57:24-The Importance of a Creative House

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