I do shit. I don’t overthink or overanalyze. Instead, I take action, and it’s often a massive action. I would argue that most people say they want to write a book, but few ever do. The difference? Do shit — period.
As a veteran, a registered nurse, a writer, and a successful entrepreneur, Rick Martinez brings a wealth of experience and tremendous passion for impacting lives. Rick is the type of person who settles for nothing less than outstanding and thinks that everyone should strive for the same.
His story began in the U.S. Army, where Rick served from 1988-1990. He later earned his BSN and became a registered nurse. Several years later, his entrepreneurial spirit kicked in.
In 2001, he founded his first business, MedTrust, a staffing service that sends nurses and doctors to military hospitals around the country that need additional staff. Starting with just one employee, MedTrust is now a national business with more than 600 employees and $50 million in annual revenue.
In 2004, his early business success prompted the San Antonio Business Journal to name Rick one of its “40 Under 40.” MedTrust would go on to become one of the U.S. Small Business Administration’s top 100 companies.
In 2007, Rick started his second company, Alamo CrossFit (a licensee of the global brand, CrossFit Inc.), with the goal of enriching others’ lives through exercise and nutrition. Rick created a corporate culture to reflect his own ideals. Gym clients became members of a “tribe,” working together and motivating one another to achieve shared goals.
Rick’s drive for helping others continues through his current passion, Project BINK. This platform — which will include a book, keynote speaking, and workshops — is based on Rick’s personal experiences. Project BINK guides folks to use life’s pivotal “BINK” moments that open the door to what’s next in order to align with their life’s purpose and live a life of deeper meaning.
Rick is married to Lisa, his wife of 14 years, has three wonderful, healthy kids, and spends a lot of time on Venice Beach in Los Angeles.
Where did the idea for Project BINK come from?
It emerged from a search for an evolved meaning in my life. If we have this “circle of life,” I felt like a part was missing or empty. Project BINK was my path to finding and filling it.
What does your typical day look like, and how do you make it productive?
My day begins with no alarm clock. I have a morning ritual that involves reading and clearing out my email inbox. I exercise five times a week, and I start my workday with either meetings or writing “blocks.” The blocks are awesome because I actually set my timer and block off creative time to work on my writing, messaging, or ideation for new books, products, or services.
How do you bring ideas to life?
I do shit. I don’t overthink or overanalyze. Instead, I take action, and it’s often a massive action. I would argue that most people say they want to write a book, but few ever do. The difference? Do shit — period.
What’s one trend that really excites you?
My wife excites me! She makes my life worthwhile. She’s what drives me, and she makes me want to be a better man, husband, and dad.
What is one habit of yours that makes you more productive as an entrepreneur?
My word is my bond. Last year, I said I would do an IRONMAN triathlon. Guess what? I did a freakin’ IRONMAN. If I say I’m going to do it (and I look you in the eye and shake your hand), you better damn well believe that I’ll do it.
What was the worst job you ever had, and what did you learn from it?
Being a divorced father has to be the worst job. Have you ever ruined a marriage and then wondered whether your kids would ever love and accept you? It sucks — bad. But I learned that it’s possible to change and be the person you know you can and should be. My kids love me, and I’m stronger for it.
If you were to start again, what would you do differently?
I would listen more. There are some wise people out there who truly believe in you and have your best interests in mind. Dispose of the youthful arrogance, and listen. Wisdom is king!
As an entrepreneur, what’s the one thing you do over and over and recommend everyone else do?
Success leaves clues, and there are business fundamentals that work. You wouldn’t enter the MLB and expect to hit home runs right away. You have to practice, practice, practice. Then success follows. Drop the hammer every day.
What’s one strategy that has helped you grow your business?
Networking has been huge for me. We’ve all heard that your network is your net worth and access is an asset, but it’s true. Surrounding myself with people who are smarter and wiser than me has been critical. I put myself out there and meet them.
What’s one failure you had as an entrepreneur, and how did you overcome it?
Oh, my. There are so many stories. In the early years, I knew I wouldn’t make payroll, and it was gut-wrenching. I begged and pleaded for a bank loan, and I finally secured one through a local bank. Today, I couldn’t even begin to explain how I did it — only that I did it. Do what it takes, and swallow your pride.
What’s one business idea that you’re willing to give away to our readers?
Use the things you already know! Create a program or a five-step process on how it will make people’s lives better, then market it. If somebody wants it, a lot of people will likely want it and pay for it.
What is the best $100 you recently spent and why?
I took some friends to lunch in Venice Beach. I didn’t have to pay, but it was the right time, the right place, and just, well, right.
What software and web services do you use? What do you love about them?
I love ONTRAPORT. It’s a robust customer relationship management and business solutions system that makes my life easier. Plus, the company rocks!
What’s the one book that you recommend our community should read and why?
Viktor Frankl’s “Man’s Search for Meaning” is a great book. When we have a reason to live that’s bigger than us, great things happen. It’s a true story, too.
What people have influenced your thinking and might be of interest to others?
Mark Cuban has been a huge inspiration. Read his book. It’s awesome! Mother Teresa has also influenced me — no words needed. Finally, my wife drives me because I promised to provide for her and love her. What more motivation do I need?
Connect:
Project BINK Facebook:
Rick Martinez LinkedIn:
Rick Martinez Twitter: @planetboyrn
Mario Schulzke is the Founder of ideamensch, which he started a decade ago to learn from entrepreneurs and give them a platform for their ideas.