Turning An Idea Into A Business: Mindset Shifts For Success with Eddie Ephraim, Co-Founder & CEO of Melodee

Today on the blog, we are joined by Eddie Ephraim, Co-founder and CEO of Melodee. Eddie talks about his journey of starting a business around his passion and the mindset shifts that have helped him create success in his venture. 

Hello and welcome, Eddie. Tell us a little bit more about Melodee and what inspired you to launch the platform.

Well, lots of reasons, the real start of it all was back in 2007 as I always felt there should be an instant online opportunity for performers to earn money, being a violinist. Years later, I was living and working in the Middle East at the time, and I wanted to send my grandmother a gift. I initially wanted to send a unique gift not just cards and chocolates being delivered, but something that she can remember. I managed to send a video clip of myself and her favourite song in the background and she loved the present as it’s something that she still talks about today. Therefore, it was a cumulation of ideas that created what Melodee is today. And thus, Melodee was born and today, Melodee provides you with a unique video gift sent from a performer to address any occasion.

Have you always been drawn to entrepreneurship as a career path? 

My father set up his own business, so I drew inspiration from him and still do today and that evolved to me studying business at school, then at university through international business. After that, I had a real interest in business and worked for several private companies in the UK, Vietnam, and Dubai. I believe in this world people's career paths are constantly changing. My school friends remind me in private that I was remembered for my sporting achievements; naturally, this formed an idea that I was going to be a sporting superstar! Saying that I did have a taste of entrepreneurship as a child - I used to share a classic story selling sweets in the school playground.  

What qualities and mindset shifts have helped you create success in your venture?

What I would say is that belief is a powerful tool for anyone looking to choose this field. You need to believe in yourself, the product, then the vision. Once you have that, you can create your own luck like thorough networking. I would like to stress that everyone has their own journey, and some journeys take longer than others but that provided me with the guiding principles for Melodee.

As an entrepreneur myself, I am very well familiar with the entrepreneurial roller coaster and how challenging our journey can feel at times. What helps you remain resilient in the face of setbacks?

We all face setbacks; no one is immune to it. It really depends on how you overcome those difficult moments. Whenever you enter a new space, you are exposed to setbacks. I believe that when entering the exciting world of entrepreneurship, your belief overshadows the disappointments. Ultimately, by viewing the word ‘setbacks’ differently and, instead, looking at it as "learning curves", the outcome will be a lot different as, eventually, your persistence will prevail.

What tips would you give to someone who is thinking of starting a business around their passion but isn’t sure how to start or is simply afraid of embarking on this path?

We are lucky to live in a world where an infinite amount of information is available to us. A simple Google search can alleviate your worries by hearing people stories, validating your idea and even telling you how to set up your business. My tip would be just to start, start and the rest will take care of itself. Never be afraid to begin your journey because you will not forgive yourself for not starting.

If you could give your younger self a key piece of advice, what would that be?

"You will be fine. The future will bring greater value than your present. You’re still growing as a person and your path is just starting."

Thank you for joining us today, Eddie. Where can our readers learn more about Melodee?

By visiting the melodee.app for your unique video gift from our brilliant performers! If you are a performer looking for a remote or even part-time opportunity, we would love to hear from you. Similarly, if you are a customer, enjoy the array of talent and get your bespoke video gift today!

And of course, follow us on our social media pages. Later in the year, we will be launching our app on iOS and Android, which we are all very excited about!