More My First Million episodes
Published 11 Feb 2026
Duration: 2519
A 55-year-old individual with no prior e-commerce experience started a pillow business online and grew it to 17,000 orders using a made-to-order model and strategic partnerships.
Get 100 more side hustle ideas to make your first $1M: https://clickhubspot.com/rdn Episode 794: Sam Parr ( https://x.com/theSamParr ) talks to his mo...
The episode details the entrepreneurial journey of Smithy Sodine, who launched a successful pillow business at the age of 55 without prior experience in e-commerce. Starting with a background in sewing and textiles, she used Shopify to sell custom-made pillows online. Despite initial uncertainty about the business's potential, her venture grew to over 17,000 orders and a high customer rating, all while producing items in-house in New Jersey. The business operates on a made-to-order model with no inventory, and it also offers consulting services.
Sodines story is framed as an example of how taking action without overthinking can lead to success, regardless of age. The discussion includes the importance of learning online business fundamentals, customer service, and the potential for growth through wholesale partnerships. Personal challenges and motivations are shared, along with the value of making intentional decisions in both business and life.
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