What does it look like to build a network around a purpose rather than a revenue model?

Adam Bird started Heroes Media Group in 2012 as a place for veterans and military voices, and has spent the decade since expanding that mission to cover all community heroes: law enforcement, firefighters, first responders, and other "community heroes," anyone who aligns with the cause. The network grew not from a monetization plan, but from a commitment to positive, purpose-driven content at a time when most media was heading in the opposite direction.

What makes Adam's approach distinct is what he actively refuses to optimize for. He's turned down six-figure investment offers and won't touch content that conflicts with the network's values, no matter the dollar amount attached. The business case comes second, and he'll tell you that's exactly why it works.

Adam started in terrestrial radio around 2011 and transitioned into podcasting when he realized he wanted to tell stories without editorial constraints. Over the last decade, he has personally worked on more than 28,000 podcast episodes, built a full production and agency arm at HMG, and grown the network to over 50 active shows.

Listen For:

00:00 Finding Purpose Through Podcasting

06:51 Helping Others, Finding Purpose

11:22 Building Connections Through Collaboration

15:58 Business Model Perspectives

19:07 The Power of Networking

19:58 Maintaining Network Support Over Time

23:03 Unpopular Opinions in Business Trends

28:41 Balancing Podcast Goals and Strategy

32:01 Podcasting's Future: Big Buyouts

35:11 Podcasting: Harder Than It Seems

36:31 Lessons on Starting Small

45:21 Finding Purpose Through Service

46:16 Grinding Toward Life’s Purpose

CONNECT WITH GUEST: ADAM BIRD

FOUNDER & OPERATOR, HEROES MEDIA GROUP

LinkedIn | Website

Adam's Book rec: Outwitting the Devil by Napoleon Hill

Adam's Podcast rec: The Arms Room

CONNECT WITH GREG WASSERMAN, CHIEF RELATIONSHIP OFFICER FOR RSS.COM

Website | LinkedIn

Greg’s book rec: Return on Courage by Ryan Berman

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Produced by Stories & Strategies

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