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13 April 2026

Learn from One of Germany's Best Online Marketers How to Start Your Business (Interview with Ole Kannapinn)

About this episode

"There are people who have already walked the path and know where the landmines are." This insight from Ole Kannapinn perfectly captures why it's so valuable to learn from successful entrepreneurs. As founder of Sport-Starter and Online Marketer of the Year 2017, Ole has already traveled the road that many founders still have ahead of them.

Which Experts Can You Really Learn From?

Ole clearly recommends established mentors from the international scene: Frank Kern and Russell Brunson top his list. "DotComSecrets" by Russell Brunson is a must-read for anyone wanting to succeed in online marketing. But German experts like Andreas Baulig and Kris Stelljes have also proven their worth.

The crucial question, however, is: How do you find the right mentor? Ole advises starting your project first, then specifically searching for experts who are already successful where you want to go. "Look at who already has the results you want to achieve."

Investing in Education – The Key to Success

One of the most important lessons from the interview: You must invest in your education. Ole emphasizes that trying to figure everything out yourself is not only time-consuming but also expensive. Those who rely on proven strategies from the start avoid typical beginner mistakes and progress faster.

Through his programs at Sport-Starter, thousands of women and men have already successfully and sustainably lost weight – proof that the right systems work.

The First Steps in Online Business

What's the very first step when you want to enter online business? Ole makes it clear: You must talk to your potential customers. The biggest mistake in online marketing is believing you already know what your target audience needs.

"Always stay in resonance with the customer" – this feedback loop is crucial for success. Before you develop a product, test the demand. Before you run a marketing strategy, find out how your customers really think.

Generating Reach Without an Existing Audience

Many founders face the hurdle: How do I start when I have no reach yet? Ole shows practical ways to win first customers even without large follower numbers. The key is to be very specific and speak directly with people who have your problem.

Why "Free Plus Shipping" Works So Well

One concrete strategy that Ole particularly recommends is the "Free Plus Shipping" model. This concept works so well because it lowers the psychological barrier of the first purchase. People are more willing to pay only shipping costs than to invest a higher amount directly.

Ethically Correct Products and Hesitations About Selling

Many founders have hesitations about selling. Ole addresses this important topic: If you have an ethically correct product that really helps people, then it's even your duty to sell. Your reluctance harms people who could need your product.

The Overall Strategy: Which Product Is Most Important?

In his Sport-Starter portfolio, Ole has various products, but he follows a clear overall strategy. Not every product needs to be profitable – some serve to acquire customers and build trust.

Conclusion: The Path to Successful Online Business

Ole's most important messages summarized:

  • Invest in your education and learn from proven experts
  • Talk to your customers before making assumptions
  • Establish a continuous feedback loop
  • Don't be afraid of selling if your product really helps
  • Find mentors who are already where you want to go

Success in online marketing is no accident. There are proven systems and strategies that work. The only question is: Are you ready to learn from those who have already walked the path?

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