Braden is a well-known domain investor, angel investor and serial entrepreneur. Among his companies is Legal Brand Marketing, which provides “lead generation” services to lawyers nationwide. As an angel investor, he has an equity interest in several dozen other companies including Katalyst, Innovation Collective, iBeautyBrands, The Grooming Network (StraightRazors.com, ClassicShaving.com, etc), Bold Metrics, DataZoom, Tastry, Next Health, Osano, Styku and many others. His domain portfolio is well into the thousands of domains with a current focus on premium one-word .coms. Braden’s latest venture is the Pollock Fund focused entirely on investments in alternative asset classes. He also serves on several Boards including the non-profit, Internet Commerce Association.
Name: Braden Pollock
Company: Legal Brand Marketing, LLC
Favorite Domain: Whichever I’m currently selling
Favorite Industry Conference: Too many from which to choose (ok fine; NamesCon)
Favorite Industry Blog(s): I like them all
Tell us a little bit about your background and your personal story.
I’ve been an entrepreneur basically my whole life. I’ve always had investments and businesses. Luckily I’ve had more wins than losses over the years so I can keep taking risks. I love the creative aspect of coming up with an idea and seeing through to fruition (read: profitability). I can’t imagine doing the same thing day in and day out. For me it’s all about the excitement of risk vs. reward.
How did you get involved in the domain industry?
I discovered the world of domains back in 2004-2005. I thought I was too late to the party but figured I’d give it a shot anyway. Guess what? It’s worked out pretty well…
What is your current role?
Chief Cook and Bottle Washer
Why did you choose to support the ICA?
Nat made me do it! (And it’s important to support the industry that provides so much of my income.)
Can you share a prediction about the future of the domain industry?
It will continue to grow for a long time. I suppose one day, we’ll access the internet in some entirely different way but that’s a long time from now. Until that happens, domains will continue to increase in value.
What do you like most about the domain industry?
Friends! I’ve made so many great friends through this community. I can’t think of another industry that is as supportive. And I love negotiating. Domaining lets me do that every day, either buying or selling.
If you could change one thing about the domain industry what would it be?
A better impression of what we do by the general public.
What do you think are some of the biggest challenges the domain industry is faced with?
A lack of protection for the domain owner.
What do you wish other people knew about the ICA?
Domain investors need to understand that the ICA exists to help them protect their assets.
What would you tell someone who is thinking about joining the ICA?
Stop thinking about it and click the JOIN button.
What unexpected doors opened for you because of your involvement in the domain industry?
I travel internationally on a regular basis. Through the domain industry, I’ve made friends all over the world so now I have someone to visit practically everywhere I go.
What’s the best advice ever received (domain related or otherwise)?
The best domain advice I’ve received applies to just about everything: Use your instincts.
What are your main interests outside of the domain industry?
Travel, exercise and building businesses.
Favorite place to get away:
Someplace far, far away.
Anything else you’d like to share:
Nah!