How a Ukrainian Founder Built a Video Agency on Focus and Grit (video)

In a world where chaos often dominates the headlines, the story of Serhiy Leshchenko, founder of the Ukrainian-based video and podcast production agency Beverly Productions, is a powerful reminder that true entrepreneurial grit can flourish even amid the daily realities of war.

His recent conversation with John Golden offers far more than just a business case study; it’s a field guide for any creative or entrepreneur seeking to thrive in uncertain times. The core lessons distilled here focus on mental resilience, strategic focus, and the magnetic pull of genuine authenticity.

The Art of Focus: Filtering Out the Noise

In an environment saturated with anxiety-inducing news, Serhiy emphasizes that our most valuable asset is our attention. For him, success required a radical shift in how he consumed information.

• Signals Over Noise: The crucial step is identifying the difference between “signals” (information that directly impacts your life or business decisions) and “noise” (distractions that drain your mental energy). Limit the 24/7 news cycle and commit to staying informed only on what truly matters.
• The Focus Ritual: Don’t let your attention be held hostage by pings and notifications. Schedule specific, dedicated times for checking news or social media, and then use tools or simple discipline to enforce “focus hours” where your energy is channeled directly into your highest-priority tasks.
• Expert Insight: The media is designed to evoke emotional responses. By regaining control of your focus, you are reclaiming your agency and productivity, regardless of external turbulence.

Resilience: Building a Business in the Face of Adversity

For Serhiy, resilience isn’t about simply surviving; it’s about using immense adversity as a powerful catalyst for growth. His story proves that even with the backdrop of war, it’s possible to launch and scale a thriving business.

• Prioritize Ruthlessly: In challenging times, you must clearly define your non-negotiables—things like financial stability, health, and team safety. Accept that other areas of life may need to be temporarily deprioritized to protect the foundation.
• Embrace the “Grinder” Mentality: Serhiy’s journey reflects what he calls the unique “grinder” mentality of Ukrainian entrepreneurs: a relentless drive built through consistent, day-to-day effort, not overnight luck. Celebrate the small wins, but stay committed to the daily grind.
• Leverage Support Systems: Never try to go it alone. Seek out mentors, partners, and early customers who can provide guidance and encouragement. Collaboration and asking for help are not signs of weakness; they are key drivers of long-term stability.

The Power of Authenticity and Multifunctional Skills

As an expert creator, Serhiy has two additional principles that are critical in the age of AI and content saturation: being authentic and avoiding being a one-trick pony.

• Authenticity Attracts Your Tribe: Serhiy’s podcast is aptly named “Be Yourself,” a guiding philosophy for his business. In a world full of polished fakery, genuineness is the ultimate differentiator. Share your real journey, including the setbacks, as they make you relatable and trustworthy, drawing in clients and collaborators who share your core values.
• Become Multifunctional: With AI rapidly automating single-skill jobs, the long-term value lies in developing a diverse, complementary skill set (e.g., combining video production, podcasting, and marketing expertise). Focus on tasks that require human ingenuity and creative inspiration—things AI can only assist with, but never truly replace.

Serhiy Leshchenko’s journey offers a powerful, modern mantra for any entrepreneur: Filter the chaos, be relentless in your efforts, and always lead with who you truly are. This is the bedrock not just of survival, but of spectacular growth.