[Video] From “we’ll work with anyone” to “our best year ever”

Two years ago, Chris Madden’s agency was stuck in the most dangerous spot a founder can be: busy but directionless.

They had NBA teams, restaurant groups, and banks on the roster, but no real momentum.

Fast forward to today: his agency, Matchnode, is fully booked in a fast-growing niche and having its best year ever.

In this interview, Chris breaks down exactly how they found their focus, flipped their positioning, and built unstoppable momentum. 

CQ

P.S. Chris also shares the one thing he wishes he could tell himself 24 months ago. Don’t miss it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does "busy but directionless" actually describe about Matchnode's earlier state?

Having a diverse client roster, NBA teams, restaurant groups, and banks, without a unifying focus, activity that felt like progress but wasn't building toward any real, sustained momentum.

Why is "busy but directionless" described as the most dangerous spot a founder can be?

Because it can mask the absence of real strategic direction. Staying busy feels productive, but without focus, that activity doesn't compound into the kind of momentum a more specialized approach can produce.

What changed for Matchnode after finding a specific focus?

The agency became fully booked within a fast-growing niche, transforming from a scattered client roster into a specialized, thriving business currently having its best year ever.

What does "flipping their positioning" actually involve, according to this conversation?

A deliberate repositioning discussed directly in the interview, moving away from a broad, varied client base toward a sharper, more specific market focus that ultimately built real, sustained momentum.

What's the one thing Chris Madden wishes he could tell himself 24 months ago?

A specific piece of insight shared directly in the interview, reflecting on what he now understands about focus and positioning that would have been valuable to know earlier in Matchnode's journey.