25 years of business knowledge from a Father in 22 minutes. Michael Abdel, Founder of Sphere on The Flight Path Podcast

What does it take to build an award-winning agency and thrive for over 20 years? Marketing pioneer Michael Abdel reveals his wild startup ride in this raw interview. From a 90s fax machine to leading major brands, Michael navigated turbulent waters to grow Sphere into Australia's top agency. Get an inside look at his unconventional approach to culture and clients. Learn why he insists on authenticity and evolves from risk-taking founder to careful steward. Michael unpacks navigating AI's promise and peril in marketing's future. His insights will inspire you to chart your own flight path. Subscribe @theflightpathpodcast Stay connected: Instagram: https://instagram.com/theflightpathpod TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@theflightpathpod Download the pre-clipped reels!: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1LydMJMZoePdy0TLxtBzuQFaTfpwYqok8?usp=sharing Timestamps: 00:00 - Intro 01:10 - Meet Michael 02:06 - Marketing industry evolution 03:11 - Authenticity and values 04:14 - Onboarding process 05:24 - Selling and promotion 06:38 - Defining teamwork 08:26 - Office space 09:49 - Work-life balance 11:19 - Advice for new fathers 12:45 - Music as a hobby 14:19 - Guiding principle 15:49 - Breaking barriers 17:30 - Cost of change 18:31 - Branding tips 20:51 - Research before spending 21:51 - Parting words Follow Michael: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michael_sphere/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-abdel Profile: Follow Sphere: Website: https://thesphereagency.com.au Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesphereagency/ Follow Tom Barclay: Instagram: https://instagram.com/itstombarclay TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@itstombarclay LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-barclay Threads: https://www.threads.net/@itstombarclay X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/itstombarclay Connect with Bhimian: Website: https://www.bhimian.com TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bhimian Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bhimian LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bhimian #FlightPathPodcast #MichaelAbdel #TomBarclay #Bhimian