#319: Donna Benton on the Grit & Sacrifice Behind Growing The Entertainer

Donna Benton came to Dubai with just $3,000 and a bold idea. Fast forward, and that idea became The Entertainer, a billion-dollar brand that transformed how people save on dining, leisure, and travel across 15 countries, all while contributing over $1.3 billion a year to Dubai's economy. But Donna's story isn't your average entrepreneurial journey. She's a fiercely driven businesswoman and an investment powerhouse, and now she's returned to The Entertainer to skyrocket the brand to new heights. In this episode, she shares the real story behind her success - the sacrifices, the grit, and her no nonsense approach to leadership.  If you want to learn what it takes to make it big and be inspired to mirror her success, Donna's story is for you. 04:23 - The purpose behind starting The Entertainer 06:26 - Entrepreneurship and the value of perseverance 13:44 - The truth about fulfilment versus financial gain 18:04 - Humility and loyalty in leadership 28:02 - Rejoining The Entertainer 30:35 - Selecting the right team 49:07 - Measuring other people's success 52:52 - The Entertainer's expansion plans and market presence Show Sponsors: Allsopp & Allsopp: Redefining real estate, through cutting-edge technology and setting new standards for seamless, elevated customer experience. Keep moving with Allsopp & Allsopp.https://bit.ly/Allsopp-and-Allsopp Socials: Spencer Lodgehttps://www.instagram.com/spencer.lodge/?hl=en https://www.tiktok.com/@spencer.lodge https://www.linkedin.com/in/spencerlodge/ https://www.youtube.com/c/SpencerLodgeTV https://www.facebook.com/spencerlodgeofficial/  Donna Bentonhttps://www.instagram.com/donna_benton/https://www.linkedin.com/in/donnabentonthebentongroup/

Om Podcasten

Formerly the Unscripted Podcast with Spencer Lodge Join Spencer Lodge as he connects with the most fascinating personalities in Dubai. A city that rose from the desert sands to become one of the most ambitious, innovative and inspiring places on Earth. Behind its glittering skyline are people with stories just as extraordinary - pioneers, dreamers and doers who dared to turn bold visions into reality. Made in Dubai is where those stories are told. Hosted by Spencer Lodge, each episode is a front-row seat to conversations with the people shaping the UAE's future — from business leaders and record-breakers to cultural icons and creative disruptors. But this isn't just about their success. It's about the journey - the risks they took, the challenges they faced and the moments that defined them. It's about the unique magic of Dubai: a place where ambition meets opportunity, where cultures from around the world collide to create something truly special and where anything feels possible. Whether you're an entrepreneur searching for your next big move, someone curious about life in the UAE or simply in need of inspiration, Made in Dubai is your invitation to step inside this vibrant city and meet the people who make it remarkable. If it was made in Dubai, you'll hear it here.