In this insightful interview at Partner World Asia 2025, Daily Sparkz Conversations with Kevin Mengthe CEO of Leadspringabout his journey from freelance content writer to a seven-figure SEO affiliate marketer And Business owner.
Kevin shares his personal reflections, major career milestones and life lessons, as well as his thoughts on success, growth and wealth creation.
From virtual assistant to SEO expert
Kevin’s journey in search engine optimization began in 2014 when he started as a freelance content writer.
From these humble beginnings, he developed two successful courses: one on content writing and one on AI content management.
His rise from author to head of teams and content departments was a direct result of his hard work, adaptability and strategic mindset.
What really set Kevin apart was his proactive attitude – he constantly asked himself, “What else can I do?”
This attitude allowed him to rise from freelancer to project manager and finally to CEO of Leadspring. His partnership with Matt Diggity and Leadspring’s growth was based on trust, hard work and a willingness to exceed expectations.
“Hard work pays off. The more you give, the more you get back. Always exceeds expectations.”
Adapting to changes in SEO and AI
The SEO industry has changed drastically over the years and Kevin has had to adapt. He talks about the challenges of navigating Google updates and the rise of AI.
Initially, Leadspring’s websites were heavily impacted by algorithm changes. However, they adapted by diversifying beyond affiliate marketing into lead generation, e-commerce, and JV partnerships.
Kevin’s ability to change and diversify also led him to start a link building agency focused on digital PR.
He emphasizes that remaining flexible and adapting to change is crucial to success in the ever-evolving SEO space.
“There are constant changes in search engine optimization. The key to success lies in adapting and diversifying.”
Customer acquisition and networking
Instead of relying on paid ads to acquire customers, Kevin prefers to build relationships through networking, cold calling, and attending conferences.
He also uses his courses and Facebook group to build an email list and attract potential customers.
Kevin believes in the power of content marketing and organic reach to grow his business.
His future plans include launching a community with low-ticket products like templates, SOPs and free webinars, followed by scalable paid advertising.
“The best way to win customers is through authentic contacts and value-oriented outreach.”
Personal Reflections: Regrets and Lessons Learned
When asked about his biggest regret, Kevin says his biggest regret is that he didn’t move to Asia sooner. He wishes he had embraced the remote lifestyle sooner and started working online in his early 20s.
Kevin compares his life in Asia, which offers a more balanced and relaxed environment, to his stressful experiences working in Connecticut.
“Living in Asia has changed my life. The lifestyle is affordable and the work culture is much more balanced.”
He also reflects on the downside of being well known in the industry, citing constant requests for favors without any reciprocation.
However, the best compliment he ever received came from his father, who told him that after dropping out, he had “exceeded his expectations” – something very meaningful in his Asian family.
Lifestyle in Thailand: Stress management and work-life balance
Kevin enjoys the affordable and high-quality lifestyle in Thailand, where he maintains a healthy work-life balance.
He actively participates in SEO meetings, enjoys playing music (guitar, bass, drums), and stays active with basketball and the gym.
To reduce stress, he has learned to control his emotions through box breathing and meditation. While Kevin admits that he sometimes “tracks the stress” by taking on multiple projects, he finds ways to channel it through his hobbies and social activities.
“Taking time off from work and pursuing hobbies helps me stay grounded and focused.”
Financial Dreams: What Would Kevin Do With $10 Million?
If Kevin won $10 million in a lottery, he would invest in passion projects like buying a farm, raising chickens, and building a music studio.
He also plans to build a basketball court on his farm, which highlights his love for animals and sports.
Regarding his living situation, Kevin reiterates his fondness for Thailand, but also shows interest in Japan, attracted by its beauty, culture and cuisine.
He appreciates the simplicity and richness of life in these countries and their relaxed pace compared to the stressful lifestyle he left behind in the United States.
Life Changes: From Night Owl to Morning Person
Kevin shares a major change in his lifestyle – he went from being a night owl who often partied to a morning person.
This change came after he stopped drinking almost two years ago and marked a positive change in both his personal health and his business outlook. He is now more focused on wellness and maintaining a balanced lifestyle.
He also reflects on how the last 12 months have been the best year of his life, after a difficult 2023 marked by uncertainty due to AI disruptions in his company.
Kevin has focused his efforts on what matters: health, stability and passion.
“Stopping drinking was the best decision I ever made. It allowed me to take control of my life and my business.”
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Final note
Kevin Meng’s story is a powerful example of how hard work, adaptability and personal growth lead to success.
From his beginnings as a freelance writer to running a seven-figure SEO company, Kevin’s journey highlights the importance of embracing change, following passions, and maintaining work-life balance.
