At MyFBAPrep, our team doesn’t just deliver exceptional eCommerce logistics solutions; we live extraordinary lives shaped by a culture of flexibility, adventure, and a deep commitment to service. One team member’s remarkable journey to catch the elusive muskellunge — also known as the “Fish of 10,000 Casts” — is a testament to the work-life balance that fuels our team’s passion and excellence.

Zack Hamel, MyFBAPrep’s head of business development, is more than a logistics expert — he’s a storyteller, an adventurer, and a fisherman chasing once-in-a-lifetime experiences. After reengineering MyFBAPrep’s business development department into a well-oiled machine, Zack took advantage of the company’s fully remote, digital nomad-friendly culture to embark on a journey that would test his patience, skill, and resolve.

The call of the wild: Setting out with MyFBAPrep’s support

Zack’s journey began with a conversation about the possibilities MyFBAPrep offers their team. As a fully remote company, MyFBAPrep empowers its employees to create a lifestyle that works for them, blending productivity with passion. That flexibility is a core component of the company’s identity.

“When Tom [Wicky, MyFBAPrep’s CEO] encouraged me to take advantage of our remote work culture, it was a lightbulb moment,” Zack shared. “I realized I could build my life around my passions without sacrificing my professional responsibilities.”

With the full support of MyFBAPrep, Zack packed his gear, loaded up his kayak and embarked on a cross-country journey, starting in Syracuse, New York. He visited the Finger Lakes to explore his sommelier background and soak in the beauty of upstate New York’s waterfalls. But those stops were just the prelude to the main event: catching the elusive musky in Minnesota.

A test of grit: The pursuit of the musky

The muskellunge is no ordinary fish. Known for its rarity and size, the musky is often referred to as the “Fish of 10,000 Casts” due to how difficult it is to catch. More than a fishing challenge though, for Zack, it was a metaphor for the persistence and dedication MyFBAPrep fosters in their team members.

In the heart of Minnesota, Zack spent an entire month waking up between 2 and 3 a.m. to fish during the golden hours of dawn before starting his workday. He would go to local watering holes, bars, and bait shops to chat with anyone willing in an attempt to piece together a picture of where the beast might be hiding. His schedule was grueling, but the flexibility to blend passion with profession kept him going.

“There were moments when I wanted to give up,” Zack admitted. “I’d cast my line thousands of times with no luck. But every call I had with a client or team member during the day reminded me why I was out there. MyFBAPrep’s culture of persistence and excellence was with me every step of the way.”

Finally, after weeks of effort and 1,600 casts (far fewer than the legendary 10,000), his patience paid off. Battling the musky as it thrashed against his line, Zack reeled in the magnificent, cheetah-patterned trophy fish that had eluded countless anglers before him.

He recalled, “The moment I landed that fish was indescribable. I teared up, smiled, and felt immense gratitude, not just for the catch but for MyFBAPrep. The company gave me the freedom to chase this dream while still excelling at my work.”

Later that night, Zack returned to the bartender that pointed him toward the musky, and the whole bar celebrated by buying him drinks and passing around the picture like it was the trophy fish itself.

Beyond the musky: A life of adventure

The musky was just the beginning though. Inspired by the freedom MyFBAPrep offers, Zack continued his travels, exploring Yellowstone, Zion, Banff, and Glacier National Parks. He fished for salmon during their migrations, faced down black and brown bears, and even joined a mining expedition to unearth minerals like topaz and red beryl.

“MyFBAPrep didn’t just give me flexibility — it gave me the confidence to embrace life fully,” Zack said. “Every new adventure reaffirms why I work here. It’s not just about logistics; it’s about living our values.”

Even while on the road, Zack stayed connected to his clients and team. Armed with a laptop, a hotspot, and a commitment to MyFBAPrep’s high standards, he seamlessly balanced his adventurous lifestyle with providing the white-glove service MyFBAPrep is known for.

Flexibility fuels excellence: The MyFBAPrep philosophy

Zack’s story is a reflection of MyFBAPrep’s adaptive and encouraging culture. As a leader in eCommerce logistics, the company prides itself on speed, service, and flexibility — values that extend to how MyFBAPrep treats their team.

The ability to work from anywhere is both a benefit and a strategic advantage. By empowering employees to design their own lives, MyFBAPrep ensures they bring their best selves to work. This balance translates to extraordinary service for clients, as employees like Zack are willing to go above and beyond to deliver results.

As CEO Tom Wicky emphasizes, “Zack’s adventure highlights what makes MyFBAPrep unique…. Our team isn’t just talented — they’re passionate, driven, and empowered. That’s why our clients trust us to handle their logistics with care and precision.”

A lesson for eCommerce brands

Zack’s story offers a valuable teaching moment for eCommerce businesses both large and small. In an industry defined by speed and efficiency, many companies overlook the human element. MyFBAPrep’s approach shows that investing in people and allowing them to thrive personally and professionally pays dividends in service and innovation.

“eCcommerce logistics is all about solving complex problems and exceeding expectations,” Zack explained. “The same persistence I used to catch the musky is what I bring to my clients every day. Whether it’s finding a solution for a fulfillment challenge or closing a deal, I approach it with the same mindset.”

Wrapping up — Work-life integration done right

Zack’s journey to catch the “Fish of 10,000 Casts” is a testament to what’s possible when a company values its employees and treats them as unique individuals. At MyFBAPrep, the same dedication that drives employees to achieve their personal goals pushes them to deliver exceptional results to clients.

Zack attests, “MyFBAPrep has redefined what work-life balance means. It’s not just about working remotely; it’s about having the freedom to pursue your passions while delivering your best work. That’s what makes this company so special.”

For MyFBAPrep, the future is clear and bright: They’ll continue to empower their team to live extraordinary lives. Whether it’s chasing fish in remote lakes or solving the next big logistical challenge, MyFBAPrep employees are ready to go above and beyond. After all, extraordinary adventures fuel extraordinary service.