Nikonomics - The Economics Of Small Business podcast

#Entrepreneur #Business #Nikolas Hulewsky #Business Deals #Entrepreneurship #Marketing #Growth #Acquisitions #Scale #Hustle #Million

40:43

Discover how AI is breaking down barriers to education and tailoring learning experiences for students everywhere. From Duolingo’s global reach to the innovative use of AI in real classrooms at Miss Porter’s School in Connecticut, this episode explores how technology is expanding access, enhancing engagement, and equipping the next generation with essential skills—while ensuring integrity and safety remain at the forefront. Guests include: Luis von Ahn , CEO and Co-Founder of Duolingo Henry Ellenbogen , Chief Investment Officer at Durable Capital Partners Maureen Lamb , Latin teacher and the Language Department Chair at Miss Porter's School Dean Dimizas , Partner and Managing Director at Cambridge Associates Unseen Upside: Investments Beyond Their Returns is developed in partnership with PRX , an award-winning podcast media company. Cambridge Associates is a global investment firm that works with endowments, foundations, healthcare systems, pension plans, and private clients to implement and manage custom investment portfolios that aim to generate outperformance and maximize their impact on the world. Cambridge Associates delivers a range of portfolio management services, including outsourced CIO, non-discretionary portfolio management, staff extension, and asset class mandates.…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business explicit

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Welcome to Nikonomics—the show for entrepreneurs and Wantrapreneurs, looking to make their first million. I bring firsthand experience, having bought and sold over a dozen businesses, achieved multiple 7-figure exits, and generated over $100 million in revenue. Each week, I blend humor with real insights from successful entrepreneurs, sharing growth strategies, deal insights, and unique business ideas you won’t find elsewhere. Ready to turn your entrepreneurial dreams into reality? Hit play and let’s get to work. Follow me on Twitter @CoFoundersNik or YouTube @NikonomicsPodcast.

246 episodes

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business explicit

updated il y a environ un jour

maison des série•Feed

246 episodes

#Entrepreneur #Business #Nikolas Hulewsky #Business Deals #Entrepreneurship #Marketing #Growth #Acquisitions #Scale #Hustle #Million

Tous les épisodes

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

1
245 - He Built a 9-Figure Business & Helped Over 1 Million People Start Theirs with Stu Draper 31:25

il y a 1 day31:25

31:25

MY NEWSLETTER - https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Join me, Nik ( https://x.com/CoFoundersNik ), as I interview Stuart Draper about how to get your first customer and scale from $0 to $2M in 4 years. I had a freaking treat talking to Stu Draper today. He's an incredible startup founder who just had an eight figure exit from his EdTech company, Stukent, which helped over a million people learn digital marketing . His companies have been on the Inc 5000 list ten times , and he knows exactly how to get your first customer when you're starting from zero. We chat about his journey starting his first digital marketing agency , getfoundfirst.com, during the 2008 recession and why he prioritized being a family man by building a professional baseball field and indoor-outdoor pool over buying a Lamborghini. Stu shares actionable insights on how entrepreneurs can secure their crucial first customer (hint: it might involve working for free ) and explains why starting a service-based business is often the best low-risk way for first-time founders to learn entrepreneurship and get in the game. We dive deep into why catching the early wave of AI automation agencies today is just like catching the digital marketing wave 15 years ago —and why AI agency opportunities mirror what made so many digital marketing agency founders millionaires by age 32. Finally, he tells us why focusing on sales and marketing —not mastering your P&L or balance sheet—is the most important part of building a successful business , and how he scaled to eight figures without being a financial expert by hiring a great CFO. Enjoy the conversation! __________________________ QUESTIONS THIS EPISODE ANSWERS: What is the most important first step in getting from zero to your first customer? Why is starting an AI automation agency today similar to starting a digital marketing agency in 2008? What is the lowest-risk path for a new entrepreneur to get in the game? How did Stuart Draper use a free customer strategy to land his first paying client? When scaling a business from bootstrap to exit, why should startup founders focus on sales and marketing instead of the P&L? How do you create mission vision values that turn customers into believers? What's the best way to get your first customer when you have no LLC, no website, and no business email? How did Stu scale to an eight figure business without being a financial expert? Why are service-based businesses the best first business for entrepreneurs? What are the biggest business opportunities in 2025 for first-time founders? __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 The Journey of Growth and Learning 02:59 Navigating the Digital Marketing Landscape 05:47 Getting Your First Customer 09:06 The Power of Vision and Shared Language 11:58 Innovating in Education Technology 14:52 The Importance of Sales and Revenue 18:11 Lessons from Entrepreneurship 21:01 Opportunities in AI and Service-Based Businesses 23:55 Final Thoughts and Future Opportunities…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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244 - The Math Behind a $100M Concierge Medicine Business with Sandeep Palakodeti 1:00:47

il y a environ 6 jours1:00:47

1:00:47

MY NEWSLETTER - https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Join me, Nik (https://x.com/CoFoundersNik), as I interview Dr. Sandeep Palakodeti (https://x.com/DrDeepMD). I was excited to welcome Dr. Sandeep Palakodeti, also known as Dr. Deep, to talk about his revolutionary company, Velocity Health. This concierge precision medicine clinic is addressing huge macro trends, particularly the demand for better healthspan and longevity. We unpack why someone would leave a top institution like the Mayo Clinic to start a business aimed at solving the "sick care" problem of American healthcare. Dr. Deep contrasts the standard transactional 7-minute primary care visit with Velocity Health’s functional medicine approach, which focuses on root cause medicine and objective diagnostics like VO2 max, DEXA scan, and the coronary artery calcium scan. We also dive deep into the business model, exploring how Velocity Health scales as a 50 state virtual practice, utilizes the MSO PC model for regulation, and maintains an attractive CAC to LTV ratio through its recurring revenue plans. If you’re an entrepreneur who believes preserving health is as crucial as preserving wealth, this episode is a must-watch. Questions This Episode Answers: 1. Why did an institutional physician leave major hospitals like the Mayo Clinic to start a cash pay medical practice? 2. How does a concierge precision medicine approach fundamentally differ from a traditional 7-minute primary care visit? 3. What advanced diagnostics, like the VO2 max test, are the most critical KPIs for assessing longevity and health risk? 4. From a regulatory and business perspective, how does the MSO PC model work for healthcare startups raising outside capital? 5. How can a subscription-based healthcare service maintain an appealing CAC to LTV ratio using a longitudinal relationship model? Enjoy the conversation! __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 The State of Healthcare Today 05:00 Emerging Trends in Concierge Medicine 10:09 The Shift to Preventive Care 14:46 Understanding Functional Medicine 20:05 The Role of Technology in Healthcare 24:55 The Business Model of Velocity Health 30:04 Patient Experience and Engagement 34:48 Future of Healthcare and Personalization…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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243 - Agent Builder is Here! What Does it Do? with Elizabeth Knopf 42:24

il y a environ 8 jours42:24

42:24

Join me, Nik (https://x.com/CoFoundersNik), as I sit down with Elizabeth Knopf (https://x.com/leveragedupside) to demystify OpenAI's newest creation , the Agent Builder . We set the context by explaining the crucial difference between simple, static if-then automation and a true agent , which requires autonomy , memory , and decision-making capabilities in a workflow. This tool is designed to finally make building complex agentic workflows accessible to business owners who aren't technical experts. Liz walks us through the platform.openai.com/playground interface and demos a real-world research agent in action. We dive deep into the cost structure, explaining why OpenAI charges based on a high-call usage-based model using API calls, which can "add up really quickly", instead of a flat monthly subscription like ChatTPT .We compare it head-to-head with competitors like N8n , Lindy , and Zapier . While the Agent Builder UI is "way less intimidating" and features like Guardrails are valuable for mitigating hallucinations and protecting sensitive data, Liz reveals that the execution is "not quite there yet". Questions This Episode Answers: • What is the core difference between an Agent and a standard business Automation ? • Why does OpenAI use a usage-based model for Agent Builder instead of a flat monthly fee? • How does OpenAI’s new Agent Builder compare directly to tools like Zapier , N8n , or Lindy ? • What are Guardrails , and how do they protect internal business documents and mitigate hallucinations? • What are the most likely and best use cases for building business agents right now? Enjoy the conversation! __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this ⁠ brief survey ⁠ with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: ⁠https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe⁠ Spotify: ⁠https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y⁠ Apple: ⁠https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284⁠ YouTube: ⁠ https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT⁠ __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 Introduction to OpenAI's Agent Builder 03:05 Understanding Agents vs. Automation 05:48 Navigating the OpenAI Interface 09:09 Exploring Use Cases and Templates 11:57 Building a Research Bot with Agent Builder 14:49 Guardrails and Safety in Agent Workflows 18:04 Live Demo: Data Enrichment Use Case 20:55 Sentiment Analysis on Social Media 23:48 Challenges and Limitations of Agent Builder 27:05 Comparing Agent Builder with Other Tools 29:52 Future Potential and User Experience 33:03 Conclusion and Call to Action…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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242 - I Replaced My Research Team with This AI (Here's How) with Elizabeth Knopf 28:55

il y a environ 11 jours28:55

28:55

Join me, Nik ( https://x.com/CoFoundersNik ), as I sit down with AI expert Elizabeth Knopf (⁠https://x.com/⁠leveragedupside) for a deep dive into Anthropic's Claude 4.5 Sonnet, the latest AI breakthrough for entrepreneurs and business automation in 2025.Watch as Elizabeth demonstrates game-changing features that transform Claude AI from static outputs into dynamic web applications through API integration and parallel tool execution. We explore extended AI thinking capabilities (up to 30 hours of processing), which delivers higher quality outputs for complex business tasks without constant iteration errors or AI hallucinations.The highlight? Claude generates a 22-page competitive analysis and content strategy for my YouTube channel versus Chris Koerner's "Corner Office"—complete with viral frameworks, audience insights, and growth recommendations. This deep AI research previously required specialized tools like Perplexity AI.We break down practical AI productivity strategies including building your AI second brain, prompt engineering libraries, context document management, and AI agent development for business operations. Elizabeth shares her framework for mastering AI tools like a fighter pilot—developing true AI literacy beyond basic prompting. QUESTIONS THIS EPISODE ANSWERS: What are Anthropic's key new updates for Claude 4.5 Sonnet and Claude Sonnet 4.5?How do dynamic AI artifacts and parallel tool execution speed up business workflows?How can extended AI thinking improve output quality for complex entrepreneurship tasks? What are the necessary components for building a functional AI second brain? How should entrepreneurs approach maximizing value from AI productivity tools? What's the difference between Claude AI and ChatGPT for business automation? How can first-time entrepreneurs use AI to build their first million-dollar business?What are the best AI tools for startup founders and small business owners? How do you create an AI operating system for personal productivity? What are practical AI use cases for entrepreneurs in 2025?__________________________Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback.Please fill out this ⁠brief survey⁠ with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts.__________________________MY NEWSLETTER: ⁠https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe⁠Spotify: ⁠https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y⁠Apple: ⁠https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284⁠YouTube:⁠ https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT⁠__________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 Building Your AI Second Brain02:43 Anthropic's Claude Updates and Dynamic Artifacts06:07 Advanced Reasoning and Parallel Task Execution09:00 Enhanced Decision-Making and Contextual Awareness11:43 Creating Comprehensive Outputs and Research Strategies15:02 Navigating AI Technology and Personal Frameworks17:52 Managing AI Across Life's Pillars21:03 Building a Personal Operating System for AI23:54 The Future of AI in Organizations…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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241 - The Freight Market Is Collapsing, Here's What You Should Do to Save Your Business with Craig Fuller 42:29

il y a environ 13 jours42:29

42:29

MY NEWSLETTER - https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Join me, Nik ( https://x.com/CoFoundersNik ), as I interview Craig Fuller ( https://x.com/ freightalley), CEO of FreightWaves and Sonar , for a critical update on the freight market collapse and what it means for small business owners and entrepreneurs in 2025. Last time, I called Craig "Nostradamus" for his spot-on predictions about tariffs and supply chain disruptions —and this time, the data is even more alarming. We analyze the OTBI index (Outbound Tender Volume Index), which tracks trucking volumes and shipping activity across the US economy, and the numbers are flashing red: we've lost seven years of economic growth in the goods economy . Craig breaks down how the collapse in critical sectors like manufacturing , construction , housing , energy , and transportation logistics —which together employ 35 million Americans —is being completely ignored by Wall Street , the Federal Reserve , and Congress . While AI stocks and the Magnificent Seven drive the stock market to all-time highs, the Main Street economy is showing clear recession warning signs . This episode explains why freight data is the ultimate leading economic indicator , often predicting recessions 6-9 months before they hit (a principle known as Dow Theory ). We discuss what the 2007-2008 financial crisis can teach us, why consumer spending is masking deeper problems, and most importantly— what you should do right now as a business owner or entrepreneur . Questions This Episode Answers: How severely have US shipping volumes and freight activity declined, and what does this mean for the real economy? Why are the Freight Market and OTBI index critical leading indicators often ignored by Wall Street, the Fed, and Washington DC? As a small business owner or entrepreneur, what specific actions should I take right now to prepare for an economic slowdown or recession? Why is a downturn actually a prime time for business acquisitions, consolidation, and securing undervalued assets? What is Dow Theory, and how does transportation data predict broader economic recessions? How do tariff policies and trade tensions with China impact domestic logistics and supply chains? What's the disconnect between AI stock speculation (Mag-7) and the goods-producing economy? __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 Economic Growth and Market Predictions 02:53 Logistics and Supply Chain Insights 05:45 The State of the Goods Economy 09:04 Job Market and Employment Trends 11:59 Small Business Strategies in a Downturn 14:55 Opportunities in a Recession 18:09 The Role of Government and Economic Policy 21:03 Future Market Predictions and Indicators 23:57 The Impact of Freight on the Economy 26:49 Understanding Supply Chain Dynamics 30:08 Cultural and Historical Context of Logistics 33:03 Conclusion and Key Takeaways…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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240 - OpenAI Just Changed Everything! Sora 2 Breakdown with Elizabeth Knopf 32:20

il y a environ 15 jours32:20

32:20

MY NEWSLETTER - https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Join me, Nik (https://x.com/CoFoundersNik), as I interview Elizabeth Knopf (https://x.com/leveragedupside) about the biggest AI tools updates of 2025. I was incredibly excited to sit down with Liz this week because OpenAI just dropped massive updates, including ChatGPT 5, OpenAI Pulse, and the game-changing Sora 2 AI video generator. We dive straight into Sora 2, a revolutionary AI video generation tool and text-to-video AI platform that's disrupting content creation for entrepreneurs and small business owners. We discuss how Sora 2 creates stunningly accurate AI digital clones and AI avatars of yourself from just five seconds of video—no expensive equipment or video editing software needed. This AI cloning technology is lightyears ahead of older AI video tools like HeyGen, Synthesia, and D-ID. We analyze OpenAI's genius product launch strategy and growth hacking tactics, using an invite-only system and leaning on Sam Altman for founder marketing and personal branding, creating immediate scarcity marketing and viral growth that could launch a totally new AI social media platform and AI content platform to compete with TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts. Next, we switch gears to Anthropic's major updates for Claude AI. I was shocked to see the new Claude Chrome extension and Claude browser integration, which allows the AI assistant to analyze web pages, scrape data, automate browser workflows, and perform real-time automation tasks like a virtual assistant. This is perfect for business automation, data entry automation, and workflow optimization for first-time entrepreneurs building their online business. Finally, Liz demonstrates Claude Sonnet 4.5's ability to generate professional PowerPoint presentations, pitch decks for startups, and perfectly formatted CSV files and Excel spreadsheets directly from complex data sources and PDF documents. This eliminates tons of manual data entry and grunt work for any business owner, solopreneur, or content creator trying to scale to their first million dollars. Questions This Episode Answers: How did OpenAI use scarcity marketing and social media strategy to achieve a massive viral product launch for Sora 2 AI? How does the Sora 2 Cameo feature create highly realistic AI digital clones and deepfake avatars faster than previous AI video generation tools like HeyGen, Runway ML, and Pika Labs? How can small business owners and entrepreneurs leverage the new Claude Chrome extension for real-time browser automation, web scraping, data extraction, and workflow automation directly in Google Chrome? What makes Sora 2's inversion of AI technology into an entertainment platform and social network a "paradigm shift" compared to traditional marketing-focused AI tools and B2B SaaS products? How does the updated Claude AI model now generate high-quality PowerPoint decks, business presentations, and structured CSV data exports from complex PDF files and financial documents for business intelligence and data analysis? __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 The Rise of AI Automation 13:45 Sora: A New Era in Content Creation 24:00 Claude's New Features and Updates…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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239 - How to Build Your Own Short Term Rental Empire with Taylor Jones 52:50

il y a environ 18 jours52:50

52:50

MY NEWSLETTER - https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Join me, Nik (https://x.com/CoFoundersNik), as I interview Taylor Jones (https://x.com/MrJonesSTRs), the founder of strsearch.com . Have you ever wondered if short-term rentals (STRs) are as passive as they seem? I used to think so, but Taylor completely changed my perspective. He breaks down how he went from a sales guy to overseeing over $120 million in STR investments by treating it not as a real estate game, but as an operations business . We dive into his first investment—a cabin in the North Georgia mountains that he bought having never owned real estate before—and how it generated $22,000 in cash flow its first year. Taylor reveals the critical mistakes he made, the lessons he learned about market supply and demand, and how a single amenity like a pickleball court can add $40,000 to your annual revenue. We also get into the incredible tax benefits and how STRs can offer active losses to offset your regular income, something I wish I'd known sooner. Questions This Episode Answers: • How can a single pickleball court add over $40,000 in annual revenue to an Airbnb ? • Why is a short-term rental business more about operations than real estate? • How can you use short-term rentals to legally reduce your taxable income? • What is the biggest mistake new STR investors make when choosing a property? • Why are large-group rentals and small, romantic getaways the hottest trends right now? Enjoy the conversation! __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 The Allure of Short-Term Rentals 02:55 Understanding the Operations Behind STRs 05:42 The Journey into Real Estate Investment 09:00 Lessons from Early Investments 12:09 Scaling Up: From One to Multiple Properties 14:56 Market Dynamics and Supply-Demand Imbalances 18:11 Navigating the Real Estate Landscape 20:55 Investment Strategies for Success 26:00 Understanding Market Dynamics and Profitability 30:13 Revenue Estimation and Occupancy Rates 33:25 Tax Implications and Depreciation Strategies 40:27 Investment Strategies for Short-Term Rentals 47:31 Advice for New Investors in Short-Term Rentals…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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238 - How to Easily Turn Vending Machines Into a Passive Income Empire 42:40

il y a environ 20 jours42:40

42:40

MY NEWSLETTER - https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Join me, Nik (https://x.com/CoFoundersNik), as I interview Mike Hoffman (https://x.com/mrpassive). Ever wonder if you can actually create enough passive income to quit your job? In this episode, I talk with Mike , who went from being a college coach to living off the cash flow from his assets in just a few years. He shares how an observation at an airport led him down the rabbit hole of unattended retail and the vending machine business. We get into the nitty-gritty of what "passive" really means. Mike explains how he started by servicing his first machine himself (literally buying snacks at Costco with his daughter in the shopping cart) and built the systems that allowed him to scale to over 60 machines. He also reveals how the vending industry is being disrupted by new technology like micro markets and AI , creating huge opportunities for new entrepreneurs. Questions This Episode Answers: • How can a vending machine business generate enough income to replace a full-time job? • What does it really take to make a "passive" income stream truly passive? • How can you start a vending machine business with no money down? • Where are the best, most profitable locations to place a vending machine? • How is new technology like AI and micro markets changing the vending industry? Enjoy the conversation! __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 Highlights 01:02 Meet Mike Hoffman: The Passive Income Expert 02:36 Mike's Journey from Coach to Entrepreneur 03:27 Diverse Income Streams: Real Estate, Vending, and More 04:22 Challenges and Strategies in Crypto Mining 07:03 Building a Passive Income Empire 09:35 The Vending Machine Business Model 12:40 Scaling and Systematizing Vending Operations 18:59 Community and Coaching for Aspiring Entrepreneurs 20:29 The Disruption in the Vending Machine Industry 21:18 Real Estate and Vending Machines: A Parallel 21:48 Expanding Vending Routes in Chicago 22:41 Building a Vending Community 23:24 The Business Model and Revenue Streams 24:25 Challenges and Opportunities in Vending 33:34 Innovative Vending Solutions 37:12 Future of Vending and Micro Markets 37:44 Rapid Fire Questions and Insights…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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237 - What the 'Big Beautiful Bill' Means for Your Business 45:19

il y a environ 22 jours45:19

45:19

MY NEWSLETTER - https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Join me, Nik (https://x.com/CoFoundersNik), as I sit down with Trenton Hughes and Chris Munn for a jam-packed episode where we cover everything an entrepreneur needs to know right now. We kick things off by debating which AI tools are worth paying for, from ChatGPT and Claude to Grok , and discuss how AI might soon replace your doctor. Then, we dive into the new "big beautiful bill" and what its tax changes mean for you. I'll share why the accelerated depreciation clause is a "massive boon" for entrepreneurs and how you can leverage it by investing in real estate like car washes or storage facilities to potentially pay zero in taxes. We also break down the confusing new rules on tips and overtime and why we think tipping should be abolished altogether. Finally, we explore why smart salespeople are ditching Zoom for in-person meetings to close bigger deals. Questions This Episode Answers 1. Which AI tools are essential for business owners today? 2. How can entrepreneurs use accelerated depreciation to save big on taxes? 3. Will the new tax bill really eliminate taxes on tips and overtime? 4. Why are successful salespeople returning to in-person meetings? 5. Is it a good time for business owners to invest in real estate? Enjoy the conversation! __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 Exploring AI Services and Their Impact 10:19 Navigating the Big Beautiful Bill and Real Estate Investment 22:51 Understanding Tax Deductions on Overtime 29:05 The Complexity of Overtime Tax Deductions 35:35 The Shift Back to In-Person Sales 39:49 The Return of Business Travel 44:24 Growing the Podcast Audience…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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236 - How to Easily Automate Your Marketing with Brad Smith 37:41

il y a environ 25 jours37:41

37:41

Join me, Nik (https://x.com/CoFoundersNik), as I interview Brad Smith (https://x.com/bradsmithcoach). In this episode, I talk with Brad Smith , the co-founder of Automation Links , a business that helps other companies automate their marketing. Brad 's company is doing an incredible $100k a month with 80% margins , and he shares the secrets behind his high-margin business model. He explains the power of being omnipresent and why a customer needs to see you 24 times on four different channels before they trust you. The most mind-blowing part? We dive deep into a marketing strategy involving pixels . Brad breaks down how these small pieces of code can track visitors to your website and social media posts, allowing you to retarget them with ads for a fraction of the cost . It’s a secret weapon for scaling your business! Questions This Episode Answers: • How can pixels help you track and retarget customers for a quarter of the cost? • What is the "one action item" every business owner should do today, even if they aren't ready for ads? • Why does staying small and profitable lead to a better quality of life than chasing massive top-line revenue? • How can you get your ad to the top of Google Maps searches with zero competition? • What is a simple "themed day" system for creating a consistent social media content calendar? Enjoy the conversation! __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 Introduction to Brad and His Business 01:17 The Role of Automation Links 02:07 Revenue and Growth Insights 03:55 Investment Opportunities and Business Philosophy 10:57 Digital Marketing Channels Explained 14:19 The Power of Pixels in Marketing 17:17 Setting Up Pixels for Your Business 19:06 Targeting Your Audience Effectively 19:39 Setting Up Pixels for Better Ad Targeting 20:35 Using Ads to Boost Organic Growth 22:09 Leveraging YouTube and Google's Ad Network 22:52 Pixel Tracking for Small Businesses 24:05 Practical Examples and Tips for Businesses 26:39 Choosing the Right Channel and Content Strategy 33:36 SEO and AI: The Future of Search 35:57 Content Calendar Strategy 36:25 Conclusion and Final Thoughts…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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235 - How Mattress Firms Make Money Despite Empty Stores with Nick Hancock 32:20

il y a environ 27 jours32:20

32:20

MY NEWSLETTER - https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Join me, Nik (https://x.com/CoFoundersNik), as I interview Nick (https://x.com/mattressguy_). We dive deep into the surprisingly complex world of the mattress business . Nick , owner of Direct Outlet Mattress and part of a family with stores across North Carolina, shares his unique insights. We discuss everything from the less glamorous side of old mattresses to the economics of running a mattress store , even comparing his approach to giants like Mattress Firm . You'll be fascinated to hear how he's leveraging Twitter to build a successful brand and reach customers in unexpected ways. Questions This Episode Answers: How do these businesses ( Mattress Firm ) make money? What other overhead expenses would you have besides lease? How do you acquire customers for your mattress store ? What is your approximate customer acquisition cost ? How much does it typically cost to start a mattress business ? Enjoy the conversation! __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 The Mattress Business Journey 03:05 Family Dynamics in Business 05:56 Understanding the Mattress Market 08:51 Customer Acquisition Strategies 11:47 Expanding Product Offerings 15:05 The Importance of Quality 17:58 Navigating Business Challenges 20:55 Building a Brand on Social Media 23:51 Future Plans and Online Expansion…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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234 - Make $10,000 in 30 days with Sponsorships with Justin Moore 46:04

il y a environ 29 jours46:04

46:04

🚨MY NEWSLETTER https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe 🚨 Join me, Nik ( https://x.com/CoFoundersNik ), as I interview Justin Moore ( https://x.com/ justinmooretfam). Justin Moore is a legit master marketer, content creator , and the author of Sponsor Magnet , who has personally closed over $5 million in brand partnership deals and built a $600,000 coaching business teaching others how to get sponsorships and secure major brand deals . We track his journey from working in medical devices and corporate influencer marketing to pivoting alongside his wife April 's early YouTube monetization side hustle, which eventually gave them time freedom and entrepreneurship success. This episode is essential for any entrepreneur looking to make money content creator style, even if you hate the word "creator." We discuss why your personal brand and organic distribution are the last moat in the age of AI for first million dollar business owners. Justin breaks down his powerful R.O.P.E. method —a four-step sales formula and sponsorship email template system that can be applied to business outreach for any company, not just content creator sponsorships . Plus, I put Justin 's creator monetization systems to the test: he walks me through exactly how to get your first sponsorship deal and generate $10,000 sponsorship revenue in the next 30 days by gathering the right audience data and understanding the difference between a vitamin and a painkiller solution for your customers. __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 Understanding the Importance of Distribution for Founders 02:45 The Journey from Employee to Entrepreneur 05:57 The Evolution of Influencer Marketing 08:47 The ROPE Method: A Framework for Successful Partnerships 12:07 Common Mistakes in Influencer Marketing 14:50 The Power of Customer Understanding and Personalization 18:02 The Importance of Clarity and Saying No 22:43 The Entrepreneurial Journey: Trading Time for Freedom 25:08 Architecting Your Life: Defining Success 26:07 Building Trust at Scale: The YouTube Focus 27:06 Analyzing Audience Engagement: The Importance of Feedback 30:23 Identifying Pain Points: Crafting Effective Surveys 34:07 Sponsorship Strategies: Aligning with Audience Needs 39:47 Proof of Influence: Validating Your Impact 43:35 Reframing Sponsorship: Serving Your Audience…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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233 - Political Pressure on Entrepreneurs: Should You Take A Stand? 47:58

il y a 5 weeks47:58

47:58

🚨MY NEWSLETTER https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe 🚨 Join me, Nik ( https://x.com/CoFoundersNik ), as I discuss with Chris Munn and Trenton about the tough realities facing small business owners and entrepreneurs today. We dive deep into how business leaders are navigating increasing political polarization in business and the pressure to take a public stand on social issues , discussing case studies like the backlash against Bud Light and MyPillow , and whether sticking to company core values and business values is the best path for small business survival . We also break down the latest economic shifts affecting small businesses , from Fed rate cuts and Federal Reserve policy, and their impact on small business asset prices , business valuations , and SBA loan delinquency rates, hitting a 20-year high . We explore the small business hiring crisis , challenges of employee retention, and talent acquisition amidst low unemployment rates and the rising cost of living for those not holding business assets or real estate assets . Plus, we dive deep into the massive business opportunities and strategic shifts driven by AI automation , artificial intelligence implementation , and AI tools for small businesses , from boosting productivity and business efficiency to the rise of the solopreneur movement and one-person businesses . We discuss AI implementation strategies , business automation tools , and how AI consultants and automation engineers are becoming essential business roles . Questions This Episode Answers: How should business leaders and entrepreneurs navigate the pressure to take a public stand on political issues and social issues while maintaining business growth ? What do Fed rate cuts , interest rate changes , and high borrowing costs mean for small business valuations , business acquisitions , and SBA loan approval ? How is the current economic climate and inflation impact affecting small business hiring , employee expectations , and wage demands for small businesses ? What are the biggest AI opportunities and practical AI applications for small businesses , including AI automation tools and AI implementation strategies ? Why is it becoming harder to buy and sell small businesses in the current business market , and what are the alternative business strategies and entrepreneurship opportunities ? __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 Navigating Leadership and Political Stances 17:53 Understanding the Impact of Fed Rate Cuts on Small Businesses 24:09 Economic Disparities and Asset Ownership 29:49 The Impact of AI on Employment and Business 35:59 Entrepreneurship and the American Dream 41:46 AI as a Business Multiplier 47:03 Conclusion and Call to Action…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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232 - How to Make Easy Money Using Government Grants with Hector Resendez 34:50

il y a 5 weeks34:50

34:50

🚨MY NEWSLETTER https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe 🚨 Join me, Nik (https://x.com/CoFoundersNik), as I interview Hector (https://x.com/ts_secrets). Hector reveals how he accidentally stumbled upon a little-known government grant and used it to build a multi-million dollar online trade school . He teaches trades like HVAC, plumbing, and medical billing completely online, sometimes using VR goggles . He shares how the government pays him directly, up to $10,000 per student, for courses that are only 80-100 hours long. We get into the nitty-gritty of how he finds students for free by partnering with nonprofits and sober living homes, achieving SAS-like margins without any traditional marketing. Questions This Episode Answers: How can you get the government to pay you $10,000 per student? How do you start an online school with almost no startup costs? What is the "secret" to getting unlimited students for free? How do you automate a business to the point you only work two hours a day? What is the WIOA grant and how does it work for entrepreneurs? Enjoy the conversation! __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 Introduction to the Online Trade School Model 03:07 Understanding the Grant System and Its Impact 05:56 The Evolution of the Business Model 08:51 Customer Acquisition Strategies 11:48 Curriculum Development and Accreditation 15:02 Operational Insights and Business Growth 17:55 Challenges and Future Aspirations…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

1
231 - How Robots Are Saving America's Nursing Crisis with Matthew Chang 37:46

il y a 5 weeks37:46

37:46

🚨MY NEWSLETTER https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe 🚨 Join me, Nik ( https://x.com/CoFoundersNik ), as I interview Matthew Chang ( https://x.com/MatthewAChang ). This episode features Matthew Chang , a Georgia Tech engineer and Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year finalist , who founded Chang Robotics and is a general partner of the $50 million Chang Robotics fund . We dive deep into how his company designs and installs robotic systems for manufacturing automation , hospital robots , and autonomous vehicles to make the workforce more efficient, safer, and happier through healthcare automation . Matthew shares the story behind America's first autonomous hospital initiative , where $200K hospital robots deliver supplies in 90 seconds with 18-month ROI . Discover why humanoid robots aren't ready for commercial robotics applications and how specialized robotics using collaborative robots (cobotics) are revolutionizing factory automation and healthcare robotics instead. From driverless paper factories producing toilet paper during COVID to FAA-compliant electric vehicles six times more powerful than Tesla , Chang Robotics tackles the hardest engineering challenges in industrial automation . Learn about their breakthrough PFAS-free food packaging using graphene oxide and how they beat 700+ competitors to win the federal DOT grant for America's first driverless bus system in Jacksonville. We explore Matthew's venture studio approach with the Chang Robotics Fund , requiring "Made in USA" manufacturing and proprietary engineering for robotics startups . Plus, hear about his upcoming book " Risk-Taking is Biblical " on faith-based entrepreneurship and Christian business principles. Questions This Episode Answers: How do you ensure robotic automation is adopted by the existing manufacturing workforce and healthcare workers ? What technical challenges prevent humanoid robotics from working in real-world applications ? How does engineering consulting deliver end-to-end automation solutions from design to robotic system installation ? What investment thesis drives a robotics venture fund offering scaled engineering support with "Made in USA" requirements ? What strategies won a competitive federal grant for autonomous transportation against major tech companies ? __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 Innovating Beyond the Norm 02:55 Transforming Healthcare with Robotics 05:45 The Journey to Autonomous Solutions 08:42 Navigating the Challenges of Robotics 12:01 From Engineering to Entrepreneurship 14:55 Winning Against the Odds 17:51 The Future of Autonomous Vehicles 20:42 Building a Sustainable Business Model 24:03 Investing in Innovation 26:56 The Role of AI in Engineering 29:42 Creating a Christian Business Framework…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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230 - Google's New AI Tool Is Breaking the Internet (Nano Banana Review) with Elizabeth Knopf 43:31

il y a 6 weeks43:31

43:31

🚨MY NEWSLETTER https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe 🚨 Join me, Nik ( https://x.com/CoFoundersNik ), as I interview Elizabeth Knopf ( https://x.com/ leveragedupside) for an incredible dive into AI app building and no-code development tools transforming entrepreneurship. We explore Google's Nano Banana AI , their revolutionary Gemini Flash 2.5 image model with game-changing visual memory technology for precise editing and AI image generation . Elizabeth demonstrates Google AI Studio live, showcasing the powerful Stream feature for real-time debugging and AI automation . She reveals how she used Claude Code tutorial methods to build custom RSS feed automation , replacing paid subscriptions, plus her personal AI assistant dashboard with AI agents for project management and task automation. Questions This Episode Answers: What is Nano Banana AI, and why is visual memory revolutionary for AI image editing ? How does Google AI Studio Stream enable real-time debugging during custom app development ? How can entrepreneurs use Claude Code and AI automation tools to build apps without coding ? What are the benefits of AI-powered project management with personal AI assistant agents? Where are the arbitrage opportunities in AI app building for non-technical entrepreneurs ? Tools Covered: Google AI Studio complete walkthrough Claude Code tutorial for beginners Nano Banana (Gemini Flash 2.5) AI image generation Custom dashboard creation with AI agents RSS feed automation and app replacement strategies Enjoy the conversation! __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 Introduction to AI Tools and Excitement for Innovation 03:09 Exploring NanoBanana: Google's New Image Model 05:50 Visual Memory and Image Generation Improvements 09:01 Google AI Studio: A New Interface for Building Apps 11:53 Real-Time App Development with Claude Code 15:04 Innovative Features: Maps and Video Analysis 17:53 Creating Engaging Content with AI Tools 21:47 Harnessing AI for Arbitrage Opportunities 23:13 Building Custom Tools with Google AI Studio 24:36 Creating a Personal RSS Feed Tool 26:27 Project Management and Organization Strategies 28:39 Developing a Personal Operating System 32:14 Automating Tasks with AI Agents 35:25 Curating Information and Building Newsletters…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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229 - Michael Girdley's Guide: How to Start a Successful Business in 2025 39:38

il y a 6 weeks39:38

39:38

🚨MY NEWSLETTER https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe 🚨 Join me, Nik (https://x.com/CoFoundersNik), as I speak with Michael Girdley (https://x.com/girdley), a serial entrepreneur and investor, about building a business, avoiding common mistakes, and identifying future opportunities. Michael shares insights from his diverse experiences, from Alamo Fireworks to Gertling Media, emphasizing the importance of experience and strategic business choices. We delve into overrated business opportunities and explore unconventional business models. Questions this Episode Answers: What two-step process would Michael Girdley follow to build a business in 2025, and how would he make his first million dollars? Why does Michael Girdley advise against buying a business as your first venture, especially for a young entrepreneur? What are some overrated business opportunities in today’s market, and what sectors hold promise for the future? What is Michael Girdley's contrarian belief about business, and how does it influence his perspective on career choices and entrepreneurial paths? What unconventional business model does Michael find fascinating? Enjoy the conversation! __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this with your opinion or send me an email at Nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT ___________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 Introduction and Guest Background 01:00 Business Ventures and Investments 01:44 Current Business Scale and Operations 03:09 Starting Over in 2025: Step-by-Step Guide 05:13 The Value of Experience and Financial Safety 07:11 Starting a Low-Capex Services Business 10:01 The Reality of Online Courses 14:19 The Hold Co Conference and Learning from Failure 19:44 Sympathizing with the Struggles of Entrepreneurs 19:15 The Fine Line Between Faking It and Failing 21:22 Excitement for the Upcoming Conference 22:09 The Concept of an Unconference 23:21 Challenges and Risks in Event Planning 24:28 Innovative Business Models in Event Management 29:22 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs 32:24 Contrarian Views on Business Opportunities 35:16 The Importance of Personal Fit in Career Choices 38:32 Different Paths to Entrepreneurship 39:31 Conclusion and Final Thoughts…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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228 - How 2 Guys Turned Baby Wipes Into a Million-Dollar Empire with Samuel Marcus Ne’bel 38:42

il y a 6 weeks38:42

38:42

🚨MY NEWSLETTER https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe 🚨 Join me, Nik ( https://x.com/CoFoundersNik ), as I interview Sam Nebe (https://x.com/1_of_Sl), the founder of Good Wipes! This entrepreneur startup story shows how two college roommates bootstrapped a million dollar business from $42,000 to conquering 14,000 stores. Learn how they achieved their first million through retail distribution strategy, growing their consumer products startup in the flushable wipes industry to reach 2.2 million households and adding 430,000 new customers through Walmart alone. Sam shares how he and co-founder Charlie built this CPG startup using pure intuition and unwavering conviction in an "unsexy" category that's now worth $5 billion. This business growth story reveals their bootstrap business strategy of mastering the Four P's of Marketing, employing irreverent marketing with creative director Maria Gilbo, and strategic retail partnerships that made them a Walmart supplier. We dive deep into customer acquisition strategies including influencer marketing, PR box campaigns, and their viral Golden Porta Palace experiential marketing activation. Sam also discusses his work with the Responsible Flushing Alliance, promoting Flush Smart Month and consumer education initiatives. Enjoy the conversation! Key Topics Covered: Entrepreneur startup journey from fraternity bathroom idea to retail empire Bootstrap vs venture capital funding strategies Retail distribution strategy and partnership building Consumer goods startup scaling tactics Million dollar business development through focused growth CPG entrepreneur insights and industry knowledge Customer acquisition through creative marketing campaigns Building a startup podcast-worthy success story Questions This Episode Answers: How did Good Wipes transform a college business idea into a multi-million dollar business and category leader? What role did intuition and unwavering passion play in building a startup brand before having significant market data? How can bootstrap entrepreneurs use irreverent marketing and the Four P's to compete against larger companies? What customer acquisition strategies work for consumer products startups, including influencer marketing and experiential activations? How can young entrepreneurs strategically say "no" to growth opportunities for sustainable expansion? __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 The Journey of Good Wipes: From Concept to Success 10:08 Innovative Marketing Strategies and Influencer Engagement 19:55 Navigating Challenges and Growth in the CPG Space 29:54 Future Aspirations and Industry Insights…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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227 - He Built a $200K Newsletter. Then launched a $100K Christmas Lights Biz with Jas Singh 22:55

il y a 7 weeks22:55

22:55

🚨MY NEWSLETTER https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe 🚨 Join me, Nik (https://x.com/CoFoundersNik), as I interview Jas from Winnipeg Digest ( https://x.com/creatingjas ). Jas is back for a third time, and his journey is incredible to watch. He first built a local newsletter, the Winnipeg Digest, into a massive distribution channel with over 100,000 people in his audience. Now, he's leveraging that audience to launch his own businesses, starting with a seasonal holiday lighting company. In this episode, we break down his new venture from the ground up. Jas shares the exact strategy he used to launch the lighting business using his newsletter, including a brilliant giveaway tactic he learned from Alex Hormozi. He explains why he chose a seasonal business, his goal of hitting $100,000 in revenue in his first season, and how this entire project serves as a case study to attract future business partners. We get into the nitty-gritty of his first week—how he sold $5,000 in jobs with no website, just an ad in his newsletter. This is a masterclass in using an existing audience to create new revenue streams and build a portfolio of companies. Questions This Episode Answers: • How can you leverage a newsletter audience to launch a completely new business? • What's a smart, low-cost marketing strategy to get your first customers for a service business? • Why would an entrepreneur choose a seasonal business model like holiday lighting? • What are the key startup costs and revenue goals for a new holiday lighting business? • How can a new business be used as a "case study" to attract future equity partners? Enjoy the conversation! __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 Launching a New Venture: Christmas Lights Business 02:41 Building on Audience: From Newsletter to Business 06:02 Marketing Strategies and Initial Success 08:54 Understanding the Business Model and Pricing 11:44 Execution Challenges and Future Plans 14:39 Exploring New Opportunities and Growth 18:02 Final Thoughts and Future Outlook…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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226 - 50,000 Subscribers, $10M in Revenue, 1 Insanely Creative Business Idea with Michael Clark 50:20

il y a 7 weeks50:20

50:20

🚨MY NEWSLETTER https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe 🚨 Join me, Nik (https://x.com/CoFoundersNik), as I interview Michael Clark. We dive into the incredible story behind The Flower Letters , a subscription business started with his wife, Hanny Clark, that mails immersive, physical story letters to subscribers. What started as a small idea in April 2020 with World War II love letters has exploded into a multi-million dollar venture, projecting $8-10 million this year! Michael shares how they bootstrapped this unique concept, scaling to over 50,000 subscribers by focusing on daily profitability and smart advertising strategies, leveraging a prepaid option for cash flow. You'll hear why he considers this direct mail business, despite his FinTech background, the most complicated he's ever built, managing over 900 inventory pieces in-house. We also discuss their "long game" vision, transforming The Flower Letters into a mission-driven company with potential for TV shows, audiobooks, and more, while carefully integrating AI only for artistic elements. Questions This Episode Answers: How did The Flower Letters grow from 33 subscribers to over 50,000 with multi-million dollar revenue? What advertising strategy was key to their rapid customer acquisition and how did they manage a $30 CAC? How does a subscription business like The Flower Letters prioritize daily profitability and manage cash flow through prepaid options? Why is a seemingly simple direct mail business considered the "most complicated" venture by a FinTech entrepreneur, and how is its fulfillment handled? How do The Flower Letters leverage a "long game" strategy to build a mission-driven company with a growing catalog of stories and future content expansion? Enjoy the conversation! __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 Rapid Growth and Business Model Overview 03:02 The Origin Story: From Idea to Execution 05:53 Marketing Strategies and Customer Acquisition 08:46 Financial Insights and Business Economics 12:06 Creating a Unique Customer Experience 14:58 Operational Challenges and Fulfillment Process 25:07 In-House Fulfillment and Customer Service 27:58 The Importance of Storytelling in Business 30:21 Creative Storytelling and the Role of AI 36:38 Revenue Growth and Business Strategy 38:59 Building a Sustainable Business Model 42:47 Leveraging the Postal Service for Success 44:45 Community Engagement and Pen Pal Ideas 46:43 Launching a Podcast and Sharing Stories…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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225 - The Business That Legally Eliminates Your Tax Bill with Kriss Bergethon 45:58

il y a 7 weeks45:58

45:58

🚨MY NEWSLETTER https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe 🚨 Join me, Nik ( https://x.com/CoFoundersNik ), as I interview serial entrepreneur Kriss Berg ( https://x.com/Krissbergtweets ) about his $10 million revenue business empire and revolutionary wealth building flywheel strategy ! Discover how this commercial real estate investor generates massive cashflow from his e-commerce health supplements business and innovative telemedicine platform featuring GLP-1 medications , semaglutide (Ozempic) , testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) , and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) . Learn Kriss's game-changing approach to tax optimization as he reinvests business profits into commercial real estate investments like car wash businesses and gas stations to maximize bonus depreciation tax benefits and achieve zero income tax liability . This real estate tax strategy has transformed his net worth and created a sustainable passive income stream. From his early days running a construction business to living off the grid after reading The Four Hour Workweek , Kriss shares his entrepreneurship journey and proven methods for identifying undervalued businesses ripe for business acquisition and rapid scaling. We explore practical business ideas for aspiring entrepreneurs , including parking lot striping , stump grinding , and other service-based businesses that build entrepreneurial skills without requiring massive startup capital . Key topics include understanding cap rates , EBITDA multiples , business valuation , the power of active vs passive losses , real estate professional status , 1031 exchanges , depreciation recapture , effective delegation strategies , and achieving work-life balance while building generational wealth . Questions This Episode Answers: How does Kriss Berg's flywheel business model generate high cashflow while achieving zero tax liability through strategic real estate investments ? What is bonus depreciation for car washes and gas stations , and why don't these commercial properties require real estate professional status for tax write-offs ? What are proven strategies for finding and acquiring neglected businesses with strong value-add opportunities and multiple expansion potential ? How can entrepreneurs use commercial real estate cash flow and appreciation to compound wealth building over decades? What low-capital business opportunities like home service businesses , parking lot maintenance , and equipment-based services offer the best ROI for new business owners ? How do cap rate investing and NOI optimization create superior returns compared to traditional stock market investing ? What delegation frameworks and operational systems enable business owners to transition from working in the business to working on the business ? __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 The Tax Revelation: A Surprising Discovery 02:51 Building a Business Flywheel: Cash Flow and Investments 05:47 Understanding Bonus Depreciation: A Tax Strategy Unveiled 09:06 The Journey into Commercial Real Estate: From E-commerce to Car Washes 11:51 The Power of Passive Income: Lessons from a Real Estate Mogul 14:39 Navigating Entrepreneurship: Mistakes and Lessons Learned 17:58 The Shift to E-commerce: Finding Opportunity in Health Supplements 20:53 Telemedicine and Health Innovations: The Next Frontier 23:50 The Importance of Delegation: Building a Sustainable Business 27:06 Starting from Scratch: Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs 30:04 The Reality of Growth: Compounding Success Over Time…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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224 - Business Broker Reveals Which Businesses AI Can't Touch (Buy These Now) with Jackie Ossin Hirsch 43:29

il y a 8 weeks43:29

43:29

MY NEWSLETTER https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe 🚨 Join me, Nik ( https://x.com/CoFoundersNik ), as I interview business broker Jackie Hirsch ( https://x.com/ SMBJackieHirsch) to get the real lay of the land in the current M&A market and small business acquisition landscape. Jackie, whose Florida business brokerage company did over $40 million in transactions last year, shares crucial insights on SBA loan changes 2024 and how new SBA 7a program rules are impacting first-time business buyers and licensed businesses like HVAC companies and survey businesses . We dive deep into why it's always been a seller's market in lower middle market deals and discuss common, costly business acquisition mistakes , like a buyer who lost millions because of due diligence delays and poor SBA lender choices. Jackie pulls back the curtain on the kinds of cashflow-generating businesses attracting private equity and individual buyers today, from materials testing companies to underground construction and the booming private chef services market. This business broker interview explores how AI impact on business is shaping the acquisition landscape and why, even with tariffs 2024 and market uncertainty, there are always small business deals to be made. You won't want to miss her incredible "real deal" stories about business deal interventions and sellers with criminal backgrounds , highlighting why building a strong seller relationship and business deal negotiation skills are paramount to getting any M&A transaction across the finish line. Perfect for entrepreneurs , business buyers , search fund professionals, and anyone interested in entrepreneurship through acquisition or business valuation strategies. Questions This Episode Answers: What recent SBA policy changes are affecting business acquisitions and seller financing ? How can first-time buyers avoid "boneheaded mistakes" in an M&A deal and business due diligence ? What types of profitable businesses are currently attracting the most buyers in a seller's market ? How is AI automation impacting different business sectors and acquisition strategies ? Why is building a strong seller relationship so crucial for closing business deals and post-acquisition success ? What are the new SBA standby rules for seller notes and personal guarantees ? Which recession-proof businesses and AI-resistant businesses are trending in 2024 business market ? __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 The Ever-Persistent Seller's Market 02:52 Current Trends in M&A and Market Dynamics 05:44 Navigating Changes in SBA Regulations 09:04 Challenges in Selling Licensed Businesses 12:01 Real Deal Stories and Lessons Learned 14:52 The Importance of Relationships in Business Transactions 22:07 Building Trust in Business Transactions 24:53 The Role of AI in Business 27:48 Emerging Business Trends 31:35 The Future of Food Services 35:29 Navigating Buyer Red Flags…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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223 - How He Paid Off a $2M SBA Loan in 24 Months with Garth Fasano 40:22

il y a 8 weeks40:22

40:22

🚨MY NEWSLETTER https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe 🚨 Join me, Nik (https://x.com/CoFoundersNik), as I interview Garth Fasano (https://x.com/garthfasano). Garth shares his incredible entrepreneurship through acquisition (ETA) success story of acquiring a call center business and crushing it, paying off his SBA loan in just two years through strategic small business acquisition ! We dive into how he scaled by dramatically improving lead conversion rates for small businesses through clever integrations with platforms like Thumbtack and Angie's List. This business acquisition success story showcases how proper ETA business strategy can transform a traditional call center into a thriving enterprise. This rapid success paved the way for Garth to pivot his company into Rainmaker AI , an innovative AI-powered sales platform that's revolutionizing AI sales automation for SMBs. He discusses the future of AI voice technology in end-to-end sales solutions , the concept of recursive learning with their Rain Brain technology, and what this means for the evolving role of humans in sales. We also explore the exciting, yet challenging, landscape of the post-close search entrepreneur community and how search fund strategies are evolving. This business acquisition case study demonstrates how buying an existing business can create significant wealth through smart operations and AI transformation. Questions This Episode Answers: How can a business pay off an SBA loan in just two years after small business acquisition ? What is the most effective way to improve lead conversion rates for small businesses ? How is AI sales automation transforming small business customer interactions? What is " recursive learning " in the context of AI-powered sales platforms ? How can Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition (ETA) create significant wealth for entrepreneurs? __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 Transforming Sales with AI Integration 10:00 The Journey of Acquisition and Growth 19:57 Innovating Sales Processes for Small Businesses 29:52 The Future of AI in Sales and Customer Interaction…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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222 - 3 Home Service Businesses You Can Start with Under $20K with Anne McGinty 55:54

il y a 8 weeks55:54

55:54

🚨MY NEWSLETTER https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe 🚨 Join me, Nik ( https://x.com/CoFoundersNik ), as I interview Anne McGinty to unveil the top first-time entrepreneur business ideas and small business ideas we would start today as startup entrepreneurs. Anne, who famously earned $150,000 in just 60 days with her Christmas lighting business, shares her proven insights on high-margin business ideas and profitable small business opportunities. I lay out my complete framework for entrepreneur success, focusing on leveraging powerful macro trends, building high-profit margin businesses, and ensuring a quick cash conversion cycle for maximum business cash flow. Home Service Business Ideas: Anne's home service business picks include expanding seasonal business ideas like luxury holiday decor services and Christmas lighting business for ultra-wealthy clients to year-round offerings, creating recurring revenue businesses with low startup costs. Her second home services business idea focuses on exterior cleaning business and detailing for high-end homes, covering pressure washing business, window cleaning business, solar panel cleaning, and gutter cleaning business - emphasizing the power of repeat business with wealthy homeowners and luxury home services. Healthcare Business Ideas: My healthcare business opportunities explore the booming medical business space, particularly elderly care services targeting the aging population trend and ABA clinics for autism services and behavioral health business. The rapidly growing Med Spa business sector offers incredible healthcare entrepreneurship opportunities, including cutting-edge wellness business areas like hormone replacement therapy, longevity business, and the innovative field of functional medicine business. Key business strategies covered: Low competition business ideas with high profit margins Recession-proof business models for economic stability Passive income business potential through recurring clients Local business opportunities serving high-net-worth individuals Service-based business models with minimal overhead Scalable business ideas that grow with demand Questions This Episode Answers: • How can first-time entrepreneurs identify business ideas with "dummy insurance"? What are Anne McGinty's top home services business ideas for targeting the ultra-wealthy market? Why are macro trends like the aging population and wellness industry crucial for new business ventures? What makes the healthcare business space and Med Spa opportunities particularly attractive for entrepreneurs right now? How can you ensure a small business startup provides both substantial profit and business purpose? Enjoy the conversation! __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 Identifying Lucrative Business Opportunities 03:07 Understanding Macro Trends for Entrepreneurs 05:58 High Margin and Quick Cash Conversion Businesses 08:48 Exploring Seasonal Business Ideas 12:07 The Potential of Healthcare Services 15:03 Building a Business in the Elderly Care Sector 27:52 Architecting a Purposeful Lifestyle 28:50 The Value of Client Relationships 30:47 High-End Service Business Strategies 32:12 Customer Acquisition Techniques 35:02 Exploring Home Services Opportunities 38:19 The Growth of Med Spas 41:41 Innovations in Health and Wellness 44:33 The Future of Functional Medicine 46:59 Macro Trends in Health Spending 49:58 The Role of Entrepreneurs in Healthcare…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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221 - From W2 Employee to a $18M Pool Business with Malcolm Marshall 42:08

il y a 9 weeks42:08

42:08

🚨MY NEWSLETTER https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe 🚨 Join me, Nik (https://x.com/CoFoundersNik), as I interview Malcolm Marshall (https://x.com/malcolmpools). Malcolm shares his incredible W2 to entrepreneur journey from a VP of Finance role at C4 Energy during its hyper-growth phase (from $8 million to $300 million!) to successfully scaling his business, Poolology, an $18 million pool construction and home services business in Central Texas. We dive into the surprising challenges of scaling businesses, the reality of bootstrapping, and how he navigated the shift from a W-2 to full-time entrepreneurship. You'll hear about the "aha!" moments, the hard-earned lessons, and what he would focus on if starting a new business today, especially in the promising field of AI infrastructure. Questions This Episode Answers: • How did Malcolm Marshall go from W2 to entrepreneur and scale his business, Poolology, from a small pool route to $18 million in revenue? • What were the biggest financial stressors and operational challenges during C4 Energy's hyper-growth? • Why did Malcolm leave a high-paying W-2 job with equity to start a small business? • How do pool construction and maintenance businesses acquire customers and what are their typical EBITDA margins? • If starting over, what industry would Malcolm focus on, and what’s the most crucial lesson he learned about team building? Enjoy the conversation! __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 From Corporate to Entrepreneurship: The Journey Begins 02:40 Building Poolology: The Early Days and Growth Strategies 05:53 Navigating Rapid Growth: Challenges and Lessons Learned 08:47 The Transition to Construction: Expanding Services 11:38 Marketing and Customer Acquisition: Strategies for Success 15:01 Future Aspirations: Scaling and New Opportunities 17:52 Reflections on the Journey: What Would You Change?…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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220 - How Claude Code Just Replaced All My Coding Tools with Elizabeth Knopf 45:10

il y a 9 weeks45:10

45:10

🚨MY NEWSLETTER https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe 🚨 Join me, Nik (https://x.com/CoFoundersNik), as I interview Elizabeth Knopf (https://x.com/@leveragedupside) about the one AI tool everyone is raving about: Cloud Code! We dive deep into why this new offering from Claude is a game-changer for business and automation, even if it looks a bit old-school in the terminal. We also discuss the latest in the model war, including the releases of ChatGPT-5, Claude Opus 4.1, Grok 4, and Gemini, and share our personal rankings. Elizabeth gives a mind-blowing demonstration of how she uses Cloud Code to tackle massive data analysis automation cleanup and analysis tasks, like processing hundreds of thousands of job scraping entries, all by simply speaking English to the AI. Learn how this tool can remove friction, simplify complex multi-step tasks, and help you build powerful agents for your business. Enjoy the conversation! Questions This Episode Answers: • How has the AI model war evolved recently, and what's the general sentiment? • What are the key differences and improvements in new LLMs like ChatGPT-5 and Claude Opus 4.1? • How do leading AI models like Grok, Claude, ChatGPT, and Gemini rank in terms of utility and performance? • What is Cloud Code, and how can it simplify complex data analysis and automation tasks for business users? • How can you install and begin using Cloud Code to manage and analyze local files without extensive coding knowledge? __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 Introduction to AI Models and Cloud Code 07:48 Ranking AI Models: A Comparative Analysis 12:08 Exploring Cloud Code: Installation and Setup 18:19 Building Projects with Cloud Code 23:10 The Social Contract of Podcasting 24:08 Project Overview and Data Cleanup Tool 25:56 Data Analysis and Job Market Insights 28:42 Building Automation Tools with Claude 31:58 Classifying Text and Job Data 36:03 Interactive Data Analysis and Visualization 41:06 Automating Data Cleaning and Insights Generation…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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219 - The Secret to Standing Out without Going Viral with Nick Gray 46:26

il y a 9 weeks46:26

46:26

🚨MY NEWSLETTER https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe 🚨 Join me, Nik ( https://x.com/CoFoundersNik ), as I interview Nick Gray ( https://x.com/nickgraynews ), a serial entrepreneur known for building and selling multi-million dollar businesses like Museum Hack and author of The Two-Hour Cocktail Party. Nick shares his unique insights on entrepreneur networking and how to host networking events, even for introverts. We dive into business networking tips and the importance of creating a strong personal online presence with a dedicated website, and how AI tools can help you tell your story. Discover how Nick continuously increases his luck surface area, how to meet other entrepreneurs, and why focusing on deep connections is the true key to wealth. Questions This Episode Answers: What are the different types of icebreaker questions and how should they be used to build rapport? Why is hosting meetups or cocktail parties crucial for new entrepreneurs to gain traction and build an "army of support"? How can having a personal website enhance your professional reputation and online presence? How can entrepreneurs leverage AI tools to automatically generate content for their personal websites and maintain relevance? What's the secret to manufacturing viral moments and achieving organic growth for your business? Enjoy the conversation! Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 The Importance of Networking for Entrepreneurs 06:46 Hosting Meetups: A Unique Approach to Building Connections 11:57 Creating Value Through Personal Websites 17:42 Leveraging Online Presence for Success 23:13 Leveraging Podcast Appearances for Content Creation 30:13 Innovative AI Tools for Transcription and Content Management 31:05 Building an Online Presence with AI and SEO 37:41 Creating Value Through Personal Branding and Content 41:58 The Art of Manufacturing Viral Moments 45:44 Fostering Connections and Community Engagement FIND OUT MORE BELOW: https://nickgray.net https://patronview.com https://vs3.net https://party.pro https://party.pro/book/…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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218 - Sam Parr: Getting Fired from Airbnb at 22 to Approaching a 9-Figures at 34 56:50

il y a 10 weeks56:50

56:50

🚨MY NEWSLETTER https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe 🚨 Join me, Nik (https://x.com/CoFoundersNik), as I interview Sam (https://x.com/@thesamparr). In this episode, we dive into Sam's distinctive approach to building and running businesses. He shares how his desire for financial security led him to sell The Hustle and why he believes in laser focus on a single venture like Hampton, despite being constantly bombarded with new ideas. We explore his insatiable curiosity for information and his unique methods for manifesting success, from his analog journaling to actively seeking out "weirdos" to identify the next big trend. Discover what sets Sam apart, why he finds stubbornness and disagreeableness to be common traits among the ultra-successful, and how he views the traits that truly define successful people. Questions This Episode Answers: • How does Sam maintain focus on one business despite being exposed to countless opportunities? • What are Sam's personal strategies for integrating new information and generating insights? • How does Sam identify potential future trends by seeking out "odd" or "strange" people? • What surprising commonalities has Sam observed among highly successful individuals he's interviewed? • What seemingly small "indulgence" does Sam recommend for entrepreneurs seeking a better quality of life? Enjoy the conversation! __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 From Hot Dogs to Millions: The Journey Begins 02:48 Building a Lasting Legacy: The Family Business 06:07 The Dilemma of Focus: One Business or Many? 08:55 The Fear of Selling: Regrets and Reflections 11:46 The Quest for Financial Security: Balancing Risk and Reward 15:02 The Blueprint for Success: Learning from the Greats 17:56 The Art of Reflection: Integrating Knowledge into Action 20:48 Connecting with People: The Power of Relatability 24:01 The Value of Diverse Experiences: A Unique Perspective 28:25 The Importance of Health and Family Connections 29:57 Redefining Wealth Beyond Money 31:24 Embracing Life's Richness and Indulgences 33:47 The Journey to Financial Comfort 34:16 Superpowers: Tenacity and Curiosity 36:03 The Airbnb Experience and Lessons Learned 39:51 Building Networks and Community 43:02 Curiosity as a Connector 44:29 Identifying Trends and the Value of Oddities 55:54 Closing Thoughts and Call to Action…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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217 - The #1 Rookie Entrepreneur Mistake That Can Bankrupt You in 8 Months with Nik Hulewsky 36:30

il y a 10 weeks36:30

36:30

🚨MY NEWSLETTER ⁠https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe⁠ 🚨 Hey everyone, Nik here! I've seen it all in entrepreneurship – the wins and the losses. My friends, Brandon and Nick , are perfect examples. Brandon hit it big, doing $100,000 a month in four months, now with 39 locations. Nick , well, he was bankrupt in eight. Why the huge difference? Nick made the same mistake many first-time entrepreneurs make: evaluating a business like a 20-year veteran when he'd never run anything! In this episode, I'm going to share some brutal truths about starting your first business. For rookies, you are the business , and your willingness to outwork everybody else is your real competitive advantage. We'll dive into the four rookie realities you must confront before getting into the game. I'll even show you my personal evaluation framework and the unique Neanderthal score to help you pick a business that truly amplifies your strengths. The goal for your first year? Just survive . Enjoy the conversation! Questions This Episode Answers: • Why did my friend Nick's restaurant business fail so quickly, while Brandon's thrived? • What are the four rookie realities that first-time entrepreneurs must confront when evaluating a business?• Why is a first-time entrepreneur's personal work ethic their primary competitive advantage? • How do margins and cost to play impact a rookie's ability to survive the learning curve ? • Why should first-time entrepreneurs seek businesses with strong macro tailwinds and easy scalability ? __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 The Rookie Entrepreneur's Journey 03:44 Evaluating Business Opportunities 08:07 Rookie Realities: Handling Operations 12:04 Customer Acquisition Challenges 15:55 Surviving the Learning Curve 19:48 Growing Without Breaking 24:11 Real-Life Business Evaluation 29:57 Mindset Shift for Success…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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216 - AI SERIES: 20 - How to Turn Any Meeting into Action Items Automatically with AI with Olivia Look 25:44

il y a 10 weeks25:44

25:44

🚨MY NEWSLETTER https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe 🚨 Join me, Nik ( https://x.com/CoFoundersNik ), as I interview Olivia Look ( https://x.com/0h_look ), an automation expert and founder of an automation agency. In this episode, Olivia shows me how Zapier Agents revolutionize business automation by integrating AI directly into workflows. We dive into practical use cases, like transforming email commitments (Gmail) into ClickUp tasks or automating detailed meeting summaries and follow-up assignments from Otter AI transcripts. Discover how plain English instructions can power sophisticated automations and learn about the AI models, including OpenAI's GPT-4.0 mini, driving Zapier Agents. If you're looking to streamline your business operations and leverage AI for efficiency, you won't want to miss this! Enjoy the conversation! __________________________ Questions This Episode Answers: • How can AI be directly integrated into workflow automation using Zapier Agents? • What is the difference between traditional Zapier and the new Zapier Agents functionality? • How can I automate the creation of to-do items in ClickUp from emails I send in Gmail? • Is it possible to automatically summarize meeting transcripts from Otter AI and assign follow-up tasks? • What AI model does Zapier Agents use by default for its powerful LLM features? __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 Introduction to Automation and AI Integration 03:05 Building Automations with Zapier Agents 05:56 Creating Triggers and Actions in Automation 08:47 Exploring ClickUp Integration for Task Management 11:52 Using AI for Meeting Summaries and Follow-ups 14:35 Enhancing Meeting Efficiency with Automation 17:37 Final Thoughts on Automation and AI in Business…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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215 - The 3-Step Framework Consultants Use to Fix Million-Dollar Problems with Maurizio Cuna 35:09

il y a 11 weeks35:09

35:09

🚨MY NEWSLETTER https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe 🚨 Join me, Nik (https://x.com/CoFoundersNik), as I interview Maurizio Cuna (https://x.com/themgmtconsult)! Maurizio brings 20+ years of consulting expertise, having worked with some of the largest companies globally, and his job is literally business problem solving. I was stoked to learn his approach and better understand how to solve business problems. We entrepreneurs can apply those skills to our businesses. We dive into how consultants go beyond mere symptoms to identify the actual problem, using powerful tools like the Problem Tree and the five whys technique to help entrepreneurs problem solve Plus, Maurizio shares his consulting frameworks for prioritizing problems based on Frequency, Severity, and Willingness to Pay. We also tackle the challenge of balancing speed with a thorough analytical approach and explore the evolving role of soft skills. Questions This Episode Answers: • How do consultants work? • How do they pinpoint the real problem, not just a symptom? • What mental models do experts use to break down complex business issues? • When facing multiple problems, how do you decide which to tackle first? • How can entrepreneurs balance quick action with careful analysis? Enjoy the conversation! __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 Consulting Philosophy: Moving Beyond Quick Fixes 03:01 Understanding the Consultant's Approach to Problem Solving 05:59 Identifying the Right Problems: The Importance of Root Cause Analysis 08:53 Prioritizing Problems: Frameworks for Effective Solutions 12:07 Balancing Speed and Thoroughness in Problem Solving 15:03 The Role of Feedback Loops in Consulting 17:50 Consulting Dynamics: The Client-Consultant Relationship 21:03 The Future of Consulting: Emphasizing Soft Skills 23:53 Navigating Data Collection and Analysis in Consulting 26:45 The Shift Towards Soft Skills in a Tech-Driven World…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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214 - $150K in 3 Weeks Selling Christmas Lights—In August! with Anne McGinty 38:14

il y a 11 weeks38:14

38:14

🚨MY NEWSLETTER https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe 🚨 Join me, Nik (https://x.com/CoFoundersNik), as I interview Anne McGinty of the How I Built My Small Business Podcast. In this episode, I sit down with Anne, a true hustler who transformed early career struggles into entrepreneurial triumphs. We dive into Anne's journey, starting from a demoralizing toothpaste sales job and a side greeting card business that funded her first foray into real estate. Hear how a serendipitous repeated encounter with an idea led Anne and her husband, Mark, to launch a seasonal Christmas lighting business, growing it from a three-week operation generating $100,000 in net profit to a six-month, multi-truck enterprise. We discuss their unique, scrappy marketing tactics, like using a spray-painted box truck as a mobile billboard, and why they ultimately decided to sell their highly profitable business, even with a 50% net profit margin. Enjoy the conversation! Questions This Episode Answers: • How did Anne McGinty pivot from a low-paying job to building significant capital through early side hustles and real estate? • What innovative strategies did Anne and her husband Mark use to "house hack" and secure their first multi-unit property in the high-cost Bay Area? • What unusual "signs" prompted the launch of their extremely successful seasonal Christmas lighting business? • How did Anne and Mark scale their Christmas lighting business from a three-week side gig into a six-month operation with multiple teams and high-profile contracts? • What strategic financial modeling led Anne to sell a thriving business, and how did she achieve passive income equivalent to its former profits within five years? __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 From Struggles to Success: The Christmas Lighting Journey 11:23 The Birth of an Entrepreneur: Seizing Opportunities 18:29 Scaling the Business: Strategies for Growth 25:36 Navigating Challenges: The Impact of COVID-19 33:13 Reflections on Selling: Lessons Learned and Future Goals…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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213 - From Amazon PM to $1M Newsletter Business in 9 Months with Nic Conley 39:37

il y a 11 weeks39:37

39:37

🚨MY NEWSLETTER https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe 🚨 Join me, Nik (https://x.com/CoFoundersNik), as I interview Nick Connelly (https://x.com/@niconley), an incredible newsletter entrepreneur who went from Amazon Product Manager to selling $1M in newsletter ad sponsorships in just nine months! We break down how to start a newsletter business from scratch, email marketing for beginners, why powerful newsletter lead magnets are the key to building trust, and how to monetize newsletters. Nic reveals his email marketing strategy for growing his B2B newsletter, The Follow-Up, to over 22,000 subscribers by breaking down his online newsletter business model. Plus, he shares the newsletter tool he built (newsletterads.co), which lets you reverse engineer Facebook ads for newsletter marketing campaigns from top newsletter businesses. We also discuss Nic’s newsletter content strategy, why local newsletters have scaling limitations compared to B2B newsletter opportunities, the power of organic newsletter growth, email list building strategies, and how AI tools like Heygen are revolutionizing content creation. Questions This Episode Answers: • How can newsletter lead magnets boost email marketing ROI and build audience trust? • What's the secret to effectively using Facebook ads to acquire newsletter subscribers? • How to use a newsletter monetization tool to see what email marketing strategies work? • Why might a B2B newsletter be a higher-leverage business than a local newsletter? • How does newsletter growth differ between organic vs paid newsletter marketing? • How can AI avatars help content creators scale their organic reach on platforms like Instagram and TikTok? Enjoy the conversation! __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 The Cheat Code of Newsletters 02:55 From Amazon to Entrepreneurship 05:48 Understanding Newsletters and Their Growth 08:42 Monetizing Newsletters: Strategies and Insights 12:01 Building Trust Through Lead Magnets 14:54 The Importance of Offers in Advertising 17:46 Growing Your Newsletter Audience 20:40 Local Newsletters vs. B2B Newsletters 23:57 Identifying Your Niche and Market Potential 26:45 Starting a Newsletter: The Process 30:01 Creating a Service-Based Newsletter 32:56 Organic Growth vs. Paid Advertising 35:49 Leveraging AI for Content Creation 38:42 Conclusion and Call to Action…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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212 - Roll-Ups vs. Holdcos: Understanding the Key Differences and Benefits with Dzmitry Miranovich 46:43

il y a 12 weeks46:43

46:43

🚨MY NEWSLETTER https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe 🚨 Join me, Nik (https://x.com/CoFoundersNik), as I interview Dzmitry Miranovich (https://x.com/dzmitry9). Dzmitry is building a massive roll-up in the veterinary clinic space, currently with over 20 locations! Many people have ideas about what a roll-up or holdco actually is, but Dzmitry breaks down the real differences and reveals why he chose the roll-up route. We dive deep into what makes a good industry for a roll-up, from market fragmentation and tailwinds to operational value creation and how to actually quantify your runway for consolidation! Questions This Episode Answers: • What's the difference between a roll-up and a holdco? • What key characteristics make an industry ideal for a roll-up? • How do you calculate an industry's runway for consolidation? • How does a roll-up's operational value creation drive success? • Why is your first acquisition crucial when building a roll-up? Enjoy the conversation! __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 Understanding Holdcos vs. Roll-Ups 04:50 The Roll-Up Strategy: Why Choose This Path? 09:57 Key Characteristics of a Successful Roll-Up 14:47 Measuring Market Fragmentation and Consolidation 20:05 The Importance of Size in Acquisitions 23:26 The Importance of First Acquisitions 25:24 Navigating Challenges in Early Partnerships 28:19 Understanding the Veterinary Clinic Market 31:10 Differentiating the JV Model from Traditional Roll-Ups 36:25 Operational Value Creation in Roll-Ups 41:07 Identifying Market Tailwinds and Risks 44:03 Analyzing the Dental Roll-Up Market…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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211 - AI SERIES: 19 - You're Using AI Wrong, Here's How to Fix It with Amanda Orson 29:02

il y a 12 weeks29:02

29:02

🚨MY NEWSLETTER https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe 🚨 https://nikolashulewsky.carrd.co/ Join me, Nik (https://x.com/CoFoundersNik), as I interview Amanda Orson (https://x.com/amandaorson), a serial entrepreneur who has successfully scaled her company, Galleon , a real estate marketplace , to $60,000 a month in monthly recurring revenue by deeply leveraging AI , rather than a massive team. In this episode, we dive into the next frontier of AI : moving beyond basic efficiency to genuinely agentic applications that act as a Socratic mirror or even a board member for your business. We discuss how to get AI to prompt you with critical questions, rather than just validating your existing ideas, which is crucial for high-leverage decision-making. Amanda also shares her practical approach, including how she sets up AI projects in platforms like Claude and ChatGPT , using powerful tools like her strategic context prompt and the game-changing anti-sycophant prompt to ensure unbiased feedback. Questions This Episode Answers: • What is agentic AI and how does it fundamentally differ from standard LLMs ? • How can you configure AI to provide unbiased, challenging feedback for critical business decisions? • What's the most effective way to set up AI projects in tools like Claude or ChatGPT for persistent, strategic support? • How can strategic context prompts be used to ensure AI understands your unique business details and challenges? • Is it possible to "interview" specific experts or historical figures through AI by training it with their transcripts or writings? Enjoy the conversation! __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 The Role of AI in Decision Making 02:47 Understanding Agentic AI 06:07 Creating a Thought Partner with AI 09:00 Project Knowledge and Strategic Context 11:54 The Anti-Sycophant Prompt 15:10 Leveraging Transcripts for Insights 18:02 Practical Applications of AI in Business 20:52 Learning from Historical Figures 23:45 Final Thoughts and Future Directions…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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210 - Outrageous Membership Platform Success! 99% Margins and Zero Ads with Tarek Arafat 58:51

il y a 12 weeks58:51

58:51

🚨MY NEWSLETTER https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe 🚨 Join me, Nik (https://x.com/CoFoundersNik), as I interview Tarek Arafat (https://x.com/tarekarafat_), the co-founder of Table One ! In this episode, we dive into the incredible story of how Tarek and his co-founder, Frank , built a membership platform that's generating over $200,000 in annual recurring revenue (ARR) with nearly 99% margins and zero paid ads . We explore how Table One is solving the epidemic of restaurant reservation scalping in New York City and empowering diners to access high-demand spots. Tarek shares how a personal problem led to a wildly successful, bootstrapped business, including the challenges of initially shutting down due to SMS message costs and the unexpected boost from being featured in The New Yorker . Questions This Episode Answers: • What major pain point does Table One solve for diners in New York City's high-demand restaurant scene? • How did Table One achieve 99% margins and $200K ARR with no paid ads and just two founders? • What pivotal moment, including an unexpected feature in The New Yorker , accelerated Table One's organic growth ? • How did Tarek Arafat overcome challenges, like the initial shutdown of Table One's service, to achieve product-market fit ? • What unconventional method did Table One use to raise over $600,000 in investment interest directly from its community ? Enjoy the conversation! __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 Introduction to Table One: A New Dining Experience 03:05 The Problem with Current Reservation Systems 05:54 Building a Solution: How Table One Works 09:08 The Business Model and Pricing Strategy 12:00 The Journey of Building Table One 14:51 From Idea to Execution: The Founder's Story 18:10 Navigating Challenges and Growth 21:05 The Future of Table One and Dining Reservations 29:09 Balancing Work and Startup Life 30:34 The Crazy Growth Journey 32:58 Navigating Press and Publicity 34:56 The Importance of Distribution 38:50 Managing Rapid Growth 43:13 Lessons from the Journey 46:00 Building Community and Investment 51:16 Innovating Through Events 55:59 Strategic Fundraising and Valuation…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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209 - How to Optimize Your SEO for the AI-First Search Era with Ryan Doser 31:21

il y a 13 weeks31:21

31:21

🚨MY NEWSLETTER https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe 🚨 Join me, Nik (https://x.com/CoFoundersNik), as I interview Ryan Doser (https://x.com/ryan_doser13). Ryan shares his incredible journey from the traditional corporate world at Meredith Corporation , where he managed multi-million dollar media budgets for brands like People.com , to becoming a successful solopreneur . Inspired by Tim Ferriss's 'The 4-Hour Workweek ,' Ryan embraced uncertainty, teaching himself digital marketing and becoming an early adopter of AI tools like Jasper AI and ChatGPT . We dive into why he's now bullish on YouTube SEO as the new frontier for organic growth, how long-form video builds trust at scale , and his unique AI automation playbook for repurposing content across all platforms. Get ready to learn how to truly leverage AI to make money and grow your business! Questions This Episode Answers: • How can entrepreneurs leverage AI to grow their business and make money? • Why is YouTube increasingly important for SEO and building trust? • What led Ryan Doser to pivot from a traditional corporate job to becoming a successful solopreneur ? • Should entrepreneurs, even if camera-shy, consider starting a YouTube channel ? • What is Ryan Doser's AI -powered content repurposing playbook for businesses? Enjoy the conversation! __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 The YouTube Landscape and Personal Growth 02:54 The Journey into AI and Marketing 06:08 The Evolution of SEO and Video Content 08:47 YouTube SEO: The Future of Content Marketing 12:01 Building Trust Through Video 14:50 The Importance of Education Over Entertainment 18:07 Repurposing Content for Maximum Reach 21:00 Automation and AI in Content Creation…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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208 - How Embracing a Grudge Can Fuel Your Success with Liana Fricker 35:51

il y a 13 weeks35:51

35:51

🚨MY NEWSLETTER https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe 🚨 Join me, Nik (https://x.com/CoFoundersNik), as I interview Liana Fricker (https://x.com/lianafricker). Liana is an incredible entrepreneur who has operated at the fascinating intersection of SMBs and venture capital in the UK and wider Europe . She's helped over a hundred companies through her accelerator, becoming a key resource for founders. Our conversation explores her core belief: that where you end doesn't have to be where you start . We dive deep into how a doll idea transformed into Uplift 360 , a venture-backed material circularity company for the defense industry . Liana shares her unique approach to identifying promising ideas using thematic intelligence and the PESTLE analysis framework, revealing how she spots future trends like the push towards "going analog" amidst digital overwhelm from things like ChatGPT . We also discuss the essential traits of successful founders, including openness , curiosity , humility , being of service , and the willingness to collaborate , and even the surprising power of having a "grudge". Questions This Episode Answers: • How do you know which startup ideas are truly worth pursuing? • What are the top traits that define successful founders? • How can entrepreneurs effectively spot and interpret emerging trends? • What does it mean to balance purpose with profit as a founder? • How did an accelerator grow from a community for skill-swapping? Enjoy the conversation! __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 The Purpose-Powered Founder 01:28 Entrepreneurial Journeys and Transformations 07:04 Building Community and Accelerators 09:49 Evaluating Ideas in Entrepreneurship 22:23 Traits of Successful Founders 30:00 The Balance of Altruism and Profit…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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207 - No Agencies Allowed: Creating Massive Home Service Growth without an Agency with Steve Hunsaker 48:04

il y a 13 weeks48:04

48:04

🚨MY NEWSLETTER https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe 🚨 Join me, Nik (https://x.com/CoFoundersNik), as I interview Steve Hunsaker (https://x.com/stevehunsaker1). In this episode, we dive into the "sexiest, unsexiest business": home services! Steve, a veteran of three successful businesses including one that pulled in $800,000 in two months, challenges the norm. He argues why smaller home service companies should ditch pricey ad agencies and embrace DIY Meta Ads. Learn his unique approach to marketing that prioritizes founder-led content, leverages powerful on-site organic strategies, and achieves remarkable ROAS. Get ready to transform your customer acquisition! Questions This Episode Answers: • Why should small home service businesses avoid ad agencies for marketing? • How can home service businesses effectively run Meta Ads (Facebook/Instagram) themselves? • What specific on-site strategies can generate organic leads and referrals? • How does speed to lead impact customer acquisition costs in home services? • If starting over, what blue collar trades offer the best opportunities today? Enjoy the conversation! __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 – The Grim Reaper of Ad Agencies 02:47 – Unsexy Business: $4M in Home Services 06:00 – How to Sell $50K Without Sales Calls 08:50 – Paid Ads: What Actually Works in 2025 12:09 – Why DIY Marketing Still Wins 14:51 – Scaling to $4M with 40% Margins 18:07 – Dealing with Competition & Staying Profitable 20:57 – Understanding ROAS & CAC Like an Operator 23:43 – Ad Campaigns That Actually Convert 27:01 – Lessons from Losing $100K on One Deal 29:49 – Final Advice for Operators & Founders…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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206 - 87k MRR & 30% Net Margins? Her Doggy Daycares Print Cash with Shaina Denny 50:49

il y a 14 weeks50:49

50:49

🚨MY NEWSLETTER https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe 🚨 Join me, Nik (https://x.com/CoFoundersNik), as I interview Shaina Denny (https://x.com/shainadenny), the CEO of Dogdrop. Shaina leads a fascinating venture-backed franchise that's completely revolutionizing the dog daycare industry with its tech-enabled approach. We dive into how Dogdrop addresses a common pain point for pet parents by offering flexible, membership-based options, like paying in 30-minute increments, unlike traditional models. Shaina explains how their backend admin and management technology, including labor management software, is key to their consistent, scalable experience and improves unit economics. Shaina also shares why a venture-backed company chose to embrace franchising, focusing on a "slow to go fast" approach by capping the number of units for franchisees and ensuring this is not a passive investment. Enjoy the conversation! __________________________ Questions This Episode Answers: • How does Dogdrop differentiate its business model in the dog daycare market? • What is Dogdrop's unique real estate strategy for franchise locations? • How does Dogdrop's technology enhance operations and scalability? • Why did a venture-backed company choose a franchising model for growth? • What qualities does Dogdrop look for in a franchisee, and what is the expected involvement? __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 – The Business of Doggy Daycare 03:09 – Innovative Business Model & Tech Integration 05:59 – Customer Experience & Dog Care Quality 08:42 – Staffing & Operational Efficiency 11:53 – Franchise Growth & Market Strategy 14:16 – Revenue Potential: $87.5K/Month per Location 17:20 – Real Estate Strategy: Landlords Cover Buildouts 19:45 – Selling the First Corporate Location 21:04 – Investment Requirements & Financial Considerations 23:35 – $6.5M Venture Capital & Software Platform 26:58 – Franchise Fee Breakdown & Support Structure 29:54 – Red Flags & Green Flags for Franchisees…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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205 - The $3 Million Online Trade School Model: Solving the Labor Crisis with Hector Resendez 38:15

il y a 14 weeks38:15

38:15

🚨MY NEWSLETTER https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe 🚨 Join me, Nik (https://x.com/CoFoundersNik), as I interview Hector Resendez (https://x.com/TS_Secrets). Last time, Hector blew everyone's minds revealing how he ran a $3 million online trade school with incredible 30% net margins , largely funded by the government. This time, we dive into how any company can leverage these same principles to solve their staffing shortages and create a brand-new revenue stream . With a massive labor shortage in essential trades like plumbers , electricians , and HVAC technicians, Hector reveals how businesses can become Eligible Training Providers (ETP) , training their own staff and getting paid for it through federal grants . He shares a fascinating example of how a dog grooming business added $300,000 in revenue and secured its talent pipeline. You'll learn about the On-the-Job Training (OJT) program, which can reimburse up to 50% of employee wages for 90 days , and how this model applies to diverse fields from healthcare (like CNAs ) to IT sales and even dental front desk positions. Questions This Episode Answers: How can businesses leverage government grants to address staffing shortages and train employees? What is the On-the-Job Training (OJT) program, and how does it provide 50% wage reimbursement for new hires? Can businesses truly generate a significant revenue stream by running internal, grant-funded training programs? Which industries and roles, beyond traditional trades , are eligible for this innovative funding and training model? What are the practical steps and qualifications for a business to become an Eligible Training Provider (ETP) ? Enjoy the conversation! __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 The Trade School Revolution 02:51 Staffing Shortages in the Trades 05:44 Innovative Training Solutions 09:01 Leveraging Grants for Business Growth 11:56 Real-World Applications of Trade Schools 14:47 Navigating the Grant Process 18:10 Creating a Sustainable Staffing Pipeline 21:02 The Future of Trade Education 23:54 Conclusion and Call to Action…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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204 - Building an Eight-Figure Empire from a Window Washing Business with Brandon Vaughn 47:23

il y a 14 weeks47:23

47:23

🚨MY NEWSLETTER https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe 🚨 Join me, Nik (https://x.com/CoFoundersNik), as I interview Brandon Vaughn , a true entrepreneurial force! We dive deep into his incredible journey, from starting a window washing business with his dad at just 13 to building an eight-figure empire with 12 companies . You'll hear how a life-changing event forced him to grow beyond the owner-operator mindset, leading to the rapid scaling of Wise Coatings from zero to seven figures in its first year and now 39 locations . Discover how Brandon channels his undying optimism to embrace being extremely uncomfortable as an entrepreneur. We also explore his latest venture, Hirebus , an AI recruiting company that’s transforming how businesses find and vet talent, and a mind-blowing AI-powered marketing app achieving an astonishing 40x ROAS ! Questions This Episode Answers: How can an owner-operator business scale to eight figures and 39 locations ? What is the concept of a "bus score" and how does it relate to building a stable business ? How are AI tools currently revolutionizing hiring , from candidate sourcing to final interviews? Can personalized marketing campaigns , like those using Google Street View and AI-generated video , achieve an incredible 40x return on ad spend ? What core mindset shifts and strategies, like embracing uncomfortable growth and delegation , are essential for serial entrepreneurs ? Enjoy the conversation! __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 – From Window Washing to Entrepreneurship 02:49 – Buying His Dad’s Failing Business 07:33 – Scaling to 70 Employees 12:43 – Launching a Business on YouTube 14:48 – Wise Coatings: $1M in Year 1 19:35 – Building Teams While Working Full-Time 21:59 – Hiring with AI: Birth of Hirebus 36:15 – AI-Powered Postcard Marketing 41:04 – $100 CAC for $4K Jobs 43:24 – Fighting Serial Startup Syndrome…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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203 - The Four Entrepreneurship Types: Which Game Are You Playing? with Trenton Hughes 42:08

il y a 15 weeks42:08

42:08

🚨MY NEWSLETTER https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe 🚨 Join me, Nik (https://x.com/CoFoundersNik), as I interview Trenton Hughes (https://x.com/trentjhughes)! Trenton has multiple successful exits under his belt and the founder of TRIBE, a peer group for entrepreneurs. We dive deep into why so many people are getting into entrepreneurship but often don't even know what game they're playing, which can be detrimental to their success. Trenton has identified four distinct types of entrepreneurship, which he frames as "Geos". We explore what each type truly means, from Main Street and Silicon Valley to Austin and Tomorrowland, and discuss why understanding your entrepreneurship type is critical for finding your lane and optimizing for your unique goals, whether that's chasing freedom, seeking VC funding, or leveraging new tech like AI. This conversation is a map to help you avoid getting lost on your entrepreneurial path. Questions This Episode Answers: Why is it crucial for entrepreneurs to understand their entrepreneurship type? What are the four distinct types of entrepreneurs (Main Street, Silicon Valley, Austin, Tomorrowland) and their core mindsets? How do Austin and Main Street entrepreneurs prioritize different aspects like freedom, lifestyle, and community? What are the high-risk, high-reward realities and goals for Silicon Valley and Tomorrowland entrepreneurs? How can identifying your entrepreneurship type help you define personal success and navigate the path of building a business? Enjoy the conversation! __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 Chasing Freedom: The New Entrepreneurial Mindset 02:50 Understanding Entrepreneurial Types: A Framework for Success 05:44 The Austin Type: Lifestyle and Freedom 09:06 The Silicon Valley Type: High Stakes and Big Dreams 11:59 Tomorrowland: Pioneers of Innovation and Risk 14:49 Main Street: The Heart of Traditional Entrepreneurship 20:58 The Allure of Quick Money in Gambling 21:55 Self-Assessment for Entrepreneurs 22:54 Understanding the Main Street Entrepreneur 24:48 Contrasting Main Street and Austin Entrepreneurs 27:15 Community Dynamics: Main Street vs. Austin 28:43 Self-Identification as an Entrepreneur 30:08 Shifting Perspectives on Business Success 32:30 Collaboration vs. Competition in Entrepreneurship 33:53 Current Sentiment Among Entrepreneurs 39:25 The Power of Peer Groups in Entrepreneurship…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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202 - AI SERIES: 18 - Why Directories Are the New Gold Rush in Lead Generation with David Jaeger 38:04

il y a 15 weeks38:04

38:04

🚨MY NEWSLETTER https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe 🚨 Join me, Nik (https://x.com/CoFoundersNik), as I interview David Yeager (https://x.com/ppcguru), an entrepreneur who dropped a bombshell on X: "directories have already killed lead gen agencies." In this episode, David explains why he believes traditional agencies are a "rat race" being commoditized, especially with the rise of AI, while directories offer true brand ownership and massive revenue potential—like the $5 million+ driven by one of his own businesses! We dive deep into his strategic playbook for leveraging directories, including how he uses AI to scrape data, understand customer pain points, and automate lead follow-up with his incredible 2x14 system via his GrowNow.app platform. He even gives us a sneak peek into his new ABA directory, AutismCareFinder.com, and his plan to use it to identify acquisition opportunities and clients. Questions This Episode Answers: How are directories "killing" lead gen agencies? How can you monetize a directory for millions? How does AI automate lead follow-up and nurture leads for 14 days? How can you use a directory to generate client leads and acquisition opportunities? How is AI being used to uncover customer pain points from reviews? Enjoy the conversation! __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 The Rise of Directories Over Lead Gen Agencies 09:51 Understanding Directories and Agencies 19:52 The Role of AI in Marketing 29:50 Building and Monetizing Directories 37:28 Automating Lead Responses and Customer Service…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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201 - Use AI to Cut 20% of Labor—Then Hire $1,500 VAs to Scale with Parker Cox 55:41

il y a 15 weeks55:41