The Koerner Office – Business Ideas and Small Business Deep Dives with Entrepreneurs

Find my new community at https://www.tkowners.com/

I sat down with Al Doan, founder of the Missouri Star Quilt Company, and the guy is just electric. We talked about how he turned his mom’s love of quilting into a massive business that transformed the tiny town of Hamilton, Missouri. What started as a small quilt shop and some YouTube tutorials eventually became a retail empire with 16 quilt stores, restaurants, a hotel, a magazine, and a whole lot more. Al's vision didn’t just grow the business, he's also bought up nearly the entire downtown district to create what he calls a "Disneyland for quilters."

Toward the end, we bounce around some really creative business ideas, especially ones you could launch in small towns that most people overlook.

You can find Al on Twitter and Instagram as @DrBillNye. Check out his company at missouriquiltco.com and their deals site at quiltersdailydeal.com.

Timestamps below. Enjoy!

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Ask me a question on or off the show here: http://tkopod.co/p-ask
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---

00:00 The Quilting Capital of the World
03:00 Building a Quilting Empire
05:49 Creating Unique Shopping Experiences
09:10 The Power of Content and Community
12:00 Navigating Early Challenges
14:51 Inflection Points in Business Growth
17:47 Owning a Town: The Hamilton Story
21:12 The Future of Small Town Businesses
25:25 Transforming Small Towns into Destinations
32:06 Building Unique Experiences Around Hobbies
37:20 Unexpected Successes in Business Ventures
40:14 Innovative Home Services Business Ideas
45:51 Reimagining Small Town Economies

Find my new community at https://www.tkowners.com/

I sat down with my wife Jessie for a really special episode of the podcast. We talked about what it’s actually like being married to a serial entrepreneur, the highs, the lows, and all the uncertainty in between. I asked her how she’s managed to stay supportive through all the pivots, experiments, and tough seasons. We got honest about what it’s really been like building a life together while also building businesses. Whether you're an entrepreneur yourself or you're married to one, I think this one will hit home.

Timestamps below. Enjoy!

---
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Ask me a question on or off the show here: http://tkopod.co/p-ask
Learn more about me: http://tkopod.co/p-cjk
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Free weekly business ideas newsletter: http://tkopod.co/p-nl
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---

00:00 Overcoming Overwhelm in Entrepreneurship
03:02 The Role of a Supportive Spouse
05:56 Navigating Scary Moments in Business
08:49 Trust and Confidence in a Partner
12:12 Advice for Spouses of Entrepreneurs
15:07 Balancing Family and Business
17:56 Reflections on Stability and Sacrifice
20:49 Key Conversations in Marriage
24:08 Parenting as Entrepreneurs
27:01 Compartmentalizing Work and Family Life
29:55 Maintaining a Strong Marriage
32:49 Future Aspirations and Business Dreams

Get 20% off Beehiiv for 3 months with my link: https://beehiiv.com?via=chris-koerner-BH-COLLAB

I sat down with Tyler Denk (@denk_tweets), cofounder and CEO of Beehiiv, to talk about the biggest opportunities to make money with newsletters right now. Tyler shared how small niche newsletters are making serious revenue by focusing on community and creative monetization like design cohorts, recruiting, and smart sponsorships. We talked about growth strategies like Beehiiv Boost, co-registration, and why acquiring the right subscribers matters more than just getting them cheap. We ended with a killer idea: turning a corporate email list into a media business that brings in sponsorship revenue.

You can subscribe to Tyler’s newsletter Big Desk Energy at mail.bigdeskenergy.com, and check out his Spotify playlist of the same name if you're into deep focus work sessions.

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Ask me a question on or off the show here: http://tkopod.co/p-ask
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Free weekly business ideas newsletter: http://tkopod.co/p-nl
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---

00:00 The Gold Mine of Email Lists
02:58 Monetizing Newsletters: Strategies and Insights
06:13 The Power of Local Newsletters
09:04 Building a Community Through Content
11:53 Experimentation and Growth Strategies
15:06 The Future of Local Newsletters
17:54 Creating Value Beyond Sales
21:10 Referral Programs: The 80/20 Rule
23:58 Transforming Email Lists into Revenue Streams

I sat down with Frey Chu (https://x.com/freychu), who started by building profitable directory websites and later began teaching others how to do the same. We talked about how he went from flipping items at flea markets to pulling in up to $3,000/month in passive income from sites he barely touches. He broke down his process for finding untapped SEO opportunities, how he uses Ahrefs and Reddit for research, and shared a realistic approach to building simple, mostly passive websites that can steadily bring in income over time. 

Timestamps below. Enjoy!

---
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Ask me a question on or off the show here: http://tkopod.co/p-ask
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---

00:00 The Power of Simple Solutions
03:12 Opportunism and Business Growth
06:01 Navigating Online Criticism
09:23 The Nature of Selfishness in Business Relationships
12:16 Stress Management and Decision Making
15:09 The Role of a CEO
18:03 AI in Business Efficiency
21:54 The Impact of AI on Employment
25:18 Navigating Wealth and Parenting
31:53 The Reality of Entrepreneurship
36:15 Business Ideas and Getting Started
42:03 The Book Writing Journey

Link to buy Nick’s book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4bLazjW
Link to buy Nick’s book in the UK: https://bit.ly/422njPW
Nick's Offshore Recruiting Company: https://tkopod.co/huber
Nick's Real Estate Cost Segregation business: https://tkopod.co/recostseg

I sat down with Nick Huber and we talked about what it actually takes to build wealth through service businesses. We started with Nick’s framework for opportunity, how being an opportunist isn’t a bad thing if you use it to build momentum, not chase distractions. He walked me through his current companies, explaining how each one fits into a power-law strategy. We also got into his view on AI. Nick shared how he's approaching parenting with wealth, and how to raise humble kids in a privileged environment. Toward the end, we talked about his new book The Sweaty Startup, the brutally hard process of writing it, and why he ultimately partnered with HarperCollins. You can find Nick on X (@sweatystartup) or download his 500+ business ideas at sweatystartup.com/ideas.

Links to all Nick’s social profiles:

www.x.com/sweatystartup
www.instagram.com/sweatystartup
www.linkedin.com/in/sweatystartup
www.youtube.com/sweatystartup
www.tiktok.com/sweatystartup
www.threads.net/@sweatystartup.com

Timestamps below. Enjoy!

---
Watch this on YouTube instead here: tkopod.co/p-yt
Ask me a question on or off the show here: http://tkopod.co/p-ask
Learn more about me: http://tkopod.co/p-cjk
Learn about my company: http://tkopod.co/p-cof
Follow me on Twitter here: http://tkopod.co/p-x
Free weekly business ideas newsletter: http://tkopod.co/p-nl
Share this podcast: http://tkopod.co/p-all
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---

00:00 The Power of Simple Solutions
03:12 Opportunism and Business Growth
06:01 Navigating Online Criticism
09:23 The Nature of Selfishness in Business Relationships
12:16 Stress Management and Decision Making
15:09 The Role of a CEO
18:03 AI in Business Efficiency
21:54 The Impact of AI on Employment
25:18 Navigating Wealth and Parenting
31:53 The Reality of Entrepreneurship
36:15 Business Ideas and Getting Started
42:03 The Book Writing Journey

---

Links to Nick’s businesses: 
www.sweatystartup.com
www.nickhuber.com
www.sweatystartupbook.com
www.somewhere.com/nick 
www.boltstorage.com
www.recostseg.com
www.adrhino.com
www.spidexx.com
www.boldseo.com
www.webrun.com
www.titanrisk.com
www.recruitjet.com
www.hubermethod.com

In this episode, I'll walk you through the biggest lessons I've learned starting 75+ businesses over the past 15 years. From six to eight figures, I share real stories about making it happen, surviving setbacks, protecting your team, and learning when to say no. I talk about how I navigated some of the toughest moments in both business and life. If you're building or buying a business, these are the lessons I wish I had earlier. 

Timestamps below. Enjoy!

---
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Ask me a question on or off the show here: http://tkopod.co/p-ask
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---

00:00 Welcome and Introduction
00:11 The Role of a CE Owner
01:14 Lessons from Starting Businesses
03:04 The MIH Gene: Make It Happen
05:35 Knowing the Weeds
07:07 Insulating Your Employees
09:02 Cover Your Assets
09:42 Inventing a Rival
11:16 Capitalizing the Business
12:04 Taking Advice from the Right People
14:02 Seven to Eight Figure Lessons
15:14 Escaping the Spreadsheet
15:54 Lessons from Past Business Ventures
16:55 The Bitcoin Mining Boom
17:42 Balancing Business and Personal Life
18:35 Dealing with Difficult Customers
20:20 Managing Toxic Employees
21:13 The Importance of Rockstar Employees
23:13 Learning from Mistakes and Moving Forward
26:57 The Role of a CEO
29:25 Key Takeaways and Final Thoughts

I sat down with Jacob Posel right after OpenAI launched their image generation API, literally the same day, and we talked about the massive wave of opportunity that’s about to hit. If you’ve got a laptop, internet, and time, now’s your moment.

Jacob shared two main paths to make money fast with AI images. We explored how fun and simple image ideas can turn into real businesses, and how most people still don’t even know what these tools can do. 

We got into the tactics too. Jacob explained how to launch fast, how to pitch to ad agencies, and why offering this as a white-labeled service could be a game changer. I even bought a domain live during the episode, right in the middle of the conversation.

You can follow Jacob on X: @jacob_posel or find him on LinkedIn. If you're building something cool, reach out. He wants to see it.

Timestamps below. Enjoy!

---
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Ask me a question on or off the show here: http://tkopod.co/p-ask
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---

00:00 The Dawn of AI Image Generation
02:58 Opportunities for Entrepreneurs in AI
05:47 Building an Agency with AI Tools
09:07 Prompt Engineering and Best Practices
11:59 Micro-Personalization in Marketing
14:52 Creative Applications of Image Generation
18:13 Navigating the Future of Advertising
21:08 Collaborating with Ad Agencies
23:59 The Importance of Focus in Entrepreneurship

I’m back with Sam Thompson for part two of our two-part conversation (if you missed the first one, go check out Ep. #157). In this episode, Sam walks me through the custom task management app he built for himself using Lovable, and how it completely changed how he handles his time. We go deep on what makes good productivity tools and how to think like a “vibe coder”.

We also talk about how he sold his AI cooking app, how he's helping someone scale it, and why more businesses should start fast, test faster, and sell what people are already asking for. Toward the end, we riff on why people always pay for shortcuts, from dunk training posters to rucking programs (PDF), and how momentum is the most underrated asset for entrepreneurs.

You can find Sam on Twitter at @ImSamThompson and check out what he's building at unlimitedcontent.com.

Timestamps below. Enjoy!

---
Watch this on YouTube instead here: tkopod.co/p-yt
Ask me a question on or off the show here: http://tkopod.co/p-ask
Learn more about me: http://tkopod.co/p-cjk
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Free weekly business ideas newsletter: http://tkopod.co/p-nl
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---

00:00 The Power of Momentum in Entrepreneurship
02:58 Selling Ideas and Business Models
05:51 The Reality of Make Money Online Offers
08:48 Understanding Customer Needs and Offers
12:14 Creating Value Through Digital Products
15:12 The Role of AI in Business and Marketing
17:56 Building Custom Solutions for Productivity
20:46 Navigating the Future of AI Influencers
24:05 The Importance of Task Management and Productivity

This is part two of my conversation with Shannon Jean, and it’s somehow even better than part one. Shannon’s a seasoned flipper, reseller, and liquidator who’s built real wealth by buying pallets of returned or surplus goods and reselling them, sometimes flipping phones for $9 million in profit.

In this episode, we talk about advanced tactics. Shannon breaks down how to build trust in an industry full of scams, how to spot undervalued products, why you should be okay with others making more money off your deals, and the mental frameworks that make resellers unstoppable. He shares wild stories, like the time he bought $2M worth of iPhones and sold them back to China for $11M.

We also talk about Facebook Marketplace testing, niche reselling and more. Whether you're trying to make $100 or $100,000 extra this year, the blueprint is in this episode.

If you missed it, go back and check out Part 1 (Ep. #156), and if you’re hooked, listen to his other appearances in Ep. #38, #41, #61, and #64.

You can find Shannon Jean on X at @shannonjean (https://x.com/shannonjean) - he posts about his $5 mastermind there, where he shares deals, advice, and great opportunities. He’s also the cohost of the Business Brain podcast, which you can find at businessbrain.show.

Timestamps below. Enjoy!

---
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Ask me a question on or off the show here: http://tkopod.co/p-ask
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---

00:00 The Power of Reselling
04:56 Building Credibility and Relationships
10:06 Learning Through Experimentation
14:53 Finding Your Niche in Reselling
20:09 Scaling and Managing Risks
24:51 Success Stories and Lessons Learned

HoldCo Bros are back! In this episode, Nik shares what he learned from 30+ conversations with entrepreneurs using AI in their businesses—what tools they’re using, what’s actually working, and some surprising patterns that came up. We also talk about how he built a full workflow using Google CoLab and OpenAI to analyze all the data.

I also share my experiment with a real-world billboard ad for the podcast, how I’m testing taglines with Facebook ads, and different ways I’m tracking the results. We even get into some fun ideas around using AI for things like relationship advice and business mediation.

Learn more about Nik here: http://linktr.ee/cofoundersnik

Check out Limitless pendant here

Share your ideas with us:

• Nik@cofounders.com
• Chris@cofounders.com

Timestamps below. Enjoy!

---

Watch this on YouTube instead here: tkopod.co/p-yt
Ask me a question on or off the show here: http://tkopod.co/p-ask
Learn more about me: http://tkopod.co/p-cjk
Learn about my company: http://tkopod.co/p-cof
Follow me on Twitter here: http://tkopod.co/p-x
Free weekly business ideas newsletter: http://tkopod.co/p-nl
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---

00:00 Highlights
00:33 ChatGPT's Bias and Trustworthiness vs. Google
02:58 Seeking Unbiased Feedback from AI (and its Challenges)
07:38 AI for Business Mediation and Conflict Resolution
10:04 Most Popular LLMs and Their Use Cases (ChatGPT, Claude, Perplexity)
12:33 Claude’s Advanced Project Structure & Writing Strengths
15:02 Cursor vs. Replit: Coding Tools and Usability vs. Functionality
17:26 AI Tools Summary: Use Cases and Strengths by Model
19:52 Cleaning and Analyzing Podcast Transcripts Using AI & Google Colab
22:20 Automating Insights: Creating Lead Magnets and Quizzes with AI
24:40 The Importance of Data for Personal AI Assistants
27:07 Billboard A/B Testing Strategy for Podcast Growth
29:27 The Power of “Best” in Marketing and Ratings Psychology
31:54 Measuring Billboard Effectiveness via Download Geography
34:19 Saturating Small Cities with Ads: A Contagion-Style Growth Idea

This is part one of a two-part episode, keep an eye out for part two dropping next week. 

I sat down with Sam Thompson and we went deep on how we're using the new ChatGPT memory update - from self-reflection prompts to turning it into a personal coach and therapist. Sam shared some killer use cases like a CIA-style report on himself and even a custom SWOT analysis.

Then we riffed on turning AI-generated images into real businesses. Sam told the story of a viral tweet he had about creating custom coloring books with ChatGPT, and we brainstormed dozens of B2B and home services ideas—like AI-powered landscaping mockups, remodeling postcards, and photo-personalized marketing that feels like magic.

You can find Sam on Twitter at @ImSamThompson and check out what he's building at unlimitedcontent.com.

Timestamps below. Enjoy!

---
Watch this on YouTube instead here: tkopod.co/p-yt
Ask me a question on or off the show here: http://tkopod.co/p-ask
Learn more about me: http://tkopod.co/p-cjk
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Follow me on Twitter here: http://tkopod.co/p-x
Free weekly business ideas newsletter: http://tkopod.co/p-nl
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---

00:00 Exploring AI Opportunities in Business
06:58 The Impact of Image Generation Technology
12:09 Hyper-Personalization and Customization
20:07 Innovative Marketing Strategies with AI
29:49 Future of Home Services and AI Integration

I sat down with Shannon Jean, who's built and sold over 10 companies, and we talked all about the art of reselling. He shared how he made $557K net profit selling luxury handbags, and why building systems is the real game—no matter what category you're in.

We covered how he connects directly with eBay and Poshmark execs to avoid account issues, how he uses liquidation sites like B-Stock, and why category only matters 30%—the rest is all systems and execution.

Shannon also dropped gold on customer service, like his “two tokens” method to de-escalate unhappy buyers, and how flipping industrial gear or niche apparel can create huge upside if you know how to sell it right.

Follow him on X (@ShannonJean), where he shares deals and posts about his $5 mastermind. He’s also the cohost of the Business Brain podcast at businessbrain.show. 

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---

Watch this on YouTube instead here: tkopod.co/p-yt
Ask me a question on or off the show here: http://tkopod.co/p-ask
Learn more about me: http://tkopod.co/p-cjk
Learn about my company: http://tkopod.co/p-cof
Follow me on Twitter here: http://tkopod.co/p-x
Free weekly business ideas newsletter: http://tkopod.co/p-nl
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---

00:00 Starting from Scratch: The Reselling Journey
03:00 Building Relationships: Networking for Success
05:54 Understanding the Market: Research and Strategy
09:13 Finding Your Niche: The Handbag Business
12:07 Customer Service: The Key to Repeat Business
15:05 Navigating Challenges: Dealing with Low Margins
17:55 The Power of Auctions: Finding Hidden Gems
20:46 Scaling Up: Systems and Processes for Success
24:08 Real-Life Examples: Success Stories in Reselling
26:55 The Future of Reselling: Trends and Opportunities

HoldCo Bros are back! In this episode, Nik and I talk about the exciting advancements of ChatGPT 4.0 image generation, highlighting its ability to now edit pictures and create incredibly realistic AI images. We brainstormed potential business ideas leveraging this new technology, then we discussed the fundamentals of business success, where Nik introduced his framework emphasizing competitive advantage within idea and execution (grit, distribution, fulfillment, knowledge). We debated the significance of a strong market versus having a unique edge and explored the concept of a barbell strategy, focusing on either full AI or completely no-tech ventures. Finally, we discussed the growing trend of rucking and identified several potential business opportunities in that space. 

Learn more about Nik here: http://linktr.ee/cofoundersnik

Share your ideas with us:

• Nik@cofounders.com
• Chris@cofounders.com

Timestamps below. Enjoy!

---

Watch this on YouTube instead here: tkopod.co/p-yt
Ask me a question on or off the show here: http://tkopod.co/p-ask
Learn more about me: http://tkopod.co/p-cjk
Learn about my company: http://tkopod.co/p-cof
Follow me on Twitter here: http://tkopod.co/p-x
Free weekly business ideas newsletter: http://tkopod.co/p-nl
Share this podcast: http://tkopod.co/p-all
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---

00:00 The Rise of Image Generation Technology
02:59 Ashton Hall: The Viral Sensation
05:52 The Future of NFTs and Image Attribution
08:46 Innovative Business Ideas in Image Generation
12:05 The Importance of Competitive Advantage in Entrepreneurship
15:00 Navigating the Path to Entrepreneurship
17:56 The Barbell Strategy: AI vs. No AI
20:52 Learning vs. Doing: The Entrepreneurial Dilemma
24:12 Rucking: A New Trend in Fitness
27:07 The Power of Community and Influencer Marketing

The United States is in Trump tariff turmoil, and while everyone's freaking out, I'm seeing opportunity. I don’t care about macroeconomics or politics, but I do care about business ideas. So in this episode, I walk through how to take advantage of what's happening right now. From using tools like Import Yeti and Jungle Scout to find hot products, to becoming a sourcing agent, launching a reverse engineering newsletter, or just figuring out where the next winners are coming from, this moment might be the nudge you’ve been waiting for.

Shopify URL suffix: 

•  /?sort_buy=best-selling
• /collections/all?sort_by=best-selling

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---

Watch this on YouTube instead here: tkopod.co/p-yt
Ask me a question on or off the show here: http://tkopod.co/p-ask
Learn more about me: http://tkopod.co/p-cjk
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Free weekly business ideas newsletter: http://tkopod.co/p-nl
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---

00:00 Economic Turmoil and Opportunity
03:02 Navigating Tariffs and Sourcing Strategies
05:56 Innovative Business Ideas Amidst Change
08:48 Historical Context: Success in Adversity
12:03 Embracing Made in America
13:02 Seizing Opportunities in Uncertainty

Use promo code TKOPOD for 20% off Gumloop.

I sat down with Max Brodeur-Urbas, founder of Gumloop, and got into all things AI automation. Max described Gumloop as an intuitive drag-and-drop tool where you can build powerful AI workflows without writing a single line of code, think Zapier, but supercharged with AI.

We explored how Gumloop isn't just great for automating tasks like web scraping and sales outreach; it's also a huge opportunity for people looking to start their own businesses or side hustles. Max shared how you can become an in-demand Gumloop expert, build an agency offering custom automation services, or even create businesses by white-labeling Gumloop flows. We also touched on real-world examples of individuals successfully monetizing their skills and ideas with Gumloop.

Max also gave us a sneak peek at their upcoming co-pilot feature that's designed to make creating workflows even easier and more accessible.

Connect with Max:

• X (formerly Twitter)
• LinkedIn

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---

Watch this on YouTube instead here: tkopod.co/p-yt
Ask me a question on or off the show here: http://tkopod.co/p-ask
Learn more about me: http://tkopod.co/p-cjk
Learn about my company: http://tkopod.co/p-cof
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Free weekly business ideas newsletter: http://tkopod.co/p-nl
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---

00:00 Introduction to Gumloop and Its Value Proposition
02:59 AI-First Automation: The Future of Workflows
05:52 Real-World Applications of Gumloop
09:12 Understanding Automation: The Role of Workflows
12:05 Case Studies: How Businesses Use Gumloop
15:01 The Next Steps for Gumloop: Co-Pilot Feature
17:53 Challenges and Future Directions in Automation
23:08 Growth and Opportunities in AI Business
24:33 Identifying Exceptional Talent in AI
26:30 Creative Use Cases for AI and Automation
28:22 Building Scalable Workflows with Gum Loop
30:44 Expert Marketplace and Demand Dynamics
32:35 Transitioning from User to Expert
33:06 Automating Customer Engagement and Research
34:33 Sales Prospecting and Meeting Preparation
36:28 Leveraging Competitor Insights for Marketing
39:52 Programmatic SEO and Content Generation
42:44 White Labeling and Business Opportunities with Gum Loop
43:43 Choosing the Right AI Models for Tasks

HoldCo Bros are back! In this episode, Nik and I explore the idea of launching an AI implementation agency to help businesses effectively navigate AI tools. We also dive into the concept of using wearable devices, like the Limitless pendant, for automated medical documentation, potentially replacing scribes. Additionally, we brainstorm various different applications for this technology, including sales coaching, enhancing employee productivity, and more.

Learn more about Nik here: http://linktr.ee/cofoundersnik

Check out the Limitless pendant: Limitless Pendant

Share your ideas with us:

• Nik@cofounders.com
• Chris@cofounders.com

Timestamps below. Enjoy!

---

Watch this on YouTube instead here: tkopod.co/p-yt
Ask me a question on or off the show here: http://tkopod.co/p-ask
Learn more about me: http://tkopod.co/p-cjk
Learn about my company: http://tkopod.co/p-cof
Follow me on Twitter here: http://tkopod.co/p-x
Free weekly business ideas newsletter: http://tkopod.co/p-nl
Share this podcast: http://tkopod.co/p-all
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---

00:00 Embracing Entrepreneurship and AI
02:58 The Role of AI in Healthcare
05:47 Innovative Applications of AI Technology
09:10 Transforming Sales with AI
12:03 Leveraging AI for Personal Development
14:56 Deep Research and Its Implications
17:48 The Future of AI in Business

Welcome to this solo episode where I'm trying something a little different by going solo and focusing on key business principles that I find to be really important. What I wanted to do differently was explain these ideas through relatable stories and analogies, something I picked up from my teaching days. I share several personal experiences and then break down the business lessons we can take away from them. We talk about the significance of a solid foundation versus just outward appearances, the value we assign to things based on effort, and even those hidden problems we might not see. Ultimately, it's about understanding different aspects of business and life through these everyday comparisons.

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---

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00:00 Exploring Business Principles Through Analogies
04:49 Lessons from the Vasa: Stability vs. Appearance
10:06 The Value of Hard Work: Basketball and Business
14:53 Hidden Challenges: The Treadmill Analogy
20:13 Cleaning Up Messes: Life Lessons in Business

I sat down with Billy Howell to explore his journey into building and selling apps with AI as a self-taught solopreneur. Billy shared how he transitioned from defense consulting into the world of simple app creation. We talked about the power of AI-driven tools like Replit for rapidly creating simple solutions, and his first successful app. He talked about leveraging Upwork to find initial clients and build a freelance business. Billy also touched on his strategy for tackling "shiny object syndrome" and the potential for reselling custom-built apps. If you're curious about creating simple apps and potentially starting your own agency, Billy's experience is a must-hear. Find Billy on Twitter (Billy J Howell) and explore his work at https://stupid-simple-apps.com/.

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---

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00:00 From Zero to Full-Time: The Journey of a Self-Taught Coder
02:59 Vibe Coding: Building Apps with Natural Language
05:47 Choosing the Right AI Coding Tools
09:06 Navigating Upwork: Finding Clients and Jobs
11:58 Building Custom Solutions for Niche Markets
14:56 The Last 10%: Overcoming Development Hurdles
17:49 Shiny Object Syndrome: Managing Multiple Projects
21:09 Scaling Your Freelance Business
24:01 Distribution Strategies for SaaS Tools
26:56 Personal Branding and Sharing Your Journey

HoldCo Bros are back! In this episode, Nik and I talk about the latest in AI and some unique business ideas. We begin by comparing ChatGPT and Perplexity, highlighting the strengths of Perplexity's deep research function. Our conversation touches on our experiences with custom GPTs and the power of using AI for identifying emerging trends. We also discuss the current reality of AI agents versus more traditional RPA. Later, we explore the idea of leveraging AI to create forward-looking industry reports, a concept brought up by Zach Ashburn. Finally, Nik shares the incredible entrepreneurial journey of Ethan Kohan, from the world of gambling to the unexpected success of vending machines on college campuses.

Learn more about Nik here: http://linktr.ee/cofoundersnik

Share your ideas with us:

• Nik@cofounders.com
• Chris@cofounders.com

Timestamps below. Enjoy!

---

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00:00 The Rise of AI and Research Tools
02:56 Custom GPTs and Their Applications
05:50 Deep Research and Market Trends
08:48 Exploring Unique Business Ideas
12:07 The Evolution of Agents in AI
15:07 Predicting Future Trends with AI
18:01 Innovative Business Models and Side Hustles

Dear diary, here are all the businesses I accidentally started this month.

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---

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00:00 New Beginnings: Church and Personal Growth
10:51 Innovative Event Ideas: Interactive Business Nights
13:14 Marketing Strategies: Billboards and Audience Engagement
16:03 Content Creation: Growth and Monetization Strategies
18:20 Business Ventures: Successes and Challenges
20:55 Community Engagement: Q&A and Listener Feedback

Here's part 2 of my latest conversation with Sam. If you haven't already, go listen to part 1 (Ep. #145) now!

I sat down with Sam Thompson again and we talked about a bunch of potential business ideas. We started riffing on how people still pay for simple AI wrappers even though they could use AI themselves, which led us to think about simple AI models like a pay-as-you-go option for deep research. The conversation then bounced to the idea of a super simple ChatGPT-like interface that anyone could use without any problem. We spent a good chunk of time brainstorming merch and apparel, looking at how brands like God Is Dope and Dad Gang built a strong following. We also talked about quickly testing these ideas using Facebook ads and print-on-demand services. Finally, we talked about the concept of a niche online marketplace for products that "never touched plastic." You can find Sam on Twitter (https://x.com/ImSamThompson), and check out what he's up to at https://www.unlimitedcontent.com/

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---

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00:00 The Role of AI in Business and Human Behavior
02:52 Innovative Business Ideas and Market Saturation
06:11 Subscription Models and User Engagement
08:58 Branding and Resonance Marketing
11:50 Testing Ideas and Market Feedback
15:12 Entrepreneurial Mindset and Action
18:06 Marketplace Models and Business Strategies

HoldCo Bros are back! In this episode, Nik and I, Chris, talk about the power of the middleman business model as a great way to start a low-risk business today. We discuss the core idea of connecting buyers and sellers without dealing with inventory or providing services directly. I share the concept of a "Never Touch Plastic" marketplace, similar to Etsy, but focused on environmentally conscious consumers. We also talk about building an affiliate marketing website for plastic-free products. We also discuss how the United States Postal Service represents a government-subsidized marketing method that entrepreneurs can leverage for cost-effective outreach.

Learn more about Nik here: http://linktr.ee/cofoundersnik

Share your ideas with us:

• Nik@cofounders.com
• Chris@cofounders.com

Timestamps below. Enjoy!

---
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00:00 Government Subsidies and Marketing Channels
02:59 Innovative Business Ideas and Trends
05:52 Sourdough Starter and Microplastics
08:48 Leveraging the Postal Service for Business
12:09 Customer Acquisition Cost and Marketing Strategies
15:04 Monetizing Government Distribution Channels
17:58 Driving for Dollars and Real Estate Opportunities
20:51 AI and Survey Data Monetization
24:02 Plasma Transfusion and Health Innovations

I sat down with Sam Thompson (https://x.com/ImSamThompson), a regular on the podcast, to riff on business ideas, starting with the development of his sourdough GPT wrapper app and how he used AI to build a website for it in a few minutes. We then talk about his marketing plans for his InstantChef GPT wrapper, focusing on leveraging viral content through automation with tools like Zapier and BannerBear. Our conversation touched on copyright concerns when using others' content. I shared my experience with AI tools like Manus and Deep Research. We also talked about digital products and exploring marketing tactics, including the use of influencers and the power of Facebook Ads Manager and more!

https://www.unlimitedcontent.com

https://www.72hoursites.com

Please note that this is part 1 of a two-part episode, come back next week for part 2!

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---

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00:00 The Pursuit of Practical Business Ideas
02:55 Launching the Instant Chef App
05:48 Content Creation and Automation Strategies
09:02 Navigating Copyright and Fair Use
11:51 The Value of Unique Perspectives in Entrepreneurship
14:48 Exploring Digital Product Opportunities
18:08 Leveraging Influencer Marketing for Digital Products
21:02 Simplifying Business Models with Digital Products
23:52 Creating Custom Business Plans with AI
27:12 The Future of Content Creation and SEO

I sat down with Jordan Mix, a partner working with Greg Isenberg at Late Checkout, to talk about permissionless projects. We discussed what they are, and Jordan shared the core ideas behind Ryan Holiday's canvas strategy and Jack Butcher's permissionless apprentice philosophy. He shared a few fascinating stories about how undertaking these projects, such as creating custom sneakers and responding creatively to social media posts, led to unexpected opportunities with big names. Jordan explained how this approach can create valuable connections and skills. Listen to this episode to learn how you can start your own permissionless projects!

X.com: https://x.com/jrdnmix 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordan-mix1/

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---

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---

00:00 Introduction to Permissionless Projects
05:45 The Canvas Strategy and Its Impact
11:56 Real-Life Applications of Permissionless Projects
18:06 Building Relationships Through Creative Projects
24:12 The Art of Creating Without Permission
25:09 Visualizing Business in 2023
26:36 The Birth of 'Do Within' and Permissionless Projects
27:35 Building Community and Business at Late Checkout
29:30 Finding Value in Collaboration
31:54 The Power of Being a Number Two
32:52 Learning from Experiments and Rejections
34:49 The Compounding Effect of Opportunities
36:07 Identifying Skills and Targeting Opportunities
38:03 Creating Value Without Expectation
40:54 The Asymmetric Bet of Permissionless Projects
42:19 Rethinking Networking and Problem Solving
44:10 Building a Portfolio of Experiences
45:37 Chasing Rejections and Learning from Failure

HoldCo Bros are back! In this episode, Nik and I talk about the initial stages of starting a business and why founders are so important early on. Nik shares his thoughts on how to grow your business by gradually giving up tasks, always keeping the most important things for yourself . We also discuss some interesting business ideas, like renting out Cybertrucks. This leads to a conversation about creative marketing, specifically using Airdrop in unique ways at different events. Later in the episode, we touch on Bitcoin, the mystery of its creator Satoshi Nakamoto, and the surprising theory suggesting it might be a well-known entrepreneur.

Learn more about Nik here: http://linktr.ee/cofoundersnik

Share your ideas with us:

• Nik@cofounders.com
• Chris@cofounders.com

Timestamps below. Enjoy!

---
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00:00 Highlights
00:30 Founders' Challenges
00:56 The Framework for Business Growth
02:26 Phases of Business Development
03:08 Avoiding Common Pitfalls
04:56 The Elon Musk Example
08:40 Optimizing for Quality of Life
09:14 Innovative Business Ideas
12:15 Airdrop Marketing Strategies
18:55 Creative Marketing Strategies
20:14 Brainstorming Unique Ideas
21:09 Airdropping at Conferences
22:34 The Value of High-Ticket Offers
23:40 Unveiling Satoshi Nakamoto
25:19 Bitcoin's Mysterious Origins
27:21 The Hidden Genius?
32:20 The Future of Bitcoin

Get a free 30 day trial of HighLevel with this link only! https://www.gohighlevel.com/chris-koerner

I sat down with HighLevel co-founder Robin Alex (www.linkedin.com/in/robinalex) to talk about launching a profitable agency using their all in one platform that is perfect for white labeling, including AI tools, and is very popular with SaaSpreneurs. He explained that it is the ideal platform for anyone who has a business or wants to start an agency, and he detailed exactly how he would do it. Robin shared HighLevel's inspiring journey from solving his own agency's lead management issues to building a platform that now has 1,700 employees and supports five million users worldwide. He also talked about how some SaaSpreneurs are using HighLevel for recurring revenue and building very large companies, with some partners making eight-figure incomes.

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---

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00:00 Introduction 
01:33 Introduction to High Level and Its Mission
08:35 The Journey from Marketing Agency to SaaS
15:47 Innovative Features and Unique Selling Proposition
22:31 Strategies for Small Business Engagement
26:24 Pricing Models and Revenue Potential
27:50 The Importance of Pricing Strategy
31:12 Understanding Lead Generation Models
34:06 Identifying High-Potential Industries
37:27 The Role of AI in Customer Engagement
41:13 Building a Certified Consulting Economy
47:20 The Value of Predictable Sales Models
50:43 Leveraging Franchise Networks for Growth

I sat down with Greg Isenberg to talk about AI, automation, and the tools shaping the future. He started by breaking down his current AI stack - what he’s using, what’s overrated, and what’s actually making him more productive. We talked about the biggest AI business opportunities, how to separate real innovation from hype, and why now is the best time to act on AI trends. Greg also shared his thoughts on the role of design and user experience in AI products and why the way we interact with AI is about to change forever.

This episode is packed with valuable insights, don’t miss it.

• Greg’s Podcast on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@GregIsenberg
• Follow Greg on X → https://x.com/gregisenberg

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
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00:00 Introduction
00:35 Greg's AI Stack
05:38 The Power of Data in AI
08:51 Recording Life with Limitless Pendant
11:38 The Future of Note-Taking and AI Tools
14:22 Exploring New AI Innovations
17:36 The Beauty of User Experience in AI Products
21:42 The Allure of AI vs. Automation
22:58 Programmatic SEO: A Case Study in Animal Aftercare
25:51 The Future of Content Farms and SEO Arbitrage
29:12 Navigating Opportunities in a Saturated Market
32:01 The Importance of Taking Action Now
33:28 Building with AI Tools: The Last Mile Challenge
35:14 Innovative Business Ideas and Accreditations
40:46 Vibe Revenue: The Reality of AI Business Models

OG Episode that inspired Tyler: B2B Stump Grinding. Cash Cow or Dud?

HoldCo Bros are back! In this episode, we feature Tyler (https://x.com/StumpGuyTy), a listener who acted on our B2B stump grinding idea after hearing it on a previous episode, which led him to quit his 9-to-5 job. Tyler shares how he followed our advice word-for-word, testing the concept in Boise before launching in Provo. By implementing our strategies, he achieved impressive results, with $23,000 in September alone. He provides key insights into building relationships with tree trimming companies, his pricing strategy, and cold outreach techniques and more.

Learn more about Nik here: http://linktr.ee/cofoundersnik

Share your ideas with us:

• Nik@cofounders.com
• Chris@cofounders.com

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
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00:00 Highlights
00:37 Tyler's Journey: From B2B Sales to Stump Grinding
01:13 The Initial Spark: Discovering Stump Grinding
01:41 Building the Business: Early Challenges and Successes
02:27 The B2B Sales Connection
04:41 Testing the Market: Boise vs. Provo
06:03 First Jobs and Early Experiences
12:05 Overcoming Hurdles: Mistakes and Lessons Learned
15:11 Revenue Growth and Scaling the Business
17:45 Financing the Stump Grinder
18:40 Monthly Earnings Breakdown
20:05 Building Business Relationships
21:46 Pricing and Payment Structure
23:22 Marketing Strategies
29:03 Future Business Prospects
32:18 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

I sat down with Marc Gaskins (https://x.com/OvenPusher) of Event Kitchens to discuss his $337k/year event rental business in Charleston, South Carolina. Marc noticed caterers needed quality equipment and turned that opportunity into a thriving business. We explored how a bar fire led to community support, becoming a turning point. We also discussed the value of patient growth versus rapid scaling. Marc explained the unit economics of renting convection ovens, the benefits of a niche focus on caterers, and his warehouse hacking real estate strategy. He also shared why he's relied on organic growth and his future interests. This episode offers actionable insights for starting an event rental business.

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
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00:00 Highlights 
00:34 The Beginning of Squeeze Bar
01:18 First Equipment Purchases
02:18 The Bar Burns Down
02:42 Community Support and Business Growth
04:44 Competitor Exits the Market
06:17 Slow and Steady Growth
08:38 Unit Economics of Rental Items
17:31 Equipment Insights and Investment Strategies
18:21 Expanding Beyond Charleston
19:22 Organic Marketing and Customer Relationships
20:47 Catering to Caterers: Business Operations
22:03 Scaling and Maintenance Opportunities
24:11 Exploring New Business Ideas
25:58 Starting Fresh in a New Market
29:05 Challenges and Rewards of the Business
30:45 Team and Facilities Overview
34:24 Financials and Final Thoughts

Here's part 2 of my latest conversation with Connor. If you haven't already, go listen to part 1 (Ep. #135) now! 

I sat down with Connor Gross (https://x.com/c_gro), and we discussed whether it's too late to get into e-commerce, launching apps, or YouTube. We talked about AI agents and their potential, like reverse engineering successful YouTube channels or Shopify stores. Connor shared his e-commerce insights for 2025. We debated the future of content creation and the human element, because although AI can create faceless YouTube channels, there's something to be said for being real. 

Check out Connor’s free newsletter! https://www.bizbrainstorms.com

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
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00:00 The E-commerce Gold Rush
02:53 The App Store Evolution
05:51 Emerging Trends in E-commerce
08:46 The Future of AI Agents
12:09 Innovative Business Ideas
15:02 The Role of Content in Distribution
17:53 The Human Element in Business
20:48 Social Impact and Entrepreneurship

HoldCo Bros are back! In this episode, Nik and I talk about GPT Operator, Nik shares his insights on preparing for AI agents with standard operating procedures, treating them like new employees. I recount building a tool with Replit for a friend, potentially adding seven figures in value. I also share insights from spending seven hours with a West Texas oil billionaire, emphasizing long-term thinking and valuing the thought process over correct answers. 

Learn more about Nik here: http://linktr.ee/cofoundersnik

Links and Resources:

• https://replit.com 
• https://www.cursor.com 

Share your ideas with us:

• Nik@cofounders.com
• Chris@cofounders.com

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---
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00:00 Introduction to Operator Usage
01:27 Experimenting with Multiple AI Tools
04:44 Preparing for AI Agents
08:04 Building a High-Value AI Tool
13:56 Insights from a Billionaire
17:18 The Shared Office Dynamic
17:59 Overqualified Team Members
18:38 Engaging and Direct Leadership
19:50 First Impressions and Office Culture
22:12 Action-Oriented Decision Making
23:36 Open Communication and Transparency
27:34 Long-Term Vision and Thinking
29:07 Validating Through Thought Processes
32:35 Encouraging Action and Sharing
33:37 Different Paths to Success

I sat down with Kevin Throop, founder of Toasted Tours, and talked about creating his unconventional tour business. Kevin, formerly at Tesla, wanted to control his destiny, starting with $65,000 and a $3,000 school bus. He renovated the bus for wine tours in Temecula, using a "lipstick on a pig" strategy to make it appealing despite limited funds.

Kevin launched with a basic Instagram account, focusing on appealing visuals and honest storytelling. He emphasized customer experience, including wine and food. The move to a semi-truck trailer bus was driven by a desire for expansion and a unique platform. This required ensuring it was legal and insurable, collaborating with the California Highway Patrol. Kevin drew inspiration from Tesla and Apple, aiming for visually appealing products that sell themselves. His vision includes franchising to promote safety and best practices.

https://www.instagram.com/toastedtours

https://www.toastedtours.com/

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
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00:00 Introduction to a Viral Phenomenon
00:38 Meet Kevin Throop: The Man Behind Toasted Tours
00:51 From Corporate Life to Entrepreneurship
01:00 Building the First Tour Bus
01:36 Launching Toasted Tours
01:58 The Early Challenges and Successes
09:39 Marketing and Social Media Strategy
17:16 Operational Insights and Business Growth
22:37 Insurance and Financials
26:58 Expanding the Fleet: From Bus to Semi
27:29 Choosing a New Challenge
28:21 Mitigating Risks and Exploring New Ideas
28:57 The Unique Concept of Trailer Buses
31:47 Overcoming Safety Concerns
33:10 Navigating Legal and Insurance Hurdles
35:05 Building and Launching the Trailer Bus
45:43 Marketing and Public Reception
51:20 Future Plans and Opportunities

I sat down with podcast regular Connor Gross (https://x.com/c_gro), and we talked about practical applications of AI in business. Connor shared the story of an AI program boosting sales by instantly claiming leads in a Slack channel. We considered how executive assistants could dramatically increase their earning potential. I shared my experience running multiple ChatGPT operators, including one finding arbitrage opportunities in used cars. Connor recounted his dad's experience using Claude and ChatGPT to quickly summarize a 125-page insurance document. We also touched on AI tools like Limitless AI and Lindy.

This is part 1 of a two-part conversation with Connor. Be sure to tune in next week for part 2.

Check out Connor’s free newsletter! https://www.bizbrainstorms.com

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---
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00:00 Highlights
00:31 Experimenting with Chat GPT Operators
01:11 Leveraging AI for Various Tasks
03:23 Future of AI in the Workplace
06:40 AI Tools and Their Applications
12:09 Maximizing Efficiency with AI
17:57 The Evolution and Impact of AI
23:10 The Future of Work and AI
28:07 Normalizing AI in Daily Life

HoldCo Bros are back! In this episode, Nik and I kick things off with a funny story about going to Raisin Canes while wearing a "Think You Should Leave" t-shirt. Then we talk about the booming Med Spa market, which is really driven by millennials who are both vain and obsessed with their health. Nik and I then discuss how there's potential in integrating Med Spas with golf courses and other membership-based businesses. I share my idea of starting a sauna/cold plunge business inside a gym or country club. Then we shift gears to AI agents, and discuss how to leverage them for market research and identifying new opportunities, and also how to extract insights from interviews. We wrap things up by talking about OpenAI's new tools, which are GPT Operator and Deep Research, weighing both the pros and the cons for different business applications.

Learn more about Nik here: http://linktr.ee/cofoundersnik

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
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00:00 Highlights
00:33 Family Outing at Raisin Cane's
01:07 The Iconic '55 Burgers' Shirt
03:11 Med Spas and Their Growing Popularity
04:50 Med Spas in Golf Courses: A New Trend?
06:25 Revenue Models and Business Strategies
10:24 Cold Plunge and Sauna Business Ideas
16:17 Leveraging AI for Business Success
23:40 Practical Tips for Entrepreneurs
26:54 Unveiling Deep Research Capabilities
28:16 Exploring Chris Crone's Profile with Deep Research
29:26 Deep Research: Asking the Right Questions
30:46 Maximizing Deep Research on a Budget
31:58 Introducing GPT Operator and Deep Research
33:36 Impact on Industry Reports and Market Analysis
36:07 Challenges and Limitations of GPT Operator
39:20 The Future of AI and Self-Driving Technology
43:57 Deep Research: Pros and Cons
47:17 Practical Applications and Early Adoption

Sign up at HeyRosie.com and use code TKO50 for 50% off your first month

I sat down with Jordan Gal (https://x.com/JordanGal) about how he built Hey Rosie, an AI voice answering service for small businesses, leveraging AI to provide a better alternative to traditional answering services. Jordan shared how his GPT wrapper addresses the challenges small business owners face with handling phone calls and converting leads, emphasizing focusing on solving customer problems rather than getting caught up in the tech. Hey Rosie is experiencing impressive growth, doubling every month, with a low churn rate. We also touched on the various business categories that Hey Rosie serves. And very importantly, Jordan offered advice on building AI wrappers.

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---
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00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:53 Introducing Rosie: The AI Answering Service
01:36 Challenges with Traditional Answering Services
02:24 AI's Potential in Business Communication
04:39 Real-World Use Cases for Rosie
07:09 Customer Interaction and AI Transparency
10:55 The Journey to Building Rosie
17:38 Pricing and Positioning Strategies
20:54 Unexpected Business Applications
21:28 Understanding the Role of Phone Calls in Business
21:45 Exploring the Diverse Landscape of Small Businesses
22:10 Innovative Marketing Strategies for Small Businesses
23:51 The Broad Approach to AI in Business
25:06 Opportunities in AI Sales Coaching
27:34 Advice for Aspiring Business Owners
30:27 Customer Acquisition and Market Demand
32:50 Live Demo: Setting Up a Rosie Agent
37:07 Customizing Your AI Agent
39:05 Conclusion and Special Offer

Get a free 30 day trial of HL with this link only! https://www.gohighlevel.com/chris-koerner

I sat down with Sam Thompson (https://x.com/ImSamThompson) again, and we talked about AI wrappers and a tweet from Greg Isenberg about DeepSeek and ChatGPT wrappers. We discussed interface loyalty and why user interface is more important than the AI model. Sam shared experiences with Creative OS and integrating into Facebook ad management. We also brainstormed actionable ideas like building a simplified version of ChatGPT for older adults and automating cold emailing with a specialized AI wrapper service. We also talked about using AI and the Facebook Ad Library to find add creatives and more.

https://www.unlimitedcontent.com/

http://creativeos.com/

This is part 2 of our conversation about AI. Be sure to tune in to the previous week for part 1 to find out more about the basics.

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
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00:00 Highlights & Introduction
00:38 Greg Eisenberg's Tweet
01:05 The Value of GPT Wrappers
02:00 Interface Loyalty and Market Strategy
02:48 Real-World Applications and Examples
07:38 Entrepreneurship and AI-Powered Apps
12:53 Cold Outreach and Niche Markets
20:15 Retail Arbitrage with AI
22:14 Exploring AI for Catering Quotes
22:32 Real-Time AI Task Demonstration
23:51 AI in Real Estate and E-commerce
25:02 AI as a Travel Agent
27:33 Automation and AI in Business
31:00 Advanced AI Use Cases and Future Potential
37:17 Concluding Thoughts and Contact Information

HoldCo Bros are back! In this episode, Nik and I discuss the world of controversial self-help gurus, specifically focusing on Dan Pena. We dissect Pena's background, from his early days in Florida to his claims of a massive oil empire and his now infamous $30,000 mastermind seminars. We analyze his aggressive persona and tactics, while trying to understand what makes him successful. We question the real value of his teachings, including his QLA principles, and if his advice is actually useful or just pure motivational hype. We also discuss the difference between gurus that just motivate you versus the ones that have a concrete business plan. Finally, we explore how AI is changing things and whether businesses can be created to protect consumers from all the spam that is going to come with the new technology.

Learn more about Nik here: http://linktr.ee/cofoundersnik

Share your ideas with us:

• Nik@cofounders.com
• Chris@cofounders.com

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---
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00:00 Introduction to Controversial Gurus
00:58 Meet Dan Pena: The Trillion Dollar Man
02:09 Dan Pena's Predictions and Background
03:59 Dan Pena's Business Ventures
08:32 The QLA Principles Unveiled
12:55 A Personal Encounter with Dan Pena's Team
17:32 Unshakable Belief in Entrepreneurship
18:18 The Fyre Fest and WeWork Examples
19:33 Alex Hormozi's Tactical Approach
20:14 Sales Gurus and Their Strategies
21:38 Dan Pena's Podcast Invitation
24:36 AI and the Future of Outbound Marketing
26:53 AI Tools and Consumer Defense
35:15 PhD-Level Autonomous Agents
36:45 Productizing AI Prompts
39:20 Exploring Custom GPTs
40:12 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Get a free 30 day trial of HL with this link only! https://www.gohighlevel.com/chris-koerner

I'm back with another Q&A episode! I start by sharing viral marketing stunts for an escape room and emphasize finding a "Kirk" for business partnerships. Then, I explain how to grow a local newsletter using Facebook groups and ads, and monetize through AI and high-ticket services. I discuss why premium domain names aren't valuable for crypto and suggest focusing on trending niches, like AI. Finally, I advise on cloning content creators with AI chatbots, and selling this service to creators and community owners, as well as stressing the need to outsource weaknesses and double down on strengths.

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---
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00:00 Introduction
00:11 – Early Bird vs Night Owl Debate
02:53 – Creative Marketing Strategies for Escape Rooms
03:12 – Finding the Right Operational Partner
08:45 – Building a Local Newsletter and Monetization Strategies
13:09 – Exploring Crypto Domain Names and Their Value
18:04 – Creating AI Chatbots for Content Creators
21:53 – Conclusion

Get a free 30 day trial of HL with this link only! https://www.gohighlevel.com/chris-koerner

I sat down with podcast regular Sam Thompson (https://x.com/ImSamThompson), and we talked about how he's planning to launch an AI-powered recipe app using no-code tools and Facebook ads. We discussed his idea to become a free proposal consultant to get into the wedding business. He also shared his views on the importance of understanding business math like CAC and cash conversion cycle. We also touched on using affiliate marketing to generate revenue with a lead magnet created with ChatGPT and promoted using ads, and using tools like Creative OS and HeyGen to make ad creatives and videos.

This is part 1 of a two-part conversation with Sam. Be sure to tune in next week for part 2.

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---
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00:00 Introduction and Initial Thoughts on AI and Apps
00:49 Wedding Planning Business Strategy
02:29 Personal Reflections and Technology Evolution
04:15 Exploring No-Code App Development
05:42 Recipe App Concept and Monetization
07:52 Marketing Strategies and Business Models
14:11 Collaborations and Future Plans
16:07 Cold Audience Strategies
16:40 The Power of Facebook Ads
17:19 Optimizing Ad Campaigns
22:33 Affiliate Marketing Tactics
29:17 AI in Marketing
30:00 Viral Marketing Case Studies
32:35 Conclusion and Next Steps

HoldCo Bros are back! In this episode, Nik and I discuss the world of sales and unexpectedly profitable business models, such as pest control, a field I have personal experience in. We examine how high incomes can be achieved through door-to-door sales, as well as the financial dynamics of the pest control industry. We also discuss the compensation structure of sales crews and the potential of renting out specialized licenses. We explore the idea of pest control as a convenience service rather than a necessity, and share the story of an entrepreneur who achieved remarkable success with a Christmas lighting business.

Learn more about Nik here: http://linktr.ee/cofoundersnik

Share your ideas with us:

• Nik@cofounders.com
• Chris@cofounders.com

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---
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---

00:00 Introduction and Personal Anecdotes
03:37 The Economics of Pest Control
06:46 Insights on Sales Ethics and Practices
11:38 Personal Experiences in Pest Control
15:16 Questioning the Effectiveness of Pest Control
16:08 Revelation: Pest Control is a Scam
17:00 The Convenience Business Model
18:15 Success Story: Christmas Lighting Business
23:39 Entrepreneurial Spectrum: Different Approaches
25:55 Learning from Mistakes: The Importance of Knowledge

This is part 2 of a two-part conversation with Daniel. Be sure to listen to part 1 (aired Jan 27, 2025, Ep. #123) to hear how he got started, found the right niche, and set up the systems to grow and succeed.

I sat down with Daniel Cronauer (LinkedIn), to continue our conversation about his entrepreneurial journey. In this episode, Daniel shares his unique strategies for acquiring customers, using rock flyers and yard signs. Daniel also talks about how he expanded his business with Christmas lights, and discusses his experience building his own gym from the ground up. He also touches on his experience with permanent light installations and their drawbacks as a business.

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---
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00:00 Introduction: Acquiring Customers
01:06 The Power of Yard Signs
01:35 Handling Complaints and Mental Toughness
01:49 Success Stories and Testimonials
02:51 Rock Flyers: A Unique Marketing Strategy
03:54 Operation Carpet Bomb: Aggressive Marketing
05:33 The Importance of Visibility and Branding
11:27 Networking and Personal Connections
16:23 Gym Anecdotes and Personal Stories
18:50 Vigilante for Good: Sneaking into Gyms
19:48 Building a Gym from Scratch
20:06 Entrepreneurial Lessons and Challenges
23:46 Navigating Competition in the Gym Business
30:15 Expanding to Multiple Locations
33:33 Permanent Light Business Insights
36:00 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode, I'm sharing my mind-blowing experience using OpenAI's new ChatGPT Operator, where I ran 10 AI agents simultaneously. I'll discuss how I used the Operator to perform 10 business tasks, like finding underpriced items and scraping product reviews. I’ll explain how the AI opened multiple tabs, and completed tasks like a human, and even how it learned from its mistakes, and how it was able to reverse Google image search to find a supplier. I'll share how it can watch videos on Instagram, and how I had ChatGPT talk to ChatGPT for me. I’ll also mention the glitches I found, but also why I'm so excited about the future of AI in business.

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---
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00:00 Introduction to AI Operator and Excitement
03:00 Exploring the Capabilities of AI Operator
05:53 Practical Applications and Results of AI Tasks
08:51 Challenges and Limitations Encountered
12:07 Innovative Uses and Future Implications of AI
14:59 Conclusion and Reflections on AI's Impact

HoldCo Bros are back! This episode, Nik and I explore how AI is changing the world and talk about cool AI business ideas. We talk about digital detox, po*nography addiction, and phone addiction - real issues that also present business opportunities. We cover creating info products and selling AI prompts on platforms like PromptBase.com, showing how a simple prompt can serve as the foundation for an entire business, including a SaaS product. We also discuss how prompts are becoming the new SEO and how AI wrappers can simplify complex tools. Lastly, we introduce the concept of a tool that helps entrepreneurs find business ideas by analyzing their data and personal experiences. 

Learn more about Nik here: http://linktr.ee/cofoundersnik

Links and Resources:

• https://promptbase.com - Buy and sell prompts for AI tools.
• https://replit.com - Make a chatbot.
• https://www.cursor.com - Tool that helps you coding and creating apps.

Share your ideas with us:

• Nik@cofounders.com
• Chris@cofounders.com

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---
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---
00:00 Exploring Business Opportunities in AI
02:51 Digital Addiction and Its Impact
06:08 The Role of po*nography in Modern Society
09:00 Creating Retreats for Digital Detox
11:54 Leveraging AI for Business Ideas
14:50 The Power of Prompts in AI
18:14 Building SaaS Products from Prompts
21:04 Understanding the Concept of Wrappers
23:57 Real-World Applications of AI in Business
26:46 Accountability and Idea Validation with AI

Check out the tools I use for my newsletter business:
➡ Beehiiv – Build and monetize your newsletter: [https://www.beehiiv.com?via=chris-koerner]
➡ SparkLoop – Grow your list with co-reg: [https://dash.sparkloop.app/signup?aff=b0c6f403]

Using these links gets you a discount and helps support this podcast. 🚀

I'm back with another Q&A episode! This week, I advise Dustin on recovering from business failure, suggesting he consider buying a business and exploring local opportunities. Then, I help Demetrius focus his many ideas, suggesting he validate them with online tools rather than launching them right away. I also talk about focusing on improving your current business and getting more customers. Finally, I discuss the power of newsletters with an anonymous listener, explaining the benefits of co-registration and using Facebook ads to drive traffic, as well as recommending Beehiiv and SparkLoop.

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---
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---
00:00 Introduction
00:31 Dustin’s $500K Business Vanished—What Now?
04:58 Demetrius’ ‘Uber for Trees’ Idea—Can It Work?
09:29 Newsletter Writer Goes Solo—Will It Succeed?
23:58 Conclusion

I sat down with Daniel Cronauer (LinkedIn), an entrepreneur who built his success by starting and scaling service-based businesses. In this episode, Daniel shares practical advice on getting started, finding the right niche, and setting up systems to grow and succeed. If you’re thinking about starting your first business, this episode is packed with clear, actionable steps to help you hit the ground running.

This is part 1 of a two-part conversation with Daniel. Be sure to tune in next week for part 2, where we explore advanced strategies for acquiring customers and other home service niches that really no one's talking about.

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---
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---
00:00 Introduction to Power Washing Business
01:29 Danny's Journey: From Gym Teacher to Entrepreneur
07:14 The Power of Marketing and Customer Acquisition
12:21 Diversifying Services: From Roof Cleaning to Commercial Power Washing
19:01 Niche Opportunities: HVAC Coil Cleaning
27:37 Scaling the Business: Predictable Revenue Streams
35:54 Christmas Lights: A Seasonal Revenue Stream

Get a free 30 day trial of HL with this link only! https://www.gohighlevel.com/chris-koerner

HoldCo Bros are back! In this episode, Nik and I are diving into marketing with a look at the "OG" internet marketing guru, Frank Kern. We talk about his 8-step sales process, from overwhelming with value to creating scarcity, and explore how these methods remain relevant in the AI age. We also talk about how to reverse engineer successful marketing funnels and the importance of copying what works, adapting it to your unique experiences, and how Frank Kern learned from the likes of Gary Halbert and Claude Hopkins. Finally, we discuss two AI investment strategies - the "cigarette butt" approach and a long-term view focusing on human interaction and authenticity, while also discussing the concept of rebundling and how what’s old becomes new again.

Learn more about Nik here: http://linktr.ee/cofoundersnik

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---
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---
00:00 The Origins of Internet Marketing and Frank Kern
10:10 Frank Kern's Eight-Step Selling Process
19:58 The Importance of Scarcity in Marketing
30:10 Investment Strategies in the Age of AI

In this episode, I share my thoughts on why I love home service businesses, including their potential for binary outcomes, recurring revenue, and recession resistance. Then, I interview Doug Steel (parkcitiespowerwash.com), a home service business owner in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, about his journey building his power washing company and expanding into other services like Christmas lights and window washing. Doug shares advice on how to start a home service business, how to get your first customers and how to price jobs. This episode is a mix of a monologue and an interview.

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---
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---
00:00 Welcome and Introduction
00:40 Why Home Services?
01:14 The Binary Outcome Business Model
01:50 High Demand and Recurring Revenue
03:32 AI and Home Services
05:19 Interview with Doug: Starting a Power Washing Business
06:25 Expanding Service Lines
11:32 Challenges and Advice for Home Service Businesses
22:52 Conclusion and Contact Information

I sat down with Darryl Knight, the owner of From Porch Flora (https://frontporchflora.com), a seasonal flower subscription business, about how he built his company. We start by discussing Darryl's background in landscaping and horticulture, and how that led him to this idea. Darryl shares the story of his initial business idea, which involved greenhouses growing plants in "plant pies" and delivering them to nurseries, then he explains how he pivoted to buying plants from greenhouses, pre-assembling them into inserts, and swapping them out seasonally for his customers, which made his business far more scalable. Darryl also shares insights on the financial side, including his revenue, costs, and net margins, and the challenges of managing a seasonal business with fluctuating labor needs. Finally, we talk about the surprising way that he started offering pumpkins, based on my previous episode, and lastly his great idea to expand by partnering with realtors.

Links for Front Porch Flora's Social Media
Follow them on Facebook: www.facebook.com/frontporchflora
Follow them on Instagram: www.instagram.com/frontporchflora  

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---
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---
00:00 Highlights 
00:35 Introduction and Guest Background
00:42 Inspiration Behind the Business
01:17 Business Model Evolution
01:57 Guest's Professional Background
04:42 Challenges and Pivots
07:42 Current Business Model
14:35 Customer Base and Marketing Strategies
20:16 Seasonal Operations and Labor
22:53 Scalability and Future Plans
27:33 Customer Retention and New Ideas
29:06 Conclusion and Contact Information

HoldCo Bros are back! In this episode, Nik and I are discussing "IGenius," a segment where we analyze business ideas found on Instagram, focusing on how to turn viral trends into real-world opportunities. We brainstormed various ideas, including experiential businesses, such as a coffee shop with a sandbox, a kids' play area with a high-end parent area, and a live fish vending machine.

We also explored mobile businesses like a mobile bookstore, and the importance of being "indistractable" in the physical world. Additionally, we considered unique product businesses such as a wart removal kit, and the business potential of the microplastics trend. We also discussed frameworks for creating businesses that capture attention, and ways to make it harder for parents to say no to their kids when making purchases.

Learn more about Nik here: http://linktr.ee/cofoundersnik

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---
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---
00:00 Introduction to the New Episode Format
00:55 Evaluating Instagram Business Ideas
01:36 Sandbox Coffee Shop Concept
03:32 Experiential Business Models
08:46 Cold Wet Socks Therapy
10:46 Marketing and Monetizing Simple Ideas
16:33 Micro Peas and Immaturity
16:38 Live Fish Vending Machine
19:07 Business Ideas for Kids
22:14 Mobile Bookstore Concept
27:00 Jerry Springer and Attention Economy
31:46 Parenting and Technology

In this second part of the episode, we continue my conversation with James Camp (https://x.com/JamesonCamp), an entrepreneur who has built and sold multiple internet-based businesses. We talk about his idea for a subsidized rehab business model that leverages asynchronous technology to provide treatment for addiction, particularly in the context of the rise of sports betting. We also share our thoughts on the importance of taking action and copying successful business models, as well as the concept of the "Midwit curve" and why being like the "caveman" can be more effective. 

If you missed the first part, be sure to check out episode #117.

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---
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---
00:00 Highlights_Record-Breaking Sales and Unusual Courses
00:31 Introduction to Part Two with James Camp
00:45 Opportunities in the Rehab Industry
01:09 The Rise of Gambling and Addiction
02:52 Asynchronous Telemedicine for Gambling Addiction
06:13 The Future of Junk Food and Addiction
07:37 Lessons from Business Failures and Successes
10:02 The Myth of Market Saturation
11:55 The Power of Copying Successful Ideas
16:18 Effective Cold Email Strategies
17:03 Selling High-Value Packages
18:28 Lessons from Nightclub Promotions
19:28 Targeting the Right Audience
21:35 The Power of In-Person Networking
24:27 The Importance of Just Doing It
30:38 Mindset and Belief in Success
31:46 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

I sat down with James Camp (https://x.com/JamesonCamp), an entrepreneur who has built and sold multiple internet-based businesses. In this episode, we focus on unique business ideas and how to spot opportunities in untapped markets. James shares insights on identifying niches, leveraging AI tools to streamline operations, and practical ways to monetize audiences. If you’re trying to figure out your next move, this episode is packed with ideas you can run with.

Check out episode #118 for the second part of our discussion with James Camp, where we discuss his unique subsidized rehab business model, the importance of taking action in business and more!

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---
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---
00:00 Introduction and Business Potential
00:26 Guest Introduction: James Camp
01:08 James Camp's Business Philosophy
02:34 Current Projects and AI Integration
03:32 Crypto and Ad Tech Innovations
05:09 Challenges and Opportunities in Business
07:55 Managed Services and AI Implementation
13:16 Scaling and Pricing Strategies
16:32 Token Pricing and Market Dynamics
17:00 Strategies for Small and Medium Businesses
17:37 Starting from Zero: Building a Business with AI
18:51 Innovative Business Ideas: Never Call Again
22:07 AI in Business: Opportunities and Challenges
24:08 The Future of AI: AGI and ASI
29:58 Digital Detox: A New Business Opportunity

HoldCo Bros are back! Nik and I discussing how AI agents can automate tasks, focusing on their potential to revolutionize both business and personal productivity.

We brainstormed various ideas for using AI agents, such as making restaurant reservations and gathering quotes for wedding planning. We also considered having AI agents call businesses for market research, gather data from different industries, and build newsletters based on that data

Learn more about Nik here: http://linktr.ee/cofoundersnik

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---
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---
00:00 Introduction and Opening Banter
00:51 AI Agents and Restaurant Reservations
01:32 The Evolution of AI Technology
03:03 Washing Dishes and Creative Thinking
04:44 Business Ideas and Market Research
06:36 Wedding Planning with AI
11:17 The Future of AI in Everyday Tasks
14:39 Practical Uses of AI and Personal Experiences
19:38 Domain Names and Business Potential
20:36 Exploring Business Ideas: From Weddings to Parking Tickets
21:08 The Power of a Good Domain Name
21:36 AI's Transformative Potential
21:52 Teaching AI to the Next Generation
23:50 Entrepreneurial Opportunities with AI
24:29 Building a Business Around AI Education
31:17 Proprietary Information and AI Agents
33:41 The Value of Aggregated Data
39:15 Challenges and Costs of AI Agents
41:12 Final Thoughts and Future Applications

I'm back with another Q&A episode! This week, I answer your questions about scraping commercial real estate for leads, selling custom spreadsheets on Etsy, and how to close more deals over the phone. Plus, I share my thoughts on the best type of side hustle to start, whether you should choose e-commerce or a service business, and discuss my framework for starting, holding, and selling businesses. I'll also tackle the question of how to stay motivated when you're already well-off, and offer advice on bookkeeping for all of your new businesses.

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---
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---
00:00 Introduction to Business Ideas and Strategies
01:08 Scraping Commercial Real Estate for Grants
03:59 Selling Custom Spreadsheets on Etsy
11:06 Closing Sales Over the Phone
13:54 Choosing Between E-commerce and Service Businesses
15:48 Exploring Low-Cost Mattress Stores
19:04 Finding Motivation for New Business Ventures
22:50 Business Philosophy: Starting, Holding, and Selling
28:02 Bookkeeping and Accounting Essentials

In this episode, I'm talking about my first major business, an iPhone parts business called LCD Cycle, that I ran for seven years. I'll discuss how it started from a small iPhone repair business and grew to a multi-million dollar e-commerce operation. I'll share some key business frameworks I learned along the way, such as the importance of location, recognizing good ideas, and the fact that it's never too late to start a business. I also talk about the importance of product market fit and that businesses don't always fail, sometimes founders just run out of energy. Finally, I discuss my decision to turn down a million dollars in investment.

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---
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---
00:00 Introduction and Overview
00:37 The Beginnings: iPhone Repair Business
04:18 Launching the iPhone Parts Business
07:28 Scaling and Success
10:21 Frameworks and Lessons Learned
15:46 Navigating Market Saturation
16:02 The Rocket Ship Growth of LCD Cycle
16:44 Innovative Business Strategies
18:38 The Power of Customer Feedback
19:10 Strategic Relocation to Dallas
20:47 Expanding Distribution Centers
21:13 Financial Challenges and Solutions
23:11 The Turning Point: Seeking Investment
24:39 The Unexpected Answer
25:54 Winding Down the Business
27:34 Reflecting on the Journey
30:22 Final Thoughts and Advice

HoldCo Bros are back! Nik and I talk about our absolutely transformative 2024. It was a year of big wins and some pretty big fails, and we're breaking it all down. Is consistency overrated when it comes to content? We're debating that and more!

We discussed the world of content creation, going from cringe to building an audience of over a million people across multiple platforms. We explore how short-form video is like a lottery ticket - a small investment that can change everything. We also discuss how building an audience can create new opportunities, such as launching our vending machine business that already did over $200k in sales, as well as getting into some unsexy but profitable businesses. Of course, we're also talking about some tough lessons learned from our crypto business and other ventures that didn't work out. Plus, we're sharing our exciting plans for 2025. 

Learn more about Nik here: http://linktr.ee/cofoundersnik

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---
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---
00:00 Reflecting on a Chaotic Year
01:22 Quitting the Job and Embracing Entrepreneurship
02:31 The Power of Content Creation
03:59 Building an Audience and Exploring Opportunities
05:33 The Impact of Short Form Video
07:46 Turning Ideas into Reality
14:40 The Value of Consistency and Passion in Content
23:15 Exploring the Fun of Reporting
23:48 Big Wins and Validations
26:08 Building a Sales Team
28:31 Launching Repeat Leads
29:46 Investing in Communities and Businesses
36:51 Challenges and Failures
42:24 Looking Forward to 2025

In this episode, I'm giving you a peek behind the curtain with my 2024 year in review. I'm talking about all the crazy stuff that happened, from launching the tree biz bootcamp to blowing up my online content. I'm breaking down my net worth, (not exact numbers), I'm getting into percentages and where all my money is at. I'm also going to tell you what my plans are for the future, including maybe switching gears with my content and what my new health and fitness goals are. It's a raw look at my year, and I think you'll find it interesting.

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---
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---
00:00 Introduction
00:27 2024 Year in Review
01:41 Launching the Podcast
02:51 Partnership with Blue Metric
04:16 Investment Strategies and Lessons
10:00 Real Estate Ventures
14:14 Reflections and Future Goals
17:17 Content Creation Insights
18:40 Closing Thoughts and Gratitude

I sat down again with Sam Thompson (https://x.com/ImSamThompson), a regular on the podcast, to keep riffing on some great business ideas. In this second part, we cover everything from a tree-trimming service with a clever insurance-style add-on to a home concierge service for busy families, and even a placebo-based product line that plays on the power of perception.

We also talk about using AI for stuff like recipe generation, automating the boring parts of running a business, and spotting ways to cash in on trending social media content. 

Missed part one? Check out Ep. #108

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---
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---
00:00 Highlights & Introduction
00:37 Innovative Ideas for Tree Trimming Business
01:32 The Power of Recurring Revenue
02:10 Quarterly Inspections and Upcharges
02:29 Home Service Maintenance Plans
04:30 The Family Concierge Concept
05:31 Middleman Business Model
11:00 Leveraging DIY Trends for Business
14:15 ChatGPT and Recipe Blogs
16:13 AI-Powered Apps and Business Ideas
19:11 Plant Identification and AI Potential
20:50 Breaking the Pattern of Selection Bias
21:51 Understanding Market Perception
22:16 Leveraging Social Media Algorithms
23:35 Creating and Selling Digital Products
28:30 Exploring the Placebo Effect
29:57 Building a Business Around Placebos
31:39 The Power of Perception and Marketing

HoldCo Bros are back! Nik and I talk about starting a Christmas tree rental service with delivery and pickup, acquiring tree lots from landscaping companies, and buying into this type of seasonal business. We also discuss robot lawn mowing and cleaning services, how you can help small businesses monetize email lists, and a business owner accountability platform to help entrepreneurs stay on track.

Learn more about Nik here: http://linktr.ee/cofoundersnik

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---
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---
00:00 Highlights
00:32 TikTok Shop Concept Comes to Life
02:12 Christmas Tree Business Ideas
07:14 Exploring Landscaping and Tree Businesses
12:25 Innovative Uses for Autonomous Lawn Mowers
20:05 Exploring the Tree Farm Business
21:15 Monetizing Customer Email Lists
29:24 Business Owner Accountability Platform

I’m back with another Q&A episode! This week, I answer your questions about launching a private jet photo studio business, starting a tree trimming business while working a full-time job, and when to form an LLC for your side hustle. Plus, I share my thoughts on investing in e-commerce stores for “passive income,” how to cold email real estate agents for online personal training, expanding dog training business and creative ways to monetize inflatable walls. Finally, I leave you with some advice to help you kick off 2025 with the right mindset: Now, Not How.

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---
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---
00:00 Welcome and Quick Overview
00:23 Private Jet Photo Studio Business Idea
03:39 Starting a Tree Trimming Business
05:48 LLCs for Business Experiments
08:08 Investing in E-commerce for Passive Income
12:57 Cold Email Follow-up Strategies
15:36 Monetizing Inflatable Walls
17:47 Expanding a Dog Training Business
21:09 Final Advice for 2025

I sat down with Sam Thompson (https://x.com/ImSamThompson), a regular on the podcast, to riff on business ideas. We start with the prosumer software market, breaking down why targeting creators, real estate agents, and other prosumers offers huge opportunities. Then, we get into viral referral marketing, looking at the strategies behind companies like Robinhood and Dropbox, and brainstorm how to apply these methods outside of tech. Finally, we discuss box truck businesses, breaking down how to use mobile assets for high-margin ideas like podcast studios, golf simulators, and more.

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---
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---
00:00 Introduction & Highlights
01:09 Introduction to Prosumer Software
04:02 The Power of Viral Coefficient
05:02 Referral Marketing Success Stories
07:51 Creative Referral Marketing Strategies
13:19 Innovative Box Truck Business Ideas
15:37 Mobile Business Models and Flexibility
21:40 Fake Private Jet Studio
25:50 The Food Truck Parking Dilemma
27:55 Retrofitting Cars for Profit
28:30 Exploring Turo Opportunities
30:55 Camper Conversion Vans Business
32:28 AI Personal Assistants and Agents
34:23 Building and Monetizing Subreddits
41:34 Market Positioning and Pricing Strategies

HoldCo Bros are back! Nik and I talk about three big ideas this week. First, we talk about college tuition negotiation - helping families save thousands while building a lean, profitable service. Then, there’s the concierge service for college parents, offering insider knowledge and peace of mind. Finally, we talk about dead inventory and share creative ways to turn surplus stock into cash.

Learn more about Nik here: http://linktr.ee/cofoundersnik

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---
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---
00:00 Highlights
00:35 Introduction: The Untapped Potential of Negotiating College Tuition
01:33 Exploring the Concept: Why Isn't Tuition Negotiation More Popular?
03:14 The Business Opportunity: Tuition Negotiation as a Service
05:28 Strategies for Negotiating Tuition
10:38 Case Study: A Friend's Apparel Business Venture
17:11 Creative Ideas for T-Shirt Designs
18:27 The Success Story of 'God is Dope'
19:43 Marketing Strategies for T-Shirt Brands
23:25 The University Concierge Service Idea
29:46 Evaluating Business Ideas: Marry, Date, or Kill
33:12 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

I sat down with Connor Gross (https://x.com/c_gro), a regular on the podcast. We got into some cool ideas once again. We started with used golf sets - why they’re easy to refurbish, flip, and scale. Then, we talked about aquascapes: personalized, high-ticket, very niche and profitable. We also talk about the cruise industry and why it’s a massive, untapped market for entrepreneurs. And we also talked about pianos and how they’re a nightmare to get rid of and the surprising business opportunities that come with solving that problem.

Check out Connor’s free newsletter! https://www.bizbrainstorms.com

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---
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---
00:00 Highlights - Introduction
01:00 Exploring the Golf Club Business Idea
01:55 Facebook Marketplace Opportunities
03:21 High-Ticket Niche Markets
06:38 Travel Agents and Cruise Bookings
10:43 Shore Excursions and Travel Hacks
18:04 Aquascapes: A New Business Idea
20:30 Piano Disposal Business Model
25:16 Conclusion and Key Takeaways

In this episode, I dive deep into the bounce house rental business, breaking down how you can start with a one-time investment of $1,600 and get your money back the first month. From low overhead to high margins, I discuss why this is one of the best side hustles that can grow into a 6, 7, or even 8-figure business. I recently spoke with the owner of Castles of Dallas, a successful bounce house rental business, to bring you real-world insights on finding your first customers, leveraging referral marketing, and scaling efficiently using Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, local mom groups, and more.

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---
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---
00:00 Introduction to Bounce House Rental Business
00:32 Explanation of New Format
01:37 (Episode Starts Here) Why Bounce House Business? 
04:07 Tweet about bounce house rental Business
07:06 Marketing and Scaling Strategies
09:44 Operational Insights and Challenges
15:08 Industry Insights and Opportunities
22:37 Conclusion and Next Steps

HoldCo Bros are back! Nik and I dive into three big ideas this week. First, we explore how to use farmers markets as a testing ground for new ideas, getting direct customer feedback and validating concepts. Next, we discuss creating and coordinating farmers markets, including strategies for organizing and scaling them effectively. Finally, we brainstorm the pet piggyback idea: leveraging pet-related products and services in niche markets to tap into a growing industry.

Learn more about Nik here: http://linktr.ee/cofoundersnik

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---
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---
00:00 HIghlights_The Booming Pet Industry
00:34 The Quest for Authentic Texas Brisket Jerky
04:02 The Secret Behind McDonald's Coke
06:38 Pizza Oven Business Idea
08:45 Scaling Food Businesses at Farmer's Markets
12:13 Exploring the Farmer's Market Concept
12:35 Building an E-Commerce Platform for Local Markets
14:28 Understanding State Laws for Farmer's Markets
15:14 Pet Industry Insights: A Growing Market
16:24 Leaky Gut in Pets: A Business Opportunity
17:26 Marketing Strategies for Pet Products
18:07 Leveraging Email Lists and Facebook Groups
19:35 Exploring E-Commerce Business Opportunities
22:56 Shopify Marketplace and Business Listings
25:50 Concluding Thoughts and Reflections

In this episode, I answer your voicemail-submitted questions about launching a vending machine business with math on your side, overcoming burnout and rediscovering passion, pricing for a mobile oil change service, and whether accountability coaching can work as a business model. Plus, I share insights into starting an email marketing agency built around Klaviyo and why a bike-powered smoothie business might be the next big thing at farmers' markets.

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---
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---
00:42 Claw machine business tips
08:01 Handling failure and burnout
13:17 Pricing for mobile oil changes
15:44 $20k—service biz vs. perfume vending
20:54 Bike smoothie biz at festivals
22:36 Business tutor—worth it?
26:52 Klaviyo agency saturation

In this episode, I sit down with Kyler, founder of Utah Appliance Rental (utahappliancerental.com), to talk about how he turned a $30k investment into a business that generates near-passive income requiring only 5-10 hours of work per week. We talk about how he started his appliance rental company, scaling, and leveraging Facebook Marketplace to validate ideas.

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---
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---
00:00 The Birth of an Idea: Washer and Dryer Rentals
02:56 Navigating Challenges: The Reality of Entrepreneurship
06:11 Scaling the Business: From Rentals to Deliveries
09:01 Understanding the Market: Customer Needs and Preferences
11:47 Operational Insights: Tools and Strategies for Success
15:07 Addressing Concerns: Insurance, Risks, and Customer Relations
17:57 The Bigger Picture: Financial Education and Ethical Entrepreneurship
20:47 Final Thoughts: Building a Sustainable Business Model

HoldCo Bros are back! Nik and I are talking about two big ideas today. First up, we talk about the Silver Tsunami - how to capture stories from the older generation using AI. Think video interviews, AI transcription, and even creating chatbots based on family history. Then we talked about biohacking - Chris shares his idea of using tools like continuous glucose monitors for accountability challenges. It’s all about health, growth, and leveraging tech to make life better.

Learn more about Nik here: http://linktr.ee/cofoundersnik

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---
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---
00:00 Highlights_Innovative Business Ideas in Elder Care
02:51 The Silver Tsunami: Understanding Aging Population Trends
05:46 Capturing Family Stories: A Growing Opportunity
09:10 Leveraging Technology for Story Preservation
12:06 Creating Value in Assisted Living Facilities
14:59 The Business Model: Vitamins vs. Painkillers
17:48 Practical Implementation: Building a Storytelling Studio
21:36 Innovative Storytelling in Assisted Living
23:15 New Year, New Business Opportunities
24:40 Digitizing Personal Histories
26:07 Understanding Health Through Technology
28:59 Accountability in Health Challenges
30:55 Monetizing Passion Projects
33:16 Finding Your Business Passion
38:05 Evaluating Business Ideas: Mary, Date, or Kill?

In this episode, I answer your voicemail-submitted questions about scaling a furniture flipping business, overcoming entrepreneurial fears, starting with limited capital, launching a photo booth business, finding leads for a health insurance business, and the best low-risk, high-reward businesses to start. Plus, I share thoughts on what apps I'd build with an elite developer.

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---
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---
00:00 Introduction 
01:20 Furniture Flipping Business
06:28 Overcoming Entrepreneurial Fears
15:04 Creative Solutions in Business
16:22 Low-Risk, High-Reward Business Ideas
19:35 Photo Booth Business Idea
22:58 Scaling a Health Insurance Business
26:21 Developing and Scaling Apps
29:13 Conclusion and Feedback Request

In this episode, I sat down with Cinco Winston, the founder of True Line Striping TX (https://truelinestripingtx.com). Cinco shares his journey of leaving his W-2 job to starting a successful pavement marking business in Waco, Texas.

We discuss his approach to finding clients, managing cash flow, and offering early discounts to build credibility. Cinco shares his strategies for pricing jobs effectively, the challenges of door-knocking for new customers, and the lessons learned from navigating the early months of running a business.

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
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---
00:00 Highlights & Introduction
06:07 Understanding the Business Model: Costs and Profits
11:53 Navigating the First Jobs: Building a Customer Base
18:15 Job Types and Revenue: Small, Medium, and Large Projects
24:49 Building a Customer Base Through Networking
30:52 Sales Strategies and Customer Acquisition
36:13 The Challenges and Rewards of Business Ownership
41:55 Scaling the Business and Future Plans

Facebook Group Lead Generation Tool: https://groupboss.io/?ref=Tkopod

HoldCo Bros are back! Nik and I are talking about three fun business ideas today, but this is just Part 1 - stay tuned for Part 2 next week. First up, we talk about custom concerts: turning live music venues into unique experiences by letting fans bid on song requests, almost like a live auction. Then we talk about AI-powered local newsletter idea = using AI to create super-targeted newsletters that help generate local leads. Finally, we get into Facebook groups as a way to get leads.

Learn more about Nik here: http://linktr.ee/cofoundersnik

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---
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---
00:00 Highlights
00:30 Live Music Idea
14:50 Local Newsletter Idea
18:11 Monetizing Newsletters and Facebook Groups
21:04 Facebook Groups for Lead Generation

I sat down with Daniel Astleford, a CPA and the owner of a unique fireworks business. In this episode, Daniel shares how he manages both a remote CPA firm and a fireworks stand business in Texas. We discuss the unexpected opportunities and the hurdles that come with acquiring and scaling seasonal businesses, the challenges of working with silent partners, and the ins and outs of running a fireworks business legally. 

Links and Actions:

• Learn more about Daniel's Fireworks Business: https://bigarrowfireworks.com
• Connect with Daniel on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/daniel-astleford

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---
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Ask me a question on or off the show here: http://tkopod.co/p-ask
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---
00:00 Highlights_Introduction to the Fireworks Business Journey
02:49 Building a Remote CPA Firm and Fireworks Side Hustle
06:09 The Decision to Buy a Fireworks Company
09:05 Understanding the Financials and Revenue Potential
11:50 Navigating the Challenges of Location and Zoning Laws
15:11 The Impact of Seasonal Sales and Location Changes
18:05 Lessons Learned from the First Year of Operations
24:46 Scaling the Fireworks Business
30:08 Navigating Competition and Location Challenges
36:55 Operational Success and Future Goals
40:45 Marketing Strategies and Customer Engagement

Become a Certified Sleep Consultant: https://tkopod.co/sleep

I sat down with Jayne Havens, the founder of The Snoozefest.com. In this episode, Jayne shares her journey from being a stay-at-home mom to becoming a certified sleep consultant, running a highly successful business that helps parents get their children to sleep better. We talk about how she turned her skills into a successful business. She also shares the details of her sleep consulting services and how she is training others to follow in her footsteps.

Useful Links:

• Become a Certified Sleep Consultant: https://tkopod.co/sleep
• Learn more about Jayne: https://theSNOOZEFEST.com
• Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/becomeasleepconsultant
• Becoming a Sleep Consultant Podcast: https://thecpsm.com/category/podcast/

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---
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---
00:00 Highlights-From Event Planning to Sleep Consulting
02:56 The Importance of Certification in Sleep Consulting
05:49 Understanding Client Relationships and Boundaries
08:48 Service Structure and Pricing Models
12:12 Success Rates and Client Commitment
15:07 Key Strategies for Helping Children Sleep
17:56 The Role of Emotional Support in Sleep Consulting
20:46 Identifying Underlying Issues in Sleep Problems
24:01 Building a Referral-Based Business
26:55 The Future of Sleep Consulting as a Franchise
30:03 Final Thoughts and Resources

HoldCo Bros are back! Nik and I sit down to continue our discussion from last week (check out Part 1 - Episode #92 if you missed it!). In this episode, we continue brainstorming cool business ideas, like how to capitalize on website change monitoring for arbitrage and creating a tax Sherpa concept for entrepreneurs. We also do our "marry, date, or kill" segment to assess which of these ideas are worth pursuing, testing, or dropping.

Learn more about Nik here: http://linktr.ee/cofoundersnik

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---
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---
00:00 Website Monitoring Idea
11:50 CPA Idea
20:52 Evaluating Business Ideas: Mary, Date, or Kill?

I sat down with Alex Nelson (https://x.com/weddingvenueguy), the owner of The Midnight Gem, a successful wedding venue in Swisher, Iowa. In this episode, we talk about how he went from concept to pre-booking $300,000 in weddings before construction was even completed. We also discuss how he achieved his $800,000+ annual revenue, how he differentiated his venue from the typical Iowa barns, and his approach to scaling profits with events beyond weddings. 

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---
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Ask me a question on or off the show here: http://tkopod.co/p-ask
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---
00:00 Highlights - The Birth of a Wedding Venue Dream
02:58 Navigating the Wedding Venue Landscape
06:11 Funding the Vision: From Idea to Reality
09:03 Marketing Strategies for Success
11:52 Understanding Demand and Market Fit
15:10 Building a Unique Venue in a Saturated Market
17:58 Financial Performance and Future Outlook
21:24 Exploring Wedding Venue Opportunities
23:21 Innovative Rental Services in the Wedding Industry
25:12 Understanding Supply and Demand in Wedding Services
27:32 Diversifying Event Offerings Beyond Weddings
30:20 The Importance of Alcohol Sales in Venue Revenue
32:42 Lessons Learned from Operating a Wedding Venue
35:02 Trends in the Wedding Industry
38:26 Maximizing Venue Potential with On-Site Accommodations
40:19 Advice for Aspiring Wedding Venue Owners

I sat down with Connor Gross (https://x.com/c_gro), for Part 2 of our discussion on creative business ideas. If you haven't listened to Part 1 (Episode #90), go check it out to get the full context!

In this episode, we talk about a "hole in one" challenge business in New Zealand that makes use of a lakeside setup to bring in around $650,000 in annual revenue. We also talk about how games of skill can be turned into sustainable business models, including franchise opportunities. Lastly, we came up with an idea for a build-your-own record player kit for kids, something that could be the next big thing, like an Easy-Bake Oven for vinyl lovers.

Check out Connor’s free newsletter! https://www.bizbrainstorms.com

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---
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Ask me a question on or off the show here: http://tkopod.co/p-ask
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---
00:00 Innovative Business Ideas in Skill Games
02:47 The Viability of Skill-Based Gambling
06:09 Franchising Opportunities in Skill Games
08:58 The Nostalgia of Record Players
11:51 Creating Engaging Experiences for Kids
14:45 The Future of Physical Products in a Digital Age

HoldCo Bros are back! Nik and I discuss four exciting ideas, but in this first part, we talk about two main ideas: growing a subreddit as a powerful business tool and a creative business-in-a-box solution for wantrepreneurs. We talk about how to effectively use Reddit as a growth hack, including automation tools like Zapier and AI, and also brainstorm a comprehensive package for those starting side hustles, but this is only Part 1 - stay tuned for the Part 2 next week!

Learn more about Nik here: http://linktr.ee/cofoundersnik

Timestamps below. Enjoy!
---
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Ask me a question on or off the show here: http://tkopod.co/p-ask
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---
00:00 Introduction
02:50 Navigating Reddit for Growth
06:09 Leveraging AI and Automation
09:06 Practical Applications for Entrepreneurs
12:01 Creative Marketing Strategies
14:48 Innovative Business Ideas
18:10 Exploring New Monetization Opportunities
20:38 Business in a box idea