Christopher is the author of the highly rated book The Value Equation, which teaches entrepreneurs how to create profitable businesses that generate multi-million dollar wealth for them and their investors using a simple formula he made in 1999.
Using his V-Formula, entrepreneurs can determine their companies' pre-tax return on equity and wealth creation potential in advance.
Christopher, a recognized business model expert, shares in his book the ideas he used to lead and take three market-leading real estate investment companies, two of which he co-founded, public via the New York Stock Exchange.
His companies provided $20B+ in growth capital to thousands of businesses across the U.S., helping them succeed. The strong business models Chris devised enabled his companies to outperform and attract some of the world's leading investors, including Berkshire Hathaway.
https://thevalueequation.com/the-author/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-volk-86848b3/
Summary
Career Discussion and Meeting Format
Michael and Christopher discussed their respective careers and their current meeting format. Michael assured Christopher that the meeting would be recorded and edited for corrections. Christopher shared his background as a finance professional, detailing his real estate experience and success in publicizing companies. He also mentioned his current role as chairman of another such company. Michael commended Christopher's work in creating opportunities for investors and providing funds for small businesses to grow.
Successful Companies, Free Enterprise, and Small Businesses
Christopher shared his success in creating a successful company and his belief in the virtuous nature of the free enterprise system. He decided to write a book to inspire others to create their own successful companies. Michael agreed with Christopher and highlighted the importance of small businesses, emphasizing their role in creating jobs and serving communities. He also shared his observation of the recent surge in people wanting to start their businesses. Both agreed on the need for more small businesses to meet the growing demand for services in suburban areas.
Discussing Book on Business Wealth Creation
Michael and Christopher discussed the time-consuming nature of writing a book and the motivation behind it. Christopher shared that his book, which took about a year to write, was inspired by 20 years of contemplation on how businesses create wealth. He noted that while there are many books on personal finance, there needs to be more literature on wealth creation through business. Christopher explained that businesses are the primary engine generating most of the wealth in the US, and his book aims to fill the gap by describing how to start and grow profitable businesses.
Entrepreneurial Motivations and Business Creation
Christopher and Michael discussed their motivations for starting companies, citing a desire to avoid regret and pursue their passions as primary drivers. Michael shared his experience and advice, emphasizing the importance of taking marketing classes and encouraging accounting students to be more entrepreneurial. He also highlighted the value of creating new businesses and products to benefit society and the economy, using his observation of new store openings as an example. Michael praised Christopher's book for providing practical guidance and encouraging people to prioritize their well-being and success.
Developing a Successful Business Strategy
Michael and Christopher discussed the process of developing a successful business. Michael emphasized the importance of curiosity, adaptability, and a desire to learn to build and improve a business continuously. He also highlighted the importance of giving back to the community and supporting other local businesses. Christopher agreed, noting that a well-designed business model could make a company worth more than it costs to create, leading to financial success, employee wealth, and the ability to impact the community positively. They both stressed the importance of considering all business model components to achieve these goals.
Mentorship, Wealth Creation, and Voting Preferences
Michael stressed the importance of mentorship and paying it forward, illustrating how Red Fox helped Marita buy a house. Christopher responded by discussing his book, "The Value Equation," which emphasizes the role of mathematics and accounting in wealth creation for entrepreneurs, investors, and leaders.
Breakfast Leadership Show