He Makes $1,000,000 in 30 Days Selling Christmas Trees
Dec 20, 2024
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Dive into the cutthroat world of New York's Christmas tree market, revealing the fierce competition behind the holiday cheer. Explore the surprising profitability of seasonal businesses and the rise of innovative health startups challenging traditional models. Discover the skepticism surrounding billionaire ventures in media and healthcare, and hear predictions on future consumer trends toward sustainability and local sourcing. Plus, get insights on concierge medicine and unconventional fitness routines that emphasize natural movements.
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Quick takeaways
The Christmas tree sales market in New York City showcases intense competition and territory management among sellers, making it a high-stakes business.
Innovative health startups like Neko Health and Superpower represent a cultural shift towards preventive care and proactive health management strategies.
Deep dives
The Christmas Tree Business in New York
Christmas tree sales in New York City represent a cutthroat industry dominated by a few individuals known as 'tree men.' These sellers control designated territories within the city, each with their unique styles and approaches to the business. One prominent figure, Kevin Hammer, reportedly manages a significant portion of the tree stands in Manhattan, earning upwards of a million dollars each December. The podcast reveals how these sales are not just about holiday cheer but are intertwined with intense competition and strategic territory management.
The Historical Shift of Christmas Trees
The tradition of placing a Christmas tree indoors gained popularity in the mid-19th century, beginning with an out-of-work Dutchman named Mark Carr. He is credited with the commercialization of the Christmas tree in Manhattan, having recognized the public's desire for a slice of nature during the festive season. Carr's initiative began with a simple permit to sell trees at a market, which transformed into a widespread practice across the city. This shift illustrates how societal perceptions of Christmas celebrations have evolved over the past 200 years.
Seasonal Businesses and Their Challenges
The podcast discusses the unique nature of businesses that thrive around seasonal events like Christmas, highlighting the intense pressure these entrepreneurs face during peak sales periods. Examples include stories of managing pumpkin sales and the tight window for maximizing profits. Such seasonal operations can create high stakes for owners, as most of their revenue is accumulated within a brief timeframe. The conversation also delves into the operational side, illustrating how logistics and strategies play critical roles in their success.
Evolving Trends in Health Startups
The emergence of health startups focusing on preventive care reflects a growing cultural interest in proactive health management. Companies like Neko Health and Superpower offer advanced health screenings and annual physicals that significantly enhance traditional healthcare models. Neko Health, for instance, reported impressive traction with over 60,000 signups shortly after its launch, showcasing demand for innovative health solutions. These trends signal a shift towards a more health-conscious society, where consumers are willing to invest in their long-term well-being.
Episode 661: Sam Parr ( https://x.com/theSamParr ) and Shaan Puri ( https://x.com/ShaanVP ) talk about the NY Christmas Tree mafia, 2 health startups with crazy traction, plus their predictions for big trends in 2025.
Need to hire? You should use the same service Shaan uses to hire developers, designers, & Virtual Assistants → it’s called Shepherd (tell ‘em Shaan sent you): https://bit.ly/SupportShepherd
My First Million is a HubSpot Original Podcast // Brought to you by The HubSpot Podcast Network // Production by Arie Desormeaux // Editing by Ezra Bakker Trupiano
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