Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business
Nikolas Hulewsky
Welcome to Nikonomics—the show for entrepreneurs and Wantrapreneurs, looking to make their first million.
I bring firsthand experience, having bought and sold over a dozen businesses, achieved multiple 7-figure exits, and generated over $100 million in revenue.
Each week, I blend humor with real insights from successful entrepreneurs, sharing growth strategies, deal insights, and unique business ideas you won’t find elsewhere.
Ready to turn your entrepreneurial dreams into reality? Hit play and let’s get to work.
Follow me on Twitter @CoFoundersNik or YouTube @NikonomicsPodcast.
I bring firsthand experience, having bought and sold over a dozen businesses, achieved multiple 7-figure exits, and generated over $100 million in revenue.
Each week, I blend humor with real insights from successful entrepreneurs, sharing growth strategies, deal insights, and unique business ideas you won’t find elsewhere.
Ready to turn your entrepreneurial dreams into reality? Hit play and let’s get to work.
Follow me on Twitter @CoFoundersNik or YouTube @NikonomicsPodcast.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jan 13, 2025 • 47min
107 - How This Hot Sauce Maker Got on Hot Ones with Scott Zalkind
In this episode, Scott Zalkind, the founder of Lucky Dog Hot Sauce, shares his fascinating journey from horticulturist and IT professional to hot sauce entrepreneur. He reveals how his scientific approach transformed recipe development and the challenges of navigating production and distribution in a competitive market. Scott discusses the thrill of being featured on 'Hot Ones' and its impact on brand visibility. He emphasizes the importance of customer feedback and his iterative approach to crafting the perfect hot sauce, proving that failure can lead to growth.
51 snips
Jan 10, 2025 • 44min
106 - TOP PICK! How to Use AI Agents to Do the Work For You with Chris Koerner
Join Chris Koerner, a business partner and AI expert, as he reveals how AI agents can revolutionize both business and personal productivity. They brainstorm creative uses for AI, like automating wedding planning and market research calls. Chris discusses utilizing niche markets and developing unique revenue models for AI solutions. They also explore the importance of effective questioning and the potential for teaching adults how to harness AI tools. Tune in for insights that could transform how you work and plan!
Jan 8, 2025 • 43min
105 - TOP PICK! How to Build a 50k Local Newsletter in 6 Months Using AI with Jas Singh
Jas Singh, the founder of a thriving local newsletter in Winnipeg, shares his remarkable journey of gaining 50,000 subscribers in just six months. He discusses the shift from an AI-focused newsletter to curating local content, emphasizing community over crime and politics. Singh reveals how he utilizes AI, like ChatGPT, for content creation while maintaining a personal touch. Strategies for organic growth, effective ad pricing, and the importance of community engagement are also key highlights, offering valuable insights for aspiring newsletter creators.
8 snips
Jan 6, 2025 • 58min
104 - Why a Talent Partner is Key to Your Company's Growth with Kelie Morgan
In this engaging discussion, Kelie Morgan, founder of 10th Street Talent, shares her inspiring journey from stay-at-home mom to executive recruiter. She dives into the evolution of her firm as a talent partner, emphasizing collaboration over traditional recruitment. Kelie highlights the innovative use of AI in talent sourcing and discusses the importance of interpersonal skills in business. She also explores the balance between client fulfillment and building relationships, illustrating how a strategic approach can lead to sustainable growth for small to medium-sized businesses.
Jan 3, 2025 • 45min
103 - Is Consistency Overrated? Content, Wins & Losses, Investments, & Our 2024 Business Lessons with Chris Koerner
In this engaging discussion, Chris Koerner, Nik's business partner and a content creation expert, dives into their transformative year of wins and losses. They debate whether consistency in content is truly essential, share their journey from cringe-worthy beginnings to building a million-strong audience, and explore the life-changing potential of short-form video as a business investment. Chris also discusses new ventures, including a successful vending machine business, tough lessons from failed investments, and their ambitious plans for 2025.
13 snips
Dec 30, 2024 • 42min
102 - EBITDA vs. SDE: What Every Business Buyer Needs to Know with Dennis Unrein
Dennis Unrein, a micro VC and founder of Private Ventures Group, shares insights on the evolving landscape of private equity focused on small businesses. He discusses the crucial differences between EBITDA and SDE metrics, helping buyers make informed decisions. Dennis highlights the unique opportunities in acquiring retiring baby boomer-owned businesses, particularly in niche industries like elderly care and telecommunications. The conversation also covers the benefits of self-funded searches and how Special Purpose Vehicles can simplify investments.
7 snips
Dec 27, 2024 • 37min
101 - Robot Lawnmowers, Christmas Tree Business & Monetizing Email Lists with Chris Koerner
Discover unusual business ideas like a Christmas tree concierge and the fun of selling on TikTok. The hosts explore starting a landscaping business, focusing on logistics and profitability. Robotics make an entrance with autonomous lawnmowers, showcasing tech’s role in landscaping. Insights on acquiring local businesses owned by retirees highlight fresh opportunities. Plus, the importance of email marketing and accountability partnerships shines through in effective business strategies.
Dec 23, 2024 • 48min
100 - How The Tuttle Twins Sold 6 Million Books Teaching Kids About Entrepreneurship, Freedom & More with Connor Boyack
In this engaging conversation, Connor Boyack, creator of the Tuttle Twins and president of the Libertas Network, shares his inspiring journey of turning a simple idea into a $15M nonprofit that has sold over 6 million books. He discusses the importance of teaching kids about entrepreneurship and freedom, innovative fundraising strategies, and the challenges his nonprofit faced, especially during the pandemic. Connor emphasizes the need for accessible economic education to empower future generations, blending commercial publishing and philanthropy seamlessly.
Dec 20, 2024 • 34min
99 - How To Start A Business With No Money: College Tuition Negotiation, Local Concierge & More with Chris Koerner
Join business guru Chris Koerner, who has successfully generated over $100 million in various ventures. He shares fascinating insights on negotiating college tuition to help families save money while creating profitable services. The conversation also sparks the idea of a local concierge service designed for parents of college students, ensuring peace of mind. Plus, they explore innovative ways to turn dead inventory into cash flow, making this a treasure trove of unique business opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs.
10 snips
Dec 18, 2024 • 33min
98 - How to Start and Scale an ATM Business: From 3 to 900 Machines ($180k/Month) with Mitchell Sorkin
Mitchell Sorkin, known as "The ATM Guy," shares his incredible journey from e-commerce to running a booming ATM business with 900 machines generating $180k/month. He discusses the scalability of ATMs, detailing revenue streams through transaction fees and the negotiation of ATM routes. Mitchell highlights the ease of managing capital over people, explores operational strategies, and emphasizes the importance of location for revenue. He encourages budding entrepreneurs to embrace experimentation as a pathway to success.
