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
16 snips
Nov 13, 2024 • 36min
83 - Why This Entrepreneur Paid $9.2M for a Domain with Jesse Tinsley
Jesse Tinsley, a visionary entrepreneur behind five companies like employer.com and recruiter.com, discusses the dynamics of domain value, revealing why he invested $9.2 million in a premium name. He shares his unconventional acquisition strategies, emphasizing creative financing methods that require little upfront capital. Jesse also reflects on his journey into entrepreneurship, the opportunities he sees in the HR tech landscape, and how strong domain names can shape business identity. A treasure trove of insights for aspiring business owners!
Nov 11, 2024 • 45min
82 - How to Buy & Run a $10M Textile Biz with a $3M Moat with Kevin Bibelhausen
In this engaging chat, Kevin Bibelhausen, owner of a $10M textile business and former healthcare and tech entrepreneur, reveals his unconventional path to success. He discusses acquiring a business through a self-funded search and the unique challenges of the textile industry, including managing working capital and supplier relationships. Kevin also shares how his musical background propels his creative approach to entrepreneurship. Dive into his insights on navigating markets, leveraging technology, and the importance of customer engagement in this often-overlooked sector.
Nov 8, 2024 • 33min
81 - How to Create a $10K/Month Side Hustle with GPT for Sheets with Chris Koerner
Chris Koerner, Nik's business partner with a track record of generating over $100 million in revenue, joins to discuss innovative strategies. They dive into the game-changing applications of GPT for Google Sheets for better data management. The duo also explores creative dating concepts to enhance online interactions. Among the unique entrepreneurial ideas, they assess the monetization of treasure hunting, revealing exciting possibilities for niche markets. Their playful 'marry, date, or kill' segment determines which business ideas have the most potential!
Nov 6, 2024 • 50min
80 - How the $574B Digital Media Industry Is Being Disrupted by a Sesame Street Alum with Caroline Strzalka
In this engaging conversation, Caroline Strzalka, founder of Overplay and former Sesame Street employee, shares her journey from Wharton MBA to innovating the $574B digital media industry. She discusses how her no-code platform transforms videos into interactive games, revolutionizing content repurposing. Caroline also reflects on securing an investment from Mark Cuban and offers insights into navigating startup funding, especially during the pandemic. Her story illustrates the power of creativity and adaptability in entrepreneurship.
Nov 4, 2024 • 51min
79 - How to Do Less, Earn More, and Have Way More Fun with Jessica Miller
Jessica Miller, founder of Jessica Miller Coaching and expert in growth and sales consulting for entrepreneurs, shares her transformative journey from the pharmaceutical industry to coaching. She reveals strategies to double revenue without extra effort and highlights common pitfalls in sales and marketing. Jessica emphasizes the importance of simplifying processes and eliminating inefficiencies to boost success. With actionable advice on client engagement and optimizing business models, she inspires listeners to grow smarter while pursuing their passions.
Nov 1, 2024 • 28min
78 - Selling Drugs, Vending Machines and Stripping Bankrupt Companies for Parts with Chris Koerner
Chris Koerner, a savvy entrepreneur and Nik's business partner, shares insights from their impressive journey generating over $100 million in various ventures. They discuss clever strategies for acquiring assets from bankrupt companies and the wild success of their viral perfume vending machines. The duo reflects on the challenges of rebuilding sales teams and the realities of unexpected business failures. Don't miss their entertaining 'marry, date, or kill' segment where they evaluate intriguing entrepreneurial ideas.
Oct 30, 2024 • 46min
77 - How a Former Marine Built an $8M Landscaping Biz with Nolan Gore
Nolan Gore, owner of a booming residential lawn and landscaping business with over $7.5 million in annual revenue, shares his entrepreneurial journey. He discusses the emotional highs and lows of running a business and the hard lessons he's learned along the way. Nolan highlights the importance of leadership experience and the challenges of scaling operations. He also delves into the intricacies of acquiring competitors and the crucial due diligence needed in the process. Tune in for an honest look at the realities of entrepreneurship and successful business navigation!
Oct 28, 2024 • 32min
76 - TOP PICK! The Reality of Buying Your First Business with Chandler Reed
Chandler Reed, an educator who has guided over 200 aspiring entrepreneurs through his SMB Bootcamp, shares eye-opening insights about purchasing a first business. He discusses the challenges and lessons from his own acquisition journey, including negotiating deals and the realities of operating a small business. Chandler highlights misconceptions about entrepreneurship and explains his decision to buy a job rather than just a business. Listeners gain practical advice on minimizing risk and understanding that the post-purchase landscape can be tough.
Oct 25, 2024 • 44min
75 - The Secret to Profiting from AI Automation While Saving Clients Thousands with Chris Koerner
Chris Koerner, Nik's business partner and automation expert, joins the discussion on inventive business concepts. They explore establishing an automation agency using tools like Zapier and Make.com. The duo dives into the potential of launching an AI-generated family photo business and creative seasonal ventures aimed at maximizing quick profits. They even brainstorm a quirky dating show idea that could spark interest. With insightful marketing strategies and a humorous touch, the conversation is loaded with inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Oct 23, 2024 • 51min
74 - From Self-Made Billionaire at 35 to Bankruptcy Just 12 Months Later with Zac Prince
Zac Prince, the founder of BlockFi, a crypto lender that managed $15 billion, shares his incredible journey from becoming a self-made billionaire at 35 to facing bankruptcy just a year later. He discusses the harsh realities of the crypto collapse and the lessons he's learned about equity and volatility. Transitioning to real estate, Zac reveals why he left the crypto space and his new role as CEO at RE Cost Seg, focusing on tax savings for investors. His insights on resilience in high-risk environments are both inspiring and thought-provoking.
