Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business
Nikolas Hulewsky
Welcome to Nikonomics—the show for entrepreneurs and Wantrapreneurs, ready to tackle the toughest roadblocks to their first million.Nik brings firsthand experience, having bought and sold over a dozen businesses, achieved multiple 7-figure exits, and generated over $100 million in revenue.Each week, he blends 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 here: https://twitter.com/CoFoundersNik or @CoFoundersNik
Episodes
Mentioned books
12 snips
Jun 10, 2025 • 40min
185 - How to Build and Sell Apps with No Code with Billy Howell
Billy Howell, an entrepreneur who has created over 60 apps with AI through his agency Stupid Simple Apps, shares his insights on building chatbots without coding expertise. He breaks down practical use cases for small businesses, troubleshooting real-time issues, and efficient data management. The discussion includes leveraging tools like Replit and OpenAI for seamless app development and exploring the importance of simple, functional design. Listeners will discover how to navigate coding challenges while embracing no-code solutions for their entrepreneurial ventures.
11 snips
Jun 9, 2025 • 45min
184 - How to Decide If Franchising is the Right Business Path for You with Connor Groce
Connor Groce, a franchise consultant with experience in fitness franchises and launching Smash My Trash, discusses the ins and outs of franchising. He clarifies common myths, emphasizing that franchising is a serious business pathway, not just for novices. Connor dives deep into the importance of the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) and encourages potential franchisees to speak with existing owners for unaffiliated insights. He also outlines different franchise models and the varying investment costs, helping listeners align opportunities with their personal strengths and goals.
Jun 6, 2025 • 37min
183 - Turning AI Ideas Into Real Income with Chris Koerner
Chris Koerner, a business partner of Nik and an AI expert, dives into practical AI applications for building businesses. They discuss the innovative 'give-to-get' model for sharing AI ideas. Koerner highlights AI's role in revolutionizing hiring with personality-based quizzes and the cost savings they offer. The conversation also touches on using AI-generated market research reports as powerful lead magnets and a clever prompt engineering technique that can enhance AI outputs. Tune in for fresh insights on making AI work for you!
21 snips
Jun 4, 2025 • 35min
182 - How to Build Your Own AI Personal Assistant with Elizabeth Knopf
Elizabeth Knopf, a tech expert at Leveraged Upside, dives into the rapid advancements in AI and its implications for daily life. She discusses the competitive race among major AI players and the controversial effects of AI on white-collar jobs. The conversation takes a critical look at whether government intervention in AI is a tactical move. Elizabeth shares insights on using Claude as a personal assistant, effective onboarding for virtual assistants, and practical tips for integrating AI tools to boost productivity.
May 30, 2025 • 25min
180 - Can Laundromats Really Make You a Millionaire with Tyler Purcell
Tyler Purcell, Founder of The Laundry Spot and COO of Kipling Wealth Advisors, shares his insights into the lucrative laundromat business. He reveals how this recession-proof model offers surprising profit margins and why targeting 'zombie mats' is a smart strategy. Tyler discusses the importance of selecting locations with strong demographics and traffic, as well as his unique marketing techniques for grand openings. With personal anecdotes, he outlines the financial landscape for aspiring laundromat owners, emphasizing the potential for wealth creation.
May 28, 2025 • 40min
179 - $6.5B for a Designer? OpenAI’s Wildest Move Yet, with Liz Knopf
In this engaging discussion, Liz Knopf, an expert on AI news and trends, dives into the shocking $6.5 billion acquisition of Johnny Ive's design agency by OpenAI. They explore the implications for privacy and tech design, Google's AI comeback with innovative search functionalities, and the revolutionary VO3 AI-generated videos. Liz highlights the importance of energy infrastructure for AGI and predicts a boom in trade jobs as AI advances. With a hint of humor, they address the potential privacy nightmare of AI wearables.
May 26, 2025 • 45min
178 - How Facebook Ads Nearly Killed This $12.5M Brand with Hans Dose
Hans Dose, an entrepreneur who turned a Shark Tank deal into a $12.5 million brand named Tentacle, reveals his journey from humble beginnings to launching a manufacturing facility in California. He discusses the challenges of e-commerce, including razor-thin margins due to high advertising costs. Hans explains the vital differences between silicon and silicone and shares his daring plan to replicate China's manufacturing strategies domestically. The conversation delves into managing production costs and navigating the evolving economic landscape for small businesses.
10 snips
May 23, 2025 • 41min
177 - From Layoff to $250K: The 1-Person Agency Playbook with Zach Ashburn
Zach Ashburn, a seasoned guide for accidental entrepreneurs, shares invaluable insights on transitioning from a corporate job to launching an agency. He emphasizes the critical importance of mapping out cash flow and personal finances for aspiring entrepreneurs. The discussion dives into shifting from an employee mindset to a business owner mentality, underscoring the power of taking initiative without waiting for permission. Zach also spills tips on smart delegation and pricing strategies, helping listeners recognize their worth in the competitive consulting landscape.
9 snips
May 22, 2025 • 31min
176 - AI SERIES: 16 - The Non-Coder's Guide to AI App Building with Billy Howell
Billy Howell, the innovative builder of apps and tools with a focus on AI, shares his journey from government consulting to founding agency OX Labs. He discusses how non-coders can harness tools like OpenAI 4.0 and Replit to develop AI apps. Billy emphasizes leveraging AI for small businesses to automate tasks and create tailored solutions that might replace costly SaaS. He also tackles the challenges of finishing AI projects, managing technical debt, and advocates for simplicity and practical action in app development.
7 snips
May 21, 2025 • 30min
175 - How Big Tech Layoffs Signal the Future of AI Integration with Elizabeth Knopf
In this engaging discussion, Elizabeth Knopf, an AI expert, explores the shifting landscape of tech employment amid big layoffs at companies like Meta and Microsoft. She reveals how AI is not just a buzzword but a transformative force, leading businesses like Shopify and Duolingo to thrive. The conversation highlights the growing importance of human skills, even as automation rises. Liz also dives into practical tools like Custom GPTs and their integration potential, all while addressing the challenges of AI hallucinations. A must-listen for anyone navigating the future of work!
