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
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.
16 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!
6 snips
May 20, 2025 • 26min
174 - AI SERIES: 15 - How AI is Revolutionizing Home Services Lead Conversion with Bryan Shankman
In this conversation, Bryan Shankman, co-founder and CEO of Lead Truffle, shares his journey from companies like TikTok to the home services sector. He discusses how AI revolutionizes lead conversion through chat and text messaging, making customer interaction smoother. Bryan also reveals innovative uses for ringless voicemail and emphasizes the importance of balancing automation with human touch in customer service. Lastly, he dives into effective AI techniques for prospecting and how they can save time for business owners.
May 19, 2025 • 49min
173 - $1M ≠ Freedom; It’s a Mirage with Jacob Turner
Jacob Turner, a former professional baseball player, now aids athletes and entrepreneurs in wealth management at Moment Private Wealth. He discusses his transition from the diamond to the boardroom, emphasizing resilience and humility. Jacob draws parallels between sports and business, illustrating how setbacks can fuel growth. He shares insights on managing cash flow, seeking feedback, and the importance of financial education in entrepreneurship. Tune in for his strategic tips on avoiding lifestyle creep and investing wisely!
14 snips
May 16, 2025 • 38min
172 - How to Build a $700k Business with 50% Margins with Bryant Suellentrop
Bryant Suellentrop, Founder of Elevate and Delegate, shares his inspiring journey from a struggling janitorial business to a thriving offshore recruiting firm with impressive margins. He discusses how organic growth on Twitter helped him cut customer acquisition costs. Bryant dives into the evolving offshore talent landscape, revealing the impact of AI on job demand and the shift towards selling outcomes rather than just staffing. His insights on navigating profitability and adapting business models offer valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs.
