Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Emily Holdman, managing director at Permanent Equity, transitioned from journalism to a leader in acquisitions, sharing her insights on intrapreneurship—thriving within a larger company. She discusses the importance of embracing a no-intention-to-sell philosophy and creatively solving problems in deal-making. Emily also dives into evaluating businesses and managing risks while emphasizing unique growth opportunities in non-founder roles. Her perspective challenges traditional views and highlights how entrepreneurial thinking can create substantial impact.

Chris Koerner, an entrepreneur with a track record of generating over $100 million, joins to uncover the booming $150 billion pet industry. They discuss using farmers markets to test innovative products while gaining direct consumer feedback. The duo explores niche business ideas, like unique jerky flavors and pet-focused ventures. Chris shares strategies for scalable community-based businesses, as well as insights into leveraging e-commerce for niche pet products. Tune in for a mix of creativity and actionable business strategies!