Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

Nathan Yap, founder of Support Zebra, has transformed customer service outsourcing with his $1.2M MRR business. He shares insights on scaling operations and the evolution of outsourced customer service into a collaborative model. Nathan discusses his journey from medical billing to specializing in SaaS and e-commerce. He highlights the challenges of navigating COVID-19's impact, leveraging international resources, and the evolving role of AI. His story is a deep dive into trust, culture, and the future of remote work.

In this engaging conversation, Christopher Hillier, a former Stanford MBA and entrepreneur who left a lucrative $16 million employee benefits business, shares his journey toward prioritizing family and personal growth. He discusses the challenges of navigating a family-run business and the insights that led him to write 'It's About Time.' Hillier reflects on balancing career ambition with family life, key lessons on building high-margin businesses, and the importance of maintaining healthy family dynamics in entrepreneurship.

In this episode, Chris Koerner, a business partner with a rich background in healthcare, explores the booming genealogy market. He discusses using AI to capture family stories through tech innovations like chatbots and video interviews. Chris emphasizes the rising demand for genealogical services as the population ages. He also delves into biohacking, sharing insights on health tech tools like glucose monitors and their potential to create profitable business opportunities, blending personal growth with innovative tech solutions.

In this chat, Mike Myler, founder of a thriving e-commerce business focused on dog supplements for leaky gut, shares his journey from trial-and-error during the pandemic to launching a unique subscription model. He delves into challenges in the pet health market and the significance of data-driven nutrition. Mike reveals how he uses Facebook and TikTok for marketing, discusses a structured program for dog food transition, and offers valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to navigate the complexities of online sales.

In this conversation, Steve Wiesner, an entrepreneur with a 20-year background in investment banking and private equity, shares his transition to business ownership. He emphasizes the risks associated with private equity roll-ups and the necessity of smart acquisitions for growth. Steve discusses key mindset shifts required for success in entrepreneurship and highlights the importance of operational execution in managing acquisitions. His experiences shed light on navigating the complexities of business investments and the evolution of corporate finance.

In this discussion, Chris Koerner, Nik's business partner who has driven over $100 million in revenue, shares innovative ideas to spark your entrepreneurial spirit. They explore the exciting concept of custom concerts, where attendees can influence the setlist by bidding on songs. Chris also reveals how AI-powered local newsletters can effectively generate leads for businesses. Plus, they delve into leveraging Facebook groups to build substantial email lists, turning social engagement into powerful marketing opportunities.

Yvette Owo, founder of YOLO Accounting, shares her inspiring journey from consulting for Fortune 500 companies to launching a successful accounting firm. She discusses the challenges of acquiring and scaling businesses, and the importance of having a solid business structure. Yvette reveals how financial insights can drive entrepreneurial success and the mindset shifts necessary for growth. Her whimsical childhood stories highlight a lifelong passion for entrepreneurship, showcasing the blend of personal experiences and professional lessons that fueled her success.

Reg Zeller, an entrepreneur with a knack for transforming legacy manufacturing businesses, shares his journey from corporate life to owning multiple aluminum foundries. He dives into the unique challenges of scaling operations and upgrading systems within traditional industries. Discover how acquisition entrepreneurship opens new pathways for growth, and learn about the sustainability practices in the foundry sector. Zeller’s insights on resilience, decision-making, and maintaining mental well-being provide a fresh perspective for aspiring entrepreneurs.

In this engaging installment, Chris Koerner, a savvy business strategist and co-host, dives into innovative business ideas. They discuss the lucrative handyman model pulling in $1.2 million annually and how entrepreneurs can replicate this strategy. The conversation covers the power of website monitoring tools like Distill.io and the concept of a tax Sherpa to minimize tax burdens. The duo also playfully evaluates various creative business concepts, determining which to embrace or discard. Tune in for actionable insights and fresh ideas!

Brandon Doyle, founder of Walleroo Media and Arvo Digital, discusses his journey in building two successful digital marketing agencies, generating $9 million in revenue. He reveals the ups and downs of agency management, focusing on the necessity of core competencies for growth. The conversation dives into the transformative role of AI in marketing and how to sustain long-term relationships while navigating business complexities. Brandon shares valuable lessons on delegation, operational efficiency, and the importance of focus in entrepreneurship.