The Koerner Office - Business Ideas and Small Business Deep Dives with Entrepreneurs

Submit a question for the show:  http://form.typeform.com/to/Eb8KaY0pWatch the video version of this on YouTube instead: https://www.youtube.com/@thekoerneroffice?sub_confirmation=1Free weekly business ideas newsletter: https://newsletter.chrisjkoerner.com/Learn more about me: http://chrisjkoerner.comFollow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/mhp_guy0:00 - Intro to all the segments03:47 - Growing a virtual receptionist for home service biz08:34 - Google street views biz18:38 - Roofs with tarps idea20:15 - Custom souvenirs biz. Build or buy?28:10 - Trash collection biz in Missouri.35:30 - Acai franchise? Yay or nay? If nay, which franchise is better?We'll do it again live on Twitter this Wednesday, March 13 at 2pm CST!

Submit a question for the show:  http://form.typeform.com/to/Eb8KaY0pWatch the video version of this on YouTube instead: https://www.youtube.com/@thekoerneroffice?sub_confirmation=1Free weekly business ideas newsletter: https://newsletter.chrisjkoerner.com/Learn more about me: http://chrisjkoerner.comFollow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/mhp_guyHVAC Saas: How to find commercial property owners on LinkedInHow to price your offer for a cold email leadgen agencyA towing biz for drunk peopleHow to sell 40,000 solar eclipse glassesUsing drones to sell roofing leadsHow to approach waste management company owners to sell softwareHow to position and sell a service to job seekersShould he start an Indian virtual assistant agencyHow to grow a trophy and engraving business. Trophy recycling?How to raise money for a new company when I already have a Salesforce integration agency?Carfax for homeowners idea

Submit a question for the show:  http://form.typeform.com/to/Eb8KaY0pWatch the video version of this on YouTube instead: https://www.youtube.com/@thekoerneroffice?sub_confirmation=1Free weekly business ideas newsletter: https://newsletter.chrisjkoerner.com/Learn more about me: http://chrisjkoerner.comFollow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/mhp_guyWelcome to Episode 2 of Koerner's Corner! Today we had questions from 9 callers that covered:Payment Processor Discussion - Best way to handle payments and invoicing for B2B services.Cold Email Agency Strategy - How to refine the business model for a cold email agency that targets staffing and recruiting companies.Espresso Catering Venture -Viability and strategy for starting a mobile espresso catering service targeting office and school events.Income Tax Services Growth - How to expand a personal income tax service, especially for self-employed and small business owners.Acquiring a SaaS Business - Considerations and strategies for buying an existing SaaS business.Starting a Roofing Company - Key factors to consider when starting a roofing company.B2B Law Enforcement Software - How to create and market software solutions for law enforcement and private security sectors.Seasonal Decorating Service - The potential for a business providing decorating services for holidays like Ramadan, Diwali, and Lunar New Year.Tesla Vehicle Care Services - Opportunities in offering specialized services for Tesla owners, such as wheel repair and mobile washing at supercharging stations.

Submit a question for the show:  http://form.typeform.com/to/Eb8KaY0pWatch the video version of this on YouTube instead: https://www.youtube.com/@thekoerneroffice?sub_confirmation=1Free weekly business ideas newsletter: https://newsletter.chrisjkoerner.com/Learn more about me: http://chrisjkoerner.comFollow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/mhp_guy- How to grow a SoCal street sweeping biz- What biz a sales guy should start in Houston- How to uniquely grow a biz making websites for realtors- How to fix occupancy issues in 2 Alabama RV parks- To quit and grow a moving biz even more, or keep the job and try something else?- What business in Norfolk, VA a guy should start with his 3 kids

Please listen. Startup Gems is pivoting.

Today, we have a particularly fascinating tale to share—the rise of OpenGov and the strategic principles that propelled them to the summit of the tech world. From shrewd acquisitions to powerful backing and a commitment to purpose-driven innovation, OpenGov's journey is a masterclass in effective business strategies.In the next few minutes, we'll dissect the elements that transformed OpenGov from a hidden gem into a powerhouse. First up, we'll delve into their strategic acquisitions, exploring how each move was a calculated step towards building a comprehensive SaaS platform. Then, we'll unravel the web of powerful backing and alliances that played a pivotal role in OpenGov's ascent. Finally, we'll explore the driving force behind it all—purpose-driven innovation—and how it can revolutionize your own business.Introduction:Brief overview of the episode's focus on OpenGov's rise to prominence.Teaser about the three key principles that contributed to OpenGov's success.Section 1: Strategic AcquisitionsInsight into OpenGov's strategic acquisitions, including ProcureNow and Cartegraph.Exploration of how these acquisitions contributed to the development of an end-to-end SaaS platform.Concrete application for listeners: Guidance on how strategic partnerships and acquisitions can enhance their business offerings.Section 2: Powerful Backing and AlliancesExamination of OpenGov's powerful backing from industry giants such as Cox Enterprises, Insight Partners, and Marc Andreessen.Discussion on the significance of strategic partnerships beyond financial support.Practical advice for listeners: Strategies for forging influential alliances in their respective industries.Section 3: Purpose-Driven InnovationDeep dive into OpenGov's mission of powering effective and accountable government.Analysis of how purpose-driven innovation, exemplified by taking government operations to the cloud, played a pivotal role in OpenGov's success.Application for listeners: Encouragement to align their businesses with a purpose beyond profits, with examples and insights on fostering innovation.Conclusion:Recap of the key principles discussed: strategic acquisitions, powerful backing and alliances, and purpose-driven innovation.Encouragement for listeners to apply these principles to their own business strategies.Teaser for upcoming episodes and a call to subscribe for more business insights.

Join us as we unravel the compelling story of DISCO, a legal tech company that soared to great heights, faced tough challenges, and recently found itself at a crossroads. From strategic acquisitions to navigating a competitive market and maintaining an unwavering focus on customer retention, DISCO's journey is a masterclass in business principles that every entrepreneur can learn from. So, buckle up as we explore the rise, fall, and recent twists in the DISCO saga, shedding light on key principles that spell success in the fast-paced landscape of the business world.Introduction:Welcome back to Startup Gems, where we dissect real-world business stories.Teaser about DISCO's rise, challenges, and recent developments.Segment 1: Strategic AcquisitionsDISCO's smart moves with acquisitions: Levity, Nextpoint, Esquify.How these acquisitions expanded DISCO's product offering and market reach.Concrete tip for business owners: Consider strategic acquisitions to complement your offerings and fill product gaps.Segment 2: Adaptability in a Competitive MarketThe fierce competition in the legal tech industry.DISCO's ability to navigate challenges and showcase adaptability.Concrete tip for business owners: Stay vigilant, adapt strategies, and conduct regular competitor analysis.Segment 3: Strong Focus on RetentionDISCO's impressive retention rates: gross logo retention of 95%, net revenue retention rate of 121%.The significance of building and maintaining a strong customer base.Concrete tip for business owners: Prioritize customer retention through loyalty programs and consistent value delivery.Conclusion:Recap of the three key principles: Strategic Acquisitions, Adaptability, and Strong Focus on Retention.Invitation for listeners to stay tuned for more business insights.Subscribe to Startup Gems to catch every episode!

In today's special episode where we delve into the intriguing success story of Sean Audet, a 30-year-old food photographer hailing from the heart of Canada. Sean's journey is a fascinating exploration of the principles that catapulted his freelancing career to unprecedented heights. In today's episode, we'll unravel the three key business principles that not only fueled Sean's success but are applicable to any entrepreneur looking to carve their path in the business world.From skill leveraging to adaptability in niche and strategic investments, Sean's story is a goldmine of insights.Introduction:Brief overview of Sean Audet, a 30-year-old freelance food photographer from Winnipeg, Canada.Teaser for the three key business principles that fueled Sean's success.Principle #1: Skill LeveragingExploration of how Sean leveraged his culinary skills from years as a cook and sous-chef.Application for business owners: Identifying and maximizing existing skills within your team for business diversification.Principle #2: Adaptability in NicheDiscussion on Sean's journey from food photography to expanding into beverages and cosmetics.Application for business owners: The importance of staying adaptable to industry trends and exploring related fields for sustained relevance.Principle #3: Investing StrategicallyInsight into Sean's strategic investments, starting with a modest budget and growing as his business flourished.Application for business owners: Guidance on allocating resources wisely for long-term growth, whether you're a startup or an established enterprise.Preface for Takeaways:Emphasis on the universality of these principles, applicable to businesses of all sizes and industries.Encouragement for entrepreneurs to stay tuned for actionable takeaways that could shape the future of their ventures.Conclusion:Recap of the key principles discussed.Teaser for upcoming episodes and a reminder to entrepreneurs to stay innovative.

In today's episode, we're diving deep into the dynamic journey of Michael Houck, the mastermind behind Houck's Newsletter and Megaphone. Get ready for a rollercoaster of entrepreneurial wisdom as we dissect the principles that propelled Michael's ventures to success. From starting small and validating quickly to leveraging existing networks and diversifying revenue streams, we're about to uncover the strategic moves that paved the way for Houck's triumph. So, whether you're a seasoned business owner or just kickstarting your entrepreneurial adventure, stay tuned for invaluable lessons and practical tips that can elevate your business game.Introduction:Welcome back to Startup Gems, where we dissect success stories for actionable insights.Today, we delve into the journey of Michael Houck, founder of Houck's Newsletter and Megaphone.Segment 1: The Man Behind the VenturesMichael's introduction: Founder of Houck's Newsletter and Megaphone.Highlights of Michael's entrepreneurial track record: $15 million raised for his last startup, co-founder of a venture fund, and investor in over 50 startups.Segment 2: The Genesis of MegaphoneHow a casual text to friends sparked the idea for Megaphone.Starting small, validating quickly, and building the MVP with minimal investment.Practical Tip: Launch a minimum viable product (MVP), gather feedback, and iterate before scaling.Segment 3: The Evolution of Houck's NewsletterOrigin as a side project and its evolution into a standalone business.Identifying a gap in the market and investing $10,000 wisely.Practical Tip: Validate business ideas within your existing networks for early feedback.Segment 4: Customer Acquisition StrategiesMichael's strategic approach to getting the first customers for Megaphone.Leveraging existing networks and concentrically expanding reach.Practical Tip: Utilize your current customer base and personal connections for initial feedback and promotion.Segment 5: Diversifying Revenue StreamsThe multiple revenue streams of Megaphone and Houck's Newsletter.Importance of diversification for stability and resilience.Practical Tip: Explore additional monetization avenues related to your products or services.Conclusion:Recap of the three key principles: Start Small, Validate Quickly; Leverage Existing Networks; Diversify Revenue Streams.Encouragement for business owners to apply these principles for success.

Today, we have a compelling episode ahead as we unravel the remarkable journey of Ann, the founder of Solid Core, a fitness empire that has left an indelible mark on the industry. Ann's story is not just about building a successful business; it's a blueprint for entrepreneurs seeking inspiration and actionable insights. In the next hour, we'll explore three key principles that underpin Solid Core's triumph – embracing uniqueness and authenticity, displaying resilience in the face of challenges, and the art of building a business that thrives independently of its founder.Introduction:Welcome listeners to a captivating episode delving into the journey of Ann, the founder of Solid Core.Highlight the relevance of Ann's story for entrepreneurs seeking inspiration and actionable insights.Principle #1: Embrace Uniqueness and AuthenticityDiscuss Ann's commitment to authenticity in building a fitness brand that fosters genuine community.Concrete Tip: Encourage businesses to identify and showcase their unique qualities on social media to build trust and authenticity.Principle #2: Resilience in the Face of ChallengesExplore how Ann's resilience and problem-solving abilities played a crucial role in Solid Core's success.Concrete Tip: Advise businesses to develop contingency plans and foster adaptability within their teams to overcome challenges.Principle #3: Build a Business That Works Without YouAnalyze the significance of Ann's decision to sell her shares and the concept of building a self-sufficient business.Concrete Tip: Guide entrepreneurs to delegate responsibilities, empower their teams, and implement robust systems for business continuity.Summary:Recap the three key principles extracted from Ann's journey: Embrace Uniqueness, Resilience, and Build Independence.Emphasize the universality of these principles, applicable to businesses of all scales and industries.Conclusion:Express gratitude to listeners for joining the episode and tease future inspiring stories and lessons.Encourage feedback, comments, and sharing of the episode to spread entrepreneurial insights.