107 - How This Hot Sauce Maker Got on Hot Ones with Scott Zalkind

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

#Entrepreneur #Business #Nikolas Hulewsky #Acquisitions #Business Deals #Scale #Hustle #Entrepreneurship #Million #Marketing #Growth

32:08

Did you know there’s an actual science to uncovering your hidden genius? It’s not about filling out a “dream job” worksheet—it’s about understanding how your brain is wired, identifying your natural aptitudes, and using them to thrive. This isn’t just a self-discovery exercise. It’s a game-changer for your career, your relationships, and how you show up in the world. Betsy Wills and Alex Ellison are redefining how we approach career discovery, proving that finding the right path isn’t just about landing a job—it’s about creating a life that aligns with who you actually are. ✅ Betsy Wills – Cofounder of YouScience, a groundbreaking psychometric assessment platform reshaping how we understand our talents. She’s also the Director of Marketing & Branding at Diversified Trust and a frequent lecturer at Vanderbilt University and NYU’s Stern School of Business. ✅ Alex Ellison – Founder of Throughline Guidance, a global college and career counseling practice. She’s a sought-after writer, speaker, and expert in college readiness and career development. ✅ Together, they co-authored Your Hidden Genius: The Science-Backed Strategy to Uncovering and Harnessing Your Innate Talents. Discovering your hidden genius isn’t just about career success—it’s about tapping into what makes you, you . Connect with Betsy & Alex: Website (Free Downloads): www.yourhiddengenius.com Book: https://www.harpercollins.com/products/your-hidden-genius-elizabeth-m-willsalexandra-ellison Related Podcast Episodes: How To Be You, But Better with Olga Khazan | 288 Finding Purpose Through Human Design with Emma Dunwoody | 228 195 / Finding (And Using) Your Voice with Amy Green Smith Share the Love: If you found this episode insightful, please share it with a friend, tag us on social media, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform! 🔗 Subscribe & Review: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music…

год назад 46:35

MP3•Главная эпизода

🚨MY NEWSLETTER https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe 🚨
Join me, Nik (https://x.com/CoFoundersNik), as I sit down with Scott Zalkind (https://luckydoghotsauce.com/), the founder of Lucky Dog Hot Sauce, to explore his journey from a horticulturalist to IT professional to hot sauce entrepreneur. Scott shares his unique story, detailing how a passion for spicy food and a desire to do something creative led him to start his hot sauce company. He discusses how his background in project management, along with his scientific approach to recipe development, has shaped his business. Scott also talks about the experience of having his sauce featured on "Hot Ones" and the impact that had on his brand.

In this episode, we delve into the intricacies of the hot sauce business, including the challenges of production, pricing, and distribution. Scott explains why he chose to use a co-packer and how he navigates the complexities of the food industry. We also discuss his iterative approach to recipe creation, the importance of customer feedback, and the pursuit of making the "perfect" hot sauce, and how he uses the concept of "failing up" to improve his recipes.

Questions this Episode Answers:

How did being featured on "Hot Ones" impact Lucky Dog Hot Sauce?
What is a co-packer, and why is it essential for a small-batch hot sauce company?
How does Scott approach pricing and distribution in a competitive market, and what is his perspective on success?
What is the philosophy of "failing up," and how does it apply to developing a hot sauce recipe?
What advice does Scott have for other entrepreneurs, particularly regarding pricing and profit margins?

Enjoy the conversation!
__________________________
Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback.
Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or send me an email at Nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts.
__________________________
MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe
Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y
Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284
YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT
___________________________

150 эпизодов

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

107 - How This Hot Sauce Maker Got on Hot Ones with Scott Zalkind

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

published год назад

MP3•Главная эпизода

Questions this Episode Answers:

How did being featured on "Hot Ones" impact Lucky Dog Hot Sauce?
What is a co-packer, and why is it essential for a small-batch hot sauce company?
How does Scott approach pricing and distribution in a competitive market, and what is his perspective on success?
What is the philosophy of "failing up," and how does it apply to developing a hot sauce recipe?
What advice does Scott have for other entrepreneurs, particularly regarding pricing and profit margins?

150 эпизодов

#Entrepreneur #Business #Nikolas Hulewsky #Acquisitions #Business Deals #Scale #Hustle #Entrepreneurship #Million #Marketing #Growth

כל הפרקים

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

1
149 - How to Build a Business with AI Image Technology with Chris Koerner 38:54

2 дня назад38:54

38:54

🚨MY NEWSLETTER https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe 🚨 Join me, Nik ( https://x.com/CoFoundersNik ), and my business partner Chris Koerner ( https://x.com/mhp_guy ). In this episode, we dive into the mind-blowing world of AI image generation and how it's completely changing the game, with Chris sharing some truly wild examples using Chat GPT 4.0. We then brainstorm some seriously cool business ideas you could launch right now leveraging this tech. But it's not all about the future; we also get into a fascinating discussion about the best path to entrepreneurship: should you jump in headfirst like Chris, or take a more measured approach? We also explore the crucial concept of having a competitive advantage and spot some surprising business opportunities in unexpected places, like the growing trend of rucking. Questions This Episode Answers: What's so different about the new AI image generation capabilities? Could you really build a business just based on this new AI feature? Is it better to learn a trade through experience or by working for someone else? What's more important for a successful business: a great idea or great execution? What are some potential business opportunities in the surprisingly popular activity of rucking? Enjoy the conversation! __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 The Rise of Image Generation Technology 02:59 Ashton Hall: The Viral Sensation 05:52 Innovative Business Ideas in the AI Space 08:46 Monetizing Podcasts and Visual Resumes 12:03 The Future of Photography and AI 14:59 The Barbell Strategy in Entrepreneurship 17:54 Competitive Advantage in Business 20:52 Navigating Entrepreneurship: Experience vs. Action 23:51 Rucking: A New Trend in Fitness 27:13 The Business of Rucking and Influencer Marketing…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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148 - AI SERIES: 4 - How Fear and Regulation Impact AI in Finance with David Kaylor 18:51

3 дня назад18:51

18:51

🚨MY NEWSLETTER https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe 🚨 Join me, Nik (https://x.com/CoFoundersNik), as I interview David Kaylor (https://x.com/David__Kaylor) from Alchemy Technology . We dive into the current state of AI adoption within the traditional banking sector, exploring the gap between the hype and actual implementation David , who works on implementing digital banking services for credit unions and banks shares his firsthand perspective on how these legacy businesses are approaching new technologies like AI . He also walks us through some fascinating personal and professional use cases for AI , from building a fun monster-slaying game on Replit to automating team time tracking with Google Apps Script. We also discuss the specific AI models he finds useful, such as Gemini for Google Apps Script and Grok for basic scripting. Questions This Episode Answers: What's it like working at a tech company servicing older, legacy businesses regarding AI adoption? Why is the banking industry a "slow follower" when it comes to utilizing AI ? What AI models does David currently use and for what specific purposes? How can someone with limited coding knowledge automate tasks using AI and tools like Google Apps Script ? What is Google Apps Script and how can it be used for business automation? Enjoy the conversation! __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 AI in Everyday Work Life 02:52 The Role of AI in Banking 06:13 Personal AI Applications and Tools 09:06 Creating with AI: Game Development 12:04 Automating Tasks with Google Apps Script 14:58 Exploring Automation Opportunities…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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147 - How to Overcome AI Intimidation and Automate Your Workflow with Elizabeth Knopf 32:39

4 дня назад32:39

32:39

🚨MY NEWSLETTER https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe 🚨 Join me, Nik (https://x.com/CoFoundersNik), as I interview Liz Knopf (https://x.com/leveragedupside) diving into the exciting world of AI for entrepreneurs! We cut through the noise to explore how business owners can actually use artificial intelligence to boost their businesses through automation. Liz, a seasoned tech expert and VC, shares her insights on the current state of AI and, more importantly, provides a sneak peek into the practical tools and strategies that can be implemented right now. Get ready to learn how AI isn't just for big tech anymore! Questions This Episode Answers: Where are we with the state of AI right now? What are APIs and why are they important for AI? What's the best way for a beginner to get started with AI tools? What's a common painful business task that AI can help solve? Can AI really help automate tasks like taking meeting notes and sharing information? Enjoy the conversation! __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 Introduction to AI in Business 02:57 Understanding AI Tools and APIs 05:47 Exploring AI Models and Their Applications 09:04 Integrating AI into Workflows 11:59 Overcoming Challenges with AI Adoption 14:48 Automation Tools for Efficiency 18:12 Building Effective AI Workflows 20:54 Data Management and Cleanup with AI 23:49 Future of AI in Business…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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146 - AI SERIES: 3 - The AI Disruption: Navigating the Opportunities and Threats with Mase Graye 38:26

5 дней назад38:26

38:26

🚨MY NEWSLETTER https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe 🚨 Join me, Nik (https://x.com/CoFoundersNik), as I interview Mase Graye (https://x.com/masegraye). In this episode, I chat with former CTO Mase , who brings his extensive experience from startups , Amazon , Oracle , and Meta to discuss the rapidly evolving landscape of Artificial Intelligence . We dive into his recent work on AI initiatives at Audio Eye , a company focused on digital accessibility , and explore the real-world applications of machine learning in solving business challenges. Mase shares his insightful perspective on the potential existential threats and incredible opportunities that AI presents for businesses today. Discover how companies are already leveraging AI to streamline operations and the surprising areas where it's making a significant impact. Questions This Episode Answers: What was it like leading AI initiatives at a tech company over the last three years? How did your company Audio Eye start utilizing AI in its business? What are some practical ways businesses can use AI for functions like QA ? How can small businesses begin to leverage the power of AI now? Do you think a CTO level position will become more necessary for small businesses due to AI ? Enjoy the conversation! __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 The Rise of AI and Automation 02:58 Navigating AI in Business 05:52 AI's Impact on Job Markets 08:49 Utilizing AI Models Effectively 12:11 AI in Accessibility Solutions 15:05 The Future of AI in Development 17:58 Personal Applications of AI 20:51 Building Tools with AI 24:09 The Role of CTOs in Small Businesses…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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145 - AI Is Your New Employee: A Framework for Business Owners with Austin Gray 48:07

6 дней назад48:07

48:07

🚨MY NEWSLETTER https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe 🚨 Join me, Nik ( https://x.com/CoFoundersNik ), as I interview Austin Gray ( https://x.com/ theownerop) about the real-world applications of AI in businesses today. We dive deep into how entrepreneurs are moving beyond the theory and actually using AI to make money and streamline their operations. We explore everything from using chatbots for customer service and internal knowledge bases to automating sales pipelines and creating Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) . Hear firsthand examples of how AI is being used in manufacturing and service-based businesses to save time and improve efficiency. We also discuss the importance of training AI like a new employee and share practical frameworks for implementing AI in your own business, even if you're just starting out. We even touch upon creating custom GPTs and using AI to help with hiring an executive assistant . Questions This Episode Answers: How are businesses actually using AI to generate revenue today? What are some practical ways small businesses can use chatbots ? Why is it important to think of AI as a new employee in your business? How can AI help you create Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for your business? What's a simple way to start using AI to document your business processes? Enjoy the conversation! __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 Embracing AI: The Inflection Point 03:08 Real-World Applications of AI in Business 05:58 Creating Knowledge Bases with AI 08:52 AI as a New Employee: Training and Onboarding 11:46 Documenting Processes for Scalability 15:06 Leveraging AI for Standard Operating Procedures 17:51 Organizing AI Workflows for Efficiency 24:22 Organizing Ideas for Podcast Preparation 25:43 Training Custom GPTs for Business Plans 27:10 Iterating on Business Plan Templates 29:31 Creating Custom GPTs for Business Insights 34:35 Leveraging AI for Business Processes 39:25 The Importance of SOPs in Business Growth 41:48 Adopting AI for Competitive Advantage 43:12 Crafting Job Descriptions with AI Assistance…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

1
144 - How Wearable AI Can Revolutionize Industries with Chris Koerner 33:09

9 дней назад33:09

33:09

🚨MY NEWSLETTER https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe 🚨 Join me, Nik ( https://x.com/CoFoundersNik ), and my business partner Chris Koerner ( https://x.com/mhp_guy ) i n a fascinating discussion about the powerful intersection of entrepreneurship and artificial intelligence . We dive into how these two mega trends are creating unprecedented opportunities for building new businesses and reshaping existing industries. We explore concrete examples of how AI can be practically applied to solve real-world problems, from streamlining workflows for professionals to uncovering hidden business intelligence. We even brainstorm innovative business models centered around leveraging cutting-edge AI tools. This episode is packed with insights for anyone looking to understand and capitalize on the rapidly evolving AI landscape. Questions This Episode Answers: How can you start a business helping others use AI ? What are some immediate, practical uses of AI in businesses right now? Can AI really replace traditional business support roles? What kind of new service businesses can be built around AI technology? How can AI help you gain a competitive edge through better information? Enjoy the conversation! __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 Embracing Entrepreneurship and AI 02:51 The Role of AI in Healthcare 06:11 Innovative Solutions for Medical Practices 09:10 Sales Optimization through AI 12:04 Leveraging AI for Personal and Professional Growth 14:50 Deep Research and Its Applications 18:11 The Future of AI in Business 21:02 Ethics and AI in Personal Data 23:54 Conclusion and Future Directions…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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143 - AI SERIES: 2 - How to Leverage AI as Your Ultimate Business Assistant with Kirill Zubovsky 35:27

10 дней назад35:27

35:27

🚨MY NEWSLETTER https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe 🚨 Join me, Nik ( https://x.com/CoFoundersNik ), as I interview Kirill Zubovsky ( https://x.com/ kirillzubovsky) about his fascinating journey leveraging AI in his various business endeavors. We dive into how he's using AI not just for building new ventures like Scoudsie , which aims to empower non-technical individuals to create projects with AI , but also to supercharge his existing brick-and-mortar co-working space, Brickworks . Kirill shares some incredibly practical and almost unbelievable examples of how AI has become his go-to IT support , coding assistant, and even brainstorming partner. Get ready to have your mind blown by the sheer speed and potential that AI is unlocking for entrepreneurs. Questions This Episode Answers: What kind of brick and mortar business do you run? How are you currently using AI in your co-working space? What is Scoudsie and who is it for? How quickly were you able to build your transcription and translation website using AI ? Can you really build a website using natural language with tools like Cursor ? Enjoy the conversation! __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 The AI Revolution: Building for the Future 02:52 Entrepreneurial Journey: From Startup to AI Innovations 06:08 Real-World Applications of AI in Business 08:53 Choosing the Right AI Tools: Grok vs. ChatGPT 12:08 Creating with AI: Building Projects and Websites 15:04 The Future of AI in Business: Opportunities and Challenges 18:00 Efficiency in Coding: How AI Transforms Development 20:54 The Gold Rush of AI: Seizing Opportunities 33:50 Conclusion: Embracing the AI Wave…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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142 - How Mattress Firms Make Money Despite Empty Stores with Nick Hancock 32:20

11 дней назад32:20

32:20

🚨MY NEWSLETTER https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe 🚨 Join me, Nik (https://x.com/CoFoundersNik), as I interview Nick (https://x.com/mattressguy_). We dive deep into the surprisingly complex world of the mattress business . Nick , owner of Direct Outlet Mattress and part of a family with stores across North Carolina shares his unique insights. We discuss everything from the less glamorous side of old mattresses, to the economics of running a mattress store even comparing his approach to giants like Mattress Firm. You'll be fascinated to hear how he's leveraging Twitter to build a successful brand and reach customers in unexpected ways. Questions This Episode Answers: How do these businesses make money? What other overhead expenses would you have besides lease? How do you acquire customers for your mattress store ? What is your approximate customer acquisition cost ? How much does it typically cost to start a mattress business ? Enjoy the conversation! __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 The Mattress Business Journey 03:05 Family Dynamics in Business 05:56 Understanding the Mattress Market 08:51 Customer Acquisition Strategies 11:47 Expanding Product Offerings 15:05 The Importance of Quality 17:58 Navigating Business Challenges 20:55 Building a Brand on Social Media 23:51 Future Plans and Online Expansion…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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141 - AI SERIES: 1 - How to Prepare Your Business for the AI-Powered Future with Amanda Orson 30:10

12 дней назад30:10

30:10

🚨MY NEWSLETTER https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe 🚨 Join me, Nik (https://x.com/CoFoundersNik), as I interview Amanda Orson (https://x.com/amandaorson) about how AI is completely changing the game for startups and established businesses alike! We dive into everything from seed strapping to using tools like Operator , Deep Research , ChatGPT , and Claude in practical ways. You won't believe how much more efficient you can be with the right AI frameworks as your thought partner ! Questions This Episode Answers: What is seed strapping ? How can AI help you decide if a process can be automated? What are the key differences between using ChatGPT and Claude for business? How can you use AI to act as a specialized thought partner ? Where should a business owner who is new to AI begin? Enjoy the conversation! __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 The Rise of AI and Its Impact on Business 02:55 Seed Strapping: A New Approach to Funding 06:07 Leveraging AI for Efficiency and Growth 09:04 Using AI as a Thought Partner 11:51 Data Management and Analysis with AI 15:06 The Future of AI in Business 17:58 Practical Applications of AI Tools 21:10 Navigating AI for Business Owners…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

1
Quick Announcement! New AI Series with Real Entrepreneurs & Real Use Cases 1:48

12 дней назад1:48

1:48

I have a new AI series showcasing how Entrepreneurs are using AI in their business today! Every Tuesday and Thursday for the next 2 months I will be sharing real use cases with real Entrepreneurs who explain it to me like I'm 5 (with screen shares and other resources)! No BS or Fluff! Subscribe to my newsletter to get other, custom insights: 🚨MY NEWSLETTER https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe 🚨…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

1
140 - We Debate the Value of the SBA (I Get Demolished!) with Jon Matzner 48:41

13 дней назад48:41

48:41

🚨MY NEWSLETTER https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe 🚨 Join me, Nik (https://x.com/CoFoundersNik), as I interview Jon Matzner (https://x.com/MatznerJon. We dive into building a strong business brand and the power of social media, especially when it comes to cutting through the noise by taking a unique approach to engaging with influencers. We also get into a lively debate about the role of the SBA and whether it truly fuels economic mobility for entrepreneurs. Plus, we explore why focusing on a well-defined niche audience with influence and affluence can be a game-changer, and how to create authentic content by sharing your real journey. Questions This Episode Answers: How can you build a memorable brand that stands out? What's a different way to think about social media to attract the right audience for your business? Is an SBA loan the best path for funding your business dreams? Why might a smaller, more focused community be more valuable than a massive following? What's the secret to creating compelling business content that resonates? Enjoy the conversation! __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 The Importance of Pointy Opinions 03:04 Influencers and Satire in Business 06:02 Building a Brand Through Authenticity 09:00 The Value of Distribution and Attention 11:49 Influence and Affluence in Community Building 14:46 The Role of Authority in Marketing 18:11 The Podcast as an Intimate Medium 21:03 Debating the SBA Loan Program 24:29 Understanding the SBA: A Boomer Subsidy or Entrepreneurial Support? 26:21 The Role of the SBA in Economic Mobility 28:47 National Defense and Economic Supremacy: A Dual Perspective 30:45 The Impact of Government on Monopolies and Economic Mobility 32:34 Causation vs. Correlation in Economic Growth 34:56 Healthcare Costs and Government Intervention 36:49 The SBA's Structure and Its Implications 39:14 The Debate on Government Involvement in Business Loans 42:35 Prioritizing Government Reforms: Where Should Focus Lie? 46:30 The Importance of Personal Journey in Entrepreneurship…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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139 - Beyond ChatGPT: Exploring Perplexity and the Deep Dive Revolution with Chris Koerner 35:36

16 дней назад35:36

35:36

🚨MY NEWSLETTER https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe 🚨 Join me, Nik ( https://x.com/CoFoundersNik ), and my business partner Chris Koerner ( https://x.com/mhp_guy ) as we dive into some fascinating tech and business talk, kicking things off with a look at some cool AI tools like ChatGPT and Perplexity Deep Research and debating which one comes out on top for certain tasks. We also explore the world of custom GPTs and share our experiences, the good and the not-so-good! Then, we shift gears to how AI can be a game-changer for deep research, uncovering surprising trends like the rise of banana ketchup! We also touch on the buzz around AI agents and whether they're living up to the hype. Plus, stick around for some brainstorming on down-to-earth business ideas, from gamified entertainment to retrofitting vending machines. Questions This Episode Answers: Is Perplexity Deep Research better than ChatGPT for certain research tasks? What are the practical uses for custom GPTs right now? What's a good way to start incorporating AI into my workflow? How can AI help uncover new business opportunities and market trends? Are AI agents ready for widespread autonomous use in businesses? Enjoy the conversation! __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 The Rise of AI and Deep Research 05:51 Custom GPTs and Their Applications 12:05 Exploring Business Ideas Through AI 18:06 The Future of Agents and Automation 23:54 Innovative Business Models and Side Hustles…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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138 - How to Quickly Grow Your Newsletter Without Ads with Derek Kolstad 39:46

18 дней назад39:46

39:46

🚨MY NEWSLETTER https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe 🚨 Join me, Nik (https://x.com/CoFoundersNik), as I interview Derek (https://x.com/derkolstad). In this insightful episode, I dive deep with Derek, a newsletter guru who has amassed over 600,000 subscribers across his platforms – including the impressive Daily UI – all without spending a single dollar on ads! I'm on a mission to hit 10,000 subscribers for my own newsletter in just 60 days, and Derek shares his incredible journey and actionable strategies. We discuss everything from crafting the perfect message and building a distribution system to the power of lead magnets and the nuances of newsletter monetization, including ads, affiliate marketing, and selling your own products. Is my ambitious goal even possible? Derek weighs in with his expert advice. Questions This Episode Answers: Is reaching 10,000 subscribers in 60 days crazy? What's the difference between a top-down and a bottom-up newsletter growth strategy? How do you grow a massive email list without paid advertising? What are the different ways to monetize a newsletter for ongoing cash flow? When is the right time to start monetizing your email list? Enjoy the conversation! __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 Building a Subscriber Base: The Journey Begins 03:06 Monetization Strategies for Newsletters 06:01 Understanding Newsletter Metrics and Performance 08:57 Defining Your Audience and Value Proposition 11:52 Creating Engaging Content and Community 14:46 Growth Strategies: Trojan Horse Tactics 18:07 The Importance of Early Monetization 21:00 Final Thoughts and Actionable Steps…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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137 - How to Avoid Losing Money on Commissions When Selling Your Property with Amanda Orson 34:10

20 дней назад34:10

34:10

🚨MY NEWSLETTER https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe 🚨 Join me, Nik (https://x.com/CoFoundersNik), as I interview Amanda Orson (https://x.com/amandaorson) about her company, Galleon , and its mission to shake up the world of real estate . We dive into why this massive industry has remained so stubbornly outdated, clinging to practices invented over a century ago and a commission structure that seems out of sync with today's technology. Amanda shares her vision for a consumer-driven real estate transaction , drawing parallels to disruptions in other sectors, and explains how Galleon is building a free and open marketplace that cuts through the traditional gatekeepers. We also explore Galleon's unique approach to identity verification and its innovative revenue model, moving away from hefty commissions. Find out why Amanda , a multiple founder, is taking a lean, " seed strapping " approach to building this potentially revolutionary company. Questions This Episode Answers: Why do you think Galleon is different from other attempts to disrupt real estate ? What's the thing people hate the most about real estate ? Why did they set the commission rates the way that they currently are? Why haven't they been able to disrupt the real estate industry before? How does Galleon work? Enjoy the conversation! __________________________ Love it or hate it, I'd love your feedback. Please fill out this brief survey with your opinion or email me at nik@cofounders.com with your thoughts. __________________________ MY NEWSLETTER: https://nikolas-newsletter-241a64.beehiiv.com/subscribe Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5avyu98y Apple: https://tinyurl.com/bdxbr284 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/nikonomicsYT __________________________ This week we covered: 00:00 The State of Real Estate Lobbying 02:57 Disrupting the Outdated Real Estate Model 05:52 Understanding the MLS and Its Gatekeeping 08:47 The Economics of Real Estate Commissions 12:01 Galleon's Unique Approach to Real Estate Transactions 14:55 Navigating the Future of Real Estate with Technology 18:10 Galleon's Marketplace and Revenue Model 21:10 The Role of Vendors in Real Estate Transactions 24:05 The Future of Galleon and Its Growth Potential…

Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

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136 - The Never Touch Plastic Revolution: Building a Marketplace for the Concerned with Chris Koerner 36:08

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