00:00

I remember we were drinking we were drinking water, a pip little paper cup. We were at this burrito place. And you were like,

I remember we were drinking we were drinking water, a pip little paper cup. We were at this burrito place. And you were like,

00:05

if, if I could buy this cup for five cents and sell it to you seven cents. That's my passion.

if, if I could buy this cup for five cents and sell it to you seven cents. That's my passion.

00:13

I feel like I could rule the world and know I could be what I want to.

I feel like I could rule the world and know I could be what I want to.

00:18

I put my all in it like days off on a road. Let's travel never looking back. Ramon.

I put my all in it like days off on a road. Let's travel never looking back. Ramon.

00:24

He is back.

He is back.

00:26

Episode, the guest from episode two, which was one of the best episodes ever of this podcast.

Episode, the guest from episode two, which was one of the best episodes ever of this podcast.

00:32

And then it was taken down a bit. I don't know what happened. There was something. Get to take down and make a little edit. People started hitting me up. Yep. Hey, what happened to Ramon's episode?

And then it was taken down a bit. I don't know what happened. There was something. Get to take down and make a little edit. People started hitting me up. Yep. Hey, what happened to Ramon's episode?

00:41

That's how much people cared. They wanted to know that people were just keeping track because that episode's still in the library. Something happened. Some people noticed, which amazing to me. Right. And now you're Twitter famous. Yeah.

That's how much people cared. They wanted to know that people were just keeping track because that episode's still in the library. Something happened. Some people noticed, which amazing to me. Right. And now you're Twitter famous. Yeah.

00:53

As of today. Well, because of, you and Sam, yes, because as of today, because you and Sam retweeted me, and, I got, like,

As of today. Well, because of, you and Sam, yes, because as of today, because you and Sam retweeted me, and, I got, like,

01:01

almost eight thousand followers overnight. I went from two thousand to eleven thousand, within twenty four hours. So Wow. Okay. Thankfully. Well, it's not cause we retweeted. I retweeted a lot of stuff. You told a great story. I'm just actually gonna I wanna find the hook here, because you did a good job. Did did Sam write this for you? Or did you have him edit this? Because this was so well done. I felt like you can't this can't be your first thread, and you started off this good on your first thread. How long did that happen?

almost eight thousand followers overnight. I went from two thousand to eleven thousand, within twenty four hours. So Wow. Okay. Thankfully. Well, it's not cause we retweeted. I retweeted a lot of stuff. You told a great story. I'm just actually gonna I wanna find the hook here, because you did a good job. Did did Sam write this for you? Or did you have him edit this? Because this was so well done. I felt like you can't this can't be your first thread, and you started off this good on your first thread. How long did that happen?

01:30

No. Well, it's Sam dripping off the whole tweet. So Sam actually helped me

No. Well, it's Sam dripping off the whole tweet. So Sam actually helped me

01:37

okay. This will would work. This is the concept. This is a little bit, like, how you format it. Then he gave a little bit, like, I would start with this. I will do this and I will explain that.

okay. This will would work. This is the concept. This is a little bit, like, how you format it. Then he gave a little bit, like, I would start with this. I will do this and I will explain that.

01:47

Then, of course, I, you know, explained it. And then,

Then, of course, I, you know, explained it. And then,

01:51

So so what's the difference? How like, yeah. This this looks great. How would you have started it normally? And then I'll I'll show I'll read what what the end result was. What would you have normally said? Or what do you remember what your v one might have been?

So so what's the difference? How like, yeah. This this looks great. How would you have started it normally? And then I'll I'll show I'll read what what the end result was. What would you have normally said? Or what do you remember what your v one might have been?

02:04

Yeah.

Yeah.

02:05

Well, like, you, you and I are friends. So you also know me. Personally,

Well, like, you, you and I are friends. So you also know me. Personally,

02:09

Sam, too, it's like, typically, I would not start off with, like, I bought something for just little as x,

Sam, too, it's like, typically, I would not start off with, like, I bought something for just little as x,

02:16

and now we're doing y.

and now we're doing y.

02:18

I wanna

I wanna

02:22

Yes. And,

Yes. And,

02:24

but, you know, Sam said, like, no. That's you need to do that.

but, you know, Sam said, like, no. That's you need to do that.

02:29

And, you know, it's true as well. Right? So why not just, explain it? That's that's what people get people interested

And, you know, it's true as well. Right? So why not just, explain it? That's that's what people get people interested

02:36

and, you know, now I think we have

and, you know, now I think we have

02:40

seven thousand likes and

seven thousand likes and

02:42

a bunch a thousand plus between.

a bunch a thousand plus between.

02:45

You said two and a half years ago, I bought a dog ramp business for three hundred thousand dollars already interesting. What the heck is a dog ramp business? Since then, I've sold thirty five million dollars of dog ramps. Boom. That's the the hook. Right?

You said two and a half years ago, I bought a dog ramp business for three hundred thousand dollars already interesting. What the heck is a dog ramp business? Since then, I've sold thirty five million dollars of dog ramps. Boom. That's the the hook. Right?

02:57

You you know, did a this little thing turned into a big thing. And then the promise, why you should read this thread. I'm going to explain why I bought it, how I scaled it, and why I bought a business versus starting from scratch. But first,

You you know, did a this little thing turned into a big thing. And then the promise, why you should read this thread. I'm going to explain why I bought it, how I scaled it, and why I bought a business versus starting from scratch. But first,

03:09

dog ramps question mark. And then that is and then the little hand pointing down, like, come read more. That is,

dog ramps question mark. And then that is and then the little hand pointing down, like, come read more. That is,

03:16

you didn't take my power writing class, but that is exactly what you would have been my star student in this if you had done this as the example because it has all three elements. Right?

you didn't take my power writing class, but that is exactly what you would have been my star student in this if you had done this as the example because it has all three elements. Right?

03:26

So it has the what I call the frame. I bought it for three hundred k, and I've sold thirty five million. So that's the the wow factor. Why why should I pay attention to this? And why do I stop scrolling? Right? So you have a scroll stopping

So it has the what I call the frame. I bought it for three hundred k, and I've sold thirty five million. So that's the the wow factor. Why why should I pay attention to this? And why do I stop scrolling? Right? So you have a scroll stopping

03:37

number, thirty five million dollars of dog grams. You have a curiosity gap, which is what the heck is a dog ramp, and how did this guy do it.

number, thirty five million dollars of dog grams. You have a curiosity gap, which is what the heck is a dog ramp, and how did this guy do it.

03:46

And then you have a promise, which is I'm gonna tell you a, b, and c,

And then you have a promise, which is I'm gonna tell you a, b, and c,

03:51

but first, dog ramps, which is like, you you gave them a lightweight entryway,

but first, dog ramps, which is like, you you gave them a lightweight entryway,

03:56

that they they have even if they don't wanna know how you bought it, why you scaled it, all the operational stuff, I do need to know what the heck dog ramps, what the heck? And so, beautifully done. And then you tell the story, and the story is kind of amazing because people know that I

that they they have even if they don't wanna know how you bought it, why you scaled it, all the operational stuff, I do need to know what the heck dog ramps, what the heck? And so, beautifully done. And then you tell the story, and the story is kind of amazing because people know that I

04:10

people know that I don't talk about what ecommerce businesses, but they know that I have an e commerce business. What they don't know is that it started because we were hanging out in your backyard,

people know that I don't talk about what ecommerce businesses, but they know that I have an e commerce business. What they don't know is that it started because we were hanging out in your backyard,

04:18

and we were talking And the whole time we're talking,

and we were talking And the whole time we're talking,

04:22

your phone is just going,

your phone is just going,

04:24

it's like the and I didn't even know what this was. It's the Shopify

it's like the and I didn't even know what this was. It's the Shopify

04:28

Shopify is like notification sound. And,

Shopify is like notification sound. And,

04:32

you you didn't even notice it because it's all it's just normal to you. Your phone was sitting on the table. And I was like, do you need to get that? Like, what does that sound? And you go, oh, sorry. That's, like, sales.

you you didn't even notice it because it's all it's just normal to you. Your phone was sitting on the table. And I was like, do you need to get that? Like, what does that sound? And you go, oh, sorry. That's, like, sales.

04:41

And I was just like, you people love this idea of make money while you sleep, like passive income, I'll make money while you sleep. That is a sexy idea. This is this is even better. It was like, You were just chilling and having fun, and money was just being made for you on the side and just, like, a little chitching every five minutes. And there's literally in that moment, I was like, I'm gonna do this. I'm gonna start an e commerce business because

And I was just like, you people love this idea of make money while you sleep, like passive income, I'll make money while you sleep. That is a sexy idea. This is this is even better. It was like, You were just chilling and having fun, and money was just being made for you on the side and just, like, a little chitching every five minutes. And there's literally in that moment, I was like, I'm gonna do this. I'm gonna start an e commerce business because

05:01

I can't sit here and just let remote have all the fun. This is too good. So you inspired me to do it for sure.

I can't sit here and just let remote have all the fun. This is too good. So you inspired me to do it for sure.

05:08

That's awesome. Yeah. I had to turn off that notification,

That's awesome. Yeah. I had to turn off that notification,

05:12

because it drove me crazy. Eventually, like,

because it drove me crazy. Eventually, like,

05:15

ching, ching, ching every time there's a sale.

ching, ching, ching every time there's a sale.

05:17

But it was fun in the beginning. It was really, like, almost like that,

But it was fun in the beginning. It was really, like, almost like that,

05:22

you know, endorphin

you know, endorphin

05:23

release each time.

release each time.

05:26

Thing.

Thing.

05:27

Exactly.

Exactly.

05:28

And if you're on YouTube, if you're watching the YouTube channel, which is just, I don't know, what what is it? YouTube dot com slash my first million, I think, or hustle Con, something like that. Just search my first million on YouTube. You'll find it. But you can see the ramp behind Ramon. So he's got the, all the products behind you. So the the company is called AlphaPA. That's your thing. So we're gonna talk about,

And if you're on YouTube, if you're watching the YouTube channel, which is just, I don't know, what what is it? YouTube dot com slash my first million, I think, or hustle Con, something like that. Just search my first million on YouTube. You'll find it. But you can see the ramp behind Ramon. So he's got the, all the products behind you. So the the company is called AlphaPA. That's your thing. So we're gonna talk about,

05:46

a couple different things. I thought it'd be fun, have you on your substitute teacher for Sam. And like any substitute teacher, the class always has more on when the sub comes in.

a couple different things. I thought it'd be fun, have you on your substitute teacher for Sam. And like any substitute teacher, the class always has more on when the sub comes in.

05:55

So so that's what we're gonna do. I think we're gonna talk about a couple things. I wanna talk to you about

So so that's what we're gonna do. I think we're gonna talk about a couple things. I wanna talk to you about

06:00

kind of,

kind of,

06:01

buying and selling, buying businesses rather than starting businesses. So how you do it, and we'll go through some examples, maybe of what's out there. And then we'll jump back and we'll dig into kinda like your story. So,

buying and selling, buying businesses rather than starting businesses. So how you do it, and we'll go through some examples, maybe of what's out there. And then we'll jump back and we'll dig into kinda like your story. So,

06:11

how the heck you got started? But I first wanna give the

how the heck you got started? But I first wanna give the

06:14

the the the people and and myself really kind of a crash course on this process of buying businesses, because I was amazed when you told me you bought this business for three hundred thousand,

the the the people and and myself really kind of a crash course on this process of buying businesses, because I was amazed when you told me you bought this business for three hundred thousand,

06:24

And did you buy this off of Flippa or Quiet Light, or where'd you end up buying this? This one?

And did you buy this off of Flippa or Quiet Light, or where'd you end up buying this? This one?

06:31

Yeah. I I bought this on a similar,

Yeah. I I bought this on a similar,

06:34

broker like Quiet Lights. They're not around anymore, but it was a similar broker.

broker like Quiet Lights. They're not around anymore, but it was a similar broker.

06:39

No. That's flip up, but it's, it's more of a broker. And and when you bought it, I was sort of, like, what the heck, like, who does that? I didn't even know anybody who does, like, off these, like, random websites Like, I could see you buying something for a few thousand dollars, but three hundred grand, I thought was a lot. And I was like, dog ramps, what the heck? And you had told me then that,

No. That's flip up, but it's, it's more of a broker. And and when you bought it, I was sort of, like, what the heck, like, who does that? I didn't even know anybody who does, like, off these, like, random websites Like, I could see you buying something for a few thousand dollars, but three hundred grand, I thought was a lot. And I was like, dog ramps, what the heck? And you had told me then that,

06:56

You're like, yeah, the business is, doing good and the person really wasn't doing any marketing or they didn't run any Facebook ads, I think, was the case. And so you just saw, like, a clear, clear growth lever. So break it down, like, what is your

You're like, yeah, the business is, doing good and the person really wasn't doing any marketing or they didn't run any Facebook ads, I think, was the case. And so you just saw, like, a clear, clear growth lever. So break it down, like, what is your

07:08

why do you do this and then how do you do this buying businesses thing?

why do you do this and then how do you do this buying businesses thing?

07:12

Yeah.

Yeah.

07:15

Like, I may personally, I think it's also, like, what's your personal preference, what's your skill set? Some people are really good at going from zero to one, are really builders.

Like, I may personally, I think it's also, like, what's your personal preference, what's your skill set? Some people are really good at going from zero to one, are really builders.

07:24

Others are really good at going from one to ten and those are, you know, scalars.

Others are really good at going from one to ten and those are, you know, scalars.

07:29

I'm not really good at building.

I'm not really good at building.

07:31

I'm

I'm

07:32

better at, scaling.

better at, scaling.

07:34

And so I like to buy versus built,

And so I like to buy versus built,

07:38

because it gives you a lot more speed,

because it gives you a lot more speed,

07:42

it gives you history and data. And it's similar like real state where I try to find,

it gives you history and data. And it's similar like real state where I try to find,

07:50

crappy houses that you need to fix up, but in a good up and coming neighborhood, if that makes sense. Right. Like, you know, like, okay.

crappy houses that you need to fix up, but in a good up and coming neighborhood, if that makes sense. Right. Like, you know, like, okay.

07:57

Yes. Good market. There's a market fit. You know, if this house was amazing, you would be able to rent this out for two, three, four times more than the current

Yes. Good market. There's a market fit. You know, if this house was amazing, you would be able to rent this out for two, three, four times more than the current

08:09

owner does.

owner does.

08:10

It's the same with with website. So I look for websites that have a good product mix,

It's the same with with website. So I look for websites that have a good product mix,

08:16

product fits,

product fits,

08:18

has history.

has history.

08:19

It doesn't have to be, you know, going really well.

It doesn't have to be, you know, going really well.

08:22

I'm not looking for websites that are overly optimized.

I'm not looking for websites that are overly optimized.

08:25

So I tend to not buy websites from other internet marketers,

So I tend to not buy websites from other internet marketers,

08:30

because they already

because they already

08:32

did all the things that I probably would do for it. So it's not really room for growth.

did all the things that I probably would do for it. So it's not really room for growth.

08:38

So

So

08:39

I look for So what was the person like?

I look for So what was the person like?

08:43

What was the person like? Or what was the business like when you bought the dog ramp business? Describe kinda what you saw and what made you decide. Yeah. I'm gonna buy this one.

What was the person like? Or what was the business like when you bought the dog ramp business? Describe kinda what you saw and what made you decide. Yeah. I'm gonna buy this one.

08:51

Yeah.

Yeah.

08:52

It solves a real prop

It solves a real prop

08:54

I wasn't aware that this is actually a problem.

I wasn't aware that this is actually a problem.

08:57

I have a dog, but I have a pit bull. I don't have a small dog.

I have a dog, but I have a pit bull. I don't have a small dog.

09:02

Then so there's a real problem for a niche audience that you really can target on Facebook.

Then so there's a real problem for a niche audience that you really can target on Facebook.

09:08

Those were the good old days that you really could niche targets still on Facebook.

Those were the good old days that you really could niche targets still on Facebook.

09:13

It will have not a lot of competition at that time. Not a lot of people who are promoting ramps on Facebook, Instagram,

It will have not a lot of competition at that time. Not a lot of people who are promoting ramps on Facebook, Instagram,

09:20

or even Amazon.

or even Amazon.

09:23

The website was a very crappy,

The website was a very crappy,

09:28

websites where I knew that if we switch to Shopify, we do increase,

websites where I knew that if we switch to Shopify, we do increase,

09:33

or improve the copy, the pictures, etcetera. The conversion rates won't most likely increase.

or improve the copy, the pictures, etcetera. The conversion rates won't most likely increase.

09:40

This case,

This case,

09:41

the two founders were not doing any things we got. There was no paid acquisition

the two founders were not doing any things we got. There was no paid acquisition

09:45

happening at all.

happening at all.

09:48

And even though they had a decent sized customer database, they were not emailing even existing customers, let alone trying to capture

And even though they had a decent sized customer database, they were not emailing even existing customers, let alone trying to capture

09:56

you know, a card abandonment.

you know, a card abandonment.

09:57

So this was a good market, which is pets. It's, yep, it's, you know, a house that you said, okay, if I renovate the kitchens, the floorboards, the the the countertops,

So this was a good market, which is pets. It's, yep, it's, you know, a house that you said, okay, if I renovate the kitchens, the floorboards, the the the countertops,

10:07

which is, like, re redoing the website and the branding of it, the copywriting.

which is, like, re redoing the website and the branding of it, the copywriting.

10:11

And then lastly,

And then lastly,

10:13

not even trying to rent it out. They don't rent. They don't post it on Craigslist. They don't have flyers out in the neighborhood saying, come rent my place, which is they weren't doing paid advertising,

not even trying to rent it out. They don't rent. They don't post it on Craigslist. They don't have flyers out in the neighborhood saying, come rent my place, which is they weren't doing paid advertising,

10:21

ticket customers.

ticket customers.

10:22

So you saw it, you bought it, and you grew it. What's another example? So let's walk through,

So you saw it, you bought it, and you grew it. What's another example? So let's walk through,

10:28

Let's walk through some real examples, and then you tell me kinda like what you like or dislike about some of these businesses, because I know you did some research on on what's out there today.

Let's walk through some real examples, and then you tell me kinda like what you like or dislike about some of these businesses, because I know you did some research on on what's out there today.

10:37

Yeah.

Yeah.

10:39

So for example, there's one out.

So for example, there's one out.

10:41

It's sort of a a crossword puzzle website.

It's sort of a a crossword puzzle website.

10:45

So think of, like, when I think a lot of people play these words with friends games or or scrabble games, and then

So think of, like, when I think a lot of people play these words with friends games or or scrabble games, and then

10:54

there's a website out there, apparently, that you can just put in your letters, and it will give a bunch of worth recommendations. She showed it's website. Yeah.

there's a website out there, apparently, that you can just put in your letters, and it will give a bunch of worth recommendations. She showed it's website. Yeah.

11:03

Exactly.

Exactly.

11:05

I kinda love it because it's so there's no nothing to do. Like, you I think there's probably a database that's already pre built that you can buy. You build it basically once,

I kinda love it because it's so there's no nothing to do. Like, you I think there's probably a database that's already pre built that you can buy. You build it basically once,

11:15

and then it's just trying to get SEO traffic, you know,

and then it's just trying to get SEO traffic, you know,

11:20

to your website.

to your website.

11:21

So for example, there's one for sale now for nine million dollars. They started it in two thousand seventeen.

So for example, there's one for sale now for nine million dollars. They started it in two thousand seventeen.

11:28

Does three point five million in revenue.

Does three point five million in revenue.

11:31

And because there's no really team needed, it's like, it's almost all profit. It's like three around three million dollars of profit.

And because there's no really team needed, it's like, it's almost all profit. It's like three around three million dollars of profit.

11:37

And it's just you know, printing money, basically.

And it's just you know, printing money, basically.

11:42

I like these type of niches where

I like these type of niches where

11:46

Not a lot of people think about, but there's definitely a huge search volume. Another one is

Not a lot of people think about, but there's definitely a huge search volume. Another one is

11:54

what would you do? So give me two two pieces on that. So the first is,

what would you do? So give me two two pieces on that. So the first is,

11:58

with something like this, would you how would you try to grow it, or would you would you not buy this because you say, I I don't know how I would grow this where, you know, I get I I get a faster payback on my money. So what would you do? Well, how would you think about the growth levers for this one?

with something like this, would you how would you try to grow it, or would you would you not buy this because you say, I I don't know how I would grow this where, you know, I get I I get a faster payback on my money. So what would you do? Well, how would you think about the growth levers for this one?

12:13

Yeah. That's a good question.

Yeah. That's a good question.

12:15

I will personally not buy it at the moment.

I will personally not buy it at the moment.

12:17

But,

But,

12:19

because the price tag, typically, I

because the price tag, typically, I

12:21

only by, you know,

only by, you know,

12:24

banks in a couple hundred thousand dollar range, not millions.

banks in a couple hundred thousand dollar range, not millions.

12:30

The old what I would without knowing too much of the current business model, I definitely would try to increase

The old what I would without knowing too much of the current business model, I definitely would try to increase

12:37

RPMs, meaning How can we squeeze more advertising dollars out of the same traffic? They

RPMs, meaning How can we squeeze more advertising dollars out of the same traffic? They

12:43

get, like, tens of millions of visitors a month.

get, like, tens of millions of visitors a month.

12:47

And,

And,

12:48

I looked at a couple of similar websites, and I think there's a huge opportunity by,

I looked at a couple of similar websites, and I think there's a huge opportunity by,

12:54

placing ads, differently,

placing ads, differently,

12:56

just increase,

just increase,

12:58

RPM. Similar, if you if you have an e commerce, you wanna increase conversion rates. If you have a content site, you wanna increase RPMs,

RPM. Similar, if you if you have an e commerce, you wanna increase conversion rates. If you have a content site, you wanna increase RPMs,

13:06

meaning

meaning

13:07

how to get more people to click on the apps or

how to get more people to click on the apps or

13:10

things like that.

things like that.

13:12

So I would do that. Secondly, I would look and do research, like, for sure, if There's a huge segment of people that love

So I would do that. Secondly, I would look and do research, like, for sure, if There's a huge segment of people that love

13:20

scrabble. What is this like? What other games do they like? And maybe they build a sup

scrabble. What is this like? What other games do they like? And maybe they build a sup

13:27

system website that does, I don't know, like, what's it called? Sidoco,

system website that does, I don't know, like, what's it called? Sidoco,

13:32

or whatever.

or whatever.

13:35

So that's, that's the two, the two things that I would,

So that's, that's the two, the two things that I would,

13:39

if I would buy this type of website. And basically when you buy something like this, most people say I don't have nine million dollars. And I think when you started

if I would buy this type of website. And basically when you buy something like this, most people say I don't have nine million dollars. And I think when you started

13:47

doing this, when you first started looking at these websites, you also didn't have enough money to buy one of these. So tell tell the story of like how you first started going to these websites even when you didn't have enough money to buy, buy one of these companies.

doing this, when you first started looking at these websites, you also didn't have enough money to buy one of these. So tell tell the story of like how you first started going to these websites even when you didn't have enough money to buy, buy one of these companies.

14:03

Yeah.

Yeah.

14:04

Like, I've actually

Like, I've actually

14:06

bought and sold,

bought and sold,

14:08

websites that started with buying something for five hundred dollars and sold it for, you know, fifteen hundred dollars. I started on Flippa

websites that started with buying something for five hundred dollars and sold it for, you know, fifteen hundred dollars. I started on Flippa

14:16

twelve years ago.

twelve years ago.

14:18

And, you know, I've bottom

And, you know, I've bottom

14:21

Pinera website that sells,

Pinera website that sells,

14:24

Pineras. You can send a picture,

Pineras. You can send a picture,

14:26

of Sam,

of Sam,

14:27

And,

And,

14:28

It makes a pinata of him.

It makes a pinata of him.

14:30

Yes. A company in max, in Texas, Texas would make a pinata and then ship it directly to the customer.

Yes. A company in max, in Texas, Texas would make a pinata and then ship it directly to the customer.

14:37

So I bought that, for five thousand dollars. That's I scraped together.

So I bought that, for five thousand dollars. That's I scraped together.

14:42

Improved the website, traffic,

Improved the website, traffic,

14:45

and, made my money back in two and a half months, and then sold it a month later for twenty two thousand. Right? So it's not huge numbers, but those really, you know, helped me to grow little bits and really get a lot of experience.

and, made my money back in two and a half months, and then sold it a month later for twenty two thousand. Right? So it's not huge numbers, but those really, you know, helped me to grow little bits and really get a lot of experience.

15:01

Then,

Then,

15:02

when I started So pop,

when I started So pop,

15:05

I actually saw a similar website for sale on Flippa. That was for sale for one hundred thousand dollars. Was in the daytime

I actually saw a similar website for sale on Flippa. That was for sale for one hundred thousand dollars. Was in the daytime

15:14

TV,

TV,

15:16

era too. And, the topic was about daytime TV. Of course, I didn't have money. I had, like,

era too. And, the topic was about daytime TV. Of course, I didn't have money. I had, like,

15:23

couple thousand dollars.

couple thousand dollars.

15:25

I was not able to buy that.

I was not able to buy that.

15:28

But what I did is, like, hey, let's

But what I did is, like, hey, let's

15:31

see if there's something there. Let's do a small test, build a fan page,

see if there's something there. Let's do a small test, build a fan page,

15:36

see how engagement goes, and then see really how

see how engagement goes, and then see really how

15:40

you know, if there is something there and then grow from there. I guess we should explain.

you know, if there is something there and then grow from there. I guess we should explain.

15:45

You,

You,

15:47

you created if you if people have listened to episode two, they know the full story. We won't go to the full story again this time. But

you created if you if people have listened to episode two, they know the full story. We won't go to the full story again this time. But

15:53

your claim to fame, the the what episode two is about is telling the story of how you created a soap opera,

your claim to fame, the the what episode two is about is telling the story of how you created a soap opera,

16:00

content site, like a a soap opera

content site, like a a soap opera

16:03

website that was basically just saying, hey, you're watching days of our lives or you're watching, you know, I don't know, the young and the restless.

website that was basically just saying, hey, you're watching days of our lives or you're watching, you know, I don't know, the young and the restless.

16:10

Here's the recap. Here's the spoilers of what's coming next. You kinda built like a spoiler site for daytime soap operas.

Here's the recap. Here's the spoilers of what's coming next. You kinda built like a spoiler site for daytime soap operas.

16:16

What, like, who the heck thinks of that. And then you ended up selling it for nine or ten million dollars cash. And that's, like, an amazing

What, like, who the heck thinks of that. And then you ended up selling it for nine or ten million dollars cash. And that's, like, an amazing

16:24

amazing exit. And this is from a guy who has never watched a soap opera episode in his life. So I think people love that because it was so a random, but b,

amazing exit. And this is from a guy who has never watched a soap opera episode in his life. So I think people love that because it was so a random, but b,

16:33

interesting and relatable, how how you did that. And it sounds like one of the ways you were getting business ideas was you were going on these websites and you I think you had told me at the time you're I saw a website for sale that was also in the daytime TV niche that was, like, a hundred thousand dollars for sale. And you were, like, Cool. Like, I don't have a hundred thousand dollars, but if this is worth a hundred thousand dollars, maybe I can make something like this. And then you went through this process where

interesting and relatable, how how you did that. And it sounds like one of the ways you were getting business ideas was you were going on these websites and you I think you had told me at the time you're I saw a website for sale that was also in the daytime TV niche that was, like, a hundred thousand dollars for sale. And you were, like, Cool. Like, I don't have a hundred thousand dollars, but if this is worth a hundred thousand dollars, maybe I can make something like this. And then you went through this process where

16:55

you said, okay. How can I test these ideas? Cause,

you said, okay. How can I test these ideas? Cause,

16:58

when I met you, you I was like, alright, what's your passion?

when I met you, you I was like, alright, what's your passion?

17:01

You know, Silicon Valley style, and you were like, you know, what problem you really wanna solve? What what topic? What industry really passionate about? And you were like, there was a cup on the table. I remember. We were drinking we were drinking water. A paper cup. We were at this burrito place, and you were like,

You know, Silicon Valley style, and you were like, you know, what problem you really wanna solve? What what topic? What industry really passionate about? And you were like, there was a cup on the table. I remember. We were drinking we were drinking water. A paper cup. We were at this burrito place, and you were like,

17:15

if, if I could buy this cup for five cents and sell it to you for seven cents, that's my passion. Like, I like to buy things and sell things for a little bit more. And I'm basically an internet marketer, and I don't care if it's cups or dog ramps or so proper spoilers.

if, if I could buy this cup for five cents and sell it to you for seven cents, that's my passion. Like, I like to buy things and sell things for a little bit more. And I'm basically an internet marketer, and I don't care if it's cups or dog ramps or so proper spoilers.

17:30

It doesn't matter to me. I love the process of, like, business and selling things. And I was, like, That's amazing.

It doesn't matter to me. I love the process of, like, business and selling things. And I was, like, That's amazing.

17:37

You know, I love the, the sort of self awareness and honesty. And then when you were testing ideas for, for, before you created the soap opera site, you went on Facebook.

You know, I love the, the sort of self awareness and honesty. And then when you were testing ideas for, for, before you created the soap opera site, you went on Facebook.

17:47

And if I remember correctly, you basically made, like, thirty fan pages or something like that, because at the time, you could promote a page, a fan page on Facebook for, like, sense. You could go get a bunch of likes of your Facebook page. And a lot of likes aren't worth too much, but you could kinda test what topics are people most

And if I remember correctly, you basically made, like, thirty fan pages or something like that, because at the time, you could promote a page, a fan page on Facebook for, like, sense. You could go get a bunch of likes of your Facebook page. And a lot of likes aren't worth too much, but you could kinda test what topics are people most

18:03

engaged with. What what topics if I post content in this page will I get a bunch of likes for? And I think it ended up being, like, the top three were something like, what was it? It was like, right wing politics,

engaged with. What what topics if I post content in this page will I get a bunch of likes for? And I think it ended up being, like, the top three were something like, what was it? It was like, right wing politics,

18:14

like soap operas, and what was the last one? It was like, wrestling or something like that.

like soap operas, and what was the last one? It was like, wrestling or something like that.

18:20

Yeah. Restling was really popular. Soap opera was very,

Yeah. Restling was really popular. Soap opera was very,

18:24

soaps and politics,

soaps and politics,

18:27

wrestling

wrestling

18:28

and,

and,

18:30

cars were also pretty pretty high up.

cars were also pretty pretty high up.

18:32

Right. And then you were, like, you know, I I hate politics. I don't wanna do politics. What's an best one. Soap operas. Okay. Great.

Right. And then you were, like, you know, I I hate politics. I don't wanna do politics. What's an best one. Soap operas. Okay. Great.

18:39

Hire this woman in the Midwest to write,

Hire this woman in the Midwest to write,

18:42

blogs every day about soap operas and then drive traffic, baby. Sell let's go sell some paper cups.

blogs every day about soap operas and then drive traffic, baby. Sell let's go sell some paper cups.

18:49

Exactly.

Exactly.

18:50

And I just didn't really overthink it. I didn't wrote a business plan. I just, like, go and went on upwork dot com.

And I just didn't really overthink it. I didn't wrote a business plan. I just, like, go and went on upwork dot com.

18:57

Hey, looking for a writer that can write soap opera spoilers,

Hey, looking for a writer that can write soap opera spoilers,

19:01

put a very simple blog up just to test to see would people go from Facebook onto

put a very simple blog up just to test to see would people go from Facebook onto

19:07

a blog and write story, and that's how it basically started. And then, you know, started with ten cents a day from making from Google AdSense and then a dollar a day and then ten dollars. And that's how it grew. Right. Let's look at a couple more deals, and then we'll we'll we'll jump around again. So give me give me another one that you saw before you came on the pod that that you wanna talk about. Yeah. So this this is one I just saw,

a blog and write story, and that's how it basically started. And then, you know, started with ten cents a day from making from Google AdSense and then a dollar a day and then ten dollars. And that's how it grew. Right. Let's look at a couple more deals, and then we'll we'll we'll jump around again. So give me give me another one that you saw before you came on the pod that that you wanna talk about. Yeah. So this this is one I just saw,

19:30

an hour ago. I just thought I was interested, interesting.

an hour ago. I just thought I was interested, interesting.

19:33

It's a goat milk soap.

It's a goat milk soap.

19:35

Website. They sell goat soap. What the heck is that?

Website. They sell goat soap. What the heck is that?

19:39

Yes. So apparently,

Yes. So apparently,

19:41

goat milk soap is a better for the environment.

goat milk soap is a better for the environment.

19:45

And it's

And it's

19:46

better for they say it's cruelty free,

better for they say it's cruelty free,

19:50

because apparently a lot of soaps the traditional soaps. They do testing on animals,

because apparently a lot of soaps the traditional soaps. They do testing on animals,

19:56

etcetera.

etcetera.

19:57

So they claim and, like, forgive me for people that you know, know about goat's milk. So I this is the first time I heard about it, and that's why

So they claim and, like, forgive me for people that you know, know about goat's milk. So I this is the first time I heard about it, and that's why

20:05

I,

I,

20:07

that intrigued me.

that intrigued me.

20:10

But

But

20:11

this could probably be a product that people that use this are very passionate about. It's same like, you know, people that are into keto are super passionate.

this could probably be a product that people that use this are very passionate about. It's same like, you know, people that are into keto are super passionate.

20:21

Or, you know, there's tons of these examples where it's a pretty small niche, but people are so passionate that they they will spread the word for you.

Or, you know, there's tons of these examples where it's a pretty small niche, but people are so passionate that they they will spread the word for you.

20:29

So this white website, you can find it on Flippa.

So this white website, you can find it on Flippa.

20:32

Just search goat milk. So And and I'm looking at the listing. It's it says

Just search goat milk. So And and I'm looking at the listing. It's it says

20:37

four years old, monthly profit, twenty thousand dollars a month.

four years old, monthly profit, twenty thousand dollars a month.

20:42

It's got a twenty nine percent profit margin, and it's selling at a one point eight multiple. Right? So, okay. So what is that? So let's say two twenty

It's got a twenty nine percent profit margin, and it's selling at a one point eight multiple. Right? So, okay. So what is that? So let's say two twenty

20:49

times twelve. We don't do public math, but we do type things in. Two forty, two forty times one point eight. So it's selling for four something thousand. Is that right?

times twelve. We don't do public math, but we do type things in. Two forty, two forty times one point eight. So it's selling for four something thousand. Is that right?

20:58

Correct. Four hundred four hundred twenty five is the asking price.

Correct. Four hundred four hundred twenty five is the asking price.

21:02

Right. Okay. Amazing. So walk me through. How do you think about something like this?

Right. Okay. Amazing. So walk me through. How do you think about something like this?

21:07

Yeah. So first,

Yeah. So first,

21:09

I look at

I look at

21:12

I will do a little bit research about the product.

I will do a little bit research about the product.

21:15

Does goat milk really work? Is it more of an,

Does goat milk really work? Is it more of an,

21:19

more of a gimmick? Or is it actually solve a problem? Or are people really, you know, interested. Is there a need for this?

more of a gimmick? Or is it actually solve a problem? Or are people really, you know, interested. Is there a need for this?

21:26

And again, if it's a gimmick, that's fine too. Right? I'm this is not, like,

And again, if it's a gimmick, that's fine too. Right? I'm this is not, like,

21:30

of the answer's no. We'll not buy it. It's just important to know. Right. Back to the PUTlena example.

of the answer's no. We'll not buy it. It's just important to know. Right. Back to the PUTlena example.

21:37

Exactly.

Exactly.

21:39

How many? Because not it's very important too for, like, not all bit ideas have to be a hundred million dollar idea. Like, I think,

How many? Because not it's very important too for, like, not all bit ideas have to be a hundred million dollar idea. Like, I think,

21:49

a a million dollar a year business is amazing as well.

a a million dollar a year business is amazing as well.

21:52

Right? So,

Right? So,

21:54

maybe goat milk soap is, you know,

maybe goat milk soap is, you know,

21:57

a very passionate niche,

a very passionate niche,

22:00

product.

product.

22:01

I will look.

I will look.

22:02

I will do research, like, okay. How many people in the US search for it? You can use Google trends or you can use, all kinds of,

I will do research, like, okay. How many people in the US search for it? You can use Google trends or you can use, all kinds of,

22:11

search volume,

search volume,

22:13

trackers,

trackers,

22:15

that you can see how many people are searching for this keyword. I will look on Instagram or they're like, is there a rabbit fan base, you know, like goat milk, you know,

that you can see how many people are searching for this keyword. I will look on Instagram or they're like, is there a rabbit fan base, you know, like goat milk, you know,

22:24

fans,

fans,

22:25

or Facebook groups.

or Facebook groups.

22:28

Then I'll also look on Amazon.

Then I'll also look on Amazon.

22:30

Is this sold on Amazon? If yes, how is the trend and what is the sales. And then you can use a tool called helium ten to see how many,

Is this sold on Amazon? If yes, how is the trend and what is the sales. And then you can use a tool called helium ten to see how many,

22:39

how much revenue a listing is doing. By the way, really amazing tool,

how much revenue a listing is doing. By the way, really amazing tool,

22:44

to do research. I do the same for pet products. You know, I look what is trending on Amazon,

to do research. I do the same for pet products. You know, I look what is trending on Amazon,

22:51

what is, you know, blowing out the waters for sales, and then I will do research if we should also start selling that.

what is, you know, blowing out the waters for sales, and then I will do research if we should also start selling that.

22:59

Then I look, of course, on the business stuff, like business,

Then I look, of course, on the business stuff, like business,

23:03

is the is the trend up or down or flat.

is the is the trend up or down or flat.

23:08

And also, like,

And also, like,

23:10

most of the business I bought were either flat or down because that's how, you know, you get, you know, a good deal.

most of the business I bought were either flat or down because that's how, you know, you get, you know, a good deal.

23:18

So even if it's flats, even if it's not turning up, I still would, you know, potentially buy it.

So even if it's flats, even if it's not turning up, I still would, you know, potentially buy it.

23:24

What is important are the traffic channels diversified. Is hunt or ninety percent coming from just Facebook or is it just emails or is it just,

What is important are the traffic channels diversified. Is hunt or ninety percent coming from just Facebook or is it just emails or is it just,

23:34

SEO?

SEO?

23:36

That could be a little bit, you know, risky,

That could be a little bit, you know, risky,

23:39

especially if it's all paid traffic from Facebook,

especially if it's all paid traffic from Facebook,

23:43

because

because

23:44

all the e commerce founders or listeners,

all the e commerce founders or listeners,

23:47

on this podcast will know, you know,

on this podcast will know, you know,

23:50

Apple can make an update and suddenly, you know, they're paid

Apple can make an update and suddenly, you know, they're paid

23:54

traffic landscape change.

traffic landscape change.

23:57

So I'm I'm looking for diversified

So I'm I'm looking for diversified

23:59

channels.

channels.

24:00

Then, of course, I look at revenue profit margins So you can really calculate, like, okay, if I pump,

Then, of course, I look at revenue profit margins So you can really calculate, like, okay, if I pump,

24:07

is this gonna be more of an skill where I can pump more money into Facebook?

is this gonna be more of an skill where I can pump more money into Facebook?

24:12

I put a dollar in, I get the three dollars back, or is this more like of a long term play where I have to create SEO content,

I put a dollar in, I get the three dollars back, or is this more like of a long term play where I have to create SEO content,

24:20

that's, you know, is

that's, you know, is

24:23

less costly,

less costly,

24:24

but it's a longer game.

but it's a longer game.

24:28

And then also what's important to understand what you're buying

And then also what's important to understand what you're buying

24:32

or the trademarks or the patents is their email subscribers. So in this case, they have a forty three thousand email subscribers.

or the trademarks or the patents is their email subscribers. So in this case, they have a forty three thousand email subscribers.

24:40

There's thirty three thousand SMS,

There's thirty three thousand SMS,

24:43

subscribers.

subscribers.

24:45

I think there's a social media All these things,

I think there's a social media All these things,

24:49

in my opinion, are valuable because that's the same with when I bought AlphaPA,

in my opinion, are valuable because that's the same with when I bought AlphaPA,

24:54

they

they

24:55

had a huge Instagram following the huge Facebook following. They had an email list. They had trademarks and patents. All that was, you know,

had a huge Instagram following the huge Facebook following. They had an email list. They had trademarks and patents. All that was, you know,

25:05

included in the sale.

included in the sale.

25:07

And and if you those are great. Those are the assets. And so let's take a business like this. Let's say it's four hundred thousand dollar listing

And and if you those are great. Those are the assets. And so let's take a business like this. Let's say it's four hundred thousand dollar listing

25:14

how does it work? You know, if you don't have four hundred grand lying around, you know, in, in a briefcase, like a, like you know, evil evil genius. What do you what do you do? How do you buy a business like this if you don't have four hundred grand lying around?

how does it work? You know, if you don't have four hundred grand lying around, you know, in, in a briefcase, like a, like you know, evil evil genius. What do you what do you do? How do you buy a business like this if you don't have four hundred grand lying around?

25:27

Yeah. So,

Yeah. So,

25:30

You can use,

You can use,

25:32

SBA loans,

SBA loans,

25:34

to buy internet businesses.

to buy internet businesses.

25:37

SBA loan is basically a business loan, small business loan,

SBA loan is basically a business loan, small business loan,

25:41

that's

that's

25:42

I I don't know when they started.

I I don't know when they started.

25:45

Few years ago where they now also fund internet businesses.

Few years ago where they now also fund internet businesses.

25:50

And you can

And you can

25:52

borrow

borrow

25:53

up to ninety percent. So, technically,

up to ninety percent. So, technically,

25:56

you can buy something for

you can buy something for

25:58

that is for sale for four hundred thousand.

that is for sale for four hundred thousand.

26:00

And you only have to put down forty thousand dollars,

And you only have to put down forty thousand dollars,

26:05

and interest rate is is pretty low. It's anywhere between five and seven. So it's it's higher than a mortgage, but it's much lower than a traditional,

and interest rate is is pretty low. It's anywhere between five and seven. So it's it's higher than a mortgage, but it's much lower than a traditional,

26:14

you know, a business loan,

you know, a business loan,

26:17

for, you know, for people like us.

for, you know, for people like us.

26:21

Then the second thing you can do when you've seen the asking price of four hundred thousand dollars,

Then the second thing you can do when you've seen the asking price of four hundred thousand dollars,

26:27

you can

you can

26:28

always

always

26:29

there's a cash upfront offer

there's a cash upfront offer

26:32

and then you can offer like, hey, I will pay you two hundred fifty thousand dollars cash upfront

and then you can offer like, hey, I will pay you two hundred fifty thousand dollars cash upfront

26:38

at closing.

at closing.

26:40

The remaining hundred fifty k, I will pay you spread out over the next twelve months interest free.

The remaining hundred fifty k, I will pay you spread out over the next twelve months interest free.

26:47

So every time I buy business, that's never hundred percent hundred percent cash on closing.

So every time I buy business, that's never hundred percent hundred percent cash on closing.

26:54

I always have

I always have

26:56

sixty to eighty percent cash and closing and remaining, it's either sellers note or an earn out.

sixty to eighty percent cash and closing and remaining, it's either sellers note or an earn out.

27:03

And that keeps the seller, you know, helpful

And that keeps the seller, you know, helpful

27:06

because they're, you know, they they need to help you out, plus it lowers the amount that you have to loan. So let's just say, let let's just do a little loan calculator. So the SBA loan is, what, ten year loan, something like that?

because they're, you know, they they need to help you out, plus it lowers the amount that you have to loan. So let's just say, let let's just do a little loan calculator. So the SBA loan is, what, ten year loan, something like that?

27:17

Yes. So ten year loan. So let's say you did the full amount, no seller financing, just for simplicity,

Yes. So ten year loan. So let's say you did the full amount, no seller financing, just for simplicity,

27:22

simplicity here. So you put down forty k, you're gonna take the other three hundred sixty k as a as a SBA loan. And let's say you're paying sixty per six percent a year for ten years. So your monthly payment on that loan. It's gonna be four thousand dollars. This business makes twenty thousand dollars a month of profit. So you take the twenty thousand dollars a month of profit. You pay back your loan for four. You're left with sixteen k of profit every month right now. So you could buy this today and be making money. And so that that difference. Let's say sixteen k. You only put down, you know, you only put down forty thousand dollars. So it only takes two and a half months for you to get all your equity back. And then you're, and you're profitable every single month, and you could reinvest some of that into growth. So that's like a pretty

simplicity here. So you put down forty k, you're gonna take the other three hundred sixty k as a as a SBA loan. And let's say you're paying sixty per six percent a year for ten years. So your monthly payment on that loan. It's gonna be four thousand dollars. This business makes twenty thousand dollars a month of profit. So you take the twenty thousand dollars a month of profit. You pay back your loan for four. You're left with sixteen k of profit every month right now. So you could buy this today and be making money. And so that that difference. Let's say sixteen k. You only put down, you know, you only put down forty thousand dollars. So it only takes two and a half months for you to get all your equity back. And then you're, and you're profitable every single month, and you could reinvest some of that into growth. So that's like a pretty

28:08

sweet deal. And that's more than most people are making at their, quote unquote, safe job.

sweet deal. And that's more than most people are making at their, quote unquote, safe job.

28:13

Correct.

Correct.

28:14

And SBA, the beauty with SBA loans they, of course, they look at your personal

And SBA, the beauty with SBA loans they, of course, they look at your personal

28:19

credit history and etcetera, but they really look and make a decision,

credit history and etcetera, but they really look and make a decision,

28:23

the the lenders on the business. So they will never fund you if there's too high of a risk. Right? If they think like, oh, if,

the the lenders on the business. So they will never fund you if there's too high of a risk. Right? If they think like, oh, if,

28:31

we cannot you know, the the the borrower cannot pay the the interest month over month.

we cannot you know, the the the borrower cannot pay the the interest month over month.

28:38

So it's an amazing tool. Actually, he spoke with, Joe Valley from quiet life broker,

So it's an amazing tool. Actually, he spoke with, Joe Valley from quiet life broker,

28:43

today, and he told me a story. It was,

today, and he told me a story. It was,

28:47

a woman.

a woman.

28:48

She bought

She bought

28:49

a business for one point two five million with an SBA loan two years ago

a business for one point two five million with an SBA loan two years ago

28:54

and just closed and sold the same business for five point five, I believe. It was in the five range.

and just closed and sold the same business for five point five, I believe. It was in the five range.

29:01

But put only ten percent down. So she only she didn't even put two hundred k down.

But put only ten percent down. So she only she didn't even put two hundred k down.

29:07

But her return was, you know Four million. Yeah. I don't know. Yeah.

But her return was, you know Four million. Yeah. I don't know. Yeah.

29:13

So if done right, you know, SBA loans is a really great tool, a great leverage tool, to get into internet businesses or buy a business.

So if done right, you know, SBA loans is a really great tool, a great leverage tool, to get into internet businesses or buy a business.

29:23

Amazing.

Amazing.

29:24

Yeah. It's

Yeah. It's

29:25

there's one of the tricks. Now, what do you give people, a sense of how do you need to make sure you're not buying a lemon?

there's one of the tricks. Now, what do you give people, a sense of how do you need to make sure you're not buying a lemon?

29:32

Yes.

Yes.

29:33

That's,

That's,

29:34

I get in question a lot.

I get in question a lot.

29:36

So when you go to flippa dot com, I would really,

So when you go to flippa dot com, I would really,

29:41

be careful because flipper dot com is a marketplace.

be careful because flipper dot com is a marketplace.

29:44

Anybody can just upload,

Anybody can just upload,

29:46

you know, their listing or their website and basically claim whatever. It's on you to do due diligence.

you know, their listing or their website and basically claim whatever. It's on you to do due diligence.

29:52

If you go to a broker like quiet live brokers,

If you go to a broker like quiet live brokers,

29:55

they basically do all the vetting for you. They will, like,

they basically do all the vetting for you. They will, like,

29:59

look at the business is everything legit.

look at the business is everything legit.

30:02

So the risk is much smaller.

So the risk is much smaller.

30:05

But regardless, if you're new to this, if you are, you know, it's your first business,

But regardless, if you're new to this, if you are, you know, it's your first business,

30:10

you can

you can

30:11

hire

hire

30:12

a due diligence company.

a due diligence company.

30:14

Centerica's

Centerica's

30:15

centurica dot com is one. I think those are the biggest,

centurica dot com is one. I think those are the biggest,

30:19

well known.

well known.

30:20

You pay

You pay

30:22

you know, it's it depends on the listing price, but it's as cheap as a couple hundred dollars.

you know, it's it depends on the listing price, but it's as cheap as a couple hundred dollars.

30:28

And it goes up from there, but they do all the due diligence for you. They look through all the traffic because it's legit. It's the revenue legit. It's whatever everything they claimed isn't all legit. And then they can come back to you with, like, well, we looked at all the data, all the numbers.

And it goes up from there, but they do all the due diligence for you. They look through all the traffic because it's legit. It's the revenue legit. It's whatever everything they claimed isn't all legit. And then they can come back to you with, like, well, we looked at all the data, all the numbers.

30:44

You bought it for one point two, but we think it's actually worth nine hundred k because these are the reasons.

You bought it for one point two, but we think it's actually worth nine hundred k because these are the reasons.

30:51

So definitely recommend going with the due diligence company

So definitely recommend going with the due diligence company

30:56

like Centerca.

like Centerca.

30:57

Gotcha. Okay. And give okay. So these are,

Gotcha. Okay. And give okay. So these are,

31:01

business you could buy. What was the first kind of, like,

business you could buy. What was the first kind of, like,

31:04

How the heck did you become you? Right? So how are you figuring out how to do this? Give people kind of, not

How the heck did you become you? Right? So how are you figuring out how to do this? Give people kind of, not

31:11

not you don't go deep into any one, but just describe kind of the journey and then I might poke into some that sound interesting. So

not you don't go deep into any one, but just describe kind of the journey and then I might poke into some that sound interesting. So

31:18

Okay. You're, you're Ramon. You're born.

Okay. You're, you're Ramon. You're born.

31:20

And, I don't know. I don't know when you got your entrepreneurial start. What was the first kind of like entrepreneurial venture? You've were you in your teens or or twenties or what?

And, I don't know. I don't know when you got your entrepreneurial start. What was the first kind of like entrepreneurial venture? You've were you in your teens or or twenties or what?

31:30

My first real business was an construction business.

My first real business was an construction business.

31:35

I've done things before that, but there were, like, nothing really significant.

I've done things before that, but there were, like, nothing really significant.

31:42

But I think the way how I started the construction company

But I think the way how I started the construction company

31:46

is really

is really

31:48

my DNA, if that makes sense. Because if I look back, a lot of other companies I started to basically the same, I didn't know anything about construction.

my DNA, if that makes sense. Because if I look back, a lot of other companies I started to basically the same, I didn't know anything about construction.

32:00

And,

And,

32:01

the story,

the story,

32:02

I will keep it very quick, but I think it's maybe could be helpful for people that maybe

I will keep it very quick, but I think it's maybe could be helpful for people that maybe

32:07

are overthinking

are overthinking

32:09

steps or overthinking things.

steps or overthinking things.

32:12

So

So

32:13

I was out of the job was twenty years old.

I was out of the job was twenty years old.

32:16

Had to pay my rent.

Had to pay my rent.

32:19

Co worker of my mom said, I need a painter to paint the inside of my house. I can pay you x. I forgot the number, but it was war like a month's worth of money that I made in three days. So I thought, oh, this is amazing. I can, you know, be my own boss. For a lot of money. The harder I work, the more money I make. That was really what intrigued me. Right? Like, if I can do this in one day, I will actually, you know, have make the same amount of money than in a whole month. So you got paid on output, not your input.

Co worker of my mom said, I need a painter to paint the inside of my house. I can pay you x. I forgot the number, but it was war like a month's worth of money that I made in three days. So I thought, oh, this is amazing. I can, you know, be my own boss. For a lot of money. The harder I work, the more money I make. That was really what intrigued me. Right? Like, if I can do this in one day, I will actually, you know, have make the same amount of money than in a whole month. So you got paid on output, not your input.

32:48

Correct.

Correct.

32:49

And,

And,

32:51

And as you know, like, in my high school dropout, right? So there was not, that's

And as you know, like, in my high school dropout, right? So there was not, that's

32:56

What what year did you actually drop out?

What what year did you actually drop out?

33:00

Officially fifteen, but I stopped really going when I was fourteen. Okay. So that's basically the letter. Right?

Officially fifteen, but I stopped really going when I was fourteen. Okay. So that's basically the letter. Right?

33:07

That's US ninth grade. I don't know what it is there. Okay.

That's US ninth grade. I don't know what it is there. Okay.

33:11

I actually my mom actually got a letter from the board school to with an official waiver. Like, okay, you're son doesn't have to go to school because in Holland, you have to go to school med mandatory to sixteen.

I actually my mom actually got a letter from the board school to with an official waiver. Like, okay, you're son doesn't have to go to school because in Holland, you have to go to school med mandatory to sixteen.

33:22

They actually gave me a pass because no high school wanted to accept me.

They actually gave me a pass because no high school wanted to accept me.

33:27

But it's a different story. So it's a good guy.

But it's a different story. So it's a good guy.

33:32

The,

The,

33:35

on Sunday night, she paid me out. I said, this is amazing. So on Monday

on Sunday night, she paid me out. I said, this is amazing. So on Monday

33:40

morning,

morning,

33:41

I

I

33:42

came up with a name

came up with a name

33:43

house improvements or home improvements, one of those two.

house improvements or home improvements, one of those two.

33:48

Build some,

Build some,

33:49

design a couple, very ugly business cards

design a couple, very ugly business cards

33:52

made a one page,

made a one page,

33:54

website and put an add out on the Dutch version of cracks list.

website and put an add out on the Dutch version of cracks list.

34:00

And I thought, you know what? Let's just not do only painting. Let's do, like, we do everything.

And I thought, you know what? Let's just not do only painting. Let's do, like, we do everything.

34:05

Construction, like, remodeling a to z, whatever. And finally, you don't know how to do any of that, by the way.

Construction, like, remodeling a to z, whatever. And finally, you don't know how to do any of that, by the way.

34:11

No. No. I don't know anything. I barely was able to So so what gives you that confidence to say I'll I'll renovate everything a to z and yet I don't know how to do anything a to z.

No. No. I don't know anything. I barely was able to So so what gives you that confidence to say I'll I'll renovate everything a to z and yet I don't know how to do anything a to z.

34:22

I think that's the naive thing. Pardon me that I still have is, like, let's just see first if I can get a job and then figure out, like, how to solve or do the job. And

I think that's the naive thing. Pardon me that I still have is, like, let's just see first if I can get a job and then figure out, like, how to solve or do the job. And

34:33

so an hour later or two hours later, I got an email,

so an hour later or two hours later, I got an email,

34:37

from a guy saying, Hey, I'm looking for an electrician.

from a guy saying, Hey, I'm looking for an electrician.

34:41

And,

And,

34:43

I am

I am

34:44

rewiring

rewiring

34:45

the whole building, blah, blah, blah. I said, sure. No problem. Right? I'm a ninth grade dropout. I'll be there in three hours. I I got this. Yeah.

the whole building, blah, blah, blah. I said, sure. No problem. Right? I'm a ninth grade dropout. I'll be there in three hours. I I got this. Yeah.

34:54

I went out to buy an official construction outfit.

I went out to buy an official construction outfit.

34:58

So I really looked like a construction guy or like, you know.

So I really looked like a construction guy or like, you know.

35:03

And I went there the next morning

And I went there the next morning

35:06

and,

and,

35:07

disclaimer, of course, I will not have done things that will, you know, potentially kill people

disclaimer, of course, I will not have done things that will, you know, potentially kill people

35:12

but I just wanted to see, like, you know, I don't know. Like, maybe it was something simple. So he gave me

but I just wanted to see, like, you know, I don't know. Like, maybe it was something simple. So he gave me

35:18

he gave me the tour and it was, like, he I couldn't even understand the words he were saying, like, oh, we need to wire this and we need to do it. And the floors were open and the walls were open.

he gave me the tour and it was, like, he I couldn't even understand the words he were saying, like, oh, we need to wire this and we need to do it. And the floors were open and the walls were open.

35:28

And,

And,

35:30

I was still playing along, but in my mind, I was like, I'm there's no way I can do this plus it's dangerous as fuck.

I was still playing along, but in my mind, I was like, I'm there's no way I can do this plus it's dangerous as fuck.

35:36

So he went out to run some errands. I waited for him,

So he went out to run some errands. I waited for him,

35:41

because I didn't wanna be, like, you know,

because I didn't wanna be, like, you know,

35:43

an asshole go, Lexa waited for an hour. He came back, and I was like, listen.

an asshole go, Lexa waited for an hour. He came back, and I was like, listen.

35:48

I'm gonna be honest.

I'm gonna be honest.

35:50

I don't know shit about the construction company. I don't know shit about ELECTRA.

I don't know shit about the construction company. I don't know shit about ELECTRA.

35:54

I

I

35:54

just started, like, yesterday. I wanna build a construction company, but I don't know anything.

just started, like, yesterday. I wanna build a construction company, but I don't know anything.

36:00

And he was because he was an entrepreneur,

And he was because he was an entrepreneur,

36:02

he laughed his ass off, and he actually gave me

he laughed his ass off, and he actually gave me

36:05

work. He said, like, you're hilarious,

work. He said, like, you're hilarious,

36:09

just help me with, you know, getting Carrie this box over here.

just help me with, you know, getting Carrie this box over here.

36:14

Yeah. And he paid me the same amount of dollars

Yeah. And he paid me the same amount of dollars

36:18

or euros.

or euros.

36:19

Hourly rate than,

Hourly rate than,

36:21

he would have done before.

he would have done before.

36:24

I think also, by the way, if we have young listeners,

I think also, by the way, if we have young listeners,

36:27

I think it's so important to do those things when you're young

I think it's so important to do those things when you're young

36:31

because if I would do it now, I'm forty years old. Not in theory. Don't think it's not endearing. It's not like, oh, I appreciate your hustle. No. It's like, hey. Your con man. It's like, yeah. Yes.

because if I would do it now, I'm forty years old. Not in theory. Don't think it's not endearing. It's not like, oh, I appreciate your hustle. No. It's like, hey. Your con man. It's like, yeah. Yes.

36:43

So

So

36:44

If you're young, take advantage, you know, Sam was also really genius of doing that as well. Right? Like, you can just get away with so much more

If you're young, take advantage, you know, Sam was also really genius of doing that as well. Right? Like, you can just get away with so much more

36:52

up showing hassle. But also, like, I think he appreciated that I waited for him and just be, like, honest. Like, hey, listen. I don't know shit about this.

up showing hassle. But also, like, I think he appreciated that I waited for him and just be, like, honest. Like, hey, listen. I don't know shit about this.

37:01

He gave me a really good tip. He said

He gave me a really good tip. He said

37:04

in order to own a construction company, you don't have to know everything or do yourself.

in order to own a construction company, you don't have to know everything or do yourself.

37:09

If I were you,

If I were you,

37:11

find freelancers.

find freelancers.

37:12

You focus on getting the projects and then you outsourced it to freelancers. So that's what I did.

You focus on getting the projects and then you outsourced it to freelancers. So that's what I did.

37:18

And found an electrician,

And found an electrician,

37:20

freelancer,

freelancer,

37:21

plumber, you know, everything you need, a whole crew that you need.

plumber, you know, everything you need, a whole crew that you need.

37:26

And two weeks later,

And two weeks later,

37:27

second job,

second job,

37:29

and I didn't do anything. I just had my, you know,

and I didn't do anything. I just had my, you know,

37:36

I sold it for ten k. My cut was, like, around five k, and that's how I basically grew construction company. And within a year, a little over year, we were like a twenty to twenty four people depending on how many projects. We had.

I sold it for ten k. My cut was, like, around five k, and that's how I basically grew construction company. And within a year, a little over year, we were like a twenty to twenty four people depending on how many projects. We had.

37:52

And at that time, we did close to a million dollars or a million euros. Sorry,

And at that time, we did close to a million dollars or a million euros. Sorry,

37:57

Wow. A year.

Wow. A year.

37:59

In revenue. And you're, like, nineteen, twenty years old, something like that at that time?

In revenue. And you're, like, nineteen, twenty years old, something like that at that time?

38:04

Yeah. Twenty.

Yeah. Twenty.

38:06

Twenty one when we, you know, were year year in. And so what happened to that? Happy ending or sad ending to the story?

Twenty one when we, you know, were year year in. And so what happened to that? Happy ending or sad ending to the story?

38:13

Well, very quick, maybe story about how I skills

Well, very quick, maybe story about how I skills

38:17

the scaling part, I think it's also,

the scaling part, I think it's also,

38:19

maybe

maybe

38:20

could be helpful for people is that,

could be helpful for people is that,

38:24

The big problem with construction is every, like, the job is two weeks, and they have to find another job. Their job is four weeks, they have to find another job. Right? So it was really hard to keep the guides busy,

The big problem with construction is every, like, the job is two weeks, and they have to find another job. Their job is four weeks, they have to find another job. Right? So it was really hard to keep the guides busy,

38:37

and really,

and really,

38:38

you know, make sure that,

you know, make sure that,

38:41

the the projects align, if that makes sense. So I thought, hey,

the the projects align, if that makes sense. So I thought, hey,

38:45

who can I find? What can I do so I don't have to find jobs anymore?

who can I find? What can I do so I don't have to find jobs anymore?

38:51

So

So

38:52

real estate investors. They buy apartment buildings all at once. They all need to be renovated at once.

real estate investors. They buy apartment buildings all at once. They all need to be renovated at once.

38:59

So I went to,

So I went to,

39:01

local real estate,

local real estate,

39:02

meetups.

meetups.

39:04

That was actually horrible because I was a re out of my place. I was way too young. I was, like, you know, blue collar guy,

That was actually horrible because I was a re out of my place. I was way too young. I was, like, you know, blue collar guy,

39:12

with all these fancy pants,

with all these fancy pants,

39:14

but one thing lead to another that I met the biggest,

but one thing lead to another that I met the biggest,

39:19

real estate investor,

real estate investor,

39:22

in

in

39:23

my region that I lived, and he was, like, literally bill

my region that I lived, and he was, like, literally bill

39:26

buying apartment buildings

buying apartment buildings

39:28

at the foreclosure every month between twenty and a hundred buildings at the time. So now he became my client, and he was my client to the end. Basically, I'd never had to search for,

at the foreclosure every month between twenty and a hundred buildings at the time. So now he became my client, and he was my client to the end. Basically, I'd never had to search for,

39:40

a new,

a new,

39:42

customer.

customer.

39:44

The so that was all the good news, then I made a bunch of mistakes.

The so that was all the good news, then I made a bunch of mistakes.

39:49

Cash flow projection was one where construction,

Cash flow projection was one where construction,

39:52

you really it's a similar, a little bit similar like with e commerce.

you really it's a similar, a little bit similar like with e commerce.

39:55

I think

I think

39:56

you could grow yourself into bankruptcy if that makes sense. Making, for example,

you could grow yourself into bankruptcy if that makes sense. Making, for example,

40:04

you with a construction, same with e commerce, you have to put a lot of money up front.

you with a construction, same with e commerce, you have to put a lot of money up front.

40:09

I have to pay every Friday, the the crew. I have to buy the supplies, but I only get paid all the way at the end when the project is done.

I have to pay every Friday, the the crew. I have to buy the supplies, but I only get paid all the way at the end when the project is done.

40:17

So

So

40:18

the faster you grow, the more projects you have, the more money

the faster you grow, the more projects you have, the more money

40:21

you have to put out

you have to put out

40:24

in open, and you have to wait for it.

in open, and you have to wait for it.

40:27

So that started,

So that started,

40:31

that was really, and that was just not good. At cash flow projection. I'd well, I just didn't do it. And, another thing that

that was really, and that was just not good. At cash flow projection. I'd well, I just didn't do it. And, another thing that

40:38

really

really

40:43

was bad,

was bad,

40:44

was growing too fast that I have to hire. People that I normally would not have

was growing too fast that I have to hire. People that I normally would not have

40:47

hired

hired

40:53

and

and

40:53

really lost grip of the business. If that makes sense, and, you know, it started to break.

really lost grip of the business. If that makes sense, and, you know, it started to break.

41:00

And,

And,

41:02

I had to close the company,

I had to close the company,

41:04

and after three years more or less. And our mutual buddy Sully was at my house this weekend. And he said something like, I don't know if maybe you already maybe this is the guy you already talked about, but he said he said you had some, like, mentor kinda help you

and after three years more or less. And our mutual buddy Sully was at my house this weekend. And he said something like, I don't know if maybe you already maybe this is the guy you already talked about, but he said he said you had some, like, mentor kinda help you

41:17

early on. Somebody who really changed the course of your life. I don't know. Is he talking about the guy that who gave you that first kind of insight to higher freelancers, or is there somebody else he's talking about? No. It is a different story. Okay. Tell that one.

early on. Somebody who really changed the course of your life. I don't know. Is he talking about the guy that who gave you that first kind of insight to higher freelancers, or is there somebody else he's talking about? No. It is a different story. Okay. Tell that one.

41:30

Alright. That story,

Alright. That story,

41:32

was before my construction company.

was before my construction company.

41:36

I was,

I was,

41:38

almost eighteen or around that time.

almost eighteen or around that time.

41:41

My mother kicked me out the house. You have to, you know, live,

My mother kicked me out the house. You have to, you know, live,

41:47

You have to figure your shit out. So I have to pay rent. So I had to find a job as a local

You have to figure your shit out. So I have to pay rent. So I had to find a job as a local

41:53

Best Buy.

Best Buy.

41:54

The the the Dutch version of Best Buy.

The the the Dutch version of Best Buy.

41:59

Couple weeks in, I feel like this sucks. Right? Like,

Couple weeks in, I feel like this sucks. Right? Like,

42:02

long hours, whatever. And,

long hours, whatever. And,

42:06

there was a guy coming in.

there was a guy coming in.

42:09

In a nice, expensive suit.

In a nice, expensive suit.

42:11

He wanted to buy something. Was not in stock.

He wanted to buy something. Was not in stock.

42:14

He gave me a business card and says, like, software solutions.

He gave me a business card and says, like, software solutions.

42:18

And I didn't know anything about software or programming or whatever, but I knew More solutions. Because it's more solutions. Whatever. I didn't know any.

And I didn't know anything about software or programming or whatever, but I knew More solutions. Because it's more solutions. Whatever. I didn't know any.

42:28

But I just knew, like, okay, hey, there's a lot of money to be made and a lot of opportunity

But I just knew, like, okay, hey, there's a lot of money to be made and a lot of opportunity

42:33

in because this was, like, the early internet's days. Right? Like, you know, I'm an old fuck. Right? This is, like,

in because this was, like, the early internet's days. Right? Like, you know, I'm an old fuck. Right? This is, like,

42:41

before two thousand and one,

before two thousand and one,

42:43

before the internet bubble, as people remember.

before the internet bubble, as people remember.

42:47

And,

And,

42:49

so I didn't know what he was doing, but it was something in software and solutions. And how you knew it was good because he came in in a fancy suit, or you separately had been thinking about the internet?

so I didn't know what he was doing, but it was something in software and solutions. And how you knew it was good because he came in in a fancy suit, or you separately had been thinking about the internet?

43:00

Separately, been thinking about because I always was like trying to, you know,

Separately, been thinking about because I always was like trying to, you know,

43:08

oh, let's buy

oh, let's buy

43:10

this type of product

this type of product

43:11

in Germany and then try to sell it in Harvard. Like, I was always trying to build these doing these schemes,

in Germany and then try to sell it in Harvard. Like, I was always trying to build these doing these schemes,

43:18

legal, of course. But,

legal, of course. But,

43:21

internet was just like this whole new, like, for me, my, like, this was, like, amazing. Like, there's so many upper so much opportunity.

internet was just like this whole new, like, for me, my, like, this was, like, amazing. Like, there's so many upper so much opportunity.

43:29

And so I knew that. I just didn't know, like, exactly what, how to get started,

And so I knew that. I just didn't know, like, exactly what, how to get started,

43:35

how to even, you know, write a line of codes or whatever.

how to even, you know, write a line of codes or whatever.

43:39

So I started

So I started

43:40

stalking him as a hey,

stalking him as a hey,

43:43

and this is, again, the benefit of being young,

and this is, again, the benefit of being young,

43:47

like, hey, I wanna get a job at your company.

like, hey, I wanna get a job at your company.

43:50

And he said, no.

And he said, no.

43:52

We don't we're not hiring. But I kept stalking him, respectfully, but I did stop stalking him for months, like three, four months.

We don't we're not hiring. But I kept stalking him, respectfully, but I did stop stalking him for months, like three, four months.

44:02

To a point where he said,

To a point where he said,

44:04

you know what?

you know what?

44:06

I'm so sick and tired of this in a good way.

I'm so sick and tired of this in a good way.

44:09

Let's make a deal

Let's make a deal

44:11

If I'm gonna give you a book

If I'm gonna give you a book

44:13

on Friday, we have an internal exam for programmers.

on Friday, we have an internal exam for programmers.

44:18

If you

If you

44:20

past that exam,

past that exam,

44:23

I will give you I will hire the company will hire you and give you a six months internal

I will give you I will hire the company will hire you and give you a six months internal

44:28

program to become a Microsoft

program to become a Microsoft

44:31

developer.

developer.

44:32

But you have to promise me if you fail this exam on Friday, you have to leave me alone for the rest of your life. I said, okay. Let's do it.

But you have to promise me if you fail this exam on Friday, you have to leave me alone for the rest of your life. I said, okay. Let's do it.

44:41

They know what it was expect. He gave me a book about Microsoft database access Access database programming.

They know what it was expect. He gave me a book about Microsoft database access Access database programming.

44:48

Study that if my live was depending on that, did exam,

Study that if my live was depending on that, did exam,

44:52

and I passed.

and I passed.

44:53

I didn't pass a plus, but I passed enough.

I didn't pass a plus, but I passed enough.

44:56

And, so they gave me a job. Like, gave me a job,

And, so they gave me a job. Like, gave me a job,

45:01

and for six to

and for six to

45:02

next six months.

next six months.

45:04

They trained me. I was able to become a Microsoft

They trained me. I was able to become a Microsoft

45:08

software

software

45:09

developer

developer

45:11

within this company. They gave me,

within this company. They gave me,

45:14

a lease card. They gave me a laptop. They gave me, like, phone. Like, it was it was insane.

a lease card. They gave me a laptop. They gave me, like, phone. Like, it was it was insane.

45:19

Yeah. So this guy really changed my life because I think

Yeah. So this guy really changed my life because I think

45:24

learning how to code,

learning how to code,

45:26

really is how falls in other ways in in your life. Like, because it really, you

really is how falls in other ways in in your life. Like, because it really, you

45:33

analyze problems

analyze problems

45:35

in situations, just different if,

in situations, just different if,

45:38

when when you know how to code, if that makes sense. And you but today, you don't consider yourself like a code or, like, let's say, for your your e commerce website. You're not the one going and making changes. Is do you do it, like, sometimes or early on before you hire people? Do you just do stuff yourself? Or, no. You're just saying learning it back then and

when when you know how to code, if that makes sense. And you but today, you don't consider yourself like a code or, like, let's say, for your your e commerce website. You're not the one going and making changes. Is do you do it, like, sometimes or early on before you hire people? Do you just do stuff yourself? Or, no. You're just saying learning it back then and

45:55

using it back then and learning how to think that way was helpful.

using it back then and learning how to think that way was helpful.

45:59

Yeah. And at the that time, I had to learn visual basic. That language doesn't even exist anymore.

Yeah. And at the that time, I had to learn visual basic. That language doesn't even exist anymore.

46:06

So it's like,

So it's like,

46:08

I know how to read PHP and HTML and you know, I know I know how to do it, but I'm, like, I I never I never do it, basically.

I know how to read PHP and HTML and you know, I know I know how to do it, but I'm, like, I I never I never do it, basically.

46:17

I I think it's more of breaking down what was so frustrating as a programmer is like finding bugs. So you have like, you know,

I I think it's more of breaking down what was so frustrating as a programmer is like finding bugs. So you have like, you know,

46:25

a ten thousand

a ten thousand

46:27

line code

line code

46:28

and there's one thing

and there's one thing

46:30

breaks. You have to go through, like, all the codes, but it really trains your brain, like, okay, how to,

breaks. You have to go through, like, all the codes, but it really trains your brain, like, okay, how to,

46:38

like,

like,

46:39

circle not circle down, but like,

circle not circle down, but like,

46:42

really try to narrow down what it could be and where the problem could be. And that my set you can use in in all kinds of other Right. You know, real life situations.

really try to narrow down what it could be and where the problem could be. And that my set you can use in in all kinds of other Right. You know, real life situations.

46:52

So I don't program right now. Okay. Fair enough. And we got five minutes left. You had a game you wanted to play at the end. Let's do let's do the game.

So I don't program right now. Okay. Fair enough. And we got five minutes left. You had a game you wanted to play at the end. Let's do let's do the game.

47:00

Okay.

Okay.

47:01

So I wanted to ask you. It's And why did you wanna play this game, by the way?

So I wanted to ask you. It's And why did you wanna play this game, by the way?

47:07

Because I think your audience would like to know these question It's like Winturada. So it's a Ruchurada.

Because I think your audience would like to know these question It's like Winturada. So it's a Ruchurada.

47:13

Let's give the people what they want.

Let's give the people what they want.

47:16

Yes.

Yes.

47:17

Alright. Here's the first one. Would you rather be the CEO of Apple or the president

Alright. Here's the first one. Would you rather be the CEO of Apple or the president

47:22

of the UFC?

of the UFC?

47:24

Oh, okay. President of the UFC

Oh, okay. President of the UFC

47:26

like Dana White,

like Dana White,

47:28

too much travel. I'm traveling. I'm on the road all the time dealing with with all kinds of head event planning. Like, when I threw my wedding, I was like, this is the only event I'll ever throw like this. And, for the UFC, every weekend, they throw, you know, a mega wedding. So no way I'm doing that.

too much travel. I'm traveling. I'm on the road all the time dealing with with all kinds of head event planning. Like, when I threw my wedding, I was like, this is the only event I'll ever throw like this. And, for the UFC, every weekend, they throw, you know, a mega wedding. So no way I'm doing that.

47:45

I also wouldn't really wanna be the CEO of Apple. So I'll take the job. I'll go buy your company for half a trillion. I'll buy my company for half a trillion. And then I'll peace out.

I also wouldn't really wanna be the CEO of Apple. So I'll take the job. I'll go buy your company for half a trillion. I'll buy my company for half a trillion. And then I'll peace out.

47:54

Alright.

Alright.

47:56

That's awesome.

That's awesome.

47:58

I saw this on a meme, actually,

I saw this on a meme, actually,

48:01

Would you rather have dinner with JZ or take five hundred thousand dollar cash?

Would you rather have dinner with JZ or take five hundred thousand dollar cash?

48:06

Five hundred thousand dollars cash, easy. What would you do? Would you take dinner with JZ? I feel like you might be a I want a unique experienced person. No?

Five hundred thousand dollars cash, easy. What would you do? Would you take dinner with JZ? I feel like you might be a I want a unique experienced person. No?

48:15

Yeah. I will take the cash to it. There was there was all debates

Yeah. I will take the cash to it. There was there was all debates

48:19

like, people say, like, you should take Daisy because, like, let's say fifty thousand dollars.

like, people say, like, you should take Daisy because, like, let's say fifty thousand dollars.

48:24

Fifty thousand dollars. Yes. I think is a closer bet here.

Fifty thousand dollars. Yes. I think is a closer bet here.

48:28

Yeah.

Yeah.

48:29

Then I will, in the situation

Then I will, in the situation

48:32

right now, I will take the dinner.

right now, I will take the dinner.

48:35

If I have no money, I will take the cash.

If I have no money, I will take the cash.

48:37

Right. Yeah. Yeah. I'm I'm in the same boat. I think the dinner's most likely gonna be kinda lame, but, you know, I get a good story Who knows? Maybe maybe we hit it off. Maybe he's interesting.

Right. Yeah. Yeah. I'm I'm in the same boat. I think the dinner's most likely gonna be kinda lame, but, you know, I get a good story Who knows? Maybe maybe we hit it off. Maybe he's interesting.

48:48

Five hundred thousand. That's

Five hundred thousand. That's

48:50

you could go buy your charity dinner with JZ for for ninety thousand and have the rest left over for for goods after that. Or you can buy a goat milk soap website. Yeah. Exactly. I mean, with five hundred. Whatever. That's the question. Would I rather have that goat milk business today or just dinner with JC

you could go buy your charity dinner with JZ for for ninety thousand and have the rest left over for for goods after that. Or you can buy a goat milk soap website. Yeah. Exactly. I mean, with five hundred. Whatever. That's the question. Would I rather have that goat milk business today or just dinner with JC

49:07

tomorrow? I'll take the goat milk business today. Thank you.

tomorrow? I'll take the goat milk business today. Thank you.

49:11

Yeah.

Yeah.

49:13

Let's do which rather

Let's do which rather

49:17

would you rather bootstrap

would you rather bootstrap

49:19

bootstrap a million dollar business? Or VC back ten million dollar a year business.

bootstrap a million dollar business? Or VC back ten million dollar a year business.

49:25

I think I would rather have a VC back ten million dollar a year business. And I'll tell you why. I think that Once you can get a business to ten million dollars, I think the odds of you being able to get it to fifty or a hundred are quite high. I think zero to ten is a lot harder

I think I would rather have a VC back ten million dollar a year business. And I'll tell you why. I think that Once you can get a business to ten million dollars, I think the odds of you being able to get it to fifty or a hundred are quite high. I think zero to ten is a lot harder

49:40

or more likely to to to round down to zero,

or more likely to to to round down to zero,

49:43

then ten will stay at ten. So I think ten million, really, what you're saying is, hey, just stick with it for a little longer, and you'll be at thirty, forty, fifty,

then ten will stay at ten. So I think ten million, really, what you're saying is, hey, just stick with it for a little longer, and you'll be at thirty, forty, fifty,

49:51

seventy, something like that million within two, three years. So I think that's the case. And then I'm I'm actually a lot of people think VC means your VC forever and that you're in this endless,

seventy, something like that million within two, three years. So I think that's the case. And then I'm I'm actually a lot of people think VC means your VC forever and that you're in this endless,

50:02

chase. They're like, well, the VCs say you need to grow. The VCs say you know, you'll have to raise your next round. My experience with VCs has actually been quite different, which is VCs give you the money. They might want you to do something, but it's your call what you do. And like, You can raise one round and never raise again from VC or you can raise one round and grow it the pace you want.

chase. They're like, well, the VCs say you need to grow. The VCs say you know, you'll have to raise your next round. My experience with VCs has actually been quite different, which is VCs give you the money. They might want you to do something, but it's your call what you do. And like, You can raise one round and never raise again from VC or you can raise one round and grow it the pace you want.

50:20

They might strongly

They might strongly

50:22

advise you to do something, but it's on you to say, look,

advise you to do something, but it's on you to say, look,

50:26

are you gonna fire me? Do you have the power to do that? Are you gonna fire me? If not, then I'm gonna need you to, you know, shut the fuck up and stay in the back seat. And, like, let me do what do here. So I think the ten million dollar business is just better than the the bootstrap to one million.

are you gonna fire me? Do you have the power to do that? Are you gonna fire me? If not, then I'm gonna need you to, you know, shut the fuck up and stay in the back seat. And, like, let me do what do here. So I think the ten million dollar business is just better than the the bootstrap to one million.

50:40

That a very quick for the listeners that have an idea, but not the capital, would you tell them to

That a very quick for the listeners that have an idea, but not the capital, would you tell them to

50:48

try to get VC?

try to get VC?

50:49

Money

Money

50:50

or try to get

or try to get

50:53

the company started,

the company started,

50:54

get some revenue and then do the VC routes. For

get some revenue and then do the VC routes. For

50:58

Yeah. I mean, that's gonna sound cliche, but it's true and whoever's doing this needs to hear this, which is

Yeah. I mean, that's gonna sound cliche, but it's true and whoever's doing this needs to hear this, which is

51:04

the

the

51:05

raising money is not the, is not the goal. Like, so a lot of people are like, hey, I wanna talk to you, like, I'll invest a company. They'll say, wanna talk to you about, you know, what metrics we need to do to be able to raise an a in, nine months. Or, you know, we're we're we're starting planning for our series B

raising money is not the, is not the goal. Like, so a lot of people are like, hey, I wanna talk to you, like, I'll invest a company. They'll say, wanna talk to you about, you know, what metrics we need to do to be able to raise an a in, nine months. Or, you know, we're we're we're starting planning for our series B

51:20

wanna talk to you about what metrics we need to do to hit the B. And I'm like,

wanna talk to you about what metrics we need to do to hit the B. And I'm like,

51:25

I understand what they're saying, and it's good to be thoughtful and plan. But there's this sort of, implication that

I understand what they're saying, and it's good to be thoughtful and plan. But there's this sort of, implication that

51:31

raising money is the milestone.

raising money is the milestone.

51:33

And it's like, oh, what business? What does this business need to do to be able to achieve this outcome? And it's actually the opposite. It's I have a business outcome I'm trying to get to. I'm trying to get to ten million in revenue with twenty percent EBITDA. I'm trying to get twenty percent market share in this market or five percent. I wanna grow twenty percent a month. You have a business outcome in mind, and then you just say, do I need more money to make that happen? Yes or no?

And it's like, oh, what business? What does this business need to do to be able to achieve this outcome? And it's actually the opposite. It's I have a business outcome I'm trying to get to. I'm trying to get to ten million in revenue with twenty percent EBITDA. I'm trying to get twenty percent market share in this market or five percent. I wanna grow twenty percent a month. You have a business outcome in mind, and then you just say, do I need more money to make that happen? Yes or no?

51:55

Money is the fuel. It is not the destination. It is not the it's not the point of the journey,

Money is the fuel. It is not the destination. It is not the it's not the point of the journey,

52:02

for for for raising money. And so I would just say like, yeah. When you start when you have the idea,

for for for raising money. And so I would just say like, yeah. When you start when you have the idea,

52:08

the goal is, okay, well, I need to get, like, one customer, ten customers, a hundred customers, a thousand customers, You start doing that. And then at some point, if you get stuck because you lack the money, meaning you truly, you need to go buy inventory or you're You paid ads are working, you just need to spend more to get to the next milestone, then you raise the money. Don't raise, don't raise as your excuse to go do the business.

the goal is, okay, well, I need to get, like, one customer, ten customers, a hundred customers, a thousand customers, You start doing that. And then at some point, if you get stuck because you lack the money, meaning you truly, you need to go buy inventory or you're You paid ads are working, you just need to spend more to get to the next milestone, then you raise the money. Don't raise, don't raise as your excuse to go do the business.

52:31

Yeah.

Yeah.

52:32

And you also see a lot of, deals or people approaching you and, you know, me in a liquid lesser way, but I do feel like there's a lot of people think they need money to launch a business, but actually

And you also see a lot of, deals or people approaching you and, you know, me in a liquid lesser way, but I do feel like there's a lot of people think they need money to launch a business, but actually

52:46

don't.

don't.

52:48

Because they think, oh, it needs to be pretty or it has to have all these functionalities.

Because they think, oh, it needs to be pretty or it has to have all these functionalities.

52:53

But maybe they could just, like, start with one functionality and just have, you know, a fiber designer, just do it and, you know, do it at least get started. Yeah. My favorite people to to to fund are people who have

But maybe they could just, like, start with one functionality and just have, you know, a fiber designer, just do it and, you know, do it at least get started. Yeah. My favorite people to to to fund are people who have

53:06

created a company and, like, made all the mistakes

created a company and, like, made all the mistakes

53:10

ended up with a small win where they got a taste of winning, but, you know, not not not enough to go retire on a yacht. Because the next time they start, they're, like, not gonna waste those six months on design mock ups and branding and getting the trademark and all this other stuff. Like, they know what are the traps, and they know what what you really need to do versus what you think you need to do. And there's a big gap there. But usually, it's even if somebody tells you, experience is the best teacher because, the voice in your head typically, from most entrepreneurs I meet, the voice in your head typically is giving you some bad advice your first first time through, and it's okay. Like, just go do it, learn those lessons, and then the second time you're much better off.

ended up with a small win where they got a taste of winning, but, you know, not not not enough to go retire on a yacht. Because the next time they start, they're, like, not gonna waste those six months on design mock ups and branding and getting the trademark and all this other stuff. Like, they know what are the traps, and they know what what you really need to do versus what you think you need to do. And there's a big gap there. But usually, it's even if somebody tells you, experience is the best teacher because, the voice in your head typically, from most entrepreneurs I meet, the voice in your head typically is giving you some bad advice your first first time through, and it's okay. Like, just go do it, learn those lessons, and then the second time you're much better off.

53:48

Yeah. I agree.

Yeah. I agree.

53:49

Then last question,

Then last question,

53:51

Would you rather do a boxing match against Sam or do an Ironman with me and Souley?

Would you rather do a boxing match against Sam or do an Ironman with me and Souley?

53:58

Both. I'd I'd rather do the boxing match with Sam because that sounds more fun and exciting,

Both. I'd I'd rather do the boxing match with Sam because that sounds more fun and exciting,

54:04

than like an endurance race.

than like an endurance race.

54:06

But, yeah, so I would do a boxing match the same. I think that'd be great. You know, I've always wanted to, like, feel what it's like to be in a real fight. Like, I think I got into, like, one or two little altercation when I was younger, like, in high school or middle school, but it was always, like, I hit the kid and then he he ran away or, like, he hit me and then it got broken up. And it's like, it never Yeah. Was like, okay. Let's do this. Let's get Let's start. No one's gonna break this up and the point is to actually get in a fight. So I would do it although Sam is definitely like, you know, on horse, tranquilizers or whatever. Like, horse you know, growth hormone or whatever he's taking. That guy is, built like a absolute monster right now. So, you know, I I need a little training period, but I would do it.

But, yeah, so I would do a boxing match the same. I think that'd be great. You know, I've always wanted to, like, feel what it's like to be in a real fight. Like, I think I got into, like, one or two little altercation when I was younger, like, in high school or middle school, but it was always, like, I hit the kid and then he he ran away or, like, he hit me and then it got broken up. And it's like, it never Yeah. Was like, okay. Let's do this. Let's get Let's start. No one's gonna break this up and the point is to actually get in a fight. So I would do it although Sam is definitely like, you know, on horse, tranquilizers or whatever. Like, horse you know, growth hormone or whatever he's taking. That guy is, built like a absolute monster right now. So, you know, I I need a little training period, but I would do it.

54:49

Actually, a lot of people, because he's been posting videos of me and him sparring.

Actually, a lot of people, because he's been posting videos of me and him sparring.

54:53

You know, he wants to come and,

You know, he wants to come and,

54:56

fitness influencer now. And to hit to his credit, by the way, he post pic he posts videos of you hitting him and him going down. Normally, when people post the cherry pick what makes them look good, he does the opposite. He posts of you hitting him at the liver shots and him falling down over and over again, like, compilation.

fitness influencer now. And to hit to his credit, by the way, he post pic he posts videos of you hitting him and him going down. Normally, when people post the cherry pick what makes them look good, he does the opposite. He posts of you hitting him at the liver shots and him falling down over and over again, like, compilation.

55:13

Yeah.

Yeah.

55:14

And to be also to his credit, he,

And to be also to his credit, he,

55:16

he started four or five months ago.

he started four or five months ago.

55:20

Not super serious, not that he's doing it every day, but he he actually got really good, really fast.

Not super serious, not that he's doing it every day, but he he actually got really good, really fast.

55:27

You know, I've been training much longer.

You know, I've been training much longer.

55:31

But a lot of people on the Twitter,

But a lot of people on the Twitter,

55:33

comments actually

comments actually

55:35

are voting for,

are voting for,

55:37

you versus Sam.

you versus Sam.

55:39

So maybe we should give the fans what they need. Let's give the fans what they want. Yeah. We need we need, like, a Kickstarter or go fund me or something. It's like, if, if if if certain number of people

So maybe we should give the fans what they need. Let's give the fans what they want. Yeah. We need we need, like, a Kickstarter or go fund me or something. It's like, if, if if if certain number of people

55:49

vote for this or buy the pre buy a pay per view, five dollar pay per view of this, we'll do it. We need like, whatever ten thousand pre buys.

vote for this or buy the pre buy a pay per view, five dollar pay per view of this, we'll do it. We need like, whatever ten thousand pre buys.

55:57

Okay. Ten thousand pre buys. That's the goal. Ten thousand pre buys of a ten dollar pay per view, and then we'll do it.

Okay. Ten thousand pre buys. That's the goal. Ten thousand pre buys of a ten dollar pay per view, and then we'll do it.

56:04

Okay.

Okay.

56:05

Let's set it up. And then,

Let's set it up. And then,

56:09

you can either give me, like, it's gonna be, like, I don't know, four months to to train. And we'll we'll film the training. Four months to train. Yeah.

you can either give me, like, it's gonna be, like, I don't know, four months to to train. And we'll we'll film the training. Four months to train. Yeah.

56:17

Four to six weeks. Each one can get one,

Four to six weeks. Each one can get one,

56:20

good trainer, boxing trainer,

good trainer, boxing trainer,

56:22

do you do what you're going to do boxing or MMA or No. Box, I guess, but I don't have time to learn five martial arts. So

do you do what you're going to do boxing or MMA or No. Box, I guess, but I don't have time to learn five martial arts. So

56:29

We'll get to the point where we'll both shitty at boxing, and then we'll do it.

We'll get to the point where we'll both shitty at boxing, and then we'll do it.

56:34

Yeah. Let's do it. I think we should, do it. And then maybe Sully and I can box suit as they're the pre, with that, the under guard. Yeah. We we we should we should get with anybody.

Yeah. Let's do it. I think we should, do it. And then maybe Sully and I can box suit as they're the pre, with that, the under guard. Yeah. We we we should we should get with anybody.

56:44

It's a CEO boxing tournament.

It's a CEO boxing tournament.

56:48

Yes.

Yes.

56:49

And we stream it, and we do it in a really small ratchet, like boxing gym here. That's right. So we can go there. And then we'll just stream it for for the people. Right. Ten thousand pre buys. That's a lot, but I think it's doable,

And we stream it, and we do it in a really small ratchet, like boxing gym here. That's right. So we can go there. And then we'll just stream it for for the people. Right. Ten thousand pre buys. That's a lot, but I think it's doable,

57:03

especially if you can get to support of your listeners.

especially if you can get to support of your listeners.

57:06

Yeah. We're saying it now. People will just have to see,

Yeah. We're saying it now. People will just have to see,

57:10

we'll just have to get them a link, and let's get them a link, and let's do it. Yes.

we'll just have to get them a link, and let's get them a link, and let's do it. Yes.

57:14

Alright.

Alright.

57:15

Just I cannot wait. Alright. Perfect.

Just I cannot wait. Alright. Perfect.

57:17

Okay. I gotta run. I gotta do a call with this guy. Ramon, thanks for being on. Where should people find you? So now your daughter's famous. So Is it Ramone Vanmir? Is that your your Twitter handle? Right?

Okay. I gotta run. I gotta do a call with this guy. Ramon, thanks for being on. Where should people find you? So now your daughter's famous. So Is it Ramone Vanmir? Is that your your Twitter handle? Right?

57:27

Yeah. Ramone at Ramone Vanmir. All together. At Ramona Van Mirneir. Go by. If you have a small dog, like, I have a multi poo.

Yeah. Ramone at Ramone Vanmir. All together. At Ramona Van Mirneir. Go by. If you have a small dog, like, I have a multi poo.

57:35

I have four of your ramps in my house because it's a lifesaver.

I have four of your ramps in my house because it's a lifesaver.

57:39

Otherwise your dogs get, like, you know, injured backs and they're jumping off couches and stuff like that. That's, like, imagine jumping on to something or off of something that's three times your height Right? That's what they're doing. And so these ramps are onto the bed, onto the couch, upstairs, you know, that's how I use them. So go buy go buy some ramps from Apple Paul.

Otherwise your dogs get, like, you know, injured backs and they're jumping off couches and stuff like that. That's, like, imagine jumping on to something or off of something that's three times your height Right? That's what they're doing. And so these ramps are onto the bed, onto the couch, upstairs, you know, that's how I use them. So go buy go buy some ramps from Apple Paul.

Sync with video