Unconventional SMB

About Unconventional SMB

A Podcast that explores everything Small & Medium Businesses, offering a unique platform where SMB owners share their stories, insights, and valuable lessons learned along their journeys. Not only celebrating the successes, we discuss current challenges faced by owners and seek to connect them with resources and individuals who can help break through those barriers. SMBs are the foundation of the economy and provide unique opportunities to generate positive impact + profit. Owning and operating an SMB can be a rewarding, exciting and humbling career path, however, the decision should not be taken lightly. Alongside these inspiring interviews, our podcast features solo episodes with the host discussing topics crucial to the growth and transition of SMBs. Our Purpose is to empower Owners to build stronger, higher-impact businesses through learning, networking, peer support and unconventional thinking

Publisher

Jon DeCoste

Category

business

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

23 Feb 2024

Latest episode

29 Jul 2024

Latest episodes

10 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   29 Jul 2024

   #10 From the Rigs to Raising Millions - Strategies, Perspectives and Great Stories | Chad Hayden

   Send us a Text Message. (https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2320972/open_sms) Summary Chad Hayden, the founder of Galatea, shares his entrepreneurial journey and the lessons he has learned along the way. He discusses the importance of taking risks, learning from failure, and persevering through challenges. Chad also talks about the value of being uncomfortable and pushing oneself outside of their comfort zone. He shares insights on sales and the importance of activity and repetition in driving results. Chad emphasizes the need for continuous improvement and the importance of measuring key behaviours. He also discusses the significance of energy management and finding a balance between work and personal life. Galatea is a company that focuses on backend optimization and data-driven processes in the oil and gas industry. They aim to simplify and automate the supply chain for waste disposal and commodity transportation. Chad Hayden, the CEO of Galatea, emphasizes the importance of matching culture with business and creating a dynamic and evolving culture that aligns with the company's mission and values. ❤️ Enjoy this interview? SUBSCRIBE for more:    / @unconventionalsmb www.unconventionalsmb.com ------------------------------ Reach Chad here linkedin.com/in/chdhdn ------------------------------ Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Tour Circuit 04:07 Starting Galatea and Raising Capital 04:55 Chad's Background and Previous Ventures 06:11 Identifying the Opportunity for Galatea 09:19 Lessons from Working on the Rigs 28:11 Transitioning to Sales and Energy Management 33:18 Gamification and Measuring Key Behaviors 37:20 The Importance of Salespeople in a Business 38:23 Identifying the Opportunity for Galatea 45:29 Automating the Supply Chain for Waste Disposal and Commodity Transportation 48:57 Creating a System that Requires Minimal Human Intervention 52:47 The Energy Transition and Galatea's Focus on Oil and Gas 55:40 Engaging with Opposing Viewpoints on LinkedIn Sound Bites "If you're not failing, you're not really pushing hard enough or taking enough risks." "Entrepreneurship is a marathon, not a sprint." "If you're not uncomfortable, you're not growing." "Josh is, he's getting her done for us, right? Which is good for the business." "That commitment to that just relentless grind is what you need and it makes good entrepreneurs." "If I had a device connected to the tank and I could understand how fast these tanks are filling up, then I could really figure out when to get a truck to the tank at the right time." ------------------------------ CONNECT 🎙️ Postcast Guests: Canadian SMB owners interested in chatting about your story, insights, and lessons. https://www.jotform.com/form/24049840... 🗞️ Unconventional SMB Newsletter: A precursor to the podcast. 👉 Pantheon Row Ventures: Acquiring, operating, and building SMBs with profit + impact as a core value https://www.pantheonrowventures.com/ 👉  Connect with host Jon DeCoste on LinkedIn:    / jondecoste ------------------------------ ABOUT Unconventional SMB: A Podcast that explores everything Small & Medium Businesses, offering a unique platform where SMB owners share their stories, insights, and valuable lessons learned along their journeys. Not only celebrating the successes, we discuss current challenges faced by owners and seek to connect them with resources and individuals who can help break through those barriers. SMBs are the foundation of the economy and provide unique opportunities to generate positive impact + profit. Owning and operating an SMB can be a rewarding, exciting and humbling career path, however, the decision should not be taken lightly. Alongside these inspiring interviews, our podcast features

2. 

   10 Jul 2024

   #09 Built with Purpose - Designed Lifestyle, 4-Day weeks, Growth of People - Rick Jollymore

   Send us a Text Message. (https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2320972/open_sms) SUMMARY Rick Jollymore, an East Coast entrepreneur, who started Rad Property Services after identifying an opportunity in the property services industry. The discussion delves into his background, the initial stages of his business, the expansion of services, and the growth of his team. It also touches on the challenges and strategies involved in hiring and managing a team. The conversation covers the challenges of starting and scaling a business, managing finances, dealing with customer payment terms, and the impact of COVID on business growth. It also delves into the importance of employee satisfaction and the decision to maintain a smaller, more manageable business size. Rick shares insights on business growth, employee loyalty, and the impact of work-life balance on happiness and productivity. The conversation covers topics such as business operations, employee management, financials, and future plans. Rick Jollymore shares insights on managing a small business, focusing on employee needs, and expanding into custom residential bathrooms. The conversation also touches on challenges faced by small business owners and the importance of taking risks and betting on oneself. ❤️ Enjoy this interview? SUBSCRIBE for more:    / @unconventionalsmb www.unconventionalsmb.com ------------------------------ Chapters 00:00 The Entrepreneurial Journey Begins 04:22 Identifying Opportunities and Taking Risks 07:51 Identifying the Opportunity to Break Out 14:15 Surrounded by People Who Can Help 15:15 Gain Experience in a Career 19:43 Challenges of Starting and Scaling a Business 24:10 Financial Management and Customer Payment Terms 26:44 Price, Quality, Time 34:13 Employee Satisfaction and Business Size 35:08 Navigating Business Growth and Happiness 36:54 Building Employee Loyalty and Trust 38:36 Dealing with Legal Challenges 45:02 Implementing a Four-Day Workweek 47:43 Navigating Small Business Operations and Employee Management 47:46 What's the Next Challenge? 48:11 Expanding into Custom Residential Bathrooms 50:46 Non-Existent Online, But Does It Matter? 52:48 Challenges and Opportunities in Small Business Ownership 54:22 Advice to Bet on Yourself ------------------------------ CONNECT 🎙️ Postcast Guests: Canadian SMB owners interested in chatting about your story, insights, and lessons. https://www.jotform.com/form/24049840... 🗞️ Unconventional SMB Newsletter: A precursor to the podcast. 👉 Pantheon Row Ventures: Acquiring, operating, and building SMBs with profit + impact as a core value https://www.pantheonrowventures.com/ 👉  Connect with host Jon DeCoste on LinkedIn:    / jondecoste ------------------------------ ABOUT Unconventional SMB: A Podcast that explores everything Small & Medium Businesses, offering a unique platform where SMB owners share their stories, insights, and valuable lessons learned along their journeys. Not only celebrating the successes, we discuss current challenges faced by owners and seek to connect them with resources and individuals who can help break through those barriers. SMBs are the foundation of the economy and provide unique opportunities to generate positive impact + profit. Owning and operating an SMB can be a rewarding, exciting and humbling career path, however, the decision should not be taken lightly. Alongside these inspiring interviews, our podcast features solo episodes with the host discussing topics crucial to the growth and transition of SMBs. Our Purpose is to empower Owners to build stronger, higher-impact businesses through learning, networking, peer support and unconventional thinking

3. 

   5 Jun 2024

   #08 A Synchrotron Facility To A Midstream Company 6 Years $1B of Throughput $18M of Profit Share

   Send us a Text Message. (https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2320972/open_sms) Summary Chris Ryan transitioned from a seven-year career in the energy industry to entrepreneurship. With a background in engineering physics and experience on a significant science project at the University of Saskatchewan, he won the Brett Wilson Entrepreneurship Challenge, securing funding and support for his business idea. At Tundra Oil and Gas, Chris gained comprehensive industry knowledge and hands-on experience, especially in exploitation engineering and marketing. Chris stresses the importance of understanding assets and building relationships in the oil and gas sector, advocating for commercial personnel to engage directly with field operations. His tenure at Tundra Energy Marketing inspired him to start Broadbill Energy, a midstream company with a disruptive business model focused on profit-sharing with producers and long-term value creation. Despite challenges like market fluctuations and COVID-19, Broadbill Energy grew to 13 sites and 90 kilometres of pipeline, prioritizing transparency, partnership, and customer service. Broadbill Energy emphasizes integrity, continuous improvement, and excellent service over growth mandates. They value experiences and relationships, aiming to be industry leaders recognized for their integrity and customer loyalty. The company believes in fostering great leadership, prioritizing people and culture, and learning through networking and advice from others. ❤️ Enjoy this interview? SUBSCRIBE for more: / @unconventional-smb www.unconventionalsmb.com ------------------------------ Reach Chris Ryan LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-ryan-93497234 Website: https://broadbillenergy.com/ ------------------------------ Chapters 00:00 From Engineering Physics to the Energy Industry 11:45 Winning the Brett Wilson Entrepreneurship Challenge 16:49 Right Place Right Time - Hired on a Plane 22:19 Early Career Hands-On - Value of Rapport with Operations Team 25:07 A 101 lesson in Flooding (wrt Drilling) 29:03 The Disruptive Business Model of Broadbill Energy 35:22 New Biz Structure 37:10 Family Decision - We Can Always Go Get a Job 38:20 First Customers 40:51 Being Different, Being Disruptive, It's Working 44:42 **A Lesson: What a Good Partnership Looks Like** 50:11 The BIG Challenge 53:09 Needed to Find a New Debt Partner 55:15 Transparency and Partnership: Overcoming Obstacles 58:48 Personal Guarantee Advice 01:06:05 Diversifying Operations and Mitigating Risk 01:13:38 Transitioning from Working in the Business to Working on the Business 01:16:20 Continues Improvement, Asking Customers What's Not Working 01:21:06 Fostering Great Leadership for the Future ------------------------------ CONNECT 🎙️ Postcast Guests: Canadian SMB owners interested in chatting about your story, insights, and lessons. https://www.jotform.com/form/24049840... 👉 Pantheon Row Ventures: Acquiring, operating, and building SMB https://www.pantheonrowventures.com 👉  Connect with host Jon DeCoste on LinkedIn:  / jondecoste ------------------------------ ABOUT Unconventional SMB: A Podcast that explores everything Small & Medium Businesses, offering a unique platform where SMB owners share their stories, insights, and valuable lessons learned along their jo urneys. Not only celebrating the successes, we discuss current challenges faced by owners and seek to connect them with resources and individuals who can help break through those barriers. SMBs are the foundation of the economy and provide unique opportunities to generate positive impact + profit. Owning and operating an SMB can be a rewarding, exciting and humbling career path, however, the decision

4. 

   21 May 2024

   #07 Tech + Consulting A Powerful Recipe Experiments, Failures & Creating “Luck” | Adam Martinson

   Summary Adam Martenson founded AJM Environmental in 2012 after working in environmental consulting. Initially a contractor for Cenovus, he managed their environmental programs and later took on regulatory monitoring, reducing costs and streamlining operations. As the oil and gas industry faced challenges, Adam's network grew as assets were sold and teams moved, enabling AJM Environmental to expand and gain new clients through excellent service and strong relationships. By 2018-2019, the company had three to four employees and relied heavily on one upstream oil and gas client. Realizing the need to diversify, they ventured into midstream, mining, forestry, renewables, and projects for governments and NGOs. Despite launching Terra Technologies for environmental data in 2013, it didn't gain traction due to market resistance. In 2016, they launched Hub H2O for water management in the energy industry, securing funding from government grants and consulting business cash flow. Adam became the majority owner after parting ways with his partner. Balancing consulting and tech startup efforts, they focused on proactive market discovery and business development. AJM Environmental is dedicated to sustainable development and minimizing environmental impacts, offering consulting services and expanding into software development with Biologic Software. The company aims to be the most sought-after environmental firm in Western Canada, prioritizing long-term growth and value creation. They advocate for responsible development, economic opportunities, and advise small and medium business owners to take risks, be fearless, and treat others well. ❤️ Enjoy this interview? SUBSCRIBE for more: / @unconventional-smb www.unconventionalsmb.com ------------------------------ Reach Adam Martinson LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/adammartinson1/ Website: https://www.ajmenv.com/ Avenue Magazine: 40 Under 40: https://www.avenuecalgary.com/top-40-under-40/2023/adam-martinson/#:~:text=He%20helps%20businesses%20in%20the,does%20volunteer%20wildlife%20conservation%20research. ------------------------------ Chapters 00:00 Introduction 00:43 About AMJ & Adam's Journey 02:40 Swimming Scholarship at U of Nevada, Las Vegas 05:58 Decision to Start a Business, Sparked From a Career Counselor 08:58 Always thinking "How Can I Do This Better?" 10:19 An Opportunity Knocks 11:50Managing Environmental Programs for Sonovus 13:24 Considering Risk of Starting a Consulting Firm 16:38 2014 O&G Downturn - New House, First Baby, Work Disappears 19:02 Great Service Brings New Opportunities 21:49 A Family Decision, Not Just the Entrepreneur 23:55 Customer Concentration 26:17 Growing Without a Sales Team 27:35 Growth and Challenges 30:02 Reducing Risk with Industry Diversification 31:56 Starting Technology Solutions 35:22 Start-Up Weekend Event 38:05 Lesson Learned - Being Tight on Value 40:22 Balancing Multiple Businesses 41:12 Hub H2O - Water & Fracking Solution 44:06 Bootstrapping Rather Than VC Financing 48:21 Building Partnerships for Growth 51:17 What I'd Change or Do Differently 54:58 Taking Risks, Experimenting, Throwing Spaghetti at the Wall 01:01:28 Healthy and Deliberate Growth 01:03:45 Partnering on Niche Software Development 01:13:09 What's Next - Growth Plans 01:14:52 Canadians - An Unreal Standard of Living 01:16:41 Industry Outlook ------------------------------ CONNECT 🎙️ Postcast Guests: Canadian SMB owners interested in chatting about your story, insights, and lessons. https://www.jotform.com/form/24049840... 🗞️ Unconventional SMB Newsletter: A precursor to the podcast. 👉 Pantheon Row Ventures: Acquiring, operating, and building SMB https://www.pantheonrowventures.com 👉  Connect with host Jon DeCoste on L

5. 

   4 May 2024

   #06 Farm Life to 250 Employees: Powerful Culture, Self-Care, Darkest of Days | Trevor Muir

   Summary Trevor Muir, President of Surepoint Group, shares his journey of starting and growing his business and his experiences with mental health. He grew up on a farm, learning important life skills but lacking emotional awareness. He started his own company, Matrix Measurement, and later joined SurePoint as one of the owners. SurePoint experienced exponential growth, going from 15 to 250 employees in five years. Trevor shares his experience of hitting rock bottom and how it became a catalyst for change in his life. He talks about the importance of being vulnerable and seeking help when needed. Trevor also discusses the challenges he faced as the CEO of Surepoint and how he rallied the team and helped rebuild the company's culture during a time of financial crisis. He emphasizes the power of transparency, communication, and giving people permission to do the right thing. Trevor's journey highlights the importance of learning from mistakes and embracing adversity as an opportunity for growth. The conversation with Trevor concludes with a discussion about the future of Surepoint and the importance of self-care and self-love. Trevor emphasizes the need to prioritize oneself and not put off the things that are important. He encourages listeners to make themselves a priority and to love themselves more. ❤️ Enjoy this interview? SUBSCRIBE for more: / @unconventional-smb www.unconventionalsmb.com ------------------------------ Reach Trevor Muir LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-muir-b7231356 Website: www.surepoint.ca Trevor's Content Book: https://a.co/d/3ceDf1O Someday Today Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XG0kQtvJfAE ------------------------------ Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 10:05 Financial and Cultural Challenges 25:03 Struggles with Mental Health 32:16 Seeking Help and Transformation 46:35 Rallying the Team and Rebuilding Culture 54:46 The Bright Future of Surepoint 01:02:49 Trevor's Goal: Positively Impacting Lives ------------------------------ CONNECT 🎙️ Postcast Guests: Canadian SMB owners interested in chatting about your story, insights, and lessons. https://www.jotform.com/form/24049840... 🗞️ Unconventional SMB Newsletter: A precursor to the podcast. 👉 Pantheon Row Ventures: Acquiring, operating, and building SMB https://www.pantheonrowventures.com 👉  Connect with host Jon DeCoste on LinkedIn: / jondecoste ------------------------------ ABOUT Unconventional SMB: A Podcast that explores everything Small & Medium Businesses, offering a unique platform where SMB owners share their stories, insights, and valuable lessons learned along their jo urneys. Not only celebrating the successes, we discuss current challenges faced by owners and seek to connect them with resource

6. 

   23 Apr 2024

   #05 Wires of Wisdom: Built, Exited, Built Again. 150 Employees Strong, Across 4 Provinces | Shawn Kersey

   Summary In this engaging podcast episode, host Jon explores the remarkable journey of Shawn Kersey, a seasoned entrepreneur in the telecommunications industry (Also, 2015 Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year). Shawn shares nearly three decades of insights, starting from his initial foray into structured data wiring in 1988 to developing multiple successful businesses. Hailing from Halifax, Nova Scotia, Shawn's path from trade school to becoming a telecom industry leader is filled with lessons on growth, resilience, and innovation. Throughout the conversation, he reflects on key moments such as mid-career shifts, acquiring and divesting businesses, and the evolution of his operations into what he terms "Business 2.0." Shawn candidly discusses the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and team support in navigating business landscapes. This episode not only explores the technical side of telecom but also delves into Shawn's personal anecdotes and experiences, making it a must-listen for aspiring entrepreneurs and industry veterans alike. ❤️ Enjoy this interview? SUBSCRIBE for more: https://www.youtube.com/@unconventional-smb www.unconventionalsmb.com ------------------------------ Reach Shawn Kersey @ Email: shawn@dwsglobal.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/shawn-kersey-17190b42 Website: dwsglobal.com.com ------------------------------ Chapters 02:04 Starting in the Telecom Industry 08:45 Transitioning to Entrepreneurship 20:01 Starting First Biz in a Recession 23:37 The Challenges of Running a Growing Business 25:31 Selling the Business 26:39 Building a Client List and Repeat Customers 28:16 Cash Flow is King 30:43 Selling the Business and Transitioning 31:39 Starting a New Business (DWS 2.0) 39:11 Vertical Growth and Landing Big Contracts 46:19 Financial Challenges and Streamlining Operations 48:08 Is There Anything Else That Can Go WRONG? 52:50 Addressing Cash Flow Issues 55:38 Making Tough Decisions 57:49 Shutting Down a Business Unit 58:07 The Importance of Separating Business Units 58:51 The Decision to Buy Out a Partner 59:31 Navigating the Buyout Process 01:02:13 The Role of a Business Coach 01:04:24 The Importance of Choosing Business Partners Carefully 01:04:35 Growth and Recognition 01:07:42 Reflecting on the Journey 01:07:43 Present Day Operations 01:09:38 The Importance of Teamwork and HR 01:10:37 Utilizing Technology for Communication 01:11:36 Balancing Work and Fun 01:12:18 Future Growth Opportunities 01:12:46 The Growing Demand for Structured Wiring 01:14:38 Lessons and Insights for Newcomers ------------------------------ CONNECT 🎙️ Postcast Guests: Canadian SMB owners interested in chatting about your story, insights, and lessons. https://www.jotform.com/form/240498400635254 🗞️ Unconventional SMB Newsletter: A precursor to the podcast. 👉 Pantheon Row Ventures: Acquiring, operating, and building SMB https://www.pantheonrowventures.com 👉  Connect with host Jon DeCoste on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jondecoste ------------------------------ ABOUT Unconventional SMB: A Podcast that explores everything Small & Medium Businesses, offering a unique platform where SMB owners share their stories, insights, and valuable lessons learned along their journeys. Not only celebrating the successes, we discuss current challenges faced by owners and seek to connect them with resources and individuals who can help break through those barriers. SMBs are the foundation of the economy and provide unique opportunities to generate positive impact + profit. Owning and operating an SMB can be a rewarding, exciting and humbling career path

7. 

   9 Apr 2024

   #04 Lessons & Insights: Acquiring, Operating and Exiting. Now Searching to Acquire Two More | Taylor Carcasole

   Summary Taylor Carcasole, shares his journey of operating an agriculture business early in his career and then acquiring a software development and design agency. He discusses the lessons learned and challenges faced in both ventures. Taylor emphasizes the importance of trust and transparency in acquiring businesses and building relationships with sellers. He also highlights the need for professionalization and improving financial reporting in small businesses. Taylor's role in the business included sales and focusing on project profitability. During this part of the conversation, Taylor and Jon discuss the importance of pricing as a lever for business growth and profitability. They highlight how increasing prices directly impacts the bottom line and how being strategic about pricing can lead to significant improvements in EBITDA. They also discuss the challenges of running a small business, including the impact of COVID-19 and the difficult decisions they had to make, such as layoffs. Taylor emphasizes the importance of being prepared for key person risk and the need to constantly network. Finally, they discuss the exit process and how Taylor negotiated a deal that included an upfront cash payment, a retention payment, and an earn-out based on future growth. In the final part of the conversation, Taylor discusses the importance of being prepared to stick around with the business after the transaction. He also highlights the unique aspects of his current roofing business acquisition. Taylor emphasizes the need for searchers to focus on taking action rather than just appearing busy, and to be prepared for the challenges and uncertainties that come with buying a business. ❤️ Enjoy this interview? SUBSCRIBE for more: https://www.youtube.com/@unconventional-smb www.unconventionalsmb.com ------------------------------ Reach Taylor Carcasole: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylorcarcasole/ simple-partners.com ------------------------------ Chapters 00:00 Introduction 05:11 110hr Weeks - Training Grounds Prior to First Business 11:18 Owner Transition: A balance with trust 13:58 Versat - Business #1 34:05 Improving the Business 37:24 Sales and Operations 38:20 The Importance of Pricing and Margin 39:21 Firing Customers and Pricing Strategy 41:19 Selective Customer Acquisition 44:58 Challenges of Running a Small Business 46:23 The Impact of COVID-19 48:06 Key People Risk and Employee Turnover 56:27 The Exit Process 01:07:23 Deal Structure and Considerations 01:08:50 Lesson 1: Pull Yourself Out of the Business Before an Exit 01:09:19 Lesson 2: Global Presence Can Expand Buyer Universe 01:13:01 Lesson 3: Avoid Businesses Dependent on Owner's Involvement 01:14:00 Roofing Business - Totally different 2nd Biz 01:29:26 Lesson 4: Focus on Action, Not Activity ------------------------------ CONNECT 🎙️ Postcast Guests: Canadian SMB owners interested in chatting about your story, insights, and lessons. https://www.jotform.com/form/240498400635254 🗞️ Unconventional SMB Newsletter: A precursor to the podcast. 👉 Pantheon Row Ventures: Acquiring, operating, and building SMBs with profit + impact as a core value https://www.pantheonrowventures.com/ 👉  Connect with host Jon DeCoste on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jondecoste ------------------------------ ABOUT Unconventional SMB: A Podcast that explores everything Small & Medium Businesses, offering a unique platform where SMB owners share their stories, insights, and valuable lessons learned along their journeys. Not only celebrating the successes, we discuss current challenges faced by owners and seek to connect them with resources and individuals who can help break through those barriers. SMBs are the foundation of the economy and provide unique opportunities to generate positiv

8. 

   2 Apr 2024

   #03 - Midway into a Successful Career, Pivoting to Tech Entrepreneur | Glenn Moore

   Summary Glenn Moore, the founder of Vantage Logistics, shares his journey of transitioning from a successful career in the energy industry to starting his own technology business. He started his career in logistics and operations at Plains Midstream in Canada before moving to California to gain more experience in the industry. It was during this time that he identified the inefficiencies and pain points in the logistics and supply chain processes. He decided to start Vantage Logistics to address these challenges and provide technology solutions for the energy industry. The conversation with Glenn Moore focused on the growth and development of his company. One of the key themes discussed was the decision to start the company and the challenges faced in the early stages. The conversation also touched on the value proposition of Vantage's solutions, including Terminal Boss, Wheelhouse, and Conformi, and how they provide time and cost savings for midstream companies. He emphasizes the importance of having good processes and quality people in place. Glenn also discusses their plans for the future, including growing through acquisitions, developing new solutions, and raising capital. ❤️ Enjoy this interview? SUBSCRIBE for more: https://www.youtube.com/@unconventional-smb ------------------------------ Reach Glenn Moore: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glennmoorecalgary/ gmoore@vantedge.com https://www.vantedge.com/ ------------------------------ Chapters 01:19 The decision to Jump into Entrepreneurship 03:23 Early Drive and Progression In Midstream Career 05:29 The Idea: Identifying the Need for Digitization 14:01 The Jump: Employee to an Entrepreneur 18:31 The Role of Mentors and Advisors 22:57 Two Partners Followed by Consolidation 28:00 The Bootstrap Hustle 32:27 Considering the Alternatives 33:42 Stoping to Consider if This is the Right Path 40:38 Opportunity for Growth through Acquisition 46:00 3 Solutions and Ideal Customers 52:45 Value Proposition for Wheelhouse (Product) 01:04:21 Navigating Challenging Times 01:07:54 Transitioning from Founder-Led Sales to a Sales Team 01:16:08 Implementing Better Processes and Hiring Great People 01:17:08 Future Goals and Expansion 01:20:46 Seeking Investment and Potential Acquisitions ------------------------------ CONNECT 🎙️ Postcast Guests: Canadian SMB owners interested in chatting about your story, insights, and lessons. https://www.jotform.com/form/240498400635254 🗞️ Unconventional SMB Newsletter: A precursor to the podcast. 👉 Pantheon Row Ventures: Acquiring, operating, and building SMBs with profit + impact as a core value https://www.pantheonrowventures.com/ 👉  Connect with host Jon DeCoste on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jondecoste ------------------------------ ABOUT Unconventional SMB: A Podcast that explores everything Small & Medium Businesses, offering a unique platform where SMB owners share their stories, insights, and valuable lessons learned along their journeys. Not only celebrating the successes, we discuss current challenges faced by owners and seek to connect them with resources and individuals who can help break through those barriers. SMBs are the foundation of the economy and provide unique opportunities to generate positive impact + profit. Owning and operating an SMB can be a rewarding, exciting and humbling career path, however, the decision should not be taken lightly. Alongside these inspiring interviews, our podcast features solo episodes with the host discussing topics crucial to the growth and transition of SMBs. Our Purpose is to empower Owners to build stronger, higher-impact businesses through learning, networking, peer support and unconventional thinking

9. 

   26 Mar 2024

   #02 - An IPO, 15 Acquisitions & a Startup | Michael Palmer

   Summary The conversation explores the challenges of small businesses, the importance of relationships, and the entrepreneurial spirit in Western Canada. In this conversation, Michael shares his insights on the power of challenging customers and how they can be an opportunity for growth. He also discusses his personal health challenges and the importance of support and positivity during difficult times. Michael then dives into his business, Inosol Health, and its product SolveStrips, highlighting the unique value proposition and benefits of the product. He concludes by emphasizing the need for continuous learning, finding balance in life and business, and the importance of celebrating wins. ❤️ Enjoy this interview? SUBSCRIBE for more: https://www.youtube.com/@unconventional-smb ------------------------------ Reach Michael Palmer: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-w-palmer-b4481b6/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-w-palmer-b4481b6/) palmco37@gmail.com (mailto:palmco37@gmail.com) ------------------------------ Chapters 06:11 The Entrepreneurial Spirit in Western Canada 09:02 Transitioning from Employment to Entrepreneurship 11:51 Starting "Departures Travel" 15:05 Lessons Learned from Going Public 20:56 The Strategy Behind Acquisitions 29:11 Creating an Omni-Channel Experience 41:10 The Power of Challenging Customers 42:09 The Impact of Health Challenges 45:01 The Importance of Support and Positivity 56:11 Overcoming Health Challenges 01:05:24 The Value Proposition of SolveStrips 01:13:35 Final Thoughts and Call to Action ------------------------------ Takeaways Small businesses face challenges not only within their operations but also in managing relationships with employees, family, and friends. The entrepreneurial spirit in Western Canada, characterized by a can-do attitude and a willingness to connect and help others, contributes to the success of businesses in the region. When transitioning from employment to entrepreneurship, it is important to have a strategic plan and consider the financial aspects of starting a business. Choosing the right investor is crucial for the long-term success of a business, and it is important to find a strategic fit and ensure alignment of goals and values. Creating an omni-channel experience, combining online and offline booking options, allows businesses to cater to different customer preferences and provide personalized service. Customer service plays a vital role in building strong relationships with customers and ensuring their satisfaction and loyalty. Challenging customers can be an opportunity for growth and learning. Support and positivity are crucial during health challenges. Finding balance in life and business is essential for overall well-being. SolveStrips offer a unique and effective delivery method for vitamins and supplements. ------------------------------ CONNECT 🎙️ Postcast Guests: Canadian SMB owners interested in chatting about your story, insights, and lessons. https://www.jotform.com/form/240498400635254 🗞️ Unconventional SMB Newsletter: A precursor to the podcast. 👉 Pantheon Row Ventures: Acquiring, operating, and building SMBs with profit + impact as a core value https://www.pantheonrowventures.com/ &

10. 

    23 Feb 2024

    Unconventional SMB - ETA search update & leaving value

    ETA search update What is working for deal flow Leave value along the journey Two opportunities in Western Canada Offer to connect CONNECT 🎙️ Postcast Guests: Canadian SMB owners interested in chatting about your story, insights, and lessons. https://www.jotform.com/form/24049840... (https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqa0dUNlA1NEk3T2pIMWFkSzlUcVYxN0h3YTZaUXxBQ3Jtc0tuVVNIWGJkcG5qUGNSRnhKMlBZcFREdkVKZ1B3ZWFPRTRBT21CMTlqcmw4MDZpRXl2bEJMc1FCYnM0Y0ZKcmduX3d2VkcxMHRNY0R6X0ZMVWNBTXB4OW1Hd3V5MVA0Umk4T0R4TURsUWhQNDZpdjE4TQ&q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.jotform.com%2Fform%2F240498400635254&v=A1WhAQ0dgb0) 🗞️ Unconventional SMB Newsletter: A precursor to the podcast. 👉 Pantheon Row Ventures: Acquiring, operating, and building SMBs with profit + impact as a core value https://www.pantheonrowventures.com/ (https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqa0JkbzA0OEE4bHYxMEx4d0tuNUV4Ny1EUHI1d3xBQ3Jtc0ttVWlzUFdMN0k1YkQwQlBQMnBKYWs1NmxEQjVJVzVuUkF4ZzZLX1dyZ0M2UVZVQXpKQTMyZFlESGl6TTNRV1FYNHNEMUtia1BVUzNRY3BDTWhSVWFybmMzcm5lc0tzRG1mc0pBVFBveDdnYXlzOGgzaw&q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.pantheonrowventures.com%2F&v=A1WhAQ0dgb0) 👉  Connect with host Jon DeCoste on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jondecoste (https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbVhGeDlYSllROFh6RHVrWlhQY2FWeDA1VWVud3xBQ3Jtc0ttcW1LMDNvVHdKV2FSQ2xxN1ZFM0hkVzZjamJRSTJzaDVDdGxwWDJrblJrUDR2cHR1aU9QRkV2QlVndVd1cDhyc3JtMFFPd0F5bTVQeU9zYlRqNjhTelFGbTlBSTJCMkZKeWtoMGprRDV6eTJWNG1uZw&q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linkedin.com%2Fin%2Fjondecoste&v=A1WhAQ0dgb0)

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