In this special year-end episode, host Tommy reflects on the first year of Business Under Fire with surprise guest Matt Wheeler from Lubbock, Texas. After completing nearly 50 episodes in year one, Tommy shares the raw truth about podcasting costs, the unexpected connections made, and the real ROI that goes far beyond download numbers.
From spending $3-4K per month on production to being in the top 20% of podcasts with just 100-300 downloads per week, this episode pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to run a successful business podcast. Tommy also shares two powerful stories that made the entire year worthwhile: how the podcast helped two old friends reconnect before one passed away, and how a guest offered life-changing free treatments to Tommy's friend battling cancer.
Whether you're thinking about starting a podcast, looking for business networking strategies, or just want to hear honest reflections on entrepreneurship, this episode delivers authentic insights you won't find anywhere else.