From Underemployment to Unstoppable: How His Wife’s Belief in Him Led to Entrepreneurial Success
In this stirring episode of 'Empowering Time Markers', host Tia Bottom converses with Duane McHodgkins, an entrepreneur, author, and business owner of a successful IT venture. He shares his inspiring journey from unemployment to success, with a stress on resilience, positivity, and self-belief. In addition, as the holiday season looms, Duane provides invaluable tips on how to avoid holiday scams. In the conversation, Duane highlights why it’s crucial to remain essential, live below your means, and maintain a positive mindset as an entrepreneur. He also discusses his new book project.
00:00 Introduction and Overview
01:19 Guest Introduction: Duane McHodgkins
01:45 Duane's Journey from Unemployment to Entrepreneurship
06:07 The Impact of Losing a Job and Starting a Business
08:36 The Importance of Side Hustles and Continuous Learning
09:35 The Success of Duane's Business During the Pandemic
10:34 The Inspiration Behind 'Lessons from the Business Heroes of the Pandemic'
13:38 The Importance of Diversifying Skills and Interests
16:40 The Value of Trade Skills in Today's Economy
20:23 Final Thoughts and Advice for Entrepreneurs
21:16 Starting a Business on a Shoestring Budget
21:51 The Power of Positivity in Business
23:04 The Importance of Focus in Achieving Success
23:26 Sharing Valuable Information and Helping Others
24:03 The Joy of Fixing and Helping
24:33 Protecting Yourself from Scams
27:45 Offering Services to Help Others
29:55 The Game of 'Would You Rather'
34:43 Leaving a Legacy and Making a Mark
36:53 Final Thoughts and Wrap Up
Duane McHodgkins is the owner and operator of Duane’s Reliable Computer Services in Parker, Colorado, where he lives with Becky, his wife of thirty-six years, and Misty, their long-haired chihuahua. He has two grown children, Miranda and Parker, who gave him insight into the struggles of younger people during the pandemic. Duane has grown his business and adapted to changing conditions for more than ten years, helping small businesses and individuals manage their technology issues. Many of the ideas for this book came from his personal experience as a successful business owner and from his friends and networking partners who also have built successful careers. Prior to running his own business, Duane worked in a management capacity in a number of other successful companies. He learned about being innovative and resourceful while serving in diverse roles in the business world.
Video mentioned- https://youtu.be/xwEcDDwGCO4?si=1lT7fB9GoeMTAXPt
Book Link- https://a.co/d/gckiZHZ
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