Join us in this captivating episode as we dive into the incredible journey of Musky Innovations, a fishing lure manufacturing company that evolved quite literally from a humble garage startup to a thriving industry leader. In this interview, Brad Ruh, the owner of Musky Innovations, shares his passion for fishing and the pivotal moments that led to the birth of his business. 

Discover the challenges he overcame, the early successes that fueled his growth, and the impact of economic fluctuations on his entrepreneurial path. Learn how Musky Innovations outsourced production to facilitate expansion and its plans for the future. Plus, gain valuable entrepreneurial insights and advice for pursuing your dreams and building a successful business. Whether you're a fishing enthusiast or an aspiring entrepreneur, this episode offers inspiration and wisdom for all.

Introduction (0:00 - 1:15)

Defining Musky Innovations (1:15 - 2:45)
Brad describes Musky Innovations as a fishing lure manufacturing company specializing in fishing lures and accessories, with a focus on soft plastic baits for musky fishing.

Origins of Musky Innovations (2:45 - 5:30)
Owner, Brad, traces the roots of the company back to his passion for fishing and a fishing trip with his cousin, who had the skills to create molds for lures.

Early Challenges and Milestones (5:30 - 8:15)
Brad talks about the challenges of maintaining a full-time job while building the business and how the support of his wife was instrumental during this period. 

Transition to Full-Time Entrepreneurship (8:15 - 10:45)
Brad Musky shares his experiences of working long hours, realizing the need for a change, and taking the leap to make Musky Innovations his full-time venture.

Early Success and Growth (10:45 - 13:30)
The interview delves into the factors contributing to Musky Innovations' early success, including the support of the pro staff and growing demand for their unique products. 

Navigating Economic Challenges (13:30 - 15:45)
Brad and Brad discuss how the economy over the years has impacted Musky Innovations. 

Outsourcing Production and Future Plans (15:45 - 18:30)
The interview explores the transition from personally handcrafting lures to outsourcing production and its impact on the business.

Community Impact and Supporting Local Businesses (18:30 - 20:00)
A look at how Musky Innovations prioritizes supporting local businesses and suppliers, creating a positive ripple effect within the community.

Business Vision and Transitioning Out (20:00 - 22:15)
Musky Innovations' current status and its vision for the future, including the expansion into online sales, and finding the right successor.

Entrepreneurial Advice and Closing Thoughts (22:15 - 23:30)
The conversation wraps up with Brad’s advice to aspiring entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of passion and focusing on one's own path.
 

Learn more about Musky Innovations

https://musky-innovations.myshopify.com/

https://www.facebook.com/muskyinnovations/

Need a little guidance in your own business? We're here for you!
https://www.actionfinancials.com/
https://www.facebook.com/ActionFinancialS/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuE31mXf6_Nf4yhpuZRHI6Q

Brad sits down for an engaging conversation with Scott Wink, a seasoned insurance professional and partner at CRW Insurance in Holstein, Wisconsin. We delve into Scott's transition and partnership with Dimond Brothers Insurance, shedding light on the factors that led to this decision and the lessons learned along the way.

1. Timing and Decision-Making:

• [00:01:00] Scott explains the factors that influenced his decision to transition and partner with another company.
• [00:02:00] Scott discusses the importance of timing and choosing the right moment for a business change.
• [00:02:00] Scott emphasizes the significance of making a change when your business is at its peak.

2. Navigating Challenges and COVID-19:

• [00:03:00] Brad and Scott talk about the process of vetting potential partners, including challenges and uncertainties.
• [00:08:00] Scott reflects on the impact of COVID-19 on the transition process and the use of remote communication.

3. Insights and Advice:

• [00:09:00] Scott advises business owners to be emotionally prepared for a transition and to recognize the shift in responsibilities.
• [00:12:00] The hosts discuss the importance of networking and seeking advice from experienced professionals in similar situations.

Learn more about Scott and Dimond Brothers Insurance
https://dimondbros.com/location/1237

Need a little guidance in your own business? We're here for you!
https://www.actionfinancials.com/
https://www.facebook.com/ActionFinancialS/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuE31mXf6_Nf4yhpuZRHI6Q

In this episode, host Brad Ruh interviews Nick Vance, the owner of Fox Cities Embroidery. Nick takes us through his journey from working in branding and customization in Utah to becoming a successful small business owner in Wisconsin. He shares his experiences, challenges, and triumphs in building a tech-focused company specializing in customized apparel and promotional items.

[00:02:00] The Beginnings of Entrepreneurship

Nick shares how he started as NVR Printing in 2014, initially working out of a room in his house. Over the years, the business expanded, and the name was changed to NVR Branding. The company's focus shifted from mainly printing to all things customization, partnering with schools, sports teams, and businesses for their branded apparel and promotional items.

[00:05:00] The "Aha" Moment 

Nick discusses the turning point when he decided to go all-in on his business. Reflecting on his experience of growing a company from $2.7 million to almost $13 million in revenue while working in Utah, he realized the need to invest in people and technology to take his own business to the next level. Despite the challenges, he made the bold decision to expand rapidly.

[00:10:00] The Acquisition During COVID 

N ick shares the rollercoaster journey of acquiring a competitor's company during the COVID pandemic. He explains how the deal almost fell through due to uncertainties but was salvaged through strategic planning and leveraging incentives provided by the SBA.

[00:14:00] The Tech-Driven Growth 

Nick reveals his vision of turning Fox Cities Embroidery into a tech company that specializes in customization. He emphasizes the importance of adopting technology, particularly in creating online stores and automating the ordering process to enhance customer convenience.

[00:17:00] Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs 

Nick's advice for aspiring entrepreneurs is to ensure that their vision and passion are strong enough to withstand the challenges and uncertainties of starting and growing a business. He cautions against focusing solely on money and instead encourages individuals to pursue their dreams and visions relentlessly.

[00:21:00] Conclusion 

Learn more about Nick Fox Cities Embroidery
https://www.foxcitiesembroidery.com/

Need a little guidance in your own business? We're here for you!
https://www.actionfinancials.com/
https://www.facebook.com/ActionFinancialS/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuE31mXf6_Nf4yhpuZRHI6Q

Would he do it again? In this episode, host Brad interviews Nick Vance, owner and operator of Fox Cities Embroidery, powered by NVR branding. Nick shares his experience of acquiring and growing his business in the midst of challenges, including the Covid-19 pandemic.

Introduction (00:00 - 00:35)

Getting Started with Business Growth (00:35 - 02:45)

• Brad discusses how he and Nick have been friends for some time, and Nick became a client of Brad's company.
• Nick talks about his journey of growing NVR Branding and how the opportunity to acquire Fox Cities Embroidery presented itself.
• The decision to pursue business acquisition and the importance of having a strong team of professionals to support the process.

Challenges and Opportunities (02:45 - 06:00)

• Brad asks Nick about the challenges and advantages of acquiring Fox Cities Embroidery.
• Nick highlights how acquiring an established business with existing brand recognition and machinery provided a competitive advantage.
• The impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the acquisition process and how Nick navigated through it.

The Post-Acquisition Journey (06:00 - 11:00)

• Brad inquires about how Nick's business has fared in the year after the acquisition.
• Nick talks about the significant growth, internal improvements, and challenges with hiring new employees.
• The importance of building efficient systems to handle the increased demand and maintaining quality control.

Lessons Learned and Future Growth (11:00 - 14:00)

• Brad asks Nick about the most important lessons he learned from the acquisition process.
• Nick emphasizes the importance of surrounding yourself with the right team of professionals for guidance and support.
• Nick discusses his openness to future acquisitions and ongoing organic growth.

Conclusion (14:00 - 14:35)

Learn more about Nick Fox Cities Embroidery 
https://www.foxcitiesembroidery.com/

Need a little guidance in your own business? We're here for you!
https://www.actionfinancials.com/
https://www.facebook.com/ActionFinancialS/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuE31mXf6_Nf4yhpuZRHI6Q