Homegrown Hustle

Homegrown Hustle

By Matthew EickmanBusinessEntrepreneurship
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Homegrown Hustle episodes

  • From Properties to Breweries: Zac Gleason’s Insights on Founding a Startup

    SUMMARY:

    Zac Gleason, founder of Hackamore Brewing, shares his journey from property management to brewing and the challenges of starting his own business. He discusses the importance of creating a unique taproom experience and the community support he has received. Zac talks about the success of his Let's Go Hazy beer and the collaboration with Paisley Park. He shares his plans for the future, including expanding the taproom experience and hosting more events.


    KEY TAKEAWAYS:

    • Starting a brewery requires a lot of hard work and dedication.
    • Creating a unique taproom experience and hosting events can help drive business and engage the community.
    • Collaborating with local organizations and businesses can be mutually beneficial.
    • Knowing the market and understanding seasonality is important for planning events and offerings.
    • Building a strong relationship with the community is crucial for long-term success.

    • CHAPTERS:

      00:00 Zac's Journey from Property Management to Brewing

      02:22 Choosing the Right Location for Hackamore Brewing

      04:04 Community Support and Engagement

      07:31 Focus on Taproom Experience and Local Distribution

      08:19 Planning Events and Summer Concert Series

      10:03 Creating a Family-Friendly Environment

      11:00 The Success of Let's Go Hazy

      12:57 Collaboration with Paisley Park

      14:21 Future Plans for Hackamore Brewing


      GUEST RESOURCES:

      Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/zac-gleason-b2421140/

      Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/hackamorebrewing/

      Website - https://hackamorebrewing.com/

      18 min
    • How to Provide High Quality Customer Service From Jake Johnson of Sisu Window Cleaning

      Jake Johnson, founder of Sisu Window Cleaning, shares his entrepreneurial journey and the growth of his business. He started his business in college and has since scaled it, adding employees and expanding into commercial window cleaning. Jake discusses the challenges and lessons he learned along the way, including the importance of networking, rebranding, and providing a world-class customer experience. He also talks about the differences between residential and commercial window cleaning and the seasonality of the business. Sisu Window Cleaning is a successful home service business that offers window cleaning, gutter cleaning, and house washing services. They have built a strong customer base and have expanded their services to include commercial cleaning and Christmas light installation. The company has focused on providing high-quality service and has implemented technology to streamline their sales and scheduling processes. They have also been active on social media to connect with potential customers. The founders have shown resilience and determination in growing their business, and they have plans to continue expanding in the future.


      KEY TAKEAWAYS:

      • Starting a business in college provides a unique opportunity to gain real-world experience alongside classroom learning.
      • Having a strong partnership requires complementary skills and roles, trust, and shared values.
      • Spreading revenue throughout the year can be a challenge for seasonal businesses, but exploring commercial opportunities can help balance the workload.
      • Commercial customers prioritize responsiveness and reliability, while residential customers may focus more on the quality of work.
      • Pricing for commercial window cleaning is often based on the size of the job and the number of windows. Focus on providing high-quality service to build a strong customer base
      • Implement technology to streamline sales and scheduling processes
      • Utilize social media to connect with potential customers
      • Show resilience and determination in growing the business
      • Plan for future expansion and growth

      • CHAPTERS:

        00:00 Introduction and Overview

        01:11 From College Startup to Scaling a Business

        08:39 The Importance of Rebranding and Providing a Memorable Customer Experience

        17:16 The Power of Networking and Building Connections

        21:41 Navigating the Seasonality of the Window Cleaning Business

        23:27 Commercial vs Residential: Understanding the Differences

        26:19 Pricing and Challenges in Commercial Window Cleaning

        27:16 Learning from Mistakes and Pricing Challenges

        30:52 The Importance of Pricing and Financial Management

        36:54 Expanding Service Offerings and Adding House Washing

        39:45 Utilizing Technology for Sales and Scheduling

        43:33 Building a Strong Customer Base through Social Media

        46:21 Adding Christmas Light Installation as a New Service

        52:26 The Definition of Hustle and Balancing Personal Life

        54:48 Conclusion and Support for Local Businesses


        GUEST RESOURCES:

        Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SisuWindowCleaning?mibextid=LQQJ4d

        Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sisu_windowcleaning/?hl=en

        Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jake-johnson-608317191?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app

        Website: http://sisuwindowcleaning.com


        56 min
      • Nick Dreher’s Journey in the Real Estate Industry and Its Valuable Lessons

        SUMMARY:

        Nick Dreher, a real estate agent, author, and public speaker, shares his journey in the real estate industry and the lessons he has learned over the past 20 years. He emphasizes the importance of treating real estate as a business and having a strong mindset for success. Dreher also discusses his book, 'Mindset, Methods, and Metrics,' which explores the mindset, activities, and metrics necessary for real estate agents to achieve high levels of success. He highlights the significance of accountability and finding mentors or advisors to guide and support one's entrepreneurial journey.


        KEY TAKEAWAYS:

        • Real estate agents should treat their business as a business and have a strong entrepreneurial mindset.
        • Accountability is crucial for success in real estate, and external accountability can be beneficial.
        • Finding mentors or advisors who have gone through similar experiences can provide valuable guidance and support.
        • Having a clear intention and focus in all areas of life, including faith, family, fitness, finance, friends, and work, can lead to overall success.
        • Consumers should look for real estate agents who have area knowledge, a strong online presence, and a track record of success.
        • Ego can be limiting in the real estate industry, and humility is important for growth and learning.
        • Real estate agents should strive for passive income and investments to have more freedom and flexibility in their lives.
        • The book 'Mindset, Methods, and Metrics' explores the mindset, activities, and metrics necessary for real estate agents to achieve high levels of success.
        • CHAPTERS:

          00:00 Introduction to Nick Dreher

          03:29 The Importance of Surrounding Yourself with Knowledgeable People

          04:28 Writing the Book 'Mindset, Methods, and Metrics'

          08:58 The Power of Mindset for Success

          09:27 Setting Clear Intentions for Success

          10:14 Overcoming Ego and Embracing Humility

          11:39 Choosing the Right Real Estate Agent

          12:37 Implementing Consistency and Accountability

          14:00 The Importance of Mentorship

          14:27 Contacting Nick Dreher


          GUEST RESOURCES:

          Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-dreher-6377345/

          Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100087307757282

          Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nicholasdreher/

          16 min
        • The Importance of Mental Health Support to Frontline Workers With The Invisible Wounds Project

          SUMMARY:

          Invisible Wounds Project is an organization that focuses on mental health within the first responder community. They provide support and resources for military, police, fire, EMS, and frontline medical staff. The organization started as a small fundraising event in 2009 and has since grown into a one-of-a-kind support center in Forest Lake. The mission is to positively impact and enhance the lives of those who serve or have served. The conversation explores the importance of addressing mental health in these roles and the need for ongoing support and prevention. Invisible Wounds Project is a nonprofit organization that provides support and resources to veterans, first responders, and their families who are dealing with invisible wounds such as PTSD and mental health issues. The organization relies heavily on volunteers and donations to fund their programs and services. They are focused on creating a supportive community and offering a variety of activities and therapies to help individuals heal and reintegrate into society. The founder and executive director, Russ, emphasizes the importance of addressing the mental health needs of veterans and first responders and the need for better support and reintegration programs. The organization is working on research projects and partnerships to further their understanding of the psychological impact of trauma and to develop effective reintegration models. They are also focused on fundraising to support their ongoing operations and expansion.


          KEY TAKEAWAYS:

          • Invisible Wounds Project focuses on mental health within the first responder community, providing support and resources for those who serve or have served.
          • The organization started as a small fundraising event and has grown into a one-of-a-kind support center in Forest Lake.
          • There is a need for ongoing support and prevention in addressing mental health issues in first responders.
          • The community plays a crucial role in supporting organizations like Invisible Wounds Project and promoting understanding and compassion for those in these roles. Invisible Wounds Project provides support and resources to veterans, first responders, and their families dealing with invisible wounds.
          • The organization relies on volunteers and donations to fund their programs and services.
          • They offer a variety of activities and therapies to help individuals heal and reintegrate into society.
          • There is a need for better support and reintegration programs for veterans and first responders.

          • CHAPTERS:

            00:00 Introduction to Homegrown Hustle and Invisible Wounds Project

            03:35 The Growth and Impact of Invisible Wounds Project

            07:55 The Importance of First Responders and Their Mental Health

            12:47 The Need for Conversation and Support

            19:31 Supporting First Responders in the Community

            26:10 The Role of the Community in Supporting Mental Health

            30:00 Embracing Imperfection and Learning from Mistakes

            33:17 The Challenges of Providing Help and Support

            37:24 Expanding the Organization and Hiring Staff

            39:17 Fundraising Goals and Financial Support

            40:42 Engaging the Community and Spreading Awareness

            43:25 The Importance of Volunteerism and Support

            44:21 The Role of Money in Nonprofit Organizations

            48:40 Balancing Passion and Business in Nonprofits

            49:09 The Importance of Effective Communication and Delegation

            50:36 The Need for Additional Support and Volunteers

            52:53 Identifying Areas for Support and Assistance

            54:23 Continuing Support Beyond Crisis Moments

            55:47 Invisible Wounds Project as a Unique Community Resource

            56:45 The Meaning of Hustle: Tenacity and Hard Work


            GUEST RESOURCES:

            Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558267070541

            Instagram: https://instagram.com/invisiblewoundsprojectmn

            Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/russ-hanes-0a4908100/

            Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCR94JlvlXjB9YO897lnqliw

            Website: http://iwproject.org



            58 min
          • The Value of Community Connections in Creating Positive Community Impact With Karen Morehead

            SUMMARY:

            Karen Morehead, a long-time member of the Forest Lake community, shares her experiences and involvement in various organizations such as the Good Samaritan Group, the school board, and the Substance Prevention Education Activity Coalition. She also discusses her 22 years of involvement in the Rotary and the impact they have on local businesses and international initiatives. Karen emphasizes the importance of community connections and encourages others to get involved and make a positive impact. The conversation highlights the energy, enthusiasm, and hope that comes from being actively engaged in the community.


            KEY TAKEAWAYS:

            • Getting involved in the community can lead to meaningful connections and opportunities to make a positive impact.
            • Being part of organizations like the Rotary allows for personal growth and the chance to contribute to local and international initiatives.
            • Community involvement provides a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
            • Building relationships and supporting local businesses is essential for a thriving community.

            • CHAPTERS:

              00:00 Introduction and Community Involvement

              02:24 The Impact of the Rotary and International Initiatives

              04:13 Empowering Others through Education and Support

              05:00 Memories of Forest Lake and Family Connections

              06:19 The Accidental Journey into the Rotary

              07:17 The Chamber and Supporting Local Businesses

              09:27 The Importance of Energy and Connections

              11:25 Peeling Back Layers and Embracing Differences

              13:15 The Meaning of Hustle: Energy and Hope

              14:37 Nurturing Homegrown Success Stories



              16 min
            • Growth Hack Strategies For Small Businesses With Dale Wills of Centra Companies

              SUMMARY:

              Dale Wills, CEO of Centra Companies, discusses his real estate investment opportunity and the importance of understanding the tax code in real estate. He shares his journey in land and community development, highlighting the complexities and considerations involved. Wills emphasizes the significance of core values in his company and the importance of treating each individual and situation as unique. He also talks about his personal life and the importance of constantly learning and growing. In this conversation, Dale Vermillion, the CEO of Centra Companies, shares his journey as an entrepreneur and the importance of having a belief system that empowers you. He emphasizes the value of reading and learning every day, as well as surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals who support and encourage your dreams. Dale also discusses the challenges of entrepreneurship, dealing with naysayers, and the importance of being intentional in both business and personal life. He shares his passion for improving everything he touches and giving back to the community. Dale's story is a testament to the power of perseverance, belief, and continuous learning.


              KEY TAKEAWAYS:

              • Understanding the tax code is crucial for real estate investors to take advantage of tax breaks and accelerate wealth building.
              • Land and community development involve various complexities, including infrastructure, environmental considerations, and market needs.
              • Treating each individual and situation as unique is essential for effective leadership and decision-making.
              • Constant learning and growth are key to personal and professional development. Having a belief system that empowers you is crucial for success as an entrepreneur.
              • Reading and learning every day is a powerful habit that can lead to personal and professional growth.
              • Surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals who support and encourage your dreams is essential.
              • Dealing with naysayers and negative opinions can be challenging, but it's important to stay focused on your goals and not let them deter you.
              • Being intentional in both business and personal life is key to achieving success and fulfillment.
              • Giving back to the community and improving the lives of others is a meaningful way to make a positive impact.
              • Perseverance, belief, and continuous learning are essential qualities for long-term success as an entrepreneur.
              • CHAPTERS:

                00:00 Introduction to Homegrown Hustle

                01:13 Real Estate Investment Opportunity and Tax Breaks

                05:56 Dale Wills' Background in Land and Community Development

                08:13 The Importance of Core Values in Leadership

                14:17 Complexities of Land and Community Development

                21:45 Meeting Market Needs in Different Communities

                25:06 The Power of Peer Groups and Continuous Learning

                35:00 Conclusion and Advice for Entrepreneurs

                36:54 The Power of a Belief System

                37:48 The Importance of Reading and Learning

                40:42 Surrounding Yourself with Like-Minded Individuals

                46:02 The Value of Intentionality

                51:37 Dealing with Naysayers and Negative Opinions

                52:35 The Importance of Taking Action

                54:02 Giving Back to the Community

                01:03:02 The Hustle Mentality


                GUEST RESOURCES:

                Facebook -https://www.facebook.com/CentraCompanies/

                Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dalerwills/

                X - https://twitter.com/dalerwills

                Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@CentraCompanies

                Website - https://centracapitalpartners.com/


                1 hr 14 min
              • How to Start a Career in Real Estate With Andrew Culbertson of Be Realty

                SUMMARY:

                Andrew Culbertson, a real estate agent with Be Realty, shares his journey into the real estate industry and his experiences in the market. He started as a mover and eventually decided to become a real estate agent. He emphasizes the importance of putting oneself out there and constantly learning in the industry. Andrew also discusses the current real estate market and offers advice for those interested in pursuing a career in real estate.


                KEY TAKEAWAYS:

                • Put yourself out there and constantly learn in the real estate industry.
                • The current real estate market is competitive, with homes selling quickly and often above asking price.
                • For those interested in a career in real estate, Andrew advises to start sooner, learn as much as possible, and be authentic.
                • Andrew differentiates himself by having fun, building relationships, and helping people in their real estate journey.

                • CHAPTERS:

                  00:00 Introduction and Background

                  03:22 The Upside of Being a Real Estate Agent

                  05:40 The Current Real Estate Market

                  06:39 Advice for Aspiring Real Estate Agents

                  07:37 Differentiating with Fun and Authenticity

                  08:07 Closing Remarks


                  GUEST RESOURCES:

                  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/andrew.culbertson.79




                  9 min
                • How to Leverage Collaboration to Create Impactful Creative Projects With Laura Johnson

                  SUMMARY:

                  Laura Johnson is a mural painter and artist based in the Twin Cities. She collaborates with residential and commercial clients to create unique and impactful artistic projects. Laura's love for art and creativity started at a young age and she studied fine art painting in college. After serving in the Peace Corps and working in PR in New York City, Laura decided to pursue her passion for mural painting full-time. She values the ability to transform spaces and engage with the community through her art. Laura's clients range from creative individuals to businesses and residential homeowners. In this conversation, the host and guest discuss the path to becoming an artist, the business of art, and the role of murals and graffiti in the art world. They explore the concept of hustle in the context of art and business, emphasizing the importance of taking small steps and maintaining momentum. The guest shares her favorite artists and her approach to creating art that evokes emotion and starts conversations. She also provides information on how to contact her for commissioned artwork.


                  KEY TAKEAWAYS:

                  • Mural painting is a collaborative process that involves working with clients to transform spaces and create impactful art.
                  • Artistic expression and creativity are important for personal growth and well-being.
                  • Business and art are not mutually exclusive; creativity plays a significant role in marketing and storytelling.
                  • The Twin Cities has a thriving arts community that is supported by both the business community and individuals.
                  • Mural painting can be a form of self-expression and a way to beautify spaces. The path to becoming an artist is not always clear, but choosing a creative field can lead to a fulfilling career.
                  • Art museums and galleries serve as caretakers and advocates for art, representing underheard voices and starting conversations.
                  • Graffiti and murals are part of the same conversation, but the intention behind the art determines its artistic value.
                  • Hustle in the art world means taking small steps and maintaining momentum, breaking tasks into manageable pieces.
                  • Art should be playful, provocative, and push boundaries, evoking emotion and engaging viewers in thought
                  • CHAPTERS:

                    00:00 Introduction to Homegrown Hustle

                    00:44 Introduction to Laura Johnson and Her Artistic Journey

                    06:17 The Influence of Society and Culture on Artistic Career Paths

                    08:17 Service in the Peace Corps and Its Impact on Personal Growth

                    15:30 Transition from New York City to Minneapolis and Career in PR

                    25:08 The Thriving Mural Art Community in the Twin Cities

                    28:04 The Significance of Mural Painting for Residential Clients

                    29:44 The Path to Becoming an Artist

                    32:11 The Business of Art and the Role of Museums

                    37:38 The Complexity of the Art Industry

                    41:21 Hustle in the Art World

                    53:28 The Playfulness and Provocation of Art


                    GUEST RESOURCES:

                    Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/roaralaura/

                    FB business: https://www.facebook.com/lauramargo.arts/

                    Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lauramargo.arts/

                    Linkedin - http://www.linkedin.com/in/roaralaurajohnson

                    Website - http://www.lauramargo.com/

                    1 hr
                  • The Power of Team Building in Creating Better Patient Care Experiences With Melissa Cummings

                    SUMMARY:

                    Melissa Cummings, a nurse practitioner and owner of Timeless Elements, shares her journey of purchasing the business and her plans for its future growth. She discusses the challenges of being a business owner and the importance of building a strong team. Melissa also talks about her involvement in the Forest Lake Chamber of Commerce and the support she has received from the community. She highlights the services offered at Timeless Elements and the benefits of a cash pay clinic model. Melissa emphasizes the personal touch and patient care that sets her practice apart.


                    KEY TAKEAWAYS:

                    • Being a business owner is time-consuming and requires balancing work and personal life.
                    • Building a strong team is essential for the success of a business.
                    • Involvement in the local community, such as through the chamber of commerce, can provide support and networking opportunities.
                    • Timeless Elements offers a range of medical aesthetics services and focuses on personalized patient care.
                    • The cash pay clinic model allows for more flexibility and transparency in pricing.
                    • Melissa plans to expand the services offered at Timeless Elements and develop a skin clinic in the future.

                    • CHAPTERS:

                      00:00 Introduction and Background

                      02:20 The Challenges of Being a Business Owner

                      03:36 Future Plans for Timeless Elements

                      05:48 The Cash Pay Clinic Model

                      07:32 Differentiating Timeless Elements

                      09:44 Building Relationships with Customers

                      16:30 The Meaning of Hustle


                      GUEST RESOURCES:

                      Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/melissa.beth.cummings

                      Website - https://www.temedspa.com/meet-our-team-timeless-elements-med-spa-forest-lake-mn

                      Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/timelesselementsmedspa/ | https://www.instagram.com/te_aestheticsand_skinclinic_/



                      19 min
                    • Episode 36 - The Role of Financial Management in Driving Business Success With Alex Bulmer of Three Pillars Bookkeeping

                      SUMMARY:

                      Alex Bulmer, founder of Three Pillars Bookkeeping, shares his journey as a business owner and the importance of financial management. He discusses his experience in the food industry, including owning and running multiple businesses. Alex emphasizes the need for businesses to be process-driven rather than people-driven, and the importance of understanding and managing the numbers in a business. He also highlights the role of bookkeeping in helping businesses stay organized and make informed decisions. Alex provides insights on the challenges and opportunities of starting a business during COVID-19, and the importance of budgeting and forecasting for business growth. In this conversation, Alex from 3 Pillars Accounting discusses the profit first model and the importance of financial management in businesses. He emphasizes the need for businesses to have a saving structure and a budget for different categories. Alex also talks about the impact of growth on businesses and the importance of understanding the numbers and looking at them as a percentage of revenue. He highlights the dangers of mixing personal and business expenses and the benefits of having separate accounts. Alex shares the red flags that indicate the need for a bookkeeper and the potential consequences of not managing finances properly. He also discusses the future plans for 3 Pillars Accounting, which include expanding into problem-solving and consulting services.


                      KEY TAKEAWAYS:

                      • Being process-driven rather than people-driven in a business allows for more flexibility and scalability.
                      • Understanding and managing the numbers in a business is crucial for success.
                      • Bookkeeping is essential for staying organized and making informed decisions.
                      • Starting a business during challenging times, such as COVID-19, can present both opportunities and obstacles.
                      • Budgeting and forecasting are important tools for business growth and profitability. The profit first model encourages businesses to think deeper about their finances and prioritize profit.
                      • Having a saving structure and a budget for different categories is crucial for financial management.
                      • Understanding the numbers and looking at them as a percentage of revenue helps businesses make informed decisions.
                      • Mixing personal and business expenses can have legal and financial consequences.
                      • Red flags that indicate the need for a bookkeeper include lack of financial knowledge, neglecting bookkeeping tasks, and experiencing cash flow issues.
                      • Proper financial management can lead to improved profitability and a better quality of life for business owners.

                      • CHAPTERS:

                        00:00 Introduction to Homegrown Hustle

                        01:14 Alex's Background in the Food Industry

                        06:18 The Importance of Being Process-Driven in Business

                        08:43 The Role of Bookkeeping in Business Organization

                        14:21 Understanding and Managing the Numbers in Your Business

                        23:49 The Power of Budgeting and Forecasting for Business Growth

                        26:12 Conclusion and Key Takeaways

                        28:06 The Profit First Model and Financial Management

                        29:02 Creating a Saving Structure and Budget

                        30:57 Understanding the Numbers and Percentage of Revenue

                        33:48 The Dangers of Mixing Personal and Business Expenses

                        35:11 Knowing and Understanding the Rules and Laws

                        38:00 The Importance of Reconciling

                        45:37 The Financial Discussion and Red Flags

                        49:55 The Impact of Growth on Businesses

                        51:20 Cash Flow Issues and Solutions

                        53:41 The Meaning of Hustle


                        GUEST RESOURCES:

                        Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/alex.bulmer.92

                        Linkedin - http://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-bulmer-a44900a4

                        Website - http://www.threepillarsbookkeeping.com



                        57 min

                      About Homegrown Hustle

                      From the publisher's feed

                      "Homegrown Hustle" is your window into the journeys of local business leaders, hosted by Matthew Eickman. This podcast goes beyond the surface, exploring the motivations and commitments of…