If you’re in the business world, you have probably heard of the term “vertical integration". But what exactly does that mean? This very strategic business approach could be part of a number of moves you can make to build a rock-solid business that would weather a recession. Jeff Fenster is back on the 365 Driven podcast, and Jeff is an expert in vertical integration and serial entrepreneurship.

Jeff Fenster is the CEO of Everbowl, a best-selling author, and podcast host. Jeff is an award-winning entrepreneur who credits his success to one thing: the art of building and maintaining relationships. His businesses range from a quick-serve restaurant chain, Payroll & HR company, a digital marketing agency, and a construction company. He was named a Top 100 Entrepreneur in America under the age of 35, a Top 40 Executive under 40 by the Business Journal, a finalist for CEO of the Year by Ernst & Young, and was named a Top Entrepreneur to follow for 2022. He has appeared on over 500 podcasts, created courses for LinkedIn Learning, and speaks across the country on entrepreneurial mindset, authentic networking, and vertical integration. 

In this episode, Jeff delivers so much gold when it comes to building, growing, and protecting powerful businesses. As someone that has built and scaled various types of businesses, Jeff reveals where so many entrepreneurs go wrong which doesn’t allow their business to flourish and thrive. If you are tied to your business and you can’t take a vacation without it falling apart, this episode is for you.

Another very important aspect of owning a business is making sure it is profitable. Jeff offers a different perspective here. What if instead of focusing on how to make more money in your business, you use your entrepreneurial problem-solving ability to come up with ways to keep more money? That is what vertical integration is all about and you are going to want to hear how Jeff does it. 

Key highlights:

• What is vertical integration?
• Where a lot of entrepreneurs go wrong
• What not to do when hiring team members
• How to build great teams in your business
• Being an effective leader
• Lessons on ego and self-awareness
• Don't solve problems, erase problems
• Making your business recession-proof
• Why experience is overrated in building businesses
• Do you need a business partner?
• Jeff’s advice to beginners
• About Jeff’s upcoming podcast: The Success Formula 

For resources and links mentioned in this episode, visit: 365driven.com/episode303