In this episode of the Entrepreneurs, Business & Finance podcast, Dallas' Henry Harrison sits with entrepreneur and business broker Bob Fox. Bob shares his journey from aspiring lawyer to finance professional and finally to a seasoned entrepreneur. With a wealth of experience in buying and selling businesses, Bob offers invaluable insights and advice for those looking to venture into business ownership.

Episode: https://henryharrison.com/bob-fox/

Key Topics Covered:

1. Introduction to Bob Fox:

- Bob’s background and upbringing in New Jersey.

- Transition from aspiring lawyer to finance major.

2. Early Career:

- Bob’s initial job at Paine Webber and the challenges of cold calling.

- The humorous story of how his name, Bob Fox, led to confusion with the character Bud Fox from the movie "Wall Street."

3. Transition to Entrepreneurship:

- Bob faced difficulties when deciding to leave his finance job to buy a business.

- The importance of thoroughly understanding the business you intend to buy.

- The reality of the business buying process, including dealing with misleading information.

4. Becoming a Business Broker:

- How Bob shifted his focus to helping others buy and sell businesses.

- The process of finding and evaluating businesses for sale.

- Key advice for prospective business buyers: be passionate about the industry and do not rush into buying the first business you find.

5. Navigating the Oil and Gas Industry:

- Bob’s venture into the oil and gas business, guided by a mentor with extensive experience.

- The importance of dealing with legitimate and reputable partners in the industry.

6. Business Brokerage Insights:

- The challenges and strategies in business brokerage, including the importance of realistic valuations.

- The typical range of businesses Bob deals with, such as gas stations, restaurants, and laundromats.

7. Entrepreneurial Mindset and Advice:

- The necessity of a strong work ethic and the willingness to work beyond traditional hours.

- Bob’s personal experience of taking a business call on a Sunday night that led to a successful deal.

- Encouragement for entrepreneurs to seek and listen to advice from experienced mentors.

8. Key Quotes:

- "Too many people want to buy a business without realizing the amount of work and capital required."

- "You have to be prepared to work 24-7 if you want to be an entrepreneur."

Bob's Contact Info:

‭(201) 233-9652‬

bobfox428@yahoo.com

Henry Harrison welcomes listeners to the Entrepreneurs, Business & Finance podcast. He introduces his guest, John Cornelsen, a long-time friend and successful entrepreneur. Henry and John reminisce about their 20+ years of friendship and shared experiences.

Resources:

Episode - https://henryharrison.com/john-cornelsen-evolving-texas-indigo-yoga-juggle/

Indigo Yoga - https://www.indigoyoga.net/

Juggle Tribe - https://www.juggletribe.com/

Juggle Apps - https://www.juggleapps.com/

Evolving TX - https://www.evolvingtexas.com/

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

Episode Highlights:

Introduction to John Cornelsen:

Founder of Evolving Texas and Partner at Indigo.

Background in civil engineering.

Overcame significant challenges to become the first in his family to graduate from college at age 38.

Early Entrepreneurial Spirit:

John shares childhood stories, including his newspaper collection business and lawn care service.

Discussion on how these early experiences shaped his entrepreneurial mindset.

Journey into Civil Engineering:

Inspired by his father's career at Carter and Burgess.

Worked his way up in the industry, learning from mentors like Fred Whistle and Skip Schmidt.

Overcame challenges and gained invaluable experience working on projects for Walmart and other major clients.

Building Evolving Texas:

Founded Evolving Texas in 2009.

Overview of the company's focus on land development design and major projects.

Introduction of Samantha Renz as CEO and Ron Ramirez as President.

Indigo Yoga Studio:

Transition from civil engineering to owning a yoga studio.

Partnership with Brooke Hamlet and later, Sandra McLaughlin.

Emphasis on creating a community refuge through yoga.

Juggle - John's Latest Venture:

Focus on combating loneliness and fostering intentional connections.

Challenges and learnings in developing a software solution to promote real-life interactions.

Importance of Relationships:

Discussion on the role of relationships in John's success.

Personal anecdotes highlighting the value of community and networking.

Leadership in Entrepreneurs Organization (EO):

Founding of the EO Fort Worth chapter.

Impact of EO on John's entrepreneurial journey.

Overcoming Obstacles:

John shares personal and professional challenges he has faced.

Insights on taking responsibility, learning from conflicts, and giving oneself grace.

Key Takeaways:

Entrepreneurship often starts early, with childhood ventures laying the foundation for future success.

Mentorship and relationships are crucial in navigating the entrepreneurial journey.

Diversifying ventures can lead to unexpected and fulfilling opportunities.

Addressing social issues, like loneliness, can be a driving force behind innovative business ideas.

Leadership roles in organizations like EO can significantly impact personal and professional growth.

In this episode of the Entrepreneurs, Business & Finance podcast, host Henry Harrison sits down with Don Short, the founder and co-owner of New Artisan Distillery, to discuss his fascinating career journey. Don shares his transition from a successful executive career at Coca-Cola, where he held senior roles in Japan, India, and Africa, to becoming a passionate entrepreneur in the craft spirits industry.

Resources:

If you're in Dallas, be sure to visit New Artisan Distillery to experience their unique craft spirits and meet Don Short. For more information, visit their website at: https://www.newartisanspirits.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/don-short-72235024/

Episode: https://henryharrison.com/new-artisan-distillery-don-short/

Key Topics:

1. Career at Coca-Cola:

Don's entry-level starts and rises to vice president.

Managing territories and navigating the "Cola Wars."

International assignments in Japan, India, and Africa.

Significant contributions to Coca-Cola's market presence and employment impact.

2. Transition to Entrepreneurship:

Post-retirement plans and founding New Artisan Distillery.

Collaboration with James Beard awarded chef and PhD biochemist Robert Del Grande.

Strategic focus on craft spirits, particularly gin and bourbon.

A unique approach using real plants and custom-designed bottles.

3. Challenges and Rewards:

Navigating the complex distribution system for spirits.

Overcoming logistical challenges during COVID-19.

Building a differentiated brand and achieving consumer recognition.

4. Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs:

Embrace international opportunities to gain diverse perspectives.

Take calculated risks and pursue passion projects.

The importance of resilience and adaptability in business.

Notable Quotes:

"Becoming a minority in a marketplace is good for you. It helps you understand yourself better and see the world through another person's eyes."

"It's harder than I thought, but maybe it's more rewarding because our fingerprints are all over the package, the recipe, and everything."