Are you tired of the 9-5 grind and looking for a path to financial independence? Welcome to Business Buying for Financial Independence, the podcast that helps aspiring entrepreneurs escape the rat race by acquiring a small business. Hosted by Tim Delaney, an experienced business buyer and real estate investor who purchased his first business with just 10% down, this show dives deep into the strategies, challenges, and success stories of real people who built wealth through business acquisition.
Each episode features Tim's personal experiences or insightful interviews with business buyers, investors, and industry experts who share their knowledge on acquiring, financing, and growing small businesses. Whether you're exploring SBA loans, seller financing, business brokers, deal sourcing, due diligence, or post-acquisition growth strategies, this podcast is your essential guide for entrepreneurship through acquisition (ETA).
If you're ready to own your time, build wealth, and achieve financial freedom by buying an established business instead of starting from scratch, hit subscribe and begin your journey today!
How Do I buy a business?
How do I buy a business with no money?
Can you buy a business with no money?
What to do to buy a business?
How do I finance a business purchase?
Why buy a business?
Why buy a small business?
What is the business buying process?
What is the process of buying a business?
How to achieve financial freedom?
How to achieve financial independence?
How do you achieve financial independence through buying a business?
How do I buy a business to achieve financial independence?
How do I buy a business to attain financial freedom?
What is a unique way to reach financial independence?
How do I buy a business to reach FIRE?
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0009 - What Buying With "No Money Down" Really Means
Saison 1 · Épisode 9
mardi 19 août 2025 • Durée 19:37
In this episode, Tim Delaney discusses the concept of buying a business with no money down, exploring various financing options such as seller financing, SBA loans, and partnerships. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the financial obligations tied to business purchases and provides insights into alternative payment structures like earn outs. Tim also highlights the necessity of ensuring that business profits can cover debt payments, offering a comprehensive overview for aspiring business buyers. Key Takeaways
Buying a business with no money down is possible.
Seller financing allows the seller to act as the bank.
You can use existing business revenue to finance a purchase.
SBA loans can help secure financing for business acquisitions.
Partnerships can provide necessary capital for business purchases.
Your personal assets can be leveraged for financing.
Earn outs are a less common but viable payment structure.
Understanding cash flow is crucial for managing debt.
Profits must cover both interest and principal payments.
Having some cash available can strengthen your position in negotiations.
Tim is an entrepreneur who believes everyone should explore the opportunities that business and real estate can provide on the path to financial freedom. He owns and operates a wine & liquor store, a software startup, a consulting company, and a growing portfolio of commercial and residential real estate.
For over a decade, Tim has worked with businesses on strategy, processes, finances, and marketing. Along the way, he has analyzed dozens of companies for acquisition, giving him a unique perspective on what makes a deal successful — and what pitfalls to avoid.
00:00 Introduction to Business Buying with No Money Down03:17 Understanding Seller Financing06:38 Exploring Financing Options: SBA and Bank Loans09:29 Leveraging Partnerships for Business Acquisition12:24 Alternative Payment Structures: Earn Outs and Performance Payments15:12 Navigating Debt and Profitability in Business Purchases Connect with Tim
"Buy a business with no money down." - Tim Delaney
"Your sweat equity is worth something." - Tim Delaney
"Make sure profits cover debt payments." - Tim Delaney
0008 - Starting A Magazine Without The Startup Process
Saison 1 · Épisode 8
mardi 12 août 2025 • Durée 01:02:20
Are you fascinated by the world of publishing but intimidated by the startup grind? In this episode, Tim talks with Rick Sedler, a seasoned entrepreneur who built his career by buying and transforming magazines rather than starting from scratch. Rick shares his journey from custom publishing—producing magazines for others—to acquiring and revitalizing well-known titles like “North Shore” and “Luxury Pools & Outdoor Living.” If you’ve ever dreamed of owning a media business insight into growing through acquisition, this episode is packed with lessons for you.
Tim is an entrepreneur who believes everyone should explore the opportunities that business and real estate can provide on the path to financial freedom. He owns and operates a wine & liquor store, a software startup, a consulting company, and a growing portfolio of commercial and residential real estate.
Tim’s passion for independent business has led him to support dozens of other business owners. For over a decade, he has worked with businesses on strategy, processes, finances, and marketing. These experiences, along with analyzing dozens of other businesses for potential acquisition, have provided Tim with an immense knowledge base to pull from.
Tim has appeared on multiple top-tier podcasts in the financial space, such as Bigger Pockets Money and The Freedom Chasers Podcast.
[00:26 – 10:22] From Custom Publishing to Ownership
Rick explains how he entered the publishing world through custom projects for clients. Shares his insights on learning the ropes of the industry without taking on massive startup risks. Talks about transitioning from serving clients to becoming a media owner. Highlights the early lessons that shaped his approach to magazine acquisitions.
[10:23 – 20:54] Acquiring and Transforming Magazines
Details how he identified and acquired “Northshore” and “Luxury Pools & Outdoor Living.” Explains how to assess the value and potential of a publication. Shares strategies for turning underperforming media properties into profitable ventures. Discusses balancing creative vision with business operations.
0007 - The Power of Self-Belief, Persistence, and Hard Work
Saison 1 · Épisode 7
mardi 5 août 2025 • Durée 57:32
Are you stuck in the corporate grind, wondering if there’s a different path to financial freedom? In this episode, Tim chats with Phil Wilkins, a former finance professional who traded spreadsheets for fries and freedom. After stumbling on an article that sparked his entrepreneurial fire, Phil left the safety of his 9-to-5 and bought his very first business. Tune in as he shares the emotional rollercoaster of walking away from a stable job, the lessons he learned as a first-time business owner, and why belief in yourself might be the most valuable asset of all.
Tim is an entrepreneur who believes everyone should explore the opportunities that business and real estate can provide on the path to financial freedom. He owns and operates a wine & liquor store, a software startup, a consulting company, and a growing portfolio of commercial and residential real estate.
Tim’s passion for independent business has led him to support dozens of other business owners. For over a decade, he has worked with businesses on strategy, processes, finances, and marketing. These experiences, along with analyzing dozens of other businesses for potential acquisition, have provided Tim with an immense knowledge base to pull from.
Tim has appeared on multiple top-tier podcasts in the financial space, such as Bigger Pockets Money and The Freedom Chasers Podcast.
[00:35 – 09:30] From Corporate to Entrepreneur
Phil shares how a single article inspired him to leave his stable finance career.
Talks about the emotional and mental hurdles of walking away from a 9-to-5.
Describes how belief in himself carried him through early doubts.
Highlights the “burn the boats” mentality that pushed him forward.
[09:32 – 16:42] Franchises, Cash Flow, and McDonald’s Lessons
Breaks down how studying McDonald’s helped him understand systems.
0006 - From Banker to Business Owner & How Persistence Pays Off
Saison 1 · Épisode 6
mardi 29 juillet 2025 • Durée 01:03:22
Are you thinking about buying a business but feeling overwhelmed by the process? In this episode, Tim talks to Aurelius, CEO of Midland Machinery, about his journey of purchasing a business and the key lessons he learned along the way. From navigating the complexities of financing and negotiations to managing the transition, Aurelius shares his firsthand experience in acquiring Midland Machinery. Whether you’re looking to buy your first business or just curious about the process, this episode breaks down the critical steps to help you make smart, informed decisions.
Tim is an entrepreneur who believes everyone should explore the opportunities that business and real estate can provide on the path to financial freedom. He owns and operates a wine & liquor store, a software startup, a consulting company, and a growing portfolio of commercial and residential real estate.
Tim’s passion for independent business has led him to support dozens of other business owners. For over a decade, he has worked with businesses on strategy, processes, finances, and marketing. These experiences, along with analyzing dozens of other businesses for potential acquisition, have provided Tim with an immense knowledge base to pull from.
Tim has appeared on multiple top-tier podcasts in the financial space, such as Bigger Pockets Money and The Freedom Chasers Podcast.
[00:01 - 15:15] From Banking to Entrepreneurship
Aurelius began his career in banking in 2006, following the failure of his first startup.
Worked his way through the ranks of M&T Bank, focusing on business banking.
Developed a passion for helping business owners and understanding their financial needs.
Decided to transition from banking to owning a business in 2020.
[15:16 - 29:46] The Power of Partnerships
Aurelius partnered with a childhood friend and another trusted partner.
005 - Seller Financing: A Smart Way to Acquire a Business
Saison 1 · Épisode 5
mardi 22 juillet 2025 • Durée 47:05
Ever wondered what it really takes to leave the stability of a corporate job and bet on yourself by buying an existing company? In this episode, Tim sits down with Lindsey Zajac to explore her inspiring journey from a corporate HR professional to owning a thriving talent solutions business. Lindsey shares candid insights on overcoming fear, dealing with impostor syndrome, and why sometimes buying a business can be the smarter, faster path to entrepreneurship.
Tim is an entrepreneur who believes everyone should explore the opportunities that business and real estate can provide on the path to financial freedom. He owns and operates a wine & liquor store, a software startup, a consulting company and a growing portfolio of commercial and residential real estate.
Tim’s passion for independent business has led him to support dozens of other business owners. For over a decade, he has worked with businesses on strategy, processes, finances, and marketing. These experiences, along with analyzing dozens of other businesses for potential acquisition, have provided Tim with an immense knowledge base to pull from.
Tim has appeared on multiple top-tier podcasts in the financial space, such as Bigger Pockets Money and The Freedom Chasers Podcast.
[00:01 - 06:20] Lindsey’s Career Path: From HR to Entrepreneurship
Started in HR by chance, gaining broad experience in recruiting and HR roles.
Moved frequently to avoid career stagnation and grow her skills.
Mid-30s marked a shift toward entrepreneurship due to family/work balance needs.
Left a stable Pepsi HR manager role to launch a solo coaching business.
Discovered that working alone wasn’t enough; wanted a stronger business foundation.
[06:21 - 18:58] The Decision to Buy a Business
Opportunity arose to buy Career Partners, a well-established talent firm.
0004 - Is Buying a Business a Good Investment?
lundi 14 juillet 2025 • Durée 17:11
In this episode, Tim dives into one of the most common questions he gets asked – "Is buying a business a good investment?" With so many factors to consider, Tim breaks it down from different angles: return on investment, risk, time commitment, and financial independence. Whether you're thinking about purchasing your first business or just curious, this episode gives you a comprehensive look at what this investment really means.
Tim is an entrepreneur who believes everyone should explore the opportunities that business and real estate can provide on the path to financial freedom. He owns and operates a wine & liquor store, a software startup, a consulting company, and a growing portfolio of commercial and residential real estate.
Tim’s passion for independent business has led him to support dozens of other business owners. For over a decade, he has worked with businesses on strategy, processes, finances, and marketing. These experiences, along with analyzing dozens of other businesses for potential acquisition, have provided Tim with an immense knowledge base to pull from.
Tim has appeared on multiple top-tier podcasts in the financial space, such as Bigger Pockets Money and The Freedom Chasers Podcast.
[00:01 - 05:18] Return on Investment: Is It Worth the Money?
The different ways to calculate returns: ROI, Cash on Cash, and IRR.
With 90% financing, Tim’s first business had a 10% ROI, jumping to 30% with his salary.
After recouping the initial investment, Tim achieved infinite returns.
Businesses offer faster growth and forced appreciation compared to real estate.
Businesses allow for higher leverage, meaning more growth potential.
[05:19 - 08:50] Risk and Stability: How Much Control Do You Really Have?
In business ownership, you control your destiny, unlike stocks and bonds.
The myth of business failure overlooks well-established businesses and proper due diligence.
0003 - Lessons Learned from Business Acquisitions
lundi 14 juillet 2025 • Durée 48:06
Have you ever wondered how to turn passion, connections, and courage into real business success, even when the odds aren’t in your favor? In this episode, Tim interviews Rune, a seasoned entrepreneur who traded life at sea for the challenges and rewards of buying and building businesses. Tune in for honest lessons on entrepreneurship, risk-taking, and the power of networking.
Tim is an entrepreneur who believes everyone should explore the opportunities that business and real estate can provide on the path to financial freedom. He owns and operates a wine & liquor store, a software startup, a consulting company, and a growing portfolio of commercial and residential real estate.
Tim’s passion for independent business has led him to support dozens of other business owners. For over a decade, he has worked with businesses on strategy, processes, finances, and marketing. These experiences, along with analyzing dozens of other businesses for potential acquisition, have provided Tim with an immense knowledge base to pull from.
Tim has appeared on multiple top-tier podcasts in the financial space, such as Bigger Pockets Money and The Freedom Chasers Podcast.
[00:01 - 04:44] From Marine Engineer to Entrepreneur
Rune shares his journey from sailing the world to starting his own business.
How a tough onshore job pushed him to seek a different path.
The creation of his first company focused on silent, vertical wind turbines.
Leveraging global connections made during his sailing years to build his business.
[04:45 - 13:31] The Power of Networking & Sphere of Interest
Why “who you know” matters more than “how to do it.”
Understanding and using your immediate network as a lead magnet.
Real-world examples of connections leading to critical partnerships.
0002 - Franchise Advice You Can’t Afford To Miss
Saison 1 · Épisode 2
lundi 14 juillet 2025 • Durée 49:27
In this episode, Tim interviews Jimmy Feeman, the entrepreneur who launched No Baked Cookie Dough at the age of 23 and turned it into a successful franchise. Jimmy shares his story of how he and his wife, Megan, started their business, navigated the challenges of franchising, and made key decisions that helped their brand grow. They dive deep into what it takes to franchise your own business and what you need to know before buying a franchise.
Tim is an entrepreneur who believes everyone should explore the opportunities that business and real estate can provide on the path to financial freedom. He owns and operates a wine & liquor store, a software startup, a consulting company, and a growing portfolio of commercial and residential real estate.
Tim’s passion for independent business has led him to support dozens of other business owners. For over a decade, he has worked with businesses on strategy, processes, finances, and marketing. These experiences, along with analyzing dozens of other businesses for potential acquisition, have provided Tim with an immense knowledge base to pull from.
Tim has appeared on multiple top-tier podcasts in the financial space, such as Bigger Pockets Money and The Freedom Chasers Podcast.
[00:01 - 11:41] The Origins of No Baked Cookie Dough
Jimmy and Megan quit their jobs after 3 months to go full-time into the business.
Megan handled marketing while Jimmy focused on operations and product development.
They both sought freedom from the 9-to-5 grind, which drove them toward entrepreneurship.
Cash flow was key: They knew they could sustain their basic bills before fully jumping in.
Side hustles like Uber and DoorDash helped cover gaps while the business grew.
0001 - Welcome to the Business Buying for Financial Independence Podcast
Saison 1 · Épisode 1
mardi 17 juin 2025 • Durée 10:15
Ever wonder if buying a business could be your shortcut to financial independence?
In this episode, Tim Delaney shares how he bought his first business with just 10% down and why buying an existing business might be a smarter, faster way to own your time and build wealth than starting from scratch.Tim is an entrepreneur who believes everyone should explore the opportunities that business and real estate can provide on the path to financial freedom. He owns and operates a wine & liquor store, a software startup, a consulting company and a growing portfolio of commercial and residential real estate.
Tim’s passion for independent business has led him to support dozens of other business owners. For over a decade, he has worked with businesses on strategy, processes, finances, and marketing. These experiences, along with analyzing dozens of other businesses for potential acquisition, have provided Tim with an immense knowledge base to pull from.
Tim has appeared on multiple top-tier podcasts in the financial space, such as Bigger Pockets Money and The Freedom Chasers Podcast.
[00:01 - 02:28] About Tim & The Podcast
Tim’s journey began 12 years ago when he bought his first “boring” business.
No tech or startup background—just practical strategies.
Has since invested in multiple industries like retail, real estate, construction, and software.
The podcast aims to help you find, buy, and grow businesses for financial freedom.
[02:29 - 06:55] How Tim Bought His First Business
Learned about SBA loans and bank financing to leverage purchases.
Initial attempt with a gourmet cookware business didn’t qualify for loans.
Shifted focus to more profitable, bank-friendly businesses.
[20:55 – 32:17] Building a Brand in a Changing Media Landscape
Talks about evolving the magazine model to stay relevant in the digital age. Explains the challenges and opportunities of integrating print and digital media. Shares the importance of understanding audience needs and brand positioning. Offers advice for entrepreneurs entering industries in transition.
[32:18 – End] Key Lessons on Leadership and Growth
Emphasizes the value of building a strong team and company culture. Talks about making bold decisions and staying committed through challenges. Shares his personal philosophies on entrepreneurship and success. Encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to seek opportunities in acquisitions.
Guest Bio:
Rick Sedler is an entrepreneur who carved his path through the world of publishing by buying and transforming magazines. Starting out in custom publishing—where you produce magazines for others—Rick eventually stepped out on his own, acquiring “Northshore” and “Luxury Pools & Outdoor Living.”
If you found value in today’s show, make sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode packed with insights to help you buy and grow a business that creates real financial freedom.
Connect with Tim and the community on social media for more tips and updates:
“You don’t always need to start from scratch — sometimes the smartest move is to buy and build.” - Rick Sedler
“Publishing is about more than content; it’s about creating connections with an audience.” - Rick Sedler
“Every magazine has a story. The question is whether you can rewrite it for success.” - Rick Sedler
“If you’re willing to adapt, there’s still room to thrive in traditional media.” - Rick Sedler
Discusses the value of cash flow and repeatable models.
Shares how he applied franchise logic to his own business decisions.
Offers insight into why big ideas don’t always require big capital.
[16:43 – 30:22] Buying Restaurants and Building Real Estate
Details what he looks for when evaluating a restaurant for purchase.
Talks about pairing business ownership with real estate assets.
Explains how real estate plays a key role in long-term wealth.
Discusses avoiding shiny object syndrome when scaling.
[30:23 – 35:23] Starting Lean and Staying Scrappy
Emphasizes growing businesses with minimal resources.
Shares the early grind of taking out trash and doing it all.
Talks about reinvesting instead of extracting profits early.
Encourages others to start small and scale with purpose.
[35:24 – 42:37] Using AI and Positivity to Scale
Shows how AI tools help automate his operations.
Talks about protecting mental space and avoiding negativity.
Shares the role of gratitude and belief in business success.
Encourages surrounding yourself with uplifting, driven people.
[42:38 – End] Financial Discipline and Redefining Success
Highlights the importance of being conservative with money.
Talks about what “wealth” and “retirement” really mean to him.
Shares how he pushes through hard times with mindset and support.
Ends with a philosophy of building resilience over time.
Guest Bio:
Phil Wilkins is a keynote speaker, podcaster, coach, consultant, and author who teaches how to win every day. He prides himself on his unique ability to inspire individuals and organizations in dedication to strategic goals, cultivation of an unwavering work ethic, and commitment to nurture a culture of excellence.
If you found value in today’s show, make sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode packed with insights to help you buy and grow a business that creates real financial freedom.
Connect with Tim and the community on social media for more tips and updates:
“Having a supreme belief in yourself, you do belong.” - Phil Wilkins
“I read that article a thousand times. It was like a vision I couldn’t shake.” - Phil Wilkins
“I didn't know anything about manifestation. But somehow, it found me first.” - Phil Wilkins
“It wasn’t about burgers, fries, or Coke. It was about ownership.” - Phil Wilkins
Structured ownership with equal shares for main partners, while minimizing risk for the third.
The importance of having partners who believe in you and share the same vision.
Focused on building trust with partners and delegating tasks to those with complementary skills.
[29:47 - 43:19] The Acquisition Journey
Aurelius and his partners looked at various deals before deciding on Midland Machinery.
The acquisition process took two years, with many hurdles along the way.
They rejected seller financing to avoid future complications and went with traditional bank loans.
The importance of persistence and following up during the acquisition process.
[43:20 - 57:43] Transitioning into Business Ownership
Aurelius’ approach was to focus on building relationships with employees before implementing changes.
A gradual approach to business improvements, including customer service and supply chain.
Established long-term goals and shared the company’s 10-year vision with employees.
Learned the importance of patience, trust, and humility when leading a business.
[57:44 - 01:08:33] Key Lessons for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Break down complex processes into manageable steps, much like buying a house.
The importance of solid financials and clear agreements when acquiring a business.
Stay persistent and avoid listening to doubters who focus on the negatives.
Surround yourself with a strong support team of lawyers, accountants, and other professionals.
Guest Bio:
Aurelius Chaves is a former business banker who left corporate life at the age of 40 and bought a construction equipment manufacturer with his childhood best friend.
If you found value in today’s show, make sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode packed with insights to help you buy and grow a business that creates real financial freedom.
Connect with Tim and the community on social media for more tips and updates:
“ The more you have to explain in the financials, the more difficult it's gonna be.” - Aurelius Chaves
“ The number one thing that you could do is be responsive.” - Aurelius Chaves
“The further it deviates from the actuality of what the job is and the pay for that job, the more complicated the financing gets, the more complicated it gets when you wanna sell the business.” - Aurelius Chaves
“ There are lawyers that are deal makers and lawyers that are deal breakers, and just figure out quickly that yours is a deal maker.” - Aurelius Chaves
“ If somebody tells you 90% of small businesses fail within 10 years, just you don't need to listen to anything else they're telling you about it.” - Aurelius Chaves
Pre-existing relationships with owners helped build trust.
Seller financing made the purchase manageable without a big upfront cash hit.
Worked part-time for the business first to learn financials and operations deeply.
Saw real growth potential by improving existing systems and client base.
[18:59 - 27:12] Growing and Evolving the Business
Launched a thoughtful rebrand after one year to reflect expanded services.
Invested in technology upgrades like CRM and revamped the website.
Focused on hiring strategically to grow the team and expand reach beyond Western New York.
Navigated employee adjustments with transparency and communication.
Emphasized continuous improvement and scaling smartly.
[27:13 - 47:25] Thoughts on Risk, Timing, and Mindset
Lindsey identifies as a calculated risk-taker who trusts her abilities.
Advises others stuck in corporate roles to weigh the risks of staying vs. entrepreneurship.
Highlights impostor syndrome as a common barrier but encourages pushing through it.
Suggests mid-30s is a sweet spot for buying a business — experience plus energy.
Warns against waiting too long to start due to the energy and stamina required.
[47:26 - 49:57] Advice for Aspiring Business Owners
Do your homework: research, ask questions, and talk to experienced owners.
Consider starting a side hustle while still employed to build confidence and traction.
Buying a business doesn’t always require a fortune upfront; explore seller financing.
Keep adding value wherever you are, whether in a job or your own venture.
Trust yourself, be willing to learn, and leverage your support system.
Guest Bio:
Lindsey Zajac is the Owner and CEO of a talent solutions firm that is committed to elevating careers, empowering leaders and enriching lives by providing world-class services in outplacement, search and leadership development. Prior to purchasing this business in 2024, she spent fifteen years in corporate HR. Lindsey excelled in fast-paced organizations ranging from a start-up to a Fortune 50 organization. She is an advanced, certified leadership coach and a member of the Forbes Coaches Council.
If you found value in today’s show, make sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode packed with insights to help you buy and grow a business that creates real financial freedom.
Connect with Tim and the community on social media for more tips and updates:
“Always be adding value and just knowing that, you know, again, the biggest expense for any business iis its people.” - Lindsey Zajac
“If my business fails, that's on me, but no one's gonna terminate me from a job.” - Lindsey Zajac
“If you decide to stay in an organization. Continually add value and make sure you're learning, you're growing, you're adapting to the new leadership, you're adapting to technology, you're adapting to changes.” - Lindsey Zajac
“That's one thing that people don't realize is there are a lot of business opportunities out there that you can get into with very little to no cash out of your own pocket.” - Tim Delaney
With the right research and transition plans, failure risks can be minimized.
Businesses with long-term contracts can offer more stability.
External factors can impact, but ownership offers the flexibility to adapt quickly.
[08:51 - 12:02] Time Commitment: Is It Worth Your Energy?
Starting out in a business may require more time and effort but can pay off in the long term.
Corporate employees may not match salary right away, but there’s potential for growth.
Focus on building systems and scaling – don't just work in the business, work on it.
Tim worked full-time initially, then stepped back as the business ran independently.
Businesses offer more freedom than jobs once systems are in place.
[12:03 - 16:51] Financial Independence: How Can Buying a Business Help?
With high financing options, you can use debt to accelerate wealth-building.
Business loans typically have 5-10-year terms, enabling quicker equity growth.
After the loan pay-down, the business generates more cash flow.
Planning for a sale or management change helps pave the way for financial independence.
Despite changes, there are still options to leverage financing for business acquisitions.
If you found value in today’s show, make sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode packed with insights to help you buy and grow a business that creates real financial freedom.
Connect with Tim and the community on social media for more tips and updates:
“When I own the company, I can adapt, I can change, I can make decisions in real time.” - Tim Delaney
“The real gem is the forced appreciation, the growth of the business that you put in over time to make the business worth more in the future.” - Tim Delaney
“The more you look at, the more confident you'll get. The more you run your numbers, the more you talk to brokers, the more conversations you have with sellers, the more you'll start to realize that most sellers aren't any smarter than you.” - Tim Delaney
“ Don't let people scare you about saying you're just buying a job. Yes, sometimes you are buying a job, but if you have a plan to get outta that job then it is good. Just make sure that you carve out the time to work on the business, not just in the business.” - Tim Delaney
How staying connected saved Rune’s ventures and opened new doors.
[13:32 - 34:45] Buying Businesses: Successes and Setbacks
Why Rune’s first business purchase, a café during COVID, didn’t work out.
Lessons learned about passion vs. practicality in business choices.
The challenges with an online furniture boutique and market timing.
The importance of financial vigilance and weekly check-ins with your bookkeeper.
[34:46 - 46:41] Embracing Challenges and Strategic Growth
How Rune views risk and fear as opportunities for growth.
The value of turning around struggling businesses with the right people.
Why diversifying with synergistic businesses (like trucking) makes sense.
Focusing on people and mindset over just numbers when evaluating deals.
[46:42 - 54:01] Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
“Nothing’s good, nothing’s bad” — just take action despite fear.
Learning from every experience as a win-win.
Encouragement to embrace discomfort and fear for personal growth.
Guest Bio:
Rune Holm is an entrepreneur with over a decade with over a decade of experience. He has run companies, bought companies, and shut down companies. Through these experiences, he has always strived to learn and help others succeed.
If you found value in today’s show, make sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode packed with insights to help you buy and grow a business that creates real financial freedom.
Connect with Tim and the community on social media for more tips and updates:
“By networking, you will get that connection. And even if you sit by yourself and you have a great network, you will come up with an idea who can help you with this and who can help you with that. And it makes things so much easier.” - Rune Holm
“ Sometimes when you see it's going bad and you just have the feeling, then it's, it's better just to shut it down, do it, and go further. Everything is a lesson, so do it and pass on.” - Rune Holm
”You can always turn around a business if you have the right strategy and the right people. But it's the people that makes the company.” - Rune Holm
“ Nothing's good and nothing's bad. The thing is, you just have to do it.” - Rune Holm
“Just because a business doesn't fit exactly in what your knowledge or your skillset is, doesn't mean that you don't have the knowledge and skills to run it.” - Tim Delaney
[11:42 - 21:56] Pivoting to E-Commerce and CPG
Early success led to multiple store openings, but some struggled..
The pandemic pushed them to shift to e-commerce and packaged goods..
CPG came with low margins, high competition, and complex distribution..
Managing relationships with distributors and retailers is crucial..
[21:57 - 33:05] Franchising: The Benefits and Challenges
Franchising seemed like the easy choice but brought unexpected challenges.
Selling to the wrong franchisees can hurt the brand.
Success in franchising requires strong systems and training, which take years to build.
Franchisees should get a good deal, with operationalized systems and support in place.
Systematizing processes helps scale a business, even without franchising..
[33:06 - 40:09] Choosing Between Buying a Franchise or a Mom-and-Pop Business
The decision depends on how much work you’re willing to put in.
Franchises provide systems and support, but with less flexibility.
Mom-and-pop businesses offer more creative control but require more personal effort.
Know yourself: Are you an “instruction manual” person or a system builder?
Owning a business is about balancing risk, freedom, and structure.
[40:10 - 56:43] Closing Segment
Aging owners create opportunities to buy businesses with growth potential.
Buying to franchise requires solid systems and support.
Build a strong foundation with sales data and training before franchising.
The real work is in supporting franchisees and maintaining consistency.
Franchising offers growth but requires ongoing operational oversight.
Guest Bio:
Jimmy Feeman is a Forbes 30 Under 30 recipient and an entrepreneur who launched No Baked at just 23 years old and turned it into a nationally recognized dessert brand. He’s run e-commerce, scoop shops, franchised the concept, and even explored the world of consumer packaged goods. Now, as he steps away from day-to-day operations, he’s helping others navigate franchising—from both sides of the deal.
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“When you hear a lot of those no's in the beginning, you have to have so much conviction about the thing that you're doing, that you're willing to do it.” - Jimmy Feeman
”What I warn people who would like to franchise their business is, it's definitely faster than organic growth if you find the right people. But it's definitely not a quick growth strategy because you'll end up, if they were to go out and aggressively franchise a brand, you will end up with a ton of franchisees who should not be there.” - Jimmy Feeman
“ Make sure you, without a doubt, feel like you can provide value in the three major ways of like, brand, products, systems, and then, yeah, it's a great growth strategy for any business, especially if it's customer-facing.” - Jimmy Feeman
Found a wine and liquor store with growth potential despite some challenges.
Used a mix of bank loans (80%) and seller financing (10%) to close the deal.
[06:56 - 08:50] Why Buying Beats Starting From Scratch
Immediate income from an existing customer base and cash flow.
Easier to get financing compared to risky, slow startups.
Skip the hardest phase of building a business from zero.
Buying means you manage an existing system—you don’t need to be the expert.
You can hire experts to handle specialized areas of the business.
[08:51 - 11:08] Common Myths About Buying Businesses
Myth: Only rich people can buy businesses. Reality: Financing options make it affordable.
Myth: Starting your own business is safer. Reality: 90% of startups fail.
Myth: You need industry experience. Reality: Managing a working system is key.
You don’t need all the answers. Build a team like Henry Ford did.
Creative deal structures can reduce your upfront cash needs.
If you found value in today’s show, make sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode packed with insights to help you buy and grow a business that creates real financial freedom.
Connect with Tim and the community on social media for more tips and updates:
