CEO Bros - After Hours

CEO Bros is an entertaining weekly podcast hosted by the Balduf Brothers and Matt Croke. Brian and Brad Balduf are successful entrepreneurs and CEOs with hundreds of engaging and insightful stories from the trenches. They talk about everything from the challenges of starting a business, to the exhilaration of growing the business, to the ultimate satisfaction of selling a business. They share real-life stories and lessons in an engaging and candid 'after hours' conversation moderated by Matt Croke, an international entertainer, comedian, and author. Join the guys every Friday afternoon for a new episode. Hear some rants, some ideas, some lessons learned, and some funny anecdotes about the world of running your own company.

#21 Entrepreneurs Journey - Frank DeGrassi - Mamma Onesta's 07/04/2025

#20 Evolution of a podcast - CEO Bros QBR (pt1) 06/27/2025

#20 Evolution of a podcast - CEO Bros QBR (pt1) Evolution of a Podcast (Part 1) This episode of ‘CEO Bros - after hours’ details the inception, development, and operational aspects of the "CEO Bros After Hours" podcast, highlighting key strategic decisions and the team's vision for its future. 1. Introduction to the Podcast and its Hosts The "CEO Bros After Hours" podcast features three main personalities: Brian Balduf: Co-founder of VHT Studios, recently "retired" or, as he prefers, undergoing a "reset." This "reset" has allowed him more time to dedicate to the podcast. He was recently gifted a signed Harley Benton guitar by original members of VHT Studios, symbolizing his 27-year journey with the company. Brad Balduf: CEO and co-founder of By Your Side Autism Therapy Services. Matt Croke: The host and "consummate entertainer" responsible for keeping the conversation light and flowing. He sees himself as an "umpire," facilitating the discussion without being a central "CEO." Matt is also the host of a Podcast about autism therapy. The podcast also features Amber, a sound engineering major, who serves as the behind-the-scenes production, video editing, and post-production expert. 2. The Genesis of "CEO Bros After Hours" The podcast originated from weekly "after-hours" conversations between Brian and Brad, often over drinks, where they shared business stories and experiences. Core Concept: The initial idea was to "catalog" these valuable, often humorous or unbelievable, business anecdotes and insights. Target Audience: The podcast aims to provide "good content" for "aspiring entrepreneurs, people that want to start a business, people that maybe manage a department [or] manage a company." Casual Tone: A conscious choice was made to maintain an "after hours" and "casual" atmosphere, complete with drinks, to differentiate it from a typical "job." Team Formation:Brad suggested Matt as a host to "keep the content flowing" and "keep it light," as Brian and Brad alone might struggle to maintain a structured conversation. Amber was brought in due to her sound engineering background and enthusiasm for the project. She handles all production, video editing, and post-production, a critical role that the hosts quickly realized they couldn't manage on their own. 3. Operational Aspects and Business Strategy The hosts emphasize treating the podcast as a business and plan to provide regular updates on its progress, challenges, and opportunities. Startup Costs: Operating Expenses:Labor: Marketing/Ad Spend: Rent: Trial and Error: Content Creation: 4. Monetization and Growth Strategy The ultimate goal is to "monetize the podcast" and make it profitable, but the hosts are not under immediate financial pressure. Long-Term View: Driving Views and Subscriptions: Self-Promotion: Leveraging personal social media, networks, and word-of-mouth. Social Media Ad Spend: Community Building: Importance of Subscriptions: 5. Key Takeaways and Future Outlook The "CEO Bros After Hours" podcast is a business venture built on personal chemistry, shared experiences, and a strategic, yet flexible, approach to growth. Focus on Quality: Team Collaboration: Iterative Development: Organic Growth: Patience and Long-Term Vision: The podcast plans to continue regular "evolution" updates, detailing their business progression, challenges, and successes to their audience. #podcast #makingapodcast #businesspodcast #homersimpson #bluesbrothers #ACDC #retirement #guitars #NewGlarus #SpottedCow #ambergorbel #brianbalduf #bradbalduf #mattcroke #australia #podcastbusiness /episode/index/show/f03d1885-1419-46c1-8dbc-9f3a328ebd2b/id/37139860

#19 A CEO's Journey with Yannis Macheras, CEO of Harmoni Towers 06/20/2025

#19 A CEO's Journey with Yannis Macheras, CEO of Harmoni Towers This ‘CEO Bros - after hours’ podcast, episode 19, marks a significant milestone as it features the first guest, Yannis Macheras, CEO of Harmoni Towers. The podcast aims to "explore the journey to becoming a CEO, lessons learned along the way, challenges overcome, people who helped, stepping stones, etc." Yannis Macheras's professional journey is characterized by a significant transition from law to business, marked by a series of increasingly responsible leadership roles in the telecommunications infrastructure sector. Yanni Macheras: A Career Defined by Evolution and Leadership A. Early Career and Transition from Law Legal Aspirations and Reality: Financial Disillusionment: Shift to Business: Missing the Theatrics of Law: B. Professional Progression in Telecommunications Infrastructure Macheras's career at American Tower Corporation and subsequent ventures showcase a steady rise through the ranks: American Tower Corporation (1999-2013): Joined American Tower, one of the "largest publicly traded tower company in the world." 2005: Instrumental in the integration when American Tower merged with SpectraSite. 2006: Assumed "full P&L responsibilities as a regional VP." 2013: Became VP of Latin America. Parallel Infrastructure (2013-2020): "Started another tower company from scratch," becoming CEO in 2013. Served as SVP a General Manager at Lendlease after Lendlease acquired Parallel Infrastructure. Returned to CEO of Parallel Infrastructure in 2020. Harmoni Towers (2025 - Present): Currently serves as CEO of Harmoni Towers, continuing his impactful career in the industry. C. Learning and Skill Development in Business Finance as a Key Learning: Academic vs. Practical Learning: Communications Towers: Business Model and Operations Macheras provides a detailed overview of Harmoni Towers, highlighting its unique approach within the tower industry. Scale and Strategy: Cost and Value: Organizational Structure: Core Customers: Business Model - "Annuity" from Rent: Neutral Host Provider: Stealth Structures and Community Engagement: Leadership Insights and Personal Philosophy Macheras shares profound insights into his leadership style, challenges, and personal values. A. The Role of a CEO Shift from "Work Work" to Leadership: "Sin Eater" Mentality: Empowering the Team: B. Overcoming Challenges and Managing Anxiety Thematic Struggle with Existential Threats: "Cautiously Paranoid": Acceptance of Unpredictability: C. Influences and Admiration Mentor: Admiration for Communication Carriers: D. Pet Peeves and Communication Philosophy Lack of Communication and Responsiveness: Respect through Responsiveness: E. Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs Assertiveness Balanced with Respect and Kindness: Key Traits for Success: #businesstipsforsmallbusinessowners #businessstrategy #howtostartabusiness #innovation #leadership #cellulartowers #harmonitowers #americantower #AT&T #ceo #verizonwireless #boostmobile #uscellular #t-mobile /episode/index/show/f03d1885-1419-46c1-8dbc-9f3a328ebd2b/id/37062675

#18 Sales - The art and science of sales success 06/13/2025

#18 Sales - The art and science of sales success Introduction to Sales: Beyond the Transaction Brian Balduf and Brad Balduf, in the absence of their usual host Matt Croak, dive deep into the world of sales, emphasizing its fundamental importance for any business. They highlight that sales is not merely a transaction but a complex process requiring specific skills, discipline, and a deep understanding of customer needs. Key takeaway: Sales is the lifeblood of any business, providing the necessary revenue and customer validation. II. The Uncelebrated Wins and the Enduring Lessons of Early Sales Both hosts reflect on their early experiences with sales, noting a common theme: the anti-climactic nature of closing a big deal due to "deal fatigue." Despite the lack of grand celebrations, these early experiences profoundly shaped their business philosophies. III. The Misunderstood Value of Sales and Salespeople A recurring theme is the undervaluation and misunderstanding of the sales function within many businesses. The hosts argue that sales is often perceived as too expensive or unnecessary, failing to acknowledge its critical role in generating revenue. IV. Core Sales Philosophies and Strategies The conversation shifts to effective sales methodologies, emphasizing a consultative and discovery-based approach over aggressive pushing. V. Challenges and Essential Traits of a Salesperson Sales is presented as a demanding, high-pressure, and often unrewarding profession in terms of immediate recognition, requiring resilience and discipline. VI. Innovation and Constant Selling The discussion concludes with the idea that selling is a continuous, pervasive activity that extends beyond formal sales roles, requiring constant innovation and a proactive mindset. VII. Future Sales Topics The hosts express interest in dedicating future episodes to more specific sales tactics and strategies, including: Sales tactics Building a pipeline Innovative approaches Closing techniques Role-playing sales scenarios /episode/index/show/f03d1885-1419-46c1-8dbc-9f3a328ebd2b/id/37000050

#17 Managing Employees - The 4 bucket approach 06/06/2025

#17 Managing Employees - The 4 bucket approach The "CEO Bros Podcast After Hours" is a casual, conversational podcast featuring brothers Brian Balduf and Brad Balduf as well as host Matt Croke, discussing business topics, experiences, and offering advice. This particular episode focuses on employee management and time management, with Brad presenting tactical approaches he has developed and used throughout his career. The planned host, Matt Croak, is unexpectedly absent, leading Brian and Brad to improvise the hosting duties. Main Themes and Key Ideas: Unexpected Absence of Host: The episode opens with the realization that the planned host, Matt Croak, is not present. Personal Anecdotes and Observations: Focus on Employee Management: Lack of Training for Managers: Need for Tactical Approaches: The "Four Boxes" Framework: Competency (Vertical Axis): Attitude (Horizontal Axis): Categorization is Key to Management Style: Framework for Managers, Not Employees: Framework is Fluid: Specific Management Styles for Each Box: High Competency / Great Attitude: High Competency / Poor Attitude: Low Competency / Great Attitude: Low Competency / Poor Attitude: Common Managerial Error: Not a "Cookie-Cutter" Approach: Applicability Across Levels: Time Management Framework (Eisenhower Grid): Axes: The grid uses two axes: Importance (vertical) and Urgency (horizontal) (28:08). Four Quadrants and Actions: Important / Urgent: Do it now. Less Important / Urgent: Important / Less Urgent: Not Urgent / Not Important: Efficiency Gain: Connection to Employee Management: Value of Simple, Proven Frameworks: Most Important Ideas/Facts: The core idea is that effective employee management is not a one-size-fits-all approach; it requires categorizing employees based on their competency and attitude to determine the appropriate management style. Brad Balduf's "Four Boxes" employee management framework uses axes of Competency (low/high) and Attitude (low/high). The four categories and recommended approaches are: High Competency / Great Attitude: Leave them alone (primarily encouragement). High Competency / Poor Attitude: Figure out their motivation. Low Competency / Great Attitude: Direct them specifically. Low Competency / Poor Attitude: Exit them quickly. A common managerial mistake is spending too much time on the highest-performing employees instead of those who need guidance or motivation. The framework is a tool for managers, is fluid, and applies to all levels of employees. Brad also uses a similar four-box system (Eisenhower Grid) for time management based on Importance and Urgency, with recommended actions: Do, Delegate, Schedule, Delete. These simple, tactical frameworks have been highly effective for Brad over his extensive career and are recommended for new managers and business owners looking for a practical guide. /episode/index/show/f03d1885-1419-46c1-8dbc-9f3a328ebd2b/id/36861565

#16 Marketing your business pt2 05/30/2025

#16 Marketing your business pt2 Episode 16 is a continuation of episode 15 in which the guys discuss marketing. The conversation picks up with the Five Ps of Marketing: The hosts revisit and confirm the core elements of a marketing strategy, starting with a slightly adjusted version of the traditional four Ps and adding a fifth, people. People: Product: . Place: Price: Promotion: This is where the discussion primarily continues from the previous episode Three Main Categories of Marketing: Brand and Awareness Building: Direct Marketing: Sales Support Marketing: Alignment of Marketing and Customer Experience: A critical point emphasized is the necessity for marketing messaging to align with the actual customer experience delivered by the company. Effective internal communication is highlighted as crucial for ensuring this alignment, especially in service industries. Understanding the Target Demographic is Paramount: Hiring Marketing Expertise: Pricing Strategies and Product Packaging: Marketing as an Investment with Measurable ROI: Consistency is key; Tracking mechanisms are essential for measuring success; Understanding customer journeys and funnels; Effective marketing involves both art (creativity) and science (data tracking and analysis). Successful campaigns require continuous refinement and tweaking based on data. Key Takeaways for Entrepreneurs: Start by deeply understanding your target customer (People) and your offering (Product). Carefully consider your pricing strategy (Price) and where you will reach customers (Place). Plan your promotional activities (Promo) strategically and consistently. Ensure your marketing message aligns perfectly with the actual customer experience. If new to marketing, consider hiring an agency or consultant for specialized expertise before building an in-house team. Always implement tracking mechanisms to measure the ROI of your marketing spend. Marketing is a continuous process of testing, measuring, and refining. Don't give up after a single attempt. For product businesses, consider "good better best" pricing tiers and bundling. For all businesses, effective packaging can be a marketing tool. /episode/index/show/f03d1885-1419-46c1-8dbc-9f3a328ebd2b/id/36789000

#15 Marketing your business 05/23/2025

#15 Marketing your business The discussion in Episode 15 of CEO Bros - after hours initially focuses on podcast viewership statistics, highlighting a significant audience in Australia, and then transitions into a detailed review of essential marketing concepts, particularly the "Five Ps" of marketing, aimed at business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs. Key Themes & Important Ideas: Australian Viewer Engagement: Key Australian Facts Discussed: The Importance of Marketing for New Businesses: The "Five Ps" of Marketing: People (Demographic/Persona): Product (Value Proposition): Price (Positioning): Place (Distribution & Transaction Point): Effective Promotion Strategies: Repetition and Consistency: Measuring ROI (Return on Investment): Marketing Categories (Brand Building, Sales Support, Direct Marketing): Marketing activities can be broadly categorized into: Brand Building/Awareness: Direct Marketing: . Brand Name and Logo Consistency: Summary: The 15th episode of CEO Bros - after hours provides a foundational look at marketing, emphasizing that it is far more than just advertising. The hosts stress the strategic importance of first identifying the target "People" (demographic/persona), followed by defining the "Product" (value proposition), "Price" (market positioning), and "Place" (distribution). Only once these foundational elements are clear can effective "Promotion" strategies be developed, focusing on impact, impression, perception, repetition, and careful testing to manage investment and maximize potential return. T he discussion is framed within the context of both new business ventures and the hosts' own experiences, including the surprising popularity of their podcast in Australia, which serves as a practical example of unexpected audience demographics. The episode concludes with a planned transition into a second part to continue the discussion on marketing in more detail. #innovation #leadership #marketing strategies #marketing tactics #management #product #pricing #promotion #advertising #Super Crisp Lager #howtostartabusiness #startups #podcast /episode/index/show/f03d1885-1419-46c1-8dbc-9f3a328ebd2b/id/36689620

#14 Professional Service Partners - Getting the most from your accountants and attorneys 05/16/2025

#14 Professional Service Partners - Getting the most from your accountants and attorneys Navigating professional service partners for entrepreneurs and growing businesses. Episode 14 of the CEO Bros podcast, featuring co-founders Brian Balduf (BHT Studios) and Brad Balduf (By Your Side Autism Therapy Services) with host Matt Croak, delves into the critical, yet often underestimated, roles of professional service providers for entrepreneurs. The discussion focuses primarily on accountants (CPAs) and attorneys. The hosts emphasize the love-hate relationship many entrepreneurs have with these partners, highlighting their necessity from the very beginning of a business journey, particularly for corporate governance, even if they slow things down or incur significant costs. A central theme is the "parent-child relationship" analogy, where these professionals offer essential guidance, sometimes unwelcome, to protect the business and ensure its long-term viability. The hosts also briefly discuss Brian's experience in an 8 year copyright infringement trial that VHT Studios won against Zillow. Key Themes and Ideas Accountants, Attorneys: The hosts categorize these groups as essential partners for entrepreneurs and growing businesses. They represent critical external expertise needed for navigation, growth, and protection. There's a shared sentiment of both necessity and occasional frustration with these professionals. Accountants (CPAs): Initial Needs vs. Growth Needs: Minimizing Taxes (Expense): Importance of Financial Organization for External Parties: -Specialization with Growth: Attorneys Necessity for Protection: - Key Areas of Legal Review: Understanding Risk vs. Opportunity: Specialization and Firm Size: Research and Budgeting: Attorneys as Assets/Weapons: Corporate Governance: Business Referrals: Planning for the Future: The episode strongly advocates for entrepreneurs to recognize the vital roles of accountants and attorneys from the outset of their business journey, despite the associated costs and potential friction. These professionals provide crucial guidance on corporate governance, financial management, legal protection, and strategic growth that can prevent significant problems and unlock greater opportunities in the long term. The need for specialized expertise as the business evolves is also a critical takeaway. #innovation #startups #howtostartabusiness #leadership #management #zillow #vhtstudios #byyourside #gouldandratner https://www.vht.com https://www.byyoursideac.com https://www.gouldratner.com https://www.chicagotribune.com/2017/02/13/zillow-group-owes-82-million-to-rosemont-photo-company-jury-finds/ /episode/index/show/f03d1885-1419-46c1-8dbc-9f3a328ebd2b/id/36537235

#13 Leadership - Keys to success in leading your business 05/09/2025

#12 Hiring for your business - How to create the best role description and find the ideal team members 05/02/2025

#11 Real estate investing as a business pt. 2 04/25/2025

#11 Real estate investing as a business pt. 2 This episode is a continuation of a previous conversation about investing in real estate, specifically focusing on the pros and cons, potential pitfalls, and practical advice for listeners interested in becoming real estate investors. Key Themes and Ideas: Encouragement to Invest in Real Estate: Benefits of Real Estate Investing (Pros): Appreciation Paid for by Tenant: Potential for Positive Cash Flow: Serves as a Lending Instrument: Long-Term Financial Security/Passive Income: Leverage: 1031 Exchange: Challenges and Risks of Real Estate Investing (Cons): Difficulty in Forseeing Tenant Issues: Tenants can be unpredictable. Lack of Rent: Eviction Process/Professional Squatters: Difficulty in Vetting Tenants: Poor Property Management: Abuse or Wear and Tear of Property: Macro Disasters/Market Collapses: Insurance Challenges: Building Code Changes: Establishing an LLC: Real Estate License Not Required for Independent Investors: Importance of a Good Property Manager: Handling Tenant Issues and Maintenance: Trust and Reliability: Ensuring the property manager looks after the property and handles situations responsibly. Finding a Good Property Manager: Flipping Houses: Finding Depressed Value Homes: DIY Advantage: Geographic Location and Property Type: Starting Small: Overall Summary: The episode provides a balanced perspective on real estate investing, heavily favoring it as a wealth-building strategy despite the potential downsides. The discussion highlights the core benefits of appreciation and potential cash flow, largely funded by tenants, and the significant leverage it offers compared to stock market investments. A key takeaway is the importance of proactive risk mitigation, particularly through thorough tenant vetting (ideally handled by a reliable property manager) and understanding the complexities of lease agreements (commercial and residential) and renovation projects (flipping). The 1031 exchange is presented as a powerful tool for tax deferral. Ultimately, the message is one of informed action: do your homework, consider starting small or with a partner, secure a great property manager, and if you're ready, "just do it." /episode/index/show/f03d1885-1419-46c1-8dbc-9f3a328ebd2b/id/36316535

#10 How to start investing in real estate as a business 04/18/2025

#8 Disaster Strikes - Now What? Leadership through adversity 04/17/2025

#9 The sacrifices and satisfaction of starting your own business - Is it all worth it? 04/11/2025

#9 The sacrifices and satisfaction of starting your own business - Is it all worth it? CEO Bros: The Entrepreneurial Journey Episode 9 of the CEO Bros podcast delves into the less glamorous but crucial realities of starting and running a business. Moving beyond tactical business advice, the hosts, Brad and Brian, share personal anecdotes and insights focusing on the significant sacrifices and compromises entrepreneurs must make, particularly concerning time, mental well-being, family, and health. The episode explores the all-consuming nature of business ownership, the constant mental engagement required, the impact on personal relationships, and the motivations that drive individuals to undertake this challenging path. Ultimately, the hosts emphasize the importance of being realistic about these sacrifices while acknowledging the deep satisfaction and sense of purpose that can be derived from building something from the ground up and creating opportunities for others. Main Themes and Important Ideas: 1. The Myth of Schedule Control and the Reality of "All In": 2. The Mental Toll and Inability to "Switch Off": 3. Sacrifices Affecting Personal Life and Relationships: 4. The Impact on Health: 5. The Stress and Responsibility of Leadership: 6. Coping Mechanisms and Finding Clarity: 7. Motivations Beyond Money: 8. The Willingness to Serve in Any Capacity: Episode 9 provides a candid and personal look at the sacrifices and compromises inherent in entrepreneurship. Through relatable anecdotes and honest reflections, Brad and Brian paint a realistic picture that extends beyond the often-glamorized narratives of business success. The episode underscores the importance of understanding the all-encompassing nature of business ownership, the potential impact on various aspects of life, and the deep-seated motivations that drive individuals to embrace these challenges. The willingness of successful leaders to prioritize the needs of the business above ego and personal comfort emerges as a key takeaway. /episode/index/show/f03d1885-1419-46c1-8dbc-9f3a328ebd2b/id/36099330

#7 Communication is Critical for a successful company 03/28/2025

#7 Communication is Critical for a successful company Episode #7 of the CEO Bros podcast focuses on the critical importance of communication in all aspects of business, from startups to large corporations and across internal and external stakeholders. The hosts, Brian Balduf, Brad Balduf, and Matt Croke, emphasize that effective communication goes far beyond simply sending a message; it requires clarity, conciseness, repetition, utilizing appropriate channels, ensuring understanding, and paying attention to tone and terminology. The discussion is peppered with humorous anecdotes illustrating the consequences of miscommunication and highlights practical strategies for improving communication within an organization. Main Themes and Important Ideas/Facts: 1. The Foundational Importance of Communication: 2. The Dangers of Miscommunication and Misinterpretation: 3. The Definition of True Communication: 4. Transparency as a Cornerstone of Effective Communication: 5. The Importance of Considering Communication Channels: 6. The Significance of the Message Itself: Clarity and Succinctness: 7. Anecdotal Illustrations of Miscommunication: 8. The Importance of Tone in Communication: 9. The Significance of Terminology and Consistent Language: 10. The Challenge of Over-Communication vs. Effective Communication (Briefly Touched Upon): Key Takeaways: Communication is not a one-way street; it requires dialogue, feedback, and ensuring mutual understanding. Over-communication is often necessary, utilizing multiple channels and repeating key messages. Transparency builds trust and understanding among employees. Paying close attention to the clarity, conciseness, and tone of your messages is crucial. Consistent use of precise terminology enhances professionalism and avoids confusion. Don't let minor setbacks disproportionately impact your focus and progress. This episode provides valuable insights and practical considerations for leaders and individuals looking to improve their communication effectiveness in a business context. The hosts' candid and often humorous approach makes the topic engaging and relatable. /episode/index/show/f03d1885-1419-46c1-8dbc-9f3a328ebd2b/id/35894200

#6 Building a strong culture at a new business 03/21/2025

#5 The most important thing in starting a new business - Get Customers! 03/14/2025

#5 The most important thing in starting a new business - Get Customers! CEO Bros - after hours Episode #5 Main Themes: Customer Acquisition Strategies: The episode extensively covers different approaches to gaining new customers, ranging from direct outreach to leveraging existing networks and exploring new channels. The Value of Customers and Cost of Acquisition (CoA): A significant portion of the discussion revolves around understanding the financial implications of acquiring customers, including the importance of calculating and optimizing CoA. Customer vs. Client Distinction: Brian introduces a nuanced perspective on differentiating between "customers" and "clients," potentially highlighting the depth and nature of the relationship. The Importance of Understanding Customer Needs: The conversation emphasizes the necessity of identifying and addressing customer pain points and differentiating between needs and wants. Customer Retention and Core Business Protection: The hosts touch upon the significance of safeguarding existing customers and the core aspects of the business. Exploring Alternative Revenue Streams: The discussion briefly ventures into non-traditional approaches to generating value beyond direct customer transactions. Most Important Ideas and Facts: Revenue as the Goal: Brian explicitly states the fundamental connection between customers and revenue, emphasizing the importance of monetization: Cost of Acquisition Awareness: The episode emphasizes the importance of understanding the financial cost associated with gaining each new customer. This is reinforced by a reference to Kevin O'Leary's perspective on CoA from Shark Tank: Understanding Customer Motivation: The hosts discuss the drivers behind purchasing decisions, emphasizing that customers have choices and businesses need to address a genuine need or want: What pain do you solve, Is it a NEED or a WANT This highlights the importance of value proposition and problem-solving. Protecting the Core and Existing Clients: The hosts recognize the importance of retaining current customers and safeguarding the established aspects of the business: Exploring Diverse Acquisition Channels: The conversation touches on various methods for reaching potential customers, Considering Product Expansion: The idea of expanding the product line is briefly mentioned as a potential avenue for growth: Referrals and Feedback: The episode acknowledges the value of customer feedback and referrals as organic ways to acquire new customers: Summary Episode #5 "Getting Customers" is a practical and insightful discussion on the multifaceted aspects of customer acquisition and retention. The hosts draw upon their experiences and hypothetical situations to explore various strategies, emphasizing the importance of understanding customer needs, the financial implications of customer acquisition, and the value of both new and existing customers. The story of Brad’s engagement with Mark Cuban adds a layer of real-world entrepreneurial context to the discussion. /episode/index/show/f03d1885-1419-46c1-8dbc-9f3a328ebd2b/id/35662925

#4 Startup capital and growth funding for a new business 03/07/2025

Starting a business - Names, Logos and The Business Plan 02/28/2025

Foundational Decisions When Starting a New Business 02/21/2025

Foundational Decisions When Starting a New Business This podcast episode of "CEO Bros - After Hours" delves into foundational decisions that new business owners often underestimate, but which can significantly impact their success or failure. The hosts (Brian Balduf, Brad Balduf, and Matt Croke) identify and discuss key considerations that go beyond the initial excitement of an idea and before basic start-up tasks such as naming a business. These foundational decisions include determining the business structure (sole proprietorship, partnership, family business), securing funding, defining the ultimate goal of the business (lifestyle vs. investment/exit), and most importantly, understanding and securing customers. Key Themes and Ideas: Beyond the Initial Idea: The podcast emphasizes moving past the excitement of a new business idea and focusing on crucial strategic decisions. Choosing the Right Business Structure: Sole Proprietorship: The key consideration is whether you have the expertise, resources, and resilience to manage everything alone. Partnership: Partners can provide support, expertise, and a sounding board for ideas. However, choosing the wrong partner (e.g., a friend who lacks the necessary skills or commitment) is a significant risk. Equity splits and decision-making authority need to be determined upfront. Partnerships can also bring in capital and specialized knowledge: Family Business: Family businesses can be easy to start due to built-in support, but they are prone to conflicts stemming from family dynamics. Establishing clear boundaries between business and personal matters is crucial. Securing Funding: Funding is described as another foundational decision. How much money you need is crucial, and also considering where the money comes from (personal savings, loans, investors), and the trade-offs associated with each option (e.g., giving up equity). Defining the Business Goal (Lifestyle vs. Investment): The ultimate goal for the business impacts numerous decisions, including funding, long-term strategy, and exit plans. It is important not to be "wishy-washy" with this decision. If you are thinking long-term, communicate that clearly to investors: Identifying and Securing Customers: This is considered the single biggest factor that can make or break a business. It's not enough to have a great product or service; businesses need to know who their customers are, where to find them, and how to attract them. Revenue Heals All Wounds: Brad stresses the importance of revenue, stating, "I strictly subscribe to the rule of Revenue is the salve that heals all wounds." Securing clients, so that revenue is being generated is extremely critical. Actionable Insights: Before Starting a Business: Founders should dedicate time to thoughtfully consider these foundational decisions before getting caught up in the day-to-day logistics. Partnership Considerations: Clearly define roles, responsibilities, equity splits, and decision-making processes with partners before launching the business. Funding Strategy: Understand the funding needs of the business and explore all available options, weighing the pros and cons of each. Customer Acquisition: Develop a clear plan for identifying, reaching, and acquiring customers. Don't assume that customers will automatically flock to a new business, even with a great product. This plan can evolve over time as the business grows. Self-Awareness: Identify your weaknesses and seek out partners who can help the business grow. /episode/index/show/f03d1885-1419-46c1-8dbc-9f3a328ebd2b/id/35372480

The Psychology of starting a new business 02/21/2025

The Psychology of starting a new business The podcast features brothers Brian and Brad Balduf, both successful CEOs, and their host, Matt Croke, an international entertainer. The inaugural episode focuses on the psychology and practicalities of starting a business, drawing on their personal experiences and insights. The overarching theme revolves around the idea that while many have ideas for businesses, a distinct mindset and series of key considerations are necessary to successfully transition from idea to action. Key Themes and Ideas: The Podcast's Purpose: The brothers, Brian and Brad, have habitually discussed business challenges and successes over the past 25-30 years. They decided to share these stories and lessons with a broader audience through this podcast, aiming to provide value to aspiring and current entrepreneurs. The podcast is positioned as a platform to share “stories lessons about business” and will delve into all aspects of running a company. Idea vs. Action: The Entrepreneurial Mindset: The Importance of Sharing Ideas: Check Mark Boxes for a Viable Business: Being ALL-IN: Specific Examples and Stories: Brian's "video home tours.com": Brian recounts his journey of creating VHT Studios, a company that provided video home tours when that was a completely novel concept. He emphasizes the convergence of market timing, technological advancements, and his personal desire to improve the home-buying experience. Brad's "By Your Side Autism Therapy Services": Brad explains how he identified a market need for autism therapy due to rising diagnoses and limited supply of therapists, which led him to create his business. He highlights the importance of understanding both demand and supply dynamics. Conclusion: The first episode of "CEO Bros -- After Hours" sets the stage for a podcast focused on the realities of entrepreneurship. It highlights the need to move beyond the "idea" stage and consider market dynamics, personal preparedness, and the all-in mindset necessary for a successful startup. The hosts also underscore the value of testing ideas, carefully planning, and timing before making the leap into creating a company. The episode establishes a narrative that the hosts will continue in subsequent episodes, including stories of specific challenges of starting a business. /episode/index/show/f03d1885-1419-46c1-8dbc-9f3a328ebd2b/id/35374005

CEO Bros - After Hours

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