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313. What It’s Like Running 3 Solo Operated Businesses

⏱️ 35:00 🎀 Aaron Sutter
AUDIO EPISODE
313. What It’s Like Running 3 Solo Operated Businesses
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Chapters

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  • 0:00
    Introduction & Sponsor
    Aaron Sutter introduces himself and the podcast, sharing his background in lawn care and his new venture, followed by a sponsor message for Green Frog Web Design.
  • 3:00
    Google Business Listing Challenges
    Aaron details the difficulties of obtaining and verifying a Google Business listing due to new policies, especially when moving or starting a new business, emphasizing the need for utility bills in the business name.
  • 7:44
    Benefits of Separating Businesses
    Aaron explains his decision to separate his businesses into distinct entities for cleaner books, better tax write-offs, and clearer financial tracking, moving from a single entity to three.
  • 11:26
    Operating Multiple Solo Businesses
    He discusses the increased workload and brain power required to manage three businesses as a solo operator, including handling separate books and administrative tasks for each.
  • 13:40
    Managing Finances & Bookkeeping
    Aaron shares his financial management strategy, using separate bank accounts and the 'Profit First' method to allocate funds for taxes, insurance, and profit, treating allocated money as already spent.
  • 16:18
    Growth & Future Plans
    He outlines his current client base for lawn care and his long-term goal of transitioning to primarily gravel driveway repair, which is less physically demanding and more profitable.
  • 18:29
    Expanding Gravel Services
    Aaron talks about the new challenge of adding gravel delivery and spreading services, coordinating with suppliers, and navigating issues like Michigan's frost laws.
  • 22:14
    Stress & Rewards of Solo Ventures
    He concludes by summarizing the crazy but ultimately rewarding experience of running multiple solo businesses, highlighting the stress of administrative hurdles but the benefits of cleanliness and tax efficiency.

Speakers

A
Aaron Sutter
Host β€” Host of Mow in the Dark Podcast

Key Takeaways

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Be aware of Google's strict business listing policies: If you move or change your business location, you'll likely need a new Google Business Profile and must provide utility bills (electric, internet, or phone) in your business name for verification, which can be a lengthy and challenging process.

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Separate business entities for clarity and tax benefits: Keep your businesses distinct (even if solo-operated) to maintain cleaner financial records, accurately track profitability for each, and maximize legitimate tax write-offs for specialized equipment or business travel.

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Prioritize meticulous bookkeeping: Running multiple businesses requires strict adherence to bookkeeping; avoid procrastination to prevent financial muddiness and ensure smooth tax preparation.

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Implement a 'Profit First' like financial system: Set up separate bank accounts or sub-accounts for different business needs (taxes, insurance, owner's draw, profit) to ensure funds are allocated correctly and not inadvertently spent.

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Strategically plan business growth and transitions: Identify which service lines you want to prioritize for long-term growth and structure your time and resources accordingly, as some services may be more profitable or sustainable in the long run.

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Understand supply chain and seasonal limitations: For services like gravel driveway repair, be aware of factors like frost laws or supplier availability that can impact scheduling and project completion, requiring effective client communication and planning.

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