The path of entrepreneurship is rarely straightforward. In this episode, Tyler Bennett, Co-founder of Initiator and a franchisee of Crumbl, pulls back the curtain on his journey from zero to nine franchise locations in just 18 months. Tyler dives into building a business while navigating massive debt, personal sacrifices, and unexpected market opportunities. Tune in for a conversation around:
The psychological challenges of early-stage entrepreneurship, including working without pay and putting family financial stability on the line while maintaining hope and vision;
Strategic approaches to franchise expansion, including how to mitigate risks and capitalize on emerging market opportunities;
The power of partnership, creative financing, and maintaining relationships through business challenges.
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The Midnight Founders Podcast is powered by RevRoad and CB Vault.
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41:58
Mayor Michelle Kaufusi & Keith Morley - Provo City
Balancing a family, building a career, and leading a city as dynamic as Provo is no small feat—but Mayor Michelle Kaufusi makes it look effortless. In this episode, we sit down with Mayor Kaufusi and Keith Morey, Provo’s Economic Development Director, to uncover the vision, leadership, and entrepreneurial mindset driving Provo to national recognition. Tune in to explore:
How Provo’s innovative projects and startup-friendly ecosystem are transforming it into an entrepreneurial powerhouse
Leadership lessons from Mayor Kaufusi; how her upbringing shaped a culture of empathy, empowerment, and forward-thinking innovation as Provo’s first woman mayor
The four pillars of Mayor Kaufusi’s administration and her commitment to building a welcoming, safe, economically vibrant, and future-ready city
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The Midnight Founders Podcast is powered by RevRoad and CB Vault.
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37:39
Shawn Finnegan - Tax Hive
This week, we’re joined by Shawn Finnegan, co-founder of Tax Hive and partner with Kevin O’Leary from Shark Tank, to explore how his journey from startup struggles to building a thriving business shaped his approach to entrepreneurship. Tune in to learn:
Tax-saving strategies every entrepreneur should know, like the "Augusta Rule" and leveraging family payrolls
How Shawn overcame losing $1.5 million, missed payroll, and rebuilt his business through partnerships and relationships
The importance of aligning the right investors with your mission—and how to know when to take the leap or continue bootstrapping
Check out Tax Hive's FREE business blueprint here.
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The Midnight Founders Podcast is powered by RevRoad and CB Vault.
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45:45
Brian Brown - Partner Philosophy
Building a successful business isn't just about products or profit—it's about people. In this episode, Brian Brown, Founder of Partner Philosophy, shares his unique approach to business development, blending creativity, community, and a touch of fun to foster authentic relationships that drive revenue. In this episode, we explore:
Why automated sales funnels and follow-ups aren’t meeting quotas—and how face-to-face connections close the deals that matter most.
The story behind “Burning Questions,” a networking event featuring hot wings and spicy conversations that break down barriers and build lasting relationships.
How cold plunging turned into a flourishing business franchise, creating an unexpected space for networking and human connection.
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The Midnight Founders Podcast is powered by RevRoad and CB Vault.
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35:58
Bruce Miller - PROFi, The Professional Financial Company
Wealth isn’t just about numbers—it’s about the impact you leave behind and the principles that guide your life. In this episode, we sit down with Bruce Miller, founder and CEO of PROFi - The Professional Financial Company, to explore how his journey from IT professional to financial entrepreneur shaped his approach to helping families and business owners live lives of significance. Tune in to learn:
The broader meaning of wealth, including spiritual and intellectual legacy that transcends generations
Smart strategies for family wealth preservation and avoiding the pitfalls of consumerism
How behavioral finance can help you make smarter, more intentional money decisions
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The Midnight Founders Podcast is powered by RevRoad and CB Vault.