Welcome to the Business Buyer Diaries. My name is Nathan Platter, I’m a full-time employee, and I bought a business! I did everything right from finding the deal, handling due diligence on 63 different opportunities, and ultimately buying a profitable gym, and boy was I in for a surprise as a new owner! I chronicle everything in real time, including the biggest wins to the stressful nights at 2am. I’m sharing my journey without sugarcoating anything, so you don’t repeat ...
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274. Our job is to up level and force in the good and eventually only the negative bad leaves
11:23
Send us a text Have you ever had to make that tough call to preserve the harmony of your team? This week, we peel back the curtain on the gritty details of managing a fitness studio and the HR decisions that can make or break a thriving workplace. As we recap a productive manager meeting, I walk you through our latest initiatives, from boosting sum…
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Send us a text Balancing a day job while spinning the plates of entrepreneurial dreams is a tightrope walk, and I'm here to share the highs and the balancing acts. Tune in to hear about my latest ventures in turning my studio, a hub of creativity and positivity, into a self-sustaining enterprise. We're on the brink of financial self-sufficiency, an…
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Send us a text Have you ever wondered what the early days of acquiring a business look like, or how the fleeting nature of memory can leave those initial experiences shrouded in mystery? Strap in as I recount the invitation to share my entrepreneurial insights at a local meetup, revealing the preparation whirlwind and the peculiar challenge of dred…
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Send us a text Ever had that moment when you're dashing through your day and you're suddenly struck by a tiny, yet powerful observation? That's what happened to me, and it sparked an enlightening conversation about the choices we make and how they shape our lives. During a routine catch-up with an old friend, an unexpected scene of someone thoughtl…
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Send us a text Have you ever felt like life was hurtling forward at breakneck speed, leaving you to play catch-up with your own ambitions? Well, you're not alone. Today, I'm peeling back the layers of my own rapid progression through life's milestones at 33, and how it might resonate with the hustlers and dreamers among us. From buying and selling …
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269. You CAN’T control everything, complete ownership is clickbait, too many PT staff doesn’t work
9:41
Send us a text Navigating the choppy seas of studio ownership after a recent buyout, I found myself steering through a storm of digital dilemmas and staffing structures. The anchor dropped in our latest team meeting, revealing key insights into the transfer of power and the intricacies of managing shared usernames and passwords with the past owners…
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Send us a text Navigating the turbulent waters of a sales funnel mismatch, my heartfelt conversation with Courtney shines a light on the stark realities we face in our business and personal life. As I lay bare the alignment issues between our ads and customer experiences, which are causing hiccups in conversion rates, you’ll hear the raw emotions b…
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267. Sales closing rate is down, practicing our marketing handoff and intake process pre objections
9:51
Send us a text As I reflect on the countless blessings in my life—from my rock-solid family to our all-star team—I'm reminded that these are the very pillars that sustain a thriving business. In our latest episode, we delve into the transformative power of gratitude and its ripple effect on our mental state and day-to-day joy. You'll hear us dissec…
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Send us a text Have you ever caught yourself grumbling about life's daily pressures, only to be struck by a moment of clarity that turns your attitude upside down? That's precisely what happened to me, and in this heartfelt episode, I peel back the layers of my journey towards gratitude. An Instagram post sparked an epiphany, leading me to treasure…
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Send us a text Ever felt like you're running full throttle just to keep your business's head above water? Join me for a frank and revealing session as we navigate the chop, from ensuring auto-payments are made on time to making the tough call on drawing from a line of credit. It's a day in the life of a relentless entrepreneur, where survival isn't…
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Send us a text Embarking on a podcasting voyage is akin to setting sail into the vast seas of storytelling, and today marks the moment I hoist the sails. I recount the exhilaration of launching our series, the Acquisitive Podcast with Daniel Talbot and Sarah Sharp, and the mad dash to harmonize Wes Schrock's tunes with ChatGPT's artistic finesse. T…
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Send us a text Ever feel like you're sprinting on a treadmill of ambition, desperately chasing after the next big thing that society says you need to be happy? There's a thick cloud of anxiety hovering over our culture, one that fixates on fame, fortune, and the fear of falling short. As I unwind from the pressures of the day, I invite you to join …
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Send us a text Ever wondered how a fitness business stays on its toes when the punches of reality hit hard? This episode pulls no punches as we navigate the twists and turns of our fitness empire's journey, from launching a fresh referral challenge to reshuffling our staff deck. We're putting our adaptability to the test, bidding adieu to a sales f…
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Send us a text Ever listened to your own voice and cringed? I sure have, and I'm unpacking that complex bundle of emotions in our latest episode. It's more than just self-conscious nitpicking; it's a revelation about communication, self-perception, and the dubious joys of being your own toughest critic. I'm taking you through my personal experience…
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Send us a text Ever wondered what fuels the fire within champions? This episode is a testament to the grit and determination that transform ordinary individuals into icons of fitness. We're throwing a high-energy bash to celebrate the sweat-drenched triumphs of our community. With each pulsing beat and shared laugh, we honor those who've risen with…
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Send us a text Ever wondered what it truly takes to revolutionize your fitness and health? Join us and discover the transformative journeys that unfolded during a recent 10-week fitness challenge. We unearth the details behind astonishing improvements in body composition, strength, and endurance. It's not just about shedding pounds; it's the narrat…
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Send us a text There's something electrifying about crossing a finish line, and today, my voice is filled with that very electricity as we unlock the stories of triumph from our community's 10-week health challenge. It's not just about the pounds shed or the muscles gained; it's the intimate victories, the perseverance through adversity, and the un…
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Send us a text Ever felt like your meetings could use a shot of adrenaline to actually get things done? Well, buckle up, because we're sharing a dynamic approach to shake things up! We kick off with the small victories, paving the way for those meaty, complex topics that really need our brain juice. It's not just about ticking boxes; it's about add…
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Send us a text Embark on a revealing expedition as I recount the exciting tale of fostering a strategic partnership that led to the creation of a unique digital product. Teaming up with a fellow podcaster, we ventured into the world of educational courses, meticulously carving out growth opportunities and innovative strategies to benefit our combin…
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255. My team’s handling 95- of the responsibilities yet I’m still hanging on to a bad decision
11:40
Send us a Text Message. Embarking on a transformative leadership adventure, I've learned that letting go can sometimes be the strongest grip on success. Join me as I peel back the layers of my entrepreneurial evolution, from a hands-on founder to someone who orchestrates from the wings. We'll examine the delicate balancing act of entrusting a team …
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Send us a Text Message. Are you ready to scale the heights of your career in the tech world? Let's embark on a journey together to uncover the secrets of climbing the career ladder, as we dissect the critical role of performance evaluations and promotion timelines that could propel you from analyst to senior positions and beyond. Through the lens o…
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Send us a text Navigating the choppy waters of workplace disputes can be as delicate as performing a ballet on a tightrope. That's why I've rolled up my sleeves and ventured into the thick of it, sharing the triumphs and trials from a recent employee clash that put my conflict resolution tactics to the test. Without spilling confidential details, I…
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Send us a text Navigating the choppy waters of workplace conflict is never an easy feat, but it's a journey I embarked on with two team members whose professional tiff had escalated beyond casual banter. I found myself in the mediator's seat, striving to untangle a web of miscommunication and bruised egos. This episode pulls back the curtain on the…
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Send us a text Stepping up to the microphone has always been a dance with nerves for me, but it's in the candid relay of my journey from private voice memos to commanding the stage that I truly find my voice. In a heartfelt share, I take you through my evolution as a speaker, the initial comfort of audio recordings, and the eventual leap into the v…
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Send us a text Waking up at three in the morning with a racing mind is an experience many can relate to, especially when the weight of the day job and the complexities of managing a team loom over you. That's exactly where I found myself, grappling with the tick-tock of an unrealistic project timeline and the brewing storm of a team conflict. Join …
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Send us a text Feeling the Monday blues? Let's turn that around! Kick off your week with a dose of positivity and learn why Mondays are the perfect opportunity to embrace new beginnings and shake off the unnecessary stress that often precedes a workweek. Join us as we chat about historical contexts that remind us to stay grounded in the present, an…
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Send us a text Hey everyone, gear up for an episode that promises to be a game-changer for your business growth strategy! I'm diving headfirst into the transformative world of partnerships, sharing the eye-opening moments that have shifted my once 'lone wolf' approach to a collaborative powerhouse mentality. Imagine a space where connecting the rig…
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Send us a text Ever wondered how a studio bash can ignite a joyous revolution for a brand while treading the delicate balance of team harmony? Step behind the scenes with us as we share our secrets to throwing an unforgettable party that not only elevates our studio's vibe but also strategically boosts our brand's presence. We're transforming our s…
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Send us a text Ever faced the head-scratching dilemma of sagging sales numbers and the daunting task of reviving them? That's where we are, navigating the choppy seas of sales strategy while our close rates have taken a nosedive from a healthy 10-15% down to a paltry 6-7%. In our latest episode, we dissect the elements that could be sinking our shi…
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Send us a text Ever been struck by the financial rollercoaster of small business ownership? Join me this Thursday for a candid look into the world where monthly revenue swings are as common as caffeine cravings, and where handling the hefty $30,000 to $50,000 waves has become just another day at the office. I'm peeling back the curtain on my own ex…
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244. Another LOC draw, probably time to message my banker and franchisor about the business future
18:58
Send us a text Sailing the choppy waters of retail finance, I found myself caught in a tempest of debt and decision-making that could make or break my business. Balancing a mounting credit card bill and a shrinking line of credit, I faced the harsh reality of advertising investments that didn't pay off as expected. In this candid episode, I take yo…
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243. Went in on a Saturday and my purpose of being an owner is shifting to more community-minded
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Send us a text Embark on a transformational tale this week as we uncover the raw passion and fervor that fuels the fitness industry. Our special guest invites you into their Saturday routine, revealing the intimate moments of triumph and determination among gym-goers, painting a vivid picture of personal growth and community spirit. Witness the tan…
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Send us a text Breaking free from the golden handcuffs isn't just a dream—it's an attainable reality for those brave enough to take the leap from corporate security into the thrilling world of entrepreneurship. The fear of a pay cut and losing precious benefits keeps many tethered, but the potential rewards are vast for those who dare. Join us as w…
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241. Find one person doing one thing that you want and ask how to get unstuck and do baby step 1
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Send us a text Navigating the twists and turns of acquiring a business, I had the pleasure of chatting with Daniel on the Acquisitive Podcast—my very first podcast guest appearance! This episode isn’t just about sharing that exhilarating experience, but also about the treasure trove of insights I scooped up along the way, particularly about kicking…
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Send us a text Navigating the treacherous waters of entrepreneurship, I've faced the kind of fears that would send shivers down any business owner's spine. Imagine glancing at your bank account to see a balance that's barely enough to cover a week's groceries – that's the reality I grapple with. But here's the kicker: I've learned to smile in the f…
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Send us a text Every entrepreneur knows that navigating financial storms can turn the calmest seas into turbulent waters. As I lay bare the unspoken hardships of business finance, you'll uncover the integral practices that keep my ship steady—like my morning routine of biblical wisdom and the mental refuge of a good workout. This episode peels back…
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Send us a text Ever found yourself wrestling with a problem at work that just won't let up? I've been there, and in this revelatory episode, I'm peeling back the layers of a coding conundrum that had me stumped for days. But, here's the twist: the journey to a breakthrough illuminated an invaluable lesson about value creation in the workplace. Join…
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237. Post quarterly training, the clouds are clearing and we’re going to have a STELLAR month!
7:08
Send us a text Ever found yourself obsessing over the one negative comment in a sea of praise? Yesterday's structure training was an eye-opener for me, highlighting our inclination to magnify the negatives when we're alone with our thoughts and a feedback form. This episode peels back the layers on the art of receiving and interpreting survey feedb…
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Send us a text Ever wondered how a fitness team tunes up its teaching tactics to meet every client's unique needs? Grab your earbuds, because today's session is all about the art of personalized instruction. We're taking you behind the scenes of our latest instructor training day, where we lay it all on the line. From decoding the delicate dance of…
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Send us a text Gathered around the clink of poker chips and the laughter of friends, our latest game night unfolded into an evening where careers took a backseat to camaraderie. As the cards were dealt, we exchanged not just playful banter but the stories of our lives, peeling back the layers of what truly defines us beyond our job titles. From the…
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234. Weekly roundup. We’re focusing on what we CAN control, lost -15,000, there’s hope and upside
13:20
Send us a text Strap in for an honest journey behind the curtain of fitness club management, where we wrestle with the tough stuff—balancing feedback with negativity and finding financial footholds. Through candid conversations with our manager, we've uncovered the delicate dance of nurturing a diverse team of instructors and the alchemy of transfo…
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Send us a text Witness the fitness industry's most groundbreaking transformation as Anytime Fitness and Orange Fitness join forces, and discover how this epic merger is shaking up the game. This episode is not just about the clash of the fitness titans; it's a peek into the cutthroat strategies businesses employ to stay on top, and how my own studi…
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Send us a text Could your gym membership be facing an existential crisis? We’re breaking down the seismic shifts in the fitness industry, where survival is not just about who offers the most treadmills, but who can creatively crunch their numbers. This episode takes you through the intricacies of pricing strategies, where mid-tier gyms like Anytime…
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231. Don’t play the Middle Pricing Option Game, finally decided how to monetize this journey of mine
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Send us a text Navigate the precarious world of pricing strategies with us as we peel back the layers of complexity in the fitness industry—a landscape where I, your host and a gym owner, live the daily challenge of balancing the books. Hear how businesses, from high-end havens like Equinox to the budget-friendly Planet Fitness, are tackling the ec…
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Send us a text Embarking on a path of self-discovery, I found myself seated with a counselor, unraveling the complex threads of my own psyche. Join me as I recount the enlightening nuances of that session, a candid step towards personal growth that's both profound and universally applicable. My reflection doesn't just stop at introspection; it's an…
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Send us a text As the hum of the car engine lulls my sick kids to sleep, my mind can't help but drift towards the rollercoaster that is entrepreneurship. There's something about the quiet of a Sunday drive that sharpens focus on the gym business I've poured my heart into. This week's episode is a raw and honest reflection of that journey, where I l…
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Send us a text Ever wrestled with the decision to tackle a problem yourself or call in the pros? I sure have, and this week I'm peeling back the curtain on how outsourcing to an expert electrician brought light back to our studio and a significant lesson in time management for me. The art of navigating a business is layered and complex, often requi…
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Send us a text Strap in for an honest journey through the peaks and valleys of entrepreneurship, as we navigate the treacherous financial landscape that comes with the territory. Imagine having to juggle a whopping $25,000 in expenses, with rent, payroll, and loan payments all clamoring for attention simultaneously. It's not just a scenario; it's t…
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Send us a text Strap in for a lesson in leveling up your gym game as this week, I'm laying out the strategic blueprint to broaden your business horizons. Ever considered taking an equity stake in the very partners that power your growth, or is launching your own marketing juggernaut the heavyweight move? Join me as I dissect the delicate dance of d…
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Send us a text Ever felt the unease of discussing your income with friends, let alone your employees? That's the can of worms we're cracking open today, as we navigate the treacherous waters of financial transparency in the business world. We tear down the facade to expose the raw nerves of ego, privacy, and the very real fear of backlash that haun…
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