Podcast
The Necessary Entrepreneur
Hosted by Mark Perkins · EN
Experience Earned. Execution Required. The Necessary Entrepreneur brings together people who are actively creating, not constantly consuming. Hosted by entrepreneur and operator Mark Perkins, the show assembles founders, operators, and investors doing the work. They share direct conversations about execution, leadership, and the realities of creating something that endures. The show rejects theory as a standalone and focuses on the discipline, decisions, and resilience required to stay in the game every day.
25episodes
Episodes
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#198 - From Corporate Jobs to a National Wellness Brand: The Oakwell Beer Spa Story
1w ago00:56:06Tap to summarizeIn this episode of The Necessary Entrepreneur, host Mark Perkins talks with Damien Zouaoui and Jessica Zouaoui, founders of Oakwell Beer Spa, a fast growing brand redefining hospitality and wellness. After leaving corporate careers in New York City, they sold everything and traveled to 25 countries searching for the right business idea. That journey led to a unique concept that combines craft beer, spa treatments, and high level service into one experience. Since launching in 2021, Oakwell Beer Spa has operated at full capacity, expanded to multiple locations, and is now franchising across the United States while maintaining a 4.9 star customer experience. What you will learn: How to turn a unique idea into a scalable business Why customer experience is the most powerful form of marketing How to build systems that deliver consistent five star service What it takes to franchise a premium hospitality brand Lessons from bootstrapping and early stage challenges Key takeaways: Service and hospitality can be your biggest competitive advantage Simplicity and consistency drive repeat customers Strong systems make scaling possible Great brands are built through experience, not just promotion Never settle for mediocrity 📌 Connect With Us: Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenecessaryentrepreneur/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNecessaryEntrepreneurPod X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6xhGUE1yzy2N0AemUOlJPx?si=d1c5c316af404f15 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/no/podcast/the-necessary-entrepreneur/id1547181167 📌 Find Out More About Oakwell Beer Spa:Website: https://oakwell.com/; https://oakwellfranchise.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/oakwell-beer-spa Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OakwellBeerSpa Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oakwellbeerspa/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OakwellBeerSpa TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@oakwellbeerspa
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#197 - The $100K Trap: Why You're Stuck (And How to Break Out) | Daniel Linares
1w ago01:21:29Tap to summarizeDaniel Linares, founder of DLE Event Group, joins Mark Perkins on The Necessary Entrepreneur to share how he built a premium event production company and what it takes to scale a business beyond the "six-figure hamster wheel." In this episode, Daniel breaks down the mindset shifts required to move from operator to owner, how to build a high-performance team, and why systems and delegation are the foundation for real business freedom. He also shares how his company pivoted during COVID-19 into virtual events, producing experiences for audiences across more than 60 countries. What you'll learn in this episode: How to escape the "six-figure hamster wheel" as a business owner Why hiring A players changes everything in your company The role of delegation and systems in scaling a business How to pivot quickly in uncertain environments Why taking action before having all the answers creates growth How to build a self-managing team that doesn't rely on you The importance of resourcefulness and surrounding yourself with the right people How to balance business success with fulfillment and personal life If you're an entrepreneur looking to scale your business, build the right team, and create real freedom without burning out, this episode delivers practical insights you can apply immediately. 📌 Connect With Us: Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenecessaryentrepreneur/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNecessaryEntrepreneurPod X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6xhGUE1yzy2N0AemUOlJPx?si=d1c5c316af404f15 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/no/podcast/the-necessary-entrepreneur/id1547181167 📌 Find Out More About Daniel Linares & DLE Event Group:https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellinares1/ https://www.instagram.com/danieltlinares/ https://www.dleeventgroup.com/ https://www.instagram.com/dleeventgroup/ https://www.facebook.com/DLEEventGroup
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#196 - The Investor DNA Blueprint: Find Your Perfect Passive Income Stream | Joey Mure
2w ago00:46:08Tap to summarizeJoey Mure, co-founder of Wealth Without Wall Street, joins Mark Perkins on The Necessary Entrepreneur to break down how entrepreneurs can build passive income and achieve financial freedom outside traditional Wall Street investing. In this episode, Joey explains why many high-income professionals remain financially stuck and how the "hamster wheel" keeps entrepreneurs trading time for money. He introduces the concept of Investor DNA, a framework that helps you identify which passive income strategies align with your personality, goals, and risk tolerance. They also dive into practical ways to generate passive income, including real estate, e-commerce, and platforms like Turo, along with the importance of education, discipline, and working with the right operators. What you'll learn in this episode: Why high earners often struggle to build real wealth How to identify your Investor DNA and invest accordingly Proven passive income strategies beyond Wall Street The difference between active income and true cash flow How to avoid chasing "shiny object" opportunities The role of coaching and systems in financial growth How to build a repeatable passive income framework If you're looking to build sustainable cash flow, reduce reliance on active income, and create a clear path to financial independence, this episode delivers practical insights you can apply immediately. 📌 Connect With Us: Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenecessaryentrepreneur/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNecessaryEntrepreneurPod X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6xhGUE1yzy2N0AemUOlJPx?si=d1c5c316af404f15 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/no/podcast/the-necessary-entrepreneur/id1547181167 📌 Find Out More About Joey Mure & Wealth Without Wall Street: https://www.wealthwithoutwallstreet.com/necessaryentrepreneur https://www.youtube.com/@WealthWithoutWallStreet https://www.instagram.com/WealthWithoutWallSt https://x.com/WithoutWallSt https://www.linkedin.com/in/joey-mure-b376824/
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#195 - A Warrior's Mindset for Entrepreneurs | Sean Patton on Leadership, Discipline, and Performance
2w ago00:45:23Tap to summarizeSean Patton, executive coach at Novus Global, entrepreneur, author of A Warrior's Mindset: The 6 Keys to Greatness, and host of the No Limit Leadership podcast, joins Mark Perkins on The Necessary Entrepreneur for a focused conversation on leadership, mental performance, and what it actually takes to operate at a high level in business. Sean brings a unique perspective shaped by his experience as a founder and now as a coach working with high-performing leaders. In this episode, he breaks down the difference between surface-level motivation and true mindset development. He explains why most entrepreneurs stay stuck not because of strategy, but because of the internal narratives they carry into their decisions, leadership, and execution. The conversation explores the principles behind A Warrior's Mindset and how those ideas translate directly into business performance. Sean shares how discipline, clarity, and personal responsibility drive results, and why leaders who learn to manage their mindset gain a measurable edge in high-pressure environments. He also offers insight into the work he does at Novus Global, helping executives and entrepreneurs unlock performance by challenging limiting beliefs and reframing how they approach growth. Mark and Sean dive into the realities of entrepreneurship, including navigating uncertainty, building confidence through action, and leading others effectively without losing alignment. This episode is practical, direct, and grounded in real-world application for founders who want to improve how they think, lead, and execute. If you are building a business and want to strengthen your mindset, leadership, and decision-making, this conversation will give you a clear framework to operate at a higher level. 📌 Connect With Us: Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenecessaryentrepreneur/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNecessaryEntrepreneurPod X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6xhGUE1yzy2N0AemUOlJPx?si=d1c5c316af404f15 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/no/podcast/the-necessary-entrepreneur/id1547181167 📌 Find Out More About Sean Patton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seanpattonpresents/ https://www.seanpatton.me/ 📘 Order a Copy of A Warrior's Mindset HERE
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#194 - Logistics Is NOT a Cost Center | Randy Vlasic Explains Why Most Businesses Get This Wrong
3w ago00:51:20Tap to summarizeRandy Vlasic, founder and CEO of LIWMI Logistics, joins Mark Perkins on The Necessary Entrepreneur to break down why logistics is one of the most misunderstood advantages in business. Most companies treat it as a cost to minimize. Randy explains why it is actually a core driver of customer experience and long-term growth. Randy shares his unconventional path into entrepreneurship, from early setbacks to building a disciplined and high-performing logistics company. His approach is simple but uncommon. Work only with clients who understand the strategic value of logistics, focus on execution, and build relationships that go beyond transactions. The conversation dives into what it really takes to operate at a high level. Precision, consistency, and operational discipline are not optional in logistics. They are the business. Randy also reflects on navigating the uncertainty of COVID, making tough decisions, and using adaptability and relationships to continue growing while others pulled back. This episode is a sharp reminder that great businesses are built on systems that work, not just ideas. If you are responsible for delivering results at scale, this conversation will change how you think about execution, partnerships, and the role logistics plays in every company. 📌 Connect With Us: Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenecessaryentrepreneur/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNecessaryEntrepreneurPod X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6xhGUE1yzy2N0AemUOlJPx?si=d1c5c316af404f15 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/no/podcast/the-necessary-entrepreneur/id1547181167 📌 Find Out More About Randy Vlasic & LIWMI Logistics: Websites: http://liwmilogistics.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/william.vlasic.1 X: https://x.com/randyvlasic/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/randyvlasic/ LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/randyvlasic YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@randyvlasic TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@randyvlasic
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#193 - Hiring Is Broken: How to Attract Top Talent in 2026 | Ryan Hogan
3w ago01:03:05Tap to summarizeHiring is broken, and most companies do not realize how much it is costing them. In this episode of The Necessary Entrepreneur, Mark Perkins sits down with Ryan Hogan, founder and CEO of Talent Harbor, to unpack what is really happening inside today's hiring market and why traditional recruiting methods are failing both companies and candidates. Ryan brings a clear, operator-level perspective on talent acquisition, sharing how businesses can compete for top talent in a market defined by noise, inefficiency, and misalignment. From outdated hiring processes to the disconnect between employers and candidates, this conversation exposes the hidden friction points that slow growth and create costly mistakes. You will learn how high-performing companies are rethinking recruitment, what actually attracts top-tier candidates today, and why speed, clarity, and positioning matter more than ever. Ryan also breaks down how technology is reshaping hiring, where most organizations go wrong, and what leaders must do to build teams that can scale. This episode is not about theory. It is about execution. If you are an entrepreneur, founder, or operator responsible for hiring and building a team, this conversation will give you a sharper lens on how to win in today's talent market. 📌 Connect With Us: Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenecessaryentrepreneur/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNecessaryEntrepreneurPod X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6xhGUE1yzy2N0AemUOlJPx?si=d1c5c316af404f15 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/no/podcast/the-necessary-entrepreneur/id1547181167 📌 Find Out More About Ryan Hogan & Talent Harbor:https://talentharbor.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/talentharbor/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanehogan/
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#192 - When AI Lies: The Hidden Risk No One Is Talking About | Arthur Miller
4w ago01:02:31Tap to summarizeWhat happens when the future of cybersecurity collides with the reality of financial risk? In this episode of The Necessary Entrepreneur, Mark Perkins sits down with Arthur Miller to unpack one of the most urgent and misunderstood shifts in modern business: quantum encryption and the coming wave of post-quantum cybersecurity threats. As quantum computing accelerates, the encryption systems that protect today's financial institutions are rapidly approaching obsolescence. Arthur explains what that actually means without the hype and delivers a practical roadmap for leaders who cannot afford to get this wrong. You will learn why post-quantum encryption is not a future problem. It is a current leadership responsibility. You will also hear how forward-thinking organizations are preparing for a world where traditional cryptography no longer holds. Arthur outlines the four essential moves every financial institution and data-driven business must make: How to assess your current security infrastructure before it is exposed What quantum-ready technology actually looks like in practice How to build a real implementation strategy instead of a buzzword initiative Why trust, compliance, and competitive advantage all depend on acting early This conversation goes beyond theory and into execution, covering risk, regulation, infrastructure, and leadership mindset in a rapidly shifting tech landscape. If you are an entrepreneur, operator, or executive responsible for protecting data, building trust, or staying ahead of systemic risk, this episode will change how you think about security and the future of your business. 📌 Connect With Us: Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenecessaryentrepreneur/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNecessaryEntrepreneurPod X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6xhGUE1yzy2N0AemUOlJPx?si=d1c5c316af404f15 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/no/podcast/the-necessary-entrepreneur/id1547181167 📌 Find Out More About Arthur Miller:https://www.linkedin.com/in/arthur-miller-64b32165/
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#191 - From Chaos to Clarity: Damon Flowers on Ownership, AI, and Scaling Modern Businesses
Apr 1300:56:23Tap to summarizeWhat separates businesses that scale from those that stall? According to Damon Flowers, it comes down to ownership, clarity, and the systems you build behind the scenes. In this episode of The Necessary Entrepreneur, host Mark Perkins sits down with Damon, founder of Modern Operators, to break down how entrepreneurs can move from chaos to clarity by building better operating systems, leveraging AI, and developing a true ownership mindset. Damon shares how business is not just a vehicle for profit, but a vehicle for personal growth. He explains why adopting a long-term perspective is critical for success, how leaders can foster accountability and ownership within their teams, and how AI is transforming the way modern companies operate. This conversation is packed with practical strategies for entrepreneurs looking to scale smarter, improve operational efficiency, and build resilient, high-performing organizations in today's rapidly changing business landscape. What You'll Learn: Why ownership is the foundation of successful businesses How to implement an AI-driven operating system in your company The role of leadership in building accountability and culture Why long-term thinking creates sustainable growth How to streamline operations and eliminate inefficiencies The connection between personal growth and business success Key Topics Covered: Entrepreneurship and leadership AI in business operations Scaling and operational excellence Ownership mentality in teams Long-term strategy and vision Building modern business systems Actionable Takeaways: Reflect on your personal growth as a leader Implement AI tools to improve efficiency and decision-making Build systems that create clarity and consistency Foster a culture of ownership within your organization Focus on long-term outcomes instead of short-term wins Who this is for: Entrepreneurs and leaders who want to build something meaningful, sustainable, and built to last. 📌 Connect With Us: Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenecessaryentrepreneur/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNecessaryEntrepreneurPod X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6xhGUE1yzy2N0AemUOlJPx?si=d1c5c316af404f15 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/no/podcast/the-necessary-entrepreneur/id1547181167 📌 Find Out More About Damon Flowers & Modern Operators:https://www.linkedin.com/in/damonflowers/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/modernoperators/ modernoperators.com https://go.modernoperators.com/companyos
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#190 - Reinventing Product Discovery: Al Schuster on Building SampleFinder and the Future of Consumer Engagement
Apr 900:51:41Tap to summarizeWhat if the way customers discover products is completely broken? In this episode of The Necessary Entrepreneur, host Mark Perkins sits down with Al Schuster, Co-Founder of SampleFinder, to unpack how brands can rethink product discovery, customer acquisition, and engagement in today's crowded marketplace. Al shares the story behind building SampleFinder and how the company is helping brands connect directly with consumers through smarter sampling strategies. He explains why traditional marketing channels are losing effectiveness and how experiential marketing, targeted sampling, and data-driven insights are becoming critical for growth. This conversation dives into entrepreneurship, startup growth, and what it takes to build a company that bridges the gap between brands and consumers. Al also breaks down the importance of feedback loops, understanding your customer, and creating meaningful touchpoints that actually drive conversions. If you are an entrepreneur, brand builder, or marketer looking to stand out and create real connections with your audience, this episode will give you practical strategies and a fresh perspective. What You'll Learn: Why traditional product discovery is failing brands How sampling can drive customer acquisition and loyalty The role of data in modern marketing strategies How to build stronger connections between brands and consumers The fundamentals of scaling a startup in a competitive space Why feedback loops are critical for growth Key Topics Covered: Product sampling and consumer engagement Startup growth and entrepreneurship Customer acquisition strategies Data-driven marketing Brand positioning and differentiation Experiential marketing Building scalable platforms Actionable Takeaways: Rethink how customers discover your product Use sampling as a strategic growth lever Build feedback loops to understand your audience Focus on meaningful engagement over impressions Leverage data to refine your marketing strategy Who this is for: Entrepreneurs and leaders who want to build something meaningful, sustainable, and built to last. 📌 Connect With Us: Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenecessaryentrepreneur/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNecessaryEntrepreneurPod X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6xhGUE1yzy2N0AemUOlJPx?si=d1c5c316af404f15 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/no/podcast/the-necessary-entrepreneur/id1547181167 📌 Find Out More About Al Schuster & SampleFinder:https://www.linkedin.com/in/aschuster4379/ https://samplefinder.com/
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#189 - The Hidden Billion-Dollar Opportunity in Mining | Beau Turner Explains
Apr 600:45:05Tap to summarizeWhat does it take to build real, lasting wealth in industries most people don't understand? In this episode of The Necessary Entrepreneur, host Mark Perkins sits down with Beau Turner, Co-Founder and CEO of Abundant Mines, to explore how entrepreneurs can think differently about opportunity, risk, and long-term value creation. Beau breaks down the realities of the mining industry, one of the most misunderstood sectors in business, and explains how strategic thinking, patience, and disciplined execution can unlock massive opportunities. He shares lessons from building in a capital-intensive, high-risk environment and how those principles translate to entrepreneurship across any industry. This conversation dives into what it really means to play the long game, how to identify overlooked opportunities, and why resilience and conviction are essential for building something meaningful. Beau also discusses leadership, decision-making under uncertainty, and how to navigate industries where timing and strategy matter more than hype. If you are an entrepreneur, investor, or business leader looking to expand your thinking beyond traditional paths and build long-term wealth, this episode will challenge and sharpen your perspective. What You'll Learn: How to identify opportunities in overlooked or misunderstood industries The fundamentals of building in capital-intensive businesses Why long-term thinking separates great entrepreneurs from average ones How to manage risk and uncertainty in high-stakes environments The mindset required to build sustainable wealth Lessons from the mining industry that apply to any business Key Topics Covered: Mining and natural resource entrepreneurship Long-term investing and wealth creation Risk management and capital allocation Leadership in complex industries Strategic decision-making under uncertainty Building businesses in unconventional markets Entrepreneurial mindset and resilience Actionable Takeaways: Look where others are not paying attention for opportunity Focus on long-term value instead of short-term wins Build conviction through research and experience Develop the discipline to operate in uncertain environments Prioritize strategy over hype when making decisions Who this is for: Entrepreneurs and leaders who want to build something meaningful, sustainable, and built to last. 📌 Connect With Us: Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenecessaryentrepreneur/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNecessaryEntrepreneurPod X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6xhGUE1yzy2N0AemUOlJPx?si=d1c5c316af404f15 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/no/podcast/the-necessary-entrepreneur/id1547181167 📌 Find Out More About Beau Turner & Abundant MinesWebsite: https://abundantmines.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beau-turner-445732251/ ; https://www.linkedin.com/company/abundant-mines/ X: https://x.com/Beau_Turner21 https://x.com/AbundantMines Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abundantmines# Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abundantmines/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AbundantMines/
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