episode 0052- the road to becoming a 9-figure chocolate bar company with mid-day squares co-founder jake karls

In this episode, we unpack the highs and lows of entrepreneurship. Jake Karls of Mid-Day Squares gives us a peek behind the curtain of what running a massive chocolate bar company with his sister and brother-in-law is like, the marketing tactics they've used the grow and expand, and the many challenges they have faced.

We also dive into the world of mental health of entrepreneurs, and the very real possibility of burnout for entrepreneurs who fail to take care of themselves. Jake tells us his story, giving us the signs to watch out for, the tools he uses to avoid burnout, and how he and his co-founders have learned to keep family a top priority in the midst of running a near 9-figure business.

Show Highlights:
1- Jake talks about his background leading up to Mid-Day Squares, starting with an entrepreneurial venture in the world of fitness. (5:45)
2- Jake recalls when he was approached by his sister and brother-in-law to become the hype man for the chocolate company they were about to launch. (12:20)
3- How involved was Jake in formulating the chocolate recipe? (13:45)
4- We discuss marketing to land the first set of customers, including turning their lives into a reality show. (15:15)
5- Jake talks about doing business with family, and committing to weekly therapy with his co-owners as part of doing business together. (18:40)
6- We discuss the importance of family regardless of “success”. (26:15)
7- We discuss the process of scaling. (30:30)
8- We discuss burnout, and how to prevent it. (33:45)
9- We discuss work-life balance as an entrepreneur. (39:10)
10- We discuss the process of raising venture capital. (44:25)
11- How has the marketing strategy changed as the business has grown? (49:20)
12- Where can we buy and learn more about Mid-Day Squares? (54:30)
13- Listener question: Any advice for someone wanting to start a business in a highly competitive market? (55:45)

Be sure to check out the Mid-Day Squares Amazon Store!

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