Show notes
SummaryIn this engaging podcast episode, host Jon explores the remarkable journey of Shawn Kersey, a seasoned entrepreneur in the telecommunications industry (Also, 2015 Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year). Shawn shares nearly three decades of insights, starting from his initial foray into structured data wiring in 1988 to developing multiple successful businesses. Hailing from Halifax, Nova Scotia, Shawn's path from trade school to becoming a telecom industry leader is filled with lessons on growth, resilience, and innovation. Throughout the conversation, he reflects on key moments such as mid-career shifts, acquiring and divesting businesses, and the evolution of his operations into what he terms "Business 2.0." Shawn candidly discusses the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and team support in navigating business landscapes. This episode not only explores the technical side of telecom but also delves into Shawn's personal anecdotes and experiences, making it a must-listen for aspiring entrepreneurs and industry veterans alike.❤️ Enjoy this interview? SUBSCRIBE for more: https://www.youtube.com/@unconventional-smbwww.unconventionalsmb.com------------------------------Reach Shawn Kersey @Email: [email protected]: linkedin.com/in/shawn-kersey-17190b42Website: dwsglobal.com.com ------------------------------Chapters02:04 Starting in the Telecom Industry08:45 Transitioning to Entrepreneurship20:01 Starting First Biz in a Recession 23:37 The Challenges of Running a Growing Business25:31 Selling the Business26:39 Building a Client List and Repeat Customers28:16 Cash Flow is King30:43 Selling the Business and Transitioning31:39 Starting a New Business (DWS 2.0)39:11 Vertical Growth and Landing Big Contracts46:19 Financial Challenges and Streamlining Operations48:08 Is There Anything Else That Can Go WRONG?52:50 Addressing Cash Flow Issues55:38 Making Tough Decisions57:49 Shutting Down a Business Unit58:07 The Importance of Separating Business Units58:51 The Decision to Buy Out a Partner59:31 Navigating the Buyout Process01:02:13 The Role of a Business Coach01:04:24 The Importance of Choosing Business Partners Carefully01:04:35 Growth and Recognition01:07:42 Reflecting on the Journey01:07:43 Present Day Operations01:09:38 The Importance of Teamwork and HR01:10:37 Utilizing Technology for Communication01:11:36 Balancing Work and Fun01:12:18 Future Growth Opportunities01:12:46 The Growing Demand for Structured Wiring01:14:38 Lessons and Insights for Newcomers------------------------------CONNECT🎙️ Postcast Guests: Canadian SMB owners interested in chatting about your story, insights, and lessons. https://www.jotform.com/form/240498400635254🗞️ Unconventional SMB Newsletter: A precursor to the podcast. 👉 Pantheon Row Ventures: Acquiring, operating, and building SMB https://www.pantheonrowventures.com👉 Connect with host Jon DeCoste on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jondecoste------------------------------ABOUT Unconventional SMB: A Podcast that explores everything Small & Medium Businesses, offering a unique platform where SMB owners share their stories, insights, and valuable lessons learned along their journeys. Not only celebrating the successes, we discuss current challenges faced by owners and seek to connect them with resources and individuals who can help break through those barriers.SMBs are the foundation of the economy and provide unique opportunities to generate positive impact + profit. Owning and operating an SMB can be a rewarding, exciting and humbling career path
