Welcome to another exciting episode of The Exceptional Business Podcast! In this episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Tato Corcoran, a remarkable real estate investor who transitioned from a stable career in tech to the world of business acquisitions. Tato is not just any real estate investor; she has built an empire from scratch and continues to inspire with her relentless drive and authentic approach.
From Tech to Real Estate
Tato’s journey began in the bustling tech world of San Francisco, working for the giant Salesforce. Despite the allure of a secure tech job, she always had a love for the hustle and a burning desire to create something of her own. She spent almost a decade at Salesforce, a time she fondly recalls as growing up at the company. However, the entrepreneurial itch was ever-present, and Tato knew she needed to pursue her passion for real estate.
The Leap into Business Acquisition
While many would be content with a successful transition into real estate, Tato saw the bigger picture. Real estate alone wasn’t enough to satisfy her ambitions. She wanted more monthly cash flow to invest further in real estate, which led her to buy a business. This new venture came with its own set of challenges. The business she acquired was more of a turnaround project than a turnkey operation, demanding immense effort and resilience.
The Importance of Clarity and Grit
One key theme throughout our conversation was the importance of clarity—knowing what you want and why you want it. Tato believes that a clear vision is crucial, especially when buying a business. She shared her four-quadrant approach to clarity, covering worldview, dream life, current reality, and the blueprint for achieving it. This structured approach helps in making informed decisions and staying focused on long-term goals.
Direct Mail: A Game-Changer
Tato also revealed a fascinating tactic that played a significant role in her success: direct mail. By leveraging Data Axle (formerly Reference USA), she created targeted mailing lists to reach potential business sellers. This method, though seemingly old-school, proved incredibly effective in finding off-market deals and forming real connections with business owners.
Funny and Fumbling Beginnings
Of course, not everything was smooth sailing. We shared some laughs about the early days post-acquisition—like when Tato realized she had an entire manufacturing process to learn almost overnight. Her story about the employee who stole a company credit card and linked his personal rewards account to it had us both chuckling. It’s these real, gritty experiences that shape successful entrepreneurs.
Valuable Insights for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
For those considering a leap into business ownership, Tato offers invaluable advice: consider your current reality and what you truly want, avoid falling in love with the deal, and always think about asymmetric risk. Her experiences underscore the need for both strategic planning and a willingness to dive in and learn on the fly.
Conclusion: Tune In for More Insights
This episode is packed with practical advice, inspiring stories, and real talk about the highs and lows of entrepreneurship. Whether you’re contemplating buying your first business or looking to grow an existing one, Tato’s journey offers a wealth of insights that can guide your path.
Don’t miss out on this engaging and educational episode with Tato Corcoran. Listen now and get motivated to take your own entrepreneurial journey to the next level!
AND MORE TOPICS COVERED IN THE FULL INTERVIEW!!!
If you want to know more about Tato Corcoran, you may reach out to her at:
- Website: https://www.brandtmarble.com/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tatocorcoran/
- Email:
ta*******@gm***.com
Connect with Chris Seegers: https://exceptionalcos.com/
Other Resources:
Books: Selling Main Street by Chris Seegers
