In this episode of The Exceptional Business Podcast, we dive deep into the world of business ownership, leadership, and community impact with Bobby Mikulas, co-founder of Kinship Landing. Bobby’s journey from a passionate traveler to a successful entrepreneur is nothing short of inspiring. He shares his insights on building a business from the ground up, the importance of leadership, and the value of community engagement.
The Entrepreneurial Itch and Leadership
Bobby Mikulas has always had an entrepreneurial spirit and a knack for leadership. He shares how his journey began with a strong desire to lead and create something meaningful. Bobby emphasizes the importance of merging leadership with entrepreneurship to create businesses that are not just profitable but also impactful.
The Birth of Kinship Landing
One of the most captivating parts of our conversation is the story behind Kinship Landing, a boutique hotel in Colorado Springs. Bobby and his wife, Brooke, spent years saving and planning for a year-long travel adventure that took them to 17 countries. This journey inspired them to create a unique hospitality experience in their hometown. Kinship Landing is a testament to their vision of blending local community vibes with exceptional hospitality for travelers.
Overcoming Challenges and Staying True to the Vision
Bobby shares an eye-opening story about the challenges they faced during the construction of Kinship Landing. Just days before their groundbreaking ceremony, they discovered they were 40% over budget. Despite the setback, they decided to go ahead with the ceremony and spent the next several months troubleshooting and reworking their plans. This story highlights the resilience and problem-solving skills required in entrepreneurship.
Working On vs. Working In the Business
A significant part of our discussion revolves around the age-old entrepreneurial dilemma: working on the business versus working in the business. Bobby offers valuable insights into finding the right balance and the importance of having a capable team that can handle day-to-day operations. He emphasizes the need for active listening and community engagement to make informed business decisions.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Bobby has some golden nuggets of advice for young entrepreneurs. He stresses the importance of understanding your core motivation for starting a business. Whether it’s financial freedom, autonomy, or solving problems, knowing your “why” is crucial. He also advises against the “burn the boats” mentality, advocating for a more balanced approach where you can test your business idea while maintaining financial stability.
The Power of Active Listening
One of the most profound lessons Bobby shares is the power of active listening. He learned from a mentor the importance of community listening sessions to identify real needs and opportunities. This principle can be applied to any industry and is crucial for creating products and services that are genuinely embraced by the community.
What’s Next for Kinship Landing and Bobby Mikulas
Bobby’s vision for Kinship Landing is to create a network of cherished hospitality concepts that contribute to local communities. While they have resisted the temptation to expand too quickly, the long-term goal is to replicate their success in other locations. On a personal level, Bobby is also exploring new ventures and consulting opportunities to help other entrepreneurs avoid common pitfalls.
Conclusion
This episode is packed with valuable insights and real-world experiences that can benefit anyone interested in entrepreneurship, leadership, and community building. Bobby Mikulas’ journey is a testament to the power of vision, resilience, and active listening.
Don’t miss out on this inspiring conversation. Listen to the full episode, and get ready to be motivated and equipped with actionable insights for your entrepreneurial journey.
AND MORE TOPICS COVERED IN THE FULL INTERVIEW!!!
If you want to know more about Bobby Mikulas, you may reach out to him at:
- Website: https://www.kinshiplanding.com/
Connect with Chris Seegers: https://exceptionalcos.com/
Other Resources:
Books: Selling Main Street by Chris Seegers
