#49. Skip the Startup: Why Buying a Business Might Be Smarter

In this episode of Drip Trickle Flow Flood, we unpack a growing trend: millennials skipping the startup grind and instead buying existing businesses. Inspired by a recent Entrepreneur Magazine article, we explore the model known as entrepreneurship through acquisition (ETA) and why it may be a smarter, more sustainable path to wealth-building.

If you’ve ever wondered whether starting from scratch is the only path, this episode might open up a whole new strategy.

1. Buying a Business Reduces Unknown Risk

Startups are filled with unknowns. With an existing business, you can review profit and loss statements, customer history, and expenses. There’s math behind the risk, and that math gives you leverage.

2. Baby Boomers Are Creating a Unique Window of Opportunity

Many retiring owners don’t have successors. They want their businesses to continue. That emotional factor can create flexible deal structures like seller financing, profit-sharing arrangements, or creative contracts.

3. “Boring” Businesses Can Be Highly Profitable

Laundromats, plumbing companies, mailbox stores - these may not feel glamorous, but they’re essential. They’re harder to disrupt with technology and deeply embedded in communities.

4. Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition Can Be More Aligned With Modern Values

Millennials and Gen Z increasingly value independence, sustainability, and work-life balance. Acquiring a business can offer ownership without the extreme burnout culture of venture-backed startups.

5. Opportunity Favors the Visible

Some of the best business acquisition opportunities come from conversations. Tony shares how simply being known in the community led to business owners approaching him. Sometimes the strategy to buy a business is just telling people, “I’m looking to buy a business.” Visibility creates deal flow.

Our Links

Tony’s website

Melissa’s website

Drip Trickle Flow Flood T-Shirts

We’ve got merch! That’s right, Drip Trickle Flow Flood t-shirts are officially here and they’re as comfy as they are conversation-starting.

Grab yours!

Rate and Review

If you loved this episode, please take a moment to rate and review Drip Trickle Flow Flood on your favorite podcast platform. It helps new listeners discover the show and it makes our day. Thanks for listening!

Subscribe to this newsletter for income ideas that drip, trickle, flow, and flood into your life.

Disclaimer:

The information provided in this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, tax, or legal advice. The opinions expressed by the hosts and guests are solely their own and do not reflect the views of any companies or organizations they may be affiliated with.

Listeners should conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial professional before making any investment or financial decisions. While we strive for accuracy, we do not guarantee that the information presented is complete, current, or applicable to your specific situation. Investing involves risk, including potential loss of principal.

By listening to this podcast, you acknowledge and agree that the hosts, guests, and producers are not responsible for any financial decisions you make based on the content discussed.