🍕From tech to pizzeria chaos! Mark Kwiatkowski shares his journey from software reselling to owning a pizza place. Discover the unexpected challenges and lessons learned in the heated world of entrepreneurship. Tune in now! #PizzaBusiness #Entrepreneurship
In this episode of Beyond the Paycheck, Paula Christine talks with Mark Kwiatkowski, a former pizzeria owner who shares the highs and lows of running a small business. Mark reflects on his experience purchasing and managing a pizza place, the financial pitfalls he faced, and the lessons learned about cash flow, unexpected costs, and the importance of financial backup. His honest story offers practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs on what to prepare for before taking the plunge into business ownership.
Mark Kwiatkowski is a former small business owner and current fitness equipment salesman. With a background in software and restaurant ownership, Mark has navigated the challenges of entrepreneurship, losing $80,000 in the process. He shares his experience to help others avoid common pitfalls and understand the importance of financial preparation when starting a business. Mark now writes on LinkedIn, focusing on business lessons and financial planning for future entrepreneurs.
Connect with Mark:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-kwiatkowski-25419314/
Episode highlights:
(0:00) Intro
(01:33) Impact of 9/11 on his software business
(02:27) Why Mark chose a pizza place
(03:40) Challenges and losing $80k
(05:56) Importance of financial backup
(09:53) Misinformation from the seller
(11:56) His friend’s successful business setup
(15:48) Reflection on opportunity cost
(17:23) The "Great Cheese Heist" story
(19:02) Final thoughts on business ownership
(21:23) How to find Mark’s articles
(21:31) Outro