The Necessary Entrepreneur

Mark Perkins
  • 5.0 (18)
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Experience Earned. Execution Required. The Necessary Entrepreneur brings together people who are actively creating, not constantly consuming. Hosted by entrepreneur and operator Mark Perkins, the show assembles founders, operators, and investors doing the work. They share direct conversations about execution, leadership, and the realities of creating something that endures. The show rejects theory as a standalone and focuses on the discipline, decisions, and resilience required to stay in the game every day.

  1. 3D AGO

    #199 - How to Evaluate Franchise Opportunities, Build Wealth & Escape Corporate Burnout | Scott Jones of FranChoice

    On this episode of The Necessary Entrepreneur, Mark Perkins sits down with franchise consultant Scott Jones of FranChoice to explore the realities of franchising, entrepreneurship, and building a life with intentionality. With more than 30 years of experience as a franchisee, franchisor, CEO, and business advisor, Scott shares what separates successful franchise owners from those who struggle, how to evaluate franchise opportunities, and why leadership, grit, systems, and execution matter more than hype. Mark and Scott also discuss corporate burnout, financial freedom, wealth building, franchise ROI, SBA financing, and the difference between starting a business from scratch versus buying into a proven system. Whether you are considering franchise ownership, leaving corporate America, or looking to create more options in life and business, this episode delivers practical insights from someone who has helped entrepreneurs navigate major career and financial decisions for decades. Topics include: Franchise consulting Best franchises to own Franchising vs starting a business Passive income and business ownership Leadership and entrepreneurship Franchise ROI and scalability SBA loans for franchises Corporate burnout and career transition Building wealth through business ownership Systems, culture, and franchise success About Scott Jones: Scott Jones is a franchise consultant with FranChoice and founder of Franchise Guide Group. Over the past three decades, he has worked as a franchisee, franchisor, CEO, entrepreneur, and advisor helping individuals evaluate franchise opportunities and build long-term business ownership strategies. 📌 Connect With Us: Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenecessaryentrepreneur/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNecessaryEntrepreneurPod X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6xhGUE1yzy2N0AemUOlJPx?si=d1c5c316af404f15 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/no/podcast/the-necessary-entrepreneur/id1547181167 📌 Find Out More About Scott Jones: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottjonesforfranchising/ https://franchiseguidegroup.com/

    44 min

  2. MAY 7

    #198 - From Corporate Jobs to a National Wellness Brand: The Oakwell Beer Spa Story

    In this episode of The Necessary Entrepreneur, host Mark Perkins talks with Damien Zouaoui and Jessica Zouaoui, founders of Oakwell Beer Spa, a fast growing brand redefining hospitality and wellness. After leaving corporate careers in New York City, they sold everything and traveled to 25 countries searching for the right business idea. That journey led to a unique concept that combines craft beer, spa treatments, and high level service into one experience. Since launching in 2021, Oakwell Beer Spa has operated at full capacity, expanded to multiple locations, and is now franchising across the United States while maintaining a 4.9 star customer experience. What you will learn: How to turn a unique idea into a scalable business Why customer experience is the most powerful form of marketing How to build systems that deliver consistent five star service What it takes to franchise a premium hospitality brand Lessons from bootstrapping and early stage challenges Key takeaways: Service and hospitality can be your biggest competitive advantage Simplicity and consistency drive repeat customers Strong systems make scaling possible Great brands are built through experience, not just promotion Never settle for mediocrity 📌 Connect With Us: Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenecessaryentrepreneur/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNecessaryEntrepreneurPod X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6xhGUE1yzy2N0AemUOlJPx?si=d1c5c316af404f15 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/no/podcast/the-necessary-entrepreneur/id1547181167 📌 Find Out More About Oakwell Beer Spa: Website: https://oakwell.com/; https://oakwellfranchise.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/oakwell-beer-spa Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OakwellBeerSpa Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oakwellbeerspa/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OakwellBeerSpa TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@oakwellbeerspa

    56 min

  3. MAY 4

    #197 - The $100K Trap: Why You're Stuck (And How to Break Out) | Daniel Linares

    Daniel Linares, founder of DLE Event Group, joins Mark Perkins on The Necessary Entrepreneur to share how he built a premium event production company and what it takes to scale a business beyond the "six-figure hamster wheel." In this episode, Daniel breaks down the mindset shifts required to move from operator to owner, how to build a high-performance team, and why systems and delegation are the foundation for real business freedom. He also shares how his company pivoted during COVID-19 into virtual events, producing experiences for audiences across more than 60 countries. What you'll learn in this episode: How to escape the "six-figure hamster wheel" as a business owner Why hiring A players changes everything in your company The role of delegation and systems in scaling a business How to pivot quickly in uncertain environments Why taking action before having all the answers creates growth How to build a self-managing team that doesn't rely on you The importance of resourcefulness and surrounding yourself with the right people How to balance business success with fulfillment and personal life If you're an entrepreneur looking to scale your business, build the right team, and create real freedom without burning out, this episode delivers practical insights you can apply immediately. 📌 Connect With Us: Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenecessaryentrepreneur/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNecessaryEntrepreneurPod X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6xhGUE1yzy2N0AemUOlJPx?si=d1c5c316af404f15 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/no/podcast/the-necessary-entrepreneur/id1547181167 📌 Find Out More About Daniel Linares & DLE Event Group: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellinares1/ https://www.instagram.com/danieltlinares/ https://www.dleeventgroup.com/ https://www.instagram.com/dleeventgroup/ https://www.facebook.com/DLEEventGroup

    1h 21m

  4. APR 30

    #196 - The Investor DNA Blueprint: Find Your Perfect Passive Income Stream | Joey Mure

    Joey Mure, co-founder of Wealth Without Wall Street, joins Mark Perkins on The Necessary Entrepreneur to break down how entrepreneurs can build passive income and achieve financial freedom outside traditional Wall Street investing. In this episode, Joey explains why many high-income professionals remain financially stuck and how the "hamster wheel" keeps entrepreneurs trading time for money. He introduces the concept of Investor DNA, a framework that helps you identify which passive income strategies align with your personality, goals, and risk tolerance. They also dive into practical ways to generate passive income, including real estate, e-commerce, and platforms like Turo, along with the importance of education, discipline, and working with the right operators. What you'll learn in this episode: Why high earners often struggle to build real wealth How to identify your Investor DNA and invest accordingly Proven passive income strategies beyond Wall Street The difference between active income and true cash flow How to avoid chasing "shiny object" opportunities The role of coaching and systems in financial growth How to build a repeatable passive income framework If you're looking to build sustainable cash flow, reduce reliance on active income, and create a clear path to financial independence, this episode delivers practical insights you can apply immediately. 📌 Connect With Us: Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenecessaryentrepreneur/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNecessaryEntrepreneurPod X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6xhGUE1yzy2N0AemUOlJPx?si=d1c5c316af404f15 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/no/podcast/the-necessary-entrepreneur/id1547181167 📌 Find Out More About Joey Mure & Wealth Without Wall Street: https://www.wealthwithoutwallstreet.com/necessaryentrepreneur https://www.youtube.com/@WealthWithoutWallStreet https://www.instagram.com/WealthWithoutWallSt https://x.com/WithoutWallSt https://www.linkedin.com/in/joey-mure-b376824/

    46 min

  5. APR 27

    #195 - A Warrior's Mindset for Entrepreneurs | Sean Patton on Leadership, Discipline, and Performance

    Sean Patton, executive coach at Novus Global, entrepreneur, author of A Warrior's Mindset: The 6 Keys to Greatness, and host of the No Limit Leadership podcast, joins Mark Perkins on The Necessary Entrepreneur for a focused conversation on leadership, mental performance, and what it actually takes to operate at a high level in business. Sean brings a unique perspective shaped by his experience as a founder and now as a coach working with high-performing leaders. In this episode, he breaks down the difference between surface-level motivation and true mindset development. He explains why most entrepreneurs stay stuck not because of strategy, but because of the internal narratives they carry into their decisions, leadership, and execution. The conversation explores the principles behind A Warrior's Mindset and how those ideas translate directly into business performance. Sean shares how discipline, clarity, and personal responsibility drive results, and why leaders who learn to manage their mindset gain a measurable edge in high-pressure environments. He also offers insight into the work he does at Novus Global, helping executives and entrepreneurs unlock performance by challenging limiting beliefs and reframing how they approach growth. Mark and Sean dive into the realities of entrepreneurship, including navigating uncertainty, building confidence through action, and leading others effectively without losing alignment. This episode is practical, direct, and grounded in real-world application for founders who want to improve how they think, lead, and execute. If you are building a business and want to strengthen your mindset, leadership, and decision-making, this conversation will give you a clear framework to operate at a higher level. 📌 Connect With Us: Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenecessaryentrepreneur/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNecessaryEntrepreneurPod X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6xhGUE1yzy2N0AemUOlJPx?si=d1c5c316af404f15 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/no/podcast/the-necessary-entrepreneur/id1547181167 📌 Find Out More About Sean Patton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seanpattonpresents/ https://www.seanpatton.me/ 📘 Order a Copy of A Warrior's Mindset HERE

    45 min

  6. APR 23

    #194 - Logistics Is NOT a Cost Center | Randy Vlasic Explains Why Most Businesses Get This Wrong

    Randy Vlasic, founder and CEO of LIWMI Logistics, joins Mark Perkins on The Necessary Entrepreneur to break down why logistics is one of the most misunderstood advantages in business. Most companies treat it as a cost to minimize. Randy explains why it is actually a core driver of customer experience and long-term growth. Randy shares his unconventional path into entrepreneurship, from early setbacks to building a disciplined and high-performing logistics company. His approach is simple but uncommon. Work only with clients who understand the strategic value of logistics, focus on execution, and build relationships that go beyond transactions. The conversation dives into what it really takes to operate at a high level. Precision, consistency, and operational discipline are not optional in logistics. They are the business. Randy also reflects on navigating the uncertainty of COVID, making tough decisions, and using adaptability and relationships to continue growing while others pulled back. This episode is a sharp reminder that great businesses are built on systems that work, not just ideas. If you are responsible for delivering results at scale, this conversation will change how you think about execution, partnerships, and the role logistics plays in every company. 📌 Connect With Us: Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenecessaryentrepreneur/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNecessaryEntrepreneurPod X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6xhGUE1yzy2N0AemUOlJPx?si=d1c5c316af404f15 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/no/podcast/the-necessary-entrepreneur/id1547181167 📌 Find Out More About Randy Vlasic & LIWMI Logistics: Websites: http://liwmilogistics.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/william.vlasic.1 X: https://x.com/randyvlasic/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/randyvlasic/ LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/randyvlasic YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@randyvlasic TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@randyvlasic

    51 min

  7. APR 20

    #193 - Hiring Is Broken: How to Attract Top Talent in 2026 | Ryan Hogan

    Hiring is broken, and most companies do not realize how much it is costing them. In this episode of The Necessary Entrepreneur, Mark Perkins sits down with Ryan Hogan, founder and CEO of Talent Harbor, to unpack what is really happening inside today's hiring market and why traditional recruiting methods are failing both companies and candidates. Ryan brings a clear, operator-level perspective on talent acquisition, sharing how businesses can compete for top talent in a market defined by noise, inefficiency, and misalignment. From outdated hiring processes to the disconnect between employers and candidates, this conversation exposes the hidden friction points that slow growth and create costly mistakes. You will learn how high-performing companies are rethinking recruitment, what actually attracts top-tier candidates today, and why speed, clarity, and positioning matter more than ever. Ryan also breaks down how technology is reshaping hiring, where most organizations go wrong, and what leaders must do to build teams that can scale. This episode is not about theory. It is about execution. If you are an entrepreneur, founder, or operator responsible for hiring and building a team, this conversation will give you a sharper lens on how to win in today's talent market. 📌 Connect With Us: Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenecessaryentrepreneur/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNecessaryEntrepreneurPod X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6xhGUE1yzy2N0AemUOlJPx?si=d1c5c316af404f15 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/no/podcast/the-necessary-entrepreneur/id1547181167 📌 Find Out More About Ryan Hogan & Talent Harbor: https://talentharbor.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/talentharbor/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanehogan/

    1h 3m

  8. APR 16

    #192 - When AI Lies: The Hidden Risk No One Is Talking About | Arthur Miller

    What happens when the future of cybersecurity collides with the reality of financial risk? In this episode of The Necessary Entrepreneur, Mark Perkins sits down with Arthur Miller to unpack one of the most urgent and misunderstood shifts in modern business: quantum encryption and the coming wave of post-quantum cybersecurity threats. As quantum computing accelerates, the encryption systems that protect today's financial institutions are rapidly approaching obsolescence. Arthur explains what that actually means without the hype and delivers a practical roadmap for leaders who cannot afford to get this wrong. You will learn why post-quantum encryption is not a future problem. It is a current leadership responsibility. You will also hear how forward-thinking organizations are preparing for a world where traditional cryptography no longer holds. Arthur outlines the four essential moves every financial institution and data-driven business must make: How to assess your current security infrastructure before it is exposed What quantum-ready technology actually looks like in practice How to build a real implementation strategy instead of a buzzword initiative Why trust, compliance, and competitive advantage all depend on acting early This conversation goes beyond theory and into execution, covering risk, regulation, infrastructure, and leadership mindset in a rapidly shifting tech landscape. If you are an entrepreneur, operator, or executive responsible for protecting data, building trust, or staying ahead of systemic risk, this episode will change how you think about security and the future of your business. 📌 Connect With Us: Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenecessaryentrepreneur/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNecessaryEntrepreneurPod X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6xhGUE1yzy2N0AemUOlJPx?si=d1c5c316af404f15 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/no/podcast/the-necessary-entrepreneur/id1547181167 📌 Find Out More About Arthur Miller: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arthur-miller-64b32165/

    1h 3m
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5
out of 5
18 Ratings

About

Experience Earned. Execution Required. The Necessary Entrepreneur brings together people who are actively creating, not constantly consuming. Hosted by entrepreneur and operator Mark Perkins, the show assembles founders, operators, and investors doing the work. They share direct conversations about execution, leadership, and the realities of creating something that endures. The show rejects theory as a standalone and focuses on the discipline, decisions, and resilience required to stay in the game every day.

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