How do you go from relying on a “safe” corporate job to building a business of your own? In this episode, Tim talks with Dennis Geelen about his life-changing journey from being laid off at 43 to becoming a consultant, author, and entrepreneur. Dennis shares the wake-up call that pushed him to bet on himself, the lessons he learned from building a solopreneur practice, and why business acquisition can be a smarter and faster path to financial independence. Whether you’re stuck in a comfort zone or looking for your next chapter, this episode delivers practical advice on risk, resilience, and building a life on your own terms.

Tim is an entrepreneur who believes everyone should explore the opportunities that business and real estate can provide on the path to financial freedom. He owns and operates a wine & liquor store, a software startup, a consulting company, and a growing portfolio of commercial and residential real estate.

Tim’s passion for independent business has led him to support dozens of other business owners. For over a decade, he has worked with businesses on strategy, processes, finances, and marketing. These experiences, along with analyzing dozens of other businesses for potential acquisition, have provided Tim with an immense knowledge base to pull from.

Tim has appeared on multiple top-tier podcasts in the financial space, such as Bigger Pockets Money and The Freedom Chasers Podcast.

[00:00 – 07:45] The Wake-Up Call: Laid Off at 43

Dennis shares his journey from corporate leadership to being laid off.
Reflects on the risks of relying solely on a “safe” paycheck.
Discusses the emotional and financial challenges of starting over.

[07:46 – 16:15] Building a Solopreneur Business

How Dennis transitioned into consulting and writing.
Lessons learned from building a personal brand and business from scratch.
Why leaning into your passions can create new career opportunities.

[16:16 – 25:00] Business Acquisition vs. Building From Scratch

Why buying a business can shortcut the path to financial independence.
Insights on what to look for in a business acquisition.
How to evaluate opportunities that align with your skills and goals.

[25:01 – End] Rethinking Risk and Building for the Future

The mindset shift needed to take control of your career and finances.
Encouragement for starting side projects as a safety net.
How to use setbacks as fuel for long-term growth.

Guest Bio
Dennis Geelen is a consultant, author, and TEDx speaker who helps businesses become more customer-centric and innovative. He is the founder of Zero In Consulting and the author of four business books, including The Zero In Formula. Dennis is passionate about helping professionals embrace entrepreneurship as a pathway to freedom and fulfillment.

Connect with Dennis:
Website: zero-inconsulting.com
Personal Site: dennisgeelen.me
LinkedIn: Dennis Geelen

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Tweetable Quotes:
“Doing nothing can be riskier than taking the leap.” – Dennis Geelen
“Don’t wait for a layoff to start building your future.” – Dennis Geelen
“Side hustles aren’t just hobbies—they’re safety nets.” – Dennis Geelen
“The real risk is putting your financial future in someone else’s hands.” – Dennis Geelen