The Boring Business Myth: What Really Works for Entrepreneurs
- Todd Frazier
- Aug 25
- 2 min read
The entrepreneurial world is buzzing with advice: “Buy a boring business—like a laundromat or parking lot—and you’ll be rich.” But is it really that simple?
In this episode of the Do Business Podcast, Todd Frazier, CPA, sits down with John Welches and Jake to unpack the pros and cons of buying vs. starting a business. With social media flooded with influencers selling the dream of passive income, it’s time to cut through the noise and look at what actually works.
Buying a Business: The Appeal and the Pitfalls
Buying an existing business can sound appealing—it’s already running, maybe has staff in place, and might even provide instant cash flow. But Todd warns:
Industry knowledge matters. If you don’t understand the business you’re buying, you’re setting yourself up for failure.
It’s not passive. Even a well-run business comes with people problems, market risks, and the responsibility to keep it profitable.
Snake oil is everywhere. Just because someone online promises “boring businesses” make millions doesn’t mean their story is true.
Unless you’re acquiring a company in your own industry to scale, Todd usually recommends holding back on buying.
Starting a Business: The Real Path to Growth
Starting small, with your own skills and abilities, is often the safer and smarter route.
Begin with what you know. Your expertise, whether in marketing, accounting, construction, or anything else, is your launchpad.
Build relationships. Strong client and community ties are often the deciding factor in success.
Consistency is king. Business growth doesn’t come from flashy shortcuts, but from showing up and repeating the right process over time.
As John points out, the freedom of running your own business can also be a trap. Without discipline, flexibility turns into distraction.
The Do Business Method™: A Cycle That Works
Todd frames the conversation through the Do Business Method™, a four-step cycle you can use for any decision or venture:
Perspective – Why do you want to buy or start a business? What’s your purpose?
Process – Take action. Talk to people. Test your offer.
Results – Measure what worked and what didn’t.
Repeat – Refine and go again, consistently.
This cycle removes the guesswork and keeps you focused on building a real, sustainable business.
Final Thoughts
Buying a business can work—but usually only if it’s in your wheelhouse and you’re prepared for the challenges. For most new entrepreneurs, the better path is to start with what you know, grow methodically, and stay consistent.
As Todd puts it: “Start a business you can actually run, and then acquire businesses like it to grow later—much later.”
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