E26:(Part 2) Starting a Business: Mike Austin’s Entrepreneurial Journey with Karn Geo

In this episode of The Ground Investigation Podcast, host Michael Taylor sits down with Mike Austin, founder of Karn Geo, for a deep dive into the journey of starting and running a ground investigation company. Mike shares his experiences, challenges, and strategies that have shaped the early years of Karn Geo, offering insights for aspiring entrepreneurs in the geotechnical field.

The conversation covers key topics such as the motivation behind launching the business, the hurdles of obtaining insurance, and the importance of building a strong, skilled team. They also discuss cash flow management and how to navigate client payment terms, along with tips for securing new projects in a competitive industry. Additionally, Mike emphasizes the role of technology, quality control, and environmental considerations in driving the company forward.

Key Takeaways:

• Investing in technology can enhance service offerings and efficiency. Regulatory compliance is crucial for business success.
• Leadership dynamics can lead to productive discussions.
• Training and apprenticeships are vital for skill development.
• Quality control measures ensure high service standards.
• Building strong client relationships is essential in a competitive market.
• Marketing strategies should align with business growth plans.
• Legal and financial guidance is important for new businesses.
• Staying informed about industry trends is necessary for adaptation.
• Environmental considerations are becoming increasingly important.
• Resilience and motivation are key to navigating business challenges.

Links mentioned on the show:

https://www.ags.org.uk/resources/

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/michael-austin-58739826_coptrz-dji-uav-activity-7250515106030063616-ru9j?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop

https://www.linkedin.com/company/karn-geoservices/

 

Chapters:

Applications of Drone Technology in Ground Investigation

Soil Decompaction Solutions and Client Engagement

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