Curated Pt. 54

Just a dude trying stuff

Hey hey,

Why you’re getting this: I write Curated every 2 weeks to stay connected with the amazing people I’ve met over the past 2 years.

I have nothing to sell you, so here’s our agreement: if you find value in Curated, pass it along to someone who might enjoy it too.

Shoutout to everyone in these pictures from the last 2 weeks:

Let’s get into it 👇

ParkSMB

📅 Subscribe to my events calendar here

• Arizona Business Mixer/Happy Hour (Hosted by ParkSMB)
  Date: April 2
  Time: 6:30-8:30 PM MTN
  Location: Phoenix, AZ
  APPLY HERE

• Founder Coffee & Co-Working (Hosted by ParkSMB)
  Date: April 19
  Time: 9-12 PM

  Location: Phoenix, AZ
  APPLY HERE

• Private Roundtable Dinner (Co-hosted by ParkSMB x Relay)

  Date: April 29
  Time: Time: 6:30-8:30 PM MTN
  Location: Scottsdale, AZ
  APPLY HERE

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Shoutout to the ParkSMB supporters:

Chad Bellin (Disca): Disca is developing software focused on helping small and medium-sized businesses that need expert-level technical expertise. Connect with Chad here.

Daniel Cheetham (Captains Club): Captains Club specializes in placing COOs, CEOs, and Presidents in your business. Daniel connects businesses with leaders who are responsible for driving profitability and growth. Connect with Daniel here.

Domenick Rocchio (Happy Hopper) – Happy Hopper is the largest database of food and drink deals, helping bars and restaurants increase traffic and revenue. Dom also specializes in SEO strategies that boost visibility across Google, AI-driven search, and discovery platforms. Connect with Dom here.

For real-time updates and to stay in touch:

• Twitter/X: @shawnwallard

• Linkedin: Shawn Allard

• Instagram: @shawnallard

Novel Ice Cream

Our 2024 books are finally in order, and the numbers are looking promising.

Last year had its challenges, particularly with the large investments we made in growth. We’re hoping for substantial returns on the investments this year.

We know there a countless strategies to boost profitability, but here’s what I’m focused on this year:

✅ Reduce COGS by 3%–5% → Save ~$30K–$50K

✅ Reduce interest expenses by refinancing → Save ~$20K–$30K

✅ Trim payroll by 5% → Save ~$20K

✅ Cut auto expenses by 30% → Save ~$5K

✅ Review insurance plans → Save ~$3K–$5K

I’m sharing our financials with potential banking partners and a select group of private investors as we work to refinance our SBA debt and secure some working capital.

Here are some updates since my last post:

• Content creation: Running a one month test with a local marketing gal

• Core values and pre-shift rituals: Procrastinating on this but will get it done

• Brought on 4 new team members (2 shop, 2 mobile truck): Once the mobile truck team is trained, they’ll manage all events

• New team merch is here: We’re planning on dropping them to the public following some promo, so go follow Novel on Instagram and/or the newsletter to stay up to date

  

• Novel truck is CRUSHING: We’re booking 2-3 big events per month right now

  

• Renegotiating with every single supplier: Solid tip from a good friend, Jarrod Deaton

• Building my board of advisors: Another tip from 2 good friends, Ben Dixon and Jackson Kerchis

Podcast

First time I’ve shouted Dan Koe out. He’s sharp.

Music

Curated playlists built with love:

• The Owner’s Circle

• Reggaeton

• Heat

• Heavy

Quote

“A happy life is a simple life.

A family who loves you back.

A healthy body built from years of good sleep, diet, and exercise.

A calm mind built from years of reflection, writing, and following your curiosity.

A clear purpose that gives you meaning.”

Random Stuff

🏠 Buy, rent, and/or lease property in Arizona. Email me; I have my license.

💰 Buy, sell, and/or invest in a business. Email me; Let’s find you some deals.

🤝 To keep track of your deals and connections. Use my Master Acquisition Sheet.

🥘 I’m building a rec list for Arizona Restaurants and general products I enjoy.

Have an amazing week,

Shawn