From Side Hustles to Success

Episode 307 of the Schmidt List - Business Insights podcast, hosted by Kurt Schmidt, titled "From Side Hustles to Success" was published on November 27, 2025 and runs 29 minutes.

November 27, 2025 ·29m · Schmidt List - Business Insights

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Summary

In this episode of Schmidt List, host Kurt Schmidt welcomes Michael Blood, founder of the software agency Matraex, for a deep dive into his entrepreneurial journey. With over 25 years in the software industry, Michael shares insights from his career, which started with building websites and side projects during the dot-com boom.This conversation offers a candid look at agency growth, the challenges of navigating market changes like the dot-com bust and the rise of AI, and why smaller agencies can be more resilient during industry shifts. Michael also discusses his practical approach to implementing AI tools, his philosophy on slow tech adoption, and how he maintains transparency with clients about AI-powered work.Beyond his agency, Michael talks about balancing multiple ventures, including running a coworking space, developing software solutions, and managing successful Airbnbs. He highlights the challenges and rewards of turning passion projects into profitable businesses.This episode is packed with valuable insights for founders, agency leaders, and entrepreneurs interested in:Integrating new technology and AI toolsBuilding resilient teams and businessesJuggling multiple business venturesAdapting to a changing tech landscapeTune in to learn how Michael Blood's curiosity, adaptability, and systems-driven approach have fueled his success.Matraex - Web and Mobile App Development Software Agencyhttps://matraex.comBoise Main Co-working Spacehttps://boisemaincoworkingspace.comDowntown Boise Airbnb Properties:Burrow - 1BR / 2BA / Hot Tubhttps://www.airbnb.com/rooms/1382327454145052193River Walk - 2BR / 2BA / Hot Tubhttps://www.airbnb.com/rooms/50916428Peak House - 3BR / 2.5BA / Hot Tubhttps://www.airbnb.com/rooms/52793037Visit Schmidt Consulting Group for more show info.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/schmidt-list-business-insights--2664825/support.

Episode Description

In this episode of Schmidt List, host Kurt Schmidt welcomes Michael Blood, founder of the software agency Matraex, for a deep dive into his entrepreneurial journey. With over 25 years in the software industry, Michael shares insights from his career, which started with building websites and side projects during the dot-com boom.This conversation offers a candid look at agency growth, the challenges of navigating market changes like the dot-com bust and the rise of AI, and why smaller agencies can be more resilient during industry shifts. Michael also discusses his practical approach to implementing AI tools, his philosophy on slow tech adoption, and how he maintains transparency with clients about AI-powered work.Beyond his agency, Michael talks about balancing multiple ventures, including running a coworking space, developing software solutions, and managing successful Airbnbs. He highlights the challenges and rewards of turning passion projects into profitable businesses.This episode is packed with valuable insights for founders, agency leaders, and entrepreneurs interested in:

Integrating new technology and AI tools
Building resilient teams and businesses
Juggling multiple business ventures
Adapting to a changing tech landscape

Tune in to learn how Michael Blood's curiosity, adaptability, and systems-driven approach have fueled his success.Matraex - Web and Mobile App Development Software Agency
https://matraex.com
Boise Main Co-working Space
https://boisemaincoworkingspace.com
Downtown Boise Airbnb Properties:

Burrow - 1BR / 2BA / Hot Tub
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/1382327454145052193
River Walk - 2BR / 2BA / Hot Tub
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/50916428
Peak House - 3BR / 2.5BA / Hot Tub
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/52793037Visit Schmidt Consulting Group for more show info.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/schmidt-list-business-insights--2664825/support.