No Perfect Time, Just Start w/ Carter Patton :: Ep 83 The Lyndsay Stafford Show

In this episode of The Lyndsay Stafford Show, Lyndsay sits down with Carter Patton, owner of Patton Junk & Demo in Williamson County, to talk about what it really looks like to build a business straight out of college. Fresh off his graduation from Ole Miss with a degree in entrepreneurship, Carter shares how he turned a side hustle into a full-time venture—and why there’s no perfect time to start, you just have to begin with what you have.Carter and Lyndsay dig into the realities of entrepreneurship: the leap from a steady paycheck to “eat what you kill,” the importance of networking and referrals, and the challenge of gaining visibility without going into debt. They also discuss practical, low-cost strategies for getting your name out there—from local networking groups and Facebook communities to school sponsorships and real-time testimonials.You’ll also hear how Carter’s parents, especially his dad, modeled entrepreneurship and shaped his mindset, and why communication, dependability, and integrity are at the core of how he runs his business and serves his community.Highlights:How Carter turned junk removal and demo work into Patton Junk & Demo after graduating from Ole MissThe biggest surprise after business school: networking, referrals, and face-to-face relationshipsWhy visibility is the hardest part for new entrepreneurs—and how Carter is tackling itNo-cost and low-cost marketing ideas Lyndsay shares for new business ownersThe power of doing it ugly and learning from mistakes instead of waiting for perfectWhy communication (showing up, updating customers, before/after photos) sets businesses apartThe value of asking for reviews and video testimonials on the spotHow Carter’s parents, especially his dad, influenced his decision to become an entrepreneurCarter’s goals to grow into bigger jobs and build relationships with realtors, contractors, and property managersWhat Carter and Patton Junk & Demo want to be known for: serving the community with integrity, speed, and reliabilityWhether you’re a college student, recent grad, or new business owner, this conversation is packed with encouragement and simple, actionable steps to help you get started—today.Follow Carter: https://pattonjunkanddemo.com/#TheLyndsayStaffordShow #Entrepreneurship #YoungEntrepreneur #BusinessMindset #StartBeforeYoureReady #DoItUgly #SmallBusinessOwner #NetworkingMatters #JunkRemovalBusiness #WilliamsonCountyBusiness