Quitting your day job to go all-in on your own business!

Rob Mckenzie

Rob was a teacher for at least 28 years. One day in the fall, he wanted to fix up the driveway at his rental property. After sealcoating his driveway for the very first time, a neighbor came by and asked how much to do her driveway. After quoting $150 to sealcoat a tiny driveway which would take only 20 minutes to do, Rob had his aha moment and started Black Max Asphalt Services.

He knew he was going to retire soon from teaching, and he decided he wanted to find something to do after retirement. He found Asphalt Kingdom's videos on YouTube and researched the business through the winter. He decided to get serious about Black Max in May of 2020.

Rob started with 5-gallon buckets of sealer, and generated new leads by posting and advertising online and on social media. He spent time talking with his customers and building connections in his community, and he earned $12,000 just from one customer referring his work to the people he knew.

Rob continued growing his business, with his son coming on during the summers and Rob supporting local athletes with his "Powered by the Athlete Assist Program".

“Go for it!”

Rob's advice for people on the fence about starting their asphalt maintenance business? “Go for it — you don't have to start with a huge budget. You can get into it for very cheap if you want to do it slowly.”

Rob Mckenzie with son

Thinking of Going All-In on Your Own Business?

• Identify the right industry for your skills and interests
• Figure out what you need before quitting your day job
• Create the plan that sets you up for success