here are many supposed truths or rules in entrepreneurship through acquisition.

But as regular listeners of Acquiring Minds know, there are countless exceptions to those rules, acquisition entrepreneurs who mold the received wisdom to their unique circumstances.

‍Case in point, today's guest Ana Lia Barragan.

The "rule" that Ana Lia broke was buying herself a job.

‍Ana Lia acquired an indoor plant business with $385k in revenue, $185k in SDE. It had but one employee, the owner herself.

Listen for how Ana Lia thought about this. She was an Acquiring Minds listener and the graduate of a search accelerator — so a diligent student of ETA principles.

‍Ana Lia knew what she was getting into when she decided to move forward with such a small business.

We discuss.

But also listen for the progress she's made since closing last July.

A tuck-in acquisition from free cash on the balance sheet.

Major operational leverage from AI.

And, on a personal note, the flexibility to see her kids more.

As you'll hear, Ana Lia's decision to pursue ETA was motivated by her responsibilities and desires as a mother, paired with her ambitions as a professional.

If that sounds familiar, there was a similar pattern in the story of Robin Kovitz a few weeks ago.

Owning a business almost certainly comes with more hours than a traditional job, but they are hours toward building something for yourself, and hours you spend on a schedule you decide.

‍That is a powerful difference, especially so for moms.

Please enjoy this interview with Ana Lia Barragan, owner of Kelly Green.