#839 “The World Is Ending.” These 5 Businesses Are Still Making Millions
Timestamps are as accurate as they can be but may be slightly off. We encourage you to listen to the full context.
Podcast Summary
This episode of the Tropical MBA explores five emerging business opportunities arising from societal and technological upheavals in 2026. Hosts Dan and Ian discuss how periods of change create entrepreneurial opportunities, drawing parallels to companies like Apple (iPod during dot-com crash) and Airbnb (launched during 2008 recession). The conversation covers AI workflow agencies, digital degeneracy solutions, homesteading/prepping markets, religious revival businesses, and lifespan optimization ventures. (00:42)
- Main theme: Transform societal anxieties and technological disruptions into profitable business opportunities by serving early adopters and innovators in emerging markets
Speakers
Dan Andrews
Co-host of the Tropical MBA podcast and founder of Dynamite Circle, a community for location-independent entrepreneurs. Dan has been building businesses and communities for over a decade, focusing on helping entrepreneurs create 7 and 8-figure companies while maintaining location independence.
Ian Schoen
Co-host of the Tropical MBA podcast and co-founder of Dynamite Circle. Ian brings operational expertise and strategic insights to the show, helping entrepreneurs navigate business challenges and identify emerging market opportunities in the digital economy.
Key Takeaways
Ride the AI Workflow Wave Early
AI anxiety is creating massive opportunities for entrepreneurs who can provide AI workflow solutions to businesses. (05:36) Daniel Salzner exemplifies this trend, going from Goldman Sachs employee to building a 40k MRR AI agency in just 10 weeks. The key is positioning yourself as the solution to AI worry rather than being paralyzed by it. Companies are willing to pay premium prices for AI implementation because they recognize it as essential but lack the expertise to execute effectively.
Combat Digital Degeneracy with Premium Solutions
As technology proliferates and behavioral patterns become increasingly problematic, there are opportunities on both sides of the equation. (08:00) While some entrepreneurs profit from digital degeneracy (like sports betting content that generates $100k+ monthly), others can provide high-end solutions like premium matchmaking services for professionals seeking meaningful relationships beyond typical dating apps. The key is recognizing that people are willing to pay significant money to either indulge in or escape from digital behaviors.
Capitalize on the Homesteading and Prepping Boom
The emergency preparedness industry is experiencing explosive growth, moving from $20 billion in 2023 to a projected $31 billion by 2032. (12:42) Companies like My Patriot Supply are reportedly generating $50+ million annually by selling year-long food supplies for around $2,800. The opportunity extends beyond basic survival supplies to include healthy MRE alternatives, water storage systems, skill certifications (welding, plumbing, healthcare), and leadership training for crisis situations.
Build Authentic Brands Around Belief Systems
There's a growing trend of people returning to religious and spiritual communities, creating opportunities for belief-system-aligned businesses. (20:39) Companies like Sexy Modest are generating $6 million annually selling modest workout attire, while brands can succeed by authentically serving specific religious or spiritual communities. The key is genuine alignment with the values rather than opportunistic positioning - customers can detect authenticity and will pay premium prices for brands that truly understand their belief systems.
Enter the Lifespan Optimization Market
The longevity and health optimization space continues evolving with new trends and products. (23:58) From Brian Johnson's bioavailable algae supplements to Jay Feldman's energy optimization approaches, entrepreneurs can build businesses around emerging health theories. The market is particularly attractive because results are difficult to falsify in the short term, and passionate early adopters are willing to experiment with premium products. Success requires deep authenticity and genuine expertise in the specific health optimization approach you're promoting.
Statistics & Facts
- Daniel Salzner built his AI workflow agency to $40,000 MRR in just 10 weeks after quitting Goldman Sachs. (06:09) This demonstrates the rapid revenue potential in AI services as businesses struggle with implementation.
- The emergency preparedness industry is valued at $20 billion in 2023 and projected to reach $31 billion by 2032. (13:50) This represents significant growth in the prepping and homesteading market segment.
- Underdog Fantasy grew their revenues from $56 million in 2023 to $500 million in 2025. (09:50) This illustrates the explosive growth in the sports betting and fantasy sports industry.
