In 1995, Joel MacIntosh started WolfNet Technologies in “The Dungeon,” the garden level of his south Minneapolis home. Initially, WolfNet focused on building Web site products and custom e-commerce applications for clients in more than 25 industries. In 1998, the company began servicing the real estate Industry with Mlsfinder.com, its IDX/VOW property search system.
WolfNet now works almost exclusively in the real estate industry.
In his role as CEO, MacIntosh focuses on WolfNet’s business management, business planning and product development. He also is active in sales, marketing, client consulting and speaking engagements. MacIntosh holds a Bachelor of Science degree, majoring in small business management and entrepreneurship, from the University of Minnesota’s Carlson School of Management.
Prior to forming WolfNet, MacIntosh opened five TCBY franchise locations in the Twin Cities area as a general manager for Northland Yogurt, a position held while attending college. Following Northland, he started and operated two service companies that manufactured, marketed and distributed water filtration and water conditioning systems.
MacIntosh will speak during Real Estate Connect in San Francisco, July 27-29, 2005.
Here are his answers to a set of questions posed by Inman News:
Panel or session at Connect: Entrepreneurs, Startups and Small Company Innovators – On the Front Line.
What type of home did you grow up in and where?
I spent my first 11 years in a Cape Cod-style home in Wayzata, Minn.
What style of home do you live in and when did you buy it?
Cap Code in 1999.
What worries keep you awake at night?
Matters related to my family and close friends. I try to leave business issues at the office each day before heading home.
Describe your dream home?
I’ll ask my wife for sure and get back to you on this one. But I’m pretty sure it’s on at least 15 acres with a barn, horses, a few cows, chickens, etc. I guess I’ll need a helicopter at some point.
What lesson did you learn in the last year?
Having children (especially 4-year-olds) can make you a better businessperson. I have learned greater patience and have also learned from my son’s ingenious negotiating strategies.
What was your first job?
Working at McDonald’s on Nicollet Avenue in downtown Minneapolis when I was 14. I went to the interview wearing a coat and tie and they hired me on the spot.
What’s the strangest thing you ever packed in a suitcase?
A breast pump in a carry-on bag (traveling with my wife Erin, of course). They screened the bag and the security fellow was miffed by this strange-looking piece of equipment. He nearly didn’t believe me as to its function.
What would your second career choice be after real estate?
Consulting.
What kind of music do you listen to?
Classic rock, blues, jazz and classical.
Who is your hero?
My father. He knew when to step up to the plate and when to let me figure it out for myself. I respect him tremendously and still seek his advice routinely (he’s a top-notch attorney).
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