Startup Competitors

In this episode, I interview my son, Patrick Kelly, co-founder of Shorca Wood. We talked a bit about his business and about being an entrepreneur. He has grown up watching me start multiple businesses and host this podcast. He is also an entrepreneur himself and isn't even a teenager yet.After hosting my Startup Competitors podcast for four years, I have decided it's time for this final episode. I've enjoyed it immensely and have met many entrepreneurs who've generously shared their genius and wisdom. I thank each of them once more, and thank each of you who have listened and supported the Startup Competitors podcast all these years.Topics In This EpisodeSolving problems with projections and spreadsheetsWhat is your earliest memory of Developer Town?What's it like when I'm so busy with my entrepreneurial endeavors?How do you think watching me has affected what you might do in the future?What are some things you've picked up from watching me that you think are good? Not good?Why do people work? Why do you work and why did you and Levi start Shorca Wood?As a parent that works so much, what can I do differently or better?About Shorca WoodShorca Wood is a two-year old wood supply company started by two friends who are not even teenagers yet. One of them happens to be my son, Patrick Kelly. The other is his friend, Levi. They specialize in selling firewood by the rick (which basically fills the bed of an F150 truck). The wood is harvested and split from the acres of timber on the Kelly homestead. If you would like to hear more about Shorca Wood, check out my previous interview with Patrick: startupcompetitors.com/podcast/2020/12/28/shorca-wood-learning-business-at-a-young-age About Developer TownDeveloperTown is a multi-faceted software consultancy for today's IT and Business Leaders. We create world-class digital experiences to help businesses succeed in a competitive digital world.Website: developertown.com Company LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/developertown Company Twitter: twitter.com/developertownCompany Facebook: facebook.com/developertown Company Instagram: instagram.com/developertown Michael's LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/michaeldkelly Michael's email: mike.kelly@developertown.com

Pernix Solutions is a software building company co-founded by former Intel and HP employees. They specialize in extending and building development teams, developing mobile and web apps, and crafting MVPs for startups and entrepreneurs. In this episode, I chat with Carlos Sirias, founder and CEO of Pernix Solutions. Carlos is located in Costa Rica and we talk about the economic stability of Latin America. We also discuss how that ties into him building an apprentice program, where the company is headed, and more. I have a lot of respect for Carlos and his willingness to give. Whether you're thinking about building a product or are already in the middle of building one, you need to listen to this episode.Topics In This EpisodeApprenticeship program and missionHelping create economic growth in Latin AmericaWhy things go wrong in the technology field and how to fix itThe economic burn and benefits of an apprenticeship programScoping for minimal viable productHow early experience and behaviors manifest laterSuccess examplesDoes Pernix Solutions take equity in startups they help through their apprenticeship program?Common mistakes startups and entrepreneurs make starting outFocusing on what makes a startup succeedBecoming employee-ownedContact InfoPernix Solutions Website: pernix-solutions.comPernix Solutions (company) LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/pernix-solutions/about Carlos Sirias LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/csirias/ FacebookTwitterEmail: info@pernix-solutions.com

Sequense is a B2B SaaS workflow management software created by travel agents, for travel agents. Because the travel industry has evolved and grown, especially due to Covid, people are having more of a relationship with their travel agent. In fact, in updated terminology, travel agents are more frequently called travel advisors. Currently, approximately 100,000 United States travel advisors are responsible for over $32 billion per year in travel revenue.In this episode, I talk with Sequense co-founder and CMO, Megan Habig about the need travel advisors have for a platform like Sequense. We discuss building an early stage tech company, fundraising and working with an accelerator, launching without a technical co-founder, and their early go to market strategy. I really enjoyed this conversation and hope you do as well.Topics In This EpisodeThe inspiration and evolution of travel behind SequenseExperience with an accelerator, pre-seed funding, and advisorsLeveraging people already in the industryWhy Sequense doesn't technically have any direct competitorsFuture growth over the next 5 years, including software developmentDesigning to shorten learning curves and facilitate customizationsLaunching and building without a tech co-founderGoals for funding roundsLearning and following through to make the most of opportunitiesThe most rewarding part of the journey so farMegan's biggest challenges in all thisContact InfoSequense Website: https://sequensesoftware.com Sequense (company) LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/sequense-softwareMegan Habig LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/megan-habig-40aa8721Email (investor advisors): investors@sequensesoftware.comEmail (travel advisors): info@sequensesoftware.com

I was recently a guest on the fun and inspirational Moments To Momentum podcast with Scott Abbott. In his signature style, Scott asked me a series of questions, balancing frivolity with deeper business insights. We talked about how I got started in technology, Oreos and whiskey, and a few other interesting facts about my life. After that, we moved on to more serious topics. One we discussed at length was how to recognize and not trivialize the pain and suffering of others. And once you recognize that pain exists, how you can appropriately adjust your approach to people whether in business, life or parenting. The other was “the day I fell in love with sales”.It was a really fun conversation and I hope you enjoy listening as much as I enjoyed being Scott's guest.A Sample of the Questions Scott Asked Me:Who is Mike Kelly? What's your background? How did you get started in technology? What are you doing now?What is DeveloperTown and FullStack?Any celebrity crushes? If you were a teacher, what would you teach?What is your favorite: cookie, snack, beverage and meal? If you had a yacht, what would your yacht be named?Can you share with us one of your most meaningful, defining and noteworthy situations - you know, a specific experience, time, relationship, or event - that has made a significant impact on your life, so far? What happened, why was it so meaningful, what did you learn, how did it benefit you, and what advice or recommendations can you share?About Moments To Momentum with Scott Abbott"Moments to Momentum, with Scott Abbott" is a fun, informative and inspirational podcast - featuring impactful conversations, with successful leaders from a wide-spectrum of demographics and vocations - that share their most meaningful situations, stories and events (i.e. “moments”), that they have experienced. Furthermore, how those big moments produced "momentum," that helps them succeed in their profession, and life. By having leaders share their most significant experiences - along with the lessons and advice learned - listeners gain their own “moments to momentum," as they enjoy and benefit from our guests' personal experiences, insights and recommendations.An important element of the podcast - is identifying and discussing what Scott calls, the "bio-mechanics" to productivity, happiness and success. In other words, using the podcast to understand and appreciate, the components and connection between the biological elements (i.e. the mind, heart, body, soul, psychology and sociology), with the mechanical elements (i.e. the strategy, tactics, systems, structure, tools, science and engineering), that it takes to effectively determine, develop, maintain and optimize consistent productivity, happiness and success: in business, work and life.momentstomomentum.comLinkedInInstagramTwitter

iResearch is an online platform that allows users to conduct focus groups all over the world, in any language. With the ability to quickly extract insights from consumers, iResearch provides users the knowledge to make smart business decisions. ConnectQik is an app that allows users to make connections and take part in engaging interactions. Designed to capture business information, you can instantly exchange information with new contacts.In this episode, I talk with iResearch.com and ConnectQik.com founder and CEO, Darshan Mehta, about finding meaningful insights from customers, users and consumers. We discuss how such insights inform product road maps and decision-making, as well as Darshan's four ways to increase your chances of being successful. We also chat about current international business opportunities and his upcoming book, Getting to Aha! - Why Today's Insights are Tomorrow's Facts.Topics In This EpisodeBecome your own worst competitorControl inroads, differentiate yourself and your product4 ways to increase your chances of being successfulStructuring methods, questions and conversations to reveal powerful insightsTapping into the jet streams of society -- getting to the whyFind a connection from your product to an emotion; an exampleWhy you should do focus groups firstMarketing solutions and problem solving versus selling to peopleInternational business opportunities and insightsDarshan's experience living in ThailandContact InfoiResearch Website: https://iresearch.com iResearch (company) LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/iresearch-comDarshan Mehta LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/darshan--mehtaConnectQik Website: www.connectqik.comEmail: DM@iResearch.comGet Darshan's Book: Getting to Aha! - Why Today's Insights are Tomorrow's Facts

iTeam is a network of CEO think tanks that brings top level CEOs together in private groups. The purpose is to provide a place to reflect on tough decisions or get honest feedback. With an emphasis on technology enablement, and a process to find, sharpen, and drive competitive edges forward, the results speak for themselves. They have identified and are addressing the somewhat hidden needs of high level CEOs. In this episode, I talk with iTeam founder and CEO, Thaddeus Rex, about what it means to run a business specifically designed to help other CEOs focus on their businesses. This includes analyzing processes, offering strengths where others are weak, and supporting and interacting in a mutually beneficial manner. All this creates a unique, and much-needed, pact of dedication between CEOs who might otherwise be alone in many circumstances and decision-making.Topics In This EpisodeThe pact that inspired iTeamInvestment and growth through Covid-19Quality control of a business when your product isn't actually a productAnalyzing potential fit of a CEO and business buildersSolving unsolvable problems - the right teamiTeam's current competitors and how iTeam is differentWhat makes a great facilitatorDifferentiation in startups to set yourself apartThaddeus' core philosophy about the purpose and impact of businessSome success stories and some struggles as iTeam members support each otherCultivating options for solutionsContact InfoThaddeus Rex website: thaddeusrex.com/iteamexperience iTeam (company) LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/the-iteam Thaddeus Rex LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/thaddeusrex TwitterFacebookiTeam (new website coming soon): thinkiteam.com

Vertex Intelligence is a data science and machine learning consultancy. They help a wide-range of companies solve tough data-related challenges by changing human problems into math problems and then solving them. Vertex identified frequent issues plaguing companies of all sizes, such as scheduling, data mining, and resource allocation, and developed machine-learning based solutions. In this episode, I talk with CEO, Tyler Foxworthy, about how they've leveraged data science and optimization to build Vertex Intelligence. We cover problems data scientists solve that exist now and where he sees it going in the future. Tyler shares some of Vertex Intelligence's successes, including working with multiple enterprise-level companies. Boot-strapped to success, they have achieved seven figures with just four full time employees. Topics In This EpisodeWhen and how a company should look at the processes they need to optimize Looking at internal and external (3rd party) data and blending themMapping problems into math, an exampleIdentifying and leveraging the right solutions; getting started and maintaining continuityCurrent status of data science and where Tyler sees it goingWho is already using data science and who is coming into this approachThe impact of SaaS software companies on business development and structureWhy clean data is crucial and the resulting departure from traditional softwareEntering the data science field and marketContact InfoWebsite: vertexintelligence.com Vertex Intelligence (company) LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/vertex-intelligence Tyler Foxworthy LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/tyler-foxworthy Email: tyler@vertexintelligence.com

Otus is a single platform for teaching, grading, analyzing and planning for K-12 education. It's designed for administrators, educators, students and families so they can concentrate on what matters most -- learning. Through robust and integrated technology, Otus eliminates the time and ease of use pain points for administrative and teaching tasks. Otus employs 8-week cycles for product assessment, actively and rapidly adapting and responding to requests for additions and improvements. They have positioned themselves in the center of the “Venn diagram” of technological needs in education. In this episode, I talk with Otus Co-Founder and Chief Product Officer, Christopher Hull about all of this and much more. Listen as he expertly outlines their product roadmap and also gives me my absolute favorite answer ever received to a question I've asked at least 75 times.Topics In This EpisodeThe reach of Otus, their 300% revenue growth and market share increaseCustomer acquisition, leveraging referrals and social media; crafting the path to product adoptionOtus' current competitors, how Otus sits in the center of the Venn diagram of meeting needsProduct roadmap: measuring success through “buckets”, key metrics, usage benchmarks, and implementation reportingResponding to customer requests for both current pain points and future preferencesOtus' 8-week cycle for product improvement and listening to multiple stakeholders for inputAn example of an 8-week cycleListening to clients first, then assessing competitors, and combining resultsPricing models and adapting for growth and usageSimple pricing for launch of a SaaSPricing review cadence and processesContact InfoWebsite: otus.com Otus (company) LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/OtusK12 Chris Hull LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/chull9Company TwitterChristopher's TwitterCompany Facebook

Geneoscopy is committed to reinventing the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases. Their innovative techniques for non-invasive diagnosis and treatment includes technology for assistance in early-stage colon cancer detection. As a venture-backed startup based in Saint Louis, Missouri, Geneoscopy is walking through building technology and bringing it to the marketplace. This includes commercializing technology coming out of universities and schools of medicine. For Geneoscopy, this is specifically Washington University's School of Medicine.In this episode, I learned a lot from Chief Commercial Officer, Vince Wong, JD, MBA, who has worked through the various aspects it takes to fully bring a product to market. We discussed what they've already accomplished, where they currently are, and their soon launching 10,000 clinical participant study. In particular, I was excited to discuss what Vince termed “air” support and “ground” support for product rollout. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.Topics In This EpisodeSeries B funded company; in development product FDA break-through designationProduct manufacturing plans and differing operating models for inside and outside the United StatesCurrent competitors and how Geneoscopy is superiorMarketing and positioning: healthcare insurers, healthcare providers and opinion leaders, patient advocacy groups, patient awarenessCutting through marketplace noisePartnering with and leveraging existing footprints“Air” support and “ground” support for product rolloutHow launching a new product is both similar and different in methodPotential direct-to-consumer futuresDecentralized targeting creates widened reach, expanded demographicsContact InfoWebsite: geneoscopy.com Clinical study participation: colonscreeningstudy.com Email: vince.wong@geneoscopy.com Geneoscopy (company) LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/geneoscopy Vince Wong LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/vince-wong-7254151 TwitterFacebook

Upper Hand builds award-winning innovative sports and fitness management software. They streamline day-to-day operations and eliminate manual and time-consuming tasks for fitness studios, sports facilities and sports academies. Upper Hand has found tremendous success, skillfully transitioning from a solid B2C company into a sought-after, growing B2B company.Interested in learning about how they did it, I spoke with Kevin MacCauley, Founder and CEO of Upper Hand. We discuss their early pivot, their product roadmap, vertical growth focus, and their plans for future development in the ever-changing landscape of sports and fitness. Our conversation also moved into discussing the role of AI, data interpretation, Big Tech, and more, all of which I found engaging. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.Topics In This EpisodeNavigating the challenges of evolving from a B2C model to a B2B model Upper Hands' current competitorsFocusing vertically for future growth, data handling and payment platformsEngaging innovation and accuracy in the customer roadmapIntegrating valuable client education and leveraging analyticsWhy Kevin sees AI, data interpretation, and action as integral to successAnalytics, technology regulation, ethics, AI, data storage, and Big TechContact InfoWebsite: getupperhand.com Email: kevin@getupperhand.com Upper Hand (company) LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/upper-hand Kevin MacCauley LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kevinmaccauley InstagramTwitterFacebook

Buddy Brands is a collection of solution-based pet product brands, all focused on relieving various pet health problems. Their combined products address issues such as pain, mobility, anxiety, allergies, and itching. Through Buddy Brands, President and Founder, Trevor Crotts, uses his expertise in employing advanced technology to increase consumer confidence and drive sales of quality products.In this episode, I talk ecommerce with Trevor, who is also involved in the startups Compel Commerce and ScanShop.io. We discuss how targeted marketing and business scale drive positive growth, along with the importance of the ever-expanding role of 3D and AI in the future of ecommerce. As a dog person and business person, I really loved our conversation. Following our time together, Trevor was gracious enough to offer a 25% discount code (Startup25) on Buddy Rest or Natural Doggie products for Startup Competitors listeners.Topics In This EpisodeUsing eBay as a tool to learn the moving parts of ecommerceThe trends and future of ecommerce, especially coming out of CovidCompeting with the large juggernauts in your business space by smartly leveraging ecommerceThe future of 3D model creation and AI for use in ecommerce and augmented reality (enhance shopper experience, increase conversion rates, and decrease returns)Responding to knock-offs and direct competitors that crop upHow Buddy Brands has taken on diversification of their brand and product linesContact InfoWant to try any Buddy Rest or Natural Doggie products? Use the code Startup25 to save 25%!Website: buddybrands.pet Email: service@buddybrands.co Phone: (888) 674-1710Buddy Brands (company) LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/buddypetbrands Trevor Crotts LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/trevor-crottsContact Buddy Brands: buddybrands.pet/home

Unicorn Venture Partners specializes in pre-seeds and Series A investments. Their two verticals are mainly the technology space and consumer space. Because Unicorn Venture Partners has no LPs (limited partnerships), how they operate, the massive success they've had, and how they've grown since 2018 sets them apart.In this episode, I talk with Jonathan Hung, Co-Managing Partner of Unicorn Venture Partners. We discuss the experience diversity superpower of the three founding partners and how that has impacted their success. We explore valuable concepts like “watch the blind side”, the ‘business emergency contacts' litmus test, and cash cow business structures. In particular, I found the tips Jonathan shares regarding successful investment pitching to be (potentially) worth millions.Topics In This EpisodeStructuring the leadership team without VPsThe importance of writing investment memos, even though only three people read themLooking at a business team and leadership as perhaps the most important success indicatorHow Unicorn leverages both itself and the other separate entities of each of its foundersBalancing Unicorn Venture Partners with the demands of Johnathan's various ventures.Why business owners should be selective, even if they need investment funds. Is this someone you'd have as your business emergency contact?Rethinking and reinventing cash cow businesses to increase revenue and scaleTips from Jonathan on how to successfully secure capitalContact InfoWebsite: unicornvp.com Email: jon@unicornvp.com Unicorn Venture Partners (company) LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/unicorn-venture-partners/about Jonathan Hung LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jonathanhung Contact Unicorn Venture Partners: unicornvp.com/contact-usContact Jonanthan directly for investment pitches, to read his blog, and more: jonathanhung.com

Capbase is a compliance platform designed to manage information and paperwork typically needed for a startup. It includes corporation, payroll, funds raising, document signing, compliance and government filings, and much more. It was started by Co-Founders Stefan Nagey and Greg Miaskiewicz, who both have founded and sold other companies.In this episode, Stefan Nagey shares how Capbase was inspired by the mistakes and pain points he and Greg experienced. They wanted to help other startups avoid the time and money losses they'd suffered. I found it compelling to hear how Capbase smoothed and combined so many separate processes. They've pulled together the tools they once needed most, creating a virtual and viable company that's growing.Topics In This EpisodeEntirely virtual, Capbase employs people from all over the globeWhy and how they jumped into such a tight marketDifferentiating themselves from any competitorsBuilding integrations: current and future, including partnershipsDeciding on costs and passing along revenue to clientsLeveraging quality content to drive marketingEvaluating sales retention through client milestonesHow Capbase finds their employeesWays Stefan and Greg divide up their co-founder responsibilitiesContact InfoWebsite: capbase.comEmail: info@capbase.com Capbase (company) LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/capbaseStefan Nagey LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/stefannagey Contact Stefan directly: capbase.com, click the blue and white Intercom Chat Box

Avestor provides real estate investing made simple. It allows the average person to build their own custom real estate platform, using a range of prequalified investments. Despite the uncertainty of the economy during Covid, they went fully live in 2020. And it paid off. Their commitment and growth actually shaped the company in positive ways, despite the restrictions Covid created.These surprising positives made the conversation with Sanjay Vora, Co-Founder of Avestor, super interesting. I was especially compelled by their approach to their customer road map, and how it offers clients control over their investment portfolios. I also found their year-long pilot program, their productivity during Covid, and how they leverage partner platforms valuable. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did, and come away with some ideas for your own startup and business growth.Topics In This EpisodeHow Avestor leverages partner platforms and pre-investmentsAvestor's growth so far, closed deals, and planned platform improvementsWho are Avestor's current competitors? Will competition increase in the future?How Avestor is taking advantage of the current climate in real estateHow they are positioning for anticipated client load increaseThe personal motivations to create AvestorWhat's next on their customer road mapHow Covid solidified virtual processes and helped overcome investor discomfort Overcoming their biggest launch hurdlePreparing for their biggest growth hurdle: scalingContact InfoWebsite: avestorinc.comEmail: sanjay@averstorinc.com Avestor (company) LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/avestor-inc/Sanjay Vora LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sanjayvora/

Observa combines human observation with artificial intelligence to compile accurate retail marketing data. They compare what a client’s marketing spend (trade spend) is supposed to be getting them to what is actually happening in-store. With a human force of over 275,000 in-store observers, and the technology to turn raw information into usable marketing data, Observa is addressing one of the biggest problems in retail.Whenever a company generates the opportunity to make themselves that indispensable, I want to learn what they are doing and how they do it! That’s why I was excited to talk with Co-Founder and CEO, Hugh Holman, about Observa. I asked him how they built their client base and observer force, how they are leveraging AI and incorporating emerging technologies, and much more. I really enjoyed this conversation. In particular, I loved the story he shared about the early days, when he would personally fly to locations to fulfill service promises. I hope it inspires your business journey, too.Topics In This EpisodeMeeting the needs of clients throughout the U.S. and CanadaThe journey from personally fulfilling client needs to having an observer force of over 275,000Scaling using AI for some of the necessary (previously human) workWho are Observa’s competitors? What are they disrupting in the current retail services market?Future AI expansion: incorporating emerging technologies such as bots and dronesLanding client contracts: offering subscription-based services and finding innovative ways to lower price pointsRetooling and customizing for clients to meet unique goalsHow COVID impacted ObservaContact InfoWebsite: observanow.comEmail: sales@observanow.comObserva (company) LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/observa/Hugh Holman LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hughholman/

Lloyd is a career navigation business with a human touch. It’s based on the premise that people both want and need additional structure and accountability in their careers, especially as they grow. I chatted with Co-Founder and CEO, Dan Gusz, about the current beta phase of Lloyd and how they plan to scale going forward. We also discussed how Lloyd is approaching product development and the features they plan to implement in the product road map. I enjoyed the conversation immensely and if you are early in your business or career, I think you will find this episode particularly helpful. Topics In This EpisodeUsing data in the area of behavior science to build a viable productHow Lloyd combines accessible technology with a human coachWhat they have learned from the beta testingCustomer acquisition strategyWho are Lloyd’s competitors in the career coaching spaceLooking at how they can implement personalized coaching at various levels of career goalsPreparing for growth and future competitionThe role of behavior science and behavior economics as technology increasesContact InfoWebsite: withlloyd.comLloyd (company) LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/withlloydDan Gusz LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/dan-gusz

Appsurify is the tester for testers. Its plugin is compatible with existing software test environments, and provides the immediate feedback developers constantly need. Whenever software changes are implemented, it isolates the proper and necessary subset of tests to run. With Appsurify, any organization utilizing software development can quickly improve their system. This competitive edge allows them to ship faster, get to market faster, have fewer defects, and much more.Fully bootstrapped, Co-Founder and CEO, Johnston Harris says Appsurify has already generated a healthy dose of interest. And they have a potentially unlimited customer base. Their software can help almost any business -- ranging from small Mom and Pop ventures to huge Fortune 500 enterprises. With a product wielding such widely applicable prowess, I was eager to learn all about Appsurify’s business model.Topics In This EpisodeIsolating pain points to build a proper solutionCreating exponential value by saving time and pinpointing needed changeDeveloping an environment where automated testing and manual testing work hand in handManaging risk by flagging high risk changes, as well as mapping fragility and failuresOffering a lower barrier to entry to increase customer awareness and advocacyIdentifying Appsurify’s current competitors and highlighting how Appsurify is superiorProviding flexible compatibility and integration to serve a wide range of customersImplementing via self serve or personalized help: why offering both is workingRunning numbers to prove ROI and convert salesContact InfoWebsite: appsurify.comEmail: sales@appsurify.comContact form: appsurify.com/contactPhone: 650.402.1400Appsurify LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/appsurifyJohnston Harris LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/johnston-harris-5051b332

ProBook is the all-in-one platform for any sports team. It streamlines team management by integrating the Five Pillars of coaching excellence. This includes tracking and fostering athlete development and team culture by centralizing social media, events, profiles, nutrition, film, schedules, communication, and much more. However, ProBook has a huge competitor - the gorilla in that space... so how are they wedging themselves in? I discussed their early success and future plans with founder and CEO, Andre Harakas. He outlined how ProBook is positioning their platform to outperform and displace their main competition. He discussed targeting their message via social media and coach ambassadors, and the status of their beta launch. We even talked about how they are already looking to future integration, including AI. Topics In This EpisodeOffering flexibility to enter the market: replacement of main competitor OR as a companionStrategic partnership development, including celebrity athletesHow are they gaining market share? Why price point and targeting smaller teams worksWhite glove customer service: building relationships, networking, and the value of ‘who you know’What swag are they using?Andre shares how detailed meeting notes and a Google Form helped their product roadmapFreemium model coming soon - expanding market reachNearly free advertising: offering sporting events and clinicsPlans for AI and emerging tech improvementsIntegration versus Self-Build: How does ProBook plan to position itself as it grows?Contact InfoWebsite: probooksport.comEmail: probookteam@gmail.comContact form: probooksport.com/contactPhone: 317.658.4590Twitter: twitter.com/ProBookSportsInstagram: instagram.com/probooksports/

Forecasting for your business using outdated, clunky software slows your business and it eats up time you could spend on action items to grow. Forecastr fixes that pain point. It’s an online software platform that helps founders build great financial models, so they can make better decisions, impress investors, and get funded. Through Forecastr, you can quickly see your current revenue streams, expected growth, expenses and more -- so you can focus on the areas that need your attention the most.Because what they do is so timely for Startup Competitors, CEO and co-founder, Logan Burchett, and I went through the Forecastr platform together. He showed me how it works, what forecasting it does automatically, and how it can help keep my business on track. I even recorded a video stream, too, so you can follow along. To find out more about Forecastr, or to schedule a meeting with their team, go to their website at: https://www.forecastr.co/.Topics In This EpisodeRevenue streams and formulaChoose from multiple revenue types to populate suggested applicable fieldsInput data such as start date, customer / subscriber numbers, moreForecast monthly / yearly growth based on input percentage or estimationsCustomer acquisition funnels and planningRetain subscriptions, churn rate, moreQuantify acquisition costs (such as advertising); identify unprofitable campaignsForecast base income and customer retention to identify needed focusesEstimate time frame for profitability (investors want to know this!)Input and remove brainstormed strategies to determine best courses of actionHiring, outsourcing / contract laborInput budget impact, track costsIdentify future needs to plan aheadAdditional financialsHosting, taxes, fees, etc.Revenue shares, profit distribution, salaries for executivesThe Dashboard -- Gives solid numbers toHighlight goalsTrack expectations and achievementsPinpoint areas that need attentionContact InfoWebsite: forecastr.coEmail: Logan@forecastr.coLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/forecastr

We all know a data breach can crush a small or medium-sized business. PrettyFluid Technologies protects businesses by taking the liability and security of customer data off the company and placing it back in the hands of their customers. With a truly first-to-market concept, Zentinel™, their SAS platform, is so needed, they easily pre-sold it before build. Of course, I was eager to find out how that happened. And even more eager when I learned that the bootstrapped company has also received numerous unsolicited inquiries for partnerships and investments! Fortunately for me (and my audience), Christopher Perry III, Co-Founder and CEO of PrettyFluid, was kind enough to answer my numerous questions. He covers how their solution protects both businesses and customers, how they went from concept to paying clients, why larger companies are already interested in potential partnerships, and more.Topics In This EpisodeRemoving the cost burden and liability of data security for small and medium businessesHow they pre-sold their product before buildAdditional revenue streams potential: end-user monetizationDesigned to build trust with customers versus operations that assume trustThe power of third party consultants, outside advisors, and credibility by extensionExpecting competition: How much of a head-start does PrettyFluid have?Does this alter how companies gather customer information?Their parking lot of prioritized ideas and roadmap for ongoing innovation and implementationReceiving unsolicited inquiries for potential partnerships and investmentsContact InfoPrettyFluid Technologiesprettyfluid.comprettyfluidtechnologies.comChristopher Perry III, Co-Founder and CEOLinkedIncperry@prettyfluid.comprettyfluidtechnologies.com/contact/Zentinel™

Motor is bringing extra power to the electric car movement by uniting utility companies and drivers. Approximately 70% of Americans have never even been in an electric car, and it is Motor's primary goal to change that by changing the way we think about electric cars. In my conversation with co-founders Mike Barg and Bryan Bernard, they share how they create a seamless experience for customers in order to increase electric car usage, as well as what it was like launching Motor from a larger company. Leveraging the natural partnership between utility companies and electric car owners, Mark, Bryan and their team are accelerating the adoption of electric cars. We discuss the barriers to electric car ownership and usage, and they also talk about the win-win relationship they've created with utility companies. As an electric car owner myself, I was particularly fascinated by this conversation, and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. If you are interested in trying Motor, use the code STARTUP for a discount.Topics In This EpisodeLeveraging a changing market for growthCustomer service and product considerations in order to lower barriers for buyersAddressing increasing product availability and customer retention24-month plan: Increase awareness, bend the access curve, expand partnershipsIs Motor like a “loss leader”?Innovation and subsidiary positioning: Zero emissions goals, streamlined service, including bill payment, delivery, strict safety guidelines, and working with vendors and contractorsNavigating the differences of direct corporate integration and the absence of investor pitchingIdentifying buyer personas, exceeding forecasts and meeting KPIsContact InfoWebsite: MotorEv.netsupport@motorev.net833-MOTOR-EVFacebook @MotorEVIndyInstagram @motor_evTwitter @Motor_EV

Forecastr is an online software platform that helps founders build great financial models, so they can make better decisions, impress investors, and get funded. Financial forecasts are key to any business’s tool kit, particularly for startups, and Forecastr fills an important role of helping create financial models and support them over the long term. I talk with CEO and co-founder Steven Plappert about the recent launch of the beta product, and how they were able to launch with 87 clients already signed up and ready to go.A key component of the Forecastr model is their use of white-glove onboarding of their clients, and in our conversation, we spend some time talking about how to scale this level of high-touch and analysis through the product roadmap. He also discusses some of the areas in which they plan to grow, as well as taking a look at the competitive landscape for financial modeling. I really enjoyed this conversation, and I’m already looking forward to a future episode, a part two, where Steven takes us through the onboarding process that he does with customers. To find out more, be sure to go to their website at: https://www.forecastr.co/Topics in this episodeWhat it looks like to go through the white-glove onboarding for new clientsSupporting clients on an ongoing basis, after the models are builtThe products they sold to customers before the beta was even builtWhat makes their product so important for the market The vision of ForecastrPartnerships with incubators, accelerators, and VCsContact InfoWebsite: https://www.forecastr.co/Email: Steven@forecastr.coLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/forecastr/

Jewelr is an all-encompassing software solution built specifically for the jewelry industry. Their MVP addresses everything a retail store needs to run as a whole, and the product roadmap seeks to address other facets of the jewelry industry as a whole. In my conversation with Natalie Whitmore and Richard Crowe, two of the four members of the founding team, they illustrate the current state of the technology within the jewelry industry and just how outdated it is. We spend a lot of time in our conversation talking about the product they are building, how they plan to bring it to the marketplace, and how they plan to remain competitive if and when another modern solution comes to the marketplace.Topics in this episodeHow they built their founding teamMoving clients to a SaaS modelWhat they are looking for with beta testersUsing beta testing to learn more about and address data migration to the Jewelr platformTaking a different approach to marketing Additional products and services on the product roadmapThe result of the pandemic on the retail jewelry industry Contact InfoWebsite: https://www.jewelr.co/natalie@jewelr.corichard@jewelr.co

Kennected completely simplifies and automates your lead-generation and outreach via LinkedIn by teaching you how to optimize your LinkedIn profile and think uniquely around finding your target audience. In this episode, I talk with Kennected co-founder and CEO Devin Johnson. We talk about how the team got started, what their product roadmap looks like beyond the their current product offering, and preparing the business for rapid growth. Devin also shares details about the mindset resources and tools that he uses which have helped him grow to this level of success, and how he intends to leverage those to achieve his goals.Topics in this episodeOnboarding as a key differentiatorFocusing on the importance of customer education to fully demonstrate the features of the productWhy Devin really prioritizes the sales function of the businessAs you grow, which is more important; marketing or sales?What makes LinkedIn so hard? Preparing internal structures and creating strategy to be able to support future growthApplying the abundant mindset, and the importance of goal-setting, visualization, and execution ResourcesThe 10X Rule, by Grant CardoneThink and Grow Rich, by Napoleon HillContact InfoWebsiteLinkedInInstagram

Florida Funders is a combination of a venture capital group and a crowd network of about 1500 angel investors who finds, funds, and builds the next generation of great technology companies in the Southeast, primarily in Florida. In this episode, I have a super fun conversation with Tom Wallace, managing partner of Florida Funders, that is packed with a lot of information and advice, particularly for founders. Tom differentiates between active and passive investing, and why it is that 75% of their investments are active. He also details the role they play in helping founders and investors become educated so they can have the greatest chance for success.Topics in this episodeEducating angel investors on the “why”s and “how”s of investingThe process of getting funded through Florida FundersImportance in diversifying for investorsManaging expectations around time frames for investments Valuation as a key indicator when making investments Getting involved with and helping CEOs Their “secret sauce” for investors and the two things they look at most Advice from some of the best pitches they’ve heardContact InfoWebsiteEmail: tom@floridafunders.com

Today we have a fun conversation with Patrick Kelley, one of the co-founders of Shorca Wood. Patrick is my 10 year old son, who confounded Shorca Wood with his friend. In this conversation, we talk about how the business started, what he learned about business this year, and what’s next for Shorca Wood. I hope you enjoy

GenoPalate is a nutrition intelligence company, with the mission to change food-buying behaviors in the future to fight obesity and diabetes. The technology is based on nutrigenetics, using DNA information to create personalized nutrition and eating plans for each person. In this fascinating conversation with Sherry Zhang, she talks about her background in microbiology and the previous companies she founded, before creating GenoPalate. We also discuss some recent books we have found to be impactful, and the future of where GenoPalate can go in the future. Topics in this episodeUser experience of GenoPalate Obtaining and providing DNA data How this information forms behavior changes for usersThe secret of success for consumer wellness productsThe biggest hurdles in getting this business off the groundThe process of finding mentors and building relationshipsBook RecommendationsThink Bigger, by Michael W. SonnenfeldtCategory Creation, by Anthony Kennada Deep Medicine, by Eric TopolBusiness Adventures, by John Brooks Flip the Script by Oren KlaffContact InfoWebsiteEmail: sherry@genopalate.com

FastDemocracy is a legislative analytics platform designed to put the government at your fingertips, giving users the ability to track legislation, share it, and really understand what is going on with legislation, and understand the inflection points in order to create change. In this conversation, I talk with co-founders Anatolij Gelimson and Sara Baker, a married co-founding team, about how each of their skill sets combined to create this product, how they market it to nonprofits and companies, as well as the education gaps they each had to fill along the way. And of course, I couldn’t let them go without asking about what it’s like to be a married co-founding partnership. This was a really interesting conversation, and as you’re listening to this, the app for FastDemocracy just dropped, so be sure to check it out and thank them for coming on the show. Topics in this episodeFast Democracy currently provides data for government at both the national and state levels, which includes all 50 statesThe outdated systems most states still have in placeSelling to nonprofits, business associations, companiesTheir competitive advantageThe process of collecting all the data that is available on the platformThe use of a comment section and the power and helpfulness found there within legislation and lobbying efforts Making the decision to invest in team growthContact InfoEmail: sara@fastdemocracy.comEmail: anatolij@fastdemocracy.comWebsite

IdeaWake is a software platform that helps capture, evaluate, and implement ideas from front-line employees. They also have a product offering that allows for a front-line employee to take an idea, validate it, prototype it, and actually pitch it to someone within the organization that owns the budget for implementing it. IdeaWake is all centered around the idea that people who are closest to the customer and to a process have the best ideas on how to improve that process. In my conversation with co-founder and CEO Coby Skonord, he shares the background from the very early idea stages, to how they became a global company whose product is used in 39 countries, and the metrics they used along the way to measure success.Topics in this episodeHow they handle being a global companyBreaking up the competition into 2 categories: competitors for the current state of the company, and competitors for where you want to go Getting specific about the market and ideal target customerOffering consulting within the product offeringThe launch check-list they work through with new clientsThe impact of covid for them and their customers, using employee-sourced ideas to respond to the challenges they facedTransitioning customers over to a new system Contact InfoWebsiteEmail: coby@ideawake.com

Benekiva is a claims and customer service platform, working to bridge the gap between insurance carriers, policyholders, and beneficiaries. In this episode, I talk with Brent Williams, the founder and CEO of Benekiva about where the idea for Benekiva came from, how it was developed, and the product roadmap for the company. He talks about the process for implementing Benekiva within a carrier’s system, how they made implementation a quick and easy process, and how claims teams became their biggest cheerleaders within their client’s teams. I really enjoyed this conversation with Brent, and I hope you do as well.Topics in this episodeCompleting three years of research to determine the issues within the insurance industry and how they could address themBuilding a platform that carriers would pay forThe mutually beneficial relationship between this platform and insurance carriers Having two separate development teamsOperating on the Apple modelSales and implementation with enterprise companies Creating a tool that communicates with a company’s existing systems in order to shorten implementation timeContact InfoWebsiteEmail: brent@benekiva.comPhone: (515) 202-0862

Shotcall is a platform and marketplace for fans to hop in the gaming content alongside their favorite people. In my conversation with founder and CEO Thomas Gentle, we talk about how gaming has grown in recent years, just how widespread it is, and how Shotcall wants to take it to the next level.

Todaro Robotics is a laboratory systems integrator for automation and robotics, helping biotech, pharma, and life science companies automate their experiments and their processes, with clients from the startup size all the way to large corporations, such as Eli Lilly. In my conversation with co-founder James Slatic, we talk about the addition of product development to their company in addition to the consultation services they provide, and the integration and growth of both sides of the company. We also talk about some of the struggles of launching a business where you’re not the smartest guy in the room. You know how to build and run companies, but don’t necessarily understand all the science. I enjoyed this conversation and I truly hope you do as well. Find James on social media, and be sure to thank him for coming on the podcast, and thank you for listening.Topics in this episodeChanges within the industry as a result of covid, and the shift toward automationThe science of DNA purificationApproaching a technology that is already in the market, yet coming at it from a different angleDifferences in the rate of growth as your company grows The role of consultants in the biotech, life science, and pharma industries from individual consultants up to large firmsThe roll-up process of combining with complementary companies and either going public or becoming an acquisition candidateLimiting legal risk between consultation services and product companyRevisiting growth strategies as you evolveTactics for working in an industry where your clients are technically skilled in a way that you aren’t Contact InfoWebsite

Omni Valley is an online exclusive investor platform connecting those who work and invest in the venture capital industry, those who are looking at start-up companies, or for those who invest at the venture capital fund level, and provides a space for them to better network and connect. In my conversation with co-founder and CEO Grady Buchanan, we talk about why they have built out that platform, what they see as opportunities to be, competitors in the space, and how they think they can wedge into that market with a unique value prop that investors are underserved on today. We talk about how they can achieve their goals for the platform within the scaled-down version of a minimum viable product, as well as the built out version from later down the product roadmap. Topics in this episodeInvestor preferencesThe effect covid has had in the investment space, particularly for startups that aren’t on the east or west coastThe decision to not start with a revenue-first productHow they are different from other networking platformsThe difference between what an investor says they are interested in, versus the actual investments they are makingBenefits of creating networks for investors based on a geographic basisTheir biggest challenge to dateContact InfoWebsiteEmail: grady@omnivalley.co

Rootnote is a SaaS platform for content creators to help them understand their data and manage their businesses better. I talk with brothers and co-founders Jason and Jeremy Burchard about how large the passion economy is now, with over 32 million Americans currently making a living wage in the content creation space. And even though it is such a large market, there is still a lack of understanding of the data and how creators can make the most of their content from a financial perspective. This was an exciting conversation and I’m looking forward to seeing how this platform grows as new content platforms grow as well.Topics in this episodeStarting with a focus on music artistsLooking at stats across a broad spectrum of servicesWorking with management companies to help create the pro versionThe challenges with other data aggregators for musical artistsUnderstanding the landscape between hypothetical and reality when it comes to the marketEmbracing competitionTheir biggest milestone to dateThere is real money on these platforms. People are doing well on them.Thinking about the pace at which new platforms are getting created, and keeping up with themContact InfoWebsiteJeremy’s Band, Moonlight SocialWatch them on Twitch

Stre.me is a platform built for behavior change with a focus on implicit bias, which enables HR and diversity, equity, and inclusion officers to rapidly deploy individualized implicit bias education. In this episode, I talk with co-founders Jack Patton and Anne Marie Labenberg about this platform they’ve built, and the competitive advantage it has over traditional training sessions within an organization and how it leads to incremental behavior change. As a product that is currently in the pilot phase, we discuss their tools for identifying the right product-market fit, the product roadmap, and the ethical piece of this work and employee privacy.Topics in this episodeThe specific opportunities to get hard data on ROI and effectiveness within the healthcare spaceTracking an employee’s implicit bias in a professional settingAddressing regulatory needs for implicit bias trainingThe customer discovery process in order to find the best product-market fitHow do you fund going further, faster?ConnectWebsiteEmail: info@stre.me

This episode is a little different from most others that we create here at Startup Competitors. I talk with Sean Ammirati, a VC, distinguished service professor of entrepreneurship, and director of the Corporate Startup Lab at Carnegie Mellon University. Sean shares a bit of his history as an entrepreneur and the path that he took to get to where he is today. We spend most of our time diving into the similarities and differences between traditional startups and corporate startups, the strengths, and weaknesses of each, and even discuss some of the regulatory pieces of corporate startups. This was a fascinating conversion, and I hope you enjoy it.Topics in this episodeThe trend in recent years of large companies rediscovering their entrepreneurial rootsThe importance of early customer feedback for both traditional and corporate startupsTraditional entrepreneurs don’t have to think about how their vision fits into a larger organization’s strategyFor corporate startups, one single “no” could be much more devastatingThe feedback problem with corporate startupsThe customer knows the problem. The entrepreneur comes up with the solution.Collaborating as a corporate startup with competitorsThe tools and techniques that work for both corporate and traditional startupsContact InfoTwitterWebsiteCorporate Startup LabBook, The Science of Growth

Saaslio works together with IT service providers and managed service providers to manage the SaaS landscape of their end-clients. In my conversation with John Harden, Saaslio’s founder and head of business development, he explains that he has found a way to help partners increase revenue and sales, while also helping the partner’s end-clients save money, thereby, serving both sides of the coin, which is very rare and difficult to achieve. We also talk about the mindset behind having a giver mentality, the two most impactful meetings he’s had this year, and the future of aggregated data they are collecting along the way.Topics in this episodeWaste in the SaaS spaceRelying on the trust factor that is built between large companies and managed service/IT providersChannel products versus direct productsCreating a long-term solution for a problem that people perceive to be a one-time issue for end-clientsBundling this solution with VCIO offeringsThe biggest problem with taking the product to the marketJoining the gBETA acceleratorA healthy way to grow a network of people that really want to helpContact infoWebsite: https://saaslio.com/Email: john.harden@saaslio.com

You’re Golden is a photographer-on-demand platform, making it fast, easy, and affordable to capture unedited photos of real-life moments. In this episode, I talk with founder and CEO Sydney Golden about growing a startup as a side hustle, and as a solo entrepreneur. We explore the relationship between a mentor and mentee, and some of the qualifications and tactics that make a good mentor. Sydney also shares the product roadmap for You’re Golden, and the plans to grow You’re Golden through the COVID crisis.Topics in this episodeGrowing a two-sided marketplaceComparing the traditional photography model now with the business model of You’re GoldenThe decision to create unedited photos for customersNarrowing down the market and identifying the ideal clientFinding the white-space in the marketCustomer acquisition in the times of COVIDFinding community as a solo entrepreneurContact InfoWebsiteInstagram

Promotable is a workforce accelerator that closes employers skill gaps and prepares professionals for high-growth careers in the digital economy with courses in data analytics and Python programming. In my conversation with Aaron Filous, Promotable Founder and CEO, he explains that he found that a lot of the existing solutions out there weren’t solving the problem of how to grow your professional skills and learn data analytics that you could then apply to your current role, or could use to get promoted. The options were either low-level courses or to go back to higher education. He explains how Promotable fills that gap. We also talk about the impact of COVID on their product road map, and some of the big wins he has experienced along the way.Topics in this episodeWhat separates a workforce accelerator from a courseHow they ensure that they are filling the skill gaps in the workforceLive training versus a self-paced video instructional methodThe unique opportunity with covid and the current trend of self-improvementBiggest wins and biggest challenges since starting PromotableContact infoWebsite: promotable.ioYoutube channelEmail: hello@promotable.io

Lumatic is a photography management platform that helps organizations more easily capture and use photography. In this episode, I talk with founder Tyler Hromadka, who used his background as a photographer to build a platform to make it easier to store and access photos, with a focus on Greek organizations, while also providing the ability to find photographers. Tyler shares that in the current market, there are only about four competitors in the space, and they have been in that space for many decades without innovating, which leaves a lot of room for Lumatic to enter the space and set themselves apart. We also discuss what it’s like to lead a growing team, and the use of automation that doesn’t feel robotic and distant.Topics in this episodeKeeping the photo editing in-house for quality controlHow they track their tractionThe difficulty in hiring a photographer onlineBuilding a business around the idea of being a long-term partner with an organizationCommunicating expectations to team members who have never met in personHiring for a personality type, as opposed to experience levelsThe sole-proprietor mindsetContact InfoLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thromadka/Website: https://www.lumaticimagery.com/

Wes Barton is a farmer, turned lawyer, turned investor, and is the Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Third Prime, venture capital firm based out of New York City. Third Prime is focused primarily on investing at the seed stage that are quite young, generating nominal revenue. In our conversation, Wes shares a bit about his personal background and we spend most of our time discussing some of the things they look for in a potential investment opportunity and some of the big do’s and don’ts when looking for investors. I thoroughly enjoyed this conversation and I hope you find value in it as I did.Topics in this episodeThe transition from angel investing in a couple of deals to creating an investment firm managing $100 millionWes’ early investment experiencesThe characteristics they are looking for in the initial conversationInvesting discipline and criteria now, versus when he startedLooking at the dynamic between co-foundersAsking entrepreneurs, “What could go wrong? What could make this fail?”Sourcing channels and the entrepreneur communityContact InfoTwitter: https://twitter.com/farmer_vcWebsite: https://www.thirdprime.vc/Email: wes@thirdprime.vc

Insurmi is a technology whose primary product, Violet, is an AI assistant built for insurance. In my conversation with founder and CEO, Sonny Patel, he shares the story of how he started Insurmi as a college student, originally as a B2C insurance solution. As they went through three different accelerators, Insurmi was able to pivot to B2B, find product-market fit, and really use the environment of the accelerator to grow their business to what it is today. Sonny also shares roll out strategies with new clients, some of the major challenges they’ve faced through the years, and the impact COVID has had on sales and networking, and the long-lasting effects this will have on the industry. This was a fascinating conversation and I hope you enjoy.Topics in this episodeWhy they created a solution specific to the insurance industryThe differences between the different accelerator programs they participated inThe need for an insurance-based solution, as opposed to a generic conversational AIBenfits of pivoting from B2C to B2BCategories of use cases and the measurables and KPIs for eachUsing this time of COVID to improving remote sales skillsMaking predictions at what business travel may look like after COVIDNetworking within digital events and via DMs and ZoomContact InfoWebsite: https://insurmi.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sonnypatel94/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sonnypatel94/

In this episode, I talk with Scott Hansen, founder of Professional Chats, and the principle at Black Bison Group, where he does investing, coaching, and consulting, looking specifically at B2B hybrid software services companies. We have a wide-ranging conversation beginning with his background and the founding of Professional Chats, and how he leveraged the skills and knowledge he gained from that insight to now investing in companies that are in the associated medical space, looking to grow and understand the market better. He also shares the core values and key indicators he looks for with the founders of potential investment opportunities.Topics in this episodeHow software can produce better results for a service businessEvaluating a potential investment opportunity:The process to figure out if a business owner is going to be a good fitSourcing deals through his networkNew technologies coming for AI and data scienceMaking your service expensive for users at the startUnderstanding buyers and your market in order to make the best marketing decisions for your businessTwo core values that he will take with him to future start upsContact infoWebsite: http://blackbisongroup.com/Email: scott.hansen@blackbisongroup.com

Go Nimbly is a revenue operations consultancy and software company, helping businesses operate their revenue side of their business, which includes such areas as sales, marketing, and customer success, and the analytics that make those teams run. In this episode, I talk with Jason Reichl, co-founder and CEO of Go Nimbly. He details his background in design and product management, and the time he spent in Silicon Valley, seeing SaaS companies spring up all the time, which didn’t prioritize revenue operations in a way that made sense.It was from this that the idea came to him and his co-founders to create a company that could help businesses see their revenue operations teams in a new way, and maximize their profit. In our conversation, he shares key strategies for unifying revenue operations teams within a company, the work of consultancy, and Jason details the book that the Go Nimbly team is writing to help the reader transform so that they can transform their business.Topics in this episodeWorking as a part of a revenue operations teamThe revenue gains companies experience when they unify the revenue operations; sales, marketing, and customer successRevenue impact statementWhy they target SasS companiesThree levels of operations teams out thereIntuition-basedExperientialCustomer-basedFour core metrics to measure the health of an operations team:VolumeValueVelocityConversionCreate a roadmap for operational projects in order to see if it has an impact on improving the value that you are looking atWorking with companies in the short-term, and being stick enough with them so that the partnership continues long-termContact InfoGo Nimbly blog: https://gonimbly.com/blog/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/betterjason/

TallyLab is an everything-tracker for consumers and an anything-tracker-maker for businesses. It’s a web-based application where users can set up trackers to track anything that happens as a moment in time, recording what they did, and when they did it. In this episode, I talk with co-founder and CEO, Jordyn Bonds, who saw first hand what happens with our everyday data, and how companies aggregate that data in ways that we do not opt into, and may not be ok with. It was this insight, as well as the need for a tracking app, that was the inspiration behind creating TallyLab with a high priority on data protection for end-users. She shares some of the effects of the pandemic on the company, the trends of data protection, and what she’s tracking everyday using TallyLab.Topics in this episodeThe importance of keeping UI simple, so users can start quicklyNew projects, as a result of the COVID pandemicThe difference between an ideal customer, and one that becomes an actual customerCloud services are hackable, meaning, your data is at riskAsking companies to leave data and opportunity on the table, in favor of protecting the privacy of their end-usersThe regulatory landscape of data privacyUsers realize that they’re doing better with the thing they’re tracking than they think they areContact InfoWebsite: https://tallylab.com/Email: jordyn@tallylab.com

Knowable is an audio-first learning platform where you can find high-quality educational courses, and listen and learn on the go, without having to stare at a screen. In this episode, I talk with co-founder and CEO Warren Shaeffer, who shares that the idea behind Knowable came from not a lack of time, but a lack of time he could devote to watching something and learning that way. Knowable is the third startup Warren and his co-founder have started. He details the other companies he created, and details one of his favorite courses on Knowable, Launch a Startup, in which well-known startup experts share their insights and expertise to help listeners prepare for building their own companies.To take this course, or any other on Knowable: Use the code StartupComp at checkout for 50% off your first course.Topics in this episodeSourcing the content for the coursesReaching out to experts and pitching to them to lead a courseCompensation and collaboration with expertsHow COVID is increasing the rate of innovation in the education spaceThe experimental marketing efforts they’ve done so far while in betaThe difference between a podcast and an audio-first courseApply to be a creator at: https://knowable.fyi/createContact InfoWebsite: https://knowable.fyi/Twitter: https://twitter.com/wwshaef

Boson Motors electric commercial vehicles, focusing on dairies, planters, farmers, and agriculture utility vehicles. They may the only programmable vehicle in the world that runs on the Android operating system, making it open-source that any Android developer can deploy custom applications to. In this episode, I talk with co-founder and CEO Arun Seelam, who, along with his co-founder, are ex-Googlers, looking to take on the world of autonomous vehicles and electric trucks. In our conversation, Arun shares current status of the company, the setbacks that Boson Motors has experienced as a result of the COVID pandemic, as well as a silver lining they found along the way.Topics in this episodeWhy they are working toward an end goal of partial autonomy, as opposed to creating fully autonomous vehiclesRoadmap of production and how they plan to ramp up over the next two yearsThe process of creating the prototype, starting with a motorcycleThe impact of COVID on production, as well as on fundraisingLaunching the product in California and India, and the regulatory differences in each placeTracking competitors’ roadmapsGiving farmers the ability to service their own vehicles, unlike with John Deere and other competitorsContact InfoWebsite: https://www.bosonmotors.com/

Fringe Benefits is the world’s first fringe benefit marketplace as a way for employers to provide benefits that employees can use now, that they don’t have to be sick, disabled, or 65 years or older in order to benefit from. It’s a way for companies to provide a wide array of curated benefits that employees can choose from, that employees can then take with them upon leaving. In my conversation with co-founder and CEO Jordan Peace, he shares the launch and growth of Fringe with five co-founders, the selection process of working with vendors, and the successful utilization of their platform with employers using their service. He also details the role COVID has played in their growth, and helping companies to provide benefits for a work-from-home world.Topics in this episodeExamples of benefits they provideThe importance of identifying companies that already have an established culture, instead of having to create that for an employerBuilding a curated vendor listSelling points of the marketplace to vendorsWhat a target vendor looks likeDetailing what product-marketplace fit looks likeUtilization of Fringe is over 90%Future-proofing benefit system for employersContact InfoWebsite: https://www.hellofringe.co/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordan-peace-greenhousemoney/

Botco.ai is an intelligent chat nurturing solution helping businesses convert more customers by being always on and always available to answer their customer’s questions. In my conversation with co-founder and CEO Rebecca Clyde, she shares how Botco.ai was built out of a lack of a solution for enterprise companies and their customer’s need for on-demand assistance. Before Botco.ai, Rebecca owned a marketing automation company, and she explains how that role, and the process of leaving that role to hand over the reins, gave her a particular set of skills that prepared her for starting Botco.ai. We also discuss investor expectations, how to best use a marketing budget, and her role as a parent to prepare her children for the business world.Topics in this episodeThe impact a chatbot service has for conversion ratesSteps to take after releasing the MVPChallenges of working with a chatbot service for an enterprise companyCompeting with in-house development teamsHow to identify that your product is needed in the marketThe role of education, and how to take that on in a tangible way that leads to business opportunitiesWhere are you creating gaps in the customer experience, and how can you bridge those?Generation Z’s relationship with technology, and the role that plays in the work force and our economyThe future of voice-assistance for Botco AI productsResourcesAaron RossThe Sandler Sales MethodologyContact InfoWebsite: https://botco.ai/Email: rebecca@botcoai.aiLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccaclyde/

SnapShyft Labor Marketplace is a cloud-based staffing software and mobile app that connects businesses with fully vetted and experienced professionals on-demand - think staffing as a service. In my conversation with founder and CEO Thor Wood, we talk a lot about building and launching a two-sided marketplace, customer acquisition, raising funds, and the SnapShyft story before, during, and after COVID. They are in the hospitality space, so you can imagine it’s a difficult time for them. I really enjoyed all aspects of this conversation. Thor was also on the podcast, The Pitch, that I found to be super interesting. You can listen to that episode here: https://gimletmedia.com/shows/the-pitch/dvheez6.Topics in this episodeBuilding a platform around people who are already in the hospitality industryLaunch strategy of a two-sided marketplaceThe work and research they did before writing any codeFragmentation of staffing within the temp staffing industryPossible future acquisitions from big existing companies, like UberDefining product-market fitEstablishing a trust-factor with the worker side of the marketplaceContact infoLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/snapshyft/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/snapshyft/Twitter: https://twitter.com/SnapShyftInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/snapshyft/Website: https://www.snapshyft.com/Take part in investing with SnapShyft: https://netcapital.com/companies/snapshyft

CLA (CliftonLarsonAllen) is a national accounting firm with over 120 offices nation-wide and 6,000 employees. What really sets CLA apart from the other accounting firms is that, while they do the traditional services such as audits, reviews, and tax work, they also help clients with outsourcing work, talent solutions, and a wealth advisory group. In this episode, I talk with Chris Wright, the BizOps leader, and we go deep into some of the back-office operations for a small business, common mistakes, things you should be looking into as a startup company, and what they do at CLA. Hopefully, you get a lot out of this conversation and are able to apply some of these things to help your business grow.Topics in this episodeWhat BizOps are, and what it looks like to be a biz ops clientWorking with a company that is struggling with their financial conceptsWhy it’s important to not over-buy and over-stock on inventoryHelping business owners communicate with their investors and board of directorsThe new package at CLA for small and emerging companiesCommon mistakes they see early-stage companies makingWorking with a small bank versus a national bankPartnering relationships CLA can provide to their clientsThe value of creating connections and communityContact InfoEmail: chris.wright@claconnect.comPhone: 317-569-6159LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-wright-cpa-963ab425/