Podcasts about bootstrap

Stew Campbell, Partner at The Chernin Group In Part 2, Stew Campbell returns to share tactical guidance for founders evaluating outside capital. We dive deep into how to run a founder-led investor process, what to watch for in term sheets, and how to build long-term wealth while scaling a founder-led business. Stew breaks down growth equity vs. private equity, investor diligence, and how to choose a partner who accelerates—not limits—your next chapter. This episode is a must-listen for any operator planning a recap, acquisition, or capital raise in the next 1–3 years. Things You'll Learn: How to run a founder-led competitive investor process What to ask when evaluating potential investors and term sheets How to align capital strategy with long-term wealth goals Ways great investors create real value beyond the check ______________________ This episode is sponsored by DealRoom! Turn your chaos into control. Tired of chasing updates across spreadsheets and email threads? Discover how DealRoom helps corporate development teams bring order to M&A.

On this episode of the Ruff Talk VR podcast we are back in our regular studio ready for another week of VR news! We kick off the episode talking more Ghost Town and Surviving Mars: Pioneer, and then we get into the news including The Smurfs Flower Defense getting an official release date. As well, we saw Bootstrap Island drop an official roadmap leading to their full launch. Tunnels with their full launch on Meta Quest. A release date and more info for Merlin's Chess. Song drops from both Beat Saber and Synth Riders. Meta Ray Bans improvements. And much more!Big thank you to all of our Patreon supporters! Become a supporter of the show today at  https://www.patreon.com/rufftalkvrDiscord: https://discord.gg/9JTdCccucSPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/rufftalkvrTabor Radio: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2216985If you enjoy the podcast be sure to rate us 5 stars and subscribe! Join our official subreddit at https://www.reddit.com/r/RuffTalkVR/ Send us a text to the Ruff Talk VR fan mail line!Support the show

In this episode, I'm revisiting the Required Secondary Powers series and focusing on discipline. It's not the exciting part of business, but it's what actually keeps you going. Whether you're building balloon art or coaching clients, showing up consistently matters more than talent alone. I'll share what I've learned, how I manage discipline as a dad of two, and why hitting even 70 percent of your goals can put you ahead of most.

n this remastered episode, I explore whether Marvel's Avengers Endgame was a bold gamble or a smart investment. With over $2.7 billion earned at the box office, it's easy to say it paid off—but that didn't happen by luck. Marvel started small with Iron Man and built momentum over a decade, taking calculated risks with each film. The real entrepreneurial takeaway? Success follows strategy, not chance. As Kevin Feige put it, “You basically go, hold hands and jump out of the plane and hope you can build a parachute before you hit the ground.” Learn how Marvel's measured approach can help you manage your business risks with greater confidence.

In this episode, I break down how Marvel's success with Avengers: Endgame is rooted in their mastery of storytelling. A solid narrative is essential, not just in films, but in business too. When you share a compelling story about your product or service, you create a bond with your audience that goes beyond just selling. A good story can lead to loyal customers and lasting success.

In this remastered episode, I dive into how Marvel Studios created massive value over 11 years with Avengers: Endgame. By delivering consistent quality, building a loyal fanbase, and offering a long-term payoff, Marvel turned a series of movies into one of the most valuable franchises of all time. Your business can apply these same principles of creating value that leads to customer loyalty and success.

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In this remastered episode, I unpack one of the most common but challenging questions in small business: “How much should I charge?” I talk about the hidden dangers of underpricing, why just covering your costs isn't enough, and how overhead and perceived value shape what customers are actually willing to pay. If you've ever second-guessed your pricing or felt stuck between being “too expensive” or “too cheap,” this one will help you get clarity.

In this episode, I dive into the crucial role integrity plays in business and leadership. Using the Titan submersible disaster as a backdrop, I explore how small lapses in integrity can lead to catastrophic results. I share real-world stories, including lessons from RadioShack, and provide practical steps for building integrity through daily choices.

In this remastered episode, I unpack how you can take something you already love doing—your hobby—and turn it into a real business. Whether it's something you've always done for fun or a skill others admire, there's a path forward if you treat it seriously. I walk through practical steps, mindset shifts, and a few hard truths about turning passion into profit. If you've ever wondered, “Could I actually make money doing this?”—this episode is for you.

In this remastered episode, I tell the story of a man I call “Spencer”—someone born into privilege but marked by rejection, failure, and political disaster. What set him apart wasn't perfection—it was persistence. He kept going, even when most thought he was finished. This episode is for every entrepreneur who's ever been tempted to quit. If you're struggling, this story is your reminder to get back up and keep moving forward.

In this episode, I explore the concept of bootstrapping—building a business from scratch with minimal resources. I share my personal journey, how I started my business with just a website, a few balloons, and a lot of determination. From learning on the go to investing only earnings into growth, I walk you through the steps and mindset needed to bootstrap your way to success. If you're an aspiring entrepreneur or facing challenges in your current venture, this episode offers valuable insights on how to grow with what you have.

Send us a textEnjoy this episode where entrepreneur, Sam Baker breaks down how big ideas start in small places.https://www.wrigglebrew.com/?srsltid=AfmBOooFxiGbDj3YAdt1igfsdgdWr8oNuvYGAxuEW6Bi0UCAVZJQdZs1Want to join an exclusive Discord community of seasoned inventors and be on a first name basis with people who LOVE this world of product development?  Access the exclusive Discord through the Patreon below for just $6/Month! ⬇️By popular demand... introducing Grant's "Invent With Me" Patreon.-You may want to join if...1. You have an invention idea but don't know where to go from here...2. You need access to engineers, lawyers, inventors or manufacturers.3. You need inspiration and weekly tips to bring your invention to the market and start making 7-figures from your idea.https://patreon.com/InventWithMe?utm_...  IWM Engineer; Lance at https://www.freelancedesigns.ca/The Invent With Me Podcast⬇️Spotifyhttps://open.spotify.com/show/2YAZqvv...⬇️Applehttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Episode Title: How Inventors Bootstrap BIG Invention Ideas (Work > Money) Podcast: Invent With Me Season 2 – Sponsored by the Invent With Me PatreonDescription: Too many inventors believe their big idea won't go anywhere unless they get funding first—but what if the secret to success is putting in the work before the money ever arrives?In this episode of Invent With Me, your hosts Marcus and Grant sit down with Sam Baker, the founder of WriggleBrew, to unpack the gritty, honest truth about bootstrapping a real invention from zero to launch. Sam shares the real story—not the polished startup fairytale—of how he turned a dorm-room idea into a viable business without waiting around for a big check.From using garages as labs to building a product in layers, this episode walks inventors through six actionable steps to move from concept to income. We dive into the hidden advantages of being resource-limited, how to develop grit, why many inventors waste time chasing validation and funding instead of traction, and the critical skill of pivoting when your initial idea doesn't go according to plan.If you've ever felt stuck because you “just need money” to start, this episode is a wake-up call—and a masterclass in the value of doing over dreaming.Highlights include:Why having limited resources is a superpower in the early invention phaseHow real intellectual property is in the work, not just the ideaHow Sam built his product step-by-step while holding down other commitmentsThe emotional traps inventors fall into when comparing themselves to well-funded competitorsWhen and how to take on funding—without losing controlWhy your garage is more powerful than you thinkThe Invent With Me Podcast, where each week we help aspiring inventors and product creators to turn their innovative ideas into reality. Join us on youtube to have the ultimate show experience! www.youtube.com/@inventwithme

In this remastered episode, I address the important question: "Is it wrong to desire wealth?" Drawing on insights from Dave Ramsey and the Bible, I explore the nature of wealth and how it's not the money itself, but the love of money that can lead to moral pitfalls. I discuss how wealth, when sought with the right intentions, can be a powerful tool for good, supporting family and helping others.

In this episode, I dive into what servant leadership really means. It's not about holding power — it's about serving others, earning trust, and leading with humility. I share stories from my own work life, including moments I'm proud of and mistakes I've learned from. Leadership isn't about titles — it's about influence.

Being dangerous isn't a flaw — it's a necessity. Like a sharp tool, entrepreneurs must be honed and ready to act with purpose, protecting what matters and pushing back against what threatens.

In this remastered episode, I explore the weight of success and the responsibility that comes with it. Inspired by Iron Man, I reflect on the influence entrepreneurs hold once they reach their goals. Whether you're just starting or already thriving, the question is the same—how will you use your power?

After building a successful VC-backed company, Esben Friis-Jensen took a different path — bootstrapping his next SaaS startup to $5M ARR with just a team of 3.In this episode, he shares why he turned down venture funding, how he built an efficient, product-led growth engine, and lessons on scaling smart without sacrificing ownership or speed. (00:00) - Introduction (00:32) - Meet Esben Friis-Jensen (02:30) - The Decision to Bootstrap (06:27) - Product-Led Growth Strategy (11:25) - Competing in a Crowded Market (18:54) - The Role of AI in Business Operations (22:08) - Efficiency and Execution in Small Teams (27:48) - Making Tough Decision (31:17) - Revenue Metrics (32:10) - Speed of Decisions (38:43) - Challenges and Benefits of Founder-Led Companies (40:49) - Joining a Bootstrapped Company  Never miss a new episode, join our newsletter on revenueformula.substack.com

In this episode, Jess and Jeremy chat with Radan Skorić, a long-time Ruby and Rails developer and team lead, co-organizer Ruby Zagreb, and author of the forthcoming book: Master Hotwire. We talk about Radan's background in software, his discovery of Rails in the mid-2000s, technical blogging, writing a book, and technical aspects of Hotwire.Related LinksRadan's BlogRadan's TwitterBook: Master Hotwire

In this remastered episode, I dive into the essential trait of discipline in entrepreneurship. I reflect on my experiences and share how discipline can be harder when you're working for yourself, especially when you're working from home. I also explore strategies for staying focused, setting priorities, and holding myself accountable. Drawing inspiration from The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, I offer actionable tips to help you stay disciplined on your entrepreneurial journey.

In this remastered episode of my Required Secondary Powers series, I dive into the importance of having a teachable spirit. I discuss how being humble and actively pursuing knowledge—whether through books, podcasts, or conversations—helps entrepreneurs grow. Staying open to learning, even when we think we know it all, is crucial to continued success. For a deeper dive, listen to my 2024 revisit here: Revisiting the Required Secondary Powers Series: A Teachable Spirit.https://www.atheoz.com/iocpod/2024/4/02/revisiting-required-secondary-powers-a-teachable-spirit

In this episode of the NCS Podcast Currents series, host Lauren Koffman, DO, MS, speaks with Clio Rubinos, MD, MS, and Rommel Morel, MD, about the urgent need to improve pre-hospital neurocritical care in low- and middle-income countries. They explore disparities in emergency response, the reality of patients arriving via family or bystanders and community-driven solutions like Colombia's Bootstrap consensus and Uganda's MOTOR trial. The conversation highlights how global collaboration, data-driven strategies and shared passion are essential to improving outcomes and reducing inequities in neurocritical care. Read the accompanying article:Traumatic Brain Injury in a Resource-Limited Setting: A Reflection on the Importance of Timely Interventions in Neurocritical Care Have questions or interested in collaborating?Contact the authors directly: crubinos@unc.edu rommellmorel121@gmail.com The views expressed on the NCS Podcast are solely those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or official positions of the Neurocritical Care Society.

In this episode, we deliver on their promise from the previous show — a wishlist of features they'd love to see in Power Pages (and none of them are AI). It's a mix of practical frustrations from real-world projects and some wild ideas for future innovation. What did we talk about? George's standing desk automation project — powered by Python, Bluetooth, and (eventually) Power Platform. Imagine your desk going up automatically before every meeting! Top Power Pages wishlist items: API to clear the cache — long-requested, simple sounding, yet still missing. Modern Forms — it's time to modernize the end-user experience beyond Bootstrap upgrades. Support for Quick View and Quick Create forms — why only Main forms? Multi-step form improvements — allow skipping between steps, especially when there are no conditions. Bring back Front-Side Editing — content editing without admin rights is a must for real CMS scenarios. Power Automate integration in forms and lists — run flows like classic workflows directly from UI. Framework agnostic design — let's dream big: support Tailwind, Foundation, or other CSS frameworks beyond Bootstrap.   What's next? How about a tour of Power Pages features that already exist — but almost nobody uses. Credits Cover image by chatGPT (inspired by terrible prompts) References rhyst/linak-controller: A Python script to control Linak standing desks Get in touch voice@crm.audio Nick Hayduk @Engineered_Code George Doubinski @georgedude

This week, Jess and Jeremy get into the nitty-gritty of resource allocation for indie makers: how to make the most of your limited time, energy, and capital. As solo and small-team entrepreneurs, we constantly have to make tough calls about where to invest. It's not just about money; it's about what will actually move the needle.They talk through the realities of running lean: how to balance building, learning, and staying sane along the way. From daily reading habits and favorite podcasts to managing information overload and keeping personal playbooks, they share the unpolished, behind-the-scenes strategies they use to grow without burning out.If you're bootstrapping, juggling roles, or just trying to make smarter bets with your time, this one's for you.

In this episode of Fintech Chatter, Dexter Cousins interviews Julian Fayad, CEO of LoanOptions.ai about the challenges and advantages of bootstrapping a fintech company from the ground up. LoanOptions.ai aims to revolutionise the loan application process. Julian shares insights into how they're using AI to build a mobile first loan application process.Julian first appeared on the show in 2023. We chat about his progress and the lessons he has learned over the past two years. Julian also talks about the transition from a broking business to a technology-focused company, and the launch of Synapses, the API services hub for Fintech! We also discuss the launch of HAILO and LoanOptions.ai, expansion into New Zealand and future plans for market expansion into the US and UAE.Find out more: https://loanoptions.aiChapters00:00 The Bootstrap Journey of a Fintech Founder02:12 Innovating the Loan Application Process10:45 Transitioning from Broking to Technology18:04 Launching New Products and Partnerships25:49 Building an API Services Hub for Fintechs26:48 Navigating B2B Partnerships and SaaS Pricing Strategies32:05 Transitioning from Brokerage to Tech: Lessons Learned35:21 Building a Cohesive Team and Company Culture39:47 Innovative Talent Acquisition Strategies41:45 Valuable Lessons in Business Partnerships46:22 Expanding Horizons: New Markets and Future PlansSend us a textSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp

In this episode of Small Business Black Holes, host Alan Pentz sits down with Tyler Hortin, Co-founder of Lion Energy, to explore bootstrapping a technology company from zero to $100M, managing rapid growth while maintaining profitability, and revolutionizing home and commercial power solutions. Whether you're scaling a product-based business or seeking insights on sustainable growth strategies, this conversation dives deep into the challenges of building teams, allocating capital, and maintaining quality through explosive growth phases. Tune in to discover how strategic reinvestment and disciplined product development can drive consistent business expansion. • Bootstrapping growth from startup to $100M in revenue • Balancing product development with profitability • Strategic approaches to hiring and team scaling • Managing multiple sales channels and product lines • Navigating manufacturing decisions and supply chain challenges

Why you should listenNathan Garing shares how he bootstrapped and scaled his NetSuite consulting business to include dedicated sales and marketing teams, revealing practical growth strategies beyond the "solopreneur with referrals" stage.Discover how to build a dual revenue model by transforming client-funded custom solutions into productized apps that can open doors to new customers and create recurring revenue streams.Learn Nathan's approach to marketing attribution in the complex B2B tech consulting space where sales cycles can stretch beyond a year, and why consistency across multiple channels ultimately pays off.Are you struggling to grow beyond referrals and wondering when's the right time to invest in dedicated sales and marketing resources? In this milestone 600th episode, I talk with Nathan Garing from Salora ERP about his journey building a thriving NetSuite consulting practice. Nathan shares how he overcame the fear of investing ahead of revenue to build a team that now includes three full-time salespeople and multiple marketing resources. We dive into his strategic transition from pure services to developing 40+ apps that both serve existing clients and attract new ones. Whether you're considering adding products to your service offering or trying to determine the right time to invest in growth, Nathan's bootstrapped success story offers valuable insights for tech consultants at any stage.About Nathan GaringNathan is a Co-Founder of Salora ERP, leveraging more than seven years of NetSuite consulting experience and a decade of accounting experience. He started his career managing over $250M in Accounts Payable across multiple locations and subsidiaries for a multi-national business using NetSuite as a user. He then transitioned into a NetSuite consultant role, leading implementations for clients. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his French Bulldog, Stella, and traveling.Resources and LinksSaloraerp.comNathan's LinkedIn profileSalora ERP on LinkedInPrevious episode: 599 - ​​What I Actually Do And Why It Matters to YouCheck out more episodes of The Paul Higgins ShowSubscribe to our YouTube channel: @PaulHigginsMentoringThe Tech Consultant's RoadmapJoin our newsletterSuggested resources

And I have a few things to say.In one of my rare directly-from-the-hotel-room-to-you episodes, I'll dive right into the many wonderful experiences of this uniquely amazing conference, and I'll share my biggest learnings with you right here.The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/i-went-to-microconf-in-new-orleans/ The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/382-i-went-to-microconf-in-new-orleansCheck out Podscan, the Podcast database that transcribes every podcast episode out there minutes after it gets released: https://podscan.fmSend me a voicemail on Podline: https://podline.fm/arvidYou'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.comPodcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcastNewsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletterMy book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.comHere are a few tools I use. Using my affiliate links will support my work at no additional cost to you.- Notion (which I use to organize, write, coordinate, and archive my podcast + newsletter): https://affiliate.notion.so/465mv1536drx- Riverside.fm (that's what I recorded this episode with): https://riverside.fm/?via=arvid- TweetHunter (for speedy scheduling and writing Tweets): http://tweethunter.io/?via=arvid- HypeFury (for massive Twitter analytics and scheduling): https://hypefury.com/?via=arvid60- AudioPen (for taking voice notes and getting amazing summaries): https://audiopen.ai/?aff=PXErZ- Descript (for word-based video editing, subtitles, and clips): https://www.descript.com/?lmref=3cf39Q- ConvertKit (for email lists, newsletters, even finding sponsors): https://convertkit.com?lmref=bN9CZw

In this episode of IndieRails, co-founders Ben Curtis and Joshua Wood share the origin story of Honeybadger, an application monitoring tool for Ruby on Rails applications (and many others). They discuss their motivations for starting the company, the challenges they faced in the early days. The conversation also covers their approach to product development, marketing, pricing strategies, expanding into new markets and the lessons learned from their journey.HoneybadgerBen CurtisMastodonBlueskyLinkedInJosh WoodMastodonBlueskyLinkedIn

In this episode, we explore the essential steps to take an idea and grow it to a seven or eight-figure brand, particularly focusing on Shopify and direct-to-consumer markets. Key points include optimizing product offerings, building a strong business model, creating a unique category, investing in conversion rate optimization, leveraging paid and organic traffic, and more. This comprehensive guide is based on years of experience and is packed with actionable insights aimed at helping you build and scale your Shopify store effectively. TOPICS DISCUSSED IN TODAY'S EPISODEGet the Product RightLaunch with a Flagship ProductSolve a Real ProblemEarly adoptersChoose Your VillainGet the Business Model RightCreate a MovementCreate Your Own CategoryPick a FightBuild a CommunityIrresistible offerTest Activation TacticsTurn Customers into MarketersInvest in Organic TrafficRetention is KeyInvest in Conversion Rate OptimizationMaster Meta and InstagramOptimize Google AdsUse Proven Tech StackKnow Your NumbersLaunch StrategyCalendar Your Marketing Resources:Jim Huffman websiteJim's TwitterGrowthHitThe Growth Marketer's Playbook  Additional episodes you might enjoy:Startup Ideas by Paul Graham (#45)Nathan Barry: How to Bootstrap a Company to $30M in a Crowded Market (#41)How I Met My Biz Partner and Less Learned Hitting $2M ARR (#44)Ryan Hamilton on his Netflix special, touring with Jerry Seinfeld, & how to write a joke (#10)How We're Validating Startup Ideas (#51) 

Tim Hewson is a successful business leader with experience in telecommunications, e-commerce, business management, and more. Since graduating from the Loughborough University of Technology in the UK with an Honours degree in Human Factors, Tim has accumulated 30+ years of experience as a telecommunications consultant and business builder. Over the past 20 years Tim has built LegalWIlls on online service that helps people write their Wills and other estate planning documents. Join Our Community of Canadian Entrepreneurs! Entrepreneurs are the driving force behind Canada's economy, and we're here to support them every step of the way. For exclusive insights, tips, and success stories from Canada's top business leaders, subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter. Want to stay ahead with the latest #entrepreneur podcasts, business strategies, and news? Don't miss out—subscribe to our bi-weekly newsletter for updates delivered straight to your inbox! Join thousands of Canadian entrepreneurs who rely on us for the resources they need to succeed.

In this episode of the Startup CPG podcast, Daniel Scharff speaks with three visionary founders who have built and scaled their businesses without external funding. Joining the discussion are Lisa Mastela of Bumpin Blends, Ben Bacon of Lentiful, and Jack & Tessa Schrupp of Drink Wholesome—leaders who have mastered lean operations, strategic growth, and creative problem-solving.Lisa shares how she turned a small investment into a $10 million revenue smoothie brand, leveraging unconventional marketing and scrappy operational tactics. Ben reveals how Lentiful grew from an idea to a profitable omnichannel brand, balancing DTC sales and retail expansion while staying lean. Jack and Tessa discuss how Drink Wholesome has scaled to $2 million in revenue with just two employees, focusing on product differentiation and strategic partnerships.This episode explores cost-efficient scaling strategies, organic customer acquisition, and practical insights into operating a CPG business without outside capital. Whether you're an early-stage founder or looking to refine your growth strategy, this conversation offers actionable takeaways from those who have successfully bootstrapped their way to success.Tune in to hear how these founders navigated challenges, optimized resources, and built thriving businesses—without giving up equity!Listen in as they share about:Lisa Mastela - Bumpin Blends- Overview- Bootstrapping Tactics- Marketing Approach- Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) & Retail ExpansionBen Bacon - Lentiful- Overview- Bootstrapping Tactics- Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) & Retail Expansion- Retail StrategyJack Schrupp & Tessa Schrupp - Drink Wholesome- Overview- Bootstrapping Tactics- Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) & Retail Expansion- Scrappy & Creative Growth StrategiesEpisode Links:Website: https://bumpinblends.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisamastela/ Website: https://eatlentiful.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminpbacon/ Website: https://www.drinkwholesome.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tessa-schrupp/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jack-schrupp-4a14a7a1/ Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.Show Links:Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics

Kristie Shifflette built a 13-location Orangetheory Fitness empire from scratch—bootstrapping a capital-hungry business, personally guaranteeing leases, and taking on risk most founders wouldn't touch. In the end, it paid off for Kristie and in this episode, you'll discover how to:  Bootstrap a capital-intensive business without giving up control  Reduce your risk when taking on an investor  Attract entrepreneurial employees who will care as much as you do  Think about the $10 million milestone (and why it matters to private equity)  Know when to take some chips off the table—and when to double down  Ace management presentations with an acquirer  Play hard to get (even when you want to sell)  Get an acquirer to bump up their offer   Max out an earn-out payment—even if you don't quite hit your targets  Spot an acquisition offer that's likely to be re-traded 

Jim is joined by Craig Swanson as they delve into the world of custom GPTs and their applications. They discuss how to utilize AI for tasks like copywriting and strategy development, and learn about the advancements in AI tools such as ChatGPT and Claude. They also showcase practical implementations, from setting up knowledge bases to effective prompt engineering. Tune in to see real-world examples of how custom GPTs can enhance productivity and creativity, and get insights on upcoming AI innovations and tools. TOPICS DISCUSSED IN TODAY'S EPISODEDevelopment of AI ToolsSelecting Appropriate AI ToolsCustom GPTs: Adding Personalization to AITechniques for Effective Prompt EngineeringUses of Custom GPTsCreating a Knowledge Base for GPTsExamples and Case Studies from Real-World ScenariosAdvanced AI Functions and In-depth ResearchExpanding AI in Teams and Future StrategiesConclusion and Future PerspectivesResources:Jim Huffman websiteJim's TwitterGrowthHitThe Growth Marketer's PlaybookAdditional episodes you might enjoy:Startup Ideas by Paul Graham (#45)Nathan Barry: How to Bootstrap a Company to $30M in a Crowded Market (#41)How I Met My Biz Partner and Less Learned Hitting $2M ARR (#44)Ryan Hamilton on his Netflix special, touring with Jerry Seinfeld, & how to write a joke (#10)How We're Validating Startup Ideas (#51) 

In this unique episode, Chris shares the unfiltered audio from a consulting call with an entrepreneur. Chris offers advice from his personal experience building multiple businesses to 7 and 8 figures in revenue.Here's what you'll learn in this episode:Why raising VC money might be a sign that your business model needs rethinkingThe advantages of bootstrapping a SaaS company to $5-10M ARRHow a SaaS + services model creates better financial outcomes and product developmentWhy "slow is fast" in building sustainable businessesThe dangers of rapid scaling and how it often leads to revenue regressionHow to structure equity and compensation in early-stage companiesThe math behind exit outcomes and why 100% ownership of a smaller company often beats partial ownership of a larger oneBuilding customer success into your model rather than outsourcing itWhy the feedback loop from direct customer service dramatically improves product developmentReal numbers from Chris's journey growing his agency from $11M to $22M and back to $12M–Thanks to our friends at Hatch for producing Revenue Vitals and all of Chris's short-form video and YouTube content. Hatch is a video-first content agency that creates short-form video content, video podcasts, original video series, and YouTube videos for B2B companies. Visit www.hatch.fm to learn more.

Our guest for this episode is Garrett Dimon. Garrett is a developer, author, conference speaker and multi time business owner. With some partners, he's recently formed a company called “Very Good Software” where they own and operate several SaaS apps. Garrett Dimon is a seasoned software developer and entrepreneur with a passion for front-end development and Ruby on Rails. His journey began in 1998, experimenting with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript before earning a Computer Science degree from the University of Texas at Dallas in 2000. Over the next eight years, he honed his skills in front-end development and information architecture through consulting roles with organizations of all sizes. During this time, he also shared his expertise through a column on front-end design and development for Digital Web Magazine.In 2008, Garrett started his entrepreneurial journey and launched Sifter, a bug and issue tracking application built with Rails, which he ran until its successful sale in 2016. His experience building and selling Sifter inspired him to write and self-publish Starting and Sustaining, a book about building and running SaaS applications. After Sifter, Garrett took some time off from entrepreneurship and joined Wildbit and then egghead. Eventually he went back on his own independent consulting where he helped clients Fireside.fm and Flipper. Little did he know that later on, he'd become part owner of these companies. In the fall of 2024 the one time business seller became the buyer. He, John Nunemaker, and Kris Priemer are operating Very Good Software, where fireside.rm and Flipper are core products. Links:GarrettDimon.comBlueSkyFireside.fmFlipperVery Good SoftwareBooksRecent podcast appearances:Taking Over Fireside with John Nunemaker & Garrett DimonMaster of Generators (with Garrett Dimon) | Dead Code

In our miniseries on GitHub Pages, we learn how to create a basic Jekyll site. To do this, we must install a modern version of Ruby, install its Gem Bundler, create a little placeholder site, and then serve Jekyll to view our site locally. We push it to GitHub where the GitHub Actions we learned about last time do their magic and create a real website all for free. But we didn't stop there. One of our goals is to create our own theme, and to build on what we get with Bootstrap. We actually download the source, not compiled version of Bootstrap and pick and choose the files we want to use. While learning about the standard conventions for directory structure in Jekyll sites, we'll also learn about Sass — Syntactically Awesome Style Sheets — and how Jekyll will turn them into standard CSS. It's a bit of a heavy lift in terms of a lot of moving pieces, but no one bit of this was hard to learn. It was great fun, and this is just the beginning of what we're going to learn about using Jekyll as a fully-functional content management system.

Waterboy built a thriving hydration brand with just $700 by focusing on one platform, capturing prelaunch interest, and pivoting quickly. Learn why restraint beats trying to do everything at once.For more on Waterboy and show notes click here.

In today's podcast, we dive deep into the journey of high achievers with Sherif Shakar, the CEO and founder of CEOS (Chief Executive Operating System). Sharif shares invaluable insights on how mindfulness can significantly benefit business leaders, emphasizing the importance of being intentional and creating space between stimulus and response. He elaborates on the challenges faced by CEOs managing large teams and offers tactical advice on managing time, focusing on the right tasks, and leading effectively. Sharif also discusses the transition from running small businesses to scaling up and the crucial role of a strong hiring process. If you're aiming to take your company to the next level and seek fulfillment in the process, this episode is a must-listen.TOPICS DISCUSSED IN TODAY'S EPISODEHappiness and AchievementMindfulness for Business LeadersAM and PM Bookends for SuccessCEOS: Chief Executive Operating SystemScaling Up: From Project Manager to CEOSharif's Journey and InsightsResources:CEO-SSherif Sakr LinkedInGrowth Marketing OS (Operating System) GrowthHitJim Huffman websiteJim's LinkedinJim's Twitter  Additional episodes you might enjoy:Startup Ideas by Paul Graham (#45)Nathan Barry: How to Bootstrap a Company to $30M in a Crowded Market (#41)How I Met My Biz Partner and Less Learned Hitting $2M ARR (#44)Ryan Hamilton on his Netflix special, touring with Jerry Seinfeld, & how to write a joke (#10)How We're Validating Startup Ideas (#51) 

In this episode, Jim and Jordan dive deep into creating ads that convert. Starting from asset essentials, they discuss product photography, lifestyle images, and UGC videos. They emphasize the significance of understanding customer personas and value propositions before creating ads. The video covers frameworks for ad testing, the importance of visual variety, and features real-world case studies, including e-commerce and B2B examples.Tune in for insights and strategies to boost your ad performance.  TOPICS DISCUSSED IN TODAY'S EPISODEIntroduction and Agenda OverviewEssential Assets for Effective Ad CreativeFrameworks for Crafting Targeted AdsVisual Variety and Testing StrategiesIterating and Optimizing Ad PerformanceCase Studies and Real-World ExamplesAI Tools for Ad CreationConclusion and Final ThoughtsResources:Jim Huffman websiteJim's TwitterGrowthHitThe Growth Marketer's Playbook Additional episodes you might enjoy:Startup Ideas by Paul Graham (#45)Nathan Barry: How to Bootstrap a Company to $30M in a Crowded Market (#41)How I Met My Biz Partner and Less Learned Hitting $2M ARR (#44)Ryan Hamilton on his Netflix special, touring with Jerry Seinfeld, & how to write a joke (#10)How We're Validating Startup Ideas (#51) 

Our first-ever IndieRails guest returns to the podcast just shy of two years later. Joe Masilotti shares about niching down on Hotwire Native, changes in the related open source libraries, the direction of his consulting work, his parental leave last year, and the process of writing his forthcoming book, Hotwire Native for Rails Developers. (Special discount for listeners in the episode!)Related LinksTwitterBlueskyWebsiteHotwire Native for Rails DevelopersPragmatic Bookshelf pageHotwire Native docsRails World 2023 Talk: Just enough Turbo Native to be dangerous

In this live session, Jim delves into the buzzword of the year: AI and its growth potential. We explore 11 AI prompts and tools designed to help businesses grow by working faster and smarter. Jim discusses strategic uses of custom GPTs, text and image generation, video creation, analytics, reporting, and website performance. We also share our experiences, both successes and roadblocks, in implementing these tools at our agency. Learn how these AI innovations can inspire and transform your business strategies, and discover practical steps to leverage AI effectively. TOPICS DISCUSSED IN TODAY'S EPISODEIntroduction and OverviewThe Power of AI in Marketing and GrowthCustom GPTs for Strategic GrowthEfficient Email Marketing with AIAI-Driven Image GenerationVideo Generation with AIAI for Analytics and ReportingOptimizing Website Performance with AIIntegrating AI Tools for Seamless WorkflowConclusion and Future InsightsResources:Growth Marketing OS (Operating System) GrowthHitJim Huffman websiteJim's LinkedinJim's Twitter Additional episodes you might enjoy:Startup Ideas by Paul Graham (#45)Nathan Barry: How to Bootstrap a Company to $30M in a Crowded Market (#41)How I Met My Biz Partner and Less Learned Hitting $2M ARR (#44)Ryan Hamilton on his Netflix special, touring with Jerry Seinfeld, & how to write a joke (#10)How We're Validating Startup Ideas (#51) 

In this episode, Jeremy & I are excited to share a mic with Jim Remsik. Jim is the Founder and CEO of a digital agency called Flagrant. He is also a conference organizer…he created and hosts the popular Madison + Ruby conference. Jim has held many roles:  MC, speaker, developer, CEO, conference organizer, writer and many more, but I imagine most people know him as someone who is an all around awesome human. Jim Remsik shares his journey through the tech industry, from his early days in software development to his transition from government work to agency life. He discusses building companies like Bendyworks and Flagrant, emphasizing how design and professional connections shaped his career path. The conversation follows his path from running Adorable to launching Flagrant, including the personal challenges he faced—health issues and navigating business during the pandemic. Jim reflects on the vital role of personal growth, team empowerment, and maintaining human connections in a remote-first world. Drawing from his agency experience, he shares how taking initiative and self-authorization were crucial to his entrepreneurial success. Throughout the discussion, Jim offers valuable perspectives on consulting and collaboration, emphasizing his core belief in actively supporting others' success. He explores the varied landscape of consulting work, industry uncertainties, and the power of personal mission statements. The conversation highlights how meaningful connections, purposeful work, and courageous leadership intertwine. Jim's guiding motto reveals how generosity and community-building shape his professional approach.Show Links:Socialshttps://bsky.app/profile/jremsikjr.bsky.socialhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jremsikjr/Flagranthttps://www.beflagrant.com/team/https://www.beflagrant.com/blog/author/jim-remsik/Conferenceshttps://www.madisonruby.com/https://rubyconf.org/about/Postshttps://medium.com/authority-magazine/jim-remsik-of-flagrant-five-things-i-wish-someone-told-me-when-i-first-launched-my-business-or-14699acfbda2https://www.beflagrant.com/blog/2024-predictions-2024-01-30https://devops.com/the-ruby-on-rails-resurgence/https://devops.com/the-ruby-on-rails-resurgence-2/Other Podcastshttps://shows.acast.com/dead-code/episodes/all-those-letters-that-you-do-with-jim-remsikhttps://www.codewithjason.com/podcast/14444689-211-jim-remsik-ceo-of-flagrant/XO Rubyhttps://bsky.app/profile/xoruby.comReadalong - Practical Object-Oriented Design: An Agile Primer Using Rubyhttps://app.thestorygraph.com/readalongs/5983b152-bf48-4ff3-aeb0-976ea67d0d08

In this solo episode, Jean-Martin Fortier takes a deep dive into the question: Is it still realistic to start a small organic farm today? Addressing both aspiring and seasoned farmers, he explores the financial viability of small-scale farming, the challenges of land access, and the shifting landscape of local food systems. JM emphasizes that, despite obstacles, small farms remain economically viable and play a crucial role in strengthening local economies and food sovereignty. With a call for unity in the face of growing corporate influence and climate change challenges, this episode is a rallying cry for farmers to stay resilient, engaged, and committed to the movement. PLEASE make sure to subscribe to the podcast, download our episodes, and rate them! Your support means the world to us. Thank you! Timestamps [03:22] The need for economic data on small farms [05:01] Challenges with policy & institutional support [08:51] Is it still realistic to start a small farm? [13:01] Social justice & small farming [16:06] The importance of local food systems [19:23] The corporate threat to local food [20:17] Ecology, community & lifestyle [26:17] The mindset of a successful farmer [30:40] The responsibility of experienced farmers [33:00] The global reach of the small farm movement [36:28] The need for farmer leadership & policy advocacy [37:51] The CANOPY program & strengthening farmer networks [38:46] The fragility & power of the small farming movement [40:14] Climate change & small farms as a solution Tessier  Use promocode MGI10 for 10% off and free shipping on your first purchase for the Eastern North American regions (Ontario, the Maritimes, and the states of Vermont, Maine, New York, and New Hampshire).  Bootstrap  https://bootstrapfarmer.com/marketgardenerpodcast Heirloom  Limited time offer of 20% off yearly subscription and use promocode PODCAST to get an extra month of free trial. Links/Resources Market Gardener Institute:  https://themarketgardener.com/  Masterclass:  https://themarketgardener.com/courses/the-market-gardener-masterclass/  Newsletter:  https://themarketgardener.com/newsletter Blog:  https://themarketgardener.com/blog  Books: https://themarketgardener.com/books Growers & Co: https://growers.co/ Heirloom: https://heirloom.ag/ The Old Mill: https://www.espaceoldmill.com/en/ Follow Us Website: http://themarketgardener.com  Facebook: http://facebook.com/marketgardenerinstitute  Instagram: http://instagram.com/themarketgardeners  Guest Social Media Links JM: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeanmartinfortier Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jeanmartinfortier 

In this episode, Jim and Jordan dive deep into the essentials of scaling Facebook and Instagram ads effectively, from a budget of $10 a day to $1,000 a day. The discussion covers critical aspects such as product-market fit, optimizing your website for conversions, segmenting ad campaigns, the importance of creative content, and more. Jordan also shares insider tips on managing advertising expectations, understanding conversion events, and a disciplined approach to budget increment. Practical examples, such as a case study with the brand 'Neat', are provided to illustrate successful strategies and approaches. TOPICS DISCUSSED IN TODAY'S EPISODESetting ExpectationsCommon Questions and Scaling AdsPreparing for Ad LaunchOrganic Sales and Business AnalysisMarket Positioning and Product FitWebsite Optimization for ConversionsLaunching Your Ad CampaignCreative Strategies and TestingScaling and Iterating Your CampaignFinal Thoughts and Next StepsResources:Growth Marketing OS (Operating System) GrowthHitJim Huffman websiteJim's LinkedinJim's Twitter Additional episodes you might enjoy:Startup Ideas by Paul Graham (#45)Nathan Barry: How to Bootstrap a Company to $30M in a Crowded Market (#41)How I Met My Biz Partner and Less Learned Hitting $2M ARR (#44)Ryan Hamilton on his Netflix special, touring with Jerry Seinfeld, & how to write a joke (#10)How We're Validating Startup Ideas (#51) 

In this episode of the Startup CPG podcast, Daniel Scharff dives into the strategies and challenges of bootstrapping with three inspiring founders who have transformed bold ideas into thriving businesses—all without outside funding.Ryan Hansen, co-founder of Hazards Hop Water, shares how he scaled a six-figure non-alcoholic beverage brand by targeting unique markets and forging key partnerships. Carrie Sporer, co-founder of SWAIR Hair, reveals how she's redefining hair care for fitness enthusiasts with her innovative showerless shampoo, all while navigating co-founder dynamics and scaling with strategic funding choices. Ketan Vakil, founder of Gourmend Foods, discusses his mission to revolutionize gut-friendly gourmet products and shares lessons on building a loyal customer base and staying lean through production challenges.These founders share valuable insights on navigating the challenges of bootstrapping, scaling effectively, and staying true to their vision.Listen now to learn the secrets behind their success and get inspired to tackle your next big idea!To submit your brand for a future call-in episode: https://bit.ly/cpgstoriesListen in as they share about:Ryan Hansen - Hazards Hop Water- Hazards Hop Water Overview-Bootstrapping Strategy- Revenue and Sales- Future PlansCarrie Sporer - Swear Hair- Swear Hair Overview- Bootstrapping Strategy- Funding Experience- Future PlansKetan Vakil - Gourmend Foods- Gourmand Foods Overview- Bootstrapping Approach- Challenges & Key Strategies- Achievements- Future PlansEpisode Links:RyanLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-hansen-mba-72795a56/ Website: https://hazardshopwater.com/ CarrieLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carriesporer/ Website: https://www.swairhair.comKetanLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ketanvakil/ Website: https://www.gourmendfoods.comDon't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.Show Links:Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics

As promised, we're back with part 2 of the Powershell Teaser. We pick up where we left off, starting with learning about parameter definitions and the advantages such a structured language affords us, including automatically generated help files and error checking. Bart updated the shownotes to include valuable resource links to take your PowerShell to a higher level. We walk through our plan for 2025, where Bart is going to teach us about GitHub Pages (which power the Programming By Stealth shownotes) and then how to change the style you see with Bootstrap to make it your own. After that we expect to get back to PowerShell but that's a ways down the road so things could change.

In the latest episode of Brand Growth Heroes, Fiona Fitz sits down with Craig Allen, the founder of Gold Standard Nutrition (GSN), who joins us from Selby, York. GSN has become a standout brand for its high-quality, healthy, and convenient frozen meals that taste amazing!At just 21, Craig launched GSN with a bold vision, growing it into a multi-million-pound business—all without any external funding.The idea for GSN was born 12 years ago during a family outing to a local Chinese restaurant with his Dad. That “light bulb” moment set Craig on a pathway to create a brand that thrives today as a case study in profitability, brand growth, and focused strategy.In this episode, Craig shares the triumphs and challenges of his entrepreneurial journey, highlighting how staying true to his vision and focusing on overlooked market opportunities propelled his success. Enjoy!Useful Links:Craig Allen LinkedInGSN websiteGSN FacebookGSN InstagramKey TakeawaysSpotting a Market OpportunityCraig reveals how he identified a gap in the high-protein, healthy frozen meals market and turned it into a thriving business.The Bootstrapping JourneyBuilding GSN without external funding wasn't easy. Craig discusses the challenges and rewards of starting and scaling a business from scratch.Hard Lessons in BusinessAn early hurdle forced Craig to downsize his team, teaching him valuable lessons about thoughtful growth, self-belief, and sound financial planning.Cash flow management became a critical takeaway after hard-won experiences.Staying Focused in EntrepreneurshipCraig's journey underscores the importance of adaptability, clarity of vision, and self-belief, even when navigating competitive pressures.The “Where-to-Play” StrategyGSN thrives by serving underserved markets—like police stations, gyms, and universities—rather than competing directly in crowded grocery aisles. This strategic focus has been a cornerstone of the brand's growth and scalability.Responding to Market NeedsGSN's rebrand from Goldstein Nutrition to GSN reflects a strategic pivot to resonate with mainstream audiences. This move expanded its appeal beyond bodybuilders, championing an inclusive vision for healthy eating.Looking Ahead: GSN's Future Growth PotentialCraig's commitment to “doing things properly” underpins the brand's success, and he shares exciting plans for the next phase of GSN's journey.If this episode inspires you to think about new ways to drive business growth, don't forget to click FOLLOW or SUBSCRIBE on your favourite podcast app and leave a review!You won't want to miss the next episode, in which Fiona Fitz talks with another successful founder of a challenger brand who shares more valuable insights into driving growth. Plus, your small gesture will be truly appreciated.The Brand Growth Heroes Mini MBA Powered by Alantra has opened (Jan 6th) - apply here!Please don't hesitate to join our Brand Growth Heroes community to stay updated with captivating stories and learnings from your beloved brands on their path to success!Follow us on our Brand Growth Heroes socials: LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.Thanks to our Sound Engineer, Gyp Buggane, Ballagroove.com and podcast producer/content creator, Kathryn Watts, Social KEWS

Join me as I reflect on 2024, discussing the challenges of delegation, business growth, and personal development. I'll share my key takeaways from managing Growth Hit and Neat, including the importance of consistency and overcoming setbacks. Discover my top five mindset drivers, favorite books, and new strategies for achieving goals in 2025. From implementing 'the one thing' daily to planning dad-daughter dates, get inspired to make this year impactful and rewarding! TOPICS DISCUSSED IN TODAY'S EPISODEThe Challenges of DelegationReflecting on 2024Growth Hit's Year of ConsistencyMindset Shifts and Key LearningsNeat's First Year Under New ManagementEntrepreneurial Adventures and Speaking EngagementsLooking Ahead to 2025Personal Goals and Simplifying LifeResources:My 2024 RecapGrowth Marketing OS (Operating System) GrowthHitJim Huffman websiteJim's LinkedinJim's Twitter Additional episodes you might enjoy:Startup Ideas by Paul Graham (#45)Nathan Barry: How to Bootstrap a Company to $30M in a Crowded Market (#41)How I Met My Biz Partner and Less Learned Hitting $2M ARR (#44)Ryan Hamilton on his Netflix special, touring with Jerry Seinfeld, & how to write a joke (#10)How We're Validating Startup Ideas (#51) 

In this episode, we explore 10 powerful leverage points that can transform your business and double your revenue. From optimizing ad creative and pricing strategies to innovative marketing tactics and global expansion, discover actionable insights and real-world case studies that demonstrate the impact of pulling the right levers. Learn how companies like Hotmail, Dollar Shave Club, Airbnb, and others achieved massive success through smart leverage points. Perfect for entrepreneurs and business leaders looking to work smarter, not harder. TOPICS DISCUSSED IN TODAY'S EPISODETripling Revenue with Simple StrategiesMindset Shift: Focusing on High-Impact ActivitiesIdentifying Leverage Points in Your BusinessHigh-Leverage Actions: Ad Creative, Pricing, and OffersCase Studies: Hall of Fame Leverage PointsPractical Examples: Implementing Leverage PointsGrowth Hit: Leveraging Content and OffersConclusion: Recap and Final Thoughts Resources:Growth Marketing OS (Operating System) GrowthHitJim Huffman websiteJim's LinkedinJim's Twitter Additional episodes you might enjoy:Startup Ideas by Paul Graham (#45)Nathan Barry: How to Bootstrap a Company to $30M in a Crowded Market (#41)How I Met My Biz Partner and Less Learned Hitting $2M ARR (#44)Ryan Hamilton on his Netflix special, touring with Jerry Seinfeld, & how to write a joke (#10)How We're Validating Startup Ideas (#51)