Podcasts about bootstrap

Sameer Narkar is the founder and CEO of Konnect Insights, a global SaaS company based in Mumbai that provides an omnichannel customer experience platform to consumer brands in 100 countries. Sameer created Konnect Insights in 2015 to help customer service teams respond to customers who mention their brands on social media. The product and company have expanded from a slow start working through marketing agencies in India to now distributing through ISV partners in all major global regions. The Konnect Insights product includes social listening, ticketing, reputation monitoring, and social media analytics. They have grown to 140 employees, hundreds of customers, and $7 million ARR--without any outside funding. In this episode, Sameer talks about: Selling through agency and ISV partners to grow efficiently Competing with large, well-funded software companies How he thinks about how AI can help them compete Why he hasn't sold the company or raised outside funding Quote from Sameer Narkar, founder and CEO of Konnect Insights “When you start a software company, you have all odds against you. You don't have enough money. There's no reason why customers would trust you against the established products. There is a 99% chance that you'll fail. “But if you're really passionate about what you're building, then don't look too far ahead. Try to achieve your smaller goals or get from zero to one. So just build something and get some early customers. We figured out a way for agencies to be interested in selling our solution to bring it to market. “Then meet directly with your end customers. It's very easy for tech founders to sit in the office and build a product the way they think. That doesn't work. Many founders think that if they take a half-baked product, they won't get another chance. But that's not the case. You need to build relationships to help you improve and grow..” Links Sameer Narkar on LinkedIn Konnect Insights on LinkedIn Konnect Insights website The Practical Founders Podcast Tune into the Practical Founders Podcast for weekly in-depth interviews with founders who have built valuable software companies without big funding. Subscribe to the Practical Founders Podcast using your favorite podcast app or view on our YouTube channel. Get the weekly Practical Founders newsletter and podcast updates at practicalfounders.com.

I am joined this week by the incredible Ari Krzyzek from Chykalophia Design and Development Studio. Ari is not only a design queen and best-selling author but also a passionate advocate for building women-led businesses. Her journey from a modest upbringing in Bali, Indonesia to becoming a successful entrepreneur in the United States is truly remarkable. Today, we dive deep into Ari's inspiring story of breaking cultural expectations, following her heart across the world, and building a thriving creative design and development studio from scratch. You'll hear about her early life in Bali, learning English from her tour guide father, rejecting a full scholarship to pursue her dreams, and the bold decision to move to the US for love and opportunity.  Ari shares the real challenges of starting a business with just $250, working at Sears while building her company part-time, and navigating the complexities of being married to your business partner. Her story is a testament to the power of resourcefulness, determination, and staying true to your vision even when the path seems impossible. Key Topics: How to start a successful business with only $250 and two laptops Moving to America as an immigrant entrepreneur with no credit history Rejecting a full scholarship to follow your entrepreneurial dreams Working at a corporate job while building your business on the side Running a business with your spouse and navigating money conversations at home Bootstrap business growth strategies and accessing grants for small businesses Transforming your relationship with money from scarcity to abundance mindset Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program and how it changed everything Connect with Ari online: Website: https://www.chykalophia.com/ https://arikrzyzek.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arichykalophia/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ari.krzyzek   Find more from Syama Bunten: Instagram: @syama.co, @gettingrichpod Website: https://syamabunten.com/ Download Syama's Guide to Getting Rich: www.syamabunten.com Big Delta Capital: www.bigdeltacapital.com

Jimmy calls in to Longmont, Colorado to chat with Leslie and Steve Kaczeus of Boot Strap Brewing. The husband-and-wife duo discuss how they got started as brewers, the importance of community, international distribution, and what it takes to keep a brewery alive for so long. Bootstrap was founded by Leslie and Steve Kaczeus in 2012, who left the high-tech industry to follow their dream of creating an adventurous craft brewery dedicated to producing a wide range of high-quality ales and lagers.

In this update episode, I explain why my podcast output has slowed down recently. I'm moving back to the United States ahead of my wife and kids to prepare for our family's big transition. Between sorting what to sell or ship, job hunting, and finding a new place to live, my time is limited.Because of this, I'm shifting to posting episodes only on Fridays. Depending on the week, it will be a remastered episode or a new one. I also want to update you on the delay of a previously announced interview due to technical issues, and thank everyone who supports the show during this busy season.

Hi, welcome to ValuationPodcast.com, a podcast and video series about all things related to business and valuation. My name is Melissa Gragg, and I'm a financial mediator and valuation expert in St. Louis, Missouri.We're speaking today with Mark Howley about small business success and exit strategies, and his passion is in talking about business, growing business, and public speaking. He also has a podcast that we'll talk about later, but today he's going to share his story about building a business with the exit in mind.And quite frankly, you guys hear me talking about this a lot—not only how do you grow a business, start a business, and market a business, but if you're not thinking about the end in mind, then I think we get distracted by the pretty logos and all of the fun social media. But quite frankly, there's really a process of starting a business—and then, how are you going to exit or monetize it at the end?Key Takeaways:1. Build a Business You Understand DeeplyMark emphasized the dangers of chasing business ideas you don't know. He initially considered buying companies in industries he didn't understand (like potato chips or trail mix) and quickly realized that deep domain expertise is crucial for long-term success. He succeeded by staying in the packaging industry where he already had knowledge, relationships, and leverage.2. Bootstrap with Discipline and Realistic ExpectationsMark cut his salary by 40%, managed household expenses down to the diaper, and lived lean for four years while growing his company. His message: entrepreneurship is not glamorous at first. You need financial discipline, a clear budget, and the willingness to sacrifice comfort in exchange for long-term freedom.3. Structure Your Business to Run Without YouOne of the key factors that made Mark's company valuable at exit was his team—not just his own leadership. Buyers aren't looking to buy you; they want to buy a system with a team that can keep the business profitable after you're gone. Mark built a team with defined roles and documented processes that could operate without his daily involvement.4. Expect the Sale Process to Be Grueling and Prepare for ItSelling a business is not a handshake deal. Mark shared how potential buyers will climb up your books, dig into every corner of your operation, and often reduce the final price in a "retrading" maneuver. He recommends having annual reviews, financial audits, and a strong attorney to survive due diligence and avoid getting steamrolled.5. Know Your Value—Then Be Ready to WalkWhen approached to sell, Mark didn't bite at the first offer and wasn't desperate to exit. This gave him negotiating power. He also warned entrepreneurs not to underestimate the emotional cost of letting go—or the financial risk if the buyer isn't properly funded. His advice: Know your EBITDA, understand deal terms like holdbacks and earn-outs, and don't sell unless the offer respects your value.Connect with Mark - LinkedInMark's Podcast and WebsiteMelissa GraggCVA, MAFFExpert testimony for financial and valuation issues  Bridge Valuation Partners, LLC  melissa@bridgevaluation.com  http://www.BridgeValuation.com  http://www.ValuationPodcast.com  http://www.MediatorPodcast.com  https://www.valuationmediation.com  https://www.thedivorceallies.com/Cell: (314) 541-8163Support the show

We've been having great fun in Programming By Stealth learning how to use Jekyll to create a website using GitHub Pages. This week Bart goes through the challenge he left us with last time — to add a nav bar to our little static website using Bootstrap 5 along with Jekyll and Liquid templates. Bart had a lot of fun with his solution so it was fun to hear him dust off the cobwebs on Bootstrap. Then we turn to learning about Jekyll's `includes` feature, which is reusable snippets similar to how TextExpander snippets let you write something and change it in only one place. The worked examples simplify the code in a way, and we learn how to use `includes` to create advanced image markup. I also enjoyed learning about Liquid comments and how you can create white space between sections of your code for ease of writing and debugging that then never show up in the resultant HTML.

In this episode of The Entrepreneurial You, host Heneka Watkis-Porter is joined by serial entrepreneur, award-winning filmmaker, published author, and tech startup expert Jason Sherman. As the founder and CEO of Bingo AI and Vengo AI, Jason shares how creativity, storytelling, and perseverance are vital for startup success—especially when launching a tech venture without venture capital. Storytelling in Filmmaking and Startups Jason draws parallels between filmmaking and entrepreneurship, pointing out that both require you to build a narrative that resonates with a specific audience. Whether it's a movie or a product, the story behind it matters. He explains that his journey began as a young programmer selling products in school, which laid the groundwork for his ventures today. According to Jason, storytelling helps attract investors and customers alike—especially when it's backed by relatable experiences and data-driven results. Avoiding Common Pitfalls in Bootstrapping Jason and Heneka delve into common mistakes new entrepreneurs make when bootstrapping. A major one, Jason notes, is building too much too soon without proper validation. He urges founders to test concepts first and let market feedback lead the way. While intuition has its place, he believes data should always have the final say. Jason reminds listeners that real success stems from understanding what people truly need—not what we think they need. What You'll Learn in This Episode: • Why storytelling is crucial for both filmmaking and entrepreneurship • The most common mistakes first-time startup founders make • How to validate a product idea before launching • Why chasing tech trends can hurt your startup • The role of AI in boosting innovation and human evolution • Key strategies for building a startup without venture capital • The importance of ethical considerations in AI product development COMMUNITY CONNECTION: Now it's time for our Community Connection segment! Listeners are invited to share their thoughts on today's episode or send in any questions they have for Jason or Heneka. Reviews, feedback, and questions can be shared via email at heneka@henekawatkisporter.com or by WhatsApp at 876-849-2571. Also, don't forget about the upcoming LeadHerShip Cruise, where leaders can network and grow aboard Royal Caribbean's Liberty of the Seas! This four-day event combines empowerment with transformative learning against the stunning backdrop of the Bahamas. Contact heneka@henekawatkisporter.com or WhatsApp 876-849-2571 for more details. CONTACT JASON SHERMAN: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonsherman76/ Website: http://jasonsherman.org/ TRENDING NOW: The global AI market is projected to reach $401 billion by 2028, yet 90% of startups fail within their first two years due to poor planning and lack of resources. Founders who bootstrap successfully retain 3x more equity than those who rely on venture capital funding. Jason's insights into ethical AI innovation and lean startup strategies couldn't be more timely. If you enjoyed this episode of The Entrepreneurial You, subscribe on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, leave a rating, and share it with your friends. Visit henekawatkisporter.com to download a free eBook on how to conduct podcast interviews like a pro! AFFIRM WITH ME: I am an innovative entrepreneur who turns challenges into opportunities. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Your traffic isn't the problem. Your ads aren't broken. Your positioning is off. And that's why you're stuck.In this solo episode, Jim Huffman shares a live coaching session that breaks down how to actually fix brand positioning — using case studies from Neat Apparel, GrowthHit, and breakout brands like Rocket Money, Warby Parker, and Figma. You'll learn how better positioning unlocks conversion rate gains, improves messaging, and becomes the foundation for scalable growth.This is the episode for Shopify founders ready to get serious about messaging, differentiation, and the real reasons customers buy.Key Topics Covered:Why your brand pitch likely isn't working (and how to fix it)Two frameworks to improve your positioning todaySpeaking to 3 customer types: informed, afflicted, and obliviousCase studies: Spanx, Truvani, Adam Shoes, Rocket Money & moreReal examples from GrowthHit and Neat Apparel's positioning playbookLearn live from Shopify experts. Join our biweekly AI-powered growth sessions - free for founders and marketers - https://shopifygrowthschool.com/ Resources:Shopify Growth SchoolGrowth 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 remastered episode, I begin the Holding You Back series by tackling fear, the most powerful and common thing that stops people from moving forward with their business goals. Fear is not just about danger; it often hides as self-doubt, uncertainty, or worry about what others might think. I explain how fear ties into many other obstacles and why learning to face it is the first step toward growth.I share practical insights on how fear can be a signal instead of a stop sign, helping you develop resilience and take action despite discomfort. If you have felt stuck or held back, this episode will give you a clearer path forward.

In this remastered episode, I introduce a new series called What Is Holding You Back? This series looks at the inner obstacles that can quietly sabotage your journey into entrepreneurship. Unlike physical challenges, these internal ones like fear, perfectionism, pride, or emotional paralysis are harder to spot and even harder to defeat.This episode sets the stage for everything to come. I break down the kinds of mindset and character issues we'll cover over the next several installments, and why these invisible forces often hold people back more than any external challenge. This is just the beginning. In future episodes, I'll unpack each of these roadblocks, starting with the biggest one: fear.

In this remastered episode I talk about how I jumped into my business with almost no plan. I thought I knew enough with my background and some balloon skills. I learned fast that's not enough.Bootstrapping helped me keep risk low while figuring things out step by step. I kept a side job for a safety net and spent a lot of time learning. If you want to start your business without risking everything, this episode shows how to balance action and preparation.

What if the polished ads you spent thousands on were actually hurting your brand?In this episode, we explore how real, imperfect content is outperforming big-budget campaigns — and why most Shopify founders are still getting it wrong.Jim Huffman sits down with William Gasner, co-founder of Stack Influence, to unpack the real power behind UGC (user-generated content) and why it's become a secret weapon for smart eCommerce brands. From influencer seeding to ad fatigue, they get brutally honest about what actually drives conversions in 2025 — and how founders can stop wasting money and start scaling with authenticity.Key Topics CoveredWhy UGC outperforms professional ads in today's marketThe overlooked value of product seeding (and how to do it right)How to build a content machine that fuels both ads and organic growthWhy creative freedom often leads to better results than tight scriptsThe truth about influencers, follower counts, and what really matters 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) 

In this special crossover episode, we make a slight departure from our typical format to chat with Adrian and Yaro from the Friendly Show and Jason from the Code with Jason podcast about a topic near and dear to our hearts: organizing regional Ruby conferences. Adrian is the organizer of Friendly.rb in Bucharest. Jason is the organizer of Sin City Ruby in Las Vegas. And as long-time listeners may know, Jeremy co-organized Blue Ridge Ruby in Asheville, NC back in 2023.

By Isaiah O'ConnorIn this remastered episode, I share how I jumped into my business with almost no plan. I thought I knew enough with my background and some balloon skills. I learned fast that's not enough.Bootstrapping helped me keep risk low while figuring things out step by step. I kept a side job for a safety net and spent a lot of time learning. If you want to start your business without risking everything, this episode shows how to balance action and preparation.

In this remastered episode, I talk about how we can typecast ourselves without even realizing it. I used to think typecasting was always a bad thing, but I have learned it depends on whether you can become passionate about that role. I share how this idea has shaped my career and how it might help you rethink yours.

Pour l'épisode de cette semaine, je reçois Phil Lehoux, CEO et cofondateur de Missive, une application collaborative de gestion d'e-mails, pensée pour les équipes qui vivent dans leur boîte mail.Missive, c'est une “shared inbox” qui permet aux équipes d'échanger en interne autour de leurs emails, mais aussi d'assigner, de planifier et de collaborer efficacement. Un produit né de la frustration de ses fondateurs face aux outils traditionnels comme Gmail ou Outlook, trop peu adaptés au travail en équipe.Avec Phil, on est revenus sur son parcours entrepreneurial commencé très jeune, notamment avec le succès de Conference Badge, un outil de création de badges pour événements, qui a notamment été propulsé par un partenariat avec Eventbrite. Une expérience qui a financé le développement de Missive pendant ses premières années.On a parlé :Du positionnement unique de Missive face à des concurrents comme Front,De la construction d'un produit robuste et horizontal, sans levée de fonds,De leur go-to-market atypique, centré sur le produit, le SEO et les pages "versus",De leur stratégie de pricing et d'acquisition client via un programme d'affiliation.Vous pouvez suivre Phil sur LinkedIn.Bonne écoute !Pour soutenir SaaS Connection en 1 minute⏱ (et 2 secondes) :Abonnez-vous à SaaS Connection sur votre plateforme préférée pour ne rater aucun épisode

We've all seen it. Products are rushed to market before they're ready. I break down two classic failures: Segway and Zune. Using the Go-Giver framework, I explore what happens when marketing runs ahead of real value. I walk through the good, the bad, and the ugly of launching too soon. I share observations that can help you market smarter without losing trust or long-term success.

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.

In this remastered episode, we unpack the reality of being a solo entrepreneur. Juggling marketing, accounting, design, and everything else. Perfection isn't required. Progress is. This episode will encourage you to embrace your learning curve, build the key skills needed to keep your business afloat, and know when it's time to delegate. Whether it's watermarking a photo or calling the tax office, every skill adds up.

In this remastered episode, I explore the idea that talent isn't just something you are born with. It's something you can build. Drawing from the story of the Polgár sisters and their father's bold educational experiment, I show how passion, practice, and perseverance can outpace natural ability.As Susan Polgar put it:“My father believes that innate talent is nothing, that [success] is 99 percent hard work. I agree with him.”Read more about their story in Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/articles/200507/the-grandmaster-experiment

In this remastered episode, Mike Rowe once said not to follow your passion, but to bring it with you. That challenged something I had written earlier:“What am I passionate about?” Or “What can I become passionate about?”— Isaiah O'ConnorThat second question—"what can I become passionate about?"—is the key. Passion isn't just something you follow; it's something you build, especially when it aligns with your values.In this remastered episode, I explore how I discovered new passions I never expected, and why both Mike and I might be right.

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 remastered episode, I explain why you need to stop marketing your product or service and instead focus on marketing the emotion it creates. As Jim Klein from NASP explains, “People buy products or services based on emotional needs or wants, and then justify their purchase logically.” Source https://programs.nasp.com/ckcommon/blog/articles.asp?blogID=7D39B48F-5570&uid=%7B1341187C-CABF-4504-9AC5-BCAA76CD29D9%7D&userName=jim-klein. Whether it's balloons or cars, what truly sells is the feeling. This remastered episode offers insights on how to shift your marketing strategy to connect more deeply with your customers.

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.

In this episode of SaaS Fuel, host Jeff Mains sits down with Adam Coughlin — Co-Founder, CMO, and Managing Partner at York IE — to explore how SaaS founders can craft powerful messaging, align teams, and build scalable go-to-market strategies that don't rely on buzzwords or bloated org charts.From the power of customer funding and finding your minimum viable audience to avoiding messaging mistakes that kill momentum, Adam shares a blueprint for creating story-driven marketing that actually works. Whether you're an early-stage founder or scaling to Series B and beyond, this episode will change the way you think about go-to-market.Key Takeaways00:00 - Intro: Customer-funded growth and audience-first strategy01:11 - Why company culture is your hidden growth lever02:20 - Messaging isn't enough — storytelling that resonates04:10 - Meet Adam Kaplan from York IE08:44 - Why founders default to jargon (and how to fix it)13:02 - Building a message that drives GTM, sales, and fundraising16:20 - Defining your Minimum Viable Audience20:08 - Bootstrapping and customer funding as strategic growth22:11 - The most common go-to-market mistake24:35 - What to do before you build a sales team28:03 - Adam's book pick: Small Fish Big Pond29:01 - Content that supports both SEO and sales34:04 - The power of message consistency across platforms37:41 - Leveraging founder brand without vanity43:02 - Staying grounded as a founder in chaotic markets45:03 - Why marketing is not just a departmentTweetable Quotes“A confused mind doesn't buy. Messaging must be simple, clear, and consistent.” – Adam Coughlin“Your story isn't just for marketing — it's how you align your team and scale your vision.” – Adam Coughlin“Customer-funded growth gives you optionality later — without giving up control early.” – Jeff Mains“Founders need to stop mimicking competitors and start telling their own story.” – Adam Coughlin“If your LinkedIn, blog, and sales team all sound different — you've already lost.” – Jeff Mains“Marketing isn't a department. It's a strategic engine that drives every other function.” – Adam CoughlinSaaS Leadership LessonsStart with your audience, not your product.A clear understanding of your minimum viable audience is more powerful than shouting into the void.Messaging is a team sport.If every team member tells a different story, you confuse the market — and confused minds don't buy.Ditch the jargon.Founders often invent new language, but if prospects don't understand it, you lose them.Customer funding beats investor pressure.Bootstrap when you can — early traction through real customers unlocks smarter long-term growth.Story drives go-to-market alignment.A consistent story across sales, marketing, and fundraising is your secret weapon in crowded markets.Your founder brand matters — if used right.Done well, it builds trust and community. Done poorly, it becomes a vanity distraction.Guest ResourcesEmail - adam@york.ieWebsite - http://york.ie/Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamcoughlin/Episode SponsorSmall Fish, Big Pond –

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.

Liz Long, co-founder of Nearshore.ai, shares her extensive knowledge on transforming innovative ideas into actual products. Liz discusses the critical steps in product design, manufacturing, and supply chain management, offering invaluable tips for startups and established businesses alike. With a background in launching successful brands and an accelerator, Liz provides a wealth of practical advice, from navigating production phases to leveraging global supply chains. She also explores current trends, the importance of specialized products, and effective inventory management strategies. Whether you are a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned professional, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you thrive in the e-commerce and manufacturing spaces. TOPICS DISCUSSED IN TODAY'S EPISODEStarting a Brand: The Initial StepsDesigning Your Product: Key ConsiderationsFinding the Right Factory and Supply ChainBudgeting and Cost ManagementNavigating Production and Quality ControlChoosing Manufacturing LocationsManaging Inventory and Cash FlowFinal Mile: Shipping and FulfillmentExploring Current Trends in Fashion and Product SpecializationThe Rise of the Drop Model and Its ChallengesLiz's Journey: From Reusable Shopping Bags to Product AcceleratorThe Transition to Nearshore and Its ImpactBalancing Work and Family: Liz's Personal InsightsConclusion 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) 

A few episodes ago, Garrett Dimon shared the story of how he sold his SaaS product Sifter. In this episode, we complete the story arc by catching up with JD Graffam, the buyer and current owner of Sifter. JD is an agency owner who started buying SaaS product companies in 2012. We talk about how his background, how he got started buying businesses, and his approach to making deals and finding the right people to work with.Relevant LinksJD's websiteJD's TwitterSimple FocusAudience OpsSifterBallparkMetalabGarrett's Episode

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.

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.

What if your hardest season became your biggest breakthrough?Ming Zhao built a $24M skincare brand in just 2 years—while pregnant and going through Y Combinator. This isn't just a startup story. It's a story of pressure, clarity, and purpose colliding at once.In this raw and revealing episode, Ming Zhao, CEO and co-founder of PROVEN Skincare, shares how she transformed corporate burnout into one of the fastest-growing beauty startups—scaling to $24 million in just 24 months. She opens up about building a data-driven business during one of the most demanding periods of her life, and how AI, science, and personal insight helped reshape the future of skincare.Key Topics Covered:How AI and data are transforming skincareThe Skin Genome Project explainedNavigating Y Combinator while pregnantBuilding a business model rooted in scienceLiving the “Love your job, live your life” mindsetResources:ProvenJim 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) 

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

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

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

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.