Keep Going
When you're going through Hell, keep going." This is a podcast about failure and how it breeds success. Every week, we will talk to amazing people who have done amazing things yet, at some point, experienced failure. By exploring their experiences, we can learn how to build, succeed, and stay humble. It is hosted by author and former New York Times journalist John Biggs. Our theme music is by Policy, AKA Mark Buchwald. (https://freemusicarchive.org/music/policy/) startupstrats.substack.com
Mon, March 24, 2025
Keep Going: Why hardware is hard
Startups are a grind. Hardware startups? Even tougher. This week on Keep Going , I sat down with CrackBerry Kevin (aka Kevin Michaluk), the guy who made BlackBerry blogging a thing, sold a media empire, and then jumped back into the game—this time with a physical product: Clicks, a BlackBerry-style keyboard for modern smartphones. From BlackBerry to Clicks Kevin built CrackBerry.com in 2007, turning it into the go-to site for BlackBerry enthusiasts. As BlackBerry rose, so did CrackBerry. As BlackBerry fell, well... Kevin was there for that too. He expanded into a broader media company with sites like Android Central and iMore, eventually selling the business in 2019. After a few years locked out of content due to non-competes, he got the itch to build again. That led him to Clicks: a physical keyboard for iPhones and now Android devices. The idea? Bring tactile typing back to smartphones without building an entirely new phone. The concept was simple, but making it a reality was anything but. CES and Going Viral Clicks exploded at CES 2024. Kevin and his team didn’t just launch a product; they stole the show. While CES has lost some of its luster, Clicks grabbed attention. Why? Nostalgia, simplicity, and an easy-to-understand pitch: "What if you could add a real keyboard to your iPhone?" That, plus years of media experience, meant they knew exactly how to get the right people talking. Hardware is Hard—But It’s Also Life Kevin says he wants to change the startup mantra from "hardware is hard" to "hardware is life." There are endless challenges: supply chain delays, manufacturing headaches, and constantly updating for new phone models. But the real grind? Figuring out how to scale smartly without burning through cash too fast. The Clicks team didn’t raise big venture money right away. Instead, they took a measured approach, building momentum before bringing in outside investors. They avoided the trap of raising too much, too soon, and burning through it before fully understanding their market. The Roadmap Ahead Clicks is now expanding beyond iPhones to Android devices, including a version for the Motorola Razr Flip. They’re also thinking beyond keyboards, looking at how cases can be smarter and more useful. The goal? To build a consumer tech brand that sticks, not just a one-hit wonder. Lessons from a Serial Founder Kevin’s biggest takeaway from his years in media and now hardware? Know when to push forward, but also when to pivot. His first post-BlackBerry venture, a wellness supplement brand, didn’t work out. That failure made him double down on what he knew: differentiated products with a built-in audience. Keep Going If there’s one thing Kevin embodies, it’s persistence. From blogging to hardware, he keeps jumping into the deep end, learning as he goes. Whether Clicks becomes a household name or just a cult favorite, one thing’s clear—he’s not stopping anytime soon. For mo
Mon, March 17, 2025
Keep Going: The hardest choice in startups
Startups are hard. Anyone who’s built something from scratch knows the struggle. Some days you feel unstoppable, and other days, quitting seems like the only option. This week on Keep Going , I sat down with Spenser Skates , CEO of Amplitude , to talk about the challenges of staying the course, the moments when giving up seemed like the rational choice, and what ultimately made the difference in his journey. The Early Struggles Spenser co-founded Amplitude 13 years ago. The company, now a public entity generating $300 million in annual recurring revenue, wasn’t always a sure bet. Before Amplitude, Spenser worked on a different startup, Sonalight, which didn’t gain traction. Despite having a few hundred thousand downloads, retention was weak, and it became clear it wouldn’t be a breakout success. Instead of walking away from the startup world altogether, he and his co-founders went back to the drawing board. Amplitude was born from their own need to understand user behavior through data. But early on, raising money was brutal. Investors weren’t convinced. For nine months, Spenser scraped together funding in $50,000 increments, often making it seem like they had more momentum than they actually did. At one point, a premier Silicon Valley investor told them, “We love you guys, but we hate your idea.” That’s a gut punch. When to Stick With It So how do you know when to quit and when to push forward? For Spenser, a key realization came from reading Founders at Work by Jessica Livingston. The book highlighted how almost every successful startup had a point where, rationally, they probably should have quit. But the founders didn’t. That stuck with him. He and his co-founder made a pact: they’d give Amplitude at least two years before even thinking about walking away. That decision paid off. Amplitude’s early customers saw real value in their product analytics tools. They launched in 2014, and by shifting focus from product development to sales, they went from zero to $1 million in ARR in nine months. By 2015, they had five offers for a Series A. Then the real growth began: $1 million to $4.5 million, then to $13 million, then to $31 million. The numbers kept climbing. The Real Challenge: Staying in the Game Startups don’t just fail because they can’t raise money or because the idea isn’t viable. Many fail because the founders quit. Spenser shared some eye-opening statistics: one-third of Y Combinator startups experience major co-founder conflicts, and even among successful SaaS companies, most founders leave within 7-10 years. The drop-off rate is high, even for those who have “made it.” So why is Amplitude still going strong? It comes down to resilience. Spenser and his team didn’t jus
Wed, March 12, 2025
Startup Show: An off switch for your brain
I’ve interviewed hundreds of founders, but this was a first—I talked to a married couple who built a business together. Lisa and Paul Juris, founders of Somo Sleep Fitness , joined me on The Startup Show to talk about their sleep mask that does more than just block light. The idea started with a simple problem: light disrupts sleep. But Lisa and Paul went deeper. They found that 63% of people struggling with sleep weren’t just dealing with light pollution—they were battling stress, anxiety, and an inability to shut off their brains. Instead of adding tech, apps, or wearables, they looked at acupressure. Their mask applies gentle pressure to the yin-tong acupoint, the spot between your eyebrows that has been clinically linked to reducing stress. It’s the same pressure point used in hospitals like Memorial Sloan Kettering and Mass General to help patients relax. With a patent in hand, Lisa and Paul focused on making their product better—comfortable, adjustable, and built for real-world use. Then came the moment every founder dreams of. They sent samples to a few industry contacts, and Oura—yes, that Oura, the sleep-tracking ring company—reached out. Instead of feedback, Oura placed an order for 6,000 masks. They wanted to include it in their global referral program, and suddenly, Somo Sleep Fitness wasn’t just a side project. It was a business. With no outside funding, Lisa and Paul had to figure everything out—manufacturing, logistics, global fulfillment—on the fly. They didn’t just make it work, they built things methodically using the skills they gained over long careers. They hustled, adapted, and stayed focused on what mattered: making a product that people actually love to use. And that’s the key. When people start tracking their sleep with an Oura ring or Apple Watch, they see the difference. Athletes, parents, travelers, even an entire national soccer team have adopted the mask. Customers send messages at all hours asking for replacements after losing theirs. Parents buy extras after their kids steal them. Now, Lisa and Paul are expanding. They’re working on a version for kids—because, apparently, 76% of parents are giving their children melatonin just to get them to sleep. They’re also exploring m
Mon, March 10, 2025
Keep Going: How to survive federal prison
Mark Rizzn Hopkins didn’t set out to be a cautionary tale. He was deep in the crypto world, doing what thousands of others were doing—buying and selling Bitcoin. But one transaction, involving a client unknowingly caught in a scam, put him under federal scrutiny. A missing FinCEN form, a technicality buried in new regulations, led to a raid, a legal battle, and ultimately, a year in federal prison. For most people, that would be the end of the story. But Mark didn't give up . Prison changes people. You spend your time thinking about the little things you took for granted—a shower at the right temperature, a mattress with more than a half-inch of padding, a handshake with a friend. When Mark got out, he didn’t waste time. He had already mapped his next steps. He knew his career in mainstream industries was over, so he leaned into the one space that would take him back—crypto. But Mark’s story isn’t just about rebuilding. It’s about seeing the system for what it is. He went in believing he was one of the few who got caught up in something unfair. He came out realizing that the entire prison system is filled with people like him—people who made small mistakes, people who were in the wrong place at the wrong time, people who got chewed up by a system that needed numbers more than it needed justice. Instead of running from it, he stepped into advocacy. He worked with Free Ross DAO, a group pushing to free Ross Ulbricht, the founder of Silk Road. Through a mix of activism and unexpected connections—including a conversation with Donald Trump—Mark became one of the voices pushing for Ulbricht’s release. And it worked. Ross didn’t just get a commutation—he got a full pardon. Mark’s story is about more than Bitcoin or prison or politics. It’s about resilience. About how, when the world decides to knock you down, you decide whether you get back up. He’s not asking for pity. He’s not trying to erase what happened. He’s just showing up every day and doing the work. Because that’s what you do.
Thu, March 06, 2025
Keep Going: How one comedian almost had it all
On this episode of Keep Going, I talked with Dan White—comedian, writer, and self-described "improv pervert"—about failure, creative perseverance, and that time he came this close to being Jake from State Farm. Dan is one of the funniest people on Twitter, and I brought him on because, frankly, I needed some joy in my life. But as it turns out, his story is as much about resilience as it is about humor. We dug into what it's like to chase success in a creative field, deal with setbacks, and somehow keep pushing forward even when the world (or a national focus group) tells you no. Failure, but Make It Funny Dan’s journey started in competitive sports, running track in high school and college. In that world, success is easy to measure—you either ran faster than the next guy, or you didn’t. But in comedy and acting, there’s no clear metric. You can crush an audition and still not get the part. You can write a brilliant joke and watch someone else go viral for something worse. His biggest almost moment? He was one of the final contenders to be the new Jake from State Farm—a gig that would have been life-changing financially. He nailed the audition, had an inside connection, and waited through the holidays thinking maybe, just maybe, this was his big break. Then, in January, the email came: "Not gonna be this one. Good luck." The worst part? State Farm did a focus group, and apparently, America overwhelmingly preferred the guy who got the role. Imagine losing out on millions and having it publicly confirmed that the entire country thought you just weren’t quite right. If that wasn’t brutal enough, years later, a friend casually mentioned that the guy who landed the gig was also a massive ladies' man in college. Just one more reminder that life isn't fair.
Mon, February 17, 2025
Keep Going: How to be kind
The workplace isn’t exactly known for being a warm and fuzzy place. Stress, pressure, and the relentless pursuit of profit usually take priority over things like employee happiness. But what if that’s the wrong approach? On this episode of Keep Going , I talked to Shereen Eltobgy , the Chief of Belief at Kindr Workplaces —a new initiative that aims to make kindness a core part of company culture. It sounds idealistic, but it’s rooted in hard science. Studies show that happier employees lead to better productivity, stronger customer relationships, and ultimately, more successful companies. So why aren’t more businesses making this a priority? The Zappos Experiment Shereen’s journey into workplace happiness started in an unlikely place—Zappos. Before it became an e-commerce giant, Zappos was just another online shoe retailer. But under Tony Hsieh’s leadership, the company made a radical bet: culture matters. Employees weren’t just workers; they were part of something bigger. Their values were aligned with the company’s mission, and their well-being wasn’t an afterthought—it was the strategy. The results were undeniable. Zappos employees weren’t just showing up for a paycheck—they believed in what they were building. And happy employees translated into happy customers, which translated into serious business success. That’s what Kinder Workplaces is trying to replicate: a workplace culture where people don’t just survive—they thrive. Can Kindness Scale? This is where most skeptics come in. It’s easy to build a strong culture when you’re a small, fast-growing company like Zappos was in its early days. But what happens when you’re a legacy company that’s been around for 50 years? What happens when your employees are there just to collect a paycheck? According to Shereen, it’s possible—but it starts with leadership. She’s seen firsthand how large organizations, including a 60,000-person healthcare company, completely transformed by prioritizing connection, resilience, and empathy. The CEO led the charge—not with empty buzzwords, but by actually showing up for employees, making culture a company-wide priority. The result? A massive jump in customer satisfaction and engagement. The Business of Happiness For years, companies have talked about employees being their greatest asset. But when times get tough, that’s often the first thing that gets ignored. Stress and burnout are treated as unavoidable side effects of high performance. But the research—and real-world case studies—prove otherwise. When people are engaged, valued, and supported, they work harder, innovate more, and stay longer. It’s not just good for morale—it’s good for business. Shereen calls it mindful kindness—a structured, intentional way to integrate kindness into leadershi
Mon, February 10, 2025
Keep Going: How to breathe (plus a bonus breath work session at the end of the episode)
On this week’s episode of Keep Going , I spoke with Hannah Cohen , a somatic coach and transformational guide specializing in breathwork and sound healing. In today’s world of relentless pressures, both personal and professional, Hannah’s work offers tools to navigate the noise and reconnect with the body and self. Creating Space to Breathe Hannah believes the first step to finding balance is carving out intentional time away from technology and daily distractions. By grounding yourself—placing your feet on the earth or simply tuning into your breath—you create the opportunity to reconnect with your inner world. This practice, she says, can help anyone, from high-pressure CEOs to individuals overwhelmed by today’s constant stream of news and demands. CrankWheel is a 10x simpler screen sharing solution, tailor-made for sales professionals. Add a screen sharing presentation to your sales call in 10 seconds flat. Your prospect clicks a link that you send by text message or email and immediately sees your presentation - no download or registration, even on their mobile device. Breathwork is at the core of Hannah’s practice. She highlights techniques like holotropic breathing, which involves a pattern of deep breaths into the belly, chest, and then a release. This method can activate the vagus nerve, calm the nervous system, and allow for emotional release. Hannah encourages journaling after these sessions to reflect on patterns, themes, or emotions that emerge. The Power of Sound Sound healing is another tool Hannah champions. Whether through humming, sound baths, or working with instruments like gongs or bowls, sound creates a space for energy release and self-exploration. She explains how sound can help process emotions like anger or grief, clear stagnant energy, and foster a deeper connection to the self. Hannah emphasizes that sound doesn’t have to be complicated. Simply listening to the wind in the trees, a favorite song, or even experimenting with your own voice can be powerful. For those looking to explore sound healing more deeply, she suggests seeking out local practitioners or group sound baths, which often create a shared space for healing and connection. Try SubMarket.pro to advertise in newsletters like this one Want to tap into newsletter audiences without the usual affiliate hassles? Submarket lets you pay newsletter owners only when their readers actually click your links. No upfront fees. No complicated codes. Just direct access to engaged newsletter audiences and crystal-clear analytics on every click. Test it out - create your first link in under 60 seconds. Overcoming Skepticism For those skeptical of these practices—or those who feel too busy to try—Hannah offers gentle encouragement. Even setting aside 10 minutes a day for focused breathing
Thu, February 06, 2025
Editor-In-Grief: Why journalism sucks right now
NOTE: This episode contains bad words. On the latest episode of Editor in Grief , Jim and I sat down with journalist and columnist Brian Karem to talk about the state of journalism today. Brian, a veteran reporter and host of Just Ask the Question , pulled no punches as we discussed what he calls "bend over and take it in the a** journalism." CrankWheel is a 10x simpler screen sharing solution, tailor-made for sales professionals. Add a screen sharing presentation to your sales call in 10 seconds flat. Your prospect clicks a link that you send by text message or email and immediately sees your presentation - no download or registration, even on their mobile device. Want to tap into newsletter audiences without the usual affiliate hassles? Submarket lets you pay newsletter owners only when their readers actually click your links. No upfront fees. No complicated codes. Just direct access to engaged newsletter audiences and crystal-clear analytics on every click. Test it out - create your first link in under 60 seconds. The Problem with Decorum Journalism Jim kicked things off by defining what he calls "decorum journalism," where reporters avoid asking tough questions to maintain access, keep sources happy, or avoid backlash from fellow journalists. Brian took that further, arguing that the real problem is a mix of inexperience, access journalism, and corporate consolidation. The old model—where seasoned reporters asked tough questions and held power to account—is fading fast. Instead, we have newsrooms filled with younger, less experienced reporters who are hesitant to challenge authority. Brian pointed out that his mentors, Sam Donaldson and Helen Thomas, instilled in him the importance of asking questions—whether or not they get answered. “It doesn’t matter what the question is. It doesn’t matter if they answer it. It just matters that you ask it. That way you’ve put the issue on the record.” The White House Press Room: A Case Study in Groupthink We talked about how the White House press briefings have become performative. Brian recalled moments where reporters would speculate about what an official meant rather than just reporting what was actually said. That speculation would then turn into anonymous sourcing—one journalist repeating another's educated guess as insider information. He also shared stories about how institutional knowledge has vanished from the front row of the briefing room. Where there used to be decades of experience, there’s now a fraction of that, and it shows. “The problem in that briefing room is not just a lack of education, responsibility, and experience,” Brian said. “It’s the idea that you’ve never covered a beat before. You don’t know what the you’re doing.” The Real Cause: Corporate Consolidation One of the biggest threats t
Wed, February 05, 2025
Personal Nirvana: How to grow (and take) mushrooms
If you’ve been following along, you know we don’t just skim the surface—we dig deep into the dirt yogurt. This week, my co-host, Dr. Marcel Green, and I took on one of our favorite topics: psychedelic mushrooms. From their ancient history to their modern resurgence, we explored what makes these fungi so fascinating. Try SubMarket Want to tap into newsletter audiences without the usual affiliate hassles? Submarket lets you pay newsletter owners only when their readers actually click your links. No upfront fees. No complicated codes. Just direct access to engaged newsletter audiences and crystal-clear analytics on every click. Test it out - create your first link in under 60 seconds. Social for Social GoodOfficeHounds Social Media Agency will donate $50 every month to fund at least 2 doses of life-saving opioid overdose-reversing medication to an addiction recovery non-profit for every new customer who mentions Social for Social Good when they place an order.One social media customer who works with us for a year can save 24 lives! Our social media packages start at $300 per month, and we’ve been helping businesses get found online since 2009. All you have to do is like and share the social posts on our website to help spread the word. Let’s do some Social for Social Good Together! A History Rooted in Rituals and Science Psychedelic mushrooms, also known as psilocybin mushrooms, have been around for thousands of years. Indigenous cultures in Mesoamerica, particularly the Aztecs, referred to them as teonanácatl , meaning “flesh of the gods.” Spanish missionaries recorded their ritualistic use as far back as the 1500s, but, like most things that didn’t fit into colonial narratives, they were suppressed. Fast forward to the 1950s, when amateur mycologist R. Gordon Wasson traveled to Mexico and encountered the sacred mushroom ceremonies firsthand. He wrote about it in Life magazine, sparking Western interest in psychedelics. This research led to figures like Timothy Leary and Richard Alpert (later Ram Dass) promoting their mind-expanding potential—until the counterculture movement prompted governments to crack down in the 1960s. There are over 200 species of psilocybin mushrooms, but some stand out: * Psilocybe cubensis – The most well-known and widely cultivated. * Liberty Caps (Psilocybe semilanceata) – Small but incredibly potent, found in North America and Europe. * Psilocybe azurescens** – One of the most potent species, native to the Pacific Northwest. * Psilocybe cyanescens (Wavy Caps) – Common in wood chips and gardens. A simple way to identify psilocybin mushrooms? They bruise blue when handled, a telltale sign of their active compounds. How They Work: Effects and Experience When ingested, psilocybin converts to psilocin in the body, interacting with serotonin receptors in the brai
Mon, February 03, 2025
Keep Going: How to succeed without venture capital
On the latest episode of Keep Going , I sat down with Adam Leeb, the founder and CEO of Astrohaus, the company behind Freewrite —a set of distraction-free writing tools designed to give writers a focused and productive experience. Adam’s journey over the past decade is a fascinating look into the challenges and successes of building a niche hardware company. Try CrankWheel CrankWheel is a 10x simpler screen sharing solution, tailor-made for sales professionals. Add a screen sharing presentation to your sales call in 10 seconds flat. Your prospect clicks a link that you send by text message or email and immediately sees your presentation - no download or registration, even on their mobile device. A Vision for Focused Writing The idea for Freewrite was born in 2014, during a conversation about distraction-free software. Adam wanted to take this concept further by creating a dedicated, standalone writing tool. He envisioned a device with a mechanical keyboard for an enjoyable typing experience, an E Ink screen that’s easy on the eyes, and cloud-syncing capabilities. What began as a Kickstarter campaign has since grown into a product line with three distinct models: the original Freewrite, the portable Traveler, and the more budget-friendly Alpha. Sustainability Without Venture Capital Astrohaus has managed to thrive for a decade, a feat many hardware startups fail to achieve. According to Adam, part of the company’s longevity stems from avoiding venture capital funding. Instead of chasing growth at all costs, Astrohaus focused on sustainable business practices. For instance, they were conservative with inventory, a strategy that sometimes left them out of stock but avoided the financial pitfalls of overproduction. By prioritizing cash flow and profitability, the company weathered challenges like factory closures and the pandemic, becoming profitable in 2020. Advertise here for free! Want to tap into newsletter audiences without the usual affiliate hassles? Submarket lets you pay newsletter owners only when their readers actually click your links. No upfront fees. No complicated codes. Just direct access to engaged newsletter audiences and crystal-clear analytics on every click. Test it out - create your first link in under 60 seconds. If you create an ad I’ll add it to the next newsletter that goes out to almost 120,000 people weekly FOR FREE for a limited time. Thanks! The Role of Community Writers have always been at the heart of Freewrite’s success. Adam and his team actively engage with their community on platforms like Reddit, Facebook, and Discord, listening to feedback and building trust. While managing a community can be demanding, Adam emphasizes the value of direct interaction. Writers not only use Freewrite products but often recommend them to others in their circles,
Mon, January 27, 2025
Keep Going: How this founder fought AI and won
When Joaquín Cuenca Abela first saw DALL-E, he knew his company needed to change. As CEO of Freepik , a platform that started as a search engine for free images and grew into a major provider of illustrations and vectors, he recognized that AI image generation would transform the creative industry. Keep Going - A Guide to Unlocking Success is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. "I remember DALL-E 1 - it was getting there but not quite. With DALL-E 2, I flipped," Cuenca Abela says. "I realized this technology would keep improving. To some extent, our company could become obsolete." Try SubMarket, a new tool to advertise in newsletters Want to tap into newsletter audiences without the usual affiliate hassles? Submarket lets you pay newsletter owners only when their readers actually click your links. No upfront fees. No complicated codes. Just direct access to engaged newsletter audiences and crystal-clear analytics on every click. Test it out - create your first link in under 60 seconds. Rather than resist the change, Freepik embraced it. The company, based in Málaga, Spain, assembled teams to work on AI models and build user-friendly products. They started with a text-to-image generator and gradually expanded their AI capabilities, developing workflows and eventually their own models. This approach sets Freepik apart from competitors. While Shutterstock and Getty Images opted to work with external partners like OpenAI and NVIDIA, Freepik invested in building internal AI expertise. "They really didn't go themselves into iterating with this tech," Cuenca Abela notes about his competitors. The pivot seems natural given Freepik's history of innovation. The company began as a vertical search engine for free images, built by three founders including Cuenca Abela, who previously worked at Google. When a major image provider asked them to remove their content, Freepik adapted by creating their own illustrations and vectors based on user search data. Spend your time selling, not teaching Zoom CrankWheel is a 10x simpler screen sharing solution, tailor-made for sales professionals. Add a screen sharing presentation to your sales call in 10 seconds flat. Your prospect clicks a link that you send by text message or email and immediately sees your presentation - no download or registration, even on their mobile device. This business model helped Freepik gain popularity in emerging markets where users often can't afford premium stock images. With traffic levels two to four times higher than traditional stock photo sites, Freepik could offer lower prices while still paying market rates to creators. On the ethical implications of AI art, Cu
Fri, January 24, 2025
Personal Nirvana: How does ketamine therapy work?
When we started Personal Nirvana , the idea was simple: explore the world of psychedelics, self-care, and mental health, and see what sticks. I don’t claim to be the expert here—that’s where my co-host, Dr. Marcel Green, comes in. Marcel’s the brain of this operation, a guy who’s spent years helping people navigate the murky waters of their mental health with tools like ketamine therapy. I just ask the questions, hopefully the ones you’d want answers to, and he breaks it down for us. In this episode, we dug into ketamine therapy—a treatment that’s getting a lot of buzz lately but still feels misunderstood by most people. It’s not the sort of thing you just jump into without knowing what you’re doing, and Marcel made that clear right out of the gate. Try SubMarket Turn your newsletter into a revenue stream. Add vetted, relevant ads to your content in minutes. You keep control - pick only the advertisers that match your style and values. Set your own rates, choose your schedule, and earn from the audience you’ve built. Right now, during our launch period, newsletter owners can join SubMarket at no cost. That means you keep 100% of your advertising revenue while we build the best marketplace for newsletter advertising. Why newsletter owners choose SubMarket: * Full control over which ads appear in your newsletter * Direct connections with vetted advertisers in your niche * Simple integration - just copy and paste the ad content * Get paid on time, every time * No contracts or commitments * Free to join during our launch phase Join other leading newsletter writers who are already earning through SubMarket. Sign up takes less than 5 minutes. Managing Chaos: Marcel’s Take Before we even got to ketamine, we talked about the state of the world. Let’s be honest—it’s been rough out there for the past few years. How do you stay sane when everything feels like it’s spiraling? Marcel’s advice is surprisingly simple: stay present. It’s not about ignoring what’s going on around you, but about choosing what you let into your space. He talks about being intentional with what you consume—whether it’s the news, social media, or even the conversations you have—and making sure those things add something positive to your day. It’s not groundbreaking advice, but it hits differently when you hear it from someone like him. What Is Ketamine Therapy, Really? Then we got into the meat of it: ketamine. Marcel explained that ketamine is a dissociative psychedelic, which basically means it can help you step outside your usual thought patterns. That sounds nice in theory, but it also comes with risks if you don’t approach it carefully. The whole point of using ketamine in therapy is to safely create this altered state, so you can gain new
Fri, January 24, 2025
Keep Going: How to survive for two years with no salary
In a recent episode of the Keep Going podcast, hosted by John Biggs, Evan Wray, CEO and co-founder of Mavely , shared his entrepreneurial journey. Mavely , a platform empowering everyday influencers, has carved a niche in the creator economy, facilitating over $1 billion in sales through its network of creators. During the conversation, Wray unpacked the challenges and milestones of building Mavely, offering valuable lessons for entrepreneurs navigating their own paths. What is Mavely? Wray describes Mavely as an "everyday influencer platform," enabling anyone with an approved social media account to promote their favorite products and earn commissions. Unlike traditional influencer marketing focused on celebrities, Mavely targets everyday creators who connect with niche audiences. This approach has democratized the influencer space, turning casual recommendations into viable side hustles. Want to tap into newsletter audiences without the usual affiliate hassles? Submarket lets you pay newsletter owners only when their readers actually click your links. No upfront fees. No complicated codes. Just direct access to engaged newsletter audiences and crystal-clear analytics on every click. Test it out - create your first link in under 60 seconds. CrankWheel is a 10x simpler screen sharing solution, tailor-made for sales professionals. Add a screen sharing presentation to your sales call in 10 seconds flat. Your prospect clicks a link that you send by text message or email and immediately sees your presentation - no download or registration, even on their mobile device. Mavely’s success lies in its simplicity. With over 120,000 creators and 1,400 brands on board, the platform connects individuals with products they genuinely love, providing a seamless way to monetize social influence. The Early Challenges Wray didn’t shy away from discussing the struggles of launching Mavely. He reflected on the initial hurdles, from choosing the wrong product focus to navigating customer feedback. One early misstep was naming the platform “My Favorite Things,” which failed to resonate with users. This led to significant adjustments in branding and product design. The iterative process was both a challenge and a learning opportunity. “You can have the best business plan in the world, but reality always tests you,” Wray remarked. The Mavely team tried various approaches, including brand-specific ambassador programs and product-centric apps, before finding a formula that worked. Lessons in Resilience For Wray, persistence was critical during the two and a half years of trial and error. He described the experience as “eating glass every day,” borrowing a phrase often attributed to Elon Musk. Despite the setbacks, Wray’s determination stemmed from a personal
Thu, January 23, 2025
Editor-In-Grief: Why is the media lying to you?
When Jim and I decided to start Editor-in-Grief , we envisioned it as more than just another media podcast. We wanted to create a space where we could dissect what’s happening in the media—the real story, not the version filtered through PR departments or sanitized for public consumption. It’s a chance to unpack the philosophy, the problems, and the outright absurdities of the industry we’ve been part of for decades. So welcome to the latest episode. Let’s dive into it. What Are We Doing Here? I kicked off the episode, as I often do, by questioning what this podcast is really about. Is it a reflection? A philosophical examination? Torture, as Jim so graciously put it? Probably a little bit of everything. Our goal is to shed light on what’s actually happening in the media versus what people think is happening. And yes, crankiness is definitely part of the equation. One of the big topics we tackled this week was access journalism—you know, that thing where journalists tiptoe around the tough questions to avoid upsetting their sources or peers. It’s a phenomenon rooted in fear, complacency, and the herd mentality that dominates so many newsrooms. Jim and I have seen it all: reporters too scared to ask the hard questions because they don’t want to lose their precious access, beat writers parroting the same narratives, and the resulting stories that are, well, milk toast. Jim put it best when he said, “The instinct to not stand out is human nature. Journalists aren’t immune to it.” Whether it’s in politics or sports, we see this over and over again—people playing it safe, sticking to the script, and refusing to rock the boat. The result? A cycle where the PR person sets the agenda, and the journalists just go along with it. Burning Sources and Breaking Ranks We also dug into the fear of “burning sources,” a phrase that drives me up the wall. If your source is worth anything, they’ll respect that you’re doing your job by asking tough questions. And if they don’t? Well, good riddance. A real journalist finds another way to get the story. But here’s the thing: when one reporter decides to ask a real question, it upsets the whole ecosystem. The PR person gets mad, the other journalists get annoyed because now they can’t ask their “safe” questions, and suddenly, everyone’s blaming the one person who actually did their job. It’s maddening, but it’s also the reality of modern journalism. Journalism in the Digital Age: Surviving the Winter As the media landscape shifts, we’re seeing fewer journalists survive the ongoing layoffs and restructuring. And let’s be honest, the ones who stick around often do so by not rocking the boat. They’ve mastered the art of mediocrity, and that’s what’s rewarded in an industry terrified of upsetting advertisers or readers. It’s a depressing trend, but it’s one we’ve come to expect. We talked about CNN’s latest round of layoffs—200 journalists gone
Thu, January 16, 2025
Editor-In-Grief: A new podcast about the media with NY Daily News editor Jim Rich
After 20+ years in journalism, I decided it was time to start complaining professionally. That's why I launched Editor in Grief with my friend and former Daily News Editor-in-Chief Jim Rich. This is our first episode and we're diving into the dumpster fire that digital media has become. Jim and I have seen it all. We watched newspapers scramble to adapt to digital, saw the rise of blogging (I was part of that problem at Gizmodo), and now we're watching AI companies pretend they care about journalism. Someone needs to document this mess, so why not us? This week we talk about all the hits - Facebook, OpenAI, Google, and countless amazingly gullible journalists who believe everything they say about the future of media. Let’s dig in! Here’s a rundown of the show, blow-by-blow. Facebook Finally Admits What We All Knew Mark Zuckerberg just announced they're scaling back fact-checking, moving operations from California to Austin. Jim made a great point in our discussion - why are we surprised? Facebook was never a journalism company. They just played one on TV when it suited them. Now that the pressure's off, they're dropping the act. The Craigslist Myth Here's something interesting Jim brought up: everyone blames Craigslist for killing newspapers, but he sees it differently. Craigslist actually made classifieds better. They innovated. Compare that to Google, Facebook, and now OpenAI - they're not improving journalism, they're just positioning themselves between news organizations and readers, skimming value off the top. OpenAI's Latest PR Move Speaking of OpenAI, they just announced a three-year deal with Axios to fund local newsrooms in Pittsburgh, Kansas City, Boulder, and Huntsville. Jim and I both rolled our eyes at this one. We've seen this movie before - tech company swoops in promising to save journalism, ends up causing more damage. Their big example of AI success? Using it for restaurant recommendations. Because apparently, Yelp never happened. Where Do We Go From Here? Jim thinks news organizations should abandon social media entirely. Is he right? Maybe. He's definitely right that chasing tech solutions hasn't worked out well for journalism so far. The Wall Street Journal might be the only success story, and they did it by basically ignoring all the "innovative" advice they got from Silicon Valley. We're planning to bring on more guests - mostly people who've been laid off, since anyone still employed in media is too nervous to speak freely. Can't blame them. The industry's in a weird place when the only people who can talk honestly about it are the ones who've already been shown the door. Here's what I know: Jim and I have spent decades watching this industry evolve, devolve, and sometimes just implode. With "Editor in Grief," we're going to document it all, one scotch-fueled conversation at a time. Want to join us? Have a question for us? Drop us
Wed, January 15, 2025
Startup Show: This three-wheeled scooter could be the future of urban mobility
In this episode of The Startup Show I talked to Tim Huntzinger, founder of XOTO . Tim unveiled his company’s groundbreaking electric scooter—a self-stabilizing, front-wheel-drive vehicle that promises to combine the safety and convenience of a car with the fun and accessibility of a two-wheeler. What is XOTO’s Scooter? Unlike kick scooters or electric bikes, XOTO’s scooter is a full-sized, DOT-approved electric vehicle. It offers a 45 mph top speed, a range of 90 miles, and the capacity to carry cargo. Its unique design makes it ideal for urban commutes while keeping riders safe and comfortable. Key features include: * Self-Stabilization: Keeps the scooter upright, reducing the need for constant balancing and making it beginner-friendly. * Front-Wheel Drive: Provides better control, especially in turns, by allowing riders to “steer their power.” * Removable Batteries: Offers convenience for charging and extended range with additional packs. Solving Urban Transport Challenges XOTO’s scooter addresses a growing demand for alternatives to cars in urban environments. By offering a stable, safe, and cost-effective solution, the scooter bridges the gap between bicycles and motorcycles. * Legal and Safe: As a DOT-approved vehicle, it includes mirrors, turn signals, and brakes, making it legal and safe for most roads (excluding highways). * Economic and Green: At a price point of $7,400, it’s competitive with high-end e-bikes while offering greater utility. The scooter’s efficiency—90 miles on a charge for a fraction of the cost of gas—makes it an attractive option for urban dwellers. * Cargo-Friendly: Its ability to carry loads makes it more practical than e-bikes or motorcycles for errands or deliveries. Who is XOTO For? Tim acknowledged that the scooter isn’t for everyone. It’s best suited for urban and suburban areas where highways aren’t a necessity. Current target markets include cities like San Francisco, New York, and Austin, where scooters shine in dense environments. XOTO is also piloting the scooter in Maui, where its speed and range are ideal for local commutes. Building the Future of Two-Wheel Transport Tim emphasized XOTO’s dedication to quality and innovation. Despite being a small team of five, the company has navigated complex challenges, including developing self-stabilization technology, securing DOT approval, and ensuring insurability. To protect their innovation, XOTO manufactures IP-critical components in Arizona and has patented their front and rear suspension systems. What’s Next for XOTO? XOTO plans to: * Scale production to 500 vehicles annually in the U.S. * Expand to international markets like Europe and Asia, where scooters dominate transportation. * Continue innovating to refine the scooter’s technology and features. How to Get
Fri, January 10, 2025
Welcome to Personal Nirvana, a new podcast about psychedelics and mental health
These podcasts have become a kind of window into my brain. In Keep Going I wanted to focus on ending hustle culture and being honest about the trials and triumphs in entrepreneurship. In the Startup Show, I want to do what I did best: focus on new businesses that are changing the world. Now we want to change your mind. In this podcast I’m working with Dr. Marcel Green of Hudson Mind . I spoke to Dr. Green a few months ago and loved his attitude and openness. He became a good friend and I think we have something interesting to share. Our mission is to demystify the overlapping worlds of psychedelics and mental health. I’ve personally been helped by psilocybin, MDMA, and LSD and I feel that others are like I was a few years ago: curious but scared. Dr. Green is a professional psychiatrist with a focus on alternative therapies and together we’re going to explore the wide-ranging world of these medicines. In the ever-evolving landscape of mental health, innovative approaches and groundbreaking therapies are reshaping how we understand and treat psychological well-being. Recently, I had the privilege of sitting down with Dr. Marcel Green, a pioneering psychiatrist based in New York City, to discuss his cutting-edge work and our exciting new podcast venture. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the complexities of modern life or curious about the transformative potential of psychedelics in therapy, this conversation is for you. Meet Dr. Marcel Green Dr. Marcel Green is not your typical psychiatrist. With expertise spanning both adult and child psychiatry, Dr. Green specializes in what he calls "interventional mental health." This holistic approach integrates traditional psychiatric care—such as medications and therapy—with innovative treatments like ketamine therapy and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). Ketamine Therapy: Dr. Green runs a ketamine service, leveraging this powerful compound to address severe depression and other mental health disorders. Unlike traditional antidepressants, ketamine can offer rapid relief, often within hours, making it a game-changer for those battling debilitating symptoms. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS): As a form of neuromodulation, TMS uses external magnetic fields to stimulate specific areas of the brain. This non-invasive procedure has shown promise in treating conditions like depression and anxiety, especially for patients who have not responded to conventional treatments. Stellate Ganglion Block: This nerve block procedure targets the stellate ganglion in the neck, significantly alleviating physical anxiety symptoms, including panic attacks. It’s a short, impactful procedure that can provide immediate relief in our high-stress society. Dr. Green’s practice goes beyond medications and conventional therapies. He emphasizes the importance of optimizing diet, supplements,
Thu, January 09, 2025
Keep Going: How to wake up energized every day
Some entrepreneurs are shaped by opportunity; others are forged through setbacks. Caleb Counts, co-founder of Connected Cannabis, embodies the latter. In this episode of Keep Going , Counts shared his journey from navigating the gray areas of cannabis sales as a teenager to leading a multi-state cannabis operation. His story is one of perseverance, reinvention, and a refusal to quit, even when faced with extraordinary challenges. Setbacks as Starting Points Counts’s journey began long before the legal cannabis market took form. Selling cannabis illegally as a teenager and young adult helped him fund his college education. But by 2003, he shifted gears, stepping into real estate, only to be pushed out during the 2008 financial crisis. The collapse of the housing market might have ended the story for many, but for Counts, it was a call to pivot. He returned to cannabis, this time aiming for legitimacy during a period when California’s cannabis laws were evolving. With retail as his entry point, he founded one of the early dispensaries in Sacramento, participating in regulatory efforts to legalize and standardize the industry. “I thought having a permit meant safety and legitimacy,” Counts reflected. “But I didn’t expect the federal government to issue what we called the ‘landlord letter,’ effectively shutting us down.” Why Keep Going? After federal enforcement action shuttered his dispensary, many would have walked away. Not Counts. His drive came from a deep desire to operate without fear, combined with a belief in the potential of cannabis to transform lives and industries. “The opportunity to do what I loved without looking over my shoulder was extremely exciting,” he said. “I had many sleepless nights during my illegal selling days. Going legitimate felt like a chance to leave that behind.” But going legitimate came with its own challenges. Regulatory hurdles, federal interference, and market commoditization pushed Counts to continuously adapt. “Every promise made to this industry—whether from politicians or the market—has either been broken or delayed,” he explained. “But I wake up every day asking, ‘What’s next? How can we overcome it?’” Lessons for Entrepreneurs Counts’s experience is a blueprint for resilience. For those looking to enter any challenging industry, he offers a sobering perspective: * Understand the Risks: “This isn’t a get-rich-quick opportunity,” he warned. Building a cannabis business—or any business—requires significant funding, careful planning, and the ability to weather long periods of uncertainty. * Have a Unique Offering: With cannabis becoming increasingly commoditized, innovation is key. “Whether it’s small-batch quality, unique marketing, or better technology, you need to stand out,” he said. * Be Ready to Face Resistance: Whether from regulators, competitors, or market forces, challenges are constant. “No
Wed, January 08, 2025
Startup Show: What do you get when you cross a rocket ship with a dirt bike?
In the Pacific Northwest, an ambitious startup is revving up to disrupt the dirt bike market. Dust Moto, based in Oregon, is designing electric dirt bikes that promise to deliver the same adrenaline-fueled performance as their gas-powered counterparts, but with a twist — they’re leveraging electric technology to make the sport more accessible to a wider audience. “We’re developing electric dirt bike that brings all of the passion and performance of a traditional gas bike, but uses the electric tech to lure the bear of entry for more riders,” explained Colin Godby, CEO and co-founder of Dust Moto. “So really hoping to be able to get more folks into the sport.” Unique Path to Funding While most hardware startups turn to Kickstarter or similar platforms for early funding, Dust Moto has taken an unconventional approach. The company launched a WeFunder campaign, opening an equity round as part of its pre-seed fundraising. “We’ve been quite open on both sharing the development journey and story with our followers,” Godby said. “We elected to open up a WeFunder campaign as part of our pre-seed round. We really believe there’s a lot of value in creating those evangelists along the way.” This decision wasn’t made lightly. Dust Moto’s founding team, experienced in mobility and hardware development, faced challenges raising traditional venture capital in a crowded electric vehicle (EV) market. Godby noted that many investors were hesitant due to the niche nature of dirt biking compared to broader mobility or utility-focused EV solutions. “We thought one of the best ways to develop traction is actually to get the mission in front of customers and see if they would vote with their dollars,” he said. Early on, the company built a mailing list, shared designs, and even secured pre-orders from 50 customers based on 2D renders — a move that signaled significant traction to potential investors. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Mon, January 06, 2025
Keep Going: How to bounce back after a massive failure
For over 14 years, Daniel Ionescu dedicated himself to reshaping local journalism. As the founder of The Lincolnite , a pioneering local news platform in the UK, and later, the tech-driven initiative My Local , Ionescu worked tirelessly to provide sustainable models for independent journalism. However, in August 2024, the financial realities of the industry forced him to shut down both ventures. Keep Going - A Guide to Unlocking Success is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Despite the setbacks, Ionescu’s story is one of adaptability and perseverance. Through his new venture, Millennial Masters , a podcast and newsletter spotlighting millennial entrepreneurs, he has shown that failure can be a stepping stone to reinvention. Rethinking Local Media Ionescu's journey began in 2010 with The Lincolnite , a local publication that sought to outpace legacy media by focusing on digital-first reporting. Over the years, it grew into a staple for Lincolnshire readers, offering timely news and insights. But the challenges of local journalism grew alongside its success. By 2020, it was clear that local media’s reliance on social media for distribution had created vulnerabilities. “The pandemic exposed how little control we had over our audience,” Ionescu said. To counteract this, he launched My Local , a tech platform designed to help independent publishers integrate content distribution, audience engagement, and monetization into a single system. The vision was bold, but the reality of scaling proved difficult. “We tripped on the steps of scaling up,” he admitted. The decline of advertising revenue and changes in platform algorithms left My Local struggling to gain traction. When the Bottom Falls Out The decision to shut down his businesses was soul-crushing. “It was my entire adult life,” Ionescu said. “Closing it felt like losing my identity.” Yet, he faced the moment with determination, leaning on his support system to navigate the personal and professional fallout. For Ionescu, the experience offered a chance to reflect on what he could have done differently. He realized that while his ventures were rooted in a deep understanding of the industry, they may have underestimated the pace of change in consumer habits and the structural challenges of local media. Reinvention Through Millennial Masters Rather than dwell on failure, Ionescu quickly pivoted to a new opportunity. In late 2024, he launched Millennial Masters , a podcast and newsletter focusing on millennial entrepreneurs. “I wanted to create something sustainable and meaningful,” he explained. By tapping into his network and leveraging lessons from his previous ventures, Ionesc
Wed, January 01, 2025
Startup Show: This company is going to make your next electric truck
California-based electric vehicle (EV) technology company Voltu is gearing up to revolutionize the commercial EV market. Founded by Argentinian bioengineer George Gebhart , the company plans to introduce its first Class 3 pickup truck, a “work truck,” by 2025. Gebhart sat down with Grit Daily Startup Show host John Biggs to share insights into Voltu’s strategy, challenges, and future plans. A Different Approach to EV Development “We’re essentially an innovative electric vehicle technology company,” Gebhart explained. “What we do is focus on the powertrain technology — from batteries to motors, drive units, and all the power electronics. We develop, test, and validate that technology.” Unlike traditional automakers, Voltu doesn’t manufacture entire vehicles from scratch. Instead, the company purchases pre-validated chassis from established original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and integrates its proprietary powertrain technology. This approach allows Voltu to concentrate on its core expertise. They build the battery packs, battery modules, and drive units. Essentially, the electric motors and power electronics. It’s an integrated system they deploy over those chassis. A Focus on Commercial EVs While many EV startups target passenger vehicles, Voltu is carving out its niche in commercial vehicles. They are focused on mid-size trucks, ones tough enough to do whatever they need to do on the field. The company’s upcoming pickup work truck will feature a 350-mile range thanks to its patented immersed cooling technology that significantly boosts energy density. “We have a battery technology that essentially doubles the energy density of most competition,” he added. Voltu is also addressing the functional demands of commercial users. Having enough power to haul and tow the same pounds as the original vehicle is a challenge, but it’s something they have solved. Challenges in the EV Space Gebhart acknowledged the difficulties of building a hardware-focused business. Deploying hardware is hard. You need to manufacture that hardware and control the quality of the products. You’ve seen companies raising a lot of money and still going out of business. Electric vehicles are not easy — you need to dominate the technology. The company has also considered retrofitting gas-powered vehicles with electric systems but remains focused on producing new EVs. “The truth of the transition is going to happen with new vehicles,” Gebhart stated. The Road Ahead Voltu’s immediate goal is to produce 20,000 vehicles over the next three years, with plans to expand into lighter trucks and commercial vehicles after that. According to Gebhart, there’s a gap in the market that allows them to have this rapid expansion in the U.S. As for the broader adoption of EVs, Gebhart predicts significant progress with
Mon, December 30, 2024
Keep Going: Know when to kiss and when to kick
In this episode of Keep Going, we sit down with Zina Jarrahi Cinker , the mind behind XPANSE. What began as a science and tech event has evolved into something much larger—a convergence of creativity, cutting-edge research, and interdisciplinary dialogue. From Nobel laureates to artists, XPANSE brings together some of the most intriguing minds to explore ideas that challenge the status quo. What is XPANSE? Described by Zina as a mix between *Cirque du Soleil*, TED, and a dash of WEF, XPANSE is not your typical conference. It's a curated experience—an event that Zina envisions as a dinner party where scientists, philosophers, technologists, and artists gather to exchange ideas. The event’s vibrant atmosphere, described as "Alice in Wonderland" by Zina, pushes the boundaries of how science and creativity coexist. Keep Going is a labor of love and your support helps us grow. Please consider subscribing or gifting a subscription this year. “I wanted to create an environment that would feel good, that would encourage dialogue and creativity without constraint,” she said. The event's impact speaks for itself. With attendees describing it as *life-changing*, XPANSE has managed to carve out a space that combines cutting-edge science and technology with human expression. Building Without a Blueprint Zina’s journey toward creating XPANSE reflects a deep commitment to following what feels right—without overthinking or over-planning. “There’s no blueprint for a peacock,” Zina said. “It just happens. It evolves. I think XPANSE was born in the same way. A culmination of my experiences and ideas that felt right to pursue.” Coming from a background that uniquely bridges the arts and sciences—Zina has a PhD in physics—her ability to think in two seemingly separate worlds has been a driving force. The Challenges of Claiming Space For Zina, embracing her creative side while being taken seriously as a scientist was not always easy. In the early stages of her career, Zina led regulatory work for nanomaterials and graphene, where creativity was not always welcomed. “I had to hide my artistic side to be taken seriously,” she said. “It wasn’t easy to express myself this way, but over time, I built my own path. And I tell people, you will pay a price for being unique. But if you stick to it, something good will come out of it.” Zina’s approach to earning respect was not about confrontation. Instead, she allowed her work to speak for itself. A powerful anecdote during the podcast highlighted how someone who once dismissed her as “not important enough” later described her event as a life-changing experience. For Zina, patience, persistence, and focusing on the work were key. Zina also touched on representation in science and events. While she supports initiatives that aim
Wed, December 18, 2024
Startup Show: VR isn’t dead thanks to this unique immersive tech
In this episode of the Startup Show I sit down with Catherine Seys , Director of Excurio , to discuss how her company is transforming the way we experience history and culture. Excurio specializes in creating immersive expeditions, leveraging VR to transport users to different times and places in a deeply engaging and interactive way. What is Excurio? Excurio’s immersive expeditions are 45-minute virtual reality (VR) adventures set in large, dedicated spaces. Unlike traditional VR setups, these experiences allow users to physically roam freely without worrying about running into walls or other obstacles. This is made possible by advanced tracking technologies that map users’ movements and ensure a smooth, collision-free experience. Current venues offer experiences such as: * Traveling to ancient Egypt during the Pharaohs' era. * Exploring Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. * Witnessing the evolution of life on Earth, in collaboration with the Museum of Natural History in Paris. * Re-living the first Impressionist exhibition in 1874 Paris. The Technology Behind the Magic Excurio’s innovative platform incorporates black-and-white markers on walls, enabling headsets to pinpoint user locations in real time. This system allows for a highly interactive and natural VR experience. Users see each other as avatars, ensuring seamless social interactions during the experience. A Focus on Cultural Accessibility A standout feature of Excurio’s expeditions is their commitment to blending scholarly accuracy with engaging storytelling. For instance: * The Horizon of Khufu project involved collaboration with Harvard Egyptologist Peter D’Armanuelle Lyon to accurately reconstruct the Great Pyramid, even including restricted areas and recreating scenes from ancient funerals. * Their Life Chronicles experience worked closely with paleontologists to build authentic paleo landscapes. * Tonight with the Impressionists brings art history to life, allowing users to interact with Impressionist painters before they achieved fame. This approach makes cultural and historical knowledge more accessible and exciting to a broad audience. The Business Model and Growth Excurio has demonstrated that VR can be both impactful and profitable. With venues operating successfully worldwide, the company is setting a benchmark for VR-based location-based entertainment (LBE). They’ve also achieved a significant technical milestone: hosting more than 100 simultaneous VR users in a single space. Looking ahead, Excurio plans to: * Enhance technology, improving interactivity within their experiences. * Open their platform to allow other creators to develop immersive expeditions. * Expand their catalog, with a new title expected in
Mon, December 16, 2024
Keep Going: Why this entrepreneur shut everything down and lived to regret it
In this week's episode of Keep Going we dive into a riveting conversation with Mitch Goldstone, CEO of ScanMyPhotos . Mitch shares an honest and compelling story of navigating adversity, highlighting the resilience and reinvention required to transform challenges into opportunities. The Story of a Missed OpportunityMitch recounts a pivotal moment when his business was featured in a three-minute segment on the CBS Evening News. Anticipating a surge in traffic and orders, Mitch and his team halted all other marketing efforts, banking on this exposure to bring monumental growth. However, the segment aired without directly mentioning Scan My Photos, leaving viewers unaware of the company's role in the stories highlighted. The result? A crushing silence on the website's end, far from the bustling response they expected. Recalibrating After a SetbackFacing this disappointment head-on, Mitch emphasizes the importance of adaptability. Rather than dwelling on the loss, he and his team pivoted, redesigning their website and introducing innovations such as same-day express scanning. These changes not only addressed customer concerns but also differentiated Scan My Photos from competitors. Building Resilience Through ExperienceThe conversation also delves into Mitch’s early days in photography. He shares how the decline of traditional film photography forced his company to evolve, transitioning from retail photo centers to high-speed digital scanning. This shift wasn't easy, but it set the stage for Scan My Photos to become a leader in photo digitization. The Power of Community and StorytellingMitch underscores the value of customer engagement. Many of their clients, once thrilled by the service, become informal ambassadors, sharing their digitized memories and driving word-of-mouth marketing. This community-driven approach has proven far more effective than traditional media coverage. Looking to the FutureWith advancements in AI and virtual reality, Mitch envisions an immersive experience for customers. Imagine revisiting your family vacation to Disneyland, not just through photos but within a virtual environment enriched by music and news clippings from that time. For Mitch, it’s about making memories more dynamic and meaningful. Lessons for EntrepreneursThis episode serves as a reminder that failure is an inevitable part of the journey. As Mitch puts it, "You must recalibrate and keep going." His story offers a valuable blueprint for entrepreneurs: * Diversify your marketing efforts. * Be ready to adapt and innovate. * Engage with your community to build authentic connections. Mitch’s story is a testament to resilience, creativity, and the enduring power of learning from setbacks. Tune into this episode of Keep Going to hear more about how he transformed challenges into opportunities and continues to reinvent his business i
Wed, December 11, 2024
Startup Show: Rivery creates data pipelines for any app
Data pipelines may sound like something out of a tech engineer’s playbook, but their importance is hard to overstate in a data-driven world where companies need to gather, transform, and utilize data efficiently or risk falling behind. That’s where Rivery , a platform helping businesses streamline this process, is focusing its efforts. In the latest episode of Grit Daily Startup Show, host John Biggs sat down with Rivery’s co-founder and CEO, Itamar Ben Hemo , to unpack what makes their approach to data movement unique and to delve into how AI is reshaping the game. What Does Rivery Do? If the term “data pipelines” sounds complex, don’t worry — you’re not alone. “What we are doing is basically data movement,” Ben Hemo explained, “helping customers to get the maximum value of basically democratized data.” In plain terms, Rivery enables companies to pull data from a dizzying array of sources — databases, APIs , applications — and consolidate it into data warehouses like Google BigQuery or Snowflake. From there, businesses can transform this data for their needs using tools like Python or SQL. Why is this important? Imagine trying to sift through mountains of marketing data from hundreds of sources, or replicating databases as your enterprise moves to the cloud. For many companies, this is a barrier to growth. Rivery simplifies the process, making once laborious tasks seamless. The AI Revolution in Data Connectivity One of the most exciting shifts in Rivery’s strategy is its embrace of AI. Traditionally, creating new data connectors required significant manual effort. Engineers had to decode documentation, map out APIs, and build connectors line by line. Ben Hemo admitted that this model created bottlenecks: “I told to my team, listen, we cannot wait one month to develop connector because we have a list of 100 for next month.” This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Tue, December 10, 2024
Keep Going: How failure turned a developer into a successful CEO
Can failure be a foundation for success? Want to hear a few hard truths from the CEO of a huge media company? Meet Medium CEO Tony Stubblebine. Keep Going - A Guide to Unlocking Success is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Tony shares his journey through entrepreneurship, detailing the challenges and failures he faced before finding success. He discusses the importance of leadership, team dynamics, and the strategies he implemented to turn around Medium's fortunes. Stubblebine emphasizes the need for entrepreneurs to focus on distribution and finding unique opportunities in a crowded market, as well as the transition from programmer to CEO. Tony Stubblebine’s career is a testament to persistence, adaptability, and the lessons learned through trial and error. Starting as a programmer in the 1990s, Tony initially pursued a traditional career path, earning a computer science degree and working on projects he describes as “meaningless code.” While he appreciated the stability of a salaried position, he eventually sought a greater purpose and transitioned into leadership roles, ultimately leading him into the world of startups. His first significant foray into entrepreneurship was with the podcasting startup Odeo, which famously spun off into Twitter. Though he worked on the podcasting side of the business—only to see much of his work discarded—it was a pivotal moment that sparked his desire to control the direction of his work. This led to the launch of his first company, a social networking platform. Despite lacking a clear revenue model or funding, Tony’s determination helped the company achieve break-even status, albeit without significant success. He used this experience as a foundation to grow, learning what worked and, more importantly, what didn’t. Tony’s next venture, Lyft (not the rideshare company but a habit-tracking app), was far more aligned with his personal interests in self-improvement and productivity. This focus on passion helped him sustain the company through challenges, including a shift into what he calls "aggressively zombie mode" when funding dried up. Even during this period of survival, the app had a lasting impact, influencing the design of modern habit trackers. Today, Tony is the CEO of Medium, where he’s applied the hard-won lessons from his entrepreneurial journey to revitalize the platform. When he took the helm, Medium was in financial trouble, losing both money and subscribers. By cutting inefficiencies, focusing on growth, and being upfront about the company’s challenges, Tony led Medium to profitability for the first time, achieving over a million paying subscribers. His career illustrates not only the importance of perseverance but also the value of learning from failures to achieve meaningful success. Key Takeaways: * Failure as a Foundatio
Mon, December 02, 2024
Keep Going: Why your startup needs a storyteller
In this episode of Keep Going, host I interview Michal Habdank-Kolaczkowski , CEO of Rally Call and former PR expert for various tech startups. Michal shares his journey from working with climate startups to his experiences with Bee Hero and Waze. Throughout his career in strategic startup communications and branding, he has played a pivotal role in launching and supporting transformative initiatives. His contributions include the launch of Moth Belly Gallery in the Tenderloin, designing the San Francisco Mayor’s Office Startup-in-Residence Program, and producing impactful events such as TEDxFiDiWomen, TEDxAlcatraz, and TEDxAlcatrazChange. She was instrumental in reopening The Grand Theater as the new home of Gray Area, hosting San Francisco’s first Urban Prototyping Festival, and reactivating Pier 17 as the new home for Swissnex. Each project reflects his dedication to fostering innovation, creativity, and community engagement. He discusses the challenges of marketing in niche industries, the importance of storytelling in pitch decks, and the lessons learned from crisis management. Michal emphasizes the need for effective communication and the role of a storyteller in a startup's success. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Fri, November 29, 2024
Keep Going: How to juggle a relationship and your startup
In this conversation, I talk to Dr. Abby Medcalf about the challenges entrepreneurs face in maintaining relationships while pursuing their business goals. We explore the importance of connection, the impact of personality traits on relationships, and practical strategies for fostering engagement with partners and family. Dr. Medcalf emphasizes the need f… This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Mon, November 25, 2024
Keep Going: How to do the impossible
How do you jump careers? How do you go from selling ideas to selling a physical product? And how do you do it while potentially skirting the law? That’s what Ben Kennedy, founder of Fable , had to figure out when he flipped from being a behind-the-scenes marketing professional into a cannabis drinks mogul. In this episode of Keep Going, I interview Kennedy, about the unique aspects of Fable's products, the legal landscape surrounding THC beverages, and the marketing challenges faced in this emerging industry. Basically, he had to create a new brand, a new product, and even a new space because, interestingly, his products are technically legal nationally. Ben shares insights into the vision behind Fable, the importance of building a strong brand, and the future of THC drinks as an alternative to traditional alcohol. The conversation highlights the growing demand for cannabis beverages and the innovative approaches being taken to reach consumers. Ben is a really gregarious guy and his advice on starting a food and beverage business - especially with a THC twist - is timeless. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Wed, November 20, 2024
Startup Show: This scanner protects your privacy while keeping you safe
In this conversation, Edouard Leeuwenburg, COO of Husense , discusses the innovative use of radar technology combined with AI to monitor human behavior while ensuring privacy compliance. Husense provides real-time human activity monitoring solutions for indoor and outdoor spaces using radar technology. Unlike camera-based systems, their sensors detect movement through walls and operate independently of lighting or visibility conditions, ensuring privacy and compliance with GDPR. Husense’s technology supports applications in areas like smart buildings, cities, and retail by offering data on space usage, occupancy, and movement patterns without capturing personal details. He explains the challenges of building the technology, securing funding, and the potential applications in various industries, including retail and public safety. The discussion highlights the importance of privacy regulations in Europe and how Huesense aims to provide a solution that respects individual privacy while offering valuable insights to businesses and governments. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Wed, November 13, 2024
Startup Show: This connected ball gets your kids off of their iPads
In this episode of the Startup Show, I interview Pippa Boothman , CEO of Playfinity , a company dedicated to keeping kids active through gamified sports. We discuss the innovative products Playfinity offers, including a gaming baseball and soccer ball, and the challenges of expanding into new markets. The conversation highlights the importance of engaging kids in physical activity and the strategies Playfinity employs to reach its target audience. Want to be on the Startup Show?Interested in sharing your entrepreneurial journey and gaining unparalleled exposure? The Grit Daily Startup Show is the perfect way to do so. Email Spencer@gritdaily.com for more information. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Wed, November 06, 2024
Startup Show: When 3D and VR become commonplace, Sloyd will be ready
In this episode of the Startup Show, I interview Andreas Edesberg from Sloyd AI , a unique 3D marketplace that leverages AI to allow users to create and customize 3D assets quickly and efficiently. The conversation explores the target audience, including game developers and graphic designers, the company's structure and revenue status, and exciting future developments in customization features. Want to be on the Startup Show?Interested in sharing your entrepreneurial journey and gaining unparalleled exposure? The Grit Daily Startup Show is the perfect way to do so. Email Spencer@gritdaily.com for more information. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Mon, November 04, 2024
Keep Going: How to find the motivation to keep working
In this episode of the Keep Going Podcast, I speak with author Eliot Pepper about his latest book, 'Foundry,' a spy thriller centered around semiconductor manufacturing. We delve into the creative process, the intersection of fiction and entrepreneurship, and the importance of storytelling in pitching ideas. Eliot shares insights on finding joy in the creative process, drawing parallels between writing and surfing, and emphasizes the significance of understanding the world behind the stories we tell. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Wed, October 30, 2024
Startup Show: This business will fact check the world
In this episode of the Startup Show, I interview Maria Amelie from Factiverse , a company dedicated to combating misinformation through advanced fact-checking technology. We discuss the origins of Factiverse, its innovative model for real-time fact-checking, and the challenges of monetizing such a service in the current media landscape. The conversation also touches on the importance of location and talent in building the company, as well as their future goals, particularly in the financial sector. Want to be on the Startup Show?Interested in sharing your entrepreneurial journey and gaining unparalleled exposure? The Grit Daily Startup Show is the perfect way to do so. Email Spencer@gritdaily.com for more information. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Mon, October 28, 2024
Keep Going: How failure prepared an author and restaurant owner for success
In this episode of Keep Going, I talk to Michael Cecchi, a restaurateur and author, who shares his insights on the restaurant business, the importance of creating memorable experiences, and the lessons learned from failures. Michael discusses the challenges of the industry, the significance of human connection in restaurants, and how skills acquired in hospitality can translate to other fields. He also reflects on his personal journey, including setbacks and the resilience required to bounce back. Michael wrote the book Your Table is Ready , one my favorite books of the last year. He also runs the restaurant Cecchi’s in Manhattan, a real favorite of mine. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Wed, October 23, 2024
Startup Show: This startup improves your tennis game with AI vision
In this episode of The Startup Show, I interview Lauren Pedersen, co-founder of SportAI , a company focused on AI-powered technique analysis for sports. W discuss the democratization of sports training through technology, the journey of transitioning from employee to entrepreneur, and the evolving startup scene in Oslo. Lauren shares insights on the importance of belief in the problem being solved and the value of building a strong team in the startup ecosystem. Want to be on the Startup Show?Interested in sharing your entrepreneurial journey and gaining unparalleled exposure? The Grit Daily Startup Show is the perfect way to do so. Email Spencer@gritdaily.com for more information. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Mon, October 21, 2024
Keep Going: How to take the plunge, especially when it’s scary
In this conversation, Claire Atkin , CEO of Check My Ads, discusses the challenges and importance of transparency in digital advertising. She explains how Check My Ads acts as a watchdog to ensure that advertisers know where their ads are placed and to combat fraud and money laundering in the ad tech industry. Claire shares insights on building the organization from a newsletter to a nonprofit and emphasizes the need for advocacy and policy changes to create a fairer advertising ecosystem. She also talks about what it takes to take the entrepreneurial plunge, especially when nothing is certain. By taking her company non-profit, she risked losing here entire business overnight. Spoiler alert: she didn’t. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Wed, October 16, 2024
Startup Show: This company turns old EV batteries into brand new energy sources
In this episode of the Startup Show, I interview Jørgen Erdal from Evyon , a company focused on repurposing discarded electric vehicle batteries into stationary energy storage solutions. Erdal discusses the technology behind battery repurposing, the market dynamics, competition, and the company's future plans, including international expansion and upcoming funding rounds. This is our first episode recorded in the wild and I met Erdal in Oslo, Norway during Oslo Innovation Week . Want to be on the Startup Show? Interested in sharing your entrepreneurial journey and gaining unparalleled exposure? The Grit Daily Startup Show is the perfect way to do so. Email Spencer@gritdaily.com for more information. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Mon, October 14, 2024
Keep Going: Learn why this founder sold her company and then bought it again
In this episode of Keep Going, John Biggs interviews Shauntel Ludwig , CEO of Synergy Innovation, about her journey in the cannabis industry, the challenges of brand management, and the innovations in vaporizer technology. We discuss the ups and downs of the cannabis market, the importance of differentiation, and the lessons learned from acquisitions. Shauntel shares valuable advice for those looking to enter the cannabis accessory space and highlights the significance of maintaining brand integrity and innovation. Shauntel tells the story of how she and her team founded one of the biggest vaporizer brands in the world , sold it to a competitor, and then fought to buy it back and rebuild the brand. It’s a fascinating tale of resilience and growth. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Wed, October 09, 2024
Startup Show: This founder helps other Euro founders flourish
In this episode of The Startup Show, I interview Ben Costantini from Sesamers , discussing the startup ecosystem in Europe. We explore the importance of events in discovering new startups, the challenges faced by founders in tier 2 cities, and the strategies for maximizing opportunities at major events. Ben shares insights on ecosystem management, innovation, and success stories from startups that have effectively utilized events for growth. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Mon, October 07, 2024
Keep Going: How to tell your story
In this episode, I interview Joshua Doležal , a writer and coach, about his work and the importance of writing personal stories. Joshua Doležal is the author of a Substack newsletter, The Recovering Academic , and a memoir, Down from the Mountaintop . Learn more about his coaching services at www.joshuadolezal.com . Doležal discusses his diverse background and the challenges of finding focus in his writing. He emphasizes the need for memoirists to serve a larger conversation and provide value to readers. He also shares tools for writing memoir, including creating an authority list and a timeline. This interview highlights the importance of storytelling and the power of personal stories to connect and inspire others. In the interview he mentions this post for folks who are working on building a memoir or book. Take a look! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Mon, September 30, 2024
Keep Going: How adversity turned a poor kid into a Hollywood powerhouse
Craig Greiwe , Chief Growth Officer for Go Digital Media Group, shares his inspiring journey from poverty to success and the lessons he learned along the way. He discusses the importance of evaluating every decision and looking at everything holistically. He emphasizes the power of taking small steps every day to move forward and the value of asking for help. Craig also talks about the challenges he faced while representing Kobe Bryant and the importance of resilience and focusing on the next positive step. He encourages finding moments of joy and being honest with oneself. Craig shares his current work with the Point Foundation and highlights the need for addressing the crises of loneliness and affordability. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Wed, September 25, 2024
Startup Show: This startup analyzes your hormones continuously
In this episode of the Startup Show, we interview Sylvia Kang, CEO of Mira , a company focused on hormone testing for women's health. They discuss the innovative home testing device developed by Mira, which allows women to monitor their hormonal health through urine samples. Sylvia shares insights from the extensive data collected, highlighting the variability in hormonal cycles and the impact of lifestyle factors. The conversation also covers the challenges of building a startup in the health tech space and the importance of consumer education in understanding hormonal health. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Mon, September 23, 2024
Keep Going: How to find your true customers
Zach Supalla , founder and CEO of Particle, discusses the journey of building a hardware platform for IoT products. He shares how Particle started with development kits for prototyping and eventually transitioned to selling their platform to companies launching IoT products at scale. Zach highlights the challenges of the consumer IoT market and the shift towards industrial applications. He emphasizes the importance of listening to customers and adapting the business based on their needs. Zach also discusses the mindset of a founder and the balance between optimism and rational pessimism. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Wed, September 18, 2024
Startup Show: This company nukes your phone from orbit
Smartphones hold vast amounts of personal and financial data, so the threat of theft can have devastating consequences. James O’Sullivan , founder and CEO of Nuke from Orbit , experienced this firsthand and turned his misfortune into an innovative solution aimed at protecting users from the fallout of stolen devices. On this episode of Grit Daily’s Startup Show, host John Biggs sat down with O’Sullivan and discussed the night his phone was stolen in Dublin, which sparked the idea for his startup. The theft quickly escalated from an inconvenience to a costly affair as thieves used his Apple Pay wallet to drain tens of thousands of pounds. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Mon, September 16, 2024
Keep Going: How a writer’s secret helped him reach new heights
In this episode Dr. Neal Baer , a Denver-born physician and writer, shares his journey from being a teacher to becoming a successful show runner for shows like ER and SVU. He emphasizes the role of luck in his career and the importance of taking advantage of unexpected opportunities. The whole interview truly made me smile. Dr. Baer has had a wild career and he attributes his drive to living with the internal struggles he faced as a man in a world that wasn’t accepting. Over time, he channeled his frustrations into his work. He offers advice for young professionals, including the importance of a liberal arts education and the value of reading and being open to new ideas. His favorite TV show right now? Lupin, because Baer is living in Paris and loves to become immersed in the culture and language. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Wed, September 11, 2024
Startup Show: This startup measures your gut health by looking at your
In this episode of Grit Daily’s Startup Show , host John Biggs interviewed Scott Hickle , the founder of Throne , a health-tech startup aiming to revolutionize gut health and hydration monitoring. Throne uses a camera that clips onto the side of a toilet to provide real-time health insights. According to Hickle, Throne is designed to address a gap in the market, offering a solution for continuous monitoring of gut health, something that devices like the Apple Watch and Garmin have done for cardiovascular health. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Mon, September 09, 2024
Keep Going: How to embrace productive frustration
What can you to when your brain is taking you for a bumpy ride? Dr. Marcel Green , a board-certified psychiatrist, discusses his work in interventional mental health and the use of psychedelics in therapy and how creative people can break the bonds that are holding them to destructive thoughts. My favorite part of our chat? Dr. Green also talks about the potential of psychedelics, like ketamine, in treating mental health conditions and promoting personal growth. He emphasizes the importance of reaching out for help during times of crisis and the need for a holistic approach to mental health care. Finally, we discuss stress relief techniques and highlights the shift towards a focus on thriving in mental health care. It’s an amazing conversation with an amazing thinker and I know you’ll enjoy it. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Mon, September 02, 2024
Keep Going: How a Navy SEAL beat his ego and became a professional healer
Diego Ugalde, CEO and founder of the Trident Approach , shares insights on leadership and the integration of psychedelics in a CEO's life. He emphasizes the importance of self-awareness in communication and leading from a place of deep understanding. "Inertia can kill. If you find yourself on this roller coaster, you have the ability to stop it immediately,” he says. In this excellent episode, Diego shares the skills he learned as Navy SEAL and then the added meditative skills he learned as a licensed psychedelic integrator. We offer two bits of advice in this podcast: how to communicate like a SEAL and then how to grow within your environment through psychedelics. In fact, Diego highlights the role of psychedelics in expanding awareness and unlocking hidden potential. He advises finding a trusted guide for the psychedelic journey and emphasizes the importance of preparation and integration. Diego also mentions his book, ' Leading from the Deep: A Navy SEAL Psychedelic Approach to Conscious Leadership. ' This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Mon, August 26, 2024
Keep Going: How MicroSkills can help you take the next step to success
In this conversation, Microskills authors and Doctors Adaira Landry and Resa Lewiss discuss their book and share insights on success, failure, and personal growth. They emphasize the importance of small, actionable skills in achieving bigger ambitions. The book came to them after realizing nearly everyone faced the same challenges when getting started. "We're not taught how to take care of ourselves. And believe it or not, doctors are some of the worst at taking care of themselves,” said Dr. Landry. In the wide-ranging conversation, the pair talk about self care, networking, and what it takes to accept failure and move on. They also highlight the need for self-care and the value of building a personal board of directors for support and guidance. The conversation touches on topics such as stress reduction, vulnerability, and the power of networking. The conversation provides practical advice and strategies for personal and professional development. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Wed, August 21, 2024
Startup Show: How to sell electric vehicles to muscle car fans
In the heart of Signal Hill, California, a quiet revolution is taking place in the world of electric vehicles (EVs). Spearheaded by twin brothers Nikita Bridan and Iliya Bridan , Oilstainlab is a design consultancy that is pivoting to become a pioneering force of change in the future of mobility. Transitioning from offering design services to some of the biggest original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) in the auto industry to manufacturing their own bespoke electric vehicles, the brothers are driven by a deep belief in the potential of their vision. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Mon, August 19, 2024
Keep Going: How to hack luck
Sami Inkinen , CEO and co-founder of Virta Health , discusses their mission to solve the biggest health epidemic of our generation: type 2 diabetes and obesity. He shares the challenges they faced in convincing the medical community and investors that their approach of reversing these diseases through nutrition was possible. Sami emphasizes the importance of earning credibility by delivering on promises and staying resilient in the face of skepticism. He also talks about the decisions they made during the COVID-19 pandemic and the lessons learned from navigating uncertain times. Overall, the conversation highlights the significance of staying in the game, having backup plans, and seizing opportunities. "We are on a mission to solve the biggest health epidemic of our generation, and that is type 2 diabetes and obesity,” he said. Listen in as we explore the concept of luck in the world of startups and what it takes to earn your luck. Our theme music is by Policy AKA Mark Buchwald . (https://freemusicarchive.org/music/policy/) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Wed, August 14, 2024
Startup Show: This company connects your computer to your brain
In this episode of Startup Show, host John Biggs sat down with Dr. Christoph Guger , the founder and CEO of g.tec medical engineering , a company that has been at the forefront of brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) for the past quarter-century. BCI devices, which translate brain activity into control signals for external devices, have evolved from experimental tools to powerful medical applications that are changing the lives of patients around the world. g.tec has pioneered innovations that not only help patients regain lost functions but push the boundaries of what technology can achieve by tapping directly into the human mind. BCIs were initially developed to aid patients with severe physical limitations, such as those suffering from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), by providing them with a means of communication when traditional methods failed. Early applications allowed users to control cursors on a screen, offering a lifeline to those who were otherwise locked inside their bodies, unable to speak or move. Over the years, the technology has expanded dramatically. One of g.tec’s most notable products in the space is Recoverix, a BCI-based rehabilitation tool for stroke patients . After a stroke, patients often face severe mobility challenges, with many left unable to use their hands or legs effectively. Recoverix addresses this by using EEG electrodes to monitor brain activity while patients imagine moving their paralyzed limbs. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Mon, August 12, 2024
Keep Going: How to find your passion
Jessica Pely , CEO and founder of Loyee , discusses her experience starting a business in Germany and then moving to the US. Loyi is a go-to-market tool that helps companies find their best customers through AI technology. Pely talks about the challenges of raising funds and the importance of having a passion for your business. She also shares advice for entrepreneurs starting out in Germany and emphasizes the need to take risks and focus on the bigger and faster-growing markets. 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:16 Loyee: Helping Companies Find Their Best Customers 07:59 The Challenges of Fundraising 09:43 Moving from Germany to the US 13:02 Advice for Entrepreneurs Starting Out in Germany Our theme music is by Policy AKA Mark Buchwald . (https://freemusicarchive.org/music/policy/) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Wed, August 07, 2024
Startup Show: How do you break into an entrenched industry? This founder has some ideas
In this episode of Grit Daily Startup Show, host John Biggs sat down with FLYR CEO Alex Mans , who has emerged as a pivotal player in transforming an industry deeply entrenched in outdated systems. Which industry is that? The airline industry! The conversation delved into FLYR’s journey under Mans’ leadership, exploring its mission to revolutionize airline infrastructure, the significant challenges faced by both the company and CEO, and the personal insights from Mans that illustrate the resilience and strategic acumen behind the company’s rapid growth. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Mon, August 05, 2024
Keep Going: How to heal while building a business
Natanya Wachtel , founder of the New Solutions Network, discusses the intersection of wellness, technology, and psychedelics. She shares her personal journey of leaving the corporate world to pursue a career that helps people heal. Natanya emphasizes the importance of addressing mental health and expanding the toolset for healing, including the use of psychedelics and other integrative wellness practices. She also explores the challenges entrepreneurs face in expressing their failures and the need to redefine success. Natanya provides insights on managing ego, supporting employees, and normalizing conversations around mental health. "Feeling like a failure because not everything works out or will continue to not work out for me as well. And that was an ego death that you need to kind of go through,” she said. Our theme music is by Policy AKA Mark Buchwald . (https://freemusicarchive.org/music/policy/) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Mon, July 29, 2024
Keep Going: How to run a billion dollar restaurant business during a pandemic
In this episode of Keep Going Kelly Roddy, CEO of WOWorks , discusses the concept of a platform company in the restaurant industry. WOWorks operates six different restaurant brands and functions as a franchisor, allowing entrepreneurs to start their own businesses using their brands. The focus of their brands is on clean ingredients and healthier food options. Roddy shares the challenges they faced during the COVID-19 pandemic and how they shifted their focus to supporting their franchisees. He also emphasizes the importance of setting goals and prioritizing tasks to achieve long-term growth. Our theme music is by Policy AKA Mark Buchwald . (https://freemusicarchive.org/music/policy/) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Sun, July 28, 2024
Startup Show: How HumAIns created a human-like chatbot
In this episode of Grit Daily Startup Show, host John Biggs sat down with Nissan Yaron , the CEO of Inpris, the creator of HumAIns . The company, which is working on an advanced integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in daily technologies, has found particular success in the automotive sector but is now aiming to expand. Initially focused on enhancing car infotainment systems through AI, HumAIns has expanded its vision to a broader range of applications, propelling the company into the forefront of AI-driven autonomous systems and agents. The origins of HumAIns trace back to its early days working on in-car assistance. The company developed a system combining voice assistants and finger gestures to interact with cars’ infotainment systems more safely and effectively, a development that was particularly crucial because traditional interfaces like touchscreens and smartphones tend to pose safety risks while driving. However, the major breakthrough for HumAIns came later, with the adoption of OpenAI’s GPT-3 technology in 2021. After gaining early access to GPT-3, HumAIns adeptly utilized this large language model (LLM) to revolutionize how AI could operate within an infotainment interface. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Wed, July 24, 2024
The Startup Show: An AI startup that can help your kids pack for camp? Yes, please.
In this episode of Grit Daily Startup Show, host John Biggs sat down with Meghan Joyce , the co-founder and CEO of Duckbill AI . The conversation dove into the tech company’s hybrid approach that combines AI with human oversight to create a personal assistant service that is effective and accessible. This is particularly important as the boundaries between work and personal life are increasingly blurred. Want to try out the service now? The team has given us a promo code BIGGS for 50% off 2 months off your first two months with Duckbill PLUS you'll be expedited off the waitlist. Check it out! Personalized Assistance Tailored to Modern Needs Modern life, with its dual-income households and complex personal and professional responsibilities, demands more than what traditional digital assistants offer. That is the gap Duckbill aims to fill by providing a service that not only anticipates the needs of its users but also actively manages those needs with minimal input required from them. Duckbill accomplishes this by integrating seamlessly with users’ lives, connecting to personal calendars, analyzing routines, and even incorporating data about family members to offer proactive assistance. This could include: * Scheduling healthcare appointments. * Ensuring all preparations are made for a child’s summer camp. * Managing home maintenance schedules. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Wed, July 17, 2024
The Startup Show: This entrepreneur supports non-profits and unions
In this episode of the Grit Daily Startup Show, host John Biggs was joined by CEO Stacey Yudin of NEP Services , a leader in the communications space that is providing nonprofits and other organizations with best-in-class software. Named one to watch by Fast Company, NEP Services has helped clients raise $65 million for their communities and $7 million for the “Help a Hero” crowdfunding campaign. The discussion dove into what NEP Services is doing and facets of the nonprofit sector as a whole. Nonprofits, much like startups, find themselves scrounging for resources. Not only are pickings slim, but the sector is notorious for its slow adaptation of technology. Yudin observed this fact and formed NEP Services, in part, to fill the game. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Mon, July 15, 2024
Keep Going: How one inventor fought investors to build a better toy
Jens Petter Wilhelmsen , CEO of Ohdoki , a tech company, discusses the challenges and importance of tech. He shares the journey of bringing their product, Handy, to market and the ups and downs they faced along the way. Despite the difficulties, they persevered and successfully raised capital. Wilhelmsen emphasizes the need for persistence and a solid business case when approaching investors. “Persistency and follow the strategy that you set out” have been his watchwords. He also highlights the importance of tech in enabling sexual intimacy and connections, especially for individuals with physical or cognitive limitations. Odoki focuses on building trust and maintaining high-quality products through encryption and security measures. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Mon, July 08, 2024
Keep Going: Why this repeat entrepreneur decided to take the plunge again
Alex Back, CEO of Couch.com , had a problem. He sold too many couches. In this episode of Keep Going we talk about what happens when you find sudden and overwhelming success and how hard it is to turn down business. Being an entrepreneur requires sacrifices, said Back, but the passion and drive to create something meaningful can outweigh the challenges. Listen in as he shares the troubles he faced when his previous furniture brand sold too much furniture through a deal with Costco, leading to supply chain issues and customer dissatisfaction. Alex also provides advice for entrepreneurs entering the hard goods market and emphasizes the importance of gathering information and being patient. He discusses the ease of decision-making with experience and the difficulty of maintaining discipline and avoiding fallback options. Lastly, he reflects on the sacrifices and rewards of being an entrepreneur. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Wed, July 03, 2024
Startup Show: This startup is connecting everything in the world
Want to pitch your company on the Startup Show? Email spencer@gritdaily.com or contact me directly. On this episode of Grit Daily Startup Show, host John Biggs was joined by Tim Kravchunovsky , the CEO and founder of Chirp Wireless , who discussed his company’s innovative approach to Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity. Chirp Wireless is at the forefront of developing a versatile, unified network that aims to change the way IoT applications integrate into various sectors, from agriculture and automotive to urban development. The core of Chirp’s technology revolves around a unique type of IoT antenna that customers can install anywhere and everywhere. These antennas provide extensive network coverage, both long and short range, ensuring that connected IoT devices maintain a stable connection regardless of their proximity to urban centers or rural locations. This system mimics cellular network connectivity, where a seamless transition between network cells allows for uninterrupted service as users move through different areas. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Mon, July 01, 2024
Keep Going: How a successful psychiatrist beat the odds
In this amazing episode, Dr. Neill Epperson discusses the challenges faced by entrepreneurs and creative individuals, including depression, imposter syndrome, and a general sense of inability. She emphasizes the importance of finding one's North Star and aligning one's goals and passions with their chosen path. "I just decided that I just was not going to accept failure," she said. The result? She became the Robert Freedman Endowed Professor and Chair of the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Colorado School of Medicine-Anschutz Medical Campus and Executive Director of the Helen and Arthur E. Johnson Depression Center. Dr. Epperson shares her personal journey of overcoming failure and offers advice on how to navigate setbacks and reevaluate one's path. She also highlights the significance of seeking treatment for depression and the role of different treatments in rewiring the brain. Our conversation concludes with a discussion on the importance of personal growth and making a positive impact on society. Our theme music is by Policy AKA Mark Buchwald . (https://freemusicarchive.org/music/policy/) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Wed, June 26, 2024
Startup Show: Why being late is sometimes better than being too early
On this episode of Grit Daily Startup Show, I sat down with Vitaly Golomb , the founder of Sofie Labs , who is bringing a fresh perspective to the future of work with his latest venture. Building on his extensive experience in corporate ventures at HP and insights gained from the evolution of chatbots and AI, Golomb has embarked on a mission to redefine customer relationship management (CRM) through the lens of advanced automation technologies. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Mon, June 24, 2024
Keep Going: How one small company played David to a lot of Goliaths - and won
Have a great story to tell? Want to be on the show? Email john@biggs.cc with the subject line Keep Going and I’ll schedule you. Thanks! Nic Beique , founder and CEO of Helcim, shares the challenges his company faced in the payments industry and how they overcame them. They initially struggled to find a manufacturing partner and had their hardware supplier acquired by Stripe, leaving them without a source for their card readers. However, they persevered and found a new partner and began to thrive. Beique emphasizes the importance of focusing on underserved businesses, such as healthcare and professional services, and providing them with transparent pricing and excellent customer service. He also highlights the value of honesty and transparency in building customer loyalty. Our theme music is by Policy AKA Mark Buchwald . (https://freemusicarchive.org/music/policy/) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Thu, June 20, 2024
Startup Show: This startup is going to ship you anything in an hour... from space
Want to pitch your company on the Startup Show? Email spencer@gritdaily.com or contact me directly. In this episode of Grit Daily Startup Show, host John Biggs delved into the innovative world of space re-entry vehicles with Justin Fiaschetti , the CEO and co-founder of Inversion . Fiaschetti’s company is pioneering the development of space capsules designed to store cargo in low Earth orbit and deliver it anywhere on Earth in under an hour. The aim is to transform the transportation industry by leveraging space technology for rapid, precise deliveries. Inversion’s capsules are equipped with solar panels and communication radios, allowing them to operate autonomously once in orbit. These capsules can be launched using rockets like SpaceX’s Falcon 9 and remain in space until they receive coordinates to return to a specified location on Earth. There is an upcoming October mission featuring a subscale vehicle named Ray that will test these capabilities. Primarily, Ray will demonstrate the ability to deorbit and land precisely, proving the feasibility of Inversion’s concept. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Mon, June 17, 2024
Keep Going: How a filmmaker turned his back on Hollywood, embraced psychedelics, and started living life on his own terms
Josh Jupiter, founder of Brooklyn Balance and a psychedelic integration coach, discusses his work and personal journey. He explains that psychedelic integration coaching involves guiding individuals through the process of using psychedelics to bring about personal change and growth. Josh shares his own experience of leaving a successful career in the film industry to pursue a more fulfilling and meaningful life. He emphasizes the importance of living life on one's own terms and not being driven by fear. Josh also provides insights on how to explore and process intense experiences, cultivate self-compassion, and practice gratitude. "It's not the medicine that really brings about the change. It's all the work that's done before and after,” he said. Our theme music is by Policy AKA Mark Buchwald . (https://freemusicarchive.org/music/policy/) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Wed, June 12, 2024
The Startup Show: Meet the company mining distant asteroids
On this episode of the Startup Show, host John Biggs spoke with Matthew Gialich , founder and CEO of AstroForge , a company with an ambitious mission: mining asteroids for precious metals. AstroForge aims to completely change the mining industry by tapping into the vast resources of space, specifically targeting platinum group metals that are essential in various electronic devices and renewable energy technologies. Platinum group metals, which include elements like platinum and palladium, are critical for manufacturing electronics and AI chips. However, the supply of these metals on Earth is limited, and the United States has less than 2% of the world’s reserves, concentrated in a single mine in Montana. This scarcity drives up prices and poses significant challenges for future technological advancements. AstroForge’s solution is to mine asteroids, which are believed to be rich in these metals due to ancient asteroid impacts. By targeting near-Earth asteroids, which can be reached and mined within two years, AstroForge aims to significantly increase the supply of platinum group metals while reducing the environmental impact of traditional mining. Gialich emphasized that asteroid mining would produce far less carbon and eliminate water waste and harmful labor practices associated with terrestrial mining. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Mon, June 10, 2024
Keep Going: The Power of Authenticity
In this episode, I interview Savannah Peterson , an on-air celebrity and presenter, about the importance of being your true self when trying to achieve success. Savannah shares her personal journey of self-discovery and emphasizes the value of celebrating your uniqueness. "The things that make you different are the things that are going to make you memorable,” she says. She discusses the power of authenticity and vulnerability in connecting with others and building a genuine audience. She also provides advice on overcoming traditional expectations and finding your passion in work. The takeaway? Failure is a natural part of the creative process and that the most important thing is to enjoy the act of creating. Our theme music is by Policy AKA Mark Buchwald . (https://freemusicarchive.org/music/policy/) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Wed, June 05, 2024
The Startup Show: How one founder stays close to her customers
On this episode of Startup Show, John Biggs sat down with Amrutha Gujjar , the CEO and co-founder of Structured , a revenue intelligence and observability platform. In simple terms, Structured is designed to help businesses understand their sales, marketing, and customer success data to identify high-value customer segments and drive growth. The platform simplifies the process of data analysis, enabling companies to pinpoint their best opportunities for growth using data. With Structured, businesses can determine when and where their products or services are most popular and who their top customers are. This allows companies to focus their sales and marketing efforts more effectively, ensuring they target the right audience with the right message. For example, if a company sells cheese sandwiches (John’s latest great idea), Structured could identify that these sandwiches are most popular on Sundays in February near a ball game, targeting specific geographic regions and age groups. The inspiration for Structured came from Gujjar’s experience as an engineer at Meta, where she worked on tools to make operations teams more effective with data. Her passion for user experience and interfaces led her to create a platform that simplifies data accessibility for revenue operations teams. The goal for the future is to enable small, highly strategic teams with data to drive growth, reducing the need for large teams and making businesses more efficient. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Mon, June 03, 2024
Keep Going: How a top negotiator learned to be humble
Adam Kahane, director of Reos Partners, shares his experience in helping people transform systems and the importance of learning from failure. He tells a story about a project with Manitoba First Nations in Canada, where he initially made the mistake of assuming he knew best. Through feedback and humility, he was able to change his approach and achieve success. Kahane emphasizes the need for both vertical and horizontal approaches in working with groups, and the importance of radical engagement in transforming systems. He is currently working on a book about everyday habits for transforming systems. You can check out Kahane’s book, Collaborating With the Enemy, here. Our theme music is by Policy AKA Mark Buchwald . (https://freemusicarchive.org/music/policy/) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Wed, May 29, 2024
The Startup Show: How to get hired in this economy
The latest guest on Grit Daily Startup Show is Steve McKinney , the founder of McKinney Consulting , who has carved a niche in the executive search industry from his base in Seoul, South Korea. His firm specializes in finding top-tier executives for multinational companies, including Fortune 100s and SMEs, and is renowned for its tailored approach to executive search, ensuring the best fit for both the candidate and the company. In addition to his consulting work, McKinney is developing a book and online coaching programs aimed at sharing his extensive knowledge and experience. His initiatives focus on helping individuals and organizations achieve their full potential through strategic leadership and personal development, and he discussed it all with host John Biggs on Startup Show. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Mon, May 27, 2024
Keep Going: How a writer figured out how to make a life instead of a living
Samuel Lopez-Barantes, a novelist and musician living in Paris, discusses his perspective on success and failure in the creative world. He highlights the difference between the American and French attitudes towards art and how it is valued. Samuel shares his philosophy on success, which is centered around finishing a project and moving on to the next one. He also talks about his journey as a writer and the importance of recognizing what makes you tick and structuring your life around it. Samuel emphasizes the need to prioritize time over money and to be conscious of how you spend both. You can buy his new book on his website . Our theme music is by Policy AKA Mark Buchwald . (https://freemusicarchive.org/music/policy/) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Wed, May 22, 2024
The Startup Show: Couch.com
Couch.com might sound straightforward — a digital marketplace for couches, yet it addresses a nuanced and complex issue: the overwhelming process of buying a couch. Most buyers, unsure of where to begin, face a barrage of choices from materials to retailers without a clear path forward. The platform simplifies this by gathering user preferences and guiding them to the perfect couch through a refined, almost concierge-like service online. The journey began with acquiring its domain, a tale as interesting as its business model. Back purchased the domain in 2023 from a high-net-worth individual involved in the early development of Google AdSense. Despite the domain’s hefty price tag and tough negotiations, Back secured a deal beneficial for his startup’s growth . This crucial step was not just about owning a URL but establishing a foundation for a brand that promises clarity and convenience in the cluttered furniture market. Want to be featured on The Startup Show? Email Spencer@gritdaily.com . This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Mon, May 20, 2024
Keep Going: How one entrepreneur found himself stuck with a $20,000 bill on a project that seemingly failed
Adam Paulisick is the founder of SkillBuilder.io. He’s no stranger to publishing and and writing but when he trusted a company to help him build his next book, he wasn’t very careful. The result? A $20,000 loss and a lot of headaches caused by a business that turned out to be a fly-by-night operation. Our theme music is by Policy AKA Mark Buchwald . (https://freemusicarchive.org/music/policy/) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Thu, May 16, 2024
Introducing the Startup Show
I’m doing a new show with my friends at Grit Daily . The podcast, which runs about 15 minutes, features an entrepreneur talking about what they’re building and why. You can read more about the companies here but for now I’ll be sharing the video with this list. Want to be featured? Ping me at john@biggs.cc. I’m happy to bring on folks who are making cool stuff. Now, for the first episode. Manali Yavatkar is a self-described “Biomedical Engineer turned AI Software Engineer turned consumer product inventor.” Her product, the Palm Bin , is a clever take on the traditional compost bit and she’s flipped the script by adding a cooler to the system so your scraps don’t get stinky. The Palm Bin is designed to cool food waste, making compost collection clean, easy, and odorless. Manali shares her background in biomedical engineering and her passion for sustainability that led her to create this product. She talks about the challenges of hardware development and the importance of using sustainable materials. Manali also discusses her experience with crowdfunding on Kickstarter and offers advice for others looking to launch a campaign. Why compost? Yavatkar explained: "I moved to San Francisco. I had curbside composting for the first time and I started collecting my food waste in the kitchen and I found the experience to be awful,” she said. Check out the podcast above and her Palm Bin here. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Mon, May 13, 2024
Keep Going: What happens when you run off the stage during a Broadway show?
Jess Moore has had a wild career spanning from Broadway to the Beltway. In this episode, she discusses her career journey and the importance of resilience in the face of failure. For folks thinking about the influencer world, Jess also provides insights into that environment, emphasizing the need for business acumen and finding a unique niche. She advises aspiring influencers to focus on their passion and build an engaged community. Additionally, she highlights the importance of adapting to digital trends and continuously upskilling. Our theme music is by Policy AKA Mark Buchwald . (https://freemusicarchive.org/music/policy/) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Mon, May 06, 2024
Keep Going: How to face your fear
In this episode, I interview Dr. Arash Javanbakht, a psychiatrist and author of the book ' Afraid .' We discuss the intersection of fear, anxiety, and entrepreneurship. Arash shared his experiences working with anxiety and trauma in his clinic, as well as his own journey as an entrepreneur. We also explored why some people enjoyed fear and the role fear plays in motivating entrepreneurs. Arash also talked about the importance of knowing why you do what you do and the impact of fear on decision-making. He shares personal stories of conquering fear and the role of mentors in finding motivation and direction. The episode concludes with practical tips for managing anxiety and taking action in the face of fear. This was one of my favorite interviews and Dr. Javanbakht has some amazing things to say about managing anxiety and fear. Please check it out. Our theme music is by Policy AKA Mark Buchwald . (https://freemusicarchive.org/music/policy/) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Mon, April 29, 2024
Keep Going: What to do when your entire business goes up in smoke
Brian Sloan sells s*x toys. For a long time he sold a lot of them and most of them sold through Amazon. Then, overnight, his competitors started to destroy his business. By breaking his advertising systems, undercutting his prices, and reviewing his products unfairly, they essentially turned millions of dollars in sales into bupkus. In this podcast Sloan describes how he lost $500,000 in one day, sold his products at a massive loss, and invented something that changed the course of his business, turning an abject failure into a roaring success. NOTE: This podcast discusses adult themes but we are careful not to describe too much. Our theme music is by Policy AKA Mark Buchwald . (https://freemusicarchive.org/music/policy/) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Mon, April 22, 2024
Keep Going: How to survive when your President is harassing you on national TV
Patricia Campos Mello is a journalist who has reported from war-torn countries all over the world. A few years ago, she hired a bodygaurd - something she never did - in her own country. Why? Because Brazil's President Bolsorano had singled her out as a threat to his reelection. In this episode, we talk to Campos Mello about her experience, what she did to cope, and what it took to remain a journalist in the face of abuse. You can learn more about Campos Mello here . Our theme music is by Policy AKA Mark Buchwald . (https://freemusicarchive.org/music/policy/) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Mon, April 15, 2024
Keep Going: How one entrepreneur learned to stop listening to the haters and started betting on herself
Jade Kearney founded SheMatters.health to help women of color survive childbirth. Because the health outcomes for POC were so poor, Kearney and her partner build a business dedicated to educating doctors and patients on the ways the health system had historically failed and how to solve the problems associated with pregnancy. In this podcast, Kearney talks about how she mishandled feedback from seemingly well-meaning mentors and finally realized that she, alone, was the captain of her own ship. It's an inspiring look at a woman who is solving an important problem. Want more? Our theme music is by Policy AKA Mark Buchwald . (https://freemusicarchive.org/music/policy/) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Mon, April 08, 2024
Keep Going: How to fire a client
In this episode PR professional Adam Sohmer talks about how to manage a small business while surviving flaky customers, bad deals, and difficult gigs. Our theme music is by Policy AKA Mark Buchwald. (https://freemusicarchive.org/music/policy/) Want more? Visit startupstrategies.cc This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Tue, April 02, 2024
Keep Going: How to combat discrimination and toxicity in your workplace
In this episode, professional marketer Alexandra Matthiesen talks about her regrets when facing discrimination in the workplace and what we can do to fix it. In this episode Matthiesen talks about finding the strength to speak up, the value of facing discrimination head on, and the value of mental focus. Our theme music is by Policy AKA Mark Buchwald . (https://freemusicarchive.org/music/policy/) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Mon, March 25, 2024
Keep Going: Sometimes you have to have the confidence to say you never fail
Denise Vitola is a fitness influencer who wants to help other influencers succeed. The former head of social media marketing for Bayer - and the owner of her own agency - Vitola has seen her share of challenges but refuses to admit she has ever failed. That's good enough for us. In this interview we talk about what she thinks about failing fast, how to become an influencer, and the future of business in the age of social media. Our theme music is by Policy AKA Mark Buchwald . (https://freemusicarchive.org/music/policy/) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Wed, March 20, 2024
Keep Going: Mindfulness and the busy CEO
In this episode of Keep Going I speak with Danny Penman, co-author of Deeper Mindfulness . He describes the source of his mindfulness practice and how it can help people survive in a frantic world. Fifteen years ago penman crashed his paraglider into a hillside. He ruined his leg and as he lay in pain he began to meditate, trying to drive away the fear and anxiety. The results were astounding and he slowly grew that experience into what amounts to a fully-formed system for busy but anxious people. I'm about to try it out and I encourage you to as well. You can learn more at his site franticmind.com . Our theme music is by Policy AKA Mark Buchwald . (https://freemusicarchive.org/music/policy/) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Wed, March 13, 2024
Keep Going: Learning a $500,000 lesson
Don DeRosa is the cofounder of Eonix, a new battery company working on cutting edge materials. But a few years ago he and his team began a journey that led to absolute failure - and the loss of over half a million dollars. Here's how Don and his team pulled out of the tailspin and built a successful business. Our theme music is by Policy AKA Mark Buchwald . (https://freemusicarchive.org/music/policy/) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Thu, March 07, 2024
Keep Going: Adam Marx on surviving failure and maintaining your mental health
Adam Marx was a perfectionist. His startup, Glipple, was supposed to help indie musicians get noticed in a difficult music market. The result? A slow startup death via the traditional culprits - cash, traction, and audience. In this podcast we talk about what it takes to be an entrepreneur, how to survive failure, and why mental health is vital. Building a startup comes with its own set of challenges, including explaining your passion to others and maintaining professional relationships. Check out Adam's story here: https://adammarx13.medium.com/theres-life-after-failure-625d8aea5b23 Please follow us on Instagram and TikTok . This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Mon, February 26, 2024
Keep Going: Jeanette Cajide On Being Too Early
Jeanette Cajide and her friends invented an app for sharing memes before memes were a thing. The result? A delightful failure full of amazing happenings and great successes that taught her how to be a better entrepreneur. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Wed, January 24, 2024
Keep Going Podcast: How to Never Give Up
Cuyler Nathaniel Engram is a hairdresser and makeup artist. After failing to find work in his hometown, he realized he needed to go to a place where his work would be appreciated. After working four jobs and nearly ending up homeless, he found his groove and created his own unique style. In this podcast, we'll talk about his trials and his success. Our theme music is by Policy AKA Mark Buchwald . (https://freemusicarchive.org/music/policy/) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Tue, January 02, 2024
Keep Going: Dominik Andrzejczuk on the importance of mental health for founders
Dominik Andrzejczuk is a physicist and founder who lives in Warsaw, Poland. Over the past few months he found himself in a doldrums caused by a bad funding environment and some dark weather. In this episode, Dominik talks about the importance of mental health in entrepreneurship and how he's re-invigorating himself in this dark season. Our theme music is by Policy AKA Mark Buchwald . (https://freemusicarchive.org/music/policy/) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Wed, December 27, 2023
Keep Going: Savannah Peterson on finding comfort during the pandemic
Savannah Peterson is a speaker and personal branding expert but when lockdown hit she felt like none of those things. After months - even years - of struggle she came out the other end stronger and better. In this episode, Savannah shares her experience and how she thinks she survived and thrived. You can check out Savannah's work here . Our theme music is by Policy AKA Mark Buchwald . (https://freemusicarchive.org/music/policy/) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Thu, November 30, 2023
E-commerce maven Anatoliy Labinskiy on making a $500,000 mistake
Anatoliy Labinskiy was playing fast and loose in the world of e-commerce and dropshipping. After he trusted the wrong supplier, his entire business almost imploded as bills went unpaid, cash was seized, and customers grew angry. In this podcast, Anatoliy talks about how he dug out from under his problem and learned how to run a real business. Our theme music is by Policy AKA Mark Buchwald . (https://freemusicarchive.org/music/policy/) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Thu, November 16, 2023
Keep Going: Don’t Find a CEO In a Bar
What do you do when the CEO you met in a bar takes a million bucks from you and your investors? Josh Karp, entrepreneur and creator, decided to keep going. Listen to our first issue to hear the lessons learned by folks who have been through . Our theme music is by Policy AKA Mark Buchwald. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Thu, October 19, 2023
Keep Going Podcast: Author Jonathan Taplin talks about the failures of Social Media Age
Jonathan Taplin is a writer, producer, and Director Emeritus of the Annenberg Innovation Lab at the University of Southern California. He's had an amazing career as outlined in his book The Magic Years and recently published a book, The End of Reality , about the failure of our "great thinkers" to prepare us for a humane future. In this podcast we talk about the failure of the 1960s that directly led to our culture of despair and he offers some small ways we can resist - and survive - the coming crisis. Our theme music is by Policy AKA Mark Buchwald . (https://freemusicarchive.org/music/policy/) Transcript John Biggs Welcome back to Keep Going a podcast about success and failure. I'm John Biggs. Today on the show we have Jonathan Taplin. He is a writer, film producer, Director Emeritus of the Annenberg Innovation Lab at the University of Southern California, and the author of two of my favorite recent books, The Magic Years, which was about your life, in amid all these rock and roll stars, and then we have the end of reality, which is about Facebook, Metaverse, crypto, and Mars. Welcome, Jonathan. Good to be here, John. Yeah. So I wanted to the premise of the show is basically about failure. And I think the two books sort of lead up to each other in the sense that The Magic Years was about a very, very special time in history, culture was changing culture changed to a degree that was probably unheard of in recent memory. And then when we come up to now we come up to the End of Reality, we sort of see that high watermark, and then the receding of that culture in the form of social media, which to a degree has destroyed almost everything that you talk about in the magic years, would you is that? Is that a correct statement? Jonathan Taplin Yeah, I think so. I mean, you know, Peter Drucker famously said, culture eats strategy for breakfast every morning. And essentially, what he meant was that you can have all the great strategies of how you're going to change the world. But if the culture is not in supportive nothing's going to happen. And so if you think about the 60s in that sense, culture, led politics and ate politics for breakfast every morning. In other words, if you think about 1963, the guy I worked for Bob Dylan, although I wasn't working for him at that point, went down to Mississippi, to Greenwood, and sang it. Voting Rights rallies for the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee were a kind of daring thing in the sense that that same town a year later, three civil rights workers were murdered by the Klu Klux Klan. And in the sense that that happened, and nothing happened politically fo
Thu, September 21, 2023
Keep Going: Failure, know thyself
In this episode, I talk to Alejandro Barrera , a writer, journalist, and martial arts expert. Barrera does me the favor of turning my questions around and asking me about the definition of failure and why generalists - people who are good at a lot of things but seem to lack focus - are in demand. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Fri, September 08, 2023
Keep Going: When a startup almost makes you go blind
Anne Ahola Ward thought she was doing the right thing. The company she was working with was in trouble and she stepped in to help fix it. The resulting stress nearly led to her own blindness and she soon realized that some firest aren't worth fighting. In this heartfelt discussion, Ward tells us how and when we should throw in the towel - and why. Our theme music is by Policy AKA Mark Buchwald . (https://freemusicarchive.org/music/policy/) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Wed, May 17, 2023
Bitcoin or Ethereum? Experts weigh in
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Fri, April 28, 2023
Keep Going: How do you get out of a rut?
Bryan Eisenberg was working at a job he didn't like and ballooned up to 270 pounds. He realized something needed to change so he changed everything: his job, his lifestyle, and his habits. In this episode, we talk to Bryan about how to make important decisions and how to escape the ruts we end up in when we keep grinding away at the same things. Our theme music is by Policy AKA Mark Buchwald . (https://freemusicarchive.org/music/policy/) Please like and subscribe to the podcast on Apple or Spotify . Thanks for listening! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
Thu, March 30, 2023
Keep Going Podcast: Dr. Eleanor Janega on second chances
Dr. Eleanor Janega always wanted to be a historian but she discovered that her particular interests and skill set didn't make her a great candidate for academia. After a bit of soul searching, however, she discovered that history didn't have to reside in an ivory tower and instead could be shared with the world. She's now the author of multiple books including The Once and Future : Going Medieval on Women's Roles in Society . Check out her book and her work online. Our theme music is by Policy AKA Mark Buchwald . (https://freemusicarchive.org/music/policy/) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit startupstrats.substack.com
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