Startup Therapy

In today's Startup Therapy Podcast, Wil and Ryan discuss if you can replace yourself as a founder. Founders often struggle to step aside in a company because their deep commitment and personal connection to the company's mission are hard to duplicate. Their passion, values, and individual perspective are tough to find in an outsider, potentially causing a mismatch in goals and values. Moreover, it's emotionally challenging for founders to entrust someone else with their vision.In a nutshell, founders can't easily replace themselves because their unique identity and the company's culture are closely linked, making it hard to find someone who truly embodies their spirit.Sign up for the Startups Newsletterhttps://www.startups.com/newsletterResources: Startup Therapy Podcast  https://www.startups.com/begin Join our Network of Top Founders  Check in with us on LinkedIn | Wil Schroter | Ryan Rutan What to Listen For 00:00 Intro 00:35 Can we replace the founder? 03:02 Why changing the founder wouldn’t work 06:06

In today's Startup Therapy Podcast, Wil and Ryan discuss who founders are really competing against. Founders are often never satisfied because they constantly set new, self-imposed benchmarks and goals. They compete against a changing definition of success, driven by their ego and perceptions of their peers. As they reach one milestone, they quickly construct new challenges, making it challenging to ever achieve lasting contentment in their entrepreneurial journey. Finding a balance between ambition and recognizing their achievements can lead to greater satisfaction and a healthier perspective on success.Sign up for the Startups Newsletterhttps://www.startups.com/newsletterResources: Startup Therapy Podcast  https://www.startups.com/begin Join our Network of Top Founders  Check in with us on LinkedIn | Wil Schroter | Ryan Rutan What to Listen For 00:00 Intro 01:24 A founder's rollercoaster of satisfaction 03:51 Why successful founders are never satisfied 05:45 Peer competition 10:37 The problem with compar

In today's Startup Therapy Podcast, Wil and Ryan discuss the topic that investors and founders are not on the same side of the table. In the startup world, it's important to recognize that investors and founders don't always see eye to eye. Investors are primarily looking to make money, which can sometimes clash with a founder's vision. Balancing these interests can be tricky. Founders need to stay true to their startup's vision while also considering what their investors want, fostering a productive relationship. Good communication and finding common ground are key to ensuring the startup's success in the long run.Sign up for the Startups Newsletterhttps://www.startups.com/newsletterResources: Startup Therapy Podcast  https://www.startups.com/begin Join our Network of Top Founders  Check in with us on LinkedIn | Wil Schroter | Ryan Rutan What to Listen For 00:00 Intro 00:08 Investors are only on the same side when everything is good 04:07 This is your only bet, not the investor’s 07:21 Guarantee of a payc

In today's Startup Therapy Podcast, Wil and Ryan discuss planning for the bad times and good times in your startup company. It's not all sunshine during the good times, and not all doom and gloom during the bad times. It's about striking that perfect balance in your startup's strategy. The secret to achieving longevity in the ever-shifting landscape of entrepreneurship? Continuous adaptation, vigilant monitoring of key performance indicators, and the ability to pivot when necessary, all while staying true to your business's core mission and values.Sign up for the Startups Newsletterhttps://www.startups.com/newsletterResources: Startup Therapy Podcast  https://www.startups.com/begin Join our Network of Top Founders  Check in with us on LinkedIn | Wil Schroter | Ryan Rutan What to Listen For 00:00 Intro 01:59 Good and bad times aren’t just a single moment in time 04:31 Are founders aware of these oscillations? 05:45 “In good times, we plan for good times…” 10:04 What is longevity for startups? 19:04 Make dec

In today's Startup Therapy Podcast, Wil and Ryan discuss why a lower valuation exit can offer founders more advantageous financial outcomes than a higher valuation exit. This happens because of things like how much of the company's ownership each founder still has and what investors are expecting from their investments. As startups grow and get more funding, founders might end up owning less of the company. So even if an exit seems worth more on paper, the actual money each founder gets can be less due to having a smaller piece of the pie. Let’s delve into the maze of startup exits, exploring the delicate interplay between exit values, ownership, and the real-world implications.Sign up for the Startups Newsletterhttps://www.startups.com/newsletterResources: Startup Therapy Podcast  https://www.startups.com/begin Join our Network of Top Founders  Check in with us on LinkedIn | Wil Schroter | Ryan Rutan What to Listen For 00:00 Intro 00:28 Navigating funding & exit strategies 05:59 Optionality  09:23 Out

In today's Startup Therapy Podcast, Wil and Ryan discuss why you shouldn’t fear the AI revolution that’s coming. Founders shouldn't fear changes in technology because embracing advancements can bring various advantages. These changes often lead to improved efficiency, streamlined processes, and better decision-making. Adapting to technological shifts enables founders to stay competitive, innovate, and explore new opportunities, ultimately fostering growth and success.Sign up for the Startups Newsletterhttps://www.startups.com/newsletterResources: Startup Therapy Podcast  https://www.startups.com/begin Join our Network of Top Founders  Check in with us on LinkedIn | Wil Schroter | Ryan Rutan What to Listen For 00:00 Intro 01:44 Technology is always changing 03:51 What happens when a revolution comes around? 07:23 Why are we afraid of this? 12:12 Become better tool operators 17:40 Is displacement a bad thing? 24:57 Not embracing the future can destroy you 28:26 Be on the right side of change 30:57 Change is

In today's Startup Therapy Podcast, Wil and Ryan discuss why you shouldn’t let investors become your customers. When you prioritize investor demands over customer needs in pursuit of additional funding, you risk losing touch with your market's true requirements. This could lead to developing products or services that don't align with customer expectations, potentially resulting in poor adoption and revenue generation. Over time, prioritizing investor preferences over customer feedback could erode customer trust and loyalty, negatively impacting your long-term business sustainability.Sign up for the Startups Newsletterhttps://www.startups.com/newsletterResources: Startup Therapy Podcast  https://www.startups.com/begin Join our Network of Top Founders  Check in with us on LinkedIn | Wil Schroter | Ryan Rutan What to Listen For 00:00 Intro 01:12 Optimizing for what investors want 02:13 Two types of investor feedback 03:47 Being in the capital raising business 04:53 What happens when you pitch to investors vs.

In today's Startup Therapy Podcast, Wil and Ryan discuss what happens when founders stay out of the game for too long. Startup founders can't afford lengthy breaks from the game because the skills and mindset crucial for entrepreneurship can weaken over time. Startups demand ongoing learning and adaptability due to their rapid evolution. But here's the burning question: Can you still come back strong after a break, ready to tackle the dynamic challenges of the startup world?Sign up for the Startups Newsletterhttps://www.startups.com/newsletterResources: Startup Therapy Podcast  https://www.startups.com/begin Join our Network of Top Founders  Check in with us on LinkedIn | Wil Schroter | Ryan Rutan What to Listen For 00:00 Intro 01:17 When you’re not relevant anymore 03:58 The startup muscle 05:54 Challenges in re-entering the game 08:27 The difference between taking a rest and quasi-retiring 10:08 Too soon or too late? 12:51 Relationships and relevancy 15:17 You lose relevance, relationships, and your mind

In today's Startup Therapy Podcast, Wil and Ryan discuss if your dreams as a founder is an illusion. The dream seems so valuable because it's something you don't have right now. But it's essential to play test your goals and ask yourself if you'd truly enjoy it once you achieve them. Sometimes, the journey and the process of pursuing a startup are more important than the final outcome, so it's crucial to think about whether the sacrifices are really worth it for your long-term happiness and sense of purpose.Sign up for the Startups Newsletterhttps://www.startups.com/newsletterResources: Startup Therapy Podcast  https://www.startups.com/begin Join our Network of Top Founders  Check in with us on LinkedIn | Wil Schroter | Ryan Rutan What to Listen For 00:00 Intro 02:08 What if your startup dream is bullsh*t? 03:11 Investing in something uncertain 07:59 Did you test-drive it? 09:45 The cost of being wrong 19:33 Assessing risk in a startup 25:53 It’s valuable now because you don’t have it 27:48 Recalibrate you

In today's Startup Therapy Podcast, Wil and Ryan discuss the topic of building a “big business”. Scaling rapidly can lead to market dominance and attract investors, but it also involves higher resource demands and potential pitfalls. On the other hand, building a profitable and sustainable business may allow for steady growth, reduced risks, and long-term viability. By reevaluating goals and priorities, founders may discover the benefits of a steady and enduring approach that aligns with their vision and values. So what’s it going to be? Are you going to go big or go home? Or are you going to go steady and go long?Sign up for the Startups Newsletterhttps://www.startups.com/newsletterResources: Startup Therapy Podcast  https://www.startups.com/begin Join our Network of Top Founders  Check in with us on LinkedIn | Wil Schroter | Ryan Rutan What to Listen For 00:00 Intro 01:24 You don’t need to make a “big business” 06:13 Who is this big enough business for? 09:51 Building a profitable business is much easier

In today's Startup Therapy Podcast, Wil and Ryan discuss how all problems are not the end of the world for founders. While running a startup can be challenging and bring various obstacles, not every problem leads to failure or signifies the end. Startup founders often encounter a range of difficulties, including financial setbacks, operational hurdles, or competition. However, with resilience, adaptability, and problem-solving skills, founders can navigate these challenges, learn from them, and continue to grow their businesses. It's important for founders to maintain a positive mindset, seek support from mentors and networks, and view problems as opportunities for growth and improvement.Sign up for the Startups Newsletterhttps://www.startups.com/newsletterResources: Startup Therapy Podcast  https://www.startups.com/begin Join our Network of Top Founders  Check in with us on LinkedIn | Wil Schroter | Ryan Rutan What to Listen For 00:00 Intro 00:38 Not all problems are apocalyptic 03:12 Startup problem vs.

In today's Startup Therapy Podcast, Wil and Ryan discuss why you should stop listening to investors. While investors can provide valuable insights and expertise, founders should exercise caution when relying too heavily on their advice. Investors often prioritize financial returns and short-term gains, whereas founders have a deep understanding of their vision and long-term goals. Over-reliance on investor advice may compromise the original vision and unique value proposition of the business, hindering its potential for growth and innovation. Founders should carefully evaluate and consider investor advice while staying true to their own vision and strategic direction.Sign up for the Startups Newsletterhttps://www.startups.com/newsletterResources: Startup Therapy Podcast  https://www.startups.com/begin Join our Network of Top Founders  Check in with us on LinkedIn | Wil Schroter | Ryan Rutan What to Listen For 00:00 Intro 02:19 Investors are not fortune tellers 06:42 They just speculate everything 08:11 Wha

In today's Startup Therapy Podcast, Wil and Ryan discuss if you can actually build a startup in less than 40 hours a week. Building a successful startup typically requires a significant investment of time and effort. While it's theoretically possible to work on a startup for less than 40 hours a week, it may significantly impact the chances of success. Building a startup is not just one job; it involves planning, research, product development, marketing, and networking. By committing more hours initially, founders can accelerate the growth and development of their startup, potentially leading to a point where they can work fewer hours in the future. Ultimately, the time invested in the early stages can significantly influence the trajectory and potential success of a startup.Sign up for the Startups Newsletterhttps://www.startups.com/newsletterResources: Startup Therapy Podcast  https://www.startups.com/begin Join our Network of Top Founders  Check in with us on LinkedIn | Wil Schroter | Ryan Rutan What to

In today's Startup Therapy Podcast, Wil and Ryan discuss whether bootstrapped startups are less valuable than venture-funded startups. The value of a startup isn't only determined by its funding source. While venture-funded startups may have more money and support initially, bootstrapped startups can still be valuable and successful. Bootstrapping often leads to efficient operations, as founders have to focus on making money and becoming profitable without relying on outside investments. In the end, the value of a startup depends on things like its potential in the market, how much it's growing, how well its product fits the market, and the skills of its team, regardless of how it's funded.Sign up for the Startups Newsletterhttps://www.startups.com/newsletterResources: Startup Therapy Podcast  https://www.startups.com/begin Join our Network of Top Founders  Check in with us on LinkedIn | Wil Schroter | Ryan Rutan What to Listen For 00:00 Intro 02:44 What do founders feel when they are not funded? 03:47 The

In today's Startup Therapy Podcast, Wil and Ryan discuss why founders don’t like to ask for help. Founders sometimes hold back from asking for help because they worry about losing control, looking weak, burdening others, or feeling like they have to do everything themselves. However, it's actually really important for founders to push past these concerns and ask for help. Getting guidance and support from experienced folks can give them awesome insights, expertise, and connections that can speed up their growth and success. It lets founders tap into different perspectives, learn from other people's experiences, and access resources that can help them tackle challenges and make smarter choices.Sign up for the Startups Newsletterhttps://www.startups.com/newsletterResources: Startup Therapy Podcast  https://www.startups.com/begin Join our Network of Top Founders  Check in with us on LinkedIn | Wil Schroter | Ryan Rutan What to Listen For 00:00 Intro 03:58 You could learn something if you just ask for help 06:

In today's Startup Therapy Podcast, Wil and Ryan discuss if founders can design their startups around their life. Should your life adjust to your startup or could you design your startup to fit your lifestyle? It's all about making intentional choices and taking small steps to align your business with your desired lifestyle. By carefully planning, testing things out, and being open to adjustments, you can create a startup that fits seamlessly into your personal life instead of consuming it. It's all about finding that sweet spot where work and life complement each other.Sign up for the Startups Newsletterhttps://www.startups.com/newsletterResources: Startup Therapy Podcast  https://www.startups.com/begin Join our Network of Top Founders  Check in with us on LinkedIn | Wil Schroter | Ryan Rutan What to Listen For 00:00 Intro 01:26 Beyond binary thinking 02:08 What was your lifestyle 10 years ago? 05:46 Baby steps to improve your life 07:09 Starting a work-from-home setup 09:30 Remote work and personal healt

In today's Startup Therapy Podcast, Wil and Ryan discuss how founders can stay in the game longer. Most founders want the result faster without thinking about longevity and sustainability. In the fast-paced world of startups, thinking long-term is a total game-changer. It's like stepping back and getting the big picture, setting up a rock-solid foundation, and planning for sustainable growth. When founders shift their focus from quick wins to the long haul, they become masters at spotting obstacles, riding market waves, and making smart choices that match their ultimate vision. Thinking long-term not only toughens you up, but it also attracts investors and partners who are in it for the long run, boosting your chances of scoring lasting success in the crazy world of startups.Sign up for the Startups Newsletterhttps://www.startups.com/newsletterResources: Startup Therapy Podcast  https://www.startups.com/begin Join our Network of Top Founders  Check in with us on LinkedIn | Wil Schroter | Ryan Rutan What to

In today's Startup Therapy Podcast, Wil and Ryan discuss the toll on everyone around a founder. This topic is close to every founder's heart: the ripple effect their journey has on everyone around them. Let’s deep dive into the nitty-gritty of how being a founder impacts family, friends, and relationships. Being a founder can take a toll on everyone around you in different ways. Your family might feel the strain of your demanding schedule and the ups and downs of the startup rollercoaster. Friends might sense a disconnect as your focus shifts. It's all about finding that delicate balance and keeping the lines of communication open, so you can navigate the challenges together and maintain those important relationships along the way.Sign up for the Startups Newsletterhttps://www.startups.com/newsletterResources: Startup Therapy Podcast  https://www.startups.com/begin Join our Network of Top Founders  Check in with us on LinkedIn | Wil Schroter | Ryan Rutan What to Listen For 00:00 Intro 01:00 The toll on eve

In today's Startup Therapy Podcast, Wil and Ryan discuss the problem with early praise and big hypes at the beginning of a startup, with no assurance of success. We've all seen the flashy headlines and big promises of new startups, but does the hype actually translate to success? Join us as we dive into why early praise can be a double-edged sword for any budding entrepreneur.Sign up for the Startups Newsletterhttps://www.startups.com/newsletterResources: Startup Therapy Podcast  https://www.startups.com/begin Join our Network of Top Founders  Check in with us on LinkedIn | Wil Schroter | Ryan Rutan What to Listen For 00:00 Intro 00:57 Can the startup live up to the hype? 02:10 Getting scared of competitors because of the hype they’re getting 05:38 The start is not the finish 07:19 The hype cycle in tech industry 10:43 False positives in the funding round 14:09 Marketing and hiring hype 14:48 Sometimes the companies with no big announcements become successful 19:30 The hype of crypto and blockchain 22:23 T

In today's Startup Therapy Podcast, Wil and Ryan discuss how being a founder is an integral part of your identity, and setbacks with one startup shouldn't make you doubt your ability to succeed in the role. So even if your current venture doesn't work out, you're likely to keep pursuing new startup opportunities because it's simply part of who you are. After all, being a founder isn't just a job – it's a deeply ingrained part of your DNA.Sign up for the Startups Newsletterhttps://www.startups.com/newsletterResources: Startup Therapy Podcast  https://www.startups.com/begin Join our Network of Top Founders  Check in with us on LinkedIn | Wil Schroter | Ryan Rutan What to Listen For 00:00 Intro 02:24 You’re still a founder even if your startups end 03:11 Success is not a determining factor 05:59 Being a founder is not a job title 08:08 Founder DNA 12:06 What if and why not? 13:36 The founder mentality as employees 18:28 This feeling of failing won’t last forever 20:16 You will always be a founder