Startup Therapy

In today's Startup Therapy Podcast, Wil and Ryan discuss the idea of having a co-founder. A co-founder can offer numerous benefits for a business. It allows for shared responsibilities, diverse skill sets, and a support system during challenging times. However, finding the right co-founder whose values align with yours and who complements your strengths and weaknesses is crucial for a successful partnership. In this episode, let’s find out how you can choose the right co-founder for your startup and know if you really do need one. Sign up for the Startups Newsletter https://www.startups.com/newsletter Resources: Startup Therapy Podcast https://www.startups.com/beginNetwork of Top FoundersCheck in with us on LinkedIn | Wil Schroter | Ryan Rutan What to Listen For

In today's Startup Therapy Podcast, Wil and Ryan discuss the concept of scaling without adding or hiring more people. Making a significant impact doesn't always mean having a large team. You can achieve remarkable results with a compact and efficient group. Instead of expanding your team, you can focus on optimizing processes and leveraging innovative tools. Let's delve into the strategies that empower a small team to make a substantial difference, proving that size isn't the only measure of success. Sign up for the Startups Newsletter https://www.startups.com/newsletter Resources: Startup Therapy Podcast https://www.startups.com/beginNetwork of Top FoundersLinkedInWil SchroterRyan Rutan What to Listen For

In today's Startup Therapy Podcast, Wil and Ryan discuss about the grind and guilt dilemma of founders. Founders often struggle with the never-ending hard work of growing their business, driven by their passion and ambition. This can create a persistent feeling of guilt as they try to juggle work demands with their personal life and health. So how can you achieve a harmonious equilibrium that allows you to pursue your entrepreneurial dreams while also nurturing your mental and physical health and maintaining meaningful relationships? Sign up for the Startups Newsletter https://www.startups.com/newsletter Resources: Startup Therapy Podcast https://www.startups.com/beginNetwork of Top FoundersCheck in with us on LinkedIn | Wil Schroter | Ryan Rutan What to Listen For

In today's Startup Therapy Podcast, Wil and Ryan discuss whether founders are driven by fear or greed. In the world of startups, there's a question that keeps coming up: what drives founders? Is it the fear of failure, or is it the pursuit of wealth and success, often labeled as greed? In this episode, we delve into the motivations behind entrepreneurs' unique journeys. We explore the delicate balance between these two forces, seeking to uncover what truly fuels the hearts of founders as they navigate their daily challenges. Sign up for the Startups Newsletter https://www.startups.com/newsletter Resources: Startup Therapy Podcast https://www.startups.com/beginNetwork of Top FoundersLinkedInWil SchroterRyan Rutan What to Listen For

In today's Startup Therapy Podcast, Wil and Ryan discuss how you as a founder will know if you’re building the right or wrong product. Have you ever had an idea, but you're just not sure if it's good? It's something that many entrepreneurs can relate to - that anxious feeling of whether what you think would be a successful product could actually just be a waste of your time. So how do you actually know if you’re building the right product? Sign up for the Startups Newsletter https://www.startups.com/newsletter Resources: Startup Therapy Podcast https://www.startups.com/beginNetwork of Top FoundersLinkedInWil SchroterRyan Rutan What to Listen For

In today's Startup Therapy Podcast, Wil and Ryan discuss how startups are actually bought and sold. The process of buying and selling startups can be tricky. It's easy to get confused about how much a startup is really worth, and people sometimes have high hopes that don't match reality. When it comes to getting paid, the way deals are set up can be complicated, with some money coming right away and the rest later, often based on certain goals. To succeed in this startup world, it's important to understand these details and be realistic about what to expect. Sign up for the Startups Newsletter https://www.startups.com/newsletter Resources: Startup Therapy Podcast https://www.startups.com/beginNetwork of Top FoundersLinkedInWil SchroterRyan Rutan What to Listen For

In today's Startup Therapy Podcast, Wil and Ryan discuss when to quit or let go of your startup. If your startup has struggled for an extended period without meaningful progress, causing financial strain, and lacks market validation, it might be time to consider quitting. Additionally, if the startup is taking a toll on your physical and emotional well-being, negatively impacting relationships, or if you've lost passion for the project, quitting could be a wise decision. Remember, quitting isn't always a failure; sometimes, it's a strategic move toward a brighter entrepreneurial future. Sign up for the Startups Newsletter https://www.startups.com/newsletter Resources: Startup Therapy Podcast https://www.startups.com/beginNetwork of Top FoundersLinkedInWil SchroterRyan Rutan What to Listen For

In today's Startup Therapy Podcast, Wil and Ryan discuss the challenge of maintaining a long-term vision in the fast-paced world of startups. It's easy to get sidetracked by short-term goals and immediate survival mode. But here's the deal: Founders need to find that sweet spot between the urgent stuff and the big-picture dream. Regularly reminding themselves why they started this journey and resisting the temptation of trendy distractions can help them stay on track. It's not about chasing quick wins; it's about building something that stands the test of time. Sign up for the Startups Newsletter https://www.startups.com/newsletter Resources: Startup Therapy Podcast https://www.startups.com/beginNetwork of Top FoundersLinkedInWil SchroterRyan Rutan What to Listen For

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 Newsletter https://www.startups.com/newsletter Resources: Startup Therapy Podcast https://www.startups.com/beginNetwork of Top FoundersLinkedInWil SchroterRyan Rutan What to Listen For

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 Newsletter https://www.startups.com/newsletter Resources: Startup Therapy Podcast https://www.startups.com/beginNetwork of Top FoundersLinkedInWil SchroterRyan Rutan What to Listen For

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 Newsletter https://www.startups.com/newsletter Resources: Startup Therapy Podcast https://www.startups.com/beginNetwork of Top FoundersLinkedInWil SchroterRyan Rutan What to Listen For

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 Newsletter https://www.startups.com/newsletter Resources: Startup Therapy Podcast https://www.startups.com/beginNetwork of Top FoundersLinkedInWil SchroterRyan Rutan What to Listen For

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 Newsletter https://www.startups.com/newsletter Resources: Startup Therapy Podcast https://www.startups.com/beginNetwork of Top FoundersLinkedInWil SchroterRyan Rutan What to Listen For

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 Newsletter https://www.startups.com/newsletter Resources: Startup Therapy Podcast https://www.startups.com/beginNetwork of Top FoundersLinkedInWil SchroterRyan Rutan What to Listen For

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 Newsletter https://www.startups.com/newsletter Resources: Startup Therapy Podcast https://www.startups.com/beginNetwork of Top FoundersLinkedInWil SchroterRyan Rutan What to Listen For

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 Newsletter https://www.startups.com/newsletter Resources: Startup Therapy Podcast https://www.startups.com/beginNetwork of Top FoundersLinkedInWil SchroterRyan Rutan What to Listen For

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 Newsletter https://www.startups.com/newsletter Resources: Startup Therapy Podcast https://www.startups.com/beginNetwork of Top FoundersLinkedInWil SchroterRyan Rutan What to Listen For

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 Newsletter https://www.startups.com/newsletter Resources: Startup Therapy Podcast https://www.startups.com/beginNetwork of Top FoundersLinkedInWil SchroterRyan Rutan What to Listen For

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 Newsletter https://www.startups.com/newsletter Resources: Startup Therapy Podcast https://www.startups.com/beginNetwork of Top FoundersLinkedInWil SchroterRyan Rutan What to Listen For

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 Newsletter https://www.startups.com/newsletter Resources: Startup Therapy Podcast https://www.startups.com/beginNetwork of Top FoundersLinkedInWil SchroterRyan Rutan What to Listen For