Startup Hustle

Join us as Chase Harmer, a seasoned entrepreneur with over 20 years in the fintech industry, dives deep into the challenges and innovations of building a fintech company with heart. In this episode, we explore the intersection of financial technology and charitable giving through Chase's latest venture, Wishes—a platform designed to transform how we support causes we care about. Episode Highlights: The Genesis of Wishes:A New Era for Charities:Blockchain Meets Charity:The Cost of Innovation:Strategic Nonprofit Partnerships:Looking Ahead: Don't miss this insightful conversation about the fusion of technology and philanthropy, where passion meets purpose in the fintech space. Find Startup Hustle Everywhere: https://gigb.co/l/YEh5 This episode is sponsored by Full Scale: https://fullscale.io Visit the Wishes Inc. website: https://www.wishes.inc Learn more about Chase Harmer: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chase-harmer-657a5b5 Sign up for the Startup Hustle newsletter: https://newsletter.startuphustle.xyz Highlighted Discussion Points See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Steve Wolfe, managing partner and co-founder of Growth Street Partners, joins Matt Watson on the Startup Hustle podcast to discuss practical fundraising for founders. They explore the challenges faced by practical founders in raising money and the drawbacks of traditional venture capital funding. They emphasize the importance of founder market fit and the advantages it brings. They also discuss the benefits of having a growth equity firm like Growth Street Partners as an investor, including the ability to provide liquidity to founders and the flexibility to scale at a pace that suits the business. The episode reveals the following insights: So, jump in and learn about practical funding and founder-market fit! Find Startup Hustle Everywhere: https://gigb.co/l/YEh5 This episode is sponsored by Full Scale: https://fullscale.io/ Visit the Growth Street Partners website: https://growthstreetpartners.com Learn more about Steve Wolfe: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-wolfe-ba5a596/ Sign up for the Startup Hustle newsletter: https://newsletter.startuphustle.xyz/ Highlighted Discussion Points See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Matt Watson interviews Rob Snyder, the founder and CEO of Reframe, about product market fit and the challenges of being an entrepreneur. They discuss the definition of product market fit, the importance of customer case studies, and the need to focus on solving specific problems for a target audience. Rob shares insights from his program for founders and emphasizes the value of talking to customers and iterating on the sales pitch. They also touch on the difficulty of scaling and the limitations of traditional business education in teaching early-stage startup strategies. The conversation explores the challenges of finding product-market fit and starting a business. It emphasizes the importance of focusing on customer needs and simplifying the process of building a startup. Matt and Rob discuss the common struggles of not knowing how to build the right product or sell it effectively. They highlight the need to listen to customers' problems rather than their proposed solutions and to frame everything in the context of a customer success story. The conversation also touches on the value of a Harvard degree in entrepreneurship and the ongoing desire to start new ventures. Tune in to learn that product market fit is not all that complicated. Find Startup Hustle Everywhere: https://gigb.co/l/YEh5 This episode is sponsored by Full Scale: https://fullscale.io Visit the Reframe website: https://www.robsnyder.org Learn more about Rob Snyder: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rsnyder1 Highlighted Discussion Points See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Feeling trapped on a workaholic hamster wheel? This episode of Startup Hustle dives deep into the entrepreneur's struggle for work-life balance and that elusive thing called happiness. Join serial entrepreneur and travel addict Michael Motamedi as he discusses aligning your company goals with your desire to, you know, not die alone. We'll crack the code on the "happiness threshold" (it's not about that third yacht) and explore why fixing your water heater might be more fulfilling than you think. Plus, Matt finally admits he might have a delegation problem. (Spoiler alert: he does.) This episode is for you if: Get ready to laugh, learn, and maybe re-evaluate your life plan. Because, let's face it, chasing happiness on a hamster wheel is exhausting. Tune in and buckle up for a thought-provoking ride! Find Startup Hustle Everywhere: https://gigb.co/l/YEh5 This episode is sponsored by Full Scale: https://fullscale.io Listen to the ‘No Fixed Address’ podcast: https://matadornetwork.com/podcasts/no-fixed-address Learn more about Michael Motamedi: https://www.michaelmotamedi.com Try the AI travel assistant Michael uses: https://guidegeek.com Highlighted Discussion Points: See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode of Startup Hustle is a goldmine for aspiring entrepreneurs! Yaniv Bernstein, host of the StartUp podcast and founder of Funding Fit, joins the show to dish on the exciting and often messy world of startups. Ever heard of "entrepreneurial ADHD"? Yaniv, a former Google employee who freely admits to this condition, dives into the challenges founders face, including the pitfalls to avoid. Learn from his experience to dodge common mistakes and build a venture that thrives, not dives. Is venture capital the holy grail? Not necessarily. Matt Watson and Yaniv have a fascinating conversation about the VC game, unpacking the truths behind those astronomical return expectations. They'll also explore the bootstrapping path and how to decide which route is right for you. Hiring a killer dev team is crucial for any startup. But how do you do it? Yaniv, with his background in software engineering, offers insights on building the perfect tech squad for your dream venture. This episode is packed with valuable takeaways, whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or a newbie with a million-dollar idea. Tune in and learn how to navigate the startup world, avoid costly mistakes, and hire the A-team to make your business successful! Find Startup Hustle Everywhere: https://gigb.co/l/YEh5 This episode is sponsored by Full Scale: https://fullscale.io Visit The Startup Podcast website: https://www.tsp.show Learn more about Yaniv Bernstein: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ybernstein Highlighted Discussion Points See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join us as Matt Watson chats with Greg Head about the power of in-person events like the SaaS Open. We're talking about ditching the Zoom fatigue and forging real connections with founders who GET IT. They discuss the value of talking to other entrepreneurs and attending events. They highlight the power of community and the benefits of connecting with like-minded individuals. They also touch on the importance of in-person events and their impact on building relationships. The conversation emphasizes the practical aspects of running a SaaS business and the challenges founders face. In this episode, you will learn about: Overall, the episode emphasizes the value of networking and learning from others in the entrepreneurial community. Find Startup Hustle Everywhere: https://gigb.co/l/YEh5 This episode is sponsored by Full Scale: https://fullscale.io Visit the Practical Founders website: https://practicalfounders.com Learn more about Greg Head: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregheadaz Highlighted Discussion Points See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do you ever feel like you're the only one getting things done at your startup? This episode is for you! Matt Watson chats with Greg Schmedding, a problem-solver with a proven track record in the staffing industry, about the critical hires every startup needs to flourish. In this episode, you'll learn: This episode is packed with practical advice to help you build the dream team your startup deserves. So, tune in and get ready to learn about making key hires for your company! Find Startup Hustle Everywhere: https://gigb.co/l/YEh5 This episode is sponsored by Full Scale: https://fullscale.io/ Learn more about Gregg Schmedding: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gschmedding/ Highlighted Discussion Points See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Startup Hustle, Matt Watson chats with Rex Kurzius, founder and CEO of Asset Panda, about the exciting (and sometimes messy!) world of building a global SaaS company. Get ready to hear about: Join us for an insightful discussion on the exciting world of building a global SaaS company! Find Startup Hustle Everywhere: https://gigb.co/l/YEh5 This episode is sponsored by Full Scale: https://fullscale.io Visit the Asset Panda website: https://www.assetpanda.com Learn more about Rex Kurzius: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rex-kurzius-%F0%9F%90%BC-517aa9 Highlighted Discussion Points See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever wonder what happens when you buy out your business partner? Join Jeff Munn and Matt Watson, the new CEO of Full Scale, as they go through Matt’s entrepreneurial rollercoaster in the first 90 days! In this episode, you'll hear: This episode is packed with insights, hilarious anecdotes, and practical advice for anyone considering the entrepreneurial path or anyone who just wants a glimpse into the crazy world of startups! Don't miss out! Tune in today! Find Startup Hustle Everywhere: https://gigb.co/l/YEh5 This episode is sponsored by Full Scale: https://fullscale.io/ Visit the Jeff Munn website: https://jmunn.com/ Learn more about Jeff Munn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffmunn/ Highlighted Discussion Points See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have you ever wondered how entrepreneurship can change communities? This episode dives deep into business ownership with Dr. DeAngela Burns-Wallace, a leader with an impressive track record in government, education, and philanthropy. Now, she's at the helm of the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, a powerhouse dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs, especially women and people of color. Here's what you won't want to miss: Tune in and get ready to be motivated by the power of entrepreneurship and the incredible women leading the charge! Find Startup Hustle Everywhere: https://gigb.co/l/YEh5 This episode is sponsored by Full Scale: https://fullscale.io/ Visit the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation website: https://www.kauffman.org/ Learn more about Dr. DeAngela Burns-Wallace: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deangelaburnswallace/ Highlighted Discussion Points See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever felt like your website is about to crash from a sudden surge in traffic? Our guest founder knows that feeling all too well. In this episode, we chat with the Chief Innovation Officer of WP Engine, Jason Cohen, about the company's incredible journey and his own path from burnt-out developer to successful entrepreneur. You'll learn: This episode is a must-listen for anyone who: Tune in and get ready to be inspired! Find Startup Hustle Everywhere: https://gigb.co/l/YEh5 This episode is sponsored by Full Scale: https://fullscale.io/ Visit the WP Engine website: https://wpengine.com/ Learn more about Jason Cohen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncohen/ Highlighted Discussion Points See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join Matt Watson for a blast-from-the-past reunion with his long-time friend, Danny Zaslavsky! This episode dives deep into Danny's fascinating journey, from growing up in a car dealership to becoming the founder of a tech startup, DealerCue. Matt and Danny reminisce about their early days working together, the challenges they faced in the car business, and the power of technology to revolutionize the industry. They'll discuss: The Birth of DealerCue:Entrepreneurship 101:Marketing Magic:From Showroom to Startup:The Power of Partnership: This episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone interested in entrepreneurship, the ever-evolving car dealership landscape, and the power of partnerships in the tech industry. Tune in and get ready to be inspired! Find Startup Hustle Everywhere: https://gigb.co/l/YEh5 This episode is sponsored by Full Scale: https://fullscale.io/ Visit the DealerCue website: https://www.dealercue.com/ Learn more about Danny Zaslavsky: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danny-zaslavsky-a8503121/ Highlighted Discussion Points See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have you ever struggled to find reliable contractors for your home repairs? You're not alone! In this episode, we'll hear from Bo Lais, the CEO and founder of Lula. He started out helping homeowners but discovered a hidden goldmine in the property management industry. Bo and his wife faced the same challenge as many homeowners: finding qualified contractors. This led them to create a platform to connect homeowners with reliable professionals. But what they learned along the way was even more valuable. Tune in to hear Bo's story of pivoting his business, the challenges of competing in the property management marketplace, and how Lula ultimately found success by focusing on property management. We'll explore the challenges and triumphs of this strategic shift, including: This episode is packed with valuable insights if you're a property manager, entrepreneur, or someone who's ever battled unreliable contractors. Find Startup Hustle Everywhere: https://gigb.co/l/YEh5 This episode is sponsored by Full Scale: https://fullscale.io Visit the Lula website: https://lula.life Learn more about Bo Lais: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bolais Highlighted Discussion Points See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tired of dead-end jobs and feeling stuck in your career? Hope is on the horizon. In this episode, Matt Watson chats with Kadima Careers's Founder, CEO & Chief Accelerator, Alan Stein. Alan, a seasoned professional with a unique career path, shares his insights on: Tune in for actionable advice, inspiring stories, and practical tips to take your career and business to the next level! Find Startup Hustle Everywhere: https://gigb.co/l/YEh5 This episode is sponsored by Full Scale: https://fullscale.io Visit the Kadima Careers website: https://kadimacareers.com Learn more about Alan Stein: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alanjstein Highlighted Discussion Points: See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do you feel lost in the world of product development? Are you struggling to gain traction, validate your idea, or build a team that delivers? In this episode, we're joined by Adam Judelson, founder and CEO of First Principles Catalyst, to dissect the common problems tech companies face with product development. From the challenges of early-stage startups to building the right product team, Adam brings his wealth of experience. Matt and Adam have an uber-dynamic conversation on the following topics: Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting your journey, this episode is packed with actionable insights and practical advice to help you build products that win. So, tune in and get ready to learn the value of product teams for your company! Find Startup Hustle Everywhere: https://gigb.co/l/YEh5 This episode is sponsored by Full Scale: https://fullscale.io Visit the First Principles Catalyst website: https://www.firstprinciples.la Learn more about Adam Judelson: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-judelson/ Highlighted Discussion Points See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever wonder how to create a product that caters to both small businesses and giant corporations? Join Matt Watson as he dives deep into the world of product strategy with Jeff Weiner, CEO of Realquantum. Discover how the company revolutionized commercial real estate appraisal software and the crucial differences in catering to small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) vs. enterprise giants. They dive deep into Jeff's journey, from recognizing the industry's need for innovation to building a platform that revolutionizes the way commercial real estate appraisals are done. This episode is packed with insights on: Adapting your product strategy for diverse customer segmentsNavigating the challenges of enterprise integrationBalancing simplicity with advanced features for a smooth user experienceThe importance of saying "no" to bad product ideas Whether you're a startup founder or a seasoned software developer, this episode is guaranteed to equip you with valuable knowledge for tackling the ever-evolving landscape of product development! Tune in, learn, and conquer the market! Find Startup Hustle Everywhere: https://gigb.co/l/YEh5 This episode is sponsored by Full Scale: https://fullscale.io/ Visit the Realquantum website: https://www.realquantum.com Learn more about Jeff Weiner: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffreyweiner Highlighted Discussion Points See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever wonder how top brands create ads that resonate with you on a personal level? In this episode of Startup Hustle, Matt Watson dives into AI-powered marketing with Matt Swalley, Co-founder and Chief Business Officer of Omneky. Discover how Omneky's platform leverages cutting-edge AI to: Craft hyper-personalized ads:Generate and optimize ad creatives:Automate ad buying and management: Matt and Matt also discuss: Join us as we explore the exciting possibilities of AI in marketing and discover how it can help your business thrive! Find Startup Hustle Everywhere: https://gigb.co/l/YEh5 This episode is sponsored by Full Scale: https://fullscale.io Visit the Omneky website: https://www.omneky.com Learn more about Matt Swalley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-swalley-59249533 Highlighted Discussion Points: See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Forget drones, the future swims! Imagine a world where robots don't fly, they dive - not through water, but through mountains of sand, grains, and powders. This isn't science fiction, it's the reality being built by Lorenzo Conti, the engineer behind a revolutionary technology. Join Matt Watson as he digs deep into the technology behind moving through "granular materials" with unprecedented efficiency. In this episode, we dive headfirst (pun intended!) into Lorenzo's fascinating journey: Join us as we uncover the secrets of the "granular world" and explore the future of technology that literally swims through it! Find Startup Hustle Everywhere: https://gigb.co/l/YEh5 This episode is sponsored by Full Scale: https://fullscale.io Visit the Crover website: https://www.crover.tech Learn more about Lorenzo Conti: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lconti Highlighted Discussion Points: See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join host Matt Watson as he goes into the complex world of automotive technology with a twist of entrepreneurial spirit. In this episode, Matt sits down with the innovative mind behind WebBuy and the visionary founder of Pauldron, CTO Steve Dimock. Buckle up as they traverse through the rugged landscapes of Montana, exploring the untamed frontier of tech industry growth. From the emergence of pioneering companies like Onyx to the burgeoning computer science programs igniting young minds, Montana's tech scene is a force to be reckoned with. Unveil the challenges of crafting an online car-buying platform with Steve Dimock, where the scarcity of software talent in Kansas is just the tip of the iceberg. Dive deep into the complexities of digital retailing solutions and the quest for transparency in the automotive realm. Explore the innovative strategies employed by WebBuy and Pauldron to revolutionize the car buying process, promising not just efficiency, but a newfound trust between dealerships and consumers. Discover how they're slashing dealership wait times and reshaping the very fabric of automotive retail. Peel back the layers of technological ingenuity as Matt and Steve dissect the AI-powered revolution in vehicle service contracts. From personalized recommendations to seamless follow-ups, witness the future of automotive maintenance unfold before your eyes. And don't miss out on the riveting tale of Steve Dimock's latest venture, Pauldron, where partnerships pave the road to success and experience meets innovation head-on. Tune in as Matt Watson and Steve Dimock navigate the fast lanes of tech entrepreneurship, leaving no stone unturned in their quest to reshape the automotive landscape, one byte at a time. Find Startup Hustle Everywhere: https://gigb.co/l/YEh5 This episode is sponsored by Full Scale: https://fullscale.io/ Visit the WebBuy website: https://webbuy.com/ Visit the Pauldron website: https://pauldron.net/ Learn more about Stephen Dimock https://www.linkedin.com/in/sdimock/ Highlighted Discussion Points See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever wondered how tech is transforming the dusty world of paving and construction? Join us on the podcast as we chat with Bryce Wuori, CEO of PaveWise, who turned a family business into a cutting-edge tech company! Here's what you'll learn: From asphalt to algorithms:Weathering the storm:Bootstrapped to VC-backed:Idea bucket or chaos vortex?Customer-first:From dusty boots to trade shows: Ready to pave the way to your own success? Tune in to the podcast and get inspired by Bryce Wuori's story! Find Startup Hustle Everywhere: https://gigb.co/l/YEh5 This episode is sponsored by Full Scale: https://fullscale.io/ Visit the PaveWise website: https://pavewisepro.com/ Learn more about Bryce Wuori https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryce-w-89818b237/ Highlighted Discussion Points: See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.