Why Businesses Fail #03 - Practical Solutions for Launching, Leading, and Growing a Resilient Business

We kick off with a candid chat about why timing your launch can make or break your business. From early flops to being outpaced by competitors, you’ll get a five-point checklist to get timing right.

Key Takeaways: 

• Validate Readiness: Ensure your product is genuinely launch-ready and avoid shipping with major unresolved issues—stripped-down MVPs are better than broken promises.

• Know the Competition: Objectively benchmark your offering against competitors and be honest about your unique value.

• Beta and Demonstrate: Secure real-world validation with test users or beta customers before unveiling to a wider audience.

Why do 14% of startups blame team issues for their downfall? Because, as Jeremy explains, building your “golden triangle” of talent is everything, from vision to execution.

Key Takeaways: 

• Identify Core Roles: Fill the crucial roles of visionary, hustler, and hacker, even if it means combining responsibilities or seeking co-creators.

• Recruit for the Right Reasons: Hire slow, fire fast, and prioritize quality over quantity for every early hire.

• Create an Irresistible Culture: Focus on flexibility, meaningful incentives, and constant development to attract and retain top talent.

Pricing is one part art, one part science—and a big part survival. This episode shows how to sidestep common pricing missteps and keep your P&L healthy.

Key Takeaways: 

• Involve Customers in Pricing: Don’t develop pricing in isolation—talk about value and willingness-to-pay early in the process.

• Monitor and Adapt: Keep pricing under review and adjust based on market signals or competitive shifts, rather than settling for introductory numbers.

• Watch Burn Rate: Know your numbers—track your burn rate and maintain enough runway to avoid desperation decisions.

Even the most innovative startups can be undone by regulatory surprises. Today’s segment delivers gripping tales from the field and lessons for building a compliant (and ethical) business from day one.

Key Takeaways: 

• Do Your Homework: Research the legal and regulatory landscape before launch—ignorance is never a viable defense.

• Anticipate Worst-Case Behavior: Prepare for the worst your customers (and competitors) could do; plan policies and practices accordingly.

• Act Ethically: Short-term gains from rule-bending rarely pay off—adopt ethical practices for long-term business success.