How I Built This with Guy Raz BARK: Matt Meeker
24 snips
Nov 4, 2024 
Matt Meeker, co-founder and CEO of BARK, shares his journey from a Great Dane enthusiast to leading a multi-million dollar pet product company. He discusses how his experiences with startups like Meetup shaped his entrepreneurial spirit. The conversation dives into the innovative subscription model for dog products, the challenges of bootstrapping, and the pressures following significant funding. Matt reveals unique offerings like luxury charter flights for dogs and reflects on the importance of adjusting strategies amid evolving market demands.
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Internet 101
- Matt Meeker's marketing professor switched his class to "Internet 101."
- This pivotal moment sparked Meeker's interest in the internet and its potential.
First Equity Experience
- Matt Meeker's first experience with company equity was at iTraffic.
- His payout was $30,000 after it was acquired, inspiring him to start his own venture.
Failed Text Messaging Venture
- Meeker joined a startup with a "bold, ambitious idea": a credit-card-sized text messaging device.
- The venture failed due to excessive capital, hiring experienced executives unsuitable for a startup, and over-reliance on consultants.
