The Foundr Podcast with Nathan Chan 585: The $100K Mistake Most Founders Make with Manufacturers (and How to Avoid It) (Best of Foundr)
Sep 5, 2025
Kian Golzari, a renowned expert in sourcing and product manufacturing, shares insights from his extensive experience of developing over 2,500 products and working with major brands. He reveals how to avoid costly sourcing mistakes and emphasizes the importance of strong supplier relationships. Listeners will learn his 3-step product development system and the art of negotiation, which focuses on positioning rather than price. His tips for engaging with Chinese manufacturers will be vital for future entrepreneurs looking to enhance product quality and efficiency.
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Started In The Factory, Not Online
- Kian moved to China after a two-week trip stretched into three months and set up an office.
- His factory-first upbringing shaped his sourcing approach and career.
Do Manufacturing Right Or Not At All
- Pay strict attention to product and supplier details every step of the way.
- Do manufacturing properly or not at all, because small oversights become big supply-chain failures.
Why Mass Production Beats Dropshipping
- Dropshipping limits product control, quality consistency, and brand experience.
- Mass production enables tailoring, consistency, and better brand value capture.