That Will Never Work
Marc Randolph
How many times have you been told “that will never work”? Probably not as often as Netflix co-founder Marc Randolph. The veteran Silicon Valley entrepreneur, advisor, investor, speaker and best-selling author has founded or co-founded half-a-dozen successful startups and mentored scores of entrepreneurs from first time business owners to established CEOs. Be a fly on the boardroom wall as Marc's podcast opens up the opportunity to entrepreneurs everywhere to gain the benefit of his years of experience as he helps each guest think through their business problem.These lively conversations, which showcase Marc’s unique combination of analytical skills, tough love and a healthy dose of humor, provide actionable advice that will benefit founders - and would-be founders - at every stage of their business journey. New episodes every Tuesday.Want to be a guest on That Will Never Work? Head to https://marcrandolph.com/guest (https://marcrandolph.com/guest), fill out the form and record the question you’d like Marc’s help with right there on the site. And while you’re there sign up for Marc’s newsletter https://marcrandolph.com/newsletter/Feeling social? Marc would love to hear from you here:Twitter: @mbrandolphInstagram: @ThatWillNeverWork LinkedIn: Marcrandolph Tiktok: @marc_randolph
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jun 21, 2021 • 27min
#12: Who is Your Customer?
Today’s guest, Tim, is already getting real-world feedback on his concept. He and his colleagues have developed Clicker, an app that makes sure you can watch what you want in a crowded bar. But, as he goes through a real-time brainstorming exercise with Marc, Tim begins to realize that the opportunity for his company is bigger than he initially thought; it may just be a matter of re-thinking who Clicker’s target customer is. If you want to be a guest on “That Will Never Work” and get help from Marc with your business issues, leave a message at: 1 888 MARCPOD / (888) 627-2763. You can also connect with Marc on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/thatwillneverwork/), Twitter (https://twitter.com/mbrandolph) and on his website (https://Marcrandolph.com), where you can also sign up for his newsletter (https://www.marcrandolph.com/newsletter).
Jun 7, 2021 • 40min
#11: The Culture of Success
Discover how AI is reshaping user engagement in gaming with 12 Traits' unique empathy engine. Joe shares insights into balancing personal growth while scaling a startup and the significance of outdoor activities for creative thinking. Marc reflects on maintaining a strong company culture amidst rapid growth and the importance of hiring for adaptability. They explore the trials of cultural experiments, the importance of entrepreneurial spirit, and how to embrace challenges with persistence, offering a deep dive into successful business practices.
May 24, 2021 • 32min
#10: Getting Into a Subscription Frame of Mind
Joseph dives into his innovative hypnosis app, outlining its unique offerings from free podcasts to custom sessions. He shares impressive download metrics and growth goals while eyeing the competition with major players like Calm. Marc proposes that switching to a subscription model could enhance customer lifetime value and attract investors. They explore the pros and cons of different pricing strategies and discuss leveraging PR to broaden reach. Valuable insights on navigating investment conversations round out the discussion.
May 10, 2021 • 26min
#9: Every Great App Starts as a Great Idea
A CFO turned entrepreneur shares his innovative app idea, Dibbsi, which allows users to claim their desired gifts. The discussion dives into current challenges like tech setbacks and finding a co-founder. Marc emphasizes the importance of market validation and user behavior over traditional fundraising. They explore how Dibbsi stands out from existing platforms and the tough task of creating network effects. Finally, quick testing and evolving ideas dominate the conversation, encouraging a hands-on approach for success.
Apr 27, 2021 • 40min
#8: The Business of Being Unemployed
Adriel shares his journey of launching Riveter, a service designed to aid the unemployed, which was catalyzed by his own layoff during COVID. The duo explores innovative monetization strategies, including a shift to an advertiser-sponsored model. They discuss the evolving needs of job seekers, the pivotal role of community in Riveter's approach, and how to effectively target small businesses for outreach. The conversation emphasizes rapid experimentation and the balance of supporting both users and companies in this sensitive landscape.
Apr 13, 2021 • 32min
#7: Taking The Stigma Out of Erotic Art
Marta is on a mission to create the ultimate marketplace for erotic art - and she’s well on her way. Now she just has to fine-tune her strategy to make sure she reaches the right audience. Marc dives in to learn all about this sector, from her dalliance with blockchain to the very real challenge that today’s social networks pose to a business focused on the innate beauty of the human body. This one’s an eye-opener for sure.If you want to be a guest on “That Will Never Work” and get help from Marc with your business issues, leave a message at: 1 888 MARCPOD / (888) 627-2763. You can also connect with Marc on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/thatwillneverwork/), Twitter (https://twitter.com/mbrandolph) and on his website (https://Marcrandolph.com), where you can also sign up for his newsletter (https://www.marcrandolph.com/newsletter).
Mar 30, 2021 • 30min
#6: These Houses Won’t Build Themselves
Evan is a young man who dreams of houses built by robots. But he’s not some silicon valley disruptor looking to replace human labor with AI-powered machines; he’s a contractor and builder himself, all too familiar with the inefficiencies in traditional construction. Now he wants to turn his dream of robot-assisted development into a reality, and he’s turning to Marc to find the best way to fund this vision - starting with the building of his own home. If you want to be a guest on “That Will Never Work” and get help from Marc with your business issues, leave a message at: 1 888 MARCPOD / (888) 627-2763. You can also connect with Marc on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/thatwillneverwork/), Twitter (https://twitter.com/mbrandolph) and on his website (https://Marcrandolph.com), where you can also sign up for his newsletter (https://www.marcrandolph.com/newsletter).
Mar 16, 2021 • 39min
#5: Walmart or Bust
Katie Gellhausen, inventor and founder of Socket Locket, shares her journey from a hesitant product pitch to securing a major Walmart order. Hear about the unique dual function of her phone accessory, her struggles with early sales during COVID, and the thrilling moment she pitched at Walmart's open call. Marc offers insights on scaling production, balancing U.S. manufacturing with international options, and navigating the risks of relying on a single customer. Plus, Katie discusses the unique dynamics of co-founding her business with her mom.
Mar 2, 2021 • 38min
#4: COVID-Friendly and Ready to Rally
David shares his journey of launching PingPod, an innovative on-demand table tennis experience in the bustling city of New York. With an intriguing self-service model, he details early demand and strategic location choices to maximize foot traffic. The conversation explores the economics of operating such a venture, weighing the pros and cons of franchising versus remaining company-owned. Marc suggests focusing on customer experience and flexible leasing instead of real estate investments, and highlights creative marketing strategies to attract repeat customers.
Feb 16, 2021 • 33min
#3: Adventure Won't Wait
In this captivating conversation, Marc helps Paul, a first-time entrepreneur, tackle the challenges of launching an indoor adventure park complete with zip lines and climbing walls. Paul shares how he transformed a simple idea into an ambitious project, persisting despite pandemic setbacks. They discuss the importance of hiring expert consultants and the balancing act of managing family life while launching a business. With excitement buzzing about the park's future, this session is packed with insights and encouragement for aspiring founders!
