My First Million

Rick Marini, an operator and investor with a background in M&A, and Jeff Bonforte, a seasoned leader in product and engineering, share their incredible journey of acquiring Grindr for $600M and flipping it for $2B in just two years. They discuss the unique challenges they faced, including cultural stigma affecting buyer interest. The pair reveal their key strategies for turning the company around, such as overhauling talent, prioritizing community trust, and innovative growth tactics, while also diving into investment themes like AI and crypto.

Greg Isenberg, a product builder and founder of Idea Browser, dives into the exciting world of OpenAI's new App Store. He shares five innovative app ideas, including an AI Tax Guy for effortless tax filing, an AI Healthcare Concierge to streamline doctor visits, and even an AI Grandma to dispense warm, witty advice. They also discuss maximizing discovery in the ChatGPT ecosystem and the differences between Custom GPTs and contextual apps. If you're looking to ride the AI wave, this conversation is packed with insights!

Eric Ryan, founder of Method, Olly, and Welly, shares his secret to spotting $100M product ideas. He emphasizes the importance of identifying 'sea of sameness' in markets and using cultural shifts for innovative design. Eric discusses creative brainstorming methods and the power of travel to fuel ideas. He proposes exciting concepts like rebranding fiber products and creating vibrant, communal dining experiences. Eric also dives into effective naming strategies and fostering creativity in teams, shifting from founder to coach as he inspires the next generation of entrepreneurs.

In this engaging conversation, Daniel Negreanu, a six-time World Series of Poker bracelet winner known for his psychological insights and brand-building in poker, shares invaluable strategies for entrepreneurs. He discusses how to read people and the importance of emotional intelligence. Daniel emphasizes the balance between taking risks early in life and safeguarding wealth later. He also redefines downswings as opportunities for personal growth and explores how trusting intuition enhances performance. Dive into his journey from struggling player to a poker pro!

The hosts dive into the innovative AI app Sora, which creates videos using your face and voice, and discuss its potential for viral growth. They explore the rise of micro sports betting and its implications for players, while also offering insights into gambling addiction treatment via telehealth services. The conversation shifts to the value of personal data archives and how they could enhance future AI models. Finally, they tease an exciting new AI tool and reflect on the mixed emotions surrounding rapid advancements in technology.

Will Guidara, a renowned restaurateur and author of Unreasonable Hospitality, shares insights on how hospitality principles can elevate startups. He emphasizes the power of genuine customer experiences over perfection, illustrated by a memorable hot dog story. Guidara discusses operational strategies like the 'Dreamweaver' role to personalize guest interactions and the importance of empowering frontline staff. He explains how small gestures can significantly enhance loyalty and drive profits, advocating for a hospitality-first approach in business.

Discover the remarkable journey of the Savannah Bananas, a team that transformed from struggling to skyrocketing in popularity. Learn how Jesse Cole turned his passion for baseball into a billion-dollar brand through innovative stunts and fan-first experiences. Dive into the quirky branding decisions, including the name 'Savannah Bananas', and the unique game format of 'Banana Ball' that keeps fans engaged. Explore the vital importance of extraordinary customer service and memorable moments that resonate in today’s entertainment landscape.

Shaan Puri, an entrepreneur and wealth-building expert, shares insights on achieving financial success. He emphasizes mastering a money-making skill, urging listeners to choose one and practice intensely. Shaan also discusses the importance of equity over trading time for money and highlights patience in seeing results. He introduces three business levers—code, content, and capital—to turn skills into income. Lastly, he advocates for surrounding oneself with like-minded people to unlock opportunities, showing how these principles can lead to a wealthier life.

In this engaging discussion, Chris Koerner, known as the 'side hustle king' and a serial entrepreneur, shares a treasure trove of unique business ideas anyone can start right in their backyard. From installing in-ground trampolines to mobile fuel delivery and even selling novelty ice cream, Chris emphasizes practical, niche markets. He also explores innovative concepts like robot manicure machines and secret pickleball courts. Plus, listeners get tips on leveraging AI for small business growth, ensuring profits keep rolling in!

In this episode, distressed-investing specialist Thomas Braziel shares his journey from growing up around bankruptcy law to making smart investments in troubled assets like FTX and Mt. Gox. He explains his strategies for buying customer claims and tackles the emotional and ethical challenges of the industry. Thomas also emphasizes that a position well bought is already half sold, offering insights on how to navigate public controversies. Plus, he suggests must-read books for aspiring investors.