Startup Hustle

Do you ever feel like you're the only one getting things done at your startup? This episode is for you! Matt Watson chats with Greg Schmedding, a problem-solver with a proven track record in the staffing industry, about the critical hires every startup needs to flourish. In this episode, you'll learn: Why delegating and letting go are essential for startup growth (and how to do it without losing control) The biggest hiring mistakes founders make (think: promoting that talented developer to CTO way too soon!) The importance of building a strong foundation before scaling your team How to identify and hire talented individuals who might not have the experience on paper but have the potential to be superstars Why Matt Watson says his best hire wasn't the most experienced, but the one who believed most in their approach How to create a repeatable and scalable sales system (and the challenges of managing an offshore team) The importance of self-awareness in key hires - building a team that complements your strengths and weaknesses This episode is packed with practical advice to help you build the dream team your startup deserves. So, tune in and get ready to learn about making key hires for your company!     Find Startup Hustle Everywhere: https://gigb.co/l/YEh5   This episode is sponsored by Full Scale: https://fullscale.io/   Learn more about Gregg Schmedding: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gschmedding/  Highlighted Discussion Points Key hires for startups with guest Greg Schmedding. 0:31 Sales experience and problem-solving in the staffing industry. 1:10 Key hires for startups and entrepreneurs. 3:25 Hiring and trust in leadership positions. 7:52 Entrepreneurship, leadership, and team building. 12:00 Hiring key personnel and playbooks for success. 19:24 Hiring and recognizing greatness in early-stage companies. 22:47 Hiring key personnel for a growing company. 27:01 Leadership, process, and culture in a sales team. 31:22 Key hires, focusing on root growth. 37:06 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Startup Hustle, Matt Watson chats with Rex Kurzius, founder and CEO of Asset Panda, about the exciting (and sometimes messy!) world of building a global SaaS company. Get ready to hear about: The entrepreneurial itch: Rex, a serial entrepreneur, shares his insights on what drives him to build new businesses constantly. From home inventory to global asset tracking: Discover how Asset Panda pivoted from a consumer product to a successful B2B solution for tracking assets worldwide. Localization and the challenges of global markets: We explore the complexities of data privacy, language barriers, and cultural differences when selling software internationally. Unexpected use cases: From weird machines to body parts, Rex reveals the surprising ways companies worldwide use Asset Panda. Global marketing strategies: Matt and Rex discuss the various approaches to marketing a SaaS product internationally, including organic search and partnerships. The importance of customer fit: Learn why identifying the ideal customer profile is crucial for success in the global SaaS market. Compliance in a globalized world: We delve into the challenges of data privacy regulations like GDPR and how to navigate them effectively. The power of partnerships: Discover how Rex's MSP program leverages local partners to provide exceptional customer support worldwide. The rewards of going global: Rex shares the satisfaction of providing value to customers internationally and building strong relationships. Join us for an insightful discussion on the exciting world of building a global SaaS company!   Find Startup Hustle Everywhere: https://gigb.co/l/YEh5   This episode is sponsored by Full Scale: https://fullscale.io   Visit the Asset Panda website:  https://www.assetpanda.com    Learn more about Rex Kurzius: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rex-kurzius-%F0%9F%90%BC-517aa9   Highlighted Discussion Points Entrepreneurship, business ideas, and asset tracking. 1:27 Tracking assets globally with localization and language support. 6:48 Tracking assets and managing inventory globally. 12:02 Global marketing strategies and challenges. 17:01 Global expansion, customer profiles, and compliance challenges. 22:04 Data privacy and compliance challenges for SaaS companies. 27:11 International business challenges and partnerships. 31:05 Global SaaS company challenges and successes. 37:46  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever wonder what happens when you buy out your business partner? Join Jeff Munn and Matt Watson, the new CEO of Full Scale, as they go through Matt’s entrepreneurial rollercoaster in the first 90 days! In this episode, you'll hear: Matt's origin story: From problem solver to accidental business owner, Matt shares his hilarious and relatable journey. Leadership lessons learned (the hard way): Matt dives into the challenges and triumphs of taking over a company he once co-ran. Going global (and the awkwardness that comes with it): Matt gets real about leading a team of 300+ employees in the Philippines. Building a tech powerhouse: We explore Matt's plans for scaling Full Scale, including his bold marketing strategies. The entrepreneur's struggle is real: Matt and Jeff Munn chat about the stress, excitement, and constant hustle of running a business. Growth without burnout: Matt shares his honest journey towards achieving sustainable growth while maintaining his sanity. ‍ This episode is packed with insights, hilarious anecdotes, and practical advice for anyone considering the entrepreneurial path or anyone who just wants a glimpse into the crazy world of startups! Don't miss out! Tune in today!     Find Startup Hustle Everywhere: https://gigb.co/l/YEh5   This episode is sponsored by Full Scale: https://fullscale.io/   Visit the Jeff Munn  website:  https://jmunn.com/    Learn more about Jeff Munn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffmunn/  Highlighted Discussion Points Entrepreneurship and business ownership with Matt Watson. 0:32 Entrepreneurship, business growth, and leadership. 2:39 Leadership transition and cultural differences. 8:25 Leadership and change management in a tech company. 13:14 Ideal client for software development services. 18:30 Risks and growth strategies for a software development company. 20:33 Entrepreneurship, stress, and balance. 25:31 Business growth, leadership, and marketing goals. 30:09 Business growth and leadership decisions. 35:04 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have you ever wondered how entrepreneurship can change communities? This episode dives deep into business ownership with Dr. DeAngela Burns-Wallace, a leader with an impressive track record in government, education, and philanthropy. Now, she's at the helm of the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, a powerhouse dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs, especially women and people of color. Here's what you won't want to miss: Inspiring stories: Dr. Wallace shares her incredible career journey, from diplomacy to higher education to making a real difference in communities. Leadership lessons: Learn how Dr. DeAngela Burns-Wallace of the Kauffman Foundation fosters a culture of empathy and active listening within the organization. Supporting women-owned businesses: Discover how the Kauffman Foundation prioritizes grants and resources for female founders and businesses owned by minorities. The future of entrepreneurship: Explore the Kauffman Foundation's exciting plans to empower underserved communities and build a thriving ecosystem for innovation. Empowering words for women leaders: Get a boost of inspiration from Dr. Wallace and Lauren Conaway as they share their wisdom for navigating demanding roles and achieving success. Tune in and get ready to be motivated by the power of entrepreneurship and the incredible women leading the charge!     Find Startup Hustle Everywhere: https://gigb.co/l/YEh5   This episode is sponsored by Full Scale: https://fullscale.io/   Visit the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation website:  https://www.kauffman.org/    Learn more about Dr. DeAngela Burns-Wallace: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deangelaburnswallace/  Highlighted Discussion Points Entrepreneurship and women's history with Dr. D. Angela Burns Wallace. 0:33 Leadership, entrepreneurship, and community impact. 2:13 Joining the Kauffman Foundation and its impact. 8:15 Community building and leadership approach. 13:57 Entrepreneurship, grants, and local suppliers. 19:19 Leadership and strategic plans for the Kauffman Foundation. 23:53 Entrepreneurship, economic empowerment, and community development. 27:53 Entrepreneurship, innovation, and community impact. 32:48 Philanthropy, empathy, and community impact. 3722 Leadership, self-care, and superpowers. 42:47 Women's leadership and entrepreneurship. 50:34 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever felt like your website is about to crash from a sudden surge in traffic? Our guest founder knows that feeling all too well. In this episode, we chat with the Chief Innovation Officer of WP Engine, Jason Cohen, about the company's incredible journey and his own path from burnt-out developer to successful entrepreneur. You'll learn: How Jason's early struggles with WordPress led to the creation of a billion-dollar business. The surprising secret weapon that helped WP Engine stand out from the crowd (Spoiler alert: probably not the t-shirt). Why "headless" WordPress is the future and how it can boost your website's performance. The potential of AI in writing content and creating a more personalized user experience. How to avoid the "joy and skill trap" and find work that keeps you motivated and energized. Jason's ingenious interview technique to guarantee a perfect fit for your next hire. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who: Runs a WordPress website and wants to take it to the next level. Dreams of starting their own business but feels stuck on an idea. Wants to learn how to avoid burnout and find more joy in their work. Tune in and get ready to be inspired!     Find Startup Hustle Everywhere: https://gigb.co/l/YEh5   This episode is sponsored by Full Scale: https://fullscale.io/   Visit the WP Engine website: https://wpengine.com/   Learn more about Jason Cohen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncohen/ Highlighted Discussion Points WP Engine and the origin of smart bear with Jason Cohen. 0:32 Starting and selling a successful software company. 1:38 Entrepreneurship and idea validation. 6:16 Growing a WordPress-focused company through marketing strategies. 10:59 Growth strategies for a WordPress hosting company. 13:33 Business strategies and product development in the WordPress industry. 17:10 Decoupling WordPress for better performance and scalability. 22:33 Decoupling, AI, and website components. 25:21 AI and search capabilities in WordPress. 27:47 Company expansion strategies using adjacent markets. 32:58 Evaluating business expansion strategies. 36:00 Entrepreneurship and career development. 39:20 Avoiding burnout and finding joy in work. 46:06 Hiring techniques and avoiding bad fits in the workplace. 49:55 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join Matt Watson for a blast-from-the-past reunion with his long-time friend, Danny Zaslavsky! This episode dives deep into Danny's fascinating journey, from growing up in a car dealership to becoming the founder of a tech startup, DealerCue. Matt and Danny reminisce about their early days working together, the challenges they faced in the car business, and the power of technology to revolutionize the industry. They'll discuss: The Birth of DealerCue: How Danny's experience managing a car dealership led him to create a revolutionary solution for vehicle lifecycle management. Entrepreneurship 101: Matt and Danny share their unique stories of building successful companies, from opportunistic beginnings to overcoming generational resistance. Marketing Magic: Learn how Danny defied traditional advertising strategies and succeeded through community engagement and innovative campaigns. From Showroom to Startup: Discover how DealerCue leveraged Danny's product expertise to create a game-changing platform. The Power of Partnership: Matt and Danny reveal the secrets to successful collaborations: trust, complementary skills, and a shared vision. This episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone interested in entrepreneurship, the ever-evolving car dealership landscape, and the power of partnerships in the tech industry. Tune in and get ready to be inspired!     Find Startup Hustle Everywhere: https://gigb.co/l/YEh5   This episode is sponsored by Full Scale: https://fullscale.io/   Visit the DealerCue website:  https://www.dealercue.com/    Learn more about Danny Zaslavsky: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danny-zaslavsky-a8503121/  Highlighted Discussion Points Entrepreneurship journey from car dealership to tech startup. 0:31 Vehicle lifecycle management and DealerCue. 1:21 Entrepreneurship, technology adoption, and generational change in the car dealership industry. 7:16 Advertising and marketing strategies in the car business. 13:02 Marketing and technology in the car dealership industry. 18:20 Entrepreneurship, partnerships, and innovation in the tech industry. 24:39 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have you ever struggled to find reliable contractors for your home repairs? You're not alone! In this episode, we'll hear from Bo Lais, the CEO and founder of Lula. He started out helping homeowners but discovered a hidden goldmine in the property management industry. Bo and his wife faced the same challenge as many homeowners: finding qualified contractors. This led them to create a platform to connect homeowners with reliable professionals. But what they learned along the way was even more valuable. Tune in to hear Bo's story of pivoting his business, the challenges of competing in the property management marketplace, and how Lula ultimately found success by focusing on property management. We'll explore the challenges and triumphs of this strategic shift, including: Why saying no to a high volume of customers can be the smartest decision How AI is revolutionizing work order management The importance of deep integrations with property management software Successful go-to-market strategies for a niche industry Building a winning team with core values at the forefront This episode is packed with valuable insights if you're a property manager, entrepreneur, or someone who's ever battled unreliable contractors.   Find Startup Hustle Everywhere: https://gigb.co/l/YEh5   This episode is sponsored by Full Scale: https://fullscale.io   Visit the Lula website:  https://lula.life   Learn more about Bo Lais: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bolais     Highlighted Discussion Points Pivoting from B2C to B2B and the challenges faced. 0:31 Competing with lead generation platforms in the home repair industry. 4:35 Marketplace challenges and pivoting to focus on property management. 7:46 Software development for property management companies. 14:50 Go-to-market strategies for a niche industry. 19:32 Partnerships and business model evolution in property management. 24:08 Focusing on property management services and turning down distracting opportunities. 29:35 Hiring, core values, and growth strategy for a successful tech company. 34:37 Niche business software and software development. 38:05  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tired of dead-end jobs and feeling stuck in your career? Hope is on the horizon. In this episode, Matt Watson chats with Kadima Careers's Founder, CEO & Chief Accelerator, Alan Stein. Alan, a seasoned professional with a unique career path, shares his insights on: Fast-tracking your career and exploring side hustles: Learn how Alan went from being "tired of getting fired" to helping others land their dream jobs, and explore his experiences on both sides of the interview table. Crafting a winning job search strategy: Discover Alan's proven methods for identifying target companies, navigating the application process, and securing top offers. Building a successful business: Get an inside look at Alan's journey from corporate employee to full-time entrepreneur, including the challenges and rewards of building a thriving business. Leveraging LinkedIn for professional growth: Learn how Alan utilizes LinkedIn to connect with potential clients, build relationships, and grow his business. Tune in for actionable advice, inspiring stories, and practical tips to take your career and business to the next level!   Find Startup Hustle Everywhere: https://gigb.co/l/YEh5   This episode is sponsored by Full Scale: https://fullscale.io   Visit the Kadima Careers website:  https://kadimacareers.com   Learn more about Alan Stein: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alanjstein   Highlighted Discussion Points: Career acceleration and side hustles with Kadima Careers founder Alan Stein. 0:32 Career growth and job placement. 1:24 Career coaching and job search strategies. 8:44 Transitioning from corporate to full-time business ownership. 13:56 Building a startup, scaling up, and using virtual assistants. 19:51 Leveraging LinkedIn for business growth. 25:52 Leveraging LinkedIn for business growth. 31:07 LinkedIn ads and international business strategies. 37:20  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do you feel lost in the world of product development? Are you struggling to gain traction, validate your idea, or build a team that delivers? In this episode, we're joined by Adam Judelson, founder and CEO of First Principles Catalyst, to dissect the common problems tech companies face with product development. From the challenges of early-stage startups to building the right product team, Adam brings his wealth of experience. Matt and Adam have an uber-dynamic conversation on the following topics: The importance of a product team and how it can supercharge your success. Why focus is key, and how to navigate product management challenges. How to validate your product idea before pouring resources into development. The entrepreneurial mindset and the dangers of ignoring reality. When to bring in outside help and how to find the right product agency partner. Building a high-performing product team, including hiring tips and understanding the roles of product owners, product ops, and engineers. The importance of collaboration and diverse perspectives in creating world-changing products. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting your journey, this episode is packed with actionable insights and practical advice to help you build products that win. So, tune in and get ready to learn the value of product teams for your company!   Find Startup Hustle Everywhere: https://gigb.co/l/YEh5   This episode is sponsored by Full Scale: https://fullscale.io   Visit the First Principles Catalyst website:  https://www.firstprinciples.la   Learn more about Adam Judelson: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-judelson/   Highlighted Discussion Points Product problems in tech companies with a product agency founder. 0:31 Product management and its challenges. 1:56 Product development for early-stage startups with limited funding. 7:08 Entrepreneurial mindset and honesty in startups. 12:24 Founders' reluctance to ask for help in their startups. 15:21 When to hire a full-time product person for an early-stage company. 17:03 Hiring for product management roles in startups. 22:17 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever wonder how to create a product that caters to both small businesses and giant corporations? Join Matt Watson as he dives deep into the world of product strategy with Jeff Weiner, CEO of Realquantum. Discover how the company revolutionized commercial real estate appraisal software and the crucial differences in catering to small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) vs. enterprise giants. They dive deep into Jeff's journey, from recognizing the industry's need for innovation to building a platform that revolutionizes the way commercial real estate appraisals are done. This episode is packed with insights on: Adapting your product strategy for diverse customer segments Navigating the challenges of enterprise integration Balancing simplicity with advanced features for a smooth user experience  The importance of saying "no" to bad product ideas ‍ Whether you're a startup founder or a seasoned software developer, this episode is guaranteed to equip you with valuable knowledge for tackling the ever-evolving landscape of product development! Tune in, learn, and conquer the market!     Find Startup Hustle Everywhere: https://gigb.co/l/YEh5   This episode is sponsored by Full Scale: https://fullscale.io/   Visit the Realquantum website:  https://www.realquantum.com   Learn more about Jeff Weiner: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffreyweiner   Highlighted Discussion Points Product strategy for startups with Jeff Weiner. 0:32 Commercial real estate appraisal software and its potential to revolutionize the industry. 1:19 Product strategy and market research for a real estate tech company. 7:05 Appraisal software development and market needs. 13:18 Catering to enterprise and small business needs in software development. 19:43 Enterprise software development challenges and solutions. 24:39 Adapting product strategy for enterprise vs. SMB customers. 29:30 Simplifying software for appraisers without overcomplicating it. 34:55 Enterprise software development challenges and solutions. 38:59 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.