https://simplecast.com Not For Public Consumption Hi, I’m Diane Tarshis, founder of Startup Distillery. I provide 1:1 startup consulting to first-time entrepreneurs who want to fast-track profitability and build for lasting growth. Most first-time founders start out spinning their wheels and feeling overwhelmed, when what they really want is an operating manual for turning their dream into reality. The good news? A playbook *does* exist. I'll help you cut through the confusion, eliminating years of guessing and pivoting. For the last 20+ years I've been guiding founders from all walks of life build successful businesses and get funded (99% funding success rate). Some have become leaders in their industry, others have made multimillion-dollar exits, while still others have achieved their dream life of flexibility and financial freedom. This podcast is for the founders who want to skip the trial and error by learning what 99% of founders wish they'd known from the start (and cut their learning curve in half). 2026 Startup Distillery, LLC en Fri, 18 Oct 2024 11:00:00 +0000 Thu, 1 Jan 2026 14:40:28 +0000 https://startupdistillery.com Not For Public Consumption https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/2d388246-b52f-4519-8382-cbe4d5840047/9c844fdf-1a48-4e1c-82ef-377276bc7e0d/3000x3000/tarshis-2019-1433-ed.jpg?aid=rss_feed https://startupdistillery.com episodic Hi, I’m Diane Tarshis, founder of Startup Distillery. I provide 1:1 startup consulting to first-time entrepreneurs who want to fast-track profitability and build for lasting growth. Most first-time founders start out spinning their wheels and feeling overwhelmed, when what they really want is an operating manual for turning their dream into reality. The good news? A playbook *does* exist. I'll help you cut through the confusion, eliminating years of guessing and pivoting. For the last 20+ years I've been guiding founders from all walks of life build successful businesses and get funded (99% funding success rate). Some have become leaders in their industry, others have made multimillion-dollar exits, while still others have achieved their dream life of flexibility and financial freedom. This podcast is for the founders who want to skip the trial and error by learning what 99% of founders wish they'd known from the start (and cut their learning curve in half). Diane Tarshis false https://feeds.simplecast.com/dWNyrIed innovation, startup advice, business plans, business planning, entrepreneurship, entrepreneurs, how to start a business, starting a business, business mentor, business coach, bootstrapping, small business, startups, financial projections, side hustle, wharton, business advice, creative business, venture capital, investors, angel investors, funding, funding a business Startup Distillery, LLC diane@startupdistillery.com f95fac6a-156a-4ba3-bc0b-50b6eca784fa Stop Saying You Don’t Have Time to Start a Business Once you’ve made the decision to start a business — or even if you’re still deciding — it’s all too easy to find yourself making excuses that you’re “too busy,” or you have this or that obligation, or it’s not the right time.

Here’s how to make inertia your friend and get momentum on your side – all by setting aside only 15 minutes a day.

In this episode you will learn:

  1. How to turn inertia from an enemy into a friend.
  2. How you only need 15 minutes a day to start a business.
  3. My 5-step strategy to kickstart your business.

Resources:

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]]> Fri, 18 Oct 2024 11:00:00 +0000 diane@startupdistillery.com (Diane Tarshis) https://startupdistillery.com/stop-saying-you-dont-have-time-to-start-a-business Once you’ve made the decision to start a business — or even if you’re still deciding — it’s all too easy to find yourself making excuses that you’re “too busy,” or you have this or that obligation, or it’s not the right time.

Here’s how to make inertia your friend and get momentum on your side – all by setting aside only 15 minutes a day.

In this episode you will learn:

  1. How to turn inertia from an enemy into a friend.
  2. How you only need 15 minutes a day to start a business.
  3. My 5-step strategy to kickstart your business.

Resources:

SPECIAL OFFER:

Connect:

]]> Stop Saying You Don’t Have Time to Start a Business Diane Tarshis 00:06:46 Have you been dreaming about starting a business, but telling yourself you don’t have enough time? All you need is 15 minutes a day. Really! Here’s how to make inertia your friend and kickstart momentum. Have you been dreaming about starting a business, but telling yourself you don’t have enough time? All you need is 15 minutes a day. Really! Here’s how to make inertia your friend and kickstart momentum. startup advice, business planning, small business advice, entrepreneurs, entrepreneurship, wharton, startup help, business plans, startups, business advice, small business, how to start a business, financial projections false full 32 80243d37-0379-4b36-8c78-0b4d685404d0 Why People Over 40 are More Likely to Succeed When Starting a Business If you listen to the media, it’s easy to get the impression that if you’re not in your 20s you’ve missed your chance and it’s too late to start a new business. 

While the media may put most of their focus on younger entrepreneurs, in the real world, successful founders definitely skew older. In fact, research from the Harvard Business Review shows the average age of a successful startup founder is 45.

In this episode you will learn:

The 5 things entrepreneurs over 40 have going for them that younger people don’t. Age truly can be an advantage in starting a business — so don’t listen to the media.

Resources:

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]]> Fri, 20 Sep 2024 11:00:00 +0000 diane@startupdistillery.com (Diane Tarshis) https://startupdistillery.com/people-over-40-more-likely-to-succeed-when-starting-a-business/ If you listen to the media, it’s easy to get the impression that if you’re not in your 20s you’ve missed your chance and it’s too late to start a new business. 

While the media may put most of their focus on younger entrepreneurs, in the real world, successful founders definitely skew older. In fact, research from the Harvard Business Review shows the average age of a successful startup founder is 45.

In this episode you will learn:

The 5 things entrepreneurs over 40 have going for them that younger people don’t. Age truly can be an advantage in starting a business — so don’t listen to the media.

Resources:

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Connect:

]]> Why People Over 40 are More Likely to Succeed When Starting a Business Diane Tarshis 00:07:24 It’s never too late to start your own business. In fact, the data shows that older may indeed be better when it comes to launching a new venture. Here’s a look at just 5 of the things that entrepreneurs over 40 have going for them that younger people don’t. It’s never too late to start your own business. In fact, the data shows that older may indeed be better when it comes to launching a new venture. Here’s a look at just 5 of the things that entrepreneurs over 40 have going for them that younger people don’t. startup advice, business planning, small business advice, entrepreneurs, entrepreneurship, wharton, startup help, business plans, startups, business advice, small business, how to start a business, older entrepreneurs, financial projections false full 31 8bf0713c-062e-4aab-b7a9-df0b54529a78 How to Fund Your Business Without Selling Your Soul In this episode you will learn:

  • How myths and biases influence your funding goals.
  • So much of the advice out there is about the “right” way to raise funds — but that advice is only focused on a very small group of businesses that are on a very particular trajectory: scale (or grow) incredibly fast, then sell.
  • Securities lawyer Jenny Kassan pulls back the curtain on ways to raise funds that other people don’t even know about.

Resources:

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]]> Fri, 12 Jul 2024 11:00:00 +0000 diane@startupdistillery.com (Jenny Kassan, Diane Tarshis) https://startupdistillery.com/how-to-fund-your-business-without-selling-your-soul/ In this episode you will learn:

  • How myths and biases influence your funding goals.
  • So much of the advice out there is about the “right” way to raise funds — but that advice is only focused on a very small group of businesses that are on a very particular trajectory: scale (or grow) incredibly fast, then sell.
  • Securities lawyer Jenny Kassan pulls back the curtain on ways to raise funds that other people don’t even know about.

Resources:

SPECIAL OFFER:

Connect:

]]> How to Fund Your Business Without Selling Your Soul Jenny Kassan, Diane Tarshis 00:09:46 Don't believe everything you hear about finding investors. In this episode, special guest (and securities lawyer) Jenny Kassan pulls back the curtain on ways to raise funds that other people just don’t talk about. Don't believe everything you hear about finding investors. In this episode, special guest (and securities lawyer) Jenny Kassan pulls back the curtain on ways to raise funds that other people just don’t talk about. funding, startup advice, business planning, small business advice, entrepreneurs, entrepreneurship, wharton, investors, startup help, fundraising, business plans, startups, business advice, small business, small business, how to start a business, financial projections false full 30 9ef2ccea-4f92-4e1e-96bf-c6d8c0af4add How to Start a Business in a Crowded Market It’s one thing to enter a new or underserved market where simply being there is enough. But to start a venture in a saturated market? How can you compete against dozens — or hundreds — of businesses that basically do the same thing? 

In business there’s room for everyone... as long as everyone is different. But you have to be a special kind of different. Nail that, and you won’t really be “competing” against anyone.

Find out how in this episode.

In this episode you will learn:

  1. What is a same-same business.
  2. What is a same-different business.
  3. How to make your business same-different.

Resources:

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]]> Fri, 14 Jun 2024 11:00:00 +0000 diane@startupdistillery.com (Diane Tarshis) https://startupdistillery.com/how-to-start-a-business-in-a-crowded-market It’s one thing to enter a new or underserved market where simply being there is enough. But to start a venture in a saturated market? How can you compete against dozens — or hundreds — of businesses that basically do the same thing? 

In business there’s room for everyone... as long as everyone is different. But you have to be a special kind of different. Nail that, and you won’t really be “competing” against anyone.

Find out how in this episode.

In this episode you will learn:

  1. What is a same-same business.
  2. What is a same-different business.
  3. How to make your business same-different.

Resources:

SPECIAL OFFER:

Connect:

]]> How to Start a Business in a Crowded Market Diane Tarshis 00:06:39 To compete with other businesses that do basically the same thing, you have to be a special kind of different. Nail that and you won’t really be “competing” against anyone. Find out what I mean in this episode. To compete with other businesses that do basically the same thing, you have to be a special kind of different. Nail that and you won’t really be “competing” against anyone. Find out what I mean in this episode. startup advice, business planning, small business advice, entrepreneurs, entrepreneurship, wharton, startup help, business plans, startups, business advice, small business, how to start a business, financial projections false full 29 efb5cebf-efac-446d-95dc-39a20b57fd27 Want to Hook Investors? Do These 2 Things When it comes to attracting investors, it takes more than painting a rosy financial picture. Investors need to be romanced. To do that, you have to connect with investors on two levels: the head and the heart.

When you do that you not only grab their attention, but keep it. They sit up and take notice. They become interested. And ideally, they connect so strongly with the vision for your business that they want to get involved and fund it.

If you want to make that happen for your startup, here’s how to do it.

In this episode you will learn:

  1. How to PERSUADE.
  2. How to create an emotional connection.
  3. How to create an objective connection based on reason and logic.

Resources:

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Connect:

]]> Fri, 17 May 2024 11:00:00 +0000 diane@startupdistillery.com (Diane Tarshis) https://startupdistillery.com/how-to-hook-investors When it comes to attracting investors, it takes more than painting a rosy financial picture. Investors need to be romanced. To do that, you have to connect with investors on two levels: the head and the heart.

When you do that you not only grab their attention, but keep it. They sit up and take notice. They become interested. And ideally, they connect so strongly with the vision for your business that they want to get involved and fund it.

If you want to make that happen for your startup, here’s how to do it.

In this episode you will learn:

  1. How to PERSUADE.
  2. How to create an emotional connection.
  3. How to create an objective connection based on reason and logic.

Resources:

SPECIAL OFFER:

Connect:

]]> Want to Hook Investors? Do These 2 Things Diane Tarshis 00:06:41 When it comes to attracting investors, it takes more than painting a rosy financial picture. Investors need to be romanced. To do that, you have to connect with investors on two levels. Here’s how. When it comes to attracting investors, it takes more than painting a rosy financial picture. Investors need to be romanced. To do that, you have to connect with investors on two levels. Here’s how. startup advice, business planning, small business advice, entrepreneurs, entrepreneurship, wharton, startup help, business plans, startups, business advice, small business, small business, how to start a business, financial projections true full 28 1fbbec61-e754-4180-9160-a450f78403b9 The Secret to Getting It Right the First Time “There’s never enough time to do it right, but always enough time to do it over.”

When you’re starting a new business, one of the most basic human urges is to dive in without stopping to think, evaluate and consider all the “details.” Here’s how to get it right the first time.

But if you want to succeed, you’ve got to rein in that urge. Admittedly, this can be tricky for entrepreneurs. We’re all smart, creative people with high levels of drive and passion — and that passion often leads us to put the cart before the horse, acting before we fully understand what we’re getting into.

In this episode you will learn:

  1. What you lose by rushing in full steam ahead.
  2. How to do it right (and what you gain).
  3. What artificial deadlines are and why they’re a trap.

Resources:

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Connect:

]]> Fri, 19 Apr 2024 11:00:00 +0000 diane@startupdistillery.com (Diane Tarshis) https://startupdistillery.com/startup-secret-to-get-it-right-the-first-time “There’s never enough time to do it right, but always enough time to do it over.”

When you’re starting a new business, one of the most basic human urges is to dive in without stopping to think, evaluate and consider all the “details.” Here’s how to get it right the first time.

But if you want to succeed, you’ve got to rein in that urge. Admittedly, this can be tricky for entrepreneurs. We’re all smart, creative people with high levels of drive and passion — and that passion often leads us to put the cart before the horse, acting before we fully understand what we’re getting into.

In this episode you will learn:

  1. What you lose by rushing in full steam ahead.
  2. How to do it right (and what you gain).
  3. What artificial deadlines are and why they’re a trap.

Resources:

SPECIAL OFFER:

Connect:

]]> The Secret to Getting It Right the First Time Diane Tarshis 00:06:37 Momentum is good, but impulsivity isn’t. When you’re starting a new business, one of the most basic human urges is to dive in without stopping to think, evaluate and consider all the “details.” Here’s how to get it right the first time. Momentum is good, but impulsivity isn’t. When you’re starting a new business, one of the most basic human urges is to dive in without stopping to think, evaluate and consider all the “details.” Here’s how to get it right the first time. startup advice, business planning, small business advice, entrepreneurs, entrepreneurship, wharton, startup help, business plans, startups, business advice, small business, how to start a business, financial projections false full 27 1949372f-2dc7-42c7-a2c9-e3f8d3160737 Building a Startup? Don’t Skip This One Thing To get the critical real-world data needed to build a thriving business, you have to get out of the building and talk with 3 key groups of people. 

Each group has valuable information that will ensure your business plan is a blueprint that’s firmly grounded in the realities of your market.

In this episode you will learn:

  1. The 3 key groups of people you need to talk to.
  2. What you need to find out from each group.
  3. How they can change the future of your business.

Resources:

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Connect:

]]> Fri, 22 Mar 2024 11:00:00 +0000 diane@startupdistillery.com (Diane Tarshis) https://startupdistillery.com/talk-to-people-for-your-business-plan/ To get the critical real-world data needed to build a thriving business, you have to get out of the building and talk with 3 key groups of people. 

Each group has valuable information that will ensure your business plan is a blueprint that’s firmly grounded in the realities of your market.

In this episode you will learn:

  1. The 3 key groups of people you need to talk to.
  2. What you need to find out from each group.
  3. How they can change the future of your business.

Resources:

SPECIAL OFFER:

Connect:

]]> Building a Startup? Don’t Skip This One Thing Diane Tarshis 00:07:46 Talking to people is an essential part of putting together your business plan. Otherwise, you’ll make critical errors that could sink your business just as it’s getting started — something completely avoidable just by doing some legwork ahead of time. Talking to people is an essential part of putting together your business plan. Otherwise, you’ll make critical errors that could sink your business just as it’s getting started — something completely avoidable just by doing some legwork ahead of time. startup advice, business planning, small business advice, entrepreneurs, entrepreneurship, wharton, startup help, business plans, startups, business advice, small business, how to start a business, financial projections false full 26 7501c849-139d-4f06-824d-6b8b30211371 3 Things That Can Sabotage Your Startup There are a few of those preventable mistakes that fall into the “greatest hits” category — and that don’t always reveal themselves until your doors are open and you find yourself struggling.

Why not head 'em off at the pass?

In this episode you will learn:

  1. Three (3) things that can sabotage your startup.
  2. How to minimize other mistakes you might make.

Resources:

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]]> Fri, 16 Feb 2024 12:00:00 +0000 diane@startupdistillery.com (Startup Distillery, LLC) https://startupdistillery.com There are a few of those preventable mistakes that fall into the “greatest hits” category — and that don’t always reveal themselves until your doors are open and you find yourself struggling.

Why not head 'em off at the pass?

In this episode you will learn:

  1. Three (3) things that can sabotage your startup.
  2. How to minimize other mistakes you might make.

Resources:

SPECIAL OFFER:

Connect:

]]> 3 Things That Can Sabotage Your Startup Startup Distillery, LLC 00:06:52 Startups can fail for a lot of reasons. Sure, sometimes those reasons are external. But truthfully, so many startups fail because the founder makes a perfectly preventable mistake that cripples or kills the company. Startups can fail for a lot of reasons. Sure, sometimes those reasons are external. But truthfully, so many startups fail because the founder makes a perfectly preventable mistake that cripples or kills the company. startup advice, business planning, small business advice, entrepreneurs, entrepreneurship, wharton, startup help, business plans, startups, business advice, small business, how to start a business, financial projections false full 25 569fd9fe-48c9-4ad1-8c63-01ef59b59d50 Are Business Plans a Waste of Time? Yes, writing a business plan is a lot of work. And it demands a healthy dose of legwork and critical thinking, especially in some areas of business that may be unfamiliar to you. 

But one thing is certain: Business plans are not is a waste of time. 

They’re actually the best thing that could happen to your startup, and in this episode I’ll share 5 important benefits.

In this episode you will learn:

  1. How a business plan can save your startup from failing.
  2. Why winging it is not a strategy – and how that hurts your odds for success.
  3. Why a business plan attracts investors... even if they don’t read it (and they likely won’t).
  4. Why a business plan done right is flexible, not rigid.

Resources:

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Connect:

]]> Fri, 19 Jan 2024 12:00:00 +0000 diane@startupdistillery.com (Startup Distillery, LLC) https://startupdistillery.com Yes, writing a business plan is a lot of work. And it demands a healthy dose of legwork and critical thinking, especially in some areas of business that may be unfamiliar to you. 

But one thing is certain: Business plans are not is a waste of time. 

They’re actually the best thing that could happen to your startup, and in this episode I’ll share 5 important benefits.

In this episode you will learn:

  1. How a business plan can save your startup from failing.
  2. Why winging it is not a strategy – and how that hurts your odds for success.
  3. Why a business plan attracts investors... even if they don’t read it (and they likely won’t).
  4. Why a business plan done right is flexible, not rigid.

Resources:

SPECIAL OFFER:

Connect:

]]> Are Business Plans a Waste of Time? Startup Distillery, LLC 00:06:54 There’s a common misconception that business plans are rigid documents that lock you into a roadmap you can’t deviate from. Done right, a business plan is a flexible roadmap that empowers you to adapt quickly and take advantage of opportunities. First and foremost, though, it's essential to helping you build a business that actually succeeds over the long haul. There’s a common misconception that business plans are rigid documents that lock you into a roadmap you can’t deviate from. Done right, a business plan is a flexible roadmap that empowers you to adapt quickly and take advantage of opportunities. First and foremost, though, it's essential to helping you build a business that actually succeeds over the long haul. startup advice, business planning, small business advice, entrepreneurs, entrepreneurship, wharton, startup help, business plans, startups, business advice, small business, how to start a business, financial projections false full 24 748d5135-4064-4c73-9916-d2fb4831c684 How to Forecast Revenues and Expenses for Realistic Financial Projections I think we can all agree that financial projections are a key tool for any startup. And good estimates are your secret weapon for heading off unpleasant “rookie mistakes.”

So instead of viewing them as a “necessary evil,” let’s take a look at how to (realistically!) forecast your revenues and expenses and set your business up for success.

In this episode you will learn:

  1. How to estimate revenues and expenses, even if you have no idea where to start
  2. How to build financial projections that help win over investors.
  3. My 5-step strategy for making really good estimates.
  4. Two extra tips to keep your projections realistic.

Resources:

SPECIAL OFFER:

Connect:

]]> Fri, 10 Nov 2023 12:00:00 +0000 diane@startupdistillery.com (Startup Distillery, LLC) https://startupdistillery.com/how-to-forecast-revenues-and-expenses-for-financial-projections I think we can all agree that financial projections are a key tool for any startup. And good estimates are your secret weapon for heading off unpleasant “rookie mistakes.”

So instead of viewing them as a “necessary evil,” let’s take a look at how to (realistically!) forecast your revenues and expenses and set your business up for success.

In this episode you will learn:

  1. How to estimate revenues and expenses, even if you have no idea where to start
  2. How to build financial projections that help win over investors.
  3. My 5-step strategy for making really good estimates.
  4. Two extra tips to keep your projections realistic.

Resources:

SPECIAL OFFER:

Connect:

]]> How to Forecast Revenues and Expenses for Realistic Financial Projections Startup Distillery, LLC 00:09:24 Good estimates not only help you avoid business-crippling problems like running short on cash or getting your pricing wrong, but they also play an important role in winning over investors. Good estimates not only help you avoid business-crippling problems like running short on cash or getting your pricing wrong, but they also play an important role in winning over investors. startup advice, business planning, small business advice, entrepreneurs, entrepreneurship, wharton, startup help, business plans, startups, business advice, small business, how to start a business, financial projections false full 23 b10b26ec-93d9-4d41-8416-2b4817e6ad96 The Sources & Uses of Funds Spreadsheet: What You Need to Know Done right, a Sources & Uses of Funds will show you how much cash you’re going to need to (1) launch your business and (2) cover your expenses until you’re generating enough cash to cover your expenses or reach the next round of funding.

In this episode you will learn:

  1. The 3 core questions every investor (or lender) will ask.
  2. Why the Sources & Uses of Funds is different from other spreadsheets.
  3. What the Sources & Uses of Funds reveals about your business.
  4. One common mistake to avoid.
  5. How to create a Sources & Uses of Funds spreadsheet the right way.
  6. Additional resources and helpful reading.

Resources:

SPECIAL OFFER:

Connect:

]]> Fri, 15 Sep 2023 11:00:00 +0000 diane@startupdistillery.com (Diane Tarshis) https://startupdistillery.com/sources-and-uses-of-funds-spreadsheet-what-you-need-to-know Done right, a Sources & Uses of Funds will show you how much cash you’re going to need to (1) launch your business and (2) cover your expenses until you’re generating enough cash to cover your expenses or reach the next round of funding.

In this episode you will learn:

  1. The 3 core questions every investor (or lender) will ask.
  2. Why the Sources & Uses of Funds is different from other spreadsheets.
  3. What the Sources & Uses of Funds reveals about your business.
  4. One common mistake to avoid.
  5. How to create a Sources & Uses of Funds spreadsheet the right way.
  6. Additional resources and helpful reading.

Resources:

SPECIAL OFFER:

Connect:

]]> The Sources & Uses of Funds Spreadsheet: What You Need to Know Diane Tarshis 00:08:51 Among the 5 main spreadsheets startups use for their financial projections, the Sources & Uses of Funds is different in one important aspect. Among the 5 main spreadsheets startups use for their financial projections, the Sources & Uses of Funds is different in one important aspect. startup advice, business planning, small business advice, entrepreneurs, entrepreneurship, wharton, startup help, business plans, startups, business advice, small business, small business, how to start a business, financial projections false full 22 08a44a8f-f2a2-41c2-bea8-22f34e6162cb Why Cash is King... NOT Profit Confusing “profitability” with “cash flow” puts your startup at risk. Even the most profitable companies can fail — and when they do, they’re always caught by surprise.

Financial jargon is not only confusing, but many of the words are used casually as if everyone understands them. In our everyday lives, it’s usually not a big deal since our ordinary conversations typically don’t need that level of precision. But in business, these words matter.

This is especially true with words like “profit,” “cash flow” and “working capital.” If you don’t understand the differences, you’re putting your startup’s financial health at risk.

In this episode you will learn:

  1. Financial terms you should know — explained in plain English.
  2. The most important difference between cash and profit.
  3. The 3 strategic advantages of having cash on hand.
  4. The value of a financial cushion (as opposed to a war chest).

Resources:

SPECIAL OFFER:

Connect:

]]> Fri, 21 Jul 2023 11:00:00 +0000 diane@startupdistillery.com (Startup Distillery, LLC) https://startupdistillery.com/why-cash-is-king-especially-for-startups/ Confusing “profitability” with “cash flow” puts your startup at risk. Even the most profitable companies can fail — and when they do, they’re always caught by surprise.

Financial jargon is not only confusing, but many of the words are used casually as if everyone understands them. In our everyday lives, it’s usually not a big deal since our ordinary conversations typically don’t need that level of precision. But in business, these words matter.

This is especially true with words like “profit,” “cash flow” and “working capital.” If you don’t understand the differences, you’re putting your startup’s financial health at risk.

In this episode you will learn:

  1. Financial terms you should know — explained in plain English.
  2. The most important difference between cash and profit.
  3. The 3 strategic advantages of having cash on hand.
  4. The value of a financial cushion (as opposed to a war chest).

Resources:

SPECIAL OFFER:

Connect:

]]> Why Cash is King... NOT Profit Startup Distillery, LLC 00:07:32 How can a profitable company fail? Their undoing happens at the hands of three words you never want to say about your startup: short on cash. You’ve heard the expression, “Cash is king.” Here’s why it wears the crown. How can a profitable company fail? Their undoing happens at the hands of three words you never want to say about your startup: short on cash. You’ve heard the expression, “Cash is king.” Here’s why it wears the crown. startup advice, business planning, small business advice, entrepreneurs, entrepreneurship, wharton, startup help, business plans, startups, business advice, small business, how to start a business, financial projections false full 21 3fae275b-27a4-4ddf-8b7e-1ba579cd3fd7 Bootstrapping Before Investors: Why Many Businesses Choose Not to Raise Capital Bootstrapping gives both you and your company advantages you can’t get with a huge cash infusion.

This is especially true for startups that take on an advisor to help guide them through tough decisions and formulate the strategies and tactics that will help them make the most of what they have.

And if, down the road, you do decide to look for outside investors, building a profitable business while bootstrapping puts you in a far stronger position to pitch your business and negotiate terms.

In this episode you will learn:

  1. Why you don’t “need” investors to build a growing business.
  2. The advantages you can’t get with a huge infusion of cash.
  3. How advisors work from your goals... but investors work from theirs.
  4. Why bootstrapping is a BIG advantage in getting investors later.

Resources:

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]]> Fri, 12 May 2023 11:00:00 +0000 diane@startupdistillery.com (Startup Distillery, LLC) https://startupdistillery.com/bootstrapping-before-investors Bootstrapping gives both you and your company advantages you can’t get with a huge cash infusion.

This is especially true for startups that take on an advisor to help guide them through tough decisions and formulate the strategies and tactics that will help them make the most of what they have.

And if, down the road, you do decide to look for outside investors, building a profitable business while bootstrapping puts you in a far stronger position to pitch your business and negotiate terms.

In this episode you will learn:

  1. Why you don’t “need” investors to build a growing business.
  2. The advantages you can’t get with a huge infusion of cash.
  3. How advisors work from your goals... but investors work from theirs.
  4. Why bootstrapping is a BIG advantage in getting investors later.

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]]> Bootstrapping Before Investors: Why Many Businesses Choose Not to Raise Capital Startup Distillery, LLC 00:06:52 You don’t “need” investors to build a growing business. In fact, bootstrapping offers advantages you can’t get with investors. You don’t “need” investors to build a growing business. In fact, bootstrapping offers advantages you can’t get with investors. startup consultants, startup advice, business planning, small business advice, entrepreneurs, entrepreneurship, wharton, business advisors, business roadmap, pitching, startup help, business plans, innovation, startups, business advice, small business, bootstrapping, how to start a business false full 20 e2903e15-5cce-4360-9b3f-d1db914f36aa Your Business Needs an Annual Review If you’re like most founders, every day your job consists of putting out fires wherever they spring up. The big picture falls by the wayside as you scramble to keep up with the very real demands of growing your business.

Before opening your doors you had time to think about the big picture — which products and services to offer, creative strategies for reaching customers. In other words, you had the luxury of time... to be proactive, to brainstorm and to work through challenges and goals ahead of time.

When you’re not getting distracted by the day-to-day stuff, you’ll be able to clearly see the trajectory your business is taking and get a much better picture of what’s working and what’s not.

In this episode you will learn:

  1. Why an annual review — or gut check — is vital to your startup’s long-term success.
  2. Twelve questions you should be asking as part of your annual gut check.
  3. Why the 80/20 rule can make or break your business.
  4. How to take the action you need to make changes.

Resources:

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]]> Fri, 10 Mar 2023 06:00:00 +0000 diane@startupdistillery.com (Startup Distillery, LLC) https://startupdistillery.com/your-business-needs-an-annual-review/ If you’re like most founders, every day your job consists of putting out fires wherever they spring up. The big picture falls by the wayside as you scramble to keep up with the very real demands of growing your business.

Before opening your doors you had time to think about the big picture — which products and services to offer, creative strategies for reaching customers. In other words, you had the luxury of time... to be proactive, to brainstorm and to work through challenges and goals ahead of time.

When you’re not getting distracted by the day-to-day stuff, you’ll be able to clearly see the trajectory your business is taking and get a much better picture of what’s working and what’s not.

In this episode you will learn:

  1. Why an annual review — or gut check — is vital to your startup’s long-term success.
  2. Twelve questions you should be asking as part of your annual gut check.
  3. Why the 80/20 rule can make or break your business.
  4. How to take the action you need to make changes.

Resources:

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]]> Your Business Needs an Annual Review Startup Distillery, LLC 00:06:21 If you want to build a thriving business — one that’s powered by happy customers who keep coming back for more of what you sell — you need to carve out time to step back and evaluate where you are now, where you want to be and whether you’re on the best path to get there. If you want to build a thriving business — one that’s powered by happy customers who keep coming back for more of what you sell — you need to carve out time to step back and evaluate where you are now, where you want to be and whether you’re on the best path to get there. startup consultants, startup advice, business planning, small business advice, entrepreneurs, entrepreneurship, wharton, business advisors, business roadmap, startup help, startup tips, business plans, innovation, startups, business advice, small business, bootstrapping, how to start a business false full 19 f04515f3-8d9a-4ad2-ac3c-74140b392069 The Virtue of Limited Resources You don’t “need” investors to build a growing business. In fact, too much money can be a bad thing. Some of the most inspiring success stories have come from founders who had few resources at their disposal.

In this episode you will learn:

  1. How limited budgets can lead to business breakthroughs.
  2. How complacency stifles innovation.
  3. Why desperation is an entrepreneur’s friend.
  4. Why too much money can be bad for your startup.

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]]> Fri, 13 Jan 2023 12:00:00 +0000 diane@startupdistillery.com (Diane Tarshis) https://startupdistillery.com/innovation-with-limited-resources/ You don’t “need” investors to build a growing business. In fact, too much money can be a bad thing. Some of the most inspiring success stories have come from founders who had few resources at their disposal.

In this episode you will learn:

  1. How limited budgets can lead to business breakthroughs.
  2. How complacency stifles innovation.
  3. Why desperation is an entrepreneur’s friend.
  4. Why too much money can be bad for your startup.

Resources:

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]]> The Virtue of Limited Resources Diane Tarshis 00:06:04 The more limited a startup’s budget, the more innovative they tend to be. In other words, necessity is the mother of invention. (Plus, bootstrapping offers advantages you can’t get with investors.) The more limited a startup’s budget, the more innovative they tend to be. In other words, necessity is the mother of invention. (Plus, bootstrapping offers advantages you can’t get with investors.) startup consultants, startup advice, business planning, small business advice, entrepreneurs, entrepreneurship, wharton, business advisors, business roadmap, pitching, startup help, business plans, innovation, startups, business advice, small business, small business, bootstrapping, how to start a business false full 18 30df7658-f43f-427d-a637-f3b9c3507b7a 7 Business Plan Blunders You Need to Avoid Most entrepreneurs write business plans because they have to — either to raise money from investors or to obtain a bank loan. 

But to successfully secure outside funding, your business plan has to be STRONG — because a business plan is a bit of a double-edged sword.

Even if you’re simply writing a business plan to use as an operating blueprint, you’re not off the hook. The same mistakes that turn off investors will present challenges for you down the road as you build and grow your business.

In this episode you will learn:

  1. The 7 business plan blunders you need to avoid.
  2. Why these mistakes are like shooting yourself in the foot.
  3. That you’re not off the hook even if you’re bootstrapping.

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]]> Fri, 14 Oct 2022 11:00:00 +0000 diane@startupdistillery.com (Diane Tarshis) https://startupdistillery.com/business-plan-mistakes-to-avoid Most entrepreneurs write business plans because they have to — either to raise money from investors or to obtain a bank loan. 

But to successfully secure outside funding, your business plan has to be STRONG — because a business plan is a bit of a double-edged sword.

Even if you’re simply writing a business plan to use as an operating blueprint, you’re not off the hook. The same mistakes that turn off investors will present challenges for you down the road as you build and grow your business.

In this episode you will learn:

  1. The 7 business plan blunders you need to avoid.
  2. Why these mistakes are like shooting yourself in the foot.
  3. That you’re not off the hook even if you’re bootstrapping.

Resources:

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]]> 7 Business Plan Blunders You Need to Avoid Diane Tarshis 00:07:26 Now more than ever, you only get one shot at winning over any given investor — and they’re a pretty skeptical bunch. Fortunately, you can prevent the red flags and slipups by avoiding these 7 blunders. Now more than ever, you only get one shot at winning over any given investor — and they’re a pretty skeptical bunch. Fortunately, you can prevent the red flags and slipups by avoiding these 7 blunders. startup advice, business planning, small business advice, entrepreneurs, entrepreneurship, wharton, operating blueprint, business roadmap, startup help, business plans, startups, business advice, small business, how to start a business false full 17 60d2fc78-30c4-4a70-ba77-9abce8bc4493 Stop Worrying About the Other Guy You can’t move forward if you’re spending your time looking behind you. 

Every move you make in reaction to the competition dilutes the essence of your business, and those are the things that are drawing customers or clients to you in the first place. 

To build (and grow!) a thriving business requires both knowing your strengths and keeping your focus on them. 

In this episode you will learn:

  1. Why looking over your shoulder is bad for business.
  2. What you should be focusing on to trigger growth.
  3. Examples of how to grow and thrive (that have nothing to do with the competition).
  4. Four key takeaways.

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]]> Fri, 12 Aug 2022 11:00:00 +0000 diane@startupdistillery.com (Diane Tarshis) https://startupdistillery.com/stop-worrying-about-the-competition/ You can’t move forward if you’re spending your time looking behind you. 

Every move you make in reaction to the competition dilutes the essence of your business, and those are the things that are drawing customers or clients to you in the first place. 

To build (and grow!) a thriving business requires both knowing your strengths and keeping your focus on them. 

In this episode you will learn:

  1. Why looking over your shoulder is bad for business.
  2. What you should be focusing on to trigger growth.
  3. Examples of how to grow and thrive (that have nothing to do with the competition).
  4. Four key takeaways.

Resources:

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]]> Stop Worrying About the Other Guy Diane Tarshis 00:05:31 Looking over your shoulder is bad for business. Here's what you should be focusing on instead to trigger growth, especially in a challenging climate. Looking over your shoulder is bad for business. Here's what you should be focusing on instead to trigger growth, especially in a challenging climate. startup advice, competition, business planning, small business advice, entrepreneurs, entrepreneurship, wharton, business growth, startup help, business plans, startups, business advice, small business, how to start a business, competitive advantage false full 16 6867c38a-a072-44ae-9461-f78440bf5999 What If I Don’t Want to “Scale” My Business? Everyone wants to grow their business over time, but not everyone necessarily wants to scale their business.

“Scaling” is a buzzword you hear all the time in startup circles (and the media). They talk about it as if it’s the ultimate goal – the thing you should do, not simply something you could do. 

Well, I’m here to tell you: You have options.

In this episode you will learn:

  1. The difference between growing and scaling — including an example in plain English.
  2. Five reasons a business might prefer to stay small. (Small has its perks.)
  3. Why staying small (i.e., growing "just enough") doesn't have to be a permanent choice.

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]]> Fri, 17 Jun 2022 11:00:00 +0000 diane@startupdistillery.com (Startup Distillery, LLC) https://startupdistillery.com/what-if-i-dont-want-to-scale-my-business/ Everyone wants to grow their business over time, but not everyone necessarily wants to scale their business.

“Scaling” is a buzzword you hear all the time in startup circles (and the media). They talk about it as if it’s the ultimate goal – the thing you should do, not simply something you could do. 

Well, I’m here to tell you: You have options.

In this episode you will learn:

  1. The difference between growing and scaling — including an example in plain English.
  2. Five reasons a business might prefer to stay small. (Small has its perks.)
  3. Why staying small (i.e., growing "just enough") doesn't have to be a permanent choice.

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Connect:

]]> What If I Don’t Want to “Scale” My Business? Startup Distillery, LLC 00:08:17 Everyone wants to grow their business, but not everyone necessarily wants to scale their business. Five reasons you may prefer to stay small. (Small has its perks.) Everyone wants to grow their business, but not everyone necessarily wants to scale their business. Five reasons you may prefer to stay small. (Small has its perks.) startup advice, business planning, small business advice, entrepreneurs, entrepreneurship, wharton, startup help, business plans, startups, business advice, small business, how to start a business false full 15 0982be0e-ffa0-4d1b-8f62-08677981b313 Why Now is the Perfect Time to Start a Business There’s no denying we’re in the midst of worldwide financial uncertainty, with disruptions in nearly every industry and widespread confusion across the board. It’s natural to take a look around and decide to hit the pause button. 

I’m going to level with you. You don’t have to cancel your startup plans, and you can keep the pandemic from blowing up your business dreams. Now is the perfect time to start a business, and here’s why. 

In this episode you will learn:

How to leverage THREE once-in-a-lifetime advantages of the COVID-19 pandemic.

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]]> Fri, 20 May 2022 11:00:00 +0000 diane@startupdistillery.com (Diane Tarshis) https://startupdistillery.com/perfect-time-to-start-a-business/ There’s no denying we’re in the midst of worldwide financial uncertainty, with disruptions in nearly every industry and widespread confusion across the board. It’s natural to take a look around and decide to hit the pause button. 

I’m going to level with you. You don’t have to cancel your startup plans, and you can keep the pandemic from blowing up your business dreams. Now is the perfect time to start a business, and here’s why. 

In this episode you will learn:

How to leverage THREE once-in-a-lifetime advantages of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Resources:

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]]> Why Now is the Perfect Time to Start a Business Diane Tarshis 00:05:28 The pandemic is NOT a reason to cancel your startup plans and blow up your business dreams. Now is the perfect time to start a business, and here are 3 reasons why. The pandemic is NOT a reason to cancel your startup plans and blow up your business dreams. Now is the perfect time to start a business, and here are 3 reasons why. startup advice, business planning, small business advice, entrepreneurs, entrepreneurship, wharton, startup help, business plans, startups, business advice, small business, how to start a business false full 14 be1ff0be-c2b0-4d0a-9883-4569446d4250 Advice I'm Giving Right Now: Breaking Down Big Goals Into Baby Steps In a world where huge wins are so celebrated by the media, we often forget that no matter how far you’re going, you can only get there one step at a time. Baby steps may not be as glamorous as giant leaps, but in the long run they’ll take you a lot further, a lot faster.

In this episode you will learn:

  1. The value of incremental change.
  2. About my client Lila and see the nuts and bolts of how I turned an overwhelming goal into a series of manageable steps.

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]]> Fri, 18 Mar 2022 11:00:00 +0000 diane@startupdistillery.com (Diane Tarshis) https://startupdistillery.com/baby-steps-are-key-to-business-success/ In a world where huge wins are so celebrated by the media, we often forget that no matter how far you’re going, you can only get there one step at a time. Baby steps may not be as glamorous as giant leaps, but in the long run they’ll take you a lot further, a lot faster.

In this episode you will learn:

  1. The value of incremental change.
  2. About my client Lila and see the nuts and bolts of how I turned an overwhelming goal into a series of manageable steps.

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Connect:

]]> Advice I'm Giving Right Now: Breaking Down Big Goals Into Baby Steps Diane Tarshis 00:05:37 Advice I’m Giving Right Now is a series where I share with you the real advice I’m currently giving my clients. Today we’re talking about the cure for big goals that overwhelm or paralyze you. We’re talking about... baby steps. Advice I’m Giving Right Now is a series where I share with you the real advice I’m currently giving my clients. Today we’re talking about the cure for big goals that overwhelm or paralyze you. We’re talking about... baby steps. startup advice, business planning, small business advice, entrepreneurs, entrepreneurship, wharton, startup help, business plans, startups, business advice, small business, how to start a business false full 13 e20f0f43-390b-4d93-9698-6dbb60952c94 During the Pandemic, Focus on What You CAN Do With all of us so distanced from each other, I’ve posted a video version of this episode so we can all feel a little more connected. Check it out at startupdistillery.com/pandemic.

So much seems up in the air and out of our control right now. To take back some of that control, I’ve been focusing on the things I can do — and I’ve been having my clients do the same.

In this episode you will learn:

  1. You’re not alone.
  2. Why this may be a golden opportunity.
  3. How to focus on what you can do.

Resources:

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]]> Tue, 8 Feb 2022 12:00:00 +0000 diane@startupdistillery.com (Diane Tarshis) https://startupdistillery.com/during-the-pandemic-focus-on-what-you-can-do/ With all of us so distanced from each other, I’ve posted a video version of this episode so we can all feel a little more connected. Check it out at startupdistillery.com/pandemic.

So much seems up in the air and out of our control right now. To take back some of that control, I’ve been focusing on the things I can do — and I’ve been having my clients do the same.

In this episode you will learn:

  1. You’re not alone.
  2. Why this may be a golden opportunity.
  3. How to focus on what you can do.

Resources:

SPECIAL OFFER:

Connect:

]]> During the Pandemic, Focus on What You CAN Do Diane Tarshis 00:03:50 With all of us so distanced from each other, I wanted this episode to be more personal, so I’ve posted a video version on my website so we can all feel a little more connected. You can check it out at startupdistillery.com/pandemic. With all of us so distanced from each other, I wanted this episode to be more personal, so I’ve posted a video version on my website so we can all feel a little more connected. You can check it out at startupdistillery.com/pandemic. startup advice, business planning, small business advice, entrepreneurs, entrepreneurship, wharton, pandemic, startup help, business plans, startups, business advice, small business, how to start a business, covid-19, coronavirus false full 12 a1fc01a5-5aeb-438c-8174-48bb071e6f6a The Difference Between Profit & Loss and Cash Flow Projections Profit and cash are not the same thing. Believe it or not, a company can be profitable and still go out of business. How? By running short on cash (also known as a cash crunch).

Since I want you to succeed, I’m going to explain the similarities and differences between P&Ls and cash flow projections as well as why they’re both important when it comes to the success of your business.

In this episode you will learn:

  1. Sometimes even hedge fund guys avoid the numbers.
  2. How P&L and cash flow projections are similar.
  3. How P&L and cash flow projections are different from each other.
  4. Which one is more important and why.

Resources:

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]]> Fri, 14 Jan 2022 12:00:00 +0000 diane@startupdistillery.com (Diane Tarshis) https://startupdistillery.com/profit-vs-cash-flow/ Profit and cash are not the same thing. Believe it or not, a company can be profitable and still go out of business. How? By running short on cash (also known as a cash crunch).

Since I want you to succeed, I’m going to explain the similarities and differences between P&Ls and cash flow projections as well as why they’re both important when it comes to the success of your business.

In this episode you will learn:

  1. Sometimes even hedge fund guys avoid the numbers.
  2. How P&L and cash flow projections are similar.
  3. How P&L and cash flow projections are different from each other.
  4. Which one is more important and why.

Resources:

SPECIAL OFFER:

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]]> The Difference Between Profit & Loss and Cash Flow Projections Diane Tarshis 00:07:50 Profit and cash are not the same thing. Running short on cash can kill even the most profitable business. Learn the difference between a P&L and cash flow statement — all in plain English! Profit and cash are not the same thing. Running short on cash can kill even the most profitable business. Learn the difference between a P&L and cash flow statement — all in plain English! business plan help, financials for people who hate numbers, startup advice, financials for beginners, entrepreneurs, entrepreneurship, wharton, financials for startups, startup help, business plans, startups, business advice, small business, how to start a business, financial projections, p&l vs cash flow false full 11 854083c0-26a3-4208-86b1-3b8d8c632426 Financial Projections Explained (Even If You’re Not a Numbers Person) Numbers not your thing? Today’s episode is designed to help you not only get comfortable with financial projections, but understand them.

I promise I'll take it slow.

In this episode you will learn:

  1. The names of the most important 5 spreadsheets.
  2. Why they're so useful.
  3. That the spreadsheets do not exist to torture you.
  4. Why not every one of them is relevant to every startup (you may only need 3 or 4!)
  5. Why there's no Breakeven Analysis on my Top 5 list.
  6. How to think about assumptions.

Resources:

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]]> Fri, 17 Dec 2021 12:00:00 +0000 diane@startupdistillery.com (Diane Tarshis) https://startupdistillery.com/financial-projections-for-beginners/ Numbers not your thing? Today’s episode is designed to help you not only get comfortable with financial projections, but understand them.

I promise I'll take it slow.

In this episode you will learn:

  1. The names of the most important 5 spreadsheets.
  2. Why they're so useful.
  3. That the spreadsheets do not exist to torture you.
  4. Why not every one of them is relevant to every startup (you may only need 3 or 4!)
  5. Why there's no Breakeven Analysis on my Top 5 list.
  6. How to think about assumptions.

Resources:

SPECIAL OFFER:

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]]> Financial Projections Explained (Even If You’re Not a Numbers Person) Diane Tarshis 00:07:45 Numbers not your thing? Maybe you'd rather avoid this part of your business and let someone else deal with it… the ol’ “Let’s not and say we did” strategy. Uhhh… no. Today’s episode is designed to help you not only get comfortable with financial projections, but understand them. You'll learn about the top five spreadsheets and why they're useful – all in plain, easy-to-understand English. Numbers not your thing? Maybe you'd rather avoid this part of your business and let someone else deal with it… the ol’ “Let’s not and say we did” strategy. Uhhh… no. Today’s episode is designed to help you not only get comfortable with financial projections, but understand them. You'll learn about the top five spreadsheets and why they're useful – all in plain, easy-to-understand English. startup advice, business planning, entrepreneurs, entrepreneurship, wharton, financials for startups, startup help, business plans, startups, business advice, financial projections for beginners, small business, how to start a business, financial projections false full 10 7c84fbc0-ef94-490e-a4fd-f4d5afe5df38 Financial Vocabulary for People Who Hate Numbers Hate numbers? You are not alone. But figuring out how much money you’ll need is a necessary evil. Words help tell part of your story. The other part – the numbers – need to support that story. That means figuring out how much money you’ll need to launch, of course, but it also means figuring out what you’ll need to keep the doors open until you become profitable.

Today I'll make all the lingo a lot less scary, a lot less complicated and a lot more understandable. By the time you’re done reading this, I guarantee you won’t hyperventilate when you see the words “cost of goods sold.” Sound good?

In this episode you will learn:

  1. Why you still to understand the basics (even if you're hiring professionals).
  2. Common financial terms, all explained in plain English -- I promise!
  3. How to stop being scared of the numbers :-)

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]]> Fri, 5 Nov 2021 11:00:00 +0000 diane@startupdistillery.com (Diane Tarshis) https://startupdistillery.com/financial-vocabulary-basics-for-startups/ Hate numbers? You are not alone. But figuring out how much money you’ll need is a necessary evil. Words help tell part of your story. The other part – the numbers – need to support that story. That means figuring out how much money you’ll need to launch, of course, but it also means figuring out what you’ll need to keep the doors open until you become profitable.

Today I'll make all the lingo a lot less scary, a lot less complicated and a lot more understandable. By the time you’re done reading this, I guarantee you won’t hyperventilate when you see the words “cost of goods sold.” Sound good?

In this episode you will learn:

  1. Why you still to understand the basics (even if you're hiring professionals).
  2. Common financial terms, all explained in plain English -- I promise!
  3. How to stop being scared of the numbers :-)

Resources:

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]]> Financial Vocabulary for People Who Hate Numbers Diane Tarshis 00:07:05 Hate numbers? If you’re new to the world of financial projections, the vocabulary can seem kind of intimidating. You wouldn’t be the first to break into a cold sweat hearing “revenues minus expenses.” In this episode I make it a lot less scary, a lot less complicated and a lot more understandable. Hate numbers? If you’re new to the world of financial projections, the vocabulary can seem kind of intimidating. You wouldn’t be the first to break into a cold sweat hearing “revenues minus expenses.” In this episode I make it a lot less scary, a lot less complicated and a lot more understandable. startup advice, business planning, entrepreneurs, entrepreneurship, wharton, financials for startups, startup help, business plans, startups, business advice, financial projections for beginners, small business, how to start a business, financial projections false full 9 db17b1dc-80a2-484c-b204-83bd7182ed01 How to Interview Customers to Get the Critical Market Data You Need Understanding your customer is the single most important element in building a successful business — and interviews are the key to understanding them. But interviewing isn’t something a lot of us have experience doing. This episode is chock-full of step-by-step guidance on how to get the valuable information you need to build a growing business.

In this episode you will learn:

  1. How to create a roadmap for your interviews.
  2. The 3 stages of a great interview.
  3. The 5 questions you need to ask.
  4. Additional questions that help you delve deeper.
  5. Tips for leading the interview.
  6. How to get the people you're interviewing to open up.
  7. How many interviews are enough?
  8. Extra pointers.

Resources:

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]]> Fri, 15 Oct 2021 11:00:00 +0000 diane@startupdistillery.com (Diane Tarshis) https://startupdistillery.com/how-to-interview-customers-to-find-out-what-they-REALLY-want Understanding your customer is the single most important element in building a successful business — and interviews are the key to understanding them. But interviewing isn’t something a lot of us have experience doing. This episode is chock-full of step-by-step guidance on how to get the valuable information you need to build a growing business.

In this episode you will learn:

  1. How to create a roadmap for your interviews.
  2. The 3 stages of a great interview.
  3. The 5 questions you need to ask.
  4. Additional questions that help you delve deeper.
  5. Tips for leading the interview.
  6. How to get the people you're interviewing to open up.
  7. How many interviews are enough?
  8. Extra pointers.

Resources:

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]]> How to Interview Customers to Get the Critical Market Data You Need Diane Tarshis 00:10:08 Customer interviews are the linchpin for understanding what your target customers truly want and need — that’s why you’ll want to learn how to do them well. Today I’ll walk you through the steps for how to lead a successful interview — the kind where, by the end, you know your customers better than they know themselves. Customer interviews are the linchpin for understanding what your target customers truly want and need — that’s why you’ll want to learn how to do them well. Today I’ll walk you through the steps for how to lead a successful interview — the kind where, by the end, you know your customers better than they know themselves. startup advice, business planning, customer segments, target audience, entrepreneurs, entrepreneurship, wharton, marketing, startup help, business plans, startups, business advice, small business, how to start a business, customer personas, ideal customers false full 8 f205a655-58e3-4f67-800b-350f747aeed6 Customer Personas: What They Are (and Why They're Indispensable) While you’re certainly not required to develop customer personas, you’ll be limiting your chances of success by skipping them.

If you don't know what they are, sit tight and I’ll explain why it's a magical tool. BUT... if you've heard of customer personas and you’re thinking they're just imaginary customers, you’d be wrong and you should keep listening.

Understanding your customer is the single most important element in building a successful business.

That's because without paying customers, you've got nothing.

In this episode you will learn:

  1. What customer personas are (and what they're not)..
  2. What "product-market fit" is and how personas help you develop the best fit possible.
  3. Why demographics aren't as important as you might think.

Resources:

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]]> Fri, 17 Sep 2021 11:00:00 +0000 diane@startupdistillery.com (Diane Tarshis) https://startupdistillery.com/customer-personas-help-startups-find-their-customers While you’re certainly not required to develop customer personas, you’ll be limiting your chances of success by skipping them.

If you don't know what they are, sit tight and I’ll explain why it's a magical tool. BUT... if you've heard of customer personas and you’re thinking they're just imaginary customers, you’d be wrong and you should keep listening.

Understanding your customer is the single most important element in building a successful business.

That's because without paying customers, you've got nothing.

In this episode you will learn:

  1. What customer personas are (and what they're not)..
  2. What "product-market fit" is and how personas help you develop the best fit possible.
  3. Why demographics aren't as important as you might think.

Resources:

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]]> Customer Personas: What They Are (and Why They're Indispensable) Diane Tarshis 00:06:56 Not sure who your customers are or where to find them? Your first step is to identify your ideal customers, and part of that process involves creating something called a customer persona. Not sure who your customers are or where to find them? Your first step is to identify your ideal customers, and part of that process involves creating something called a customer persona. startup advice, business planning, customer segments, target audience, entrepreneurs, entrepreneurship, wharton, marketing, startup help, business plans, startups, business advice, small business, how to start a business, customer personas, ideal customers, target customers false full 7 a447b1b1-2991-480e-bac2-53bf725de249 5 Steps to Finding Your Target Customers In this episode you will learn:

  1. How to figure out who your ideal customers are.
  2. The essential things you need to learn about them.
  3. The 5 steps you need to take to find them.

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]]> Fri, 20 Aug 2021 11:00:00 +0000 diane@startupdistillery.com (Diane Tarshis) https://startupdistillery.com/how-to-find-your-target-audience/ In this episode you will learn:

  1. How to figure out who your ideal customers are.
  2. The essential things you need to learn about them.
  3. The 5 steps you need to take to find them.

Resources:

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]]> 5 Steps to Finding Your Target Customers Diane Tarshis 00:06:27 Reaching your target customers is mission-critical for every business, especially startups. Here are the 5 steps you need to find them. Reaching your target customers is mission-critical for every business, especially startups. Here are the 5 steps you need to find them. startup advice, business planning, customer segments, target audience, entrepreneurs, entrepreneurship, wharton, startup help, business plans, startups, business advice, small business, how to start a business, customer personas, ideal customers, target customers false full 6 98a59f2b-4ec4-44f5-9f36-f6598b625a36 Advice I’m Giving Right Now: How to Start a Business and Keep Your Day Job So you have a great idea for a business – something that has real potential – but you’re not ready to give up a steady paycheck (or the benefits).

Great news! You can start a business and keep your day job at the same time.

In this episode you will learn:

  1. Two important steps you can take to start building your own consulting business right now.
  2. Three ways to build a business in any industry, even if you've got (i) a full-time job, (ii) frequent work travel and (iii) a ton of family responsibilities and with crazy-busy weekends.
  3. A mindset that will help relieve any pressure you're putting on yourself.

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]]> Fri, 16 Jul 2021 11:00:00 +0000 diane@startupdistillery.com (Startup Distillery, LLC) https://startupdistillery.com/how-to-start-a-business-and-keep-your-day-job-with-a-side-hustle/ So you have a great idea for a business – something that has real potential – but you’re not ready to give up a steady paycheck (or the benefits).

Great news! You can start a business and keep your day job at the same time.

In this episode you will learn:

  1. Two important steps you can take to start building your own consulting business right now.
  2. Three ways to build a business in any industry, even if you've got (i) a full-time job, (ii) frequent work travel and (iii) a ton of family responsibilities and with crazy-busy weekends.
  3. A mindset that will help relieve any pressure you're putting on yourself.

Resources:

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]]> Advice I’m Giving Right Now: How to Start a Business and Keep Your Day Job Startup Distillery, LLC 00:05:37 So you have a great idea for a business, but you need a steady paycheck. Yes, you CAN start a business and keep your day job. Enter: the side hustle. So you have a great idea for a business, but you need a steady paycheck. Yes, you CAN start a business and keep your day job. Enter: the side hustle. startup advice, business planning, entrepreneurs, entrepreneurship, wharton, startup help, business plans, startups, business advice, small business, how to start a business false full 5 534b3ac5-a821-4fa2-bffa-ae62e78b69ac 3 Alternative Funding Options for Your Startup Even though I’m a big believer in bootstrapping, sometimes there’s just no avoiding the need to raise capital. 

Most entrepreneurs immediately think: investors. But that’s not your only choice – and it may not even be the best choice for you and your company. You have options.

In this episode you will learn:

  1. Two traditional funding routes that don't involve investors.
  2. Three less common* -- but GREAT -- funding options that are probably better for you in the long run vs. all the other options. (Less common doesn't mean not as good!)

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]]> Thu, 17 Jun 2021 11:00:00 +0000 diane@startupdistillery.com (Diane Tarshis) https://startupdistillery.com/alternative-funding-options-for-startups/ Even though I’m a big believer in bootstrapping, sometimes there’s just no avoiding the need to raise capital. 

Most entrepreneurs immediately think: investors. But that’s not your only choice – and it may not even be the best choice for you and your company. You have options.

In this episode you will learn:

  1. Two traditional funding routes that don't involve investors.
  2. Three less common* -- but GREAT -- funding options that are probably better for you in the long run vs. all the other options. (Less common doesn't mean not as good!)

Resources:

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]]> 3 Alternative Funding Options for Your Startup Diane Tarshis 00:04:39 Startup funding doesn't HAVE to mean venture capital. Believe it or not, you have options. Here are three alternative funding options that are probably better for your company in the long run. Startup funding doesn't HAVE to mean venture capital. Believe it or not, you have options. Here are three alternative funding options that are probably better for your company in the long run. angel investors, startup advice, business planning, entrepreneurs, entrepreneurship, wharton, investors, startup help, business plans, venture capital, startups, business advice, small business, how to start a business false full 4 5f4f3511-afca-4aaf-aa3d-fe4d0882f81f 3 Times When Taking On Investors Makes Sense Just because everyone talks about investors as the be-all end-all doesn’t mean you need them to build a successful business. (Pssst! You’re usually better off without them.) 

Nonetheless, there’s no denying that certain situations call for a pile of cold, hard cash. So how do you know when taking on investors actually makes sense for your business?

In this episode you will learn:

  1. Three scenarios when bootstrapping won't cut it.
  2. Other options you can explore before taking on investors.
  3. Three drawbacks to be aware of so you're going in with eyes wide open.

Resources:

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]]> Thu, 20 May 2021 11:00:00 +0000 diane@startupdistillery.com (Diane Tarshis) https://startupdistillery.com/when-investors-make-sense-for-startups/ Just because everyone talks about investors as the be-all end-all doesn’t mean you need them to build a successful business. (Pssst! You’re usually better off without them.) 

Nonetheless, there’s no denying that certain situations call for a pile of cold, hard cash. So how do you know when taking on investors actually makes sense for your business?

In this episode you will learn:

  1. Three scenarios when bootstrapping won't cut it.
  2. Other options you can explore before taking on investors.
  3. Three drawbacks to be aware of so you're going in with eyes wide open.

Resources:

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]]> 3 Times When Taking On Investors Makes Sense Diane Tarshis 00:06:02 How do you know when taking on investors makes sense for your startup? Here are three scenarios when bootstrapping won’t cut it. How do you know when taking on investors makes sense for your startup? Here are three scenarios when bootstrapping won’t cut it. angel investors, startup advice, entrepreneurs, entrepreneurship, wharton, investors, business plan, startup help, business plans, venture capital, startups, business advice, small business, how to start a business false full 3 07e88344-8d36-4dfd-a33f-97b757ae5abe The Downside of Professional Investors When you’re starting a business, finding investors may seem like the answer to all your problems. But in most cases you’d be wrong.

It’s not that I don’t believe in the value of investors, because I do. But not right away, and here's why...

In this episode you will learn:

  1. How taking investor money may harm your business.
  2. What you will be giving up in exchange for that money.
  3. Why timing matters (and how the wrong timing can cost you).
  4. Why it's worth the wait.

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]]> Thu, 15 Apr 2021 11:00:00 +0000 diane@startupdistillery.com (Diane Tarshis) https://startupdistillery.com/downside-of-investors/ When you’re starting a business, finding investors may seem like the answer to all your problems. But in most cases you’d be wrong.

It’s not that I don’t believe in the value of investors, because I do. But not right away, and here's why...

In this episode you will learn:

  1. How taking investor money may harm your business.
  2. What you will be giving up in exchange for that money.
  3. Why timing matters (and how the wrong timing can cost you).
  4. Why it's worth the wait.

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]]> The Downside of Professional Investors Diane Tarshis 00:05:34 Finding investors for your startup may seem like the answer to all your problems, but you may be wrong. Sometimes they can actually harm your business. Finding investors for your startup may seem like the answer to all your problems, but you may be wrong. Sometimes they can actually harm your business. angel investors, startup advice, business planning, entrepreneurs, entrepreneurship, wharton, investors, startup help, downside of investors, business plans, venture capital, startups, small business, how to start a business false full 2 3e91e584-1156-4e9f-a59c-57752e41ca5d 3 Things Every Startup Needs Imagine a stool with only one or two legs. Pretty wobbly. Just as every stool needs three legs, so, too, does your startup. Here are the three things you need to get it right from the start.

In this episode you will learn:

  1. How a lawyer can help you reduce risk (in ways you never realized).
  2. The many ways an accountant can help you (even if you already have a bookkeeper).
  3. How a business plan saves you time and money.
  4. A fair way to divvy up partner equity/compensation... before you've made any money!

Resources:

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]]> Thu, 11 Mar 2021 12:00:00 +0000 diane@startupdistillery.com (Diane Tarshis) https://startupdistillery.com/3-things-every-startup-needs Imagine a stool with only one or two legs. Pretty wobbly. Just as every stool needs three legs, so, too, does your startup. Here are the three things you need to get it right from the start.

In this episode you will learn:

  1. How a lawyer can help you reduce risk (in ways you never realized).
  2. The many ways an accountant can help you (even if you already have a bookkeeper).
  3. How a business plan saves you time and money.
  4. A fair way to divvy up partner equity/compensation... before you've made any money!

Resources:

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Connect:

]]> 3 Things Every Startup Needs Diane Tarshis 00:04:07 Want to get it right the first time? Just as every stool needs three legs, so, too, does your startup. Here are the three things every business needs. Want to get it right the first time? Just as every stool needs three legs, so, too, does your startup. Here are the three things every business needs. startup advice, business planning, entrepreneurs, entrepreneurship, wharton, investors, business plan, startup help, venture capital, startups, small business, how to start a business, dividing up partner equity false full 1