starting a business
A hand-picked, playable selection of the best podcast episodes for this topic — each with the reason it earned its spot. Press play on any pick, or build your own playlist free.
Why these picks
8 episodes curated for "starting a business"
The curated episodes
8 episodes — each chosen for a reason you can read below.
Why this pick: This episode delivers a direct, practical checklist of primary steps to launch a first small business, aligning perfectly with the query on starting a business. Host Henry Lopez, a serial entrepreneur and coach, breaks down essential actions from idea validation to legal setup, making it highly actionable for beginners. Its focused structure and free downloadable checklist add unique value, providing a clear roadmap without fluff.
Why this pick: A roundtable discussion evaluating options for finding the right small business by comparing buying, building, or franchising, which directly addresses key decisions when starting a business. Experts emphasize mindset shifts, financial readiness, due diligence, and aligning with personal goals, offering balanced perspectives for aspiring owners. This prevents costly mistakes and helps listeners choose opportunities that fit their lifestyle and risk tolerance.
Why this pick: This episode covers one startup idea in detail alongside trends, frameworks, and tools relevant to launching a new venture, providing fresh inspiration for starting a business. It explores a solo female travel safety platform with a path to $500K ARR, plus a 3-step creator growth playbook for SaaS, making it practical for modern entrepreneurs. The inclusion of gamification trends and AI tools adds forward-looking value for innovative startups.
Why this pick: Focuses on starting a specific low-barrier roadside produce stand business that generates $1,000+ per weekend, serving as an accessible entry point for first-time entrepreneurs. Shannon Houchin shares 10 years of experience scaling to 100 stands, covering suppliers, pricing, locations, and mistakes to avoid. This concrete side hustle example demonstrates real profitability and scalability for starting small.
Why this pick: Alex Hormozi condenses 13 years of scaling and selling businesses into marketing lessons applicable from startup phase onward, directly aiding those starting a business. It covers tactics for getting initial customer flow through systems, optimizing funnels, and avoiding common early pitfalls. The high-energy format and broad applicability make it valuable for new entrepreneurs seeking proven growth strategies.
Why this pick: Donald Miller presents a 3-phase marketing formula and StoryBrand framework that turns messaging into revenue, essential for any new business launch. Using a real YNAB case study, it teaches crafting survival sound bites, curiosity drivers, and sales calls that prevent customer confusion. This helps startups avoid vague branding and directly drive sales from day one.
Why this pick: Mike Michalowicz explains the Profit First framework to build profitable businesses from the start, flipping the typical revenue-first mistake many new owners make. It covers client prioritization, cash flow control, and creating systems that run without the founder, ideal for sustainable startup growth. Personal stories and efficiency tips provide relatable, actionable advice for avoiding financial chaos.
Why this pick: Crowdsourced 17 practical marketing tips from Side Hustle Show listeners that work for new businesses today, focusing on social media, content, and email list strategies. It addresses the common startup challenge of feeling like you're shouting into the void, with tactics applicable across industries. Recent 2025 episode ensures up-to-date relevance for modern side hustle or business launches.