15 Min(ish) Skill: Script the Start and End (ITS Classic)
In this episode Brian Scordato emphasizes the power of "scripting" the start and end of any hard work session, drawing parallels from his college basketball routine and the overlooked importance of flour in baking. He argues that identifying and committing to small, often‑ignored moments—like scheduling a meeting, which birthed Calendly’s $3 billion valuation—can unlock big opportunities. By establishing a clear two‑minute intention‑setting ritual at the beginning and a reflective shutdown routine at the end, founders can consistently tackle uncomfortable tasks and avoid burnout. The episode also shares practical examples, such as the "uncomfortable hour" Zoom sessions at Tacklebox, to illustrate how these scripts boost productivity and focus.
Thrust and Drag, Part 1: A System to Keep Momentum
In this episode Brian Scordato uses his near‑drowning triathlon story to illustrate the concepts of thrust (the forces that push a startup forward) and drag (the friction that slows it down). He explains that, just as swimmers achieve speed by...
Running a Concierge MVP Live (Feat. The Four-Step Concierge MVP Framework) ITS Classic
In this episode Brian Scordato walks listeners through building a concierge MVP live, using a listener-submitted idea about simplifying joint finances for couples. He explains the four‑step framework—defining wild success, acquiring customers, running the test, and creating a feedback loop—while...
Start a Startup in Ten Days with Four Questions (ITS Super-Classic)
In this episode, the host outlines a rapid, ten‑day framework for validating a startup idea by answering four critical questions, using a kitchen‑organizer concept as a case study. The discussion weaves in a memorable anecdote about a poker player and...
Giving Your Startup an Identity
In this episode the host explains why every startup needs a clear identity and shows how it simplifies decision‑making. Using analogies about swimming and nervous systems, they introduce the Decision Equation and apply it to Carl’s AI‑driven Spanish‑learning tool to...
The One Thing That Matters - How to Find a Differentiator That'll Support Your Business (ITS Classic)
In this episode, the hosts explain what a business differentiator is and why it’s essential for standing out in a crowded market. They discuss how a differentiator can attract attention, shape hiring decisions, and drive growth, illustrated with examples like...
How to Identify and Kill Bad Startup Ideas Masquerading As Good Ones (ITS Classic)
In this episode the host presents a three‑pillar framework for spotting and discarding bad startup ideas before they waste time and resources. The framework walks listeners through (1) identifying the true underlying risk, (2) estimating organic growth potential, and (3)...