063: Power of a Startup Grind Mindset

I'm on the board of 5 startups as a strategic advisor which I love doing but as a speaker most of the events I attend and brands I work with are industry, enterprise or larger association.  This past week one of the startups I advice, Fledge Connect, placed in the top 50 for the Startup Grind competition allowing them to go to the global event in Redwood Ca to pitch VC's, have a booth and participate in the event.   Although I had heard of Startup Grind, this was my first time attending one of their events and this global one is a big one with over 7k startups and 2 full days of speakers.   When arriving at events I always try to have done research prior on previous years while also seeing how they try to set themselves a part and the first sign I saw at Startup Grind set the vibe for the entire event and inspired this podcast episode.  The sign said simply "Our Values" Help Others - before yourself Give First - don't take Make Friends - not contacts  Many events preach community and collaboration but seldom is it something built into the culture of company, the event and all of the attendees.   I was so inspired I decided to breakdown a few key things that stood out to me!   Derek Anderson is the real deal and lives his values!  Startup Bootcamp advice for pitching was intense  What I noticed after watching 50 startups give 1 minute pitches VC's opinion of marketing and its value or lack of value for startups Vulnerability was a theme on stage and amongst startups  Everyone there was there because they wanted to help, give and make friends and we can all learn from that! Check out www.StartupGrind.com as they have 350+ locations around the globe.  I wasn't paid to be there or paid to create this show but I left the event so inspired I had to share it with you guys only hours after getting home from a red-eye.  I hope you enjoy!