Is your business idea actually an opportunity?

Discover how Brad Poulos transitioned from a satellite industry executive to a university professor and startup mentor. In this episode, Brad shares lessons on entrepreneurship, strategic thinking, and the evolving cannabis industry—valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and seasoned professionals alike. Main Topics & Insights: Brad’s career journey: From technical satellite industry roles to sales, marketing, and eventually founding his own companies The importance of systems over goals, illustrated through weight loss and business examples Building and selling a satellite communication equipment company, with insights on B2B relationships and market expansion Transitioning from corporate leadership to academia, teaching finance, and entrepreneurship at the university level Challenges and opportunities in the cannabis industry: regulation, market development, and innovation The lean startup methodology: focusing on customer problems, minimum viable products, and avoiding stealth modes Strategies for startups: validating markets, avoiding idea obsession, and embracing 'good enough' decision making The impact of industry competition and knockoffs on legitimacy and innovation Brad’s entrepreneurial resources: published books and how to connect via his website and LinkedIn Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction and episode overview 02:24 - Brad’s background in satellite communication 05:00 - Transition from corporate career to entrepreneurship 08:21 - Building a successful satellite business and sale to a public company 12:00 - Moving into academia and teaching entrepreneurship 15:50 - The rise of entrepreneurship programs and trends 21:00 - Insights into the cannabis industry and regulation challenges 26:00 - How startups can efficiently validate their market and product ideas 31:13 - Common mistakes in startup planning and management 34:30 - The importance of feedback, testing, and avoiding stealth mode 41:16 - Differentiating ideal innovation from incremental improvements 45:01 - Brad’s philosophy: satisficing and the 80/20 rule in business 50:01 - Industry transformations and managing supply chain challenges 52:50 - Final thoughts on secession, government policies, and future opportunities 54:00 - Brad’s publications and how to connect with him Resources & Links: From Pitch to Payoff: A Guide for Venture Finance Most Problems Solve Themselves Brad Poulos - Website Brad Poulos on LinkedIn Connect with Brad Poulos: LinkedIn Website