Episode 62. How did I go from $0 to 7-figures without funding?

 

In this episode of Big Questions, Short Answers, we’re tackling one of the questions I get asked most by fellow entrepreneurs on LinkedIn: how did I get my company to its current size while bootstrapping? Psst … Check out my episode on Bootstrapping if you’re considering this route for your company. 

Honestly, when I first started I didn’t know what the heck I was doing. But if I could boil it down to one piece of advice, it’s that you have to get comfortable with risk. 

Here’s the episode I mention in the pod: Episode 39—Taking Calculated Risk

But in order to get comfortable with risk, you need some safeguards in place. In this episode I talk about building a financial foundation, growing your network and how to sell (yes, before you have anything to sell). Lather, rinse, repeat!

Throughout the episode I share practical tips that I used for improving your cash flow as you get your business off the ground—everything from downsizing your home to bartending. Every dollar counts, especially in those early days, and that’s the mindset you need to reach seven figures (and more).

 

Episode highlights

  • 01:00 How I answer the question, “How did you grow your business without funding?”

  • 02:55 Getting comfortable with risk

  • 04:25 How to get started without funding

  • 06:10 The importance of building a network

  • 07:10 How to sell (or at least generate income in the meantime)


 
 
SoloJackie Hermes