if I could talk to my 10-years-ago self

In partnership with

Here's how I'd spare myself from some tough lessons if I could talk to my 10-years-ago self:

Investors:

1. Acknowledge the Unknown: It's tempting to act like you know the future, especially because investors expect you to project confidence. But don't fall into that trap. Be transparent about the risks you can't fully control. Then, back up why you're still confident with solid reasoning and data.

2. Avoid Toxic People: Every major problem I've had with investors or board members stemmed from just one toxic individual. Even if everyone else is excellent, one bad apple can dominate the room and make things miserable. The "a$$hole tax" in the boardroom is real, and it's steep. Steer clear of those people.

3. Limit Capital Raises: Unless it's absolutely necessary, try not to raise more than one round of funding before achieving profitability. Running a company with negative cash flow strips away your autonomy and makes you overly dependent on investor opinions, which can drain your energy and passion. Find investors who support your plan to prioritize profitability.

4. Don’t Fall for Optics: Focus on execution, not optics. Good optics come as a result of getting things done right, not as a strategy on their own. Chasing optics can lead you astray (just look at Theranos or WeWork). You can end up wasting years perfecting the "right look" for fundraising instead of building substance. Avoid that pitfall.

Follow me on TikTok for deeper insights on:

• Strategy

• Team building

• Management

• Support

• The founder's journey

Hope it helps at least one person!

Content collaboration has never been this easy

Navigating the fast-paced agency world is always a hassle when it comes to efficiency and scaling. That’s why you need the right platform to speed up all your processes.

And Planable is the content collaboration tool that makes teamwork a breeze. You can create, plan, review, and approve all your clients’ content in one place: social media, blogs, newsletters, press releases, briefs — you name it! One workspace for each client.

Content marketing should be about creating impact, not getting lost in a labyrinth of tools, tabs, and spreadsheets. That’s why you can now explore your data at ease with our analytics features and create beautiful reports for your clients.

Because we love organized content. And so do you. More time, more clients.

Try Planable for free

🔥 New From Us 🔥

At Pre-IPO Hype, we specialize in helping startups like yours thrive in the competitive landscape by providing tailored digital marketing services. Our approach combines cutting-edge strategies with deep industry insights to drive investor acquisition, enhance brand visibility, and optimize your equity crowdfunding campaigns.

Here’s what sets us apart:

1. Exclusive Partnership: We work as your sole marketing partner, ensuring a focused and consistent approach across all channels. Our exclusivity means no conflicts and full dedication to your success.

2. Customizable Service Packages: Our Ala Carte Service Library lets you select the exact services you need—from CRM buildouts to SEO, content creation, and paid media campaigns. Plus, we offer substantial discounts if you commit to a longer-term partnership.

3. Equity Compensation: We believe in your vision and offer a unique cash-and-equity payment model. This allows you to minimize upfront costs while still accessing top-tier marketing services, with Pre-IPO Hype taking a small equity stake in your company.

4. Long-Term Value: By partnering with us, you’re not just getting a service provider—you’re gaining a long-term ally invested in your growth. We’ll be there to support you every step of the way, from scaling your operations to preparing for a successful exit.

What’s Included:

• Comprehensive digital marketing services tailored to your needs.

• An exclusive partnership ensuring consistent, focused marketing efforts.

• Customizable packages with substantial discounts based on your commitment level.

• A unique opportunity to leverage equity as part of your payment model.

Let’s schedule a quick call to discuss how we can tailor our services to fit your specific goals and help your startup achieve its full potential. I’m confident that together, we can create a powerful growth strategy that delivers exceptional results.