Ever wondered what it takes to turn a passion into a profitable powerhouse? Matt Wilson joins Voice Like a Lion to unravel the entrepreneurial enigma, sharing his transition from big brand beginnings to his own coffee roasting success story. Matt's captivating journey sheds light on the critical role of industry know-how and the tangible benefits of tapping into personal networks. With his seasoned insight, he underscores the necessity of domain expertise, not just as a nice-to-have, but as a cornerstone for building a venture that stands the test of time.

The path of entrepreneurship is strewn with both triumphs and trials. As we peel back the layers of startup life, Matt gets real about the sacrifices essential for growth—from the long hours that bleed into nights to the financial pressures that test one's resolve. Our conversation takes a turn to the personal, examining the motivations that fuel the entrepreneur's fire, alongside my own pearls of wisdom as an angel investor. Discover what makes an MVP stand out, how early customer feedback is more than gold dust, and why initial revenue streams are the lifeblood of a successful seed-stage investment.

But what happens when your startup begins to soar? This episode doesn't shy away from the hard truths, with lessons from PayPal's early tumults and the chilling reminder of FTX's downfall. Matt and I dissect the discipline needed to stay the course during rapid expansion, stressing the importance of keeping your eye firmly on the horizon—your team, your product, and your customers. So, if you're keen to learn how to weather the storms of startup growth and keen on understanding what it takes to capture an investor's interest, then this discussion is your guiding star to navigating the entrepreneurial universe with clarity and confidence.

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