Scrappy Startups
The Scrappiest Startups podcast focuses on the challenges and rewards of being a scrappy startup founder, emphasizing the value of community and personal growth. Host Bill Ruh interviews founders of early stage startups discussing the founders entrepreneurial journey, the importance of networking, and the unique startup culture in towns in which they live. The founders will share insights on building their business, the significance of networking, and explore their adventurous spirit that fuels their business mindset.
The Art of the Pivot: Lessons from a Startup Founder

In this episode of Scrappy Startups, Bill Ruh interviews John Wilson, a founding member of Arbor, who shares his entrepreneurial journey and insights on the importance of pivoting, customer focus, and the role of incubators in startup growth. John discusses the lessons learned from the Startup Leadership Program, the significance of storytelling in nonprofits, and the challenges of balancing technology and sales investment. He emphasizes the value of mentorship and community in the startup ecosystem, as well as the outdoor lifestyle in Montana.
Startups must pivot, persist, or stop based on traction.Customer focus is essential for successful...Crafting Chocolate: A Journey from Finance to Flavor

In this conversation, Logan Burgess shares his journey from Alaska to Bozeman, where he pursued a career in finance before venturing into the craft chocolate business. He discusses the challenges of starting a chocolate company, including sourcing quality cacao, navigating legalities, and managing cash flow. Logan highlights the craft chocolate revolution, drawing parallels with the coffee industry, and emphasizes the importance of partnerships and community in building his brand. He also shares insights into the creative process behind his chocolate products and the significance of local collaborations.
Logan Burgess transitioned from finance to craft chocolate.Starting...The Sweet Revolution: Craft Chocolate in Bozeman

In this conversation, Logan Burgess shares his journey from Alaska to Bozeman, where he transitioned from a finance background to starting a craft chocolate business. He discusses the challenges of navigating the chocolate industry, including sourcing quality cacao, understanding legalities, and managing cash flow. Logan emphasizes the importance of creativity in chocolate making and the significance of building partnerships within the community. He also highlights the craft chocolate revolution, drawing parallels with the coffee industry, and the need for transparency in sourcing cacao. The conversation concludes with insights into the spirit of Bozeman and the local chocolate community.
...Scrappy Startups: ShopDot and Founder Michelle Huie

In this episode of Scrappy Startups, Bill Ruh interviews Michelle Huie, founder of two startups, Vim and Vigor and ShopDot. Michelle shares her journey from the corporate world to entrepreneurship, discussing the challenges and lessons learned along the way. She emphasizes the importance of identifying problems, creating solutions, and adapting to market feedback. Michelle also highlights the unique value proposition of ShopDot, a platform designed to support small businesses, particularly in the pet industry. The conversation delves into the significance of building a support network, the power of partnerships, and the strategies for scaling a business. Michelle offers valuable...
Revolutionizing Home Ownership with Joogi

In this episode of the Scrappy Startups podcast, host Bill Ruh interviews Tom Pratt, the founder of Joogi, an innovative app designed to help families achieve debt-free home ownership through crowdfunding. Tom shares his journey from experiencing the housing market crash to developing a unique commerce model that leverages community support and technology. The conversation explores the mechanics of Joogi, the importance of participation, and the potential impact on American families. Tom's entrepreneurial spirit and vision for a debt-free future are highlighted throughout the discussion.
takeaways
Joogi aims to make one million families debt-free over 20 years...Scrappy Startups - Interview with Yonatan Hagos co-Founder Kscope.ai

In this episode, Bill Ruh interviews Yonatan Hagos, the chairman of Kscope.ai, a technology startup focused on connecting data across businesses using AI. Yonatan shares his entrepreneurial journey, transitioning from corporate roles to founding his own startup, and discusses the importance of curiosity, purpose, and partnerships in business. He also delves into the challenges of navigating data complexity, funding strategies, and the significance of leadership in a distributed team environment. The conversation highlights Yonatan's insights on real estate investment, the role of data in decision-making, and his personal passions outside of work.
Curiosity and lifelong learning are...Scrappy Startups - Interview with Payton Hueler and Jake Aaberg of 406Agave

In this episode of Scrappy Startups, host Bill Ruh interviews Peyton Hueler and Jake Aaberg, the founder and an early employee of 406 Agave, a tequila company based in Montana. They discuss the journey of starting a business from scratch, the challenges faced in the liquor industry, the importance of company culture, and the strategic growth plans for the future. The conversation highlights the entrepreneurial spirit, the significance of cash flow, and the lessons learned along the way.
Curiosity is essential for entrepreneurs.Every startup requires a pivot to succeed.Trust your instincts in business decisions.Building a fun...Scrappy Startups - Interview with Stacy Townsend the founder of Commonform

In this conversation, Stacy Townsend shares her journey from Washington to Bozeman, her entrepreneurial spirit, and the creation of her jewelry brand, Commonform. She discusses the impact of the show Yellowstone on her business, her leadership style, and the importance of community support in entrepreneurship. Stacy also addresses the challenges she faces as she innovates her product line and emphasizes the significance of happiness and fulfillment in the workplace.
Stacy's journey to Bozeman was unexpected but fulfilling.The Bozeman community is supportive of entrepreneurs.Commonform was born out of a passion for jewelry design.The show Yellowstone significantly...Scrappy Startups - Interview with Alicia Lycan the founder of Shaped by AI

In this episode of the Scrappiest Startups podcast, host Bill Ruh interviews Alicia Lycan, founder of Shaped by AI. They discuss Alicia's entrepreneurial journey, the importance of networking, and the unique startup culture in Bozeman, Montana. Alicia shares insights on building her AI-driven startup in the real estate industry, the significance of mentorship, and her adventurous spirit that fuels her business mindset. The conversation highlights the challenges and rewards of being a scrappy startup founder, emphasizing the value of community and personal growth. Key lessons learned are:
Know your time horizon when starting a startup.Your network is...