Ep. 34 Navigating the Startup Scene: Building Sustainable Businesses with Justin McLeod
12/3/24
Welcome to the DO GOOD X podcast, where hosts Kimberly Daniel and Stephen Lewis highlight changemakers transforming industries and communities. This episode features Justin McLeod, founder of Surthrive and creator of Atlanta Tech Village's first pre-accelerator program. Justin shares his journey from startup challenges to launching Square One Startup School for non-traditional entrepreneurs. Tune in for insights on avoiding founder pitfalls, sourcing opportunities in Atlanta, and building sustainable businesses while prioritizing well-being.
In This Episode
- [4:41] Justin’s inspiration for Surthrive and the challenges he experienced
- [12:49] Common mistakes made by founders
- [17:40] Where to seek opportunities in Atlanta
- [24:50] What resources are available for startups
- [28:29] What should founders consider for the long-term viability of their business
- [32:45] The “Off the Cuff’ segment
- [40:08] How your well-being impacts the sustainability of your business
Key Takeaways
- Avoid rushing: Validate your idea, test the market, and define its value before investing in product development to avoid wasting resources
- Embrace flexibility: Founders should adapt to feedback and market needs, pivoting as necessary. Starting with a service-based product can generate sales and fund a sustainable tech solution
- Lack of knowledge hinders founders, making education and guidance key to confident, strategic decisions and success
About The Hosts
Kimberly R. Daniel
Kimberly R. Daniel empowers entrepreneurs and organizations to drive positive change. As co-founder of DO GOOD X, she supports faith-driven social entrepreneurs through programs and community. With over 15 years in branding and communication strategy, Kimberly specializes in building authentic, community-focused brands. A certified life coach with nearly a decade of experience, she has spoken, written, and led social impact and innovation workshops. Kimberly is passionate about purpose and the common good. She co-authors Another Way: Living and Leading Change on Purpose and A Way Out of No Way: An Approach to Christian Innovation.
Social Media to Connect:
Stephen Lewis
Stephen Lewis is the president of the Forum for Theological Exploration and the creator and co-founder of DO GOOD X. This community provides programs and support for faith-driven social entrepreneurs whose businesses focus on positive change. He is an organizational change strategist, and a leadership development specialist focused on inspiring the next generation of faith-inspired leaders and entrepreneurs to live and work purposefully. Stephen co-authors Another Way: Living and Leading Change on Purpose and A Way Out of No Way: An Approach to Christian Innovation.
Social Media to Connect:
