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Articles
Welcome to hundreds of the best articles on program management, operations, mentorship, and being/supporting founders. You can browse the articles by topic or category below.
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I built a lot. None of it is for sale yet.
For months, I thought I had a progress problem. What I actually had was a starting problem. The playbook existed. The methodology existed. The products, content, brand, and audience all existed. Digital revenue was still zero—not because the business was failing, but because nothing was for sale. The warehouse was full; the store was never opened. There's a difference between a broken business and a business that hasn't started yet.
Jun 13 min read
Managing Service Providers: Legal, Accounting, and Specialist Support
Explore the essentials of crafting compelling articles that capture readers' attention and enhance engagement. This guide covers effective headline strategies, structuring your content for readability, and optimizing for SEO to drive traffic. Learn how to incorporate keywords seamlessly while maintaining a natural flow, and discover tips for captivating introductions and strong conclusions. Perfect for writers seeking to elevate their craft and connect with a wider audience.
Feb 9, 20258 min read
The Partnership Trap: When to Say Yes (And When to Say No) to External Partners
In today's competitive landscape, understanding when to collaborate with external partners can make or break your business strategy. This article, "The Partnership Trap: When to Say Yes (And When to Say No) to External Partners," explores key factors to consider before entering partnerships. Discover the advantages of collaboration and the potential pitfalls to avoid. Learn how to assess alignment with your core values, goals, and resources for successful and sustainable part
Feb 8, 20258 min read
Preparing Founders for Demo Day: A 90-Day Readiness Plan
Prepare your startup for success with our comprehensive 90-day readiness plan for Demo Day. This article outlines essential strategies for founders to refine their pitches, engage effectively with investors, and showcase their innovations. Discover tips on building a compelling narrative, practicing delivery, and addressing potential questions. By following this actionable guide, founders can maximize their impact and secure valuable funding opportunities on Demo Day.
Feb 7, 20259 min read
Demo Day That Actually Works: Beyond the Pitch Deck Parade
Explore the essentials of crafting compelling articles that capture readers' attention and enhance engagement. This guide covers effective headline strategies, structuring your content for readability, and optimizing for SEO to drive traffic. Learn how to incorporate keywords seamlessly while maintaining a natural flow, and discover tips for captivating introductions and strong conclusions. Perfect for writers seeking to elevate their craft and connect with a wider audience.
Feb 6, 20257 min read
The Investor Relations Dilemma: Building Pipeline Without Becoming a VC Fund
Explore the essentials of crafting compelling articles that capture readers' attention and enhance engagement. This guide covers effective headline strategies, structuring your content for readability, and optimizing for SEO to drive traffic. Learn how to incorporate keywords seamlessly while maintaining a natural flow, and discover tips for captivating introductions and strong conclusions. Perfect for writers seeking to elevate their craft and connect with a wider audience.
Feb 5, 20257 min read
Building a Diverse Mentor Network (That Actually Reflects Your Cohort)
Explore the essentials of crafting compelling articles that capture readers' attention and enhance engagement. This guide covers effective headline strategies, structuring your content for readability, and optimizing for SEO to drive traffic. Learn how to incorporate keywords seamlessly while maintaining a natural flow, and discover tips for captivating introductions and strong conclusions. Perfect for writers seeking to elevate their craft and connect with a wider audience.
Feb 4, 20257 min read
Building an Alumni Program That Actually Provides Value
Creating a successful alumni program involves more than just maintaining connections; it requires delivering real value to members. This article explores effective strategies for building an alumni network that fosters engagement and support, enhances professional development, and provides meaningful benefits. Learn how to leverage technology, personalize outreach, and create events that resonate with alumni, ultimately strengthening your institution's community and brand.
Feb 3, 20258 min read
When Mentors Underperform: How to Address Issues Without Burning Bridges
Navigating mentor-mentee relationships can be challenging, especially when mentors underperform. This article explores effective strategies for addressing issues while maintaining a positive rapport. Learn how to communicate concerns, set clear expectations, and foster constructive dialogue. Discover the importance of feedback and how to approach difficult conversations without burning bridges. Enhance your mentoring experience and ensure both parties benefit from the relatio
Feb 2, 20258 min read
The Mentor Recruitment Playbook: Finding Experts Who Actually Have Time
In the fast-paced world of mentorship, finding experts who genuinely have the time to engage is crucial. This article will explore effective strategies for recruiting mentors, emphasizing the importance of clear communication, mutual benefits, and flexible engagement options. Discover how to identify and approach potential mentors, ensuring that both parties can maximize their time and expertise for impactful relationships. Unlock the secrets to successful mentor recruitment
Feb 1, 20258 min read
Beyond Random Pairings: A Mentor Matching System That Actually Works
Discover effective mentor matching strategies that go beyond random pairings. This article explores a successful mentor matching system, emphasizing the importance of compatibility and personalized connections. Learn how tailored approaches can enhance mentorship experiences, fostering growth and development for both mentors and mentees. Join us as we delve into innovative methods that can transform the way mentorship is approached in various fields.
Jan 31, 20258 min read
The 90-Day Mentor Problem: Keeping Mentors Engaged for the Long Haul
Explore the essentials of crafting compelling articles that capture readers' attention and enhance engagement. This guide covers effective headline strategies, structuring your content for readability, and optimizing for SEO to drive traffic. Learn how to incorporate keywords seamlessly while maintaining a natural flow, and discover tips for captivating introductions and strong conclusions. Perfect for writers seeking to elevate their craft and connect with a wider audience.
Jan 30, 20258 min read
Post-Program Mentorship: Structuring Support After Graduation
Explore the essentials of crafting compelling articles that capture readers' attention and enhance engagement. This guide covers effective headline strategies, structuring your content for readability, and optimizing for SEO to drive traffic. Learn how to incorporate keywords seamlessly while maintaining a natural flow, and discover tips for captivating introductions and strong conclusions. Perfect for writers seeking to elevate their craft and connect with a wider audience.
Jan 29, 20257 min read
The Alumni Problem: Why Most Founders Disappear After Graduation
The Alumni Problem reveals a concerning trend: many founders fade into obscurity after graduation. This article explores the reasons behind this phenomenon, highlighting the challenges new entrepreneurs face, such as lack of support, mentorship, and resources. By examining these factors, we aim to provide insights into how universities can better nurture their graduates, fostering a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem that encourages sustained engagement and innovation post-gr
Jan 28, 20256 min read
The Milestone Framework: Setting Founder Expectations for Program Progression
The Milestone Framework is essential for founders seeking to navigate program progression effectively. This article outlines how to set clear expectations, track milestones, and ensure sustainable growth. By implementing this framework, startups can align their goals with actionable steps, fostering accountability and enhancing performance. Discover practical strategies to optimize your startup journey and achieve your vision successfully. Read more in our comprehensive guide
Jan 27, 20259 min read
Supporting Founders in Crisis: A Program Manager's Mental Health Guide
In "Supporting Founders in Crisis: A Program Manager's Mental Health Guide," we explore essential strategies for program managers to effectively support founders facing mental health challenges. This article provides actionable insights on recognizing signs of distress, fostering open communication, and creating a supportive environment. Discover techniques to promote resilience and well-being in high-pressure startup settings, ensuring founders receive the help they need to
Jan 26, 20259 min read
The Engagement Crisis: Why Founders Check Out (And How to Keep Them Active)
Explore the essentials of crafting compelling articles that capture readers' attention and enhance engagement. This guide covers effective headline strategies, structuring your content for readability, and optimizing for SEO to drive traffic. Learn how to incorporate keywords seamlessly while maintaining a natural flow, and discover tips for captivating introductions and strong conclusions. Perfect for writers seeking to elevate their craft and connect with a wider audience.
Jan 25, 20259 min read
Founder-Program Fit: The Most Underrated Selection Criteria
Explore the critical concept of founder-program fit, a key factor often overlooked in selection processes. This article delves into why matching a founder's current needs with a program's offerings is essential for engagement and success. Learn how to evaluate fit effectively and avoid common pitfalls, ensuring your cohort thrives and benefits from shared experiences tailored to the right stage and context. Optimize your program's performance by prioritizing fit in your selec
Jan 24, 20258 min read
Building Diverse Cohorts: Beyond Diversity Theater
Diversity targets are not enough. Learn how accelerators and cohort programs can move beyond “diversity theater” by improving sourcing, accessible applications, bias checks in selection, intentional mentor diversification, and inclusive program culture. Includes practical metrics to track equity and founder outcomes.
Jan 23, 20258 min read
Assessing Founder Potential When There's No Traction (Yet)
Learn how to assess founder potential in early-stage startups without traction. Discover key behaviors and cognitive patterns that predict success, such as problem understanding, iteration speed, self-awareness, genuine domain connection, and team dynamics. This guide helps you evaluate founders effectively, focusing on their capabilities rather than just their ideas or confidence levels. Ideal for accelerators and incubators looking to identify high-potential entrepreneurs.
Jan 22, 20258 min read
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