Founders Get Key Advice from CAVA's Brett Schulman

Managing multiple channels can be challenging; focusing can improve marketing and product development.

"My fear is that I, I'm like, OK, if I want to do coffee shops, am I gonna neglect my wholesale or my e-commerce..."

- Recognize resource demands of each channel.
- Consider focusing on one channel to optimize growth.
- Utilize strategies like hiring or consulting to manage effectively.

Identifying the right growth path is vital for scaling your product and achieving PMF.

"So I think it's trying to, to, you know, we like to try and do fewer things better. It's hard."

- Choose growth opportunities aligning with strengths.
- Be strategic in resource allocation.
- Focus on areas with highest potential.

Effective prioritization is crucial for product building and achieving PMF.

"What you don't do is often more important than what you do do and that really helped us turn the tide..."

- Focus on tasks aligning with core goals.
- Avoid spreading resources too thin.
- Prioritize efforts to improve efficiency and impact.

Founders often face obstacles; resilience is essential for growth.

"I still wake up every day and I'm faced with challenges in our business. That, that is business, right? Because if it was that easy, everyone would be running a, everybody would do it, right?"

- Accept challenges as part of the journey.
- Maintain emotional resilience to progress.
- Focus on solving problems and moving forward.

Understanding and utilizing the right channels is key for marketing and reaching your audience.

"Certainly what we've seen post pandemic, the cost of acquisition or just awareness on the internet... So where are there potential bricks and mortar outlets that you can be in front of..."

- Explore physical retail options where customers shop.
- Diversify beyond online channels due to rising digital costs.
- Be present where your target audience engages with products.

Having mentors assists in team building and overcoming obstacles in your startup journey.

"Do you have any advisors or mentors around you, around the table?... Don't be shy about cold reaching out to business leaders that you maybe admire or respect."

- Seek experienced individuals for guidance.
- Cold reach out to potential mentors or advisors.
- Mentors can validate thinking and offer new perspectives.

Concentrating on strengths drives growth and improves product-market fit.

"How did you focus Cava when you had all those channels and you know, you decided on the restaurants that was gonna be the growth..."

- Prioritize doing fewer things better by focusing on promising channels.
- Align resources and team towards core business.
- Simplify offerings to enhance efficiency and scalability.

Deciding when to raise capital is critical for scaling your business effectively.

"Basically my question is how can I be certain it's the right time to seek growth funding for Rootless and what is the best method for doing so?"

- Assess your business goals and growth plans.
- Focus on a clear growth strategy to present to investors.
- Understand your revenue channels and where to invest capital.

Selecting effective marketing channels is vital for reaching your target audience and achieving product-market fit.

"As a niche mission-based business, I wanted to know how I should expand my marketing reach and sales channels."

- Consider where your target customers naturally go.
- Partner with complementary brands for co-marketing.
- Attend trade shows to understand the market and meet partners.

Dealing with self-doubt is common among founders. Overcoming imposter syndrome is crucial for effective team building and personal growth.

"My question is, uh, as an entrepreneur and as you start to grow, how do you deal with uh, the sinking feeling of imposter syndrome."

- Many founders experience imposter syndrome; it's normal.
- Seek mentors or advisors for validation and guidance.
- Recognize your accomplishments to combat self-doubt.