In this episode, Joel and Chad interview Gareth Marlow, an executive coach and consultant at EQ Systems. They discuss various topics including Gareth's background, the differences between Cambridge and Oxford, their favorite sci-fi movies, and Gareth's work with startups. Gareth explains his role in helping organizations scale and achieve product-market fit.

They also touch on the common problem of startups creating solutions for non-existent problems and the importance of customer orientation and research. In this conversation, Gareth Marlow discusses the challenges and strategies for companies looking to expand internationally, specifically between the UK and the US.

He emphasizes the importance of understanding the cultural differences and nuances in each market, as well as the need for localized go-to-market strategies. Gareth also highlights the significance of working with local experts and building strong relationships to navigate the fundraising process. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the rapid advancements in technology and the potential for democratizing waves in AI and low-code development.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction and Small Talk

02:57 - Differences Between Cambridge and Oxford

09:29 - Gareth's Role in Scaling Organizations

11:49 - Challenges of Scaling and Going Beyond 500 Employees

13:14 - Startups Creating Solutions for Non-Existent Problems

15:03 - Importance of Customer Orientation and Research

15:09 - Introduction and the Problem Space

16:00 - Expanding in America and Europe: Different Approaches

18:20 - Building Footholds and Organic Growth

20:40 - One Size Does Not Fit All

22:41 - Go-to-Market Strategies and Team Dynamics

26:50 -Red Flags and Warning Signs for Startups

28:25 -Fundraising Tips and Differences in Investment

31:11 -The Potential of Technology Advancements

Keywords

Gareth Marlow, executive coach, consultant, EQ Systems, Cambridge, Oxford, sci-fi movies, startups, product-market fit, customer orientation, research, international expansion, UK, US, cultural differences, go-to-market strategies, fundraising, technology advancements, AI, low-code development