The Think Like an Owner newsletter is a compilation of my thoughts on investing in and operating small companies, published every other week. In the newsletter, I also share interesting and relevant resources I recently came across.
My life has recently changed in two big ways.
In May last year I graduated from University of Portland and last month passed without my realizing the significance. Since graduating, I’ve released 12 podcast episodes, written 27 Tailwinds editions, my 2019 Annual Letter, and gained a small following on Twitter.
One closing question I ask podcast guests is, “What’s a belief you used to hold strongly and have since changed your mind on?” I like this question because it shares some insight into how our views change with time and experience. Well, when it comes to the podcast, there’s a belief of my own that has shifted since starting the project.
Cash Flow Cowboy, Tim Ludwig, Andrew Wilkinson, Ari Ozick, Michael Burry, Adam Keesling, Slate Star Codex, Oregon whales
Tim Ludwig, Dan McMurtrie, Greenhaven Road, Good Things Don’t Scale, Mikel Berger, Capital Camp
Roam Research, Sam Rosati, Cowboy Investing, Space Garbage
Chenmark Capital, Ankur Warikoo, Little Engine Ventures
Chick-Fil-A, Why Athletes Remain Wealthy, Visa, Alex Danco, John Scalzis, Morgan Housel
When I talk with owners and investors who are in the middle of starting their company or investing, I can hear and feel the emotional swings of their adventures. On some days they experience otherworldly highs; a new customer, closing a deal, an exciting new partnership. On other days they feel unfathomable lows; losing valuable employees, deaths and terminal illnesses in their work and personal life, divorcing with a business partner. These times are raw and felt stronger than at any other point in time.
Each year I write an annual letter to readers and listeners to reflect on the evolution of the podcast and my personal growth.
While 2020 was turbulent to say the least, it was the best year of my life. I married my lovely wife in late August, adopted a corgi, and began working on the Think Like an Owner podcast full-time.
Before getting to the podcast, 2019 was a tremendous year personally. I flew to DC for a FinTwit gathering hosted by Jamie Catherwood, graduated college with a new job, and got engaged.
As a fun goal for myself, I’ve decided to start writing annual (and possibly quarterly) letters for the Think Like an Owner project to reflect on the growth of the podcast, discussion around the micro private equity market, and my personal learning.
I’m always looking to connect with folks interested in this space, don’t hesitate to reach out.
