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Micro-Learning at Torrey Project

Actionable, bite-sized learning for conscious business leaders

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This content is for educational purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice. 

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Business Structures
Understanding Legal Structures | DON'T GET SCREWED!
03:47

Understanding Legal Structures | DON'T GET SCREWED!

Choosing the right corporate structure when starting a new business can be a daunting task. There are so many structures to choose from and so little good information out there to help you make the right choice. This is something that way too many entrepreneurs get wrong. I always ask first time founders why they chose the corporate structure that they are using and I almost never get back the right answer. In most cases the entrepreneur has chosen an LLC because someone told them that it is better from a tax perspective. And, that can be true, but often it is not. There is so much more to think about. Watch this video and learn about the choices you have and the factors you should consider before making this very important decision. See what we're all about here https://www.torreyproject.org/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/35696052/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/torreyproject/ ___________________________________________________________________________________ We're a group of seasoned business leaders ready to make a mark for good. Our network of established global business leaders and senior executives share the belief that sustainable shareholder value is maximized when business owners and leaders practice a passionate commitment to serving employees, suppliers, shareholders, customers, local communities, the environment, and society at large.
Don't form an LLC without knowing these 3 things| DON'T GET SCREWED!
03:26

Don't form an LLC without knowing these 3 things| DON'T GET SCREWED!

A LLC or Limited Liability Company is a very popular corporate structure and is often chosen by entrepreneurs due to tax considerations as well as the flexibility that a LLC offers. Unlike a C-Corp, LLC’s can be structured to suit the needs and desires of the founders. What many first-time founders don’t know is that the rules that govern a LLC are very much up to the founders. In some ways it can act as like Pre-Nup for founders and can set forth how certain sticky issues will be handled in the future. So, what should a founder take into consideration when forming a LLC? That’s the key question. Watch this video to find out and Don’t Get Screwed! See what we're all about here https://www.torreyproject.org/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/35696052/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/torreyproject/ ___________________________________________________________________________________ We're a group of seasoned business leaders ready to make a mark for good. Our network of established global business leaders and senior executives share the belief that sustainable shareholder value is maximized when business owners and leaders practice a passionate commitment to serving employees, suppliers, shareholders, customers, local communities, the environment, and society at large.
Why should you care about Benefit Corporations? | DON'T GET SCREWED!
03:49

Why should you care about Benefit Corporations? | DON'T GET SCREWED!

When B Labs created the Benefit Corporation, they created a whole new world of opportunity for entrepreneurs and business leaders. Benefit Corporations are legal structures, just like C-Corps and LLCs. They also have the potential to shield corporate directors and officers from frivolous lawsuits launched by shareholders who mistakenly believe that the sole purpose of a company is to maximize its short-term profits, regardless of the impact that might have on other stakeholders and even on the shareholders themselves, in the longer term. The problem is that not enough entrepreneurs have ever heard of a Benefit Corporation. Let’s change that today! Watch this video and learn why you should care about Benefit Corporations. See what we're all about here https://www.torreyproject.org/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/35696052/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/torreyproject/ ___________________________________________________________________________________ We're a group of seasoned business leaders ready to make a mark for good. Our network of established global business leaders and senior executives share the belief that sustainable shareholder value is maximized when business owners and leaders practice a passionate commitment to serving employees, suppliers, shareholders, customers, local communities, the environment, and society at large.
Legal Entities that Promote Social Good | DON'T GET SCREWED!
03:46

Legal Entities that Promote Social Good | DON'T GET SCREWED!

Too many entrepreneurs form their legal entity way too soon! Most first-time entrepreneurs that David talks to cannot properly answer my question when he asks why they chose the particular corporate structure that they chose. Most say “I don’t know” or “I thought it was the best choice for tax” or “I thought it was the easiest way”. These are all bad answers! And this is a very important topic. These days, David Ferran is teaching entrepreneurs to slow down and understand all of the choices that are available to them, as well as the pros and cons of each structure. You need to know that there is no single “Right Answer” when it comes to selecting the most appropriate legal structure to house your next business. You need to stop and think about it. You need to ask some questions. Ultimately, you need to get this right. So, watch this video for a first step in developing your thinking about this critical subject. See what we're all about here https://www.torreyproject.org/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/35696052/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/torreyproject/ ___________________________________________________________________________________ We're a group of seasoned business leaders ready to make a mark for good. Our network of established global business leaders and senior executives share the belief that sustainable shareholder value is maximized when business owners and leaders practice a passionate commitment to serving employees, suppliers, shareholders, customers, local communities, the environment, and society at large.
Business Structues
Startup Essentials
Creating an Effective Long Term Vision Statement | DON'T GET SCREWED!
02:05

Creating an Effective Long Term Vision Statement | DON'T GET SCREWED!

Having a long term vision is a critical element in the development of a new enterprise. An effective long term vision aligns the team on a lofty and worthy purpose and provides a northstar for future strategic decisions. See what we're all about here https://www.torreyproject.org/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/35696052/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/torreyproject/ ___________________________________________________________________________________ We're a group of seasoned business leaders ready to make a mark for good. Our network of established global business leaders and senior executives share the belief that sustainable shareholder value is maximized when business owners and leaders practice a passionate commitment to serving employees, suppliers, shareholders, customers, local communities, the environment, and society at large.
3 Things That Make a GREAT Business Plan? | DON'T GET SCREWED!
02:29

3 Things That Make a GREAT Business Plan? | DON'T GET SCREWED!

Shortcuts won’t get you there! I am shocked at the approach schools are taking to teaching our next generation of entrepreneurs how to develop the kind of business plans that support both capital attraction AND the management of their new business venture. Back when I attended business school there were no classes on entrepreneurship. I had to learn how to put together a business plan on my own so that I could get funding. These days we have some amazing college level entrepreneurship programs but I haven’t found any that spend the time required to teach proper techniques and strategies for business plan development. Given the limited time available in college courses that are limited to a few months, the current thinking is that a business model canvas is sufficient. I strongly disagree. Watch this video and see why. See what we're all about here https://www.torreyproject.org/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/35696052/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/torreyproject/ ___________________________________________________________________________________ We're a group of seasoned business leaders ready to make a mark for good. Our network of established global business leaders and senior executives share the belief that sustainable shareholder value is maximized when business owners and leaders practice a passionate commitment to serving employees, suppliers, shareholders, customers, local communities, the environment, and society at large.
What is a Business Model Canvas? | DON'T GET SCREWED!
02:08

What is a Business Model Canvas? | DON'T GET SCREWED!

If you liked my last video on Business Plans, check this out and get ready to create a business plan that will help you to attract capital in the short term and then help you build your new business over the longer term. Doing a full business plan the right way is a boatload of work but, as a new entrepreneur, you will soon learn that avoiding hard work is a sure way to fail, both in business and in life. So, roll your sleeves up, do the work and make your business the kind of success you have been dreaming about! See what we're all about here https://www.torreyproject.org/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/35696052/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/torreyproject/ ___________________________________________________________________________________ We're a group of seasoned business leaders ready to make a mark for good. Our network of established global business leaders and senior executives share the belief that sustainable shareholder value is maximized when business owners and leaders practice a passionate commitment to serving employees, suppliers, shareholders, customers, local communities, the environment, and society at large.
Startup Essentials
Raising Capital
Raising Early Stage Capital, let's talk SAFEs and Convertible Debentures | DON'T GET SCREWED!
03:30

Raising Early Stage Capital, let's talk SAFEs and Convertible Debentures | DON'T GET SCREWED!

SAFEs are a powerful tool for founders looking to raise very early stage capital. They allow you to access cash now and determine how much stock that cash will buy at a later date. These days, SAFEs are used in much the same way as Convertible Debentures have historically been used. If you don’t know the difference between and SAFE and a Convertible Debenture you are not ready to pursue your first round of start-up Capital, so dive in and…Don’t Get Screwed! See what we're all about here https://www.torreyproject.org/ LinkedIn - linkedin.com/company/35696052/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/torreyproject/ ___________________________________________________________________________________ We're a group of seasoned business leaders ready to make a mark for good. Our network of established global business leaders and senior executives share the belief that sustainable shareholder value is maximized when business owners and leaders practice a passionate commitment to serving employees, suppliers, shareholders, customers, local communities, the environment, and society at large.
3 Things to know about Venture Capital Deals | DON'T GET SCREWED!
03:51

3 Things to know about Venture Capital Deals | DON'T GET SCREWED!

There are so many things you need to know before dealing with Venture Capitalists. Let’s start with the fact that the stock your VC investors will get will be a MUCH better class of stock than you, the founder and CEO will ever get. You might get to run the company but your VC will have plenty of Veto power, and more. Learn the truth about Venture Capital …and Don’t Get Screwed! See what we're all about here https://www.torreyproject.org/ LinkedIn - linkedin.com/company/35696052/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/torreyproject/ ___________________________________________________________________________________ We're a group of seasoned business leaders ready to make a mark for good. Our network of established global business leaders and senior executives share the belief that sustainable shareholder value is maximized when business owners and leaders practice a passionate commitment to serving employees, suppliers, shareholders, customers, local communities, the environment, and society at large.
Should You Bring Your Friends and Family into Your Business? | DON'T DO THAT!
02:03

Should You Bring Your Friends and Family into Your Business? | DON'T DO THAT!

Many people get it wrong when I say that you should avoid giving stock to friends and family members at the start of a new business venture. That’s because they don’t listen to the rest of the story. Sharing with loved ones is a very good thing indeed. You just need to do it in the right way and at the right time. If you want to learn more about the right way to enrich your friends and family members, check out this video. See what we're all about here https://www.torreyproject.org/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/35696052/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/torreyproject/ ___________________________________________________________________________________ We're a group of seasoned business leaders ready to make a mark for good. Our network of established global business leaders and senior executives share the belief that sustainable shareholder value is maximized when business owners and leaders practice a passionate commitment to serving employees, suppliers, shareholders, customers, local communities, the environment, and society at large.
3 Things to Know About Revenue Based Financing (RBF) | DON'T GET SCREWED!
02:44

3 Things to Know About Revenue Based Financing (RBF) | DON'T GET SCREWED!

Starting a company can be fun, exciting and rewarding. It can also be shockingly disappointing. Most first-time founders are looking to start a company that they intend to own and operate for a considerable length of time. Sure, they know they will likely sell the business and pocket their financial rewards at some point in time. But that doesn’t mean that they want to be in the position of being forced to sell their company on someone else’s schedule simply to provide a liquidity event (pay day) for their investors. If you might be interested in holding onto the ownership of your new business and controlling the timing or your exit, you really need to watch this video and find out why Non-Dilutive funding might be right for you. See what we're all about here https://www.torreyproject.org/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/35696052/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/torreyproject/ ___________________________________________________________________________________ We're a group of seasoned business leaders ready to make a mark for good. Our network of established global business leaders and senior executives share the belief that sustainable shareholder value is maximized when business owners and leaders practice a passionate commitment to serving employees, suppliers, shareholders, customers, local communities, the environment, and society at large.
Raising Capital
B Corp Certification
CEOs, You should be running a B Corp | DON'T GET SCREWED!
03:37

CEOs, You should be running a B Corp | DON'T GET SCREWED!

You’ve got to be kidding me! Why wouldn’t you want to run a B Corp? Talk to anyone who works for a certified B Corp and they will tell you just how good it feels to know that while you are busy at work, making money for yourself and the company’s shareholders, you are also making a positive difference in the world. As a former corporate CEO, I would love to have had an opportunity to pursue Purpose as well as Profits. I would have enjoyed finding creative ways of harnessing the enthusiasm of my employees, the extraordinary support of my suppliers and the loyalty of my customers. I wish I could look back and be proud of the positive impact that my life’s work had on the world around me. I wish I could look my kids and my grandkids in the eye and tell them that I did my best for them and for their future. It’s too late for me, but not for all you first time founders out there. Don’t miss this opportunity to be all you can be as a founder and as a leader of business. See what we're all about here https://www.torreyproject.org/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/35696052/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/torreyproject/ ___________________________________________________________________________________ We're a group of seasoned business leaders ready to make a mark for good. Our network of established global business leaders and senior executives share the belief that sustainable shareholder value is maximized when business owners and leaders practice a passionate commitment to serving employees, suppliers, shareholders, customers, local communities, the environment, and society at large.
Why you should 'B' a Certified B Corp | DON'T GET SCREWED!
03:09

Why you should 'B' a Certified B Corp | DON'T GET SCREWED!

B Labs is an amazing non-profit organization that is doing incredible and impactful work and is changing the way business is done around the planet. Founded in 2006, this forward-thinking organization created the concept of Public Benefit Corporations and has successfully had it legally adopted into law in 38 states and the District of Columbia. Officers and Directors of companies registering as Public Benefit corps have an express legal obligation to consider all stakeholders when making important strategic decisions. This is HUGE!!!!! B Labs has also developed an extensive certification program to assess and ensure that B Corp companies are indeed acting in the best interest of all stakeholders, and with a longer-term perspective. Thus far, over 3,500 companies have been certified by B Labs and are now able to proudly display the Certified B Corp Logo on their products and marketing materials. See what we're all about here https://www.torreyproject.org/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/35696052/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/torreyproject/ ___________________________________________________________________________________ We're a group of seasoned business leaders ready to make a mark for good. Our network of established global business leaders and senior executives share the belief that sustainable shareholder value is maximized when business owners and leaders practice a passionate commitment to serving employees, suppliers, shareholders, customers, local communities, the environment, and society at large.
What is a Certified B Corp? | DON'T GET SCREWED!
03:15

What is a Certified B Corp? | DON'T GET SCREWED!

What the heck is a Certified B Corp? If you don’t know, you need to watch this video. What you will learn is that there is now a way to know if a company is a good corporate citizen and is serious about serving all stakeholders or if they are just blowing smoke for marketing purposes. (Yes, companies actually do that). B Labs has created an amazing tool to support business leaders in assessing their operations and identifying areas for improvement. Think of it as being like an ISO audit for corporate behavior. Think of it as a badge of honor for everyone involved in your business. Currently most Certified B Corps are smaller, privately owned companies but as the B Corp movement is picking up steam larger and even publicly traded companies are hopping on board. Some names you might recognize are Patagonia, Ben and Jerry’s, Seventh Generation, and Danone. As founders, it is imperative that you understand the impact that B Labs certification can have on your business. Think happier, more productive and more loyal employees. Think less churn and less I.P. flight risk. Think enhanced resilience and sustainability. Think of a better bottom line. Then, stop thinking and go do it! See what we're all about here https://www.torreyproject.org/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/35696052/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/torreyproject/ ___________________________________________________________________________________ We're a group of seasoned business leaders ready to make a mark for good. Our network of established global business leaders and senior executives share the belief that sustainable shareholder value is maximized when business owners and leaders practice a passionate commitment to serving employees, suppliers, shareholders, customers, local communities, the environment, and society at large.
B Corp
Employee Management
Employee Management
3 Ways to Avoid Bad Hires | DON'T GET SCREWED!
02:03

3 Ways to Avoid Bad Hires | DON'T GET SCREWED!

Everybody you add to your organization has to be magic. They need to work out if you want to achieve your highest potential. What can you do? Have multiple people interview the candidate. Discuss your company's vision and values. Double-down on due diligence. What are your effective strategies for avoiding bad hiring decisions? Watch this video so you Don’t Get Screwed! See what we're all about here https://www.torreyproject.org/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/35696052/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/torreyproject/ ___________________________________________________________________________________ We're a group of seasoned business leaders ready to make a mark for good. Our network of established global business leaders and senior executives share the belief that sustainable shareholder value is maximized when business owners and leaders practice a passionate commitment to serving employees, suppliers, shareholders, customers, local communities, the environment, and society at large.
Entrepreneurs, watch out for Employment Agreements | DON'T GET SCREWED!
03:07

Entrepreneurs, watch out for Employment Agreements | DON'T GET SCREWED!

Starting and growing a new business is tough stuff. As a first-time founder, not only is your company always in danger but so is your job. Just because your investors are enamored with your company does not mean that they are enamored with you. Very often investors want to keep the company but jettison the founder. Watch this video and Don't Get Screwed! See what we're all about here - https://www.torreyproject.org/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/35696052/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/torreyproject/ ___________________________________________________________________________________ We're a group of seasoned business leaders ready to make a mark for good. Our network of established global business leaders and senior executives share the belief that sustainable shareholder value is maximized when business owners and leaders practice a passionate commitment to serving employees, suppliers, shareholders, customers, local communities, the environment, and society at large.
Creating a Healthy and High Performance Company Culture | DON'T GET SCREWED!
03:41

Creating a Healthy and High Performance Company Culture | DON'T GET SCREWED!

The way a company acts, as well as the way it performs, is largely driven by the culture of the company. So, where does the culture come from? Who decides? These are important questions that you need to ask if you are a first-time founder. When I started my first company, I had never even heard the term “Corporate Culture”. And, as you might guess, I did absolutely nothing to mindfully create the culture I wanted, so I got the culture I deserved. And, I can assure you, that is never a good thing. Great leaders know that they will never achieve their full potential unless they create a corporate that demands high performance. It all starts with accountability! Watch this video and learn three key things that you can do to supercharge the performance of your new company. See what we're all about here https://www.torreyproject.org/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/35696052/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/torreyproject/ ___________________________________________________________________________________ We're a group of seasoned business leaders ready to make a mark for good. Our network of established global business leaders and senior executives share the belief that sustainable shareholder value is maximized when business owners and leaders practice a passionate commitment to serving employees, suppliers, shareholders, customers, local communities, the environment, and society at large.
Don't Engage in Triangulation in the Workplace | DON'T DO THAT!
01:43

Don't Engage in Triangulation in the Workplace | DON'T DO THAT!

Talking behind other people’s back is standard practice in most companies these days, but it is TOXIC to your corporate culture. Learn about this disease called Triangulation and don’t let it undo your great work! See what we're all about here https://www.torreyproject.org/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/35696052/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/torreyproject/ ___________________________________________________________________________________ We're a group of seasoned business leaders ready to make a mark for good. Our network of established global business leaders and senior executives share the belief that sustainable shareholder value is maximized when business owners and leaders practice a passionate commitment to serving employees, suppliers, shareholders, customers, local communities, the environment, and society at large.
Letting Employees Go - What You Need to Know | DON'T GET SCREWED!
02:15

Letting Employees Go - What You Need to Know | DON'T GET SCREWED!

Hiring is easier than firing. Letting people go is never fun or easy but it is something that almost all entrepreneurs are faced with at some point in their journey. I have given you tips on making good hires but don’t kid yourself. You will get it wrong sooner or later and you are going to have to fire someone. So, you can just wing it and face the consequences, or you can watch this short video and learn how best to let someone go without Getting Screwed! See what we're all about here https://www.torreyproject.org/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/35696052/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/torreyproject/ ___________________________________________________________________________________ We're a group of seasoned business leaders ready to make a mark for good. Our network of established global business leaders and senior executives share the belief that sustainable shareholder value is maximized when business owners and leaders practice a passionate commitment to serving employees, suppliers, shareholders, customers, local communities, the environment, and society at large.
Should You Keep Compensation Matters Secret? | DON'T DO THAT!
01:29

Should You Keep Compensation Matters Secret? | DON'T DO THAT!

Be careful when it comes to compensation matters. There is certainly a time for keeping compensation related information confidential. Please don’t think I am suggesting otherwise. In the video below you will learn about the way many first-time founders get it wrong when they bake special deals for early team members and think that those details will never leak out. They do, and if you get this wrong you can really mess up your team, and your company. You might even needlessly destroy some good relationships. So, check it out. And get it right! See what we're all about here https://www.torreyproject.org/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/35696052/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/torreyproject/ ___________________________________________________________________________________ We're a group of seasoned business leaders ready to make a mark for good. Our network of established global business leaders and senior executives share the belief that sustainable shareholder value is maximized when business owners and leaders practice a passionate commitment to serving employees, suppliers, shareholders, customers, local communities, the environment, and society at large.
Leadership
Don't Engage in Triangulation in the Workplace | DON'T DO THAT!
01:43

Don't Engage in Triangulation in the Workplace | DON'T DO THAT!

Talking behind other people’s back is standard practice in most companies these days, but it is TOXIC to your corporate culture. Learn about this disease called Triangulation and don’t let it undo your great work! See what we're all about here https://www.torreyproject.org/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/35696052/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/torreyproject/ ___________________________________________________________________________________ We're a group of seasoned business leaders ready to make a mark for good. Our network of established global business leaders and senior executives share the belief that sustainable shareholder value is maximized when business owners and leaders practice a passionate commitment to serving employees, suppliers, shareholders, customers, local communities, the environment, and society at large.
Having Separate Operating Plans for Your Board & Management | DON'T DO THAT!
01:38

Having Separate Operating Plans for Your Board & Management | DON'T DO THAT!

Entrepreneurs are typically clever people. Sometimes a little too clever for their own good. A common mistake made by first time founders is using your board to get what you want from your team. When you blame your board for demanding performance you set yourself up for a fall. It’s just a matter of time. It’s okay to have a conservative plan and a more aggressive set of goals but your team and your board should know about both. See what we're all about here https://www.torreyproject.org/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/35696052/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/torreyproject/ ___________________________________________________________________________________ We're a group of seasoned business leaders ready to make a mark for good. Our network of established global business leaders and senior executives share the belief that sustainable shareholder value is maximized when business owners and leaders practice a passionate commitment to serving employees, suppliers, shareholders, customers, local communities, the environment, and society at large.
Leadership
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