The #1 Mistake Founders Make…..Trying to Do It Alone

The #1 Mistake Founders Make…..Trying to Do It Alone

From The Mark Haney Podcast by The Mark Haney Podcast

March 25, 2026 · 45 min

About this episode

Thom Schildmeyer discusses the importance of building relationships and networking for entrepreneurs to avoid isolation and accelerate growth.

Entrepreneurship can feel like you’re on an island—but the truth is, you don’t have to build alone. In this episode, Thom Schildmeyer shares why building relationships is one of the most powerful advantages an entrepreneur can have. We dive into the real role of networking—not just collecting contacts, but creating meaningful connections that actually move your business forward. Through the lens of Growth Factory and the Backyard Advantage, Thom breaks down how founders can tap into a local ecosystem built around entrepreneurship, networking, and collaboration to accelerate growth and avoid going it alone. If you’re an entrepreneur trying to figure it all out yourself, this conversation will challenge that mindset—and show you a better path forward. 👉 Because in entrepreneurship, success isn’t just about what you know… it’s about who you build with. Learn more: Website: https://growthfactory.vc/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/growthfactoryhq/ ______________________________________________________________ If this episode inspires you to be part of the movement, and you believe, like me, that entrepreneurs are the answer to our future, message me so we can join forces…

People in this episode

Host: Mark Haney

Guest: Thom Schildmeyer

Topics covered

  • entrepreneurship
  • networking
  • business growth
  • collaboration
  • local ecosystem

Keywords

  • entrepreneurship
  • networking
  • business relationships
  • Growth Factory
  • local ecosystem

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Growth Factory, Backyard Advantage, HaneyBiz

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