My First Million
The best business ideas come from noticing what's working and doing it better, faster, or for a different audience.
Novelty Story Positioning
Why It Works
Media loves stories that challenge assumptions and feature unexpected combinations (young woman with homeless men, etc.)
Prerequisites
How to Execute
Identify the most contrarian or surprising element of your story
Connect personal backstory to mission for authenticity
Invite media to witness the story firsthand
Prepare articulate spokespeople from your community
Time launch for maximum media availability
When It Fails
When the story feels manufactured or lacks authentic personal connection
Real Example
“A former investment banker starts urban farming in Detroit, positioning the story around Wall Street expertise applied to agriculture rather than just another farming story.”
Related Knowledge
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Play a Game You Can Win Framework
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Raise $1M+ for nonprofit in first year
Consistent monthly fundraising of $80k+ from corporate sponsors and individual donors who become long-term supporters
Open profitable physical location business with minimal capital
First location generating $100k+ monthly revenue within 30 days, with clear path to additional locations
Solve the Problem, Don't Fight the Position
A negotiation approach that focuses on understanding the underlying needs and constraints of the other party rather than