In this episode of Launch Base, host John Radford speaks with Phil McSweeney, an advisor and author, about the challenges founders face in scaling their businesses. They discuss the importance of storytelling, the reasons behind founder failures, and the key traits that make exceptional founders. Phil shares insights on angel investing, the significance of brand positioning, and the impact of no-code solutions on startups. The conversation culminates with a discussion of Phil's book, 'Angel Think', which offers valuable advice for founders looking to understand investor perspectives and gain a competitive edge. takeaways Founders often fail due to a lack of market fit. Storytelling is crucial for engaging investors. Execution is more important than just having an idea. Building a personal brand can help in fundraising. Determination and self-belief are key traits of successful founders. Creating a strong narrative is essential for attracting investment. Revenue generation is more important than having a perfect product. No-code solutions can help validate ideas without significant investment. Building relationships with investors before asking for money is vital. Competitive advantage comes from more than just intellectual property.