In this episode of The Blockchain Startup Show, I had the pleasure of speaking with Saul Hudson, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Angle42.

Saul brings invaluable insights into the unique pressures facing first-time founders. We explore how humility and a willingness to learn can inform a startup’s culture from the earliest days, maximizing the chances for sustainable success. Saul offers a framework for founders to balance the urgency of quick wins with the strategic decision-making needed to build something that lasts.

We also discuss how the role of public relations is changing in accordance with the new model of influence. Saul shares how successful companies navigate PR, emphasizing authenticity and strategic foresight in community engagement, especially during events and on social media. If you’re here for insights on optimizing your communications and gaining the right kind of attention for your startup while avoiding a PR disaster, this is the episode for you.

Episode Outline and Highlights:

[00:02] Introduction to Saul Hudson and Angle42

• Introduction to Saul Hudson's background and his role at Angle42
• Overview of Angle42 and its mission in the Web3 space
• Initial insights into the evolving Web3 landscape and its challenges

[14:30] Effective Communication and Hiring Strategies

• The balance between urgency and strategic planning in startup communications
• Effective hiring strategies in Web3
• Creating a sustainable communication framework for growth

[20:39] Building Momentum in PR and Marketing

• The art of patience in PR and playing the long game
• Strategies for building momentum in PR
• Understanding the role of strategic planning in demonstrating PR ROI

[35:34] How to Create Influence at Scale

• How PR extends beyond media relations to create influence at scale
• The significance of events in building personal connections
• Establishing community and influence in a decentralized world

[52:11] Qualities of Effective PR Partners

• Key qualities to look for in PR partners
• Relevant experience and philosophical alignment
• How honesty and brand story communication are crucial in PR partnerships

[60:06] Maintaining Positive Communication

• Maintaining a positive tone in professional settings
• Importance of positive engagement on social media
• Strategies for filtering out noise and fostering authentic interactions

Embrace Humility and Curiosity

First-time founders can greatly benefit from adopting a mindset of humility and curiosity. This approach fosters a culture of growth and success, where learning is prioritized and collaboration thrives. Embracing humility allows founders to acknowledge their limitations and most effectively leverage the expertise of others. This drives continuous improvement, encouraging exploration and innovation. Together, humility and curiosity create a resilient and adaptive organization capable of thriving.

Long-term PR Strategy

Building momentum in PR is a long-term endeavor, much like SEO. It requires a deep commitment to patience and strategic planning to develop relationships that are not only meaningful but enduring. Organizations must focus on long-term objectives, setting realistic expectations and cultivating trust and credibility over time. This patient, calculated approach is essential for demonstrating return on investment in PR efforts. By nurturing these relationships, companies lay a solid foundation for lasting success, ensuring that their message resonates and their influence grows in the ever-evolving landscape of Web3.