You’ve got metrics. Shiny ones. Impressive ones. But are they actually telling you anything… real?
In this episode of Zero to Traction, JDM, Cameron, and your favorite digital co-host Cass step in front of the proverbial mirror to judge whether your startup metrics are reflecting actual progress — or just flattering delusions dressed up in glitter glue.
✅ When is a waitlist a sign of traction—and when is it just 3,000 email addresses and a dream?
✅ Why a Product Hunt launch might be less traction and more theater
✅ What enterprise MOUs really say (and don’t say) about your business
✅ How to use metrics as a mirror—not a mirage
✅ The question every founder should ask: “Can I repeat this?”
Also: Cass is feeling extra spicy, Cameron considers forming a startup support group for underused Remarkables, and JDM tries to avoid sleep-deprivation-induced metaphors about glittery strippers.
Key Takeaways
📊 Mirror, Not Mirage
Your metrics should tell you what’s working, not just what’s shiny.
A big number isn’t helpful if it doesn’t tie to customer behavior that leads to sustainable growth.
💌 Waitlists Are Overrated
3,000 emails don’t mean a damn thing if no one’s actually waiting to pay.
Consider what you promised and what the user gave in return.
🔥 Product Hunt: Launch Theater
Product Hunt ≠ product-market fit.
It’s like a wedding: a beautiful event, but not the actual relationship.
🤝 MOUs: Memorandums or Make-Believe?
An MOU might look good, but it’s not a sale.
Are you building custom features for a logo—or solving a repeatable problem for a market?
💬 Frivolous Thoughts
Cass drops a truth bomb: “If your startup metrics were dating profiles, half of them would be just ‘loves long walks on the beach’ and a blurry photo from 2016.”
Cameron introduces Nova, his AI sidekick, and hints at an on-air crossover.
JDM reflects on the magic of Startup Challenge weekend, where real traction is forged under pressure and coffee fumes.
👏 Founder Love
One startup founder texted us during the recording:
“Thank you so much for this weekend [at the Startup Challenge]. I believe this was another breakthrough for me.”
Another. Freaking. Breakthrough. That’s what it’s all about.
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