10-Minute Tech Talks: How Tech Companies Fail & How Entrepreneurs Can Avoid It

Pittsburgh Technology Council
10-Minute Tech Talks: How Tech Companies Fail & How Entrepreneurs Can Avoid It

Are you an entrepreneur building a technology company and looking to grow fast? This show teaches and inspires entrepreneurs to build better companies by learning from the failures of other tech companies and entrepreneurs. If you're striving for rapid growth while avoiding the mistakes that have led others to failure, this podcast is designed to help you stay on track. Avoid the devastating mistakes that tech entrepreneurs have made, which led their businesses to collapse. Hear from tech, business, and entrepreneurial experts detailing what went wrong in famous tech busts and modern-day meltdowns so you don't follow the same path. Learn how to overcome adversity and make your tech company a long-term success. If you’re ready to grow your tech venture quickly and avoid pitfalls, start with our fan-favorite episode: Don't Fall In Love With Your Technology.

  1. 18 DEC

    Strategic AI: Essential Tech Insights for Future-Proofing Your Company

    Are you a tech entrepreneur struggling to avoid the pitfalls that cause tech companies to fail? As a tech entrepreneur, you're constantly navigating the challenges of building a successful business. This episode, host Jonathan Kersting of the Pittsburgh Technology Council explores crucial insights from PwC's 2025 AI Business Predictions that can help you strategically leverage AI to drive innovation, boost productivity, and ensure responsible growth. Listen and discover: Why full integration of AI into your core business strategy is essential for progress How AI agents can effectively double your workforce and transform how work gets done The importance of responsible AI deployment to unlock AI's full potential while maintaining ethical standards Tune in now to learn actionable strategies that will position your tech venture for long-term success in the AI-driven future. Read the article here. Produced by the Pittsburgh Technology Coiuncil, this is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

    4 min

  2. 16 DEC

    Are These 5 Entrepreneurial Mistakes Holding Your Tech Startup Back?

    Are you an entrepreneur struggling to avoid the common pitfalls that trip up so many startups? As a founder, you know the path to building a successful business is full of challenges. Avoiding critical missteps can mean the difference between thriving and failing.  In this episode, you'll discover: How to validate your market and ensure you're solving a real problem Strategies to accurately forecast your financial needs and avoid running out of runway Techniques to stay focused on your core objectives while being open to necessary pivots Press play now to learn Pittsburgh Technology Council CEO Audrey Russo's top tips for steering clear of the top entrepreneurial traps. Produced by the Pittsburgh Technology Council, this is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

    11 min

  3. 9 DEC

    How Summoning Professional Courage Got Apple CEO Tim Cook's Attention

    Have you ever considered reaching out to someone influential in your field but felt too intimidated to make the move? For many entrepreneurs and business owners, the fear of reaching high can often deter potential opportunities that might drastically change their business landscape. This episode dives into the thrilling story of an Digital Fix Founder Cary Hill who took a leap of faith by contacting Apple CEO Tim Cook and the incredible outcome that followed. Discover the power of professional courage and how it can open doors you never thought possible. Understand the importance of standing up for your business and effectively communicating your value to top industry leaders. Learn key takeaways about seizing opportunities and how they can fundamentally enhance your business capabilities.   Listen now to find out how one email can potentially alter the course of your business forever! Produced by the Pittsburgh Technology Council, this is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

    9 min

  4. 4 DEC

    Think Tech Entrepreneurship Is Easy? Here’s the Reality From a Seasoned Founder

    What does it really take to be an tech entrepreneur, and how do you balance ambition with preparation for the tough road ahead? This episode explores the wisdom of Mike Vertolli, founder of ComTec Systems, who shares insights from decades of entrepreneurial experience. From making metrics-based decisions to understanding the sacrifices required, he offers a roadmap for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to thrive in a competitive world. Learn why defining your "why" is critical to entrepreneurial success. Discover how to base decisions on data instead of emotions. Gain inspiration from Mike's mentorship stories that highlight the power of paying it forward. Listen now to hear Mike's advice and learn how to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship with clarity and resilience. Produced by the Pittsburgh Technology Council, this is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

    5 min

  5. 2 DEC

    5 Lessons From Microsoft’s Bing Failure Every Tech Entrepreneur Should Learn

    How do you compete with a tech giant like Google and avoid becoming a marketing cautionary tale? This episode dissects Microsoft Bing's infamous "Bing and Decide" campaign and reveals how marketing missteps—like lacking clear differentiation and misjudging audience needs—can derail even the biggest brands. Learn the dangers of self-declared branding and how it alienates consumers. Understand why audience-first messaging is critical to building trust and engagement. Discover actionable tips to ensure your marketing aligns with your product's unique value. Hit PLAY to hear Kevin Meany of 9Rooftops uncover Bing’s branding blunders and share lessons to strengthen your marketing strategy. Produced by the Pittsburgh Technology Council, this is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

    10 min

  6. 27 NOV

    How AI Can Revolutionize Your Marketing Efforts in 2025

    What if AI could transform your cybersecurity, marketing, and social media strategies all at once? As businesses increasingly adopt AI, understanding its potential and limitations is crucial for entrepreneurs looking to stay competitive. In this episode, we explore groundbreaking AI trends set to dominate 2025, from enhancing digital security to driving hyper-personalized marketing and even creating virtual influencers. Learn how AI-powered tools can detect vulnerabilities and fortify your cybersecurity strategy. Discover how AI personalization can revolutionize marketing and customer engagement. Understand the role of virtual influencers and real-time engagement in transforming social media landscapes. Listen now to uncover how these AI trends can position your business for future success! Read the entire article here. Produced by the Pittsburgh Technology Council, this is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

    6 min

  7. 25 NOV

    5 Fundraising Mistakes Tech Entrepreneurs Make and How to Avoid Them

    Have you ever wondered why raising money for your tech startup feels like stepping into the ring of a high-stakes competition? In the rapidly evolving tech landscape, securing funding is a monumental challenge that stands between many entrepreneurs and their dreams. This episode, featuring Audrey Russo, President and CEO of the Pittsburgh Technology Council, dives deep into the world of fundraising, shedding light on common pitfalls and empowering strategies for emerging tech entrepreneurs. Learn the art of effectively asking for investment, understanding what investors are truly looking for. Discover how to articulate your vision and the use of funds in a way that excites prospects and closes the deal. Gain insight into common fundraising pitfalls and how to sidestep them, ensuring your venture doesn’t fall at the first financial hurdle. Listen to this essential episode now and arm yourself with the knowledge to turn your fundraising efforts from a battle into a victory. Produced by the Pittsburgh Technology Council, this is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

    10 min

  8. 20 NOV

    How Tech Entrepreneurs Can Tap Into the Billion-Dollar Super App Market

    What if your tech startup could plug into the next big trend that’s reshaping digital consumer behavior? Super apps are transforming how consumers interact with technology by combining multiple services—like payments, e-commerce, and streaming—into a single platform. This Wednesday Wake Up episode explores how entrepreneurs can leverage this trend to build stronger customer relationships, expand market reach, and increase revenue streams. Learn how super apps meet the growing demand for seamless, all-in-one user experiences. Discover strategies for tapping into this trend to expand your product's reach and lifetime value. Understand the importance of building ecosystems through partnerships to create loyal, engaged customers. Tune in now to uncover how super apps can be a game-changing opportunity for your tech business! Check out the Upsilon article here. Produced by the Pittsburgh Technology Council, this is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

    5 min
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About

Are you an entrepreneur building a technology company and looking to grow fast? This show teaches and inspires entrepreneurs to build better companies by learning from the failures of other tech companies and entrepreneurs. If you're striving for rapid growth while avoiding the mistakes that have led others to failure, this podcast is designed to help you stay on track. Avoid the devastating mistakes that tech entrepreneurs have made, which led their businesses to collapse. Hear from tech, business, and entrepreneurial experts detailing what went wrong in famous tech busts and modern-day meltdowns so you don't follow the same path. Learn how to overcome adversity and make your tech company a long-term success. If you’re ready to grow your tech venture quickly and avoid pitfalls, start with our fan-favorite episode: Don't Fall In Love With Your Technology.

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