Notes From the Messy Middle

Strategic thinking for Stage II owners.
The growth phase no one warns you about.

Cover Story

Different Is Better Than Better: What Fast-Growing Bootstrapped Companies Taught Me About Standing Out

What “different is better than better” means for bootstrapped B2B service businesses, and why Jackie Nagel is testing it on her own company.

Waiting for things to stabilize is the growth-killer myth. Here’s what actually moves a stalled business forward, uncertain economy or not.

Editors Note: Originally published August 2022. Updated June 2026. Entrepreneurship is fun and exciting — until

Where do your strategic skills stand? This engaging quiz challenges your ability to navigate complex challenges, and achieve your long-term goals.

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Strategy is easier with someone who has seen this stretch before. Let’s talk about where your business is headed.