Write a Notion memo to iterate on your idea - Lesson 2 | Sahil Lavingia

In this Q&A podcast, Sahil Lavingia discusses the importance of writing memos to refine business ideas, emphasizing clarity of thought and efficient use of time. He shares his framework (MVP, GTM, TAM) for structuring memos, which covers problem definition, solution, go-to-market strategy, and market size. Sahil stresses the value of iteration, learning from each cycle, and focusing on the core problem and target user. He advises delaying market research to avoid premature discouragement and encourages aggressive scoping to identify the smallest viable product. The discussion includes practical examples, critiques of audience-submitted memos, and actionable tips for improving clarity and impact.

Outlines

Part 1: Memo Fundamentals

Part 2: Memo Refinement and Application

Part 3: Memo Feedback and Next Steps

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Write a Notion memo to iterate on your idea - Lesson 2

Sahil Lavingia

Part 1: Memo Fundamentals

The Importance of Writing Memos for Business Ideas

Memos as Iteration Cycles and Communication Tools

Q&A on Vetting Ideas and the Timing of Research

The Value of Isolation and Verticalization in Idea Development

Key Questions a Memo Should Answer and a Framework for Memo Structure

Part 2: Memo Refinement and Application

Discussion on Power Users and the Lifespan of a Memo

Refining the Flexile Memo and the Importance of Specificity

Real-World Application of the Flexile Memo and Introduction to a New Memo

Part 3: Memo Feedback and Next Steps

Defining the Web3 Game and Initial Feedback on Cohort Memos

Feedback on "Tie My Flies" Memo and the Importance of a Clear Problem

Feedback on "Your Terms" Memo and the Importance of a Strong Hook

Homework Assignment and Final Thoughts on Memos

Write a Notion memo to iterate on your idea - Lesson 2

Sahil Lavingia

Part 1: Memo Fundamentals

00:00The Importance of Writing Memos for Business Ideas

The Importance of Writing Memos for Business Ideas

05:27Memos as Iteration Cycles and Communication Tools

Memos as Iteration Cycles and Communication Tools

15:53Q&A on Vetting Ideas and the Timing of Research

Q&A on Vetting Ideas and the Timing of Research

27:33The Value of Isolation and Verticalization in Idea Development

The Value of Isolation and Verticalization in Idea Development

36:50Key Questions a Memo Should Answer and a Framework for Memo Structure

Key Questions a Memo Should Answer and a Framework for Memo Structure

Part 2: Memo Refinement and Application

49:16Discussion on Power Users and the Lifespan of a Memo

Discussion on Power Users and the Lifespan of a Memo

57:56Refining the Flexile Memo and the Importance of Specificity

Refining the Flexile Memo and the Importance of Specificity

1:09:09Real-World Application of the Flexile Memo and Introduction to a New Memo

Real-World Application of the Flexile Memo and Introduction to a New Memo

Part 3: Memo Feedback and Next Steps

1:23:30Defining the Web3 Game and Initial Feedback on Cohort Memos

Defining the Web3 Game and Initial Feedback on Cohort Memos

1:35:06Feedback on "Tie My Flies" Memo and the Importance of a Clear Problem

Feedback on "Tie My Flies" Memo and the Importance of a Clear Problem

1:47:40Feedback on "Your Terms" Memo and the Importance of a Strong Hook

Feedback on "Your Terms" Memo and the Importance of a Strong Hook

1:57:20Homework Assignment and Final Thoughts on Memos

Homework Assignment and Final Thoughts on Memos