What I learned from NBC Universal about business ideas...

I had with NBC Universal a few years back. I was sitting there, probably trying to look important in their fancy Kings Cross offices, when they shared something that surprised me.

Every single show they create - and we're talking about one of the biggest media companies in the world here - starts with references to things that already exist.

They literally pitch everything as "It's X meets Y."

• Bad Boys but for the Pixar generation

• Squid Game but with Mr Beast

Here's why this matters for your business:

Most of us put ourselves through a TON of stress trying to create something completely original.

We think that's what we need to stand out.

But what if we're making it harder than it needs to be?

Let me give you a real example of how this works:

When we were looking to launch Sides (our fried chicken business), we didn't try to reinvent fast food.

Instead, we looked for proven references and partners who were already successful.

Through a completely random brand deal inquiry for German Doner Kebab, we met Hero Brands.

They were the fastest-growing food brand in the country in 2021.

Instead of trying to figure out everything ourselves, we saw what was working for them and adapted it.

This saved us from a pretty expensive mistake.

We were actually about to sign a lease on a single unit in Wapping to run a ghost kitchen ourselves (terrifying when I think about it now).

Here’s how this principle works in practice:

1) Find Your References

Make a list of:

• 3 successful competitors in your space

• 3 businesses you admire outside your industry

• 3 companies who've solved similar problems

For each one, ask:

• What specific thing are they doing well?

• How did they solve the hard problems?

• What could you learn from their approach?

2) Look for Partners

This is crucial. We've learned this the hard way - you don't need to be an expert at everything. In fact, you probably shouldn't try to be.

For every new venture, ask:

• Who's already great at this?

• Who has the infrastructure we need?

• How could we work together?

3) Test Your Concept

Before going all in, look for proof it works:

• Are there similar products selling well?

• Is there a clear audience already spending money?

• Have others solved the same problem successfully?

The real creativity comes in how you combine these proven elements and add your own spin.

Basically, I want you to stop putting pressure on yourself to reinvent the wheel.

Instead, focus on:

• Finding proof something works

• Learning from those who've done it

• Adding your unique perspective

• Building smart partnerships

Now, do you want help validating your business idea?

That's just one of the areas we’re covering in the Think Like A Creator community.

Our members are sharing their concepts and getting direct feedback daily.

Plus, we meet up weekly for group Power Hours and talk it through together.

Want in? Click below:

Remember, the creator mindset is all you need to grow 🌱

Jordan

P.S. New here? Start with my 10-minute masterclass where I break down everything I've learned about growing businesses by thinking like a creator.

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