How to Buy a Business (and Make It Your Own)
How do you stay relevant, build community, and lead through massive industry change—without losing yourself in the process?
Hey Builders,
You don’t always have to build the thing…you can buy it and make it better.
🎧 This week on Build the Damn Thing, I talk with Ann Shoket, former Editor-in-Chief of Seventeen and now CEO of TheLi.st. We break down how to evolve in public, build community, and lead with legacy in mind.
📲 Follow @annshoket on Instagram
💡 Top 3 Takeaways:
👑 “You’re sitting on a borrowed throne—don’t forget the rug can be pulled.”
Ann’s humility at the top reminds us: legacy isn’t status, it’s stewardship.
👉 Founder move: Stay ready. Your influence is rented, your impact is earned.
🤝 “Relationships don’t just happen. They require trust, transparency, and time.”
She emphasizes how investing in real community, especially during pivots—is your competitive edge.
👉 Founder move: Nurture your network like it’s your business. Because it is.
🛠 “Don’t just start from scratch—acquire and build.”
Ann acquired TheLi.st during the pandemic, turning an existing community into a powerhouse platform.
👉 Founder move: Consider buying an existing business to fast-track traction.
Let’s build boldly. Let’s buy smart. Let’s build the damn thing.
—Kathryn
Build the Damn Thing
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