Helping Founders Take Charge of Their Startup’s Destiny
Hi, I’m Eric Ashman.
I help founders navigate the startup journey — from fundraising and scaling to executing exit strategies and pivoting to profitability.
With over 25 years of experience partnering with founders and CEOs, I’ve helped startups increase sales, expand operating margins, scale product-market fit, build exceptional teams, and secure successful outcomes.
I can guide you along this same path to achieving your goals.
You Need An Experienced Advisor On Your Side
- Led the sale of the Huffington Post for $315 million.
- Led a simultaneous four-company merger to create Group Nine Media, one of the largest digital-first media companies in the world.
- Led M.M.LaFleur through a strategic pivot to profitability — improving gross margin by 700 bps and a 3x increase in inventory turnover while supporting a successful brand repositioning.
- Raised $200 million over multiple rounds of funding.
- Restructured a global technology PR agency in the aftermath of the dot-com bubble.
- Built highly scalable operations teams from the ground up.
This Is How I Can Help You Achieve Your Goals
Funding Your Vision
Equity, debt, and cash flow. We'll leave no stone unturned in executing a funding plan that supports your growth strategy.
Scalable Growth
Product-market fit is a constantly moving target. We’ll leverage proven methods to keep you on a scalable path to growth.
Pivot to Profitability
When you’re no longer Default Investable, let’s pivot to Default Alive. Build value. Build your brand. Stay in control of your destiny.
Exit Strategy
When to raise, when to pivot to profitability, and when to sell. We’ll make a plan that maximizes value and achieves your goals.
How We Can Work Together
🚀 Strategy Sprints
Quick, focused interventions to solve a critical problem — whether it’s fundraising, breaking through a growth ceiling, prepping for an exit, or turning a cash-burning business toward profitability.
- Ideal for: Founders who feel stuck and need experienced eyes and a clear, actionable plan — fast
- Duration: 8 weeks per sprint, with the option to extend into additional sprints as needed
- Investment: $10K–$30K per sprint, depending on scope
- Outcome: A clear roadmap, investor-ready materials, or turnaround playbook — tailored to your most urgent challenge
🧭 Interim Executive Leadership
Hands-on leadership for startups navigating a critical inflection point — whether it's raising a new round, preparing for an exit, driving growth with discipline, or shifting toward sustainable profitability.
- Ideal for: Founders who need an experienced operator to lead key initiatives, bring structure, and deliver results without long-term commitment
- Roles: CEO, President, or COO — tailored to your stage and needs
- Duration: Typically 3–6+ months
- Structure: Fractional or full-time (customized)
- Investment: Custom pricing based on scope and engagement level
Testimonials
What founders say about working with me
Eric stepped into the president role during a pivotal leadership transition and immediately brought structure, stability, and momentum to the team. During an intense and high‑stakes period for the business, he was a trusted strategic sounding board and a steady hand at the helm. His guidance was especially invaluable as we navigated the final stages of our acquisition. We couldn't have asked for a stronger partner during such a critical time.
– Carly & Danielle, Co‑Founders, theSkimm
Eric’s lived experience across every facet of the startup journey has given me invaluable perspective. Our discussions were cathartic, reassuring me that the wild swings in a startup are normal and not mine to endure alone. He consistently arrives well‑prepared and zeroes in on the central issues. I recommend him to any founder without hesitation.
– Hans Keil, Co‑Founder, Nurture Genomics
Eric is the partner that every founder needs. He is part business coach, part therapist, part mentor. My company couldn’t have made it to the other side without his help. I’m indebted to him.
– Sarah LaFleur, Founder, M.M.LaFleur
Every call with Eric delivered incredibly strategic advice that left me with clear action items and a stronger sense of direction. These were among the most productive hours of the month, truly worth every minute for the hands‑on experience and invaluable insights on pivots, fundraising, or any large strategic decision.
– Jenny Gyllander, Founder, Thingtesting
Case Studies
I understand the grit and determination it takes to navigate the ups and downs of building your startup.
I’ve been there. My work is grounded in these experiences.
Read the case studies