Solves a real problem. Works without you. Compounds. The diagnostic that tells you whether what you're building qualifies.

After six case studies — the pattern is clear. Every product that works for a solo operator follows three rules. Violate any one of them and the product either fails to launch, fails to sell, or fails to compound. This episode names the rules, explains where they come from, and gives you the diagnostic to apply to whatever you're building right now.

— THE BUILD —

Apply the three-rule diagnostic to something you are currently building or selling. Write three sentences — one for each rule. Does it solve a real problem people pay to solve badly? Does it work without you? Does it compound? Where does it fail? What would it take to pass?

Be honest. The diagnostic is only useful if you're honest with it.