Natasha Miller

Natasha Miller isn’t your average CEO. She sits at the helm of Entire Productions, the go-to experience design, event, and entertainment production company in San Francisco, and has been on the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing companies in America for three years in a row. Natasha’s passion and commitment to giving back drive her invariable contributions and participation with numerous charitable organizations. She is also performing as a jazz vocalist and a trained classical violinist. Natasha is a proud graduate of Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses and has studied entrepreneurship at the Harvard Business School and MIT and is a member of The Recording Academy (Grammys), ASCAP, SF Travel, and Meeting Professionals International (MPI). She resides in San Francisco, CA where she is a member and on the board of EO (Entrepreneurs’ Organization).

Where did the idea for Entire Productions come from?

I was a performing and recording artist and instead of turning down requests to perform if I was already booked, I brought in similar musicians and managed them. It grew slowly in the jazz and classical genres then expanded to include all disciplines and genres of entertainment from local to headline talent.

What does your typical day look like and how do you make it productive?

I’m my VERY BEST SELF for work from about 10a-3p. I get up at 7a but don’t expect anything amazing from myself until 10. I try not to schedule meetings before that for that reason. I might take a break later in the afternoon and finish up around 6p.

How do you bring ideas to life?

If I have an idea and it won’t “leave me alone” I begin to execute on it. If it has “legs” I push forward to expand upon the idea.

What’s one trend that excites you?

Talking about, sharing and paying attention to the mental health of people is gaining more traction. I think that’s so important, especially coming out of a pandemic.

What is one habit of yours that makes you more productive as an entrepreneur?

I have laser focus and am diligent when I have something I’m passionate about and needs to get done.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Everything will be ok eventually so don’t waste your time worrying, spiraling and trying to fix it.

Tell us something that’s true that almost nobody agrees with you on.

Everyone CAN find their place in life, be successful and have a productive life.

As an entrepreneur, what is the one thing you do over and over and recommend everyone else do?

Seek the brainshare of people that have done it before you as well as people outside of your industry.

What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business?

Creating systems and processes for my company so everyone’s doing the same thing consistently and nothing falls through the cracks.

What is one failure you had as an entrepreneur, and how did you overcome it?

I had an accountant that made a mistake that wasn’t discovered for a few years and I overpaid $30k in taxes. I got it back but had to spend money redoing tax returns.

What is one business idea that you’re willing to give away to our readers?

Adding a division to your company of something that you use all of the time. Like, if you use a printing company for the majority of your business, then why not acquire one to keep it in-house?

What is the best $100 you recently spent? What and why?

I just bought a soft, cute skirt from Athleta that I’m looking forward to wearing in the summer after being at the pool 🙂

What is one piece of software or a web service that helps you be productive?

Descript.com is AMAZING for transcribing and editing videos and making audiograms.

What is the one book that you recommend our community should read and why?

WHO by Geoffrey Smart- it’s about hiring and developing a team. The hardest part about running a business is the people.

What is your favorite quote?

JUST DO IT

Key Learnings:

• Make sure you’re seeking advise from mentors, advisors, and professionals outside of your business category.
• Invest in useful technology to automate and facilitate your systems and processes.
• Find your own personal groove where you’re in a “flow state” and don’t try to push it outside of those times.
• Keep learning or growing to stay ahead!