Arvid Kahl talks about starting and bootstrapping businesses, how to build an audience, and how to build in public.
Similar Podcasts
Indie Bites
Short, bite-sized conversations with indie hackers that have started small, profitable and bootstrapped businesses. You'll learn how they come up with ideas, what they do to validate, find those first customers and make a sustainable income.
30 Minutes of Growth
Founders and marketers are always busy. While there are many marketing podcasts out there telling great stories, frustratingly few give real-life growth marketing tactics.
That’s what makes 30 Minutes of Growth different. Host Alex Garcia, of Marketing Examined, dives into his guest’s brain and pulls out actionable playbooks against the clock.
Every episode Alex pulls out not one, not two, but three growth marketing playbooks for you to instantly put into practice... before time runs out.
The countdown starts on March 14th, with new episodes every Tuesday. Make sure to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.
Software Social
Two indie SaaS founders—one just getting off the ground, and one with an established profitable business—invite you to join their weekly chats.
316: Marybeth Alexander — Knowledgebase Secrets
Marybeth Alexander is the Chief Executive Owl at KnowledgeOwl, a SaaS that focuses on providing the most impactful knowledgebase you could possibly have. We talk about using knowledge management systems outside their "usual" domain of customer service: Marybeth teaches how you can employ a KB for marketing, sales, and even internal documentation purposes. We also tackle the topic of AI in knowledge management, how extremely simple pricing can be a growth lever, and we dive into the sustainability practices of a B-corp.It's a ... knowledge-packed episode!00:00:00 Tools and Scope in Customer Service00:09:14 Utilizing AI and Knowledge Bases00:14:12 Importance of Documentation in Software00:21:31 The Future of Knowledge Management00:27:11 AI Tools and Data Compliance Integration00:35:42 Intentional Growth Strategy and Business Model00:41:21 Building a Purpose-Driven BusinessThis episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/marybeth-alexander-knowledgebase-secrets/The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/316-marybeth-alexander-knowledgebase-secretsThe video: https://youtu.be/glMBIhxH-rYYou'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.comPodcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcastNewsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletterMy book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.comHere are a few tools I use. Using my affiliate links will support my work at no additional cost to you.- Notion (which I use to organize, write, coordinate, and archive my podcast + newsletter): https://affiliate.notion.so/465mv1536drx- Riverside.fm (that's what I recorded this episode with): https://riverside.fm/?via=arvid- TweetHunter (for speedy scheduling and writing Tweets): http://tweethunter.io/?via=arvid- HypeFury (for massive Twitter analytics and scheduling): https://hypefury.com/?via=arvid60- AudioPen (for taking voice notes and getting amazing summaries): https://audiopen.ai/?aff=PXErZ- Descript (for word-based video editing, subtitles, and clips): https://www.descript.com/?lmref=3cf39Q- ConvertKit (for email lists, newsletters, even finding sponsors): https://convertkit.com?lmref=bN9CZw
315: MicroConf Atlanta — My Biggest Learnings
I went to MicroConf 2024 in Atlanta — here is what I learned. Literally. My brain just absorbed this. I recorded this episode minutes after waking up the day after the conference.And if you're wondering why my voice is so deep: I've been yelling SaaS stuff at nerds for 3 days straight.Enjoy.This episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/microconf-atlanta-my-biggest-learnings/The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/315-microconf-atlanta-my-biggest-learningsCheck out Podscan to get alerts when you're mentioned on podcasts: https://podscan.fmSend me a voicemail on Podline: https://podline.fm/arvidYou'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.comPodcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcastNewsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletterMy book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.comHere are a few tools I use. Using my affiliate links will support my work at no additional cost to you.- Notion (which I use to organize, write, coordinate, and archive my podcast + newsletter): https://affiliate.notion.so/465mv1536drx- Riverside.fm (that's what I recorded this episode with): https://riverside.fm/?via=arvid- TweetHunter (for speedy scheduling and writing Tweets): http://tweethunter.io/?via=arvid- HypeFury (for massive Twitter analytics and scheduling): https://hypefury.com/?via=arvid60- AudioPen (for taking voice notes and getting amazing summaries): https://audiopen.ai/?aff=PXErZ- Descript (for word-based video editing, subtitles, and clips): https://www.descript.com/?lmref=3cf39Q- ConvertKit (for email lists, newsletters, even finding sponsors): https://convertkit.com?lmref=bN9CZw
314: Nicolai Klemke — Switching Lanes: Physics PhD to Indie Hacker
Nicolai Klemke (@nicolaiklemke) is an Indie Hacker with a PhD in Physics. Talk about a career change! Nicolai shares his founder journey from learning how to code to making waves in the music industry.We chat about carving out a niche in the bustling AI market, honing in on a customer segment that has a need (and a budget!), and building a team to turn a hobby into a profitable business.Nicolai on Twitter: https://twitter.com/nicolaiklemke00:00:00 Indie Hacker Journey to AI Product00:11:15 Impact of Niche Market in AI00:16:03 Building Teams and Hiring Strategies00:24:20 Building Business Networks and Support00:32:20 Building Connections, Micro Features, and Growth00:40:24 The Future of Synthesizers00:48:01 Support the Bootstrap Founder ShowThis episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/nicolai-klemke-switching-lanes-physics-phd-to-indie-hacker/The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/314-nicolai-klemkeThe video: https://youtu.be/s6j3y9SIzXcYou'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.comPodcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcastNewsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletterMy book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.comHere are a few tools I use. Using my affiliate links will support my work at no additional cost to you.- Notion (which I use to organize, write, coordinate, and archive my podcast + newsletter): https://affiliate.notion.so/465mv1536drx- Riverside.fm (that's what I recorded this episode with): https://riverside.fm/?via=arvid- TweetHunter (for speedy scheduling and writing Tweets): http://tweethunter.io/?via=arvid- HypeFury (for massive Twitter analytics and scheduling): https://hypefury.com/?via=arvid60- AudioPen (for taking voice notes and getting amazing summaries): https://audiopen.ai/?aff=PXErZ- Descript (for word-based video editing, subtitles, and clips): https://www.descript.com/?lmref=3cf39Q- ConvertKit (for email lists, newsletters, even finding sponsors): https://convertkit.com?lmref=bN9CZw
313: Challenges of Offering an API
When you sell access to an API, what should you keep in mind? How would you protect your data but still make it easy to use? What product and legal repercussions does this all have?Those are questions I asked myself this week. And today, you get to listen to the process of exploring them and the answers I found.This episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/challenges-of-offering-an-api/The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/313-challenges-of-offering-an-apiCheck out Podscan to get alerts when you're mentioned on podcasts: https://podscan.fmSend me a voicemail on Podline: https://podline.fm/arvidYou'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.comPodcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcastNewsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletterMy book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.comHere are a few tools I use. Using my affiliate links will support my work at no additional cost to you.- Notion (which I use to organize, write, coordinate, and archive my podcast + newsletter): https://affiliate.notion.so/465mv1536drx- Riverside.fm (that's what I recorded this episode with): https://riverside.fm/?via=arvid- TweetHunter (for speedy scheduling and writing Tweets): http://tweethunter.io/?via=arvid- HypeFury (for massive Twitter analytics and scheduling): https://hypefury.com/?via=arvid60- AudioPen (for taking voice notes and getting amazing summaries): https://audiopen.ai/?aff=PXErZ- Descript (for word-based video editing, subtitles, and clips): https://www.descript.com/?lmref=3cf39Q- ConvertKit (for email lists, newsletters, even finding sponsors): https://convertkit.com?lmref=bN9CZw
312: Aaron Francis — You're FIRED!
Aaron Francis (@aarondfrancis) lost his job and gained a new outlook on life — or rather, he stepped into entrepreneurship for good. Aaron weighed his options, found old friends who were ready for new adventures and finally took the plunge that his supportive audience wanted to see him take.Building his platform in public got him here. The skills he developed along the way keep the customers coming. So, where will this journey take him?Aaron will share his approach, his fears, his hopes, and his strategy with you here today. And he's trying really hard ;)Aaron on Twitter: https://twitter.com/aarondfrancis/00:00:00 Navigating Layoffs and Entrepreneurship Journey00:12:06 Building a Genuine Online Community00:19:48 The Power of Authentic Storytelling00:28:39 Try Hard Studios Video Production00:33:01 Navigating the Galaxy Quadrant Theory00:40:34 Navigating Career Paths Through ExplorationThis episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/aaron-francis-youre-fired/The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/312-aaron-francis-youre-firedThe video: https://youtu.be/mzSW6ALsmgYYou'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.comPodcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcastNewsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletterMy book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.comHere are a few tools I use. Using my affiliate links will support my work at no additional cost to you.- Notion (which I use to organize, write, coordinate, and archive my podcast + newsletter): https://affiliate.notion.so/465mv1536drx- Riverside.fm (that's what I recorded this episode with): https://riverside.fm/?via=arvid- TweetHunter (for speedy scheduling and writing Tweets): http://tweethunter.io/?via=arvid- HypeFury (for massive Twitter analytics and scheduling): https://hypefury.com/?via=arvid60- AudioPen (for taking voice notes and getting amazing summaries): https://audiopen.ai/?aff=PXErZ- Descript (for word-based video editing, subtitles, and clips): https://www.descript.com/?lmref=3cf39Q- ConvertKit (for email lists, newsletters, even finding sponsors): https://convertkit.com?lmref=bN9CZw (00:00) - Navigating Layoffs and Entrepreneurship Journey (12:06) - Building a Genuine Online Community (19:48) - The Power of Authentic Storytelling (28:39) - Try Hard Studios Video Production (33:01) - Navigating the Galaxy Quadrant Theory (40:34) - Navigating Career Paths Through Exploration
311: Finding my Ideal Customer Profile
This week, I share my journey to finding Ideal Customer Profile — live on air. In this episode, I share my framework for determining who I will build for, market to, and sell to. I have a few candidate, and I work through my steps to find the right one for Podscan.fm.This episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/finding-my-ideal-customer-profile/The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/311-finding-my-ideal-customer-profileCheck out Podscan to get alerts when you're mentioned on podcasts: https://podscan.fmSend me a voicemail on Podline: https://podline.fm/arvidYou'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.comPodcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcastNewsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletterMy book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.comHere are a few tools I use. Using my affiliate links will support my work at no additional cost to you.- Notion (which I use to organize, write, coordinate, and archive my podcast + newsletter): https://affiliate.notion.so/465mv1536drx- Riverside.fm (that's what I recorded this episode with): https://riverside.fm/?via=arvid- TweetHunter (for speedy scheduling and writing Tweets): http://tweethunter.io/?via=arvid- HypeFury (for massive Twitter analytics and scheduling): https://hypefury.com/?via=arvid60- AudioPen (for taking voice notes and getting amazing summaries): https://audiopen.ai/?aff=PXErZ- Descript (for word-based video editing, subtitles, and clips): https://www.descript.com/?lmref=3cf39Q- ConvertKit (for email lists, newsletters, even finding sponsors): https://convertkit.com?lmref=bN9CZw
310: Jessica Malnik — How to Communicate as an Indie Hacker
Jessica Malnik (@jessicamalnik) deeply understands how remote work has changed the world of marketing and running a business. And fortunately, she's sharing her knowledge.In fact, we talk a lot about how to communicate right: with your customers, with your market, and even with your globally distributed remote employees. From preventing coworker burnout to customer engagement strategies and hiring for fractional roles, Jessica shares her valuable insights.And if you ever wondered how an introvert should approach talking to people (for "fun" and profit), this episode is for you.Jessica on Twitter: https://twitter.com/jessicamalnik 00:00:00 Remote Work Evolution and Fractional Marketing00:07:24 Hiring Strategy and Writing Insights00:13:44 Utilizing AI in Writing and SEO00:17:11 Effective Marketing Strategy for Startups00:21:17 Customer Conversations and Marketing Strategy00:32:45 Mental Health in Remote Work00:37:40 Understanding Cultural Communication in BusinessThis episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/jessica-malnik-how-to-communicate-as-an-indie-hacker/The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/310-jessica-malnik-how-to-communicate-as-an-indie-hackerThe video: https://youtu.be/90B_SWDV0_oYou'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.comPodcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcastNewsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletterMy book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.comHere are a few tools I use. Using my affiliate links will support my work at no additional cost to you.- Notion (which I use to organize, write, coordinate, and archive my podcast + newsletter): https://affiliate.notion.so/465mv1536drx- Riverside.fm (that's what I recorded this episode with): https://riverside.fm/?via=arvid- TweetHunter (for speedy scheduling and writing Tweets): http://tweethunter.io/?via=arvid- HypeFury (for massive Twitter analytics and scheduling): https://hypefury.com/?via=arvid60- AudioPen (for taking voice notes and getting amazing summaries): https://audiopen.ai/?aff=PXErZ- Descript (for word-based video editing, subtitles, and clips): https://www.descript.com/?lmref=3cf39Q- ConvertKit (for email lists, newsletters, even finding sponsors): https://convertkit.com?lmref=bN9CZw
309: Funded!
Big news! Podscan.fm, my B2B SaaS that alerts you when your keywords or topics are mentioned in any podcast anywhere, has received bootstrapper-aligned funding from Calm Company Fund.Booya!I share why I, ever the solopreneur bootstrapper, said yes to venture money, what that enables, what risks I see, and just exactly how this kind of non-crazy funding works.Calm Company SEAL: https://calmfund.com/shared-earnings-agreementCalm Company 5-year learnings: https://calmfund.com/writing/five-yearsCalm Company SAFE: https://calmfund.com/writing/shared-earnings-safeThis episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/funded/The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/309-fundedCheck out Podscan to get alerts when you're mentioned on podcasts: https://podscan.fmSend me a voicemail on Podline: https://podline.fm/arvidYou'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.comPodcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcastNewsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletterMy book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.comHere are a few tools I use. Using my affiliate links will support my work at no additional cost to you.- Notion (which I use to organize, write, coordinate, and archive my podcast + newsletter): https://affiliate.notion.so/465mv1536drx- Riverside.fm (that's what I recorded this episode with): https://riverside.fm/?via=arvid- TweetHunter (for speedy scheduling and writing Tweets): http://tweethunter.io/?via=arvid- HypeFury (for massive Twitter analytics and scheduling): https://hypefury.com/?via=arvid60- AudioPen (for taking voice notes and getting amazing summaries): https://audiopen.ai/?aff=PXErZ- Descript (for word-based video editing, subtitles, and clips): https://www.descript.com/?lmref=3cf39Q- ConvertKit (for email lists, newsletters, even finding sponsors): https://convertkit.com?lmref=bN9CZw
308: Michael Taylor — Prompt Engineering for Fun & Profit
Mike Taylor (@hammer_mt) literally wrote the book on Prompt Engineering. He paints a vivid picture of a future where generative AI could make our traditional databases look like ancient relics, and the role of developers shifts dramatically. Instead of crafting code, they could be steering the helm of AI-generated software, potentially dealing with the whims of a virtual 'petulant child.' Our chat pushes us to ponder the changing value of code and the skills that will matter in the face of technology's relentless march forward. What does it mean that we are providing the training data for AI systems with every click and every word we type? Are we working for the machine? Is the machine working for us? What do authorship and ownership look like in this future? Tune in to learn from someone who has their finger on the digital pulse of an industry that changes every day.00:00:00 The Future of AI and Coding00:09:29 Ethical Engineering Certifications and Implications00:17:44 Testing and Optimizing AI Models00:27:32 Ethics and Future of AI Development00:39:14 Future of AI and Writing Books00:44:19 Approaching AI in Book Writing00:56:18 Support and Subscribe for More GrowthMike on Twitter: https://twitter.com/hammer_mtThe Complete Prompt Engineering for AI Bootcamp (2024) on Udemy: https://www.udemy.com/share/108qiI3@nx4J1RlPgttwJptgsZlaNemKN-wBYhGJmxVa4txcnDmUVgvwNTZKf4TTWimfnTdUvw==/This episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/michael-taylor-prompt-engineering-for-fun-profit/The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/308-michael-taylor-prompt-engineering-for-fun-profitThe video: https://youtu.be/QeMuUjGaSUwYou'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.comPodcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcastNewsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletterMy book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.comHere are a few tools I use. Using my affiliate links will support my work at no additional cost to you.- Notion (which I use to organize, write, coordinate, and archive my podcast + newsletter): https://affiliate.notion.so/465mv1536drx- Riverside.fm (that's what I recorded this episode with): https://riverside.fm/?via=arvid- TweetHunter (for speedy scheduling and writing Tweets): http://tweethunter.io/?via=arvid- HypeFury (for massive Twitter analytics and scheduling): https://hypefury.com/?via=arvid60- AudioPen (for taking voice notes and getting amazing summaries): https://audiopen.ai/?aff=PXErZ- Descript (for word-based video editing, subtitles, and clips): https://www.descript.com/?lmref=3cf39Q- ConvertKit (for email lists, newsletters, even finding sponsors): https://convertkit.com?lmref=bN9CZw
307: Addressing my Weaknesses
I’m a pretty okay developer, but when it comes to marketing and sales, I really need help. And for the longest time, I’ve held myself back.That ends today.My current SaaS business, Podscan, is at a point where some very important decisions need to be made. I’ve got something quite big in the works, and I’ll be talking about this next week in much more detail, but it made me think about the long-term needs a business like mine has, how I can personally fulfill them, and where I have skill gaps that I will have to work on.This episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/addressing-my-weaknesses/The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/307-addressing-my-weaknessesCheck out Podscan to get alerts when you're mentioned on podcasts: https://podscan.fmSend me a voicemail on Podline: https://podline.fm/arvidYou'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.comPodcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcastNewsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletterMy book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.comHere are a few tools I use. Using my affiliate links will support my work at no additional cost to you.- Notion (which I use to organize, write, coordinate, and archive my podcast + newsletter): https://affiliate.notion.so/465mv1536drx- Riverside.fm (that's what I recorded this episode with): https://riverside.fm/?via=arvid- TweetHunter (for speedy scheduling and writing Tweets): http://tweethunter.io/?via=arvid- HypeFury (for massive Twitter analytics and scheduling): https://hypefury.com/?via=arvid60- AudioPen (for taking voice notes and getting amazing summaries): https://audiopen.ai/?aff=PXErZ- Descript (for word-based video editing, subtitles, and clips): https://www.descript.com/?lmref=3cf39Q- ConvertKit (for email lists, newsletters, even finding sponsors): https://convertkit.com?lmref=bN9CZw
306: Johannes Radig — Traveling the World and Raising Prices
Johannes Radig (@joradig) runs a SaaS from the Canary Islands — the most recent stop on a globe-spanning digital nomad trip. Johannes and I chat about building a software business for agencies, how hard it is to find just the right prices, and what traditional marketing efforts can do for indie hackers. We dive into Leadsie, the social media onboarding SaaS he co-founded, and how it is built as a calm and profitable business.Also, we both grew up in the same city. And now we live on opposites sides of the world. Here's two indie hackers catching up:Johannes on Twitter: https://twitter.com/joradig00:00:00 The Voyage00:10:34 Entrepreneurial Journey and Startup Shift00:24:06 Pricing Strategy for Startup Growth00:29:57 Entrepreneurial Risk Assessment and Platform Stacking00:40:42 Building Relationships Through Job NeedsThis episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/johannes-radig-traveling-the-world-and-raising-prices/The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/306-johannes-radig-traveling-the-world-and-raising-pricesThe video: https://youtu.be/QDk2rbr72skYou'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.comPodcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcastNewsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletterMy book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.comHere are a few tools I use. Using my affiliate links will support my work at no additional cost to you.- Notion (which I use to organize, write, coordinate, and archive my podcast + newsletter): https://affiliate.notion.so/465mv1536drx- Riverside.fm (that's what I recorded this episode with): https://riverside.fm/?via=arvid- TweetHunter (for speedy scheduling and writing Tweets): http://tweethunter.io/?via=arvid- HypeFury (for massive Twitter analytics and scheduling): https://hypefury.com/?via=arvid60- AudioPen (for taking voice notes and getting amazing summaries): https://audiopen.ai/?aff=PXErZ- Descript (for word-based video editing, subtitles, and clips): https://www.descript.com/?lmref=3cf39Q- ConvertKit (for email lists, newsletters, even finding sponsors): https://convertkit.com?lmref=bN9CZw
305: AI Hype — The Straight Line Bias and the Fear of not Keeping Up
“If this tech keeps developing as fast as it does right now, will I ever be able to catch up?” is a question on my mind and the minds of many founders I’ve been talking to recently.So, what about AI should we focus on? Where will this tech slow down, where will it speed up even more, and what should we focus on for our businesses?This episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/ai-hype-the-straight-line-bias-and-the-fear-of-not-keeping-up/The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/305-ai-hype-the-straight-line-bias-and-the-fear-of-not-keeping-upCheck out Podscan to get alerts when you're mentioned on podcasts: https://podscan.fmSend me a voicemail on Podline: https://podline.fm/arvidYou'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.comPodcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcastNewsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletterMy book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.comHere are a few tools I use. Using my affiliate links will support my work at no additional cost to you.- Notion (which I use to organize, write, coordinate, and archive my podcast + newsletter): https://affiliate.notion.so/465mv1536drx- Riverside.fm (that's what I recorded this episode with): https://riverside.fm/?via=arvid- TweetHunter (for speedy scheduling and writing Tweets): http://tweethunter.io/?via=arvid- HypeFury (for massive Twitter analytics and scheduling): https://hypefury.com/?via=arvid60- AudioPen (for taking voice notes and getting amazing summaries): https://audiopen.ai/?aff=PXErZ- Descript (for word-based video editing, subtitles, and clips): https://www.descript.com/?lmref=3cf39Q- ConvertKit (for email lists, newsletters, even finding sponsors): https://convertkit.com?lmref=bN9CZw
304: Tyler Tringas — Investing in Bootstrapped SaaS
Tyler Tringas (@tylertringas) invests in bootstrapped businesses. Wait… Aren't those supposed to NOT take investment money? What's going on here?Alignment is what's going on. Where traditional VC's often have very different goals from founders, funds like Tyler's Calm Company Fund focus on helping niche software businesses that don't chase hypergrowth. Instead, Tyler supports those who want to build calm and profitable ventures. You know, the regular kind of business. The one that focuses on making money.In our chat, we dive into how bootstrapping and investment go together, how a fund manager makes investment decisions, why NoCode is a massive business accelerator and how the Calm Fund has adapted over its 5-year history.Tyler on Twitter: https://twitter.com/tylertringas00:00:00 Sustainable Businesses With Calm Company Fund00:07:53 Rethinking Valuations and Company Building00:18:04 Investment Strategy and Sustainability00:25:33 Challenges and Opportunities in Fund Mentoring00:29:31 Challenges of Saying No to Founders00:34:36 Investor Alignment and Profit Sharing00:44:51 Exploring AI and No-Code Tools00:51:10 Navigating the Future of Calm CompaniesThis episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/tyler-tringas-investing-in-bootstrapped-saas/The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/304-tyler-tringas-investing-in-bootstrapped-saasThe video: https://youtu.be/K-TZXmN2kJsYou'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.comPodcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcastNewsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletterMy book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.comHere are a few tools I use. Using my affiliate links will support my work at no additional cost to you.- Notion (which I use to organize, write, coordinate, and archive my podcast + newsletter): https://affiliate.notion.so/465mv1536drx- Riverside.fm (that's what I recorded this episode with): https://riverside.fm/?via=arvid- TweetHunter (for speedy scheduling and writing Tweets): http://tweethunter.io/?via=arvid- HypeFury (for massive Twitter analytics and scheduling): https://hypefury.com/?via=arvid60- AudioPen (for taking voice notes and getting amazing summaries): https://audiopen.ai/?aff=PXErZ- Descript (for word-based video editing, subtitles, and clips): https://www.descript.com/?lmref=3cf39Q- ConvertKit (for email lists, newsletters, even finding sponsors): https://convertkit.com?lmref=bN9CZw
303: How I Deal with Investment Offers
Ever since I started building Podscan in public, I’ve received a lot of attention.And it’s been spectacular: I’ve found early users, prospects, customers, and cheerleaders.Apparently, when people see something get traction, they want to be a part of it. Besides the much welcome support on social media, this has also resulted in a few offers that go beyond monthly subscription revenue. Today, I want to share with you how I think about collaborating with people, taking investment, and growing the team.This episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/how-i-deal-with-investment-offers/The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/303-how-i-deal-with-investment-offersCheck out Podscan to get alerts when you're mentioned on podcasts: https://podscan.fmSend me a voicemail on Podline: https://podline.fm/arvidYou'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.comPodcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcastNewsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletterMy book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.comHere are a few tools I use. Using my affiliate links will support my work at no additional cost to you.- Notion (which I use to organize, write, coordinate, and archive my podcast + newsletter): https://affiliate.notion.so/465mv1536drx- Riverside.fm (that's what I recorded this episode with): https://riverside.fm/?via=arvid- TweetHunter (for speedy scheduling and writing Tweets): http://tweethunter.io/?via=arvid- HypeFury (for massive Twitter analytics and scheduling): https://hypefury.com/?via=arvid60- AudioPen (for taking voice notes and getting amazing summaries): https://audiopen.ai/?aff=PXErZ- Descript (for word-based video editing, subtitles, and clips): https://www.descript.com/?lmref=3cf39Q- ConvertKit (for email lists, newsletters, even finding sponsors): https://convertkit.com?lmref=bN9CZw
302: Nick Groeneveld — Speaking the Language of your Customers
Nick Groeneveld (@ToolboxOfDesign) understands that design isn't about gadgets, widgets, or buttons. For Nick, design is understanding the needs, desires, and expectations of those you aim to serve. We chat about talking to your customers, what common mistakes indie hackers make when thinking about "design", and just how much more UX means than web interfaces.Nick is ALSO the guy behind my interview videos and thumbnails! He's the producer of The Bootstrapped Founder, really. We talk about how freelancing and working with a media partner works, how he juggles his financials, and what lifestyle he aims for.Nick on Twitter: https://twitter.com/ToolboxOfDesign00:00:00 Designing for the User Experience00:09:34 Managing Feature Creep and Simplifying UX00:16:15 User-Centric Design and Business Growth00:25:48 Evolving UX Design Services00:33:12 Limiting Clientele for Meaningful Work00:36:51 Building a Lifestyle Work Balance00:50:01 Supporting Bootswap Founder on Multiple PlatformsThis episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/nick-groeneveld-speaking-the-language-of-your-customers/The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/302-nick-groeneveld-speaking-the-language-of-your-customersThe video: https://youtu.be/mCH_qEHgK0YYou'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.comPodcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcastNewsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletterMy book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.comHere are a few tools I use. Using my affiliate links will support my work at no additional cost to you.- Notion (which I use to organize, write, coordinate, and archive my podcast + newsletter): https://affiliate.notion.so/465mv1536drx- Riverside.fm (that's what I recorded this episode with): https://riverside.fm/?via=arvid- TweetHunter (for speedy scheduling and writing Tweets): http://tweethunter.io/?via=arvid- HypeFury (for massive Twitter analytics and scheduling): https://hypefury.com/?via=arvid60- AudioPen (for taking voice notes and getting amazing summaries): https://audiopen.ai/?aff=PXErZ- Descript (for word-based video editing, subtitles, and clips): https://www.descript.com/?lmref=3cf39Q- ConvertKit (for email lists, newsletters, even finding sponsors): https://convertkit.com?lmref=bN9CZw (00:00) - Designing for the User Experience (09:34) - Managing Feature Creep and Simplifying UX (16:15) - User-Centric Design and Business Growth (25:48) - Evolving UX Design Services (33:12) - Limiting Clientele for Meaningful Work (36:51) - Building a Lifestyle Work Balance (50:01) - Supporting Bootswap Founder on Multiple Platforms