Arvid Kahl talks about starting and bootstrapping businesses, how to build an audience, and how to build in public.
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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.
286: Asia Orangio — Crafting a Growth Blueprint for Emerging Startups
Asia Orangio (@AsiaOrangio), CEO of Demand Maven, joins me as we dive into the world of customer discovery and (go-to) market strategies. We'll discuss real-life examples, like a Gantt chart tool maker who grew their business through customer feedback. This episode is a practical guide on balancing passion with profit and tackling early-stage marketing and growth challenges.And if you kinda suck at surveys, this one is for you.In our conversation, Asia and I unravel the importance of customer interviews and debunk the myth that customers aren't willing to share their thoughts. We also explore key decisions in scaling a business, from expanding your audience to smart hiring choices. Whether you're just starting or already on your entrepreneurial journey, this episode offers valuable insights into maintaining a consistent customer base and steering your business's marketing strategy.Asia on Twitter: https://twitter.com/AsiaOrangioAsia on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/asiaorangio/00:00:00 Early Stage Marketing and Growth Challenges00:12:37 Overcoming Inhibition to Conduct Customer Interviews00:18:21 Considering Go-to Market and Freemium Strategies00:30:17 Navigating Audience Expansion and Maintaining Consistency00:36:24 Hiring and Building a Team00:46:19 First Hire Selection and Fractional HiresThis episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/asia-orangio-crafting-a-growth-blueprint-for-emerging-startups/ The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/286-asia-orangio-crafting-a-growth-blueprint-for-emerging-startups The video: https://youtu.be/tQaf64794lwYou'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) - Early Stage Marketing and Growth Challenges (12:37) - Overcoming Inhibition to Conduct Customer Interviews (18:21) - Considering Go-to Market and Freemium Strategies (30:17) - Navigating Audience Expansion and Maintaining Consistency (36:24) - Hiring and Building a Team (46:19) - First Hire Selection and Fractional Hires
285: Voices of Influence: How Expert Feedback Shapes SaaS Success
What's more important? Impact or Influence? Or does one facilitate the other?You'll learn what makes niche influence so valuable in an episode where I am briefly joined by a founder celebrity who has an opinion about a question I asked last week.Throughout their reply, you'll find out just why influencing has very little to do with taking selfies.This episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/voices-of-influence-how-expert-feedback-shapes-saas-success/The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/285-voices-of-influence-how-expert-feedback-shapes-saas-successYou'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
284: Kasey Jones — The Art of Strategic Self-Revelation in the Digital Age
Kasey Jones (@ABetterJones) is a maven in the realm of authentic online identity. As an entrepreneur who has weathered the storm of digital exposure, Kasey joins me to dismantle the barriers of vulnerability and self-doubt that so often plague professionals as they carve their space in the social media landscape. In a world where sharing too little leaves you invisible and sharing too much can overwhelm, Kasey walks me through the art of strategic self-revelation. If you're grappling with imposter syndrome or hesitant to share your personal journey for professional impact, this conversation is for you. Kasey opens up about her own highs and lows, including a failed NFT project, to showcase the transformative power of embracing our entire narrative online. Tune in for an episode that promises to embolden you to craft a personal brand that resonates with authenticity, fosters community, and propels personal growth.Kasey on Twitter: https://twitter.com/ABetterJones00:00:00 Overcoming Fear, Building Personal Platform00:07:42 Social Media00:19:18 Sharing Lessons and Vulnerability on Social Media00:29:11 Recognizing Failure, Healing, and Vulnerability00:36:49 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome and Embracing Growth00:41:12 Building Relationships and Sharing Unique ExperiencesThis episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/kasey-jones-the-art-of-strategic-self-revelation-in-the-digital-age/The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/284-kasey-jones-the-art-of-strategic-self-revelation-in-the-digital-ageThe video: https://youtu.be/ILpRrH0bpHoYou'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
283: Business Validation Traps
Founders often listen to the wrong signals when validating their businesses. Let's dive into common validation traps today.I see three major traps indie hackers have to face: 1) confusing users with customers, 2) getting a bit too much support from our founder peers, and 3) listening to the wrong segments of our user base.Why do we listen to the wrong people? Founder optimism! We have a built-in confirmation bias — otherwise, we'd never do something as stupid as building our own business... Here's why we fall prey to it, how it works, and how we can escape the trap.This episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/business-validation-traps/The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/283-business-validation-trapsYou'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
282: Kevon Cheung — Embracing Vulnerability in Startup Culture
Kevon Cheung (@MeetKevon) is an expert builder-in-public. The moment his life pivoted with the birth of his daughter is where our conversation begins, and it's a profound one. As we traverse Kevon's journey, we uncover the raw intricacies of aligning one's personal mission with one's entrepreneurial spirit. He bares the soul of his SaaS venture, giving us a real-world look at the trials of founding a company while emphasizing the critical role of a financial safety net. This is a story about authenticity, sharing the highs and lows of business creation and the impactful legacy that transparency can bring. Kevon on Twitter: https://twitter.com/MeetKevon00:00:00 Building in Public00:13:59 Course Creation and Building Community Challenges00:19:55 Building in Public Challenges and Misconceptions00:28:52 Defining and Exploring Building in Public00:32:30 Building in Public — again and again00:41:44 Building Authentic Self RepresentationThis episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/kevon-cheung-embracing-vulnerability-in-startup-culture/The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/282-kevon-cheung-embracing-vulnerability-in-startup-cultureThe video: https://youtu.be/UDRD66f_fQ4You'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
281: AI and the Future of SaaS
2023 saw an explosion of AI. 2024 will make 2023 look like cheap fireworks next to the Death Star's superlaser.SaaS founders either go with the flow or are swept away. Here's where I see AI tooling going, how software founders can adapt and adopt these technologies, and what consumer expectations around conversational AI will mean for your marketing, customer service, and feature roadmaps.This episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/ai-and-the-future-of-saas/ The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/281-ai-and-the-future-of-saasYou'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
280: Dominic Monn — Crafting a Thriving Online Mentorship Community
Dominic Monn (@dqmonn), the pioneering founder of MentorCruise, shares the secrets behind building a flourishing online mentorship community that transcends the traditional face-to-face model. Dominic reveals how MentorCruise fosters authentic relationships between mentors and mentees through a rigorous verification process, ensuring a trusted and effective learning environment. Whether you're a mentor, a mentee, or just curious about the virtual mentorship space, this episode offers a wealth of insights into creating genuine connections and a thriving platform for growth.Dominic Monn on Twitter: https://twitter.com/dqmonn00:00:00 Building and Scaling a Vetted Marketplace00:13:05 Startups, Hiring, and Building a Marketplace00:20:29 Pricing and Evolution of Mentorship Platform00:29:48 Metrics and Tools for Marketplace Growth00:41:13 Building a Business in SwitzerlandThis episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/dominic-monn-crafting-a-thriving-online-mentorship-community/The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/280-dominic-monn-crafting-a-thriving-online-mentorship-communityThe video: https://youtu.be/U80K_1sw3lcYou'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) - Building and Scaling a Vetted Marketplace (13:05) - Startups, Hiring, and Building a Marketplace (20:29) - Pricing and Evolution of Mentorship Platform (29:48) - Metrics and Tools for Marketplace Growth (41:13) - Building a Business in Switzerland
279: Fear-Setting my SaaS: What’s Enough?
The holidays are a season when our priorities clash particularly often. And for me, Christmas is also a time for re-evaluating choices, making long-term plans, and preparing for another year of building a legacy.So, let's do some fear-setting: what can go wrong? What would I do? How can I prevent it?Today, you'll hear me go through this very important exercise for my new SaaS Podline. Peek behind the curtain of a serial entrepreneur and how I approach building something worth building.This episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/fear-setting-my-saas-whats-enough/The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/279-fear-setting-my-saas-what-s-enoughYou'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
278: Nicolas Cole — Harnessing the Written Word for Profit
Nicolas Cole (@Nicolascole77), co-founder of Ship30for30, will teach you why indie hackers should embrace writing as a transformative tool in their arsenal. He sheds light on the common misconception that writing pales compared to coding for developers, but illustrates how writing can be a vehicle for desirable outcomes like zero-cost customer acquisition and recognition within the industry. Listen in as he shares the secret of building a timeless library of content, emphasizing how past writings can continue to serve us without the need to create new material constantly.Nicolas on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nicolascole7700:00:00 Writing's Importance for Indie Hackers00:09:10 World of Warcraft and Writing Connection00:12:07 Writing, Books, and Their Value00:25:29 Finding Voice00:28:01 The Power of Writing and Community00:34:05 Writing for Readers00:47:21 Ghostwriting and Its Benefits ExploredThis episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/nicolas-cole-harnessing-the-written-word-for-profit/The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/278-nicolas-cole-harnessing-the-written-word-for-profitThe video: https://youtu.be/sX-CaJHf9cMYou'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) - Writing's Importance for Indie Hackers (09:10) - World of Warcraft and Writing Connection (12:07) - Writing, Books, and Their Value (25:29) - Finding Voice (28:01) - The Power of Writing and Community (34:05) - Writing for Readers (47:21) - Ghostwriting and Its Benefits Explored
277: NoCode, AI, and the Future of Software Entrepreneurship
I've always been a fan of no-code tools. But recently, I stumbled into AI-assisted coding. And that has changed everything for me. Initially, I considered leveraging no-code for Podline but I soon realized they didn't quite meet my unique needs. This led me to discover the transformative power of AI-assisted coding, which has dramatically accelerated the development process. The fabled 10x developer? We all thought it was a person, but it's really a language model.In this exploration, I've come to appreciate the immense potential of AI-assisted coding. It's not just about keeping pace with the promises of no-code tools; it's about potentially outstripping them. Join me in this fascinating discussion where I illuminate the significant strides and transformations in software development, particularly through the lens of AI's impact. You won't want to miss this conversation, especially if you're intrigued by the future of tech and coding.This episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/nocode-ai-and-the-future-of-software-entrepreneurship/The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/277-nocode-ai-and-the-future-of-software-entrepreneurshipYou'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
276: Khe Hy — Breaking Free from the Rat Race
Khe Hy (@khemaridh), the brilliant mind behind Rad Reads and the Examined Life podcast, shares his introspective journey through the multifaceted world of perceived success, happiness, and self-imposed barriers. We talk about the emotional toll of public scrutiny, and we dive deep into our personal narratives, examining the cost of chasing success and the true value of contentment.This episode also delves into the subject of mental health, authenticity in the digital age, and the unique experiences of first-generation Asians. Khe introduces us to the empowering concept of "having enough," and we reflect on how our own lifestyle designs can pave the way for a genuinely fulfilling life. Get ready for a transformative conversation that will prompt you to reconsider your definitions of success and happiness and possibly break free from the self-created prisons of your own stories.Khe on Twitter: https://twitter.com/khemaridh 00:00:00 The Journey to Finding Contentment00:07:40 Reevaluating Success and Money's Limitations00:15:26 Navigating Personal Worth and Validation00:28:22 Mental Health and Authenticity Online00:34:26 Lifestyle Design and Playing the Game00:45:38 Overcoming Self-Created Prisons and EnvyThis episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/276-khe-hy-breaking-free-from-the-rat-raceThe video: https://youtu.be/eJIj7qy98NAYou'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
275: I’m starting a new SaaS Journey
I'm working on a new SaaS, and I'm sharing the journey from day one.Today, I'll introduce you to my market, early tech stack choices, the financials of the business, and how I am setting deadlines to make sure I don't over-engineer the whole thing.Say hello to https://podline.fm, my newest project! A voice messaging system that focuses on podcasters who need to manage significant amounts of audio messages. Step by step, I'll take you along the journey of idea, market validation, budget analysis, tech selection, and early implementation challenges. If you want to follow a seasoned developer along the path of building a profitable software business, this is a great place to start. Oh, and I'll share just how impactful AI tooling has been for my first week of prototyping!If you want to check it out and actively help me make it better, please leave a voice message at https://podline.fm/arvid 🥰00:00:00 Building a SaaS Business00:07:44 AI Integration for Coding and Transcription00:14:14 Server-Side Services With Whisper and Laravel00:20:57 Laravel Ecosystem and Monetization Exploration00:31:04 Setting Deadlines and Gathering FeedbackThis episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/im-starting-a-new-saas-journey/The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/275-i-m-starting-a-new-saas-journeyThe video: no video this week, I recorded this on the road!You'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) - Building a SaaS Business (07:44) - AI Integration for Coding and Transcription (14:14) - Server-Side Services With Whisper and Laravel (20:57) - Laravel Ecosystem and Monetization Exploration (31:04) - Setting Deadlines and Gathering Feedback
274: Amanda Natividad — Mastering Content Creation and Audience Engagement
Amanda Natividad (@amandanat) is an expert in marketing and writing. She talks about using humor and strong marketing skills to understand what people on social media like — and what resonates strongly enough to make them do things. We discuss making content that's not just different, but interesting and true to your audience. Among many intriguing stories, one cool thing she mentions is how Rand Fishkin started following her (and how she overreacted to it!). But it worked out. She quickly found herself working with Rand on SparkToro. Amanda even shares a few tips on using tools like SparkToro to better understand what people want to see, who they interact with, and where they are.We talk about the future of making content, including using AI for new ideas. Amanda believes in growing your audience by being liked, not just being the best. She's planning to grow her marketing course and talks about how a fractional marketing director can help small businesses and solo workers. This chat with Amanda is full of easy-to-use advice for improving your marketing. Enjoy!Amanda on Twitter: https://twitter.com/amandanat 00:00:00 Creating Unique and Engaging Content00:14:20 Refresh vs Different in Content Creation00:26:01 Advice on Using Social Media Platforms00:36:45 AI in Ideation and Meal Planning00:44:06 Future Audience Growth and Marketing Exploration00:52:50 Fractional Marketing Director's ImportanceThis episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/amanda-natividad-mastering-content-creation-and-audience-engagement/The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/274-amanda-natividad-mastering-content-creation-and-audience-engagementThe video: https://youtu.be/h94Hu8Ngr5cYou'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) - Creating Unique and Engaging Content (14:20) - Refresh vs Different in Content Creation (26:01) - Advice on Using Social Media Platforms (36:45) - AI in Ideation and Meal Planning (44:06) - Future Audience Growth and Marketing Exploration (52:50) - Fractional Marketing Director's Importance
273: Freedom vs. Autonomy
Let's dive headfirst into the crazy world of starting your own business. We're going to chat about how "running your own show" can be freeing, but also comes with its own set of challenges. We'll explore what it really means to be your own boss – making your own rules and calling the shots in your business. But, let's not forget, the journey of an entrepreneur is all about grabbing those chances and trying out different things to hit it big.Join me as I share my own stories and draw inspiration from people who live life like I do. I'll talk about folks who've nailed the whole work-life balance thing, juggling family, personal time, and their business dreams. We'll also dive into why it's so important to take advice from people who get your lifestyle, instead of just those who've made it big in a totally different way.Today, we talk about freedom, agency, and autonomy.This episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/freedom-vs-autonomy/The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/273-freedom-vs-autonomyThe video: https://youtu.be/X8m2A3JDiLQYou'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
272: Andrew Hodson — A Mechanic's Leap into Tech Entrepreneurship
Andrew Hudson (@MyBuddyAndrew) is an indie hacker who has taken an unconventional journey. From getting his hands dirty as an auto mechanic to now paving the way as a software entrepreneur, Andrew shares how skills honed in the garage fuel his tech ventures, Hauling Buddies and WrenchRadar. We get under the hood of his entrepreneurial journey, discussing the challenges and triumphs of running a two-sided marketplace for pet transportation and how his knack for logical thinking and compartmentalization drives his businesses forward.We explore how a simple Facebook group grew into a booming business, with Andrew shedding light on his strategies to harness social media and tap into niche markets. We also discuss Andrew's exciting book project inspired by his son's love for space. This episode is a deep dive into the world of independent hacking, entrepreneurship, and the power of passion projects that all started with an auto mechanic's love for problem-solving.Andrew on Twitter: https://twitter.com/MyBuddyAndrew00:00:00 From Auto Mechanic to Software Entrepreneur00:09:53 Building Facebook Groups for Hauling Services00:19:44 Running a Marketplace Challenges and Solutions00:29:07 Business Idea Development With AI and Automotive Data00:36:16 Challenges With Car Software Updates00:46:53 Learning, Building, and SharingThis episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/andrew-hodson-a-mechanics-leap-into-tech-entrepreneurship/The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/272-andrew-hodson-a-mechanics-leap-into-tech-entrepreneurshipThe video: https://youtu.be/UK9nhk9zGR0You'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) - From Auto Mechanic to Software Entrepreneur (09:53) - Building Facebook Groups for Hauling Services (19:44) - Running a Marketplace Challenges and Solutions (29:07) - Business Idea Development With AI and Automotive Data (36:16) - Challenges With Car Software Updates (46:53) - Learning, Building, and Sharing