Explore every episode of the podcast The Bootstrapped Founder
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 345: Scrape or Be Scraped | 06 Sep 2024 | 00:20:03 | |
Welcome to the weird world of web scraping in the AI age, where founders have to protect their data from hungry AI companies but also need to collect information from all kinds of (not so) public APIs. Today, I dive into a particularly confusing situation I am in with Podscan when it comes to scraping and keeping the web free and open. This episode is sponsored by Podscan.fm The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/crawl-or-be-crawled/ The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/345-scrape-or-be-scraped
You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/ My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com Here are a few tools I use. Using my affiliate links will support my work at no additional cost to you. | |||
| 344: Andrew Davies — The Power of a Merchant of Record | 28 Aug 2024 | 00:42:40 | |
Andrew Davies (@andjdavies) runs marketing for Paddle, the payment provider that powers several of my businesses. They also recently ran an AI launchpad accelerator, which massively impacted the trajectory of my business, Podscan. It's about time we chat more about money on the pod. Today, I get to talk to Andrew about all things payment, why a Merchant of Record is something way too few bootstrappers leverage, and what the future holds for online payments. The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/andrew-davies-the-power-of-a-merchant-of-record/ The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/343-andrew-davies-the-power-of-a-merchant-of-record
You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/ My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com Here are a few tools I use. Using my affiliate links will support my work at no additional cost to you. | |||
| 335: Tipping Over | 12 Jul 2024 | 00:16:37 | |
These last weeks have been a bit much. What do they say? “Take a break before the break takes you?” Well, I got quite close to that this week. This episode is sponsored by Podscan.fm The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/tipping-over/ The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/355-tipping-over
You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/ My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com Here are a few tools I use. Using my affiliate links will support my work at no additional cost to you. | |||
| 245: Take a Break | 25 Aug 2023 | 00:25:35 | |
Instead of writing a lengthy article this week, I pointed my iPhone at my face, clipped on a wireless mic, put the puppy in the background of the shot, and hit record. I share my thoughts about forcing yourself to take breaks, even when you feel like you shouldn’t. I dive into the times in my life when that sentiment caused me massive mental health issues, and I point out a few misconceptions that contributed to that self-delusion. If you’re having trouble taking breaks, this is for you.
The podcast episode: https://share.transistor.fm/s/218285c3 The video: https://youtu.be/lmPE0ZT37L8 You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/ My course Find your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com
This episode is sponsored by Acquire.com | |||
| 244: Emmet Gibney — Referred Into the Role of CEO | 23 Aug 2023 | 00:58:10 | |
Emmet Gibney truly walked the path less taken. Today, you'll hear about an extraordinary journey from customer support to interim CEO of Rewardful. You'll gain insights into how Emmett skillfully braved the transition following the company's acquisition by a private equity group. This episode will acquaint you with the power of referral and affiliate programs, and how they can provide the much-needed edge to entrepreneurs in their quest for growth. This conversation with Emmett is a goldmine of subject-matter expert insights. We discuss the lucky turn of events that propelled him to the position of interim CEO at Rewardful, and his role in the growth trajectory of the SaaS Group. You'll learn about the intricate management processes this Private Equity company has woven for its portfolio companies. Understand the distinction between customer referral programs and affiliate marketing programs, and the art of setting them up. Emmett's experiences serve as a testament to the potential personal growth and career trajectory that can be achieved by working your way up — or being referred, as we find out. We also delve deep into the art of building successful referral and affiliate systems. Listen to the success stories of two indie hackers and explore the strategies to build trust with affiliates and identify the right people for your affiliate system. Embrace the wisdom of the long-standing community members and learn how to attract the right newcomers to your work. This episode is not just about strategies but also about the nuances of human relationships in business – a true masterclass for entrepreneurs and those in the SaaS industry.
The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/emmet-gibney-referred-into-the-role-of-ceo/ The podcast episode: https://share.transistor.fm/s/a68eab7b The video: https://youtu.be/FpymMil-3Ks You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/ My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com
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| 243: Bootstrapped SaaS Exit Planning | 18 Aug 2023 | 00:26:30 | |
Get ready to unlock the secret to enhancing your business's value — whether you plan to sell or not. This episode will guide you through the concept of sellability and its crucial role in your business. Inspired by a riveting conversation with Kevin McArdle, a seasoned investor who shared valuable insights from his SaaS business acquisition experience, and the wisdom of John Warrillow's book, Built to Sell, I illuminate good business practices that can boost your business's sellability and value. But it doesn't stop there. I'll equip you with practical strategies for exit planning that will make your business not only sellable but also ready for a smooth transition. Ready to build a sellable business? 00:00:00 The Importance of Sellability in Business The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/bootstrapped-saas-exit-planning/ The podcast episode: https://share.transistor.fm/s/c4d259eb The video: https://youtu.be/9cqVjugSsAs You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/ My course Find your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com
This episode is sponsored by Acquire.com
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| 242: Louis Pereira — When an Indie Hacker Strikes Gold | 16 Aug 2023 | 01:02:09 | |
Ever wonder how to build a successful start-up from scratch? This week, I'm joined by Louis Pereira, an indie founder who has done just that. Creator of the successful audio transcription product, AudioPen, Louis sheds light on his journey and the calculated risks he took with pricing and subscriptions to validate demand early on. He's a firm believer in building and launching products in public, a practice that he believes played a critical role in growing his audience and gaining traction — and it paid off mightily. This isn't just a conversation about entrepreneurial success; it's a deep dive into the inner workings of a product, from handling customer conversations to managing bug reports and feature requests. Enjoy the inside view of a successful business on the rise. 00:00:01 Indie Founder Discusses Building Successful Startup
The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/louis-pereira-when-an-indie-hacker-strikes-gold/ The podcast episode: https://share.transistor.fm/s/ad81b535 The video: https://youtu.be/y0GbP43xtpo You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/ My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com
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| 241: Human Creativity Amidst AI Dominance | 11 Aug 2023 | 00:09:49 | |
Battle lines have been drawn. Human writers versus artificial intelligence - who will come out on top? I'm Arvid Kahl, your guide through the minefield of writing in a world where machines such as ChatGPT are generating content at a phenomenal rate. Can human authors still hold their own? Absolutely! Tune in as I reveal why the human touch and authenticity inherent in our content is irreplaceable, no matter how advanced AI becomes.
The podcast episode: https://share.transistor.fm/s/b3d424cc The video: https://youtu.be/MqWEGSjnAlA You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/ My course Find your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com
This episode is sponsored by Acquire.com | |||
| 240: Danny Postma — An Indie Hacker's Business Evolution | 09 Aug 2023 | 01:04:37 | |
Ever wondered how to handle the competitive world of AI products and copycats while running a global business? Well, you're in luck. This episode of The Bootstrapped Founder features a heart-to-heart with indie hacker and global entrepreneur, Danny Postma. Danny takes us behind the scenes of his entrepreneurial journey, sharing priceless insights on transitioning from a solopreneur to a team leader, cleverly leveraging SEO, and the fascinating world of domain acquisitions. Picture this: You're living the digital nomad lifestyle, working across time zones while experiencing new cultures. How do you make it all work? Danny Postma gives us a peek into his life as a digital nomad, the cultural differences that affect his way of work, and how he deals with the 12-hour time difference with grace. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on the value of a good domain name and how it can be a game-changer for any business. Join us on this exciting journey and tap into the world of a successful global entrepreneur.
The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/danny-postma-an-indie-hackers-business-evolution/ The podcast episode: https://share.transistor.fm/s/1fbba06a The video: https://youtu.be/X36_7wRC_WI You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/ My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com
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| 239: Things That Kill The Village | 04 Aug 2023 | 00:12:24 | |
We delve deep into the world of online communities, exploring their growth, evolution, and the disruptive elements that can lead to their downfall. Drawing compelling parallels with traditional villages, we seek to understand the role of trust, shared culture, and considerate interaction in these digital spaces. We touch on the dynamics that can lead to the erosion of online communities, such as inconsiderate self-promotion and the mass influx of new members who lack a shared understanding of the community's values. Drawing inspiration from Immanuel Kant's teachings, we discuss how short-term gains can often lead to long-term reputation costs. The podcast episode offers insights on how to contribute positively and build a reputation as a valued member of these virtual communities. It serves as a guide to navigating the complex dynamics of online spaces, focusing on their enrichment rather than erosion. The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/things-that-kill-the-village/ The podcast episode: https://share.transistor.fm/s/f317d6bb The video: https://youtu.be/gakz2PeCYGY You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/ My course Find your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com
This episode is sponsored by Acquire.com | |||
| 238: Brian Sierakowski — Leading an Acquired Business | 02 Aug 2023 | 01:06:48 | |
Ever found yourself stepping into a role that you never expected you'd be in? That’s what my guest, Brian Sierakowski, did when he took over as CEO of Bearmetrics, a company that he had not founded, but was handed over to him after an acquisition by a private equity firm. Entering an existing team, dealing with the weight of expectations, and managing an already functioning business with its own culture and values, Brian's journey is a roller coaster of challenges and learnings that he’s eager to share with you today. Brian on Twitter: https://twitter.com/bsierakowski/ The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/brian-sierakowski-leading-an-acquired-business/ The podcast episode: https://share.transistor.fm/s/2ec803d1 The video: https://youtu.be/XWjC4w_cD7g You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/ My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com This episode is sponsored by Acquire.com
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| 237: Eventual Reciprocity | 28 Jul 2023 | 00:08:03 | |
Learn about the power of eventual reciprocity and how it can benefit your business. Discover how giving without expecting anything in return can lead to long-term success, and find out how to strike the perfect balance between offering free content and monetizing your trade secrets. Don't miss out on this valuable lesson in entrepreneurship and audience building.
The podcast episode: https://share.transistor.fm/s/bb7d24fb The video: https://youtu.be/6T_fRdQukMo You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/ My course Find your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com
This episode is sponsored by Acquire.com | |||
| 236: Tony Dinh — Ups and Downs of an Indie Hacker Journey | 26 Jul 2023 | 01:05:22 | |
Step into the world of Tony Dinh, an accomplished indie hacker famed for his ability to craft products with show-stopping aesthetics while keeping them public on Twitter. Tony, who holds the helm in the product design world, made waves with his browser extension, Blackmagic, and his unique pricing and revenue model approach. Our chat offers a deep dive into Tony's journey and his decision-making process during the Twitter API price increase, eventually leading to the sale of Blackmagic to HypeFury. His insights on product design and experiences as a front-end engineer are worth their weight in gold. 00:00:00 Introduction 00:01:24 How do you get good at design? 00:07:50 Working in enterprise businesses first. 00:13:08 Selling as an indie hacker. 00:18:18 How to complete the sale? 00:23:02 Transitioning the ownership. 00:28:31 Running into platform risk. 00:34:13 The launch of the product. 00:38:42 Do you have a process for internal documentation? 00:47:22 How do you deal with clones? 00:51:19 The importance of having a ProductHunt-compatible audience. 00:55:39 What’s your current software portfolio like? 01:01:09 What to do when you’re stuck? Tony on Twitter: https://twitter.com/tdinh_me The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/tony-dinh-ups-and-downs-of-an-indie-hacker-journey/ The podcast episode: https://share.transistor.fm/s/ee414120 The video: https://youtu.be/i99OHAacxbk You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/ My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com
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| 334: Sincere, not Serious | 05 Jul 2024 | 00:16:39 | |
Do you want to win the game or keep on playing? Today, I'll dive into a mentality shift I experienced recently while building Podscan: how about I just get rid of all the "professional posturing?" Here's to being sincere and not being too serious! This episode is sponsored by Podscan.fm The blog post :https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/sincere-not-serious/ The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/334-sincere-not-serious
You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/ My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com Here are a few tools I use. Using my affiliate links will support my work at no additional cost to you. | |||
| 235: The Bad Kind of Attention | 21 Jul 2023 | 00:12:19 | |
Here the three common pitfalls that can sabotage your efforts to build a Twitter audience: transactional interactions, focusing on “free,” and a tonal mismatch. Learn how chasing virality, relying on transactional attention, and curating a negative tone can all backfire in the long run. Find out what kind of attention you should be seeking to build lasting relationships with your followers and grow your personal brand. The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/the-bad-kind-of-attention/ The podcast episode: https://share.transistor.fm/s/74843be8 The video: https://youtu.be/BGVSA1-B4AU You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/ My course Find your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com
This episode is sponsored by Acquire.com | |||
| 234: Jason Cohen — Two Exits & Two Unicorns | 19 Jul 2023 | 01:04:59 | |
Are you a bootstrapper who's never considered raising investment money? Or maybe you're a die-hard VC-funded growth hacker who can't imagine running a business without that extra cash infusion. Either way, Jason Cohen's journey from bootstrapping to raising millions will give you a fresh perspective on the funding debate. Jason discusses his personal discovery of wanting a different journey with WP Engine, which led to raising money after two years of bootstrapping. We also uncover the importance of understanding your competitors instead of demonizing them, in order to develop a unique strategy for your own business.
00:00:00 Introduction Jason on Twitter: @asmartbear The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/jason-cohen-two-exits-two-unicorns/ The podcast episode: https://share.transistor.fm/s/b349aec5 The video: https://youtu.be/fMniLsLl5nc You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/ My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com
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| 233: Entrepreneurship isn't genetic. It’s memetic. | 14 Jul 2023 | 00:15:05 | |
Are entrepreneurs born or made? Find out as we explore the profound impact of nature and nurture on the development of an entrepreneurial spirit. Discover how family stories, socioeconomic status, and exposure to diverse narratives shape your perspectives and behaviors. Uncover what it takes to become a successful entrepreneur in the digital age. The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/entrepreneurship-isnt-genetic-its-memetic/ The podcast episode: https://share.transistor.fm/s/f85b818b The video: https://youtu.be/vm4c4KQSKu0 You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/ My course Find your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com
This episode is sponsored by Acquire.com | |||
| 232: Andrew McIntosh — First-Generation Entrepreneurs | 12 Jul 2023 | 00:57:43 | |
Andrew McIntosh is a first-gen entrepreneur. And so am I. And we both needed help along the way. From building a sustainable and inclusive community for first-gen entrepreneurs to discussing the power of business coaching and growth mindset, you'll gain valuable insights into the world of entrepreneurship without a safety net. Learn from a successful underdog's story and get inspired to take your own entrepreneurial journey to the next level. No matter what your parents say. Andrew on Twitter: https://twitter.com/andrew_drives The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/andrew-mcintosh-first-generation-entrepreneurs/ The podcast episode: https://share.transistor.fm/s/e49eaaa6 The video: https://youtu.be/Iez5Qcz6JOs You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/ My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com
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| 231: Responding Fast to Customers — A Good Idea? | 07 Jul 2023 | 00:13:20 | |
Are you responding to customer service requests as quickly as possible? You may think it's the best strategy, but this dedication comes at a hefty price. Today, I will share my experience with the pros and cons of super-quick customer service responses, the role of software tooling, and how to balance response speed with good business sense. Discover the layered approach to customer service that will help you have your speedy cake and eat it, too. The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/responding-fast-to-customers-a-good-idea/ The podcast episode: https://share.transistor.fm/s/5d404f4d The video: https://youtu.be/J8qbNR3rz0w You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/ My course Find your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com
This episode is sponsored by Acquire.com
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| 230: Moritz Dausinger — Serial Indie Entrepreneurship | 05 Jul 2023 | 01:07:46 | |
Today, I’m talking to Moritz Dausinger, a serial indie hacker with several exits under his belt. Moritz most recently pivoted his software business Refiner after 18 months of trying to figure out a way forward. Well, now he’s found it. We will chat about figuring out how to structure sales, how and who to hire, and if he wants to sell this business again, for a third time. Moritz on Twitter: https://twitter.com/mdausinger The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/moritz-dausinger-serial-indie-entrepreneurship/ The podcast episode: https://share.transistor.fm/s/215b9c09 The video: https://youtu.be/8jiwJZyMjEI You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/ My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com
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| 229: Utility, Pricing, and Entrepreneurship | 30 Jun 2023 | 00:07:37 | |
Are you struggling to find the balance between the utility of your product and its perceived value? Let’s explore the biggest misconception in entrepreneurship and discover how to create a high-utility business at the intersection of your fields of interest. Find out what Swiss Army knives have to do with it, too! My new podcast project: Arvid & Tyler Catch Up / https://catchup.fm The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/utility-pricing-and-entrepreneurship/ The podcast episode: https://share.transistor.fm/s/d8b22900 The video: https://youtu.be/G4KZWbYutEs You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/ My course Find your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com
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| 228: Kevin McArdle — The Man Who Changed My Life (and Could Change Yours) | 28 Jun 2023 | 00:59:25 | |
Kevin McArdle bought my SaaS. For millions. And now, I get to talk to him about all things acquisition. In our chat, we discuss the importance of annual exit planning for startup founders, we explore the mindset and framework necessary for building a successful and sellable business, as well as the benefits of stepping outside of your normal workplace to think strategically. With practical advice and personal anecdotes, this conversation is a must-watch for any entrepreneur looking to achieve long-term success — and a big life-changing check at the end.
The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/kevin-mcardle-the-man-who-changed-my-life-and-could-change-yours/ The podcast episode: https://share.transistor.fm/s/d938c4ce The video: https://youtu.be/Wx0hEK0zNPU You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/ My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com | |||
| 227: Self-Censorship on Twitter | 23 Jun 2023 | 00:10:40 | |
Join me on a thought-provoking journey as I explore the challenge of balancing authenticity and public opinion on social media. Discover the struggle faced by an entrepreneur and creator who wants to build a Twitter audience while staying true to themselves. Yours truly. I'll ask the tough question: how much of my "true self" should I reveal in the public domain? My new podcast project: Arvid & Tyler Catch Up / https://catchup.fm The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/self-censorship-on-twitter/ The podcast episode: https://share.transistor.fm/s/9216f800 The video: https://youtu.be/6Hk5qbjXZJk You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/ My course Find your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com
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| 226: Paul Millerd — Walking The Pathless Path | 21 Jun 2023 | 00:52:45 | |
Are you feeling burnt out or overwhelmed by societal expectations? Today, I’m talking to Paul Millerd, author of “The Pathless Path.” We talk about hustle traps, the stories we tell ourselves about success, and our obsession with productivity. Learn how to connect with yourself, rediscover leisure as a positive force in your life, and find "the others." Discover how to expand your horizons and find your own way in life, all while building and teaching in public. Paul on Twitter: https://twitter.com/p_millerd/ The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/paul-millerd-walking-the-pathless-path/ The podcast episode: https://share.transistor.fm/s/14e38471 The video: https://youtu.be/fqAN89v8DQ4 You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/ My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com
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| 333: Kitze — Juggling Projects, ADHD, and the Indie Hacker Lifestyle | 03 Jul 2024 | 00:45:16 | |
@Kitze, a Serial indie hacker and entrepreneur, shares his journey through a landscape filled with multiple projects like Sizzy, a browser for developers, Benji, a productivity app, and a comprehensive full-stack video course. Kitze opens up about how his ADHD diagnosis has shaped his work ethic and productivity, revealing the personal motivations behind creating tools like Benji. True indie hacker fashion: he built a tool that he needed for himself. And that kickstarted a lot of other things. 00:00:00 Building Benji This episode is sponsored by Acquire.com The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/kitze-juggling-projects-adhd-and-the-indie-hacker-lifestyle/ The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/333-kitze-juggling-projects-adhd-and-the-indie-hacker-lifestyle You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/ My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com
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| 225: Twitter Teardowns: 3 Low Hanging Fruit to Massively Improve Your Twitter Presence | 16 Jun 2023 | 00:09:04 | |
Discover how to make your Twitter profile a promise of a fruitful long-term relationship with your future followers. Today,. let’s explore the biggest misconceptions surrounding Twitter profiles and how optimizing your profile can turn visitors into followers. From the purpose of your profile to the importance of using real estate wisely, you’ll find the common mistakes people make and how you can avoid them.
The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/twitter-teardowns-3-low-hanging-fruit-to-massively-improve-your-twitter-presence/ The podcast episode: https://share.transistor.fm/s/20b5a449 The video: https://youtu.be/_Ia8dnuXOg8 You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/ My course Find your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com
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| 224: Dr. Julie Gurner — Founder Mental Health 101 | 14 Jun 2023 | 00:57:58 | |
"Imposter syndrome isn’t just a moment of self-doubt — it’s all-encompassing. It prevents founders from taking action, from taking a risk in the first place." This week, Dr. Julie Gurner shares with me how high performers combat the challenges founders commonly face. She’s a performance coach and Doctor of Psychology. We’ll talk about dealing with imposter syndrome, burnout, how to deal with the avalanche of advice on Twitter, and why it is so hard for founders to cope with stress. The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/dr-julie-gurner-founder-mental-health-101/ The podcast episode: https://share.transistor.fm/s/bb3e42ca The video: https://youtu.be/RjIZ8g0sxZw You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/ My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com
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| 223: How to Build in Public Without Revealing Too Much | 09 Jun 2023 | 00:16:10 | |
Sharing your journey as an entrepreneur can be scary, but it's a great way to connect with your audience and demonstrate your expertise. Let's explore the difference between sharing business insights and trade secrets, and construct a Share/Don't Share list to help you decide what to share with your audience. My new podcast project: Arvid & Tyler Catch Up / https://catchup.fm The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/how-to-build-in-public-without-revealing-too-much/ The podcast episode: https://share.transistor.fm/s/9ed43fa8 The video: https://youtu.be/iq_DetrM-DE You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/ My course Find your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com
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| 222: Joe Masilotti — Building in Public and Monetizing Open Source | 07 Jun 2023 | 00:58:39 | |
Joe Masilotti is the founder of RailsDev —a reverse job board— and a Turbo Native consultant. In this conversation, we explore Joe Masilotti's philosophy on entrepreneurship and his focus on empowering software developers to find work. Joe's approach to monetizing Open Source is particularly interesting: he gives away his product for free with an eventual revenue share. We delve into the various marketing strategies that Joe uses for his different business ventures, including cold emailing, content marketing, and live coding. The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/joe-masilotti-building-in-public-and-monetizing-open-source The podcast episode: https://share.transistor.fm/s/ebd473b8 The video: https://youtu.be/uxfUZ31QYGY You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/ My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com
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| 221: Why Entrepreneurs are Choosing 'Short-Lived Businesses' Over 'Forever Businesses | 02 Jun 2023 | 00:10:53 | |
If you're an entrepreneur looking to start a digital business, you might be tempted to aim for a "forever business" right from the start. However, pursuing this approach can be dangerous. Today, you'll learn how to navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of digital entrepreneurship, build successful businesses that serve your customers and owners, and avoid the pitfalls of pursuing a "forever business" from day one. My new podcast project: Arvid & Tyler Catch Up / https://catchup.fm The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/why-entrepreneurs-are-choosing-short-lived-businesses-over-forever-businesses The podcast episode: https://share.transistor.fm/s/e1eb3929 The video: https://youtu.be/lzYc5ArzTsw You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/ My course Find your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com
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| 220: Simon Høiberg — Building a SaaS That Works for You | 31 May 2023 | 00:57:21 | |
In this episode, I interviewSimon Høiberg, an active software engineer, founder, and YouTuber. Simon shares his strategies for balancing his roles as a creator and maker, and discusses the importance of incorporating personal experience into his content. He also delves into the power of intrinsic motivation and joy in entrepreneurship, and how he gamifies his life to prioritize these elements. The conversation touches on topics such as productivity, mental health, team management, and burnout prevention.
The podcast episode: https://share.transistor.fm/s/05f2d837 The video: https://youtu.be/U0cUsvxHtn0 You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/ My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com
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| 219: ∀𝑦∃𝑥 ≠ ∃𝑥∀𝑦: The Dangerous Misconception Founders Have About Their Market | 26 May 2023 | 00:08:17 | |
Have you ever searched for the perfect resume to get hired? Or tried to create a product that appeals to everyone? This essay explores the logical fallacy of wishful reasoning and the importance of picking a niche. Discover why building a successful product means addressing a specific set of needs for a particular group of customers, and why a well-defined niche is the best place to start. My new podcast project: Arvid & Tyler Catch Up / https://catchup.fm The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/the-dangerous-misconception-founders-have-about-their-market/ The podcast episode: https://share.transistor.fm/s/e22791e5 The video: https://youtu.be/jRc37k7I46s You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/ My course Find your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com
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| 218: Evelyn J. Starr — The Evolution of a Brand | 24 May 2023 | 00:49:49 | |
Evelyn J. Starr is a brand-building expert. We talk about finding the right niche, having a community-centric long-term perspective, and how brands evolve —you might call it “grow up”— over time. Here’s Evelyn. My new podcast project: Arvid & Tyler Catch Up / https://catchup.fm Evelyn's Twitter: https://twitter.com/EvelynJStarr The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/evelyn-j-starr-the-evolution-of-a-brand/ The podcast episode: https://share.transistor.fm/s/69cc34f4 The video: https://youtu.be/CTKESAugLP8 You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/ My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com
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| 217: The Flip Side: When Not to Build in Public | 19 May 2023 | 00:12:21 | |
Building in public is a popular trend in entrepreneurship. However, it may not always be the best approach. Entrepreneurs should consider their personality traits, the nature of their business, and their competitive advantages before deciding whether to adopt this approach. Building in public is about generosity, transparency, and community, and can be a powerful way to gain customers' trust, build a brand, and grow a business if these values align with the business model and personal style — but not always. My new podcast project: Arvid & Tyler Catch Up / https://catchup.fm The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/the-flip-side-when-not-to-build-in-public/ The podcast episode: https://share.transistor.fm/s/815ae514 The video: https://youtu.be/GoJB6ngrS1M You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/ My course Find your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com
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| 216: Jack Ellis — Taking on Google as a Bootstrapper | 17 May 2023 | 00:54:19 | |
Today, I’m talking to Jack Ellis, the co-founder of Fathom Analytics, a privacy-conscious web analytics business that I personally use for all my web properties. The company that Jack co-founded with Paul Jarvis competes directly with Google on their linchpin advertising product. That’s a pretty high order. We chat about Jack's role in a growing successful software business and just how much he hesitates to go from coder to manager. We dive into choosing reliable dependencies to power an always-on SaaS business and how to deal with migrating customers from Google to Fathom. Here’s a deep dive into a successful technical SaaS business. Here’s Jack Ellis.
My new podcast project: Arvid & Tyler Catch Up / https://catchup.fm The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/jack-ellis-taking-on-google-as-a-bootstrapper/ The podcast episode: https://share.transistor.fm/s/cda46335 The video: https://youtu.be/oGjrUs0JB8w You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/ My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com
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| 332: Beyond Small Bets — Embracing the Big Play | 28 Jun 2024 | 00:10:41 | |
What happens when the 'small bets' strategy leads to a big win, and you're not prepared for it? Well, you adapt! So that's what I'm working on this week: figuring out a way forward now that circumstances have shifted. This episode is sponsored by Podscan.fm The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/beyond-small-bets-embracing-the-big-play/ The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/332-beyond-small-bets-embracing-the-big-play
You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/ My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com Here are a few tools I use. Using my affiliate links will support my work at no additional cost to you. | |||
| 215: In Pod We Trust: How Creators Can Best Juggle Credibility & Sponsored Content | 12 May 2023 | 00:12:25 | |
People would rather sift through fake AI results than see yet another ad. Something is happening in advertising, and the creator economy is affected greatly.
My new podcast project: Arvid & Tyler Catch Up / https://catchup.fm The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/in-pod-we-trust-how-creators-can-best-juggle-credibility-and-sponsored-content/ The podcast episode: https://share.transistor.fm/s/7ff5761e The video: https://youtu.be/AZFbKUSmq_I You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/ My course Find your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com
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| 214: Fatih Kadir Akın — Selling a Global Sticker Business | 09 May 2023 | 00:53:35 | |
When Fatih started his sticker business Stikkernet, his peers asked him, “You’re a developer; why don’t you write this from scratch?” His response? “Why should I?” Today, I'm talking to my dear old friend Fatih Kadir Akın — or fka for short. We discuss his unexpected journey of building a successful business out of a simple idea. Fatih shares his experience with building Stikkernet and how he grew his audience through community building. We chat about the challenges of logistics when shipping internationally and how Fatih found solutions that worked so well it lead to an exit.
The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/fatih-kadir-akin-selling-a-global-sticker-business/ The podcast episode: https://share.transistor.fm/s/155fff77 The video: https://youtu.be/ijU4vYrBDwo You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/ My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com
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| 213: The Rubber Band Effect | 05 May 2023 | 00:07:56 | |
What happens when we encounter something so novel that our minds can't fully comprehend it? Today, let’s explore the "Rubber Band Effect" and how it impacts both journalists and entrepreneurs alike. Learn how to build products that fit seamlessly into your customers' workflows and how to effectively communicate the results your product can achieve, without overwhelming them with the complexity of the underlying technology. The Ai researcher's video "The A.I. Dilemma": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xoVJKj8lcNQ
The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/the-rubber-band-effect/ The podcast episode: https://share.transistor.fm/s/ad970e30 The video: https://youtu.be/iHxd1iKI970 You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/ My course Find your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com
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| 212: Dagobert Renouf — The Emotional Journey of Entrepreneurship | 03 May 2023 | 01:01:42 | |
“As an entrepreneur, you need someone you’ve been through shit with already” — and that’s exactly why Dagobert and Lucie are the perfect power couple co-founders. I chatted with @dagobertrenouf about overcoming struggle, growing a business together, and dealing with the lack of motivation when things get complicated. We discuss the power of Twitter and building an audience before creating a product. Dagobert shares his personal journey with Logology and how he lost motivation before finding inspiration from his Twitter community. He also talks about the importance of understanding customers' problems before building a product and how he plans to apply this lesson to Logology 2.
The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/dagobert-renouf-the-emotional-journey-of-entrepreneurship/ The podcast episode: https://share.transistor.fm/s/2b57060d The video: https://youtu.be/4aOLgJC8CKU You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/ My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com
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| 211: Writing with a Nemesis: Using ChatGPT to Strengthen Your Arguments | 28 Apr 2023 | 00:09:36 | |
Using ChatGPT as a writing partner helps strengthen arguments by acting as an editor, proofreader, and devil's advocate. It prompts the AI to provide counterpoints and can detect emotional subtext, highlight missing pieces of the argument, and suggest better examples. This adversarial writing approach with generative AI results in writing that is both in the author's voice and accessible to a wider readership. 00:00:14 Intro 00:01:33 ChatGPT as a writing buddy 00:03:13 Bias-busting with a Devil's Advocate 00:04:48 Other uses of ChatGPT 00:06:13 Fact-checking 00:07:22 Emotional arcs
The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/writing-with-a-nemesis-using-chatgpt-to-strengthen-your-arguments/ The podcast episode: https://share.transistor.fm/s/562c4b5f The video: https://youtu.be/3Rk17om7crU You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/ My course Find your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com
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| 210: Dr. Sherry Walling — The Reality of Burnout for Entrepreneurs | 26 Apr 2023 | 00:54:46 | |
Few people had an impact on my founder journey as Dr. Sherry Walling — and she didn't even know. But I got to tell her! We discussed burnout, imposter syndrome, and stress among founders. Sherry explained the need for mental health professionals who understand the unique challenges of entrepreneurship and shared that burnout is a diagnosable issue. While entrepreneurs have more control over their work, long hours and hustle culture can still lead to burnout. Her book, "The Entrepreneur's Guide to Keeping Your Shit Together," helped me during a period of burnout while selling my business. Now, you get to learn from her and her deeply actionable insights into founder psychology. 00:00:00 Introduction to Sherry Walling 00:03:13 Mental health in the entrepreneur community. 00:09:17 Do entrepreneurs have control over their destiny? 00:15:22 How do you find good mastermind groups? 00:21:52 Mental health is not always called mental health 00:28:20 Grief is the emotional reaction to loss 00:34:06 You can have relationships with people who don’t get it. 00:40:24 Mental health apps are not a replacement for therapy. 00:45:59 Why aren’t more people talking about mental health?
My new podcast project: Arvid & Tyler Catch Up / https://catchup.fm The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/dr-sherry-walling-the-reality-of-burnout-for-entrepreneurs/ The podcast episode: https://share.transistor.fm/s/dc436cce The video: https://youtu.be/hIwaExsScWk You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/ My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com
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| 209: MicroConf US '23 Recap — What Happens When 250 SaaS Founders Meet | 21 Apr 2023 | 00:48:36 | |
This week, I got on my first post-COVID trip and headed to Denver, Colorado for MicroConf 2023. It. Was. Awesome. Unsurprisingly, being in the same room with 250 other bootstrapped SaaS founders is one of the nerdiest things you can do. And it was as enlightening as it was nerdy. I just arrived back home in Canada a few hours ago, so I took the opportunity to share my insights from the conference on my podcast. Enjoy! 00:00:14 Intro 00:02:26 What is MicroConf? 00:08:42 STIR 00:11:21 The talks 00:16:34 The speaksessionsers 00:19:19 My session on mental health 00:25:43 Feeling isolated 00:28:31 How to start a conversation about your own experience. 00:34:37 Mental health as a founder is paramount. 00:37:25 MicroConf is more than just a conference 00:43:28 Things outside the conference hall My MicroConf EU 2019 attendee talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TheiytjsZoY
The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/microconf-us-23-recap-what-happens-when-250-saas-founders-meet/ The podcast episode: https://share.transistor.fm/s/9d12dbc0 The video: https://youtu.be/8ty4NNbVnMo You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/ My course Find your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com
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| 208: Louis Nicholls — Growing Your Newsletter | 19 Apr 2023 | 00:51:17 | |
When it comes to building an "owned audience," nothing beats an email list. Louis Nicholls is a newsletter expert, and he shared with me how to monetize a list, how to grow it reliably, and why cold emails are often done spectacularly wrong. Louis will show you how to do email right.
00:05:23 Grow an audience, monetize a list 00:09:07 How do you maintain customer quality in a network? 00:14:55 Advice on how to cross-link your knowledge with other channels. 00:18:48 How much is too much in terms of "buying" subscribers? 00:21:59 What makes a newsletter word of mouth-worthy? 00:27:48 Struggling with self-promotion 00:31:51 What makes a good or a really bad cold email? 00:36:44 Why all cold emails look the same 00:42:57 Why a good message is never cold 00:48:57 Borrowed audiences always have risk My new podcast project: Arvid & Tyler Catch Up / https://catchup.fm The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/louis-nicholls-growing-your-newsletter/ The podcast episode: https://share.transistor.fm/s/8e4bcbf9 The video: https://youtu.be/FNolzZtXjLI You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/ My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com | |||
| 207: ChatGPT: Goldmine or Minefield for Indie Hackers? | 14 Apr 2023 | 00:19:44 | |
ChatGPT is everywhere. But can we build businesses on it? What risks will we face? Let's dive into the future of entrepreneurship in a world where AI is ubiquitous. My new podcast project: Arvid & Tyler Catch Up / https://catchup.fm The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/chatgpt-goldmine-or-minefield-for-indie-hackers/ The podcast episode: https://share.transistor.fm/s/efd69983 The video: https://youtu.be/J4eNi1uqxUI You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/ My course Find your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com
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| 206: Marie Poulin & Benjamin Borowski — Digital Permaculture | 12 Apr 2023 | 01:04:41 | |
Marie and Ben are a power couple. Together, they run Notion Mastery, an intense workshop for people who want to use Notion professionally and productively. In our conversation, we'll dive into platform risk, building a sustainable educational business, how to work together as a couple, and why social media distribution matters a lot to educational founders. Enjoy! 00:00:00 What can we learn from permaculture? My new podcast project: Arvid & Tyler Catch Up / https://catchup.fm The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/marie-poulin-benjamin-borowski-digital-permaculture/ The podcast episode: https://share.transistor.fm/s/faf48b60 The video: https://youtu.be/Dr0Uty8heyo You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/ My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com
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| 331: Geoff Roberts — Playing the Long Game | 26 Jun 2024 | 00:35:37 | |
Geoff Roberts (@GeoffTRoberts) is the co-founder of Outseta, and he's halfway there, 7 years in. Outseta —the SaaS starter kit and the business behind it— is built and operated on a multi-decade timeline, and it's not been easy to achieve profitability. Geoff shares the ups and downs of a long and painful story; what it means to think and operate both in the here and now as well as focusing on the birds-eye view when it comes to bootstrapping a SaaS business. We also dive into Outseta's choose-your-won adventure compensation model: a full-time salary of $210,000 for everyone with massive flexibility and choice. Enjoy this conversation with a veteran of self-funded software. 00:00:00 Building a Platform for SaaS Businesses This episode is sponsored by Acquire.com The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/geoff-roberts-playing-the-long-game/ The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/333-geoff-roberts-playing-the-long-game You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/ My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com
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| 205: Artificial Scarcity Damages the Creator Economy | 07 Apr 2023 | 00:15:10 | |
Artificial scarcity, a marketing tactic that fosters urgency in customers, can lead to short-term financial gains but raises ethical concerns and negative consequences in the creator economy. Drawbacks include damaging relationships, promoting impulsive purchases, and exacerbating global inequality. While there are exceptions, such as outcome-oriented communities and front-loading financial gains, adopting an abundance mindset and cultivating genuine relationships is a more sustainable long-term strategy in the digital realm. My new podcast project: Arvid & Tyler Catch Up / https://catchup.fm The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/artificial-scarcity-damages-the-creator-economy/ The podcast episode: https://share.transistor.fm/s/37d137db The video: https://youtu.be/0ypM30tG1Mg You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/ My course Find your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com
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| 204: Josh Spector — Saying Less and Making More | 05 Apr 2023 | 00:59:56 | |
Most of Josh Spector's newsletter issues are just a few sentences. Sometimes, just a link. And still, advertisers and readers alike flock to Josh's emails. In our conversation, you will learn why brevity is so attractive, how to make sure you're telling the right stories to the right people, and how to build systems that keep people coming back for more. 00:00:00 How to think about scarcity 00:04:16 Josh's newsletter(s) 00:08:49 Ads that feel less like ads 00:12:21 Why you need to know what you want to sell 00:16:20 How Josh got started 00:22:02 Advertising is just another way for people to connect 00:26:32 Maintain and improve the quality of your audience 00:30:51 How to get people to subscribe to your newsletter 00:34:54 Why you need to shorten your email newsletter 00:39:28 How to use video as part of your content strategy 00:48:12 Empathy with the needs of your audience 00:51:31 Helping your reader 00:57:16 Having an audience centric approach to business
The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/josh-spector-saying-less-and-making-more/ The podcast episode: https://share.transistor.fm/s/6bbf0f6e The video: https://youtu.be/AND8f7I_Tr0 You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/ My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com
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| Bonus: Arvid on "First Class Founders" by Yong-Soo Chung | 03 Apr 2023 | 00:36:18 | |
This is probably the most concentrated and well-produced podcast I've been on in a long while. And I want to share it with you here today as a bonus episode. Kudos to @YongSooChung for putting his money where his mic is. He spent a lot of time, money, and energy to make this episode happen. This is a great ep, and if want to learn about my whole founder journey, I recommend a listen. Here's the original show: https://www.firstclassfounders.com/life-changing-wisdom-with-arvid-kahl-from-selling-a-saas-business-to-becoming-a-creator/ Yong-Soo Chung on Twitter: https://twitter.com/YongSooChung | |||