Arvid Kahl talks about starting and bootstrapping businesses, how to build an audience, and how to build in public.
306: Johannes Radig — Traveling the World and Raising Prices
Johannes Radig (@joradig) runs a SaaS from the Canary Islands — the most recent stop on a globe-spanning digital nomad trip. Johannes and I chat about building a software business for agencies, how hard it is to find just the right prices, and what traditional marketing efforts can do for indie hackers. We dive into Leadsie, the social media onboarding SaaS he co-founded, and how it is built as a calm and profitable business.Also, we both grew up in the same city. And now we live on opposites sides of the world. Here's two indie hackers catching up:Johannes on Twitter: https://twitter.com/joradig00:00:00 The Voyage00:10:34 Entrepreneurial Journey and Startup Shift00:24:06 Pricing Strategy for Startup Growth00:29:57 Entrepreneurial Risk Assessment and Platform Stacking00:40:42 Building Relationships Through Job NeedsThis episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/johannes-radig-traveling-the-world-and-raising-prices/The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/306-johannes-radig-traveling-the-world-and-raising-pricesThe video: https://youtu.be/QDk2rbr72skYou'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.comPodcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcastNewsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletterMy book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.comHere are a few tools I use. Using my affiliate links will support my work at no additional cost to you.- Notion (which I use to organize, write, coordinate, and archive my podcast + newsletter): https://affiliate.notion.so/465mv1536drx- Riverside.fm (that's what I recorded this episode with): https://riverside.fm/?via=arvid- TweetHunter (for speedy scheduling and writing Tweets): http://tweethunter.io/?via=arvid- HypeFury (for massive Twitter analytics and scheduling): https://hypefury.com/?via=arvid60- AudioPen (for taking voice notes and getting amazing summaries): https://audiopen.ai/?aff=PXErZ- Descript (for word-based video editing, subtitles, and clips): https://www.descript.com/?lmref=3cf39Q- ConvertKit (for email lists, newsletters, even finding sponsors): https://convertkit.com?lmref=bN9CZw
305: AI Hype — The Straight Line Bias and the Fear of not Keeping Up
“If this tech keeps developing as fast as it does right now, will I ever be able to catch up?” is a question on my mind and the minds of many founders I’ve been talking to recently.So, what about AI should we focus on? Where will this tech slow down, where will it speed up even more, and what should we focus on for our businesses?This episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/ai-hype-the-straight-line-bias-and-the-fear-of-not-keeping-up/The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/305-ai-hype-the-straight-line-bias-and-the-fear-of-not-keeping-upCheck out Podscan to get alerts when you're mentioned on podcasts: https://podscan.fmSend me a voicemail on Podline: https://podline.fm/arvidYou'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.comPodcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcastNewsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletterMy book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.comHere are a few tools I use. Using my affiliate links will support my work at no additional cost to you.- Notion (which I use to organize, write, coordinate, and archive my podcast + newsletter): https://affiliate.notion.so/465mv1536drx- Riverside.fm (that's what I recorded this episode with): https://riverside.fm/?via=arvid- TweetHunter (for speedy scheduling and writing Tweets): http://tweethunter.io/?via=arvid- HypeFury (for massive Twitter analytics and scheduling): https://hypefury.com/?via=arvid60- AudioPen (for taking voice notes and getting amazing summaries): https://audiopen.ai/?aff=PXErZ- Descript (for word-based video editing, subtitles, and clips): https://www.descript.com/?lmref=3cf39Q- ConvertKit (for email lists, newsletters, even finding sponsors): https://convertkit.com?lmref=bN9CZw
304: Tyler Tringas — Investing in Bootstrapped SaaS
Tyler Tringas (@tylertringas) invests in bootstrapped businesses. Wait… Aren't those supposed to NOT take investment money? What's going on here?Alignment is what's going on. Where traditional VC's often have very different goals from founders, funds like Tyler's Calm Company Fund focus on helping niche software businesses that don't chase hypergrowth. Instead, Tyler supports those who want to build calm and profitable ventures. You know, the regular kind of business. The one that focuses on making money.In our chat, we dive into how bootstrapping and investment go together, how a fund manager makes investment decisions, why NoCode is a massive business accelerator and how the Calm Fund has adapted over its 5-year history.Tyler on Twitter: https://twitter.com/tylertringas00:00:00 Sustainable Businesses With Calm Company Fund00:07:53 Rethinking Valuations and Company Building00:18:04 Investment Strategy and Sustainability00:25:33 Challenges and Opportunities in Fund Mentoring00:29:31 Challenges of Saying No to Founders00:34:36 Investor Alignment and Profit Sharing00:44:51 Exploring AI and No-Code Tools00:51:10 Navigating the Future of Calm CompaniesThis episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/tyler-tringas-investing-in-bootstrapped-saas/The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/304-tyler-tringas-investing-in-bootstrapped-saasThe video: https://youtu.be/K-TZXmN2kJsYou'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.comPodcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcastNewsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletterMy book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.comHere are a few tools I use. Using my affiliate links will support my work at no additional cost to you.- Notion (which I use to organize, write, coordinate, and archive my podcast + newsletter): https://affiliate.notion.so/465mv1536drx- Riverside.fm (that's what I recorded this episode with): https://riverside.fm/?via=arvid- TweetHunter (for speedy scheduling and writing Tweets): http://tweethunter.io/?via=arvid- HypeFury (for massive Twitter analytics and scheduling): https://hypefury.com/?via=arvid60- AudioPen (for taking voice notes and getting amazing summaries): https://audiopen.ai/?aff=PXErZ- Descript (for word-based video editing, subtitles, and clips): https://www.descript.com/?lmref=3cf39Q- ConvertKit (for email lists, newsletters, even finding sponsors): https://convertkit.com?lmref=bN9CZw
303: How I Deal with Investment Offers
Ever since I started building Podscan in public, I’ve received a lot of attention.And it’s been spectacular: I’ve found early users, prospects, customers, and cheerleaders.Apparently, when people see something get traction, they want to be a part of it. Besides the much welcome support on social media, this has also resulted in a few offers that go beyond monthly subscription revenue. Today, I want to share with you how I think about collaborating with people, taking investment, and growing the team.This episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/how-i-deal-with-investment-offers/The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/303-how-i-deal-with-investment-offersCheck out Podscan to get alerts when you're mentioned on podcasts: https://podscan.fmSend me a voicemail on Podline: https://podline.fm/arvidYou'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.comPodcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcastNewsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletterMy book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.comHere are a few tools I use. Using my affiliate links will support my work at no additional cost to you.- Notion (which I use to organize, write, coordinate, and archive my podcast + newsletter): https://affiliate.notion.so/465mv1536drx- Riverside.fm (that's what I recorded this episode with): https://riverside.fm/?via=arvid- TweetHunter (for speedy scheduling and writing Tweets): http://tweethunter.io/?via=arvid- HypeFury (for massive Twitter analytics and scheduling): https://hypefury.com/?via=arvid60- AudioPen (for taking voice notes and getting amazing summaries): https://audiopen.ai/?aff=PXErZ- Descript (for word-based video editing, subtitles, and clips): https://www.descript.com/?lmref=3cf39Q- ConvertKit (for email lists, newsletters, even finding sponsors): https://convertkit.com?lmref=bN9CZw
302: Nick Groeneveld — Speaking the Language of your Customers
Nick Groeneveld (@ToolboxOfDesign) understands that design isn't about gadgets, widgets, or buttons. For Nick, design is understanding the needs, desires, and expectations of those you aim to serve. We chat about talking to your customers, what common mistakes indie hackers make when thinking about "design", and just how much more UX means than web interfaces.Nick is ALSO the guy behind my interview videos and thumbnails! He's the producer of The Bootstrapped Founder, really. We talk about how freelancing and working with a media partner works, how he juggles his financials, and what lifestyle he aims for.Nick on Twitter: https://twitter.com/ToolboxOfDesign00:00:00 Designing for the User Experience00:09:34 Managing Feature Creep and Simplifying UX00:16:15 User-Centric Design and Business Growth00:25:48 Evolving UX Design Services00:33:12 Limiting Clientele for Meaningful Work00:36:51 Building a Lifestyle Work Balance00:50:01 Supporting Bootswap Founder on Multiple PlatformsThis episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/nick-groeneveld-speaking-the-language-of-your-customers/The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/302-nick-groeneveld-speaking-the-language-of-your-customersThe video: https://youtu.be/mCH_qEHgK0YYou'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.comPodcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcastNewsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletterMy book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.comHere are a few tools I use. Using my affiliate links will support my work at no additional cost to you.- Notion (which I use to organize, write, coordinate, and archive my podcast + newsletter): https://affiliate.notion.so/465mv1536drx- Riverside.fm (that's what I recorded this episode with): https://riverside.fm/?via=arvid- TweetHunter (for speedy scheduling and writing Tweets): http://tweethunter.io/?via=arvid- HypeFury (for massive Twitter analytics and scheduling): https://hypefury.com/?via=arvid60- AudioPen (for taking voice notes and getting amazing summaries): https://audiopen.ai/?aff=PXErZ- Descript (for word-based video editing, subtitles, and clips): https://www.descript.com/?lmref=3cf39Q- ConvertKit (for email lists, newsletters, even finding sponsors): https://convertkit.com?lmref=bN9CZw (00:00) - Designing for the User Experience (09:34) - Managing Feature Creep and Simplifying UX (16:15) - User-Centric Design and Business Growth (25:48) - Evolving UX Design Services (33:12) - Limiting Clientele for Meaningful Work (36:51) - Building a Lifestyle Work Balance (50:01) - Supporting Bootswap Founder on Multiple Platforms
301: Podscan, One Month In (MRR, Expenses, Marketing Tactics)
Do you like revenue and expense numbers? I've been running my new SaaS podscan.fm for a month now. And today, I share all the facts and figures behind this first four weeks — the good, the undecided, and the bad.This episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/301-podscan-one-month-in-mrr-expenses-marketing-tacticsCheck out Podscan to get alerts when you're mentioned on podcasts: https://podscan.fmSend me a voicemail on Podline: https://podline.fm/arvidYou'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.comPodcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcastNewsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletterMy book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.comHere are a few tools I use. Using my affiliate links will support my work at no additional cost to you.- Notion (which I use to organize, write, coordinate, and archive my podcast + newsletter): https://affiliate.notion.so/465mv1536drx- Riverside.fm (that's what I recorded this episode with): https://riverside.fm/?via=arvid- TweetHunter (for speedy scheduling and writing Tweets): http://tweethunter.io/?via=arvid- HypeFury (for massive Twitter analytics and scheduling): https://hypefury.com/?via=arvid60- AudioPen (for taking voice notes and getting amazing summaries): https://audiopen.ai/?aff=PXErZ- Descript (for word-based video editing, subtitles, and clips): https://www.descript.com/?lmref=3cf39Q- ConvertKit (for email lists, newsletters, even finding sponsors): https://convertkit.com?lmref=bN9CZw
300: Marc Louvion — Becoming a Product Launch Beast
Marc Louvion (@marc_louvion) is the Maker of the Year 2023 and the visionary behind the innovative ShipFast. His product development philosophy emphasizes rapid shipping and focusing on feature-specific builds, which has transformed his approach to creating tech products. Utilizing platforms like ProductHunt for launches, Marc highlights the importance of pre-validation and community feedback in fine-tuning his products, illustrating his strategic and responsive methodology to product creation.In our insightful conversation —that at some point turns into a founder brainstorming session— Marc delves into the emotional nuances of creators who navigate various expressive avenues, from entrepreneurship to writing, and then returning to coding. His journey with ShipFast showcases the blend of strategic foresight and serendipity crucial for digital market success, alongside the continuous process of innovation. The discussion dive into the intricacies of building a community around a product, the challenges of SaaS businesses, and the significance of maintaining a work-life balance that incorporates personal interests, which in turn fosters a lifestyle that integrates personal well-being with technological advancement.Marc on Twitter: https://twitter.com/marc_louvion00:00:00 Building and Launching00:07:54 Building Startups, Creating Magic, Finding Success00:13:41 Building a Community Around a Product00:26:08 Building a Software Community Platform00:32:25 Balancing Work and Life as Founders00:41:43 Sharing Hobbies and Life ReflectionsThis episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/marc-louvion-becoming-a-product-launch-beast/The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/300-marc-louvion-becoming-a-product-launch-beastThe video: https://youtu.be/yFy1n1TPWNMYou'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 Launching (07:54) - Building Startups, Creating Magic, Finding Success (13:41) - Building a Community Around a Product (26:08) - Building a Software Community Platform (32:25) - Balancing Work and Life as Founders (41:43) - Sharing Hobbies and Life Reflections
299: Adversarial Thinking in Entrepreneurship
Sometimes, pondering what your worst enemy would do is a good idea. Taking their point of view gives you a fresh perspective on your own work, your business, and the way you are perceived.This episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/adversarial-thinking-in-entrepreneurship/The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/299-adversarial-thinking-in-entrepreneurshipCheck out Podscan to get alerts when you're mentioned on podcasts: https://podscan.fmSend me a voicemail on Podline: https://podline.fm/arvidYou'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.comPodcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcastNewsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletterMy book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.comHere are a few tools I use. Using my affiliate links will support my work at no additional cost to you.- Notion (which I use to organize, write, coordinate, and archive my podcast + newsletter): https://affiliate.notion.so/465mv1536drx- Riverside.fm (that's what I recorded this episode with): https://riverside.fm/?via=arvid- TweetHunter (for speedy scheduling and writing Tweets): http://tweethunter.io/?via=arvid- HypeFury (for massive Twitter analytics and scheduling): https://hypefury.com/?via=arvid60- AudioPen (for taking voice notes and getting amazing summaries): https://audiopen.ai/?aff=PXErZ- Descript (for word-based video editing, subtitles, and clips): https://www.descript.com/?lmref=3cf39Q- ConvertKit (for email lists, newsletters, even finding sponsors): https://convertkit.com?lmref=bN9CZw
298: Sharath Kuruganty — Letting Go Isn't Quitting
Sharath Kuruganty (@5harath) is not only a successful software entrepreneur and podcast host, but he's also open about the tough times he's faced, like losing his job while buying a home and having a baby. Sharath talks about the importance of being grateful, loving yourself, and understanding that life is short. He tells us how staying humble has helped him through tough times.Sharath's story is especially powerful if you've ever felt like you had to change who you are to fit in. He explains how the culture in which he grew up made him chase respect and success in ways that weren't always true to himself. But he learned that being real not only makes you happier but also draws people to you. Sharath's journey into podcasting shows that even introverts can find their voice and audience in today's digital world. His experiences encourage everyone to be themselves and find their unique place in the podcasting community.Sharath on Twitter: https://twitter.com/5harath/00:00:00 Striking a Balance in Entrepreneurship00:08:13 The Power of Authenticity in Public00:16:18 Building Skills and Mindset for Success00:28:08 Improvement, Self-Awareness, and Podcasting for Founders00:36:02 Building Personal Brands Through PodcastingThis episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/sharath-kuruganty-letting-go-isnt-quitting/The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/298-sharath-kuruganty-letting-go-isnt-quittingThe video: https://youtu.be/99dD-rCLH-sYou'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) - Striking a Balance in Entrepreneurship (08:13) - The Power of Authenticity in Public (16:18) - Building Skills and Mindset for Success (28:08) - Improvement, Self-Awareness, and Podcasting for Founders (36:02) - Building Personal Brands Through Podcasting
297: Payment Platforms for Solopreneurs
Making money is hard. But even TAKING money takes some careful decision-making. Let's dive into payment platforms for solopreneurs today. Between Stripe, Paddle, and Lemon Squeezy (and then some), we have plenty of choices. But what matters most to people who already juggle 14 different jobs? I'll share what makes these platforms great, useful, and occasionally problematic for indie founders.This episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/payment-platforms-for-solopreneurs/The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/297-payment-platforms-for-solopreneursCheck out Podscan to get alerts when you're mentioned on podcasts: https://podscan.fmSend me a voicemail on Podline: https://podline.fm/arvidYou'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.comPodcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcastNewsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletterMy book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.comHere are a few tools I use. Using my affiliate links will support my work at no additional cost to you.- Notion (which I use to organize, write, coordinate, and archive my podcast + newsletter): https://affiliate.notion.so/465mv1536drx- Riverside.fm (that's what I recorded this episode with): https://riverside.fm/?via=arvid- TweetHunter (for speedy scheduling and writing Tweets): http://tweethunter.io/?via=arvid- HypeFury (for massive Twitter analytics and scheduling): https://hypefury.com/?via=arvid60- AudioPen (for taking voice notes and getting amazing summaries): https://audiopen.ai/?aff=PXErZ- Descript (for word-based video editing, subtitles, and clips): https://www.descript.com/?lmref=3cf39Q- ConvertKit (for email lists, newsletters, even finding sponsors): https://convertkit.com?lmref=bN9CZw
296: Yong-Soo Chung — Surviving Serial Entrepreneurship
Yong-Soo Chung (@yongsoochung) is a champion of the Personal Holding Company: he owns several businesses, a media company, eCommerce, and a service provider among them. How does one stay sane with that much work in such diverse fields? He shares his survival framework and much more on the show today.I talk to Yong-Soo about hiring the right people to operate your business once it's outgrown you, if he would ever sell his money-making assets, and just how important it is to have your own distinct voice in a world full of best practices.Looking to hire an operator for your business? Start a few more companies? Become better at juggling multiple hats? This one is for you!Yong-Soo on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yongsoochung00:00:00 Juggling Multiple Passion-Based Businesses00:14:26 Building and Nurturing Exceptional Talent00:20:55 Lessons Learned From Starting Projects00:30:23 Exploring Audio-First and Video Formats00:35:16 Podcast and Newsletter Strategy Optimization00:45:47 Navigating Social Media Self-IdentityThis episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/yong-soo-chung-surviving-serial-entrepreneurship/ The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/296-yong-soo-chung-surviving-serial-entrepreneurshipThe video: https://youtu.be/Q9oQdvSxZXsYou'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) - Juggling Multiple Passion-Based Businesses (14:26) - Building and Nurturing Exceptional Talent (20:55) - Lessons Learned From Starting Projects (30:23) - Exploring Audio-First and Video Formats (35:16) - Podcast and Newsletter Strategy Optimization (45:47) - Navigating Social Media Self-Identity
295: Forever Business or Exit?
Many indie hackers and solopreneurs have a big exit as their primary goal. Thatmight be because of the money, but also because of a business’ limited lifespan. But is there something like a ‘forever business’?If so, what do you have to keep in mind here?This episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/forever-business-or-exit/The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/295-forever-business-or-exitCheck out Podscan to get alerts when you're mentioned on podcasts: https://podscan.fmSend me a voicemail on Podline: https://podline.fm/arvidYou'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.comPodcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcastNewsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletterMy book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.comHere are a few tools I use. Using my affiliate links will support my work at no additional cost to you.- Notion (which I use to organize, write, coordinate, and archive my podcast + newsletter): https://affiliate.notion.so/465mv1536drx- Riverside.fm (that's what I recorded this episode with): https://riverside.fm/?via=arvid- TweetHunter (for speedy scheduling and writing Tweets): http://tweethunter.io/?via=arvid- HypeFury (for massive Twitter analytics and scheduling): https://hypefury.com/?via=arvid60- AudioPen (for taking voice notes and getting amazing summaries): https://audiopen.ai/?aff=PXErZ- Descript (for word-based video editing, subtitles, and clips): https://www.descript.com/?lmref=3cf39Q- ConvertKit (for email lists, newsletters, even finding sponsors): https://convertkit.com?lmref=bN9CZw
294: RoxCodes — Building Dreams and Letting Go
Rox (@RoxCodes) recently sold his SaaS thumbnailtest.com. But he's pretty conflicted about the sale. What was promised to be a moment of joy and celebration quickly turned into doubt, grief, and confusion. Today, I talk to my friend Rox about the emotional complexity of giving up something you hold dear, how to move forward, and what it means to level up even further after a successful exit. Rox opens up and talks candidly about the weight on his shoulders, the pressure, and the expectations."Surrender" is the operative term here. If you ever wondered just how nuanced the sale of a business can be and how a founder has to struggle their way through it, this one's for you. Rox on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RoxCodes00:00:00 Founder Talks Acquisition and Business Surrender00:08:07 Choosing Potential in San Francisco00:13:04 Building Creator-Led Software00:25:13 Building a Software Entrepreneurship With Creators00:30:12 Challenges of Building a Public Persona00:44:41 Emotional Toll of Selling a Business00:51:42 Navigating Challenges, Building Next VentureThis episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/roxcodes-building-dreams-and-letting-go/The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/294-roxcodes-building-dreams-and-letting-goThe video: https://youtu.be/OG7ExrERbuYYou'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) - Founder Talks Acquisition and Business Surrender (08:07) - Choosing Potential in San Francisco (13:04) - Building Creator-Led Software (25:13) - Building a Software Entrepreneurship With Creators (30:12) - Challenges of Building a Public Persona (44:41) - Emotional Toll of Selling a Business (51:42) - Navigating Challenges, Building Next Venture
293: Local AI
Today I discuss how I've developed my own advanced AI, moving away from relying on external platforms. I've managed to evolve the Podscan system from basic alerts to being capable of answering complex questions, all thanks to using llama.cpp and Mistral 7b on my own servers. This approach has given me complete control over our technology and made our project more attractive to potential buyers. By leveraging open-source tools, I've minimized our dependency on other platforms and improved our competitive position. And it's because of thousands of people working on this for free that I get to do this. The community support for llama.cpp on GitHub has been a testament to the collaborative effort behind this advancement. This episode celebrates the bold initiatives taken by these awesome developers and entrepreneurs in the AI space, and you'll learn how managing AI in-house can revolutionize a small but powerful software venture.This episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/local-ai-for-software-founders/The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/293-local-aiCheck out Podscan to get alerts when you're mentioned on podcasts: https://podscan.fmSend me a voicemail on Podline: https://podline.fm/arvidYou'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.comPodcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcastNewsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletterMy book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.comHere are a few tools I use. Using my affiliate links will support my work at no additional cost to you.- Notion (which I use to organize, write, coordinate, and archive my podcast + newsletter): https://affiliate.notion.so/465mv1536drx- Riverside.fm (that's what I recorded this episode with): https://riverside.fm/?via=arvid- TweetHunter (for speedy scheduling and writing Tweets): http://tweethunter.io/?via=arvid- HypeFury (for massive Twitter analytics and scheduling): https://hypefury.com/?via=arvid60- AudioPen (for taking voice notes and getting amazing summaries): https://audiopen.ai/?aff=PXErZ- Descript (for word-based video editing, subtitles, and clips): https://www.descript.com/?lmref=3cf39Q- ConvertKit (for email lists, newsletters, even finding sponsors): https://convertkit.com?lmref=bN9CZw
292: Josh Pigford — The Open-Source Transformation of Maybe
Josh Pigford (@shpigford), who created Maybe and Baremetrics, talks about bringing his financial tool back to life by making it open-source!This has sparked surprisingly high levels of interest and even investment. Within two weeks.In our chat, we delve into the challenge of building a platform that simplifies financial data, similar to how Zapier simplifies automation, all under public scrutiny. The goal? A community-supported plugin system and a customizable personal finance operating system for every life stage. Josh also discusses considering changing the technology behind his project to Rails, weighing the pros and cons of different tech choices, and the reasons people contribute to open-source projects.Josh on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Shpigford00:00:00 Building Maybe00:10:44 Standardizing Financial Data Integration00:16:40 Choosing Tech for a Development Project00:24:37 Bootstrapping and Funding Open-Source Projects00:33:13 Motivation and Fulfillment in Helping Others00:38:04 Open Source Software and Long-Term GoalsThis episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/josh-pigford-the-open-source-transformation-of-maybe/The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/292-josh-pigford-the-open-source-transformation-of-maybeThe video: https://youtu.be/wq1qYUxUxagYou'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