Get ready to revolutionize your SaaS product signup process with some unique strategies, insights, and actionable tips from our much-awaited conversation with Ruben Gamez. We delve into Ruben’s innovative practices — temporary changes to the signup process, leveraging surveys for data collection, and dealing with competitors in the e-signature business. We dissect the world of customer segmentation, the merits and demerits of freemium, and effective ways to solicit customer feedback. Listen clos...
Sep 06, 2023•57 min
Have you ever felt deflated upon discovering that your brilliant business idea already exists in the market? Well, you're not alone. I'm Arvid Kahl, and I argue that this should be viewed as a robust validation signal rather than a reason to abandon your idea. We delve into how competition indicates interest and a potential market for your product. We'll also discuss how this presents a unique opportunity, especially for solopreneurs and indie hackers, to make different choices that appeal to un...
Sep 01, 2023•9 min
Get ready to learn everything about product marketing from our guest today, Corey Haines. Corey is a marketing pro who knows a lot about selling the right products to the right people. He talks about problems that indie hackers often face and gives helpful tips to solve them. He also invites us behind the scenes of his new business, Conversion Factory, which helps young companies with their marketing. We chat about how Corey went from doing freelance work to starting his own company with two fri...
Aug 30, 2023•1 hr 3 min
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. And if ...
Aug 25, 2023•26 min
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 ...
Aug 23, 2023•58 min
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...
Aug 18, 2023•27 min
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 — an...
Aug 16, 2023•1 hr 2 min
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 blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/human-creativi...
Aug 11, 2023•10 min
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 l...
Aug 09, 2023•1 hr 5 min
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 th...
Aug 04, 2023•12 min
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 t...
Aug 02, 2023•1 hr 7 min
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 blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/eventual-reciprocity/ The podcast episode: https://share.transistor.fm/s/bb7d24fb Th...
Jul 28, 2023•8 min
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 HypeFu...
Jul 26, 2023•1 hr 5 min
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/ ...
Jul 21, 2023•12 min
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 importanc...
Jul 19, 2023•1 hr 5 min
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/f85b818...
Jul 14, 2023•15 min
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: h...
Jul 12, 2023•58 min
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.co...
Jul 07, 2023•13 min
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-...
Jul 05, 2023•1 hr 8 min
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: htt...
Jun 30, 2023•8 min
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 lo...
Jun 28, 2023•59 min
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-censors...
Jun 23, 2023•11 min
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....
Jun 21, 2023•53 min
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. My new podcast project: Arvid & Tyler Catch Up / https://catchup.fm The blog post: ...
Jun 16, 2023•9 min
"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...
Jun 14, 2023•58 min
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 epis...
Jun 09, 2023•16 min
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, cont...
Jun 07, 2023•59 min
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...
Jun 02, 2023•11 min
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 pr...
May 31, 2023•57 min
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://thebootstrap...
May 26, 2023•8 min
