Episoder
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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
00:11:39 The Journey of Building Outsetta
00:17:47 Founding Team Alignment and Bootstrapping
00:26:01 Revolutionizing Compensation and Company CultureThis 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 Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/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.
- 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 -
This week was a duality of extremes for me. On one hand, I experienced an unprecedented growth spurt in my user numbers, while on the other hand, I stumbled into frustrating scarcity and infrastructure problems. That’s entrepreneurship for you: big wins while struggling to not lose control of the whole thing.
The juxtaposition of these two experiences in a single week was both challenging and enlightening. Today, I want to share the story of navigating the good and the bad simultaneously.
This episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://tbf.fm/episodes/330-50-new-users-overnight-and-a-burning-server
The podcast episode: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/50-percent-new-users-overnight-and-a-burning-server
Check out Podscan to get alerts when you're mentioned on podcasts: https://podscan.fm
Send me a voicemail on Podline: https://podline.fm/arvidYou'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com
Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast
Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/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.
- 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 -
Mangler du episoder?
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Generative AI used to be for early adopters. But now, Apple is bringing it to every iPhone. What does this mean for indie founders?
This episode is sponsored by Acquire.com
The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/ai-for-the-rest-of-us/
The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/329-ai-for-the-rest-of-us
Check out Podscan to get alerts when you're mentioned on podcasts: https://podscan.fm
Send me a voicemail on Podline: https://podline.fm/arvidYou'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com
Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast
Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/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.
- 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 -
A few months ago, I raised a low 6-figure investment for Podscan. Here's the conversation between me and my investor, @tylertringas, that happened just before I signed the contract.
You usually don't get to listen in for one of those. Today, you will.
Tyler and I discuss how the Calm Company Fund navigates the alignment challenge between founders and investors, what makes a business like Podscan investable, and the risks of funding a portfolio of niche bootstrapped businesses.
Tyler on X: https://x.com/tylertringas
00:00:00 Bootstrapper-Compatible Funding
00:06:23 Profit Sharing and Standardizing Investment Agreements
00:12:53 Investor-Founder Alignment & Site Projects
00:22:30 Side Project Management in Investments
00:28:18 Early Stage Financing Investment Considerations
00:40:50 Valuation and Investment Strategy Art
00:48:19 Entrepreneurial Collaboration and Forward PlanningThis episode is sponsored by Acquire.com
The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/negotiating-bootstrapper-funding-with-tyler-tringas/
The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/328-negotiating-bootstrapper-funding-with-tyler-tringas
You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com
Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast
Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/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.
- 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 -
This week, I almost lost access to my database, including all its backups. Also, a full-text index brought down my product. Neither were intended —obviously—, but both made me revisit my safety precautions and how I approach depending on platforms like AWS. Here's what happened, how I got out of there, and what there is to prevent this in the future.
This episode is sponsored by Acquire.com
The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/two-surprisingly-scary-tales-of-platform-risk/
The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/327-two-surprisingly-scary-tales-of-platform-risk
Check out Podscan to get alerts when you're mentioned on podcasts: https://podscan.fm
Send me a voicemail on Podline: https://podline.fm/arvidYou'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com
Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast
Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/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.
- 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 -
Zeno Rocha (@zenorocha) went through YC to build Resend, yet he still acts and thinks like a bootstrapper. In a world of polarized opinions about venture funding and not raising money, Zeno is both "one of us" and "one of them" — for both sides!
Today, we talk about overcoming purism and embracing pragmatic entrepreneurship, starting with picking a niche Zeno truly understands: developers. We dive into how he's building an email platform that makes email fun again, what unexpected challenges a decade-old technology such as email can pose, and how to build a customer-centric business at scale.
Zeno is an indie hacker, and has always been. He embraces venture funding but without all the hype and unicorn-chasing. You'll learn a lot from someone walking the tightrope between worlds that usually collide. Enjoy a friendly conversation about email, extremes, and making your dreams come true.
Zeno on X: https://x.com/zenorocha
00:00:00 Building an Indie Email Company
00:08:48 Attention to Detail in Scaling
00:21:30 Finding the Right Funding Model
00:32:39 Building Developer Ecosystems and PartnershipsThis episode is sponsored by Acquire.com
The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/zeno-rocha-from-bootstrapping-to-ycombinator/
The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/326-zeno-rocha-from-bootstrapping-to-ycombinator
The video: https://youtu.be/-V6D1lXyVQU
You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com
Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast
Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/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.
- 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 -
"Everyone and their mother are talking about AI. Every founder releases their 500th GPT wrapper."
"AI is all hype, no substance."
Or is it? What if our collective perspective is really skewed, and our gathering places are to blame? Here's my take on why indie hackers have a dangerously biased view on what AI businesses are and should look like.
This episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/indie-hackers-myopic-view-of-ai/
The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/325-indie-hackers-myopic-view-of-ai
Check out Podscan to get alerts when you're mentioned on podcasts: https://podscan.fm
Send me a voicemail on Podline: https://podline.fm/arvidYou'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com
Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast
Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/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.
- 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 -
Tim Schumacher (@TimSchu), the mastermind behind SEDO and Adblock Plus, now leads the SaaS Group to new heights. With $60 million ARR, 20 thriving businesses, and 300 employees, Tim shares his incredible journey from a coder to an influential entrepreneur in scaling businesses.
From his strategic focus on developer and online marketing tools to his forward-thinking perspective on the role of AI in reshaping the industry, we dive deep into the bootstrapping mindset and how it empowers founders to build something extremely valuable that SaaS Group can keep running, growing, and creating life-changing exits at the same time.
Oh, and did you know that Tim almost bought my business?
Tim on Twitter: https://x.com/TimSchu
00:00:00 Private Equity and Business Growth Trends
00:12:34 Evaluating Niche Business Acquisitions
00:24:39 Acquisition and Growth Strategies in Business
This episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/tim-schumacher-the-bootstrappers-mindset/
The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/324-tim-schumacher-the-bootstrappers-mindset
The video: https://youtu.be/16MQT8hU7wY
You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com
Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast
Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/
My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com
(00:00) - Private Equity and Business Growth Trends(12:34) - Evaluating Niche Business Acquisitions(24:39) - Acquisition and Growth Strategies in Business
Here 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 -
Today, you get a glimpse into an ongoing marketing experiment for Podscan.fm. What if I can frontload value for my future customers even before they sign up?
Here's why I chose to create a Dream Customer List and how it will help me jumpstart customer acquisition.
This episode is sponsored by Acquire.com
The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/the-power-of-the-dream-customer-list
The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/323-the-power-of-the-dream-customer-list
Check out Podscan to get alerts when you're mentioned on podcasts: https://podscan.fm
Send me a voicemail on Podline: https://podline.fm/arvidYou'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com
Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast
Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/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.
- 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 -
Noah Kagan (@noahkagan) has made AppSumo a massive success — and he's spilling the beans on how to launch, build, and grow a successful software business. Noah likes to keep things weird, and our conversation is proof of that: from Taco T-shirts to failing at entrepreneurship, we walk through the ups and down of a wild and intriguing founder journey.
If you're looking for guidance that actually helps you find your footing, Noah's your man.
00:00:00 Lessons From Noah Kagan's Entrepreneurial Journey
00:12:54 Overcoming Fear of Asking for Help
00:17:56 Importance of Asking and Repeating Messaging
00:26:25 Business Development and Patience in Entrepreneurship
00:30:26 Entrepreneurial Insights on Book Launches
00:37:07 Building Relationships for Business GrowthNoah on Twitter: https://x.com/noahkagan
This episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/noah-kagan-early-stage-founder-hurdles-how-to-jump-them
The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/322-noah-kagan-early-stage-founder-hurdles-how-to-jump-them
The video: https://youtu.be/MolxsU1csKc
You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com
Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast
Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/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.
- 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 -
It started as a normal day — but then things started going wrong. And my stress levels rose.
But I recently learned how to use that to my advantage. Here's how I wrangled with a SaaS founder's worst nightmare, what happened, and how I turned the tables.
This episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/unexpected-downtime-stress-as-enhancement-vs-stress-as-panic
The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/321-unexpected-downtime-stress-as-enhancement-vs-stress-as-panic
Check out Podscan to get alerts when you're mentioned on podcasts: https://podscan.fm
Send me a voicemail on Podline: https://podline.fm/arvidYou'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com
Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast
Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/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.
- 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 -
Dr. Jessica Gold (@blissscience) helps founders live an intentional and passionate life — which ultimately impacts their entrepreneurial success. She wants to put intentional self-care back on the map in a field obsessed with productivity and tracking metrics.
In our conversation, we dive deep into vulnerable places: from romance, passion, and love to dealing with stressful interpersonal conflicts. Dr. Jessica exposes the do-it-(for)-yourself frameworks that can help founders to stay level-headed when challenges seem insurmountable.
Dr. Jessica Gold on Twitter: https://twitter.com/blissscience
(00:00) Navigating Business and Personal Relationships
(12:28) Balancing Work and Pleasure in Founding
(18:04) Balancing Work and Pleasure for Success
(28:00) Importance of Body-Informed TherapyThis episode is sponsored by Acquire.com
The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/dr-jessica-gold-emotional-resilience-and-self-care-for-founders/
The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/320-dr-jessica-gold-emotional-resilience-and-self-care-for-founders
The video: https://youtu.be/-3MGGrldnIM
You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com
Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast
Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/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.
- 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 -
Earlier this week, I finally found time to work on a large code change. When I deployed it, things got worse quickly. Here's what happened, why it happened, and how this changed my approach to working on a complicated software project.
One thing became apparent: while it may look like a waste of time to build something and revert back to "yesterday's version", I got massively interesting insights into my product and my process along the way.
So today, we'll talk about setbacks, getting back up again, and how we can judo a failure into making progress.
This episode is sponsored by Acquire.com
The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/my-saas-server-exploded-how-i-salvaged-it/
The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/319-my-saas-server-exploded-how-i-salvaged-it
Check out Podscan to get alerts when you're mentioned on podcasts: https://podscan.fm
Send me a voicemail on Podline: https://podline.fm/arvidYou'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com
Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast
Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/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.
- 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 -
Louie Bacaj (@LBacaj), once a Walmart engineer, made a bold career shift into the unpredictable world of venture capitalism and entrepreneurship. Now a co-leader of a thriving community for bootstrapped entrepreneurs, Louie reveals how the 'small bets' philosophy guides individuals toward financial freedom and fulfillment. Together with Daniel Vassallo, he has created a unique space that thrives on exclusivity and practicality, challenging the traditional go-big-or-go-home mentality.
Reflecting on our shared transition from engineer to entrepreneur, we explore how small yet strategic side projects, a safety net of real estate investments, and the monetization of expertise can provide a mosaic of possibilities for those on the verge of leaving their day jobs.
Join us as we uncover how integrating AI tools like GPT and Claude Opus helps our community members elevate content creation and make a difference. With inspiration from Sam Walton's step-by-step success, we see how impactful small bets can be. This journey isn't just about building businesses—it's about creating lives that align with our values. Tune in to hear great stories, strategies, and successes!
00:00:00 From Engineer to Entrepreneur
00:11:43 Transition From Engineering to Entrepreneurship
00:20:27 Diverse Business Strategies and AI Implementation
00:25:31 Advancing AI in Business Operations
00:31:25 Building Success Through Small Bets
00:39:48 Supporting Founder's Podcast and Books
This episode is sponsored by Acquire.com
The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/louie-bacaj-betting-small-to-win-big/
The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/318-louie-bacaj-betting-small-to-win-big
The video: https://youtu.be/-c_Nh5_RbTg
You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com
Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast
Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/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.
- 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 -
It's been two months of running Podscan at full speed.
Have I spent 6 figures of money yet? Well, you'll see in this week's update :)
This episode is sponsored by Acquire.com
The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podscan-2-months-and-1k-mrr-in/
The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/317-podscan-2-months-and-1k-mrr-in
Check out Podscan to get alerts when you're mentioned on podcasts: https://podscan.fm
Send me a voicemail on Podline: https://podline.fm/arvidYou'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com
Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast
Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/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.
- 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 -
Marybeth Alexander is the Chief Executive Owl at KnowledgeOwl, a SaaS that focuses on providing the most impactful knowledgebase you could possibly have. We talk about using knowledge management systems outside their "usual" domain of customer service: Marybeth teaches how you can employ a KB for marketing, sales, and even internal documentation purposes.
We also tackle the topic of AI in knowledge management, how extremely simple pricing can be a growth lever, and we dive into the sustainability practices of a B-corp.
It's a ... knowledge-packed episode!
00:00:00 Tools and Scope in Customer Service00:09:14 Utilizing AI and Knowledge Bases
00:14:12 Importance of Documentation in Software
00:21:31 The Future of Knowledge Management
00:27:11 AI Tools and Data Compliance Integration
00:35:42 Intentional Growth Strategy and Business Model
00:41:21 Building a Purpose-Driven Business
This episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/marybeth-alexander-knowledgebase-secrets/
The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/316-marybeth-alexander-knowledgebase-secrets
The video: https://youtu.be/glMBIhxH-rY
You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com
Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast
Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/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.
- 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 -
I went to MicroConf 2024 in Atlanta — here is what I learned. Literally. My brain just absorbed this. I recorded this episode minutes after waking up the day after the conference.
And if you're wondering why my voice is so deep: I've been yelling SaaS stuff at nerds for 3 days straight.
Enjoy.
This episode is sponsored by Acquire.com
The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/microconf-atlanta-my-biggest-learnings/
The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/315-microconf-atlanta-my-biggest-learnings
Check out Podscan to get alerts when you're mentioned on podcasts: https://podscan.fm
Send me a voicemail on Podline: https://podline.fm/arvidYou'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com
Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast
Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/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.
- 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 -
Nicolai Klemke (@nicolaiklemke) is an Indie Hacker with a PhD in Physics. Talk about a career change! Nicolai shares his founder journey from learning how to code to making waves in the music industry.
We chat about carving out a niche in the bustling AI market, honing in on a customer segment that has a need (and a budget!), and building a team to turn a hobby into a profitable business.
Nicolai on Twitter: https://twitter.com/nicolaiklemke
00:00:00 Indie Hacker Journey to AI Product
00:11:15 Impact of Niche Market in AI
00:16:03 Building Teams and Hiring Strategies
00:24:20 Building Business Networks and Support
00:32:20 Building Connections, Micro Features, and Growth
00:40:24 The Future of Synthesizers
00:48:01 Support the Bootstrap Founder Show
This episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/nicolai-klemke-switching-lanes-physics-phd-to-indie-hacker/
The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/314-nicolai-klemke
The video: https://youtu.be/s6j3y9SIzXc
You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com
Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast
Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/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.
- 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 -
When you sell access to an API, what should you keep in mind? How would you protect your data but still make it easy to use? What product and legal repercussions does this all have?
Those are questions I asked myself this week. And today, you get to listen to the process of exploring them and the answers I found.
This episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/challenges-of-offering-an-api/
The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/313-challenges-of-offering-an-api
Check out Podscan to get alerts when you're mentioned on podcasts: https://podscan.fm
Send me a voicemail on Podline: https://podline.fm/arvidYou'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com
Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast
Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/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.
- 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 -
Aaron Francis (@aarondfrancis) lost his job and gained a new outlook on life — or rather, he stepped into entrepreneurship for good. Aaron weighed his options, found old friends who were ready for new adventures and finally took the plunge that his supportive audience wanted to see him take.
Building his platform in public got him here. The skills he developed along the way keep the customers coming. So, where will this journey take him?
Aaron will share his approach, his fears, his hopes, and his strategy with you here today. And he's trying really hard ;)
Aaron on Twitter: https://twitter.com/aarondfrancis/
00:00:00 Navigating Layoffs and Entrepreneurship Journey
00:12:06 Building a Genuine Online Community
00:19:48 The Power of Authentic Storytelling
00:28:39 Try Hard Studios Video Production
00:33:01 Navigating the Galaxy Quadrant Theory
00:40:34 Navigating Career Paths Through Exploration
This episode is sponsored by Acquire.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/aaron-francis-youre-fired/
The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/312-aaron-francis-youre-fired
The video: https://youtu.be/mzSW6ALsmgY
You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com
Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast
Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/
My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com
(00:00) - Navigating Layoffs and Entrepreneurship Journey(12:06) - Building a Genuine Online Community(19:48) - The Power of Authentic Storytelling(28:39) - Try Hard Studios Video Production(33:01) - Navigating the Galaxy Quadrant Theory(40:34) - Navigating Career Paths Through Exploration
Here 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 - Se mer
