Repetition of a process
POPULARITY
Categories
AI Assisted Coding: From Deterministic to AI-Driven—The New Paradigm of Software Development, With Markus Hjort In this BONUS episode, we dive deep into the emerging world of AI-assisted coding with Markus Hjort, CTO of Bitmagic. Markus shares his hands-on experience with what's being called "vibe coding" - a paradigm shift where developers work more like technical product owners, guiding AI agents to produce code while focusing on architecture, design patterns, and overall system quality. This conversation explores not just the tools, but the fundamental changes in how we approach software engineering as a team sport. Defining Vibecoding: More Than Just Autocomplete "I'm specifying the features by prompting, using different kinds of agentic tools. And the agent is producing the code. I will check how it works and glance at the code, but I'm a really technical product owner." Vibecoding represents a spectrum of AI-assisted development approaches. Markus positions himself between pure "vibecoding" (where developers don't look at code at all) and traditional coding. He produces about 90% of his code using AI tools, but maintains technical oversight by reviewing architectural patterns and design decisions. The key difference from traditional autocomplete tools is the shift from deterministic programming languages to non-deterministic natural language prompting, which requires an entirely different way of thinking about software development. The Paradigm Shift: When AI Changed Everything "It's a different paradigm! Looking back, it started with autocomplete where Copilot could implement simple functions. But the real change came with agentic coding tools like Cursor and Claude Code." Markus traces his journey through three distinct phases. First came GitHub Copilot's autocomplete features for simple functions - helpful but limited. Next, ChatGPT enabled discussing architectural problems and getting code suggestions for unfamiliar technologies. The breakthrough arrived with agentic tools like Cursor and Claude Code that can autonomously implement entire features. This progression mirrors the historical shift from assembly to high-level languages, but with a crucial difference: the move from deterministic to non-deterministic communication with machines. Where Vibecoding Works Best: Knowing Your Risks "I move between different levels as I go through different tasks. In areas like CSS styling where I'm not very professional, I trust the AI more. But in core architecture where quality matters most, I look more thoroughly." Vibecoding effectiveness varies dramatically by context. Markus applies different levels of scrutiny based on his expertise and the criticality of the code. For frontend work and styling where he has less expertise, he relies more heavily on AI output and visual verification. For backend architecture and core system components, he maintains closer oversight. This risk-aware approach is essential for startup environments where developers must wear multiple hats. The beauty of this flexibility is that AI enables developers to contribute meaningfully across domains while maintaining appropriate caution in critical areas. Teaching Your Tools: Making AI-Assisted Coding Work "You first teach your tool to do the things you value. Setting system prompts with information about patterns you want, testing approaches you prefer, and integration methods you use." Success with AI-assisted coding requires intentional configuration and practice. Key strategies include: System prompts: Configure tools with your preferred patterns, testing approaches, and architectural decisions Context management: Watch context length carefully; when the AI starts making mistakes, reset the conversation Checkpoint discipline: Commit working code frequently to Git - at least every 30 minutes, ideally after every small working feature Dual AI strategy: Use ChatGPT or Claude for architectural discussions, then bring those ideas to coding tools for implementation Iteration limits: Stop and reassess after roughly 5 failed iterations rather than letting AI continue indefinitely Small steps: Split features into minimal increments and commit each piece separately In this segment we refer to the episode with Alan Cyment on AI Assisted Coding, and the Pachinko coding anti-pattern. Team Dynamics: Bigger Chunks and Faster Coordination "The speed changes a lot of things. If everything goes well, you can produce so much more stuff. So you have to have bigger tasks. Coordination changes - we need bigger chunks because of how much faster coding is." AI-assisted coding fundamentally reshapes team workflows. The dramatic increase in coding speed means developers need larger, more substantial tasks to maintain flow and maximize productivity. Traditional approaches of splitting stories into tiny tasks become counterproductive when implementation speed increases 5-10x. This shift impacts planning, requiring teams to think in terms of complete features rather than granular technical tasks. The coordination challenge becomes managing handoffs and integration points when individuals can ship significant functionality in hours rather than days. The Non-Deterministic Challenge: A New Grammar "When you're moving from low-level language to higher-level language, they are still deterministic. But now with LLMs, it's not deterministic. This changes how we have to think about coding completely." The shift to natural language prompting introduces fundamental uncertainty absent from traditional programming. Unlike the progression from assembly to C to Python - all deterministic - working with LLMs means accepting probabilistic outputs. This requires developers to adopt new mental models: thinking in terms of guidance rather than precise instructions, maintaining checkpoints for rollback, and developing intuition for when AI is "hallucinating" versus producing valid solutions. Some developers struggle with this loss of control, while others find liberation in focusing on what to build rather than how to build it. Code Reviews and Testing: What Changes? "With AI, I spend more time on the actual product doing exploratory testing. The AI is doing the coding, so I can focus on whether it works as intended rather than syntax and patterns." Traditional code review loses relevance when AI generates syntactically correct, pattern-compliant code. The focus shifts to testing actual functionality and user experience. Markus emphasizes: Manual exploratory testing becomes more important as developers can't rely on having written and understood every line Test discipline is critical - AI can write tests that always pass (assert true), so verification is essential Test-first approach helps ensure tests actually verify behavior rather than just existing Periodic test validation: Randomly modify test outputs to verify they fail when they should Loosening review processes to avoid bottlenecks when code generation accelerates dramatically Anti-Patterns and Pitfalls to Avoid Several common mistakes emerge when developers start with AI-assisted coding: Continuing too long: When AI makes 5+ iterations without progress, stop and reset rather than letting it spiral Skipping commits: Without frequent Git checkpoints, recovery from AI mistakes becomes extremely difficult Over-reliance without verification: Trusting AI-generated tests without confirming they actually test something meaningful Ignoring context limits: Continuing to add context until the AI becomes confused and produces poor results Maintaining traditional task sizes: Splitting work too granularly when AI enables completing larger chunks Forgetting exploration: Reading about tools rather than experimenting hands-on with your own projects The Future: Autonomous Agents and Automatic Testing "I hope that these LLMs will become larger context windows and smarter. Tools like Replit are pushing boundaries - they can potentially do automatic testing and verification for you." Markus sees rapid evolution toward more autonomous development agents. Current trends include: Expanded context windows enabling AI to understand entire codebases without manual context curation Automatic testing generation where AI not only writes code but also creates and runs comprehensive test suites Self-verification loops where agents test their own work and iterate without human intervention Design-to-implementation pipelines where UI mockups directly generate working code Agentic tools that can break down complex features autonomously and implement them incrementally The key insight: we're moving from "AI helps me code" to "AI codes while I guide and verify" - a fundamental shift in the developer's role from implementer to architect and quality assurance. Getting Started: Experiment and Learn by Doing "I haven't found a single resource that covers everything. My recommendation is to try Claude Code or Cursor yourself with your own small projects. You don't know the experience until you try it." Rather than pointing to comprehensive guides (which don't yet exist for this rapidly evolving field), Markus advocates hands-on experimentation. Start with personal projects where stakes are low. Try multiple tools to understand their strengths. Build intuition through practice rather than theory. The field changes so rapidly that reading about tools quickly becomes outdated - but developing the mindset and practices for working with AI assistance provides durable value regardless of which specific tools dominate in the future. About Markus Hjort Markus is Co-founder and CTO of Bitmagic, and has over 20 years of software development expertise. Starting with Commodore 64 game programming, his career spans gaming, fintech, and more. As a programmer, consultant, agile coach, and leader, Markus has successfully guided numerous tech startups from concept to launch. You can connect with Markus Hjort on LinkedIn.
Most business owners still treat video as a marketing tool. But in 2025, it is the storefront.In this episode, Neil Twa sits down with Nicolas from Extremely.com to unpack how shoppable videos and livestream commerce are transforming the way consumers buy online. From TikTok Shops generating millions per video to Amazon's new in-stream shopping features, they reveal how brands are converting attention into purchases faster than ever.In This Episode, We Cover:✅ How TikTok and Amazon are leading the shoppable video revolution✅ The secret behind viral videos that generate million-dollar sales✅ Why attention span and content volume are the new marketing currency✅ Frameworks for creating high-converting videos and livestreams✅ How to repurpose TikTok content across platforms for maximum ROI✅ Why every e-commerce brand must start acting like a media company✅ The future of livestream shopping and video gamification
What if your blank notebook became the engine of your business growth? Collin shares the two phrases he writes in every notebook—“Nothing doesn't go in here” and “The first page is profound”—to defeat perfectionism and capture ideas without judgment. He explains why our brains are processors, not hard drives, and how offloading thoughts reduces mental fatigue. Drawing on James Dyson's 5,000+ prototypes, he shows how creativity thrives through small, physical iterations. Finally, he gives a simple cadence: capture daily, review weekly, and treat the page as a workspace—not a performance. Main topics: Idea capture vs. perfectionism Brain as processor, not storage Notebook phrases and mindset Iteration modeled by Dyson Weekly review for execution Main takeaway: “You have to view the blank page as a workspace, not a performance.” That mindset shift frees you from making every idea perfect before it exists. Capture without judgment today, then analyze and refine later. When you separate capture from critique, your creativity keeps flowing and momentum builds. Start with one page, one idea, every day—and watch small iterations stack into real change. Links: Check out our Starter Packs See all of our discounts! Check out ProTrainings Code: CPR-petsitterconfessional for 10% off
In this episode of Passports, Profits, and Pixie Dust, the host revisits a Disney-themed topic after nearly a year. She shares 10 valuable lessons that women entrepreneurs can learn from various Walt Disney World rides, such as Space Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, and Pirates of the Caribbean. Each ride offers insights on taking risks, building momentum, telling compelling stories, embracing diversity, innovating, and facing fears. The host provides actionable takeaways to help listeners apply these lessons to their businesses, fostering growth, creativity, and connection. 00:00 Introduction and Episode Theme 01:28 The Magic of Disney World for Entrepreneurs 01:57 Lesson 1: Taking Risks with Space Mountain 02:49 Lesson 2: Building Momentum with Big Thunder Mountain Railroad 03:36 Lesson 3: The Power of Storytelling with Pirates of the Caribbean 04:37 Lesson 4: Embracing Diversity with It's a Small World 05:16 Lesson 5: Creating Immersive Experiences with Haunted Mansion 06:15 Lesson 6: Innovation and Imagination with Dumbo the Flying Elephant 06:59 Lesson 7: Facing Fears with The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror 07:57 Lesson 8: Testing and Iteration with Test Track 08:54 Lesson 9: Embracing Innovation with Carousel of Progress 10:11 Lesson 10: Pivoting and Perseverance with Tiana's Bayou Adventure 12:15 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Grab your FREE Travel Agent Marketing Starter Kit here:
We've become accustomed to the normal back-to-school craziness this time of year, but this year seems more chaotic than usual! Numerous lawsuits are being filed to challenge the funding cuts, which are having a significant impact on programs, services, staffing, and students. There are numerous unknowns that contribute to the turmoil. We are doing our best to keep our listeners informed as much as possible. In this episode, we refer back to the Supreme Court decision from earlier this year, in which $65 million in educational funding was cut. Join us to learn more!Dr. Annalies Corbin is the founder and CEO of The PAST Foundation. Her work focuses on educational research and development, aiming to be not only a thought leader but also a thought partner with school districts, states, and the federal government. The overriding question driving Dr. Corbin's work is, “What do our kids really need?”Show Highlights:A breakdown of the Supreme Court's decision to withhold $65M in teacher grant fundingInclusion is EVERYTHING!The implications of withholding the $65M, specifically relating to ongoing researchRamifications for national security, citizenship, the future economy, and other aspectsWhat can we do to forge educational reform?The current state of affairs: “Education is to be controlled by the states.”Dr. Corbin's call-to-action: “We need to spend the time, energy, and work at the state levels to advocate for the things kids need.”Understanding a frustrating system for educatorsThe next great iteration of our educational systemResources:Connect with Dr. Annalies Corbin: Website, Instagram, and the Learning Unboxed Podcast Contact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center: www.inclusiveeducationproject.org.Thank you for listening!Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday. If you enjoyed this episode and believe in our message, please help us get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show on Apple Podcasts, Pandora, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Your rating and review help other listeners find this show. Be sure to connect with us and reach out with any questions or concerns: Facebook, Instagram, X, IEP Website, and Email.
In seinem Buch "Das moderne Brettspiel. Die unglaubliche Entwicklung von 1950 bis 2000" skizziert Dr. Tom Werneck, seinerzeit Mitbegründer der Jury "Spiel des Jahres" den Weg des Brettspiels von den ersten Nachkriegsjahren bis zum Aufschwung des sogenannten "German Game". Das Buch ist eine reduzierte und vereinfachte Iteration seiner Dissertation, die er in diesem Jahr vorgelegt hat. Wir blicken auf die Geschichte, die Anfänge der Jury, die Anfänge und Entwicklung des Brettspieljournalismus sowie Toms Kritik an der aktuellen Jury.
A company spends $10M over two years on a critical software product, but after firing one vendor and hiring a second, they still have nothing to show for it. This case study details the 5-step action plan used to rescue a failing project, restore internal credibility, and get product delivery back on track. From revamping the product roadmap and redefining vendor contracts to empowering a true product owner, this episode is a masterclass in turning around a high-stakes technology transformation. Discover how to shift from analysis paralysis to momentum and learn why strategy is meaningless without an execution engine you can trust. We also uncover how the team found a surprise opportunity to build new AI products by leveraging decades of institutional data they already had. In this episode: How to create a living technology and product roadmap that aligns both business stakeholders and frontline users. The critical shift from project management (Gantt charts and deliverables) to product management (business outcomes and priorities). Actionable strategies for vendor governance, including tying payment milestones to the delivery of working software. Using incremental delivery and weekly demos to catch misunderstandings early and de-risk the development process. How to move from "analysis paralysis" to action by designing small experiments to test new AI product ideas. Unlock the full potential of your product team with Integral's player coaches, experts in lean, human-centered design. Visit integral.io/convergence for a free Product Success Lab workshop to gain clarity and confidence in tackling any product design or engineering challenge. Subscribe to the Convergence podcast wherever you get podcasts including video episodes to get updated on the other crucial conversations that we'll post on YouTube at youtube.com/@convergencefmpodcast Learn something? Give us a 5 star review and like the podcast on YouTube. It's how we grow. Follow the Pod Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/convergence-podcast/ X: https://twitter.com/podconvergence Instagram: @podconvergence
In this episode of the Mob Mentality Show, we dive into the growing tension between the fast rise of Agentic AI systems and the foundational principles of Extreme Programming (XP) and Lean Software Development. As more teams experiment with multi-agent LLM orchestrators like Claude, GPT-4, and others, does the risk of generating untested, low-quality "AI slop" increase—unless guided by tight feedback loops, small batch sizes, and real tests? We ask: - Can Agentic AI truly support Agile and XP practices—or is it working against them - Are we moving toward AI-driven productivity or just automating chaos faster? - What practices can keep teams grounded as tools grow more autonomous? Join hosts Austin Chadwick and Chris Lucian as they explore: - The difference between AI-assisted XP excellence and Agentic AI slop - Real-world dev experiences using multi-agent architectures - How to apply small iterations, pairing/mobbing, and test-first thinking in AI-augmented workflows - The pitfalls of Agentic orchestration without lean guardrails - Why mob programming and XP might be the missing link in managing AI complexity - Tips for maintaining engineering rigor in a world of AI copilots and task runners If you're experimenting with AI in software teams—or trying to balance automation with craftsmanship—this conversation is packed with insights, practical takeaways, and a few strong opinions.
Today, we break down the latest Creative Trends in mobile game advertising, separating physics-based ad monsters from emerging AI hooks.Key insights:Golden Goblins & Physics OverloadStill king: physics balls, crystals, pearls, gems.Production values keep climbing = now full 2-minute mini-films.Core loop: satisfying physics + resource overload + fail states.Iteration chains drive CPI drops but blur originality. “UA in a nutshell: copy, tweak, scale.”Fail States as HooksOverstressed trucks, angry exclamation marks, overload explosions.Players are drawn to chaos + comedy.Township 2012-style creatives resurfacing.Cats, freezing families, classic retargeting.AI real-life actor ads (feet glitches give them away).AI anime narrators + skits.Hijacked accounts accidentally running scammy “AI princess” ads.Still clunky — but iteration speed makes it dangerous.Police Snake & Match Villains leading with funny story ads.Humor = harder to copy, longer shelf life.Output BenchmarksTop games producing 60 playables/month to sustain UA spend.Market WinnersIterative ads + humor + AI spillover fuel growth.Takeaway: Physics ads still rule, AI is creeping in, and humor/story hooks are the next battleground.Get our MERCH NOW: 25gamers.com/shop--------------------------------------PVX Partners offers non-dilutive funding for game developers.Go to: https://pvxpartners.com/They can help you access the most effective form of growth capital once you have the metrics to back it.- Scale fast- Keep your shares- Drawdown only as needed- Have PvX take downside risk alongside you+ Work with a team entirely made up of ex-gaming operators and investors---------------------------------------For an ever-growing number of game developers, this means that now is the perfect time to invest in monetizing direct-to-consumer at scale.Our sponsor FastSpring:Has delivered D2C at scale for over 20 yearsThey power top mobile publishers around the worldLaunch a new webstore, replace an existing D2C vendor, or add a redundant D2C vendor at fastspring.gg.---------------------------------------This is no BS gaming podcast 2.5 gamers session. Sharing actionable insights, dropping knowledge from our day-to-day User Acquisition, Game Design, and Ad monetization jobs. We are definitely not discussing the latest industry news, but having so much fun! Let's not forget this is a 4 a.m. conference discussion vibe, so let's not take it too seriously.Panelists: Jakub Remiar, Felix Braberg, Matej LancaricJoin our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipgChapters00:00 Introduction to Creative Trends03:37 Exploring the Golden Goblins11:13 Creative Dashboard Insights14:14 Innovations in Game Creatives20:12 Analyzing New Game Mechanics23:24 The Rise of Short-Form Content26:13 Exploring AI in Gaming30:19 Idle Lumber and Game Mechanics41:26 The Future of AI in Gaming---------------------------------------Matej LancaricUser Acquisition & Creatives Consultanthttps://lancaric.meFelix BrabergAd monetization consultanthttps://www.felixbraberg.comJakub RemiarGame design consultanthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar---------------------------------------Please share the podcast with your industry friends, dogs & cats. Especially cats! They love it!Hit the Subscribe button on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple!Please share feedback and comments - matej@lancaric.me---------------------------------------If you are interested in getting UA tips every week on Monday, visit lancaric.substack.com & sign up for the Brutally Honest newsletter by Matej Lancaric
Too many podcasters rush out content without knowing if it lands with listeners. And when something flops, the damage is already done. Thankfully, there's an alternative way to test new content! In this episode, Vince Quinn shares how to test new segments, styles, and strategies using a simple four-step pilot process that helps you refine ideas before releasing them. Get ready to stop guessing, start testing, and build a show that actually gets results!MORE FROM THIS EPISODE: HTTPS://PODMATCH.COM/EP/349TakeawaysConstant content creation can lead to a feeling of disposability in podcasts.Podcasters should prioritize quality over quantity in their episodes.Using pilots can help refine ideas before presenting them to the audience.Guest screenings are an essential part of the podcasting process.Iteration and feedback are crucial for improving podcast content.Testing ideas privately can lead to better public presentations.Engaging with a premium audience for feedback can enhance content quality.Rushed content can dilute a podcast's brand and audience trust.Every aspect of a podcast can benefit from a pilot approach.It's acceptable to discard ideas that don't resonate after testing.00:00 The Pressure of Constant Content Creation03:13 The Importance of Quality Over Quantity in Podcasting06:06 Implementing Pilots for Podcast Success08:48 Guest Screening as a Pilot Process11:55 The Value of Iteration and FeedbackTakeawaysMORE FROM THIS EPISODE: HTTPS://PODMATCH.COM/EP/349
OpenAI's Codex has already shipped hundreds of thousands of pull requests in its first month. But what is it really, and how will coding agents change the future of software?In this episode, General Partner Anjney Midha goes behind the scenes with one of Codex's product leads- Alexander Embiricos - to unpack its origin story, why its PR success rate is so high, the safety challenges of autonomous agents, and what this all means for developers, students, and the future of coding. Timecodes:0:00 Intro: The Vision for AI Agents1:25 Codex's Origin and Naming3:20 Early Prototypes and Agent Form Factors6:00 Cloud Agents: Safety and Security9:40 Prompt Injection and Attack Vectors12:00 PR Merging: Metrics and Transparency17:00 The Future of Code Review and Automation20:00 User Adoption: Internal vs. External Surprises22:00 Multi-Turn Interactions and Product Learnings29:30 Best-of-N, Slot Machine Analogy, and Creativity33:00 Human Taste, Iteration, and Collaboration40:00 AI's Impact on Software Engineering Careers45:00 Education, CS Degrees, and AI Integration49:00 Prototyping, Hackathons, and Speed to Magic55:00 Legacy Code, Modernization, and Global Adoption1:00:00 Enterprise, Security, and Air-Gapped Environments1:05:00 Product Roadmap and Future of Codex1:10:00 Advice for Founders and Startups1:15:00 Education Reform and Project-Based Learning1:20:00 Hiring, Building, and New Grad Advice Resources: Find Alex on X: https://x.com/embiricoFind Anjney on X: https://twitter.com/AnjneyMidha Stay Updated: If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to like, subscribe, and share with your friends!Find a16z on X: https://x.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zListen to the a16z Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5bC65RDvs3oxnLyqqvkUYXListen to the a16z Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a16z-podcast/id842818711Follow our host: https://x.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures. Stay Updated:Find a16z on XFind a16z on LinkedInListen to the a16z Podcast on SpotifyListen to the a16z Podcast on Apple PodcastsFollow our host: https://twitter.com/eriktorenberg Please note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Summary:Design is critical to ecommerce success. However, design discussions can be fraught with emotion and subjective views. And design execution is influenced by the brand, customer demographic, product range and price point.In this podcast, James Gurd and Paul Rogers delve into the nuances of good ecommerce web design. They explore the subjective and objective elements that define effective design, emphasising the importance of aligning design with brand goals and customer needs. Good design isn't a one-size-fits-all concept but should be tailored to the specific traffic and audience of a site. The podcast highlights the need for a balance between usability and brand presentation, suggesting that design should cater to both high-intent and low-intent audiences.The discussion also touches on the role of art direction in creating a brand's identity and the importance of functional coherence in design.James & Paul reference several websites, including OKA, Sanqvist, Civilist Berlin, On Running, JW Anderson and Oh Polly, as examples of innovative design that successfully integrate creative elements with functional usability. The importance of a structured design discovery process and the need for clear design documentation to ensure consistency and adaptability is emphasised.Throughout the episode, James & Paul flag the evolving nature of ecommerce design, advocating for a strategic approach that considers both aesthetic appeal and practical functionality. Key discussion points:Good design varies by brand.Understanding user intent is critical for design success.Balancing creativity with functionality is key in ecommerce.Art direction is crucial for brand identity.The design discovery process involves managing stakeholder opinions.Functional coherence is essential for user experience.Testing design changes is vital for measuring impact.Design documentation should be fluid and accessible.Chapters:[00:30] Defining Good Web Design[06:40] The Design Discovery Process[13:30] The Role of Art Direction[20:05] Interaction Design and Functional Coherence[24:40] Measuring Investment Impact in Ecommerce[28:00] Balancing Risk and Innovation in Design[29:50] Functional Coherence in Ecommerce Design[36:25] Creating Friction: A Double-Edged Sword[37:50] The Importance of Testing and Iteration[42:50] Design Documentation for Consistency
Today we're joined by Brett Curry from OMG Commerce, and we're grilling him on all things YouTube advertising - where to start, strategy, creative, and how to drive results.We discuss where YouTube sits in the channel mix, how it compares to Meta, why it's still underused by most operators, as well as the challenges of measuring success on YouTube - from attribution challenges to incrementality and brand lift.We also get into creative: what makes a good hook, how to structure a YouTube ad, and the differences between polished content and UGC-style ads. Brett also shares his approach to testing, how many creatives you really need, and the metrics that matter most.Finally, we cover bidding, account structure, and how YouTube can unlock performance across your whole media mix when it's done right.If you have a question for the MOperators Hotline, click the link to be in with a chance of it being discussed on the show: https://forms.gle/1W7nKoNK5Zakm1Xv6Chapters:00:00 Intro11:42 Understanding YouTube: Consumption Patterns and Measurement22:36 The Lift Trifecta: Measuring Success on YouTube30:07 Navigating Attribution Challenges in YouTube Advertising37:34 Optimizing Conversion Events42:39 Account Structure and Automation45:59 Creative Strategies for YouTube Ads01:01:06 Measuring Success and Iteration in CampaignsThe Black Friday Operators Online EventSign up here: https://www.9operators.com/black-fridayPowered by:Motion.https://motionapp.com/pricing?utm_source=marketing-operators-podcast&utm_medium=paidsponsor&utm_campaign=march-2024-ad-readshttps://motionapp.com/creative-trendsPrescient AI.https://www.prescientai.com/operatorsRichpanel.https://www.richpanel.com/?utm_source=MO&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=ytdescAftersell.https://www.aftersell.com/operatorsRivo.https://www.rivo.io/operatorsSubscribe to the 9 Operators Podcast here: https://www.youtube.com/@Operators9Subscribe to the Finance Operators Podcast here: https://www.youtube.com/@FinanceOperatorsFOPSSign up to the 9 Operators newsletter here: https://9operators.com/
Sprintziele gehören zu den stärksten Werkzeugen im Scrum-Framework. Dominique und Oliver sprechen in dieser Folge darüber, wie es Teams gelingt, Sprintziele so zu etablieren, dass sie Orientierung geben, Wirkung entfalten und Vertrauen schaffen. Ein Sprintziel ist schließlich mehr als eine Pflichtübung im Sprint Planning. Richtig eingesetzt, schafft es Klarheit über das „Warum“ der nächsten Iteration und verbindet die tägliche Arbeit mit der Produktvision. Vielen Teams fällt die Nutzung von Sprintzielen jedoch schwer. Häufig gibt es gar kein Ziel oder es bleibt auf der Ebene von Aufgabenlisten stecken. Statt echter Wirkung wird dann nur Output gemessen. Die Folge: wenig Fokus, kaum Begeisterung bei Stakeholdern und sinkendes Vertrauen in den Wert von Sprintzielen. Doch gerade hier liegt der Hebel. Ein gut formuliertes Sprintziel richtet die Arbeit am Outcome aus. Es beantwortet die Frage, welchen Mehrwert das Team in den kommenden zwei Wochen schaffen will und gibt damit eine klare Orientierung für Entscheidungen im Sprint. Statt einer Sammlung von Backlog-Items entsteht ein gemeinsamer Fokus. Im Daily oder im Review lässt sich damit jederzeit prüfen, ob die Arbeit noch auf das eigentliche Ziel einzahlt. Dominique und Oliver machen aber auch deutlich, dass Sprintziele eben nicht im stillen Kämmerlein entstehen sollten. Entscheidend ist die gemeinsame Gestaltung mit den Developern. Wer das Ziel aktiv mitformuliert, wird es auch eher als eigenes Commitment ansehen. So entsteht nicht nur mehr Akzeptanz, sondern auch die Bereitschaft, externe Einflüsse auszuhalten und das Ziel zu verteidigen. Product Owner:innen bringen dabei den strategischen Rahmen ein – etwa Vision, Roadmap oder Product Goal – und öffnen einen Raum, in dem das Team das nächste sinnvolle Ziel bestimmen kann. Ein gutes Sprintziel ist aber auch sichtbar und sie sind im Alltag präsent: in Dailys, in Gesprächen mit Stakeholdern und sogar in der spontanen Antwort auf die Frage „Woran arbeitet ihr gerade?“. Nur so werden sie zu einem lebendigen Orientierungspunkt statt zu einem Protokolleintrag. Wenn ein Team das gemeinsam vereinbarte Sprintziel erreicht, gilt es, diesen Erfolg sichtbar zu feiern; nicht die Anzahl der erledigten Backlog-Items, sondern den erzielten Mehrwert. Gerade im Sprint Review eröffnet das die Chance, Stakeholder zu begeistern und ihnen zu zeigen, warum sich die investierte Arbeit gelohnt hat. So wird das Konzept Sprintziele gestärkt und gewinnt wieder Vertrauen. Zusammengefasst helfen Sprintziele Teams dabei, sich auf das Wesentliche zu konzentrieren, Entscheidungen leichter zu treffen und Stakeholder einzubeziehen. Wer sie konsequent auf Outcome ausrichtet, gemeinsam gestaltet und sichtbar macht, etabliert ein Instrument, das weit mehr ist als eine Formalität. Es ist ein Kompass, der Produktteams eine gemeinsame, wetvolle Richtung gibt.
Ben Arneberg began his career as a US Air Force satellite engineer and member of the Air Force Parachute Team where he learned to take calculated risks that end in success. He's a serial entrepreneur with three exits. Founder of PetHonesty, a consumer brand improving pet health. He's an investor, passionate about disruptive technologies, education, and helping others find and live out their dreams.Highlight Bullets> Here's a glimpse of what you would learn…. Transition from military service to entrepreneurship in e-commerce.Key business principles for successful brand building and exits.Growth strategies for scaling a brand, specifically Pet Honesty.Importance of cash flow management and financial strategies.Hiring top talent and the significance of a strong team.Building and leveraging an advisory board for guidance.Networking strategies to attract skilled professionals.The role of personal development in overcoming business challenges.Emphasis on having a clear vision and aligning goals with values.Iteration and continuous learning as essential components of success.In this episode of the Ecomm Breakthrough Podcast, host Josh Hadley interviews Ben Arneberg, a seasoned entrepreneur and founder of Pet Honesty. Ben shares his journey from a U.S. Air Force satellite engineer to a successful e-commerce entrepreneur with three business exits. He discusses scaling Pet Honesty from zero to $70 million in revenue in three years, emphasizing the importance of strategic hiring, cash flow management, and leveraging a strong network. Ben also highlights the value of having an advisory board and the significance of personal development and clear vision in achieving entrepreneurial success.Here are the 3 action items that Josh identified from this episode:Focus on One Venture for Scalable GrowthInstead of spreading resources across multiple ventures, commit to one business with strong market potential. Prioritize product-market fit and allocate energy toward scaling efficiently.Hire Strategically and Build a Strong NetworkInvest in top talent early to delegate operational tasks and focus on high-level strategy. Leverage industry connections and referrals to attract skilled professionals who align with the company's vision.Manage Cash Flow Proactively for Sustainable Scaling Use creative financial strategies such as leveraging credit lines and optimizing manufacturing processes to maintain liquidity. Consider local production to secure better terms and reduce working capital requirements. Resources mentioned in this episode:Here are the mentions with timestamps arranged by topic:Ecomm BreakthroughJosh Hadley on LinkedIneComm Breakthrough YouTubeeComm Breakthrough ConsultingeComm Breakthrough PodcastEmail Josh Hadley: Josh@eCommBreakthrough.comAmazonKickstarterLinkedInEssentialism by Greg McKeown on AmazonWho Not How on AmazonHigh Growth Handbook on AmazonThe One Thing on AmazonPet Honesty on AmazonKeith CunninghamSpecial Mention(s):Adam “Heist” Runquist on LinkedInKevin King on LinkedInMichael E. Gerber on LinkedInRelated Episode(s):“Cracking the Amazon Code: Learn From Adam Heist's Brand Scaling Secrets” on the eComm Breakthrough Podcast“Kevin King's Wicked-Smart Tips for Building an Audience of Raving Fans” on the eComm Breakthrough Podcast“Unlocking Entrepreneurial Greatness | Insider Secrets With E-myth Author Michael Gerber” on the eComm Breakthrough PodcastEpisode SponsorSponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by eComm Breakthrough Consulting where I help seven-figure e-commerce owners grow to eight figures. I started Hadley Designs in 2015 and grew it to an eight-figure brand in seven years.I made mistakes along the way that made the path to eight figures longer. At times I doubted whether our business could even survive and become a real brand. I wish I would have had a guide to help me grow faster and avoid the stumbling blocks.If you've hit a plateau and want to know the next steps to take your business to the next level, then go to www.EcommBreakthrough.com (that's Ecomm with two M's) to learn more.Transcript AreaJosh 00:00:00 Welcome to the Ecomm Breakthrough podcast. I'm your host, Josh Hadley, where I interview the top business leaders in e-commerce. Past guests include Kevin King, Aaron Cordovez and Michael Gerber, author of the E-myth. Today I am speaking with Ben Arneberg, and we're going to be talking about timeless business principles that allowed him to exit three different brands, and how he's on a journey now where he doesn't even care about money because he is focused on the intrinsic value of what he's giving back to society. I think that's everything that we all want to strive to be as entrepreneurs, and he's going to show us how he's been able to achieve that in his life. This episode is brought to you by Ecomm Breakthrough, where I specialize in investing in and scaling seven figure ecommerce brands t...
This new thing enables misogyny! Step aside coffee houses, D&D and boob armor! Learn how the newest thing once again is the worst misogyny that has ever happened to women!
Was passiert, wenn zwei Agenturgründerinnen ihre Erfahrung in Branding und Digitalmarketing nehmen — und statt für Kund:innen eine eigene Marke launchen? In dieser Folge sprechen Laurence Saunier und Marlena Hien über die Gründung von Bears with Benefits, ihr schnelles Wachstum und den Exit 2022. Sie erzählen, wie ein 3.000-Stück-Test auf Amazon zur Bestseller-Kachel wurde, warum Packaging fürs Smartphone entworfen werden muss und weshalb Bootstrapping ihnen in der Krise den Hals rettete.Wir reden über:• Amazon als Launchpad — wie Traffic, Reviews und schnelle Iteration den ersten Product-Market-Fit brachten. • Retail-Hebel: Vom Amazon-Bestseller zur Listung bei Douglas, dm & Rossmann — und wie das Vertrauen in den Handel reingetragen wurde. • Packaging = Content: Design, das auf Instagram funktioniert — und warum die Dose auf Feed & Shelf zugleich performen muss. • Bootstrapped statt VC: Warum Profitabilität in einer späteren Krise zum strategischen Vorteil wurde. • Female-First Brandbuilding: Feminine Leadership, Community-Aufbau und die Rolle von Influencer-Marketing als Performance-Hebel. • Exit & Next Steps: Warum sie verkauft haben, wie sie den Übergang gestaltet haben — und wie sie jetzt als Gründerinnen, Investorinnen und Mentorinnen weitermachen.Ein inspirierendes Gespräch über Mut, Pragmatismus und das Handwerk, aus einem Produkt eine Kulturmarke zu bauen.
Click Here to Get All Podcast Show Notes!What happens behind billion-dollar boardrooms? Sharran just walked out of three, and he's sharing the seven lessons every entrepreneur needs right now. Instead of drowning in theory or corporate jargon, Sharran distills insights from billion-dollar companies, major media platforms, and investment firms into practical strategies you can implement today.From why systems matter more than superstars to the critical role of onboarding and the difference between amateurs and professionals when it comes to automation, this episode is packed with insights that challenge conventional wisdom. If you've ever wondered what the smartest operators in the world are focused on right now, this episode gives you a front-row seat. Tune in to learn how to rethink systems, plan ahead, and create breakthroughs in your business.“Amateurs automate for efficiency. Professionals automate for accuracy.”- Sharran SrivatsaaTimestamps:01:25 - Why boards are often broken and how Sharran reframed their value05:17 - Lesson 1: Systems carry the real weight, not just talent06:40 - Lesson 2: Always design with scale in mind07:57 - Lesson 3: Iteration beats waiting for perfection09:02 - Lesson 4: Use pre-mortems to plan for failure in advance10:28 - Lesson 5: Language shapes culture–ditch acronyms and clarify terms11:43 - Lesson 6: Automate for accuracy, not just for efficiency15:10 - Lesson 7: Make “Day One” better through meaningful onboardingResources:- The Next Billion by Sharran Srivatsaa - https://sharransrivatsaa.substack.com/- Acquisition.com - https://www.acquisition.com/- Join the Future Proof Community - https://futureproofsecrets.com/- The Real Brokerage - https://www.joinreal.com/- Top Agent Power Pack - https://sharran.activehosted.com/f/121- The 5am Club - https://sharran.com/5amclub/- Join the 10K Wisdom Private Partner Podcast, now available to you for free - https://www.highlandprime.com/optin-10k-wisdom- Join Sharran's VIP Community - https://sharran.com/vip/- ARC Multifamily Real Estate...
Iteration is where breakthroughs happen. Instead of expecting yourself to nail it right away, what if you gave yourself permission to test, learn, and improve along the way? In this episode, I share how iteration creates momentum, builds confidence, and ultimately leads to results that last. Want to be in the room where it's all happening? The Vortex is open—come build from clarity, not chaos. https://www.itsambersmith.com/vortex Learn more about my private coaching experience where we talk about your unique sales process, your golden offer, and your abundance mindset: https://www.itsambersmith.com/coaching If you're interested in working together, book a call HERE. Can't wait to chat! The Lightning Alignment Journal: https://a.co/d/iiBnzAJ Gain access to my new book Quiet Wealth at: https://a.co/d/aCoGl8N
The #1 Leadership Skill No One Teaches | Chris Dyer on Company Culture & Scaling Businesses Culture isn't an afterthought—it's the foundation of every successful business. In this episode of Unemployable with Jeff Dudan, I sit down with Chris Dyer, Inc. Magazine's #1 leadership speaker on company culture, elite water polo athlete, and author of The Power of Company Culture. We explore how to build scalable culture from day one, why meetings reveal the truth about leadership, and how to balance people and performance metrics in fast-growth companies. Chris shares his seven pillars of culture, insights on remote work, and why AI is reshaping how leaders think about the future of business. If you're a startup founder, entrepreneur, franchise owner, or leader looking to create a team that thrives—this conversation will change the way you think about leadership.
The #1 Leadership Skill No One Teaches | Chris Dyer on Company Culture & Scaling Businesses Culture isn't an afterthought—it's the foundation of every successful business. In this episode of Unemployable with Jeff Dudan, I sit down with Chris Dyer, Inc. Magazine's #1 leadership speaker on company culture, elite water polo athlete, and author of The Power of Company Culture. We explore how to build scalable culture from day one, why meetings reveal the truth about leadership, and how to balance people and performance metrics in fast-growth companies. Chris shares his seven pillars of culture, insights on remote work, and why AI is reshaping how leaders think about the future of business. If you're a startup founder, entrepreneur, franchise owner, or leader looking to create a team that thrives—this conversation will change the way you think about leadership.
Welcome to the 8020 Baseball Podcast, where Coach Bo shares a direct path to becoming a great youth baseball coach by combining his 20+ years of baseball coaching experience with his 20+ years of unique teaching experience, while also drawing on his experiences playing youth, HS, collegiate, and professional baseball.A deep level of baseball knowledge, combined with universal strategies such as the 80/20 Principle, gives this podcast a uniquely advanced approach to mastering all the key parts of coaching youth baseball.The podcast combines solo episodes with high-quality interviews featuring individuals who share specific, actionable strategies for youth baseball coaches. New episodes every Tuesday!Head over to 8020BASEBALL.com and get the newly launched COACHING PLAN and the free 21-page Drill Design Guide PDF.The best ways to support the podcast are to share it with a friend and leave a review. Thank you.
Pritesh Patel, Director of AI at Fisher Phillips, joins The Tech Trek to unpack how AI is reshaping knowledge-based businesses and what that means for industries like law, consulting, and beyond. From shifting revenue models to practical adoption challenges, Pritesh shares how firms can embrace AI early, stay competitive, and unlock new opportunities. This episode is a roadmap for leaders who want to move from incremental efficiency to real transformation.Key Takeaways• AI is disrupting the traditional “revenue per person” model, pushing knowledge firms toward more outcome-driven approaches• Early adoption matters: experimenting now gives companies a competitive edge rather than playing catch-up later• Success in AI transformation starts with deeply understanding business outcomes, not just implementing new tools• Human expertise will remain essential, but AI will free professionals to focus on higher-level, creative problem-solving• Iteration speed is a critical advantage: nimble firms can innovate faster than larger, slower-moving competitorsTimestamped Highlights01:32 – Defining knowledge-based businesses and why AI is changing the game04:33 – How old business models are being disrupted by automation and new expectations08:55 – Translating technical expertise into outcomes that resonate with non-technical stakeholders14:23 – A framework for identifying high-impact opportunities before choosing a technology solution16:34 – Building an innovation engine through fast prototyping and iteration21:16 – The role of trust, validation, and regulation in the future of AI-powered knowledge workQuote of the Episode“You don't want to be in a situation where you're adapting late because of competition. If you start early, you can shape the future of your industry instead of reacting to it.” — Pritesh PatelPro Tips• Focus first on business outcomes, not technology. Identify the most impactful functions, then explore how AI can enhance them• Use prototyping to spark ideas and build momentum. A working demo creates buy-in faster than presentationsCall to ActionIf this conversation sparked ideas about how AI could reshape your business, share the episode with a colleague who would benefit. Subscribe to The Tech Trek for more conversations with leaders driving the future of technology, and connect with us on LinkedIn to continue the discussion.
In dieser Folge sprechen Oliver und Alois über KI im Mittelstand und die Lücke zwischen Hype und tatsächlicher Nutzung. Der Mittelstand bleibt Rückgrat der Wirtschaft, kämpft aber mit Legacy-Systemen und Generationenwechsel. Ihr Vorschlag: nicht im Kernprozess starten, sondern in begleitenden Bereichen wie Service oder Vertrieb einen klaren Schmerzpunkt wählen, diesen als 12-Wochen-Pilot mit Vorher-nachher-Messung testen und daraus lernen. Die Modelle werden iterativ reifer, kleine spezialisierte Varianten reichen oft; entscheidend sind saubere Abläufe, verlässliche Daten, klare Verantwortlichkeiten und einfache Regeln für Qualität und Sicherheit. Technisch pragmatisch bleiben: offene Modelle dort betreiben, wo es sinnvoll ist, für komplexere Fälle APIs nutzen, Kosten, Datenschutz und Lock-in im Blick. Europa bietet genügend Bausteine und Partner – Abwarten ist keine Strategie. Fazit: jetzt starten, klein und messbar vorgehen, den eigenen KI- und Datenmuskel aufbauen und Schritt für Schritt Wirkung erzielen.Wesentliche Learnings• Nicht warten, jetzt starten – klein, risikoarm, messbar• Erst außerhalb des Kernprozesses beginnen (z. B. Service, Vertrieb)• Drei KPIs definieren (Antwortzeit, Lösungsquote, Zufriedenheit) und Vorher-nachher vergleichen• 12-Wochen-Pilot: erst Mitarbeitende unterstützen, dann Routinefälle teilautomatisieren• Qualität vor Größe: kleines Senior-Kernteam, das KI-Werkzeuge souverän nutzt• Governance früh klären: Datenzugriffe, Verantwortlichkeiten, Review/Freigaben• Abhängigkeiten reduzieren: Hybrid fahren, Tokenkosten und Lock-in aktiv managen• KI- und Datenkompetenz zur Chefaufgabe machen und regelmäßig trainieren• Europäische Optionen prüfen und Partner einbinden statt auf „das eine“ Modell zu warten• Iteration akzeptieren: kein Big Bang, sondern stetige, messbare Verbesserungen
When the AI wave hit, Jabeen Zaidi, founder of Spring AI, faced that exact storm. Competing against giants like Adobe and Canva, she sat down with Collin on an episode of the Predictable Revenue Podcast to discuss how Spring gained traction by starting small, earning user trust, and iterating with honest feedback instead of chasing hype. If you're building in AI, crypto, or any market where trends move faster than teams, these lessons will help you survive long enough to grow. Highlights include: The Leap into Entrepreneurship (03:19), Market Research and Validation (04:07), Feedback and Iteration (08:19), Customer Validation and Use Cases (13:09), and more... Stay updated with our podcast and the latest insights in Outbound Sales and Go-to-Market Strategies!
Today, I'm talking with Kolton Andrus, CEO and Founder of Gremlin. You may remember previously when we spoke with Matt, the prior CTO of the company. Since that time frame, a lot has changed at the company, going through several arcs and foundational changes that are leading to not only assessing weaknesses in your infrastructure, but walking you through how to fix it (and eventually, fixing it for you).Questions:Tell us a little bit of an overview about you.Your time at Amazon & Netflix were big influences on the importance of chaos engineering and reliability testing. Can you tell me what was so foundational about your time there?What is next iteration of Gremlin? What has changed in the platform primarily? Tell me about the arcs of the company here.In 2022, there was a leadership transition and you increased your focus on the product. What are some of the most exciting developments that came from these last 3 years?Where does AI fit into Chaos Engineering? And where does it not fit? Can you unpack your viewpoint here?What are you most excited about in the next chapter for Gremlin, and for the broader SRE space?What advice would you give a founder just getting started?I couldn't be more excited about the future of Gremlin. Given the arcs the company has gone through, it's evident that Kolton has built foundational layers into the platform, and is steering the ship towards responsible chaos engineering, reliability, automation and much more.Thank you for listening to today's episode. If you'd like to learn more about Gremlin, please visit gremlin.com.SponsorsPaddle.comSema SoftwarePropelAuthPostmanMeilisearchMailtrap.TECH Domains (https://get.tech/codestory)Linkshttps://www.gremlin.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/kolton-andrus-77315a2/https://codestory.co/podcast/e9-matt-fornaciari-gremlin/Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/code-story/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
In this solo episode, Matej breaks down the new rules of user acquisition for mobile games in 2025, backed by real survey data from 20,000+ newsletter subs and hundreds of UA managers. Full report: https://lancaric.substack.com/p/q1-2025-brutally-honest-ua-reportFrom channel splits and rewarded UA to the creative volume arms race, fraud, AI hacks, and why your next UA hire needs to be a creative prompt engineer, nothing is off the table. This is the data-driven, brutally honest update the industry needs.What's inside:UA Channel Reality: Most studios still pump 80 percent of spend into Facebook and Google, even when running across nine channels and doing seven million a year. Some are forced to pause Facebook or shift heavy budgets to Applovin—yet diversification is still rare and risky.Rewarded UA Surge: Rewarded UA channels are exploding, with more vendors than ever. The scale is better, but fraud and LTV prediction remain massive headaches. Retention falls off after D7, so you need tougher targets, multi-step offers, and real post-install engagement to make the math work.Creative Arms Race: The volume of creatives needed has never been higher. The best ad-monetized games now pump out 2,000+ creatives a quarter—more shots on goal, more winners, and more chance to beat your “stuck” top creative. Iteration and refresh speed is everything.AI Eats Creative: AI-generated creatives, AI UGC, and meta-style hooks are not a trend—they're the new default. The best teams use AI to pump out, localize, and iterate hooks, voiceovers, and even UGC cameos faster than ever.Creative Testing & Skills: Most teams test new creatives by launching them straight into BAU (business as usual) campaigns, rather than in separate tests. TikTok and Apple, not just Facebook, are where new winners show up. If your UA manager can't write a killer AI prompt, you're already behind.Key Takeaway:2025 is not about more channels or smarter spend—it's about creative firepower, AI leverage, and hiring UA pros who are part prompt engineer, part analyst, part storyteller. Copy the benchmarks, scale the winners, and never stop refreshing.Get our MERCH NOW: 25gamers.com/shop---------------------------------------Vibe. Vibe is the leading Streaming TV ad platform for small and medium-sized businesses looking for actionable advertising campaign performance.https://www.vibe.co/---------------------------------------This is no BS gaming podcast 2.5 gamers session. Sharing actionable insights, dropping knowledge from our day-to-day User Acquisition, Game Design, and Ad monetization jobs. We are definitely not discussing the latest industry news, but having so much fun! Let's not forget this is a 4 a.m. conference discussion vibe, so let's not take it too seriously.Panelists: Matej LancaricYoutube: https://youtu.be/8tC8hnnDbiwJoin our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-2um8eguhf-c~H9idcxM271mnPzdWbipgChapters00:00 Introduction to the State of User Acquisition04:19 Key Findings from the UA Survey07:12 Current Trends in User Acquisition Channels10:09 Challenges in Rewarded User Acquisition13:19 Creative Strategies for Effective User Acquisition16:12 The Role of AI in Creative Production19:22 Testing and Iterating Creatives22:22 Future Skills for User Acquisition Managers25:05 Conclusion and Final Thoughts---------------------------------------Matej LancaricUser Acquisition & Creatives Consultanthttps://lancaric.meFelix BrabergAd monetization consultanthttps://www.felixbraberg.comJakub RemiarGame design consultanthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar---------------------------------------Please share the podcast with your industry friends, dogs & cats. Especially cats! They love it!Hit the Subscribe button on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple!Please share feedback and comments - matej@lancaric.me
Ever wonder what happens when two small-town dreamers return home with fresh eyes and big ideas? Ryan and Chad Whaley's journey from PR professionals to the owners of the vibrant Paddle Bar in Sandusky, Ohio reveals exactly what's possible when vision meets opportunity.The Whaleys saw potential where others saw decay. After careers that took them to Colorado's ski resorts, they returned to their hometown with entrepreneurial fire and immediately recognized what many locals had overlooked – Sandusky's waterfront was a blank canvas full of possibility. "It took traveling and living elsewhere to see it," Ryan explains, describing the moment they stood on the shore looking at empty buildings and wondering why nobody was capitalizing on this stunning location.Their entrepreneurial path wasn't straight – starting with a PR firm, then opening the Volstead Bar (a speakeasy with mysterious green lights indicating available seating), and finally creating the Paddle Bar, which itself morphed from an outdoor equipment store with a 32-foot climbing wall into a thriving waterfront establishment with Key West vibes. What makes their story particularly compelling is their willingness to pivot when opportunities presented themselves. As Chad puts it, "The bar kind of swallowed the rest of the shop," and they were smart enough to let it happen.Behind their success lies intentional hospitality culture. From carrying specific beers that trigger vacation memories to ensuring that every customer receives immediate acknowledgment upon entering, they've created what sociologists call a "third place" where locals and tourists blend seamlessly. But don't let their casual vibe fool you – they've learned to become plumbers, electricians, and problem-solvers who'll show up at 3 AM to fix a sensor because "you can't run the next day if it's not fixed."The brothers' approach to securing investment offers valuable lessons too. Rather than rigid business plans, they presented flexible options while demonstrating their adaptability. "Be yourself," Ryan advises potential entrepreneurs. "An investor is going to want to bet on you."Check out the Paddle Bar next time you're in Sandusky – with its fresh-squeezed juice cocktails, relaxed atmosphere, and brothers who transformed not just a building but helped spark their hometown's renaissance. As Ryan says about Sandusky's revitalization, "We're only halfway up the hill, we're not even at the top yet" – and that's exactly what makes this journey worth following.Guest Links: https://www.facebook.com/PaddleBarSanduskyMain Street Reimagined:Facebook: facebook.com/MainStreetReimaginedThe Main Street Reimagined Podcast, Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLqfkmF5bRH0od1d3iiYKs3oEn_gvMYk7NHenry Development Group:Facebook: facebook.com/henrydevelopmentgroupWebsite: www.henrydevelopmentgroup.comDeveloping News Newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/33110524eb5c/developing-newsLuke Henry:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/luhenryFacebook: facebook.com/luke.henry.148#DowntownRevitalization #LocalBusiness #Entrepreneurship #GreenDoorMedia #VolsteadBar #PaddleBar #SnapshotsOfSuccess #SmallTownBigVision #RustBeltRising
Zwei Pauls, eine Mission: KI neu denken. In dieser Episode spricht Benjamin von Paul's Job mit Paul Wagner von Teamwork über den echten Einsatz von agentischer KI in Unternehmen. Was kann ein KI-Agent wie „Paul“ wirklich? Welche Prozesse lassen sich automatisieren – und was bleibt (vorerst) menschlich? Die beiden teilen ihre Erfahrungen aus der Praxis, sprechen über Fehlerkultur, Systemgrenzen und warum echtes KI-Produktdesign viel mehr mit Neugier und Iteration zu tun hat als mit bloßer Technik. Eine ehrliche, tiefgründige Folge für alle, die Agenten nicht nur als Buzzword sehen.Mehr zu Paul und Teamwork:https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-wagner-457341280/https://www.linkedin.com/company/teamwork-instore-services-gmbh/https://www.teamwork-germany.com/unsere-leistungen/Paul's Job:https://paulsjob.ai/https://www.instagram.com/paulsjob/https://www.linkedin.com/company/paulsjob/https://www.youtube.com/@paulsjob/featuredHR Visionaries International:https://open.spotify.com/show/2uwo54DBhRdeVdmqKocnXT?si=54383b1a24af4ac2https://podcasts.apple.com/de/podcast/hr-visionaries-international/id1711042208https://www.youtube.com/@paulsjob/featured
Episode Title: From Burnout to Breakthrough: Building Better Engineering Teams with Thanos DiacakisGuest: Thanos DiacakisHost: Virginia PurnellPodcast: Entrepreneur ConundrumLinks & Resources:Website: https://www.cosmicteacups.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thanosd/Download: 7 Mental Models for Software DevelopmentWhat You'll Hear in This Episode:How Thanos turned early startup experience into a career of helping software teams scaleCommon misconceptions about engineering productivityThe four types of work all software teams should balanceWhy going “faster” often starts with doing lessThanos' ABCD framework: Iteration, Quality, Complexity, PlanningThe truth about burnout, identity, and finding joy in software againBest advice Thanos has ever received—and givenHis favorite book (Changing on the Job) and favorite movie (A Few Good Men)Ideal For:Startup founders with growing engineering teamsCTOs and engineering managers facing team burnout or delivery delaysAnyone curious about the intersection of software development and team healthSubscribe & Review:Love what you hear? Subscribe to Entrepreneur Conundrum and leave a review to help more founders find their flow.Key Questions(01:12) How did you end up on this journey and where you are today?(02:32) Who's your ideal client today?(04:00) How do you get in front of these people?(08:12) What are a couple of big goals that you're looking to achieve in the next year or two?(09:00) How would that affect your business?(09:41) So I think you've already touched on all of the questions about how to deliver software faster by doing less. I think we talked about that with time allocation, right? Is there anything else that you wanted to touch on?(15:36) Is working with you an ongoing long term aspect, or is it for a certain time It will usually start with some engagement to the tune of six months.(17:52) Is it hard to find where the bottleneck is in the software?(20:16) What is the best advice that you have ever received?(21:30) What's the best advice you've ever given?(23:35) I have that question, too, because you've done quite a few startups, and you have a family and stuff like So do you have any tips on how you were able to try to have that balance?(25:57) Is there anything else that you would like to talk about that we haven't yet?(26:10) What is your favorite book and movie?(29:21) Where can we go to learn more about you and what you do?Thanos Diacakishttps://www.cosmicteacups.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/thanosd/Virginia PurnellFunnel & Visibility SpecialistDistinct Digital Marketing(833) 762-5336virginia@distinctdigitalmarketing.comwww.distinctdigitalmarketing.comwww.distinctdigitalmarketing.co
In this new episode of The Truth In This Art, Henry Hyde—artisan and owner of Hyde Handmade Knives—returns to talk craft, community, and creating work that resonates.Known for his kitchen knives and meticulous approach to materials, Henry reflects on the evolution of his process, from isolating early days in a factory during the pandemic to searching for real connection at local craft shows. We discuss the emotional realities of working alone, the value of hands-on feedback over fleeting online attention, and why practical iteration beats perfectionism.Navigating solitude and the creative processChoosing craftsmanship over mass attentionEmbracing feedback at markets and in personLetting go of perfectionism and releasing finished workThe balance between woodworking, tinkering, and knife making
Paul Becker, Gründer von LIQID und re:cap, spricht mit Chris Püllen über die Unterschiede in der Produktfindung zwischen B2C- und B2B-Fintech. Mit einer frischen Series A Finanzierung teilt Paul, wie man trotz Balance-Sheet-Komponente erfolgreich Investoren überzeugt und warum qualitatives Feedback wichtiger ist als schnelle Iteration. Was du lernst: Wie re:cap durch Bestandsinvestoren die Series A in schwierigem Marktumfeld sicherte Warum Fintech-Fundraising anders ist als klassisches B2B-SaaS Die Bedeutung von qualitativer Produktvalidierung vs. schneller Iteration Wie man vom ersten Konzept zur Marktreife kommt ALLES ZU UNICORN BAKERY: https://zez.am/unicornbakery Paul Becker & Chris Püllen findest du hier: re:cap: https://www.re-cap.com/de Paul: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulbckr/Chris: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisnaro/ naro: https://www.naroiq.com/ Join our Founder Tactics Newsletter: 2x die Woche bekommst du die Taktiken der besten Gründer der Welt direkt ins Postfach: https://www.tactics.unicornbakery.de/
In this candid episode, Kelly shares a behind-the-scenes story about how a string of mismanaged logistics, broken agreements, and skyrocketing costs at a luxury hotel led to a major shift in her business model - and a powerful lesson about burnout, boundaries, and making executive decisions to prevent burnout. What began as a stressful event planning experience turned into a breakthrough moment that resulted in a full overhaul of Kelly's live event strategy. Now, she's running more impactful, accessible, and profitable events - all without sacrificing joy, client experience, or her mental well-being. If you feel like you've been forcing a part of your business to work (even when it's clearly broken), this episode will give you permission to stop spinning your wheels, and start reinventing. TIMESTAMPS: 01:20 – Why burnout is the most dangerous threat to your business 04:00 – Learning to prevent burnout, not just respond to it 06:40 – The hotel event disaster: broken promises, rising costs, and poor service 17:45 – The radical pivot: shifting to alternative venues and brand sponsorships for lower overhead costs, more flexibility and control 24:30 – Making high-level retreats more accessible and affordable for clients 27:05 – The deeper lesson: when iteration isn't enough, it's time for reinvention 29:00 – Why joy should never be the cost of your next growth phase KEY TAKEAWAYS: Burnout doesn't just happen from overwork. It happens when misaligned systems wear you down Iteration isn't always the answer; sometimes you need a total reinvention Being decisive in making executive decisions protect your energy and your impact Creating accessible, profitable events can be done without selling from stage When your business model starts to feel heavy, it's time to question the structure - not your mission RESOURCES: Grab your ticket to CALLED TO LEAD, hosted by Kelly Roach and Sandi Glandt, on September 25th in South Florida: https://www.sandiglandt.com/called-to-lead Download Kelly's FREE Reinvention Playbook: https://thekellyroach.com/reinvention Follow Kelly on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kellyroachofficial/ Follow Kelly on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kelly.roach.520/
Ollie Connolly, who writes the Read Optional newsletter and for The Guardian, joins The Alec Lewis Show to talk about the 2025 Vikings. They discuss his evaluation for J.J. McCarthy coming out of Michigan, McCarthy's fit with Kevin O'Connell, Brian Flores's new-look defense and more. This show is presented by First Resource Bank, which serves the needs of small businesses, entrepreneurs, and individuals in the Twin Cities and surrounding areas. For more information, here is their website: https://myfrbank.com/ And here is a link to all of their locations! https://myfrbank.com/locations-hours/ Also, GIVEAWAY details: — Follow @AlecLewisShow on Instagram & X: https://www.instagram.com/aleclewisshow/ — Subscribe to YouTube channel — Like this post: https://x.com/alec_lewis/status/1937192647149383771 On Ep. 95 of @AlecLewisShow, @alec_lewis talks to @OllieConnolly about J.J. McCarthy's arm, Brian Flores's defense and more:
This week's podcast is about how Alibaba's Amap quickly dethroned market leader Baidu Maps.You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.Here is the link to our Tech Tours.Here is the Amap case study.My summary of the Alibaba Management Playbook:Diagnose the problem: Stagnant growth? Negative NPS? Low engagement?1-Unwavering focus on customer value. Re-clarify customer value. This includes:Customer segmentation. Who are you targeting? What are you after (revenue)? Traffic? Data (Amap)?What do they most care about? Map out the process.Is what customers want changing? Tech change? PC to mobile changed what maps could do.What is the competitor offering and how you are going to take their customers?2-Fix the Big Pain Points. Requires Data-Driven Decision Making and Iteration.3-Do cultural change and increased communication and coordination.4-Agile teams and tactics are key. Tactical brilliance and guerrilla execution.5-Have early wins.6-Build a powerful biz model or operating flywheel.--------- I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the show
Patrick Haede, Gründer von Superscale, spricht über den Weg von seinem erfolgreichen Agenturgeschäft Sonic zu einem KI-getriebenen Marketing-Tool. Patrick teilt, wie sein Team in nur vier Monaten eine 5-Millionen-Euro-Finanzierung sicherte und ein Produkt entwickelte, das Marketing-Prozesse revolutioniert. Er gibt tiefe Einblicke in die Herausforderungen der AI-Transformation, Produktentwicklung in der KI-Ära und die Balance zwischen Startup und Familie. Was du lernst: Von der Agentur zum AI-Startup: Wie Sonic mit 2 Millionen Euro Jahresumsatz zu Superscale wurde Warum die AI-Revolution traditionelle Agenturmodelle disruptet Produktentwicklung in der KI-Ära: Wie sich Entwicklungszyklen und User-Interfaces durch AI fundamental ändern Warum wöchentliche Releases und schnelle Iteration entscheidend sind Fundraising und Team: Wie Superscale in nur 6 Tagen eine Pre-Seed-Runde abschloss Die Bedeutung von Produktdemos statt klassischer Pitch Decks Work-Life-Balance als Gründer: Wie Patrick Familie und Startup unter einen Hut bringt Praktische Tipps für effizientes Zeitmanagement und Fitness Technische Skalierung: Learnings aus dem Produktlaunch und API-Limits Wie man eine technische Infrastruktur für schnelles Wachstum aufbaut ALLES ZU UNICORN BAKERY: https://zez.am/unicornbakery Mehr zu Patrick: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrickhaede/ Website: https://www.superscale.ai/ Join our Founder Tactics Newsletter: 2x die Woche bekommst du die Taktiken der besten Gründer der Welt direkt ins Postfach: https://www.tactics.unicornbakery.de/ Kapitel: (00:00:00) Was hat sich bei Patrick getan, seit Sonic umgestellt wurde? (00:02:54) Von Sonic zu Superscale (00:06:54) Die Art, Produkte zu nutzen: Veränderungen und Learnings (00:14:56) Voraussetzungen für den Produktlaunch (00:21:35) Veränderungen im Tech-Stack (00:34:40) Optimale Kanäle für den Launch (00:37:45) Datenaufbereitung für Learnings und Feedback (00:43:32) Kundenavatare und ihre Relevanz fürs Produkt (00:52:51) Wie läuft Fundraising als Serial Founder? (01:07:34) Arbeitszeit vs. Familienzeit (01:13:56) Kernworkout als Gründer (01:20:15) Wie sichert Superscale Progress?
In this episode of Brands On Brands, personal branding coach Brandon Birkmeyer shares his experience preparing a prerecorded virtual keynote speech for a large international conference. He discusses the challenges and lessons learned from experimenting with different presentation setups and overcoming obstacles in recording and editing. Brandon emphasizes the importance of experimenting with various formats, the role of continuous iteration in refining ideas, and how these practices contribute to better communication and creativity. Looking for help on clarifying your message and creating more content? Set up a free 15-minute chat with Brandon and get your questions answered! www.brandsonbrands.com/chat 00:00 Introduction and Keynote Experience 01:30 Setting Up for Success: Experimenting with Recording 03:28 Overcoming Technical Challenges 05:18 Editing and Enhancing the Presentation 07:10 Lessons Learned and Future Applications 08:12 The Power of Iteration 09:56 Conclusion and Final Thoughts This is the Brands On Brands Podcast with Brandon Birkmeyer Don't forget to get your own personal branding scorecard at: https://www.brandsonbrands.com/scorecard CONNECT WITH ME Connect with me on social media: https://www.brandsonbrands.com/mylinks READ MY BOOK - FRONT & CENTER LEADERSHIP I launched a new book and author website. Check it out here. https://www.brandonbirkmeyer.com/fcl CHECK OUT MY COURSES Get tactical trainings and access to one-on-one coaching! https://www.brandsonbrands.com/courses SUBSCRIBE TO THE NEWSLETTER Get the latest news and trends on all things personal branding and the creator economy. https://www.brandsonbrands.com/newsletter
What's the point of innovation?In this solo episode, Brandon Bartneck reflects on what innovation actually means—and why the version we celebrate most (flashy tech, hype cycles, moonshots) often misses the point. Drawing from personal experience at Boeing, Bose, and multiple advanced tech sectors, Brandon shares why he's now more energized leading engineering at a spring company than he's ever been before.This isn't innovation theater. It's real work, with real people, solving hard problems that actually matter.Brandon breaks down his first-principles approach to innovation:• Make things better for people, especially operators• Advance the manufacturing ecosystem, particularly in overlooked small/mid-sized companies• Contribute to long-term economic value through a sustainable moatAlong the way, he explores the difference between adding technology vs. creating value, why simple gravity-fed solutions might beat flashy automation, and what real engineering fulfillment looks like in practice.This is a grounded, honest take on innovation from someone who's lived both ends of the spectrum—and now knows exactly where the magic really is.Key Takeaways:Innovation isn't about headlines or hype. It's about solving meaningful problems.True innovation starts with knowing what you're optimizing for.Real-world engineering constraints sharpen creativity and impact.Flashy tech can be a distraction. Simpler, thoughtful solutions often win.Innovation should create value for people, companies, and communities—not just press releases.There's deep fulfillment in solving problems others overlook.Links & Resources:More episodesConnect with BrandonListen on Apple PodcastsListen on Spotify
This week on the No Film School Podcast, GG Hawkins sits down with Pete Docter, Chief Creative Officer at Pixar Animation Studios and the visionary behind films like Monsters, Inc., Up, Inside Out, and Soul. The conversation dives deep into the creative process behind Pixar's latest original feature Elio, and how Pixar's iterative storytelling model has evolved over the years. Pete shares actionable insights on how filmmakers—whether working at a major studio or independently—can embrace change, vulnerability, and creative discovery to build resonant stories. In this episode, No Film School's GG Hawkins and guest Pete Docter discuss... How Pete Docter chose Pixar over Disney and The Simpsons early in his career The iterative story process at Pixar and how it has shaped Elio The importance of balancing imaginative worlds with relatable emotional storytelling How Pixar greenlights projects by betting on people rather than ideas The evolving leadership strategies that support creativity and collaboration Why vulnerability is key to character empathy and story resonance How emerging filmmakers can use these Pixar principles in their own work Memorable Quotes: "Go to a small place where one person has a huge effect." "Every idea is good until you have to tell it to somebody else." "At some point, it is more about tenacity than talent." "Don't try to make and analyze at the same time." Guests: Pete Docter Resources: Pixar's Elio Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web: No Film School Facebook: No Film School on Facebook Twitter: No Film School on Twitter YouTube: No Film School on YouTube Instagram: No Film School on Instagram
On the podcast we talk with Charlie about why React Native has become the default for VC-funded apps, how AI is accelerating development cycles, and why speed of iteration matters more than programming language.Top Takeaways:⚡ Instant iteration cycles unlock agility React Native and Expo supercharge development by collapsing long build times into mere seconds. With tools like Expo Go enabling live updates, teams can experiment, test, and improve their apps in real time. This instant feedback loop fuels innovation, cuts dev time, and helps startups move faster than ever.
#446 Dive deep with Adam, founder of EOCworks, on the intricacies of cold outreach and email marketing. Adam, who has never worked a true corporate job and successfully sold his first startup through cold email outreach, shares his journey and the critical role cold email played in landing major clients like Bank of America and Amazon. They discuss the importance of setting up dedicated domains for email outreach, the evolution and optimization of cold email strategies, including the use of tools like Instantly.ai and Clay.ai for advanced personalization. Adam provides a step-by-step guide on structuring effective cold emails, the significance of timely follow-ups, and ensuring successful meeting bookings. He also reveals unique hacks like incorporating a charity PS to improve response rates. Ideal for entrepreneurs eager to proactively scale their outreach efforts. (Original Air Date - 7/24/24) What we discuss with Adam: + The Power of Cold Email + Overcoming the Stigma of Cold Outreach + Early Experiences with Cold Email + Scaling Cold Email Efforts + Setting Up for Cold Email Success + Legalities and Automation in Cold Outreach + Proactive vs. Reactive Marketing + Personalized vs. Automated Emails + The Importance of Iteration and Testing + Managing Large Lead Lists + Crafting Effective Outreach Emails + Advanced Email Personalization Techniques + Booking Meetings Efficiently Links and resources from this episode: Instantly.ai for sending cold email and buying cold outreach lists. Learn more about the Can-Spam Act. Thank you, Adam! Check out Adam's business, EOCWorks, HERE! For more information go to MillionaireUniversity.com To get access to our FREE Business Training course go to MillionaireUniversity.com/training. And follow us on: Instagram Facebook Tik Tok Youtube Twitter To get exclusive offers mentioned in this episode and to support the show, visit millionaireuniversity.com/sponsors. EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ https://nordvpn.com/millionaire. Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! Want to hear from more incredible entrepreneurs? Check out all of our interviews here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This week, Andrew is joined by Sean Henry, CEO and founder of Stord, a major player in omnichannel fulfillment and supply chain technology. In this episode, Sean shares his incredible entrepreneurial journey, which started by selling Christmas presents on eBay at age seven to launching Stord in 2015 as a student at Georgia Tech. In this episode, he reflects on the company's early days, turning points, and what's next following Stord's recent $200 million fundraise and major acquisition of Ware2Go from UPS.In this episode, you'll hear from Sean on:How a few Christmas sales on eBay, plus a few other ventures, sparked his entrepreneurial drive and how mentors like Ted Alling shaped his approach to leadership.The founding premise of Stord: helping brands compete with Amazon-level logistics by offering flexible, tech-powered fulfillment solutions.How Stord evolved from an asset-light model to owning facilities and building a robust software platform to deliver a Prime-like experience to companies of all sizes.What it takes to make big business decisions, including how he thinks through market shifts, customer obsession, and staying committed to a long-term vision.His advice for entrepreneurs: don't be afraid to ask, learn from people one step ahead, and “just start.” Iteration and momentum are everything.Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more. A special thanks to our additional sponsors: Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more. Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today! Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***
Imagine this: you've finally finished building your product after countless late nights. The code works, the demo is ready, and your first prospect is waiting. Your heart races because you know one thing for sure: if this person says no, nothing else matters. On this episode of the Grow Your B2B SaaS Podcast, host Joran Hofman chats with Zoltan Vardy, founder of The Launch Code, about why this exact moment is so important. As a founder, you're not just pitching a product—you are the product's voice, its story, and its proof. Customers don't care about fancy features or your funding round. They care about solving their pain. And when that pain is real, they need someone who truly understands it—you. Founder-led sales give you the chance to connect directly with buyers, test your messaging, and build trust in ways no marketing tool can. According to Zoltan, it's not just about selling. It's about leading with purpose, listening deeply, and learning fast. If you're not leading the charge, you're missing the biggest growth opportunity your startup has.Key Timecodes(0:00)- Importance of Solving a Problem in Sales (0:38)- Introduction to Founder-Led Sales and Guest Introduction (1:23)- Misconceptions About Sales for Tech Founders (2:40)- Case Study: Banners and the Importance of Problem-Solution Connection (3:27)- Why Founder-Led Sales is Crucial (4:40)- Example: Camp Map and Founder-Led Sales Turnaround (6:00)- Common Mistakes in SaaS Sales (7:20)- Zoltan's Blueprint for Successful Founder-Led Sales (9:44)- Starting Sales: Value Proposition and Customer Targeting (11:43)- Overcoming Fear and Pain of Selling (13:13)- Transformation Example: Action Audit (14:53)- Sales as a Transformation Process (16:07)- Challenges in Implementing the Blueprint (18:32)- Steps to Get Started with Sales Today (20:00)- The Myth of Hustle Culture and Real Sales Work (21:16)- AI in Sales: Enhancements, Not Replacements (23:30)- Preparing for Objections in Sales (24:16)- The Future of Sales with AI Integration (26:05)- Sales in Enterprise: Importance of Personal Touch (28:00)- Case Study: Dextery's Clear Problem-Solution Connection (30:01)- Iteration in Value Proposition and Market Fit (32:29)- Persistence in Entrepreneurship (32:39)- Summary of Key Advice on Founder-Led Sales (33:09)- Advice for Growing SaaS Companies: Zero to 10K MRR (33:55)- Advice for Scaling to 10 Million ARR (35:05)- Final Summary and Key Takeaways (37:21)- Zoltan's Offer: Free Chapter of The Launch Code Book (37:45)- Encouragement for Founders to Embrace Selling
Have you ever found yourself endlessly planning but never actually launching? This episode explores the common trap of over-planning and perfectionism that keeps business owners stuck. Drawing lessons from Thomas Edison's relentless experimentation, it contrasts “dwelling” with “doing” and emphasizes the power of messy, iterative action. It unpacks how fear of failure and the sunk cost fallacy often prevent entrepreneurs from testing ideas, and why feedback—not perfection—should guide the next move. With practical tools and real-world examples, the episode encourages you to take action and grow through experience. Main Topics Planning vs. taking action Fear of failure and judgment Iteration and experimentation Marketing and project feedback loops Setting deadlines and accountability Main takeaway: “Dwelling doesn't grow your business—doing does.” We've all been there: rewriting flyers, tweaking a logo, or perfecting an email campaign for weeks. But at some point, planning becomes a comfort zone—and it stops you from growing. This week on Pet Sitter Confessional, we're reminding ourselves (and you!) that progress requires putting things out into the world, messy or not. Done is better than perfect. Take that step—you can always revise it later. Links: Check out our Starter Packs See all of our discounts! Check out ProTrainings Code: CPR-petsitterconfessional for 10% off
Before Hot Drop Sauce landed on Gordon Ramsay's Food Stars, founder Andrew Whiting was working full-time, hand-bottling sauce at night, and getting creative about getting it into people's hands—literally. We're talking trunk-of-the-car sales, expensing his own product to pitch clients, and turning every casual interaction into a chance to get feedback (and spark demand). In this episode of Chef x Founder, host Tony Piombo sits down with Andrew to talk about the real behind-the-scenes journey—from sauce experiments during the pandemic to walking onto a national TV set and a three-minute pitch for Gordon himself. This one's packed with lessons for any entrepreneur, including: The unexpected start of Hot Drop Sauce during the pandemic How to grow a brand without quitting your day job (at first) How to get creative with product distribution (even while working 9-5) The psychology of packaging and selling—and how to make people grab your product What it really took to land on Food Stars and pitch to Gordon Ramsay How a gift-turned-side-hustle became a brand Why Hot Drop is designed for flavor, not pain—and how that changed everything Whether you're building a food brand or still dreaming one up, this convo is loaded with insights you'll want to replay. CONNECT WIH ANDREW WHITING: Website: https://www.hotdropsauce.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hotdropsauce/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hotdropsauces/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hotdropsauce FOLLOW US BEHIND THE SCENES: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chef.x.founder Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chefxfounder Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chef.x.founder Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChefxFounder CHECK OUT TONY'S WOOD-FIRED OVEN BUSINESS: https://fornopiombo.com/ TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction to the Chef Founder Podcast 00:02 Meet Andrew Whiting: Founder of Hot Drop Sauce 00:53 The Hot Drop Community and Fanbase 01:35 The Art and Business of Hot Sauce 08:46 Andrew's Journey into the Culinary World 13:11 From Holiday Gifts to a Hot Sauce Brand 19:56 Andrew's Background in Sales and Entrepreneurship 23:12 Working for a Distributor 23:52 Sales Strategies and Challenges 25:47 Creating and Branding Hot Sauce 26:25 Feedback and Iteration 27:23 First Sales and Realizations 28:37 Scaling Production 31:18 Balancing Full-Time Work and Entrepreneurship 36:39 Collaborations and Marketing 45:15 Corporate Gifting and Wholesale 49:43 Gordon Ramsey's Food Stars 52:00 The Lengthy Application Process 52:34 The Vetting and Interview Phases 54:25 The Big Reveal: Gordon Ramsay's Food Stars 55:01 Preparing for the Audition in London 56:21 The Audition and Selection Process 1:02 Life on the Show and Meeting Fellow Contestants 1:03 Reflecting on the Reality TV Experience 1:04 The Competition and Elimination 1:06 Impact on Business and Sales 1:07 Pitching and Entrepreneurial Insights 1:10 Networking and Collaborations 1:12 Future Plans and Final Thoughts
Send us a textJerry Colonna is an executive coach, author, and co-founder of Reboot, a coaching and leadership development firm focused on helping entrepreneurs and executives grow through radical self-inquiry. Formerly a venture capitalist with Flatiron Partners, Jerry transitioned into coaching to support leaders in navigating the emotional complexities of leadership. He is the author of the acclaimed book Reboot: Leadership and the Art of Growing Up, which blends personal reflection with professional development. Known for his compassionate yet unflinching coaching style, Jerry continues to influence a new generation of founders and CEOs who believe in leading with authenticity, courage, and heart.Connect with Jerry! https://www.instagram.com/jerry.colonna/?hl=en Connect with Ryan! https://twitter.com/RyanJAyalaConnect with Us! https://www.instagram.com/alchemists.library/Chapters:00:00 Introduction & Jerry's Journey to Coaching 01:00 Radical Self-Inquiry & Moral Courage 05:04 Iteration, Growth & Identity 10:17 Depression, Doubt & The Lying Mind 16:12 The Danger of Grandiosity vs. True Confidence 22:06 Masculinity, Role Models & Responsibility 30:02 Redefining Success & Being a Good Man 37:12 Empathy, Mentorship & Leaving a Legacy 43:36 Clean Your Room: Self-Discipline as Leadership 46:05 Redefining Leadership & Followership 50:05 Balancing Compassion & High Standards 56:04 The Buddha of Baseball & Building Extraordinary TeamsConnect with Us!https://www.instagram.com/alchemists.library/https://twitter.com/RyanJAyala
On the latest episode of the CavsCorner Podcast, we talk first about conflicting reports about a potential hoops recruiting addition that could mean a great deal to UVa's season and then dive into some fun “favorite/least favorite” questions to usher in the summer content bonanza. Credits: Brad Franklin (@Cavs_Corner) David Spence (@HooDaves) Justin Ferber (@Justin_Ferber) Visit CavsCorner now! SIGN UP TODAY and check out our message board to talk with hundreds of fellow Wahoo fans about all things UVa sports!
Ever feel like your brain just gives up on you halfway through the day? You're doing all the right things—grinding, pushing, sipping your fourth cup of coffee—and still, your focus slips and your energy crashes. It's not because you're lazy or lacking discipline. It's because your brain is burnt out. And guess what? There's science to back that up—and a solution that's way cooler than you'd think.In this episode of The Happy Hustle Podcast, I got to sit down with Dr. Ramses Alcaide, a neuroscientist and the CEO of Neurable. Now, if you haven't heard of Neurable yet, you're about to have your mind blown—because they're not just making headphones, they're creating the future of brain optimization. We're talking real-time brainwave tracking, AI-powered productivity support, and tech that literally helps you prevent burnout before it even begins.Dr. Ramses shared some gold nuggets in our convo. One of the biggest takeaways? Breaks aren't just something nice to take—they're absolutely essential. But here's the kicker: not all breaks are created equal. Most of us think taking a break means scrolling through our phones or watching a random YouTube video. But according to neuroscience, those kinds of breaks don't help your brain recover. What you need are effective breaks—strategic rest that restores focus and reboots your mind for high performance.That's where Neurable comes in. These aren't just headphones—they're like a personal coach for your brain. They monitor your neural signals and tell you when you're locked in and when your focus is slipping. When it's time to take a break, you'll know. When it's time to power through, you'll be in flow. It's like turning your brain into your biggest productivity ally. For an entrepreneur trying to juggle it all, that's a massive win.We also dive into the power of experimentation. Dr. Ramses emphasized how no two brains are the same. What works for your buddy might not work for you. Some people recharge by moving their body, some through meditation, and others through quick mental resets. Neurable gives you insights to figure out what your brain needs, not just what productivity books tell you.Then we got into some seriously next-level stuff—like how this kind of brain-tech isn't just about optimizing your daily hustle. It's also paving the way for early detection and prevention of neurodegenerative diseases. Imagine having the ability to identify brain health issues years before symptoms show up. That's the kind of proactive health support that could change lives.And if you're thinking this tech is just for hardcore biohackers or neuroscientists, think again. Even if all you do is take calls and listen to music, these headphones are still worth it. The bonus is that you're supporting your brain while you're at it. I've been using them myself, and I gotta say—they're a game-changer.So whether you're running a startup or building your empire, this episode is a must-listen. Dr. Ramses breaks down the science in a way that's extremely accessible, and the conversation is filled with real, actionable advice you can start using today.Want to hear how to stop burning out, start optimizing, and think your way to better performance? If you're ready to give your brain a boost, check out Neurable.com and use code HAPPY to save over a hundred bucks on a pair of headphones. Trust me—your brain will thank you.In this episode, we cover:Introduction to NeuroscienceThe Journey of NURBL: From Concept to RealityThe Technology Behind NURBL: Brain Health TrackingOptimizing Performance: The Role of Breaks and FocusPersonal Experiences with Brain OptimizationExperimentation and Finding What Works for YouData Analysis and Iteration for ImprovementUnderstanding Focus and BurnoutGamification and ProductivityThe Future of NeurotechnologyReal-Time Brain Health MonitoringRapid Fire Questions What does happy Hustlin mean to you? Dr. Ramses says it's understanding that recovery is a part of performance and you should take that just as seriously. Your rest days are just as serious as your work days.Connect with Dr. Ramseshttps://www.instagram.com/neurable_https://tps://www.linkedin.com/company/neurable/https://x.com/neurablehttps://www.facebook.com/neurableFind Dr. Ramses on this website: Neurable.com Connect with Cary!https://www.instagram.com/caryjack/https://www.facebook.com/SirCaryJackhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/cary-jack-kendzior/https://twitter.com/thehappyhustlehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFDNsD59tLxv2JfEuSsNMOQ/featuredGet a free copy of his new book, The Happy Hustle, 10 Alignments to Avoid Burnout & Achieve Blissful Balance https://www.thehappyhustle.com/bookSign up for The Journey: 10 Days To Become a Happy Hustler Online Course https://thehappyhustle.com/thejourney/Apply to the Montana Mastermind Epic Camping Adventure https://thehappyhustle.com/mastermind/“It's time to Happy Hustle, a blissfully balanced life you love, full of passion, purpose, and positive impact!”Episode Sponsors:If you're feeling stressed, not sleeping great, or your energy's been kinda meh lately—let me put you on to something that's been a total game-changer for me: Magnesium Breakthrough by BiOptimizers. This ain't your average magnesium—it's got all 7 essential forms that your body actually needs to chill out, sleep deeper, and feel more balanced. I take it every night and legit notice the difference the next day. No more waking up groggy or tossing and turning all nightIf you're ready to sleep like a baby, calm your nervous system, and optimize your recovery, go grab yours now at bioptimizers.com/happy and use code HAPPY10 for 10% OFF.99 Designs- Need a killer logo, stunning website, or next-level brand design?Stop DIY-ing and start delegating like a boss with 99designs by Vista! Neurable- If you're looking to level up your focus, productivity, and mental wellbeing all at once, do yourself a favor and check out Neurable. You get a special hookup—just use the code HAPPY at checkout and get $100 off.
This episode explores the dichotomy between iterative planning and target state planning in software development, discussing the benefits and drawbacks of each approach and providing decision factors to help you choose the most appropriate method for your situation.Understand the core difference between iterative planning, which emphasises agility and responding to change with short planning horizons, and target state planning, which involves laying out a more defined long-term direction.Discover that while iterative planning is often considered the "right way" for software development, target state planning can be valuable for setting a general direction, which can be updated as you learn.Learn why addressing problems atomically in an iterative fashion can be valid, but that evaluating multiple potential improvements together with a target state in mind can lead to better coordination, efficiency, and consistency.Explore the decision factors that might lead you to favour iterative planning, such as high uncertainty, learning-focused work (discovery, prototypes), and fast feedback loops.Understand the decision factors that might lead you to favour target state planning, such as clarity on the problem, working in production with high coupling, regulatory/safety risks, slow feedback loops, high cost of mistakes, broad scope of impact, and high coordination costs.Learn why choosing a planning method by default is a warning sign, and that considering the usefulness of upfront planning without being limited by dogma is important.Understand that upfront planning (target state) can enable adaptation as you learn, and that negative perceptions of it often stem from costly, incorrect plans that were difficult to change.Discover that the choice between iterative and target state planning is a spectrum rather than a pure dichotomy, and that a target state doesn't necessarily need to be a long-term plan.