Relentless Why Momentum Is So Important In Startups | Joshua Browder
Nov 14, 2025
Joshua Browder, founder and CEO of DoNotPay, shares his remarkable journey from a young iPhone jailbreaker to a legal tech pioneer. He discusses how his father's human rights activism shaped his fearless approach to business. Browder highlights the value of hands-on learning in entrepreneurship and the importance of early personal connections to problems. He gives insights into his unique company philosophy, prioritizing profitability and ethical impact, while also sharing anecdotes about interviewing Warren Buffett and living in the historic Facebook house.
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Teen Hacker Becomes Official App Maker
- Joshua built unofficial iPhone apps and themes as a teenager, even selling a paid Pret‑A app that later became the chain's official app.
- Apple and Pret invited him in rather than sue, and the official app persisted into millions of users.
Growing Up Under High‑Risk Pressure
- Joshua grew up with his father Bill Browder targeted by Russian actors after pushing the Magnitsky Act.
- Their family faced legal harassment and intimidation, which taught Joshua fearlessness and perspective.
Back Founders Who Can't Let Go
- Back founders with an irrational chip on their shoulder and deep personal connection to the problem.
- Prioritize founders who obsessively test and personally use their product.