Startup Strategies This AI tool will replace ALL video editors
Jul 10, 2025
Zyad Djouad, a 19-year-old co-founder of Lens, is revolutionizing video editing with a prompt-based AI tool, born out of his own frustration while editing for his YouTube channel. He shares how he garnered 13,000 waitlist signups in just a week and why his childhood friends make stronger co-founders than traditional MBA counterparts. Zyad discusses leveraging feedback from Reddit, his unique growth strategies using Discord, and the significant enterprise demand for his product. His journey redefines startup success by prioritizing authentic problem-solving over conventional market research.
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Idea Born From Editing Frustration
- Zyad discovered Lens after a frustrating night spent trimming video edits and finding no prompt-based tool available.
- He decided he'd pay handsomely for a solution and committed to build the first prompt-based video editor himself.
Founders Grew From Childhood Ventures
- Zyad and co-founders met through childhood friendships and earlier Roblox game ventures.
- Pre-existing trust and past projects made them natural co-founders when Lens began.
Build For Yourself First
- Zyad frames himself as the ideal customer since he built Lens to solve his own workflow pain.
- Solving your own desperate problem provides strong product-market intuition and validation.