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The Startup Playbook Podcast

Ep204 – George Hartley (Co-founder & Co-CEO – Bluethumb) on lessons from building a $100M art marketplace

Jan 23, 2025
George Hartley, Co-founder and Co-CEO of Bluethumb, shares his journey from music to tech and the growth of Australia's leading art marketplace. He discusses the three-year wait for their seed funding and the continued focus on bootstrapping. George emphasizes the importance of risk-taking and experimenting in business, as well as the unique challenges of scaling a consumer marketplace. He also reflects on effective hiring strategies and the impact of his journey on work-life balance as they look to expand into the US market.
01:03:05

Episode guests

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Quick takeaways

  • Bluethumb's founders successfully bootstrapped the company for three years, laying a strong foundation without external investment to ensure sustainable growth.
  • Navigating skepticism from the art industry showcased the founders' determination and innovative approach, essential for establishing Bluethumb as a viable online platform.

Deep dives

The Thrill of Entrepreneurship

Building a startup involves a significant grind, marked by challenges and setbacks. However, the excitement of achieving milestones or making progress provides a unique thrill that keeps entrepreneurs motivated. This sense of adventure drives individuals to create something from nothing, allowing them to deliver value to others. The joy of seeing people enjoy and utilize the products or services developed fuels their passion for entrepreneurship.

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