AI Coding Is Here To Stay (Get Ready) with David Hirschfeld

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Jun 23, 2025

David Hirschfeld, founder of Tekyz with over 17 years in custom software, shares his impactful journey through startup trials. He discusses the critical mistake of not charging clients from day one and his 5-minute method to qualify serious prospects. Hirschfeld explores how AI is enhancing efficiency at Tekyz, cutting project estimate times by 30%, and providing exceptional client value. His hard-won lessons are invaluable for anyone in tech or consulting.

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ANECDOTE

Charging Clients Early Matters

David learned a hard lesson when he delayed charging clients in his failed automotive startup.
Not charging early led to the downfall despite having network users interested in the product.

ADVICE

Qualify Clients Quickly

Qualify potential clients by quickly identifying their budget before investing time in detailed estimates.
Walk away if clients can't or won't provide a budget, indicating a non-consultative vendor relationship.

ADVICE

Partner Only With Milestones

Avoid partnerships unless partners commit to significant milestones within a defined timeline.
Tie ownership or profit shares to performance to ensure growth and accountability.

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Ever made a costly mistake in a startup? David Hirschfeld, founder of the 17-year-strong custom software firm Tekyz, turned his "startup scars" into SaaS stardom. He shares the brutal honesty of a past venture hitting a wall and how that forged his unshakeable belief in rigorous client qualification. Discover his 5-minute method to identify serious prospects, why not charging from day one can be fatal, and how Tekyz is riding the AI wave to deliver massive client value. If you're building a tech business or consulting with startups/scale-ups, David's hard-won lessons are pure gold!

📢 In This Episode, You’ll Discover:

✅ The critical misstep of not charging clients from day one in a past startup and why delaying charges can doom a new venture.

✅ David's 5-minute technique to qualify serious clients, uncover their actual budget, and avoid costly, misaligned projects.

✅ How Tekyz leverages AI for incredible efficiency, cutting project estimate times by 30% and enhancing client value.

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