"Request for Startups" with Erik Torenberg
Requests For Startups: Marketplaces with Jonathan Swanson and John Kobs
Jun 1, 2024
Jonathan Swanson, founder of Thumbtack, and John Kobs, founder of Giant and Apartment List, discuss the evolution and challenges of marketplaces. They explore untapped market potential, technology integration, and building liquidity. The conversation touches on creating marketplaces for new behaviors, future opportunities, and the impact of innovative advertising. They share insights on evaluating markets, pivoting startup ideas, and connecting talent through marketplaces.
39:43
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Quick takeaways
- Thumbtack founders found success by pivoting to address a $700 billion market for local services.
- Apartment List was born from John Kobs' personal housing challenges, emphasizing user-focused solutions in the rental marketplace.
Deep dives
Creating Thumbtack: Identifying Big Problems and Market Opportunities
Thumbtack's inception revolved around seeking solutions to significant worldwide problems. Co-founders Jonathan Swanson and John Cobb opted for a nontraditional start, aiming to address broad concerns by targeting a billion-strong demographic. After vetoing several ideas, they settled on local services, recognizing its antiquated practices against a booming market worth $700 billion.
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