

The Physics of Startups with Rob Snyder
Rob Snyder
Most founders are stuck in the pain cave - and no one can tell them why.
The podcast for founders who want to understand why some startups take off and other's don't.
- With Rob Snyder (3x founder, Harvard Innovation Lab fellow, ex-HBS and McKinsey).
- Practical insights to help founders escape the pain cave and build profitable businesses.
PMF newsletter: https://howtogrow.substack.com
Work with Rob: https://www.robsnyder.org
Contact: rob@reframeb2b.com
The podcast for founders who want to understand why some startups take off and other's don't.
- With Rob Snyder (3x founder, Harvard Innovation Lab fellow, ex-HBS and McKinsey).
- Practical insights to help founders escape the pain cave and build profitable businesses.
PMF newsletter: https://howtogrow.substack.com
Work with Rob: https://www.robsnyder.org
Contact: rob@reframeb2b.com
Episodes
Mentioned books

4 snips
Jul 24, 2025 • 38min
Fix your GTM with Toll Booths (and Samurai Swords)
Explore the intriguing concept of 'toll booths' in startup go-to-market strategies to generate demand. Learn how understanding customer needs can transform outreach, with the samurai sword anecdote demonstrating impactful engagement. Discover the economics behind targeted efforts versus broad marketing and the effectiveness of partnering with consultants. Hear how companies like Datadog leverage conferences for focused strategies while navigating when to narrow approaches. This conversation offers fresh insights for founders looking to sharpen their market tactics.

12 snips
Jul 24, 2025 • 55min
The path to PMF demystified (finally)
Exploring the elusive concept of product-market fit, founders learn the importance of proactive sales strategies and understanding customer demand. The podcast highlights the critical need to identify bottlenecks in sales processes and iterate on strategies. Case studies are presented as vital tools for B2B success, showcasing customer stories and engagement. The discussion emphasizes the distinction between casual interest and genuine demand, urging startups to refine their sales approaches for better alignment with market needs.

Jul 24, 2025 • 30min
The Startup Landscape: Waves, Dams, and Rivers
Explore how individual demand transforms into market momentum through the fascinating framework of waves, dams, and rivers. Waves represent suddenly urgent priorities, while dams illustrate pent-up demand waiting for the right solution. Rivers signify steady markets catering to niche needs. Learn how timing, regulation, and cultural shifts drive these dynamics, and discover why successful founders excel at recognizing their position within these market metaphors. Engage in the conversation about the strategic importance of aligning products with real customer needs.