Follow the Gradient

In this episode, European and German Patent Attorney Bastian Best unpacks why every startup needs a patent strategy—and why it’s never too early to start. Drawing from over 15 years of experience in software and AI patents, Bastian shares actionable advice for founders, including how to protect core innovations, attract investors, and turn patents into strategic business assets. Using real-world examples like Humane’s AI Pin and RobCo’s robotics journey, this episode is packed with insights to help startups build a defensible position in competitive markets. Why patents are essential even for early-stage startups How patents act as shields, magnets, and value generators Key steps for navigating freedom to operate and avoiding common pitfalls Bastian’s practical approach helps founders move beyond the myths of patenting to create lasting value for their startups. Sign up for exclusive content from this episode and more at ⁠⁠followthegradient.io. CONNECT WITH BASTIAN: 💼 LinkedIn: ⁠⁠/bastianbest/ 🌐 Bastian’s patent law firm BESTPATENT: https://bestpatent.eu/ 💡fundingmagnet.de - Bastian’s AI-powered coaching program that helps European founders achieve their first patent-pending status with just a few hours of time. CONNECT WITH US: 📬 Newsletter:⁠⁠ ⁠⁠followthegradient.io⁠⁠⁠⁠ 🐦 X:⁠⁠ ⁠⁠x.com/followgradient⁠⁠⁠⁠ 📸 Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@followthegradient⁠⁠⁠⁠ 💼 LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@followthegradient⁠⁠⁠⁠ 🎵 TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@followthegradient⁠⁠⁠⁠ LEAVE US A VIRTUAL HIGH-FIVE 💚 ⁠⁠⁠Leave a review on Spotify⁠⁠⁠: bit.ly/FTG-Spotify 💛⁠⁠ ⁠Leave a review on Apple Podcast⁠⁠⁠: bit.ly/FTG-Podcast Plus: We would love to hear from you! How did you like this episode? What should we improve for future editions, do you have any suggestions, ideas or dream podcast guests? Please let us know: team at followthegradient dot io

Rebranding is more than a new logo or fresh name—it’s about reshaping how the world sees your startup and setting the stage for future growth. In this episode, we dive into the art and science of rebranding with insights tailored for founders and startup operators. 💡 What you’ll learn: When and why startups should rebrand (and why timing is critical). How to convince stakeholders and overcome resistance to change. What makes a name stick, using Alexandra Watkins’ Smile & Scratch framework. Success stories like Wise and ConvertKit—and cautionary tales like Twitter’s transition to X. Practical steps for planning, executing, and sustaining a rebrand. Plus, Melanie shares behind-the-scenes insights from Yokoy’s transition from Expense Robot, and our guest, Andrea von Kaenel, offers a corporate perspective on rebranding at scale. 🎙️ Tune in for actionable tips and candid discussions about what it takes to redefine your startup’s identity—without losing your audience or your momentum. Sign up for exclusive content from this episode and more at ⁠⁠followthegradient.io⁠⁠. LINKS MENTIONED IN THE CONVERSATION: Free Name Evaluation Test by Alexandra Watkins, Founder at Eat My Words and Author of “How to Create Brand Names That Stick”. “Rebranding in Public: ConvertKit to Kit” - watch the full video series CONNECT WITH ANDREA: 💼 LinkedIn: ⁠⁠/andreavonkaenel/ CONNECT WITH US: 📬 Newsletter:⁠⁠ ⁠⁠followthegradient.io⁠⁠⁠⁠ 🐦 X:⁠⁠ ⁠⁠x.com/followgradient⁠⁠⁠⁠ 📸 Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@followthegradient⁠⁠⁠⁠ 💼 LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@followthegradient⁠⁠⁠⁠ 🎵 TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@followthegradient⁠⁠⁠⁠ LEAVE US A VIRTUAL HIGH-FIVE 💚 ⁠⁠⁠Leave a review on Spotify⁠⁠⁠: bit.ly/FTG-Spotify 💛⁠⁠ ⁠Leave a review on Apple Podcast⁠⁠⁠: bit.ly/FTG-Podcast Plus: We would love to hear from you! How did you like this episode? What should we improve for future editions, do you have any suggestions, ideas or dream podcast guests? Please let us know: team at followthegradient dot io

In this episode, Harvard Innovation Labs Fellow Rob Snyder reveals his no-BS approach to finding product-market fit for early-stage B2B startups. After spending two years in the ‘pain cave’ without traction, Rob developed four essential frameworks that have since helped numerous founders scale from $0 to $1M ARR and beyond. You’ll learn: How to define and track PMF for your startup Four key frameworks to escape the ‘pain cave’ and build traction Tips for developing a ‘Minimum Viable Sales Process’ and engaging ‘Hell Yes’ customers Rob’s insights go beyond typical startup advice, offering actionable steps to help you reach sustainable PMF. Sign up for exclusive content from this episode and more at ⁠followthegradient.io⁠. CONNECT WITH ROB: 💼 LinkedIn: ⁠/rsnyder1/ 🌐 Website: ⁠⁠⁠https://reframeb2b.com CONNECT WITH US: 📬 Newsletter:⁠⁠ ⁠followthegradient.io⁠⁠⁠ 🐦 X:⁠⁠ ⁠x.com/followgradient⁠⁠⁠ 📸 Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠@followthegradient⁠⁠⁠ 💼 LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠@followthegradient⁠⁠⁠ 🎵 TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠@followthegradient⁠⁠⁠ LEAVE US A VIRTUAL HIGH-FIVE 💚 ⁠⁠⁠Leave a review on Spotify⁠⁠⁠: bit.ly/FTG-Spotify 💛⁠⁠ ⁠Leave a review on Apple Podcast⁠⁠⁠: bit.ly/FTG-Podcast Plus: We would love to hear from you! How did you like this episode? What should we improve for future editions, do you have any suggestions, ideas or dream podcast guests? Please let us know: team at followthegradient dot io

In this episode of Follow the Gradient, we dive into the intricacies of venture capital funding—what it really means, who it's suited for, and whether it’s the right fit for your startup. Our guest, Henrik Grosse Hokamp, Co-Founder and Partner at Berlin-based VC firm Revent, shares his candid perspective on the dynamics of VC investments. Forget the glorification or vilification of venture capital—Henrik breaks down how VCs think, what they look for, and how founders can decide if this type of funding is truly right for them. You’ll learn: Which business models are best suited for venture capital. How to evaluate whether a VC is the right partner for your startup. The key elements of a successful pitch to venture investors. The common pitfalls founders make when preparing for a funding round. Henrik's insights provide a fresh, realistic view that cuts through the noise, helping founders navigate the often confusing world of venture funding. Join us as we explore the pros, cons, and everything in between about getting VC funding for your venture. Sign up for exclusive content from this episode and more at followthegradient.io. CONNECT WITH HENRIK: 💼 LinkedIn: /henrikgrossehokamp/ 🌐 Website: ⁠⁠https://www.revent.vc/ CONNECT WITH US: 📬 Newsletter:⁠⁠ followthegradient.io⁠⁠ 🐦 X:⁠⁠ x.com/followgradient⁠⁠ 📸 Instagram: ⁠⁠@followthegradient⁠⁠ 💼 LinkedIn: ⁠⁠@followthegradient⁠⁠ 🎵 TikTok: ⁠⁠@followthegradient⁠⁠ LEAVE US A VIRTUAL HIGH-FIVE 💚 ⁠⁠⁠Leave a review on Spotify⁠⁠⁠: bit.ly/FTG-Spotify 💛⁠⁠ ⁠Leave a review on Apple Podcast⁠⁠⁠: bit.ly/FTG-Podcast Plus: We would love to hear from you! How did you like this episode? What should we improve for future editions, do you have any suggestions, ideas or dream podcast guests? Please let us know: team at followthegradient dot io

Join us for an insightful conversation with Ruth Barnett, an expert in startup communication and storytelling. With a wealth of experience in guiding founders to articulate their vision, Ruth emphasizes the crucial role of effective communication in scaling a business. In this episode, Ruth shares essential strategies for founders, including: Crafting Your Foundational Story: Why developing a compelling narrative is vital for engaging investors and team members. The Power of Reputation: Understanding how others perceive your company and why a positive reputation is key to growth. Storytelling Techniques: Practical tips for refining your story to resonate with various audiences, from customers to investors. Flexing Your Communication Muscle: How to practice and improve your storytelling skills through real-world applications. Identifying Your Audience: Recognizing who your message matters to and how to tailor your communication effectively. Whether you’re a new founder or looking to enhance your communication strategy, this episode provides actionable insights to help you connect with your audience and elevate your startup's presence. Are you interested in reading more about the two crisis comms examples that Melanie mentions in the introduction? Here we go: Intuit asked us to delete part of this Decoder episode - We declined CrowdStrike Crisis Comms Case Study CONNECT WITH RUTH: 💼 LinkedIn 🌐 Website CONNECT WITH US: 📬 Newsletter:⁠ followthegradient.io⁠ 🐦 X:⁠ @followgradient⁠ 📸 Instagram: ⁠@followthegradient⁠ 💼 LinkedIn: ⁠@followthegradient⁠ 🎵 TikTok: ⁠@followthegradient⁠ LEAVE US A VIRTUAL HIGH-FIVE 💚 ⁠⁠Leave a review on Spotify⁠⁠ 💛⁠ ⁠Leave a review on Apple Podcast⁠⁠ Plus: We would love to hear from you! How did you like this episode? What should we improve for future editions, do you have any suggestions, ideas or dream podcast guests? Please let us know: team at followthegradient dot io

Noa Perry-Reifer, Chief People Officer at ON, shares her expertise on nurturing an entrepreneurial culture during rapid growth. She details how ON scaled from 100 to over 3,000 employees without losing its startup spirit. Key topics include the importance of innovation and resilience, embracing failure to empower teams, and aligning leadership with company values. Noa emphasizes the need for reflection in fast-paced environments, balancing agility with personal well-being to sustain a vibrant company culture throughout hypergrowth.

Join us as we talk with Karim Maizar, partner at Kellerhals Carrard and head of the firm's Startup Desk. Karim has helped establish the firm as a leading Swiss law firm for tech entrepreneurs and investors. In this episode, Karim shares crucial legal advice for startup founders, including: The importance of early legal counsel: Why startups need a lawyer from day one. Key elements of shareholders' agreements: Understanding why this document is vital. Founders' vesting explained: How vesting protects your company and attracts investors. Avoiding legal pitfalls: Real-life stories of common mistakes and how to prevent them. Navigating term sheets and investments: Tips for fair negotiations and meeting investor expectations. Securing intellectual property: Protecting your startup's most valuable assets. Working with strategic investors: Risks, rewards, and managing strategic deal terms. Preparing for an exit: Legal essentials for a successful acquisition or exit. Whether you're a new founder or preparing for your next milestone, this episode offers actionable insights to navigate the legal landscape of entrepreneurship. CONNECT WITH KARIM: 💼 LinkedIn: ⁠Karim Maizar⁠ 🌐 Website: ⁠Kellerhals Carrard ⁠ CONNECT WITH US: 📬 Newsletter:⁠ followthegradient.io⁠ 🐦 X:⁠ https://x.com/followgradient⁠ 📸 Instagram: ⁠@followthegradient⁠ 💼 LinkedIn: ⁠@followthegradient⁠ 🎵 TikTok: ⁠@followthegradient⁠ LEAVE US A VIRTUAL HIGH-FIVE 💚 ⁠⁠Leave a review on Spotify⁠⁠ 💛⁠ ⁠Leave a review on Apple Podcast⁠⁠ Plus: We would love to hear from you! How did you like this episode? What should we improve for future editions, do you have any suggestions, ideas or dream podcast guests?  Please let us know: team at followthegradient dot io

In this episode of the Follow the Gradient podcast, we dive deep into the challenges of transitioning from an individual contributor to an effective leader in fast-growing startups. Our guest, Stanislaw Grunstein—founder of CNTRD and an expert in leadership, organizational psychology, and behavioral change—shares invaluable insights on: Mastering the mindset shift required for leadership roles Overcoming the fear of letting go and delegating effectively Providing constructive feedback that empowers your team Cultivating intrinsic motivation and building high-performing teams Whether you're a founder scaling your startup or a new manager stepping into a leadership role, this conversation is packed with practical advice and strategies to help you and your team thrive. CONNECT WITH STANISLAW: 💼 LinkedIn: /stanislawgrunstein 🌐 Website: stay-cntrd.com CONNECT WITH US: 📬 Newsletter: followthegradient.io 🐦 X: https://x.com/followgradient 📸 Instagram: @followthegradient 💼 LinkedIn: @followthegradient 🎵 TikTok: @followthegradient LEAVE US A VIRTUAL HIGH-FIVE 💚 ⁠Leave a review on Spotify⁠ 💛 ⁠Leave a review on Apple Podcast⁠ Plus: We would love to hear from you! How did you like this episode? What should we improve for future editions, do you have any suggestions, ideas or dream podcast guests?  Please let us know: team at followthegradient dot io

In this episode of the Follow the Gradient podcast, we sit down with Francine Gervazio, CEO of Shiftmove, who shares her invaluable insights on merging companies, preparing your startup for acquisition, and navigating complex exit strategies. Francine, who has led the successful merger of Avrios and Vimcar, reveals the steps every founder needs to take to position their company for a successful sale. Whether you're planning for an exit or simply want to better understand your startup's value in the market, Francine’s experience offers actionable tips and strategies. In this episode, you’ll learn: The key metrics investors and buyers look for How to align your management and board for an exit The importance of building a buyer's network early Why a realistic business plan is critical to closing deals Tips on engaging with strategic and financial buyers Tune in for a wealth of knowledge on navigating the acquisition process from someone who’s been through it and is now on the buying side. This episode is packed with actionable insights for CEOs, founders, and startup operators. Don't miss it! CONNECT WITH FRANCINE 🌐 LinkedIn: Francine Gervazio CONNECT WITH US 📬 Newsletter: followthegradient.io🐦 X: https://x.com/followgradient📸 Instagram: @followthegradient💼 LinkedIn: @followthegradient🎵 TikTok: @followthegradient LEAVE US A VIRTUAL HIGH-FIVE 💚 ⁠Leave a review on Spotify⁠ 💛 ⁠Leave a review on Apple Podcast⁠

In this episode of Follow the Gradient, we’re thrilled to be joined by Amy Lewin, Editor of Sifted, a leading media platform for European startups backed by the Financial Times. Amy shares invaluable advice on how startups can effectively engage with the media, build relationships with journalists, and craft stories that stand out in today’s crowded landscape. Learn the secrets behind what journalists look for in a pitch, the common mistakes founders make when reaching out, and why press releases still matter in 2024. Amy also dives into the current trends dominating tech journalism, including AI and climate tech, and offers practical tips for handling negative press. Whether you're a startup founder looking to secure your first article or an operator looking to refine your media strategy, this episode is packed with actionable insights you can't afford to miss! Key Takeaways: The right way to build relationships with journalists. Why understanding your purpose for media attention is crucial. The dos and don'ts of media outreach. How to handle crisis communication and negative press. Current trends in tech journalism that can help your startup get noticed. Tune in for an expert breakdown of what it takes to get your startup in the headlines! Watch the key moments of our conversation with Amy on Youtube And now we would love to hear from you! How did you like our first episode? What should we improve, do you have any suggestions, ideas or dream podcast guest? Please let us know. CONNECT WITH AMY 🌐 Website: https://sifted.eu 📬 amy at sifted dot eu CONNECT WITH US 📬 Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: followthegradient.io 🐦 X: @followgradient | @tinyf1sh | @melanieXgabriel 📸 Instagram: @followthegradient | @melanieXgabriel 💼 LinkedIn: @followthegradient | Christian | Melanie 🎵 TikTok: @followthegradient LEAVE US A VIRTUAL HIGH-FIVE 💚 Leave a review on Spotify 💛 Leave a review on Apple Podcast