Startups For the Rest of Us

Discover the insights gained from MicroConf Europe 2019, where speakers tackled the challenges of re-entering the work world after a bustling event. Learn about strategies for managing data loss and ensuring server safety while transitioning services like Balsamiq to the cloud. Explore effective SEO tactics on a limited budget, including podcast tours and guest blogging. Enjoy engaging audience interactions during a live AMA, emphasizing the importance of transparency and context for SaaS growth. Finally, hear inspiring personal stories that highlight the value of community in tech.

Craig Hewitt, founder of Castos, delves into the intricacies of startup growth in this insightful discussion. He shares strategies for hiring specialized growth marketers and innovative evaluation methods that drive success. Craig also emphasizes the critical role of mental energy for productivity, alongside the challenges faced during a website redesign. He offers practical advice for non-technical founders on collaborating with developers, highlighting the importance of clear communication for better project outcomes.

Tracy Osborn interviews Rob, who reflects on life after selling Drip and his journey with TinySeed. They discuss the challenges and successes of developing a remote accelerator for bootstrappers. Key insights include the importance of mentorship, adjusting the application process for better efficiency, and fostering collaboration among startups. Rob emphasizes the shift in mindset toward setbacks and resilience in building a healthier startup mentality, along with personal organizational strategies for task management.

Craig Hewitt, founder of Castos, shares his inspiring journey from corporate life to entrepreneurship in Switzerland. He emphasizes the importance of balancing family priorities with business challenges. The conversation delves into celebrating milestones while managing the emotional rollercoaster of customer feedback and the complexities of hiring in a startup. With a focus on mentorship and community support, Hewitt reveals how navigating these obstacles can shape a founder's experience and expectations for growth.

Adii Pienaar, an entrepreneur known for his transformative exit from Conversio, shares his journey of navigating the highs and lows of startup life. He discusses the emotional complexities of selling a company, the importance of family values in entrepreneurship, and how personal choices shape business decisions. Adii reflects on the weight of acquisition negotiations and the joy found in post-sale purchases. He emphasizes the newfound freedom and purpose that come with significant life transitions, all while keeping a sense of humor about it.

Experience the rollercoaster of startup life through the eyes of a determined SaaS founder. Discover the emotional highs and lows they face as they navigate challenges and celebrate victories. Community support plays a crucial role in their journey, providing insights on resilience and growth. Tune in for real stories that highlight the struggles and triumphs of bootstrapping a business.

Craig Hewitt, a specialist in productized services and podcasting, returns to share insights on entrepreneurship. He discusses the balance between personal life and startup ambitions, the impact of accelerator programs like TinySeed, and the importance of a supportive community for founders. The transition from traditional jobs to consulting is explored, alongside the challenges of managing a SaaS product. Hewitt also emphasizes the critical phases of beta testing and marketing, all while engaging with listener questions for a dynamic discussion.

Mike Taber joins the discussion, sharing insights as he navigates the challenges of developing Bluetick. He delves into his long-term motivations and the intricacies of a Google security audit. The conversation touches on the balance between customer engagement and the need for ongoing support while launching new marketing campaigns. Mike also highlights the importance of product differentiation and customer feedback in shaping their business strategy. Plus, he reflects on managing time effectively in the entrepreneurial landscape.

Steli Efti, co-founder of Close.com, shares his rollercoaster journey in startup sales. He candidly discusses the highs and lows of the past year, emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices. Steli dives into building a sales playbook, contrasting inbound and outbound strategies, and highlights the significance of understanding customer needs. He also offers insights on designing effective sales compensation plans that prioritize long-term relationships over quick wins. Tune in for practical advice that can help shape your sales process!