Shows
The Panel"I hit my initial goal for my business – what's next?"Justin is wrestling with strategic decisions for Transistor after hitting his initial "success goal," while Brian is two weeks away from launching a new Rails components product and grappling with how to reach his target audience.Timestamps:(00:06) - What are we talking about in this episode?
(01:41) - The importance of a founder or CEO
(05:40) - Learning about marketing from politics
(18:27) - Thinking about the next phase of Transistor
(36:27) - Not knowing how a new product or service will be recieved until you launch it
(48:34) - Being in motion in the direction you think you...2025-05-091h 26
The PanelSaaS predictions for 2025 – Colleen Schnettler and Tyler KingIs bootstrapping a SaaS dead in 2025? How will AI affect software development as an industry? What's working when it comes to marketing?Justin Jackson (Transistor.fm) and Brian Casel (Instrumental Products) are joined by Colleen Schnettler (SaaS Marketing Gym) and Tyler King (Less Annoying CRM) to debate our predictions for the new year. CHAPTERS:0:00 - What to expect3:25 - Is SaaS Getting Harder in 2025?5:16 - Bootstrapped SaaS is past its prime8:32 - "Can you really build a good product with AI?"12:00 - "No-Code is in trouble, AI makes product discovery...2025-01-241h 02
The PanelEpisode 1 is coming soonHere's a preview of the first episode of The Panel! Justin Jackson (Transistor.fm) and Brian Casel (Instrumental Products)are joined Colleen Schnettler (SaaS Marketing Gym) and Tyler King (Less Annoying CRM) for a candid discussion about the future of bootstrapped SaaS in 2025. A few highlights:Will starting a SaaS be harder in 2025?Is AI going to really going to kill software development jobs?What's actually going to work when it comes to marketing?How to stand out in an AI eraWhat each of us is focused on for 2025Find us on Bluesky:...2025-01-1701 minThe PanelThe Panel – smart founders discuss the realities of building a businessWhen it comes to bootstrapping and building software, there's rarely one correct answer.The secret to building better products, profitable companies, and a better life is knowing how to find the best answer for you. That’s the purpose of The Panel podcast. Join hosts Justin (Transistor.fm) and Brian Casel (Instrumental Products) in each episode as they bring together a panel of founders, software developers, and friends to discuss hot topics like:- What's really working in SaaS marketing- The impact of AI on product development- Open source vs...2025-01-1006 min
The Real Chat with Justin Jackson"Jacob Carr's journey and vision, Justin Jackson's partnership proposal, and building the community's foundation"Jacob Carr shares his inspiring journey of recovery and faith after a debilitating accident on this episode of The Real Chat with Justin Jackson. Alongside Michael Thomas, they explore Carr's vision on disability perspectives and community initiatives. A potential partnership is proposed by Justin, while discussing the core mission of the podcast. Carr's empowering message for 2024 and the concept of community building, likened to pillars and foundation, are also highlighted. The episode concludes with hopeful New Year's wishes.
(0:00) Introduction and Guest Introductions: Michael Thomas and Jacob Carr
(2:35) Jacob Carr's Personal Journey: Accident, Recovery, and Faith
(6:34) Jacob Carr's Vision: Disability Perspectives...2024-05-3031 minThe Real Chat with Justin JacksonKoke on his musical journey, positivity movement, and future plans with Justin JacksonIn this episode, Justin Jackson and guests Corey, Michael Thomas, and Kokey discuss Kokey's musical journey, his mental health approach, and the birth of his positivity movement. They explore future plans, community initiatives, the importance of empathy, and plans for a positivity rap battle fundraiser.
(0:00) Introduction and Journey of Guest Kokey
(1:35) Freestyle Rap Performance by Kokey
(3:32) Discussion on Kokey's Musical Influence and Early Experiences
(9:03) Kokey's Approach to Mental Health and Fitness
(12:55) Birth and Impact of Kokey's Positivity Movement
(20:26) Future Plans and Sponsorships for the Positivity Movement
(22:34) Community Initiatives and Self-Care Strategies
(37:50) Journey and Future of the Positivity Booth
(45:54) Importance of...2024-05-2738 min
MegaMaker 2022Bootstrapping with kids and waiting to launchJosh and Justin recorded this on Jan 19th, 2022.Show notesMeeps – the best way to start a membership siteWhy haven't we launched yet?The anxiety of not being able to sleep as an entrepreneur: "how am I going to make this work?"How much revenue does the MegaMaker community make per year?Bootstrapping with kidsSurvey resultsProBar.co – track your progress towards a goal publiclyFind Josh and Justin online:Joshua Anderton on Twitter: @joshuaandertonJoshua's personal podcast: https://www.ramen.fmJustin Jackson on Twitter: @mijustinSupport the show:Le...2022-02-1448 minMegaMaker 2022Which part of the product will get traction?Sorry this episode is late! Josh and Justin recorded Dec 1st, and I'm publishing it two weeks later.Show notesJustin's Black Friday resultsWhen should we launch? January 15, 2022Francesco's tweet about Typefully revenue vs MailbrewTweet: "With startups, the amount of reward you get (revenue) is based on demand: "How strongly do people want what you're selling?""Find Josh and Justin online:Joshua Anderton on Twitter: @joshuaandertonJoshua's personal podcast: https://www.ramen.fmJustin Jackson on Twitter: @mijustinSupport the show:Leave a review on Apple Podcasts!Please...2021-12-1640 minMegaMaker 2022How many early access customers did we get?In this episode, Josh and Justin discuss when to open up a SaaS for early-access; and how they're going to use Meeps to make it better.Show notesEarly-access homepageOur early access emailHow we're running early access for MeepsTweet: anyone else noticing a slow August?How Justin does marketing at TransistorFind Josh and Justin online:Joshua Anderton on Twitter: @joshuaandertonJoshua's personal podcast: https://www.ramen.fmJustin Jackson on Twitter: @mijustinSupport the show:Leave a review on Apple Podcasts!Please! Share the show with your...2021-08-1632 minMegaMaker 2022Is Josh ready for early access?In this episode, Josh and Justin discuss when to open up a SaaS for early-access; and how they're going to use Meeps to make it better.Show notesCasey Neistat interviewSign up for Meeps early access!Meeps video updateFind Josh and Justin online:Joshua Anderton on Twitter: @joshuaandertonJoshua's personal podcast: https://www.ramen.fmJustin Jackson on Twitter: @mijustinSupport the show:Leave a review on Apple Podcasts!Please! Share the show with your friends.The best way to build a membership directory: https://meeps.app2021-08-0948 minMegaMaker 2022What it takes to run a paid online community (8+ years)I had a conversation about building online communities on Twitter Spaces that I wanted to share with you.Show notesThanks to Vineet Sinha for organizing the Twitter Spaces: https://twitter.com/VineetSinhaFind Josh and Justin online:Joshua Anderton on Twitter: @joshuaandertonJoshua's personal podcast: https://www.ramen.fmJustin Jackson on Twitter: @mijustinSupport the show:Leave a review on Apple Podcasts!Please! Share the show with your friends.The best way to build a membership directory: https://meeps.app2021-07-1959 minMegaMaker 2022Is truly possible to validate a product idea before launch?In this episode, we answer some questions from MegaMaker members:Val asks: "I'm super curious about this: How much of starting Meeps was a "hunch" rather than a structured discovery?"Ben asks: "Validation, what are ya'll trying right now/soon to get a signal if you're onto something? Also, is there a "company-wide" donut Friday? 😉"Tom asks: "Yes, specifically user discovery: how do you validate that the customer has, knows about, and will pay to solve the problem?"Jon: "(From our remote work discussion in MegaMaker): I'm interested in learning how you work together. Pros/cons?"Show...2021-07-121h 15MegaMaker 2022Josh gets some runwayIn this episode: Joshua Anderton gets three months of runway so he can work full-time on Meeps.app.Show notesThe benefit of the TALL stack: https://twitter.com/mijustin/status/1409304136504414210MegaMaker community on Meeps: https://megamaker.meeps.app/How did validation work with Transistor? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dNDgRcJYAEgProduct Hunt Ship: https://www.producthunt.com/shipJustin's barber: https://www.instagram.com/brett_thebarber/Matty Conrad: https://www.instagram.com/mattyconrad/Podcast hosting: https://transistor.fmTheme music: Striker-metal.comFind Josh and Justin online:Joshua Anderton on Twitter...2021-06-2843 minMegaMaker 2022Observing customer demand (plus: we reveal the name)This episode Joshua Anderton and Justin explore customer demand; how to recognize it, and where to find it. Plus: what do you think of the name? 😅Show notesThe best way to build a membership directory: https://meeps.appTaylor Otwell's Laravel framework: https://laravel.comAdam Wathan and Tailwind CSS: https://tailwindcss.comPodcast hosting: https://transistor.fmTheme music: Striker-metal.comFind Josh and Justin online:Joshua Anderton on Twitter: @joshuaandertonJoshua's personal podcast: https://www.ramen.fmJustin Jackson on Twitter: @mijustinSupport the show:Leave a review on App...2021-06-1436 minMegaMaker 2022First, a little backgroundThis season, Justin is making his first investment in Joshua Anderton. In this first episode they talk about the idea for a new SaaS app.Show notesOnline community for indie makers: https://megamaker.coUpscribe: https://upscribe.netJustin's blog post: https://justinjackson.ca/soloriskFamily Budget Calculator: https://www.epi.org/resources/budgetOkanagan Developers group: http://okdg.orgPodcast hosting: https://transistor.fmTheme music: Striker-metal.comFind Josh and Justin online:Joshua Anderton on Twitter: @joshuaandertonJoshua's personal podcast: https://www.ramen.fmJustin Jackson on Twitter: @mijustinSupport the show:2021-06-0736 minMegaMaker 2022Teaser: trying something new for 2021I'm doing a new season of MegaMaker. This season I'll be investing in Joshua Anderton, and partnering with him on a new project. The first episode is coming soon!You may have noticed: I've deleted all past episodes from this feed. Now I have Transistor.fm, and it's going well. So, for the first time ever, I'm in a position to invest in someone else.That's what we're going to be doing here on MegaMaker. And my first investment is going to be in Joshua Anderton. He's built a product called Upscribe.2021-06-0105 min
Product PeopleEP101 – Scott Young: teach yourself how to program, finally!I've been trying to learn how to program since 1985. This past year, at 38 years old, I finally figured out how.Questions we discuss in this episode:Is there only "one" way to learn how to code?Why is getting started SO HARD?How did Justin finally figure out a way to learn programming?Show notesGet the book: UltralearningScott's blogPDF: The science of cycologyThe latest from Justin:Want to start a podcast?My podcasting startup: Transistor.fmJoin Justin's newsletter justinjackson.ca/newsletterSend Justin a message...2019-08-071h 28
MegaMaker 2022Archive (2019): A time capsule of bootstrapping anxietyBack in July 2018, right before we launched Transistor, I was so stressed out about money. What's happened since then?Show notesRead: Bootstrapper's ParadoxMy interview Jason CalacanisTransistor's revenue numbers are publicPodcast hosting: Transistor.fmTheme music: Striker-metal.comFind Justin online:Send Justin a message on Twitter: @mijustinFollow me on TwitchSubscribe on YouTubeSupport the show:Leave a review on iTunes!Join MegaMaker Club2019-03-1113 min
Product PeopleEP100 – James Clear: improving your life in 2019 with Atomic HabitsJames Clear describes how you can improve your life, using small incremental steps that add up to big wins.Questions we discuss in this episode:How does "what you repeatedly do" affect your identity?How does someone’s context affect their ability to set and maintain good habits? Are good habits only for people of privilege? How can you maintain habits for people with depression, anxiety or attention deficit?How to form habits when your schedule is not in your control? (if you have kids, etc...)If you do fall out of a habit, wha...2019-01-241h 03
Product PeopleEP99 – Ben Orenstein's new startup is focused on pair programmingBen is the co-founder of Tuple.app and is running a new course called Habits for Hackers.★ Looking for a community of bootstrappers?Join MegaMaker ClubShow notesBen Orenstein on TwitterHabits for HackersMalcolm Gladwell and Rick Rubin talking about Johnny CashBen's working on a new product: Tuple.appBen's episode on Bootstrapped Web TinySeedEarnest CapitalBen's co-founder weekly retro questionslearntopair.com - Ben's guide to pair programmingArt of Product podcastBook: Atomic Habits by James ClearThe latest from Justin:My new startup: Transistor.fmPodcast in 2019!Join Justin's new...2019-01-021h 08
Product PeopleEP98 – The hard truth about bootstrapping startups (Part 2 with Jason Cohen)Jason Cohen asks Justin Jackson hard questions about his startup, Transistor.fm, and what it's going to take to go full-time.This is the second half of our chat. Part 1 was really just setting the stage. Part 2 digs into the real-life challenges of bootstrapping a business.★ Looking for a community of bootstrappers?Join MegaMaker ClubShow notesPodcast in 2019!Justin's original tweetBlog post: Can you bootstrap on the side?Watch this interview on YouTubeJason Cohen on TwitterThe latest from Justin:My new startup: Tr...2018-12-171h 11
Product PeopleEP97 – Can you bootstrap a company on the side? (Part 1 with Jason Cohen)When you're building a startup you have these questions:Should I work on my startup on the side, and grow it slowly?Should I take investment and go full-time sooner?These are the questions that have been circulating in my head over the past few months.Which is why when Jason Cohen, founder of WPengine and someone I respect, replied to my tweet, I took note:"It’s difficult to find successful companies where founders didn’t work 80+ hours and took longer than four years to get to $1M ARR. If you're two years in a...2018-12-1432 min
Product PeopleEP96 – My secret phone call with HamishHamish Macpherson is an engineer at Buffer, and was one of the first people to join MegaMaker.★ Looking for community of bootstrappers?Join MegaMaker ClubShow notesFollow Hamish Macherson on TwitterBufferHamish's Stand to Make side-projectThe latest from Justin:My new startup: Transistor.fmJoin Justin's newsletter justinjackson.ca/newsletterSend Justin a message on Twitter: @mijustinSend Justin a message on Instagram: instagram.com/mijustinSend Justin a message on Snapchat: @mijustin
🎙️ Podcast hosting is provided by Transistor.fm.📺 Learn how to start your own podcast!2018-11-2358 min
Product PeopleEP95 – "Programming's gateway drug" with Samantha GeitzThis is a great chat with Samantha Geitz, a Senior Developer at Tighten, and the founder of BetaFish.Topics in this episode: Should "business/marketing" people learn programming?What's the difference between messing around and being a serious programmer?Do regular programmers Google for answers?Why English Majors can make great programmers.If you want to learn hard things, do you need to be in a classroom?Why should take a mental health day when you need it.Announcement:Want to speak at a tech conference? I'm doing class called "public speaking f...2018-11-051h 07
Build & LaunchDid you miss me?I'm baaaaaack! Here’s an update.Show notesSign up for my newsletter: justinjackson.ca/newsletterOn the blog: Maybe you shouldn't be a solopreneurLeave a review on iTunes!Send Justin a message on Twitter: @mijustinSend Justin a message on Instagram: instagram.com/mijustinSubscribe on YouTubePodcast hosting: Transistor.fmTheme music: Striker-metal.comUpdate from 2021: what am I working on these days?A lot has happened since I recorded these episodes: I launched a podcast hosting company, Transistor.fm, with my friend Jon Buda! If you want to hear what I'm up...2018-08-1403 minProduct PeopleEP94 – Does the old SaaS playbook still work in 2018?So many great topics in this episode: Should developers learn design?Derrick's "viral signup" trickHow important is a personal brand?How to promote your project (while you're still building it)Do software companies need to become more service oriented?Announcement:I'm having a birthday sale! Go to megamaker.co/birthday and get up to 38% off Marketing for Developers, my books, and Product Validation Checklist!Show notesThis is the recording from the Art of Product Podcast. Full episode will be there!Ben Orenstein on TwitterDerrick Reimer on TwitterDerrick's new app: le...2018-06-1157 min
Product PeopleEP93 – SaaS pricing with Patrick CampbellI'm building a new SaaS in 2018 with my buddy Jon Buda called Transistor.fm. Now, we're trying to figure out our pricing. We're trying not to pretend we know everything there is to know about running a SaaS.So, we wanted to reach out to some experts and get outside opinions about how to create our pricing tiers. So I asked Patrick Campbell, from Price Intelligently, to help give us some direction. He blew my mind. This conversation is incredible, you're going to get so much out of it.Two announcements:Want...2018-06-0157 min
Product PeopleEP92 – 2018 MicroConf guide with Mike TaberMike Taber (Bluetick) and Rob Walling (Drip) started MicroConf in 2011 as a conference for self-funded startups. It's gone from just over 100 attendees to nearly 500. It's become the place for bootstrappers to hang out.Get $100 off MicroConf Starter EditionGo to megamaker.co/microconf or text "microconf" to (424) 247-5762.Show notesRead the 2018 MicroConf GuideRegister for MicroConfGet $100 off Starter EditionTED - how to make a great presentationDeckSet - make amazing slidesDraftsend - Hiten Shah's new slidesharing appMike Taber on TwitterBluetick - Mike's software companyThe Startups for the Rest of Us...2018-03-1549 min
Product PeopleEP91 – Josh Nielsen from Zencastr: software for podcastersJosh started out trying to build a "GitHub for music." When that idea didn't pan out, he still wanted to do something with Web Audio and WebRTC. So he started building Zencastr, which gives podcasters the ability to record "double-ender" interviews in the browser.Get all the Mega Profitable case studiesDon't miss any of the future Mega Profitable interviews!★ Sign up here. ★Show notes"I asked a podcaster I knew how much he'd pay, and he said '$20 / month' so that's what I used...2018-01-0758 min
Product PeopleEP90 – "Give yourself time." Building a profitable business on the Shopify apps platform6 years ago, Bjorn Forsberg built an app called OrderlyPrint for Shopify. His goal was to increase his freedom, and to spend more time with his family. Was able to achieve it? (This is the 5th case study in the Mega Profitable series)
We should measure profitability in other ways. It's not just "financial profitability." There's also "freedom profitability," and "time profitability." Because profitability is really about "getting ahead." So where else are you getting ahead?
Get all the Mega Profitable case studies
Don't miss any of the future Mega Profitable interviews!2017-11-1849 min
Product PeopleEP89 – "We never wanted to fire anyone," Natalie Nagele on Wildbit's journeyBack in the early 2000s, Wildbit was an agency building Flash websites for Philly nightclubs.Then, in 2007, they launched their first product, Beanstalk. Two years later, they quit doing consulting. Natalie Nagele takes us through their story!Get all the Mega Profitable case studiesDon't miss any of the future Mega Profitable interviews!★ Sign up here. ★Show notesLeave a review on iTunes!beanstalkapp.compostmarkapp.comFrom 2005: Wildbit's client portfolioFollow Natalie on Twitter: @natalienageleWant to contact Justin?Join...2017-10-2855 min
Product PeopleEP88 – Pippin Williamson from beer money to over $1 million in revenue with WordPress pluginsPippin Williamson started out like a lot of us do: building websites for whoever would pay him. He decided to try selling one of his WordPress plugins. Now, Pippin's Plugins earns over $1 million in revenue a year. This Mega Profitable series aims to help founders, like you, get profitable!Get all the Mega Profitable case studiesDon't miss any of the future Mega Profitable interviews!★ Sign up here. ★Show notesLeave a review on iTunes!pippinsplugins.comSandhills DevelopmentThe original pippinspages.comFollow Pippin on Twitter: @pipp...2017-10-2147 min
Product PeopleEP87 – How Nick Disabato built a profitable productized serviceIt's time for another Mega Profitable interview! This series aims to help founders, like you, get profitable. Learn how Draft went from having $21 in the bank (in his first year) to creating a solid, profitable solo-founder business.Get all the Mega Profitable case studiesDon't miss any of the future Mega Profitable interviews!★ Sign up here. ★Show notesLeave a review on iTunes!draft.nuNick's service: Draft ReviseNick's book: Draft EvidenceFollow Nick on Twitter: @nickdWant to contact Justin?Join...2017-10-0455 min
Product PeopleEP86 – Mega profitable with Brennan DunnIntroducing a new series: Mega Profitable. What's the difference between a founder who is mega profitable, and a product person who's just making a living? Brennan Dunn joins me to talk about his journey.This episode sponsored by...I've just updated my most popular product: the Marketing for Developers book.★ Grab a sample chapter here. ★Show notesLeave a review on iTunes!doubleyourfreelancing.comBrennan's new product: RightMessageBrennan's book: Double Your Freelance RateFollow Brennan on Twitter: @brennandunnWant to contact Justin?Jo...2017-09-2055 min
Product PeopleEP85 – Facing your launch fears with Mike Taber of Bluetick.ioYou'll recognize Mike from Startups for the Rest of Us and the MicroConf conference. He's launching a new product called Bluetick.This episode sponsored by...★ I'm updating my most popular product: the Marketing for Developers book.Relaunches end of August 2017. Grab a sample chapter here.Show notesLeave a review on iTunes!singlefounder.comMike's product: Bluetick.ioMike's conference MicroConfFollow Mike on Twitter: @singlefounderWant to contact Justin?Join Justin's newsletter justinjackson.ca/newsletterSend Justin a message on Twitter: @mijustinSend Ju...2017-08-1244 min
Product PeopleEP84 – Contrarian bootstrapper Ian Landsman"Charge more!" "Use content marketing!" "Start with an ebook!"There's a lot of folklore in the startup and bootstrapping community. Do they all stand up to scrutiny?This is my interview with long-time SaaS entrepreneur, Ian Landsman.Show notesLeave a review on iTunes!ianlandsman.comIan's product: HelpSpotIan's new product: ThermostatFollow Ian on Twitter: @ianlandsmanWant to contact Justin?Join Justin's NEW Indie newsletter justinjackson.ca/indieSend Justin a message on Twitter: @mijustinSend Justin a message on Instagram: instagram.com/mijustinSend Justin a message...2017-05-161h 25
Product PeopleEP83: Laura Elizabeth – unmistakable product validationHow do you find product ideas that resonate?Hear how Laura knew there was demand for her project, Client Portal.Everyone was like: "I want that."(This is my special MicroConf 2017 episode!)Show notesLeave a review on iTunes!lauraelizabeth.coLaura's product: Client PortalLaura's other project: Design AcademyFollow Laura on Twitter: @lauriumWant to contact Justin?Join Justin's NEW Indie newsletter justinjackson.ca/indieSend Justin a message on Twitter: @mijustinSend Justin a message on Instagram: instagram.com/mijustinSend Justin a message on Snapchat: @mijustin2017-04-0845 min
Product PeopleEP78: Nathan Barry - cash flow therapy (Part 2)This is part 2 of my conversation with Nathan Barry. In the past four months, he’s taken his burgeoning SaaS company (ConvertKit) from $1 million in annual recurring revenue to $2 million.That sounds exciting, but it wasn’t easy getting there. In this episode Nathan talks about the stress of being a new CEO, running out of money, not being able to get a loan, and finally figuring out a way to succeed.Personally, I completely ran out of money. Wells Fargo wouldn’t give me a loan.Show notesNathan Barry on Twi...2016-04-0631 min
Product PeopleEP77 - Nathan Barry – Three years in the desert (Part 1)The last time I talked to Nathan, his web app (ConvertKit) had just hit $5,000 in MRR. In this two part series, Nathan describes how they grew that to $182,000 in monthly recurring revenue.I’m going to start more conference talks with: “Look, this worked for me. If you can get something from it great. But there’s no guarantees.” I’m not interested in being a thought leader anymore.Show notesNathan Barry on TwitterConvertKit’s public revenue statsJustin’s other podcast: MegaMaker – making 100 things in 1 yearSponsorMy friend Peld...2016-04-0135 min
Product PeopleEP76: Tom & Dan get physical with Studio NeatTom and Dan had one of the most successful Kickstarters of 2010 when they released the Glif. But was that enough to launch full-time careers as product makers?In this episode, they delve into how they started Studio Neat (their company) and give tons of practical tips for building physical products, and doing crowdfunding campaigns. (This episode contains giggles)Show notes:studioneat.comGlif KickstarterDaring Fireball’s post on GlifTheir book: It Will be Exhilarating Studio Neat’s Vimeo channelNote from JustinI’m la...2016-02-0941 min
Build & LaunchEP29: To the futureI'm planning something brand new for 2016. If it's going to launch, I'm going to need your help. Go here, put your email in the sign-up form, and I'll be in touch.Show notesGo to MegaMaker.co, sign-up for the list, and let me know what you thinkDocumentary: Capital CMy software project with Marty Dill: Network EffectsI asked this question on TwitterFollow me on Twitter: @mijustinRate and review the showJoin the newsletterMegaMaker theme song is "Bad Decisions" by Striker.Podcast hosting provided by Transistor.fm.Update from 2021: A lot has h...2015-11-3010 min
Build & LaunchEP28: Here's me at 3:49am whispering into my iPhoneLearn how the Marketing for Developers launch went, and his initial sales numbers. You'll also hear the personal audio journals he recorded during the launch process.On sharing revenue numbersOn the other hand, sharing numbers can sometimes feel a little… icky. It can feel like you’re shoving your success in other people’s faces.And maybe I need to work on my own insecurities, but I know that no matter how successful I am, all it takes is reading another one of these stupid “How I Made $17,000 in 24 Hours” posts to feel like...2015-10-1615 min
Product PeopleEP75: Jason Zook on why he’s selling his futureJason Zook has a different perspective on life and business. He’s not afraid to try weird and crazy business ideas.In 2008 he started a business called I Wear Your Shirt. Over 5 years he earned over $1 million in revenue from wearing over 1,600 sponsored t-shirts. Following that business, he sold the rights to his last name (he was Jason Headsetsdotcom and Jason Surfrapp for awhile).Jason joins me to talk about his new project: Buy My Future. Until October 6 people can buy everything he’s ever created, plus everything he’s going to create, for one price...2015-09-2443 min
Product PeopleEP74: Tracy Osborn – launching a Kickstarter, a book, a SaaS!If you want to launch your own Kickstarter, write your own book, or build your own web application you’re going to love this episode.Tracy Osborn is a serious bad-ass who’s done all three! She’s my guest this week.In this episode Tracy goes through the process of running a Kickstarter, and the lessons she’s learned:When I conceived the book idea, I was faced the decision whether I should work with a publisher, or whether I should self-publish. In the end, the typical royalty/advance structure turned me away from wor...2015-09-2147 min
Build & LaunchEP27: Looking for that secret sauceReferencing the "cult of personality:"People are buying products thinking that if they can get someone's secret sauce, they can re-create that person's success.Adam Clark said:In our culture, the independent entrepreneur is like the Marlboro Man. Everyone wants to be that guy.Show notesWhat do you think? Email me: words@bizbox.caCongrats to the winner of the Gumroad Small Product Lab: D.J. Coffman created an awesome product called the Comic Drawing Toolkit for Photoshop.Follow me on Twitter: @mijustinRate and review the showJoin the newsletterRead my blog post: Don't Follow...2015-06-2714 min
Product PeopleEP73: Justin Jackson – “How I got into products”I was recently on the Chasing Product podcast with Chris Hawkins. Chris is a good interviewer: he asked a lot of great questions about my back-story, and how I got into products.
There’s this independence and self-reliance that comes from making your own products.
Show notes
Mentioned on Startups for the Rest of Us
The Build & Launch podcast
Working on Marketing for Developers
Chasing Product Podcast: EP 25
Note from Justin
Want to help the show? If you could go to iTunes leave a nice review that would be superb. Also: i...2015-06-2743 min
Product PeopleEP73: Justin Jackson – “How I got into products”I was recently on the Chasing Product podcast with Chris Hawkins. Chris is a good interviewer: he asked a lot of great questions about my back-story, and how I got into products.
There’s this independence and self-reliance that comes from making your own products.
Show notes
Mentioned on Startups for the Rest of Us
The Build & Launch podcast
Working on Marketing for Developers
Chasing Product Podcast: EP 25
Note from Justin
Want to help the show? If you could go to iTunes leave a nice review that would b...2015-06-2744 min
Build & LaunchEP26: Holy BananasWhat is product validation? If you're building a product, you want validation. You want to know your product has value - that you're on the right track. Even deeper, you want to be validated. You want to feel like you're not wasting your time. You want to feel like your work is valuable."YC is like the ultimate validation that you're on to something." - Lauren Kay, Dating RingIf you're building a business, there's only one way to validate that your product idea is good: are people paying money for it?The only two people...2015-05-0812 min
Build & LaunchEP25: The end is nighJustin also gives sneak peek of his new book: Marketing for Developers.The mantra of this show has always been: "Start small and start now."Two common mistakes product people makeWe try to build ideas that are too bigWe don't start building right awayAll the stuff that leads up to getting started doesn't count. The only thing that matters is the work.Writing TipWe often make our writing too flowery and formal. Here's a way to make your writing sound more "human:" read it out loud. When you read your...2015-04-1114 min
Build & LaunchEP24: How do we create things people want?How do you know what people want? After spending 24 hours in the mini-van with 4 kids, Justin is back from the Easter long-weekend and ready to update us on his progress on this week's project: "Marketing for Developers."Project updateYou'd think that I would learn my lesson: in order to do these week-long sprints, plus record and edit this podcast, plus do my day job, I really can't have anything else on my plate. But, like an idiot, I scheduled this Season of the podcast while I was going to be away in...2015-04-0814 min
Build & LaunchEP23: Face your fearsThe theme for this episode is "facing your fears." Was Justin able to re-launch Product People Club? He talks to more of his existing customers to discover what jobs they're hiring the Club for.“Do one thing every day that scares you.” - Eleanor RooseveltThis week's project: Product People Club. You can see it it here: megamaker.coNext week's project: Marketing for DevelopersI started writing this book in January, 2014, but never finished it. The idea had lots of traction (over 2,200 people signed up for the waiting list...2015-04-0312 min
Build & LaunchEP22: Get some gutsThis is the mid-week check-up: I had to do some hard stuff and actually call my customers, and hear what they thought of my product.This week's project: Product People ClubProduct People Club is a membership site for solopreneurs: people making their own stuff, by themselves.Here’s the story: 2 years ago, I was fed up. I wanted to launch and validate something really quickly. So I put up a landing page for a chat room for entrepreneurs. I capped it at 10 members, and decided I’d charge $10 a mon...2015-04-0115 min
Build & LaunchEP21: HaggardIt's not about you achieving the American Dream. It's about you getting 1% better ever day."Every time you put yourself on the line, you are creating your own luck, and increasing your chances of having some success"What are you going to do this week to improve your situation?The only way you get better, is by getting started.Quote from This American Life, Three MilesBut nothing has happened for her for 10 years. I think it's some special brand of American pathological optimism, that so many of us believe the story of Melanie...2015-03-2814 min
Build & LaunchEP20: Life vs ProjectsIn this episode he talks about balancing our creative projects with getting out and living your life.Ultimately, I believe that relationships are more important than the things we make.This week's projectWeekofhustle.com - commit to building your project in a week. Start on a set date, and launch 7 days later.Show notesFollow me on Twitter: @mijustinRate and review the showJoin the newsletterPodcast hosting provided by Transistor.fm.Update from 2021: A lot has happened since I recorded these episodes: I launched a...2015-03-2508 min
Build & LaunchEP19: Eating my own dog foodJustin is recording on the road from Edmonton, Alberta.In this episode: with only 4 days to work, Justin launch the first product of Season 2? See what it's like to eat your own dog food.This week's projectBack in Season 1, Carl and Justin created a WordPress plugin that allowed you to create your own online course, and sell it using Gumroad.For this week's project, Justin decided to eat his own dogfood, and use the plugin to host his own online course. He had 4 days to re-build...2015-03-2012 min
Build & LaunchEP18: Announcing Season 2Here’s the deal: normally with this show I announce a new project on Friday, and I ship it on the following Thursday.Today is March 16th, 2015. I’m going to Vegas on April 12th for MicroConf and don’t want to launch anything that weekend.That gives me 4 weeks, to launch 4 new projects.Let's do this.This week's projectI’m going to do a short week and try to launch something this Thursday. That gives me only 3 days.I'll...2015-03-1710 min
Build & LaunchEP17: We did wreck a few thingsI give an update about the bachelor party (many soda pops, no one got hurt, everyone came home safe).Product updateCarl and I received a cease-and-desist email for Productify. We've re-named the product ProductPress.Future ProductsWeekOfHustle.comJustinJackson.ca/CourseAdvice for people building their first product:Start small, and start now.Choose an idea that people want: something that will help you make your first dollar on the internet.Set your own goals: don’t compare yourself to others.Your first st...2015-03-1111 min
Build & LaunchEP16: How do you launch if you don't have an audience?How do you launch if you don't have an audience?Derek Moreno and Hassan both asked this question.Your product needs a target market, and you need a way of reaching that target market.Questions about the Build & Launch experienceMike Dario asked:1. What was the biggest challenge?Find the time and energy each day, for sure. Staying focused and on-task.2. How did you track the changes each day?I used Sprintly (project management software). I'd log...2015-03-0511 min
Build & LaunchEP15: The only thing that matters is doing the workJustin responds to listener questions:Question 1: How do you decide if an idea is worth launching?The product founder doesn't push an idea on the people. Instead, the people provide the inspiration for the product.Your product idea really has to be something that people want. You can't force your idea on people, hoping that they'll buy.Question 2: How do you build products if you have kids and a full-time job?The only thing that matters, is the work – when you’re building a product, there are a lot...2015-03-0311 min
Build & LaunchEP14: I want candy7 days ago, Carl and Justin set off on an adventure to build a unique WordPress plugin in one week.Also - kids or no kids?This week's projectThe inspiration for this project came in August, after I launched my course. The course platform I was using was expensive. I was being charged $130 / month + 4% of course sales + transaction fees! Since August I've had to pay $1,288.00 to that service. If I'd used Productify, I would have paid only $39. ;)What I really wanted was to host my...2015-02-2812 min
Build & LaunchEP13: The Art of the HustleThis week he's working on a WordPress plugin with Carl Alexander. They're hoping to ship it on Thursday; will they make it?Everybody is in a unique place in life. Some of us have our health, some of us have more free time than others, some of us have more resources than others... that's just the way it is. The challenge is for each of to not compare ourselves to other people who are in a different situation. Instead, let's figure out: how can we make something tiny, and put it out into the world?Adam Clark...2015-02-2411 min
Build & LaunchEP12: You gotta know when to hold ‘emHow do you know when to hold 'em, when to fold 'em and when to walk away?Also: Justin announces the new Build & Launch product for this coming week. It's something we've never done on the show before...Launch notes: Irresistible Podcasting Course by Adam ClarkToday's episode is a crossover episode with Adam Clark's The Gently Mad ep 33.Did nearly 5 figures in pre-sales in DecemberWhen we last left our hero, Adam Clark, we had an honest discussion about the real challenges of building a product.Adam h...2015-02-2116 min
Build & LaunchEP11: I'll be your birth coachThis is the show where we build and launch something every 7 days. In this episode Justin does a mid-week checkup with Adam to see how he's doing with his podcasting course.Once you've promised the world that you're going to make something, that's when things get scary. Because now you have to make it. Most of us would rather create things in our cave and not launch, because that's safe. It's time for you to go public.Community updatesMarc Eglon built Letterlist.comRobert is launching Emails that Win on Feb 18.Seth Werkheiser has an awesome...2015-02-1713 min
Build & LaunchEP10: Born in the 80'sThis week Justin teams up with his friend Marty to build and launch a web application called Network Effects.Were they able to launch in time?Community update:Corey Stone built & launched: herokeyboard.comKyle Adams creates incredible icons + illustrations: kyleadams.meJustin Weiss released his book “Practicing Rails”: www.justinweiss.com/practicing-rails/On burnoutIt doesn't do you any good to burn yourself out and end up in bed... or worse, a hospital bed.Did they launch?YES! Network Effects launched to 10 beta testers on Thursday. You...2015-02-1413 min
Build & LaunchEP9: I called my competitionI called a competitor on the phone.There's always this worry that someone with the same idea is going to launch at the same time, and they're going to steal all of our thunder.Join Justin Jackson as he talks with Kiki Schirr about not getting discouraged when competitors pop up.It's kind of like showing up to a party and you're wearing the same dress as someone else.This week's Build & Launch projectThis is also the mid-week check-up for the second product we're building live on the show: a fully...2015-02-1017 min
Build & LaunchEP8: Do you even launch, bro?When we last spoke, I was mid-week through his experiment of building a product in 7 days. Yesterday was supposed to be launch day, did I succeed? Listen as I expose his personal audio journals to the world, chronicling his journey of writing and shipping "The Product Hunt Handbook." Explore the struggle, the obstacles, the exhaustion!The actual work of producing a product is hard. Most of the time you waste is not getting to the actual work. In this case, the only thing that mattered was me sitting down at my computer with iBooks Author and writing. That's...2015-02-0614 min
Build & LaunchEP7: Observe the tired man in his habitatIt’s the mid-week checkup! Last Thursday Justin announced the first product he'd be building. He only has 7 days to do it.In this episode you'll hear real-life journal entries from Justin as he attempts to write The Product Hunt handbook for delivery on Thursday.He also got a special surprise... listen to hear about that.Follow-upWe made it to the top of New & Noteworthy in iTunes! Thank you! (Keep leaving those reviews)You can pre-order The Product Hunt Handbook now and get $5 off (somebody already did!)Maurice Ch...2015-02-0310 min
Build & LaunchEP6: This is it: first product announcement!Whoo. This is it. This is the day I announce the first product I'll be working on for Build & Launch. I wanted to start really small: I think the mistake most people make when they're building their first thing, is they choose something way too big."Nobody has the balls to do this." - Jarrod DrysdaleProduct announcementThe first official Build & Launch product is... The Product Hunt Handbook.The only way to truly validate an idea is seeing if people will pay money for it.There’s two important things you ne...2015-01-3012 min
Build & LaunchEP5: Re-launch my beard (Launch Week)Yesterday was launch day for the podcast. It landed on Product Hunt, and there was a flurry of excitement. But what happens the day after you launch? Today I talk about the post-launch blues.We launch part of ourselves with the stuff that we do. We're launching ourselves in a podcast, or a book, or product. It's tough. - Paul JarvisYou're in really vulnerable position. You're putting something you've been working on in private out in public. The launch is fun, but then you have to do the work. And you're back by yourself. - Jarrod Drysdale...2015-01-2915 min
Build & LaunchEP4: How do you say Creeper in French? (Launch Week)In this episode we hear what Justin's family thinks about this crazy experiment. Also: why is Justin standing in a completely dark closet?Launch statsI promised that I'd share all my launch stats for each project I release.So far, in the last 24 hours, here are the stats:955 podcast listens671 page views on buildandlaunch.net (almost all from Product Hunt)12 ratings in the USA iTunes Store5 ratings in the Canadian iTunes Store93 upvotes on Product HuntLaunch email list: 394 subscribersQuestion & AnswerWhat do you use...2015-01-2818 min
Build & LaunchEP3: Podcasting gear starter kit (Launch Week)Want to start your own podcast this year? For Build & Launch's inaugural week, Justin Jackson is doing 5 mini episodes on what it takes to build and launch a podcast. Today's episode: what kind of of podcasting gear you should get.Want to help make Build & Launch a success? Subscribe, and leave a review in iTunes!Once Build & Launch starts it's official season on February 5th, 2015, Justin Jackson will launch a new product every week. Listen and learn from his wins and misses, and get motivated to ship your own SaaS, mobile app, ebook, or other...2015-01-2612 min
Build & LaunchEP2: A ton of coffee and feeling good (Launch Week)Want to Build & Launch your own thing? Join Justin Jackson as he launches a new product every week. Listen and learn from his wins and misses, and get motivated to ship your own SaaS, mobile app, ebook, or other digital project.Want to help make Build & Launch a success? Subscribe, and leave a review in iTunes!For the podcast's launch week, he's doing 5 mini episodes on what it takes to build and launch a podcast. Today's episode: start now and start small."Before you run out and buy a bunch of gear, record...2015-01-2612 min
Build & LaunchEP1: Don't make stuff for hippies (Launch Week)Build & Launch is an experimental podcast about launching products. Every week, Justin Jackson takes you on a journey of shipping something new. You'll get to here about his missteps and wins as he creates something and then launches it to the public. Then you'll be able to check back the following week and hear about his launch stats: revenue, traffic, conversion rates, everything!Want to help make Build & Launch a success? Subscribe, and leave a review in iTunes!For the podcast's launch week, he's doing 5 mini episodes on what it takes to build...2015-01-2612 min
Product PeopleEP71: Des Traynor on the forgotten job of every SaaS productDes Traynor is one of my favorite writers and speakers on the topic of SaaS businesses, and jobs-to-be-done.Notable quotes“I think not talking to your customers was always a pretty pathological thing to do” – Des Traynor“Customer service is the new competitive edge. Everyone has SaaS businesses. We’re all using the same frameworks, copying the same design techniques. Most software being produced today is infinitely better than it was years ago. The competitive edge isn’t going to be who has the better bevel. I actually think it will move to...2014-12-1246 min
Product PeopleEP70: Samuel Hulick talks about building UseronboardSamuel has become the internet’s authority on user onboarding. In this personal and open interview, Samuel talks about how he was able to discover his niche, build an audience, and launch his first product. He also talks about what to do after a dissapointing launch.Near the end of this interview, Samuel and Justin get passionate about the idea of greeting our product users like human beings: “Hello, welcome! We’re glad you’re here; we’ve been waiting for you.”Show notesUseronboard.com@samuelhulickSamuel’s onboarding bookcrazyegg.comSuper Mario user onb...2014-11-071h 08
Product PeopleEP69: Nir Eyal on how to build habit forming productsIn June of 2013, I was introduced to Nir Eyal through Ryan Hoover. Nir had been blogging a lot about psychology and analyzing what makes a highly engaging product. Nir eventually published a book on that topic: Hooked – How to Build Habit-Forming Products. Hooked is a guide to building habit-forming technology, written for product managers, designers, marketers, and startup founders.In this episode we get into how you can design your products, especially the initial experience, to create traction. We also get into my addiction to iTunes.Hooked comes out on hard-cover on November 4th.2014-10-3151 min
Product PeopleEP68: Brian Casel on productized servicesBrian Casel is a bootstrapper with a lot of projects: he has a podcast, a hosting platform called Restaurant Engine, and a new course called Productize.We talked about Brian’s story (from developing WordPress themes, to building an audience online) as well as what a productized service is.Show notesBrian’s new course is: http://casjam.com/productize/Brian is the host of: http://bootstrappedweb.com/He tweets at: https://twitter.com/CasJamHis products are here: http://casjam.com/Note from JustinThis interview is a sma...2014-10-2456 min
Product PeopleEP67: Mike Rohde is building a sketchnote armyMike Rohde is a designer and an author, but he’s probably best known for illustrating the 37signals books: Rework and Remote. Mike is now building his own products: The Sketchnote Handbook, and the Sketchnote Workbook. Both are unique books, which also include video. Mike has a secret agenda: to get more people drawing again.Show notesXOXO Festival“Let’s make some stuff”Mike Rohde’s homepageMike Rohde on TwitterBuy Mike’s first book: The Sketchnote HandbookBuy Mike’s new book: The Sketchnote WorkbookSubscribe to Mike’s newsletterDocumentary: Jiro Dreams of SushiNot...2014-10-0237 min
Product PeopleEP66: Marc-André Cournoyer on making the leapMarc-André Cournoyer is a passionate coder and product person from Montreal, Quebec. If you’re a developer, engineer, or technical person looking to make the jump to building products, you’re going to love this one.Show notesMarc’s homepageMarc on TwitterOwning RailsGreat Code ClubNote from JustinThis interview is a smaller segment of a full-interview with Marc, available on Product People Club. Go to productpeople.club, and sign up for the waiting list. Screenshots are up now!Want to help the show? If you c...2014-09-0540 min
Product PeopleEP65: Andreea and building Startup KitAndreea Mihalcea is a dynamic young founder from Romania. Her and her team are building a new product called Startup Kit. I loved her insights into how and why people buy software products. Startup Kit is targeting an interesting problem: managers and CTOs who need to get a handle on what products their team is using and paying for.Notable quotes“When you’re working on a team, you have to make sure that your tools play nice with other team’s tools” – Andreea MihalceaShow notesStartupK...2014-08-2826 min
Product PeopleEP64: Jarrod Drysdale on bootstrapping designFirst, you need to know that Jarrod Drysdale is a good dude. He’s also the author of Bootstrapping Design, and the creator of Cascade.io. He’s smart, and humble, and talented and he has tons of great things to say about building products, succeeding and failing, and the importance of really caring for the people you’re serving.Show notesJarrod’s blogJarrod on TwitterBootstrapping DesignCascade.ioNote from JustinThis interview is a smaller segment of a full-interview with Jarrod, available on Product People Club. Go...2014-08-2142 min
Product PeopleEP63: Sacha Greif – how things get popularSacha Greif joined me again for a chat on how he marketed Discover Meteor, and why certain blog posts get popular.Notable quotes“I’ve always believed that people really respond to quality content.” – Sacha Greif“You can tell when someone has written something with no research; getting quality data, screenshots, and diagrams really helps.” – Sacha Greif“There’s a direct relationship between the amount of time I put into a blog post, and how popular it is” – Sacha Greif“People respond to books: they don’t want to have to look thr...2014-08-1536 min
Product PeopleEP62: Paul Jarvis is always hungryI freakin’ love Paul Jarvis. He’s creative, he’s unique, and he’s Canadian.Notable quotes“When you work for yourself, your boss is an asshole” – Paul Jarvis“I’m vegan so I’m always hungry” – Paul Jarvis“I want to help people build their business online.” – Paul Jarvis“It’s funny: people think that when they’re done school, they’re done with homework. Do a bit of homework! You’ll stand out.” – Paul Jarvis“People don’t hire web designers because of skills. They want someone they trust.” – Paul...2014-08-0738 min
Product PeopleEP61: Nate Kontny says “Solve your own problems!”Today’s interview is with one of my favourite people on the internet: Nate Kontny. He’s the solo-founder of Draft, a web application that helps you improve your writing through collaboration. He also blogs at Ninjas and Robots.Notable quotes“Solve your own problems!” – Nate Kontny“Take two or things in your life that your passionate about, and merge them together. Then you’ll start creating cool things.” – Nate KontnyShow notesDraftNate’s blogNate on TwitterNote from JustinI’m rel...2014-07-2443 min
Product PeopleEP60: Hear how Ryan Hoover built Product Hunt in 4 daysThis week’s guest is Ryan Hoover. We’ve been online friends for a few years now. Back in 2013, Ryan invited me to join a new site he’d created called ProductHunt.com. In the last 3 weeks, it’s exploded. He was interviewed on Fox News, he was interviewed on This Week in Startups, AND he just announced that he’s joined YCombinator.I actually recorded this episode on January 24, 2014 (5 months ago) – before Product Hunt got huge. I thought it would be interesting to revisit that conversation: to hear from the Ryan Hoover that hadn’t yet achieved all t...2014-07-1742 min
Product PeopleEP59: Dan Norris and the 7 day startupDan Norris is the co-founder of WP Curve, and the author of The 7 Day Startup. He gave himself 1 year to build a profitable product. After spending a year on a product called Inform.ly, with no profits to show for it, he came up with the idea for WP Curve, and made it got his first paying customer in 4 days.Notable quotes:“With my first business, I just wasn’t selling something people wanted.” – Dan Norris“We’ve launched 4 business in the last 12 months, and 3 of them failed. We started listening to customers and focused on...2014-07-1037 min
Product PeopleEP58: Garrett Dimon – SaaS isn’t all rainbows and unicornsGarrett Dimon is the founder of Sifter and author of Starting + Sustaining. We talked about finding an idea, validating an idea, and building your product. Our conversation started with this question: “What are the biggest misconceptions about running a SaaS product?”
Notable quotes:
“If you just want to create stuff, and write code, starting a business is not the best way to do that.” – Garrett Dimon
“I definitely thought I was would be able to do more development and design; but it’s not really like that” – Garrett Dimon
“People don’t describe...2014-07-0341 min
Product PeopleEP57: Brennan Dunn talks about the marketing machineBrennan Dunn is the go-to guy to talk about marketing automation. He’s build a SaaS, called Planscope, but these days he recommends first-time entrepreneurs build something smaller (like an eBook, or a webinar). He’s also the author of Double Your Freelancing Rate, and has lots of good insight on pricing, marketing, and automating your sales funnel.
Notable quotes:
“We get so fixated on the medium (is it a SaaS, ebook, webinar) when really all that matters is the results for the customer.” – Brennan Dunn
“Dentists are not typically googling around for dental software. To...2014-06-2739 min