Shows
The Startup PodcastCapital for Founders: Insights From Yaniv’s New Startup RaiseRaising money for your startup isn’t just about pitching but navigating egos, timing, and a flood of contradictory feedback. Why do some founders win over early believers who open every door, while others get stuck in endless “soft nos”? And how do you avoid twisting yourself into a pretzel trying to please every investor you meet?In this episode, Yaniv Bernstein and Chris Saad dive into the gritty, unfiltered reality of early-stage fundraising. Yaniv shares six fresh, hard-earned lessons from raising a pre-seed round for his own startup, Violet. These are insigh...
2025-08-1150 min
The Startup PodcastInsiders React: Meta's Luckey Military Deal + Google's Plan to Split Itself, Europe Revives AI & StartupsCan consumer tech like Facebook and Oculus really help win wars?As governments get serious about AI and startups, Silicon Valley is being dragged—sometimes unwillingly—into the global military and geopolitical game.In this episode, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein unpack how Meta is teaming up with Anduril—the military tech startup founded by Oculus’ Palmer Luckey—to bring XR (Extended Reality) to the battlefield. They also break down how Google might preemptively split itself, how UK civil servants gained 5% productivity with AI tools, and why Europe’s startup scene may finally...
2025-06-0527 min
The Startup PodcastHow the PRFAQ Made Amazon Great (And Can Do The Same for You) w/ Marcelo Calbucci (Edu)Are you building a startup strategy—or just making it look like you have one?Too many founders mistake polished slide decks for actual strategic thinking, leading to misalignment, wasted resources, and failed products.In this episode, Yaniv Bernstein and Chris Saad are joined by Marcelo Calbucci, former Amazon director and author of The PRFAQ Framework. They dive into how Amazon’s famously effective six-page PRFAQ process forces deep thinking, aligns teams, and drives billion-dollar bets—without a single slide.They explore why most startups get strategy wrong, how to apply...
2025-06-021h 00
The Startup PodcastInsiders React: Google Goes AI 'Beast Mode' + Airbnb's Bold Pivot, Microsoft’s Agent StrategyIs Google staging the biggest comeback in tech history? Or are we just getting swept up in the hype?Founders often underestimate just how fast platform shifts change the rules of the game, and Google, Microsoft, and OpenAI are rewriting the rulebook in real time.In this episode, Yaniv Bernstein and Chris Saad break down Google’s massive AI showcase at I/O 2025, spotlighting the rollout of Gemini Live, Gmail Smart Replies, and even AI-powered glasses. They also dive into Airbnb’s bold strategy to become the “Amazon for servic...
2025-05-2255 min
The Startup PodcastInsiders React: Death of Google Search? + YC's Startup Wishlist, Trump’s Saudi AI DealsWhat happens when Apple hints that Google’s search dominance may be cracking, triggering a $155 billion wipeout in Alphabet’s value?Many still think Google search is untouchable, but a shift in user behavior and a few lines in DOJ testimony may signal otherwise.In this episode, Chris Saad, Yaniv Bernstein, and Amir Shevat explore how Apple’s revelation about declining Safari search traffic could mark a turning point for Google, what’s really behind Trump’s Middle East ‘AI investment tour,’ and how YC’s latest startup wishlist shows where the...
2025-05-151h 04
The Startup PodcastInsiders React: OpenAI Bets Big on Vibe Coding + Epic Games' Victory Over Apple, Silicon Valley's Talent CrisisOpenAI just dropped $3B on vibe coding—should software engineers be worried?And what happens now that Apple’s 30% App Store tax just took a major legal hit?In this episode of The Startup Podcast, hosts Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein are joined by seasoned founder and investor Hooman Radfar (CEO at Collective, ex-VC at Expa) to unpack three seismic shifts shaping the future of tech startups today.They dive deep into OpenAI’s $3B move into vibe coding, the ripple effects of Apple’s court-ordered App Store co...
2025-05-081h 02
The Startup PodcastFinance For Founders - Why 'Playing It Safe' Is Risky w/ Michiel Boere, CFO at Remote (Edu)Think staying profitable means you’re on the right track? Think again.Too many founders obsess over budgets and burn—but the real risk isn’t running out of cash. It’s growing too slowly to matter.In this episode, Yaniv Bernstein is joined by Michiel Boere, CFO of Remote and former CFO of Uber Eats, to demystify startup finance for non-financial founders. Drawing from his experience scaling Uber and managing 50+ audits at Remote, Michiel shares the strategic financial mindset every founder must adopt to succeed.In this episode, you will:
2025-05-0552 min
The Startup PodcastInsiders React: Did Zuckerberg Sabotage Instagram? + Apple’s New Devices, James Cameron on AIInstagram’s co-founder, Kevin Systrom, helped define the modern social web—now he’s calling out Zuckerberg in court.And are Apple’s smart glasses finally catching up to Meta’s AI-powered wearables?In this episode, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein react to some of the biggest headlines in tech and startup land. From explosive testimony by Instagram’s co-founder to Apple’s delayed (but intriguing) entry into foldables and wearables, the hosts unpack what these developments really mean for startup founders and operators.They also dissect Avatar director James...
2025-05-0134 min
The Startup PodcastReplay: Mastering Attention - Your Startup's Secret Weapon w/ Ben Parr (Edu)In today's fast-paced digital world, capturing and retaining attention is the most valuable currency for startups. But how can you thrive in a hypercompetitive landscape where rejection is the default response?In this episode, Yaniv Bernstein and Chris Saad are joined by Ben Parr, acclaimed author of Captivology: The Science of Capturing People’s Attention, to dive deep into the attention economy.In this episode, they explore: Understanding why attention is crucial for turning intention into action. Embracing attention-seeking as a positive pursuit, not something to be avoided. Le...
2025-04-2851 min
The Startup PodcastInsiders React: China Retaliates Against NVIDIA Embargo + US Startups in Crisis, Google Faces Legal HeatHuawei has just announced a new AI chip—does this mean tariffs accelerating Chinese innovation? This week, Chris Saad, Yaniv Bernstein, and guest Amir Shevat dig into how the AI trade war and tech monopolies are reshaping the global startup landscape. Plus, on a lighter note: why Sam Altman says politeness in AI prompts is surprisingly expensive.In this episode, you will:Break down how China’s Huawei is pushing out a homegrown AI chip — and why US tariffs might be backfiringHear why US arrogance may be accelerating China’...
2025-04-2439 min
The Startup PodcastAI and Founders: Startups in the Age of AI (Edu)Is AI making startups easier—or just changing the rules of the game?In a world where execution is cheap and accessible, building a successful startup is more competitive than ever. In this episode, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein unpack the reality of every business having access to the same AI-driven tools, what makes a startup successful in this landscape, and how to quickly adapt in the breakneck pace of business evolution.In this episode, you will:Understand why execution is no longer your moat—and what replaces itLearn how...
2025-04-2153 min
The Startup PodcastInsiders React: Meta's Whistleblower Bombshell + NVIDIA's $500B AI Investment, OpenAI’s New GPT-4.1In this episode of The Startup Podcast, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein react to former Meta executive Sarah Wynn-Williams’ jaw-dropping testimony in front of the US Senate Judiciary Committee. She alleges Facebook put profits above all else—including the mental health of young users and even national security.Plus, we discuss the political theater of NVIDIA's $500B commitment to US AI infrastructure, the All-In Podcast's unexpected showdown between billionaires and policy heavyweights, and briefly touching on OpenAI’s latest drop: the GPT-4.1 model.In this episode, you will;• ...
2025-04-1744 min
The Startup PodcastInsiders React: Trump's Tariff Meltdown + Startup Valuations Crash, Shopify Goes Full AIIs AI just a buzzword — or the key to survival in a volatile startup landscape?In this episode, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein break down Donald Trump’s shocking “Liberation Day” tariffs and the ripple effect it could have on the global economy — and on your startup.As fears of a recession mount and market uncertainty grows, we explore what founders need to do to weather the storm, protect their valuations, and rethink growth strategies in turbulent times.Plus, we dive deep into Shopify CEO Tobi Lütke’s viral internal memo that sets bold new...
2025-04-1038 min
The Startup PodcastStrategic Communications – Why PR Alone Won’t Drive Business Growth w/ Jessy Wu (Edu)Is your startup’s PR strategy just a vanity exercise? Most founders make the mistake of announcing fundraising rounds like it’s a badge of honor, hoping for instant traction and credibility. But here's the truth: if you're chasing headlines without a strategy, you're wasting money.In this episode, Yaniv Bernstein and Jessy Wu, founder of Encour, dive deep into the art of strategic communications and why most startups approach PR all wrong. Jessie shares her journey from VC to PR mastermind, revealing why effective PR starts with a business objective not just getting feat...
2025-04-0745 min
The Startup PodcastInsiders React: Return of Digg + Wall Street Panic, Bitcoin Strategic Reserve, Apple Delays AIIs the stock market's recent nosedive just the beginning of a larger economic shift? As tariffs and political uncertainty rock Wall Street, tech giants like Apple are facing unexpected hurdles in the AI race. Meanwhile, an old internet favorite is poised for a surprising comeback.In this episode, Yaniv Bernstein and Chris Saad dive into the turbulent world of tech, finance, and politics. They explore the reasons behind the stock market's sharp decline, analyze Apple's decision to delay its AI rollout, and discuss the unexpected relaunch of Digg by former competitors.
2025-03-1355 min
The Startup PodcastProduct Led Marketing – Where Do Marketers Fit In? (Edu)Are you struggling to understand how marketing fits into a product-led company? You're not alone. Many marketers wonder if their role becomes less important when product takes the lead. But what if the opposite were true?In this episode, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein explore the evolving role of marketing in product-led organizations. They discuss how marketing can become even more critical by aligning closely with product development and strategy.In this episode, you will:Understand the difference between product-led growth and product-led organizationsLearn about the five key...
2025-03-1026 min
The Startup PodcastVenture Capital - What VCs Say (And What They Really Mean)Have you ever left a VC meeting feeling confused about the feedback you received? Are you tired of trying to decipher cryptic responses from potential investors?In this episode, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein dive into the world of venture capital communication, breaking down common phrases VCs use and what they really mean. Drawing inspiration from a LinkedIn post by YC alum Nilay Modi, they explore the subtle (and not-so-subtle) ways investors convey their thoughts on startup pitches.In this episode, you will:Decode common VC phrases like "not aligned with...
2025-03-0323 min
The Startup PodcastTechnical Debt: Why It’s Inevitable and How to Handle It (Edu)Is your startup struggling to ship new features? Are you constantly putting out fires instead of innovating? You might be drowning in technical debt without even realizing it.In this eye-opening episode, Yaniv Bernstein and Chris Saad demystify the often misunderstood concept of technical debt and its crucial role in startup success.In this episode, you will: Discover what technical debt really is and why it's inevitable for startups Learn to distinguish between good debt that fuels growth and bad debt that strangles innovation Understand how technical debt...
2025-02-2446 min
The Startup PodcastInsiders React: AI Killing Junior Jobs + Apple & Meta's Robot Bet, Grok 3 Flops, Startup Chaos LadderAre you prepared for a world where humanoid robots work alongside us? It's not science fiction anymore – it's happening now, and faster than you might think.In this episode, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein dive into the latest developments in robotics, AI, and the changing landscape of work and entrepreneurship. They explore how major tech companies are investing heavily in humanoid robots and what it means for the future of various industries.In this episode, you will: Discover why companies like Apple, Meta, and Google are betting big on humanoid robots Learn about the po...
2025-02-1942 min
The Startup Podcast5 Simple Rules for Meetings That Don’t Suck (and Actually Get Sh*t Done)Are your meetings a productivity black hole? You're not alone. In the world of product management, meetings can make or break your team's success. But what if you could transform these time-sinks into powerful tools for alignment, decision-making, and innovation?In this episode, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein dive deep into the art and science of effective meetings. They explore common pitfalls, share battle-tested strategies, and provide a practical framework for running meetings that actually move the needle.In this episode, you will:Discover why having a clear...
2025-02-1747 min
The Startup PodcastInsiders React: Musk Trolls Altman + ChatGPT’s Deep Research, AI's Infinite ROI, JD Vance Gets It Right (...Sort Of)What if AI could outthink, outresearch, and outperform even the most brilliant human minds? OpenAI's latest innovation might be bringing us closer to that reality than ever before.In this episode, tech visionaries Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein dive deep into OpenAI's game-changing "deep research mode." This groundbreaking feature allows AI to conduct extensive research, analyze complex topics, and generate comprehensive reports in mere minutes. This task would take human researchers days or even weeks to complete.But as AI capabilities skyrocket, so do the questions surrounding its impact...
2025-02-1244 min
The Startup PodcastScaling with AI- How AI Will Transform Your Startup w/ Grammarly CEO Shishir MehrotraHave you ever wished for an intelligent assistant that could seamlessly integrate into your workflow, anticipating your needs and enhancing your productivity? What if AI could transform not just how we write, but how we work across all applications?In this episode, Yaniv Bernstein is joined by Shishir Mehrotra, CEO of the newly merged Coda and Grammarly, to explore the exciting world of AI-native productivity and its potential to revolutionize the way we work.In this episode, you will:Discover the vision behind the Coda and Grammarly merger...
2025-02-1042 min
The Startup PodcastInsiders React: Trump’s DOGE Disaster + Open Source OpenAI, Bluesky Beats TwitterIs the AI landscape about to be turned on its head? Are we witnessing the birth of a new social media giant?
In this episode, Yaniv Bernstein, Shira Lazar, and Amir Shevat dive into the latest tech developments that are reshaping industries and sparking heated debates.
In this episode, you will:
Analyze the impact of DeepSeek on the AI industry and OpenAI's surprising response
Explore how Trump's tariff policies could affect tech companies and startups
Examine concerns about Doge's approach to running the US government and its potential...
2025-02-0547 min
The Startup PodcastInsiders React: AI's DeepSeek Freakout + Trump's $500B AI Power Play, Elon Plays Footsie With FascismAre we witnessing the dawn of a new era in AI, or the potential erosion of democracy through unchecked technological power?
In this hard-hitting episode, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein tackle the latest seismic shifts in the AI landscape. From Project Stargate's staggering $500 billion investment to DeepSeek's game-changing cost-effective model, they explore how these developments are reshaping the industry and raising critical ethical questions about the future of technology and society.
In this episode, you will:
Decode the true implications of Project Stargate's massive AI investment and its...
2025-01-2947 min
The Startup PodcastTypes of Capital - The Hidden Risks of Bootstrapping That Could Sink You w/Scotty Allen (Edu)Are you dreaming of launching the next unicorn startup? Before you quit your day job and pour your life savings into that brilliant idea, you might want to listen to this episode.
In this episode, Yaniv Bernstein is joined by Scotty Allen, startup advisor and founder of The Product Bus, to dive deep into the realities of startup funding, the risks of bootstrapping, and the importance of knowing which "game" you're playing as a founder.
In this episode, you will:
Understand the risks and challenges of bootstrapping vs...
2025-01-2743 min
The Startup PodcastInsiders React: TikTok Trolls USA + Trump’s Crypto Scam, OpenAI's Agent Strategy, AI VCsIs TikTok banned or not? The saga continues as Trump swoops in to "unban" the app, leaving creators and users whiplashed. But what's really going on behind the scenes in this high-stakes game of political chess?
In this episode, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein are joined by special guests Shira Lazar and Elli Hanson to unpack the latest tech and political drama. From TikTok's uncertain fate to Trump's meme coin launch, the team explores how these developments impact founders, investors, and the future of technology.
In this episode, you...
2025-01-2257 min
The Startup PodcastStartup Funding - VC, Bootstrapping, or Debt? The Funding Spectrum Explained (Edu)Are you a founder struggling to figure out how to fund your startup? With so many options available - from bootstrapping to VC funding - how do you know which path is right for you?
In this episode, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein break down the full spectrum of startup funding sources, exploring the pros, cons, and hidden pitfalls of each approach. Whether you're considering self-funding, equity financing, or debt, you'll gain crucial insights to make an informed decision.
In this episode, you will:
Discover the key differences...
2025-01-201h 04
The Startup PodcastInsiders React- Altman: AGI Almost Here! + Zuck and Bezos Kiss Trump's Ring, Rise of the RobotsAre we on the brink of Artificial General Intelligence? Has OpenAI quietly announced a breakthrough that could change everything? And how are tech giants like Google responding?
In this episode, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein dive into the latest developments in AI, robotics, and the shifting political landscape as a new U.S. administration takes office. They explore the implications for startups, innovation, and the future of technology.
In this episode, you will:
Analyze OpenAI's latest O3 model and its potential AGI-level capabilities
Discover how Google is catching...
2025-01-1550 min
The Startup PodcastBest of 2024 #4 – Agile vs. Waterfall: Stop Practicing Agile Theater w/ John CutlerAs we head into 2025, we're looking back on our most popular episodes of 2024. This episode was originally published on July 29, 2024.
Are you shipping faster than you learn, or learning faster than you ship? Learn the risks of practicing "agile" theater and iterating your product without direction.
On this week's episode, product legend John Cutler joins Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein to discuss:
Why so many teams get Agile wrong
Pros and cons of Agile vs. Waterfall
The dangers of practicing Agile by the book vs. based on experience
Combining Agile and Waterfall: “Wagile”
Book Reco...
2025-01-0634 min
The Startup PodcastBest of 2024 #2 – Mastering Attention: Your Startup's Secret Weapon w/ Ben ParrAs we head into 2025, we're looking back on our most popular episodes of 2024. This episode was originally published on August 12, 2024.
In today's fast-paced digital world, capturing and retaining attention is the most valuable currency for startups. But how can you thrive in a hypercompetitive landscape where rejection is the default response?
In this episode, Yaniv Bernstein and Chris Saad are joined by Ben Parr, acclaimed author of Captivology: The Science of Capturing People’s Attention, to dive deep into the attention economy.
In this episode, they explore:
Understanding why attention is crucial fo...
2024-12-2351 min
The Startup PodcastFirst Principles Thinking - Don’t Doom Yourself to Mediocrity (Replay)Disrupt or Digitize? The Art of Breaking the Status Quo
Why do some startups revolutionize entire industries while others just digitize legacy processes? Disruption isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a mindset and one that too many founders shy away from. Are you pre-compromising your vision before you even start?
In this episode, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein break down the essence of first-principles thinking and how startups can challenge legacy constraints to create truly disruptive solutions. Drawing on examples from Uber, Netflix, and DocuSign, they discuss how to i...
2024-12-0937 min
The Startup PodcastFinding a Co-Founder - Avoid Choosing the Wrong Partner (Replay)Do You Really Need a Co-Founder? Here’s What You Must Know.
Starting a startup can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re searching for that perfect co-founder to complement your skills. But is having a co-founder truly essential? And if it is, how do you find someone who’s more partner than problem? This episode dives deep into these questions and more.
In this remastered episode, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein explore the intricacies of co-founder dynamics. Drawing from their combined decades of experience in startups, they share actionable advice, real-world examples, and co...
2024-11-2742 min
The Startup PodcastEarly Ideation - Your Idea Is Worthless (Replay)Ever had someone tell you "I have this great idea for an app"? While everyone seems to have the next billion-dollar idea, the reality of startup success is far more complex than just having a clever concept.
In this episode, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein explore the real value of ideas in startups and why execution matters more than ideation.
In this episode, you will:
Discover why "ideas are like assholes - everyone's got one"
Learn how to identify truly valuable problems worth solving
Understand the critical difference between problems and...
2024-11-1333 min
The Startup PodcastVC Failure- 6 Toxic Investor Types That Will Destroy Your StartupAre you ready to navigate the treacherous waters of startup investing?
Buckle up, because in this episode, Yaniv Bernstein and Chris Saad are diving deep into the world of bad investors. From predatory tactics to buzzword obsession, they're exposing the archetypes you need to watch out for.
In this eye-opening conversation, our hosts explore the dark side of venture capital, sharing real-world examples and practical advice for founders looking to secure funding without falling prey to these common pitfalls.
In this episode, you will:
2024-10-2835 min
The Startup PodcastProduct Polish - 15 Tactics to Reduce Churn & Drive Network Effects (Edu)Do you wonder why some products feel magical while others fall flat?
In this episode, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein explore the art of product polish—the hidden details that separate mediocre products from brilliant ones. They explore how to refine a product to delight users, drive retention, and fuel rapid growth.
In this episode, you will:
Discover why telemetry is the foundation for effective product polish
Learn strategies for creating seamless onboarding experiences
Understand the importance of responsive design and error handling
Explore how to leverage notifications an...
2024-10-2150 min
The Startup PodcastEscalation Culture – Driving Alignment in Cross-Functional Teams (Edu)Are you struggling with decision-making bottlenecks in your fast-paced startup? Do you find your teams hesitant to bring problems to leadership? It's time to embrace the power of escalation.
In this episode, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein dive deep into the critical role of escalation in modern, autonomous organizations. They explore why it's essential, why it's often avoided, and how to create a culture that encourages and rewards effective escalation.
In this episode, you will:
Discover the four main types of escalation and when to use them
Learn...
2024-10-1453 min
The Startup PodcastEarly Execution Overview - Your MVP Sucks (Replay)In this remastered episode of The Startup Podcast, Yaniv Bernstein and Chris Saad dive deep into the most critical concept for early-stage startups: execution.
The harsh truth? Your MVP (Minimum Viable Product) probably sucks, but that's okay.
Chris and Yaniv break down the myths, missteps, and the right approach to iterating and refining your MVP until it becomes a product that users can’t live without.
In this episode, you will:
Discover why execution, not ideas, is where the real magic happens in startups
Learn how to create a true...
2024-10-0745 min
The Startup PodcastInsiders React: Fed Rate Cuts – Is the Startup Funding Winter Over? + 23andMe Board Exodus, Snap Spectacles 3.0In this week’s Reacts episode, Chris Saad is joined by Yaniv Bernstein to discuss the latest tech and business trends: from the Federal Reserve’s rate cuts and what it means for startups, to the shocking mass resignation at 23andMe, and the release of Snap’s new AR glasses.
Together, they break down the biggest headlines:
Fed Rate Cuts: Is the Startup Funding Winter Over?How cheaper capital could kickstart startup funding again and whether we’re about to enter a new economic chapter for founders and VCs?
23andMe’s Board Exodus: 23andMe’s en...
2024-09-2538 min
The Startup PodcastCareer Progression at Startups - Caution: NOT How Big Companies Do It (Edu)One of the toughest challenges in early-stage startups is managing employee career development. Unlike big corporations, startups thrive on chaos, ownership, and self-driven growth, meaning traditional professional development programs often fall flat.
In this episode, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein break down the harsh realities of career development in startups and explain why founders must rethink how they motivate and retain talent.
In this episode, you'll hear about:
Why startups don’t (and shouldn’t) offer structured career development programs.
The key differences between career growth in startups versu...
2024-09-2353 min
The Startup PodcastConviction - The Essential Ingredient For Focus & Scale (Edu)In the brutal world of startups, conviction is your greatest weapon. It fuels momentum, sharpens decisions, and separates thriving startups from those that fade away.
Conviction isn’t blind faith or passion. It’s clarity of purpose and commitment to a path, even when challenges arise. Without it, you risk losing focus and becoming a "technology-backed services company" or, worse, facing a slow startup death.
In this episode, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein explore why conviction is vital for startup survival and how founders can build, sustain, and spread it w...
2024-09-1641 min
The Startup PodcastCrafting Pitch Decks: The Art of Pitching Like A Pro (Replay)What if one perfect slide could get you funded?
In this episode, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein reveal the pitch deck formula that can turn investor skepticism into funding.
Whether it’s the top 9 pitch secrets or the one slide that seals the deal, they break down every element to help you avoid critical mistakes and win investor trust.
In this episode, you will:
Discover the essential slides that attract investors.
Learn the top 9 pitch deck secrets at every slide every founder needs.
Avoid fatal pitch mistakes that could cos...
2024-09-0953 min
The Startup PodcastInsiders React: Unpacking Airbnb's Founder Mode | Brazil Bans X, Freezes SpaceX Assets | iPhone 16: Yay or Meh? w / Emil MichaelWhat can startup founders learn from bold leadership moves and the challenges of navigating regulatory landscapes?
Join Chris Saad, Amir Shevat, Emil Michael, former Chief Business Officer of Uber, and Yaniv Bernstein in this week’s Reacts episode as they unpack the latest maneuvers shaping the tech world:
Airbnb's Founder Mode Revolution: Chesky's shift to "Founder Mode" prompts founders to consider: Is direct control a winning strategy, or does it risk stifling growth? How should you balance vision with management?
Brazil Bans X, Elon Hits Back: As Musk challenges Brazil's ba...
2024-09-0454 min
The Startup Podcast10 Fatal Pitch Style Mistakes w/ Henry Innis (Edu)Crafting a winning pitch isn't just about what you say—it's about how you say it.
Founders often make stylistic mistakes that can sabotage their chances with investors, even if they have a great product or idea. What are these subtle yet critical errors, and how can you avoid them to secure the funding you need?
In this episode, Yaniv Bernstein and Chris Saad are joined by Henry Innis, Co-Founder at Mutinex, to uncover the top 10 fatal stylistic mistakes founders make in their pitches.
The...
2024-09-0241 min
The Startup PodcastThe Future of Product Design w/ Figma's Yuhki Yamashita (Bonus)Yuhki Yamashita, one of the world's top product design disruptors and Chief Product Officer at Figma, returns in this bonus episode to continue the conversation on how AI is revolutionizing the design landscape.
The impact of AI on product design is becoming increasingly profound. But what does this mean for the future of designers and interfaces? And how can startups leverage AI to build products faster and more effectively?
In this bonus episode, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein dive deeper with Yuhki Yamashita to explore the transformative potential of...
2024-08-3021 min
The Startup PodcastDesign-Led Startups w/ Figma’s Yuhki Yamashita – Don't Sabotage Your Product (Edu)Product design is more than just an aesthetic choice—it's a strategic asset. But many founders unknowingly sabotage their products by overlooking key design principles. How can you avoid these common pitfalls and ensure your startup stands out?
In this episode, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein are joined by Yuhki Yamashita, Chief Product Officer at Figma, the world’s leading design tool, to explore the critical role of design in building successful startups.
In this episode, you can:
Learn the most frequent errors founders make in product design and how to avoi...
2024-08-2640 min
The Startup PodcastListener Q&A: Fundraising Predictions | AI in Schools | 'MVP' BrandingRaising capital in today's market is tough, but navigating these challenges with the right strategy can make all the difference. In this week's episode, Yaniv Bernstein and Chris Saad tackle: How you raise money in a volatile market? Why are female founders facing even steeper hurdles in securing funding? And how can AI reshape both startups and the future of education?
In this episode, they dive into:
Fundraising in 2024: How to adapt your approach and secure the capital you need in a rapidly changing market.
AI's Role in Startups and Education: Why AI...
2024-08-1936 min
The Startup PodcastSearchGPT Takes on Google, Meta's AI Clones & The State of AI Investment (Reacts)Could the launch of SearchGPT by OpenAI and Meta's AI Bots for creators redefine search engines and social media engagement?
Discover how these advancements will reshape the tech landscape in this week's Reacts episode, packed with the latest AI updates.
Join Ben Parr and Jeremiah Owyang as they discuss with Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein:
OpenAI's SearchGPT: Implications for Google, Perplexity, and ad networks.
Adoption barriers for new search models.
Meta's AI Studio: Boosting fan engagement and creator revenue.
AI Startups Surge: Trends in PLG, network effects, and...
2024-07-3150 min
The Startup PodcastAgile vs. Waterfall: Stop Practicing Agile Theater w/ John CutlerAre you shipping faster than you learn, or learning faster than you ship? Learn the risks of practicing "agile" theater and iterating your product without direction.
On this week's episode, product legend John Cutler joins Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein to discuss:
Why so many teams get Agile wrong
Pros and cons of Agile vs. Waterfall
The dangers of practicing Agile by the book vs. based on experience
Combining Agile and Waterfall: “Wagile”
Book Recommendation: How Big Things Get Done
The importance of planning and strategic vision
If you're ready to get things done while avoi...
2024-07-2934 min
The Startup PodcastPresident Harris: Tech's New Ally? Crowdstrike's Black Swan Attack and Sam Altman's World Without Work (Reacts) w/ Emil MichaelCould the rise of Kamala Harris as the new Democratic candidate impact the tech industry in significant ways?
Find out how her presidency, Crowdstrike's massive outage, and Sam Altman's UBI experiment could shape the future of your tech startup in this week's insightful Reacts episode.
On this week's episode, Ben Parr and Emil Michael former Chief Business Officer of Uber, join Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein to discuss:
President Harris: Her potential impact on Silicon Valley and the broader tech industry if she becomes President.
Crowdstrike's Massive Outage: Analysis of the ca...
2024-07-2451 min
The Startup PodcastBig Tech Investors Back Trump After Assassination Attempt (Reacts)There's only one big topic in the headlines this week – the attempted assassination of Donald Trump. What will it mean for the future of tech?
On this week's episode, Elli Hanson joins Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein to discuss:
Knee Jerk Reactions: Immediate thoughts in the aftermath of the assassination attempt on Donald Trump.
Bide 'n' Seek: What (if anything) Joe Biden and the Democrats can still do to win the next election.
Money Talks: How tech influencers like Elon Musk and David Sacks responded to the assassination attempt, and how this changes the tech field mo...
2024-07-1743 min
The Startup PodcastRobots vs. Immigrants, AI Mega-Bubble, Facebook's Gaza Dilemma, Presidential Immunity (Reacts)Could the rise of robotics lead to reduced immigration in Western countries? Learn about the latest events that will affect your tech startup in this week's politically charged Reacts episode.
Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein discuss:
Bubble Wrap: A recent article from Sequoia summarizes the risks of a potential AI investment bubble and its implications for startups and investors. (David Cahn/Sequoia, "AI’s $600B Question": https://www.sequoiacap.com/article/ais-600b-question/)
Zion's Den: Meta's controversial moderation of Israel and Palestine content, including the recent decision to ban the term 'Zionism', raise questions about online ce...
2024-07-1045 min
The Startup PodcastThe Innovator's Dilemma - Outmaneuver the Dinosaurs (Edu)Why do big, established companies struggle when faced with disruption from agile startups?
In this episode, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein explain:
Don't Look Up: How tech advancements, regulatory changes, and shifts in cultural norms create opportunities for smaller players.
Stuck in the Mud: Why entrenched cultures, rigid business models, and incremental incentives make it tough for large companies to innovate quickly.
Dinosaurs to Dynamos: The strategies that big companies can use to foster innovation and keep up with their disruptors.
Whether you're an entrepreneur, business leader, or just curious about the forces shaping today's...
2024-06-0344 min
The Startup PodcastAn NVIDIA Bubble? Plus: xAI's Mega Raise, Unhinged Google Search, Advice for AI Startups (Reacts) w/ Emil MichaelCan NVIDIA keep their unprecedented run going?
Learn what's driving their stunning earnings – and whether they're really on track to become the biggest company in the world.
In this week's episode, Emil Michael former Chief Business Officer of Uber, and Yaniv Bernstein discuss:
Betting with Chips: NVIDIA's remarkable earnings continue a run of historic, Wall Street-defying growth.
Grok Solid: Elon Musk's xAI secures a massive $6 billion seed round.
Overview Needs Overhaul: Google's new AI-powered search tool stumbles at launch.
Making Databank: How investors distinguish viable AI startups in a crowded marketplace.
Don't miss th...
2024-05-2931 min
The Startup PodcastStartup Economics - Beware the Zombie Zone (Edu)Are you struggling to fund your startup? Learn how to make your idea investable – and avoid the fearsome 'zombie zone'.
In this episode, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein discuss:
Quarter Masters: Explore a simple four-quadrant model that categorizes startups based on their margin, volume, and startup costs.
Plain Old Profits: Learn when and why to consider a more traditional business model over a startup approach.
VC Victory: Discover the sweet spots for venture capital and how to leverage them.
Beauty and the Beast: Recognize why the 'Belles of the Ball' are so attractive to investors.
Smart As...
2024-05-2748 min
The Startup PodcastJason Cohen's Startup Koans (Bonus)Two-time unicorn founder Jason Cohen (WP Engine, Smart Bear) returns to discuss his Twitter 'koans', exploring their implications for founders.
In this bonus episode, Yaniv Bernstein, Chris Saad, and Jason Cohen discuss:
Half-Baked Ideas: The pitfalls of working on too many projects (or cakes).
Work/Work Balance: What even is a 'lifestyle business'?
The Invisible Startup: Why founders should stop saying they're going 'stealth mode'.
Tune in for an engaging conversation that offers fun and valuable insights for entrepreneurs!
The Pact
Honour The Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to...
2024-05-2718 min
The Startup PodcastLive Demos Are Back, How To Avoid Google+ 2.0, ScarJo vs OpenAI (Reacts)How can Google avoid Google+ 2.0? Learn who will win the AI Game of Thrones – and why branding is only one piece of the puzzle.
In this week's episode, Amir Shevat and Yaniv Bernstein discuss:
The Demo Dilemma: Why OpenAI’s live demo of ChatGPT-4o was more impressive than Google’s highly polished event.
G Suite Dreams: How could Google improve the integration of AI throughout their many products, without repeating the mistakes of Google+?
Layoff Games: What does the current trend of tech layoffs mean for productivity and the future of work?
Leading From The Front...
2024-05-2238 min
The Startup PodcastWhat You NEED To Know: Google + OpenAI's Announcements Explained (Reacts)Missed this week's duelling announcements from OpenAI and Google? Catch up on ChatGPT 4o, AI Search, and Project Astra, as our insiders discuss how they'll reshape the tech world.
In this week's Reacts episode, insiders Chris Saad, Yaniv Bernstein, and Elli Hanson discuss:
Chatting ChatGPT 4o: The new features and improvements in OpenAI's latest AI model.
Search and Rescue: How do Google's new AI Search, Project Astra and Gemini Assistant offerings stack up?
Through the Google Glass: Pros and cons of wearable AI interfaces, from glasses to earbuds.
Instrumental Ad Vice: The crushing controversy around Apple's...
2024-05-1552 min
The Startup PodcastOpenAI Search, Apple’s $100B Stock Buyback, US Civil Unrest (Reacts) w/ Emil MichaelIs your startup prepared for the next US election? Learn about the forces driving today’s tech giants and tomorrow’s political landscape.
In this week's Reacts episode, insiders Chris Saad, Yaniv Bernstein, and Emil Michael former Chief Business Officer of Uber, cover:
Buyback Backlash: Does Apple’s $100 billion stock buyback program signal a shift from innovation to incrementalism?
RAGs to Riches: OpenAI are rumoured to be developing a new AI-powered search product to disrupt Google. But what is 'retrieval augmented generation', and how will it help startups like Perplexity AI shape the future of information access...
2024-05-0841 min
The Startup PodcastFounders Getting Fired – Preventing the Nuclear Option (Edu)Is firing a founder CEO ever the right move? Learn about how startup founders and their boards can work together effectively to avoid the worst.
In this week's episode of The Startup Podcast, hosts Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein explain:
Founder Knows Best: Why removing a founder CEO is usually undesirable, given their deep vision and commitment.
All Above Board: Why board accountability is necessary when a leadership change becomes essential.
Evolving Ambitions: How founder CEOs must grow along with their companies, setting goals, seeking coaching and mentorship, and engaging with stakeholders through regular updates.
Support...
2024-05-0642 min
The Startup PodcastUseless AI Hardware, TikTok Banned, Google Fires Activist Employees (Reacts) w/ Emil MichaelWhy didn't Rabbit R1 and Humane AI live up to the hype? Learn how even the biggest names in tech – from TikTok to Tesla – can falter.
In this week's Reacts episode, insiders Yaniv Bernstein, Emil Michael former Chief Business Officer of Uber, and Leah Mahtani discuss:
Bad Bunny: Why Silicon Valley funding explains the disappointing launches of AI hardware Rabbit R1 and Humane AI.
Bumpy Road Ahead: How Uber's success can inform the debate around autonomous vehicles like Waymo, Cruise, and Tesla's Robotaxi.
Tick, Tock: What the TikTok ban means for the US-China relationship, TikTok creators, and...
2024-05-0147 min
The Startup PodcastGraceful Degradation – Safeguarding Your Vision (Edu)Do your plans stand strong when things go wrong?
Hosts Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein discuss the concept of 'graceful degradation' and its critical role in planning for a robust business. They share tips on:
Understanding Graceful Degradation: Why it's important to fail-safe your business plan to avoid collapse in a crisis.
Visionary Planning: How a clear, unconstrained vision can guide decision-making as challenges arise.
Making Smart Compromises: Ensuring each step aligns closely with your core vision, even when the ideal path is impossible.
This episode is packed with great advice for anyone looking to...
2024-04-2934 min
The Startup PodcastEnterprise Sales, Part 2 - Essential Requirements For Success (Edu)Last week we had Clementine Jacoby on the podcast to discuss enterprise sales.
Chris was unfortunately unwell. But he’s back! And he’s ready for round 2!
This week with Yaniv Bernstein they discuss:
- How enterprise customers' demands can disrupt product roadmaps.
- Why underestimating costs of custom work for enterprises can be costly.
- How partnering with champion customers fosters customization within a product-led framework.
- Educating customers on best practices ensures long-term product sustainability.
- Balancing power between sales and product teams is c...
2024-04-0840 min
The Startup PodcastSubstitution Heuristic - Are You Really Answering The Right Question? (Edu)Are you really answering the right question?
Do you find that your solutions to the problems you’re facing are not working?
Don’t fear, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein are here to steer your startup towards success. Together they discuss the essential strategies of not falling victim to the substitution heuristic.
Misguided Priorities: Explore how founders often prioritize fundraising and publicity over solving core customer problems, leading to convoluted results.
The Right Sequence: Learn the importance of solving customer problems first, scaling the solution, and then monetizing, avoiding the pitfalls of r...
2024-03-2536 min
The Startup PodcastEdu: [LIVE] Startup Storytelling Pt 2 - The Perfect PitchIt’s finally happened.
We held our first LIVE session.
And who else better to guest star than previous special guest of the podcast Nir Zavaro.
Nir is currently in Australia promoting his book “F*ck The Slides!” and together with Yaniv Bernstein shared more nuggets of information.
Together the duo discussed:
The Power of the Hook: Learn how to craft a succinct 70-word hook followed by a compelling 2-3 minute pitch that grabs attention from the start.
Slide Decks Done Right: Explore different types of slide decks...
2024-03-181h 02
The Startup PodcastReacts: Princess Kate Controversy, TikTok Banned in US & Apple's Massive EU Fine w/ Emil MichaelFeeling overwhelmed with tech developments happening around the globe?
Don’t worry! Tech insiders, Emil Michael, former Chief Business Officer of Uber, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein are here to break through the noise and provide a deep-dive on the most important topics from the last week.
Together they discuss:
Princess Kate Photo Controversy: The insiders react to the fallout from a manipulated photo of Princess Kate, sparking discussions about the challenges of trusting AI-altered images in today's digital landscape.
TikTok's Uncertain Future in the US: The trio share their thoughts su...
2024-03-1341 min
The Startup PodcastEdu: Mastering Leverage - Gain The Power To Move The WorldLeverage.
It’s a powerful ally in a startup founder’s itinerary to success.
But how can you harness it in your day-to-day life?
This week Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein are here to walk you through how you can master leverage to supercharge your startup!
Together they discuss:
Software & Automation: Explore how tech companies harness low-cost replication and distribution for exponential success.
Financial Leverage: Delve into the impact of venture capital and debt, enabling founders to amplify resources beyond their means.
Labor Efficiency: Learn the...
2024-03-0438 min
The Startup PodcastEdu: Founder Time Management - Take Back Control w/ Henry ShapiroEdu: Founder Time Management - Take Back Control w/ Henry Shapiro
Time.
It's a founder’s greatest resource. It’s also a founder’s scarcest. Joining Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein this week on The Startup Podcast to help you take back control of your time is Henry Shapiro.
Henry is the co-founder and COO of Reclaim AI, a company specializing in creating solutions to enhance productivity. Henry's expertise lies in creating systems and strategies for effective time management, making him a crucial resource for anyone seeking to maximize their productivity in the challenging environment of startups.
Together the trio discus...
2024-02-2633 min
The Startup PodcastEdu: Good Founder, Bad Founder - 9 Huge Differences And Why They MatterFounders are the linchpin of a startup.
They are the central foci, the lifeblood.
The buck stops with them.
But how can you tell the difference between a good and a bad founder? And how can you avoid being a bad one?
Don’t worry, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein are here this week to discuss 9 differences between good and bad founders, based on a recent article Chris wrote.
The differences are:
🔍 Good founders focus on solving important problems for customers while bad founders mainly concentrate on fundr...
2024-02-1936 min
The Startup PodcastTakeover: Yaniv Interviewed - Leadership Journey And Why You Should Fire FasterToday we have a special bonus interview.
The tables have turned and Yaniv finds himself being interviewed by Ben Wirtz.
Together the duo discuss:
🚀 Early Leadership Lessons: Yaniv's Google journey began with an early leadership role, emphasizing efficiency and effective communication.
🎓 Inspiration from Mentors: Insights from Oliver Heckman instilled high standards and fostered a culture of psychological safety, nurturing Bernstein's leadership skills.
💡 Innovative Problem-Solving: Yaniv's penchant for questioning norms and proposing efficient solutions is tempered by occasional oversight of details.
🤔 Navigating Tough Decisions: Addressing employee departures, while challenging...
2024-02-1857 min
The Startup PodcastReacts: Sam Altman Raising $7 Trillion!? NVIDIA Valuation, Lyft Reporting Fail w/ Emil Michael$7 TRILLION!?!
It’s the number everyone has been talking about this week.
Here to break down the latest tech news are the insiders: Emil Michael, former Chief Business Officer of Uber, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein.
This week they discuss:
💰💡🤔Sam Altman's Ambitious Bid: Rumors swirl around Altman's purported $7 trillion funding quest for a new AI chip company, sparking debates on its feasibility and strategic implications.
🚀💻🏆NVIDIA's Dominance: With NVIDIA's AI chip dominance in mind, Altman's move is seen as a potential counterforce, highlighting the competitive dynamics in the tech landscape.
2024-02-1437 min
The Startup PodcastEdu: Hybrid Work - Why It Sucks And How To Fix It!Hybrid work.
One of the biggest points of contention in the tech startup landscape right now.
Some startups seem to thrive with the arrangement while others suffer culture implosion and perish.
Navigating the post-COVID work landscape involves grappling with the challenges and opportunities of hybrid work setups.
Don’t worry, this week, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein are here to discuss what you need to know to allow your team to flourish no matter the circumstance:
🤝💼🚗In-person Work: Fosters teamwork but poses challenges like high costs and commuting issues.
🏠💻💰Rem...
2024-02-1245 min
The Startup PodcastReacts: Should Congress Apologize To Mark Zuckerberg? w/ Emil MichaelShould Congress apologize to Mark Zuckerberg?
If you haven’t been living under a rock recently, major tech company CEOs have been hauled into Congress to discuss child safety and moderation on their platforms.
What does it mean?
Is Congress right to really drill down on these CEOs?
What else could Congress be doing to really change the current climate to protect our kids while also protecting democracy and free speech?
To debate the hottest topic in tech this week is Emil Michael, former Chief Business Officer of Uber, Chr...
2024-02-0754 min
The Startup PodcastEdu: B2C vs B2B2C - Driving Direct Disruption w/ Matt HolmeThere’s a fair bit of sentiment in the startup community at the moment purporting that B2B2C is better. Chris believes it is not.
Joining Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein on The Startup Podcast to discuss their startup as a case-study is special guest Matt Holme, CEO and Founder of YouPay.
YouPay is an ecommerce payment platform that pivoted from B2B to B2C over its lifetime.
Together they discuss:
🚀 YouPay's Evolution:
Starting as a B2B platform facilitating payment for others' shopping carts, YouPay faced scala...
2024-01-2930 min
The Startup PodcastEdu: Creating Your Own Silicon Valley - Ecosystem Building Secrets RevealedThere is only one Silicon Valley.
Countries around the world have tried and continue to attempt to recreate the magic of Sandhill Road. But there will be only one Silicon Valley. So what can different startup ecosystems do to emulate the success of Silicon Valley?
This week on The Startup Podcast, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein dive into the key tenants on creating your own Silicon Valley.
What marketplaces do NOT work
Why governments need to focus on only ONE place to strive for ecosystem success and change taxes to persuade f...
2023-08-0238 min
The Startup PodcastReacts: Twitter Rebrands To X - Mad Genius or Just Mad?🚨Twitter Rebrands to X 🚨
Elon Musk wants to blow up the Twitter brand & replace it with 'X' - but why?
Listen to this bonus episode of The Startup Podcast, hosted by Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein to hear their 🌶️🌶️🌶️ takes!
The Pact
Honour The Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:
Follow, rate, and review us in your listening app
Follow us on YouTube
Give us a public shout-out on LinkedIn or anywhere you have a social media following
...
2023-07-2610 min
The Startup PodcastEdu: Knowledge vs Wisdom - When Our Advice Is WRONG!Rules are meant to be broken! You wouldn’t be building startups if you were a complete rule follower.
In this episode, Chris Saad and Yaniv Bernstein discuss all the times when you should IGNORE their advice!
Together they cover common themes that regularly appear in episodes:
Don’t listen to VCs
Don’t compromise on your vision
Don’t build B2B when you’re trying to build B2C
Don’t build a technology-backed services company
Along the way they also sprinkle key insights suc...
2023-07-1926 min
The Startup PodcastEdu: Habit Forming Products - The Secrets Of User Retention with Nir EyalIf using your product becomes an ingrained habit for your users, you’re well on your way to massive success. But how do you make your product habit-forming?
On this episode of The Startup Podcast Yaniv talks to Nir Eyal, the world’s leading behavioural designer and author of the bestselling book Hooked: How to Build Habit-Forming Products. Nir and Yaniv talk about what types of products can benefit from habit formation (it’s broader than you think!) and how you can implement the four-step “Hooked model” to make your customers reach for your product now and into the f...
2023-02-2238 min
The Startup PodcastEdu: Escalation - Without It, You're Going NowhereWithout a clear communication path back to leadership, creating autonomous teams doesn’t lead to an empowered organisation… it just leads to chaos. Escalation is that clear communication path. Far from being a minor practice, escalation is the nervous system that allows multiple empowered teams to still act as a single cohesive organisation.
In this episode, Chris and Yaniv explain what escalation is, why it’s important, and how to create a culture of effective escalation within your organisation.
Follow the Startup Podcast on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-startup-pod/
Follow us on Twi...
2023-02-1641 min
The Startup PodcastEdu: Conviction - Data Driven Doesn’t Cut ItIt is nearly impossible for a startup to succeed if its leaders do not have a clear sense of conviction about the direction they are going. But what is conviction? Why is it so critical? And what are the ingredients that are necessary in building and maintaining that sense of conviction as a leader?
In this episode, Chris and Yaniv break down this sometimes murky topic into a clear set of criteria and steps that allow any leader to map out what it takes to build and maintain a sense of conviction at their startup.
...
2023-02-0943 min
The Startup PodcastReacts: Why Elon Musk Killed Twitter’s Developer API – According To The Exec Who Ran ItAmir Shevat was in charge of Twitter's developer platform, until he was fired (along with his whole team) by Elon Musk.
Twitter no longer has a developer platform.
In this episode, Amir talks with Chris and Yaniv about Twitter’s deep but troubled history with its developer platform, and what that history teaches us about how and when startups should build a developer platform.
And yes, he tells us what he really thinks about Elon Musk and how takeover of Twitter.
Amir Shevat has been deeply involved in creating or evangelising just about every iconic developer platform in recent years, fr...
2023-02-0240 min
The Startup PodcastEdu: Transforming Into a Product-Led Org Part 2 – How To Make It HappenThe great disruptors of Silicon Valley are nearly all product led. In this episode, Chris and Yaniv dive deep on how a product-led organisation works, what is necessary for it to be successful, the various responsibilities of Product Managers and their counterparts, and most importantly: what it takes to transform any organisation into one that is truly product-led. It’s not easy, but it is worth it! This episode helps guide the way.
This is Part 2 of a 2-part series on transforming into a product-led organisation, designed to work as a companion to Chris’s recent presentation on t...
2023-01-261h 04
The Startup PodcastEdu: Transforming Into a Product-Led Org Part 1 – Why Be Product Led?The great disruptors of Silicon Valley are nearly all product led. In this episode, Chris and Yaniv explain what a product-led organisation looks like, how it thinks, and why it is the right model for massive disruption at scale. They then discuss common alternative models to being product led, and the risks and dysfunctions of these various alternatives.
This is Part 1 of a 2-part series on transforming into a product-led organisation, designed to work as a companion to Chris’s recent presentation on the same topic. Next week, we will dive deep into the “how” of becoming produc...
2023-01-1944 min
The Startup PodcastEdu: What Startups Can Learn From Poker – Know When To Hold ‘emAll season, Chris and Yaniv have talked about the mindset that is needed to succeed at venture-backed startups. For the final episode of Season 1, we tie it all together with an analogy: tournament poker. It is amazing how many things poker and startups have in common, so in this episode we use the lens of poker to discuss the big picture of how to approach building a successful startup. We dive into each of the following aspects of commonality between poker and startup life:
Iterative
Cash-burning
Making decisions based on uncertain information
Progressive learning
Resulting
Relatively low probability...
2022-12-2243 min
The Startup PodcastQ&A: Mike Scott – Employee for the First Time at 40Mike Scott is a serial entrepreneur who found himself working at a large tech unicorn when they acquired his business. As newly-minted Head of Product Partnerships, Mike has questions! Luckily, Yaniv and Chris have (some) answers. This ended up being a bit of a personal discussion and coaching session, and we thank Mike for opening up. In this Office Hours episode, topics discussed include:
The transition from entrepreneur to employee.
What is the Product Partnerships function?
Measuring the impact of your function in a cross-functional setting.
How “small business thinking” can help bigger companies move faster.
The unique role...
2022-12-1536 min
The Startup PodcastEdu: Alignment – Make Sure You’re Pulling in the Same DirectionAlignment is about making sure that everybody in an organisation is working in such a way that their efforts build on each other, rather than cancelling out. If you’re not aligned, it doesn’t matter how hard you work—you’re not going to get anywhere. In this episode, Chris and Yaniv discuss:
What does it mean to be aligned?
Alignment at different levels and across different time spans
Encouraging alignment at a cultural level
Surfacing hidden assumptions
The importance of writing things down
Why meetings are important (yes, really!)
Follow the Startup Podcast on LinkedIn https...
2022-12-0835 min
The Startup PodcastEdu: Company Culture – You Shall Reap What You SowThis bonus episode is a collaboration with Yan Kruger’s fantastic Growth Ripples podcast.
Startups can survive a bad culture to achieve product-market fit, but once they reach the scale-up stage the effects of poor culture hinder growth. In this episode, Yan and Yaniv discuss what culture is, why it’s so important, and when is the right time to start investing in it.
Why culture matters.
What is culture?
Common warning signs for a bad culture.
What does it mean to design a culture?
Why startups are like poker, making the transition to being a foun...
2022-12-0620 min
The Startup PodcastEdu: Prioritization & Unfunded Mandates - If Everything is a Priority, Nothing is a PriorityMost startups limp along with way too many priorities—and the lack of focus will kill them. Ruthless and deliberate prioritization and sequencing is *the* secret ingredient behind successful startups. In this episode, Chris and Yaniv tell you how to do it like the best, and how to avoid falling into many common traps.
Why prioritization matters & the importance of focus.
Why you can’t grow your way out of needing to prioritize.
Why the first version of your product shouldn’t look like a small version of your ultimate vision.
The three kinds of unfunded mandate.
How to pus...
2022-12-0144 min
The Startup PodcastEdu: Business Development - Embracing Raw Capitalism w/ Emil MichaelEmil Michael was Uber’s Chief Business Officer during the company’s glory years, and is one of the small handful of people who shaped the modern ridesharing economy. Emil is one of Silicon Valley’s most legendary business development people, and in this episode he shares some of his best tips about finding, evaluating, closing, and executing partnerships that will turbocharge your startup.
As an added bonus, Chris and Emil share some stories from their early days of Uber, what made Uber’s culture special, how it’s been portrayed publicly, and how things have changes at Uber.
2022-11-2437 min
The Startup PodcastReacts: Downturn Fundraising - How to Raise Money in the Current Climate w/Emil Michael & Jessy WuIt’s no secret that the investment environment has changed quite drastically in the last six months, and for many founders out there it has become much more difficult to raise the needed funds.
We have recently had the privilege of speaking to two incredible investors: Jessy Wu from Afterwork Ventures, and the legendary Emil Michael, former Chief Business Officer of Uber.
In this bonus episode, we asked each of them for their advice to founders on how to navigate the current fundraising environment.
Follow the Startup Podcast on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.co...
2022-11-2120 min
The Startup PodcastEdu: Avoiding Toxic Niceness - Speaking Truth to Power (with Jessy Wu)Yaniv is joined by Jessy Wu, Investor at Afterwork Ventures, to talk about how excessive niceness in a startup ecosystem can turn toxic, and what can be done to fight back against it. This episode is the perfect mix of thoughtful, spicy, and actionable! Listen in as Yaniv and Jessy discuss:
What is toxic niceness and why is it so bad?
Diversity & Inclusion and toxic niceness.
How toxic niceness stops founders getting the feedback they need.
How to show courage and call a spade a spade.
The reputational risks and rewards of speaking truth to power.
Jessy on LinkedIn: https...
2022-11-1738 min
The Startup PodcastQ&A: Prioritising Features, How to Cold Email Investors, and MoreTime for another Listener Q&A episode! Chris and Yaniv give clear, actionable answers on the following questions:
How to prioritise which features to build?
How to think about PR for your startup?
When is the right time to start building hype and interest for your product?
What’s the best way to cold email potential investors?
Follow the Startup Podcast on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-startup-pod/
Follow us on Twitter Yaniv Bernstein @ybernstein Chris Saad @chrissaad
Please rate and Review The Startup Podcast on your podcast app.
Ask qu...
2022-11-1128 min
The Startup PodcastEdu: Startup Crisis Management - When It All Turns To Sh*tThere comes a point in the journey of most startups when it all turns to sh*t. A crisis looms large and it is up to you, as a leader, to get things back on track. What do you do? How do you talk about it? How do you move quickly without making things worse? And how do you not lose your mind doing it? In this episode, Chris and Yaniv discuss:
The different kinds of startup crisis
Why you need to stay calm
How to communicate with the team
Taking responsibility
Time dilation: buying yourself more time
...
2022-10-2733 min
The Startup PodcastEdu: First Principles Thinking - Don’t Doom Yourself to MediocrityYou can’t disrupt the status quo by accepting it. Too many startup founders accept constraints on what they can do without seriously challenging them, and in doing so miss the opportunity to fundamentally rethink what is possible with modern technology and knowledge. In this episode, Chris and Yaniv discuss the importance of thinking from first principles and challenging constraints in order to come up with a truly disruptive plan.
Many startups give up on their vision before they even try.
Thinking "like a child".
Internal vs. external constraints.
Different kinds of external constraints.
Follow the Startup Podcast on LinkedIn ht...
2022-10-2036 min
The Startup PodcastEdu: Startup Accelerators - Trash or Treasure?You can’t swing a cat these days without hitting a startup accelerator. But what actually are accelerators? What’s the point of them? And most importantly, is it worth having your startup go through one? In this episode, Chris and Yaniv will talk you through it:
What are startup accelerators? How do they work?
The primary benefits of going through a startup accelerator.
How to decide whether to apply to a startup accelerator.
How to choose an accelerator.
Yaniv’s experience going through the Y Combinator accelerator.
Listener questions.
Follow the Startup Podcast on LinkedIn https://www.li...
2022-10-1336 min
The Startup PodcastEdu: Product Marketing - A Love StoryProduct Marketing is one of the most commonly neglected or misunderstood functions in a Silicon Valley style tech startup. At the best companies, it is the glue that keeps everything together and allows a deep focus on building and iterating a great product. Without this glue, things tend to fall apart, sooner or later.
Yaniv is out on vacation this week, so Chris is joined by a special guest host: Leah Mahtani, Product Marketer Extraordinaire. In this episode, Chris and Leah cover the following topics:
What is Product Marketing?
The role of Product Marketing in an...
2022-10-0635 min
The Startup PodcastEdu: Burnout - Avoiding the loss of identity and productivityBurnout is an ever-present danger at a startup, and as times get tough it is more important than ever to spot the signs of burnout on your team. In this episode, Chris and Yaniv g talk through the things you need to do to avoid or recover from a team burnout situation. This episode covers:
What is burnout?
Sharing vision and plans.
Holding people accountable.
Keeping things fresh.
Follow the Startup Podcast on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-startup-pod/
Follow us on Twitter Yaniv Bernstein @ybernstein Chris Saad @chrissaad
Please rate and Review The Startup Podcast on your podcast...
2022-09-2938 min
The Startup PodcastQ&A: When to Ignore Advice, The Next Big Thing, and moreWe are back with a fresh Listener Q&A episode! Chris and Yaniv dive deep on the following questions:
When should you IGNORE advice?
Is it ever too early or too late to start a startup?
How important are strong sales skills for a founder?
What is the Next Big Thing going to be?
Follow the Startup Podcast on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-startup-pod/
Follow us on Twitter Yaniv Bernstein @ybernstein Chris Saad @chrissaad
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2022-09-2229 min
The Startup PodcastEdu: Product-Led Growth - Accelerate Sales & Supercharge Scale w/ Kyle PoyarKyle Poyar joins Chris and Yaniv to dive deep into the world of Product-Led Growth (PLG) and how you can use its principles to drive growth at your startup.
Kyle has done a huge amount to spread the gospel of PLG. His newsletter Growth Unhinged reaches many thousands of readers and provides deep insights for anybody who wants to learn about new ways to grow their SaaS business.
In this episode, Kyle, Chris, and Yaniv discuss:
What is Product-Led Growth? The long history of bringing customers closer to the value.
PLG and The Innovator’s Dilemma
Tailwinds. Why now?
PLG St...
2022-09-1539 min
The Startup PodcastEdu: Product & Product Management - Empowering Your Team to Scale w/ Marty CaganMarty Cagan joins Chris and Yaniv to discuss what he sees as the biggest risk to building a successful product. It’s not choosing the wrong problem, it’s building the wrong solution!
Marty is as close as the world of product has to a public intellectual: after decades spent building impactful products at Hewlett-Packard, Netscape Communications, and eBay, Marty founded Silicon Valley Product Group to spread the best practices of product development in tech. His two books Inspired and Empowered have taught countless Product Managers and leaders how to build better products.
In t...
2022-09-081h 11
The Startup PodcastEdu: 7 Deadly Sins of Scaleups and BigCos - Do You Need To Repent?Chris and Yaniv have worked in and advised many startups, scaleups and BigCos. There are 7 organizational sins they see over and over again. In this episode, they unpack and discuss each of these sins, discuss what causes them, and identify the key symptoms.
Sin 1: Poor context setting by the leadership team;
Sin 2: Poor operationalization of shared context;
Sin 3: Poor planning;
Sin 4: Poor org structure;
Sin 5: Poor role design and ways of working;
Sin 6: Poor risk-taking;
Sin 7: Piecemeal attempts to rectify;
2022-09-0150 min