The Bootstrapped Founder Arvid Kahl

Amanda Natividad (@amandanat) is an expert in marketing and writing. She talks about using humor and strong marketing skills to understand what people on social media like — and what resonates strongly enough to make them do things. We discuss making content that's not just different, but interesting and true to your audience. Among many intriguing stories, one cool thing she mentions is how Rand Fishkin started following her (and how she overreacted to it!). But it worked out. She quickly found herself working with Rand on SparkToro. Amanda even shares a few tips on using tools like SparkToro to better understand what people want to see, who they interact with, and where they are.
We talk about the future of making content, including using AI for new ideas. Amanda believes in growing your audience by being liked, not just being the best. She's planning to grow her marketing course and talks about how a fractional marketing director can help small businesses and solo workers. This chat with Amanda is full of easy-to-use advice for improving your marketing. Enjoy!
Amanda on Twitter: https://twitter.com/amandanat 
00:00:00 Creating Unique and Engaging Content00:14:20 Refresh vs Different in Content Creation00:26:01 Advice on Using Social Media Platforms00:36:45 AI in Ideation and Meal Planning00:44:06 Future Audience Growth and Marketing Exploration00:52:50 Fractional Marketing Director's Importance
This episode is sponsored by Acquire.com
The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/amanda-natividad-mastering-content-creation-and-audience-engagement/
The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/274-amanda-natividad-mastering-content-creation-and-audience-engagement
The video: https://youtu.be/h94Hu8Ngr5c
You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com
Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast
Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/
My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com
Here are a few tools I use. Using my affiliate links will support my work at no additional cost to you.- Notion (which I use to organize, write, coordinate, and archive my podcast + newsletter): https://affiliate.notion.so/465mv1536drx- Riverside.fm (that's what I recorded this episode with): https://riverside.fm/?via=arvid- TweetHunter (for speedy scheduling and writing Tweets): http://tweethunter.io/?via=arvid- HypeFury (for massive Twitter analytics and scheduling): https://hypefury.com/?via=arvid60- AudioPen (for taking voice notes and getting amazing summaries): https://audiopen.ai/?aff=PXErZ- Descript (for word-based video editing, subtitles, and clips): https://www.descript.com/?lmref=3cf39Q- ConvertKit (for email lists, newsletters, even finding sponsors): https://convertkit.com?lmref=bN9CZw


(00:00) - Creating Unique and Engaging Content

(14:20) - Refresh vs Different in Content Creation

(26:01) - Advice on Using Social Media Platforms

(36:45) - AI in Ideation and Meal Planning

(44:06) - Future Audience Growth and Marketing Exploration

(52:50) - Fractional Marketing Director's Importance

Let's dive headfirst into the crazy world of starting your own business. We're going to chat about how "running your own show" can be freeing, but also comes with its own set of challenges. We'll explore what it really means to be your own boss – making your own rules and calling the shots in your business. But, let's not forget, the journey of an entrepreneur is all about grabbing those chances and trying out different things to hit it big.
Join me as I share my own stories and draw inspiration from people who live life like I do. I'll talk about folks who've nailed the whole work-life balance thing, juggling family, personal time, and their business dreams. We'll also dive into why it's so important to take advice from people who get your lifestyle, instead of just those who've made it big in a totally different way.
Today, we talk about freedom, agency, and autonomy.
This episode is sponsored by Acquire.com
The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/freedom-vs-autonomy/
The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/273-freedom-vs-autonomy
The video: https://youtu.be/X8m2A3JDiLQ
You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com
Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast
Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/
My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com
Here are a few tools I use. Using my affiliate links will support my work at no additional cost to you.- Notion (which I use to organize, write, coordinate, and archive my podcast + newsletter): https://affiliate.notion.so/465mv1536drx- Riverside.fm (that's what I recorded this episode with): https://riverside.fm/?via=arvid- TweetHunter (for speedy scheduling and writing Tweets): http://tweethunter.io/?via=arvid- HypeFury (for massive Twitter analytics and scheduling): https://hypefury.com/?via=arvid60- AudioPen (for taking voice notes and getting amazing summaries): https://audiopen.ai/?aff=PXErZ- Descript (for word-based video editing, subtitles, and clips): https://www.descript.com/?lmref=3cf39Q- ConvertKit (for email lists, newsletters, even finding sponsors): https://convertkit.com?lmref=bN9CZw

Andrew Hudson (@MyBuddyAndrew) is an indie hacker who has taken an unconventional journey. From getting his hands dirty as an auto mechanic to now paving the way as a software entrepreneur, Andrew shares how skills honed in the garage fuel his tech ventures, Hauling Buddies and WrenchRadar. We get under the hood of his entrepreneurial journey, discussing the challenges and triumphs of running a two-sided marketplace for pet transportation and how his knack for logical thinking and compartmentalization drives his businesses forward.
We explore how a simple Facebook group grew into a booming business, with Andrew shedding light on his strategies to harness social media and tap into niche markets. We also discuss Andrew's exciting book project inspired by his son's love for space. This episode is a deep dive into the world of independent hacking, entrepreneurship, and the power of passion projects that all started with an auto mechanic's love for problem-solving.
Andrew on Twitter: https://twitter.com/MyBuddyAndrew
00:00:00 From Auto Mechanic to Software Entrepreneur00:09:53 Building Facebook Groups for Hauling Services00:19:44 Running a Marketplace Challenges and Solutions00:29:07 Business Idea Development With AI and Automotive Data00:36:16 Challenges With Car Software Updates00:46:53 Learning, Building, and Sharing
This episode is sponsored by Acquire.com
The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/andrew-hodson-a-mechanics-leap-into-tech-entrepreneurship/
The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/272-andrew-hodson-a-mechanics-leap-into-tech-entrepreneurship
The video: https://youtu.be/UK9nhk9zGR0
You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com
Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast
Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/
My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com
Here are a few tools I use. Using my affiliate links will support my work at no additional cost to you.- Notion (which I use to organize, write, coordinate, and archive my podcast + newsletter): https://affiliate.notion.so/465mv1536drx- Riverside.fm (that's what I recorded this episode with): https://riverside.fm/?via=arvid- TweetHunter (for speedy scheduling and writing Tweets): http://tweethunter.io/?via=arvid- HypeFury (for massive Twitter analytics and scheduling): https://hypefury.com/?via=arvid60- AudioPen (for taking voice notes and getting amazing summaries): https://audiopen.ai/?aff=PXErZ- Descript (for word-based video editing, subtitles, and clips): https://www.descript.com/?lmref=3cf39Q- ConvertKit (for email lists, newsletters, even finding sponsors): https://convertkit.com?lmref=bN9CZw




(00:00) - From Auto Mechanic to Software Entrepreneur

(09:53) - Building Facebook Groups for Hauling Services

(19:44) - Running a Marketplace Challenges and Solutions

(29:07) - Business Idea Development With AI and Automotive Data

(36:16) - Challenges With Car Software Updates

(46:53) - Learning, Building, and Sharing

If you’re shopping for books this Black Friday, here are the 15 most impactful books I read before and during my SaaS founder journey. From entrepreneurship to marketing and customer interaction, you’ll have a lot to put on your Black Friday shopping list.
My own work is available for 50% off on Gumroad for a few days, too. Use the code BFF for Zero to Sold, The Embedded Entrepreneur, and Find your Following.
And now, let’s grow your library with the likes of Rob Walling, John Warrillow, Michele Hansen, and many more:
This episode is sponsored by Acquire.com
The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/arvids-top-15-book-recommendations-for-founders/
The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/271-arvids-top-15-book-recommendations-for-founders
The video: https://youtu.be/F9iIxqtvNUI
You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com
Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast
Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/
My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com
Here are a few tools I use. Using my affiliate links will support my work at no additional cost to you.- Notion (which I use to organize, write, coordinate, and archive my podcast + newsletter): https://affiliate.notion.so/465mv1536drx- Riverside.fm (that's what I recorded this episode with): https://riverside.fm/?via=arvid- TweetHunter (for speedy scheduling and writing Tweets): http://tweethunter.io/?via=arvid- HypeFury (for massive Twitter analytics and scheduling): https://hypefury.com/?via=arvid60- AudioPen (for taking voice notes and getting amazing summaries): https://audiopen.ai/?aff=PXErZ- Descript (for word-based video editing, subtitles, and clips): https://www.descript.com/?lmref=3cf39Q- ConvertKit (for email lists, newsletters, even finding sponsors): https://convertkit.com?lmref=bN9CZw

Rob Walling (@robwalling) unpacks the fascinating world of SaaS businesses, touching on topics like scaling, diversification, and the role of AI in SaaS projects. Rob shares his unique stair-step approach to building a SaaS business and paints a realistic picture of the challenges faced by a SaaS founder and the potential rewards of running a successful SaaS company.
The man has released almost 700 podcast episodes about bootstrapping SaaS businesses. He knows how that works, from the birds-eye perspective down to the nitty gritty.
We dive into the misconception around building a ChatGPT wrapper as a long-term business, the trend of AI-centric startups using one-time payments or yearly subscriptions, and the risk of overindexing on AI as a competitive advantage. We also examine common pitfalls in the software business and the impact of sales models on customers. Rob offers insights on white labeling, cautioning against doing it too early and advising on setting a minimum commitment from potential partners.
Rob shares his personal experiences, discussing the difficulties of setting investment terms and overcoming setbacks. We address the concept of the "solo founder funk" and offer solutions such as finding a co-founder, joining mastermind groups, and attending in-person events. Lastly, we delve into the importance of building an audience in the world of SaaS and discuss the topic of hiring in early-stage startups. So tune in, learn, and get inspired by Rob's journey and insights in the SaaS industry.
Rob Walling on Twitter: https://twitter.com/robwalling
00:00:00 Scaling SaaS Businesses With Diversification00:12:56 Building on AI and Subscription Fatigue00:21:58 Sales Model and Customer Requests00:33:29 Founder Strategies00:40:10 Building an Audience in SaaS Marketing00:46:11 Founders Discuss Hiring and Growth
This episode is sponsored by Acquire.com
The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/rob-walling-stair-stepping-into-saas-success/
The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/270-rob-walling-stair-stepping-into-saas-success
The video: https://youtu.be/GjmvLv-4YtY
You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com
Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast
Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/
My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com
Here are a few tools I use. Using my affiliate links will support my work at no additional cost to you.- Notion (which I use to organize, write, coordinate, and archive my podcast + newsletter): https://affiliate.notion.so/465mv1536drx- Riverside.fm (that's what I recorded this episode with): https://riverside.fm/?via=arvid- TweetHunter (for speedy scheduling and writing Tweets): http://tweethunter.io/?via=arvid- HypeFury (for massive Twitter analytics and scheduling): https://hypefury.com/?via=arvid60- AudioPen (for taking voice notes and getting amazing summaries): https://audiopen.ai/?aff=PXErZ- Descript (for word-based video editing, subtitles, and clips): https://www.descript.com/?lmref=3cf39Q- ConvertKit (for email lists, newsletters, even finding sponsors): https://convertkit.com?lmref=bN9CZw



(00:00) - Scaling SaaS Businesses With Diversification

(12:56) - Building on AI and Subscription Fatigue

(21:58) - Sales Model and Customer Requests

(33:29) - Founder Strategies

(40:10) - Building an Audience in SaaS Marketing

(46:11) - Founders Discuss Hiring and Growth

How can we master the art of managing constraints and turning obstacles into opportunities?
With intentional choices.
Join me as I candidly share my experiences of juggling a media business and several SaaS businesses — while still making time for a life beyond business. You'll discover the techniques I use to stay focused, consistent, and maintain a healthy work-life balance. It's about setting boundaries, creating one-to-many processes, and being intentional with your time.
This episode is sponsored by Acquire.com
The blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/embracing-obstacles-for-opportunity/
The podcast episode: https://share.transistor.fm/s/98bf7cab
The video: https://youtu.be/PWzODzmXKhs
You'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com
Podcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcast
Newsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletter
My book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/
My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/
My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.com
Here are a few tools I use. Using my affiliate links will support my work at no additional cost to you.- Notion (which I use to organize, write, coordinate, and archive my podcast + newsletter): https://affiliate.notion.so/465mv1536drx- Riverside.fm (that's what I recorded this episode with): https://riverside.fm/?via=arvid- TweetHunter (for speedy scheduling and writing Tweets): http://tweethunter.io/?via=arvid- HypeFury (for massive Twitter analytics and scheduling): https://hypefury.com/?via=arvid60- AudioPen (for taking voice notes and getting amazing summaries): https://audiopen.ai/?aff=PXErZ- Descript (for word-based video editing, subtitles, and clips): https://www.descript.com/?lmref=3cf39Q- ConvertKit (for email lists, newsletters, even finding sponsors): https://convertkit.com?lmref=bN9CZw