5 - Build Less, Validate More: The Startup Power of Customer Discovery

5 - Build Less, Validate More: The Startup Power of Customer Discovery

5 - Build Less, Validate More: The Startup Power of Customer DiscoveryTekyz
Published on: 12/09/2025

In this episode of "Scaling Smarter," host David Hirschfeld interviews Todd Gagne, CEO & Co-founder of Wildfire Labs, an AI startup studio in South Dakota. He explains how AI and workflow automation streamline customer discovery, feedback, and founder support. Todd highlights the importance of coachability, problem-focused thinking, and sustainable growth over chasing unicorns. The episode features real founder stories, practical advice, and a discussion on using AI for proactive healthcare, ending with insights on work-life balance and continuous learning.

Software DevelopmentBusiness Growth and ScalingArtificial Intelligence and Technology
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2 - How to Communicate Value: Shifting from Features to Benefits in Your Startup

2 - How to Communicate Value: Shifting from Features to Benefits in Your Startup

2 - How to Communicate Value: Shifting from Features to Benefits in Your StartupTekyz
Published on: 22/08/2025

In this episode of Scaling Smarter, host David Hirschfeld interviews Lance Cottrell, founder of Feel the Boot and an early internet privacy company, as well as a current angel investor. Lance shares his journey from astrophysics to entrepreneurship, highlighting his company’s pivot from consumer privacy to serving federal agencies and the lessons learned along the way. He offers practical advice on pitching, testing assumptions, leveraging AI, and adopting a “fail fast” mindset to help founders secure funding and build sustainable growth.

Business Growth and ScalingWorkflow AutomationAngel InvestingEntrepreneurship
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1 - Debugging Your Way to Success: Laughing Through Software Development Challenges

1 - Debugging Your Way to Success: Laughing Through Software Development Challenges

1 - Debugging Your Way to Success: Laughing Through Software Development ChallengesTekyz
Published on: 12/07/2025

In the first episode of Scaling Smarter: Concept to Cash Flow, host David Hirschfeld, CEO of Tekyz, introduces the podcast’s mission to share real stories from software leaders who leveraged workflow automation and AI to grow their businesses. Interviewed by Josh Elledge, David highlights both successes and struggles, underscoring the lessons learned and the value of strong teams. The episode also invites listeners to connect, share insights, and recommend guests, building a community around software entrepreneurship.

Software DevelopmentBusiness Growth and ScalingArtificial Intelligence and Technology
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