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Welcome to the Maker Manager Money podcast! In this episode, host Kyle Ariel Knowles sits down with David Hirschfeld, the founder and CEO of Tekyz. With over 35 years of experience in software development, David shares his entrepreneurship journey, including creating the innovative Launch First methodology designed to help software startups achieve product-market fit quickly.

Here are three key takeaways from our conversation that I believe every entrepreneur and aspiring startup founder should consider:

1. Focus on Solving Real Problems: One of David's most powerful insights is the importance of building products that solve real problems you understand deeply. He emphasized that the best startups often emerge from personal experiences and frustrations. By automating tasks or addressing challenges in your own life, you can create solutions that resonate with others facing similar issues. This approach validates your idea and enhances your understanding of the market.
2. The Value of Rapid Revenue Generation: David's Launch First methodology stresses the significance of generating revenue quickly. He pointed out that many startups fail because they invest heavily in product development without validating their market. Instead, he advocates for a lean approach—developing a minimum viable product (MVP) and testing it in the market to gauge interest and demand. This strategy allows entrepreneurs to pivot or refine their offerings based on real feedback, reducing the risk of costly missteps.
3. Embrace AI as a Tool for Innovation: In our discussion, David highlighted how AI transforms the software development landscape. He shared exciting examples of how Tekyz Corp is leveraging AI to enhance project management, streamline processes, and improve customer interactions. As AI continues to evolve, it’s crucial for entrepreneurs to embrace these technologies, not just as a trend but as essential tools that can drive efficiency and creativity in their businesses.

Join us as David discusses:

• The story behind the name "Tekyz" and how it reflects the company's mission.
• The various ways Tekyz generates revenue through contract software development and upcoming SaaS products.
• Insights into the importance of understanding customer problems over just focusing on the product.
• Pivotal moments from David's early career that sparked his entrepreneurial drive.
• The impact of AI on software development and how Tekyz is leveraging it for project management and product design.
• Valuable advice for aspiring software engineers and entrepreneurs navigating the evolving tech landscape.

Whether you're an established entrepreneur or just starting your journey, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical insights.

LINKS

• Follow David on LinkedIn
• David's company, Tekyz
• David's new SaaS product, ManageReferrals.com
• Learn more about Launch 1st
• Follow Kyle on LinkedIn
• Subscribe to Kyle's Substack

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In this episode, host Kyle Ariel Knowles sits down with Ryan Rigterink, founder of Leaders Ops and Workgaze. Ryan shares his journey from traditional industries to entrepreneurship, discussing the importance of strategic talent management and creating workplaces where people and results thrive.

Here are three key takeaways that I believe every entrepreneur and manager should consider:

1. Empowering Individual Visions: One of the most profound insights from Ryan was the importance of recognizing that every employee has their own vision for their career and life. As leaders, it's crucial to not only focus on the company's vision but also to understand and support the personal aspirations of our team members. We can drive engagement and productivity by fostering an environment where employees feel valued and understood. This shift from a paycheck mindset to a purpose-driven approach can transform workplace culture.
2. The Role of AI in Leadership: Ryan shared his perspective on how AI reshapes the future of leadership and talent management. He emphasized that AI should not just be about generating more data but about leveraging insights to understand ourselves and our teams better. This new paradigm of "ecosystem leadership" will require us to manage not only people but also technology and their interactions. We can create more effective and empathetic workplaces as we embrace these changes.
3. Personal Development Through Adversity: Ryan's journey is a testament to the power of resilience and personal growth. After being let go during the pandemic, he took the opportunity to reflect and write his book, "Redesign Life." His experiences highlight that the most significant changes in our careers sometimes come from unexpected challenges. Embracing these moments can lead to profound personal and professional development.

Ryan dives into the impact of AI and technology on leadership and talent management, emphasizing the need for a paradigm shift in how we view the employer-employee relationship. He also reflects on his background in psychology and how it has shaped his approach to leadership and personal development.

In addition to his entrepreneurial ventures, Ryan is the author of "Redesign Life: Finding Purpose and Balance Amidst Chaos and Uncertainty." He discusses the inspiration behind his book, the process of writing it, and how it connects to his work with LeadersOps and WorkGaze.

Join us as we explore topics such as:

• The evolution of leadership in the age of AI
• The significance of personal vision in the workplace
• Strategies for enhancing employee engagement
• Insights from Ryan's personal experiences and family legacy

Don't miss this insightful conversation filled with valuable takeaways for entrepreneurs, managers, and anyone looking to make a positive impact in their professional lives!

LINKS

• Follow Ryan on LinkedIn
• Leaders Ops
• Workgaze
• Redesign Life: Finding Purpose and Balance Amidst Chaos and Uncertainty by Ryan Rigterink
• Obviously Awesome: How to Nail Product Positioning so Customers Get It, Buy It, Love It by April Dunford
• Follow Kyle on LinkedIn

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In this inspiring episode, host Kyle Ariel Knowles sits down with Jennifer Tsay, co-founder and CEO of Shoott. This revolutionary platform offers free mini photo sessions with professional photographers. Jennifer shares her diverse journey from investment banking and documentary film production to acting and entrepreneurship.

Here are three key takeaways from our enlightening conversation:

1. Embrace Your Unique Journey: Jennifer’s path to entrepreneurship was anything but linear. From working in corporate finance to producing a documentary about divided families, she discovered her passion for creativity and problem-solving. This journey highlights the importance of embracing diverse experiences, as they can shape your entrepreneurial mindset and lead to innovative solutions. Remember, every step you take contributes to your unique story!
2. The Power of Collaboration: Jennifer emphasizes the significance of teamwork in her role at Shoott. With co-founders who complement her skills, she illustrates how collaboration can enhance productivity and creativity. In a startup environment, it’s crucial to recognize each team member's strengths and leverage them effectively. As Jennifer puts it, “I can do what she can't do, and she can do what I can't do.” This balance is essential for driving success in any venture.
3. Trust Your Gut, But Know Your Limits: One of Jennifer's most profound insights is the importance of understanding your instincts. While trusting your gut is vital, it’s equally important to recognize when to seek input from others. Jennifer shared her experience of relying on her team for judgment calls, especially in challenging situations. This approach fosters a collaborative environment and helps mitigate self-doubt, allowing for more informed decision-making.

Join us as we dive deeper into Jennifer’s journey, her insights on the gig economy, and how Shoott is changing the landscape for photographers. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned professional, this episode is packed with valuable lessons that can inspire you to take action!

Discover how her unique blend of process-oriented thinking and artistic passion led her to create a marketplace democratizing access to professional portrait photography. With a network of over 750 photographers across 60 US cities, Shoott is changing the game for clients and creatives.

In this episode, you'll learn about:

• Jennifer's favorite roles before becoming an entrepreneur
• The impactful documentary she produced about divided Korean families
• Her transition from corporate life to the startup world
• The importance of trusting your instincts and developing your "gut"
• How acting has influenced her leadership style and decision-making
• The innovative use of AI tools in her business

Join us for an engaging conversation filled with insights on entrepreneurship, creativity, and personal growth.

LINKS

• Follow Jennifer on LinkedIn
• Visit the Shoott Website
• 7 Rules of Self-Reliance: How to Stay Low, Keep Moving, Invest in Yourself, and Own Your Future by Maha Abouelenein
• Follow Kyle on LinkedIn

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