Building Startups in the AI Era: User Research, Product-Market Fit & the Human Side of Entrepreneurship with Leo Hoar

What does it take to build a successful startup in a world where AI is changing what's possible almost every day?In this episode, we sit down with Leo Hoar, a former academic, UX research leader, and founder who brings a unique perspective to the rapidly changing startup landscape.Leo's career has centered around one critical question: Do we actually understand what users need before we build?As a UX researcher, Leo worked extensively with startups, helping teams uncover product-market fit, understand customer behavior, and develop growth strategies. Today, he's applying those same principles as a founder, experiencing firsthand the challenges of bringing a new company into the world.We explore what it means to build a business during the current AI boom, including the incredible efficiencies AI can provide and the areas where founders still need to rely on human judgment, creativity, curiosity, and critical thinking.Leo also takes us beyond the technology and business strategy to discuss the psychological side of entrepreneurship: uncertainty, decision-making, pressure, identity, and the emotional challenges that come with creating something from scratch.Leo's perspective offers a valuable counterbalance to the excitement surrounding AI. While new technology can dramatically accelerate how companies operate, speed isn't useful if you're moving quickly in the wrong direction.For founders navigating today's startup environment, this episode is a reminder that AI can help you build faster—but research helps you build the right thing.Before you build more, make sure you understand who you're building for.#LeoHoar #UXResearch #UserResearch #Startups #AI #ArtificialIntelligence #ProductMarketFit #Entrepreneurship #StartupGrowth #ProductStrategy #UXDesign #CustomerResearch #BusinessStrategy #FounderLife #Innovation #FutureOfWork #ProductDevelopment #AIStartups #PersonalGrowth #Podcast #DesignWave