Founder Mode

EPISODE 55Kevin and Jason tackle the three things every founder pretends they have under control: sleep, the first 90 days of taking over a company, and the say-no muscle. Kevin explains why sleep is the ultimate performance enhancing drug, then unpacks his contrarian take on the first 90 days — by week three you better have an opinion or people start writing you off. He walks through his recent takeover of Search Engine Journal, including the five-question email that stack-ranked his team, the day-zero move to close every credit card and reissue them through Mercury with a named human owner, and the surprise that 15-20% of expenses simply never came back. They close on the say-no muscle, the 14-hour flight test for shutting work off, and how AI tools are creating new leverage to delegate the work you'd otherwise feel obligated to do yourself.CHAPTERS00:00 – Cold open: Sleep is the ultimate PED00:51 – Welcome and the three topics01:00 – The founder sleep crisis03:52 – Topic two: Taking over a new company04:00 – Why consultants get more leverage than FTEs07:09 – Getting acquired and the listening tour09:02 – The week three framework (not day 90)12:13 – Search Engine Journal takeover and the five-question email16:03 – Closing every credit card on day zero20:17 – Topic three: Building the say-no muscle24:31 – The 14-hour flight test26:25 – Five key takeawaysLINKSSleep masks Kevin recommendsAlaska Bear • WAOWStay Connected with Founder ModeSubscribe to our newsletterConnect with KevinLinkedIn • X/TwitterConnect with JasonLinkedIn • X/Twitter

EPISODE 54Kevin and Jason break down why Anthropic is out of compute, why that's actually a strategy, and what it means for everyone using Claude right now. They dig into the Mythos model as the best marketing moment in AI, why artificial scarcity works, and why $200/month for Claude Max is the cheapest hire you'll ever make. Then they shift to AI in the enterprise — why one "AI Week" won't rewire your company, why Anthropic's one-person growth marketing team is the new bar, and the playbook for founders selling into big companies: pick a hard enough wedge, stop selling the product, and sell transformation instead.CHAPTERS00:00 – Cold Open: The Mythos Model Is Too Good To Release00:35 – Welcome to Founder Mode00:59 – Why Anthropic Is Out of Compute02:28 – Good Customer, Bad Customer: Who's to Blame?04:00 – $200/Month Is the Cheapest Hire You'll Ever Get05:31 – Token Maxing and the New Scarcity07:01 – How to Fire Bad Customers (And Why Anthropic Is Doing It Wrong)10:50 – The Mythos Model: The Best Marketing Moment in AI13:19 – AI in the Enterprise: Why One AI Week Isn't Enough18:25 – The "One More Prompt" Flow State19:57 – Selling Into Enterprise: Pick a Hard Wedge, Sell Transformation22:48 – Closing Takeaways and Top FiveLINKSStay Connected with Founder ModeSubscribe to our newsletterConnect with KevinLinkedIn • X/TwitterConnect with JasonLinkedIn • X/Twitter

EPISODE 53In this episode, Kevin and Jason sit down with Shain Noor, co-founder of Silvia, an AI-powered personal CFO built to help people reason through financial decisions, not just track them. Shain explains why the entire history of personal finance apps has focused on clicking and aggregating data rather than helping users actually decide what to do, and how Silvia uses Anthropic-powered agents with a verification layer to deliver trustworthy, personalized financial guidance. The conversation covers the co-pilot vs. autopilot distinction, the surprising discovery that users ask Silvia things they'd never tell their human financial advisor, how proactive alerts like the daily summary email drove retention, and why building the reasoning layer first, before adding any execution or action capabilities, is the right foundation for trust.CHAPTERS00:00 - The judgment-free financial advisor02:38 - Introducing Shain Noor and Silvia03:51 - Why finance apps have always missed the reasoning layer05:51 - Co-pilot vs. autopilot: trust, transparency, and guardrails08:29 - What surprised Shain: users sharing what they hide from their advisors12:42 - Measuring retention and the proactive alerts breakthrough17:02 - Team size, the ProCap merger, and competing with legacy finance19:41 - The future: everyone becomes a manager of AI agentsLINKSConnect with Shain NoorSilvia • LinkedIn • X/TwitterStay Connected with Founder ModeSubscribe to our newsletterConnect with KevinLinkedIn • X/TwitterConnect with JasonLinkedIn • X/Twitter

EPISODE 52Jason Shafton and Kevin Henrikson unpack where AI is genuinely useful and where it starts to create more noise than leverage, using examples from AI email triage, long chat memory drift, and agentic workflows. Kevin explains how memory can become polluted when models start treating their own prior inferences as fact, including a prompt he used to compare what an AI thought was “ground truth” against what he had actually told it. From there, the conversation shifts into a practical framework for building AI systems and human teams the same way: define the job, provide the right tools and access, layer in review and guardrails, and judge success by whether time spent together compounds into more output. They close by connecting startup hiring, high-agency operators, and founder-led culture back to the same core test they use for AI: does this person or tool create leverage, or does it create drag?CHAPTERS00:00 – AI memory drift and false “ground truth”01:24 – Testing AI email triage and the risks of over-filtering03:13 – Good AI versus bad AI in real workflows05:31 – Why controlled memory leads to more consistent AI outputs08:29 – How to apply AI to workflows that currently rely on humans11:12 – Building multi-agent content systems with clear roles and QA13:40 – Hiring high-agency people for early-stage teams16:01 – The “pick up the shovel” standard for startup operators22:36 – The real test for both employees and AI: leverage or drag26:16 – Founder Mode Top 5 TakeawaysLINKSConnect with Kevin HenriksonLinkedIn • X/TwitterStay Connected with Founder ModeSubscribe to our newsletterConnect with KevinLinkedIn • X/TwitterConnect with JasonLinkedIn • X/Twitter

EPISODE 51Courtney Spritzer breaks down how she built, scaled, and monetized a community-first business by starting with conversations instead of a business model, and why most founders confuse audiences with real communities. Drawing on her journey from launching a social media agency to co-founding Entreprenista, she explains how trust and engagement—not follower count—determine whether a community actually works, and how to measure that through real outcomes like connections, clients, and visibility. The conversation covers practical approaches to monetization through membership tiers, founder-led power groups, and events, as well as why IRL experiences are a powerful growth engine. Courtney also shares how she evaluates opportunities as an investor, how she maintains authenticity while scaling, and why founders should build around their strengths rather than chase trends like AI.CHAPTERS00:00 – Following vs. community: the core distinction04:49 – From agency to Entreprenista: turning audience into business08:23 – How to measure if a community is actually working10:56 – Monetization: tiers, power groups, and testing models13:15 – Transitioning post-exit and doubling down on community14:22 – IRL events as a growth and engagement engine17:50 – Investing and evaluating founder-led opportunities20:25 – Building in the AI era vs. staying human-firstLINKSConnect with Courtney SpritzerEntreprenista • Entreprenista LinkedIn • X/Twitter • LinkedIn • InstagramStay Connected with Founder ModeSubscribe to our newsletterConnect with KevinLinkedIn • X/TwitterConnect with JasonLinkedIn • X/Twitter

EPISODE 50Kevin Henrikson and Jason Shafton unpack the reality of working with AI agents, why they feel more “broken” than chatbots when they fail, and what it actually takes to make them useful in real workflows. They explore the shift from prompt-based interactions to autonomous systems with memory, triggers, and recurring tasks, and why expectations are often misaligned with how these systems behave. The conversation dives into the importance of guardrails, human-in-the-loop review, and treating AI like a junior employee rather than a perfect operator. They also cover the emerging dopamine loop of working with AI, how it’s changing the way people think and work, and why communication—not technical skill—is becoming the key differentiator in an AI-driven world.CHAPTERS00:00 – Why AI agents feel more broken than chatbots02:38 – Harness engineering, workflows, and expectations05:50 – AI agents as employees and human-in-the-loop systems07:25 – The dopamine loop and changing how we work13:54 – The future of work and communication as the edgeLINKSConnect with Kevin HenriksonWebsite • LinkedIn • X/TwitterStay Connected with Founder ModeStay Connected with Founder ModeSubscribe to our newsletterConnect with KevinLinkedIn • X/TwitterConnect with JasonLinkedIn • X/Twitter

EPISODE 49Nima Keivan joins Kevin Henrikson and Jason Shafton to break down what it takes to move AI-built software from demos into production. Drawing on his background in robotics and autonomy, Nima explains why the real challenge is not generating code but closing the “autonomy gap” between what a system can do reliably and the messy corner cases humans still have to carry. He unpacks why durable software starts with requirements, how his team approaches PRD-driven development and scenario testing, why just-in-time mocking matters when automations touch live enterprise systems, and where natural-language software building is already working versus where full end-to-end autonomy is still not ready.CHAPTERS00:00 – The autonomy gap between demos and production03:15 – What robotics teaches AI builders about reliability07:32 – Why code generation is not the real bottleneck13:18 – How Durable turns operator workflows into production software26:32 – When natural language can actually replace writing codeLINKSConnect with Nima KeivanDurable • LinkedIn • X/TwitterStay Connected with Founder ModeStay Connected with Founder ModeSubscribe to our newsletterConnect with KevinLinkedIn • X/TwitterConnect with JasonLinkedIn • X/Twitter

EPISODE 48Dennis Pilarinos joins Kevin Henrikson and Jason Shafton to unpack what AI in software development actually looks like beyond the demos, arguing that the real bottleneck is not code generation but context. Drawing on his experience building Buddybuild, working inside Apple, Amazon, and Microsoft, and now leading Unblocked, Dennis explains why source code alone is not enough for either engineers or AI agents to succeed, how historical decisions buried in Slack, Jira, and docs shape production-safe software, where AI-generated code breaks down in legacy systems, what traits matter most when hiring in an AI-native era, and why the workflows teams rely on today, including pull requests, may look very different in the near future.CHAPTERS00:00 – Why AI coding tools fail without context04:03 – Building Unblocked to solve the missing layer in engineering12:11 – Where AI-generated code breaks in real production environments20:33 – Hiring for curiosity, ownership, and success in an AI-native world27:18 – Founder lessons from aviation, uncertainty, and staying groundedLINKSConnect with Dennis PilarinosUnblocked • LinkedIn • X/TwitterStay Connected with Founder ModeSubscribe to our newsletterConnect with KevinLinkedIn • X/TwitterConnect with JasonLinkedIn • X/Twitter

EPISODE 47In Episode 47 of Founder Mode, Kevin Henrikson and Jason Shafton unpack why AI agents should no longer be thought of as simple tools, but as a new kind of workforce that founders can hire, coach, evaluate, and orchestrate. They explore how the founder role is shifting from building and doing toward designing systems, managing agent workflows, and making the judgment calls that still require human trust, taste, and strategic thinking. Along the way, they discuss AI-first operating habits, what this means for hiring and team design, why small teams may become dramatically more powerful, where human oversight still matters most, and why the real moat in an AI-native world is not the agents themselves but distribution, proprietary workflows, and unique data.CHAPTERS00:00 – The founder’s job has changed00:32 – AI agents as a new staffing model06:29 – What AI-first workflows look like in practice16:48 – Hiring and scaling in the age of agents24:06 – The new moat: data, workflows, and distributionLINKSConnect with Founder ModeFounder ModeStay Connected with Founder ModeStay Connected with Founder ModeSubscribe to our newsletterConnect with KevinLinkedIn • X/TwitterConnect with JasonLinkedIn • X/Twitter

EPISODE 46CrackBerry Kevin, founder of Clicks, explains why building hardware in a software-obsessed world is suddenly the opportunity again and how “intentional tech” is creating room for focused devices that complement, not replace, your iPhone. He shares the arc from launching CrackBerry.com and Mobile Nations to turning years of product coverage into an unfair advantage for building, then breaks down Clicks’ strategy: validate demand with accessories first, frame Communicator as a purpose-built “people phone” category instead of a smartphone competitor, and use CES storytelling to create momentum months before launch. The conversation also digs into how Clicks approached fundraising without relying on traditional VC, leveraged community as both customers and megaphone, and avoided the classic Kickstarter trap by sequencing products, aligning supply-chain incentives, and refusing to overpromise on timelines.CHAPTERS00:00 – The “people phone” idea: why Communicator won’t compete with iPhone04:14 – From CrackBerry to builder: compounding reps and community advantage06:56 – Naming a category: Communicator as a purpose-built device, not a smartphone18:58 – CES momentum: how storytelling and launch mechanics are engineered early21:43 – Bootstrapping, community funding, and avoiding the Kickstarter failure loopLINKSConnect with CrackBerry KevinClicks • LinkedIn • X/TwitterStay Connected with Founder ModeStay Connected with Founder ModeSubscribe to our newsletterConnect with KevinLinkedIn • X/TwitterConnect with JasonLinkedIn • X/Twitter

EPISODE 45Ronke Oyekunle, co-founder of Neptune, explains how modern prenups have evolved from taboo paperwork into a structured process that helps couples talk honestly about money, values, and “what if” scenarios before marriage. She shares why millennials and Gen Z are approaching financial planning differently, how Neptune combines vertical AI with top family-law experts to guide difficult conversations safely, and why the hardest clauses, like spousal support and even pet custody, often end up strengthening relationships rather than undermining them. The conversation also expands beyond prenups into estate planning and the idea of Neptune as a “financial legal concierge” for couples, ending with Ronke’s vision for an AI-plus-humans future and a promo code for the Founder Mode audience.CHAPTERS00:00 – Why prenups can reduce the odds of divorce03:30 – From taboo to empowerment: modern money conversations in relationships05:42 – Neptune’s model: vertical AI plus human family-law experts12:06 – The clauses that matter most: spousal support, “what if” scenarios, and pet custody19:05 – Beyond prenups: estate planning, “financial legal concierge,” and the future of the categoryLINKSConnect with Ronke OyekunleNeptune • LinkedInPromo code: RONKE100 ($100 off any Neptune services)Stay Connected with Founder ModeSubscribe to our newsletterConnect with KevinLinkedIn • X/TwitterConnect with JasonLinkedIn • X/Twitter

EPISODE 44 Kevin Henrikson and Jason Shafton sit down with Jason Fried, co-founder of 37signals, to unpack what it means to build software that feels less like “software” and more like a physical object you actually want to use every day. Jason explains the philosophy behind Fizzy, 37signals’ fresh take on Kanban, and why speed, fluidity, and visual joy aren’t polish but core product decisions. The conversation explores designing with human-scale constraints borrowed from the physical world (like piles on a desk), why limits often produce better tools, and how 37signals stays independent to preserve optionality. They also discuss why 40 hours a week is enough, how founders can stay deeply involved without becoming bottlenecks, and Jason’s advice to new founders: keep your surface area small and start making something real as fast as possible. CHAPTERS 00:00 – Building software as objects you want to use every day 07:04 – Fizzy and a simpler, more joyful take on Kanban 12:21 – Piles, limits, and designing for human scale 22:03 – 40 hours is enough: founder involvement without micromanagement 43:22 – Undercomplicating year one: keep surface area small and start making LINKS Connect with Jason Fried 37signals.com • LinkedIn • X/Twitter Stay Connected with Founder Mode Subscribe to our newsletter: gofoundermode.com Connect with Kevin LinkedIn • X/Twitter Connect with Jason LinkedIn • X/Twitter

EPISODE 43Kevin Henrikson and Jason Shafton sit down with Stephanie Joyce, founder and operator of Attune, to unpack what it really takes to scale multi-location service businesses without losing control of culture, operations, or margins. Drawing from years of leading growth, acquisitions, and crisis turnarounds, Stephanie explains why people come first, systems second, and how scaling simply amplifies whatever you already tolerate. The conversation covers documentation and onboarding as prerequisites for consistency, how to diligence acquisitions beyond surface-level financials, and what it means to lead with clarity and integrity when everything is on fire. They also dive into the modern med spa operating stack, from CRM and automation to compensation structures that drive the right behaviors, and why the future of wellness will be defined by better data, smarter technology, and a careful balance between AI and human trust.CHAPTERS00:00 – People first, systems second: what breaks when you scale04:25 – Documentation, SOPs, and onboarding for multi-location consistency04:56 – Acquisition diligence: margins, concentration risk, and key-person dependency08:06 – Leading through crisis: transparency, trust, and cash discipline14:13 – The modern med spa playbook: systems, CRM, and incentivesLINKSConnect with Stephanie Joyce attunemedspa.com • LinkedInStay Connected with Founder ModeSubscribe to our newsletter: gofoundermode.comConnect with KevinLinkedIn • X/TwitterConnect with JasonLinkedIn • X/Twitter

EPISODE 42Kevin Henrikson and Jason Shafton sit down with Dr. Jay Motley, founder of MindWell Health, to explore what it takes to leave a long career in anesthesiology and build a modern mental health clinic. Jay shares how losing autonomy after his private practice was absorbed by a hospital system paired with the life-altering loss of his first wife pushed him to rethink time, care, and what getting better really means. The conversation dives into ketamine therapy as a fast-acting tool that can open a window for patients who have failed traditional treatments, and why lasting improvement depends on pairing that window with therapy and lifestyle medicine fundamentals like sleep, nutrition, movement, and stress management. They also cover the myths around expensive wellness biohacks, how AI could reduce administrative burden and expand patient access, and what Jay learned scaling from a one-person launch to multiple MindWell locations.CHAPTERS00:00 – Ketamine as a fast-acting “open window” for change00:50 – Health fundamentals that matter most: sleep, food, movement04:20 – Why Jay left anesthesiology: autonomy, loss, and control of time07:10 – Building MindWell: ketamine + therapy + lifestyle medicine19:10 – Scaling the clinic: cash-pay vs insurance, systems, and hiringLINKSConnect with Dr. Jay Motley mindwell.com • LinkedIn • Instagram • X/Twitter • Substack • FacebookStay Connected with Founder ModeSubscribe to our newsletter: gofoundermode.comConnect with KevinLinkedIn • X/TwitterConnect with JasonLinkedIn • X/Twitter

EPISODE 41After forty episodes, Founder Mode pauses to look at the decisions founders actually struggle with once the playbooks stop working. This episode stitches together clips across healthcare, AI, pricing, capital, aviation, and personal health to show how judgment forms under pressure. You hear why go-live is the start of real work, how trust gets broken when tools ship before problems are understood, why usage outlasts any value narrative, and how busyness becomes a substitute for thinking. Across every domain, the pattern is consistent: systems fail quietly, discipline erodes downstream, and founders are forced to make calls without clean data, perfect timing, or consensus.CHAPTERS00:00 – Why the same founder problems keep repeating01:01 – Go live is not the finish line01:42 – Teaching interpersonal skills too late02:34 – Adding AI before earning user trust03:17 – When users reject AI and features get rolled back03:57 – Why pricing complexity grows with mature markets04:34 – Busyness as avoidance for founders05:14 – Protecting thinking time before the business outgrows you05:55 – Turning user complaints into learning fast06:33 – Building a personal board of directors for health07:27 – AI as a problem-solving lever, not a starting point08:20 – Governance as the unlock for enterprise AI adoption08:20 – When “magic” becomes table stakes for customers09:10 – Why software being cheaper doesn’t make it easier09:59 – Hybrid aviation as a trust bridge to electrification10:51 – Measuring whether conference presence actually works11:38 – Why AI scribes exploded in healthcare adoption12:28 – Defaulting to venture capital and silent dilution12:28 – Designing products that force focus and community13:06 – Stress, judgment, and risk in aviation13:43 – Unlimited pricing as a math problem13:43 – Learning faster by removing safety nets14:31 – Making decisions when there is no right answerLINKSStay Connected with Founder ModeStay Connected with Founder ModeSubscribe to our newsletterConnect with KevinLinkedIn • X/TwitterConnect with JasonLinkedIn • X/Twitter

EPISODE 40Recorded at Laguna Seca Raceway, this episode takes Founder Mode out of the studio and onto the track. Jason and Kevin spend the day driving open-wheel formula cars and sit down with Allen Berg, founder of Allen Berg Racing Schools, to talk about learning through feel, momentum, and control. Berg walks through his path into racing, what makes formula cars such an effective teaching platform, and how racing schools function as the entry point to professional motorsport. The conversation draws clear parallels between racing and building companies: managing risk without automation, carrying momentum through corners, and knowing where the limits actually are.CHAPTERS00:00 – Growing up with racing and early influences01:05 – Driving formula cars at Laguna Seca02:52 – Racing as a model for building companies05:40 – Building and operating a racing school09:44 – Advice for founders building niche businessesLINKSConnect with Allen BergAllen Berg Racing Schools • LinkedInStay Connected with Founder ModeSubscribe to our newsletterConnect with KevinLinkedIn • X/TwitterConnect with JasonLinkedIn • X/Twitter

EPISODE 39Jonathan Sturgeon joins Founder Mode to explain how he built multiple eight-figure businesses without chasing an audience, a personal brand, or social media validation. He breaks down his deliberately anti-influencer posture, why cold calling still outperforms content for high-intent sales, and how his companies Dingus & Zazzy and Uh Oh scale through systems, scripts, and trust rather than hype. The conversation moves from trolling internet fame culture to designing a radically simple IT business with a free trial and pay-what-you-want pricing, and ends with Jonathan’s view that not every project needs to optimize for returns—some are worth doing because they’re fun.CHAPTERS00:00 – Building businesses without social media or an audience03:45 – The anti-influencer mindset and trolling internet fame11:45 – Cold calling, scripts, and why outbound still works15:30 – Uh Oh: free-trial IT, pay-what-you-want pricing, and trust24:00 – Art over profit and building businesses for enjoymentLINKSConnect with Jonathan Sturgeon Uh Oh • Dingus & Zazzy • LinkedIn • X/TwitterStay Connected with Founder ModeSubscribe to our newsletterConnect with Kevin LinkedIn • X/TwitterConnect with Jason LinkedIn • X/Twitter

EPISODE 38Recorded mid-flight in Kevin’s Vision Jet en route to Monterey, Kevin and Jason talk with veteran pilot and aviation podcaster Max Trescott about why flying can feel like a flow-state reset, and how the discipline of aviation maps to building companies. Kevin shares his path from earning a pilot’s license in college to taking a long break, then returning to aviation with structured training, checklists, and the calm that comes from repetition. Together they unpack why “it’s not hard, it’s a lot of effort,” why SOPs and emergency prep matter when things break, and the real key to learning: consistent time in the seat, the right instructor, and a focus on proficiency over deadlines.CHAPTERS00:00 – Flying as a stress reset and the “are you ready?” check00:48 – Welcome to Founder Mode from the Vision Jet02:55 – Kevin’s pilot journey: college license to getting hooked on the Vision Jet05:23 – The founder/pilot overlap: effort, SOPs, and staying calm when things change13:09 – Buying (and upgrading) a jet: the sales cycle, timing, and “right message, right moment”LINKSConnect with Max TrescottAviation News Talk • LinkedIn • X/TwitterStay Connected with Founder ModeSubscribe to our newsletter: foundermode.kit.comConnect with KevinLinkedIn • X/TwitterConnect with JasonLinkedIn • X/Twitter

EPISODE 37Kevin and Jason sit down with Austin Boer, co-founder of Sleke, to unpack what it takes to build a “dumb phone” that still supports modern life. Austin shares how a simple insight from the r/dumbphone subreddit shaped Sleke’s mission: people want fewer distractions, not less utility. The conversation covers founder-led customer discovery, why Sleke is built around intentional constraints like banning infinite scroll, and how the team balances privacy, usability, and real-world needs like QR codes, maps, and music. They also explore the bigger question of what replaces the phone by 2030 and why digital minimalism should be accessible to everyone, not a luxury product.CHAPTERS00:00 – The dumb phone problem people actually have03:50 – Why Austin built Sleke and what the product is04:30 – Founder-led discovery: 200+ ICP calls and shifting ICP08:20 – The “fatal flaw” of dumb phones and preventing app creep16:30 – Digital minimalism shouldn’t be a luxuryLINKSConnect with Austin Boersleke.io • Instagram • X/TwitterSpecial Offer: Use code FOUNDERS5 for a discount on a Sleke device.Stay Connected with Founder ModeSubscribe to our newsletter: foundermode.kit.comConnect with KevinLinkedIn • X/TwitterConnect with JasonLinkedIn • X/Twitter

EPISODE 36Kevin and Jason sit down with Scout cofounder Tim Barnes to rethink how founders raise capital in an AI-first world. Tim breaks down why most startups overlook trillions in available non-dilutive funding, how AI can automate painful proposal and compliance workflows, and why grants should function as a continuous business development engine—not a last-minute scramble for runway. They explore how climate, deep-tech, and healthcare companies can reposition their work to match shifting federal priorities without losing their mission, how Scout is helping both startups and government agencies modernize the funding ecosystem, and why founders should pursue grants before equity to validate traction and retain ownership. Tim also shares how he thinks about defensibility as foundation models advance, when to integrate grants into a capital strategy, and what it takes to keep founders focused on building instead of pitching.CHAPTERS00:00 – Why non-dilutive funding matters01:00 – Rethinking fundraising and bootstrapping in an AI hype cycle05:30 – How Scout uses AI to unlock and manage grants10:00 – Packaging your mission for shifting policy without losing focus16:00 – When to use grants vs equity and how Scout’s fit check worksLINKSConnect with Tim BarnesScout • LinkedIn • X/TwitterSpecial OfferDirect message Tim on LinkedIn and mention Founder Mode for 20% off your first year of Scout.Stay Connected with Founder ModeSubscribe to our newsletter: foundermode.kit.comConnect with KevinLinkedIn • X/TwitterConnect with JasonLinkedIn • X/Twitter

EPISODE 35Kevin and Jason sit down with Healthcare AI Guy founder Max Drescher to unpack how AI is actually changing healthcare, from front-desk voice automation and AI scribes to clinical decision tools and consumer apps that give people more ownership of their data. Max shares how a habit of writing internal M&A news briefs at UnitedHealth turned into a fast-growing newsletter and community, why distribution has become one of the most important forms of founder leverage, and what separates real impact from hype in today’s healthcare AI boom. They dig into the rise of tools that reduce burnout and administrative friction, explore longevity, Blueprint-style protocols, and digital twins, and look ahead to a near future where AI-powered biology and smarter clinical support reshape medicine long before fully autonomous AI doctors arrive.CHAPTERS00:00 – Why AI + health now06:30 – Max’s path from M&A to Healthcare AI Guy and the power of distribution12:10 – What’s real vs hype in healthcare AI for providers and patients18:30 – Longevity, Blueprint, and founders getting serious about sleep22:00 – The next five years of AI in health and where it’s all headedLINKSConnect with Max DrescherHealthcare AI Guy • LinkedIn • X/TwitterStay Connected with Founder ModeSubscribe to our newsletter: foundermode.kit.comConnect with KevinLinkedIn • X/TwitterConnect with JasonLinkedIn • X/Twitter

EPISODE 34 In this episode, Kevin and Jason break down how founders can turn conferences from low-ROI distractions into high-leverage growth engines. Fresh off a major healthcare event in Nashville, they unpack why most networking fails, how Pretty Good AI turned a platinum sponsorship into a full activation with mini-golf and meeting pods, and the systems that converted casual foot traffic into hundreds of real customer conversations. They dig into founder-mode presence, team ownership, pre-work, follow-up, and the small details that make an event actually move the business forward. CHAPTERS 00:00 – The Value of Networking Events 01:25 – Challenges of Traditional Networking 02:47 – Reevaluating Event Participation 03:27 – Executing a Successful Conference Strategy 04:24 – Planning for a Major Conference Stay Connected with Founder Mode Subscribe to our newsletter: foundermode.kit.com Connect with Kevin LinkedIn • X/Twitter Connect with Jason LinkedIn • X/Twitter

EPISODE 33Kevin Noertker, co-founder and CEO of Ampaire, is leading the charge toward sustainable aviation by electrifying the skies. In this episode, Kevin Henrikson and Jason Shafton visit Ampaire’s Long Beach hangar to talk about hybrid-electric aircraft, scaling innovation in a century-old industry, and why “hybrid isn’t the compromise—it’s the bridge.” Kevin shares how Ampaire is retrofitting existing planes to fly cleaner, safer, and farther using hybrid-electric propulsion, the challenges of certification and infrastructure, and the roadmap to fully electric flight. It’s a masterclass in pragmatic innovation—one that proves hardware can move fast when driven by purpose.CHAPTERS00:00 – Expanding Horizons of Hybrid Aviation05:00 – From Aerospace Giant to Startup Founder12:30 – Why Hybrid Beats Fully Electric (for Now)20:00 – Capital Efficiency and Government Partnerships27:45 – The Future of Flight: Hybrid as the BridgeLINKSConnect with Kevin NoertkerAmpaire.com • LinkedInStay Connected with Founder ModeSubscribe to our newsletter: foundermode.kit.comConnect with KevinLinkedIn • X/TwitterConnect with JasonLinkedIn • X/Twitter

EPISODE 32Founder Mode sits down with Natalie Kaminski of JetRockets to cut through AI hype in software development. Natalie shares findings from a five-month experiment using code assistants: top engineers see ~30% efficiency on tedious tasks, but AI can duplicate components, forget context, and mislead juniors who can’t evaluate output. She argues developers matter more than ever—AI augments, not replaces—while real value comes from problem definition, secure architecture, and disciplined human review. Tools help with migrations, boilerplate, and tests; judgment, clarity, and empathy still decide what ships.CHAPTERS00:00 – There’s no “I” in today’s AI03:30 – Do developers still matter?04:51 – AI as augmentation: the calculator analogy06:41 – Workable AI: migrations, boilerplate, tests (~30% gain)19:08 – Where AI breaks: duplication, lost context, human reviewLINKSConnect with Natalie Kaminskijetrockets.com • LinkedIn • X/TwitterStay Connected with Founder ModeSubscribe to our newsletter: foundermode.kit.comConnect with KevinLinkedIn • X/TwitterConnect with JasonLinkedIn • X/Twitter

EPISODE 31In this live Founder Mode episode recorded at Workshop in San Francisco, Jason and Kevin sit down with two of the most influential builders in modern tech — Max Mullen, Co-Founder of Instacart, and Andrew Ofstad, Co-Founder of Airtable. They share never-before-heard founding stories, from Instacart’s $20K Trader Joe’s hack to Airtable’s first prototype built entirely in local storage. The conversation spans early lessons in scrappy product development, balancing speed and craft, scaling company culture, leadership evolution, and founder burnout. They also dive into how AI is reshaping startup building, what makes SF’s comeback real, and their most contrarian lessons from a decade of creating category-defining companies.CHAPTERS0:00 – Welcome to Founder Mode Live2:00 – Backing the Cybertruck into Workshop4:25 – The $20K Trader Joe’s Story9:45 – Building Instacart’s First Catalog10:58 – Airtable’s Early Browser-Only MVP15:32 – Speed vs. Craft: Product Tradeoffs22:18 – Scaling Culture and Leadership29:10 – Founders on AI, Product, and Speed35:44 – Burnout, Balance, and Founder Longevity42:36 – SF’s Comeback and Final LessonsLINKSConnect with Max Mullenmaxmullen.com • LinkedIn • X/TwitterConnect with Andrew OfstadLinkedIn • X/TwitterStay Connected with Founder ModeSubscribe to our newsletter: foundermode.kit.comConnect with KevinLinkedIn • X/TwitterConnect with JasonLinkedIn • X/Twitter

EPISODE 30Microsoft product leader Sangya Singh joins Jason and Kevin to unpack how to decide what to ship first in AI and automation. She shares a “strategy to win” playbook (fall in love with the problem, define the hypothesis, then hire and build), why agility must be daily not monthly, and how Microsoft balances agentic and deterministic systems—highlighting a risky-but-breakthrough bet on self-healing RPA. The crew contrasts outputs vs. outcomes, explores eval-driven prioritization, and talks scale mechanics inside Microsoft. Sangya closes with what’s next: voice-based AI surfaces that discover what to automate and “mech-interrupt” style safety tooling so enterprises can see, govern, and correct model behavior.CHAPTERS00:00 – Cold open: “Say no to great”00:28 – MVPs and sequencing in the AI era03:45 – Sangya’s path & “strategy to win”10:40 – Self-healing RPA and outcomes over outputs25:35 – What’s next: AI surfaces & safetyLINKSConnect with Sangya Singh LinkedIn • X/TwitterStay Connected with Founder ModeSubscribe to our newsletter: foundermode.kit.comConnect with KevinLinkedIn • X/TwitterConnect with JasonLinkedIn • X/Twitter

EPISODE 29Private equity meets AI in a grounded, operator-first conversation with Jason Friedrichs of AEA Elevate. We cover why “no-regrets” initiatives and clear ROI gates beat hype cycles, how to build an AI-first value creation plan, and why team design—not just capital—drives repeatable growth. Jason shares his thoughts on where PE playbooks are shifting beyond spreadsheets, the small wins that compound across functions (GTM, support, back office), how to navigate macro shocks, and what sectors he believes are primed for outsized AI-enabled revenue and margin expansion.CHAPTERS00:00 – The “no-regrets” move00:37 – Framing PE × AI: beyond hype to operating leverage06:19 – ROI discipline, pilots, and budgeting for AI15:20 – Beyond capital: the PE playbook & first 180 days20:21 – Healthcare opportunity, macro shocks, and exitsLINKSConnect with Jason Friedrichsaeainvestors.com/elevate • LinkedInStay Connected with Founder ModeSubscribe to our newsletter: foundermode.kit.comConnect with KevinLinkedIn • X/TwitterConnect with JasonLinkedIn • X/Twitter

EPISODE 28Jason and Kevin dig into why health isn’t a solo sport—and how founders can extend their “work span” by prioritizing community, shared rituals, and better device hygiene. They cover replacing PR-chasing with longevity metrics, carving out weekly “sensorless” time to reset attention, and using an AI “board of directors” to stress-test health decisions (like peptides, CGMs, and more). Practical takeaways: find your people (gyms, classes, sauna/cold communities), schedule analog friction, and optimize for effective hours—not performative 80-hour weeks.CHAPTERS00:00 – Work span > hours: redefining “hard work”00:33 – Health as community, not willpower04:32 – Built-in community: gyms, classes, rituals10:18 – Going “sensorless”: the off-grid reset19:37 – An AI board of directors for your healthLINKSStay Connected with Founder ModeSubscribe to our newsletter: foundermode.kit.comConnect with KevinLinkedIn • X/TwitterConnect with JasonLinkedIn • X/TwitterSYSTEM PROMPTHEALTH & LONGEVITY BOARD OF DIRECTORSA pragmatic, evidence-labeled council for healthspan, performance, and physical well‑being.[Consensus][Promising][Speculative]PurposeYou are a council of expert advisors serving as a personal “Board of Directors” for healthspan, performance, and physical well‑being. Each advisor is an AI persona modeled on leaders in the field (fictionalized, evidence‑based, pragmatic).Operating PrinciplesClarity first: short, specific bullets; quantify when possible.Evidence labels: [Consensus] [Promising] [Speculative]. State assumptions & uncertainty.Risk triage: flag red‑flags & when to escalate to in‑person care.Iterative: smallest high‑ROI next step; define metric & timebox experiments.Personalization: use known profile; if missing data, note assumptions.Quarterly cadence: prompt refresh of goals / labs / constraints.Profile (Example Template)Demographics: adult male.Body composition: mid‑teens % body fat.Goals: reduce body fat to ~12–15%; visible abs; strong back & shoulders; high energy & sleep quality; sustainable fitness under reasonable weekly time budget.Cardio/Metabolic: moderate VO2 max; uses CGM for tight glucose control.Training: brief daily strength sessions; occasional joint/back tightness.Lifestyle: frequent travel; values minimalism, precision, and clear instructions.Board Composition — Core (Always Respond)Moderator / Systems IntegratorSynthesizes advice; resolves trade‑offs; produces unified plan & metrics.Longevity & Preventive Medicine PhysicianFocus: risk stratification, screening, lab strategy, lifespan vs healthspan trade‑offs.Cardiometabolic & Lipid SpecialistFocus: ASCVD risk, apoB/LDL/Lp(a), CAC use, BP targets, exercise cardiology.Endocrinology & Men’s HealthFocus: thyroid axis, insulin sensitivity, testosterone, bone density, prostate screening.Sleep Medicine PhysicianFocus: OSA screening, circadian rhythm, travel protocols, insomnia differentials.Neuroscience & Behavior Change AdvisorFocus: habit formation, motivation, stress tools, light and temperature timing.Performance Physiology & Strength CoachFocus: program design, block periodization, load/volume balance, recovery rules.

EPISODE 27Ankur Goyal joins Founder Mode to show how real teams get from AI prototype to production: build a two-click loop from user complaint to eval, treat observability as a driver of quality, and design iteration environments that connect production logs back to tests. Ankur explains why LLMs behave more like databases than CPUs, how to avoid eval fatigue by curating the 5–10 examples that matter, and why top teams re-evaluate model choices monthly. He also looks ahead to agents that can review and improve other models’ work, turning today’s manual feedback loops into scalable systems.CHAPTERS07:53 – Why prototypes break in production10:22 – Iteration environments and closing the loop12:21 – LLMs are databases, not CPUs14:48 – Beating eval fatigue with ruthless prioritization21:15 – Observability as a driver of quality, not uptime25:25 – What’s next for evals, agents, and AI infraLINKSConnect with Ankur Goyalusebraintrust.com • LinkedIn • X/TwitterSPECIAL OFFEREmail [email protected] and mention Founder Mode to receive a special offer.Stay Connected with Founder ModeSubscribe to our newsletter: foundermode.kit.comConnect with KevinLinkedIn • X/TwitterConnect with JasonLinkedIn • X/Twitter

EPISODE 26Bobby Evans goes inversion-first on startup failure modes—from overhiring and bonus wars to vanity metrics, misaligned influencers, and shipping the wrong features. We dig into crypto betting’s realities, why credibility and payouts matter more than hype, the cost of public financialization, and how to protect thinking time, delegate, and avoid perfectionism that delays MVPs. Evans closes with location and personal-brand lessons: build where the network is and productize the founder early.CHAPTERS00:00 – Think time over busy calendars06:45 – Hard-earned lessons from crypto betting12:01 – Growth tactics that backfire18:43 – Red flags and credibility in the space25:22 – Location, personal branding, and founder adviceLINKSConnect with Bobby EvansCompany X/Twitter • Personal X/TwitterStay Connected with Founder ModeSubscribe to our newsletter: foundermode.kit.comConnect with KevinLinkedIn • X/TwitterConnect with JasonLinkedIn • X/Twitter

EPISODE 25In this episode, Metronome CEO Scott Woody breaks down how AI is rewriting the value of software—from “seats and subscriptions” to agents that do work—and why modern pricing must blend stability with upside. We cover where seat-based models break, how to design hybrid packages that align incentives (platform fee + usage/outcome), why early founders should copy the market and iterate fast, and how smart packaging reveals your ICP. Scott also looks ahead to a future where pricing and packaging become the competitive battleground across SaaS.CHAPTERS00:00 – AI rewrites software’s value04:05 – From Dropbox pain to Metronome10:06 – Hybrid pricing that aligns incentives14:35 – Early-stage: copy market, iterate, segment26:30 – Pricing/packaging becomes the battlegroundLINKSConnect with Scott Woodymetronome.com • LinkedIn • X/TwitterSPECIAL OFFEREmail [email protected] and mention Founder Mode to get a special offer.Stay Connected with Founder ModeSubscribe to our newsletter: foundermode.kit.comConnect with KevinLinkedIn • X/TwitterConnect with JasonLinkedIn • X/Twitter

EPISODE 24A special “best of” highlight reel from our first 20 episodes: we reframe luck as reps and compounding, warn founders about burnout’s hidden interest, and show how AI can supercharge solo building without replacing your voice. We dig into making clear asks and saying “no” to protect focus, why empathy is the real product moat, and how durable edges come from hardware + proprietary data and real-world feedback. You’ll hear scrappy GTM plays (like sub-50 sq ft kiosks and Kickstarter’s customer collision), safety-first execution from nuclear to drones, pre-LLM agents, the 80/20 (AI/human) rule for content, and why creators should monetize ownership—not just virality.CHAPTERS00:00 – Manufactured luck & the burnout tax05:04 – Empathy is the moat (AI changes jobs)09:49 – Safety & simplicity: nuclear-ready drones13:52 – Fail-forward roadmaps (hypotheses over hype)16:18 – AI 80/20 and the creator long tailLINKSStay Connected with Founder ModeSubscribe to our newsletter: foundermode.kit.comConnect with KevinLinkedIn • X/TwitterConnect with JasonLinkedIn • X/Twitter

EPISODE 23In this episode of Founder Mode, John Hancock joins us to break down the gap between startup hype and reality. From building Stonks—the largest angel syndication platform on AngelList—to walking away when the mission no longer fit, John shares what he’s learned about fundraising, pivots, and rebuilding with first principles. He introduces Validate, a tool designed to help founders and “idea people” kill bad ideas fast before wasting time or money, and explains why most AI features are “better shoes, not wings.” The conversation dives into validating ideas, writing as a way to sharpen thinking, and the most common founder mistake—stopping customer conversations. John closes with the raw truth: most people shouldn’t be founders, and that’s okay.CHAPTERS00:36 – The hype fades: AI as leverage + anyone-can-build moment07:42 – From Stonks to walking away: the pivot and why it didn’t fit10:31 – Validate: kill bad ideas fast (landing pages, plans, comps)13:46 – Don’t bolt on AI no one wants (“better shoes, not wings”)27:07 – The uncomfortable truth about being a founderLINKSConnect with John Hancockvldt.ai • X/TwitterSpecial OfferEmail [email protected] to get Validate free forever. John is offering this exclusive deal to Founder Mode listeners—validate your ideas quickly, save time, and avoid building what no one wants.Cool ThingJason’s vibe-coded appStay Connected with Founder ModeSubscribe to our newsletter: foundermode.kit.comConnect with KevinLinkedIn • X/TwitterConnect with JasonLinkedIn • X/Twitter

EPISODE 22In this episode of Founder Mode, Anurag Agarwalla shares his journey from leading fast-moving engineering teams at Uber to building hpy, an AI-powered platform designed to support therapists and patients in achieving better outcomes. He explains why emotional systems matter as much as technical ones, how to design for happiness without burning out, and why privacy and empathy must be foundational in mental health tech. The conversation dives into emotional intelligence, daily habits, and how AI can serve as a companion tool without replacing the human connection at the core of therapy.CHAPTERS00:00 – From Uber to building for happiness05:12 – Healing the healer: AI for therapists09:27 – Privacy and ethics in mental health tech14:06 – Designing systems for happiness and balance23:37 – Building tools for healthier habitsLINKSConnect with Anurag Agarwallathinkhpy.com • LinkedIn • X/TwitterConnect with hpyLinkedIn • X/Twitter • InstagramSpecial OfferDo you go to therapy? Your next therapy session is on us. With hpy, we help clinicians help YOU reach your goals faster with better outcomes, tracking and progress. Introduce us to your therapist and if they sign up for hpy, your next session is on us. Email [email protected] to get started and mention Founder Mode. Are you a mental health professional and want to automate all of your admin? With hpy Pro, the first AI assistant designed specially for therapy, save up to 20 hours a week. We’re offering Founder Mode listeners an exclusive—refer a colleague and get an entire YEAR of hpy Pro free. To get registered, email [email protected] and mention Founder Mode.Stay Connected with Founder ModeSubscribe to our newsletter: foundermode.kit.comConnect with KevinLinkedIn • X/TwitterConnect with JasonLinkedIn • X/Twitter

EPISODE 21Hosts Kevin Henrikson and Jason Shafton go beyond the headlines to unpack the real bottlenecks that stall healthcare—and how to fix them—with consultant and operator Rebecca Shufeldt, founder of Ignite Healthcare Solutions. Drawing on her path from urgent care ops to EHR/revenue cycle leadership, Rebecca explains why go‑live is “day zero,” how her evolving “Silver Bullet” project plan keeps Athenahealth implementations aligned to payer/CMS changes, and where AI—voice intake, scheduling, eligibility, authorizations and referrals—removes administrative drag, reduces denials, and lifts patient and clinician satisfaction. The group digs into tailoring EHRs beyond “turnkey,” building clinician buy‑in, upskilling staff instead of replacing them (“Betty”), and how a flexible, female‑led team model helps practices scale without burnout while improving revenue.CHAPTERS00:00 – Setting the stakes: healthcare’s hidden blockers + Jason’s Heal story02:00 – AI as a wedge: voice, eligibility & EHR‑integrated routing05:03 – Meet Rebecca Shufeldt & Athenahealth optimization10:19 – The “Silver Bullet” plan: go‑live is day zero12:55 – Revenue cycle pitfalls, authorizations & upskilling the teamCONNECT WITH REBECCAWebsite • LinkedInSPECIAL OFFERIgnite Healthcare Solutions is offering a complimentary 30-minute athenahealth optimization review with our CEO for Founder Mode listeners. We’ll assess your current use of the platform, highlight quick-win opportunities to improve efficiency and revenue, and share proven strategies tailored to your organization’s goals—whether you’re a start-up, an established practice, or an MSO.RESOURCEVoice AI Technology for athenaOne Practices:STAY CONNECTEDSubscribe to the Founder Mode newsletter: foundermode.kit.comCONNECT WITH KEVINLinkedIn • X/TwitterCONNECT WITH JASONLinkedIn • X/Twitter

EPISODE 20In this episode of Founder Mode, Kevin and Jason sit down with Ahad Khan, CEO of Kajabi, to unpack what it really means to be a “creator CEO” in 2025. From shifting creators’ mindsets beyond virality toward sustainable, owner-operated businesses, to finding content market fit before building products, Ahad shares actionable strategies for monetization, pricing, and using AI without losing the human touch. He also opens up about leading a global team as a post-founder CEO, honoring Kajabi’s customer-obsessed roots while implementing his own leadership cadence, and why the future belongs to entrepreneurial creators who build brands their audiences truly value.CHAPTERS00:00 – Why “Creator CEO” is the Future of the Creator Economy06:51 – Building for Everyday People and Customer Obsession at Kajabi12:55 – Content Market Fit and Monetizing Beyond Virality17:36 – Using AI to Scale Without Losing the Human Touch25:07 – Leadership Cadence and Work-Life Integration as a Post-Founder CEOLINKSConnect with Ahad KhanKajabi • LinkedIn • X/TwitterSPECIAL OFFEREmail ahad [at] kajabi.com for a special offer when you sign up for Kajabi.Stay Connected with Founder ModeSubscribe to our newsletter: foundermode.kit.comConnect with KevinLinkedIn • X/TwitterConnect with JasonLinkedIn • X/Twitter

EPISODE 19Visibility isn't a vibe—it's a system. In this episode, Jason and Kevin sit down with Chris Winfield, creator, connector, and coach, to break down how founders can build an unfair advantage in an AI-saturated world. Chris shares his 80/20 rule for AI usage, why content strategy is non-negotiable in 2025, and how personal connection still beats automation. Learn how to become the go-to expert in your niche, simplify your message like Steve Jobs, and avoid falling into the “Slopbot” trap of over-AI'd content.CHAPTERS00:00 – The 80/20 Rule for Using AI06:26 – Visibility Through Content and Connection12:11 – Build Real Relationships in a Noisy Digital World15:28 – Marketing Trends That Actually Matter in 202519:37 – The Real Unfair Advantage for FoundersLINKSConnect with ChrisInstagram • LinkedInSpecial OfferDM Chris on Instagram @chriswinfield and mention Kevin & Jason to get a special offer.Stay Connected with Founder ModeSubscribe to our newsletter: foundermode.kit.comConnect with KevinLinkedIn • X/TwitterConnect with JasonLinkedIn • X/Twitter

EPISODE 18In this candid, fast-paced solo episode, Jason and Kevin unpack the systems behind their ideal weeks, why founders should prioritize health like a product launch, and how to build a ride-or-die team that spans multiple startups. From hiding jets from repo men to wearing smart glasses on the beach, they share war stories, personal rituals, and the mindset that separates cautious operators from calculated risk-takers.CHAPTERS00:00 – The Casino Story That Saved FedEx01:04 – Building Your Perfect Week05:14 – Big Company Constraints Are (Mostly) Self-Imposed10:00 – Health Is Your Only Asset16:08 – Boomerangs vs. Boomer RidesLINKSConnect with KevinLinkedIn • X/TwitterConnect with JasonLinkedIn • X/TwitterRESOURCESMeta Ray Ban WayfarerTune Up FitnessMyo

EPISODE 17Water‑tech pioneer Ravi Kurani explains how a floating pool‑chemistry robot became the ultimate hardware moat, why proprietary water data unlocks service marketplaces, and where trillion‑dollar opportunities lie at the water‑energy nexus. He recounts two years on Shenzhen factory floors perfecting Sutro, selling the startup before mass production, and now plotting to buy it back to tackle agriculture, cooling towers, and AI data centers. Hosts Jason Shafton and Kevin Henrikson unpack story‑driven design, founder persistence, and the future of “smart” water.CHAPTERS00:00 – From Pools to Robotics: Ravi’s origin story03:44 – Hardware Moats & Proprietary Water Data07:11 – Sutro as the “Nest Cam” for Your Pool09:01 – Water as Tech’s Next Trillion‑Dollar Frontier16:36 – Founder Mode in China: Two Years on the Factory FloorLINKSConnect with RaviSutro • Liquid Assets Podcast • LinkedIn • X/TwitterStay Connected with Founder ModeSubscribe to our newsletter: foundermode.kit.comConnect with KevinLinkedIn • X/TwitterConnect with JasonLinkedIn • X/Twitter

EPISODE 16From living two years out of a suitcase to shipping AI products at Microsoft-scale, Angus Logan joins Kevin and Jason to unpack how “failing forward” accelerates learning. He explains why product teams should break things early each morning, how to shield a fast-moving startup culture inside a corporate giant, and the importance of weekly shipping cadences. Angus also shares his “LifeOps” playbook—100 travel-buddy rules, zero checked bags, and decision templates that free up brainpower—plus how culture-soaking trips and five-year-old Android phones keep him designing for real-world users everywhere.CHAPTERS00:00 – Why failure is fuel03:34 – Angus on rapid AI experimentation06:50 – Integrating startups into Microsoft10:58 – LifeOps: travel hacking & decision systems18:47 – Global perspective and takeawaysLINKSConnect with Angus LinkedIn • NewsletterStay Connected with Founder ModeSubscribe to our newsletter: foundermode.kit.comConnect with KevinLinkedIn • X/TwitterConnect with JasonLinkedIn • X/Twitter

EPISODE 15AI builder Shuja Keen joins Kevin and Jason to trace his 20-year journey from building offshore labor forces to AI-native operations. He explains how falling bandwidth costs kicked off globalization, why today’s custom LLM agents are ready while people and processes lag, and how an abundance mindset lets founders redesign workflows instead of bolting AI onto old playbooks. Using metaphors like orthotics that adapt to your feet, Shuja shows how bespoke software, not one-size-fits-all packages, will unlock personalization in healthcare, education, and beyond—and urges founders to stop selling car parts and deliver the full “Uber” experience.CHAPTERS00:00 – Outcomes Over Tools: The Uber Analogy04:31 – Onshore → Offshore → AI: Shuja’s 20-Year Lens11:32 – Custom Software & the Abundance Mindset17:06 – AI’s Impact on Healthcare, Education & Inclusion21:02 – Founder Playbook for 2025LINKSConnect with Shuja Keen786 Ventures • LinkedIn • X/TwitterStay Connected with Founder ModeSubscribe to our newsletter: foundermode.kit.comConnect with KevinLinkedIn • X/TwitterConnect with JasonLinkedIn • X/Twitter

EPISODE 14In this episode of Founder Mode, we hit the gym with legendary trainer Coach Lou Perrotta—who's spent decades working with elite entrepreneurs, celebrities, and top performers. Coach Lou shares how fitness, mindset, and consistency create compounding results—both in the gym and in business. From towel pull-ups in hotel rooms to 15-minute daily routines, Kevin, Jason, and Coach Lou talk about building mental resilience, breaking plateaus, and why the best founders train their bodies as relentlessly as they train their minds.CHAPTERS00:00 – Why Every Founder Needs a Coach01:05 – Coach Lou’s Origin Story03:38 – Health is the First Investment05:21 – Use What You Have08:20 – Focus, Transformation, and Final LessonsLINKSConnect with Coach LouInstagramStay Connected with Founder ModeSubscribe to our newsletter: foundermode.kit.comConnect with KevinLinkedIn • X/TwitterConnect with JasonLinkedIn • X/Twitter

EPISODE 13Kevin Henrikson and Jason Shafton sit down with serial entrepreneur Dennis Mortensen (IndexTools, Visual Revenue, x.ai, and now LaunchBrightly) to unpack what it was really like to build an AI company years before large-language models existed. Dennis recounts owning the x.ai domain before Elon Musk, hand-labeling 32 million emails to train an early scheduling agent, and the costly product-design decisions that followed. He shares hard-won lessons on focusing on pain over technology, reverse-engineering post-acquisition goals, and why parenting teenagers is the ultimate sales boot camp. Dennis then introduces LaunchBrightly, his new platform that automates every product screenshot in your help center—and he caps the chat with an exclusive free-setup offer for Founder Mode listeners.CHAPTERS00:00 – x.ai Before Elon01:34 – Hand-Labeling 32 Million Emails05:45 – Product Design > Prediction Precision14:45 – Birth of LaunchBrightly29:56 – Special Offer & Next StepsOFFERMention “Founder Mode” when you connect with LaunchBrightly to get your first batch of up to 1,000 automated screenshot-update recipes created for free.Connect with DennisLaunchBrightly • LinkedIn • X/TwitterStay Connected with Founder ModeSubscribe to our newsletter: foundermode.kit.comConnect with KevinLinkedIn • X/TwitterConnect with JasonLinkedIn • X/Twitter

EPISODE 12From building gravity-defying camera rigs for Alfonso Cuarón’s Gravity to sending drones into live nuclear reactors and, most recently, designing job-site robots that can survive the dust and chaos of construction, Asa Hammond’s career shows how precision engineering and artistic vision can coexist. In this conversation, Asa explains how the exacting pixel-perfect discipline of Hollywood VFX became the blueprint for ultra-reliable industrial robotics, why safety and repeatability always come before flashy features, and how new UX layers—voice, LLMs, demonstration learning—are finally making complex machines feel like familiar tools. Along the way, we hear tales of full-scale “stunt-double” reactors, the reality of folding-laundry robots, and what it takes to assemble a world-class, T-shaped engineering team that thrives at the edge of possibility.CHAPTERS00:29 – From Film Sets to Founders: Show Intro02:12 – Asa’s Hollywood-to-Hard-Hats Origin Story05:57 – Engineering Robots for Gravity09:05 – Reinventing Construction with Industrial Arms15:56 – Flying Drones Inside Nuclear ReactorsLINKSConnect with Asa HammondWebsite • LinkedIn • X/TwitterStay Connected with Founder ModeSubscribe to our newsletter: foundermode.kit.comConnect with KevinLinkedIn • X/TwitterConnect with JasonLinkedIn • X/Twitter

EPISODE 11From hand-carving a single silicone spatula in her kitchen to running a portfolio of revived consumer brands, Sam Rose walks Kevin and Jason through the through-line of her career: obsess over the customer, build a brand (not just a product), and make logistics as lovable as design. She explains how a “collision with the customer” on Kickstarter forced her into customer-service mode before she even had inventory, why color stories beat strict SKU rationalization, what the GIR sale to Pattern taught her about single-channel risk, and how vertical integration led to Manifest’s 3PL and the launch of Endless Commerce. Sam also breaks down AI’s role in just-in-time inventory, predicts an LLM-powered shopping future that both excites and unnerves her, and offers two free months of her commerce OS to fellow founders.CHAPTERS00:00 – Collision with the Customer & Kickstarter Lessons02:44 – Scaling GIR: Color Stories vs. SKU Discipline07:32 – Acquisition Insights: Building a Balanced Brand Portfolio09:54 – Manifest & the Cost of Learning Curves13:03 – Endless Commerce and AI-Driven Supply ChainsOFFERGet two months free on any tier and free onboarding to Endless Commerce when you mention the Founder Mode podcast or that Jason & Kevin sent you!LINKSConnect with Samantha Roseendlesscommerce.com • LinkedIn • X/TwitterStay Connected with Founder ModeSubscribe to our newsletter: foundermode.kit.comConnect with KevinLinkedIn • X/TwitterConnect with JasonLinkedIn • X/Twitter

EPISODE 10Serial CTO and Acompli co-founder JJ Zhuang joins Kevin and Jason to explain why the next generation of great products will be built by tiny, AI-super-powered teams. He unpacks lessons from taking Acompli’s first line of code to a $200 million Microsoft exit, steering Instacart through pandemic hyper-growth, and relearning to code with tools like GitHub Copilot, Cursor and Devin now writing the majority of his team’s code. Along the way JJ outlines the shift from hiring stack specialists to adaptable generalists, the rise of agentic “AI teammates,” and his mantra of “fast software” that lets founders prototype, test and ship at the speed of imagination—while still cutting through the 2025 hype cycle around agents and other buzzwords.CHAPTERS00:00 – Shots Fired: Surprising Start & Show Kick-off01:52 – From Acompli to Outlook: Building All-Star Teams06:11 – Instacart’s Pandemic Sprint & Early AI Adoption11:50 – Pair-Programming vs. Agentic Devs: Devin, Cursor & More22:12 – Fast Software & Filtering the 2025 AI HypeLINKSConnect with JJ ZhuangLinkedIn • X/TwitterStay Connected with Founder ModeSubscribe to our newsletter: foundermode.kit.comConnect with KevinLinkedIn • X/TwitterConnect with JasonLinkedIn • X/TwitterRESOURCESGitHub Copilotv0DevinCursorWindsurfAugmentOpenAI Codex

EPISODE 9Megan Berry—architect, pop-up pioneer, and Mentors Fund partner—shows DTC founders how to move from clicks to bricks without torching cash. She explains her 8-foot-by-50-square-foot kiosk “permit hack,” the KPIs (unaided brand awareness, repeat engagement, dwell-time hot spots) that justify a multimillion-dollar flagship, and why post-COVID stores should feel like friction-free showrooms, not inventory caves. The talk digs into festival activations, cadence-matched merchandising, omni-channel partnerships that now include hotels and Pilates studios, AI-powered journey tracking, and practical founder advice on conserving runway while staying crazy-creative.CHAPTERS00:00 – Permit Hack & Pop-Up Spark06:46 – KPIs That Green-Light a Flagship12:51 – Post-COVID, Low-Friction Store Design19:17 – Omnichannel Expansion & Partnerships26:25 – AI, Cash Efficiency & Founder AdviceLINKSConnect with Megan BerryLinkedInStay Connected with Founder ModeSubscribe to our newsletter: foundermode.kit.comConnect with KevinLinkedIn • X/TwitterConnect with JasonLinkedIn • X/Twitter

EPISODE 8In this episode, serial entrepreneur Ritwik Pavan joins Kevin Henrikson and Jason Shafton to explore the rise of AI-first product design and its profound implications on consumer hardware, smart cities, and modular construction. They discuss the essential strategies founders need to adopt, including the importance of hyper-personalization, overcoming challenges in training data, untapped opportunities in lifestyle and public safety sectors, and why AI is turning hardware into recurring revenue businesses.CHAPTERS00:34 – What It Means to Build AI-First03:53 – Ritwik’s Journey and AI Consumer Innovations08:41 – Smart Cities, AI, and the Future of Urban Life17:08 – Modular Construction and AI’s Role in Housing22:20 – Underrated Opportunities: Lifestyle and Public SafetyLINKSConnect with Ritwik PavanHardware Herald • LinkedIn • X/TwitterStay Connected with Founder ModeSubscribe to our newsletter: foundermode.kit.comConnect with KevinLinkedIn • X/TwitterConnect with JasonLinkedIn • X/Twitter

EPISODE 7In this episode, seasoned marketing leader Peter Farago shares zero-to-one marketing insights for early-stage startups, emphasizing empathy, iterative messaging, and organic inbound strategies. Drawing on experiences from Flurry, Acompli, and RunLLM, Peter highlights the importance of a clear value proposition, building brand credibility, and leveraging customer feedback loops. He also addresses AI’s evolving role in marketing, reassuring listeners that AI won’t replace jobs but will reshape how marketers operate. Packed with tangible advice, this conversation offers a roadmap for founders seeking to refine their product, storytelling, and growth approach in crowded markets.CHAPTERS00:00 – Introducing Peter Farago and the Power of Empathy01:34 – Zero-to-One Marketing Fundamentals08:03 – Lessons from Acompli’s Early Growth16:42 – Leveraging Customer Feedback and Iteration29:04 – AI’s Evolving Role in MarketingLINKSConnect with Peter Faragorunllm.com • LinkedIn • X/Twitter • Podcast Stay Connected with Founder ModeSubscribe to our newsletter: foundermode.kit.comConnect with KevinLinkedIn • X/TwitterConnect with JasonLinkedIn • X/Twitter

EPISODE 6In this episode, Viktor Petersson shares how saying “no” can be a superpower for founders managing remote teams. He discusses practical strategies for email triage, boundary-setting to avoid burnout, and why in-person retreats are key to trust and alignment. Learn how Viktor’s approach to documentation, intrinsic motivation, and selective communication helps him preserve energy for what matters most—while still leaving the door open for valuable opportunities.CHAPTERS00:00 – Why Saying No Matters for Remote Teams02:23 – Setting Boundaries and Avoiding Burnout09:12 – Remote Work Fundamentals & Hiring15:18 – Onboarding & Team Summits22:21 – Building Trust Through Retreats & Face-to-Face TimeLINKSConnect with Viktor PeterssonScreenly: https://www.screenly.io/sbomify: https://sbomify.com/Podcast: https://vpetersson.com/podcastLIinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vpetersson/X/Twitter: https://mobile.x.com/vpeterssonStay Connected with Founder ModeSubscribe to our newsletter: foundermode.kit.comConnect with KevinLinkedIn • X/TwitterConnect with JasonLinkedIn • X/Twitter