Jive's founding CEO Dave Hersh explains why he's "anti-too-much-VC" and how he gets startups unstuck

Jive's founding CEO Dave Hersh explains why he's "anti-too-much-VC" and how he gets startups unstuck

Author: Lighter Capital - We Help Startups Grow May 20, 2024 Duration: 41:44

Dave Hersh mostly bootstrapped a small open-source communications project into an IPO-ready SaaS business that you might have heard of called Jive Software. More than a decade later, he's using his expertise to help turn struggling startups around. Dave shares his wisdom that's captured in his new book, "Reignitition: Transforming Stuck Startups into Breakout Winners," a playbook for the growing startups in the middle that don't want to blindly follow VC money. Dave offers tough but effective advice for getting a startup unstuck, including managing layoffs, confronting past decisions, and more.


For founders who've chosen to build their B2B software companies without giving up the reins, Bootstrapped : The Lighter Side offers a necessary conversation. This isn't about chasing venture capital at all costs; it's a practical dialogue focused on sustainable growth and creative problem-solving. You'll hear specific tactics for extending your runway, refining your sales process, and navigating the unique challenges of scaling a product-led business entirely on your own terms. Each episode digs into the real mechanics of founder-led growth, from managing cash flow in uncertain times to exploring alternative funding avenues that don't require sacrificing equity. The podcast regularly features founders who have walked this path successfully, sharing their unvarnished stories and hard-won lessons. It’s a resource for those moments when you need a blend of strategic advice and genuine camaraderie, reminding you that building a substantial, independent company is not just a dream but a viable, deliberate path. Tune in for honest discussions that cut through the noise of the startup world, brought to you by Lighter Capital, a team dedicated to helping startups grow.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 37

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