Scaling Smarter with David Hirschfeld
Welcome to ”Scaling Smarter” with David Hirschfeld, where we sit down with top business leaders and innovators to explore how they harness technology and automation to overcome challenges and grow their businesses. Each episode is packed with genuine conversations about the real issues leaders face and the inventive solutions they’ve discovered along the way. This podcast is tailor-made for software startup founders and scale-up decision-makers looking to inspire and be inspired. Join us as we highlight the expertise of our guests and create a community that values innovation and smart strategies. If you’re passionate about making a difference in your industry and want to share your journey, we would love to hear from you. Tune in and discover how you can scale smarter!
Episodes

Thursday May 01, 2025
Thursday May 01, 2025
In this engaging discussion, David Hirschfeld, founder and CEO of Tekyz, compares the rise of AI to a "100-foot rogue wave" that businesses must learn to ride or risk being left behind. He dives into the sweeping impact of AI, shares insights from his "Launch First" startup methodology—which emphasizes data-driven market validation—and outlines how AI is being used to automate everything from startup strategy to internal workflows. From self-driving cars and AI-powered development to the possibility of a post-scarcity society, Hirschfeld offers bold predictions and practical advice, urging companies to embrace AI-driven transformation with agility and foresight.
Key Takeaways
AI is transforming industries rapidly and must be embraced to avoid falling behind.
The "Launch First" method helps startups find product-market fit through data-driven validation.
Techies Inc. is using AI to automate key internal processes and boost efficiency.
The future will be shaped by AI, from self-driving taxis to fully automated manufacturing.
Ready to Transform Your Business?
If you're looking to streamline operations, enhance digital engagement, and drive growth, Tekyz is your go-to partner. With a proven track record and a commitment to excellence, David Hirschfeld and his team are ready to take your business to new heights.
Contact Tekyz Today to explore tailored solutions that can redefine your business success.
Want to connect with David Hirschfeld? Click on the following link to connect with David on Linked In: http://link.tekyz.com/davidlinkedinpodbean
Company Website - Tekyz
Launch 1st
Scaling Smarter Episodes
Social Media - Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Medium | Linked In
Want to learn more about the Beginners Guide to AI podcast? Listen to their podcast at this link:
https://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/a-beginners-guide-to-ai/id1701165010

Thursday May 01, 2025
Thursday May 01, 2025
In this episode of AI in Action, Mari and Jim sit down with David Hirschfeld, founder and CEO of Tekyz, to discuss the evolution of artificial intelligence and its impact on software development, education, and beyond. David shares insights on his Launch First methodology, a strategic approach to validating product-market fit through pre-launch sales. The conversation delves into AI integration, ethical considerations like data privacy and accessibility, and the future of AI-driven software development. Tune in for practical takeaways on leveraging AI effectively and advice for aspiring engineers navigating the ever-changing tech landscape.
Ready to Transform Your Business?
If you're looking to streamline operations, enhance digital engagement, and drive growth, Tekyz is your go-to partner. With a proven track record and a commitment to excellence, David Hirschfeld and his team are ready to take your business to new heights.
Contact Tekyz Today to explore tailored solutions that can redefine your business success.
Want to connect with David Hirschfeld? Click on the following link to connect with David on Linked In: http://link.tekyz.com/davidlinkedinpodbean
Company Website - Tekyz
Launch 1st
Scaling Smarter Episodes
Social Media - Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Medium | Linked In
Want to learn more about the AI In Action Podcast? Listen to their podcast at this link:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ai-in-action-exploring-tomorrows-tech-today/id1695381781

Thursday May 01, 2025
Thursday May 01, 2025
This episode of Definitely Maybe Agile explores the complexities of product management with guest David Hirschfeld, CEO of Tekyz. Hosts Peter Madison and Dave Scherr dive into the importance of understanding customer problems over focusing on features, the distinction between product management and product ownership, and the economics behind successful product decisions. Hirschfeld shares insights on balancing product market fit with product solution fit, leveraging The Mom Test for customer conversations, and prioritizing roadmap items based on real value. Tune in for a deep dive into problem-centric product management strategies that drive success.
Key Takeaways from the Episode:
Balancing Product Market Fit & Product Solution Fit.
Problem Over Features.
Product Management vs. Product Ownership.
The Economics of Product Management.
Using The Mom Test.
Data-Driven Prioritization.
Customer-Centric Approach Drives Success.
Ready to Transform Your Business?
If you're looking to streamline operations, enhance digital engagement, and drive growth, Tekyz is your go-to partner. With a proven track record and a commitment to excellence, David Hirschfeld and his team are ready to take your business to new heights.
Contact Tekyz Today to explore tailored solutions that can redefine your business success.
Want to connect with David Hirschfeld? Click on the following link to connect with David on Linked In: http://link.tekyz.com/davidlinkedinpodbean
Company Website - Tekyz
Launch 1st
Scaling Smarter Episodes
Social Media - Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Medium | Linked In
Want to learn more about the Definitely, Maybe Agile Podcast? Listen to their podcast at this link:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/definitely-maybe-agile/id1556287400

Thursday May 01, 2025
Thursday May 01, 2025
In this episode of The Bulletproof Business Podcast, Simone Jansen and David Hirschfeld challenge the traditional vision-first approach to business growth. Hirschfeld emphasizes the importance of a clinical, data-driven mindset, prioritizing problem validation and market fit over assumptions. The discussion covers identifying bottlenecks, the concept of logarithmic scaling, and the critical role of documenting tribal knowledge for long-term success. Tune in to learn why a "fail fast, cheap" approach can help businesses scale efficiently and sustainably.
Ready to Transform Your Business?
If you're looking to streamline operations, enhance digital engagement, and drive growth, Tekyz is your go-to partner. With a proven track record and a commitment to excellence, David Hirschfeld and his team are ready to take your business to new heights.
Contact Tekyz Today to explore tailored solutions that can redefine your business success.
Want to connect with David Hirschfeld? Click on the following link to connect with David on Linked In: http://link.tekyz.com/davidlinkedinpodbean
Company Website - Tekyz
Launch 1st
Scaling Smarter Episodes
Social Media - Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Medium | Linked In
Want to learn more about the In the Bulletproof Business podcast? Listen to their podcast at this link:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bulletproof-business-podcast/id1662368815

Monday Apr 07, 2025
Monday Apr 07, 2025
This Industrial IoT Spotlight podcast episode features a discussion with David Hirschfield, CEO and founder of Tekyz, an AI-first software development company. The conversation centers around adopting AI in DevOps practices and its integration into customer-facing applications, exploring the nuances between internal process improvements and external product enhancements. The discussion also covers the challenges startups and large corporations face in adopting AI, country-specific adoption hurdles, and the organizational shifts required to become an AI-first company.
Chapters
Catching the AI Wave: Navigating Technological Disruption
David Hirschfeld’s Startup Journey and Tekyz’s Mission
Transitioning to an AI-First Organization: Internal Innovations
Quantifying Efficiency Gains Through AI Integration
Challenges in Large-Scale AI Adoption
AI in Customer-Facing Applications: Building Trust and Reliability
Geopolitical Considerations and Data Privacy in AI
Competitive Advantages and Tools for AI-Driven Development
The Importance of Mindset and Processes Over Magic Tools
Closing Thoughts: Leveraging AI for Sustainable Innovation
Ready to Transform Your Business?
If you're looking to streamline operations, enhance digital engagement, and drive growth, Tekyz is your go-to partner. With a proven track record and a commitment to excellence, David Hirschfeld and his team are ready to take your business to new heights.
Contact Tekyz Today to explore tailored solutions that can redefine your business success.
Want to connect with David Hirschfeld? Click on the following link to connect with David on Linked In: http://link.tekyz.com/davidlinkedinpodbean
Company Website - Tekyz
Launch 1st
Scaling Smarter Episodes
Social Media - Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Medium | Linked In
Want to learn more about the iot-spotlight-podcast? Listen to their podcast at this link:
https://www.iotone.com/podcasts

Monday Apr 07, 2025
Monday Apr 07, 2025
Ever wonder what a software veteran with 35 years under his belt does in his spare time? Meet David Hirschfeld, a serial entrepreneur who balances building intricate woodworking projects with guiding startups to success. In this episode of Deep Dive Lab, we uncover David's journey, from his early startup days to his innovative "Launch First" methodology. He shares invaluable insights into what truly makes startups thrive (and why so many fail), offering a refreshing perspective on customer-centricity, rapid iteration, and the often-misunderstood role of investors.
Key Takeaways from David's Startup Journey:
The Accidental Success and the Power of Problem-Focused Development
The Mom Test: Unearthing Honest Customer Feedback
Identifying Your Early Adopters: A Systematic Approach
Launch First: Mitigating Risk and Accelerating Growth
The Pitfalls of Startup Failure: Avoiding Common Mistakes
Ready to Transform Your Business?
If you're looking to streamline operations, enhance digital engagement, and drive growth, Tekyz is your go-to partner. With a proven track record and a commitment to excellence, David Hirschfeld and his team are ready to take your business to new heights.
Contact Tekyz Today to explore tailored solutions that can redefine your business success.
Want to connect with David Hirschfeld? Click on the following link to connect with David on Linked In: http://link.tekyz.com/davidlinkedinpodbean
Company Website - Tekyz
Launch 1st
Scaling Smarter Episodes
Social Media - Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Medium | Linked In
Want to learn more about the The Deep Dive Lab Podcast? Listen to their podcast at this link:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-deep-dive-lab/id1674688106

Monday Apr 07, 2025
Monday Apr 07, 2025
This podcast episode of UX Leadership by Design features Mark Baldino, co-founder of Fuzzy Math, interviewing David Hirschfeld, founder and CEO of Tekyz. The discussion centers around Hirschfeld's "Launch First" methodology, a process designed to help startups achieve product-market fit by validating revenue potential before significant development investment. David Hirschfeld's experience with successful and failed startups and his work with over 90 other startups informed the creation of this methodology.
Key Takeaways
The Launch First methodology offers a structured, metrics-driven approach to de-risking startups by validating revenue potential before substantial development investment. It emphasizes the importance of niche analysis, high-fidelity prototypes, validation interviews, and pre-launch sales. By focusing on data and customer feedback, Launch First helps founders make informed decisions, pivot quickly when necessary, and ultimately increase their chances of success.
Ready to Transform Your Business?
If you're looking to streamline operations, enhance digital engagement, and drive growth, Tekyz is your go-to partner. With a proven track record and a commitment to excellence, David Hirschfeld and his team are ready to take your business to new heights.
Contact Tekyz Today to explore tailored solutions that can redefine your business success.
Want to connect with David Hirschfeld? Click on the following link to connect with David on Linked In: http://link.tekyz.com/davidlinkedinpodbean
Company Website - Tekyz
Launch 1st
Scaling Smarter Episodes
Social Media - Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Medium | Linked In
Want to learn more about the In the UX Leadership By Design Podcast? Listen to their podcast at this link:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ux-leadership-by-design/id1658851404

Friday Apr 04, 2025
Friday Apr 04, 2025
Introduction: Are You Tired of the Startup Rollercoaster?
Building a business can feel like a constant cycle of boom and bust, soaring high on initial success only to crash and burn when a major client leaves or the market shifts. This is the story of David Hirschfield, CEO and founder of Tekyz, a software development company. For 35+ years, David has navigated the ups and downs of the tech world, experiencing both triumphant exits and painful failures. His journey offers invaluable lessons for any entrepreneur seeking sustainable, predictable growth. Join us as we explore David's insights on the importance of product-market fit, problem-focused development, and the power of strategic partnerships.
Key Takeaways
David's journey underscores the importance of learning from successes and failures in entrepreneurship. His emphasis on product-market fit, customer-centric problem-solving, and developing internal products that address real-world challenges provides valuable insights for business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs. His current focus on building a robust referral network and transitioning Tekyz into a product-focused company positions the business for continued growth and success. The development of the referral partner portal, in particular, holds significant promise for both Tekyz and its expanding network of partners.
Ready to Transform Your Business?
If you're looking to streamline operations, enhance digital engagement, and drive growth, Tekyz is your go-to partner. With a proven track record and a commitment to excellence, David Hirschfeld and his team are ready to take your business to new heights.
Contact Tekyz Today to explore tailored solutions that can redefine your business success.
Want to connect with David Hirschfeld? Click on the following link to connect with David on LinkedIn: http://link.tekyz.com/davidlinkedinpodbean
Company Website - Tekyz
Launch 1st
Scaling Smarter Episodes
Social Media - Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Medium | Linked In
Want to learn more about the In the Business Coach's Chair Podcast? Listen to their podcast at this link:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/in-the-business-coachs-chair/id1469230145

Friday Apr 04, 2025
Friday Apr 04, 2025
Startup Success: Customer Validation, MVP Development, and AI Integration
This podcast episode features a discussion between Todd, the podcast host, and David, CEO of Tekyz, about the critical elements for startup success, focusing on customer validation, the development of Minimum Viable Products (MVPs), and the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in modern business practices. The conversation emphasizes the importance of early and thorough customer discovery to achieve product-market fit and explores how new technologies are changing the landscape for startups.
Key Takeaways
The discussion underscores the importance of rigorous customer discovery and validation before investing heavily in product development. It highlights the value of pre-selling to secure early revenue and validate product-market fit. The conversation also explores how no-code tools and AI are transforming the landscape for startups, enabling faster and cheaper MVP development. Finally, the speakers emphasize the importance of workflow automation and continuous adaptation to technological change.
Ready to Transform Your Business?
If you're looking to streamline operations, enhance digital engagement, and drive growth, Tekyz is your go-to partner. With a proven track record and a commitment to excellence, David Hirschfeld and his team are ready to take your business to new heights.
Contact Tekyz Today to explore tailored solutions that can redefine your business success.
Want to connect with David Hirschfeld? Click on the following link to connect with David on Linked In: http://link.tekyz.com/davidlinkedinpodbean
Company Website - Tekyz
Launch 1st
Scaling Smarter Episodes
Social Media - Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Medium | Linked In
Want to learn more about the Startup Stories from the Treehouse Podcast? Listen to their podcast at this link:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/startup-stories-from-the-treehouse/id1677204668

Friday Apr 04, 2025
Friday Apr 04, 2025
From Concepts to Code: The TEKYZ Approach to Software Development With David Hirschfeld
This podcast episode features Ryan Ferris interviewing David Hirschfeld, founder of Tekyz, a software development company. The discussion centers around Hirschfeld's extensive experience with startups, his company's approach to software development, and his "Launch First" methodology, which challenges traditional startup practices. He challenges the conventional MVP approach, emphasizing early validation, revenue generation, and the power of AI-driven efficiency. Tune in to learn how Hirschfeld’s strategies help startups succeed faster and wiser.
Ready to Transform Your Business?
If you're looking to streamline operations, enhance digital engagement, and drive growth, Tekyz is your go-to partner. With a proven track record and a commitment to excellence, David Hirschfeld and his team are ready to take your business to new heights.
Contact Tekyz Today to explore tailored solutions that can redefine your business success.
Want to connect with David Hirschfeld? Click on the following link to connect with David on Linked In: http://link.tekyz.com/davidlinkedinpodbean
Company Website - Tekyz
Launch 1st
Scaling Smarter Episodes
Social Media - Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Medium | Linked In
Want to learn more about the In the The Valuu Makers Podcast? Listen to their podcast at this link:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-valuu-makers-podcast/id1511898932