Is software dead, or just being rebuilt? Ollie spent two weeks obsessing over Claude Cowork and turned 100 episodes of Founded & Grounded into a content engine. Becky spoke alongside the legendary Steve Blank.

We break down agentic AI, SaaS valuations, customer development, pricing as conversation, and why human connection is the moat that AI cannot copy. This will leave you wanting to experiment right now.

Key takeaways

- Agentic AI is not a tool you add. It's the sand between your existing software stack, doing the connective work while you sleep, so you stop running the business by hand.

- Pricing is a conversation, not a number. Steve Blank's lesson is simple. Ask the customer the question, listen to the answer, then build the proposal. Skip that step, and you're guessing with someone else's money.

- AI raises the floor on output. It does nothing for trust. The founders who win the next cycle are the ones in rooms without laptops, building relationships that agents cannot fake.

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How do founders navigate a business landscape shaped by volatility, uncertainty, complexity and ambiguity?

In this live conversation, we speak with Matt Wilde from SWIG Finance about the funding gaps many businesses still face and what it really takes to grow in an unstable global environment. From working capital and supply chains to the role of trusted advisors and stronger ecosystem support, Matt shares what founders need to get right when the pressure is on.

Key takeaways:

• Businesses that want to thrive in uncertain times need strong foundations, especially around working capital and effective supply chain management.
• Social impact lenders like SWIG Finance play an important role in supporting a wide range of businesses with tailored financial solutions that help them grow and sustain operations.
• AI can free up time for more valuable human-centred work, but businesses need to balance efficiency with sound judgement and human values.

We also explore the role of SWIG Finance as a social enterprise lender, supporting businesses with finance options that help founders start, sustain and scale. The conversation looks at the importance of good advisors, access to capital and stronger ecosystem connectivity, and how these factors shape a founder’s ability to build a resilient business.

Alongside this, we discuss the growing influence of AI on the way businesses operate. While technology can create efficiencies, Matt makes the case for keeping human judgment at the centre of decision-making.

The episode closes with real examples, reflections on smarter financial decisions and a broader look at what founders need to succeed in a VUCA world.

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7 billion views and counting: the growth secrets of Sidemen's creative mastermind, Jordan Schwarzenberger.

Managing one of the world’s biggest creator collectives is no small feat. We dive deep with the man behind Arcade Media and the Sidemen’s explosive rise, blending sharp self-awareness, cultural intuition, and a bold approach to building in public.

The creator economy is dead. Jordan reveals why relying on brand deals is outdated and how the Sidemen have built entire business models through strategic partnerships and leveraging their audience. This is a masterclass in staying relevant, building with intention, and growing without losing who you are.

Key takeaways

🔥 Know yourself to grow yourself. Jordan believes brutal self-awareness and personal branding are essential. When you understand who you truly are and fully embrace it, you unlock clarity, confidence, and business momentum.

📹 Don’t just create. Document. It’s not just about creating content. Jordan shows how documenting your journey with purpose builds trust, drives growth, and keeps your brand aligned with your goals.

🤝 You can’t win alone. Strategic partnerships are the key ingredient to scale. Find operators who complement your strengths and share your vision.

Have questions about this episode? Ask our hosts, chat now via our website

https://foundedandgrounded.com/episodes/lqtT800N1V6

Hit play and discover how to build something that actually lasts.

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