What if the biggest risk for startups isn't failure, but building the wrong thing too soon?

In this episode of Startup Builders & Backers, I sit down with David Hirschfeld, founder of Tekyz Inc., to explore a different way of thinking about early-stage success. With more than 35 years in software and experience across over 90 startups, David shares what he has learned from both the wins and the missteps.

At the heart of this conversation is the Launch First Method, a framework David created to help founders validate demand before investing in development. It is a strategy designed to reduce time, cost, and the need for outside funding, while dramatically increasing the odds of building something people actually want.

We also dig into:

• How AI is reshaping the way software gets built
• Where automation helps and where it still falls short
• The key traits that define high-performing development teams
• How detailed artifacts like status reports and estimation tracking improve outcomes
• Why successful founders fall in love with the problem, not the product

David’s story spans decades of building, selling, and supporting software companies. He brings sharp insight and practical advice to anyone navigating the unpredictable path of early-stage growth.

If you're starting a company or backing one, this episode will help you ask better questions and make smarter decisions from day one.

Are you building what customers need or just hoping they show up? Let’s dig into that.